$NSPR Regulatory Approval, Reimbursement in Vietnam CGuard EPS™ and MGuard™

InspireMD, Inc. (NYSE AMER: NSPR), a leader in embolic prevention systems (EPS) / thrombus management technologies and neurovascular devices, today announced it has received regulatory approval, and has initiated commercialization of its CGuard™ Embolic Prevention System (EPS) and MGuard Prime™ in Vietnam.  Both of these devices utilize the company’s patented MicroNet™ technology.

“Our ability to initiate commercialization for both of the company’s devices was due to our capability to coordinate getting three key elements in place concurrently and quickly. Specifically, we secured regulatory approval, a valid import license and product reimbursement, all of which come from Vietnam’s Department of Medical Equipment and Health Works (DMEHW), a unit of the Ministry of Health (MOH). Part of this effort was coordinated by DO GIA, our recently appointed distributor in Vietnam. DO GIA has an established distribution network across Vietnam that covers both physicians, clinics and hospitals. With a population of over 100 million people, Vietnam represents another important step forward in our focused expansion across Asia,” commented Agustin Gago, Chief Commercial Officer of InspireMD.

CGuard™ EPS is a carotid embolic protection system that is designed to deliver the company’s self-expanding stent wrapped in the company’s proprietary MicroNet™ technology to the carotid arteries using a rapid exchange delivery system to prevent embolic events that can lead to stroke. The MGuard Prime™ coronary stent system consists of the company’s coronary balloon expandable stent wrapped with MicroNet™ pre-mounted on a rapid exchange balloon catheter, that prevents embolic events in the heart that can result in myocardial infarction, heart failure and even death. Both products are now being sold in a variety of markets across Europe, Middle East, Asia and Latin America.

About InspireMD, Inc.

InspireMD seeks to utilize its proprietary MicroNet™ technology to make its products the industry standard for embolic protection and to provide a superior solution to the key clinical issues of current stenting in patients with a high risk of distal embolization, no reflow and major adverse cardiac events.

InspireMD intends to pursue applications of this MicroNet technology in coronary, carotid (CGuard™), neurovascular, and peripheral artery procedures. InspireMD’s common stock is quoted on the NYSE American under the ticker symbol NSPR and certain warrants are quoted on the NYSE American under the ticker symbol NSPR.WS.

Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements.” Such statements may be preceded by the words “intends,” “may,” “will,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “estimates,” “aims,” “believes,” “hopes,” “potential” or similar words. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, are based on certain assumptions and are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, and cannot be predicted or quantified and consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with (i) market acceptance of our existing and new products, (ii) negative clinical trial results or lengthy product delays in key markets, (iii) an inability to secure regulatory approvals for the sale of our products, (iv) intense competition in the medical device industry from much larger, multinational companies, (v) product liability claims, (vi) product malfunctions, (vii) our limited manufacturing capabilities and reliance on subcontractors for assistance, (viii) insufficient or inadequate reimbursement by governmental and other third party payers for our products, (ix) our efforts to successfully obtain and maintain intellectual property protection covering our products, which may not be successful, (x) legislative or regulatory reform of the healthcare system in both the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions, (xi) our reliance on single suppliers for certain product components, (xii) the fact that we will need to raise additional capital to meet our business requirements in the future and that such capital raising may be costly, dilutive or difficult to obtain and (xiii) the fact that we conduct business in multiple foreign jurisdictions, exposing us to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, logistical and communications challenges, burdens and costs of compliance with foreign laws and political and economic instability in each jurisdiction. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward looking statements is set forth in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC’s web site at http://www.sec.gov. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investor Contacts:

InspireMD, Inc.

Craig Shore

Chief Financial Officer

Phone: 1-888-776-6804 FREE

Email: craigs@inspiremd.com   

Crescendo Communications, LLC

David Waldman

Phone: (212) 671-1021

Email: NSPR@crescendo-ir.com

$ATOS Approval from Swedish Medical Products Agency for Endoxifen Study

Study’s Endpoints Are Changes in Mammographic Breast Density, Tolerability, and Safety

SEATTLE, April 30, 2018 — Atossa Genetics Inc. (Nasdaq:ATOS) (“Atossa” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics and delivery methods to treat breast cancer and other breast conditions, announced today that it has received approval from the Swedish Medical Products Agency (MPA) to conduct a Phase 2 Study of its proprietary topical Endoxifen for the treatment of women with mammographic breast density, or MBD. Studies by others have shown that a reduction in MBD reduces the risk of developing breast cancer and may potentially improve the accuracy of mammography in finding cancer.

The Phase 2 study will be conducted at Stockholm South General Hospital in Sweden and will be led by principal investigator Dr. Per Hall, MD, Ph.D., Head of the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Karolinska Institutet. Atossa plans to open the study for enrollment this quarter.

The primary endpoint is individual change in MBD, which will be measured after three and six months of entering the study, and the secondary endpoints are safety and tolerability. Ninety participants will be randomized to one of three groups (one placebo group and two groups on different doses of topical Endoxifen) with 30 participants per group. The objective of the study is to determine the effect size of breast density between the topical and active groups, which will permit sample size calculations in a future Phase III study.

“Dr. Hall is widely regarded as a leading researcher in the field of breast cancer and prevention. He is heading the unique KARMA (Karolinska Mammography Project for Risk Prediction of Breast Cancer) Cohort, including over 70,000 women, which is regarded as the best characterized breast cancer cohort in the world and serves as a resource for studies about breast cancer risk assessment and prevention, and the Karisma Intervention Study, which is studying the change in MBD in women taking various doses of oral tamoxifen. We are honored to be working with Dr. Hall and his colleagues on our Phase 2 study of MBD as their unique experience and qualifications are simply unmatched anywhere in the world,” said Dr. Steven C. Quay, CEO and President of Atossa.

Atossa’s Proprietary Endoxifen

Endoxifen is an active metabolite of tamoxifen. Tamoxifen is an FDA-approved drug to prevent new breast cancer as well as recurrent breast cancer in breast cancer patients. Tamoxifen itself must be broken down by the liver into active compounds (metabolites), of which Endoxifen is the most active. Atossa has completed a comprehensive Phase 1 clinical study using both a topical and an oral formulation of Endoxifen. Preliminary results from the topical arm of the study indicated that the topical formulation was safe, well tolerated and that topical Endoxifen crossed the skin barrier in a dose-dependent fashion.

Topical Endoxifen Opportunities

Atossa is developing its proprietary topical Endoxifen to reduce MBD, which has been shown in studies conducted by others to be an independent risk factor for developing breast cancer. To date, 30 U.S. states require that findings of MBD be directly communicated to the patient. Although oral tamoxifen has been shown to reduce MBD, the benefit-risk ratio is generally not acceptable to most physicians and their patients. For example, it is estimated that only ~ 2% of women at high-risk of developing breast cancer, including those with MBD, take oral tamoxifen to prevent breast cancer because of the risks of, or actual side-effects of, oral tamoxifen.

Atossa is also developing topical Endoxifen for a condition in men called gynecomastia, which is male breast enlargement, which affects 25% of men between the ages of 50-69.  Atossa has commenced a Phase 1 study in men using topical Endoxifen, which it plans to fully-enroll this quarter.

Oral Endoxifen Opportunity

Approximately one million breast cancer survivors take oral tamoxifen annually; however, up to half of them do not properly metabolize tamoxifen and do not have desired levels of Endoxifen (meaning they are “refractory”). Low Endoxifen levels in breast cancer patients taking oral tamoxifen are associated with an increased risk of recurrence or the development of new breast tumors. Providing oral Endoxifen directly to the patient without having to be metabolized by the liver may help to address this problem.

Based on the number of women at high-risk of developing breast cancer and the number of patients who have survived breast cancer but are refractory to tamoxifen, Atossa estimates that the potential markets for its proprietary oral and topical formulations of Endoxifen could each potentially exceed $1 billion in annual sales.

The Medical Products Agency

The Medical Products Agency is the government agency in Sweden responsible for regulation and surveillance of the development, manufacturing and sale of medicinal drugs, medical devices and cosmetics.

The Swedish Medical Products Agency is one of the leading regulatory authorities in the EU. During the last five years, the Swedish MPA has been among the top three agencies in Europe, counting the number of approval processes managed for central (i.e. European) approvals of medicines. The Swedish MPA also has strong representation in more than 110 working groups and committees in the scope of the Heads of Medicines Agencies (HMA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) for regulation of medical products in Europe.

The Medical Products Agency is a government body under the aegis of the Swedish Ministry of Health and Social Affairs. Its operations are largely financed through fees. Approximately 750 people work at the agency; most are pharmacists and doctors.

Breast Cancer Statistics

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that approximately 268,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States this year and that approximately 41,000 will die from the disease. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in American women. Although about 100 times less common than women, breast cancer also affects men. The ACS estimates that in 2018 2,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in men; and 480 men will die from breast cancer.

About Stockholm South General Hospital

Stockholm South General Hospital is one of the largest hospitals in Sweden, offering care to more than two million Stockholmers. It is one of four hospitals collaborating with Karolinska on the KARMA project. For more information, please visit http://www.sodersjukhuset.se/Functions/InEnglish/.

About Karolinska Institutet

Karolinska Institutet, located in Stockholm, Sweden, is one of the world’s foremost medical universities. Its vision is to make a significant contribution to the improvement of human health; its mission is to conduct research and education and to interact with the community. As a university, KI is Sweden’s single largest center of medical academic research and offers the country’s widest range of medical courses and programs. The Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet selects the Nobel laureates in Physiology or Medicine. For more information, please visit www.ki.se/en and www.KARMAstudy.org.

About Atossa Genetics

Atossa Genetics Inc. is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics and delivery methods to treat breast cancer and other breast conditions. For more information, please visit www.atossagenetics.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-looking statements in this press release, which Atossa undertakes no obligation to update, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated or estimated future results, including the risks and uncertainties associated with any variation between preliminary and final clinical results, actions and inactions by the FDA, the outcome or timing of regulatory approvals needed by Atossa including those needed to commence studies, lower than anticipated rate of patient enrollment, estimated market size of drugs under development, the safety and efficacy of Atossa’s products and services, performance of clinical research organizations and investigators, obstacles resulting from proprietary rights held by others with respect to fulvestrant, such as patent rights, potential market sizes for Atossa’s drugs under development and other risks detailed from time to time in Atossa’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including without limitation its periodic reports on Form 10-K and 10-Q, each as amended and supplemented from time to time.

Atossa Genetics Company Contact:

Atossa Genetics Inc.
Kyle Guse
CFO and General Counsel
(O) 866 893-4927
kyle.guse@atossagenetics.com

Investor Relations Contact:

Scott Gordon
CoreIR
377 Oak Street
Concourse 2
Garden City, NY 11530
Office: 516 222-2560
scottg@CoreIR.com

$NETE Multi-Channel Platform Offering Simplified End-to-End Payment Processing

April 30, 2018

• Netevia offers full integration with all major platforms, with the possibility of expanding compatibility in the future
• Instant onboarding, three-hour funding time, enhanced security and payment conversion optimization are among platform’s main features
• Platform further solidifies Net Element’s position as a leading provider of innovative and disruptive payment solutions

Currently at the strongest financial position in its history after a highly successful 2017, global technology and value-added solutions group Net Element, Inc. (NASDAQ: NETE) is moving forward with its goal of simplifying global commerce and payments through proprietary multi-channel platform Netevia (http://nnw.fm/4xOGd).

Launched earlier this year, Netevia is a future-ready multi-channel platform designed to serve as blueprint and set of tools for global commerce and monetization by simplifying and connecting payment across different sales channels via a single integration point. Offering end-to-end payment processing services through easy APIs, the platform was designed by developers with developers in mind, according to Net Element Chief Technology Officer Andrey Krotov, and includes SDKs and sandbox for testing, offering all the building blocks and features needed to integrate payment acceptance into virtually any e-commerce solution.

Netevia is fully integrated with all major platforms, allowing vendors to accept a wide range of payment methods in multiple currencies on any device. The platform is highly flexible, being continuously adjusted and expanded so as to enable the addition of new features and services as payment needs change. Recent or still in development features include free processing in exchange for data, integration with smart terminals for card present sales, gift card solutions to drive increased sales and repeat business and, last but not least, cryptocurrency payment processing for multi-channel transactions.

In addition to flexibility and vast platform compatibility, Netevia offers merchants multiple valuable features, including instant onboarding, same day settlement and funding and payment conversion optimization that can help vendors reach 99.2 percent conversion rates and higher revenues – everything available for a highly competitive price. The latest service, added to the platform in early April 2018, was Fast Pass Funding, which allows eligible merchants to receive funding in as little as three hours during business days, a massive improvement to the previous 12- to 24- hour waiting period. Netevia also provides state-of-the-art security and fraud prevention services via more than 150 risk monitoring filters, vaulting, tokenization and point-to-point encryption.

With a focus on supporting electronic payments acceptance in a multi-channel environment, including point-of-sale, e-commerce and mobile devices, Net Element is uniquely positioned to disrupt the payment processing industry. The group is currently in its best financial situation in history, after a successful year 2017 marked by an increase in revenues ($60.1 million from $54.3 million in 2016), an improved balance sheet of $11.3 million cash in hand and financial debt of $7 million at the end of the year, and a wide array of partnerships geared toward simplifying payments across multiple sales channels worldwide.

Net Element will continue to embrace and develop innovative payment processing technologies in its efforts to capitalize on the fast-growing e-commerce market, which is expected to more than double its value over the next three years and reach $4.88 trillion by 2021, from $2.3 trillion in 2017 (http://nnw.fm/A3xNh).

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.NetElement.com

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About NetworkNewsWire

NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets (3), enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with NNW Prime. As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge.

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$CIIX Cryptocurrency Trading Courses via Bitcoin Trading Academy, Starting June 9

SAN GABRIEL, California, April 30, 2018 /PRNewswire/ —

ChineseInvestors.com Inc. (OTCQB: CIIX)(“CIIX” or the “Company”), the premier financial information website for Chinese-speaking investors, today announces new cryptocurrency and trading courses offered through its newly established Bitcoin Trading Academy LLC beginning in June 2018.

The Bitcoin Trading Academy‘s course offering will include:

Bitcoin Trading 101: Students will gain basic knowledge about Bitcoin including how to open trading accounts on the most commonly held cryptocurrency trading platforms how to set up a cryptocurrency wallet. In addition, students will be educated on Bitcoin Futures trading strategies, both long and short, how to use Bitcoin Futures to properly hedge one’s Bitcoin portfolio, and how to properly use beginner-friendly trading techniques trading techniques such as Candlesticks and Moving Averages, among other key metrics that top financial analysts use in trading assets.

Bitcoin Trading 201: The second course in the program will focus on coins such as Ethereum, including coins with significant underlying technology such as EOS, XLM, ADA and NEO, and altcoin trading platforms, such as Binance and Bittrex. In addition, this course will provide instruction on how to use information such as a coin’s underlying utility, how to use current industry and sector news in combination with technical analysis in an effort to maximize returns; and how to effectively scrutinize and understand social media feeds.

Bitcoin Trading 301: Professional ICO analyst, Preston Hom, will teach students what to look for when vetting a new cryptocurrency offering, including how to read a white paper, how to analyze the professional teams and advisory boards associated with an offering, the role that technology, marketing, trends play and what pitfalls to avoid.

“We are excited to expand our cryptocurrency education platform with the launch of Bitcoin Trading Academy, a cutting-edge cryptocurrency trading education center which follows the Company’s successful November 2017 launch of newcoins168.com, a Chinese language cryptocurrency and blockchain technology news and information site. In addition to online courses, Bitcoin Trading Academy will offer live courses in New York City,” says ChineseInvestors.com, Inc. CEO Warren Wang.

Online courses will begin June 9, 2018.  Additional course information will be provided on http://www.newcoins168.com .

About ChineseInvestors.com (OTCQB: CIIX)

Founded in 1999, ChineseInvestors.com endeavors to be an innovative company providing: (a) real-time market commentary, analysis, and educational related services in Chinese language character sets (traditional and simplified); (b) advertising and public relation related support services; and (c) retail, online sales and direct sales of hemp-based products and other health related products.

For more information visit: ChineseInvestors.com

Visit and register https://www.newcoins168.com

Subscribe and watch our video commentaries: https://www.youtube.com/user/Chinesefncom

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Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain as they are based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in this release and matters set in the company’s SEC filings. These risks and uncertainties could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

Contact:
ChineseInvestors.com, Inc.
227 W. Valley Blvd, #208 A
San Gabriel, CA 91776

Investor Relations:
Alan Klitenic
+1-214-636-2548

Corporate Communications:
NetworkNewsWire (NNW)
New York, New York
http://www.NetworkNewsWire.com
+212-418-1217 Office
Editor@NetworkNewsWire.com

$ETST Plans to Battle Opioid Addiction with Human Clinical Trials in 2019

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in March 2018, estimated ‘economic burden’ of opioid misuse at $78.5 billion annually
• ETST plans to complete white paper, begin human clinical trials by 2019; company intends to investigate drugs that combine mineral element and cannabinoid industrial hemp oil
• Goal for biotech company is to fight opioid addiction with over-the-counter (OTC) treatment drug and a cannabinoid companion generic drug

Earth Science Tech, Inc. (OTC: ETST) is planning to fight opioid addiction in the near future by completing its white paper and beginning human clinical trials in 2019. The epidemic is projected to claim nearly 500,000 American lives by 2027, according to a study by STAT (http://nnw.fm/9Twid).

The ETST white paper and planned human clinical studies deal with the measure of the efficacy of combination drugs against opioid dependency. The company will investigate the synergies between mineral elements and full spectrum cannabinoid industrial hemp with the goal of developing OTC and generic drugs that treat opioid addiction.

ETST is a biotech company focused on the cannabinoid, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical markets. In addition to drug research, it also performs R&D testing for medical devices. The company holds several subsidiaries, including Earth Science Pharmaceutical, Inc.; Cannabis Therapeutics, Inc.; KannaBidioiD, Inc.; and Canna Inno Laboratories, Inc., based in Montreal, Canada.

The company’s proposed OTC drug would be intended to reduce the cravings of opioid addicts. The other would be a generic designed to reduce the danger of side effects and make the first drug more effective, according to ETST. The purpose of the human trial is to develop a methodology that prevents fatal overdoses and relieves the side effects of withdrawal.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in a March 2018 revised report, estimated the ‘economic burden’ of opioid misuse at $78.5 billion annually in the U.S., including in that figure health care, addiction treatment and the involvement of the justice system. The National Institute on Drug Abuse terms it a national health crisis (http://nnw.fm/se3kA).

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.EarthScienceTech.com

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About NetworkNewsWire

NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets (3), enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with NNW Prime. As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge.

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$NETE Sees Rising Organic Growth

• Revenues increased 11 percent during 2017, reaching $60.1 million on organic growth across all categories
• Point of sale market expected to reach $106 billion by 2025
• Global retail e-commerce sales to post solid gains, rising by more than 23 percent to $2.3 trillion by end of 2017 and accounting for 10 percent of total retail sales
• Net Element processed $2.8 billion in global transactions in 2017, a 14 percent increase
• Fast Pass Funding service unveiled on proprietary Netevia platform

Net Element, Inc. (NASDAQ: NETE), a global technology and value-added solutions group focused on supporting electronic payments acceptance in a multichannel environment, continues to master the art of the transaction by delivering valuable payment solutions to merchants and consumers.

E-commerce continues to show a healthy growth pattern, as consumers are increasingly dedicated to using their mobile devices to make purchases. According to a report compiled by Accenture Consulting (http://nnw.fm/4jY5q), consumer awareness of mobile payments is at an all-time high and first movers that deliver additional value to merchants and their customers will become the industry’s ‘game changers’.

Net Element’s new service, Fast Pass Funding, provided through the company’s proprietary Netevia platform (http://nnw.fm/jAfq4), is just one of the company’s innovative value-added services offered to merchants who are tired of waiting for funding to be processed. Eligible merchants receive funds in as little as three hours during regular business days, avoiding the 12 to 24 hour wait-time they normally endure. Other value-added services offered through the Netevia platform include fast, easy merchant account opening and integration, payment conversion optimization, over 150 risk-monitoring filters and highly competitive pricing for payment acceptance services.

People around the world are expected to make 726 billion transactions using digital payment technologies by 2020, according to an article published by CNBC (http://nnw.fm/Wa9uq). Based on analysis of payment trends during the years 2014 and 2015, the study – conducted by global consulting firm Capgemini – reported that debit cards accounted for the highest share of non-cash payments at 46.7 percent, while credit cards trailed behind at 19.5 percent. Non-cash transactions between 2014 and 2015 rose 11.2 percent, the highest growth of the past decade.

Net Element intends to capitalize on the mobile transaction market as it transforms to meet demands by consumers and merchants who pivot to embrace smart technology trends. The company’s key goals include continuing company growth in all key segments, driving client retention, expanding the company’s client base in particular markets, delivering value-added products to increase efficiencies and payment acceptance, continuing the development of Netevia and launching new tools to reach clients and deepen partner relations.

“We are very pleased with our 2017 progress and the strong balance sheet position as of December 31, 2017, which we believe positions the company for future growth and opportunities,” Firer said in a news release describing the company’s year in review and plans for 2018 (http://nnw.fm/oJS8A).

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.NetElement.com

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About NetworkNewsWire

NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets (3), enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with NNW Prime. As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge.

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Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the NetworkNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by NNW, wherever published or re-published: http://NNW.fm/Disclaimer

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www.NetworkNewsWire.com
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Editor@NetworkNewsWire.com

$CIIX Eyes Chinese Expansion with Establishment of Shanghai-Based Subsidiary

• Announces expansion of cryptocurrency and blockchain education business into China
• Set to provide 24/7 coverage of the latest developments in global cryptocurrency and blockchain industry
• Launching Bitcoin Trading Academy to grow subscribers

ChineseInvestors.com, Inc. (OTCQB: CIIX) recently announced its expansion into China through the establishment of NewCoins168.com Digital Media Technology Ltd., located in Shanghai (http://cnw.fm/B6Grt). This wholly owned foreign enterprise is registered in the China Free Trade Zone with capital of 10 million RMB ($1.58 million). This expansion strengthens the company’s vision of becoming the premier financial information website for Chinese-speaking investors. CIIX prides itself on being an innovative company providing real-time market commentary, analysis and educational services in Chinese language character sets (traditional and simplified).

The company plans to hire 10 to 15 editors in Shanghai to work in conjunction with their United States counterparts at www.NewCoins168.com, which was established in November 2017 and is headquartered in New York City’s Trump Building. This joint effort between Shanghai and the United States editors will result in 24/7 coverage of the latest in global cryptocurrency and blockchain industry developments.

CIIX, through the NewCoins168.com platform, has established itself as a well-known cryptocurrency and blockchain technology information portal for the North American Chinese community. The addition of the Shanghai enterprise positions the company to bolster its popularity among the Chinese community worldwide.

CIIX Chief Executive Officer Warren Wang announced the company’s plans to launch a Bitcoin Trading Academy in June. It is expected to broadcast on NewCoins168.com. This academy will feature a three-level bitcoin trading course for Chinese-speaking investors in the U.S. (http://cnw.fm/Pec00). These courses will consist of trading in bitcoin futures, educational research and an explanation of ICOs. The recent announcement to spin off CIIX’s CBD-focused assets into a private company allows CIIX to remain focused on financial consulting, corporate brand building and educational services for cryptocurrency markets. CIIX’s focus has returned to its core skills as a financial service business for the Chinese-speaking community.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.ChineseInvestors.com

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About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

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$SNNVF Delivers High-quality Products and Services to Cannabis Markets

April 19, 2018

• Uniquely positioned in the largest legalized medical and recreational cannabis markets – California and Canada
• Construction underway for a modern, agri-technology greenhouse facility in California capable of producing over 100,000 kg of premium medical cannabis annually, once phase 1 and 2 are complete
• Received all required California temporary licenses to cultivate, process cannabis; will apply for annual state licenses within next four months
• Designs completed for purpose-built current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) compliant greenhouse facilities in British Columbia capable of producing 100,000 kg of premium medical cannabis per year and over 25,000 kg of trim used for extraction
• Application for medical cannabis production license at BC facility from Health Canada under final review

Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) is a vertically integrated medical cannabis company operating in the world’s two largest cannabis markets – Canada and California – committed to delivering safe, consistent, high-quality products and services. Sunniva operates through its wholly owned subsidiaries: Sunniva Medical Inc., CP Logistics, LLC, Natural Health Service Ltd., and Full-Scale Distributors, LLC. Sunniva’s vision is to become the lowest cost, highest quality cannabis producer in the markets it serves by building large scale purpose-built cGMP compliant greenhouses, offering best quality assurance with cannabis products free from pesticides, providing better patient and doctor access to cannabis education, and sourcing better therapeutic delivery devices.

The company is establishing sophisticated distribution channels, including Sunniva’s ownership of Natural Health Services Ltd. cannabis clinics in Canada with over 95,000 active patients, to purchase the significant quantities of high quality Sunniva-branded and Sunniva private-labeled cannabis products.

Sunniva is an ancient English name which means, “Gift of the Sun.” Sunniva’s team of horticulturists, scientists and engineers is helping to set best practices for the industry, believing that sun-grown, solar-powered cultivation is the most sustainable and cost-effective way to grow high-quality, premium cannabis.

The Sunniva Family includes:

CP Logistics, LLC

Through its subsidiary, CP Logistics LLC, Sunniva is developing the Sunniva Campus, a state-of-the-art, purpose-built greenhouse facility in Cathedral City, California. This modern purpose-built, agri-technology greenhouse is designed to be cGMP compliant which assures proper design, monitoring and control of manufacturing processes and facilities.

Phase 1 of the project includes a fully funded 325,000 square foot greenhouse capable of producing 60,000 kg per year of dry cannabis at capacity with operations commencing Q3 2018. Approximately 50 percent of initial total production will be converted into oils and extracts. Phase 2 is expected to increase the greenhouse by 165,000 square feet and grow production by about 40,000 kgs. per year.

These uniquely sealed greenhouses are designed to deploy custom, automation assembly line cultivation processes at a large scale. Energy consumption will be reduced while utilizing the energy of the sun and microclimatic controls to provide precise growing conditions. The greenhouse will recirculate air for more efficient climate control, and the company’s Integrated Pest Management System is designed to ensure every plant grown is certified clean and free of all contaminants and pesticides.

Sunniva Medical Inc.

Sunniva Medical Inc. is designing and preparing to break ground on the Sunniva Canada Campus encompassing 700,000 square feet of purpose-built cGMP greenhouse facilities in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. The total campus is expected to produce 100,000 kg of premium medical cannabis annually plus additional trim used for extraction. This facility will produce pesticide-free products and will convert trim to extracted products such as cannabis oil that can be used for drug delivery formats such as capsules, dissolvable strips, vaporization cartridges, tinctures and creams.

Sunniva and Canopy Growth Corporation (Canopy Growth) recently announced a large take or pay supply agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, Canopy Growth will purchase up to 45,000 kgs. of dried cannabis annually commencing Q1 2019, which includes the distribution of Sunniva branded products. Sunniva Medical is a late-stage applicant under Canada’s Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR) and is in the final review stage of the process.

Natural Health Services Ltd.

Natural Health Services Ltd. owns and operates a network of eight medical clinics in Canada specializing in medical cannabis under the ACMPR. Natural Health Services connects licensed producers to their 21 physicians and patients with its proprietary SPARK software which utilizes a software-as-a-service revenue model. To date, there are 27 integrated licensed producers utilizing the SPARK software.

In-house physicians specializing in the endocannabinoid system provide expert consultation, education and recommendations for targeted phytoceutical remedies and wellness plans to improve the quality of life for all patients. NHS enjoys a long-term relationship with patients due to the quality of its physician-patient experience. A rapidly expanding NHS cannabis clinic network serves 94,000 active patients in Canada. NHS has also initiated a pilot program with a national pharmacy chain to aggregate more patients.

Full-Scale Distributors, LLC

Full-Scale Distributors, LLC is an industry leading provider of custom, private-label vaporizers through its brand, Vapor Connoisseur. The company currently serves the needs of over 80 top brands in the North American marketplace. Vapor Connoisseur is recognized for its high quality and innovative therapeutic delivery devices. Products are tailored to client needs, ensuring both safety and reliability.

Sunniva’s highly experienced management team is building partnerships with leading scientists, universities and clinical trial groups to deliver proprietary cannabis formulations to a broad spectrum of health ailments and conditions. These global partners require cGMP-certified facilities for the processing and manufacturing of cannabis products. Sunniva is committed to providing safe, pesticide-free, high quality, reproducible cannabis medicines.

Leading Sunniva is co-founder, chairman and CEO Dr. Anthony (Tony) Holler. He is the former CEO and founder of ID Biomedical, which was acquired in 2005 for $1.7 billion by GlaxoSmithKline. He is also the former chairman of Corriente Resources Inc., which was sold for approximately $700 million to CRCC-Tongguan Investment Co. Dr. Holler is currently chairman of CRH Medical Corporation, a public company trading on the TSX and NYSE. His expertise includes strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions and financing with a singular focus on increasing shareholder value.

Dr. Holler is joined by co-founder Leith Pedersen, who serves as president of Sunniva. Pedersen is the former owner and CEO of Vida Wealth Management Bahamas and was a former investment advisor at Canaccord Wealth Management. He is a former partner and director at JF Mackie and Company, an independent brokerage firm in Calgary, Alberta, that managed capital in excess of $2 billion for high net worth clients. Pedersen’s expertise is in corporate strategy, financing and mergers and acquisitions.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.sunniva.com

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• EVIO, Inc. (EVIO) Revenues Projected to Reach $10 Million in FY2019 Following Debut of EVIO Canada Subsidiary

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

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$AXSM Positive Outcome of Interim Analysis of STRIDE-1 in Depression

Independent Data Monitoring Committee recommends trial continuation

Second interim analysis anticipated second half of 2018 for efficacy

NEW YORK, April 26, 2018 — Axsome Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:AXSM), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapies for the management of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, today announced a positive outcome of the interim futility analysis for the STRIDE-1 Phase 3 trial of AXS-05 in treatment resistant depression. An independent data monitoring committee (IDMC) conducted the unblinded, pre-specified interim analysis. Based on the results of the analysis, the IDMC recommended that the trial continue. The IDMC also reviewed the available safety information from the study and indicated that, based on the interim results, AXS-05 appeared safe and well-tolerated.

AXS-05 is a novel, oral, fixed-dose combination of dextromethorphan and bupropion. AXS-05 combines glutamatergic and monoaminergic mechanisms of action, which have been associated with antidepressant effects, and Axsome’s metabolic inhibition technology. Pharmacokinetic data with AXS-05 and clinical observations with the dextromethorphan component indicate that AXS-05 increases dextromethorphan concentrations into a potentially therapeutic range. AXS-05 has been granted U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Fast Track designation for the treatment of treatment resistant depression.

“The positive outcome of this interim futility analysis combined with the multiple mechanisms of action of AXS-05 support its continued development for treatment resistant depression,” said Herriot Tabuteau, MD, Chief Executive Officer of Axsome. “We look forward to the next and final interim analysis of the STRIDE-1 trial, anticipated in the second half of this year, which will be conducted to assess efficacy.”

The STRIDE-1 interim futility analysis was performed on the first approximately 40% of the target number of subjects. A second interim analysis will be performed on the first approximately 60% of the target number of subjects to assess efficacy.

“The IDMC’s recommendation for continuation of the STRIDE-1 trial and its findings of an overall favorable clinical safety profile for AXS-05 are encouraging,” said Cedric O’Gorman, MD, Senior Vice President of Clinical Development and Medical Affairs of Axsome. “A significant proportion of patients with major depressive disorder are treatment resistant, having previously failed two or more therapies. There are limited available treatment options for these patients. AXS-05’s multiple mechanisms, targeting glutamatergic, monoaminergic and anti-inflammatory pathways, may offer a unique therapeutic approach for this serious condition.”

The Company recently held a research and development (R&D) day focusing on AXS-05. Of relevance to treatment resistant depression were presentations by key opinion leaders Stephen M. Stahl, MD, PhD, DSc (Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego), and Maurizio Fava, MD (Executive Vice Chair of the Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital). Dr. Stahl discussed the psychopharmacology of AXS-05 and its potential clinical implications. Dr. Fava discussed approaches that target multiple mechanisms of action to address treatment resistant depression, and the potential utility of AXS-05 for this condition. An archived webcast of this event, with slides, can be accessed on the investor page of Axsome’s website at www.axsome.com.

The R&D day also featured presentations from key opinion leaders Marc Agronin, MD (Vice President of Behavioral Health and Clinical Research at Miami Jewish Health), who discussed the potential of AXS-05 for the treatment of agitation associated with Alzheimer’s disease, and James Davis, MD (Medical Director of the Duke Center for Smoking Cessation, Duke University School of Medicine), who discussed unmet needs in smoking cessation and the potential for AXS-05.

About the STRIDE-1 Study

STRIDE-1 (Symptom Treatment in Resistant Depression 1) is a Phase 3, randomized, double-blind, active controlled trial to assess the efficacy and safety of AXS-05 in the treatment of treatment resistant depression (TRD). Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) who have previously failed one or two antidepressant treatments are treated in an open-label fashion with bupropion during a 6-week lead-in period. Patients who fail to respond to bupropion during this lead-in period are randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive bupropion or AXS-05 in a double-blind fashion for 6 weeks. The primary endpoint is the change in the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) after 6 weeks of treatment.

About Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD)

Patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) are defined as having TRD if they have failed two or more antidepressant therapies. MDD is a serious condition characterized by depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities consistently for at least a two-week period, and which impairs social, occupational, educational, or other important functioning. According to the National Institute of Health, an estimated 6.7% of U.S. adults experience MDD each year. Nearly two-thirds of diagnosed and treated patients do not experience adequate treatment response with first-line therapy, and the majority of these initial failures also fail second-line treatment.

About AXS-05

AXS-05 is a novel, oral, investigational drug product under development for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. AXS-05 consists of bupropion and dextromethorphan and utilizes Axsome’s metabolic inhibition technology. Dextromethorphan is an NMDA receptor antagonist, sigma-1 receptor agonist, nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist, and inhibitor of the serotonin and norepinephrine transporters. Bupropion serves to increase the bioavailability of dextromethorphan, and is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, and a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist. AXS-05 is an investigational drug product not approved by the FDA. The safety and efficacy of AXS-05 have not yet been established.

About Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.

Axsome Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapies for the management of central nervous system (CNS) disorders for which there are limited treatment options. Axsome’s product candidate portfolio includes five clinical-stage candidates, AXS-02, AXS-05, AXS-06, AXS-07, and AXS-09. AXS-05 is currently in a Phase 3 trial in treatment resistant depression (TRD), a Phase 2/3 trial in agitation associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and a Phase 2 trial in smoking cessation. AXS-02 is currently in a Phase 3 trial in knee osteoarthritis (OA) associated with bone marrow lesions (BMLs) with an additional Phase 3 trial planned in chronic low back pain (CLBP) associated with Modic changes (MCs). AXS-07 is being developed for the acute treatment of migraine. AXS-06 is being developed for the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and for the reduction of the risk of NSAID-associated gastric ulcers. AXS-02, AXS-05, AXS-06, AXS-07, and AXS-09 are investigational drug products not approved by the FDA. For more information, please visit the company website at www.axsome.com. The company may occasionally disseminate material, nonpublic information on the company website.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain matters discussed in this press release are “forward-looking statements”. We may, in some cases, use terms such as “predicts,” “believes,” “potential,” “continue,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. In particular, the Company’s statements regarding trends and potential future results are examples of such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements include risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the success, timing and cost of our ongoing clinical trials and anticipated clinical trials for our current product candidates, including statements regarding the timing of initiation and completion of the trials, futility analyses and receipt of interim results, which are not necessarily indicative of the final results of our ongoing clinical trials; our ability to fund additional clinical trials to continue the advancement of our product candidates; the timing of and our ability to obtain and maintain U.S. Food and Drug Administration or other regulatory authority approval of, or other action with respect to, our product candidates; the Company’s ability to successfully defend its intellectual property or obtain the necessary licenses at a cost acceptable to the Company, if at all; the successful implementation of the Company’s research and development programs and collaborations; the success of the Company’s license agreements; the acceptance by the market of the Company’s product candidates, if approved; and other factors, including general economic conditions and regulatory developments, not within the Company’s control. The factors discussed herein could cause actual results and developments to be materially different from those expressed in or implied by such statements. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstance.

Axsome Contact:
Mark Jacobson
Senior Vice President, Operations
Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.
25 Broadway, 9^th Floor
New York, NY 10004
Tel: 212-332-3243
Email: mjacobson@axsome.com
www.axsome.com

$MATR To Be Acquired By NICE

CHICAGO, April 26, 2018 — Mattersight Corporation (NASDAQ:MATR), the pioneer in personality-based software applications, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by an affiliate of NICE Ltd., the worldwide leading provider of both cloud and on-premises enterprise software solutions that empower organizations to make smarter decisions based on advanced analytics of structured and unstructured data. Under the terms of the agreement, NICE will launch a tender offer to purchase all outstanding shares of Mattersight’s common and preferred stock, pursuant to which holders of Mattersight’s common stock will receive $2.70 per common share in cash and holders of Mattersight’s outstanding preferred stock will receive $7.80 per share in cash, plus accrued and unpaid dividends as of immediately prior to the closing. The per share purchase price of Mattersight’s common stock represents a 26% premium to the per share closing price of Mattersight’s common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market on April 25, 2018, the last trading day prior to the announcement of the transaction, and a 27% premium to the 30-day weighted-average price per share of Mattersight’s common stock.

“Our solutions drive significant business value for some of the most recognized brands on the planet, but we’ve lacked the resources to rapidly accelerate our growth. This transaction creates a great opportunity for Mattersight’s customers and employees, as NICE brings complementary products, a substantial distribution engine and a strong brand that allow us to accelerate our go-to-market strategy” said Kelly Conway, CEO of Mattersight. “We are excited to work with NICE to bring our personality-based applications to the global market and continue innovating with our current and future customers.”

Mattersight expects the integration of NICE analytics powered by Nexidia and Mattersight’s behavioral analytics technology and domain expertise will allow organizations to enjoy the market’s most advanced analytics in the cloud, driving personalization and smart connections in real time.

“Analytics is the cornerstone of NICE’s strategy of creating a new customer service paradigm with CXone and Adaptive WFO,” said Barak Eilam, CEO of NICE. “We were very impressed with Mattersight’s innovative technology and domain expertise, as well as by their long standing strategic relationships with some of the largest customer service organizations. This acquisition reaffirms our commitment to delivering analytics in the cloud and to be at the forefront of the analytics market.”

The Board of Directors of Mattersight has approved the transaction. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2018, subject to completion of the tender offer, as well certain regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The transaction will be funded from NICE’s cash on hand.

Union Square Advisors is serving as the exclusive financial advisor, and Cooley is serving as the legal advisor, to Mattersight.

About Mattersight
Mattersight unleashes the power of personality to improve every interaction with every customer every time. With tools to learn, analyze, and predict customer behavior based on customer conversations, Mattersight helps brands create chemistry with their customers through shorter, more satisfying conversations that increase loyalty. To learn how Mattersight can help you click better with your customers visit www.mattersight.com.

Important Additional Information and Where to Find It

In connection with the proposed acquisition of Mattersight by NICE, NICE will commence a tender offer for all of the outstanding shares of Mattersight’s common stock and preferred stock. Such tender offer has not yet commenced. This communication is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell shares of Mattersight, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials that NICE will file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) upon commencement of the tender offer. At the time that the tender offer is commenced, NICE will file tender offer materials on Schedule TO with the SEC, and Mattersight will file a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the offer. THE TENDER OFFER MATERIALS (INCLUDING AN OFFER TO PURCHASE, A RELATED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND CERTAIN OTHER TENDER OFFER DOCUMENTS) AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION THAT SHOULD BE READ CAREFULLY AND CONSIDERED BY MATTERSIGHT’S STOCKHOLDERS BEFORE ANY DECISION IS MADE WITH RESPECT TO THE TENDER OFFER. Both the tender offer statement and the solicitation/recommendation statement will be made available to Mattersight’s stockholders free of charge. A free copy of the tender offer statement and the solicitation/recommendation statement will also be made available to all stockholders of Mattersight by contacting Mattersight at Legal Department, Mattersight Corporation, 200 W. Madison Street, Suite 3100, Chicago, Illinois 60606, by phone at 877.235.6925, or by visiting Mattersight’s website (www.mattersight.com). In addition, the tender offer statement and the solicitation/recommendation statement (and all other documents filed with the SEC) will be available at no charge on the SEC’s website (www.sec.gov) upon filing with the SEC. MATTERSIGHT’S STOCKHOLDERS ARE ADVISED TO READ THE TENDER OFFER STATEMENT AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT, AS EACH MAY BE AMENDED OR SUPPLEMENTED FROM TIME TO TIME, AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BEFORE THEY MAKE ANY DECISION WITH RESPECT TO THE TENDER OFFER BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND THE PARTIES TO THE TRANSACTION.

Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the satisfaction of conditions to the completion of the proposed transaction and the expected completion of the proposed transaction, as well as other statements that are not historical fact. These forward-looking statements are based on currently available information, as well as Mattersight’s views and assumptions regarding future events as of the time such statements are being made. Such forward looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the potential failure to satisfy conditions to the completion of the proposed transaction due to the failure to receive a sufficient number of tendered shares in the tender offer, as well as those described in cautionary statements contained elsewhere herein and in Mattersight’s periodic reports filed with the SEC including the statements set forth under “Risk Factors” set forth in Mattersight’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, the Tender Offer Statement on Schedule TO (including the offer to purchase, the letter of transmittal and other documents relating to the tender offer) to be filed by NICE, and the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 to be filed by Mattersight. As a result of these and other risks, the proposed transaction may not be completed on the timeframe expected or at all. These forward-looking statements reflect Mattersight’s expectations as of the date of this report. While Mattersight may elect to update any such forward-looking statements at some point in the future, Mattersight specifically disclaims any obligation to do so, even if our expectations change, except as required by law.

Contact
David Mullen
Chief Financial Officer
312.954.7380
dave.mullen@mattersight.com

$NETE is Enabling Business across a Wide Array of Platforms

April 26, 2018

• Retail e-commerce sales expected to reach $4.88 trillion by 2021
• Net Element enables expanding scope of face-to-face and e-commerce transactions
• Company building additional transaction capabilities through blockchain project

In a world with rapidly expanding opportunities for commerce at a truly worldwide scale, one of the greatest challenges businesses face is staying abreast of the technologies that keep people linked together across the globe. Net Element, Inc. (NASDAQ: NETE) is in the business of making business happen, ensuring that sales transactions can take place across a wide array of potential platforms, globally or in-person right at a merchant’s store.

Not so far from the historical era of bartering for goods and services and yet light years ahead in terms of mobility, modern businesses and consumers are increasingly accustomed to moving merchandise without a ‘show-me-the-money’ mentality. Payment cards, emailed and texted statements and short-range electronic broadcasting all serve to verify in a confident and practically instantaneous manner that a resource of funds sufficient to cover a debt exists somewhere in the world and can be made available to another specified location somewhere in the world.

Through its brands, Net Element specializes in linking consumer mobile phones, banks, unbanked online distribution outlets and offline brick-and-mortar storefronts, providing value-added services and business analytics.  The goal is to help companies assess their competition, evaluate their own productivity and get to know their clients’ preferences in the U.S. and emerging markets around the globe.

The company’s North America Transactions Solutions business segment recorded year-over-year revenue growth of 21 percent in 2017 with a history of 28 percent growth, driven mostly by its successes with its Unified Payments subsidiary (http://nnw.fm/zV1H8). Unified Payments’ Fast Pass Funding service gives eligible merchants access to revenues in as little as three hours during regular business days, improving turnaround time for transaction processing to same-day significance.

Entry into the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance has bolstered the company’s development of secure blockchain protocols to enhance its transaction solutions, including its new Netevia multi-channel payments platform that offers end-to-end processing through easy-to-use APIs. The company’s other subsidiaries — international small content mobile solution entity Digital Provider, cloud-based point-of-sale wireless tech platform Aptito, and processor agnostic e-commerce manager PayOnline — enhance its gravitas in the industry.

Independent equity research firm JGR Capital announced in April that it had launched its small cap data coverage of Net Element as a service to investors and shareholders (http://nnw.fm/M2ieN), providing additional attention to the company’s capabilities. In January, Net Element wrapped up a $7.55 million restricted common stock and warrant private placement with an institutional investor than brought in additional funding for its blockchain initiatives.

“The Company’s balance sheet is now the strongest in its history, allowing Net Element to support future growth opportunities,” Net Element CEO Oleg Firer stated in a news release.

Cumulative data from market analyst Statista projects that retail e-commerce sales worldwide will continue to grow at a marked pace, doubling revenues to $4.88 trillion by 2021. The analysis reports that online shopping is one of the most popular online activities worldwide, but the usage varies by region. In 2016, an estimated 19 percent of all retail sales in China occurred via internet, but, in Japan, the share was only 6.7 percent. Desktop PCs are still the most popular device for placing online shopping orders, but mobile devices, especially smartphones, are catching up, the report states (http://nnw.fm/sy5E3).

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.NetElement.com

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About NetworkNewsWire

NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets (3), enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with NNW Prime. As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge.

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$DJACF Marijuana Stocks Close Mixed As Sessions Supports Cannabis Research

The North American Marijuana Index fell flat on Wednesday, as pot stocks closed mixed following news of U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ openness to medical marijuana research. Sessions, known for his opposition to cannabis, told a key Senate panel on Wednesday that not only does he believe medical marijuana may have benefits, but that it should be researched as well. Still, the head of the Justice Department continues to doubt findings that cannabis may aid in dealing with the opioid epidemic, stating he doesn’t “believe that will be sustained in the long run.” The Index fell 1.70 points, or 0.69 percent, to close out the day at 245.86.

The United States Marijuana Index rose 0.42 points, an increase of 0.48 percent to close out the day at 88.51, while the Canadian Marijuana Index fell 9.98 points, or 1.58 percent, ending the day at 621.33.

Wall Street pulled out a mixed win on Wednesday despite investor worries over U.S. bond yields that continue to rise as well as growing corporate costs. Adding to the positive numbers, around 31 percent of the S&P 500 companies have reported earnings so far, with the bulk of those meeting or beating consensus estimates. Thomson Reuters data shows that analysts expect growth of 22 percent for the first quarter.

Still, some experts remain trepidatious about the market’s future. “Investors are aware that the tax cuts have certainly boosted earnings and they have also seen an increase in top line growth,” said Bernard Baumohl, chief global economist at the Economic Outlook Group in an interview with Reuters.

“But we are a bit long in the tooth with respect to this cycle. Interest rates are also moving higher. And at some point there is a question how much longer this economic expansion can continue to grow.”

The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 59.7 points, or 0.25 percent, to end the day at 24,083.83, while the S&P 500 rose 4.84 points, an increase of 0.18 percent, to close out Wednesday at 2,639.4. Finally, the Nasdaq Composite fell 3.62 points, or 0.05 percent, to end the day at 7,003.74.

The Horizons Marijuana Life Sciences ETF (HMMJ.TO) fell CAD$0.26 per share, a loss of 1.59 percent to close out the day at CAD$16.14 per share, while the Evolve Marijuana ETF (SEED.TO) fell CAD$0.28 per share, or 1.65 percent, to end the day at CAD$16.66 per share.

Hiku Brands and WeedMD Merge

They might not be the ‘27 Yankees, but last week’s announcement from Hiku Brands Company Ltd. (CSE:HIKU) and WeedMD Inc. (TSX-V:WMD) (OTC:WDDMF) that the two companies had agreed to merge brings together a couple of cannabis powerhouses. According to a statement, shareholders of  Hiku and WeedMD will own approximately 51.75 percent and 48.25 percent of the new entity, respectively, which will be listed on the TSX-Venture. The deal gives the newly formed company four indoor and greenhouse growing facilities with a capacity that will exceed 56,000 kg by the middle of 2019.

“Our vision at Hiku has always been that cannabis is a consumer product – in which brands, retail and customer experience will ultimately win,” said Alan Gertner, Chief Executive Officer of Hiku in a statement. “The combination of Hiku and WeedMD creates a cannabis company capable of fulfilling the vision of delivering the best in class experiences from in-store to product, from medical to adult-use, but also capturing full retail and wholesale margins. Our combined offerings create a company that is insulated from potential wholesale margin compression and is ready to scale its offering globally.”

Quick Hits

Naturally Splendid Enterprises Ltd. (TSX-V:NSP) (OTCQB:NSPDF) acquired organic hemp processor Absorbent Concepts Inc…  Zynerba Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:ZYNE) announced new clinical trial data… Kaya Holdings, Inc. (OTCQB:KAYS) opened its fourth marijuana dispensary in Oregon.

$SNNVF Earnings Release Update Covered by NetworkNewsAudio

NEW YORK, April 26, 2018 — via NetworkWire – NetworkNewsWire (“NNW”), a multifaceted financial news and publishing company for business, today announces the audio version of Sunniva Inc. (CSE:SNN) (OTCQX:SNNVF) recent press release titled “Sunniva Inc. to Delay Earnings Release Until April 30, 2018.”

To hear the Sunniva Inc. AudioPressRelease (APR) version, visit: http://nnw.fm/p6fEC

To read the original press release, visit: http://nnw.fm/Ie6Eq

About Sunniva Inc.

Sunniva, through its subsidiaries, is a vertically integrated medical cannabis company operating in the world’s two largest cannabis markets – Canada and California – where we are committed to delivering safe, high-quality products and services at scale. Our vision is to become the lowest cost, highest quality cannabis producer in the markets we serve by building large scale purpose-built current good manufacturing practices greenhouses, offering better quality assurance with cannabis products free from pesticides, providing better patient and doctor access to cannabis education and sourcing better therapeutic delivery devices. Sunniva’s management and board of directors have a proven track record for creating significant shareholder value both in the healthcare and biotech industries.

For more information please visit: www.sunniva.com

About NetworkNewsAudio

NetworkNewsAudio (NNA) , a NetworkNewsWire (NNW) Solution, allows you to sit back and listen to market updates, CEO interviews and a Company AudioPressRelease (APR). These audio clips provide snapshots of position, opportunity and momentum. NetworkNewsAudio (NNA) is another NetworkNewsWire (NNW) Solution that can assist your company by cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, NNA brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is where news, content and information converge. NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a comprehensive provider of news aggregation and syndication, enhanced press release services and a full array of social communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and distribution company with an extensive team of journalists and writers, NNW has the unparalleled ability to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public with an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the nation.

For more information, visit: www.NetworkNewsAudio.com

About NetworkNewsWire

NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets, (3) enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with NNW Prime. As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge. For more information, please visit NetworkNewsWire (NNW).

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the NetworkNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by NNW, wherever published or re-published: http://NNW.fm/Disclaimer.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain as they are based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in this release and matters set in the company’s SEC filings. These risks and uncertainties could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

Corporate Communications Contact: 

NetworkNewsWire (NNW)
New York, New York
www.NetworkNewsWire.com
212.418.1217 Office
Editor@NetworkNewsWire.com

$HMMR NetworkNewsWire Coverage Initiated

NEW YORK, April 26, 2018 — via NetworkNewsWire – Hammer Fiber Optic Holdings Corp. (OTCQB:HMMR), a telecommunications company investing in the future of wireless technology, announces it has engaged the corporate communications expertise of NetworkNewsWire (“NNW”).

Hammer Fiber Optic Holdings Corp. (OTCQB:HMMR), with headquarters in New Jersey, serves residential and small business markets with high-capacity broadband, voice and video through direct fiber as well as its wireless fiber platform – Hammer Wireless® AIR technology. The company’s holdings include Hammer Fiber Optic Investments Ltd., D/B/A Hammer Communications, an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that offers internet, voice, video and data services in New Jersey as well as carrier services in Philadelphia and New York.

NNW is a multifaceted financial news and publishing company that delivers a new generation of social communication solutions, news aggregation and syndication, and enhanced news release services. NNW’s strategies help public and private organizations find their voice and build market visibility. As part of the Client-Partner relationship with Hammer Fiber Optic Holdings Corp., NNW will leverage its investor-based distribution network of over 5,000 key syndication outlets, various newsletters, social media channels, blogs, and other outreach tools to generate greater brand awareness for the Company.

“Hammer Fiber’s leadership team has a successful track record in a variety of related industries, as well as a deep knowledge of the regional competitive telecommunications landscape,” states Sherri Franklin, Director of Brand Awareness Distribution (BAD) Solutions for NNW. “We look forward to working with these professionals to launch a corporate communications campaign that keeps the investment community up-to-date on Hammer Fiber’s operations and technology.”

About Hammer Communications

Hammer Fiber Optic Holdings Corp. (OTCQB:HMMR) is a telecommunications company investing in the future of wireless technology whose holdings include Hammer Fiber Optic Investments, Ltd. D/B/A Hammer Communications, a New Jersey-based Internet Service Provider (ISP) that offers internet, voice, video and data services in New Jersey, as well as carrier services in Philadelphia and New York. Hammer Fiber serves residential and small business markets with high capacity broadband, voice and video through both direct fiber as well as its wireless fiber platform, Hammer Wireless® AIR technology.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.HammerComm.com.

Frank J. Pena
Director of Investor Relations
Hammer Fiber
Phone: 732-333-3808
E-mail: fpena@hammerfiber.com

About NetworkNewsWire

NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets, (3) enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with NNW Prime. As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge.

For more information, please visit https://www.NetworkNewsWire.com.

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the NetworkNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by NNW, wherever published or re-published: http://NNW.fm/Disclaimer

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain as they are based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in this release and matters set in the company’s SEC filings. These risks and uncertainties could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

Corporate Communications Contact:

NetworkNewsWire (NNW)
New York, New York
www.NetworkNewsWire.com
212.418.1217 Office
Editor@NetworkNewsWire.com

$HMMR Why Hammer Fiber Optic Holdings Corp. is “One to Watch”

April 19, 2018

• Expansion of IAAS cloud services to support cryptocurrency mining entities in deployment of blockchain technologies
• Serving residential and SME customers over high-capacity wireless broadband technology using licensed LMDS spectrum
• Global fiber optics market projected to grow from $3.2 billion in 2017 to $5 billion in 2022 with a CAGR of 9.4%

Hammer Fiber Optic Holdings Corp. (OTCQB: HMMR), with headquarters in New Jersey, is a telecommunications company investing in the future of wireless technology. The company’s holdings include Hammer Fiber Optic Investments, Ltd., D/B/A Hammer Fiber, an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that offers internet, voice, video and data services in New Jersey as well as carrier services in Philadelphia and New York. Hammer Fiber serves residential and small business markets with high-capacity broadband, voice and video through direct fiber as well as its wireless fiber platform – Hammer Wireless® AIR technology.

Hammer Fiber recently completed the initial development phase of its advanced LTE fixed wireless system, which was designed and built upon its successfully deployed wireless technology suite. The expansion allows Hammer Fiber to add ultra-high capacity cellular broadband applications to its product portfolio including wholesale services such as backhaul support for cellular network operators. Designed to complement Hammer Fiber’s core business of home residential service, the company expects this latest innovation to help position Hammer Fiber as a leader in future 5G technology. The company intends to leverage the Fixed LTE system in conjunction with its already deployed Fixed Wireless DOCSIS 3.1 system to deliver on one of its core promises, to deliver high capacity broadband to markets across the country at dramatically lower cost than traditional wireline methods, including fiber. Live field testing of the new system begins in early 2018 in the U.S. with service availability to follow later in the year.

Hammer Fiber has also expanded its IaaS (Infrastructure-as-a-Service) cloud services to include support for the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry. Interested companies will be able to host their products over Hammer Fiber’s robust and modern server infrastructure, fiber network architecture and data center presence in some of the most secure locations in the New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia regions. Hammer Fiber’s servers feature best-in-class computing power, designed to allow enterprise businesses to reap the benefits of utilizing a cloud-based system without the massive cost of establishing or maintaining a corporate data center.

“Distributed architecture infrastructure, such as those utilized by blockchain entities mining cryptocurrencies or other new vertical markets utilizing blockchain technology, are growing exponentially and we are poised to fulfill a critical but fundamental need of this explosive new industry,” said Mark Stogdill, CEO of Hammer Fiber. “The distributed ledger architectures that blockchains are built on require secure and robust data processing networks, highly scalable power generation and a reliable fiber optic backbone infrastructure linking up data centers worldwide for them to exist, and that is what we at Hammer Fiber do really well.”

Hammer Fiber seeks to achieve its vision by employing an extremely qualified group of business professionals with diverse backgrounds and successful track records from a variety of related industries. HMMR’s seasoned leadership team combines startup expertise with a consummate understanding of the regional competitive telecommunications landscape in sales, marketing, engineering, construction and business development.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.HammerCorp.info

More from NetworkNewsWire

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• AB International Group Corp. (ABQQ) Leading the Way in Cryptocurrency Education and Access
• Performance Anxiety Recedes as Resilient Cryptocurrencies Stage Comeback

About NetworkNewsWire

NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets (3), enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with NNW Prime. As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge.

For more information, please visit https://www.NetworkNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the NetworkNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by NNW, wherever published or re-published: http://NNW.fm/Disclaimer

NetworkNewsWire (NNW)
New York, New York
www.NetworkNewsWire.com
212.418.1217 Office
Editor@NetworkNewsWire.com

$SNNVF to Delay Earnings Release Until April 30, 2018

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 24, 2018 — via NetworkWire – Sunniva Inc. (“Sunniva” or the “Company“) (CSE:SNN) (OTCQX:SNNVF) announced today that it will delay its fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2017 earnings release and the subsequent earnings call, previously scheduled for April 24, 2018 and April 25, 2018, respectively. The Company now intends to release its results on April 30, 2018, after markets close. The delay is required for the Company’s auditors to complete their final audit procedures.

The Company’s executive management will discuss the results during the rescheduled conference call on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at 11:30 am Eastern Time/8:30 am Pacific Time. To participate in the call, please dial 1-800-319-4610, or (604) 638-5340. An audio replay will be available shortly after the call by dialing 1-855-669-9658 or (604) 674- 8052 and entering access code 5312. The replay will be available for two weeks after the call.

About Sunniva Inc.

Sunniva, through its subsidiaries, is a vertically integrated medical cannabis company operating in the world’s two largest cannabis markets – Canada and California – where we are committed to delivering safe, high-quality products and services at scale. Our vision is to become the lowest cost, highest quality cannabis producer in the markets we serve by building large scale purpose-built current good manufacturing practices greenhouses, offering better quality assurance with cannabis products free from pesticides, providing better patient and doctor access to cannabis education and sourcing better therapeutic delivery devices. Sunniva’s management and board of directors have a proven track record for creating significant shareholder value both in the healthcare and biotech industries.

For more information please visit: www.sunniva.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Contact Information:

Dr. Anthony Holler

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Investor Relations Contact:

George Jurcic

Manager, Investor Relations

587-430-0680

ir@sunniva.com

$ATOS Endoxifen, Positive Interim Review from Independent Safety Committee

SEATTLE, April 24, 2018 — Atossa Genetics Inc. (ATOS) (“Atossa” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics and delivery methods to treat breast cancer and other breast conditions, today announced that it has received a positive interim review on its Phase 1 study of topical endoxifen in men, which is being developed to address gynecomastia (or male breast enlargement), which is a common condition in patients being treated for prostate cancer. The Independent Safety Committee reviewed the blinded data generated from the first group in the study (eight subjects) and concluded that the study may advance to the next dosing level.

“This positive safety determination is on the critical path for a successful outcome of this Phase 1 study in men,” stated Dr. Steven Quay, Ph.D., MD, President and CEO of Atossa. “It is the first assessment of our clinical safety and tolerability data and it indicates that proceeding to the next dosing level with our proprietary topical endoxifen is warranted. We can now advance to the next level of the study which is to escalate the dosage in a new cohort of subjects as we continue to monitor safety and tolerability in the first cohort of the study.” Dr. Quay added, “We believe this is the first clinical trial ever conducted of a topical pharmaceutical for the treatment of gynecomastia. There are no approved drugs, either topical or oral, for this important, unmet medical need which affects 25% of men ages 50-69.”

The objectives of this double-blinded, placebo-controlled, repeat dose study of 24 healthy male subjects is to assess the pharmacokinetics of proprietary formulations of topical endoxifen dosage forms over 28 days, as well as to assess safety and tolerability. The study is being conducted on behalf of Atossa by CPR Pharma Services Pty Ltd., Thebarton, SA, Australia.

About Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is male breast enlargement and accompanying pain. It is the most common male breast disorder and is caused by a hormone imbalance where testosterone is low compared to estrogen. In prostate cancer treatment, testosterone is suppressed resulting is higher estrogen levels that usually triggers gynecomastia. Prophylactic breast bud irradiation is commonly used in prostate cancer patients, but must often be repeated. One recent study indicates that up to 90% of men taking androgen deprivation therapy suffer from gynecomastia and breast pain (Handoo Rhee, et al., October 18, 2014, BJU International).

According to the Mayo Clinic, although it can affect men at almost any age, it is most prevalent in men ages 50-69, affecting at least 1 in 4 men in this age group. Gynecomastia is caused by, among other things, any number of commonly prescribed medications, such as androgen deprivation therapy to treat prostate enlargement and prostate cancer; anti-anxiety medications; cancer treatments (chemotherapy), and some heart medications. Gynecomastia is not only painful and embarrassing, it can also cause men to stop taking these important medications.

There are no FDA-approved therapeutics for gynecomastia. Breast-bud irradiation, use of compression garments and plastic surgery are the most common approaches used to treat gynecomastia.

About Atossa Genetics

Atossa Genetics Inc. is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics and delivery methods to treat breast cancer and other breast conditions. For more information, please visit www.atossagenetics.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-looking statements in this press release, which Atossa undertakes no obligation to update, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated or estimated future results, including the risks and uncertainties associated with any variation between preliminary and final clinical results, actions and inactions by the FDA, the outcome or timing of regulatory approvals needed by Atossa including those needed to commence studies, lower than anticipated rate of patient enrollment, estimated market size of drugs under development, the safety and efficacy of Atossa’s products and services, performance of clinical research organizations and investigators, obstacles resulting from proprietary rights held by others with respect to fulvestrant, such as patent rights, potential market sizes for Atossa’s drugs under development and other risks detailed from time to time in Atossa’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including without limitation its periodic reports on Form 10-K and 10-Q, each as amended and supplemented from time to time.

Atossa Genetics Company Contact:

Atossa Genetics Inc.
Kyle Guse
CFO and General Counsel
(O) 866 893-4927
kyle.guse@atossagenetics.com

Investor Relations Contact:

Scott Gordon
CoreIR
377 Oak Street
Concourse 2
Garden City, NY 11530
Office: 516 222-2560
scottg@CoreIR.com

$DJACF Early Regulations are Shaping the Future of Canadian Cannabis

$VSQTF Provides Investor Update on Strong Portfolio Performances

Investments in Bluzelle, Blockchain Assembly & FansUnite Highlighted

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 24, 2018 — Victory Square Technologies Inc. (“Victory Square” or the “Company”) (CSE:VST) (OTC:VSQTF) (FWB:6F6) is pleased to update investors on the strong performances by three of its portfolio companies.

Bluzelle Investment (511% INCREASE)

In December 2017, Victory Square purchased $250,000 Canadian worth of Bluzelle tokens (BLZ), with an additional 25% incentive bonus tokens received for being an early contributor. The Company’s average token price is $0.09 cents. As of April 22, 2018, BLZ trades for $0.55/token, representing a 511% increase over the average cost base.

Bluzelle is a decentralized database service where users are able to rent out their computer storage space and be compensated with a cryptocurrency token. Decentralized app developers then use these tokens to have their decentralized app’s data stored and managed. Decentralized database services have the potential to provide more scalable, secure and affordable storage solutions than current centralized alternatives.

VS Blockchain Assembly Inc. Financing ($12M GAIN)

The Company is excited to announce that VS Blockchain Assembly Inc. (“Blockchain Assembly”) recently completed a financing at $0.75 a share, valuing the company at approximately $33.2 million Canadian. Victory Square maintains an approximate 36.17% equity stake in Blockchain Assembly, which plans to list on the Canadian Securities Exchange later this year.

Incubated by Victory Square in 2017, Blockchain Assembly focuses on designing and deploying innovative token-based capital solutions for technology firms, while helping those businesses raise capital through comprehensive tokenization strategies that include delivering Token sales to the global capital markets.

FansUnite Media Inc. Acquisition (400% GAIN)

Victory Square acquired FansUnite Media Inc. (“FansUnite”) in September 2016 for $2 million Canadian in exchange for common shares in Victory Square. Victory Square is pleased to announce that FansUnite is currently raising a private placement round of $4 million Canadian (at a pre-money valuation of $13 million Canadian) towards their go-public strategy in Q4 2018. FansUnite is also planning to launch their regulatory-compliant token sale this summer to raise an additional $10 million Canadian of non-dilutive funding for the company.

FansUnite is using blockchain to disrupt the sports betting and sports data industries. The flagship FansUnite asset will be the first sports betting blockchain protocol, allowing any company to build their tokenized platform on top of the FansUnite infrastructure. The first application built atop this protocol will be the FansUnite Sportsbook, the first decentralized social sports betting platform in the world.

Overview

We have seen a number of other exceptional performances by Victory Square portfolio companies, including those by V2 Games Inc., Fantasy 360 Technologies Inc. doing business as Immersive Tech, Limitless Blockchain Technology, LLC, Cassia Research Inc., PayVida Solutions Inc., Flo Digital Inc., Howyl Ventures Inc., and Multiplied Networks Inc. Some of these investments have returned well in excess of 100% and have promising funding strategies that will be executed in 2018.

“We are delighted to report that we have seen extremely rapid growth amongst our portfolio companies as each one of them has achieved key milestones in the past few months,” commented Shafin Diamond Tejani, CEO of Victory Square. “The coming year is shaping up to be an exciting one, not only for our partner companies, but also for the overall development of the technology sector in Canada. As a result, our acquisition strategy and focus remains on finding quality companies in emerging technology verticals that have identified a sector niche and are in need of capital and expertise to scale out their operations.”

For further information about the Company, please contact:

Investor Relations Contact – Prit Singh
Email: prit@victorysquare.com
Telephone: 905-510-7636

Media Contact – Howard Blank, Director
Email: howard@victorysquare.com
Telephone: 604-928-6066

ABOUT VICTORY SQUARE TECHNOLOGIES INC.
Victory Square Technologies is a blockchain-focused venture builder that funds and empowers entrepreneurs to implement innovative blockchain solutions. Victory Square portfolio companies are disrupting every sector of the global economy including Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Personalized Health, Gaming and Film. Victory Square has a proven process for identifying game-changing entrepreneurs and providing them with the partners, mentorship and support necessary to accelerate their growth and help them scale globally. For more information, please visit www.victorysquare.com.

ABOUT THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE (CSE)
The Canadian Securities Exchange, or CSE, is operated by CNSX Markets Inc. Recognized as a stock exchange in 2004, the CSE began operations in 2003 to provide a modern and efficient alternative for companies looking to access the Canadian public capital markets.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the outlook of the business of Victory Square, including, without limitation, statements relating to future performance by any portfolio company of the Company, the impact of any portfolio company’s performance on the Company, the strategic direction of the Company, and its goal of broadening its portfolio of interests in innovative companies. Such forward-looking statements may, without limitation, be preceded by, followed by, or include words such as “believes”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “intends”, “plans”, “continues”, “project”, “potential”, “possible”, “contemplate”, “seek”, “goal”, or similar expressions, or may employ such future or conditional verbs as “may”, “might”, “will”, “could”, “should” or “would”, or may otherwise be indicated as forward-looking statements by grammatical construction, phrasing or context. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this news release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of Victory Square. Although Victory Square believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because Victory Square can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Victory Square disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

$CIIX Establishes New Wholly Owned Foreign Enterprise

SAN GABRIEL, California, April 23, 2018 —

ChineseInvestors.com Inc. (OTCQB: CIIX)(“CIIX” or the “Company”), the premier financial information website for Chinese-speaking investors, today announces the expansion of its cryptocurrency and blockchain technology media and internet education business into China. In April 2018, the Company established a wholly owned foreign enterprise, NewCoins168.com Digital Media Technology Ltd (Shanghai), registered in China Free Trade Zone with registered capital of 10M RMB.

The Company’s United States counterpart http://www.newcoins168.com, established in November 2017, headquartered in New York City at 40 Wall Street in the Trump Building, currently staffs 5 editorial reporters. According to the Company’s CEO, Warren Wang, “In the coming year, we anticipate hiring 10-15 additional editors in Shanghai to work in conjunction with the New York and Los Angeles editors to provide 24/7 coverage of the latest global cryptocurrency and blockchain industry developments and trends.”

Most recently, the Company appointed Serena Ma as its new Editor-in-Chief in the New York office. Ma earned her Bachelor’s degree in journalism and economics in China and went on to obtain a Masters in journalism from Indiana University in 2012. Ma previously worked as Senior Editor for People’s Daily English in downtown Los Angeles, California.

“We are pleased that since its launch in 2018, http://www.newcoins168.com has become a well-known cryptocurrency and blockchain technology information portal among the North American Chinese community. We are looking forward to gaining popularity among the Chinese community worldwide and expanding into the China market,” says the Company’s CEO Warren Wang. “The Chinese website is intended to provide entry-level cryptocurrency and blockchain technology information. In addition, the Company plans to launch a mobile app that will provide timely, 24/7 news and analysis covering cryptocurrency and blockchain technology for the global Chinese community.”

About ChineseInvestors.com (OTCQB: CIIX)

Founded in 1999, ChineseInvestors.com endeavors to be an innovative company providing: (a) real-time market commentary, analysis, and educational related services in Chinese language character sets (traditional and simplified); (b) advertising and public relation related support services; and (c) retail, online sales and direct sales of hemp-based products and other health related products.

For more information visit ChineseInvestors.com

Visit and register https ://www.newcoins168.com

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Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain as they are based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in this release and matters set in the company’s SEC filings. These risks and uncertainties could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

Contact:
ChineseInvestors.com, Inc.
227 W. Valley Blvd, #208 A
San Gabriel, CA 91776

Investor Relations:
Alan Klitenic
+1-214-636-2548

Corporate Communications:
NetworkNewsWire (NNW)
New York, New York
http://www.NetworkNewsWire.com
+1-212-418-1217 Office
Editor@NetworkNewsWire.com

$SHLD Announces Receipt Of Letter From ESL Investments

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., April 23, 2018 — Sears Holdings Corporation (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: SHLD) today announced that its Board of Directors (“Board”) has received a letter from ESL Investments, Inc. (“ESL”) expressing the view that the Company should pursue a divestiture of all or a portion of (i) the Kenmore brand and related assets (“Kenmore”), (ii) the Sears Home Improvement business of the Sears Home Services division (“SHIP”), and (iii) the PartsDirect business of the Sears Home Services division (“PartsDirect”).

The letter notes that Kenmore, SHIP, and PartsDirect have substantial value and that divesting one or more of them would enable the Company to improve its debt profile and liquidity position. The letter further states that if the Company determines to pursue a divesture of any of Kenmore, SHIP, or PartsDirect, ESL would be interested in participating as a buyer. In pertinent part, the letter outlines the following:

• ESL’s non-binding proposal to acquire SHIP and PartsDirect based on an enterprise value of $500 million and on the other terms set forth in the letter;
• ESL’s willingness to submit a proposal to acquire Kenmore; and
• ESL’s willingness to make an offer for certain real estate owned by the Company (including the assumption of certain debt obligations secured by that real estate) with the expectation of entering into an ongoing master lease for some or all of the stores to allow for their continued operation.

The letter emphasizes that ESL’s principal interest is seeing that the Kenmore, SHIP, and PartsDirect businesses are divested in the near term at a full and fair value, regardless of whether ESL or a third party is the ultimate buyer. To ensure a fair process, ESL confirmed that:

• It will not participate in any transaction as a buyer unless such transaction is both recommended by a committee of independent directors of the Company’s Board that is fully empowered to consider such transaction, and approved by the holders of a majority of the shares of common stock of the Company held by disinterested stockholders;
• Edward S. Lampert and Kunal S. Kamlani will not participate on behalf of the Company (as officer or director) in any discussions, deliberations, negotiations, or decisions with respect to a potential transaction in which ESL participates as a buyer, except to the extent specifically requested by that committee; and
• It would accept that any transaction in which ESL participates as a buyer would be subject to a “go shop” process on reasonable terms.

The letter from ESL will be reviewed and considered by a committee of independent directors of the Company’s Board. There can be no assurance that this letter will result in a transaction or on what terms any transaction may occur. The Company does not intend to comment further unless and until it determines that additional disclosure is appropriate.

The full text of the letter appears below:

April 20, 2018

Board of Directors
Sears Holdings Corporation
3333 Beverly Road
Hoffman Estates, Illinois 60179

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Funds affiliated with ESL Investments are the largest stockholders of, and substantial lenders to, Sears Holding Corporation (“Sears”). We continue to see value in Sears and its underlying assets and believe strongly that with an appropriate runway Sears will be able to complete its transformation to respond to the challenging retail environment. We also are of the view that the portfolio of Sears’ assets has substantial value that is not being reflected in the capital markets or being maximized under the current organizational structure. These assets include the Kenmore brand and related assets (“Kenmore”), the Home Improvement business of the Sears Home Services division (“SHIP”), and the Parts Direct business of the Sears Home Services division (“Parts Direct”).

We understand that Sears has marketed certain of these assets for nearly two years but, with the exception of the Craftsman divestiture, has been unable to reach agreement with potential purchasers on acceptable terms. We are writing to confirm the view that we have recently expressed to you that Sears should aggressively pursue a divestiture of all or a portion of Kenmore, SHIP and Parts Direct and to express ESL’s interest in participating in such divestitures.  In our view, pursuing these divestitures now will demonstrate the value of Sears’ portfolio of assets, will provide an important source of liquidity to Sears and could avoid any deterioration in the value of such assets.  In particular:

• ESL believes that Kenmore is an iconic brand with substantial value and Sears should aggressively pursue a divestiture of all, or a portion of, Kenmore in the near term. If Sears believes it would be helpful, ESL would be prepared to submit a proposal for such a transaction and believes it would be able to close such a transaction within 90 days.
• ESL is pleased to submit a non-binding indication of interest to acquire SHIP and Parts Direct on the terms set forth below.

Additionally, if requested by the Sears Board of Directors, ESL also would be open to making an offer for Sears’ real estate (including the assumption of the $1.2 billion of debt obligations secured by such real estate), with the expectation of entering into an ongoing master lease for some or all of the stores to allow for their continued operation.

ESL would like to emphasize that its principal interest is seeing that the Kenmore, SHIP and Parts Direct businesses are divested in the near term at a full and fair value, regardless of whether ESL or a third party is the ultimate buyer, so that Sears is able to improve its debt profile and liquidity position. As a result, to ensure a fair process, ESL hereby confirms that:

• Edward S. Lampert and Kunal S. Kamlani will not participate on behalf of Sears (as officer or director) in any discussions, deliberations, negotiations or decisions with respect to a potential transaction in which ESL participates as a buyer, except to the extent specifically requested by the committee referred to below.
• ESL will not participate in any such transaction as a buyer unless such transaction is both (i) recommended by the related party transaction committee (or another committee of independent directors) of the Sears Board of Directors, which is fully empowered to consider such transaction, and (ii) approved by the holders of a majority of the shares of Sears held by disinterested stockholders.
• ESL would accept that any transaction in which ESL participates as a buyer would be subject to a “go shop” process on reasonable terms.

We believe that adherence to the foregoing procedures will ensure that any transaction with ESL will be on fair and reasonable terms.

Key terms of our proposal to acquire SHIP and Parts Direct are set out below:

1. Valuation: We are interested in acquiring 100% of the equity of SHIP and Parts Direct based on an enterprise value of $500 million. The purchase price would be paid in cash and SHIP and Parts Direct would be acquired on a debt-free and cash-free basis with normalized levels of working capital.
2. Other Agreements: We would expect that Sears will enter into certain interim and long-term agreements with SHIP and Parts Direct to enable the continued operation of those businesses as they operate today. These agreements would include transition services agreements with Sears for a period of time, a brand licensing agreement for SHIP and Parts Direct and other customary ancillary documents for a transaction of this type. Our proposal is also subject to receiving the required consents to assign the supplier agreements to the buyer from the suppliers of each of SHIP and Parts Direct.
3. Financing: The cash consideration for the transaction would be financed with equity contributions from ESL and third party debt financing. At the appropriate time, we would also be open to discussing with you the possibility of partnering with third parties who might be interested in contributing equity financing. We do not anticipate any financing condition, since we plan to have our financing fully committed at the time we sign a definitive agreement.
4. Exchange and Tender Offers: The transaction would be undertaken in connection with (i) an exchange offer with respect to 50% of approximately $600 million in outstanding 2^nd lien indebtedness not secured by real estate for equity in Sears of equal value, and (ii) a tender offer for 100% of Sears’ approximately $900 million in outstanding unsecured indebtedness at a discount to par reflective of the current trading prices or, alternatively, for Sears equity.  ESL believes that the exchange offer and the tender offer would be beneficial to the debt holders, by providing liquidity, to Sears, by reducing its debt obligations, and to equity holders, by reducing risk and giving Sears time to pursue value maximizing strategies. Assuming the proceeds from the contemplated divestitures is sufficient to allow Sears to substantially reduce its overall leverage, ESL would consider participating in such exchange offer and tender offer.
5. Timing and Advisors: We are prepared to move as quickly as possible to complete customary due diligence for a transaction of this nature and enter into definitive agreements. We believe that an expedited process is in the best interest of all parties involved. We have retained Moelis & Company as financial advisor and Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP as legal counsel. Please feel free to reach out to any of the below regarding this Proposal.

This letter reflects ESL’s non-binding indication of interest. Nothing in this letter should be considered to constitute or create a binding obligation or commitment of ESL to proceed with, or consummate, any transaction. Any transaction among the parties will be subject to, and qualified in its entirety by, the execution and delivery of a mutually acceptable definitive agreement.

This proposal, including the exchange offer and tender offer and any alternative transactions with third parties, are part of a comprehensive solution to create a viable and healthy Sears, and will allow Sears to reduce its debt, extend its maturity profile and alleviate its liquidity challenges.

We are very enthusiastic about our ownership interest in Sears and its future, and will remain so whether or not a transaction is consummated. We are available to discuss the foregoing at your convenience.

Very truly yours,

ESL INVESTMENTS, INC.

 /s/ Edward S. Lampert                       
Edward S. Lampert
Chairman and CEO

About Sears Holdings Corporation

Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD) is a leading integrated retailer focused on seamlessly connecting the digital and physical shopping experiences to serve our members – wherever, whenever and however they want to shop. Sears Holdings is home to Shop Your Way®, a social shopping platform offering members rewards for shopping at Sears and Kmart as well as with other retail partners across categories important to them. The Company operates through its subsidiaries, including Sears, Roebuck and Co. and Kmart Corporation, with full-line and specialty retail stores across the United States. For more information, visit www.searsholdings.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Whenever used, words such as “will,” “expect,” and other terms of similar meaning are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, including these, are based on the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are subject to significant risks, assumptions and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Detailed descriptions of risks, uncertainties and factors relating to Sears Holdings are discussed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. While we believe that our forecasts and assumptions are reasonable, we caution that actual results may differ materially. We intend the forward-looking statements to speak only as of the time made and do not undertake to update or revise them as more information becomes available, except as required by law.

NEWS MEDIA CONTACT:
Sears Holdings Public Relations
(847) 286-8371

$GIFI Completes Sale of Texas South Yard for $55 Million Cash

HOUSTON, April 23, 2018 — Gulf Island Fabrication, Inc. (“Gulf Island” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ:GIFI) announced today that on April 20, 2018, the Company completed the sale of its South Yard in Ingleside, Texas, to a subsidiary of Buckeye Partners for $55 million. The Company continues to actively market its North Yard in Aransas Pass, Texas, which is also held for sale along with related cranes and other equipment.

Kirk J. Meche, President and C.E.O. of Gulf Island, commented, “In early 2017, we announced our plan to rationalize underutilized assets including the two fabrication yards and related equipment in our South Texas facilities. Completing the sale of the South Yard is an important milestone in that process and will facilitate the Company’s continued strategic repositioning from the offshore oil and gas market to more diversified markets and customers. We look forward to following Buckeye’s plans to repurpose the property in their midstream business and hope to participate in any fabrication or commissioning projects once they proceed with their new construction plans.”

The Company will retain net cash proceeds of $52.7 million from the sale after transaction costs. Although the Company will recognize a gain from the sale, it does not anticipate any material tax liability given recent net operating losses. The Company plans to utilize the proceeds to rebuild its liquidity to support pending projects, continue investing in its newly launched EPC Division, and for other general corporate purposes. Following the transaction, the Company expects to have total liquidity of $84 million including cash and amounts available on its revolving credit line.

About Gulf Island:
Gulf Island Fabrication, Inc., based in Houston, Texas, with fabrication facilities located in Louisiana and Texas, is a leading fabricator of complex steel structures and marine vessels used for oil and gas production and transportation, petrochemical and industrial facilities, power generation and alternative energy projects. Gulf Island also provides related installation, hookup, commissioning, repair and maintenance services with specialized crews and integrated project management capabilities. For more information, please visit our website at www.gulfisland.com.

Cautionary Statement:

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are all statements other than statements of historical facts, such as projections or expectations relating to such topics as oil and gas prices, operating cash flows, capital expenditures, liquidity and tax rates. The words “anticipates,” “may,” “can,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “projects,” “targets,” “intends,” “likely,” “will,” “should,” “to be,” “potential” and any similar expressions are intended to identify those assertions as forward-looking statements.

We caution readers that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated, projected or assumed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that can cause our actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements include the cyclical nature of the oil and gas industry, changes in backlog estimates, suspension or termination of projects, timing and award of new contracts, financial ability of our customers and consolidation of our customers, competitive pricing and cost overruns, entry into new lines of business, ability to raise additional capital, ability to sell certain assets and monetize other non-recurring contingencies, advancement of the SeaOne Project, ability to reach an agreement with our customer relating to certain contracts to build and complete two multi-purpose service vessels, operating and financial restrictions contained in our credit agreement, credit worthiness of our customers, ability to employ skilled workers, operating dangers and limits on insurance coverage, weather conditions, competition, customer disputes, adjustment to previously reported profits under percentage-of-completion method, loss of key personnel, compliance with regulatory and environmental laws, ability to utilize navigation canals, performance of subcontractors, systems and information technology interruption or failure and data security breaches and other factors described in more detail in “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, as updated by our subsequent filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Investors are cautioned that many of the assumptions upon which our forward-looking statements are based are likely to change after the forward-looking statements are made, which we cannot control. Further, we may make changes to our business plans that could affect our results. We caution investors that we do not intend to update forward-looking statements more frequently than quarterly notwithstanding any changes in our assumptions, changes in business plans, actual experience or other changes, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

$PVOTF Holds Promising Position in Expanding Cannabis Space

• Owns worldwide rights for patented formulations and drug delivery technologies
• Develops and commercializes therapeutic pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals
• Strategic agenda to become one of world’s only vertically integrated cannabis biotechs

With worldwide rights for unique drug delivery platforms in place, Pivot Pharmaceuticals Inc. (CSE: PVOT) (OTCQB: PVOTF) (FRA: NPAT) is rapidly building a disruptive, vertically integrated biotechnology company. Advancing this agenda, the company recently announced that it has retained Cannabis Compliance Inc. to submit an application to Health Canada for a dealer’s license on behalf of Pivot’s acquisition target, Agro-Biotech Inc. (http://cnw.fm/0K5Xn).

In February, Pivot announced that its entry into a letter of intent for the proposed acquisition of licensed cannabis producer Agro-Biotech (http://cnw.fm/cvP6W), which operates a fully licensed indoor hydroponic cannabis production facility that’s on track to expand its capacity 10,000 kg per year by the end of this year. Upon completion of the proposed acquisition, the dealer’s license will enable Pivot (through Agro-Biotech) to conduct research and store cannabis derivatives that are not currently covered under the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations.

With the acquisition of Agro-Biotech, Pivot Pharmaceuticals will control the entire manufacturing process from seed to medical derivatives and capture margins along the entire supply chain. The dealer’s license will move Pivot another step closer to becoming one of the only vertically integrated cannabis biotech companies in the world. Pivot is already a differentiated player in the Canadian cannabis industry with its unique approach to enhanced dosing and bioavailability of cannabinoids, and the company’s position in the market will only be bolstered by the acquisition.

Pivot Pharmaceuticals has assembled cutting-edge drug delivery technologies that assist both effectiveness and efficacy of medicinal cannabinoids and have potential applications across other drug categories. Pivot’s patent pending topical transdermal drug delivery technology platform, BiPhasix™, has been shown to significantly enhance the bioavailability of various drugs, leading to improved clinical outcomes. The company also acquired worldwide rights to Solmic Solubilisation Technology Platform, which allows active ingredients to become water-soluble without changing their composition or nature, significantly enhancing drug uptake.

With proven pharmaceutical and patented formulation and delivery technologies, Pivot is well positioned in an important, growing vertical of the cannabis industry and represents a compelling opportunity in the biotechnology sector. This latest announcement by Pivot enhances the opportunity.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.PivotPharma.com

More from CannabisNewsWire

• Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) Scores Slam Dunk with Grow Facilities in Two Largest Cannabis Markets
• TransCanna™ is “One to Watch”
• Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) Receives Temporary License to Break Ground on Cannabis Cultivation Facility in California

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
Denver, Colorado
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.net

$ETST Employs Proactive Approach to Accelerate Development Growth

• Company announces its membership in Défi Montréal, Canada’s largest business acceleration program
• Partnership with Laboratories BNK Canada, Inc. allows ETST to commercialize its new testing services more quickly
• Strategic acquisition aimed at improving access to funding for development of treatments for various diseases

Earth Science Tech, Inc. (OTC: ETST), a Florida-based biotechnology company that operates in the fields of hemp cannabinoids, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, is taking active measures to accelerate its development and growth. On March 22, 2018, ETST announced its membership in the 16th cohort of Défi Montréal, the largest innovative business acceleration program in Quebec. Martin Duchaîne, founder of Défi Montréal, has advised or assisted over 900 entrepreneurs in his 20-year career. This new membership is expected to accelerate the development and commercialization of new ETST products in Canada and overseas (http://cnw.fm/J5fFa).

Through ETST’s connection with Défi Montréal, key individuals have already been brought on board to advance the acceleration of operations. In January 2018, ETST announced a deal with Laboratories BNK Canada, Inc. for clinical studies related to the MSN-2 medical device. The MSN-2 is a home kit designed for the detection of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from a self-obtained gynecological specimen. MSN-2 has been confirmed through studies to detect chlamydia. The company is working to validate similar results for gonorrhea. Testing for trichomoniasis, as well as different serotypes of the human papillomavirus (HPV), are expected to be added in the near future. Partnering with Laboratories BNK offers ETST an accelerated plan of development for more products while cutting costs and, ideally, treating more patients. This arrangement gives ETST the means to accelerate the commercialization of its new testing services while it works toward its ultimate goal of halting the spread of STIs.

ETST holds three wholly owned subsidiaries, including Earth Science Pharmaceutical Inc., Cannabis Therapeutics Inc. and KannaBidioid Inc. In 2017, ETST acquired Canna Inno Laboratories Inc. as a strategic move that gave ETST access to government grants. The first of these grants was awarded from the Government of Québec for innovation in the pharmaceutical industry and will support the pre-launch process of ETST’s three CBD-based products that aim to prevent common causes of cancer and help reduce occurrence rates.

ETST strives to discover solutions for conditions with no current effective treatment, targeting diseases for which the benefits of CBD have been demonstrated by researchers worldwide. The move to accelerate the development and commercialization of these products is an effort to improve treatments for different diseases on a global scale.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.EarthScienceTech.com

More from CannabisNewsWire

• Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) Scores Slam Dunk with Grow Facilities in Two Largest Cannabis Markets
• TransCanna™ is “One to Watch”
• Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) Receives Temporary License to Break Ground on Cannabis Cultivation Facility in California

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
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www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.net

$SNNVF Scores Slam Dunk with Grow Facilities in Two Largest Cannabis Markets

April 23, 2018

• North American medical marijuana market estimated at $9-10 billion
• Over one million square feet of cannabis greenhouse space planned
• Signed take or pay supply agreement with world’s largest pure play cannabis company

Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) seems destined for a future as bright as its name. According to a recent article, titled ‘Who will Dominate California — the World’s Largest Cannabis Market?’ (http://cnw.fm/Lc8w7), “Sunniva’s once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become one of California’s dominant cannabis companies cannot be over-emphasized.” The vertically integrated medical cannabis producer is constructing purpose built, large-scale current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) compliant greenhouse facilities in North America’s two largest markets, California and Canada.

As if that isn’t enough to signal success, the Vancouver, B.C. headquartered company has inked a take or pay deal with the largest medical marijuana company for 45,000 kg (100,000 lbs.) of cannabis annually, in Canada. Sunniva recently secured equity financing to the tune of C$27.8 million. The company plans to release its results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2017, after market close on Tuesday, April 24, 2018. That release will be the focal point of discussion during a conference call set for Wednesday, April 25, 2018 at 11:30 AM Eastern Time/8:30 am Pacific Time. Investors who wish to participate can find further details here: (http://cnw.fm/x8zCX).

There’s no doubt that Sunniva has a lot going for it. By positioning itself in California and Canada, the company is gaining access to a market that’s approximately valued at $9-10 billion. In California, Sunniva has a significant first mover advantage, and sales of medical marijuana were $2.7 billion in 2016, according to Arcview Market Research (http://cnw.fm/6eB0d). In Canada, MMJ sales reached $5.7 billion in 2017, according to data released by Statistics Canada (http://cnw.fm/5u0Oa).

The company’s supply agreement with Canopy Growth Corporation is a big deal in more ways than one. By committing to such a large take or pay contract, Canopy Growth Corporation, probably the world’s largest and most sophisticated cannabis company, is giving a big thumb up to Sunniva’s business model. Under a take or pay agreement, the buyer must accept the contracted volume of supply after testing. The agreement also includes the distribution of Sunniva branded products, substantially reduces Sunniva’s enterprise risk level and gives the producer a large bite of the North American MMJ market.

Sunniva’s management has already been there and done that. Dr. Anthony Holler, the company’s current chairman and CEO, a co-founder, started and led the very successful ID Biomedical. Dr. Holler not only drove ID Biomedical to become the world’s largest flu vaccine manufacturer, pre-selling its production, but finally sold the company to GlaxoSmithKline for total consideration of $2.0 billion. In addition, Sunniva’s Lead Director, Todd Patrick, served as president of ID Biomedical for over a decade.

Endorsement of Sunniva’s strategy has come in the form of additional equity. The company recently completed a bought deal public offering for gross proceeds of C$27.8 million. The funds will be used to commence development, in the next 30 days, on the Sunniva Canada Campus, a 700,000 square foot greenhouse facility in British Columbia that is anticipated to be financed by bank and subordinate debt lending; to purchase additional equipment for the operational extraction facility in California owned by A1 Perez, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sunniva; for the additional development of the company’s SPARK enterprise platform to support continued Natural Health Services Ltd. (another wholly-owned subsidiary) patient expansion; and to boost working capital.

Sunniva also continues the build-out of its facilities in Cathedral City, California. The fully funded state-of-the-art greenhouse will be cGMP compliant, which assures proper design, monitoring and control of manufacturing processes and facilities. Phase 1 of the project involves the development of a 325,000 square foot greenhouse capable of producing 60,000 kg per year of dry cannabis at capacity with operations commencing in Q3 2018.  Approximately 50 percent of initial total production is earmarked for conversion to oils and extracts. Phase 2 is expected to increase the greenhouse by 165,000 square feet and increase production by some 40,000 kg per year. This is a company that seems to have lined up many bank shots and is well on its way to becoming a leading cannabis company in California and Canada.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.sunniva.com

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• TransCanna™ is “One to Watch”
• Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) Receives Temporary License to Break Ground on Cannabis Cultivation Facility in California
• ChineseInvestors.com, Inc. (CIIX) Predicts Significant Annual Sales Growth, Announces Launch of Multi-Course ‘Bitcoin Trading Academy’

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire (CNW)
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www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.net

$CIIX Expansion of Cryptocurrency, Blockchain Media and Internet Education Business in China

SAN GABRIEL, California, April 23, 2018 —

ChineseInvestors.com Inc. (OTCQB: CIIX)(“CIIX” or the “Company”), the premier financial information website for Chinese-speaking investors, today announces the expansion of its cryptocurrency and blockchain technology media and internet education business into China. In April 2018, the Company established a wholly owned foreign enterprise, NewCoins168.com Digital Media Technology Ltd (Shanghai), registered in China Free Trade Zone with registered capital of 10M RMB.

The Company’s United States counterpart http://www.newcoins168.com, established in November 2017, headquartered in New York City at 40 Wall Street in the Trump Building, currently staffs 5 editorial reporters. According to the Company’s CEO, Warren Wang, “In the coming year, we anticipate hiring 10-15 additional editors in Shanghai to work in conjunction with the New York and Los Angeles editors to provide 24/7 coverage of the latest global cryptocurrency and blockchain industry developments and trends.”

Most recently, the Company appointed Serena Ma as its new Editor-in-Chief in the New York office. Ma earned her Bachelor’s degree in journalism and economics in China and went on to obtain a Masters in journalism from Indiana University in 2012. Ma previously worked as Senior Editor for People’s Daily English in downtown Los Angeles, California.

“We are pleased that since its launch in 2018, http://www.newcoins168.com has become a well-known cryptocurrency and blockchain technology information portal among the North American Chinese community. We are looking forward to gaining popularity among the Chinese community worldwide and expanding into the China market,” says the Company’s CEO Warren Wang. “The Chinese website is intended to provide entry-level cryptocurrency and blockchain technology information. In addition, the Company plans to launch a mobile app that will provide timely, 24/7 news and analysis covering cryptocurrency and blockchain technology for the global Chinese community.”

About ChineseInvestors.com (OTCQB: CIIX)

Founded in 1999, ChineseInvestors.com endeavors to be an innovative company providing: (a) real-time market commentary, analysis, and educational related services in Chinese language character sets (traditional and simplified); (b) advertising and public relation related support services; and (c) retail, online sales and direct sales of hemp-based products and other health related products.

For more information visit ChineseInvestors.com

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Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain as they are based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in this release and matters set in the company’s SEC filings. These risks and uncertainties could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

Contact:
ChineseInvestors.com, Inc.
227 W. Valley Blvd, #208 A
San Gabriel, CA 91776

Investor Relations:
Alan Klitenic
+1-214-636-2548

Corporate Communications:
NetworkNewsWire (NNW)
New York, New York
http://www.NetworkNewsWire.com
+1-212-418-1217 Office
Editor@NetworkNewsWire.com

$CIIX Predicts Significant Annual Sales Growth

April 20, 2018

• CIIX’s sales growth will be driven by its cryptocurrency activities and increased advertising revenues, especially from crypto blockchain companies
• Company recently announced its online ‘Bitcoin Trading Academy’, offering a three-level course about cryptocurrencies beginning in June
• CIIX is also launching Cryptocurrency VIP Club

ChineseInvestors.com, Inc. (OTCQB: CIIX) projects that its annual sales for the coming fiscal year will double or triple, driven by its diverse cryptocurrency activities and increased advertising revenue from crypto blockchain firms, as CEO Warren Wang noted on the Investor Town Hall Show (http://nnw.fm/Rdg9n). In the podcast, Wang says that the company expects to double or triple its annual revenue from its multi-faceted cryptocurrency strategy and higher advertising revenues, specifically from blockchain companies. Wang also described the launching of a Cryptocurrency VIP Club in April for subscription products. The podcast can be seen on YouTube (http://nnw.fm/YPm5f).

CIIX also recently announced plans to launch an online ‘Bitcoin Trading Academy’ starting in June (http://nnw.fm/5EbEE).  The online ‘Bitcoin Trading Academy’ will have three courses. The first will involve trading in bitcoin futures. The second will involve educational research. The third will be an explanation of ICOs. It is expected to be broadcast on CIIX’s site, NewCoins168.com.

CIIX has a comprehensive strategy in cryptocurrencies. It hosts a bitcoin ATM in the lobby of its San Gabriel, California, headquarters. It also broadcasts a daily video program, ‘Bitcoin MultiMillionaire’, from the floor of the NYSE. CIIX is exploring blockchain mining to earn bitcoin and Litecoin by installing 27 ASIC machines and AntMiners in a secure data center near Seattle. It plans to install more than 500 machines in the future. Its online crypto news platform is NewCoins168.com. CIIX is also exploring the acquisition of more bitcoin ATM machines.

The company’s core business has been educating and informing its global Chinese-speaking audience. Wang adds that higher advertising revenues are expected to boost CIIX’s business, as blockchain companies seek to raise their profile by increasing advertising. He believes that advertising/marketing could represent $100,000-$200,000 in new monthly sales.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.ChineseInvestors.com

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$SNNVF License to Break Ground on Cannabis Cultivation Facility in CA

April 20, 2018

• Permanent, annual state license for this facility to be applied for within the next 120 days
• Production capacity projected to reach over 100,000 kg of medical cannabis per year
• Californian facility will provide tenancy for other licensed cannabis cultivators

On April 12, 2018, Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) announced that its subsidiaries in the United States have received the necessary temporary licenses from the State of California to proceed with the construction of the company’s cultivation facilities in Cathedral City, California (http://cnw.fm/b4YDt). Licenses are temporary while the state develops permanent regulations for its newly legalized cannabis industry. Sunniva will apply for an annual state license within the next 120 days, as per state regulations.

The company refers to its purpose-built, state-of-the-art greenhouse cultivation facility in Cathedral City as the Sunniva California Campus. The Californian licenses will allow Sunniva to grow and process top-quality medical and adult-use cannabis and cannabis products. The facility will also accommodate licensed tenant cultivators who will leverage the infrastructure and services provided by the Sunniva California Campus. This provides them access to world-class cultivation infrastructure as well as Sunniva’s management and operational expertise through the provision of turnkey services. These include Sunniva’s genetics, management and consulting services, processing and manufacturing capabilities, distribution network, brand partnerships and retail relationships.

“This is a very significant milestone for Sunniva’s operations in California,” Sunniva CEO Dr. Anthony Holler said following the announcement. “An important aspect of the licensing process has been completed and now our focus is on completing construction on time and entering into supply contracts with distribution partners, leading brands and creating Sunniva branded products for the California marketplace.”

Sunniva’s U.S. subsidiary, CP Logistics, LLC, holds licenses for eight 10,000-square foot cultivation facilities, as well as two manufacturing licenses, a 22,000-square foot cultivation license, a 22,000-square foot nursery license and another 10,000-square foot nursery license. In addition, the company will lease seven 22,000-square foot cultivation bays to selected licensed tenants.

Along with the announcement, the company also provided an update on the construction progress for the Sunniva California Campus. Rough grading, steel erection and greenhouse glass and glazing are 100 percent complete. The installation of blackout screening and fire suppression equipment is 60 percent complete. The construction of header house roof panels is 30 percent complete, while 10 percent progress has been made on the construction of utility work. The company anticipates onboarding of plant propagating materials late Q3 2018.

Highest quality at the lowest cost

With headquarters in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Sunniva is a vertically integrated medical cannabis company currently operating in Canada and California, two of the world’s largest cannabis markets. The company will strive to become the lowest-cost, highest-quality cannabis producer in these markets with a commitment to deliver safe, high-quality products and services at scale. This will be achieved by building large-scale purpose-built greenhouses that conform to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). These facilities will offer top-notch quality assurance to deliver cannabis products free of pesticides, provide better doctor and patient access to cannabis education, and source better therapeutic delivery devices.

Sunniva operates through several wholly-owned subsidiaries:

• Sunniva Medical Inc.

This company’s ACMPR license application is in the final review stage. It is building a 700,000-square foot purpose-built and cGMP-compliant greenhouse facility in British Columbia. This is expected to produce more than 100,000 kg of premium medical cannabis per year, and over 25,000 kg of trim to be used for extraction.

Sunniva expects to break ground for the construction of this facility in early 2018. It will produce pesticide-free products and will convert trim to a range of extracted products such as cannabis oil. The oil will be used for drug formulations in delivery formats that include capsules, dissolvable strips, creams, tinctures and vaporization cartridges.

• CP Logistics, LLC

This is Sunniva’s U.S.-based subsidiary which has started construction of the Sunniva California Campus in Cathedral City, California. This facility has been cGMP designed and will be built in two phases. The first phase is designed to cover an area of 325,000 square feet to produce more than 60,000 kg of premium quality cannabis a year.

After the completion of phase 2, the facility is projected to produce over 100,000 kg of cannabis per year. It is estimated that 30 percent of all product will be used for the manufacture of higher margin extracted products, which will be produced free of the pesticides commonly used in cannabis cultivation today.

• Natural Health Services Ltd.

Natural Health Services (NHS) owns and operates a network of eight medical, ACMPR-licensed clinics in Canada which specialize in medical cannabis. The company provides patients with safe and effective medical cannabis products sources through Licensed Producers (LPs). Its clinics employ in-house physicians and nurse practitioners who specialize in the endocannabinoid system to provide patients with expert consultation, education and product recommendations.

NHS’s proprietary technology infrastructure helps LPs, physicians and patients comply with the rules of Health Canada for the supply and use of medical cannabis. The company currently has 93,000 patients and over 129,000 active medical documents outstanding.

• Full-Scale Distributors, LLC

Full-Scale Distributors (FSD) is a provider of custom, private-label vaporizers and accessories. FSD’s signature brand, Vapor Connoisseur, is recognized for its high quality and innovative vaporization devices. The company currently serves the needs of more than 80 brands that are active in the North American marketplace.

FSD’s vaporization products are tailored to specific client needs, while ensuring safety and reliability. The company will continue to provide these services and will be supplied by both of Sunniva’s production facilities in Canada and California.

Sunniva intends to offer its business partners the highest level of comprehensive white labeling services in the industry through a stringent quality assurance program to ensure pesticide-free production. Currently, the cannabis industry in North America is beset with significant problems around the use of pesticides and fungicides in cultivation that make cannabis products unsafe for consumption. It is estimated that over 90 percent of products made from cannabis flower and extracts in California are contaminated, and will most likely not pass new state testing protocols to be introduced in 2018.

The company will solve this problem by building cGMP-compliant greenhouse facilities free of pesticides and other contaminants. Its endeavor will be supported by an executive management team and board of directors that have a proven track record of creating significant shareholder value, both in the healthcare and biotech industries.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.sunniva.com

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About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

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$ETST Projects a Breakout Year in 2018 – NetworkNewsBreaks

March 28, 2018

• Nickolas Tabraue, ETST president, gives up COO position to Gagan Hunter, noting that the move completes the ‘puzzle’ to drive company to new heights in alternative medicine market
• Biotech company is focused on developing medical devices for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields and marketing high-grade, industrial hemp cannabidiol (CBD)
• Company projects a breakout year in 2018, in part due to revamping of its executive team and introducing a new marketing strategy for its repositioned and repackaged line of industrial hemp products

Earth Science Tech, Inc. (OTC: ETST), by naming Gagan Hunter as its new COO, has completed a transition, positioning the company to reach ‘new heights’ with a new team in place and a revamped marketing strategy for its industrial hemp-sourced line as a cannabinoid complex, as detailed by Nickolas Tabraue, company director and president, in a recent news release (http://nnw.fm/aWd9b). Tabraue, who served as COO prior to the appointment of Hunter, said that ETST has positioned itself for ‘explosive sales growth’ in 2018 (http://nnw.fm/9JrJa).

Hunter said that he looks forward to strengthening the company’s operations. He has 20 years of experience in the natural products industry, joining a number of seasoned additions to the ETST team. Earlier, the company put in place the team of Jill Buzan as chief sales officer, Sergio Castillo as chief marketing officer, and Gabriel Aviles as chief learning officer (http://nnw.fm/LJ40k).

Tabraue added, “I feel that we finally have the last piece of our puzzle in place to take ETST to new heights. Gagan has many great ideas to implement that will help the company work more efficiently and with greater organization. We now have every major role managed by passionate, likeminded individuals to truly make ETST an innovative, trusted brand in the alternative medicine space.”

Earth Science Tech is an innovative biotech company based in Doral, Florida. It markets a repositioned and repackaged line of High Grade Full Spectrum cannabidiol (CBD) oil products.  Focused on manufacturing and marketing cannabinoid products to the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical markets, it also conducts R&D for low-cost, non-invasive medical devices.

The company holds three wholly owned subsidiaries, including:

• Earth Science Pharmaceutical, which develops medical diagnostic tools and vaccines;
• Cannabis Therapeutics, an emerging biotechnology company; and
• KannaBidioiD, which is focused on cannabidiol production and distribution in the recreational space.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.EarthScienceTech.com

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About NetworkNewsWire

NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets (3), enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with NNW Prime. As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge.

For more information, please visit https://www.NetworkNewsWire.com

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$FFKT $WSBC Plan of Merger

WHEELING, W.Va., April 19, 2018 — WesBanco, Inc. (“WesBanco”) (NASDAQ: WSBC) and Farmers Capital Bank Corporation (“Farmers”) (NASDAQ: FFKT) jointly announced today that they have executed a definitive Agreement and Plan of Merger providing for the merger of Farmers with and into WesBanco. James C. Gardill, Chairman of the Board, and Todd F. Clossin, President & CEO, of WesBanco and R. Terry Bennett, Chairman of the Board, and Lloyd C. Hillard, Jr., President & CEO, of Farmers, made the joint announcement.

Under the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, which has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies, WesBanco will exchange a combination of its common stock and cash for Farmers common stock. Farmers shareholders will be entitled to receive 1.053 shares of WesBanco common stock and cash in the amount of $5.00 per share for each share of Farmers common stock for a total value of approximately $378.2 million in aggregate based on WesBanco’s market close price of $43.03 on April 18, 2018. The merger is expected to qualify as a tax-free reorganization. The transaction values Farmers at a price to March 31, 2018 tangible book value per share of 195%, and a price to mean analyst estimated 2018 earnings per share of 17.8 times.

Todd F. Clossin, President and Chief Executive Officer of WesBanco, stated, “The merger with Farmers significantly expands WesBanco’s existing franchise within Kentucky, and bridges the gap between our Louisville-Southern Indiana and our recently enhanced Southeast Ohio-Huntington, West Virginia markets. In addition to gaining entry into the Frankfort, Kentucky MSA with top market share, the merger with Farmers will enhance our presence in several major metropolitan markets with attractive demographics, which is consistent with our stated long-term growth strategy. In addition, Farmers has a solid trust and investment business with approximately $560 million of trust assets that will provide a very nice platform upon which to grow our wealth management business throughout Kentucky. We believe we can provide customers of Farmers with a broader array of banking services, including expanded commercial and mortgage lending capabilities as well as enhanced wealth management solutions.”

Excluding certain one-time merger charges, the transaction is anticipated to be approximately 3% accretive to earnings in 2019, and approximately 5% accretive to earnings in 2020 once anticipated cost savings are fully phased-in. Estimated tangible book value dilution at closing of approximately 2.1% is expected to be earned back in approximately 2.4 years using the “cross-over” method, including estimated pre-tax merger-related charges of $22.3 million. The acquisition is subject to the approvals of the appropriate regulatory authorities and the approval by the shareholders of Farmers. It is expected that the transaction should be completed during the second half of 2018.

“Farmers is a strong performing, community-based financial institution with low cost deposits that shares our commitment to client service and community banking. We are pleased to be able to partner with Farmers and continue to build on the solid platform that has been created,” said WesBanco Chairman of the Board, James C. Gardill.

Upon completion of the merger, WesBanco will add one Farmers director to its board of directors, with all other current Farmers’ directors being appointed to an advisory board for the Central & Southern Kentucky market. In addition, Lloyd C. Hillard, Jr, Farmers’ President & CEO, will join WesBanco as Chairman for the Central & Southern Kentucky market advisory board.

“We are excited to announce our merger with WesBanco and become an integral part of its nearly 150 year history as a community bank,” said Mr. Hillard. “WesBanco’s solid execution on their operational and growth strategies has led to a strong track record of operating performance and merger success, which makes WesBanco the ideal partner for Farmers. In addition, I look forward to continuing my relationship as Chairman of the Central & Southern Kentucky market advisory board for WesBanco, which will be comprised of the current board members of Farmers to help ensure a smooth transition in the local market.”

“Through our partnership with WesBanco, we will be in a much stronger position to deliver additional value to our customers, employees, and shareholders as we maintain our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Mr. Bennett, Farmers Chairman of the Board.

At March 31, 2018, WesBanco had consolidated assets of approximately $10.2 billion, deposits of $7.2 billion, loans of $6.3 billion, and shareholders’ equity of $1.4 billion.

At March 31, 2018, Farmers had consolidated assets of approximately $1.7 billion, deposits of $1.4 billion, loans of $1.0 billion, and shareholders’ equity of $0.2 billion.

When the transaction is consummated, WesBanco will have approximately $12.8 billion in total assets and will provide banking and financial services through 211 financial centers in five states, including the recent acquisition of First Sentry Bancshares in Huntington, WV. The transaction will expand WesBanco’s franchise by 34 offices located throughout the Cincinnati, Elizabethtown, Frankfort, Lexington, and Louisville MSAs.

All of the directors and certain of the executive officers of Farmers have entered into voting agreements with WesBanco pursuant to which they have agreed to vote certain-owned shares in favor of the transaction. The anticipated approximate four to six month time period leading to the consummation of the merger has officials of both organizations optimistic that organizing around customer service and product delivery can be accomplished with as little employee disruption as possible.

Advisors involved in the transaction were Raymond James & Associates, Inc., representing WesBanco, and Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc., representing Farmers.

Legal representations in the transaction include Phillips Gardill Kaiser & Altmeyer PLC and K&L Gates LLP for WesBanco, and Squire Patton Boggs (US) LLP for Farmers.

Forward-looking Statements:

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including certain plans, expectations, goals, and projections, and including statements about the benefits of the proposed merger between WesBanco and Farmers, which are subject to numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those contained or implied by such statements for a variety of factors including: the businesses of WesBanco and Farmers may not be integrated successfully or such integration may take longer to accomplish than expected; the expected cost savings and any revenue synergies from the proposed merger may not be fully realized within the expected timeframes; disruption from the proposed merger may make it more difficult to maintain relationships with clients, associates, or suppliers; the required governmental approvals of the proposed merger may not be obtained on the expected terms and schedule; Farmers’ shareholders may not approve the proposed merger; changes in economic conditions; movements in interest rates; competitive pressures on product pricing and services; success and timing of other business strategies; the nature, extent, and timing of governmental actions and reforms; and extended disruption of vital infrastructure; and other factors described in WesBanco’s 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K, Farmers’ 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K, and documents subsequently filed by WesBanco and Farmers with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). All forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on information available at the time of the release. Neither WesBanco nor Farmers assumes any obligation to update any forward-looking statement.

Conference Call Information:

WesBanco and Farmers will host a conference call and webcast to discuss the Agreement and Plan of Merger on April 20, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. ET. Interested parties can access the live webcast of the conference call through the Investor Relations section of WesBanco’s website, www.wesbanco.com. Participants can also listen to the conference call by dialing 888-347-6607 (domestic), 855-669-9657 (Canada), or 412-902-4290 (international), and asking to be joined into the WesBanco call. Please log in or dial in at least 10 minutes prior to the start time to ensure a connection.

Additional Information about the Merger and Where to Find It:

In connection with the proposed merger, WesBanco will file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-4 that will include a Proxy Statement of Farmers and a Prospectus of WesBanco, as well as other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction.  SHAREHOLDERS OF FARMERS AND OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS REGARDING THE MERGER WHEN IT BECOMES AVAILABLE AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THOSE DOCUMENTS, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. The Proxy Statement/Prospectus will be mailed to shareholders of Farmers prior to the Farmers shareholder meeting, which has not yet been scheduled. In addition, when the Registration Statement on Form S-4, which will include the Proxy Statements/Prospectus, and other related documents is filed by WesBanco with the SEC, it may be obtained for free at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov, on the NASDAQ website at http://www.nasdaq.com and from either WesBanco’s or Farmers’s website at http://www.wesbanco.com or http://www.farmerscapital.com, respectively.

Any questions should be directed to Todd F. Clossin, President and Chief Executive Officer (304) 234-9202, James C. Gardill, Chairman (304) 234-9216, or Robert H. Young, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (304) 234-9447 of WesBanco; or Lloyd C. Hillard, Jr., President & Chief Executive Officer (502) 227-1614 or R. Terry Bennett, Chairman of the Board (502) 227-1668 of Farmers.

Participants in the Solicitation:

WesBanco and Farmers and their respective executive officers and directors may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of Farmers in connection with the proposed merger. Information about the directors and executive officers of WesBanco is set forth in the proxy statement for WesBanco’s 2018 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on March 13, 2018. Information about the directors and executive officers of Farmers is set forth in the proxy statement for Farmers’ 2018 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on April 2, 2018. Information about any other persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be considered participants in the solicitation of Farmers shareholders in connection with the proposed merger will be included in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus. You can obtain free copies of these documents from the SEC, WesBanco or Farmers using the website information above. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

About Farmers Capital Bank Corporation:

Farmers Capital Bank Corporation (www.farmerscapital.com) is a bank holding company with one bank subsidiary, United Bank & Capital Trust Company. The Company is headquartered in Frankfort, Kentucky and operates 34 banking locations in 21 communities throughout Central and Northern Kentucky, and an insurance company. Its stock is publicly traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market LLC exchange in the Global Select Market tier under the symbol: FFKT.

About WesBanco, Inc.:

Founded in 1870, WesBanco, Inc. (www.wesbanco.com) is a multi-state, bank holding company with total assets of approximately $10.2 billion (as of March 31, 2018). WesBanco is a diversified and well-balanced financial services institution, with a community bank at its core, built upon a strong legacy of credit and risk management. WesBanco has meaningful market share across its key geographies maintained by its commitment to dedicated customer service and solid fee-based businesses. It also provides wealth management services through a century-old trust and wealth management business, with approximately $4.0 billion of assets under management (as of March 31, 2018), and serves as registered investment advisor to a proprietary mutual fund family, the WesMark Funds. WesBanco’s banking subsidiary, WesBanco Bank, Inc., operates 177 financial centers (including the five locations of First Sentry Bancshares, acquired on April 5, 2018) in the states of Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. In addition, WesBanco operates an insurance agency, WesBanco Insurance Services, Inc., and a full service broker/dealer, WesBanco Securities, Inc. WesBanco’s common stock trades on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “WSBC”.