Stockwinners Market Radar for October 28, 2021 - Earnings, Upgrades downgrades, option trades, Best Stock Advisory Service

19:19 EDT Khosla Ventures Acquisition to transfer listing to NYSE - Khosla Ventures Acquisition Co., a special purpose acquisition company sponsored by an affiliate of Khosla Ventures, announced that it will voluntarily transfer the listing of its Class A common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, from the Nasdaq Capital Market to the New York Stock Exchange in connection with, and following the closing of, the previously announced business combination with Valo Health, the wholly owned subsidiary of Valo Health, LLC. The shares of Class A Common Stock of the post-Business Combination company, to be renamed Valo Health Holdings, Inc., will trade under the stock symbol "VH". KVSA's Class A Common Stock will continue to trade on Nasdaq until the closing of the Business Combination. In compliance with Nasdaq's Listing Rules, today KVSA provided Nasdaq with notice of its intent to delist its Class A Common Stock from Nasdaq after market close on November 19, 2021. The NYSE listing and Nasdaq delisting are subject to the closing of the Business Combination and fulfillment of all NYSE listing requirements.

18:32 EDT Quoin Pharmaceuticals completes merger with Cellect Biotechnology - Quoin Pharmaceuticals announced the closing of its previously announced strategic merger with Cellect Biotechnology. Cellect concurrently completed the sale of the company's subsidiary, Cellect Biotherapeutics, to EnCellX, a privately held company based in San Diego, CA. Following the completion of the merger, the company was renamed Quoin Pharmaceuticals, and will begin trading on Nasdaq under the symbol "QNRX" at the open of the market on October 29. Immediately prior to the merger, Quoin completed a private placement financing that will result in gross proceeds of new cash of up to $21.5M under the terms of the securities purchase agreement previously announced with Altium Capital, a healthcare-focused investment fund in March 2021. All of Quoin's outstanding shares were converted into the company's common stock. Cellect shareholders retained approximately 25% of the combined shares prior to the private placement while the shareholders of Quoin received shares of Cellect common stock representing approximately 75% of the pre-investment number of shares. The acquisition of Cellect Biotherapeutics by EnCellX includes ApoGraft and the related technology. EnCellX intends to further develop the technology for a broad range of immune optimization indications.

18:32 EDT Starbucks workers say NLRB supports proposal for union vote - Starbucks Workers United, a collection of Starbucks partners from the Buffalo, New York area organizing the company's first union, announced that they have won a labor board decision on their ability to form a union. "Today the NLRB ruled in favor of partners and will allow us to vote store-by-store," Starbucks Workers United said on Twitter. "With this decision, we will now have the ability to win the first unionized Starbucks in the U.S., ensuring our right to organize." Reference Link

18:22 EDT Intel director buys 5.1K shares of common stock - Intel director Dion Weisler bought 5.1K shares of common stock on October 26th in a total transaction size of $250K, boosting his stake by about 43%.

18:20 EDT SGH director sells 100K shares of common stock - In a regulatory filing, SGH disclosed that its director Ajay Shah sold 100K shares of common stock on October 26th in a total transaction size of $5.12M, reducing his stake by about 25%.

18:10 EDT Poly drops 11% to $21.24 after FY22 guidance misses estimates

18:03 EDT Lear to acquire Kongsberg Automotive's ICS unit for EUR 175M - Kongsberg Automotive has entered into an agreement for the sale of substantially all of the Interior Comfort Systems, ICS, business unit to Lear Corporation , as Kongsberg Automotive is currently realigning its business priorities. "The ICS business unit supplies seat climate and comfort systems to all major car and seat manufacturers. Lear, a well-respected leader in the automotive industry has been a highly valued business partner of Kongsberg Automotive for many years," said the company. The two companies entered into a master sale agreement on October 28. With this transaction, approximately 3,800 Kongsberg Automotive employees from Asia, Europe and North America will be integrated into Lear. Under the terms of the transaction, Lear will acquire Kongsberg Automotive's ICS business unit for an Enterprise Value of EUR 175 million. The transaction, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions and adjustments, is expected to close in the first quarter of 2022. Reference Link

18:02 EDT Rio Tinto, BlueScope sign MOU to explore low carbon-steelmaking pathways - Rio Tinto and BlueScope will work together to explore low-carbon steelmaking pathways using Pilbara iron ores, including the use of clean hydrogen to replace coking coal at BlueScope's Port Kembla Steelworks. The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to research and design low-emissions processes for the steel value chain, including iron ore processing, iron and steelmaking and related technologies. Rio Tinto and BlueScope will prioritise studying the use of green hydrogen at the Port Kembla Steelworks in Australia to directly reduce Pilbara iron ores into a product that could then be processed in an electric melter to produce metallic iron suitable to be finished into steel. The MOU expands the partnership between the two companies, who were already jointly studying technology to reduce carbon emissions from existing iron and steelmaking processes. It will also allow more projects to be added as technologies mature. The first phase of the collaboration will be to determine the scale of a pilot plant to be based at the Port Kembla steelworks, consisting of a hydrogen electrolyser, direct reduction process and melter.

17:42 EDT Starbucks down over 4% at $108.50 after below-consensus FY22 EPS outlook

17:37 EDT Starbucks sees FY22 operating margin around 17%, below long-term growth algo - Says 17% target is "below our long-term target, driven by approximately 400 basis points of impact related to the wage investments, coupled with an additional headwind of approximately 200 basis points from a combination of inflationary pressures, other growth investments and discontinuation of government subsidies". Says FY22 will be a "pivotal year of investment" marked by increase in wage investments. Says "Capital expenditures in fiscal 2022 are expected to total approximately $2 billion up from $1.5 billion in fiscal 2021 and back to pre-COVID levels, reflecting increases in new store development and technology initiatives in our stores."

17:31 EDT Starbucks says recovery in China will not be linear, momentum below expectations - In the earnings call, CEO Kevin Johnson says: "We continue to invest meaningfully in all aspects of our China business tarbucks continues to be in a strong market expansion cycle. And as such, much of our growth in China comes as we aggressively expand our store footprint and introduce more customers to the Starbucks Experience. Recovery in China will not be linear. In Q4, we experienced COVID-related restrictions that constrained customer mobility in 18 provincial-level regions. At its peak in mid-August, approximately 80% of our stores in China were impacted by the pandemic, with some stores fully closed or operating at different levels of elevated public health protocols, such as mobile ordering only, limited seating or health stations. Our recovery momentum was below expectation and pushed our 2-year comps to a minus 10% in Q4."

17:27 EDT Starbucks CEP says entering FY22 with strong momentum but remain cautious - CEO Kevin Johnson states: "We made significant progress addressing supply chain issues and experienced an overall improvement in inventory availability as we move through the quarter by increasing production at existing suppliers, onboarding new suppliers, and strategically prioritizing key holiday and Q1 merchandise. While we made significant progress addressing supply chain challenges as fiscal 2021 progressed, we remain cautious and vigilant as we enter fiscal '22 given the dynamic nature of the situation." Comments taken from Q4 earnings conference call.

17:19 EDT Lockheed Martin awarded $243.07M Army contract - Lockheed Martin was awarded a $243.07M cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for long range fires technology development and demonstration. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of October 27, 2026. U.S. Army Contracting Command is the contracting activity.

17:10 EDT Eldorado Gold raises 2021 gold production guidance 6% to 460K-480K oz.

17:03 EDT Color Star Technology receives Nasdaq noncompliance letter - Color Star Technology received a letter from Nasdaq notifying the company that it is currently not in compliance with the minimum bid price requirement set forth under Nasdaq Listing Rules because the closing bid price of the Company's ordinary shares was below $1.00 per share for a period of 30 consecutive business days. The notification has no immediate effect on the listing of the company's ordinary shares. The company has a compliance period of 180 calendar days, or until April 25, 2022, to regain compliance with Nasdaq's minimum bid price requirement. If at any time during the Compliance Period, the closing bid price per share of the company's ordinary shares is at least $1.00 for a minimum of 10 and up to 20 consecutive business days, Nasdaq will provide the company a written confirmation of compliance and the matter will be closed.

17:00 EDT Deluxe opens new headquarters in downtown Minneapolis - Deluxe announced the opening of its newly constructed, state-of-the-art headquarters at 801 Marquette in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota. Following more than 18 months of working remotely, Minnesota-based Deluxe employees will begin returning to the physical workspace in phases Nov. 15 with the intent of fully occupying the new space in January 2022. "Our new headquarters is designed to foster an environment of creative cooperation to solve a wide range of customer needs," McCarthy stated. "It has been built to be collaborative for our employees, and for our partners in the community, to foster greater productivity and profitability in the digital economy."

17:00 EDT Banner Corp. chief risk officer Judy Steiner to retire, Jim Costa to succeed - Banner Corp. (BANR) announced the retirement of Judy Steiner, executive VP and chief risk officer of the bank, effective November 25. Jim Costa has been hired to succeed Steiner as executive VP and chief risk officer as well as the bank's chief banking regulatory liaison. Costa is joining the Bank immediately and will begin working with Steiner to ensure a transition. Costa has nearly 30 years of financial services experience. Most recently, he served as chief risk and chief credit officer for Minnesota-based TCF Financial (TCF)

16:57 EDT Cinemark announces heightened focus on gaming initiatives - Cinemark Holdings (CNK) said it is continuing its endeavor to bring more than movies to its theatres, "further solidifying its position as the ultimate entertainment destination." Through new business alliances and creative thinking, Cinemark is by merging two favorite pastimes - gaming and going to the movie theatre. "Our big screens, booming surround sound and ultra-comfy seats create an unbeatable, immersive environment for all varieties of gaming experiences, and we are thrilled to provide players with an incredible setting to enjoy their content in a new and exciting way," said Justin McDaniel, Cinemark SVP of Global Content Strategy. "Cinemark is consistently evolving to provide our guests the ultimate entertainment destination. We are excited to bring gaming and theatres closer together as we continue to innovate and provide an exciting communal experience for all aspects of the gaming community." To maximize the convergence of gaming and theatrical exhibition, Cinemark will be hiring a vice president to spearhead the strategic vision of the company's gaming initiatives. This role will focus on forging strategic partnerships and pursuing content and product licensing agreements that will support the company's expansion within the gaming realm and explore opportunities in the emerging metaverse. Cinemark noted that more than 10,000 gaming hours have been played in Cinemark's in-theatre environment and that, though an ongoing partnership with Mission Control, a rec league gaming platform, Cinemark offers out-of-theatre online gaming opportunities for those looking to compete with fellow Cinemark fans. "With Cinemark Esports, gamers can show their skills and compete online monthly with friends and other players in games such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (NTDOY), Rocket League, Fortnite and more by downloading the Mission Control App and joining the Cinemark organization," the company said. "Gamers should be on the lookout for specialty tournaments supporting the newest movies to hit the big screen, which Cinemark debuted this fall with a Fortnite Duos competition aligned with the theatrical release of Free Guy and plans to support more tournaments tied to new releases through 2021 and beyond."

16:48 EDT SM Energy reports Q3 production 14.3 MMBoe - Production was 14.3 MMBoe (155.8 MBoe/d) and was 56% oil. Production volumes exceeded expectations, benefiting from higher base production, reduced flaring and the effect of larger fracture stimulations in the Midland Basin and the successful early completion of certain wells in South Texas. As a result, the company is increasing guidance for 2021 production volumes to 49.5-50.0 MMBoe (135.6-137.0 MBoe/d).

16:46 EDT SM Energy sees FY21 production 49.5-50.0 MMBoe - Full year 2021: The production guidance range is increased and narrowed to 49.5-50.0 MMBoe, or 135.6-137.0 MBoe/d, with 54%-55% oil. Capital expenditure guidance is narrowed to $670-675 million. LOE per Boe is reduced to $4.50-$4.60. Transportation per Boe is reduced to ~$2.75. Ad valorem and production taxes per Boe are increased to correspond to higher commodity prices to $2.70-$2.75. Exploration expense is reduced to ~$40 million. DD&A expense per Boe is reduced to $15.00-$15.50. G&A is updated to $100-110 million.

16:44 EDT ICF International awarded $24M contract from U.S. HHS - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently awarded ICF three technical assistance agreements with a total value of $24M to support Administration for Children and Families programs.

16:40 EDT Zendesk to acquire Momentive in stock deal for about $28 per share - Zendesk (ZEN) and Momentive (MNTV) have entered into a definitive agreement under which Zendesk will acquire Momentive, including its iconic SurveyMonkey platform. The terms of the transaction provide for Momentive stockholders to receive 0.225 shares of Zendesk stock for each share of Momentive stock, a ratio which represents an implied value of approximately $28 per outstanding share of Momentive stock based on the 15-day volume weighted average price of Zendesk common stock up to and including October 26, 2021. Zendesk expects the combination to be growth accretive in its first full operating year and accelerate Zendesk's revenue plan to $3.5 billion in 2024, one year ahead of its previous target. The companies' respective sizable customer bases and complementary capabilities are expected to provide significant opportunity for joint product adoption and increasing Momentive's enterprise traction. Zendesk will reinvest savings from scale efficiencies into compelling growth opportunities to support the combination. Upon the close of the transaction, Momentive CEO Zander Lurie will continue to lead Momentive's strong management team.

16:38 EDT SPS Commerce announces new $50M share repurchase program - The company also announced that the board authorized a new program to repurchase up to $50M of common stock. Under the program, purchases may be made from time to time in the open market, in privately negotiated purchases, or both. The share repurchase program becomes effective on November 28 and expires on November 28, 2023. The current stock repurchase plan expires on November 2.

16:36 EDT Apple reports Q4 Wearables, Home, Accessories sales $8.79B vs. $7.88B last year

16:35 EDT Apple CEO says supply constraints worse than expected in Q4 - Apple CEO Tim Cook said supply constraints were worse than expected in Q4, estimating that they hurt revenue by greater than $6B.

16:34 EDT Apple reports Q4 iPhone revenue $38.87B vs. $26.44B last year

16:34 EDT Apple declares quarterly divided of 22c per share - Apple's board declared a cash dividend of 22c per share of the company's common stock. The dividend is payable on November 11, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on November 8.

16:30 EDT Eastman Chemical says EBIT increased on higher sales volume, decreased on costs - The company states that in Q3, "EBIT increased due to higher sales volume and more favorable product mix as a result of increased sales of specialty products, particularly in Advanced Materials. Spreads were flat due to increased Chemical Intermediates prices that outpaced higher raw material, energy, and distribution costs, offset by compression in specialty businesses with increased selling prices lagging higher raw material, energy, and distribution costs. Compared to second quarter 2021, sales revenue increased 3 percent due to 4 percent higher selling prices, offset by 1 percent lower volume/mix. Selling prices increased due to higher raw material and energy prices and continued strong key end-market demand, including building & construction. Through the quarter, automotive OEM component shortages increasingly reduced auto production, particularly impacting Advanced Materials. EBIT decreased slightly as higher raw material and energy costs outpaced higher selling prices and lower structural costs. Distribution costs remained elevated. Less favorable product mix was primarily due to decreased sales of certain specialty products, particularly in Additives & Functional Products."

16:21 EDT World Fuel Services to acquire Flyers Energy Group for about $775M - World Fuel Services Corporation announced that a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Flyers Energy Group from the Dwelle family, who have been engaged in the petroleum marketing industry for more than 40 years. The total purchase price for the acquisition will be approximately $775 million, of which $675 million will be paid at closing, consisting of cash and at the company's option, up to $50 million of World Fuel Services common stock. The remaining $100 million will be paid in equal installments over the two years following completion of the transaction. The transaction will be principally funded with cash-on-hand with the balance drawn from the company's revolving credit facility. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, and is expected be completed within 60 to 90 days.

16:17 EDT U.S. Steel announces $300M stock buyback, boosts quarterly dividend to 5c/share - U.S. Steel announced that its Board of Directors approved significant enhancements to its capital allocation priorities aligned with the continued execution of its Best for AllSM strategy. The enhancements include: A stock repurchase program under which up to $300 million of the Company's outstanding common stock may be repurchased at the discretion of management. A quarterly dividend of $0.05 per share, a 400%, or $0.04 per share, increase over the previous quarter's dividend. The dividend is payable Thursday, December 9, 2021 to stockholders of record at the close of business on Monday, November 8, 2021. "Today's announcement demonstrates the significant progress we have made in the execution of our Best for All strategy," said U. S. Steel President and Chief Executive Officer David B. Burritt. "We have made substantial progress on our announced deleveraging plans and expect to complete our incremental $1.0 billion target by the end of the year and ahead of schedule. Our expected $3.1 billion of total 2021 deleveraging combined with our robust cash and liquidity position has also allowed us to confidently begin executing organic growth investments aligned with long-term value creation. Today's capital allocation enhancements further affirm our bullish outlook for the long-term future of U. S. Steel, are attractive uses of capital and demonstrate that our strategy is truly best for all by ensuring our stockholders directly benefit from the company's continued success."

16:15 EDT A10 Networks board declares 5c per share quarterly dividend - In light of the significant improvement in profitability and A10's strong balance sheet, the Board of Directors today approved a capital allocation strategy to return capital to stockholders. As part of this, the Board declared a quarterly dividend. The first dividend, in the amount of 5c per share, will be payable, subject to any prior revocation, on December 15, 2021 to stockholders of record on November 12, 2021. Future dividends will be subject to further review and approval by the Board in accordance with applicable law. The Board reserves the right to adjust or withdraw the quarterly dividend in future periods as it reviews A10's capital allocation strategy from time-to-time.

16:15 EDT Texas Roadhouse says SSS for 1st 4 weeks of Q4 up 22.6% vs. FY20 same time - Comparable restaurant sales at company restaurants for the first four weeks of our fourth quarter of fiscal 2021 increased 22.6% and 23.6% compared to our 2020 and 2019 periods, respectively. In addition, the Company Recently implemented a menu price increase of 4.2%.Management updated the following expectations for 2021: Commodity cost inflation of approximately 10%. Management reiterated the following expectations for 2021: 26 to 29 company restaurant openings across all concepts; Store week growth of approximately 5.0%; and, Total capital expenditures of approximately $200 million.

16:14 EDT Agilon Health sees live members up over 45% in FY22 - agilon health expects total members live on the platform will increase by over 45% on a year-over-year basis during 2022, including over 40% growth for Medicare Advantage members and 60% growth for attributed Direct Contracting beneficiaries. Based on our 2021 outlook for Medicare Advantage and Direct Contracting members, we expect over 340,000 members will be live on the agilon platform in 2022. For Medicare Advantage, agilon anticipates 2022 ending membership will be over 260,000, supported by the addition of 50,000 members from six new geographies and low-to-mid-teens growth within same geographies. agilon's membership outlook for Medicare Advantage in part reflects progress with new geography implementations, including health plan contracting, and contributions from additional groups joining the agilon network within same geographies. For Direct Contracting, agilon expects seven additional physician groups with 30,000-35,000 attributed beneficiaries will participate in the program starting in January, bringing total attributed beneficiaries to 80,000-85,000.

16:12 EDT Boise Cascade board increases quarterly dividend 20% to 12c per share - Boise Cascade Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of 12c per share, an increase of 2c per share or 20%, as well as a supplemental dividend of $3.00 per share, to holders of its common stock. The dividends will be paid on December 15, 2021 to stockholders of record on December 1, 2021. "We have consistently stated our intent to maintain a balanced and flexible approach to capital allocation. Today we can reward our shareholders with an increase in our quarterly dividend and our second supplemental dividend of 2021," stated Nate Jorgensen, CEO. "At the same time, we have retained ample balance sheet capacity to reinvest in our existing asset base and pursue organic or acquisition opportunities that align with our strategic growth priorities."

16:10 EDT Seagen now sees FY Adcetris net product sales $700M-$710M - Sees FY Padcev net product sales $330M-$335M. Sees collaboration & license agreement revenues $25M-$30M.

16:09 EDT Atlassian names Bharadwaj as COO, says Beer to retire as CFO - Anu Bharadwaj was named Atlassian's Chief Operating Officer and Joff Redfern was named Atlassian's Chief Product Officer. Anu joined Atlassian in January 2014 and was most recently Head of Enterprise and Cloud Platform. Joff joined Atlassian in June 2017 and was most recently Vice President of Product. Atlassian also announced that James Beer will retire as CFO at the end of June 2022. "James joined as CFO in February 2018 and has played a critical role in helping the company scale. When James joined Atlassian, the company had 2,500 employees, 119,000 customers, and would generate revenue of $881 million in fiscal year 2018. As of the end of the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, the company had nearly 7,000 employees, over 216,000 customers, and is on pace for an annualized revenue run rate of $2.5 billion. Atlassian has already begun an external search for a CFO to succeed James," the company stated.

16:08 EDT Starbucks announces commitment to return $20B to shareholders over 3 years - The company announced a new commitment of returning $20B to shareholders over the next three years through share repurchases and dividends.

16:06 EDT Starbucks reports Q4 global SSS up 17% - Global comparable store sales increased 17%, driven by a 15% increase in comparable transactions and a 2% increase in average ticket. North America comparable store sales increased 22%, primarily driven by an 18% increase in comparable transactions and a 3% increase in average ticket; U.S. comparable store sales increased 22%, driven by a 19% increase in comparable transactions and a 3% increase in average ticket. International comparable store sales increased 3%.

16:05 EDT Amazon reports Q3 AWS net sales $16.11B vs. $11.6B a year ago - Amazon reports Q3 AWS operating income of $4.88B vs. $3.53B a year ago.

16:03 EDT Exela Technologies partners with CareSource for 'digital transformation' - Exela Technologies announced that it has partnered with CareSource, a nonprofit managed care organization. Exela will deploy its cloud based PCH Global platform to help accelerate CareSource's digital transformation journey. This expansion highlights the Company's ability to rapidly implement PCH Global for claims and correspondence submitted by providers, in this case providing quality healthcare coverage for Medicaid consumers from several states across America. Exela continues to invest in expanding PCH Global's capabilities to provide a cloud hosted solution with one of the best edit resolutions for healthcare claims. This extension of deployment marks another milestone in the value proposition of the PCH Global platform to digitally connect members, providers and insurance companies to enable clean claims, payment transparency and digital appeals. PCH Global's cloud network also offers increased scalability, the highest uptime and best business continuity protections. PCH Global has robust data analytics which are continually improving as Exela processes more and more data. Additionally, PCH Global's improved data analytics can be accessed via a self-service model. "The Exela team is pleased to partner with CareSource in their in their digital transformation journey and pleased to strengthen our ties with Dayton," said Suresh Yannamani, President Exela. "Our mission is to provide members and providers a better user experience and overall service to constituents in The Great State of Ohio and other states across the country."

16:00 EDT Facebook to retire Oculus brand beginning in early 2022, says Bosworth - Andrew Bosworth, VP of augmented and virtual reality at Facebook, says the Oculus brand is going away starting in early 2022. Bosworth commented that: "VR will be the most immersive way for people to access the metaverse and as we look toward our goal of bringing 1B people into VR, we want to make it clear that Quest is a Meta product. For this reason, we're simplifying our brand architecture and shifting away from the Oculus brand. Starting in early 2022, you'll start to see the shift from Oculus Quest from Facebook to Meta Quest and Oculus App to Meta Quest App over time. We all have a strong attachment to the Oculus brand, and this was a very difficult decision to make. While we're retiring the name, I can assure you that the original Oculus vision remains deeply embedded in how Meta will continue to drive mass adoption for VR today. We'll also expand Meta Horizon as the brand that will encompass all of our first-party immersive social experiences. You've seen this already with Horizon Workrooms and Horizon Worlds. Soon you'll see us shift from Oculus to Horizon Home, Horizon Venues, Horizon Friends, and Horizon Profile." Reference Link

15:31 EDT Independent Bank raises quarterly dividend 5.9% to 36c from 34c per share - The dividend will be payable on November 24 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 11.

15:14 EDT Meta unifying payments and financial products under Novi brand - David Marcus, who is responsible for leading Novi, the Meta (MVRS) FinTech unit, said in a series of tweets: "Today with Facebook becoming Meta, we're unifying our payments and financial services unit and products under the @Novi brand. Let me unpack what this will mean across @Meta [...] We've been in the business of facilitating payments across our apps for over a decade, and we've processed over $100B in the last 12 months across our products. [...] Some of these products are branded Facebook Pay, some are unbranded, and our wallet operates under the Novi brand. So over time, we will unify all existing and future payments and financial services experiences under the Novi brand. [...] With this change, we're also transitioning our group name from F2 (Facebook Financial) to Novi. [...] Our mission remains to empower everyone, everywhere to access the world's financial system to accelerate financial inclusion and economic empowerment. [...] I'm excited about the future ahead, and the role Novi will play in enabling people and businesses to move money in more and cheaper ways, and innovate in the Metaverse for creators and consumers alike. Onward!" Reference Link

14:20 EDT Facebook announces name change to Meta with ticker 'MVRS'

14:18 EDT Facebook rebrands as Meta - Says mission remains the same, still about "bringing people together." Says metaverse is the "next chapter" for the internet. Says high taxes on new ideas are "stifling." Says want to be seen as a metaverse over time. Says will be metaverse first, not Facebook first.

14:06 EDT Facebook working on 'true' AR glasses - Says working on a new high-end set of AR glasses.

14:02 EDT Facebook working on new high-end VR headset codenamed Cambria - Says working on multiple new hardware products for VR/metaverse. Says working on Project Cambria, a new high-end VR headset for next year. Says Cambria will include more sensors for form factor, so avatars have more accurate facial and physical movements. Says Cambria will have mixed colored AR passthrough. Says Cambria will utilize "pancake optics" for an improved user experience. Says starting to work with developers to create experiences for Cambria.

13:56 EDT Facebook says metaverse will reach 1B people within a decade - Says metaverse will reach a billion people within a decade. Says Presence Platform coming to Quest 2, which will deliver on "promise" of "realistic" features in VR. Says over 80B effects applied each month to AR apps. Says new tool to make AR creation more accessible for creators. Says privacy standards and interoperability need to be built into metaverse "from day one."

13:37 EDT Facebook says educational tools and experiences coming to VR - Says metaverse will allow for virtual educational and research tools. Says VR tools can teach people surgical techniques, put people in a virtual ancient Rome, and look at nature.

13:27 EDT Facebook says 'GTA: San Andreas' VR game in development for Oculus Quest 2 - Facebook (FB) CEO Mark Zuckerberg said that Take-Two's (TTWO) "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas" is in development for Oculus Quest 2 as a VR game. Comments taken from Facebook Connect presentation.

13:20 EDT Facebook says building Horizon marketplace for virtual items and products - Says VR headset users can make virtual home environments, attend virtual concerts and parties, and even build a home workspace. Says new creator capabilities will allow for the formation of 3D objects that users can interact with. Says building Horizon marketplace where creators can sell and share digital items. Says gaming biggest entertainment industry "by far." Comments taken from Facebook Connect presentation.

13:16 EDT Facebook CEO says metaverse building blocks starting to 'take shape' - Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in a keynote speech that the metaverse "a ways off," but building blocks starting to "take shape." Says metaverse will come with avatars, which will be like profile pictures but with more "lifelike" and customizable characteristics. Says teleporting around metaverse will be similar to clicking a link on the web. Says privacy and safety need to be built into metaverse from day one. Says users will be able to bring things from the real world into the metaverse, such as books and video games. Sees a lot of virtual activities becoming more mainstream in 5-10 years. Says Horizon is platform Facebook using to build and create the metaverse. Says will introduce social version of Facebook Home "soon." Comments taken from Facebook Connect presentation.

13:14 EDT MGIC Investment announces additional $500M share repurchase program - MGIC Investment Corporation announced its board of directors has authorized a new share repurchase program under which the Company may repurchase up to $500M of its common stock through the end of 2023. The new authorization is in addition to the Company's remaining stock purchase authorization of approximately $141M, which expires at the end of 2021. Repurchases may be made from time to time on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. The repurchase programs may be suspended for periods or discontinued at any time. As of September 30, 2021, the Company had approximately 329.3 million shares of common stock outstanding and had approximately $716 million of cash and investments. The Company expects to fund the purchases with these resources and future dividends that may be received from its principal subsidiary, Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation.

13:01 EDT BWX Technologies awarded $21B environmental management contract - BWX Technologies announced a contract with an estimated ceiling of approximately $21B over a 10-year ordering period from the U.S. Department of Energy for environmental management operations at the Savannah River Site in South Carolina. The DOE announced the award of the Savannah River Site Integrated Mission Completion Contract to Savannah River Mission Completion, which is a joint venture led by a BWXT subsidiary and includes subsidiaries of Amentum and Fluor. The team includes two pre-selected small businesses, DBD and Wesworks, who provide specialized modeling and project controls expertise, respectively. The scope of work for the contract includes liquid waste stabilization/disposition and potentially nuclear materials management and stabilization, among other requirements. SRS is a 310-square-mile site that encompasses parts of Aiken, Barnwell and Allendale counties in South Carolina and is bordered on the west by the Savannah River and Georgia.

12:46 EDT Arrow Financial board approves stock buyback of up to $5M - The board of directors of Arrow Financial Corporation on October 27, 2021, approved a new stock repurchase program authorizing the repurchase, at the discretion of senior management, of up to $5M of the company's common stock for the 2022 calendar year, in open market or negotiated transactions. This new repurchase program will replace the prior $5M repurchase program authorized on January 27, 2021, which expires December 31, 2021. Through September 30, 2021, the company had repurchased approximately $1.46M of company common stock under the 2021 program.

12:02 EDT XBiotech to commence randomized, placebo-controlled study of True Human - XBiotech announced its plan to commence a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study to test its new True Human antibody therapy for reducing brain injury after stroke. The study will be conducted across the United States at leading medical centers that provide advanced stroke care. During a stroke, endovascular catheters and clot-busting drugs may be used in emergency care to unblock an artery and return blood supply to the brain. However, when the artery is re-opened and blood supply returns to the oxygen starved region of the brain, further irreparable damage to brain tissue often ensues. There are no drugs approved for the treatment of this phenomena- known as ischemia-reperfusion injury-which is believed to be the result of inflammation. Ischemia reperfusion injury can result in debilitating brain injury or death. XBiotech's new candidate therapy is intended to reduce brain injury that occurs due to ischemia and reperfusion injury. To test its drug candidate, the current clinical study will involve an innovative measure that employs cutting-edge imaging technology and a novel objective assessment of treatment response. Conventional clinical measures, such as modified Rankin Scale, will also be used to assess patient outcomes. The study design was developed by XBiotech in collaboration with a steering committee Chaired by leading Neurologists Dr. Greg Albers, Director, Stanford Stroke Center, Stanford Medical Center, Dr. Brett Cucchiara, Professor of Neurology and Director of Neurovascular Ultrasound Laboratory, University of Pennsylvania Hospital and Dr. Clay Johnston, former Dean of Dell Medical School, University of Texas.

12:01 EDT IronNet falls -25.1% - IronNet is down -25.1%, or -$4.09 to $12.25.

12:00 EDT MaxLinear rises 16.4% - MaxLinear is up 16.4%, or $8.51 to $60.23.

12:00 EDT Wolfspeed rises 32.5% - Wolfspeed is up 32.5%, or $29.50 to $120.37.

11:45 EDT Northwest Biotherapeutics reports HTA license issued for Sawston facility - Northwest Biotherapeutics announced the completion of two key milestones which are required for production of DCVax products at the company's manufacturing facility in Sawston, UK, and which have been a major focus since the completion of initial construction last year. First, a license to work with human tissues for medical products at Sawston has been issued by the UK Human Tissue Authority to the company's contract manufacturer and operator of the facility, Advent BioServices. Second, the comprehensive regulatory inspection of the facility has been conducted by the UK Medicines and Health Products Regulatory Authority. Intensive preparations have been under way all year for this comprehensive inspection. A detailed application package and data were submitted to MHRA to qualify for the inspection. The original inspection timing was delayed by MHRA due to their caseload; however, the week-long onsite review by two MHRA inspectors was recently completed. The final phase of the process involves receiving an official MHRA inspection report and taking any responsive actions that may be required. The company currently anticipates that this process will be completed before year-end.

11:29 EDT Qmerit to team with Ford for home EV charger station installations - Qmerit announced that it has teamed up with Ford Motor for home EV charger station installations for its currently available all-electric vehicles. "Qmerit will provide Ford's Mustang Mach-E customers with its Charge@Home services for installing and supporting EV charger stations at individual homes and multi-family residences... Ford's Mustang Mach-E customers can choose to add a Ford Connected Charge Station to their orders and finance them with the vehicle. They can also order directly through their dealer of choice before or after the purchase. Afterward, they can visit Qmerit to find certified installers in their area. The installation service extends to Mustang Mach-E customers who need an upgrade to a 240V outlet for their Ford Mobile Chargers," the company stated.

10:37 EDT PyroGenesis selected to provide $9.2M land-bases system to destroy PFAS - PyroGenesis Canada announced that it has been selected to provide a $9.2M land-based system to destroy Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.The client is a large operator of public water systems, whose name will remain confidential for competitive reasons. PyroGenesis was recently informed that, after a competitive bidding process, it had been selected to provide its plasma based thermal process equipment in a two-phase project geared to providing a land-based system to destroy PFAS. The first phase is to provide pilot testing. The second phase is geared to a full fabrication, furbishing and commissioning of a fully commercial land-based system. The time to completion is, from the signing of the contract, approximately 6 months for the pilot system with the timeframe for the full system to be determined based on Phase 1. Work will not begin until a definitive agreement is signed by both parties. PyroGenesis is currently pursuing two additional opportunities within the same State in the USA.

10:22 EDT Spirit Airlines views 2022 as 'recovery year' - Says pandemic "moving in right direction."

10:18 EDT Spirit delaying return to full fleet utilization to late 2022/early 2023

10:12 EDT Spirit Airlines sees FY21 CapEx about $290M - Sees Q4 EBITDA margin (5%)-breakeven.

10:09 EDT Spirit Airlines: Yields, loads for holiday season looking 'quite healthy'

10:04 EDT Spirit Airlines: July was 'solidly profitable' - Comments taken from Q3 earnings conference call.

10:02 EDT Dollar Tree, Instacart expand partnership for same-day delivery - Instacart and Dollar Tree announced the companies' expanded partnership to offer same-day delivery in as fast as one hour from nearly 7,000 Dollar Tree stores. Now, nearly 98M U.S. households have access to Dollar Tree's and Family Dollar's broad and affordable selection of household goods and seasonal decor, pantry and baby essentials, office, party and school supplies, personal care items and more, delivered from nearly 13,000 locations. With the Dollar Tree expansion, Instacart now partners with more than 700 national, regional and local retailers, including unique brand names, to deliver from more than 65,000 stores.

10:00 EDT IronNet falls -17.0% - IronNet is down -17.0%, or -$2.77 to $13.57.

10:00 EDT Rafael Holdings falls -79.6% - Rafael Holdings is down -79.6%, or -$24.02 to $6.15.

10:00 EDT Wolfspeed rises 25.0% - Wolfspeed is up 25.0%, or $22.76 to $113.63.

09:58 EDT Northrop Grumman says strong backlog, pipeline - Expects FY22 CapEx approximately flat vs. FY21. Says has experienced "fairly minimal" supply chain impacts to date. Feels "really good" about current portfolio and ability to generate growth. Says returning cash to shareholders remains a "priority."

09:47 EDT Twilio falls -17.2% - Twilio is down -17.2%, or -$59.32 to $286.34.

09:47 EDT Community Health rises 15.3% - Community Health is up 15.3%, or $1.55 to $11.66.

09:47 EDT LendingClub rises 29.4% - LendingClub is up 29.4%, or $9.31 to $40.93.

09:33 EDT BetMGM launches BetMGM Horse Racing mobile app in Ohio - BetMGM announced the launch of the BetMGM Horse Racing mobile app in Ohio, setting the stage for the BetMGM Horse Racing app's entry into additional markets nationwide. BetMGM Horse Racing allows Buckeye State customers to watch and wager on premier Thoroughbred, Harness and Quarter Horse races at more than 200 tracks around the world.

09:28 EDT MasterCard: Debit spend remains elevated, but has moderated in recent weeks

09:26 EDT Standex raises quarterly dividend 8% to 26c per share - The dividend is payable November 24 to shareholders of record on November 8.

09:24 EDT Barnes Aerospace extends long-term pact with with Rolls-Royce's ITP Aero - Barnes Aerospace, a business unit of Barnes Group (B) announced that it has extended a long-term agreement with ITP Aero, a Rolls-Royce (RYCEY) company for the manufacture of components and assemblies for the Trent XWB engine program. Barnes Aerospace will continue to leverage its expertise and technology in the advanced metal forming, fabrication, and assembly of complex components. "With a focus on driving innovation through industry-leading technical, quality, and manufacturing capabilities, Barnes Aerospace has once again been selected as a key supplier on the Trent XWB engine program," said Mike Beck, Senior Vice President, Barnes Group Inc. and President, Barnes Aerospace. "We are delivering exceptional execution through our Barnes Enterprise System, and the willingness and confidence of ITP Aero and Roll-Royce's to extend this contract with Barnes Aerospace is testament to our excellent, long standing relationship, and the value placed on such performance."

09:22 EDT AmpliTech Group secures $1.2M of new orders for LNA - AmpliTech announced that it has been awarded $1.2M of new orders for Low Noise Amplifier, LNA, technology from a Fortune 500 global defense and aerospace company and defense aerospace, naval and commercial aerospace applications provider. The orders, which increase AmpliTech's order backlog to a record $3.4M as of today's date, are expected to ship in calendar 2022. Fawad Maqbool, CEO, commented, "AmpliTech's industry-leading LNA technology increases the power of a radio signal while eliminating the distortion or "noise" that can degrade or destroy digital signals. Our LNA technology delivers substantial performance and bandwidth improvements in satellite communications and can play an instrumental role in achieving true gigabit data transmission speeds for next generation 5G networks on a more cost-effective basis. Our growing order backlog confirms the strength of our LNA technology and reflects initial benefits of investments we are making to expand our sales and marketing reach and production and technical capabilities. We are proud that the performance, quality, and return on investment of our solutions is being acknowledged with growing demand from global leaders."

09:19 EDT MasterCard in 'growth phase' in most markets, says CEO

09:18 EDT Northrop Grumman says adjusted free cash flow generation continues to be strong - Says seeing impact on sales from Covid-19. Comments taken from Q3 earnings conference call.

09:15 EDT DZS chooses Jabil to expand manufacturing footprint - DZS (DZSI) announced an agreement with Jabil (JBL) to significantly expand its manufacturing services in support of the demand for DZS broadband access, mobile transport and connected premises equipment solutions globally. This expansion will further the company's manufacturing footprint and improve economies of scale. "Jabil provides DZS the technical alignment, manufacturing scalability, and agility required to meet the strong demand for leading-edge, next-generation fiber access products and 5G xHaul offerings in 2021 and beyond," said Charlie Vogt, President and CEO, DZS. "Jabil's manufacturing and supply chain expertise, plus agility, will enable DZS to advance our hybrid manufacturing and supply chain sustainability strategy that minimizes risk in light of world events, including pandemics and natural disasters, so that we can deliver what our customers need, when they need it, at an optimized price." With facilities in Vietnam, Malaysia, Ukraine, Hungary, Brazil, the U.S. and Mexico, Jabil's global manufacturing presence gives DZS the capability to "build anything anywhere" in response to customer demand or to mitigate the supply chain impacts of unforeseen world events.

09:15 EDT MasterCard seeing continued strength in domestic spending in most markets

09:13 EDT Motorsport Games announces official launch of NASCAR 21: Ignition - Motorsport Games announces the official launch of NASCAR 21: Ignition, available to play today. The newest installment in the officially licensed NASCAR gaming franchise is available for Sony PlayStation 4, Microsoft Xbox One and PC through the Steam store. "NASCAR 21: Ignition is out and we couldn't be more excited to share our game with the fans," said Dmitry Kozko, CEO of Motorsport Games. "Our team has poured its passion into this game, along with adding Unreal Engine and rFactor physics, to create the most authentic, realistic and dynamic NASCAR simulation we've ever produced. Fans will truly be able to feel the thrill of getting behind the wheel and racing to glory in NASCAR 21: Ignition." NASCAR 21: Ignition is developed and published by Motorsport Games and is powered by Unreal Engine and Studio 397's rFactor physics engine. NASCAR 21: Ignition contains the official drivers, teams and tracks from the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series, including broadcast quality pre-race build up and post-race replays.

09:13 EDT ViacomCBS to acquire majority interest in Fox TeleColombia & Estudios TeleMexico - ViacomCBS (VIAC, VIACA) announced that ViacomCBS Networks International has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in the Spanish language content producer, Fox TeleColombia & Estudios TeleMexico from The Walt Disney Company (DIS) and the founding family of Fox TeleColombia & Estudios TeleMexico. ViacomCBS International Studios' VIS, a division of VCNI, will operate Fox TeleColombia & Estudios TeleMexico as a collaborative partnership with the founding family. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

09:09 EDT Bloom Energy deploys 10 megawatts of efficient fuel cells to Colchester, CT - The Town of Colchester, Connecticut and Bloom Energy announced the deployment of 10 megawatts of highly efficient fuel cells to help meet the clean energy needs of the community. The Bloom Energy Servers will cut community carbon emissions by 3,850 tons per year and reduce smog-forming pollution and Bloom Energy's fuel flexible, solid oxide fuel cell technology produces electricity from natural gas, biogas, or hydrogen through an electrochemical process, without combustion, at one of the highest efficiencies of any power solution available in the world today. This project aligns with the State of Connecticut's efforts to increase clean and renewable energy sources. The Bloom Energy installation in Colchester was selected as part of Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's, DEEP, Clean Energy Request for Proposals. In addition to fuel cell adoption, other selected projects included offshore wind and anaerobic digestion.

09:06 EDT National Instruments buys NH Research and EV systems business, sees accretion - National Instruments announced the acquisition of NH Research. The transaction closed on October 19. NI is also announcing that it recently entered into a definitive agreement to purchase the EV Systems business of Rosenheim, Germany-based Heinzinger, a high-current and high-voltage power systems company and this deal is expected to close in Q1 2022. NI expects that there will be minimal cost synergies from these transactions. NI is funding both these transactions through a combination of its existing revolving credit facility and cash on hand. These two transactions will represent 3% to 4% of NI's total revenue in 2022 and be accretive to earnings per share. Approximately 150 employees will be joining the company.

09:06 EDT Philips says Philips Capsule MDIP integrates with over 1,000 device models - Royal Philips announced that, with the release of new device drivers that enable integration and interoperability, Philips Capsule Medical Device Information Platform has exceeded the milestone of integrating with more than 1,000 unique medical device models. Philips Capsule MDIP, which will be integrated into Philips HealthSuite Platform, is now installed in more than 3,000 healthcare facilities globally. Philips Capsule MDIP captures streaming clinical data and transforms it into actionable insights for patient care management aiming to improve collaboration between care teams, streamline clinical workflows, and increase productivity.

09:04 EDT MasterCard: Overall cross-border volumes back to 2019 levels - Comments taken from Q3 earnings conference call.

09:04 EDT Tennant increases quarterly dividend 9% to 25c per share - Directors of Tennant authorized a 9% increase in the company's quarterly cash dividend to 25c per share. The increased dividend is payable December 15 to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 30.

09:03 EDT AMD promotes Server SoC Architect Leapk to Corporate Fellow - AMD announced the appointment of Senior Fellow and Server SoC Architect Kevin Lepak to AMD Corporate Fellow, in recognition of his role in the design of next-generation AMD EPYC processors. As AMD Corporate Fellow, Lepak expands on his leadership in chip design to play a larger role in evolving AMD's processor and systems vision.

09:01 EDT Check Point sees 'very healthy' Q4

08:58 EDT Diversified Royalty increases monthly dividend to 1.833c per share - The Board has approved an increase to the dividend from $0.0175 per share per month to $0.01833 per share per month effective November 2021.

08:57 EDT Diversified Royalty reports preliminary Q3 results for Sutton, Oxford, Mr. Mikes - DIV expects to report royalty income and management fees of $1.0 million were generated from Sutton Group Realty Services in Q3 2021, compared to $1.0 million in Q3 2020. Since June 2020, DIV has been collecting 100% of the fixed royalty and management fee payments from Sutton. The fixed royalty payable by Sutton increases at a rate of 2.0% per year, with the most recent increase effective July 1, 2021. DIV expects to report that royalty income and management fees of $0.8 million were generated from Oxford Learning Centres in Q3 2021, compared to $0.7 million in Q3 2020. Oxford locations in the Oxford royalty pool generated SSSG of 19.5% in Q3 2021, compared to SSSG of -24% in Q3 2020. Oxford's SSSG for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was 7.8%, compared to -28% for the period from February 20, 2020, the acquisition date of the Oxford Rights, to September 30, 2020. Oxford locations in the Oxford royalty pool generated SSSG of -9.0% and -14.3% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to the same periods in 2019. In 2020, Oxford's SSSG was negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in the temporary suspension of in-centre services at the majority of its locations. 2021 year-to-date has been impacted by government-mandated COVID restrictions, predominantly in Ontario, its largest market. Oxford management is optimistic about a stronger recovery in the last quarter of 2021. The majority of Mr. Mikes Restaurants Corporation restaurants have been open for in-restaurant dining at a reduced capacity since mid-June 2021. Overall, SSSG in Q3 2021 for the Mr. Mikes restaurants in the royalty pool, including stores that were temporarily closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was 10.1% compared to Q3 2020 and -7.2% compared to Q3 2019. SSSG for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 for the Mr. Mikes restaurants in the royalty pool was 5.1% compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and [-28.9%] compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2019. DIV expects to report that royalty income and management fees of $1.0 million were generated from Mr. Mikes in Q3 2021, compared to $0.4 million in Q3 2020. DIV granted royalty and management fee relief to Mr. Mikes in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, collecting 75% of the contractual royalty amount for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 40% for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. The management team at Mr. Mikes continues to expect a protracted recovery. DIV is in discussions with Mr. Mikes and its lender regarding additional royalty and management fee relief for Mr. Mikes, which DIV expects may be required until such time as all government restrictions impacting the operation of Mr. Mikes restaurants are lifted and the business stabilizes. DIV expects to report that the royalty entitlement to DIV from Nurse Next Door Professional Homecare Services was $1.2 million in Q3 2021. The DIV Royalty Entitlement from Nurse Next Door grows at a fixed rate of 2.0% per annum during the term of the license, with the most recent increase effective October 1, 2021.

08:55 EDT Diversified Royalty reports preliminary Q3 results for Mr. Lube, AIR MILES - Mr. Lube generated same-store-sales-growth of 14.9% for the Mr. Lube stores in the royalty pool for Q3 2021, compared to SSSG of 0.5% for the three months ended September 30, 2020. Mr. Lube generated SSSG of 13.9% for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to SSSG of -6.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2020. Mr. Lube's SSSG for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 were more significantly negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ensuing restrictions and lockdown measures implemented by various levels of government than in the current periods. Mr. Lube generated SSSG of 15.0% and 6.4% respectively for the Mr. Lube stores in the royalty pool, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to the same periods in 2019. As provinces have relaxed the restrictions put in place to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and Canadians drive more, Mr. Lube has been experiencing favorable trends in its business. DIV expects to report that aggregate royalty income and management fees of $5.3 million were generated from Mr. Lube in Q3 2021, an increase of 30.4% compared to Q3 2020. The increase in royalty income and management fees was primarily due to SSSG of 14.9% in Q3 2021, as well as the addition of 13 new stores to the Mr. Lube royalty pool and the 0.5% increase to the Mr. Lube royalty rate on May 1, 2021. On October 13, 2021, Alliance Data Systems issued a news release announcing that its Board of Directors approved the separation of ADS' LoyaltyOne segment into a new independent US-based, publicly traded company, Loyalty Ventures. According to ADS, the separation will be completed after the market closes on November 5, 2021. Following the distribution of the Loyalty Ventures common shares on November 5, 2021, Loyalty Ventures will be an independent, US-based publicly traded company and is expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbol "LYLT". The pending spinoff of the LoyaltyOne segment was initially announced by ADS on May 5, 2021 and previously disclosed by DIV. In addition, on October 14, 2021, ADS published a presentation that noted increased investment by LoyaltyOne, amid post-pandemic recovery tailwinds creates significant upside potential for Loyalty Ventures. LoyaltyOne, the operator of the AIR MILES reward program in Canada, recently provided details of that further investment, announcing that the AIR MILES reward program is implementing a series of improvements to enhance the loyalty program. Over the coming months, AIR MILES collectors will be introduced to more redemption benefits, more ways to earn AIR MILES, and more opportunities to take part in promotions. Under the revitalized AIR MILES brand, LoyaltyOne announced that it expects to roll-out the all-new AIR MILES Flights platform, which is expected to officially launch this November. According to LoyaltyOne, the AIR MILES Flights platform, a new flight booking experience, provides more choice, flexibility and transparency for Canadian travelers at a time when 70% of AIR MILES collectors have expressed a desire to return to travel. In addition, LoyaltyOne revealed a new visual identity for the AIR MILES reward program, which is a modern take on the iconic logo. DIV believes that the refresh of the AIR MILES brand and the recent improvements to the AIR MILES reward program could result in increased top-line growth at LoyaltyOne, which would be beneficial to DIV's royalty. ADS issued a news release earlier today announcing that: AIR MILES reward miles issued decreased by 6.9% in Q3 2021, reflecting certain promotional activity in the prior year not present in the current year, and AIR MILES reward miles redeemed increased by 30.4% in Q3 2021 to their highest level since the pandemic began, reflecting an improvement in travel-related categories. ADS also noted that AIR MILES reward miles issued and redeemed both increased on a sequential basis relative to the second quarter of 2021 as airline bookings improved and merchandise redemptions remained strong. ADS further advised that it remains optimistic on the long-term outlook for AIR MILES as travel returns to steady-state levels. DIV expects to report that royalty income of $1.7 million was generated from the AIR MILES licenses in Q3 2021, a decrease of $0.1 million compared to Q3 2020. For the nine months ended September 30, 2021, DIV expects to report royalty income of $4.8 million, a decrease of $0.3 million compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2020. DIV's royalty payment is derived from several AIR MILES metrics, with AIR MILES reward miles issued being the primary metric, and other metrics including AIR MILES reward miles redeemed, service revenue, commissions and promotional items, all of which affect quarterly variability.

08:52 EDT Entera Bio publishes study on its oral delivery technology platform - Entera Bio announced that researchers at the company and the University of East Anglia in the UK published preclinical in vivo studies which demonstrate the technologies efficiency in the oral delivery of large molecule biologic drugs. The approach described in the research underpins Entera's lead product, EB613, an oral parathyroid hormone entering Phase 3 clinical development for the treatment of osteoporosis. The pivotal Phase 3 study is planned for 2022. The studies were published on line in the peer-reviewed International Journal of Pharmaceutics X. "With a burgeoning number of injectable biologics on the market and in development, there is a growing need for effective oral formulations especially in chronic conditions where replacing injections with oral dosage may result in higher patient compliance, adherence, and quality of life," stated Entera CEO Spiros Jamas. "Beyond the near-term opportunity for our EB613 oral PTH in osteoporosis, Entera's platform technology has applications in many other indications currently treated through injectables." In this paper researchers evaluated three different formulations of oral hPTH: 1. hPTH with a protease inhibitor which can protect the molecule in the gastrointestinal tract, and 2. hPTH with just a permeation enhancer which allows for the trans-cellular absorption of large molecules in the GI tract, and 3. hPTH combined with both protease inhibitor and permeation enhancer. In studies utilizing a porcine model, the Entera combined formulation achieved significantly higher PTH blood levels as compared to each of these approaches on their own. The researchers concluded that an appropriate combination of these different technological approaches considerably contributes to the efficient oral delivery of a number of biological macromolecules.

08:51 EDT Caterpillar sees stronger sales in Q4 following normal seasonality - Says versus Q3, expects seasonal pattern of lower adjusted operating profit margin in Q4. For full year, expects to achieve Investor Day target for adjusted operating profit margin and ME&T free cash flow.

08:50 EDT Codere announces effectiveness of registration statement on DD3 combination - Codere Online Luxembourg, S.A. announced that, on October 27, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission declared effective the registration statement on Form F-4 which had previously been filed on August 13, 2021 and October 8, 2021, in connection with the previously announced proposed business combination of Codere Online, a leading online gaming and sports betting operator in Latin America, with DD3 Acquisition Corp. II, a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company. Consequently, DD3 has convened a special meeting of its stockholders to be held on November 18, 2021, at 11:00 a.m., Eastern time, at the offices of Greenberg Traurig, LLP, located at One Vanderbilt Avenue, New York, NY 10017, where the proposed business combination is expected to be voted upon. Once approved by DD3's stockholders and subject to other customary closing conditions, it is currently expected that the business combination will be completed during the week following the special meeting.

08:45 EDT Caterpillar says customer demand, order rates strong in Q3 - Says sales in Q3 would have been higher if not for supply chain issues. Remains "optimistic on demand" in three primary segments for remainder of year. Says "working closely" with suppliers to mitigate supply chain challenges. Says "on track" to achieve free cash flow, margin targets for FY. Comments taken from Q3 earnings conference call.

08:43 EDT Integra LifeSciences appoints Jan De Witte as president, CEO - Integra LifeSciences announced that it has appointed Jan De Witte as its next President and CEO. Mr. De Witte succeeds Peter Arduini, who previously announced he will step down as CEO to accept the role of President and CEO of GE Healthcare. Mr. De Witte will join Integra prior to the end of the year, at which time he will also be appointed to Integra's board of directors. For the past five years, De Witte served as CEO of Barco, where he created shareholder value through digital innovation and new product development, commercial acceleration, international market growth and operational excellence while effectively leading the company through the COVID-19 pandemic. Integra's special board committee on CEO succession partnered with Heidrick & Struggles to conduct a comprehensive search that included interviewing and evaluating a talented slate of internal and external candidates.

08:41 EDT Interpace announces issuance of U.S. patent for topographic genotyping - Interpace Biosciences announced that on October 12th 2021, the United States Patent and Trademark Office granted it an US Patent titled: Topographic genotyping for determining the diagnosis, malignant potential, and biologic behavior of pancreatic cysts and related conditions. This patent covers the underlying technology used in PancraGEN, Interpace's flagship product for risk stratification of Pancreatic cysts. PancraGEN is designed to provide risk assessment for pancreatic cysts using both molecular and clinical features, and has been performed on more than 40,000 pancreatic cysts to date.

08:38 EDT SL Green Realty announces sale of 590 Fifth Avenue for $103M - SL Green Realty announced the sale of 590 Fifth Avenue for a gross sale price of $103.0M. "Closing on the sale of 590 Fifth Avenue at a price of $1,000 per square foot demonstrates the continued demand for well-located New York City office and retail properties," said Harrison Sitomer, Senior Vice President of SL Green. "This profitable transaction is the latest step in the successful execution of our 2021 business plan as we remain on track to meet or exceed our stated goals for the year." Located between 47th and 48th Street, 590 Fifth Avenue is a 19-story, 103,000-square-foot office building with prime retail space at the base. SL Green took ownership of the property in October 2020.

08:34 EDT Digital Brands launches on Amazon Prime - Digital Brands (DBGI) announces it launched DSTLD on Amazon Prime (AMZN), while it also launched its affiliate program across all its brands.DSTLD has officially moved past the "on-boarding" stage today with Amazon Prime, which means its product will be for sale on Amazon Prime. "We believe the extra time and work it took to qualify for Amazon Prime will result in much higher short and long-term value versus just selling as a third party on Amazon's site," said Laura Dowling, Chief Marketing Officer of Digital Brands Group. Furthermore, in the next three days, DSTLD's Brand Store will launch on Amazon, which will include DSTLD's own videos and branded content. According to statista.com and eMarketer, 63% of online shoppers go to Amazon to start searching for products, which we believe will increase brand awareness and customer acquisition. In addition to this, DBGI is launching an affiliate program across all its brands. This is the first time most of its brands have launched an affiliate program. The benefit of an affiliate program is the significant reach a brand creates working with major online publications and their millions of readers, so the brand awareness and customer reach is exponential to traditional digital marketing programs. Historically, DSLTD has generated meaningful revenue and customer acquisition growth through its affiliate programs.

08:31 EDT Triterras announces Audit Committe Investigation has concluded - Triterras has made a key announcement. The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors is pleased to report the completion of its previously announced investigation into allegations made in a short report released in January 2021. After expending considerable resources, time and energy conducting its investigation and analyzing the work carried out by external advisers, the Audit Committee has concluded that the allegations contained in the short report lack either factual support or material basis. Accordingly, the Audit Committee has concluded that those allegations do not require additional action by the Company.

08:27 EDT VMware to collaborate with eero on work-from-home capabilities - VMware (VMW) announced it will collaborate with eero, an Amazon (AMZN) company, on work-from-home capabilities that will boost remote network connectivity while extending critical security services to devices connecting to an at-home corporate network. Designed for work-from-home employees in the U.S. and delivered by strategic channel partners, the collaboration is designed to pair eero 6 series mesh Wi-Fi systems with VMware SASE Work from Home solution. In addition, as part of this agreement, VMware is announcing eero is a preferred Wi-Fi provider.

08:26 EDT Super League Gaming solidifies partnership with ClixTV - Super League Gaming announced that the company has partnered with ClixTV, the new ecommerce-meets-entertainment platform streaming on every digital screen, to broadcast Super League's top performing esports and gaming content on ClixTV's distribution of short-form series on a branded network of over-the-top, OTT, linear channels, as well as via the web and downloadable apps. Super League content is available on ClixTV now. "ClixTV offers Super League a super interesting model through their commitment to bite-sized programming designed for today's content consumption patterns," says Matt Edelman, Chief Commercial Officer for Super League. "One of our strengths is finding and publishing great gameplay moments that most fans have not already discovered. We are excited to continue feeding the insatiable appetite for gaming entertainment through ClixTV."

08:25 EDT WeWork partners with stockperks to offer shareholders flexible office space perk - WeWork announced the launch of a strategic partnership to provide WeWork shareholders with flexible office space perks. In celebration of WeWork's public listing, WeWork shareholders will receive three complimentary workspace day passes to hundreds of WeWork On Demand locations across major cities globally*. As the retail shareholder community grows, the partnership represents an opportunity to engage and connect with individual shareholders. "We're excited to partner with Stockperks and provide our retail investors an opportunity to experience the WeWork product firsthand, enhancing their experience as an investor and providing a new way for us to connect with retail shareholders directly," said Chandler Salisbury, WeWork's VP of Investor Relations & Corporate Development. "WeWork is a true innovator, passionate about its community of members and its shareholders. We are excited to provide the platform enabling WeWork to seamlessly engage with its shareholder community, year round," said Agnies Watson, President and Co-Founder of Stockperks.

08:23 EDT Aemetis signs agreement with CTCI to provide engineering for plant - Aemetis announced it entered into an agreement with engineering and construction firm CTCI America to conduct permitting and engineering work for the Carbon Zero renewable jet/diesel plant to be built in Riverbank, California. CTCI America is a subsidiary of CTCI Corp., a $2 billion revenues Engineering, Procurement and Construction firm with extensive high technology and energy industry project engineering and construction experience. The Aemetis Carbon Zero plant is being developed at a former U.S. Army ammunition production facility. The process design uses waste wood to produce cellulosic hydrogen with a below zero carbon intensity, which is combined with renewable oils and zero carbon intensity hydroelectric electricity to produce sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel. The plant will have an initial capacity of 45 million gallons per year, with engineering and other development work underway for expansion to 90 million gallons per year.

08:21 EDT Armstrong World announces partnership with 9 Foundations - Armstrong World Industries announced it has commenced a partnership with 9 Foundations, an independent scientific advisory firm founded by Dr. Joseph G. Allen, associate professor at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, director of Harvard's Healthy Buildings Program, and co-author of the book Healthy Buildings. The team at 9F consists of leading scientific experts on the connections between human health and built environments, bringing unmatched technical knowledge and experience to the most critical public health challenges of our time, including Covid-19. With this partnership, 9F will work with AWI in its continued focus on manufacturing ceiling and wall solutions based on the most advanced healthy building science and design.

08:21 EDT Alnylam sees FY21 combined product revenues $640M- $665M - Full year 2021 financial guidance is reiterated and consists of the following: Combined net product revenues for ONPATTRO, GIVLAARI and OXLUMO $640M - $665M; Net revenues from collaborations and royalties $150M- $200M.

08:20 EDT Sterling Bancorp announces strategic investment in FinTron - Sterling Bancorp announced a strategic investment in FinTron, a FinTech company providing a range of digitally enabled banking and investment services to the Mobile Generation. Through its subsidiary, Fintron Invest, an SEC registered broker-dealer, the company provides a range of investment services, including commission-free trading in more than two thousand stocks and ETFs, as well as investment automation and educational financial resources, all delivered through an "all-in-one" investing and investment education app. With a median client age of 26 and over 80% of its clients possessing limited or no investment experience, FinTron Invest is democratizing personal finance for a new generation of investors. The FinTron Invest app offers educational resources, automated investing, budgeting, and planning tools that work together to promote financial literacy. To better enable financial proficiency for younger generations and those intimidated by investment jargon, FinTron has also deployed a standalone product coined "FinTronU" - a free, simulated investing game and financial literacy program utilized by thousands of new investors.

08:19 EDT Inari Medical announces 6-month FLASH registry interim data - Inari Medical announced positive acute and long-term interim results from the first 500 pulmonary embolism patients enrolled in the FlowTriever Outcomes Registry, FLASH. At 48 hours post procedure, the major adverse event rate and mortality rate were low, at 1.4% and 0.2%, respectively. None of the deaths or major adverse events were device related. Collectively, these PE patients experienced substantial on-table improvements in hemodynamics and symptoms, which translated to 6-month improvements in cardiac function, functional status, and quality of life measures. The outcomes were achieved while limiting utilization of hospital resources, with less than 4% of patients receiving adjunctive therapy and a median of 0 days in the ICU post procedure. "FlowTriever is quickly becoming the frontline therapy for intermediate and high-risk PE. FLASH, already the largest prospective interventional data set in the field of PE, reinforces the excellent safety, functional improvement, and long-term outcomes of this approach," said Thomas Tu, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Inari Medical. "We believe these data continue to raise the bar to which existing and new treatments will be held. We remain committed to venous thromboembolism patients and to advancing the treatment of this disease through clinical research and the continued development of purpose-built devices."

08:18 EDT DatChat launches DatChat Social Network+ - DatChat announced the launch of DatChat Social Network+, a social-networking focused expansion of the DatChat messaging platform. The newly-added features include content aggregation and discoverability, social engagement tools, a verified influencer platform and monetization tools, and an iMessage App with screenshot protection for pictures and messages. The platform's expansion offers users the ability to find and engage with personally relevant content within the privacy and protection of the DatChat ecosystem. Users can now access a feed of content served on the DatChat Social Network+, create private and public Communities and Pages based on interests, and follow one another.

08:17 EDT Boxed partners with HIVE Brands to power e-commerce operations - Boxed announced it is working with online marketplace Hive Brands to fuel its e-commerce operations by providing it with a suite of software technology and services as early as January 2022. Hive, led by Co-founder and CEO, Thomas Ellis, has created an online grocery shop where every purchase contributes to a more sustainable and equitable world. Each brand sold on Hive's platform is carefully vetted for sustainability and social impact, and the company practices carbon neutral shipping and uses 100% recyclable shipping materials. Hive is planning to utilize Boxed's proprietary e-commerce technology and fulfillment services to help power its platform.

08:16 EDT NetSol enter partnership agreement with American Financial Service Association - NETSOL Technologies announced it has signed an agreement to become a "Five-Star Premier Business Partner" of the American Financial Services Association. A member of the AFSA since 2019, NETSOL will now have an opportunity to more fully participate in select marketing programs and maximize the value of their participation in a range of association opportunities including auto finance industry events and presentations, podcasts and webinars. Being a Five-Star Premier Business Partner will also support the Company's efforts to gain a deeper and more consistent engagement with both the AFSA team and its member organizations as an industry thought leader.

08:13 EDT Immutep estimates cash reach into December 2023 - The Company's cash and cash equivalent balance as at 30 September 2021 was $106.39 million compared to a balance of $60.59 million as at 30 June 2021. The enhanced cash balance puts the company in a strong financial position with an estimated cash reach of December 2023.

08:12 EDT Lightning eMotors announces delivery, deployment of 10 cargo vans to Goodfood - Lightning eMotors announced the successful delivery and deployment of 10 all-electric cargo vans to Montreal, Canada-based Goodfood Market. This delivery marks Lightning eMotors' initial entry into Canada's commercial electric vehicle market, and the first deployment in Canada of a fully electric refrigerated vehicle fleet.

08:09 EDT MINDD to partner with Victoria's Secret as exclusive retailer - MINDD, the first bra company engineered for the D+ woman, announces partnership with the world's largest intimates specialty brand, Victoria's Secret, as their exclusive retailer. MINDD and Victoria's Secret began working together in early 2021, carefully curating a collection specifically for the Victoria's Secret audience, which features a range of MINDD's most popular products, including their signature bras, seamless underwear and bodysuits, across a variety of colors.

08:08 EDT Meten Edtechx partners with AGM Group for blockchain and cryptocurrency mining - Meten Holding (METX) entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with AGM Group Holdings (AGMH) to accelerate the development Meten's blockchain and cryptocurrency mining business. Both parties agree to primarily cooperate on the research and development of blockchain applications and the establishment of a supply chain for cryptocurrency mining business. The agreement contains an initial order of AGMH's cryptocurrency mining machines from Meten and an option for Meten to purchase additional machines later.

08:06 EDT Corteva names Chuck Magro as CEO, succeeding James Collins, Jr. - Corteva's (CTVA) Board of Directors announced that it has appointed Chuck Magro as the company's new CEO, effective November 1. He will also join Corteva's Board of Directors. Magro most recently served as CEO of Nutrien (NTR) and brings to Corteva extensive experience leading global agriculture companies to support value creation for all stakeholders. He succeeds JamesCollins, Jr., who will work with Magro to assure a smooth transition and will retire from Corteva at year-end.

08:05 EDT Integer to acquire Oscor for $220M - Signed agreement to acquire Oscor, a private medical device company headquartered in Florida. Targeted to close in December 2021, subject to customary closing conditions. $220 million purchase price financed with debt. The acquisition structure includes a tax election that is expected to offset cash taxes by approximately $43 million over the next 15 years. Serving Integer's current markets, Oscor broadens Integer's product portfolio, expands its R&D capabilities, and adds low-cost manufacturing capacity. Oscor recognized $57 million sales in 2020 and historically has achieved high-single digit sales growth. Expect accretive EPS in 2022, increasing Integer's EPS growth rate by low-single digit.

08:03 EDT Carpenter Technology reports Q1 adjusted EPS (28c), consensus (31c) - Reports Q1 revenue $387.6M, consensus $420.42M. "Demand patterns across our end-use markets continue to improve as our backlog finished up 25 percent sequentially and 49 percent year-over-year," said Tony Thene, President and CEO of Carpenter Technology. "We continue to see signs of a broad-based recovery taking hold across the Aerospace supply chain with an acceleration of demand conditions expected in calendar year 2022. Our Performance Engineered Products segment finished ahead of our expectations driven primarily by strong demand for our titanium fasteners in the Aerospace and Defense end-use market. Within the Specialty Alloys Operations segment, our performance was impacted by short-term operational delays including COVID-19 isolations at key work centers, supply chain disruptions across the world and hiring challenges in a difficult labor environment. The operational delays resulted in a temporary build in inventory during the current quarter, which negatively impacted our cash flow."

07:57 EDT Alnylam announces planned CEO transition to Yvonne Greenstreet at year-end - Alnylam Pharmaceuticals announced the planned CEO transition of John Maraganore, Ph.D., to Yvonne Greenstreet, MBChB, at year-end 2021. Dr. Maraganore joined Alnylam in 2002 as the company's founding CEO and has led the company's advancement of RNAi therapeutics as a whole new class of innovative medicines, including four approved medicines marketed in over 25 countries around the world. Dr. Greenstreet joined Alnylam in 2016 and currently serves as the company's President and COO. Dr. Maraganore will support the leadership transition in a consulting capacity through March 31 and will continue to contribute to Alnylam's success as a member of the company's Scientific Advisory Board. Effective immediately, Dr. Greenstreet has been appointed to the Alnylam Board of Directors as part of the planned succession.

07:55 EDT Lion Electric receives purchase order for 35 LionC school buses - Lion Electric announced that it has received a purchase order from Groupe Autocar Jeannois for 35 zero-emission LionC school buses, to be delivered over the next five years. The purchase order also includes an option for Jeannois to purchase an additional five LionC buses. These LionC buses will be added to Jeannois' existing fleet of three LionC all-electric buses. Jeannois has also placed a purchase order for four LionM buses to be delivered over the next four years, to gradually replace its luxury diesel-powered minibuses used in its corporate and tourist shuttle passenger transport branch. In addition, Lion announced that Jeannois will become the first Lion authorized service center for the region of Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean.

07:50 EDT Medigus, Safee enter MOU for joint venture to trade NFT assets - Medigus has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Safee. Per the agreement, the parties will embark on a joint venture to trade and monetize NFTs and other digital assets. The JV will use Safee's knowledge and platform to identify opportunities in the NFT field, and to buy, hold and monetize NFTs. Medigus will help fund the collaborative enterprise with a loan of up to $5 million for the purchase of NFTs and other digital assets. Medigus will also hold sway over management of the joint venture, appointing three of the four members of its board of directors, retaining hiring and firing rights of its CEO, and casting the decisive vote on budgetary and business planning matters. In exchange for furnishing consulting services to the joint venture on the purchase and sale of NFTs and other digital assets, the non-binding MOU offers Safee an opportunity to buy Medigus stock. Over a period of three years, Safee may exercise the option to buy 200,000 shares of Medigus at the price of $10 per share.

07:48 EDT Agrify enters Arizona cannabis market through Olive El Mirage partnership - Agrify Corporation announced it has signed a definitive agreement with its first Arizona-based customer, Olive El Mirage Partners. Olive El Mirage is a contract cultivation operation working with the top consumer brands in the fast-growing Arizona market. Under the terms of the Agreement, Agrify will work with Olive El Mirage on the build-out of its 30,000-square-foot facility, including the installation of 400 of Agrify's Vertical Farming Units along with integrated catwalks, integrated grow racks, and pest mitigation solutions. The deal value is expected to be approximately $23.8 million, which includes $9.4 million for the purchase of 400 VFUs and recurring SaaS revenue at a value of $14.4 million derived from Olive El Mirage's use of the Agrify Insights cultivation software over 10 years. Both parties also agree that Olive El Mirage will have up to 90 days to determine whether to proceed with a cash purchase of the VFUs or finance this transaction. Olive El Mirage will cover the cost of the construction and facility build-out with its own internal capital.

07:46 EDT Ingersoll-Rand to acquire Air Dimensions for $70.5M cash - Ingersoll Rand has entered into an agreement to acquire Air Dimensions Inc. for an all-cash purchase of $70.5M. The company intends to close the transaction on Friday, October 29. Based in Deerfield Beach, Fla., Air Dimensions designs, manufactures and sells vacuum diaphragm pumps primarily for environmental applications in high-growth, sustainable end markets such as emission monitoring, biogas, utility and chemical processes. Upon closing, Air Dimensions will join Ingersoll Rand's Precision and Science Technologies segment. Air Dimensions has an estimated $11M in 2021 annual revenues and strong pre-synergy Adjusted EBITDA margins that are meaningfully higher than the Precision and Science Technologies segment. "The ability to expand our product portfolio, extend our reach in highly attractive end markets, further aftermarket exposure and welcome a team that shares our values makes the Air Dimensions transaction an excellent example of delivering on our inorganic growth strategy," remarked Vicente Reynal, chief executive officer of Ingersoll Rand. "This transaction is directly aligned with our strategic and financial M&A criteria designed to elevate the quality of our portfolio and generate shareholder value. The Air Dimensions acquisition positions us for future growth as a highly profitable business serving sustainable end markets and, along with the meaningful synergy opportunities we have identified, it is a natural fit for Ingersoll Rand."

07:41 EDT Emcor announces new $300M share repurchase program - The company also announced today that its board of directors has authorized a new share repurchase program for the company to repurchase up to an additional $300M of its outstanding common stock.

07:39 EDT Minim launches Motorola WiFi 6 portfolio - Minim launches the Motorola WiFi 6 portfolio to meet the insatiable connectivity needs of today's gamers, streamers, and remote workers. Available now on Amazon.com, the value-packed Motorola MH7600 Mesh WiFi Series comes bundled with motosync, powered by Minim.

07:36 EDT Allegheny Technologies CEO sees Q4 revenue and earnings growth - "Looking ahead to Q4, we anticipate sequential revenue and earnings growth primarily driven by the ongoing commercial aerospace recovery in our HPMC segment. Significant managed working capital reductions will fuel fourth quarter cash generation," said CEO Robert Wetherbee. "As our business transformation actions near completion in the AA&S segment, we'll temporarily curtail some early stage manufacturing activities to better align our inventory levels with market demand and have planned extended equipment outages to complete transformational upgrades. These actions will likely result in unfavorable cost absorption impacts in the quarter."

07:34 EDT PagSeguro Digital says company has no agreement with Pax Technology - Contacted by The Fly following news reports regarding an FBI's raid of the Florida locations of Pax Global Technology (PXGYF), a spokesperson for PagSeguro Digital (PAGS) said that, "Differently than other markets, such as the American, all the application software that runs on our POS devices, independently of the supplier, is developed internally by us, tested and certified by industry standard setters, such as PCI, EMV, ANATEL, ABECS, card schemes, and other third-party entities, following the highest standards of global payments information security. We believe that this arrangement provides greater control over the end-to-end transaction process and ensures that the data exchanged among POS devices, card schemes and banks are secured and encrypted. We have been providing payments solutions in Brazil for millions of clients for the past 15 years and the there isn't any evidence of malware in our solutions. We have been working with several POS device suppliers with headquarters in Brazil, Asia, United States and Europe and we do not exchange any information regarding its customers, merchants or transactions with any of them. We do not have any agreement with Pax Technology (China). Our commercial agreement to purchase Pax's POS devices is through Transire Brazil, a local Brazilian multi-brand manufacturer with rights to import, manufacture and assemble different POS device suppliers. PagSeguro Digital Ltd is compliant with Brazilian Central Bank and Sarbanes-Oxley Act."

07:33 EDT Lincoln Electric recognizes $73.6M charges in Q3 due to pension plan termination - During the third quarter 2021, the Company recognized $73.6 million of non-cash pension settlement charges associated with lump sum distributions related to the termination of a pension plan. In October 2021, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase a group annuity contract with an insurance company to settle the remaining pension obligations of this plan. The Company estimates fourth quarter 2021 pre-tax settlement charges of approximately $35 - $45 million related to the annuity purchase. The Company anticipates using any surplus assets to fund future contributions into another retirement plan.

07:30 EDT Noront receives no response from Wyloo, supports BHP offer - Noront Resources provided an update to shareholders and advises Noront shareholders to tender their shares to the C$0.75 all-cash offer from BHP Western Mining Resources International. Noront CEO Alan Coutts: "It's critically important that Noront shareholders are aware of two facts: First, the all-cash C$0.75 per share BHP offer is the only offer on the table. The previous Wyloo proposal of C$0.70 per share fell away, once BHP topped it with its C$0.75 offer; and Second, we have heard nothing from Wyloo since receiving the improved BHP offer more than a week ago, and Wyloo has no obligation to respond. There is no indication that another offer from Wyloo for the Company will be forthcoming. The BHP offer provides both certainty and a compelling premium. We encourage Noront shareholders to tender their shares to the BHP offer well in advance of the November 9 deadline."

07:27 EDT Comscore signs agreement with Vistar Media for DOOH audience targeting - Comscore announced an agreement with Vistar Media, a global provider of programmatic technology for digital out-of-home - DOOH -. Comscore Activation audiences, spanning demographics, personas and cross-platform media consumption, are now available for DOOH programmatic targeting through Vistar. By leveraging Comscore audiences, Vistar will help expedite the growth and cross-over of DOOH into omnichannel programmatic buying. Vistar is the first DOOH programmatic platform to launch Comscore audiences.

07:27 EDT Crew Energy announces transition to pure-play Montney producer - Crew Energy is pleased to confirm the Q3 sale of our Lloydminster heavy oil asset representing the final step of our strategic transition to a pure-play Montney producer, and provide an operational update highlighted by recent drilling success and production volumes of 30,000 boe1 per day based on net field sales estimates. Late in Q3, Crew completed the sale of our Lloydminster heavy oil operations for gross cash proceeds of $10.3 million, representing the streamlining of our asset base. Through this Transaction, approximately 1,050 boe1 per day of primarily heavy oil production was divested from the portfolio. While the Lloydminster volumes represented approximately 4% of Crew's total production volumes, they contributed approximately 19% to our corporate operating costs which are anticipated to decline by approximately $0.70 per boe and improve margins. Given Lloydminster previously represented Crew's most emission-intensive asset, we will have removed 46% of Crew's direct 2020 GHG emissions and anticipate the Company's total GHG emissions intensity will be reduced significantly going forward, putting Crew on a path to reach our emissions reduction goals earlier than anticipated. Divesting of these assets sets the stage for Crew to streamline operations and improve efficiencies going forward while reducing our overall Asset Retirement Obligation liabilities by nearly 40%, representing approximately $34.5 million associated with 609 gross wellbores. This successful completion of the Transaction enables Crew to focus entirely on the world-class Montney play, and improves our environmental impact, positively contributing to the Company's environmental, social and governance goals. Our team is in a stronger position to enhance value as we focus Crew's resources fully to the Montney, where we have the greatest potential to generate returns and secure long-term sustainability. With this divestment, Crew would like to thank the dedicated Lloydminster heavy oil team for their hard work and support over the past 10 years, and particularly through the sale process. We wish to recognize their contributions to Crew's culture and leadership in upholding our commitment to safety, evidenced by achieving three years without a recordable injury at Lloydminster. Crew is also very pleased to confirm that after the impact of the Lloydminster sale, our current production volumes have recently reached 30,000 boe1 per day with record net natural gas sales production of 149 mmcf per day based on field estimates. This level of natural gas production is the highest ever realized by the Company, being produced into a very strong commodity price environment, and reflects the success of Crew's drilling program to date in 2021. This robust production performance is partly driven by volumes coming on stream from the seven wells on our 1-8 pad within the Greater Septimus area, along with our 4-17 land tenure retention pad at Groundbirch. At the 4-17 pad, three wells were completed during Q3,2021 and are currently producing at restricted rates of approximately 32 mmcf of raw gas per day. These wells have been producing for 18 days and will continue to clean-up prior to a two-week period during which volumes will be shut-in while permanent production facilities are installed. The successful validation of this test pad, along with the evaluation of two distinct zones within the Montney, represent strategically important milestones for Crew given that these drilling results are expected to be the foundation for development of a new core area at Groundbirch. Based on a combination of production and pressure test data, we believe that these wells have the potential to be the most prolific gas wells the Company has drilled to date. Crew owns over 70,000 net acres of contiguous land in the Greater Groundbirch area and has an additional five well authorization permits at the 4-17 pad to follow up on the success of the first three wells. We expect that at least two additional zones in the Montney are potentially prospective at Groundbirch and we are currently advancing plans to test those zones in the future. In addition to realizing positive drilling and field operations results, our West Septimus gas processing facility recently achieved a new throughput record of 125 mmcf per day with working interest sales of 115 mmcf per day and a nameplate capacity of 120 mmcf per day of sales gas. These strong volumes are a direct result of incremental production added from the Company's new 1-8 pad along with our 4-17 pad at Groundbirch. Concurrent with these wells coming on-stream and in light of the West Septimus facility being close to capacity, Crew has made infrastructure modifications that allow volumes from the 4-17 pad to flow to, and be processed at, our Septimus gas processing facility, which currently has approximately 40 mmcf per day of excess capacity. This will accommodate new production from the five-well 4-21 pad at West Septimus that is scheduled to begin producing in mid-December. Although we are drilling an additional five wells, Crew is maintaining previous capital expenditures guidance of $150 to $170 million and average production guidance of between 26,000 and 28,000 boe1 per day for 2021. We intend to build on the momentum realized to date, with plans to drill 26 and complete 21 wells by the end of 2021, and to carry forward ten drilled and uncompleted wells into 2022. During the first quarter of 2022, we plan to complete and bring these ten wells onto production through the Septimus gas processing facility. In addition, Crew has available capacity on three major export pipelines to facilitate the transportation to markets of our growing natural gas production.

07:26 EDT Aurora Cannabis announces manufacturing agreement with The Valens Company - Aurora Cannabis announced a manufacturing agreement with The Valens Company, a manufacturer of cannabis products, to manufacture a new seasonal offering in the mint category. Launching under Drift Turbo, the company's mainstream adult-use recreational brand, the new Canna Cane Mints are a two-piece hard peppermint candy containing 10mg THC. This is the first product offering under the manufacturing arrangement, which is expected to expand in the coming months. The cannabis edibles will be manufactured using SundefinedRSE by Valens emulsion technology, a patented, in-house emulsion technology that transforms cannabis oils into water-soluble forms to infuse foods, liquids and topicals without the taste or smell of cannabis.

07:22 EDT Rafael sinks 67% to $9.89 after CPI-613 Phase 3 trial misses endpoint

07:20 EDT Electric Last Mile Solutions announces new EV Campus Program - Electric Last Mile Solutions announced the ELMS EV Campus Program - a collaboration with universities nationwide that is designed to help them meet their sustainability and ESG goals. The EV Campus Program will allow universities to pilot an ELMS Urban Delivery commercial electric vehicle free of charge for up to four weeks. The university will utilize the vehicle within campus boundaries covering a wide range of use cases during the duration of the pilot. ELMS will also install its telematics devices in universities' current campus fleets - including in traditional gas combustion vehicles - to analyze duty cycle data and provide universities with a report proposing customized solutions to reduce their carbon emissions, lower vehicle maintenance costs and adopt robust EV charging infrastructure. "This groundbreaking program is uniquely designed to serve colleges and universities seeking a green future," said Ron Feldeisen, Chief Revenue Officer, ELMS. "Not only will universities have a chance to pilot the ELMS all-electric Urban Delivery van, but they will also receive a comprehensive assessment of their current fleet so they can better understand where they can achieve cost savings and drive better business by going electric." ELMS initiated a pilot program in July with the University of Notre Dame to assess how the university could advance efficiency and sustainability actions within its operations.

07:19 EDT Acreage Holdings completes expansion at Egg Harbor cultivation facility - Acreage Holdings announced the completion of an expansion at its Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey cultivation facility. The expansion maximized the cultivation and manufacturing footprint of the ~85,000 square foot facility, which ultimately increased capacity output fourfold. Acreage completed the expansion at the Facility to support increasing retail demand at Acreage's The Botanist locations and to supply the robust and rapidly growing wholesale market in the state with its high quality indoor grown flower and products. Acreage currently operates three dispensaries in New Jersey located in Egg Harbor Township, Williamstown and Atlantic City, the maximum number allowable by state law, as well as a cultivation and processing facility.

07:18 EDT View Inc. announces installation of smart windows in project by Henbart - View announced the installation of its smart windows at Parque Kirkland, a new mixed-use apartment residence in Kirkland, WA, scheduled to open next month. The development represents the second project for Henbart and View, following the installation of View Smart Windows at Henbart's Lake Union office building, which achieved LEED Gold certification upon its renovation. "View's mission is to help our customers transform buildings to benefit people and our planet," said Sri Venkat, Vice President at View. "We're thrilled to once again partner with Henbart to support their leadership in wellness and sustainability."

07:16 EDT Rafael says IDMC recommends AVENGER 500 trial of CPI-613 be stopped - Rafael Holdings announced that the AVENGER 500 Phase 3 clinical trial for CPI-613, Rafael Pharmaceuticals' lead product candidate, did not meet its primary endpoint of significant improvement in overall survival in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. In this multi-national Phase 3 randomized clinical trial, 528 patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the pancreas who had no prior therapy were randomized to receive either devimistat in combination with modified FOLFIRINOX in the treatment arm or FOLFIRINOX alone in the control arm. Devimistat given with mFFX did not significantly improve overall survival compared to FFX alone. The median overall survival in the treatment arm was 11.1 months, compared to 11.7 months in the control arm. Devimistat is also being evaluated in a multi-national Phase 3 randomized clinical trial, ARMADA 2000, in patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia. Following a pre-specified interim analysis, the independent data monitoring committee has recommended the trial be stopped due to lack of efficacy. "We are disappointed by the results of these two Phase 3 clinical trials with devimistat. We plan to work in collaboration with Rafael Pharmaceuticals to further evaluate the data," said Ameet Mallik, CEO, Rafael Holdings, Inc. "We would like to thank the patients, families, and investigators for their participation in the AVENGER 500 and ARMADA 2000 trials."

07:14 EDT Landos Biopharma announces first subject dosed in Phase 1 study of LABP-104 - Landos Biopharma announced the company has dosed the first subject in a Phase 1 study of LABP-104, a potentially first-in-class oral, small-molecule LANCL2 agonist, for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE. "We are pleased to announce the initiation of the first clinical trial investigating LABP-104, marking Landos' sixth novel clinical program addressing the unmet clinical needs of patients with autoimmune diseases," said Dr. Josep Bassaganya-Riera, Chairman, President, and CEO of Landos. "Our LANCE platform coupled with our agile entrepreneurial culture continues to deliver high value shots on goal. There are approximately 1.5 million patients in the U.S. suffering from SLE with very limited therapeutic options. Leveraging our LANCE platform to develop a proprietary LABP-104 transcriptional response signature in blood holds promise to identify the SLE patients that may benefit the most from oral LABP-104 treatment. We are excited to advance LABP-104 as the first potential precision medicine-based therapeutic candidate for SLE into clinical testing." The Phase 1 trial is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, ascending dose, multi-cohort study designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of LABP-104 in healthy volunteers. The primary endpoint will measure the safety and tolerability of LABP-104. Secondary endpoint will measure the pharmacokinetics of LABP-104. The company expects to report topline results of the Phase 1 trial in the first half of 2022.

07:14 EDT The Digital IF Interoperability Consortium continues membership growth - The Digital IF Interoperability Consortium announced the addition of three new members, including commercial companies Comtech Satellite Network Technologies (CMTL) and Viasat (VSAT) and as well as new government member, the U.S. Defense Information Systems Agency. These organizations join the growing roster of industry leaders coming together to support innovation and the digital transformation of space, satellite and related network technologies through the development of industry interoperability standards. In August, DIFI introduced version 1.0 of its interoperability standard based upon VITA 49, entitled IEEE-ISTO Std 4900-2021: Digital IF Interoperability Standard which can be downloaded at the Consortium's website https://dificonsortium.org. This standard has already been specified in at least one major satellite communications RFI by the U.S. Army to support system interoperability.

07:11 EDT Else Nutrition to expand product range on iHerb to over 180 countries - ELSE NUTRITION HOLDINGS announced that it will be expanding its current line of Plant-Based Nutrition products with U.S.-based, international online retailer iHerb Inc. Planned for November 2021, Else's Plant-Powered Complete Nutrition Shakes for Kids will be available on iHerb.com, in both chocolate and vanilla flavors. The agreement expands Else Nutrition's offering on iHerb, and its gateway to global online consumers.

07:09 EDT ConnectOne Bancorp raises quarterly dividend 18% to 13c per share - The Company announced that its Board of Directors declared a cash dividend on its common stock of $0.13 per share, reflecting an 18% sequential increase in our cash dividend. The dividend, which reflects the second $0.02 increase declared during 2021, will be paid on December 1, 2021 to common shareholders of record on November 15, 2021.

07:08 EDT Evelo Biosciences announces expected milestones - EDP1815 - Psoriasis: data from Part B of the Phase 2 trial will report out in 1Q 2022 and Evelo anticipates presenting the full Phase 2 data set at a medical meeting or scientific congress during 2022. EDP1815 - Atopic Dermatitis: Evelo anticipates enrolling the first patients in the Phase 2 trial during 4Q 2021 and data from Phase 2 trial anticipated in 4Q 2022. EDP1867 - Atopic Dermatitis: Interim data from Phase 1b trial anticipated in 1H 2022. EDP2939 - Inflammation: Initiation of clinical development in 2022. EDP1908 - Oncology: Initiation of clinical development in 2022.

07:04 EDT Genocea reports Q3 EPS (5c), consensus (20c) - "We continue to make significant progress. Most notably, we are very excited about our TiTAN clinical trial for GEN-011, our neoantigen-targeted peripheral T cell therapy candidate, from which we expect to have initial data from a small subset of patients in the first quarter or early in the second quarter next year," said Chip Clark, Genocea's President and Chief Executive Officer. "We are also pleased that our SITC presentations will continue to showcase the neoantigen selection capabilities of our ATLAS platform, through differentiated long-term immunogenicity and clinical response data for GEN-009, our neoantigen-targeted vaccine candidate, and through its potential application to novel autoimmune disease treatments."

06:53 EDT Oshkosh raises quarterly dividend 12% to 37c per share - Payable on November 29 to shareholders of record as of November 15.

06:48 EDT Tempur Sealy increases share repurchase program to $600M - Tempur Sealy announced that its board of directors has increased the authorization under the company's share repurchase program to a total of $600M. In the trailing twelve months ended September 30, Tempur Sealy repurchased approximately 20M shares at an aggregate cost of approximately $700M.

06:44 EDT PBF Energy sees FY21 capital expenditures $400M-$450M - The company said, "In addition to focusing on the safety and reliability of our core refining operations, we continue to progress the previously announced potential project for a renewable fuels production facility intended to be co-located at the Chalmette refinery. The project is expected to use certain idled assets, including an idle hydrocracker, along with a newly-constructed pre-treatment unit to establish a 20,000 barrel per day renewable diesel production facility. On August 5, 2021, it was announced that PBF selected Honeywell UOP single-stage EcofiningTM technology for use in the potential project. We are currently in advanced discussions with additional potential strategic and financial partners. Consistent with our previous guidance, and the improving market outlook, our full-year capital expenditures are expected to be approximately $400 to $450 million. Should market conditions change from our current expectations, we expect that we will review our capital requirements and adjust as needed. With demand for our products continuing to gradually improve, we expect to remain responsive to market conditions and for the fourth quarter, we expect total throughput regionally as follows: East Coast to average 250,000 to 270,000 barrels per day ("bpd"); Mid-Continent to average 150,000 to 160,000 bpd; Gulf Coast to average 170,000 to 180,000 bpd; and West Coast to average 310,000 to 330,000 bpd. The throughput figures are reflective of planned work expected to take place during the quarter at our Martinez and East Coast facilities."

06:39 EDT Airbus sees 600 commercial aircraft deliveries in 2021, EBIT adjusted EUR 4.5B - Sees free cash flow before M&A and customer financing of EUR 2.5B.

06:35 EDT AB InBev raises lower end of FY21 EBITDA view to 10%-12% - The company previously forecast EBITDA up 8%-12%. The company said it expects revenue to grow ahead of EBITDA from a combination of volume and price. It commented that "We expect the normalized ETR in FY21 to be in the range of 28% to 30%, excluding any gains and losses relating to the hedging of our share-based payment programs. We expect net capital expenditure of between 4.5 and 5.0 billion in FY21 as we are increasing investments in innovation and other consumer-centric initiatives to fuel our momentum."

06:30 EDT Volkswagen to transform Wolfsburg site, establish Trinity project there - Volkswagen said in a statement: "The transformation is to be financed with a wide-ranging set of measures to reduce fixed and material costs, to improve productivity in production and working capital. Among other things, the main site in Wolfsburg will be prepared for the changed competitive situation by establishing the Volkswagen brand's forward-looking Trinity project there and a new technical development accompanied by a modernization of the plant."

06:27 EDT Volkswagen sees 2021 sales 'considerably higher' than prior-year - Volkswagen said: "The risk of bottlenecks and disruption in the supply of semiconductor components has intensified throughout the industry. Their adverse impact has been seen especially since the start of the second half of the year. Consequently, the Group is lowering its forecast for deliveries to customers and anticipates them to be in line with the previous year in 2021 amid market conditions that continue to be challenging. This prediction assumes successful containment of the Covid-19 pandemic and takes into account the deterioration in the supply situation as a result of the semiconductor shortage. Challenges will arise particularly from the economic situation, the increasing intensity of competition, volatile commodity and foreign exchange markets, securing supply chains and more stringent emissions-related requirements. Sales revenue of the Volkswagen Group in 2021 is expected to be considerably higher than the prior-year figure. In terms of the operating result before and including special items, however, the Group continues to anticipate a return on sales of between 6.0 and 7.5 percent, as contained in the raised guidance issued at the half-year mark. The Automotive Division expects that lower cash outflows from diesel and a marked rise in effects from mergers and acquisitions, including the acquisition of Navistar, will lead to a noticeable increase in net cash flow compared with the prior year. Net liquidity is anticipated to be at a robust level, distinctly down on the previous year."

06:25 EDT Clarivate extends $250M share repurchase program - The company also announced that its board of directors approved the extension of its $250M ordinary share repurchase program through January 31, 2022. The program was set to expire on October 31.

06:14 EDT M.D.C. Holdings increases quarterly cash dividend 25% to 50c per share - The company also announced that its board of directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 50c per share on the company's common stock. This represents a 25% increase over the company's previous quarterly dividend. The dividend will be paid on Wednesday, November 24 to shareholders of record on Wednesday, November 10.

06:10 EDT Patterson-UTI expects to increase rig count in Q4 - The company said, "In the fourth quarter, we expect the increase in the rig count to drive an improvement in total revenue and gross margin. Due to the large number of rig reactivations in the fourth quarter, as well as general cost inflation, average rig margin per day is expected to decrease to approximately $5,500. With the tight rig market and resulting increases we have seen in leading-edge dayrates, we expect daily margins for drilling rigs to rebound in the first quarter."

06:05 EDT FirstCash to acquire American First Finance for $1.17B in cash and stock - FirstCash announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire American First Finance, a rapidly growing, technology-driven virtual lease-to-own and retail finance provider focused on underserved, non-prime customers. Under the terms of the agreement, the total consideration payable at closing is valued at approximately $1.17B, based on FirstCash's closing stock price on October 26, 2021, consisting of approximately 8.05M shares of common stock and $406M in cash, subject to a net debt adjustment. Up to an additional $300M of consideration is payable in the event AFF achieves certain performance targets through the first half of 2023. As part of the transaction, FirstCash will form a new parent company, which will assume FirstCash's listing on the Nasdaq and maintain the "FCFS" ticker symbol. At closing, the existing shares of FirstCash stock will automatically convert on a one-for-one basis into shares of common stock of the new FirstCash parent company. Upon completion of the transaction, Rippel and his affiliates will control approximately 16.6% of the outstanding shares of the new FirstCash parent company and existing FirstCash shareholders will control the remaining 83.4%. At closing, Rippel will also be appointed to the Board of Directors of the new FirstCash parent company. Following the close of the transaction, AFF will operate as a separate Dallas-based business unit within FirstCash led by Howard Hambleton, AFF's President and Chief Executive Officer, and the rest of its current management team. The transaction has been unanimously approved by FirstCash's Board of Directors and is expected to close in late 2021 or early first quarter of 2022, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and receipt of regulatory approvals, including antitrust approvals.The cash portion of the transaction will be funded through a combination of cash on hand and debt financing.

05:59 EDT Activision Blizzard CEO sends letter to employees - Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick sent the following letter to all employees: "A few weeks ago, I reiterated our commitment to become the most welcoming, inclusive company in our industry. Today, I want to update you on some initial progress and important, additional steps we are taking to advance our commitment with greater impact, transparency, and urgency... We are launching a new zero-tolerance harassment policy company-wide - In the past, when we discovered and substantiated harassment, we terminated some employees and provided verbal or written warnings or different disciplinary actions to others. In retrospect, to achieve our goals for workplace excellence, this approach is no longer adequate. We need tougher rules and consistent monitoring across the entire company to make sure reports are being handled correctly and discipline is appropriate and swift... We will increase the percentage of women and non-binary people in our workforce by 50% and will invest $250 million to accelerate opportunities for diverse talent -Today, approximately 23% of our global employee population identifies as women or non-binary. Building on the success that King and other business units have achieved, we will seek to increase our percentage of women and non-binary professionals by approximately 50% - to more than one-third across the entire company - within the next five years and hopefully faster. Each franchise team, business unit, and functional area will be expected to have plans to help fulfill this ambition... Based on feedback from employees, we are waiving required arbitration of sexual harassment and discrimination claims - For any Activision Blizzard employee who chooses not to arbitrate an individual claim of sexual harassment, unlawful discrimination, or related retaliation arising in the future, the company will waive any obligation to do so. We will continue to increase visibility on pay equity - As described in the recent note from our President, Daniel Alegre, and our Chief Administrative Officer, Brian Bulatao, the company continues to focus on pay equity for employees. In fact, our U.S. analysis showed that women at the company on average earned slightly more than men for comparable work in 2020. To ensure transparency on our continuing commitment to pay equity, we will report these results annually. We will provide regular progress updates - We will be monitoring the progress of our business units, franchise teams, and functional leaders with respect to workplace initiatives and we will provide a status report quarterly. We also will be adding a dedicated focus on this vital work in our annual report to shareholders and in our annual ESG report with information on gender hiring, diversity hiring, and workplace progress... I am grateful for how much people care about this company, and I appreciate that many past and present employees have reached out with their thoughts, concerns, complaints, and suggestions. Your experiences, so courageously shared, serve as reason and reminder for why it is so important for us to do better. And we will."

05:54 EDT Petco opens Reddy SoHo - Petco announced the opening of Reddy SoHo, the first concept flagship for Reddy, Petco's lifestyle owned brand for dogs. Located at 125 Prince Street in New York City, Reddy SoHo serves as an urban basecamp for pets and pet parents featuring curated Reddy merchandise and new, exclusive, pet-centric experiences.

05:40 EDT Stellantis backs FY21 adjusted operating income margin 10% - Guidance assumes no further deterioration of semiconductor supply and no further significant lockdowns in Europe and U.S.

05:14 EDT UP Fintech announces TBSPL approval to become CDP Depository Agent - UP Fintech announced that its Singapore subsidiary, Tiger Brokers, or TBSPL, has received approval to be admitted as a CDP Depository Agent.