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Clear Vision Impact Fund Announces Latest Round of Investments

Siebert Williams Shank

Since its final closing in March 2022, the Clear Vision Impact Fund (Clear Vision or CVIF) has provided loans to minority-owned businesses across the U.S. It has originated loans to seven portfolio companies, including two new investments that closed last month. "The Clear Vision team embraces the opportunity to provide liquidity and growth capital to small and mid-sized businesses that serve communities in a manner that is consistent with our impact mission," said Christopher J. Williams, principal of Clear Vision’s general partner and Chairman of Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC. "We are energized that our portfolio companies, which span a range of industries, strive to save jobs and increase job training among underserved communities." "The CVIF loan played a critical role in P&THE Manufacturing Acquisition’s first acquisition of Ross Aluminum. We had to work expeditiously in closing the deal, condensing a timeline that would normally take four to five months down to six to eight weeks at the behest of the previous owner,” said Pancho Hall, CEO and Chairman of P&THE Manufacturing. “Thanks to the professionalism, accuracy, and pure determination of all responsible parties, we were able to finalize the loan and close on this amazing opportunity, which positions us to capitalize on our strategy to gain a collection of world-class enterprises that serve global communities as their minority-business enterprise of choice." “The asset management business needs a big funnel to find innovative solutions that impact the broader society,” said Dabo Horsfall, Founder and CEO of Tensile Investments. “CVIF has been a true growth partner; their approach to investing is fair, their feedback is constructive, and their approach to partnership is genuine. CVIF has supported Tensile’s mission to provide clean mobility solutions that improve the lives of ALL people while developing electric vehicle charging infrastructure in a profitable manner.” “Valeo Networks teamed with the Clear Vision Impact Fund in October 2021 for the purpose of growth through acquisition. As our financing partner, Clear Vision has fueled our acquisition growth, allowing us to double in size by funding three acquisitions in our first year of partnership, making Valeo Networks one of the 50 largest Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) in the United States,” said Travis Mack, CEO and Chairman of Valeo Networks. “Clear Vision has been very flexible and worked closely with Valeo to gain a detailed understanding of our business model and acquisition strategy, which helps us to be nimble and efficient during acquisition. We look forward to continuing to work with Clear Vision and continuing our growth to more than $50 million annual revenue over the next 2-4 years to become one of the 10 largest MSSPs nationwide.” “The Clear Vision Impact Fund partnered with Medi-Fare in the immediate aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether it is collaborating on enhancing our business through new client targets, crafting impact strategies to increase local hiring, or producing marketing materials, the Clear Vision team has never viewed a task as too small. We look forward to its continued support in 2023 as Medi-Fare scales its production capacity,” said Artis Terrell Jr., CEO of Medi-Fare Drug Pharmaceutical Compounding. “At CVIF, we have been fortunate in continuing to source unique opportunities to support diverse entrepreneurs and investors that not only share our passion for positively impacting underserved communities, but also demonstrate that impact and financial performance are not mutually exclusive,” said Kyle C. Sligar, Chief Credit Officer and Portfolio Manager of the Clear Vision Impact Fund. We look forward to deploying more customized debt solutions for both existing portfolio companies and new prospects as they execute on their growth initiatives.” In addition to providing financing, Clear Vision aims to support portfolio companies by working with them to define and execute on their impact goals, evaluating proposed operational improvements and strategic initiatives, and introducing them to prospective customers and partners, among other things. To date, Clear Vision has provided loans to seven African American-owned businesses, several of which are detailed below. P&THE Manufacturing, headquartered in metro Detroit, is a minority-owned holding company comprised of businesses that provide manufacturing solutions. It differentiates itself in the marketplace as a true owner operator who has experience working in and managing businesses at the senior level ranging from the lower middle market to Fortune 100 companies. Learn more at www.rossal.com. Tensile Investments is an impact driven holding company that provides clean mobility options in transit deserts. It develops smart mobility hubs and funds clean first-last mile transportation. Tensile Investments partners with municipalities and private property owners to create smart mobility hubs by modernizing parking lots and garages to provide electric vehicle (“EV”) fleet parking and charging, electric micro-transit services, clean distributed energy services, public EV charging, and electric micro-mobility services. Learn more at www.tensileinvestments.com. Medi-Fare Drug Pharmaceutical Compounding is a minority-owned 503B pharmaceutical compounding facility registered with the Federal Drug Administration as an Outsourcing Facility. Medi-Fare serves as a partner to hospitals and other healthcare providers to supply much needed medications to help improve positive outcomes for their patients and fulfill the need for the ever-growing number of medicines in shortage or backorder situations. Headquartered in Blacksburg, South Carolina, it serves a range of medical facilities and acts as a health care partner for hospital systems, surgery centers, clinics, and doctor’s offices. Learn more at www.medifaredrug.com. Valeo Networks is a full-service, award-winning Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) that serves state, county, and municipal markets; small-to-medium businesses; and non-profit organizations. Firmly seated in the top 5% of revenue generating MSSPs nationwide—making it one of the largest MSSPs nationally—Valeo Networks provides solutions in the areas of cybersecurity, compliance, cloud, network infrastructure, and managed IT services. With over 20 years of industry experience, Valeo Networks is headquartered in Rockledge, FL, with additional locations nationwide. Learn more at www.valeonetworks.com. A-1 is an established and fast-growing disaster-response company which provides on-demand resources, services, and logistics during catastrophes. Services include large-loss restoration services, commercial construction, staffing, restoration equipment rental & monitoring, as well as time and material documenting and preparation during natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and freezing and flooding events that cause property damage. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, A-1’s extensive experience and seasoned personnel have allowed it to create a first-of-its-kind national network and partnership program that brings together service providers, supplies, equipment, and labor. Learn more at www.a1disasterresources.com. About the Fund SponsorClear Vision’s sponsor is an affiliate of Siebert Williams Shank, a leading non-bank financial services firm serving clients across industries and asset classes. It is both a minority-owned and women-owned enterprise. SWS Capital Management, an investment adviser affiliated with Siebert Williams Shank, serves as Clear Vision’s investment manager.To learn more about Clear Vision’s closings or investment portfolio, please visit www.clearvisionimpact.com. This press release (“Press Release”) is being published for informational purposes only regarding Clear Vision Impact Fund (“Clear Vision” or “CVIF”). One should not assume an investment in any of the described companies was or will be profitable. The companies listed in this Press Release do not represent all CVIF’s investments. All opinions, estimates and forecasts are based on information as of the date of this Press Release and are subject to change. Certain information contained in this Press Release constitutes “forward-looking statements,” which can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “project,” “estimate,” “intend,” “continue” or “believe,” or the negatives thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. Due to various risks and uncertainties, actual events or results may differ materially from those reflected or contemplated in such forward-looking statements. CVIF has not vetted the companies’ websites and CVIF’s provision of the companies’ website links should not be considered an endorsement of the information presented there. Contact Details Tom Butler +1 646-213-1802 TButler@ButlerPR.com Christian Agredo +1 646-213-0286 CAgredo@ButlerPR.com Company Website https://www.clearvisionimpact.com/

February 22, 2023 09:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Minuteman Press Franchise in Tigard, Oregon Celebrates 35 Years and Transitions to Second-Generation Ownership

Minuteman Press International Inc

Bob and Ruth Davidson first opened their Minuteman Press franchise in Tigard, OR (a suburb of the Portland, OR greater metro area), in December of 1987. After 35+ years of hard work and dedication to their clients and their community, Bob and Ruth are ready for their next chapter and have made way for the next generation of owners. Bob and Ruth also just recently renewed their franchise agreement for the next 35 years. Their son Craig Davidson with his wife Carolyn and longtime manager Christopher Brown with his wife Lisa, have purchased the business as of February 1, 2023, and are continuing with Minuteman Press as a strong, viable and supportive franchise model, that has been one of the key components to the long-term success of this location. Minuteman Press in Tigard is located at 7555 S.W. Hermoso Way, Tigard, OR 97223. Bob reflects on 35 years of ownership, sharing his keys to success and longevity, growing the family business, and why the future is bright for Minuteman Press in Tigard. Congrats on your incredible 35 years in business! What does this milestone mean to you? Bob Davidson: “ Life is a series of changes and this is one of them. Frankly, it is time for the next generation to have their opportunity to build on, and create, their own success story. And, it is past time for Ruth and I to enjoy some of the rewards that we have been blessed with, by the success of our business.” What are 4 keys to your success and longevity? Bob Davidson: “FIRST: Ruth and I thank God for his blessing on us in this endeavor. My prayer at the time of starting the business was: ‘ God, I am not the smartest guy in the world, so please open the doors if it is in your will, or if not, hit me over the head with a brick to get my attention.’ SECOND: I would have to say without any qualification, my wife, Ruth. When we first started our business, we were 37 years-old and I left a nearly 20-year seniority position with a national trucking company as a Teamster employee truck driver. Which also meant that I gave up a union scale wage rate, with medical and retirement benefits. Ruth at that time, was a full-time homemaker to our two children. She has stood beside me as a full partner, and fully supported the decision to start our own business. But we honestly and freely admit, it was a decision and a concern to us both. She worked just as hard as I in the business every day. Her 51% ownership and my 49% ownership enable us to qualify as both a ‘Woman-owned’ and ‘Veteran-owned’ business due to my military service. So far, Ruth hasn’t fired me, although I am sure that the thought has come to her mind on occasion! Our primary roles in the business gradually formed over time, with Ruth managing the office and all that entails and also the bindery portion of our business. I was the salesman, customer service and vendor liaison for outside services and supplies. THIRD: Would be the advice, support and assistance of the Regional Minuteman Press staff and also the other local Minuteman Press owners in the area. Their advice, suggestions, guidance, experiences, help and information were of great value in our beginning years. FOURTH: This would of course be our customers. We obviously would not exist without them. While we have ‘busted our tails’ to serve them over the years, they have in turn been incredibly loyal. We still have customers today, that initially became customers in our first year of business. We are thankful for them. BONUS TIP: My advice on customer acquisition? Take anything that comes your way. But, know that your fellow, small, local businesses, will be your most loyal and long-term customers. They will be your most consistent support and strength through the years. It is ‘sexy’ to acquire a larger nationally known corporation as a client, but they typically do not last. A new purchasing agent will come in, some other shop beats your price by a percentage point or two, or they close the local office or HQ and move away. All of the above have been my experiences. Enjoy the large companies while they last, but don’t wrap your business around them.” You have just renewed your franchise agreement for the business transition. What does it mean to you, knowing the business will stay in the family and remain in great hands? Bob Davidson: “It means a great deal to us, to be able to see what my wife and I have built over the years, continue on into the next generation and chapter. We have been blessed, in having Craig and Christopher both with us for so long. That has allowed for a gradual and nearly seamless transition. For the past two years, Ruth and I have been gradually turning over more and more of the management and decision-making to ‘the boys’ as we call them. They have made all of the equipment purchases and hiring decisions for the past 2 years. They have also attended the past 2 Minuteman Press World Expo Conventions. Also, if Minuteman Press HQ was not the company that it has been, there would have been no reason for us to renew our franchise agreement. What do I mean by that, you might say? Our experience has been one of excellent, ongoing support in all aspects from Minuteman Regional & HQ. We truly appreciate their business franchise model; their ongoing support, the network of ‘Preferred Vendors’; and their early adoption of computerized pricing, which has evolved into the FLEX program that does so many functions today that were not even dreamed of 35 years ago. All these and more make a great package and a desirable business model to follow and continue with. And then there is the family aspect, not only mine, but also the Titus family. It had been my privilege to know the founder, Roy Titus. And then to also know his son Bob Titus and now Nick and Jackie Titus, as they have all ‘grown up’ in the business and taken on their leadership roles. What is most impressive to me is that they have all been ‘just folks’ … unpretentious and unassuming, kind and caring, and have become personal friends. They have never lost sight, now through three generations, that they are stewards of an amazing corporation, that while it first and foremost is a major business, it also at the same time cares for and treats everyone like extended family. Minuteman Press International also makes sure to recognize individual achievement. It is only human to be gratified, when our best efforts are recognized by others. Minuteman’s system of recognition for various sales levels, marketing, print quality, shop appearance and other awards, are all appreciated as tangible markers of various achievements. As a 25-year (now retired) veteran of the Army, I see many parallels to Minuteman’s system of such recognition, to the military’s awards of ribbons and service medals for exemplary service.” What does the transition mean for your customers? Bob Davidson: “I jokingly say that this transition means ‘ nothin g’ to our customers. That is because unless they ask, the vast majority of our clients won’t even know right away, that Ruth and I have stepped back. But it also means ‘ everything ’ to them with regards to their printing needs. I have every confidence that Craig and Christopher will continue in the same manner of excellent quality and service that we have provided up to this point. It means that between our production efforts and that of our vendors and everyone else behind the scenes, that our customers will continue to receive a top-quality product, that is consistent, timely, and fairly priced, every time. And if for some reason it isn’t, we make it right, no questions asked.” What are some of the key ways you’ve grown your business (products, marketing, networking, etc.)? Bob Davidson: “Well, the short answer is ‘ Yes ’ … all of the above. PRODUCTS: Through Minuteman HQ’s urging, guidance and vendor connections, we have branched out into many areas that we previously did not do, or consider. Mailing services, checks and deposit slips, signs and banners, promotional products, clothing / wearables. All of these are later additions to our original business model. MARKETING: When we initially began in 1987, marketing was almost exclusively ‘cold calls’ on local businesses. The follow-up was a 3” x 5” Index Card file that was sorted by ‘call back’ dates (which I still have). That and the Yellow Page ads were your two primary sources for getting your name out. Now, digital is the primary method and our Google Reviews rating of 4.9 stars along with the reviews posted there, are critical. A frequent response from new customers when we ask, ‘How did you hear about us?’, is almost always our high Google standing. Following that would be that they received a referral from another customer. NETWORKING: Do it! We have many, many customers that have come to us through our contacts in Rotary, our local Business Leads group (LeTip) and several local Chambers of Commerce. Some of those customers are among our largest accounts.” What are the high-demand products and services as well as growth areas? Bob Davidson: “Digital and offset printing are still the core tenants of our business. All other services are either in support of those, or a supplement to rounding out the main portion of that business. Our overall business mix is still approximately 1/3 offset, 1/3 digital and 1/3 outside services of all types. Digital printing is the fastest growing segment of our business.” How would you best describe your community? Bob Davidson: “Tigard is a bedroom community of the Portland Metro area. There is a good mix of local businesses of all types, small manufacturing, distribution and warehousing. It is a growing area, as many businesses are leaving the downtown core as the switch to ‘remote’ work continues. Tigard is both a residential and business community, with a healthy mix of both.” Why do you think printing remains so vital to businesses today? Bob Davidson: “People respond well to a tangible, physical piece that you can hold in your hand. It also has a tendency to be saved, whereas a digital ad piece is quickly passed by and forgotten.” What was your background before franchising and why did you choose Minuteman Press? Bob Davidson: “I was a local pickup and delivery driver for a national truck line for nearly 20 years. At the same time, I was also an Enlisted man and then Officer in the Oregon Army National Guard. I had 4 years of active duty and 21 years of National Guard service time as a reservist. Ruth was primarily a homemaker, with our two children. In the late 1980s, it was a time of great turmoil in the transportation industry – trucking, railroads and airlines, due to deregulation. Many of those businesses either merged or closed. That was cause for concern to me as I was in the trucking industry as my primary job. I and a friend of mine went to a local business fair in the summer of 1987. Of the many business ‘opportunities’ presented there, the one for Minuteman Press was the only one that seemed to have it ‘together’. Their presentation was easily understandable, well-organized and made sense. I then began to do the follow-up process of visiting existing shops. Minuteman Press also made it easy to go through all of the multitude of steps in opening a new business, such as the training, equipment, securing a location, and the initial opening and marketing phases.” What has the support from Minuteman Press International been like for you? Bob Davidson: “ TRAINING: Ruth and I went thru the 2-week training course at Minuteman HQ in New York. And when my son Craig first came to work for us, we sent him to the New York Minuteman School, so that he would also have that base training and experience. SUPPORT: As a ‘mature’ shop of 35+ years, we seldom have a need to call on either the Regional or National offices. But when we have, they have always been responsive and helpful. This would also be the appropriate time to extend our ‘ THANK YOUS!’ to Chris Jutt, Jason Kraus, Chris Multari, Mike Jutt, and Brendan Reilly for their ongoing support and responsiveness, anytime that we have had a question or an issue. When we have made major equipment purchases (recently high-speed Digital Printers, a new Challenge 30” Programable Cutter), we have received advice and support from HQ, as well as getting favorable Minuteman Press pricing. FLEX: A great program that does so very much. It is light years beyond the first computer program that we started with.” What are the biggest personal and professional rewards of owning your business? Bob Davidson: Having some control of your own future, but my joke is: ‘ I have no deadlines of my own, my customers provide them all.’ I also find it to be rewarding to be doing something that you enjoy or find satisfaction in. Every day is both the same, and yet different, as every job is unique in some way. The challenge of the coordination of a multitude of various aspects, personal, equipment and vendors, to bring a job to completion. I sometimes liken it to a conductor directing an orchestra, to bring a complete item out of many parts. When things ‘go south’ as they sometimes do, making a solution happen in some different way.” What advice would you give to other business owners or people looking to own a business? Bob Davidson: “If you never try, you will never know if you could have done it. Be bold. Join a service organization, business group and local chambers and PARTICIPATE. People do business (and refer others who they know) with those that they know and trust. Attend the regional meetings and learn from Minuteman Press and your fellow owners. Attend the World Expos and learn even more and be boosted up by your shared experiences. Follow the Minuteman Press program and advice as much as is possible. You paid for it, and it works, so use it.” Is there anything else you’d like to share? Bob Davidson: “I’d like to share a famous quote from Winston Churchill, which is also the attitude of those of us who have served in the military: ‘Never give in. Never give in. Never, never, never, never – in nothing great or small, large or petty – never give in………’” Minuteman Press in Tigard is located at 7555 S.W. Hermoso Way, Tigard, OR 97223. For more information, visit their website: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/or/tigard/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

February 21, 2023 11:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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People Hub Puts the Employee Experience at the Heart of NAVEX One

NAVEX Global

NAVEX, the leader in integrated risk and compliance management software, today announced the launch of People Hub, a key component of the NAVEX One Governance, Risk, and Compliance Information System. People Hub combines employee-related compliance tasks into a single view for both employees and program administrators. It delivers a streamlined experience that simplifies and elevates the organization’s compliance program. As part of the NAVEX One platform, People Hub is included at no extra cost. NAVEX is the first provider of a GRC Information System that connects enhanced employee experience and automated risk and compliance processes with informed data-driven governance. NAVEX One People Hub is a single destination for all employee compliance tasks -- from onboarding new talent and reviewing the code of conduct to developing and executing more complex compliance workflows. People Hub also recognizes how work gets done today, and therefore is accessible on any device from desktop to tablets and mobile phones. “Organizations are navigating multiple macro trends impacting business risk, including increased employee expectations for greater transparency and being heard by management,” says Amy Cravens, IDC research manager, governance, risk and compliance. “Enhancing how an organization manages its risk and compliance, starting with the front-line employees, is a key element to driving operational and business success.” "Having everyone live into the organization's GRC program demands a unified, familiar user experience. NAVEX One People Hub makes this straightforward and intuitive for employees and administrators alike," said NAVEX Chief Product Officer, A.G. Lambert. "People Hub creates a central location where all compliance tasks are easily accessed and completed, allowing employees to be proactive when it comes to their compliance responsibilities. This in turn contributes to a workplace culture that delivers outcomes that matter most to the organization." Employee experience People Hub makes compliance readily understandable and more approachable by simplifying processes. It ensures team members stay up to date with their compliance-related activities while strengthening workplace culture with a more individualized and engaging experience. See unique tasks: People Hub presents new employees with a personalized onboarding experience with all their compliance tasks in a single, simple list that ensures they take prompt action and stay on track. Make a report or ask a question: Team members can file a report or incident, ask a question and follow up on their case in a safe inviting format. Review a policy or make a disclosure: People Hub makes it easy to access applicable policies and record past actions. This includes links to company policies, code of conduct and conflict-of-interest disclosure forms. Access resources from any device: From onboarding to ongoing compliance tasks, People Hub ensures resources are readily available from any device. Administrative workflows NAVEX continues to enhance its GRC Information System through the centralized management of key risk and compliance information. Distribution of all communication, training, tasks and other important information makes People Hub an intuitive employee compliance management solution. Manage compliance centrally: Create targeted compliance workflows using one centralized risk and compliance information system. Tailor workflows to titles: Quickly create or reuse compliance workflows based on different job types, departments, locations, and more. Get your message out: Easily deliver journeys (or other instructions) for onboarding and ongoing compliance-related tasks. This includes vital work-specific and regulatory attestations and training. Measure impact: See the process and status of employees' progress through assigned training, policy attestations and conflict-of-interest disclosures. Enhanced workplace culture People Hub’s customizable features allow administrators to create a familiar experience for employees that uses the organization’s branding and sets the tone for a healthy workplace culture that inspires trust. Easy access: Offers a simple URL with single sign on. Branded experience: Set the logo, colors and button shapes to match the company brand. Reinforce culture: Add a CEO message or other welcome message to reinforce and match the culture and voice of the organization. Worldwide customization: Offered in 15 standard languages with additional languages available. About NAVEX One GRC Information System NAVEX One enhances the employee experience, mitigates third-party risk, and automates risk and compliance processes for more informed, data-driven governance. As the first comprehensive GRC Information System, NAVEX One delivers shared services through an integrated data model. This provides insights across key areas of business risk generating greater operational efficiencies. NAVEX One creates a real-time view of compliance risk without silos – further bringing all governance, risk and compliance activity together into a single source of truth. To learn more about People Hub, visit https://www.navex.com/en-us/products/navex-ethics-compliance/people-hub/. Or, read our blog, “ Three ways to elevate your employee experience ” on Risk & Compliance Matters. NAVEX is trusted by thousands of customers worldwide to help them achieve the business outcomes that matter most. As the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software and services, we deliver solutions through the NAVEX One platform, the industry’s most comprehensive governance, risk and compliance (GRC) information system. For more information, visit NAVEX.com and our blog. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Contact Details NAVEX Scott Levesque +1 617-388-5773 scott.levesque@navex.com Company Website https://www.navex.com

February 21, 2023 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Mogul Energy International Provides Update on Flora Acquisition and 2023 Guidance

Mogul Energy International, Inc.

McapMediaWire -- Mogul Energy International, Inc. (OTC: MGUY ) a company specializing in transportation, logistics, warehouse consolidation, and distribution services for perishable and other time and temperature sensitive types of cargo today is providing a corporate update and guidance for calendar year 2023. “First off, we want to say a happy belated Valentine’s Day to everyone’s loved ones out there,” stated, Ronen Koubi, CEO of MGUY. According to USA Today and Forbes Magazine, Valentine's Day spending was expected to hit $26 billion in 2023. “Flowers are a substantial part of our business as we store and distribute them. We offer refrigerated long haul, regional, and dedicated deliveries for industries that include floral, produce, plants, dairy, poultry, and meats, as well as dry high value commodities.” On December 16, 2022, MGUY announced the acquisition of the “Flora” group of companies consisting of Florida Beauty Flora, Inc, Florida Beauty Express, Inc, Floral Logistics of California, Inc. and Tempest Transportation, Inc. This was the first acquisition in line with the company’s new business model and strategy to grow a portfolio of businesses focused on the transportation, logistics, warehouse consolidation and distribution segments for perishable and other time and temperature sensitive types of cargo. According to market research from Technavio, “The Perishable Goods Transportation Market is estimated to grow by USD 6.43 billion from 2021 to 2026, and the market's growth is anticipated to accelerate at a CAGR of 7.22% during the forecast period.” Factors such as rising demand for processed foods and the adoption of eco-friendly vehicles are significantly driving the Perishable Goods Transportation Market. Koubi continued, “MGUY’s strategic acquisition growth program will help secure Flora’s position as a leader in the refrigerated transport and logistics’ industry throughout the United States. The ability to transport and warehouse products throughout the continent will further enhance Flora’s ability to facilitate customer orders from origin to final destination and solidify its status as an industry leader. “In 2023 we expect to continue to strengthen our balance sheet. We will also be refining and streamlining our operations, leading to increased profitability, as well as seeking additional acquisitions expanding our customer base throughout the United States to meet the growing shipping, logistics and warehousing demands in the industry.” MGUY has a revenue target of $185 million by 2025; bringing significant value to its shareholders while maintaining a proportionate EBITDA growth. “We are extremely excited about the future growth of Flora and what future acquisitions could deliver to our shareholders and bottom line,” Koubi said. Throughout 2023, MGUY will be securing financing for growth, continue building relationships within the industry and building our reputation as the gold standard in shipping. The logistics, warehousing and distribution infrastructure industry within the US is positioned for enormous growth. Covid exposed the weaknesses within the logistics sector and demonstrated how fragmentation creates vulnerabilities. MGUY plans on using the data collected from the COVID epidemic to help secure the future of Flora product shipments throughout the United States. About: Mogul Energy International, Inc. Mogul Energy International, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides transportation, logistics, and warehouse consolidation and distribution services for perishable and other time and temperature sensitive type of cargo. It offers refrigerated long haul, regional, and dedicated deliveries for industries that include floral, produce, plants, dairy, poultry, and meats, as well as dry high value commodities. www.floridabeauty.com info@floridabeauty.us Safe Harbor Statement This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934 that are based upon current expectations or beliefs, as well as a number of assumptions about future events. Although we believe that the expectations and assumptions upon which they are based are reasonable, we can give no assurance that such expectations and assumptions will prove to have been correct. Some of these uncertainties include, without limitation, the company's ability to perform under existing contracts or to procure future contracts. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, as these statements are subject to numerous factors and uncertainties, including without limitation, successful implementation of our business strategy and competition, any of which may cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the statements. We undertake no obligation and do not intend to update, revise or otherwise publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of any unanticipated events. Although we believe that our expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will materialize. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements. Contact: Ronen Koubi 305-503-1200 Ext 553 info@floridabeauty.us Contact Details Mogul Energy International, Inc. info@floridabeauty.us

February 21, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Volatus Aerospace Reports Preliminary Proforma Unaudited Revenue of Approximately C$38M for FY 2022 and Revenue Guidance of Approximately C$52M for FY 2023

Volatus Aerospace Corp.

Volatus anticipates unaudited proforma gross profit margin of approximately 31% in 2022 compared to 26% in 2021. Consequently, management is pleased to report preliminary full-year 2022 gross profit margin consistent with its original guidance. Volatus Aerospace Corp. (“ Volatus ” or “the Company ”) (TSXV:VOL) (OTCQB:VLTTF) is pleased to announce preliminary, unaudited proforma Net Revenue and Gross Profit results for the three-month period ended December 31, 2022 and year ended December 31, 2022 (“FY-2022”) and Revenue and Gross Profit guidance for the financial year ended December 31, 2023 (“FY-2023”). Volatus expects to report positive financial results underpinned by geographic and sector expansion. Based on preliminary unaudited proforma results for FY-2022 prepared by management, Volatus expects to report FY-2022 revenue of approximately C$38 million and FY-2022 Gross Profit of approximately C$11.6 million with an expected gross profit margin of approximately 31%. Additionally, Volatus is providing financial guidance targets for FY-2023. Volatus expects to report FY-2023 Revenue of approximately C$52 million and FY-2023 Gross Profit of approximately C$16.6M million with a gross profit margin of 32%. Factors contributing to the expected increases in revenue, gross profit and gross profit margin in FY-2023 include changes in product mix, conversion of existing active sales pipeline opportunities into sales, larger geographical presence, access to new markets and new products, commercialization of Volatus’ technologies such as Aerieport and ISR drones, and the scaling of operations in the defence segment. For greater clarity, the gross profit margin is derived solely by subtracting the costs of goods sold from total revenue and dividing such number by total revenue. Q4-2022 and FY-2022 Preliminary Results For the three-month period ended December 31, 2022 (“Q4-2022”) and FY-2022, on a preliminary unaudited proforma basis (as discussed in further detail below), management reports the following highlights: Q4-2022 unaudited proforma Net Revenue is expected to be between C$7 million and C$8 million. Without accounting for the proforma adjustment, Volatus expects to report unaudited revenue between C$6.5 million and C$7 million. The FY-2022 unaudited proforma Net Revenue is expected to be approximately C$38 million. Q4-2022 proforma Gross Profit is expected to be between C$2 million to C$2.5 million and FY-2022 unaudited proforma Gross Profit is expected to be approximately C$11.6 million. Organic revenue growth for FY-2022 compared to FY-2021 was approximately 45% as a result of access to new markets, entry in the defence segment, the sale of equipment, and continued growth in the service and training segment. Volatus expects to end 2023 with positive EBITDA on a run rate basis subject to maintaining the Company’s current growth, the level of investment expenditure, and the timing of its customer orders. Business Update At the end of FY-2022, Volatus has: Sold equipment and services on 3 continents. Expanded geographically in Latin America and the United Kingdom. Developed and began commercializing 4 proprietary technologies. Completed 5 acquisitions. Expanded our defence and public safety businesses. Subsequent to Q4-2022 Completed the acquisition of Empire Drone. Received a domestic service licence from the Canadian Transportation Agency to provide drone cargo services. Gross Profit Margin. The Company derives gross profit margin by subtracting costs of goods sold from total revenue and dividing such number by total revenue. “Despite macro-economic challenges and supply chain constraints, the Volatus team has continued to demonstrate strong execution in 2022. We issued a revenue guidance note of C$38M through a news release on February 16, 2022, and I am extremely proud of achieving our target,” said Abhinav Singhvi, CFO of Volatus Aerospace. “Continued geographic expansion, enhanced capabilities, accelerating industry adoption and cross-selling are expected to drive growth for the foreseeable future.” The Company cautions that the above results are preliminary in nature and unaudited, as the Company’s audit for FY-2022 has not yet been completed. Actual results for FY-2022 may differ materially from the estimates disclosed in this news release due to the completion of the Company’s financial closing procedures, final adjustments, review by the Company’s auditors and other developments that may arise between now and the time the financial results are finalized. Actual results for FY-2023 may differ materially from the estimates disclosed in this news release due to, among other things, supply chain challenges, the inability of strategic suppliers and resellers to perform their obligations, rapid changes in the industry, increased competition, regulatory changes and hurdles, and the inability to expand in different markets due to geo-political risks. These estimates are not a comprehensive statement of the Company’s financial results for Q4-2022, FY-2022 and FY-2023 and should not be viewed as a substitute for full financial statements prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), and these estimates are not necessarily indicative of the results to be achieved for Q4-2022, FY-2022 and FY-2023. A number of economic, market, operational and financial assumptions were made by the management of Volatus in preparing its forward guidance, including, but not limited to, the conversion ratio of the Company’s sales pipeline, success in the bidding of RFQs, the ability to change the product mix and the Company’s ability to maintain a competitive position, retain and increase recurring revenue with customers, scale relationships with strategic suppliers, maintain gross margins and retain its sales force. The preliminary results provided in this press release constitute forward-looking information and future-oriented financial information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. The purpose of this future-oriented financial information is to provide readers with an understanding of the Company’s ability to scale and maintain its competitive position and such future oriented financial information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Please see the section below entitled “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Future Oriented Financial Information”. The preliminary results have been prepared by, and are the responsibility of, management of the Company. The Company’s auditor, MS Partners, has not reviewed the preliminary results. Neither MS Partners nor any other independent accountants express an opinion or any other form of assurance with respect to the preliminary results. The Company will provide additional discussion and analysis regarding its fourth quarter revenue, gross profit, and EBITDA when the Company reports it Q4-2022 and FY-2022 results on April 17, 2023 after the close of markets. Non-IFRS Measures and Other Financial Measures This news release contains references to EBITDA and gross profit margin, which are not defined under IFRS. Management believes the presentation of these metrics gives useful information to investors and shareholders, as they provide increased transparency and insight into the performance of the Company. The data presented is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Readers should not place undue reliance on non-IFRS measures and should instead view them in conjunction with the most comparable IFRS financial measures EBITDA. The Company defines EBITDA as IFRS net loss excluding interest expense, depreciation and amortization expense. EBITDA should not be construed as alternatives to comprehensive loss or income determined in accordance with IFRS. EBITDA does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. The Company believes that EBITDA is a meaningful financial metric as it measures cash generated from operations which the Company can use to fund working capital requirements, service future interest and principal debt repayments and fund future growth initiatives. About Volatus Aerospace: Volatus Aerospace Corp. is a leading provider of integrated drone solutions throughout North America and growing into Latin America and globally. Volatus serves civil, public safety, and defense markets with imaging and inspection, security and surveillance, equipment sales and support, training, as well as R&D, design, and manufacturing. Through our subsidiary, Volatus Aviation, we are introducing green and innovative drone solutions to supplement and replace traditional aircraft and helicopters for long-linear inspections such as pipeline, energy, rail, and cargo services. Volatus is committed to carbon neutrality; the fostering of a safe, equitable and inclusive workplace; and responsible governance. Forward-Looking Information This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking information” and “future oriented financial information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs, and current expectations of the Company with respect to future business activities and operating and financial performance. Often, but not always, forward-looking information and future oriented financial information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or statements formed in the future tense or indicating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” (or other variations of the foregoing) be taken, occur, be achieved, or come to pass. Forward-looking information and future oriented financial information includes information regarding: (i) the Company’s expectations of net revenue, gross profit, gross profit margin and other financial projections for Q4-2022, FY-2022 and FY-2023; (ii) the business plans and expectations of the Company; and (ii) expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors. Forward-looking information and future oriented financial information is based on currently available competitive, financial, and economic data and operating plans, strategies, or beliefs as of the date of this news release, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors may be based on information currently available to the Company, including information obtained from third-party industry analysts and other third-party sources, and are based on management’s current expectations or beliefs. Any and all forward-looking information and future oriented financial information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information and future oriented financial information is not based on historical facts but instead reflects expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Forward-looking information and future oriented financial information reflect the Company’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to it and on assumptions it believes to be not unreasonable in light of all of the circumstances. In some instances, material factors or assumptions are discussed in this news release in connection with statements containing forward-looking information. Factors that could also cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information and the future oriented financial information are described under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated June 30, 2022, which is available on SEDAR at www.SEDAR.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. The forward-looking information and future oriented financial information contained herein is made as of the date of this news release and, other than as required by law, the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking information and financial oriented financial information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information and future oriented financial information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Source: Volatus Aerospace Corp. TSXV: VOL Contact Details Abhinav Singhvi +1 514-447-7986 abhinav.singhvi@volatusaerospace.com Company Website https://volatusaerospace.com

February 21, 2023 07:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Comcast Plans Major Network Expansion in Texas

Comcast Houston

Comcast announced today it will significantly expand its next-generation network, the Xfinity 10G Network, in a major way across several southeast Texas counties in 2023. The media and technology company said it will invest more than $100 million to install at least one thousand miles of new fiber-rich highways that will reach up to 80,000 homes and businesses by the end of this year. The planned expansions add to Comcast’s ongoing $2.8 billion investment in Texas over the last three years. Network expansion efforts will begin in Kingwood, Pinehurst, Prairie View, Waller, New Caney and Conroe. Construction will continue in other communities that have ongoing network infrastructure builds in the Houston area. Construction has started in Kingwood, which will be the largest expansion of the year; it is expected to be complete by the end of 2023 and will reach nearly 24,000 Kingwood homes and businesses. These locations will have the foundational next-generation network in place to begin deploying DOCSIS 4.0, setting the stage for the introduction of new symmetrical multi-gigabit Internet options. “We will bring our fiber-rich network to twice the number of homes and businesses this year compared to the number we passed last year,” said Ralph Martinez, Senior Regional Vice President of Comcast’s Texas Region. “Southeast Texas’ rural and suburban communities have been growing fast, and we are building out our next-generation Comcast network in tandem with the growth. We will continue to expand to even more rural communities in the next few years.” Once complete, Comcast, the nation’s largest provider of 1.2 Gigabit per second speeds, will give consumers access to reliable and fast Xfinity Internet and Xfinity Mobile service that outperforms its competitors. Comcast engineers have also developed multiple artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies that make the network faster and more reliable while delivering up to 100 Gbps for Comcast Business customers. In addition, Comcast’s next-generation technology provides multiple layers of security that automatically detect and block hundreds of thousands of cyber events every second, and a Smart Network that automates many core network functions and dramatically reduces the number of outages. “Access to reliable internet and telecommunications services is something that we cannot go without in our day-to-day activities,” said Houston Mayor Pro-Tem and Kingwood resident, Dave Martin. “Comcast and their new construction project in Kingwood is a perfect example of a business working to bridge the gap to connect more people to much-needed services while increasing accessibility to much-needed services and their dependability. I appreciate Comcast’s partnership and commitment to District E.” Comcast is also committed to addressing digital equity in communities we serve, through Project UP, the company’s $1 billion dollar commitment to help tens of millions of people connect to the internet and build futures of unlimited possibilities. Last year, Comcast Texas invested more than one million dollars to help local community organizations provide personalized digital skills training, offer workforce development/readiness workshops and other tech education to students, adults, and people with disabilities. The funding also supports ongoing efforts to build awareness about connectivity programs like Internet Essentials and the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which offers eligible households up to $30/month credit, or up to $75 for households on tribal lands, for home Internet. Comcast proudly participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program, and offers Internet Essentials Plus, a $29.95/month home Internet service that is effectively free for eligible households, once the ACP credit is applied. Interested customers can visit Xfinity.com/ACP or call 1-800-Xfinity to learn more about this program and find out if they qualify. For more construction details and updates, visit ComcastTexas.com/Expansion. Powered by the Xfinity 10G Network Comcast’s next-generation network and Internet experience are powering homes today and into the future: · Ultimate Capacity: Xfinity customers connect nearly 1 billion devices across the company’s network annually. The Xfinity 10G Network with the next-generation Xfinity gateways deliver the most advanced WiFi technology carrying three times more bandwidth to power streaming, gaming, videoconferencing, and more, simultaneously. · Fastest Internet: 10 million+ Xfinity Internet customers subscribe to gigabit speed products, and Ookla rated Xfinity the fastest Internet provider at the end of 2022*. Symmetrical gig speeds to the first homes are planned for later this year. · Unprecedented Coverage: The latest Xfinity Gateway provides a more reliable connection throughout the home. Customers can get wall-to-wall WiFi coverage with a powerful xFi Pod that extends coverage to hard-to-reach areas, with plans for an offering of increased support for in-home WiFi through a “boost guarantee” later this year. · Most Reliable Connection: Comcast is scaling the nation’s largest and most reliable network – the Xfinity 10G Network – that passes 60 million homes and business and counting. The company plans to launch a new device that is “storm-ready” with cellular and battery backup to help keep customers connected even when the power goes out. · Ultra-Low Latency: The Xfinity 10G Network and the latest xFi Gateway are a powerful combination that deliver ultra-low latency for those moments when response times matter most like video games, a fast-growing category with Xfinity households averaging more than one gaming console per home. For local businesses, Comcast Business offers a suite of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions to help organizations of different sizes prepare for what’s next. Powered by the nation’s largest Gig-speed broadband network, and backed by 24/7 customer support, Comcast Business is the nation’s largest cable provider to small and mid-size businesses and one of the leading service providers to the Enterprise market. Comcast Business has been consistently recognized by industry analysts and associations as a leader and innovator, and one of the fastest-growing providers of Ethernet services. Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on connectivity, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Ookla’s SpeedtestTM Market Index report shows that Xfinity delivered the fastest median download speeds to its Internet customers in the United States for the final quarter of 2022. Contact Details Comcast Steve Campion +1 832-920-2001 Steve_Campion@Comcast.com Company Website https://houston.comcast.com/

February 20, 2023 10:08 AM Central Standard Time

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CORRECT & REPLACE: Cooper Standard Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2022 Results and Provides Guidance for Improved Full Year 2023 Outlook

Cooper Standard

Cooper-Standard Holdings Inc. (NYSE: CPS) today reported results for the fourth quarter and full year 2022. Fourth Quarter Summary Sales of $649.3 million, an increase of $48.0 million compared to fourth quarter 2021 Net loss of $88.1 million or $(5.12) per fully diluted share, improved by $14.1 million compared to fourth quarter 2021 Adjusted net loss of $31.9 million, or $(1.85) per fully diluted share, improved by $18.4 million compared to fourth quarter 2021 Adjusted EBITDA of $27.6 million increased by $25.6 million as compared to fourth quarter 2021 Year-end cash balance of $187 million; continuing strong total liquidity of $342 million Full Year Summary Sales of $2.53 billion, an increase of $195.2 million compared to 2021 Net loss of $215.4 million or $(12.53) per fully diluted share, improved by $107.5 million compared to 2021 Adjusted net loss of $171.5 million, or $(9.98) per fully diluted share, improved by $50.8 million compared to 2021 Adjusted EBITDA of $37.9 million increased by $45.9 million as compared to 2021 Net new business awards on electric vehicles of $126 million in the fourth quarter and $198 million for the full year 2022; Total net new business awards of $122 million in the fourth quarter and $246 million year for the full year 2022 “We continued to make progress in the fourth quarter and improved our results throughout 2022,” said Jeffrey Edwards, chairman and CEO, Cooper Standard. “Our performance in terms of product quality, new program launches, on-time delivery and safety have never been better, despite the challenging macro environment in our industry. As a result, our customers have remained supportive and have trusted us with significant business awards on new platforms, which bodes well for our outlook in 2023 and beyond.” Consolidated Results The year-over-year increase in fourth quarter sales was primarily attributable to favorable volume and mix, including enhanced commercial agreements, partially offset by unfavorable foreign exchange. The year-over-year improvement in fourth quarter net loss was driven primarily by favorable volume and mix, including enhanced commercial agreements, improved manufacturing efficiency, lower selling, administrative and engineering (SGA&E) expense and lower income tax expense. These positive factors were partially offset by continuing increases in raw material costs, higher wages, general inflation, higher interest expense, asset impairment charges and unfavorable foreign exchange. The year-over-year improvement in fourth quarter adjusted EBITDA was driven primarily by favorable volume and mix, including enhanced commercial agreements, improved manufacturing efficiency, and lower SGA&E expense. These positive factors were partially offset by continuing increases in raw material costs, higher wages, general inflation, and unfavorable foreign exchange. For the full year 2022, sales increased primarily due to improved volume and mix including enhanced commercial agreements, partially offset by unfavorable foreign exchange. The year-over-year improvement in full year net loss was primarily driven by favorable volume and mix, including enhanced commercial agreements, improved manufacturing efficiency, lower SGA&E expense and lower income tax expense. These positive factors were partially offset by continuing increases in raw material costs, higher wages, general inflation, higher interest expense, asset impairment charges and unfavorable foreign exchange. The year-over-year improvement in full year adjusted EBITDA was driven primarily by favorable volume and mix, including enhanced commercial agreements, improved manufacturing efficiency, and lower selling, administrative and engineering (SGA&E) expense. These positive factors were partially offset by continuing increases in raw material costs, higher wages, general inflation, and unfavorable foreign exchange. Adjusted net income (loss), adjusted EBITDA, adjusted earnings (loss) per diluted share and free cash flow are non-GAAP measures. Reconciliations to the most directly comparable financial measures, calculated and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), are provided in the attached supplemental schedules. New Business Awards Electric vehicle trends continue to create opportunity for Cooper Standard. During the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company received net new business awards on electric vehicle platforms representing approximately $126 million in incremental anticipated future annualized sales. Total net new business awards in the quarter were $122 million. For the full year 2022, the Company's net new business awards totaled approximately $246 million, including $198 million in new awards on electric vehicle platforms. The Company believes its world-class engineering and manufacturing capabilities, its innovation programs and its reputation for quality and service are competitive advantages that continue to drive the new business awards. Cash, Liquidity and Debt Refinancing As of December 31, 2022, Cooper Standard had cash and cash equivalents totaling $186.9 million and total liquidity, including availability under its amended senior asset-based revolving credit facility, of $342.1 million. Subsequent to the end of the fourth quarter, the Company successfully concluded refinancing transactions that extended the maturity of the majority of its outstanding long term debt to 2027. The refinancing strengthens the Company’s balance sheet and provides the Company with added financial flexibility to grow and further optimize the business. Based on our current expectations for light vehicle production, customer demand for our products, and enhanced commercial agreements, we expect our current cash balance and access to flexible credit facilities will provide sufficient resources to support ongoing operations and the execution of planned strategic initiatives. Quarterly Segment Results Sales * Net of customer price adjustments including recoveries Volume and mix, net of customer price adjustments including recoveries, was driven by vehicle production volume increases due to the lessening impact of semiconductor-related supply issues. The impact of foreign currency exchange was primarily related to the Chinese Renminbi, Korean Won and Euro. Adjusted EBITDA * Net of customer price adjustments including recoveries **Net of deconsolidation Volume and mix, net of customer price adjustments including recoveries, was driven by vehicle production volume increases due to the lessening impact of semiconductor-related supply issues. The impact of foreign currency exchange was primarily related to the Chinese Renminbi, Korean Won, Euro, Polish Zloty, Czech Koruna, Mexican Peso and Canadian Dollar. The Cost Decreases / (Increases) category above includes: Commodity cost and inflationary economics; Manufacturing efficiencies and purchasing savings through lean initiatives; Increased compensation-related expenses; and Decreased costs related to ongoing salaried headcount initiatives and restructuring savings. Full Year Segment Results Sales * Net of customer price adjustments including recoveries Volume and mix, net of customer price adjustments including recoveries, was driven by vehicle production volume increases due to the lessening impact of semiconductor-related supply issues. The impact of foreign currency exchange was primarily related to the Euro, Chinese Renminbi and Korean Won. Adjusted EBITDA * Net of customer price adjustments including recoveries **Net of deconsolidation Volume and mix, net of customer price adjustments including recoveries, was driven by vehicle production volume increases due to the lessening impact of semiconductor-related supply issues. Foreign currency exchange was impacted by the Chinese Renminbi, Korean Won, Mexican Peso, Canadian Dollar, Euro, Polish Zloty, Czech Koruna and the Brazilian Real. The Cost Decreases / (Increases) category above includes: Commodity cost and inflationary economics; Manufacturing efficiencies and purchasing savings through lean initiatives; Increased compensation-related expenses; and Decreased costs related to ongoing salaried headcount initiatives and restructuring savings. Outlook Based on our outlook for the global automotive industry, macroeconomic conditions, current customer production schedules and our own operating plans, the Company has issued 2023 full year guidance as follows: 1 Guidance is representative of management's estimates and expectations as of the date it is published. Current guidance as presented in this press release considers January 2023 S&P Global (IHS Markit) production forecasts for relevant light vehicle platforms and models, customers' planned production schedules and other internal assumptions. 2 Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. The Company has not provided a reconciliation of projected adjusted EBITDA to projected net income because full-year net income will include special items that have not yet occurred and are difficult to predict with reasonable certainty prior to year-end. Due to this uncertainty, the Company cannot reconcile projected adjusted EBITDA to U.S. GAAP net income without unreasonable effort. Conference Call Details Cooper Standard management will host a conference call and webcast on February 17, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. ET to discuss its fourth quarter 2022 results, provide a general business update and respond to investor questions. Investors and other interested parties may listen to the call by accessing the online, real-time webcast at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/jqkaw9ec. Investors, analysts and other representatives of the investment community who wish to participate by phone in the live conference and have the opportunity to ask questions during Q&A will need to pre-register for the call by visiting https://register.vevent.com/register/BI5e9540006e474e22ab2fd8f8bc2ae7d2. Once registration is completed, participants will be provided with a dial-in number and a personalized conference code to access the call. Participants should dial in at least five minutes prior to the start of the call. A replay of the webcast will be available on the investors’ portion of the Cooper Standard website (http://www.ir.cooperstandard.com) shortly after the live event. About Cooper Standard Cooper Standard, headquartered in Northville, Mich., with locations in 21 countries, is a leading global supplier of sealing and fluid handling systems and components. Utilizing our materials science and manufacturing expertise, we create innovative and sustainable engineered solutions for diverse transportation and industrial markets. Cooper Standard's approximately 22,600 employees are at the heart of our success, continuously improving our business and surrounding communities. Learn more at www.cooperstandard.com or follow us on Twitter @CooperStandard. Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws, and we intend that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbor created thereby. Our use of words “estimate,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “plan,” “intend,” “believe,” “outlook,” “guidance,” “forecast,” or future or conditional verbs, such as “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” or “may,” and variations of such words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are based upon our current expectations and various assumptions. Our expectations, beliefs, and projections are expressed in good faith and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them. However, we cannot assure you that these expectations, beliefs and projections will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or achievements to be materially different from the future results or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Among other items, such factors may include: volatility or decline of the Company’s stock price, or absence of stock price appreciation; impacts, including commodity cost increases and disruptions related to the war in Ukraine and the COVID-related lockdowns in China; our ability to offset the adverse impact of higher commodity and other costs through negotiations with our customers; the impact, and expected continued impact, of the COVID-19 outbreak on our financial condition and results of operations; significant risks to our liquidity presented by the COVID-19 pandemic risk; prolonged or material contractions in automotive sales and production volumes; our inability to realize sales represented by awarded business; escalating pricing pressures; loss of large customers or significant platforms; our ability to successfully compete in the automotive parts industry; availability and increasing volatility in costs of manufactured components and raw materials; disruption in our supply base; competitive threats and commercial risks associated with our diversification strategy through our Advanced Technology Group; possible variability of our working capital requirements; risks associated with our international operations, including changes in laws, regulations, and policies governing the terms of foreign trade such as increased trade restrictions and tariffs; foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; our ability to control the operations of our joint ventures for our sole benefit; our substantial amount of indebtedness and variable rates of interest; our ability to obtain adequate financing sources in the future; operating and financial restrictions imposed on us under our debt instruments; the underfunding of our pension plans; significant changes in discount rates and the actual return on pension assets; effectiveness of continuous improvement programs and other cost savings plans; manufacturing facility closings or consolidation; our ability to execute new program launches; our ability to meet customers’ needs for new and improved products; the possibility that our acquisitions and divestitures may not be successful; product liability, warranty and recall claims brought against us; laws and regulations, including environmental, health and safety laws and regulations; legal and regulatory proceedings, claims or investigations against us; work stoppages or other labor disruptions; the ability of our intellectual property to withstand legal challenges; cyber-attacks, data privacy concerns, other disruptions in, or the inability to implement upgrades to, our information technology systems; the possible volatility of our annual effective tax rate; the possibility of a failure to maintain effective controls and procedures; the possibility of future impairment charges to our goodwill and long-lived assets; our ability to identify, attract, develop and retain a skilled, engaged and diverse workforce; our ability to procure insurance at reasonable rates; and our dependence on our subsidiaries for cash to satisfy our obligations; and other risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in the Company’s periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or otherwise revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except where we are expressly required to do so by law. This press release also contains estimates and other information that is based on industry publications, surveys and forecasts. This information involves a number of assumptions and limitations, and we have not independently verified the accuracy or completeness of the information. CPS_F Financial statements and related notes follow: Non-GAAP Measures EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share and free cash flow are measures not recognized under U.S. GAAP and which exclude certain non-cash and special items that may obscure trends and operating performance not indicative of the Company’s core financial activities. Net new business is a measure not recognized under U.S. GAAP which is a representation of potential incremental future revenue but which may not fully reflect all external impacts to future revenue. Management considers EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share, free cash flow and net new business to be key indicators of the Company’s operating performance and believes that these and similar measures are widely used by investors, securities analysts and other interested parties in evaluating the Company’s performance. In addition, similar measures are utilized in the calculation of the financial covenants and ratios contained in the Company’s financing arrangements and management uses these measures for developing internal budgets and forecasting purposes. EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) adjusted to reflect income tax expense (benefit), interest expense net of interest income, depreciation and amortization, and adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA further adjusted to reflect certain items that management does not consider to be reflective of the Company’s core operating performance. Adjusted net income (loss) is defined as net income (loss) adjusted to reflect certain items that management does not consider to be reflective of the Company’s core operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA margin is defined as adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of sales. Adjusted basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share is defined as adjusted net income (loss) divided by the weighted average number of basic and diluted shares, respectively, outstanding during the period. Free cash flow is defined as net cash provided by operating activities minus capital expenditures and is useful to both management and investors in evaluating the Company’s ability to service and repay its debt. Net new business reflects anticipated sales from formally awarded programs, less lost business, discontinued programs and replacement programs and is based on S&P Global (IHS Markit) forecast production volumes. The calculation of “net new business” does not reflect customer price reductions on existing programs and may be impacted by various assumptions embedded in the respective calculation, including actual vehicle production levels on new programs, foreign exchange rates and the timing of major program launches. When analyzing the Company’s operating performance, investors should use EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share, free cash flow and net new business as supplements to, and not as alternatives for, net income (loss), operating income, or any other performance measure derived in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and not as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities as a measure of the Company’s liquidity. EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share, free cash flow and net new business have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for analysis of the Company’s results of operations as reported under U.S. GAAP. Other companies may report EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share, free cash flow and net new business differently and therefore the Company’s results may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies. In addition, in evaluating adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income (loss), it should be noted that in the future the Company may incur expenses similar to or in excess of the adjustments in the below presentation. This presentation of adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income (loss) should not be construed as an inference that the Company’s future results will be unaffected by special items. Reconciliations of EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted net income (loss) and free cash flow follow. Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA The following table provides reconciliation of EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA from net (loss) income (unaudited): Loss attributable to deconsolidation of a joint venture in the Asia Pacific region, which required adjustment to fair value. Non-cash impairment charges in 2022 related to recent operating performance and idle assets in certain locations in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. Impairment charges in 2021 related to fixed assets and goodwill. During 2021, the Company recorded subsequent adjustments to the net gain on sale of business, which related to the 2020 divestiture of our European rubber fluid transfer and specialty sealing businesses, as well as its Indian operations. In 2022, the Company recognized a gain on a sale-leaseback agreement on one of its European facilities. Lease termination costs no longer recorded as restructuring charges in accordance with ASC 842, Leases. Impact of prior period indirect tax and customs adjustments. Non-cash net pension settlement and curtailment charges and administrative fees incurred related to certain of our U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans. Adjusted Net Loss and Adjusted Loss Per Share The following table provides reconciliation of net (loss) income to adjusted net (loss) income and the respective (loss) earnings per share amounts (unaudited): Loss attributable to deconsolidation of a joint venture in the Asia Pacific region, which required adjustment to fair value. Non-cash impairment charges in 2022 related to recent operating performance and idle assets in certain locations in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. Impairment charges in 2021 related to fixed assets and goodwill. During 2021, the Company recorded subsequent adjustments to the net gain on sale of business, which related to the 2020 divestiture of our European rubber fluid transfer and specialty sealing businesses, as well as its Indian operations. In 2022, the Company recognized a gain on a sale-leaseback agreement on one of its European facilities. Lease termination costs no longer recorded as restructuring charges in accordance with ASC 842, Leases. Impact of prior period indirect tax and customs adjustments. Non-cash net pension settlement and curtailment charges and administrative fees incurred related to certain of our U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans. In 2022, the deferred tax valuation allowance relates to the recognition of our valuation allowance on net deferred tax assets in Poland. In 2021, the deferred tax valuation allowance relates to the initial recognition of our valuation allowance in the U.S. and certain international jurisdictions. Represents the elimination of the income tax impact of the above adjustments, by calculating the income tax impact of these adjusting items using the appropriate tax rate for the jurisdiction where the charges were incurred. Free Cash Flow The following table provides a reconciliation of net cash (used in) provided by operating activities to free cash flow (unaudited): # # # Contact Details Contact for Analysts: Roger Hendriksen +1 248-596-6465 roger.hendriksen@cooperstandard.com Contact for Media: Chris Andrews +1 248-596-6217 candrews@cooperstandard.com Company Website https://www.cooperstandard.com/

February 16, 2023 06:44 PM Eastern Standard Time

Article thumbnail News Release

American Resources Corp's (NASDAQ: AREC) ReElement to Transform Rare Earth and Battery Metals Industry and Help the World Counter China's Dominance

American Resources Corporation

Imagine a world without smartphones, laptops, cars, wind turbines, and even military weapon systems. It may sound like a dystopian future, but the reality is, all of these modern-day necessities rely on a group of minerals known as rare earth metals. These critical minerals are essential not only for high-tech products but also to power a significant portion of the economy. They play a crucial role in the production of electronics and are key to the growth of the electric vehicle market. However, despite their crucial role, our supply of rare earth metals is in short supply and the vast majority of the market is controlled by China. This domination poses a significant risk to our technology-driven economy and highlights the urgent need for alternative sources of these essential minerals. ReElement Technologies, a subsidiary of American Resources Corporation (NASDAQ: AREC), is on a mission to help the rest of the world diversify its rare earth reliance away from China. By leveraging its innovative technology, ReElement can capture, process and purify rare earth metals from end-of-life products like magnets and lithium batteries. Let's further break down ReElement, its technology, and how it is a potential solution to a serious threat to our national security. What are Rare Earth Metals and Understanding China’s Role Rare earth metals are a group of 17 elements that are critical components in high-tech products such as smartphones, wind turbines, electric vehicles, and military equipment. China dominates the global supply of rare earth metals, producing more than 80% of the world's supply. There are a few reasons for China's dominance in rare earth metals: Abundant resources: China has abundant reserves of rare earth elements, which has enabled it to dominate the market for these materials. Refining: China’s low environmental standards has allowed them dominate the separation and purification of rare earth metals without much innovation while polluting the planet. Cost advantage: China's labor costs and production costs are lower than in other countries, which has made it easier for China to produce rare earth metals at a lower cost. Government support: The Chinese government has invested heavily in the rare earth metals industry, providing subsidies and other support to Chinese companies. This dominance of the rare earth metals market by China is dangerous for the United States and the rest of the world because it creates a single point of failure in the supply chain. If China were to cut off the supply of rare earth metals to the rest of the world, it could disrupt the production of high-tech products, cause widespread economic disruption, and present a major threat to U.S. national security. Additionally, China's control of the market gives it significant leverage over other countries, allowing it to manipulate prices and restrict supply as it sees fit. This can lead to increased costs for consumers and can harm industries that rely on these materials. Overall, reducing reliance on China for rare earth metals will require a concerted effort from the United States government, the private sector, and academia to develop domestic production, alternative sources, advanced refining methods and new materials. Reusing & recycling are key factors that could drive alternative sourcing and provide an opportunity to obtain rare earth metals outside of a mining environment. Key Benefits of Recycling & Reusing Rare Earth Metals "Reduce, reuse, and recycle" are important concepts that are consistently promoted by the government to help conserve resources and prevent excess landfill use. While we may initially think of aluminum and paper products when "recycling" comes to mind, it could be critical in maintaining a more efficient ecosystem for rare earths. Recycling and reusing rare earth metals is important for several reasons: Conservation of resources: Rare earth metals are finite resources, and recycling and reusing these materials can help to conserve these resources for future generations. Environmental protection: The mining, refining, and production of rare earth metals can have significant environmental impacts, including deforestation, soil degradation, and water pollution. Recycling and reusing these materials can help to reduce these impacts and promote sustainability. Cost savings: Recycling rare earth metals can be less expensive than mining and refining new materials, which can help to reduce the cost of production for high-tech products. Reduced dependence on imports: A significant portion of the world's rare earth metals are supplied by China, and recycling and reusing these materials can help to reduce dependence on foreign sources, promoting energy security. Waste reduction: Recycling rare earth metals can help to reduce the amount of waste generated by the production and disposal of high-tech products, promoting a circular economy. Recycling and reusing rare earth metals are becoming increasingly important as demand for these materials continues to grow, and as concerns about the environmental impact of mining and the potential for supply disruptions grow. By recycling and reusing these materials, we can help to conserve resources, protect the environment, reduce costs, reduce dependence on imports, and promote a sustainable and circular economy. Overview: American Resources Corp American Resources Corporation is an Indiana-based company that is focused on the mining, processing, transportation, and sale of metallurgical coal used to make steel. The company maintains a portfolio covering operations across Kentucky and West Virginia. The company has three main subsidiaries: ReElement Technologies LLC, American Carbon LLC, and American Metals LLC. ReElement Technologies LLC is a subsidiary that's changing the game in the production of rare earth elements and lithium-based battery metals. And here's the best part – their flexible refining methods are able do it all using 100% recycled materials or newly mined mineral in a much safer and low-cost process. They're leading the way in environmentally-friendly processing and refining technology and are all about creating a circular economy. With their innovative critical metal recovery technology, they're making sure the world has access to the rare earth elements and critical minerals it needs for the next generation of infrastructure, electronics, and national security hardware - all while being cost-effective and sustainable. The American Carbon LLC subsidiary houses American Resources’ metallurgical coal mining extraction and supply business. The company has established a network of five restructured processing and logistic complexes, which help to eliminate the old legacy costs and create a more effective, lower-cost business model. Since its inception, American Carbon and American Resources have restored over 7,000 acres of irrational thermal coal land, which collectively represents over $20 million in liabilities. American Metals LLC is American Resources’ aggregator and processor of used metals for recycling into new steel-based products. The subsidiary operates within the U.S. coal country where there is often an abundance of used metal reserves from former thermal coal mines that have since been shut down. By leveraging its regional logistics and infrastructure, American Metals LLC can expand its presence in the high-growth market of used steel while also cleaning up old infrastructure left behind from the mining industry. Further Breaking Down the ReElement Subsidiary The United States and other countries around the world have a waste problem and rare earths are wrapped right up in the mess. Every year, an estimated $3 billion worth of critical and rare earth metals are thrown away or lost. With demand for these critical metals heating up at a brisk pace, countries need to work on solutions to the waste issue. This is exactly where ReElement comes into play. The subsidiary's technology provides an economical solution to help isolate, purify, and recycle these critical metals. To make matters even more enticing, ReElement's technology is the most environmentally safe method of rare earth metal recycling and refining. ReElement uses an electrolysis process to help extract rare earths and critical metals from feedstock carbon waste, acid mine drainage, and magnets. Low pH water combined with high levels of iron and carbon found in acid mine drainage and carbon slurries that leach rare earth and battery metals enables faster hydrogen production compared to traditional water-based electrolysis. Through this process, ReElement is focused on monetizing carbon production, hydrogen production, graphene slurry, and rare earth and battery metal concentrates. Once the extraction process has been completed, the next step is purification. ReElement uses the most environmentally-safe purification methods for creating isolated and pure rare earth metals. The purification process uses highly specialized chromatography methods, which leads to more pure rare earth metals, rather than just a concentrate. In addition, ReElement’s patented and proprietary processes separates and isolates each element. Their exclusive chromatography technology is a viable solution to recycling both permanent magnets and batteries by bringing those constituent elements back to magnet and battery-grade forms. This is something that the industry struggles with and where ReElement differentiates itself. Additionally, ReElement’s ability to efficiently refine lithium from end-of-life batteries as well as their planned application of chromatography to refine spodumene is unique and demonstrates the value they bring to our domestic supply chain. The current industry standard, solvent extraction, is extremely outdated and toxic to the environment. Solvent extraction relies heavily on using toxic extractants, harsh chemicals, and flammable solvents. This process also takes longer than chromatography and does not produce the same output yield as ReElement's ESG-focused process. In short, ReElement’s chromatography process is not only better for the environment, but also more efficient in extracting and purifying critical metals at a more cost-effective level. ReElement currently can process over 137,500 kilograms of critical battery and rare-earth magnet materials into ultra-high pure minerals and compounds at its Noblesville, Indiana facility. Among the initial rare earth and battery metal products, ReElement will focus on: neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, cobalt, lithium, nickel, manganese, and more. Management says they have identified additional sites to build facilities as scalability and are currently in the design and engineering phase for their next larger scale facility to increase capacity by 100-times. Another key advantage ReElement holds is a robust IP portfolio and partnerships with world-renowned organizations. ReElement's process is covered by 16 patents and was developed in partnership with the likes of Purdue University, Texas Tech University, Ohio University, CMID, and more. ReElement Spin-Off and Strong Insider & Investor Backing American Resources Corp has previously stated its intent to spin off the ReElement Technologies business into a standalone company. The spin-off allows investors to own a pure-play standalone, ESG-focused refiner of critical minerals. This will give ReElement a better posture to realize the opportunity. In addition, it will allow ESG-focused investors to take part in the opportunity without any allocation to metallurgical coal. Under the current guidelines, American Resources Corp will retain a 9% ownership of ReElement post-spin-off, which will be issued as a dividend to shareholders. Existing shareholders will receive half a share of the "spinco" for each common share held of American Resources Corp. American Resources filed a Form 10 with the U.S. SEC in late January 2023, which effectively begins the official process to spin-off ReElement. While it will still take some time for the Form 10 and other regulatory paperwork to be finalized, shareholders should be encouraged by the strong backing of the company by its insiders and even institutional investors. Insiders of American Resources Corp believe in their mission and are putting their money on the line to prove their bullish beliefs. As of February 2023, just under 30% of American Resources Corp is currently owned by insiders. This is an incredibly bullish indicator because it shows management believes in the company enough to risk their own money. While there is no fully-certain outcome, stocks with higher insider ownership tend to be more favorable with investors. On February 6, 2023, American Resources Corp received a major boost of confidence from its largest debt holder, Golden Properties Ltd. The institutional investor owned convertible debt amounting to $9.9 million. Golden Properties, who was an early investor in American Resources Corp, chose to convert its note into stock. This is a major deal because the company's biggest debt holder is now its largest equity holder after converting the $9.9 million note into 9.4 million shares of common stock. This means Golden Properties Ltd. waived its right to $1.2 million in interest payments in exchange for AREC shares and the ReElement dividend post-spin-off. For American Resources, this helps clean up the balance sheet and serves as the latest example of bullish support for the company. Overall, the modern world relies heavily on a group of minerals known as rare earth metals, which are critical components in high-tech products such as smartphones, wind turbines, electric vehicles, and military equipment. China dominates the global supply of these metals, producing over 80% of the world's supply. This creates a single point of failure in the supply chain and gives China significant leverage over other countries. To reduce reliance on China, efforts are needed to develop domestic production, alternative sources, advanced refining methods and new materials. ReElement Technologies, a subsidiary of American Resources Corporation, is focused on capturing, processing, and purifying rare earth metals from end-of-life products like magnets and lithium batteries, to help diversify the world's rare earth reliance away from China. Recycling and reusing rare earth metals is becoming increasingly important due to the growing demand and environmental concerns. By recycling and reusing these materials, we can help conserve resources, protect the environment, reduce costs, reduce dependence on imports, and promote a sustainable and circular economy. With all the exciting developments over at ReElement, its strong insider & institutional investor backing, and solutions to a very serious global issue that cannot continue to be ignored. ReElement's refining capabilities are exactly what the United States and the rest of the world need to diversify their rare earth and battery mineral reliance away from Asia. Disclaimer: Spotlight Growth is compensated, either directly or via a third party, to provide investor relations services for its clients. Spotlight Growth creates exposure for companies through a customized marketing strategy, including design of promotional material, the drafting and editing of press releases and media placement. All information on featured companies is provided by the companies profiled, or is available from public sources. Spotlight Growth and its employees are not a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker Dealer or a member of any association for other research providers in any jurisdiction whatsoever and we are not qualified to give financial advice. The information contained herein is based on external sources that Spotlight Growth believes to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. Spotlight Growth may create reports and content that has been compensated by a company or third-parties, or for purposes of self-marketing. Spotlight Growth was compensated two thousand seven hundred and fifty dollars cash for the creation and dissemination of this content by the company. This material does not represent a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Certain statements contained herein constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may include, without limitation, statements with respect to the Company’s plans and objectives, projections, expectations and intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the Company’s industry, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by management. The above communication, the attachments and external Internet links provided are intended for informational purposes only and are not to be interpreted by the recipient as a solicitation to participate in securities offerings. Investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors and may not be permissible in certain jurisdictions. Spotlight Growth and its affiliates, officers, directors, and employees may have bought or sold or may buy or sell shares in the companies discussed herein, which may be acquired prior, during or after the publication of these marketing materials. Spotlight Growth, its affiliates, officers, directors, and employees may sell the stock of said companies at any time and may profit in the event those shares rise in value. For more information on our disclosures, please visit: https://spotlightgrowth.com/disclosures/ The article “ American Resources Corp's (NASDAQ: AREC) ReElement to Transform Rare Earth and Battery Metals Industry and Help the World Counter China's Dominance ” first appeared on Spotlight Growth. Contact Details American Resources Corp Spotlight Growth info@spotlightgrowth.com Company Website https://www.americanresourcescorp.com

February 16, 2023 07:30 AM Pacific Standard Time

Article thumbnail News Release

IGEN Networks Corp and Prolog Execute LOI for Merger

iGen Networks Corp.

McapMediaWire -- IGEN Networks Corporation (OTC: IGEN ) (CSE: IGN ), a leading innovator of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for the consumer automotive, asset management, and supply-chain industries, today announces the successful completion of a Letter-of-Intent (LOI) for the purchase of 51% of Prolog privately held shares on January 13, 2023. The purchase in the form of IGEN common shares will be approximately $900K to $1.1M USD paid through multiple tranches based on achieving minimum revenue thresholds that will range from $1.8M to $3.5M USD over the first 12 months from closing of the definitive agreement. Revenue contributions from Prolog will be fully recognized (100%) along with 51% of net income by IGEN upon completion of the proposed merger. Neil G. Chan, CEO of IGEN stated, "This proposed merger creates a unique combination of knowledge and technologies for the supply-chain industry globally. Along with our consultancy practice, IGEN will offer comprehensive end-to-end logistic solutions that include facilities and warehouse management, GPS telemetry and inventory tracking, fleet asset management and maintenance through-out the supply-chain of commercial and government organizations." Juan Ignacio Avila, CEO of Prolog stated, "We are excited with the opportunities of this proposed merger with IGEN. Prolog has proven its leadership in providing comprehensive logistics, supply-chain, maintenance, and management solutions to some of the largest and most complex organizations in Mexico, Spain, and Central America. Through IGEN channels in the US, we can now apply our 25 years of technology expertise and experiences to the US markets along with participating in the growth of our businesses together." The Letter-of-Intent (LOI) is a non-binding agreement and will establish the basic terms for the definitive agreement between IGEN Networks Corp and Prolog. This transaction will be arm's length as additional terms may be added, and existing terms may be changed or deleted. Definitive terms will include a PCAOB qualified financial audit. About IGEN Networks Corporation IGEN Networks Corporation creates software services for the consumer automotive and commercial asset management industries enabling their customers to better manage their assets and protect their drivers. IGEN is a fully reporting company in both Canada and the United States. It is publicly traded on the OTC Markets under the symbol IGEN, and listed on the CSE under the symbol IGN. For more information, please visit: www.igennetworks.net About Prolog Prolog is a technology development and logistics consulting company with over 25 years of experience in the development of supply-chain, logistics, telematics, and asset management solutions. Prolog operates in Mexico, Spain, and Central America with more than 1200 clients, 80 distribution centers, and 250,000 vehicles utilizing its asset management platforms. For more information, please visit: www.prolog.com.mx Forward-Looking Statements This news release may contain forward-looking statements or forward-looking information within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Canadian securities law. The terms and phrases "goal", "commitment", "guidance", "expects", "would", "will", "continuing", "drive", "believes", "indicate", "look forward", "grow", "outlook", "forecasts", "intend", and similar terms and phrases are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by IGEN in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that IGEN believes are appropriate in the circumstances, including but not limited to statements regarding investment liquidity, financing options and long term goals of the Company, general economic conditions, IGEN's expectations regarding its business, customer base, strategy and prospects, and IGEN's confidence in the cash flow generation of its business. Many factors could cause IGEN's actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to competition; IGEN's reliance on key personnel; IGEN's ability to maintain and enhance its brand; and difficulties in forecasting IGEN's financial results, particularly over longer periods given the rapid technological changes, competition and short product life cycles that characterize the mobile application industry. These risk factors and others relating to IGEN that may cause actual results to differ are set forth in the under the heading "Risk Factors" in IGEN's periodic filings with the British Columbia Securities Commission and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (copies of which filings may be obtained at www.sedar.com or www.sec.gov. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on IGEN's forward-looking statements. IGEN has no intention and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Contact: IGEN Networks Corporation Neil G. Chan info@igennetworks.net 1(855)912-5378 Contact Details IGEN Networks Corporation info@igennetworks.net Company Website https://www.igennetworks.net/

February 16, 2023 09:53 AM Eastern Standard Time

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