News Hub | News Direct

All Industries


Article thumbnail News Release

Teads Global Report Reveals New Auto Buying Landscape

Teads

Teads, the global media platform, today announced the findings of its latest global report, "Shifting Gears: Understanding the New Dynamics of Auto Buying Worldwide." Based on research conducted across 17 markets, these latest findings shed light on the key motivations, considerations, and emerging trends for auto buyers around the world. Here's what the data reveals: Brand Loyalty Wanes, Openness Soars: Consumer loyalty is taking a backseat, with a staggering 82% of respondents globally, open to switching brands. While this presents a critical opportunity for automakers to capture attention and build trust in a shorter timeframe, it also means that traditional marketing strategies may need a refresh to stand out in this new, competitive environment. Faster Decisions Demand Proactive Outreach: With a significant portion (42%) devoting two weeks or less to researching brands and models, consumer research timelines are shortening. To succeed in this environment, reaching consumers early and maintaining consistent engagement throughout their research journey is critical. The Green Wave: EVs and Hybrids Surge in Popularity: Sustainability is now a key buying factor, with 42% of consumers solely considering hybrid or electric. However, this trend varies regionally, with Mexico, Brazil, and the US still showing a stronger reliance on gas engines, Italy and Spain moving away from gas engines, but primarily focusing on Hybrid options, and France & Singapore showing the fastest adoption of both EVs and Hybrids. Russell Wager, VP of Marketing at Kia America, comments on this shift: 'Consumers are trying to understand what sustainability means for them and how much they should care. And I think that's actually on the OEMs to educate them, and we're taking that mission on as part of our global strategy. We have a combination of some new electric vehicles. We just revealed the K4, which is one of our newest gas-engine vehicles. We're giving choices to customers.' His insights underscore the evolving market dynamics and Kia's strategic response to meet diverse consumer preferences. Jen Brace, Chief Futurist, Ford, regarding electric vehicles, "It's clear that consumer curiosity and interest are high. However, potential buyers are seeking reassurance from trusted sources—friends, family, and acquaintances who already own EVs. They rely on these personal connections to provide them with the confidence they need to make the transition. Additionally, there is a strong desire to alleviate concerns about charging, which remains a significant barrier to adoption." Digital Dominates the Car Buying Journey: Consumers are overwhelmingly turning to the internet for car research. A whopping 43% say online resources are now more important than ever, and half of all car buyers begin their research into different brands and models online. This digital showroom shift demands automakers prioritize a user-friendly and informative online presence. Trusted Sources and the Power of Online Ads While online resources are crucial, car buyers still value trusted sources like manufacturer websites. However, the power of online ads cannot be underestimated. They inspire 81% of consumers to take action, particularly younger demographics, and EV considerers. What encourages users even more to consider a brand is to see it advertised across multiple screens (56%), highlighting the effectiveness of omnichannel marketing campaigns that combine online and TV advertising for a broader reach. The Always-On Branding Imperative Given the shortened decision-making timeframe, maintaining an always-on presence is crucial for automotive marketers. Brands must continuously engage potential buyers prior to and throughout their research journey, influencing them as the relevant set of options shrinks. Marisstella Marinkovic, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Nissan U.S. notes that a flexible ability to reach consumers wherever they are is imperative. She says, “It's really about understanding the behavior of customers. Some customers are online consuming different types of media, so we really have to be mindful of the different target audiences, how best to connect with the, and where they are." Henner Blömer VP of Global Client Partnerships, said: "In the face of seismic shifts within the auto marketing industry, proactivity is a winning strategy. By understanding the new dynamics of modern car buyers – driven by changing consumer behavior and a growing focus on sustainability – automakers and dealerships can optimize their strategies to cater to their evolving needs and preferences.” To explore these and other trends in the automotive buying journey, please download our report. About Teads Teads operates a leading, cloud-based, omnichannel platform that enables programmatic digital advertising across a global ecosystem of quality digital media. As an end-to-end solution, Teads’ modular platform allows partners to leverage buy-side, sell-side, creative, data and AI optimization technologies. For advertisers and their agencies, Teads offers a single access point to buy the inventory of many of the world’s best publishers and content providers. Through exclusive global media partnerships, Teads enables advertisers and agencies to reach billions of unique monthly users in brand safe, responsible advertising environments while improving the effectiveness and efficiency of digital ad transactions. Teads partners with the leading marketers, agencies and publishers through a team of 1,200+ people in 50 offices across more than 30 countries. Contact Details Kite Hill PR for Teads Alexandra Morrison +1 214-604-9658 teads@kitehillpr.com Company Website https://www.teads.com/

May 13, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

NetScientific CEO hails deal with Martlet Capital as an important milestone

NetScientific PLC

NetScientific PLC (AIM:NSCI) CEO Dr Ilian Iliev takes Proactive's Stephen Gunnion through a transaction that will see NetScientific company EMV Capital become the investment advisor to Martlet Capital's portfolio of 53 investments while acquiring its operational venture capital business. Iliev said the transaction is part of NetScientific's strategic goal to become a leading deep tech and life sciences venture capital investor in the UK and Europe, employing a differentiated investment strategy characterised by proactive value creation and capital-light approaches. The deal notably expands NetScientific's assets under management by nearly doubling them with the addition of a £23 million portfolio from Marlet Capital and includes the acquisition of Martlet Capital’s operational team, forming a new entity under NetScientific. Iliev emphasised the alignment in ethos between NetScientific and Martlet Capital, rooted in long-term relationships and mutual commitment to the sectors. He also highlighted upcoming initiatives, including the launch of new funds aimed at investing in early-stage companies and growth opportunities within the UK, specifically in the Cambridge cluster. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

May 13, 2024 10:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Pan African Resources expects to meet upper production guidance; progress on Mintails project

Pan African Resources PLC

Pan African Resources PLC (AIM:PAF, OTCQX:PAFRY, JSE:PAN, OTCQX:PAFRF) CEO Cobus Loots tells Proactive's Stephen Gunnion the company is expected to meet the upper end of its production guidance for the year ending in June. This outcome could have been surpassed if not for a reduction in marginal surface throughput at its Evander operation, a decision driven by economic factors related to third-party tolling material. Additionally, progress continues on the construction of the Mintails tailings project, set to be commissioned later this year, with steady-state production anticipated by December. Loots also touched on developments at the Soweto cluster, part of the company's longer-term strategy at MTR. This cluster, along with the Mogale cluster, is expected to significantly extend the life and production capabilities of the mine. Initial estimates project a life span of over 20 years for the mine, with production cost-effectively under $1,000 per ounce, enhancing profitability, especially in the current favourable gold price environment. Loots also noted that while the company is focusing on completing the Mintails project, the final investment decision for the Soweto cluster will not be rushed, with further studies and permitting still pending. Overall, operations across the company’s portfolio are progressing well and in line with guidance. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

May 13, 2024 10:52 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Foresight Solar Fund eyes growth and Spanish expansion amid market challenges

Foresight Solar Fund Ltd

Foresight Solar Fund Ltd (LSE:FSFL) fund manager Ross Driver joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion ahead of a capital markets days with an overview of the company's strategy and performance. Driver outlined the company's initiatives, such as reducing debt, executing a share buyback programme, and investing in developmental stage assets to stimulate future growth. Despite a challenging 2023, the company reported a record year for cash generation, benefiting from high price fixes. Additionally, it utilised significant cash reserves to further the buyback, utilising £30 million of the allocated £40 million. Driver highlighted the challenges and opportunities within the UK and Spanish energy markets. In the UK, the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) market has faced issues like reduced wholesale revenues and project overlooks by system operators, necessitating adjustments. Conversely, Spain offers a nascent market, promising due to its high solar penetration and favourable conditions for battery storage. Driver said Foresight Solar Fund aims to leverage early mover advantages in Spain, developing projects that fit well into the existing grid and anticipating double-digit returns from these initiatives. Overall, Foresight Solar Fund is focusing on maintaining strong yield and net asset value (NAV) preservation while looking for growth opportunities through development, targeting a 1-2% NAV increase over time. Contact Details Proactive Investors +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

May 13, 2024 10:49 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Lisata Therapeutics gets 2024 off to a strong start as it prepares for crucial ASCEND trial results

Lisata Therapeutics Inc

Lisata Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:LSTA) CEO David Mazzo tells Proactive's Stephen Gunnion that 2024 is a pivotal year for the oncology company, with Phase 2b ASCEND trial top-line data expected in the fourth quarter. Discussing the company's first-quarter milestones, Mazzo said the results are anticipated to be foundational for the company's future, potentially leading to provisional approval applications in Australia and subsequent discussions with the FDA and EMA. Mazzo highlighted Lisata's effective cash management, with over $43 million in funds ensuring operations into 2026. The company has achieved several regulatory milestones, including orphan designations for pancreatic cancer and glioma in the EU and US, and a rare pediatric disease designation for osteosarcoma in the US. Additionally, Mazzo discussed the rapid progress of the BOLSTER trial in cholangiocarcinoma, expected to provide early data points in 2025. The company plans to expand its trials and anticipates potential partnership announcements by year-end, driven by these developments. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

May 13, 2024 10:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

HANetf's Hector McNeil discusses shifting investment focus beyond 'Magnificent Seven'

HANetf Holdings Limited

HANetf co-founder and co-CEO Hector McNeil suggests a strategic shift in investment from dominant tech stocks to broader tech themes. In an interview with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion, McNeil advocated diversifying away from the 'Magnificent Seven,' big tech firms, due to their high PE ratios and concentration risks. He highlights the potential of broader tech investments, particularly through ETFs that offer diversified exposure across various tech sub-sectors, including robotics, cybersecurity, and digital entertainment. McNeil emphasised the benefits of equal-weighted ETFs, such as the HAN-GINS Tech Megatrend Equal Weighted UCITS ETF (ITEK) which ensures no single stock dominates the index, providing a balanced investment approach. Additionally, he explored opportunities outside the traditional tech sector, particularly in emerging markets. McNeil underscored the growth potential in the e-commerce sector within these markets, driven by high growth rates and an absence of state-owned enterprises. He pointed out specific ETFs like the EMQQ Emerging Markets Internet & Ecommerce UCITS ETF (EMQQ), which focuses on major market e-commerce, and discussed the significant gains of companies like Pinduoduo and Tencent. McNeil also mentioned the Future Defense UCITS ETF (NATO), which has gained traction by capitalising on the rising importance of cybersecurity in global defence strategies. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

May 13, 2024 10:43 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Ilika CEO discusses £3.4 million capital raise to fund development of Goliath solid-state batteries

Ilika PLC

Ilika PLC CEO Graeme Purdy joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with details of a share placing and open offer to retail investors aimed at raising up to £3.4 million. Purdy explained the capital injection is targeted at furthering the development of its Goliath technology. The company recently entered into a 12-month collaboration with Tata Group subsidiary Agratas to evaluate Goliath technology, during which Ilika intends to achieve its remaining milestones. Additionally, Ilika plans to use the funds to upgrade its dry room facilities to handle moisture-sensitive materials more effectively. This involves lowering the dew points to reduce environmental humidity, crucial for its leading-edge battery development. The capital will also help in enhancing its testing facilities to accommodate larger battery sizes, which are necessary to meet increased power requirements and customer expectations. Purdy highlighted key achievements including reaching the D4 development point and approaching the D8 milestone, which is set for Q1 2025. The advancements aim at achieving lithium-ion energy density parity and improving battery performance. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

May 13, 2024 10:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Light Science Technologies secures first distribution agreement with South Africa's AgriLogiq

Light Science Technologies Holdings PLC

Light Science Technologies Holdings PLC (AIM:LST) Simon Deacon joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with details of its first distribution agreement for its nurturGROW lights with AgriLogiq Technical Systems. The partnership aims to enhance the South African agricultural sector by leveraging controlled environment agriculture technology, addressing challenges like extreme weather and pests. Deacon highlighted the increasing difficulty of traditional farming in South Africa and how technology can improve yield in indoor environments. nurturGROW is a line of lighting solutions designed for various crops, offering enhanced yields and returns. The agreement with AgriLogiq is set for five years, with potential extensions and opportunities for collaboration in other markets. Deacon outlined the company’s strategy to expand its distribution network, focusing initially on significant growth areas in South Africa, where the market is valued at $3.7 billion. Plans for further expansion include New Zealand, Australia, the Middle East, and the Americas, with the controlled environment agriculture market in these regions representing a significant opportunity, evidenced by a quoted pipeline of over $50 million. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

May 13, 2024 10:38 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Atlantic Lithium discusses key project developments and Ghana Stock Exchange listing

Atlantic Lithium Limited

Atlantic Lithium Ltd (AIM:ALL, OTCQX:ALLIF, ASX:A11) Executive Chairman Neil Herbert and General Manager for Exploration Iwan Williams discuss several key updates in an interview with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion. Herbert shared his thoughts on Ganfeng Lithium's plan to take full control of the Goulamina Project in Mali, highlighting that it leaves Atlantic Lithium's Ewoyaa property in Ghana as one of the few remaining independent lithium projects in Africa slated for production. He noted the Ewoyaa project's low capital and operational expenses, deeming it significant for the lithium industry amid growing demand for electric vehicles and battery production, particularly in China. Williams, recently appointed to the post, elaborated on his extensive background in mineral exploration across Africa and beyond, bringing over 30 years of experience to his role at Atlantic Lithium. He detailed recent exploration activities, including drilling at the Dog-Leg target at Ewoyaa, aimed at expanding the mineral resource. Future plans include further drilling to explore depth extensions of pegmatite formations, indicating optimism for significant resource growth. Additionally, Herbert discussed the upcoming listing of Atlantic Lithium on the Ghana Stock Exchange, emphasising it as a milestone for local investment and a commitment made to the Ghanaian government. He also outlined ongoing offtake discussions and regulatory progress expected to significantly impact the company's funding and project development timeline. Contact Details Editorial +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com Company Website https://www.proactiveinvestors.co.uk

May 13, 2024 10:35 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
1 ... 183184185186187 ... 3736