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Europa Oil & Gas chief executive highlights entry to Equatorial Guinea in half-year results

Europa Oil & Gas (Holdings) PLC

Europa Oil & Gas (Holdings) PLC (AIM:EOG) chief executive William Holland takes Proactive's Stephen Gunnion through the company's first-half performance, highlighting its entry into Equatorial Guinea, marking its expansion into new territory with the strategic acquisition of a 42.9% interest in Antler Global, giving it a substantial stake in the EG-08 gas asset. Holland said the venture is considered a groundbreaking, drill-ready joint venture, with the potential for high success in gas exploration due to favourable geological findings similar to nearby successful fields. Further, Holland detailed the progress in assessing additional prospectivity of deeper horizons in Equatorial Guinea, with future announcements planned as the company seeks a partner for exploration drilling. Europa Oil & Gas also secured a two-year licence extension in offshore Ireland. The positive development followed extensive seismic reprocessing efforts that enhanced imaging and reduced risks associated with the project, particularly around the Inishkea West prospect. On UK operations, Holland touched on the ongoing monetization efforts for the Serenity oil discovery in the North Sea and discussed operational challenges and developments at the onshore UK sites, including the Wressle's recent downtime and upcoming drilling plans. Lastly, Holland noted the recent appointment of two new directors, enhancing the board's strategic and scientific expertise, reiterating the company's strong governance structure. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 18, 2024 08:42 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Hydrogen Utopia CEO discusses advances in cannabis operation and future hydrogen projects

Hydrogen Utopia International PLC

Hydrogen Utopia International PLC (LSE:HUI, OTCQB:HUIPF) CEO Aleksandra Binkowska joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion to discuss progress at the company’s cannabis operation in Macedonia, highlighting two successful harvests and ongoing developments. Binkowska noted the company has a 49% option in Ohrid Organics, highlighting its impressive facilities and high-tech enhancements, including an advanced drying system that significantly improves product quality. Binkowska emphasized the importance of the location’s natural benefits and technological enhancements for achieving high-quality outputs. Currently, Hydrogen Utopia is awaiting laboratory results to officially confirm the product quality, which is necessary for obtaining the requisite governmental paperwork for product sales. She mentioned preparations for EU GMP certification audits, which will facilitate entry into the European market at higher certification levels, potentially allowing for a higher product price point. Furthermore, Binkowska outlined the financial success of Ohrid Organics, projecting earnings that would fund Hydrogen Utopia’s first waste plastics hydrogen facility. The profits from Ohrid could potentially finance this without additional capital raising, underscoring the strategic advantage of the investment. She also highlighted the supportive role of the Macedonian government in facilitating the company's initiatives in both the cannabis and hydrogen sectors. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 18, 2024 08:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Iofina reveals strong start to 2024 with increased iodine production

Iofina PLC

Iofina PLC (AIM:IOF, OTC:IOFNF) CEO Dr Tom Becker takes Proactive's Stephen Gunnion through the company's first-quarter operating performance, which included a 15.5% year-over-year increase in production to 123.7 metric tonnes of crystalline iodine. This growth is attributed largely to the addition of the IO#9 plant, which commenced operations in the latter half of the previous year. Iofina operates six plants that extract iodine from brine water co-produced with oil and gas, with expectations to produce between 275 and 295 metric tonnes of iodine in the first half of the year. Becker said the company has maintained strong demand for its iodine products, holding steady prices in Huntsville through the first and entering the second quarter. He noted the company is supplying both existing and new customers, including breaking into new markets, particularly in Europe. Notably, sales of biocide derivatives used in paints and coatings have been successful. Looking ahead, Becker said Iofina is on track with the construction of IO#10, slated for the third quarter, which will further boost production. The company is also exploring potential sites for IO#11 and other future iodine extraction plants across the United States. Moreover, Iofina has renegotiated a brine supply contract, ensuring stable supply at market rates, which is expected to impact profits slightly this year but is seen as beneficial for long-term growth. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 18, 2024 08:38 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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accesso CEO unveils massive 2023 wins and plans for more growth

Accesso Technology Group PLC

Accesso Technology Group PLC (AIM:ACSO, OTC:LOQPF) chief executive Steve Brown discussed the company's strong 2023 performance with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion. The year was marked by significant achievements including surpassing profitability targets and attaining nearly $150 million in revenue. Key developments included three strategic acquisitions aimed at expanding the company’s global footprint. These acquisitions introduced new opportunities with companies like VGS in Milan and Paradocs in Canada, enhancing Accesso's market presence. In 2023, accesso secured 28 new venues and expanded its services to 273 additional venues through these acquisitions, which also incorporated 50 ski resorts in Canada, making it the largest provider of ski technology in North America. The company's growth drivers included increased sales penetration and transaction counts across existing venues. Looking ahead, Brown highlighted accesso's focus on improving profit margins by enhancing revenue efficiency and scrutinising low-margin revenue streams. Furthermore, the company has recently made a significant entry into the Saudi Arabian market through a partnership, building on the acquisition of VGS, which has been rebranded as Accesso Horizon. Brown also discussed the launch of 'Freedom', a new platform for restaurant and retail operations, which has already seen considerable uptake. For 2024, Brown mentioned the possibility of more acquisitions, supported by a strong balance sheet and cash position. The company forecasts revenues of around $160 million with a cash EBITDA margin of 17%, anticipating another robust year. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 18, 2024 08:35 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Learning Technologies reports steady performance amid economic challenges

Learning Technologies Group PLC

Learning Technologies Group PLC chief executive Jonathan Satchell takes Proactive's Stephen Gunnion through the company's 2023 financial results, which reveal a slight revenue decline but rising profitability. Despite the economic challenges, the company maintained strong cash flow and increased its dividend by 5% to 1.2 pence. Satchell highlighted the resilience of the company's long-term and SaaS contracts, which helped sustain performance amidst reduced corporate spending on employee development. Operational achievements included retaining all client contracts above $10 million. The company saw some revenue declines due to reduced discretionary spending but reported growth in US government contracts and expansions in Latin America and the Middle East. Another highlight was GP Strategies, which has more than doubled profits since it was acquired in 2021, benefiting from a commercial transformation program that improved margins without impacting customer service. Satchell also noted the sale of Lorien Engineering, aligning with the company's focus on learning and talent development. This strategy, alongside prudent financial management, positioned the company well in the tough economic climate. For 2024, the company anticipates revenues similar to 2023, with continued emphasis on acquisitions and leveraging AI in learning tools to enhance operational efficiency and data insights. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 18, 2024 08:31 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Gold Prices Soar to Record High on Solid Central Bank Demand

MarketJar

Gold prices just hit another all-time high this week, rising above $2,350 per ounce, driven by ongoing central bank gold buying and safe-haven inflows due to geopolitical tensions. 1 In March, China’s central bank added another 160,000 troy ounces to its reserves, marking its seventeenth consecutive month. As the Chinese yuan experiences a decline in its status as the world's second most significant reserve currency, and countries such as Japan, Russia, Turkey, and Poland express concerns about overdependence on the US dollar, a notable shift towards gold has emerged. Looking ahead, analysts remain optimistic about gold's outlook, with some predicting prices could climb even higher. According to famed economist David Rosenberg, the latest gold run is "especially impressive," not just because it beat bitcoin and every major currency, but because it also overcame typical macro headwinds that would typically depress its value like dollar strength, dropping inflation expectations and higher for longer interest rates. 2 For these reasons, Rosenberg sees gold prices reaching $3,000 per ounce, implying a potential 30% upside from current levels. Despite gold prices rising more than 25% since October 2023, gold stocks remain undervalued when compared to their technicals and fundamentals. 3 Fortunately, gold mining stocks are starting to build steam as investors take notice of the overlooked yet high-potential sector. One company that is gaining attention in the market is West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. (TSXV:WRLG) (OTCQB:WRLGF), a company targeting near-term production at its high-grade gold project in Ontario's Red Lake District, which hosts some of the world's richest gold deposits and has produced 30 million ounces of gold to date. 4 Building High-Grade Resources in One of the Richest Gold Districts in Canada West Red Lake Gold Mines is focused on advancing its flagship Madsen Mine, which is fully permitted and contains a high-grade resource of 1.65 million ounces of gold at 7.4 grams per ton (g/t) in 6.9 million tonnes (Indicated) and 366,000 ounces at 6.3 g/t gold (Inferred). 5 The company also owns the Rowan Property in Red Lake, which covers 31 km 2 and includes three past-producing gold mines: Rowan, Mount Jamie, and Red Summit. West Red Lake Gold Mines, formed in late 2022, has already been recognized as a 2024 Top 50 Company in Mining by the TSX Venture Exchange. The company aims to restart gold production at its Madsen Gold Mine in Red Lake by 2025, which historically produced 2.5 million ounces, and has an existing high-grade indicated resource of 1.65 million ounces at 7.4 g/t. On April 17, West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. (TSXV:WRLG) (OTCQB:WRLGF) reported noteworthy drill results from the high-grade South Austin Zone at Madsen, which currently boasts an Indicated mineral resource of 474,600 ounces grading 8.7 g/t gold, with an additional Inferred resource of 31,800 ounces grading 8.7 g/t gold. Highlights from the results include 1.1m at 68.36 g/t gold including 0.5m @ 145.44 g/t Au and 3.95m at 13.83 g/t Au including 0.5m @ 105.72 g/t Au. These latest results add to West Red Lake Gold ’s efforts to accumulate a runway of high-grade and high-confidence ounces, which will be crucial during the initial stages of mine production. “We are very pleased with the results that have been coming out from the South Austin definition program,” said West Red Lake Gold ’s president and CEO Shane Williams. “The team has been intercepting zones of mineralization where expected, which is helping to increase our confidence in the higher priority areas of the resource model and validates our interpretation of the geology. Now that we have added a second underground drill at North Austin, we expect to be generating a steady stream of positive news flow from North and South Austin over the coming months.” These aren’t the first high grade results from the project. Last month, West Red Lake Gold Mines intersected 25.12 grams per tonne over 5.5 meters, 39.46 grams per tonne over 2 meters, and 18.60 grams per tonne over 4 meters. Since underground drilling resumed at the beginning of 2024, West Red Lake Gold has completed 3,671m of expansion drilling and 2,916m of definition drilling. In total, 65 diamond drill holes for 6,587m have been completed so far in 2024 at the Madsen Mine. The company also recently announced successfully closing an upsized private placement for US$27.1 million. Visit this website or explore their corporate presentation to learn more about West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. (TSXV:WRLG) (OTCQB:WRLGF). Footnotes: [1] https://www.mining.com/gold-price-touches-2350-on-firm-central-bank-demand/ [2] https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/commodities/gold-price-forecast-outlook-spot-fed-interest-rate-cut-rosenberg-2024-4 [3] https://www.mining.com/web/gold-stock-upside-targets-2/ [4] https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/stocks/WRLG-X/pressreleases/22442097/west-red-lake-gold-announces-sprotts-investment-of-us2631463/ [5] https://westredlakegold.com/madsen-mine/ Disclaimer: 1) The author of the Article, or members of the author’s immediate household or family, do not own any securities of the companies set forth in this Article. The author determined which companies would be included in this article based on research and understanding of the sector. 2) The Article was issued on behalf of and sponsored by, West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.. Market Jar Media Inc. was paid $1,500 for the production and publishing of this article by West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s Digital Marketing Agency of Record (Native Ads Inc.). Additional details relating to Market Jar Media Inc.’s engagement by West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s Digital Marketing Agency of Record (Native Ads Inc.) are set out in https://pressreach.com/disclaimer-wrlg. 3) Statements and opinions expressed are the opinions of the author and not Market Jar Media Inc., its directors or officers. The author is wholly responsible for the validity of the statements. The author was not paid by Market Jar Media Inc. for this Article. Market Jar Media Inc. was not paid by the author to publish or syndicate this Article. Market Jar has not independently verified or otherwise investigated all such information. None of Market Jar or any of their respective affiliates, guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Market Jar Media Inc. requires contributing authors to disclose any shareholdings in, or economic relationships with, companies that they write about. Market Jar Media Inc. relies upon the authors to accurately provide this information and Market Jar Media Inc. has no means of verifying its accuracy. 4) The Article does not constitute investment advice. All investments carry risk and each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional. Any action a reader takes as a result of the information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Market Jar Media Inc.'s terms of use and full legal disclaimer as set forth here. This Article is not a solicitation for investment. Market Jar Media Inc. does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on pressreach.com should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Market Jar Media Inc. does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on pressreach.com. 5) Market Jar Media Inc. and its respective directors, officers and employees hold no shares for any company mentioned in the Article. 6) This document contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, (collectively, “forward-looking statements”), which reflect management's expectations regarding West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s future growth, future business plans and opportunities, expected activities, and other statements about future events, results or performance. Wherever possible, words such as “predicts”, “projects”, “targets”, “plans”, “expects”, “does not expect”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “anticipate” or “does not anticipate”, “believe”, “intend” and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative or grammatical variation thereof or other variations thereof, or comparable terminology have been used to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to: (a) revenue generating potential with respect to West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s industry; (b) market opportunity; (c) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s business plans and strategies; (d) services that West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. intends to offer; (e) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s milestone projections and targets; (f) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s expectations regarding receipt of approval for regulatory applications; (g) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s intentions to expand into other jurisdictions including the timeline expectations relating to those expansion plans; and (h) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s expectations with regarding its ability to deliver shareholder value. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management in light of management’s experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, as of the date of this document including, without limitation, assumptions about: (a) the ability to raise any necessary additional capital on reasonable terms to execute West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s business plan; (b) that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; (c) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s ability to procure equipment and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; (d) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s ability to enter into contractual arrangements with additional parties; (e) the accuracy of budgeted costs and expenditures; (f) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; (g) political and regulatory stability; (h) the receipt of governmental, regulatory and third-party approvals, licenses and permits on favorable terms; (i) changes in applicable legislation; (j) stability in financial and capital markets; and (k) expectations regarding the level of disruption to as a result of CV-19. Such forward-looking information involves a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements of West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. to be materially different from any future plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, without limitation: (a) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s operations could be adversely affected by possible future government legislation, policies and controls or by changes in applicable laws and regulations; (b) public health crises such as CV-19 may adversely impact West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s business; (c) the volatility of global capital markets; (d) political instability and changes to the regulations governing West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.’s business operations (e) West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. may be unable to implement its growth strategy; and (f) increased competition.Except as required by law, West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future event or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Neither does West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. nor any of its representatives make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, sufficiency or completeness of the information in this document. Neither West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. nor any of its representatives shall have any liability whatsoever, under contract, tort, trust or otherwise, to you or any person resulting from the use of the information in this document by you or any of your representatives or for omissions from the information in this document. 7) Any graphs, tables or other information demonstrating the historical performance or current or historical attributes of West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. or any other entity contained in this document are intended only to illustrate historical performance or current or historical attributes of West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. or such entities and are not necessarily indicative of future performance of West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. or such entities. 8) Investing is risky. The information provided in this article should not be considered as a substitute for professional financial consultation. Users should be aware that investing in any form carries inherent risks, and as such, there is a possibility of losing some or all of their investment. The value of investments can fluctuate significantly within a short period, and investors must understand that past performance is not indicative of future results. Additionally, users should exercise caution as transactions involving investments may be irreversible, even in cases of fraud or accidental actions. It is crucial to acknowledge that rapidly evolving laws and technical issues can have adverse effects on the usability, transferability, exchangeability, and value of investments. Furthermore, users must be cognizant of potential security risks associated with their investment activities. Individuals are strongly encouraged to conduct thorough research, seek professional advice, and carefully evaluate their risk tolerance before engaging in any investment endeavors. Market Jar Media Inc. is neither an investment adviser nor a broker-dealer. The information presented on the website is provided for informative purposes only and is not to be treated as a recommendation to make any specific investment. No such information on PressReach.com constitutes advice or a recommendation. Contact Details James Young +1 800-340-9767 campaigns@pressreach.com Company Website https://pressreach.com

April 18, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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From Providing Cutting-Edge AI Traffic Management Tech To Helping Manage It – Iteris Could Be Key Ally For Government Agencies Revolutionizing America’s Roadways

Benzinga

By Austin DeNoce, Benzinga Urban mobility and the network of traffic management solutions underpinning it, face several challenges, ranging from traffic signal inefficiencies to safety risks. Put simply, the current roadway system is largely outdated. Amid this landscape, the infrastructure management company Iteris Inc. (NASDAQ: ITI) is bringing the American transportation system into the modern age through smarter, safer and more sustainable urban mobility solutions. The company’s suite of technologies and domain expertise are helping enhance traffic flow, increase road safety and minimize carbon emissions. One of the most exciting ways Iteris is accomplishing this is through its expertise in signal performance. The Advantages Of Improving Signal Performance Optimizing traffic signal performance yields substantial benefits across multiple areas of urban mobility. By honing signal timing and coordination, Iteris says it can help significantly mitigate traffic congestion to enhance the overall flow of traffic. This would directly contribute to heightened road safety because well-optimized signals can reduce the frequency and severity of intersection-related accidents. Smoother traffic flow also translates into less stop-and-go driving, which in turn lowers vehicle emissions. Such advancements are significant in the push toward sustainable urban environments, where air quality and carbon footprint are a growing concern. Overall, Iteris' initiatives in signal performance optimization embody a holistic approach to addressing speed and safety challenges related to urban traffic, while also leading to major reductions in emissions. ClearGuide And Signal Trends The recent introduction of Iteris’ ClearGuide Signal Trends marked a pivotal advancement in traffic light management technology. Utilizing data from cloud-connected vehicles, Signal Trends identifies issues at traffic signals without the need for additional hardware, streamlining the process for traffic managers to locate and address malfunctions swiftly. This innovation not only accelerates improvements – leading to reduced wait times for drivers and overall satisfaction – but also integrates seamlessly with existing Iteris tools to bolster traffic flow efficiency. By leveraging anonymized vehicle data, Signal Trends offers a comprehensive overview of traffic light performance across various regions. This capability aims to ensure that cities can proactively address signal-related delays and prioritize repairs or adjustments based on real-time data, bypassing traditional, costly data collection methods. With its nationwide application, Signal Trends aims to provide significant enhancement in traffic management strategies, fostering a smoother and safer driving experience. Support For Transportation Agencies Iteris also focuses on delivering managed services that utilize its cutting-edge technology, including its proprietary ClearGuide software, to enhance traffic flow and safety across urban landscapes. By monitoring and analyzing traffic data, Iteris’ congestion management service proactively spots and rectifies traffic-related issues, thereby mitigating congestion and facilitating smoother, safer commutes. This approach is particularly relevant during highway construction projects, where it ensures optimal traffic signal timing and uninterrupted traffic flow. Beyond congestion management, Iteris aids transportation agencies in managing their technology assets, improving the performance and reliability of traffic sensors and signals. Significant contracts such as a $6 million agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation and a $9.6 million deal with the Orange County Transportation Authority underscore Iteris' ongoing role in elevating urban mobility by refining traffic signal timing with the aid of ClearGuide technology. These partnerships highlight Iteris’ commitment to advancing safety, efficiency and sustainability across regions, as well as the growing demand for its solutions. Successful implementations in regions like Lake Forest, CA, Arizona and Southern California further highlight Iteris' dedication to fostering smart mobility solutions nationwide. In fact, Iteris even provides consulting services to assist agencies in crafting strategic plans for signal timing optimization. Together, these initiatives make Iteris a key ally for agencies in potentially transforming traffic management practices and endorsing safer, more efficient transportation systems nationwide. Leading The Way In Smart Mobility Solutions Iteris continues to redefine the limits of traffic management through its ongoing innovation and dedication to improving urban mobility. By integrating advanced technologies like ClearGuide Signal Trends with its managed and consulting services, Iteris says it is addressing today's traffic challenges while paving the way for the future of smart mobility solutions. The company has a clear vision of safer, more efficient and sustainable traffic systems worldwide and a robust portfolio of services to back it up. Featured photo by Mark Boss on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

April 18, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Baron Oil CEO Andy Butler discusses latest milestones at Chuditch gas project in Timor-Leste

Baron Oil PLC

Baron Oil PLC CEO Andy Butler joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with latest developments at the Chuditch-2 appraisal well location, in the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. The company has discovered approximately 1.2 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of gas and is preparing for an appraisal well later this year. Butler said the company reached a key milestone with the completion of a site survey, which is a critical safety and environmental measure prior to drilling. The original drilling location proved unsuitable due to irregular seabed conditions, detected through high-resolution sonar imaging. An alternative site, 286 metres away, was subsequently chosen, where shallow boreholes confirmed the seabed's strength to support drilling. This new location, higher in the gas structure, is expected to yield a taller gas column of about 249 metres, significantly more than the 30 metres initially discovered. Additionally, Butler noted that operational costs are well below the approved budget, benefiting from strong collaboration with industry partners. Planning and design work continues, with progress on technical, commercial, and regulatory fronts. Baron Oil is also engaging with potential funding partners as it moves forward with the project. Contact Details Proactive UK +44 20 7989 0813 UKEditorial@proactiveinvestors.com

April 18, 2024 08:27 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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FiscalNote (NYSE: NOTE) Strategic Review In Focus As Board.org Divested For $103 Million Or 7x Sales, Company Surpasses Adjusted EBITDA Guidance

Benzinga

By Austin DeNoce, Benzinga FiscalNote (NYSE: NOTE) is a leading provider of policy and global intelligence insights that operates through a blend of data and technology. The company was founded in 2013 and has been at the forefront of offering essential tools and insights for strategic decision-making ever since. FiscalNote has a global presence catering to an extensive client base, including names like CQ, FrontierView, Oxford Analytica and VoterVoice. The company recently shared its fourth-quarter and full-year financial results that shed more light on its performance and the direction it is headed in 2024. Strategic Review Following the announcement of FiscalNote’s formation of a Special Committee in November and receipt of inbound interests, the Board along with their advisors commenced a strategic review process to evaluate all strategic options available to the company. Strategic reviews aim to maximize shareholder value. Fourth Quarter Financial Highlights FiscalNote's financial performance in the fourth quarter showcased its growth trajectory toward profitability. The company reported a 9% increase in revenue totaling $34.3 million, which was largely driven by its proprietary Security Intelligence and Analysis Service (SIAS) subscription platform and in line with its November 2023 guidance. The company also reported a gross profit of $28.3 million with a gross margin of 83% on a non-GAAP basis. Adjusted EBITDA was $3 million, surpassing the guided figure of approximately $2.5 million and marking a 157% year-over-year increase from a loss of $5.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2022. FiscalNote reported a GAAP net loss of $51 million for the quarter, which represented an improvement over the previous year. Other operational metrics for the fourth quarter included a 10% increase in run-rate revenue to $140 million, with organic run-rate revenue rising 4% to $130 million. Meanwhile, annual recurring revenue increased by 11% to $126 million, with organic ARR of $119 million; a 6% increase. Finally, the revenue retention rate for the quarter was 99%. Full-Year 2023 Results And Highlights In 2023, FiscalNote reported a 17% increase in revenue to $132.6 million, largely fueled by an 18% increase in subscription revenue, which accounted for 90% of the total. Although the company recorded a net loss of $115.5 million for the year, this was partly due to $72.8 million in net non-cash items – expenses like depreciation and stock-based compensation that don't involve actual cash outflow. The company also narrowed its adjusted EBITDA loss to $7.5 million from a $24.5 million loss in 2022. In terms of operational highlights, FiscalNote took meaningful steps to solidify its leadership in global policy and market intelligence, achieving milestones such as securing contracts with major U.S. and global brands, expanding its public sector footprint and enhancing partnerships with influential trade associations and advocacy groups. The company also focused on operational efficiency, implementing a cost reduction plan that saved approximately $25 million. Significant strategic initiatives for the year included collaborations with OpenAI and other tech giants, the expansion of its global policy coverage to over 80 countries and the acquisition of Dragonfly, a provider of geopolitical intelligence. FiscalNote launched AI products to enhance policy and risk management workflows, expanded its patent portfolio and received several awards for its SaaS solutions. Sale Of Board.org In addition to its financial results, another significant development from FiscalNote was its sale of the peer-to-peer executive community platform Board.org to Executive Platforms for total consideration of $103 million, including $95 million in cash. Board.org was a non-core, separately run business from FiscalNote. The transaction allows FiscalNote to significantly deleverage its capital structure by reducing senior debt and it highlights the significant value implied by the look-through multiple from Board.org. CEO Tim Hwang said it was a demonstration of FiscalNote's undervaluation in public markets and its ability to deploy capital and drive returns. The sale of Board.org represented roughly 10% of FiscalNote's full-year 2023 revenue and was executed as a strategic step to concentrate on its core expertise in policy, regulatory and geopolitical intelligence as it further expands its AI-enabled intelligence solutions. FiscalNote's March Forward FiscalNote's recent financial results and the strategic sale of Board.org illustrate the company's ongoing efforts to optimize its operations and focus on its core competencies. By streamlining its product strategy and strengthening its balance sheet, FiscalNote argues that it is positioning itself for sustainable growth and continued innovation in the policy and global intelligence sectors. As the company moves forward, it remains committed to leveraging AI and technology to provide actionable insights, with a clear focus on enhancing profitability and operational efficiency. Featured photo by Aditya Joshi on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

April 18, 2024 08:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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