News Hub | News Direct

ToolsGroup Recognized in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Supply Chain Planning Solutions

ToolsGroup

ToolsGroup, a global leader in retail and supply chain planning and optimization software, is proud to announce that it has been recognized in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Supply Chain Planning Solutions. Gartner Magic Quadrant research methodology provides a graphical competitive positioning of four types of technology providers in fast-growing markets: Leaders, Visionaries, Niche Players and Challengers. In the 2024 report, Gartner recognized ToolsGroup for its “ability to execute and completeness of vision.” ToolsGroup’s software solutions offer retailers, distributors and manufacturers a comprehensive set of capabilities that enhance the resilience and performance of their operations. Through a unique probabilistic planning approach that leverages AI and real-time enterprise data, ToolsGroup enables decision-making at the pace of modern business. These capabilities include proactive risk monitoring for anticipating and managing uncertainties, as well as advanced probabilistic techniques for precise demand and supply planning. Timely detection of supply chain events is also ensured through adept data latency handling, facilitating swift re-optimization. “We are honored to be once again recognized in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Supply Chain Planning Solutions,” said ToolsGroup CEO, Inna Kuznetsova. “We believe this recognition reflects our continuous efforts to drive supply chain efficiencies for our customers around the globe, making supply chain a force for good. Proud of the powerful results we deliver to our customers, we are committed to continued innovation as we expand the use of AI and decision-centric planning across the platform.” Get a complimentary copy of the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Supply Chain Planning Solutions here. This recognition in the Gartner Magic Quadrant follows ToolsGroup’s other recent recognitions in the Gartner® Peer Insights™ Voice of the Customer: Supply Chain Planning Solutions and as a Notable Vendor in the 2023 Mid-Market Context Magic Quadrant™ for Supply Chain Planning Solutions. Read more about these reports and download a copy. Join ToolsGroup at the Gartner conference in Orlando ToolsGroup is exhibiting at the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium in Orlando, FL May 6-8. Attendees looking to experience the latest AI-based solutions should visit Booth #817 in the Planning Village. Book a meeting with our experts today! Chris Gonzales, Vice President, Operations & Supply Chain Shelter Solutions at Cornerstone Building Brands, one of ToolsGroup’s leading customers, will present on May 6 at 4:35 pm in the Supply Chain Expo, Stage 3 - Pacific Hall, discussing how a fast growing U.S. exterior building products company is leveraging digital supply chain technology from ToolsGroup and partner River Logic to unlock value as it embarks on a fast-paced growth journey with an aggressive acquisition strategy. Gartner Disclaimer: GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner and Magic Quadrant and Peer Insights are a registered trademark, of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner Peer Insights content consists of the opinions of individual end users based on their own experiences with the vendors listed on the platform, should not be construed as statements of fact, nor do they represent the views of Gartner or its affiliates. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in this content nor makes any warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this content, about its accuracy or completeness, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. About the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo CSCOs and supply chain leaders are continuously confronted with increasingly complex challenges and are expected to outperform and overdeliver. Top supply chain organizations navigate through the turbulence by solving present-day issues and positioning themselves for long-term success. The Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo™ 2024 conference offers pragmatic advice and future-focused insight for supply chains to deliver now and in the future. Network with 3,000+ peers and vet new technologies at our Exhibit Showcase. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, and SUPPLY CHAIN SYMPOSIUM/XPO is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. About ToolsGroup ToolsGroup’s innovative AI-powered solutions enable retailers, distributors and manufacturers to navigate through supply chain uncertainty. Our retail and supply chain planning suites empower a new level of intelligent decision-making and unlock powerful business improvements in forecast accuracy, service levels and inventory – delighting customers and achieving financial and sustainability KPIs.. Stay in touch with ToolsGroup on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, or visit www.toolsgroup.com. Contact Details Meir Kahtan +1 917-864-0800 mkahtan@rcn.com Company Website https://www.toolsgroup.com

April 30, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Ilika announces collaboration with Tata's Agratas on Goliath industrialisation programme

Ilika PLC

Ilika PLC (AIM:IKA, OTCQX:ILIKF) CEO Graeme Purdy tells Proactive's Stephen Gunnion that Agratas, Tata Group’s battery business, has joined the SiSTEM project which aims to build a 1.5MWh solid-state battery (SSB) assembly line. Purdy noted that SiSTEM was awarded a £2.7 million grant from the Advanced Propulsion Centre as part of the Automotive Transformation Fund. This grant supports the collaboration with UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UK BIC) and Mpac Group plc to develop a 1.5MW hour solid-state battery assembly line. The line will produce large format pouch cells for electric vehicles (EVs), with scale-up trials to occur at UK BIC using industry-ready equipment. Agratas' participation is primarily to evaluate and design a concept facility for implementing solid-state battery manufacturing at Gigafactory scale. Purdy views this collaboration as a significant validation of Ilika’s technology, demonstrating commercial interest in their capabilities. Additionally, a 12-month bilateral collaboration with Agratas will focus on developing a D8 prototype, a minimum viable product that will test the scalability and performance of the battery technology. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 29, 2024 11:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

VIVOPOWER ANNOUNCES SALE OF AUSTRALIAN CRITICAL POWER BUSINESS UNIT

VivoPower International PLC

VivoPower International PLC (Nasdaq: VVPR, "VivoPower” or the "Company”) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive asset sale agreement for the sale of one of its non-core business units, Kenshaw Electrical (“Kenshaw”), to ARA Group Limited (“ARA”), a leading diversified industrial services group based in Australia. This is in line with VivoPower’s previously announced strategy to focus on reinvesting in its strong growth businesses including Tembo. Pursuant to the terms of the asset sale agreement, VivoPower will receive approximately A$5.0m in total consideration, subject to final net working capital adjustments. The asset sale agreement is subject to customary conditions and is expected to complete on July 1, 2024. VivoPower was advised on this transaction by STS Capital Partners in Singapore. About VivoPower VivoPower is an award-winning global sustainable energy solutions B Corporation company focused on electric solutions for customised and ruggedised fleet applications, battery and microgrids, solar and critical power technology and services. The Company’s core purpose is to provide its customers with turnkey decarbonisation solutions that enable them to move toward net-zero carbon status. VivoPower has operations and personnel in Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates. Forward-Looking Statements This communication includes certain statements that may constitute “forward-looking statements” for purposes of the U.S. federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterisations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements may include, for example, the anticipated impact that the events or transactions described in this communication may have on the Company and the expected returns therefrom. These statements are based on VivoPower’s management’s current expectations or beliefs and are subject to risk, uncertainty, and changes in circumstances. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein due to changes in economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors, and other risks and uncertainties affecting the operation of VivoPower’s business. These risks, uncertainties and contingencies include changes in business conditions, fluctuations in customer demand, changes in accounting interpretations, management of rapid growth, intensity of competition from other providers of products and services, changes in general economic conditions, geopolitical events and regulatory changes, expectations on funding from investors or M&A, and other factors set forth in VivoPower’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. The information set forth herein should be read in light of such risks. VivoPower is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise. Contact Details Shareholder Enquiries shareholders@vivopower.com Company Website https://vivopower.com/

April 29, 2024 07:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

News Release

4 Stocks To Watch In The $1.8 Trillion Race To Net Zero

VVPR, LI, SOL, FREY

Cutting down emissions to net zero is one of the world’s most ambitious goals, thanks to the Paris climate agreement. That goal is being taken so seriously that BloombergNEF recently reported that the amount invested in the green energy transition will reach a staggering $1.8 trillion in 2023. But for the world to achieve net zero status, shifting our transportation’s reliance from internal combustion engines to electrical vehicles will have to be accelerated. Last year, global sales of EVs, including BEVs, PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles), and FCVs (Fuel Cell Vehicles), reached 13 million units in 2023, representing a 29.8% growth compared to 2022. At the same time, the world put $634 billion toward electric vehicles and charging technology in 2023, or 85% of its total investment in clean technologies that consume energy, according to BloombergNEF, which drew more spending than renewables for the first time. Over the past couple of months, the electric vehicle (EV) sector has been going through turbulent times against the backdrop of macroeconomic headwinds and intense competition. This has caused the markets to overreact to the downside, creating opportunities for buying EV stocks at a valuation gap. In our view, even the slightest of positives could translate into a significant rally from oversold levels for EV stocks. And it's not only pure EV makers that will benefit from this trend but also the picks and shovels of the industry, like battery makers. Here are four stocks to add to your watchlist. VivoPower International (NASDAQ:VVPR) is a sustainable energy solutions company that has recently been making headlines in the EV space. Through its subsidiary Tembo e-LV, vivopower develops and distributes conversion kits with all the parts required to convert a vehicle from an internal combustion engine to an EV. These include the motors, batteries, transmission, charger, software, and the rest of the components that make the converted vehicle work. Tembo’s value proposition here is that users will incur lower maintenance and operational costs, less downtime, and won’t have the need for expensive fuel infrastructure. This unique approach to electrifying vehicles has shown massive potential since it's much more cost-effective than outright buying a new one. To better illustrate this, VivoPower International (NASDAQ:VVPR) recently secured an order commitment of more than 5000 kits (1,000 for Jordan and 4,000 for Kenya) and an order pipeline of another 10,000+ kits. What’s most exciting about these orders is that they could be just the tip of the iceberg. Jordan offers the perfect entry point to the Middle East EV market, which experts project will grow at a CAGR of about 28.9% till 2030. The Middle East is also the world’s largest landcruiser market, which is perfectly suited for Tembo's conversion kits. On the other hand, Kenya provides vivopower with the means to establish a foothold in the second-hand vehicle conversion market, which some estimate has a value of about $2 billion. Although VivoPower International's (NASDAQ:VVPR) entry into the EV market has already rewarded a number of early shareholders with triple-digit returns, the stock appears to still have room for further upside based on a number of catalysts. For starters, the company recently announced that Tembo would go public via a merger with Cactus Acquisition Corp. 1 Limited (CCTS), a NASDAQ-listed SPAC, and change its name to Tembo Group. According to the details of the transaction, CCTS will issue 83.8 million shares at $10 per CCTS share in exchange for Tembo shares, which implies a valuation of $838 million. In addition to that, a bonus of 16.76 million Tembo Dividend Shares will be distributed to VivoPower shareholders, who will receive 5 Tembo Group shares for each VivoPower share held. Assuming a conservative IPO price of just $1 per Tembo share instead of $10, it would mean that VivoPower International (NASDAQ:VVPR) shares are worth at least $28 each. While that potential upside may appear too good to be true, it is further supported by the fact that Vivopower received a direct investment of $5 million into Tembo at a pre-money valuation of $120 million from a private investment office of a member of the ruling Al Maktoum family of Dubai. For context, Vivopower currently has a market cap of just $12 million. That investment not only reaffirms investor interest in the Middle East and Africa’s EV market but also in vivopower’s long-term growth prospects. Furthermore, the company recently announced that executive chairman and CEO Kevin Chin increased his individual shareholding in the company by 146,084 shares (about 4.4% of the outstanding shares) to increase his shareholding to 12.3%. Going forward, VivoPower International (NASDAQ:VVPR) will build on its initial success in the Middle East and Africa to continue its Asia expansion after signing a definitive joint venture agreement with Francisco Motor Corporation to develop and supply electric utility vehicle electrification kits for a new generation of electric jeepneys (e-jeepneys) in the Philippines. Li Auto (NASDAQ:LI) designs, develops, manufactures, and sells premium smart electric vehicles. The China-based EV maker has clearly been the strongest performer recently in the lackluster EV space. Li Auto remains by far the fastest-growing, well-established EV maker out there. The company recently launched the Li L6, a five-seat premium family SUV that will offer Pro and Max trims in spite of the recent weakness in the market, signaling that the long-term fundamentals still remain strong. In the meantime, however, Li Auto has resorted to price cuts to deal with the softening demand. The car maker announced price cuts for four out of the five models it produces. We're talking about roughly 5% of the existing sale price, or about $4,100 off of what it's selling for right now. The price cuts came as new data showed that, for the first time, China sold more electric and hybrid cars than internal-combustion vehicles. Retail sales of new-energy cars, which include EVs and plug-in hybrids, made up 50.4% of all passenger-vehicle sales in the first two weeks of April, according to data from the China Passenger Car Association. Li recently reported full-year 2023 earnings, where revenue grew an impressive 173.5% year-over-year to reach $17.2 billion. The company is projected to deliver 57% top-line growth in 2024, with consensus estimates calling for $27 billion in sales this year. Citigroup maintains a buy rating on Li Auto stock with a $43.60 price target. Emeren Group Ltd. (NYSE:SOL) is a renewable energy leader with a comprehensive portfolio of solar projects and independent power producer (IPP) assets, complemented by a significant global battery energy storage system (BESS) capacity. The company recently announced a number of milestones, including that it had signed a co-development agreement for 199 MW (up to 1.59 GWh of capacity) of battery storage projects in two regions of southern Italy with Nuveen Infrastructure, one of the world's largest fund managers investing in clean energy. This agreement marks the final stage in the portfolio collaboration between Emeren and Nuveen, achieving a total power capacity of 354 MWp (up to 2.83 GWh). SOL also announced that it had set up a 703 megawatt BESS project portfolio in Italy for Matrix Renewables under the Development Service Agreement, or DSA, which, combined with the previous sale of the 260 megawatt in Q2, amounted to a total of 963 megawatts of BESS projects. This marked a substantial advance towards the agreed portfolio target of 1.5 gigawatts in the DSA partnership with Matrix. The company also announced the expansion of its energy storage portfolio in China by acquiring a 10.8 megawatt-hour energy storage portfolio comprising six energy storage power stations. According to its most recent filings, SOL closed FY 2023 with $104.7 million in revenue, a 22.2% gross margin, and a $9.3 million net loss. These results were below our full-year guidance, primarily due to the delays in closing the sales of six projects in the US and Europe. FREYR Battery, Inc. (NYSE:FREY) develops clean, next-generation battery cell production capacity with a focus on the primary markets of energy storage systems ("ESS") and commercial mobility. Last month, FREYR’s team at its Customer Qualification Plant ("CQP") reached a key milestone by producing automatically casted electrodes with active electrolyte slurry in a dry room environment, and the company expects to make functional battery cells for customer samples using full automation of CQP in H1 2024. A key distinction between FREY’s production platform and conventional lithium-ion battery manufacturing technology is the order in which electrolyte is introduced to the process. In the 24M process, electrolyte is added at the start of cell processing, which eliminates the costly and energy-intensive step of solvent recovery by drying the electrodes. That milestone follows another key achievement by the company, which announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) had invited the company to submit the Part II loan application under the DOE Title 17 program for FREYR’s Giga America project. "The Part II DOE loan application invitation is an important next step in FREYR’s journey to fund our Giga America project," commented Birger Steen, FREYR’s Chief Executive Officer. "With our redomiciliation to the U.S. now approved by our shareholders, FREYR is uniquely positioned to establish the Company as the U.S.-based industrialization partner of choice for clean battery technology solutions.” The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, assumptions, objectives, goals, or assumptions of future events or performance are not statements of historical fact may be forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward looking statements in this action may be identified through use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements, indicating certain actions & quotes; may, could or might occur Understand there is no guarantee past performance is indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap or growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investors investment may be lost or due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. Capital Gains Report (CGR) owned by RazorPitch Inc. is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. CGR is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment advisor. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. CGR has been retained by VivoPower International PLC. to produce and distribute content related to VVPR. As part of that content, readers, subscribers, and webs are expected to read the full disclaimers and financial disclosure statement that can be found on our website https://capitalgainsreport.com. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. CGR is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 Company Website http://razorpitch.com

April 25, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

NAFA Names the 2024 100 Best Fleets in the Americas at its Annual Institute & Expo

NAFA Fleet Management Association

NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA), the vehicle fleet industry’s largest membership association, today announced the 100 Best Fleets in the Americas for 2024. NAFA’s 100 Best Fleets in the Americas program recognizes peak-performing public and commercial fleet operations, as well as the Fleet Professional and Fleet Technician of the Year. The winners were announced this morning during NAFA’s annual Institute & Expo (I&E) in San Antonio. This contest aims to cultivate industry pride, enhance visibility within the fleet community, improve productivity and operational efficiency, and inspire individuals to pursue careers in fleet operations. Originally conceived by the late fleet industry advocate Tom Johnson, this contest is now in its 25th year running. “The 100 Best Fleets contest plays such an integral role in the NAFA community,” says Mike Camnetar, CAFM, NAFA Board President. “These awards showcase the outstanding achievements and leadership within our industry. We commend these fleets and individuals for their dedication to excellence and innovation, and we look forward to seeing what they accomplish in 2024.” The 2024 winners for each of the following categories: Best Public Fleet: Dakota County Fleet Management, MN Best Commercial Fleet: Essential Utilities Fleet Professional of the Year Award: Kenny Stimson, Carvana Fleet Technician of the Year Award: Curtis Mullins, City of Round Rock, TX The full list of the 2024 100 Best Fleets in the Americas can be found here https://www.nafa.org/100-best-fleets-2024/. The 100 Best Fleets Program Sponsors include Agile Fleet Management Solutions, AssetWorks, Fleet Worthy Solutions/Bestpass, Fuel Force, Geotab, Pure Forge Brakes, the NC Clean Energy Technology Center, RTA, Samsara and Toyota Fleet. NAFA is excited to host a 100 Best Webinar Series and Regional Roundtable events throughout 2024. Webinar attendees will have the opportunity to learn from the 100 Best fleet winners and leaders, discover the top five success trends for 2024 and understand what actions these top fleets have taken to become a 100 Best fleet. Attendees will walk away with initiatives and action steps they can immediately implement within their fleet. To register for this webinar series, visit: https://www.nafa.org/events/100-best-fleets-webinars/ To learn more about NAFA, visit: https://www.nafa.org/ NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year. For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Contact Details Keaveny Hewitt +1 919-622-5276 khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com Company Website https://www.nafa.org/

April 24, 2024 12:44 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Ilika chief executive Graeme Purdy discusses 2024 revenue growth and strategic milestones

Ilika PLC

Ilika PLC (AIM:IKA, OTCQX:ILIKF) chief executive Graeme Purdy discusses a trading update and the latest company milestones with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion. Purdy highlighted that Ilika's financial performance for the year ending in April is expected to be in line with projections, noting a significant revenue increase from £0.8 million the previous year to approximately £2 million. This growth is largely attributed to grant support for their Goliath development programme. He provided an update on the Goliath batteries, mentioning that they had reached a milestone in late 2023, which allowed them to start producing P1 prototypes for external evaluation. These prototypes are currently being tested, with results expected to be shared with partners soon. Additionally, Purdy touched on achieving lithium ion parity with their Goliath batteries, marking a significant technological advancement. He also discussed the progress with their Stereax product following a tech transfer and licence agreement with Cirtec in the USA, which is moving forward with the initial production line installed and operational. Purdy said investors can participate in a Q&A session with Ilika on 26 April at 11am BST on the Investor Meet Company (IMC) platform by registering here: https://www.investormeetcompany.com/ilika-plc/register-investor Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

April 24, 2024 10:54 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

Shareholder to Return to Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting One Year After Arrest in Omaha

NLPC

As the annual meeting for Berkshire Hathaway Inc. on May 4 in Omaha approaches, National Legal and Policy Center Chairman Peter Flaherty plans a return to the same stage where last year, while presenting NLPC’s shareholder proposal, Warren Buffett cut off his speech and Flaherty was arrested. Trumped-up charges against Flaherty were later dropped. NLPC has another proposal on Berkshire’s 2024 proxy statement and Flaherty is scheduled to speak on the measure for his allotted five minutes. The nonprofit corporate watchdog released a short video that briefly recounts last year’s incident and points out Mr. Buffett’s contradictory positions on how he manages shareholder meetings. The video may be found on NLPC’s website: https://nlpc.org/corporate-integrity-project/video-nlpc-returns-to-berkshire-hathaway-annual-meeting-one-year-after-chairmans-arrest/ The video highlights a past statement Mr. Buffett made to CNBC. Responding to an interviewer’s question about Berkshire allowing investors who attend the popular annual meeting to ask any question they want, Mr. Buffett responded, “We’ve got a partnership feeling toward the people who have given us their money, and we don’t screen ‘em, and they can ask whatever’s on their mind.” However, last year Mr. Buffett made an exception to that principle when Peter Flaherty – during his official remarks presenting NLPC’s shareholder proposal, which was on the meeting agenda – brought up Mr. Buffett’s relationship with billionaire Bill Gates, their shared philanthropic efforts, and Mr. Gates’s troubling relationship with deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. At that point, Flaherty’s microphone was silenced, and security and Omaha law enforcement forcibly walked him out of the arena and to a local police precinct, where he was arrested, booked, fingerprinted and held for about three hours. As NLPC argued last year in a report to the Securities and Exchange Commission, Berkshire’s identity is inextricably linked with Mr. Buffett’s. As such, his philanthropic activities and personal associations are fair targets for criticism, unlike those of nearly any other corporate Chairman/CEO. NLPC also filed a complaint with the SEC late last year over Berkshire’s inappropriate treatment of Flaherty at the meeting. “Warren Buffett boasts that shareholders can ask questions on any topic they desire, but I guess that doesn’t include questions about Bill Gates or Jeffrey Epstein,” Flaherty said. This year’s shareholder proposal addresses concerns about Berkshire’s risk vulnerabilities over the amount its sales and supply chain depend on China. Subsidiaries such as Duracell and Fruit of the Loom, and significant investments such as Apple and Coca-Cola, substantially depend on access to the communist nation. NLPC also filed a proxy memo with the SEC in support of this year’s proposal. The video released by NLPC concludes by wondering if Mr. Buffett will keep his word, and let all Berkshire investors say “whatever is on their mind.” For more information or to schedule an interview with Paul Chesser, contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or drene@nlpc.org. Please visit http://www.nlpc.org. Founded in 1991, the National Legal and Policy Center promotes ethics in public life through research, investigation, education and legal action. Contact Details National Legal and Policy Center Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 drene@nlpc.org Company Website http://www.nlpc.org

April 24, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

TSA Reports Rise in Airport Security Breaches in Last 12 Months

MarketJar

Airport security isn’t as tight as you might think. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), there have been at least 300 instances of people bypassing parts of airport security since March 2023. 1 In November, two women faced arrest at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport after breaching a secured exit due to running late for their flight. Meanwhile, at Palm Springs International Airport in February, a ticketed traveler passed through an unstaffed body scanner, prompting authorities to evacuate post-security areas as a precautionary measure. In a separate incident in February, a woman managed to bypass TSA officers who check IDs at Nashville International Airport. She then proceeded to sneak into the bag-screening line. After her belongings passed through the X-ray, she boarded an American Airlines flight without a ticket, eventually flying to Los Angeles International Airport where she was detained by the FBI. As of now, she has not faced charges, with the FBI refraining from commenting on an ongoing investigation. Clear, a private screening service offering an expedited alternative to TSA queues, has also faced scrutiny due to breaches in the past two years. 2 In one instance last year, an individual managed to pass Clear security using a boarding pass retrieved from an airport garbage can. Another incident in 2022 involved TSA officers identifying ammunition in a man's luggage, only to discover that he had utilized false identification to bypass Clear screening. These security concerns are coming to light at a time when the TSA is investing in heightened security measures, including a $3.8 million contract with AI security company Liberty Defense Holdings (TSXV:SCAN) (OTCQB:LDDFF) for its multi-technology security solutions for detecting concealed weapons in high-traffic areas such as airports, stadiums, and schools. This contract focuses on Research and Development to provide the TSA with software, engineering, and enhancements to Liberty Defense ’s High-Definition Advanced Imaging Technology (HD-AIT) Wideband Upgrade Kit to improve detection capabilities and enhance the passenger experience. Better Safety for Today’s Threats Liberty Defense has also begun deploying its HEXWAVE™ system at North American airports to improve screening for passengers and staff, including Denver International, Toronto Pearson, and one unit to the TSA under its On-Person Screening Capability Program for the screening of Aviation Workers. The HEXWAVE™ system uses AI, electromagnetic waves, and 3D imaging to scan and detect potentially dangerous items like metal, 3D-printed plastic guns, powders, and liquids. The process is quick and contactless, allowing individuals to walk through a portal without removing their keys or cell phones. On April 23, Liberty Defense Holdings (TSXV:SCAN) (OTCQB:LDDFF) announced international shipments of HEXWAVE™ to the Subic Bay Airport in the Philippines and to Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Liberty Defense (TSXV:SCAN) (OTCQB:LDDFF) has already made sales in Europe 3 and Asia, 4 with more international deals coming down the pipeline thanks to the company’s robust international distribution network, which is facilitated by two prominent partners in the security and detection industry. With global offices and representation across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, these partners have deployed thousands of security systems. HEXWAVE perfectly complements the requirements for on-person screening in these locations. Earlier this year, Liberty Defense announced a strategic agreement with Viken Detection to sell 30 HEXWAVE units in 2024. The agreement includes an upfront payment for the first 15 units to accelerate market penetration. Viken Detection, a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies, will incorporate the HEXWAVE walkthrough people screening system into its product portfolio for the Americas. Liberty Defense has been awarded the 2023 'ASTORS' Homeland Security Award from American Security Today (AST) for its HEXWAVE system. It was honored with the Gold ASTORS Award in the Best Metal/Weapons Detection Solution category. The 'ASTORS' Awards Program recognizes industry leaders in physical and border security, cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, law enforcement, and first responders, as well as government agencies at all levels for their efforts to enhance national security. Click here for more information about Liberty Defense (TSXV:SCAN) (OTCQB:LDDFF). [1] https://www.washingtonpost.com/travel/2024/04/04/airport-security-tsa-stowaway/ [2] https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/08/10/tsa-clear-enhanced-id-checks/ [3] https://libertydefense.com/news/distribution-agreement-and-partnership-with-grasp-innovations-netherlands/ [4] https://libertydefense.com/news/liberty-defense-announces-first-sale-of-hexwave-to-an-international-airport-in-asia-pacific/ 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, Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. Market Jar Media Inc. was paid $1,500 for the production and publishing of this article by Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s Digital Marketing Agency of Record (Native Ads Inc.). Additional details relating to Market Jar Media Inc.’s engagement by Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s Digital Marketing Agency of Record (Native Ads Inc.) are set out in https://pressreach.com/disclaimer-scan. 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 Liberty Defense Holdings 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 Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s industry; (b) market opportunity; (c) Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s business plans and strategies; (d) services that Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. intends to offer; (e) Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s milestone projections and targets; (f) Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s expectations regarding receipt of approval for regulatory applications; (g) Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s intentions to expand into other jurisdictions including the timeline expectations relating to those expansion plans; and (h) Liberty Defense Holdings 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 Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s business plan; (b) that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; (c) Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s ability to procure equipment and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; (d) Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s ability to enter into contractual arrangements with additional parties; (e) the accuracy of budgeted costs and expenditures; (f) Liberty Defense Holdings 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 Liberty Defense Holdings 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) Liberty Defense Holdings 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 Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s business; (c) the volatility of global capital markets; (d) political instability and changes to the regulations governing Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.’s business operations (e) Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. may be unable to implement its growth strategy; and (f) increased competition. Except as required by law, Liberty Defense Holdings 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 Liberty Defense Holdings 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 Liberty Defense Holdings 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 Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. or any other entity contained in this document are intended only to illustrate historical performance or current or historical attributes of Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. or such entities and are not necessarily indicative of future performance of Liberty Defense Holdings 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 24, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

NAFA's 2024 Institute & Expo General Session Delivers Insights and Strategies for Fleet Management's Future

NAFA Fleet Management Association

Today NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA) held the highly anticipated General Session at its 2024 Institute & Expo (I&E) in San Antonio, featuring a dynamic panel with esteemed OEM leaders and a compelling industry update with Ted Cannis, CEO of Ford Pro. "Today’s General Session at I&E provided attendees with unparalleled insights and strategies to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of fleet management," said Bill Schankel, CAE, CEO of NAFA. "From Ted Cannis’ enlightening industry update to the engaging discussions during the OEM Panel, our attendees gained invaluable perspectives to drive innovation and success in their respective fields." In his keynote address titled "Ford Pro – Our Learnings: Grow Productivity, Reduce Risk," Ted Cannis provided attendees with critical insights into the future of fleet management. As the CEO of Ford Pro, Cannis leads a global team dedicated to delivering comprehensive solutions to government and commercial customers, focusing on accelerating productivity, improving uptime and lowering operating costs through connected services and work-ready gas and electric vehicles. Following Cannis’ address, NAFA hosted a dynamic OEM Panel Discussion. Distinguished leaders from Toyota, Stellantis, GM Envolve and Ford Pro engaged in a robust discussion about the automotive industry's next phase of evolution and its profound implications for every driver, fleet and road. Panelists included Tom DeLuise from Toyota, Eric Swanson from Stellantis, Robert Wheeler from GM Envolve, and Greg Wood from Ford Pro. Attendees left today’s General Session feeling empowered, inspired and ready to take on the fleet industry. This session, and the entire I&E schedule, highlight NAFA’s commitment to delivering exceptional educational content and networking opportunities for fleet professionals worldwide. For more information about NAFA and its upcoming events, please visit www.nafa.org NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year. For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Contact Details Keaveny Hewitt +1 919-622-5276 khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com Company Website https://www.nafa.org/

April 23, 2024 11:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time