Quantcast
Channel: BusinessWire India.com - Banking & Financial Services
Viewing all 4422 articles
Browse latest View live

Valocity Attracts Investment From the Huljich Family to Further Expansion Opportunities

$
0
0
Business Wire IndiaValocity - the leading cloud-based mortgage lending and valuation platform, is pleased to announce growth capital secured from the NZ based Huljich family, who acquired a 25.7% stake in the company. The capital raised from Valocity’s now cornerstone shareholders will be used to accelerate expansion opportunities in New Zealand, Australia and India.

The Huljich family bring strong governance, growth and tech expertise to Valocity, through investments in a number of high-growth tech kiwi success stories. The family’s investments include Diligent Board Member Services Inc, where the family invested as the sole pre-IPO funder in 2007, as well as NZX and ASX-listed Pushpay Holdings Limited, where the family holds a 21.8% stake.

Peter Huljich joins Valocity’s board complementing existing board members Jonty Kelt, Debra Hall, Andrew Harris and Valocity founders, Antony and Carmen Vicelich.

Valocity’s CEO and Founder, Carmen Vicelich, says, “We are delighted to welcome the Huljich family to our share register and Peter Huljich to our board. The funding secured will be utilised to accelerate our global growth strategy and for ongoing development to continue to innovate existing solutions to further enable our customers.”

Sachin Sandhir, CEO, Valocity India, says, Valocity is a next-generation smart platform for mortgage lending and real estate valuations. We are excited to bring our game-changing platform to aid digital transformation in the challenging Indian landscape. The housing finance sector is growing rapidly and will benefit immensely by embracing innovative technology solutions.”

Carmen says further, Valocity has grown its New Zealand market share substantially over the last four years, where we continue to see growth opportunities. Valocity has huge potential to leverage learnings from local success and apply them in Australia and India. At Valocity, we are investing heavily in our people, product and processes to support the level of growth that we anticipate.”

Peter Huljich, Partner at the Huljich family’s investment firm, Christopher & Banks, said, “We continue looking for enduring technologies with global reach and we see the need and opportunity for the mortgage lending and valuation market to grow on Valocity’s platform. We’ve worked with several other leading companies in New Zealand to broaden their global reach and we know this experience will be valuable as Valocity continues to expand in Australia and India.”
About Valocity

Valocity’s enterprise B2B platform combines the best technology, data and domain expertise to help banks digitise and simplify the mortgage lending process. It connects an ecosystem of lenders, consumers, appraisers and brokers together through one centralised, cloud-based solution to deliver risk management, while enabling a more streamlined and transparent experience.

Valocity has been well recognised for its innovation with numerous industry awards including the 2017 CIO award for ‘Best Digital Transformation’, 2016 Nexus Supreme award and the 2015 University of Auckland Entrepreneurs Challenge.

www.valocity.nz | www.valocity.in

Bajaj Finserv Rolls out Exciting Offers and Lowest EMIs on All Products

$
0
0
Business Wire IndiaBajaj Finance Ltd, the lending arm of Bajaj Finserv has rolled out exciting offers and lowest EMI on electronic product, fitness equipment’s, apparels and home appliances.
 
Under the current offering, the customers can avail products like smartphones, TVs and air conditioners, gym equipment’s, clothes through Bajaj Finserv EMI network at no cost EMI. What makes this offer more lucrative is that the customers can avail any product from leading brands like LG, Samsung, Nokia, Lloyd, Oppo, Vivo, Hitachi etc at zero down-payment. These attractive offers are valid till September 30th and can be availed by the existing Bajaj Finserv EMI Card users. Customer can also log on to the website to check the preapproved offer available for them.
 
The website enables customers to view offers in their city and shop from the gamut of products offered by the retailers. Bajaj Finserv EMI network is a unique eco-system that aims to provide faster access to products to customers along with easy payment options. The store offers a variety of products from categories like Smartphones, Laptops, Tablets, ACs, Microwave ovens, Televisions, Washing Machines and Refrigerators. The company’s EMI network comprises of 43,000 retailers across India, offering more than 1 million products at No Cost EMI.
 
To avail latest offers from Bajaj Finserv EMI Store, please visit:
https://www.bajajfinserv.in/offers-and-promotions
About Bajaj Finance Limited
 
Bajaj Finance Limited, the lending and investment arm of Bajaj Finserv group, is one of the most diversified NBFCs in the Indian market catering to more than 21 million customers across the country. Headquartered in Pune, the company’s product offering includes Consumer Durable Loans, Lifestyle Finance, Digital Product Finance, Personal Loans, Loan against Property, Small Business Loans, Home loans, Credit Cards, Two-wheeler and Three-wheeler Loans, Construction Equipment Loans, Loan against Securities and Rural Finance which includes Gold Loans and Vehicle Refinancing Loans along with Fixed Deposits and Advisory Services. Bajaj Finance Limited prides itself on holding the highest credit rating of FAAA/Stable for any NBFC in the country today.
 
To know more, please visit: https://www.bajajfinserv.in/finance/

Loomis Sayles Announces Changes to Global Fixed Income Team Leadership

$
0
0
Business Wire India
  • Kenneth Buntrock, portfolio manager and co-team leader of the global fixed income team to retire in March 201
  • Longstanding portfolio managers Lynda Schweitzer and Scott Service elevated to leadership roles

Loomis, Sayles & Company, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers, announced today that Kenneth Buntrock, portfolio manager and co-team leader of the global fixed income team, will retire in March 2019 after 21 years with the company. In preparation for Ken’s retirement, longstanding portfolio managers Lynda Schweitzer and Scott Service will assume leadership roles effective immediately, joining David Rolley as co-team leaders. The team oversees approximately $29.61 billion in institutional and retail assets for global clients.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180909005021/en/

 

“We are grateful to Ken for more than 20 years of service and leadership at Loomis Sayles,” said Kevin Charleston, chief executive officer. “His dedication is reflected within the success and growth of the Loomis Sayles global bond capabilities over the past two decades, and we wish him the best in retirement.”

 

Until his retirement date, Ken will continue in his leadership and portfolio management roles to ensure a seamless transition and provide continuity for clients.

 

This transition is part of a comprehensive succession plan that was initiated in 2007, when Lynda was named portfolio manager following her six-year tenure as a global portfolio specialist and trader for the team. Similarly, Scott joined the team in 2004, became portfolio manager on a variety of global credit strategies in 2011 and was named portfolio manager on all remaining global bond products in 2014.

 

“We believe this is the ideal time to elevate Lynda and Scott in recognition of their tenure, experience and track records as portfolio managers,” said Jae Park, chief investment officer. “Lynda and Scott have been vital members of the global fixed income team working in close partnership with Ken and David for over 15 years, and their leadership will be integral to the success of our global bond capabilities moving forward.”

 

David Rolley will continue his portfolio management responsibilities with Lynda and Scott for the global fixed income portfolios, as well as the emerging market fixed income team portfolios. There will be no changes to the team’s style or investment philosophy. David, Lynda and Scott will continue to report to Jae Park, chief investment officer.

 

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: DAVID W. ROLLEY, CFA
David Rolley is a vice president, portfolio manager and co-team leader of the global fixed income team and emerging market debt group at Loomis, Sayles & Company. With 38 years of investment industry experience, David co-manages a suite of global bond, global credit and global allocation products. Prior to joining Loomis Sayles in 1994, he was a principal and director of international capital market research at DRI/McGraw-Hill. His responsibilities included international interest rate and currency forecasting, and risk management consulting. David was also corporate vice president and senior US economist for the institutional equity group at Drexel Burnham Lambert, and chief financial economist at Chase Econometrics. David earned a BA from Occidental College and studied post-graduate economics at the University of Pennsylvania. He is a past president of the Boston Association of Business Economists.

 

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: LYNDA SCHWEITZER, CFA
Lynda Schweitzer is a vice president portfolio manager and co-team leader of the global fixed income team at Loomis, Sayles & Company. With 32 years of investment industry experience, she co-manages a suite of global bond and global credit products. Lynda is also a member of the macro strategies, developed markets sovereign and global credit sector teams. Prior to joining Loomis Sayles in 2001 as a global portfolio specialist and trader, she worked at Putnam Investments as a global bond trader for both developed and emerging markets. In her tenure at Putnam, Lynda was also a global fixed income trading assistant and custody operations supervisor. Previously, she worked for State Street Bank and Trust Co. as a fund accountant, responsible for custody and pricing of global fixed income funds. Lynda earned a BA from the University of Rochester and an MBA from Boston University.

 

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: SCOTT M. SERVICE, CFA
Scott Service is a vice president, portfolio manager and co-team leader of the global fixed income team at of Loomis, Sayles & Company. He co-manages a suite of global bond and global credit products. Scott joined Loomis Sayles in 1995 and was promoted to credit analyst in 1999. Between 2001 and 2003, he worked in Paris for Loomis Sayles’ parent company, Natixis Investment Managers, covering European credits across various industries and honing his international credit analysis skills. Scott returned to the Loomis Sayles fixed income team in 2003 and became leader of the global credit sector team. In 2004, he joined the global fixed income team. Previously Scott he held financial accounting positions at both State Street Bank and PNC Bank. He earned a BS from Babson College and an MBA from Bentley College.

 

ABOUT LOOMIS SAYLES
Since 1926, Loomis, Sayles & Company has helped fulfill the investment needs of institutional and mutual fund clients worldwide. The firm’s performance-driven investors integrate deep proprietary research and integrated risk analysis to make informed, judicious decisions. Teams of portfolio managers, strategists, research analysts and traders collaborate to assess market sectors and identify investment opportunities wherever they may lie, within traditional asset classes or among a range of alternative investments. Loomis Sayles has the resources, foresight and the flexibility to look far and wide for value in broad and narrow markets in its commitment to deliver attractive sustainable returns for clients. This rich tradition has earned Loomis Sayles the trust and respect of clients worldwide, for whom it manages $264.4 billion** in assets (as of June 30, 2018).

 

Total strategy assets include all assets managed by the respective team.

 

**Includes the assets of Loomis, Sayles & Co., LP, and Loomis Sayles Trust Company, LLC. Loomis Sayles Trust Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Loomis, Sayles & Company, LP.

 

ABOUT NATIXIS INVESTMENT MANAGERS
Natixis Investment Managers serves financial professionals with more insightful ways to construct portfolios. Powered by the expertise of 26 specialized investment managers globally, we apply Active Thinking℠ to deliver proactive solutions that help clients pursue better outcomes in all markets. Natixis ranks among the world’s largest asset management firms¹ ($988.4 billion / €846.5 billion AUM²).

 

Natixis Investment Managers includes all of the investment management and distribution entities affiliated with Natixis Distribution, L.P. and Natixis Investment Managers S.A.

 

¹Cerulli Quantitative Update: Global Markets 2018 ranked Natixis Investment Managers as the 16th largest asset manager in the world based on assets under management as of December 31, 2017.
² Net asset value as of June 30, 2018. Assets under management (“AUM”), as reported, may include notional assets, assets serviced, gross assets and other types of non-regulatory AUM.

 

1 As of July 31, 2018.

 

MALR022378

 

 

 

 
MULTIMEDIA AVAILABLE :
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180909005021/en/

Evolute Group Makes India Proud at Seamless Africa; Set to Expand Global Footprint

$
0
0
Business Wire IndiaEvolute Group, a leading and fastest growing Fintech and Cleantech company in India, recently participated in a global fintech exhibition ‘Seamless Africa’ in Nairobi, Kenya. This exhibition is one of the largest global annual platforms for fintech companies with 150 speakers joining over 100 content sessions, to assemble and showcase their financial technology products and services. At this exhibition, Evolute Group exhibited a range of financial technology products and services which got recognized and appreciated by global fintech participants.

Speaking about Evolute’s dream run in Africa through this exhibition, Parag Mehta, Founder & CEO, Evolute Group, said, “We have been receiving tremendous fintech opportunities from domestic as well as International markets. This participation has got us closer to our global counterparts. It was not just an opportunity for Evolute Group but also for the country, to showcase its financial technology capabilities and connect with deeper pockets of the world to achieve their common objectives of financial inclusion. We are front runners in helping the government with their financial inclusion model in India through our various products and services. We are rendering the same ideology for African countries, where financial inclusion is the need of the hour.”

Evolute Group manufactures financial technology products like POS terminals, Micro ATM and Biometric Authentication devices, that promises to make Digital Payments, Biometric Authentication and financial access easy and affordable. Evolute primarily focuses on revolutionizing the Microfinance, e-Governance, Retail and Sales Automation, Public Distribution System applications, to remove the bottleneck in the system and provide easy access to financial instruments. In India, Evolute is credited for their Micro ATMs and Biometric Authentication devices through which it is helping the government as well as the private sector, and especially NBFCs, financial intermediaries and the banking systems, to attain their objective of financial inclusion.

Evolute Group also received the Certificate of Merit for “Excellence in Innovation” category of the ELCINA EFY Awards 2017-18. Evolute participated for this award for one of its upcoming innovative products ‘IOT Smart Solar Streetlights’ where the smart lights would be cloud based due to which they can not only be monitored and controlled remotely but even their fault diagnosis can be done remotely. With such innovations and technological advancement, Evolute is steadily moving forth in its aspiration of becoming the Indian MNC across the globe.

Colliers Proptech Accelerator Powered by Techstars Announces the Class of 2018

$
0
0
Business Wire India

Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ and TSX:CIGI), a global leader in commercial real estate services and investment management, announced today its 2018 class of proptech startups for the Colliers Proptech Accelerator powered by Techstars. This program is part of our focus on targeted innovation that will enable us to create solutions, shape technologies and find opportunities to advance our business and accelerate success. In our inaugural class, we have diverse technologies and entrepreneurs, including:

 
  • Solutions across the real estate value chain such as commercial datasets for occupiers and investors; office services and tenant engagement; big data, analytics and artificial intelligence; space as a service; marketplaces and space utilization; and, Smart City and Internet of Things
  • Entrepreneurs representing nine cities in seven countries
     

“Each startup in our Class of 2018 has been carefully selected for investment based on their approach to near-term, value-enhancing opportunities for our clients and professionals as well as longer-term opportunities that, with strong technology platforms, will help us push industry boundaries,” said Jay Hennick, Colliers Chairman & CEO. “At Colliers, our enterprising culture values mentorship and the benefits it can bring to a growing company. Our class will have access to more than 100 Colliers and industry mentors, as part of the Colliers Proptech Accelerator, giving them an exceptional opportunity to test, pilot and grow their companies.”

 

Over the next 13 weeks, the Class of 2018 will work from the Techstars Accelerator space in Toronto to refine their business plans and gain traction with the market, while accelerating their fundraising strategies and developing Demo Day presentations. Through this process, the startups will work closely with mentors from Colliers and the broader real estate industry, successful startup founders and venture capitalists. At the end of the program, each startup will present to investors and mentors at Demo Day on December 4, 2018.

 

“Colliers is entrepreneurial and enterprising, which puts us in a unique position to help startups develop innovative, focused, and value-enhancing services for our clients and professionals,” said Dylan Taylor, Colliers President & COO. “Our Proptech Accelerator combines Techstars’ expertise in technology innovation, startups and alumni networks with our real estate expertise and international network.”

 

Colliers Protech Accelerator Class of 2018

 

A Retail Space (New York, U.S.)

 

A Retail Space finds the perfect location for your business through data.

 

Basking (Berlin, Germany)

 

Basking.io is an ROI-driven building automation platform for the flexible office space market.

 

Booqed (Hong Kong, China)

 

Booqed is a digital marketplace for flexible space, helping to connect businesses needing places to work, meet or host an event, with landlords seeking to monetize under-utilized space.

 

Lane (Toronto, Canada)

 

Lane is the operating system for your building, streamlining building operations on a cloud-based platform you can access anywhere.

 

MapYourProperty (Toronto, Canada)

 

MapYourProperty is a Google Maps for Real Estate Land Development, simplifying the planning process to a 3-click solution.

 

Propstack (Mumbai, India)

 

Propstack is a data & analytics company that helps predict real estate market trends and enables efficient transactions.

 

Raybased (Gothenburg, Sweden)

 

Raybased is the open wireless network for commercial real estate, communicating across all existing electrical systems to monitor, control and optimize functions such as heating, ventilation, lighting and building access.

 

RefineRE (Dallas, U.S.)

 

RefineRE leverages real-time market data to provide CRE portfolio intelligence for organizations looking to make smarter, better and faster decisions about buying, selling, leasing, expanding, or downsizing their property footprint.

 

SPCE (London, U.K.)

 

In partnership with Experian and the world's top universities, SPCE allows the higher education community to search and pay for campus-specific, student rental properties and accrue a positive credit rating without the need for deposits or joint tenancy liability.

 

Upsuite (Denver, U.S.)

 

Where teams go to find coworking spaces.

 


About Colliers International Group Inc.

 

Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CIGI) (TSX:CIGI) is a top tier global real estate services and investment management company operating in 69 countries with a workforce of more than 13,000 professionals. Colliers is the fastest-growing publicly listed global real estate services and investment management company, with 2017 corporate revenues of $2.3 billion ($2.7 billion including affiliates). With an enterprising culture and significant employee ownership and control, Colliers professionals provide a full range of services to real estate occupiers, owners and investors worldwide, and through its investment management services platform, has more than $20 billion of assets under management from the world’s most respected institutional real estate investors.

 

Colliers professionals think differently, share great ideas and offer thoughtful and innovative advice to accelerate the success of its clients. Colliers has been ranked among the top 100 global outsourcing firms by the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals for 13 consecutive years, more than any other real estate services firm. Colliers is ranked the number one property manager in the world by Commercial Property Executive for two years in a row.

 

Colliers is led by an experienced leadership team with significant equity ownership and a proven record of delivering more than 20% annualized returns for shareholders, over more than 20 years.

 

For the latest news from Colliers, visit Colliers.com or follow us on Twitter: @Colliers and LinkedIn.

 

About Techstars

 

Techstars is the worldwide network that helps entrepreneurs succeed. Techstars founders connect with other entrepreneurs, experts, mentors, alumni, investors, community leaders, and corporations to grow their companies. Techstars operates four divisions: Techstars Startup Programs, Techstars Mentorship-Driven Accelerator Programs, Techstars Corporate Innovation Partnerships, and the Techstars Venture Capital Fund. www.techstars.com.

 

 

 

 

KNEIP Continues to Underline Its Digital Transformation in the Funds Management Sector

$
0
0
Business Wire India

KNEIP continues to underline its digital transformation in the funds management sector with more industry experts joining their team.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180911005697/en/

 
Bob KNEIP, Founder and Chairman of KNEIP (Photo: Business Wire)

Bob KNEIP, Founder and Chairman of KNEIP (Photo: Business Wire)

Over the last 2 years, KNEIP has transformed its business into a new digital era. Leading this vision is the Founder and Chairman, Bob Kneip, who will continue to support the management and strategy of KNEIP. Having assisted KNEIP with the business transformation and readying KNEIP to be global and digital, current CEO Lee Godfrey will move into a newly formed role as Chief Corporate Development Officer, to truly take our digital business global and into new vertical markets.

 

Neil Ward will become CEO, activating the new business strategy and empowering a strongly forecasted growth. Neil brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as SVP and GM of Global Business Operations at Skype.

 

Furthermore, Sigrid Nygaard Johansen will be joining KNEIP as the new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). Sigrid’s proven track record as CCO & VP Global Sales at eGiss will be a valuable asset to KNEIP.

 

Mr Kneip commented, “KNEIP is going through an extraordinary period of digital transformation. We are about to launch an integrated online digital platform with the vision of improving the funds industry for investors, by providing greater efficiencies and transparency for asset managers. We are strengthening the Executive Leadership Team to guide KNEIP in the right direction, continuously challenging the status quo and offering invaluable insights.”

 

Incoming CEO Neil Ward also commented, “KNEIP’s vision is innovative in the world of financial data management and I look forward to joining Mr Kneip and the Board of Directors in delivering the global business strategy and digital transformation and re-enforcing KNEIP’s presence in the international market.”

 

 

 

 
MULTIMEDIA AVAILABLE :
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180911005697/en/

SoftBank, Synchronoss and TBCASoft Partner on a Proof of Concept for an RCS and Blockchain-Based Mobile Payments Service

$
0
0
Business Wire India

SoftBank Corp., a Japan-based telecom carrier; Synchronoss Technologies, Inc. (SNCR), a global leader and innovator of cloud, messaging, digital and IoT products; and TBCASoft, Inc., an innovator of cross-carrier blockchain platform technology, today announced that they have partnered on a Proof of Concept (PoC) for a new cross-carrier mobile payments service based on the Rich Communications Service (RCS) global messaging standard and TBCASoft’s cross-carrier blockchain platform.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180911005882/en/

 

Synchronoss has delivered in Japan, a rich and secure multi-channel communications platform, which covers SMS, email and RCS. The platform launched earlier this year. TBCASoft has been working with SoftBank, under the Carrier Blockchain Study Group (CBSG) Consortium, to deliver a cross-carrier blockchain platform called CCPS (Cross-Carrier Payment Service), which facilitates global mobile payment services among global telecommunication carriers.

 

The three companies have successfully completed a mobile payments service PoC that is designed to allow users to make a range of in-store, mobile and digital purchases directly from their device. A mobile customer based in Japan, for example, can travel to the USA and make a purchase in dollars via RCS which is supported by SoftBank and Synchronoss. The RCS global messaging standard can also be conveniently used to send a payment. The flexibility of the CCPS blockchain API enables the recipient to use an RCS-based messaging app or legacy messaging service like SMS or mobile email, to receive person-to-person (P2P) money transfers through the RCS wallet app either in the same country or overseas.

 

Commenting on the announcement, Takeshi Fukuizumi, Vice President of Softbank Corp. said: “This RCS and blockchain based mobile payments PoC demonstrates the value operator-led services can deliver. Not only do we foresee our new mobile payment service empowering merchants to operate digitally, and at a scale that was previously only available to big brands, but it will also give our customers more flexibility when it comes to their purchasing and travelling habits.”

 

Also commenting on the news, Synchronoss CEO and President Glenn Lurie said: “Our PoC demonstrates how SoftBank is at the forefront in bringing to market new cutting edge technology through the use of blockchain as well as new RCS-based mobile services, which will disrupt the current messaging and payments market, creating new opportunities for customers, brands, and businesses – and which will also drive incremental revenue for operators from messaging. RCS messaging will become the foundation for a new, feature-rich marketplace for brands and merchants, both large and small, to interact with subscribers. With our expertise and global reach across multiple messaging platforms – not only RCS, but also email, IM, MMS and SMS, Synchronoss is ideally positioned to take advantage of this important new trend in mobile.”

 

“Increasing numbers of Communication Service Providers (CSPs) are turning to blockchain technology to support a growing range of new features and services – including secured clearing and settlement, personal authentication, and IoT applications,” said Ling Wu, Founder and CEO of TBCASoft. “In today’s digital economy, blockchain lets CSPs create new services and then extend them globally, beyond their established territories and markets, in a way that’s efficient and secure. The success of this PoC proves that our Cross-Carrier Blockchain Platform can help CSPs leverage common standards like RCS to deliver disruptive services to their customers.”

 

SoftBank, Synchronoss and TBCASoft will demonstrate this successful mobile payments service PoC at the Mobile World Congress Americas conference, which takes place from September 12 through 14 in Los Angeles, CA.

 

- ENDS -

 

About SoftBank Corp.

 

SoftBank Corp., a subsidiary of SoftBank Group Corp. (TOKYO:9984), provides mobile communication, fixed-line communication, and Internet connection services to consumers and corporate customers in Japan. Leveraging the innovative technologies of other SoftBank Group companies, SoftBank Corp. is also expanding into AI, smart robotics, IoT, FinTech, cloud security and other business sectors. To learn more, please visit www.SoftBank.jp/en/corp/group/sbm/.

 

About Synchronoss Technologies, Inc.

 

Synchronoss (NASDAQ:SNCR) transforms the way companies create new revenue, reduce costs and delight their subscribers with cloud, messaging, digital and IoT products and platforms supporting hundreds of millions of subscribers across the globe. Synchronoss’ secure, scalable and groundbreaking new technologies, trusted partnerships and talented people change the way TMT customers grow their businesses. For more information, visit us at www.synchronoss.com.

 

About TBCASoft, Inc.

 

TBCASoft is a U.S.-based company developing innovative blockchain technology specifically for telecommunication carriers. Its consortium-based blockchain platform enables telecommunication carriers to create innovative services for their subscribers under a more secure, robust, and efficient environment. TBCASoft is located in Sunnyvale, California, the center of Silicon Valley. To learn more, please visit TBCASoft at www.tbcasoft.com.

 

 

 

 
MULTIMEDIA AVAILABLE :
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180911005882/en/

Andersen Global Continues Expansion in Middle East with Zalloum & Laswi Law Firm

$
0
0
Business Wire India

Zalloum & Laswi, a prominent law firm with a presence in Amman, Jordan, has signed a Collaboration Agreement with Andersen Global, an international association of tax and law firms. Initially established in 1993 as a law office by Managing Partner Azzam Zalloum, Zalloum & Laswi later became a full-fledged law firm and now has more than 20 professionals. The collaboration broadens Andersen Global’s presence internationally and is a significant development for the practice in the Middle East.

 

Andersen Global Chairman and Andersen Tax LLC CEO, Mark Vorsatz, said, “The collaboration in Jordan provides us with a platform in a key market and our growth here is part of a larger strategy to continue our existing build-out of the Middle East throughout the next year. Zalloum & Laswi’s vast experience in commercial litigation and transactions, as well as their insight on the Jordanian judicial system positions us for continued opportunities for expansion.”

 

Zalloum & Laswi provides in-depth knowledge on a wide range of legal issues to a variety of clients, but typically mid to large sized Jordanian corporations or foreign corporations that require representation in Jordan. The firm’s practice areas include banking and finance, civil law, contracts, foreign investment, intellectual property rights, international trade and cross-border issues, corporate and commercial law, criminal law, litigation and dispute resolution, mergers & acquisitions, and real estate. Led by Partners Azzam Zalloum and Rasha Laswi, Zalloum & Laswi maintains a comprehensive understanding of local Jordanian laws and regulations.

 

“We feel that quality and people are the heart of the Andersen Global culture, so we are excited to join the team and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share our value of putting people, both internal and external, at the forefront,” commented Rasha Laswi. “Our priority is catering to the needs of each of our clients, which we achieve by providing quality legal services compatible with today’s economic challenges. Our collaboration with Andersen Global will allow us to combine best-in-class tax and legal services internationally and even better service our clientele.”

 

Andersen Global is an international association of legally separate, independent member firms comprised of tax and legal professionals around the world. Established in 2013 by U.S. member firm Andersen Tax LLC, Andersen Global now has more than 3,500 professionals worldwide and a presence in over 112 locations through its member firms and collaborating firms.

 

 

 

 

Intuit Announces the Five Finalists in its 2018 Global Firm of the Future Contest

$
0
0
Business Wire India

Intuit Inc. (Nasdaq: INTU) revealed Cloud Bookkeeping Services, PJCO, Reconciled, Regional Business Services Ptd Ltd and Wealth Café Business Advisors Pvt Ltd are one step closer to winning the coveted title of the 2018 Intuit QuickBooks Global Firm of the Future. Representing Australia, Canada, India, the United Kingdom and the United States, these are the top accounting firms from around the globe whose entries best demonstrate how they embrace online technologies to grow their practices and help their small business clients succeed and prosper.

 

The Firm of the Future contest, now in its fourth year, invited bookkeeping, full-service accounting and tax firms in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States and, for the first time, India to showcase how they see the value of the cloud, serve as a trusted advisor to their clients, and grow their practice with modern marketing techniques. New this year, firms were also asked to include a story of how they helped a small business client overcome a challenge and achieve success. Participating firms and the small business clients named in their submissions were entered for the chance at over $135,000 USD in prizes.

 

“We are thrilled to announce this inspiring group of firms as this year’s finalists in the Firm of the Future contest,” said Ariege Misherghi, global leader of Intuit’s Accountant Segment, Small Business and Self-Employed Group. “Each firm’s submission clearly highlighted both how they embrace new technologies and ideas, and just as important, that they recognize that this is what will drive their firm and clients forward to greater success. We’re eager to celebrate these firms and the ways they break the mold to help their clients grow and thrive.”

 

Misherghi and a panel of qualified judges from Intuit’s global sites selected the top five finalists who best embody the attributes of Firms of the Future. The top five finalists provided written submissions highlighting their firm’s work, culture and vision to demonstrate why they deserve to be named a Firm of the Future, along with their story about how they helped a specific client to succeed. The finalists (in alphabetical order) are:

 

In the next phase of the contest, each finalist will develop a creative video that demonstrates what makes their firm a Firm of the Future. Intuit will provide a videographer and producer for filming and work directly with each finalist to develop a high-quality video entry. Once complete, the videos will be available for public voting in an online gallery on the Firm of the Future website. The voting period is open October 16-31, 2018. For every vote and social share that takes place during the voting period, a donation from Intuit will be made to Kiva.org (up to $25,000 USD).

 

The five finalists and the small businesses identified by each firm will each receive a $5,000 USD cash prize and one free ticket and all-expense paid trip to Intuit’s annual conference, QuickBooks Connect, November 5-7, in San Jose, California. The grand prize winner and the small business they support will be revealed on the main stage on November 5, and receive additional cash prizes of $25,000 USD and $15,000 USD, respectively.

 

In addition to the five finalists announced, 10 Firm of the Future runners-up from across the globe were announced. The 10 runners-up will each receive a cash prize of $2,500 USD and the small businesses identified by each runner-up will be awarded a cash prize of $1,000 USD. The runners-up (in alphabetical order) are:

 

Register for QuickBooks Connect and meet the five finalists in-person in November and see the grand prize winner announced on stage. Speakers at this year’s conference include Alex Rodriguez, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of A-Rod Corp, Mindy Kaling, Actor, Writer, Producer and Director and Dylan Lauren, CEO and Founder of Dylan’s Candy Bar.

 

To join the conversation, share on Facebook and Twitter using #QBFirmOfTheFuture.

 

About Intuit

 

Intuit’s mission is to Power Prosperity Around the World. Our global products and platforms, including TurboTaxQuickBooksMint and Turbo, are designed to empower consumers, self-employed and small businesses to improve their financial lives, finding them more money with the least amount of work, while giving them complete confidence in their actions and decisions. Our innovative ecosystem of financial management solutions serves approximately 50 million customers worldwide, unleashing the power of many for the prosperity of one. Please visit us for the latest news and in-depth information about Intuit and its brands and find us on social.

 

 

 

 

MPM Holdings Inc. Enters into Agreement to be Acquired by Investor Group Consisting of SJL Partners, KCC Corporation and Wonik QnC Corporation

$
0
0
Business Wire India

MPM Holdings Inc. (“Momentive” or the “Company”) (OTCQX:MPMQ), a global silicones and advanced materials company, and SJL Partners LLC (“SJL”), KCC Corporation (KS:002380) (“KCC”) and Wonik QnC Corporation (KOSDAQ:074600) (“Wonik”) (collectively, the “Investor Group”), today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement whereby the Investor Group will acquire Momentive in a transaction valued at approximately $3.1 billion, including the assumption of net debt, pension and OPEB liabilities.

 

Based in Waterford, New York, Momentive develops and manufactures specialty silicones and silanes, as well as fused quartz and specialty ceramics products. Momentive has a more than 75-year track record of creating products and solutions to serve more than 4,000 customers in over 100 countries. The Company has a global network of 24 production sites and 12 research and development facilities.

 

“Today’s announcement is the result of a thoughtful and comprehensive review of the strategic growth and value creation opportunities available to the Company,” said Jack Boss, Chief Executive Officer and President at Momentive. “We believe this is a great outcome for all of our stakeholders, delivering maximum value to our stockholders while positioning the Company for long-term growth and future job creation that will benefit our talented employees across the globe, customers and suppliers. The transaction will not only allow our silicones and quartz businesses to benefit from KCC and Wonik’s industry expertise but will also further enhance Momentive’s global leadership position by expanding our portfolio of products, broadening our geographic reach and strengthening our financial position. We look forward to partnering with the exceptional teams at KCC, Wonik and SJL after the transaction closes to continue providing specialized products and services to our global customers.”

 

Steve Lim, Chairman and Managing Partner of SJL, representing the Investor Group said, “On behalf of KCC, Wonik and SJL, we are eager to begin this partnership with Jack and the Momentive team. As a result of this highly strategic transaction the combined company will have superior capabilities to better compete in today’s global market. The combination of Momentive’s leading product portfolios, KCC and Wonik’s reach into an expanded geographical market and SJL’s solid investment backing and private equity expertise will further position the Company for long-term success.”

 

Under the terms of the agreement, which has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of Momentive, KCC and Wonik, the investment committee of SJL and by requisite vote of Momentive’s stockholders, the Investor Group will assume Momentive’s net debt obligations subject to minimum closing cash requirements of $250 million. Momentive stockholders will receive $32.50 for each share of common stock they own subject to minimum closing cash requirements.

 

The transaction will be financed through a combination of cash and new debt that will be put in place at closing. The transaction is not subject to any financing contingency and is expected to close in the first half of 2019, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

 

Goldman Sachs & Co LLC and Moelis & Company LLC are serving as financial advisors to Momentive. Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP is serving as primary legal counsel to Momentive. UBS Investment Bank is serving as financial advisor to the Investor Group, and Greenberg Traurig, LLP is serving as legal counsel.

 

About Momentive
Momentive is a global leader in silicones and advanced materials, with a more than 75-year heritage of being first to market with performance applications that support and improve everyday life. Momentive delivers science-based solutions for major industries, by linking its custom technology platforms to allow the creation of unique solutions for customers. Additional information is available at www.momentive.com.

 

About KCC Corporation
Based in Seoul, South Korea, KCC Corporation is a leading chemicals manufacturer in Korea, specializing in paints, building materials and specialty materials. It also engages in the silicones business for developing products in the fields of specialized paints and precision chemical engineering. KCC Corporation was founded in 1958 and is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. Additional information is available at www.kccworld.co.kr/eng/main.do.

 

About Wonik QnC Corporation
Wonik QnC Corporation manufactures and sells quartz and ceramic wares used in the production of semiconductor wafers. The company’s Quartz division provides quartz wares used in the production of semiconductor IC’s, as well as products used in the production of semiconductors, LCDs, LEDs, and solar cells. Its Ceramic division offers ceramics materials, including aluminum nitride, silicon carbide, and boron nitride composite. Wonik QnC Corporation was founded in 1983 and is headquartered in Gumi, South Korea. Additional information is available at www.wonikqnc.com/eng/.

 

About SJL Partners
SJL is a private equity investment manager focused on partnership investments with market-leading strategic companies to support their organic and inorganic growth, including bolt-on acquisitions. SJL’s portfolio includes investment into Celltrion Holdings, Korea’s leading biosimilar drug manufacturer, and Vigevano, one of the earliest distributors of leading fashion brands and leather goods in Korea. Additional information is available at www.sjlpartners.com.

 

Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements

 

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of and made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements related to the benefits and anticipated timing of the merger transaction and expectations or predictions of future financial or business performance. In addition, our management may from time to time make oral forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “plan,” “estimate,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “seek” or “intend” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements reflect our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy, the merger agreement, and other future events and conditions and are based on currently available financial, economic and competitive data and our current business plans. Actual results could vary materially depending on risks and uncertainties that may affect our operations, markets, services, prices and other factors as discussed in the Risk Factors section of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, this press release, and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). While we believe our assumptions are reasonable, we caution you against relying on any forward-looking statements as it is very difficult to predict the impact of known factors, and it is impossible for us to anticipate all factors that could affect our actual results. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: a weakening of global economic and financial conditions, interruptions in the supply of or increased cost of raw materials, the impact of work stoppage and other incidents on our operations, changes in governmental regulations or interpretations thereof and related compliance and litigation costs, adverse rulings in litigation, difficulties with the realization of our cost savings in connection with strategic initiatives, including transactions with our affiliate, Hexion Inc., pricing actions by our competitors that could affect our operating margins, the impact of our growth and productivity investments, our ability to realize the benefits there from, and the timing thereof, our ability to obtain additional financing, and risks related to the merger agreement including the risk that the necessary regulatory approvals may not be obtained or may be obtained subject to conditions that are not anticipated, risks that any of the closing conditions to the proposed merger may not be satisfied or may not be satisfied in a timely manner, the risk that the businesses will not be integrated successfully, that such integration may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected or that the expected benefits of the acquisition will not be realized, potential customer losses and business disruption following the announcement or consummation of the proposed transaction, potential litigation relating to the merger transaction, the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, the effect of the announcement or pendency of the transaction on the Company’s business relationships, operating results, and business generally, and the other factors listed in the Risk Factors section of our SEC filings. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary notice. The forward-looking statements made by us speak only as of the date on which they are made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.

 

 

 

 

Chinese Tourists Go Cashless in Singapore with Alipay and Singapore Tourism Board

$
0
0
Business Wire India

Alipay, the world’s leading mobile payment and lifestyle platform operated by Ant Financial Services Group, today announced the conclusion of the first "cashless" trip made by Chinese visitors to Singapore, together with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Prominent Singaporean businesses including Resort World Sentosa, Shangri-La Hotel, and Singapore Airlines offered their support by accepting Alipay throughout the trip.

 

This trip was designed to promote Singapore’s various destination offerings that accept Alipay’s cashless payment platform to demonstrate to Chinese visitors that they can enjoy the same seamless experience in Singapore as they do back at home. At the same time, the visitors were also encouraged to explore the city with itineraries tailored to their passions. Through a social media campaign, Alipay and STB invited six lucky users to go on a Singaporean sojourn that was cashless in execution, and priceless in value. During the trip, the visitors used Alipay for purchases including meals, accommodations, transportation, gifts and souvenirs, and entertainment experiences. Distinct travel itineraries were curated by the STB for the Foodies, Collectors and Explorers tribes1, which took the visitors to unique destinations in Singapore for mouthwatering meals, exciting places to shop, and fantastic sights.

 

"With the announcement of this trip, we learned that Chinese tourists prefer to use mobile payment,” said James Quan, founder of Bynd Artisan, a bookbinding and leather crafting business. “Once we realized this we didn’t hesitate to adopt Alipay so we can better serve our Chinese customers.”

 

“Since Alipay is convenient and acts as a wallet, we have noticed that a majority of Chinese guests visiting our store choose to use Alipay for their purchases. We have been partnering with Alipay as we want to make our Chinese customers feel comfortable while shopping with us, by offering them a payment method that they are familiar with," said Crystal Chip, a store manager of fashion brand PEDRO, which experienced an increase in traffic and awareness from Chinese tourists after connecting with Alipay.

 

Singapore is attracting a growing number of Chinese tourists, partly due to the efforts of local merchants to address the evolving needs and spending habits of Chinese visitors. According to STB2, over 3.2 million Chinese tourists visited Singapore in 2017. Singapore welcomed more tourists from China than from any other country for the first time last year. Chinese tourists are also the largest source of tourist spending in Singapore.

 

“We are pleased to have partnered with Alipay in this activity given their strong reach and understanding of the Chinese market, our top source market for both visitor arrivals and tourist spending. We hope to use the insights from this initiative to explore better ways of engaging Chinese visitors and to offer more compelling and seamless experiences through Alipay that are better tailored to their passions,” said Miss Jacqueline Ng, Director, Marketing Partnerships and Planning, Singapore Tourism Board.

 

“We are very pleased to work with the Singapore Tourism Board to provide a cashless experience for Chinese tourists travelling to Singapore. Through Alipay, we hope to help even more merchants in Singapore connect with Chinese tourists,” said Cherry Huang, General Manager, Cross-border Business for South and Southeast Asia, Alipay.

 

Data from Nielsen3 has indicated that 65% of Chinese tourists use mobile payment platforms during their overseas travels, six times more than non-Chinese tourists (11%). In addition, over 90% of Chinese tourists would consider using Alipay when traveling abroad if Alipay was more widely accepted among foreign merchants. Moreover, over 90% of Chinese tourists indicated they would increase their spending if Alipay was an accepted payment method.

 

Last year, Finland became the first country to offer Chinese travelers a completely cashless experience. A group of Chinese visitors paid for all of their local transactions via their Alipay accounts, from booking flights, making retail purchases, and dining out, to visiting museums, experiencing recreational activities, and managing transportation, as well as receiving an instant tax refund at the Helsinki airport.

 

About Alipay

 

Operated by Ant Financial Services Group, Alipay is the world’s largest mobile and online payment platform. Launched in 2004, Alipay currently has over 520 million active users and over 200 domestic financial institution partners. Alipay has evolved from a digital wallet to a lifestyle enabler. Users can hail a taxi, book a hotel, buy movie tickets, pay utility bills, make appointments with doctors, or purchase wealth management products directly from within the app. In addition to online payments, Alipay is expanding to in-store offline payments both inside and outside of China. Alipay’s in-store payment service covers more than 40 countries across the world, and tax reimbursement via Alipay is supported in 29 countries and regions. Alipay works with over 250 overseas financial institutions and payment solution providers to enable cross-border payments for Chinese traveling overseas and overseas customers who purchase products from Chinese e-commerce sites. Alipay currently supports 27 currencies.

 

1 There are a total of seven passion tribes under the Passion Made Possible brand. For more information on Passion Made Possible and passion tribes, go to www.visitsingapore.com

 

2https://box.stb.gov.sg/web/Download/Files/1967cbf4-1869-4a95-b837-b32d9c3cc229

 

3http://www.nielsen.com/cn/en/insights/reports/2018/nielsen-over-90-percent-chinese-tourists-would-use-mobile-payment-overseas-given-the-option.html

 

 

Moody’s Commences Cash Tender Offer for All Shares of Reis

$
0
0
Business Wire India

Moody’s Corporation (NYSE:MCO) announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Moody’s Analytics Maryland Corp., has commenced the previously announced planned tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of common stock of Reis, Inc. (NASDAQ:REIS) at a price of $23.00 per share, net to the seller in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes.

 

The tender offer follows an announcement on August 30, 2018 that Moody’s and Reis had entered into a definitive merger agreement for Moody’s to acquire all outstanding shares of Reis in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $278 million. The transaction has been approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies.

 

The tender offer period is scheduled to expire at 11:59 PM, Eastern Time, on October 12, 2018, unless extended or terminated earlier.

 

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, including the tender of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Reis common stock (other than shares owned by Reis’s wholly-owned subsidiaries) and clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act.

 

Moody’s has entered into tender and support agreements with certain Reis management stockholders under which they have committed to accept the tender offer and to tender all of their Reis shares, which represent approximately 18% of Reis’s issued and outstanding shares of common stock (excluding for these purposes any shares owned by Reis’s wholly-owned subsidiaries).

 

Complete terms and conditions of the tender offer can be found in the Offer to Purchase, the related Letter of Transmittal and certain other materials filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on September 13, 2018, and available at www.sec.gov. In addition, on September 13, 2018, Reis filed a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC relating to the tender offer.

 

Following completion of the tender offer, Moody’s will acquire all remaining shares of common stock of Reis (other than shares owned by any of Reis’s wholly-owned subsidiaries or by Moody’s or any of its subsidiaries) at the same price of $23.00 per share, net to the holder in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes, through a second-step merger whereby Reis will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Moody’s. Upon consummation of the merger, shares of Reis’s common stock owned by any of Reis’s wholly-owned subsidiaries or by Moody’s or any of its subsidiaries shall be converted into fully paid and non-assessable shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the surviving corporation.

 

Copies of the Offer to Purchase, the related Letter of Transmittal and other materials related to the tender offer may be obtained for free from the information agent, D.F. King & Co., Inc., toll-free at 877-732-3617. Banks and brokers may call the information agent collect at 212-269-5550. The depositary for the tender offer is American Stock Transfer & Trust Co., LLC.

 

ABOUT MOODY'S CORPORATION

 

Moody's is an essential component of the global capital markets, providing credit ratings, research, tools and analysis that contribute to transparent and integrated financial markets. Moody’s Corporation (NYSE: MCO) is the parent company of Moody's Investors Service, which provides credit ratings and research covering debt instruments and securities, and Moody's Analytics, which offers leading-edge software, advisory services and research for credit and economic analysis and financial risk management. The corporation, which reported revenue of $4.2 billion in 2017, employs approximately 12,300 people worldwide and maintains a presence in 42 countries. Further information is available at www.moodys.com.

 

Additional Information and Where to Find It

 

This communication is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any shares of Reis or any other securities. A Tender Offer Statement on Schedule TO, including an Offer to Purchase, the related Letter of Transmittal and certain other materials, has been filed with the SEC by Moody’s and its merger subsidiary, Moody’s Analytics Maryland Corp., and a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 has been filed with the SEC by Reis. The tender offer will only be made pursuant to the Offer to Purchase, the related Letter of Transmittal and the other documents filed as a part of the Schedule TO.

 

INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ BOTH THE TENDER OFFER MATERIALS (INCLUDING THE OFFER TO PURCHASE, THE RELATED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND THE OTHER TENDER OFFER MATERIALS) AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 FILED BY REIS REGARDING THE OFFER, IN EACH CASE, AS THEY MAY BE AMENDED FROM TIME TO TIME, BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION WHICH SHOULD BE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE ANY DECISION IS MADE WITH RESPECT TO THE TENDER OFFER. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS MAY OBTAIN A FREE COPY OF THESE STATEMENTS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC AT THE WEBSITE MAINTAINED BY THE SEC AT WWW.SEC.GOV OR BY DIRECTING SUCH REQUESTS TO THE INFORMATION AGENT FOR THE TENDER OFFER.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

Certain statements contained in this release are forward-looking statements and are based on future expectations, plans and prospects for Moody's business and operations that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements and other information in this release are made as of the date hereof (except where noted otherwise), and Moody's undertakes no obligation (nor does it intend) to publicly supplement, update or revise such statements on a going-forward basis, whether as a result of subsequent developments, changed expectations or otherwise. Moody's is identifying certain factors, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ, perhaps materially, from those indicated by these forward-looking statements. Those factors, risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, credit market disruptions or economic slowdowns, which could affect the volume of debt and other securities issued in domestic and/or global capital markets; other matters that could affect the volume of debt and other securities issued in domestic and/or global capital markets, including regulation, credit quality concerns, changes in interest rates and other volatility in the financial markets such as that due to the U.K.’s referendum vote whereby the U.K. citizens voted to withdraw from the EU; the level of merger and acquisition activity in the U.S. and abroad; the uncertain effectiveness and possible collateral consequences of U.S. and foreign government actions affecting world-wide credit markets, international trade and economic policy; concerns in the marketplace affecting our credibility or otherwise affecting market perceptions of the integrity or utility of independent credit agency ratings; the introduction of competing products or technologies by other companies; pricing pressure from competitors and/or customers; the level of success of new product development and global expansion; the impact of regulation as an NRSRO, the potential for new U.S., state and local legislation and regulations, including provisions in the Financial Reform Act and regulations resulting from that Act; the potential for increased competition and regulation in the EU and other foreign jurisdictions; exposure to litigation related to our rating opinions, as well as any other litigation, government and regulatory proceedings, investigations and inquires to which Moody's may be subject from time to time; provisions in the Financial Reform Act legislation modifying the pleading standards, and EU regulations modifying the liability standards, applicable to credit rating agencies in a manner adverse to credit rating agencies; provisions of EU regulations imposing additional procedural and substantive requirements on the pricing of services and the expansion of supervisory remit to include non-EU ratings used for regulatory purposes; the possible loss of key employees; failures or malfunctions of our operations and infrastructure; any vulnerabilities to cyber threats or other cybersecurity concerns; the outcome of any review by controlling tax authorities of Moody's global tax planning initiatives; exposure to potential criminal sanctions or civil remedies if Moody's fails to comply with foreign and U.S. laws and regulations that are applicable in the jurisdictions in which Moody's operates, including data protection and privacy laws, sanctions laws, anti-corruption laws, and local laws prohibiting corrupt payments to government officials; the impact of mergers, acquisitions or other business combinations and the ability of Moody's to successfully integrate acquired businesses; currency and foreign exchange volatility; the level of future cash flows; the levels of capital investments; and a decline in the demand for credit risk management tools by financial institutions. Other factors, risks and uncertainties relating to our acquisition of Reis could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements, including uncertainties as to how many of Reis’s stockholders will tender their shares in the offer; the possibility that competing offers will be made; risks relating to filings and approvals relating to the acquisition; the expected timing of the completion of the acquisition; the ability to complete the acquisition considering the various closing conditions; difficulties or unanticipated expenses in connection with integrating Reis’s operations, products and employees into Moody’s and the possibility that anticipated synergies and other benefits of the acquisition will not be realized in the amounts anticipated or will not be realized within the expected timeframe; risks that the acquisition could have an adverse effect on the business of Reis or its prospects, including, without limitation, on relationships with vendors, suppliers or customers; claims made, from time to time, by vendors, suppliers or customers; changes in the global marketplace that have an adverse effect on the business of Reis; and the accuracy of any assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. These factors, risks and uncertainties as well as other risks and uncertainties that could cause Moody’s actual results to differ materially from those contemplated, expressed, projected, anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements are described in greater detail under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of the Moody's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, the tender offer documents to be filed with the SEC by Moody's and its acquisition subsidiary and the solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 to be filed by Reis and other filings made by Moody's from time to time with the SEC or materials incorporated herein or therein. Stockholders and investors are cautioned that the occurrence of any of these factors, risks and uncertainties may cause Moody's actual results to differ materially from those contemplated, expressed, projected, anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements, which could have a material and adverse effect on Moody's business, results of operations and financial condition. New factors may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Moody's to predict new factors, nor can Moody's assess the potential effect of any new factors on it.

 

 

Bajaj Finserv Offers Customised Loans to MSME and SMEs With Minimal Documentation

$
0
0
Business Wire IndiaBajaj Finance Ltd, the lending arm of Bajaj Finserv, offers SME and MSME segment a customised Business Loans with simple eligibility criteria and minimal documentation. SMEs and MSMEs can borrow loan up to Rs. 30 Lakh by submitting their registration certificate of the company and previous year income tax returns. The loan can be availed in 24hours once the application meets all the criteria.
 
With the evolvement of GST as a framework, most of the data is expected to be structured & uniformly available across SME segment. This enhances ability of the segment to borrow funds for growth and expansion. Bajaj Finserv has also introduced secured enterprises for SME customers. This is essentially a lighter version of mortgage offering which is offered in smaller markets where structured information may not be readily available. This loan eligibility is solely based on the valuation of the property to be mortgaged and not basis the financial documents of the applicant.     

The Business Loan by Bajaj Finserv offers attractive interest rates and flexible repayment options. With approvals in just 24 hours and free of collateral/ guarantor, Bajaj Finserv Business Loan offers one of the most hassle-free financing option for MSME and SME enterprises or self-employed individuals.
 
Exclusive Flexi loan facility
 
To cater to the needs of growing businesses, Bajaj Finserv offers innovative Flexi Business Loans to SMEs. As per the eligibility SME customer is offered a loan limit which can be utilized as and when required. This an option where the customer pays interest on the amount utilised. The consumer is free to withdraw any amount or part pre-pay in the assigned tenor and within the assigned limit, without incurring additional charges.  
The SME customers gain from this feature in two ways: not only does this give them access to money as and when their business needs it without making multiple loan application, but it also charges them interest only on the amount used during the initial tenor. This helps the SME customer save time, meet urgent expenses and save money. They can borrow as many times as they want, and make part-prepayments when they have excess funds and can re-avail the repaid amount up to limit too.
 
Simple eligibility criteria and minimal documentation

To qualify for Business Loan the applicant needs to be an Indian citizen between 25 and 55 years of age. The business vintage should be at least three years with at least one year’s proof of filing income tax returns. The loans are approved instantly and requires KYC and financial documents at the time of document verification.
 
Easy application process

With a simple 3-step process, applying for this loan is quick and convenient. The applicant needs to fill in the online application form on the company’s website. Once the information meets the eligibility criteria a representative of Bajaj Finserv will contact the SME within 24-hours to discuss the loan offer and documentation. Lastly, the applicant needs to submit the requisite documents. Upon verification, the loan amount will be disbursed. The usual timeline for this 3-step process is 48 hours.
 
Online Access

Bajaj Finserv Business Loans offer the convenience to SMEs of accessing their business loan statement online at anytime and anywhere. Customers can have complete control over their loan including repayment over the Experia portal.
About Bajaj Finance Ltd

Bajaj Finance Limited, the lending and investment arm of Bajaj Finserv group, is one of the most diversified NBFCs in the Indian market catering to more than 21 million customers across the country. Headquartered in Pune, the company's product offering includes Consumer Durable Loans, Lifestyle Finance, Personal Loans, Loan against Property, Small Business Loans, Home Loans, Credit Cards, Two-wheeler and Three-wheeler Loans, Construction Equipment Loans, Loan against Securities and Rural Finance which includes Gold Loans and Vehicle Re-Financing Loans. Bajaj Finance Limited prides itself on holding the highest credit rating of FAAA/Stable for any NBFC in the country today. To know more, please visit: https://www.bajajfinserv.in

FundzBazar Crossed 2 Lakh Investors Milestone

$
0
0
Business Wire IndiaFundzBazar.com, one of India’s leading online mutual fund investment platform announced that its investor base has crossed the 2 lakh mark in a span of 28 months. FundzBazar attributes this success to its channel partners, investors and team Prudent.

Fundzbazar was launched in May 2016. Within 18 months FundzBazar crossed 1 Lakh investors and doubled its investor’s base to 2 lakh in just 10 months!

“Since beginning, we have focused on making the platform more and more investor-friendly by providing smart and flexible investment features backed by state-of-the-art technology, and we are happy to see this focus translating into nos. Looking at the current growth, we are aiming to add another 3 Lakh investors in next 24 months’ time. We thank all our channel partners, investors and team Prudent for making this happen” said the management.

In next few months, the platform is planning to roll out new features like SIP with Insurance facility, transaction facility through RTGS/NEFT payment mode and many more.
About Prudent Group

FundzBazar is promoted by Prudent Group, an integrated wealth management group with diversified verticals across Mutual Funds, Broking, Insurance and Property advisory having more than 18 years of experience in financial advisory and distribution business.

Prudent manages Rs. 19, 580 Crore AUM and operates a total of 70 branches across 19 states in India. Through its network of over 11000 channel partners across India, the group caters to 6.10 lakhs+ clients with no. of live SIPs exceeding 8.68 Lakhs.

For more information, visit: www.prudentcorporate.comwww.fundzbazar.com

Razorpay Recognised Among India’s Most Sought-After Startups: LinkedIn

$
0
0
Business Wire India
LinkedIn India Top Startups_Razorpay
LinkedIn India Top Startups_Razorpay

Razorpay, India’s first holistic converged payments solution company, today announced that it has been named to the 2018 LinkedIn Top Startups List, which honors the 25 most sought-after startups in India.
 
Razorpay has bagged the 9th rank in this year’s edition of LinkedIn’s Top Startups list. It truly reflects the work culture and work environment that Razorpay fosters within the company and its employees. Having achieved many significant milestones early on in their journey, Razorpay has witnessed growth both in terms of market share and mindspace with customers and industry peers.

Anuradha Bharat, Head - People Operations at Razorpay says, “Over the last three and half years, we have been working towards building an inclusive yet diverse, fun & impactful workplace that employees take pride in. We are delighted and honoured to have been featured as one of the top 10 most attractive startups. LinkedIn’s recognition is a testimony of right efforts and the resultant excellence.
 
She added, “At Razorpay, we practice a transparent work culture and always encourage our people to develop hunger to learn and achieve more - work for their passion and think like entrepreneurs. This recognition adds to our list of significant milestones reassuring that our efforts are in the right direction, inspiring us to take excellence to new heights.”


The LinkedIn Top Startups list is derived from a blended score looking at factors including interest in the company, engagement with the employees, job interest and retention, and is informed by the billions of actions taken by more than 575 million professionals on LinkedIn.

About Razorpay
 
Razorpay, India’s first Converged Payments Solution company, helps Indian businesses with comprehensive and innovative solutions built over robust technology to address the entire length and breadth of the payment journey for any business. Established in 2014, the company provides tech payment solutions to over 100,000 online businesses. Founded by alumni of IIT Roorkee, Shashank Kumar & Harshil Mathur, Razorpay is the second Indian company to be a part of Silicon Valley’s largest tech accelerator, Y Combinator. Marquee investors such as Tiger Global, Matrix Partners, Y Combinator and MasterCard have invested a total of $31.5 million through Series A & Series B funding. Around 33 angel investors including Snapdeal, InMobi & Freecharge founders, Visa’s Global Head of Strategy, Flipkart ex-CPO Punit Soni and internet entrepreneurs & investors Justin Kan and Tikhon Bernstam have invested in Razorpay’s mission to simplify payments. Known to be a developer oriented payment gateway, Razorpay focuses on essentials such as 24x7 support, one-line integration code and superior checkout experiences.
 
About LinkedIn Top Startups List
 
The list is a part of the LinkedIn List franchise, an ongoing editorial series that celebrates professionals and companies making an impact across the world. To be considered for this year’s list, companies needed to be privately held, be seven years old or younger, and have 50 or more employees. LinkedIn then looked at the activity of its own users – which exceed more than 500 million – in order to factor in employee growth, job seeker interest and engagement with the company on the platform. The startups were also assessed on how well they were able to attract talent away from the established players on LinkedIn’s Top Companies List.

Bajaj Finserv Ties up With Wochit – a First in BFSI

$
0
0
Business Wire IndiaBajaj Finserv, through its lending arm Bajaj Finance Ltd., has announced collaboration with Wochit- a US-Israel based predictive video creation platform - to meet its ambitious goal of making video as the primary format of stimulation across its stakeholder sets. With Wochit’s suite of predictive tools platform and distribution channels, Bajaj Finserv will bring stories to life, at scale and speed, cutting down video turn-around time to less than 30 minutes and at 1/10th the cost.
 
Video consumption in India has increased 5X between 2016 and 2017, with smaller cities registering up to 22X* growth. In the first-of-its-kind initiative, Bajaj Finserv will take its first step towards leveraging the remarkable growth in online video consumption and lead video adoption amongst BFSI players in India.
 
“Wochit is the first building block in our journey of creating video as the primary format of stimulation and communication across our stakeholder sets. We will add many other pieces of technology to create a powerful story-telling tool that leverages both creativity and automation to deliver impact for business,” said Manev Mianwal, Group Marketing Head, Bajaj Finserv on the partnership.
 
Mr. Dror Ginzberg, Founder and CEO, Wochit, said, “We are pleased to announce our partnership with Bajaj Finserv. This partnership perfectly complements their existing production capabilities, and means that they’ll be able to seamlessly create video content for their marketing needs. From production to distribution, our suite of predictive tools will empower Bajaj Finserv to create as many videos as needed each day.”
 
Wochit’s interactive and intuitive platform has a library of 100 million licensed, ready-to-use stock assets such as images, video clips, and sounds which can be easily stitched together to create a quality video at scale. Bajaj Finance had recently run a demo workshop to democratize the capability across businesses and functions, driving adoption and usage.
 
Wochit analyzes the text of an article and automatically finds licensed photos, videos and graphics that can be used to build a video around that story. Publishers can quickly edit the video and add things like background music and voiceover.
*Source – Hotstar India watch report, 2018
About Bajaj Finance Limited
 
Bajaj Finance Limited, the lending and investment arm of Bajaj Finserv group, is one of the most diversified NBFCs in the Indian market catering to more than 23 million customers across the country. Headquartered in Pune, the company’s product offering includes Consumer Durable Loans, Lifestyle Finance, Digital Product Finance, Personal Loans, Loan against Property, Small Business Loans, Home loans, Credit Cards, Two-wheeler and Three-wheeler Loans, Construction Equipment Loans, Loan against Securities and Rural Finance which includes Gold Loans and Vehicle Refinancing Loans along with Fixed Deposits and Advisory Services. Bajaj Finance Limited prides itself for holding the highest credit rating of FAAA/Stable for any NBFC in the country today.
 
To know more please visit https://www.bajajfinserv.in/
 
About Wochit

Wochit is a predictive video creation platform that empowers any storyteller, regardless of experience or skill, to create unique high-impact videos at scale and with unprecedented speed. Used by hundreds of media companies, brands and agencies each month, Wochit’s holistic solution combines deep knowledge of digital video production processes and audience preferences with a super-intuitive interface, enabling them to quickly create unique, high-impact videos, that reflect their brand. Wochit’s cloud-based platform, augmented with a proprietary library of over 100 million commercial and editorial rights-cleared images and videos from top professional and social sources, is a complete solution for organizations looking to attract and engage audiences across owned and syndicated digital channels. For more information, visit http://www.wochit.com

Dutch Shareholder Foundation Achieves Significant Victory For Petrobras Investors With Billions In Losses In European Securities Fraud Litigation

$
0
0
Business Wire India

International Securities Associations & Foundations Management Company (ISAF)

 

Today the District Court in Rotterdam has ruled in favor of Stichting Petrobras Compensation Foundation (SPCF or Foundation) regarding arguments to establish jurisdiction in the Netherlands for eligible Petrobras investors seeking compensation for losses related to the “Lavo Jato” or “Operation Car Wash” scandal. Also the Court ruled that the arbitration clause in Petrobras’ Articles cannot preclude the SPCF from bringing a claim against Petrobras on behalf of aggrieved Petrobras shareholders.

 

ISAF congratulates SPCF on this important legal decision and reminds investors that losses from investments in primary shares of Petrobras traded in Brazil on the Brasil Bolsa Balcão S.A. or B3 - Brazil (formerly BM&FBOVESPA) and via linked markets in Europe and also Bonds bought outside the US, will not be compensated under the US $3 billion settlement in the US.

 

Robert Frome, Chairman of ISAF, commented: “The ruling affirms that Petrobras investors, who were caught by surprise when revelations of corruption and fraud emerged in 2014, will be heard in a legal forum in the Netherlands which has previously dealt with complex collective shareholder litigations.” Frome continued: “The ruling in Rotterdam should be encouraging to investors, who originally believed that their recovery options were limited to arbitration in Brazil, and were thus rightly discouraged by the probable unfavorable outcome for investors in a ‘home court’ jurisdiction for Petrobras.”

 

Investors who have not already registered claims in the Netherlands are encouraged to contact ISAF now that this critical ruling on jurisdiction has been achieved. Petrobras investors who considered arbitration in Brazil should contact ISAF to register a claim in the Netherlands.

 

Media Information

 

More information about the litigation can be found at www.pbcompensation.com. SPCF appointed International Securities Associations & Foundations Management Company (ISAF) to coordinate all administration with investors, including funding of all litigation costs so investors can participate on a contingency only basis with no upfront cost. More information about ISAF can be found at www.isafmanagement.com

 

 

 

 

District Court in Rotterdam (Netherlands), Accepts Jurisdiction in Securities Fraud Litigation against Petrobras

$
0
0
Business Wire India

On January 23, 2017, Stichting Petrobras Compensation Foundation (the “Foundation”) initiated an international collective action for Petrobras investors who purchased Petrobras securities outside of the United States and have suffered damages as a consequence of fraud that was uncovered by the “Lavo Jato” or “Operation Car Wash” investigations at the Brazilian petrochemical company that was once the 5th largest company in the world.

 

Petrobras has structured a significant part of its assets through the Netherlands and one of the entities issuing Petrobras securities (Petrobras Global Finance B.V.) is based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Moreover Petrobras is benefiting from the Dutch tax environment and Dutch investment protection treaties. Despite its strong nexus with the Dutch jurisdiction, Petrobras strongly contested the jurisdiction of the District Court in Rotterdam. Today the District Court in Rotterdam ruled in favor of the Foundation by accepting jurisdiction. Also the Court ruled that the arbitration clause in Petrobras’ Articles cannot preclude the Foundation from bringing a claim against Petrobras.

 

Earlier this year, Petrobras announced a US $3 billion settlement in the US, while leaving Petrobras investors who traded in Brazil or via linked markets in Europe empty-handed. The Dutch court accepting jurisdiction is a significant step forward in the Foundation’s pursuit of damages for the benefit of Petrobras investors.

 

The Foundation leading the litigation, has significant support from Institutional Investors from around the world including investors in the US, UK, Brazil, Netherlands, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Nordic countries, South Korea, Japan and others. Individual institutional investor losses range in the millions, tens of millions and in some instances close to 100 million Euros.

 

 

 

More information about the litigation can be found at www.pbcompensation.com. SPCF appointed International Securities Associations & Foundations Management Company (ISAF) to coordinate all administration with investors, including funding of all litigation costs so investors can participate on a contingency only basis with no upfront cost. More information about ISAF can be found at www.isafmanagement.com

 

Claims Analysis and Processing. Battea Class Action Services, LLC, an international leader class action securities claims filing, has been retained to collect client data and process and validate investor losses. More information about Battea can be found at www.battea.com

 

Stichting Petrobras Compensation Foundation - P.O. Box 8808 - 5605 LV Eindhoven - The Netherlands

 

 

Origami Goes Global

$
0
0
Business Wire India

Origami Inc. (“Origami”) today announced that it will be expanding its mobile payment service “Origami Pay” beyond Japanese borders through a new international partnership.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180920005378/en/

 

(Graphic: Business Wire)

(Graphic: Business Wire)

As a result of the capital and business alliances with UnionPay International Co., Ltd (UPI), Origami Pay will, by the first quarter of 2019, be accepted at approximately 7.5 million UnionPay QR code- enabled outlets in 24 countries across APAC, North America, Central Asia, Middle East and Africa. Domestically, UnionPay’s QR payments will also be made available at Origami’s Japanese partner shops. The alliance with UPI allows both Japanese users travelling abroad and inbound users visiting Japan to make secure and convenient payments at a wide range of shops without worrying about currency exchange.

 

In addition, Origami will be partnering with Taiwan’s leading payment service, “JKOPAY” of JKOS Network Co.,Ltd, enabling JKOPAY users to make payments at all Origami partner shops in Japan. This means that Taiwanese visitors will no longer have to worry about cross border credit card transaction fees when spending in Japan, making payments directly from their homegrown JKOPAY app. Moving forward, Origami will continue to expand its inbound services through international partnerships.

 

• About Origami
Origami is a platform for cashless payments with a mission to “Create the future of money, payments and commerce”. Established in 2012, Origami released its smartphone payment service in 2015, officially launching “Origami Pay” in May 2016. It is now rolled out nationwide at convenience stores, international fast food chains, taxis, department stores and shops across various verticals.

 

Please download the “Origami” app from App Store or Google Play.
App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/origami-sosharushoppinguapuri/id622474053?mt=8
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.origami.android&hl=ja
* Supported systems: iOS 9.0 or above, Android 4.0.3 or above

 

Please download the “Origami Business” app from the App Store.
App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/id1037731672?l=en&mt=8
* Supported systems: iOS 9.0 or above

 

* The listed names of companies, shops, products and logos are registered trademarks of each company.

 

 
MULTIMEDIA AVAILABLE :
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180920005378/en/

Origami Announces 66.6 MM USD in Series C Investment Round

$
0
0
Business Wire India

Origami Inc. announces that it has secured series C investment jointly from SBI Investment, Toyota Finance, Shinkin Central Bank, Union Pay International, Credit Saison, Nihon Unisys, JCB, The Ogaki Kyoritsu Bank, Mitsui Sumitomo Card Company, DG Lab Fund (run by Daiwa Ventures) and more.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180920005391/en/

 
(Graphic: Business Wire)

(Graphic: Business Wire)

The new investment from Series C totaling at 66.6 MM USD (88 MM USD including previous rounds) enables Origami to continue hiring global talent, strengthening product development and business expansion across multiple verticals.

 

• About Origami
Origami is a platform for cashless payments with a mission to “Create the future of money, payments and commerce”. Established in 2012, Origami started its mobile payment services in 2015. Its “Origami Pay” was officially launched in May 2016. It is now available nationwide at convenience stores, international fast food chains, taxis, department stores and shops across various verticals.

 

Please download the “Origami” app from App Store or Google Play.
App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/origami-sosharushoppinguapuri/id622474053?mt=8
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.origami.android&hl=ja
* Supported systems: iOS 9.0 or above, Android 4.0.3 or above

 

Please download the “Origami Business” app from the App Store.
App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/id1037731672?l=en&mt=8
* Supported systems: iOS 9.0 or above

 

* The listed names of companies, shops, products and logos are registered trademarks of each company.

 

 

 

 
MULTIMEDIA AVAILABLE :
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180920005391/en/
Viewing all 4422 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images