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Novartis International AG: Patient-reported outcomes tool revealed significant improvement in symptom frequency and quality of life domains with Entresto®

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· Overall summary score was also significantly higher for Entresto patients than for patients not taking Entresto, as measured by the 12-item Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ-12)[1]
 
· These improvements were reported early by Entresto patients, with a median follow-up time of 32 days[1]
 
· 21.4 percent of patients treated with Entresto in this interim data cut reported a large improvement (>20-point difference from baseline) in the overall summary score versus 12.5 percent of patients not taking Entresto[1]

*Basel, May 28, 2018* *-* Novartis announced today new real world evidence from the CHAMP-HF registry comparing Entresto^® (sacubitril/valsartan) patients to patients not taking Entresto.[1] This pre-specified analysis of an interim data cut from the CHAMP-HF registry showed that chronic heart failure (HF) patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) taking Entresto reported early, statistically significant improvement in health status, as measured by the KCCQ-12 overall summary score (KCCQ-OS).[1] This finding was driven by statistically significant improvements in symptom frequency and quality of life domains of the KCCQ-12.[1] The study findings were presented today by lead investigator Yevgeniy Khariton, MD, MSc, Saint Luke's Hospital, Mid-America Heart Institute, University of Missouri-Kansas City, as a part of a late-breaking session at the European Society of Cardiology Heart Failure (ESC-HF) Congress in Vienna, Austria.

"Key goals in managing chronic heart failure are to improve patients' symptoms and quality of life," said CHAMP-HF Chair Gregg C. Fonarow, MD and Director of the Ahmanson-UCLA Cardiomyopathy Center, Co-Chief of UCLA's Division of Cardiology, and Co-director of UCLA's Preventative Cardiology Program. "These findings in a real world setting are important because they suggest that taking sacubitril/valsartan may help patients achieve these goals."

"In addition to the already reported reduction in risk of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization in HFrEF patients treated with Entresto, we now show its potential to improve patient-reported health status," said Shreeram Aradhye, MD, Chief Medical Officer and Global Head, Medical Affairs, Novartis Pharmaceuticals. "What we find most encouraging is that both our Entresto clinical program and now this real world analysis have shown health status benefits as measured by KCCQ."

*About Heart Failure*
Heart failure is a debilitating and life-threatening condition, which impacts millions of people worldwide.[14] It is the leading cause of hospitalization in people over the age of 65.[8],[15]^, About half of people with heart failure have heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).[9] Reduced ejection fraction means the heart does not contract with enough force, so less blood is pumped out.[11] Heart failure presents a major and growing health-economic burden that currently costs the world economy $108 billion every year, which accounts for both direct and indirect costs.[15],[12]

Novartis has established the largest global clinical program in the heart failure disease area across the pharma industry to date, FortiHFy, comprising over 40 active or planned clinical studies designed to generate an array of additional data on symptom reduction, efficacy, quality of life benefits and real world evidence with Entresto, as well as to extend understanding of heart failure.

*About **Entresto^® (sacubitril/valsartan) **
*Entresto is a twice-a-day medicine that reduces the strain on the failing heart. It does this by enhancing the protective neurohormonal systems (natriuretic peptide system) while simultaneously inhibiting the harmful effects of the overactive renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).[16],[13] Other common heart failure medicines, called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), only block the harmful effects of the overactive RAAS.[16] Entresto contains the neprilysin inhibitor sacubitril and the angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) valsartan.[10]

In Europe, Entresto is indicated in adult patients for the treatment of symptomatic chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. In the United States, Entresto is indicated for the treatment of heart failure (New York Heart Association class II-IV) in patients with systolic dysfunction.[10] It has been shown to reduce the rate of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization compared to enalapril, and also to reduce the rate of all-cause mortality compared to enalapril.[17] Entresto is usually administered in conjunction with other heart failure therapies, in place of an ACE inhibitor or other angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB).[10] Approved indications may vary depending upon the individual country.

*About KCCQ-12*
KCCQ-12 is a self-administered, health status tool for patients with heart failure.[3] There are four domains: physical limitation (showering/bathing, walking one block on level ground, hurrying or jogging), symptom frequency (shortness of breath, fatigue and swelling of the feet, ankles and legs), social limitation (hobbies/recreational activities, working/doing household chores, visiting family/friends out of the home) and quality of life (impact on lifestyle and satisfaction of spending rest of life with current HF status).[3] Each domain is scored separately, and the overall summary score is equal to the mean of the four domain scores.[3] Higher KCCQ-12 scores from baseline represent better health status.[3] An intra-individual change in a patient's score of 3 to 5 points, or a >=5 point mean group difference, is defined as a minimal clinically important difference for the KCCQ-12 summary score.[3]

*About the CHAMP-HF Registry*
CHAnge the Management of Patients with Heart Failure (CHAMP-HF) is an ongoing, prospective, observational outpatient disease registry in patients with chronic HFrEF (left ventricular ejection fraction
*About the Real World Evidence Analysis*
Presented today was a pre-specified analysis of an interim data cut from CHAMP-HF.[1] The aim of this analysis was to assess short-term, health status benefits of Entresto in real world US clinical practice.[1] Propensity score matching was conducted using 365 Entresto patients and 730 patients not receiving Entresto (1:2 match).[1]

Patients taking Entresto had statistically significant improvement in health status as measured by the mean group difference in KCCQ overall summary score (KCCQ-OS) compared to those not taking Entresto (6.01±19 vs. 3.55±17, p=0.014).[1] This improvement in the KCCQ score was seen early with a median follow up of 32 days reported (interquartile range 26, 53).[1] Patients on Entresto scored numerically higher on all domains compared to patients not taking Entresto, but the improvement in the KCCQ-OS score was driven by statistically significant improvements in two domains: symptom frequency (5.07 vs. 1.60, p=0.007) and quality of life (7.53 vs. 4.09, p=0.021).[1] The proportion of patients with a large improvement in overall score (defined as a greater than 20-point improvement from baseline) was 21.4% (78 out of 365 patients) for those taking Entresto vs. 12.5% (91 out of 730 patients) for those not taking Entresto, suggesting a number needed to treat (NNT) of 11.[1]

The overall findings of this real world matched analysis are in line with the KCCQ findings in the PARADIGM-HF study, which showed that Entresto had a positive impact on the health status of patients with chronic heart failure.[5],[6]

Methods
Study Design[1]

· This is a comparative real world effectiveness analysis in which Entresto and non-Entresto groups were propensity matched based on 6 sociodemographic characteristics, 25 clinical characteristics and most recent KCCQ
· Study sample: Patients in the CHAMP-HF registry, who were not previously taking Entresto prior to enrollment, had >=1 KCCQ assessment before their Entresto start and no contraindications to Entresto
· Cohort definition:

· Entresto use: New Entresto starts (any report of use after enrollment)
· No Entresto use: Patients with no report of any use of Entresto after enrollment

· Outcome evaluated:

· KCCQ-12 overall summary scores (primary) and 4 domain scores (secondary) at first assessment after Entresto initiation

It is important to note that the nature of this real world evidence has some limitations:

· 50% of patients in the comparison arm did not receive an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) during matching, which may impact the findings
· Observational analyses have the potential for residual confounding and can only test for associations as opposed to causality (tested via randomized clinical trials)
· It was not possible to exclude patient bias resulting from open-label Entresto use, which could cause a placebo effect on the Entresto arm

*Disclaimer*
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by words such as "potential,""can,""will,""plan,""expect,""anticipate,""look forward,""believe,""committed,""investigational,""pipeline,""launch," or similar terms, or by express or implied discussions regarding potential marketing approvals, new indications or labeling for the investigational or approved products described in this press release, or regarding potential future revenues from such products. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations regarding future events, and are subject to significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. There can be no guarantee that the investigational or approved products described in this press release will be submitted or approved for sale or for any additional indications or labeling in any market, or at any particular time. Nor can there be any guarantee that such products will be commercially successful in the future. In particular, our expectations regarding such products could be affected by, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including clinical trial results and additional analysis of existing clinical data; regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; global trends toward health care cost containment, including government, payor and general public pricing and reimbursement pressures; our ability to obtain or maintain proprietary intellectual property protection; the particular prescribing preferences of physicians and patients; general political and economic conditions; safety, quality or manufacturing issues; potential or actual data security and data privacy breaches, or disruptions of our information technology systems, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AG's current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

*About Novartis*
Novartis provides innovative healthcare solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and societies. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis offers a diversified portfolio to best meet these needs: innovative medicines, cost-saving generic and biosimilar pharmaceuticals and eye care. Novartis has leading positions globally in each of these areas. In 2017, the Group achieved net sales of USD 49.1 billion, while R&D throughout the Group amounted to approximately USD 9.0 billion. Novartis Group companies employ approximately 124,000 full-time-equivalent associates. Novartis products are sold in approximately 155 countries around the world. For more information, please visit http://www.novartis.com.

Novartis is on Twitter. Sign up to follow @Novartis at http://twitter.com/novartis
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*References*
      [1]    Khariton, Y, Fonarow, GC, et al. Association Between Sacubitril/Valsartan Initiation and Health Status Outcomes in Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: Findings from the CHAMP-HF Registry. Data presented at the European Society of Cardiology Heart Failure (ESC-HF); 2018 May 26-29; Vienna, Austria.
      [2]    ENTRESTO [prescribing information]. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; November 2017.
      [3]    Spertus, JA, Jones, PG. Development and Validation of a Short Version of the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes. 2015;8:469-476. DOI: 10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.115.001958.
      [4]    DeVore, AD, Thomas, L, et al. Change the management of patients with heart failure: Rationale and design of the CHAMP-HF registry. Am Heart J 2017;189:177-183.
      [5]    Chandra, A, Lewis AF, et al. Effects of Sacubitrill/Valsartan on Physical and Social Activity Limitations in Patients with Heart Failure A Secondary Analysis of the PARADIGM-HF Trial. JAMA Cardiology. 2018;3(5):1-8. doi:10.1001/jamacardio.2018.0398. 2014;371(11):993-1004.
      [6]    Lewis, EF, Claggett , BL, et al. Health-Related Quality of Life Outcomes in PARADIGM-HF. Circulation: Heart Failure. 2017;10:e003430. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.116.003430.
      [7]    Benjamin EJ, Virani SS, Callaway CW, et al. Heart disease and stroke statistics-2018 update: a report from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2018;137(12):e67-e492.
      [8]    Weir LM, Pfuntner A, Maeda J, et al. HCUP Facts and Figures: Statistics on Hospital-based Care in the United States, 2009. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. 2011;1-3.
      [9]    Owan TE, Hodge DO, Herges RM, et al. Trends in prevalence and outcome of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. N Engl J Med. 2006;355:251-259.  
      [10]  Yancy CW, Jessup M, Bozkurt B, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of heart failure: A report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association task force on practice guidelines. Circulation. 2013;128:e240-e327.    
      [11]  Ejection Fraction Heart Failure Measurement. American Heart Association Website. http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HeartFailure/SymptomsDiagnosisofHeartFailure/Ejection-Fraction-Heart-Failure-Measurement_UCM_306339_Article.jsp (link is external). Published March 24, 2015. Accessed April 13, 2018.
      [12]  Heidenreich PA, Albert NM, Allen LA, et al. Forecasting the impact of heart failure in the United States: a policy statement from the American Heart Association. Circ Heart Fail. 2013;6:606-619.
      [13]  Langenickel T, Dole W. Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibition with LCZ696: a novel approach for the treatment of heart failure. Drug Discov Today. 2012:4: e131-139.        
      [14]  Global Burden of Disease Study 2013 Collaborators. Global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability for 301 acute and chronic diseases and injuries in 188 countries, 1990-2013: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2013. Lancet. 2015; 386(9995):743-800.
      [15]  Mozaffarian D, Benjamin EJ, Go AS, et al. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2016 Update: A report from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2015; 133:e38-e360.
      [16]  Entresto Prescribing Information.
      [17] McMurray JJV, Packer M, Desai AS, et al. Angiotensin-Neprilysin Inhibition versus Enalapril in Heart Failure. N Engl J Med. 2014; 371:993-1004. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1409077.

# # #

*Novartis Media Relations*
Central media line: +41 61 324 2200
E-mail: media.relations@novartis.com

Eric Althoff
Novartis Global Media Relations
+41 61 324 7999 (direct)
+41 79 593 4202 (mobile)
eric.althoff@novartis.com Agnes Estes
Novartis Cardio-Metabolic Communications
+41 61 324 1986 (direct)
+41 79 644 1062 (mobile)
agnes.estes@novartis.com

*Novartis Investor Relations*
Central investor relations line: +41 61 324 7944
E-mail: investor.relations@novartis.com

Central   North America  
Samir Shah +41 61 324 7944 Richard Pulik +1 212 830 2448
Pierre-Michel Bringer +41 61 324 1065 Cory Twining +1 212 830 2417
Thomas Hungerbuehler +41 61 324 8425    
Isabella Zinck +41 61 324 7188    

*Attachment*

· Media release (PDF).pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 3 hours ago.

Europe plans ban on plastic cutlery, straws and more

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A ban on 10 plastic items that account for 70% of litter in EU waters could be just three or four years away. Reported by CNNMoney 2 hours ago.

Analysis: Italy's fresh election risks being referendum on euro

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ROME (Reuters) - The euro looked to have dodged a bullet when Italy's would-be eurosceptic coalition government collapsed at the weekend, but it may turn out to have been the opening salvo in a war over Europe's single currency. Reported by Reuters India 2 hours ago.

Italy's fresh election risks being referendum on euro

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ROME (Reuters) - The euro looked to have dodged a bullet when Italy's would-be eurosceptic coalition government collapsed at the weekend, but it may turn out to have been the opening salvo in a war over Europe's single currency. Reported by Reuters 2 hours ago.

Siyata Mobile to Release Q1 2018 Financials and Sets Date for Conference Call

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MONTREAL, May 28, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Siyata Mobile Inc. (the "Company" or "Siyata") (TSX-V:SIM) (OTCQX:SYATF) is pleased to announce it will be releasing its first quarter financial results on May 30, 2018 and will host a conference call May 31, 2018 at 6:00AM PST (9:00 EST) to discuss the results, and give a corporate update followed by a Q&A period.The Company will hold a conference call on Thursday May 31 at 9:00 am Eastern Time (6:00 am PST) to discuss the year-end results, along with a Q&A session with Siyata Mobile CEO and Chairman, Marc Seelenfreund.

*Details of the conference call:*

Date: *Thursday, May 31, 2018*

Time: *6:00 am PT / 9:00 am ET*

Operator Assisted Toll-Free Dial-In Number:* (866) 521-4909*

Local or International Dial-In Number*: (647) 427-2311*

There will also be a playback of the conference call, available in MP3 format by contacting investor relations below.

*About Siyata*
A TSX Venture Top 50 Company, Siyata Mobile Inc. is a leading global developer and provider of cellular communications systems for enterprise customers, specializing in connected vehicle products for professional fleets, marketed under the Uniden® Cellular brand. Since developing the world’s first 3G connected vehicle device, Siyata has been a pioneer in the industry, launching the world’s first 4G LTE all-in-one fleet communications device in 2017. Incorporating voice, push-to-talk over cellular, data, and fleet management solutions into a single device, the company aims to become the connected vehicle communications device of choice for commercial vehicles and fleets around the world.

Siyata also offers rugged phones for industrial users and signal boosters for homes, buildings, and fleets with poor cell coverage. Siyata’s customers include cellular operators, commercial vehicle technology distributors, and fleets of all sizes in Canada, the U.S., Europe, Australia, and the Middle East.

Visit www.siyatamobile.com and http://www.unidencellular.com/ to learn more.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of:
*SIYATA MOBILE INC.*
Marc Seelenfreund
CEO and Chairman

*Investor Relations:*
Arlen Hansen
Kin Communications
1-866-684-6730
SIM@kincommunications.com

*Sales Department:
*Glenn Kennedy, VP Sales
Siyata Mobile Inc.
416-892-1823
glenn_kennedy@siyatamobile.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release may include forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under the applicable laws. Reported by GlobeNewswire 2 hours ago.

Italy: At the mercy of the Stranger

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Never as in these moments come to mind the words of Dante, when he referred to the Italian land as "Ahi servant Italy, grief hostel, ship without coachman in a storm, not a woman of the provinces, but brothel!". Anyone who has placed hopes on the future of our homeland after the April 4 elections, has realized how vain they were on Sunday 27 May. After two months of difficult negotiations, the 5 Stars Movement and the Northern League of Matteo Salvini had reached an agreement to form the new government. They also wrote the list of ministers who could take office the following Monday to start working and, in their ideas, correct some of the distortions in our country. But no. The interpretation of the Constitution made his own by the president of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, has meant that the agreement failed, officially on the name of Paolo Savona, chosen as future minister of the economy. Paolo Savona has always been a man of establishment, holding prestigious positions in the Italian system. He is a university professor of economics who has participated in the drafting of the European treaties: he knows them well, having seen them born. Above all, he is perfectly reminiscent of how the Italian economy was at the time of the old currency, before the Euro. To his shame he was accused of having criticized just... Euro and Europe, as they are today. Savona wanted to sit down at a table with the Germans, the French and the other beautiful souls of northern Europe and re-discuss the treaties, correcting the worst to get the best. An ambitious program and perhaps a little naive, given the pitiless with which he would have to confront himself. Has Greece taught anything to anyone? However, President Mattarella refused the name of Sergio Savona and this precipitated the situation. He could not do it, according to some, or he could, according to others. The Italian Constitution sometimes seems to be only a smoky and arbitrary exercise of interpretations. In the previous days, Italy has been treated in an ignoble way by the international press: we Italians have even been called "scroungers" by the German newspapers. The intelligence services of Germany would have been alerted about Italian choices. The spread on our bonds began to rise, as it was obvious to expect. Even some English newspapers, which have not yet digested the Brexit, thrown fuel on the fire. The great Italian press has kept faith with its consolidated nature as a servant of the regime, criticizing again the choices of Italian voters, even defining them as "plebeians" and without paying attention to defend that homeland from which receives substantial funding, paid with the taxes of the Italians who work. Reported by PRAVDA 2 hours ago.

Surgical Staplers Market Being Driven by the Increase in Bariatric Surgeries all Over the World: P&S Market Research

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NEW YORK, May 28, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The surgical staplers market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% during 2018-2023, to reach $5.4 billion by 2023. The growth in the market is led by increasing surgical procedures, introduction of technologically advanced surgical staplers, growing number of bariatric and other weight loss surgeries, and increasing preference for surgical staplers over traditional sutures.*Request to get the sample pages: **https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/surgical-staplers-market/report-sample*

Being overweight and obesity are major risk factors associated to various diseases such as, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders and some cancers. It has been also estimated that out of all the global deaths, 5% are due to obesity that leads to a negative impact of around $2.0 trillion, on global economy. Subsequently, an increase in the rate of bariatric surgeries over time has also been observed. According to ASMBS, the estimated number of bariatric surgeries stood at 196,000 in 2015 as compared to 158,000 in 2011, in the U.S. Bariatric and other weight loss related surgeries use surgical staplers to close the surgical openings, therefore, an increase in the number of bariatric surgeries drives the growth of the global surgical staplers market.

Europe was the second largest market for surgical staplers, accounting for 29.7% of the global market in 2016. The growth in the European surgical staplers market is mainly attributable to the increasing aging population and rising number of chronic diseases which increase the number of surgeries to be performed. Among the European nations, France is expected to be the fastest growing market for surgical staplers in Europe during the forecast period. The high growth is mainly due to the increasing number of surgical procedures in the country.

Key players in the surgical staplers market are entering into partnerships with other firms to gain a larger share in the market. For instance, in October 2016, Dextera Surgical Inc. (Dextera) entered into a marketing and distribution agreement with B. Braun Surgical S.A. (B. Braun Aesculap Group) to introduce Dextera’s MicroCutter 5/80 surgical stapler in Spain, through B. Braun Surgical S.A.’s laparoscopic unit. The agreement was aimed to expand B. Braun’s comprehensive portfolio of surgical devices.

*Browse Report Description with Detailed TOC on “Surgical Staplers Market” at: **https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/surgical-staplers-market*

Some of the key players operating in the surgical staplers market include Dextera Surgical Inc., Ethicon Inc., Intuitive Surgical Inc., Frankenman International Ltd., Smith & Nephew Plc, Braun Melsungen AG, Becton, Dickinson and Company, B. Zimmer Biomet Holdings Inc., Conmed Corporation and Meril Life Science Pvt. Ltd.

*More Reports by P&S Market Research *

*Cardiovascular Devices Market*

North America accounts for the largest cardiovascular devices market followed by Europe. This is due to increased awareness about various heart diseases, developed economies and increased overweight or obese people in the region. In addition, high disposable incomes and favorable reimbursement policies are also supporting the growth of cardiovascular devices market in the region.

*https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/cardiovascular-devices-market*

*Home Infusion Therapy Market*

Major trends in the global home infusion therapy market are increasing numbers of mergers and acquisitions, and increasing uses of ambulatory infusion pump. Rise in acceptance for specialty infusion therapy is one of the major opportunities for the home infusion therapy market.

*https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/home-infusion-therapy-market*

*About P&S Market Research*

P&S Market Research is a market research company, which offers market research and consulting services for various geographies around the globe. We provide market research reports, industry forecasting reports, business intelligence, and research based consulting services across different industry/business verticals.

As one of the top growing market research agency, we’re keen upon providing market landscape and accurate forecasting. Our analysts and consultants are proficient with business intelligence and market analysis, through their interaction with leading companies of the concerned domain. We help our clients with B2B market research and assist them in identifying various windows of opportunity, and framing informed and customized business expansion strategies in different regions.

*Contact: *
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Email: enquiry@psmarketresearch.com

Web: https://www.psmarketresearch.com  Reported by GlobeNewswire 2 hours ago.

The best under-21s in Europe’s top leagues according to stats – PF

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A look at the under-21s leading the way in seven categories. There are only five Premier League players among this lot

The post The best under-21s in Europe’s top leagues according to stats – PF appeared first on teamtalk.com. Reported by Team Talk 2 hours ago.

JCDecaux gains exclusive media company access to CiR Global Airport Intelligence

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*JCDecaux gains exclusive media company access to CiR Global Airport Intelligence*

*Paris, May 28 2018 - *JCDecaux SA (Euronext Paris: DEC), the number one outdoor advertising company worldwide, announced that it has signed an exclusive contract with CiR (Counter Intelligence Retail - an NPD Group company) to be the only media company to have access to the CiR's Global Traveller Statistics service. The contract will run over several years, giving the JCDecaux Global airport division exclusive access to one of the most comprehensive sources of global air travel intelligence and data.

The agreement with CiR gives every JCDecaux airport direct access to the global passenger and traffic information of 550 airports. In the context of a significant evolution of the air traffic, these data will be enriched and be given greater applicability through the integration of a traveller segmentation and detailed shopper profiles. JCDecaux will also have access to a powerful 'Time of Day / Day of Week' module. This module provides a detailed forward-looking view of precise passenger numbers by terminal, by nationality, by day of week and time of day. With this intelligence, JCDecaux can offer its clients campaigns that precisely target both departing and arriving passengers based on their nationality, traveller profile and shopping preferences. Obviously, Global Travellers' data comply strictly with personal data protection rules to safeguard citizens and users, which in Europe, for instance, will be strengthened by the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulation.

*The JCDecaux airport business encompasses the globe with concessions in 218 airports, including 12 of the top 20 airports worldwide, representing more than 40,000 advertising panels across 38 countries.*

*Garry Stasiulevicuis, President of CiR*, said: "We're delighted to be working with JCDecaux and we're confident our global air-traveller intelligence will benefit their clients in the same way we've seen our global traveller statistics tools have a positive impact for our airport retail and brand clients. Our online platform is intuitive and easy to use and because of this, the comprehensive intelligence we make available has proven invaluable in aiding our clients to plan and execute their in-airport activity with greater confidence and precision. We are particularly excited that JCDecaux will be utilising the integration of our global traveller segmentation study data into the 550 airports data. The power of this integrated data to drive JCDecaux's innovative digital media capability is big step forward for the industry."  

*Jean-Charles Decaux, Chairman of the Executive Board and Co-CEO of JCDecaux*, said: "As the number one worldwide in airport advertising, we are very proud to have signed up to CiR's global traveller statistics platform. We will have significant planning data information relating to passenger numbers and passenger movements literally at our fingertips, ensuring we deliver the best airport campaigns for our clients. By utilising the intelligence within the system's forecasting module, our airport division can execute campaigns of contextually relevant messaging in environments of high dwell time, enhancing the passenger experience whilst providing optimal visibility for advertisers and their brands."

*Key Figures for JCDecaux *

· 2017 revenue: €3,493m*
· JCDecaux is listed on the Eurolist of Euronext Paris and is part of the Euronext 100 and Euronext Family Business indexes
· JCDecaux is part of the FTSE4Good and Dow Jones Sustainability Europe indexes
· N°1 worldwide in street furniture (543,050 advertising panels)
· N°1 worldwide in transport advertising with more than 218 airports and 250 contracts in metros, buses, trains and tramways (356,320 advertising panels)
· N°1 in Europe for billboards (141,630 advertising panels)
· N°1 in outdoor advertising in Europe (672,220 advertising panels)
· N°1 in outdoor advertising in Asia-Pacific (216,290 advertising panels)
· N°1 in outdoor advertising in Latin America (77,190 advertising panels)
· N°1 in outdoor advertising in Africa (26,770 advertising panels)
· N°1 in outdoor advertising in the Middle-East (18,650 advertising panels)
· Leader in self-service bike rental scheme: pioneer in eco-friendly mobility
· 1,074,113 advertising panels in more than 80 countries
· Present in 4,033 cities with more than 10,000 inhabitants
· 13,040 employees

* Restated from the retrospective application of IFRS 15, applicable from January 1^st, 2018

*Communications Department:* Agathe Albertini
+33 (0)1 30 79 34 99 - agathe.albertini@jcdecaux.com
*Investor Relations:* Arnaud Courtial
+33 (0)1 30 79 79 93 - arnaud.courtial@jcdecaux.com

*Attachment*

· 28-05-18 # CP Counter Intelligence Retail_UK.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 2 hours ago.

Ageas reports on the progress of share buy-back programme

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*Further to the initiation of the share buy-back programme announced on 9 August 2017, Ageas reports the purchase of **40,000** Ageas shares on NYSE Euronext Brussels in the period from **21-05-2018** until **25-05-2018.*

*Date* *Number of*
*Shares* *Total amount*
*(EUR)* *Average price*
*(EUR)* *Lowest price*
*(EUR)* *Highest price*
*(EUR)*
21-05-2018 8,000 361,358 45.17 44.97 45.35
22-05-2018 8,000 365,854 45.73 45.66 45.81
23-05-2018 8,000 362,313 45.29 45.17 45.69
24-05-2018 8,000 364,180 45.52 45.19 45.79
25-05-2018 8,000 364,529 45.57 45.35 45.77
*Total* *40,000* *1,818,234* *45.46* *44.97* *45.81*

Since the start of the share buy-back programme on 21 August 2017, Ageas has bought back 3,587,475 shares for a total amount of EUR 148,328,521. This corresponds to 1.77% of the total shares outstanding.

The overview relating to the share buy-back programme is available on our website.

*Ageas* is a listed international insurance Group with a heritage spanning 190 years. It offers Retail and Business customers Life and Non-Life insurance products designed to suit their specific needs, today and tomorrow. As one of Europe's larger insurance companies, Ageas concentrates its activities in Europe and Asia, which together make up the major part of the global insurance market. It operates successful insurance businesses in Belgium, the UK, Luxembourg, France, Portugal, Turkey, China, Malaysia, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, and the Philippines through a combination of wholly owned subsidiaries and long term partnerships with strong financial institutions and key distributors. Ageas ranks among the market leaders in the countries in which it operates. It represents a staff force of over 50,000 people and reported annual inflows close to EUR 34 billion in 2017 (all figures at 100%).

*Attachment*

· Pdf version press release.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 2 hours ago.

CREDIT AGRICOLE SA : CACF and Bankia: Agreement to set a joint-venture in consumer finance in Spain

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Press Release

Massy, 28 May 2018.

*Crédit Agricole Consumer Finance** a**nd Bankia:*
*Agreement to set a joint-venture *
*in consumer finance in Spain*

Following the exclusive negotiations started on 7 March 2018, Crédit Agricole Consumer Finance, a leading consumer finance group in Europe, and Bankia, the fourth largest bank in Spain, signed today an agreement to set up a joint-venture in the consumer finance business in Spain. Crédit Agricole Consumer Finance will be the majority shareholder in this joint-venture.
For Crédit Agricole Consumer Finance, this exclusive partnership aims at accelerating the setting up of its presence in Spain, the fourth largest consumer finance market in the Eurozone, thanks to Bankia's large customer base and strong knowledge of the Spanish market. It will provide Bankia with a subsidiary dedicated to consumer finance and add a growth market to its portfolio of business activities in Spain, by benefitting from the experience in this type of partnership of Crédit Agricole Consumer Finance, one of the European leaders in consumer finance.
This agreement is subject to obtaining the relevant anti-trust clearance and regulatory authorisations.

*CA Consumer Finance Press office**:* +33 (0)1 87 38 09 75 - presse@ca-cf.fr

*Bankia Press office*:
Bankia Comunicación (bankiacomunicacion@bankia.com)
Virginia Zafra              +34 91 423 51 04 / 690 047 723 - vzafra@bankia.com
Mariano Utrilla            +34 91 423 94 72 / 691 827 401 - mutrilla@bankia.com
Guillermo Fernández   +34 91 423 53 33 / 681 349 040 - gfernandezm@bankia.com

*About Crédit Agricole Consumer Finance*
Crédit Agricole Consumer Finance, Crédit Agricole SA's consumer credit subsidiary, distributes a broad range of consumer credit and related services (in France, principally through its commercial trademarks Sofinco, Viaxel and Creditlift Courtage) for distribution channels as a whole: direct sales, point-of-sale financing (automotive and home appliances) and partnerships. Present alongside major distribution, specialised distribution and institutional brands in the various countries where it operates, Crédit Agricole Consumer Finance is a key partner in business.
Crédit Agricole Consumer Finance managed 82.6 billion euros in outstanding loans at 31 December 2017.
Learn more: www.ca-consumerfinance.com

*About Bankia*
Bankia is a Spanish bank that is included in the Ibex 35. It operates throughout Spain serving 8 million clients, with a universal banking business model based on multi-channel management and specialized in serving individuals and businesses.
Learn more: http://www.bankia.com

*Attachment*

· CACF & Bankia Agreement to set a joint-venture.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 1 hour ago.

PHARMAGEST INTERACTIVE : General meeting - Preliminary notice

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Villers-lès-Nancy, 28 May 2018 - 6:00 p.m. (CET)
*PRESS RELEASE*

*Annual Ordinary and Extraordinary General Meeting*

*Preliminary Notice*

PHARMAGEST INTERACTIVE hereby provides notice to shareholders of the annual ordinary and extraordinary general meeting to be held on *Thursday, June 28, 2018 at 5.00 pm at headquarters* located in VILLERS-LES-NANCY (54600), 5 allée de Saint Cloud.
                                                                                                                                 
The agenda and draft resolutions have been published in the BALO legal gazette on May 21, 2018 (www.journal-officiel.gouv.fr). The BALO notice can be reviewed on the website of the company (www.pharmagest.com, Finance).

15 days prior to the meeting a convening notice to attend the meeting will be published in the BALO and in a legal gazette.

Pursuant to article R225-73-1 of the French commercial code, PHARMAGEST INTERACTIVE will publish the documents prescribed by this article on its website 21 days prior to the meeting.

The shareholders may obtain any further information by request to PHARMAGEST INTERACTIVE's headquarters located in VILLERS-LES-NANCY (54600).

*About PHARMAGEST Group**:*

Pharmagest Group is the French pharmacy information technology leader, with a market share of more than 42% and more than 1,000 employees. The Group's strategy is based on a core business of improving healthcare through information technology innovation and developing two priority areas: 1/ Services and technologies for healthcare professionals, with a focus on assisting pharmacies in patient medication compliance; and 2/ technologies for improving the efficacy of healthcare systems.

To roll out this strategy, Pharmagest Group has developed specialised businesses, including pharmacy IT, e-Health solutions, solutions for healthcare professionals, solutions for pharmaceutical laboratories, connected health devices and apps, and a sales financing marketplace.

These businesses are divided into four divisions: Pharmacy - Europe Solutions; Health and Social Care Facilities Solutions; e-Health Solutions and Fintech.
  

Listed on Euronext Paris(TM) - Compartment B
Indices: CAC^® SMALL and CAC^® All-Tradable par inclusion
Eligible for the Long-Only Deferred Settlement Service (SRD)
ISIN: FR 0012882389 - Reuters: PHA.PA - Bloomberg: - PMGI FP

*For all the latest news go to *www.pharmagest.com

*CONTACTS*

*Analyst and Investor Relations: *
Chief Administrative and Financial Officer: Jean-Yves SAMSON
Tel. +33 (0)3 83 15 90 67 - jean-yves.samson@lacooperativewelcoop.com

*Financial Communications and Media Relations: *
FIN'EXTENSO - Isabelle APRILE
Tel. +33 (0)1 39 97 61 22 - i.aprile@finextenso.fr

*Attachment*

· PHARMAGEST INTERACTIVE : General meeting - Preliminary notice.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 1 hour ago.

McPhy Energy : The Artois Gohelle Transport Authority positions itself with hydrogen

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*
Press Release*
May 28, 2018

*Urban mobility*

*The Artois Gohelle Transport Authority positions itself
with hydrogen *

*The SMT AG has attributed ENGIE the refueling of 6 hydrogen buses that will be deployed in the spring of 2019 on the new bus line BHNS*^[1]*, connecting Bruay- Labuissière and Auchel. *

A clear and committed environmental policy in favor of sustainable mobility:  the choice of hydrogen technology concretely illustrates the will of elected officials for the territory covered by the SMT AG and is part of a more global project for the development of 6 BHNS lines (High Level Service Bus), improving the flow of the main exchange hubs in the territory, which include Lens, Béthune, Hénin-Beaumont, Carvin, Bruay-La-Buissière, Libercourt, Auchel. A real draw to the territory, this innovative and exemplary mobility solution will contribute to reinforce the new economic image in this former mining basin in the heart of the Hauts-de-France region.

This technology will be deployed at the future bus depot in Houdain, currently under construction.  The SMT AG will equip it with a hydrogen refueling station capable of recharging buses equipped with fuel cells.  The future Bulle 6 line will be the first in France exclusively operated with hydrogen buses.

This urban mobility project constitutes a decisive step in the third industrial revolution in the heart of the North Region - Pas-de-Calais.  Hydrogen represents an essential pillar in the energy transition and the development of renewable energies, by nature intermittent and unpredictable. More than a technological choice that allows bigger environmental gains, the choice of on-site electrolysis production favorizes the development of renewable energies by facilitating the equilibrium of electricity grids and by permitting the valorization of surplus production.

The experience and the expertise acquired by ENGIE through its subsidiary GNVERT, with almost 20 years in the refueling of alternative fuels for most of the passenger transport networks in France, have allowed it to propose a solution that is in phase, during the entire life cycle of the rolling stock, with the environmental issues of the territory, while integrating the stringency levels that the Artois-Gohelle transport authority expects for the operation and security of its transport network. In addition, this project integrates perfectly into the energy vision advocated by ENGIE of a world in 3D:  with energy that is decarbonated, decentralized and digitized.   

The technological choices have also turned to national actors by selecting hydrogen production and distribution equipment from the McPhy company, a major actor in the French hydrogen sector which has positioned and confirmed its place both in France and internationally.  

Copyright McPhy  

Laurent Duporge, President of SMT AG: "This territory, too often reduced to its industrial past, will be the first in France to operate a line exclusively with hydrogen buses, six to be exact!  It's a wonderful example of the choice for environmental development, a technological choice orientated towards the future.  It's up to us to demonstrate renewal in the mining basin."  

Philippe Van Deven, Director-General of GNVERT: "The choice for renewable hydrogen integrates naturally into the energy transition for passenger transport.  In addition to the exemplary environmental performance of this 'zero emission' solution, hydrogen is the energy carrier that will allow the wider development of renewable energies in France. All the more a real industrial field can be built with the expertise  available in France The energy transition isn't a constraint, it's an opportunity!"    

Pascal Mauberger, Chairman and CEO of McPhy: "We would like to thank ENGIE for its continued confidence, allowing us to set up, in Hauts-de-France, the first McPhy station for hydrogen buses.  Thanks to state-of-the-art research and innovation and a first-rate industrial infrastructure, McPhy provides its expertise for the production and distribution of hydrogen.  Our McLyzer  electrolyzer can produce clean hydrogen on site, intended for the supply of a large capacity McFilling with a high service rate.   The transportation sector is the midst of a revolution. By opting for hydrogen mobility, the SMT AG conciliates user comfort for its passengers, service continuity, and the participation in reducing air pollution and improving public health." 

*About the Artois Gohelle Transport Authority (SMT AG)*

The SMT Artois-Gohelle is what is called an organizing authority for mobility (OAM).  The zone of this public institution encompasses the 150 municipalities that make up the agglomerations of de Lens - Liévin, Hénin - Carvin et Béthune - Bruay - Artois-Lys-Romane.

The sixth urban transport zone in France, the SMT Artois-Gohelle oversees the Urban Transport Plan (UTP), the TADAO bus network, school transportation and more globally, the policies of transportation for its territory.

The SMT AG develops and organizes the TADAO network, operated through the PSD (Public Service Delegation).  Similarly, the Bulles project (6 high level service bus lines), as well as all the projects linked to transportation for the territory, are at the initiative and under the responsibility of SMT AG.

Striving to make constant improvements to transportation services, to adapt to upcoming changes and to facilitate mobility for all, the elected representatives of SMT AG are focused on territorial planning, improving the quality of life, ensuring accessibility for all and sustainable development, to truly make public transportation a second nature.

*About ENGIE*

We are a global energy and services group with three core businesses: low-carbon power generation, including natural gas and renewable energy, energy infrastructures and customer solutions. Driven by our ambition to contribute to a harmonious progress, we take up major global challenges such as the fight against global warming, access to energy for all, or mobility, and offer our private customers, businesses and communities energy production solutions and services that reconcile individual interests and collective issues. Our low carbon, integrated, high-performance and sustainable offers are based on digital technologies. Beyond energy, they facilitate the development of new uses and promote new ways for life and work. Our ambition is driven every day by each of our 150,000 employees in 70 countries. Together with our customers and our partners, they are a community of imaginative builders, women and men who are imagining and building solutions for the future for harmonious progress.

Turnover 2017:  65 billion euros. Listed in Paris and Brussels (ENGI), the Group is represented in the main international indexes (CAC 40, BEL 20, EURO STOXX 50, Europe 600, MSCI Europe, Euronext 100, FTSE Eurotop 100, Euro STOXX Utilities, STOXX Europe 600 Utilities) and extra-financial (DJSI World,  DJSI  Europe  et  Euronext  Vigeo  Eiris  -  World  120,  Eurozone  120,  Europe  120,  France  20,  CAC  40 Governance).

*About GNVERT*

Since 1998, GNVERT, a subsidiary of the ENGIE Group, has been offering its expertise to companies and local authorities, proposing tailor-made solutions for green mobility. GNVERT is the leader in France of refueling solutions for alternative fuels (CNG, BioCNG, LNG, Hydrogen ...) and operates more than 150 stations.

*Press contact:*
Lise Forest
T : + 33 (0)6 32 47 62 48
Lise.forest@engie.com  

*About McPhy *

In the framework of the energy transition, and as a leading supplier of hydrogen production, storage and distribution equipment, McPhy contributes to the deployment of clean hydrogen throughout the world.

Thanks to its wide range of products and services dedicated to the hydrogen energy, zero emission mobility and industrial hydrogen markets, McPhy provides turnkey solutions to its clients. These solutions are tailored to our client applications: renewable energy surplus storage and valorization, fuel cell car refueling, raw material for industrial sites.

As a designer, manufacturer and integrator of hydrogen equipment since 2008, McPhy has three development, engineering and production units based in Europe (France, Italy, Germany).

The company's international subsidiaries ensure a global sales coverage of McPhy's innovative hydrogen solutions.

McPhy is listed on NYSE Euronext Paris (Segment C, ISIN code:  FR0011742329; ticker:  MCPHY).

*Press Relations*

 

NewCap
Nicolas Merigeau
T. +33 (0)1 44 71 94 98
mcphy@newcap.eu  
Follow us on :
@McPhyEnergy    *Investor Relations *

 

NewCap
Julie Coulot | Emmanuel Huynh
T. +33 (0)1 44 71 20 40
mcphy@newcap.eu  

* *

 
^[1]  High Level Service Bus

*Attachment*

· McPhy_PR_Bus_Hydrogen_Engie_Rev_28052018.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 1 hour ago.

AB Science provides update on EU marketing authorization application for masitinib in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

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Paris, May 28, 2018, 6.15pm

*AB Science provides update on EU marketing authorization application for **masitinib in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis*

*AB Science SA* (NYSE Euronext - FR0010557264 - AB), a pharmaceutical company specialized in research, development and marketing of protein kinase inhibitors (PKIs), announces its decision not to pursue the re-examination procedure that the company initially requested for the marketing authorization application of masitinib in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). AB Science determined that the re-examination procedure would not be the most appropriate format to address all the pending concerns raised by the Committee for Human Medicinal Products (CHMP). AB Science will discuss with EMA the pathway forward to seek marketing authorization for the use of masitinib in the treatment of ALS.

The marketing authorization application was filed in September 2016 based on the interim results from study AB10015. The final safety data were generated in February 2018 and could not be inspected during the evaluation. New data cannot be presented as part of a reexamination procedure.

AB Science is therefore evaluating the possibility to resubmit the application based on the final results from study AB10015. As part of the resubmission, AB Science intends to submit:

· Final safety data.
· New sensitivity analyses on the primary analysis of the ALSFRS-R score for patients who stopped the study prematurely, applying recommended methods as per EMA guidelines in order to corroborate the results based on the LOCF method (last observation carried forward).
· New preclinical data reinforcing the mechanisms of action of masitinib, which is an important consideration in the context of an application based on a single pivotal trial.

AB Science reaffirms its commitment to carry out the development of masitinib in ALS in order to provide a new treatment option to ALS patients.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a rare degenerative disorder that results in wasting and progressive paralysis of muscles. There are approximately 50,000 people with ALS in the European Union and in the US, with more than 16,000 new cases diagnosed each year in Europe and in the US. This disease has a fatal outcome for most patients within 5 years from diagnosis.

 

*About masitinib*

Masitinib is a new orally administered tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets mast cells and macrophages, important cells for immunity, through inhibiting a limited number of kinases. Based on its unique mechanism of action, masitinib can be developed in a large number of conditions in oncology, in inflammatory diseases, and in certain diseases of the central nervous system. In oncology due to its immunotherapy effect, masitinib can have an effect on survival, alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Through its activity on mast cells and microglia and consequently the inhibition of the activation of the inflammatory process, masitinib can have an effect on the symptoms associated with some inflammatory and central nervous system diseases and the degeneration of these diseases.

*About AB Science*

Founded in 2001, AB Science is a pharmaceutical company specializing in the research, development and commercialization of protein kinase inhibitors (PKIs), a  class of targeted proteins whose action are key in signaling pathways within cells. Our programs target only diseases with high unmet medical needs, often lethal with short term survival or rare or refractory to previous line of treatment in cancers, inflammatory diseases, and central nervous system diseases, both in humans and animal health.

AB Science has developed a proprietary portfolio of molecules and the Company's lead compound, masitinib, has already been registered for veterinary medicine in Europe and in the USA and is developed in twelve phase 3 indications in human medicine in metastatic prostate cancer, metastatic pancreatic cancer, relapsing metastatic colorectal cancer, relapsing metastatic ovarian cancer, GIST, metastatic melanoma expressing JM mutation of c-Kit, relapsing T-cell lymphoma, mastocytosis, severe asthma, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease and progressive forms of multiple sclerosis. The company is headquartered in Paris, France, and listed on Euronext Paris (ticker: AB).

Further information is available on AB Science's website: www.ab-science.com.

*Forward-looking Statements - AB Science*

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are not historical facts. These statements include projections and estimates as well as the assumptions on which they are based, statements based on projects, objectives, intentions and expectations regarding financial results, events, operations, future services, product development and their potential or future performance.

These forward-looking statements can often be identified by the words "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "intend", "estimate" or "plan" as well as other similar terms. While AB Science believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of AB Science and which may imply that results and actual events significantly differ from those expressed, induced or anticipated in the forward-looking information and statements. These risks and uncertainties include the uncertainties related to product development of the Company which may not be successful or to the marketing authorizations granted by competent authorities or, more generally, any factors that may affect marketing capacity of the products developed by AB Science, as well as those developed or identified in the public documents filed by AB Science with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), including those listed in the Chapter 4 "Risk Factors" of AB Science reference document filed with the AMF on November 22, 2016, under the number R. 16-078. AB Science disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update the forward-looking information and statements, subject to the applicable regulations, in particular articles 223-1 et seq. of the AMF General Regulations.

*For additional information, please contact:*

*AB Science*

Financial Communication & Media Relations

investors@ab-science.com

*Attachment*

· CPEng.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 58 minutes ago.

BIGBEN INTERACTIVE : YEAR END RESULTS 2017/18

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*Press Release*

*Lesquin, 28 May 2018*

* *

*48.7% growth of current operating profit in FY 2017/18 *

*Proposal of a 0.20 € full year dividend per share*

*Outlook: 265 to 280 M€ sales target and current operating profit exceeding 8% in FY 2018/19*

BIGBEN INTERACTIVE (ISIN FR0000074072) today releases its audited consolidated results for the financial year closing on 31 March 2018 as approved by its Board of directors on 28 May 2018.

Consolidated highlights in €m (IFRS) *03/2018* 03/2017   Change
*Sales* *245.4* 208.1 +17.9%
*Gross margin*
*In % of Sales*

* *

*EBITDA*
*In % of Sales* *77.5*
*31.6%*

* *

*29.7*
*12.1%* 66.3
31.9%

 

20.6
9.9% +16.9%

 

+44.2%
*Result from current operations*
*In % of Sales*

 

*Non recurrent items *
(including Bonus Shares) *16.4*
*6.7%*

* *

(1.5) 11.0
5.3%

 

(0.5)  

+48.7%

 

 

 
*Operating result*
*In % of Sales* *14.9*
*6.1%* 10.6
5.1% +40.8%
*Financial result*
Including currency gain (loss) *(2.8)*
(1.8) 1.6
2.6  
* *

*Earnings before tax *
*In % of Sales* *12.1*
*4.9%* 12.2
5.8% -0.5%
*Tax* *(3.2)* (3.0)  
*Income from equity acc'td investments* - (0.2) * *
*Net result for the period*
*In % of Sales* *8,9*
*3.6%* 9.0
  4,3%   - 0.1%

 
* * * *    

*A year of strong growth*

Bigben Interactive achieved sales of 245.4 M€ up by 17.9% for its 2017/2018 financial year ended 31 March 2018 despite the shift of two major games to the 1^st quarter of FY 2018/2019.

*Net rise of operating profitability*

The Bigben Group recorded a growth of its operating profit in FY 2017/2018 thanks to a gross margin up by 11.2 M€ as well as contained operating expenses and staff costs.

EBITDA reached 29.7 M€ up by 9.1 M€ (+44.2%) when compared with FY 2016/2017, the EBITDA rate representing 12.1 % of sales i.e. an increase of 220 basis points. This achievement enabled additional depreciation of 3.7 M€ linked to the development of new games. 

Result from Current Operations was up by 5.4 M€ against previous FY and reached 16.4 M€ i.e. 6.7 % of sales against 5.3 % in 2016/2017.

Net result for the period 2017/2018 was 8.9 M€ and remained nearly stable despite the impact of a (1.8) M€ currency loss against a 2.6 M€ currency gain in previous FY.

*Balance sheet: further drop of financial debt*

Bigben's balance sheet as at 31 March 2018 showed shareholders' funds rising to 134.6 M€ against 126.0 M€ as at 31 March 2017.

Cash-flow generation during past FY enabled the Group to reduce financial debt to 9.6 M€ with a 7.2% net financial debt rate against 10.5 % as at 31 March 2017.

It should be noted that notwithstanding a strong growth environment Bigben managed to contain its stock level which remains close to that recorded as at 31 March 2017.

*Two post-closing transactions allowing the integration of games development*

* *

Bigben has recently invested in two game development studios which will allow the Group, until now publisher and distributor of games, to go upstream by integrating the development phase of games in its own value creating chain.

On 18 April 2018, Bigben increased its stake to 45 % in the share capital of Kylotonn, the French development studio in charge of developing flagship games for the Group such as WRC, TT Isle of Man and V-Rally 4.

In addition, Bigben announced on 14 May 2018 having signed an agreement for  the acquisition of 100% of the share capital  of Cyanide, a French reference studio recognized for the development of creative video games which posted 6.1 M€ sales as at 31 March 2018. Cyanide has created over 50 games since inception, maintaining a balance between the creation of new intellectual properties (Pro Cycling Manager, Styx, The Council.) and productions under license (Game of Thrones, Blood bowl, Tour de France..).

Nine games are currently under development in the studio and productions currently under progress to be published or co-published with a third party publisher will be continued until completion. As soon as teams of developers are set free from aforementioned obligations, other game developments will be initiated in order to complete Bigben's catalogue.

These acquisitions support Bigben's declared ambition to become one of the world leaders in the market segment for AA rated video games.

*Outlook: further sales growth and rise of operating profitability*

FY 2018/2019 should record a significant growth as from the 1st Half supported by the Gaming segment with the release of both Tennis World Tour® and Warhammer Inquisitor Martyr games. These releases will be followed by other opuses (V-Rally 4, Farmer's Dynasty, Sinking City as well as other titles not yet announced) which should allow Publishing sales to double in the new financial year.

Sales will benefit across the financial year from the marketing of new accessories in the Gaming segment notably the PS4^TM Revolution Arcade Stick and from the launch of a new premium brand in the Mobile segment, Force Power® (a complete range of high performance chargers and cables for smartphones), following the success of Force Glass® and Force Case®.

Banking on this expected momentum and on the acquisition of Cyanide, the Group announces for its FY 2018/2019 a 265 to 280 M€ sales target and a current operating profit rate exceeding 8.0 % against 6.7 % in 2017/2018.

The 2019/20 target initially set in the BIGBEN 2020 Plan (sales in excess of 280 M€ with a current operating profit rate of 9.0 %) may be already achieved in the current Financial Year. In consideration of the synergies expected from the integration of Cyanide, the new targets set for the Group in 2022 will be disclosed to the financial community on the release of its interim result 2018/2019 on 26 November 2018.

*Full-year dividend*Given the quality of these year-end results, the Board meeting on 28 May 2018 decided to submit to the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders the proposal of a 0.20 € full year dividend per share for FY 2017/2018. Further to the 0.10 € advance payment on the full year dividend effected on 08 January 2018, the final balance to be distributed amounts to 0.10 € per share. The ex-dividend date will be on 30 July 2018 and payment will take place on 03 August 2018.*Upcoming  publication:*

*Sales for 1^st quarter of FY 2018/2019: Monday 23 July 2018*

Press release after close of business on Euronext Paris stock market 

* *

*ABOUT BIGBEN INTERACTIVE*

* *
 

*SALES 2017-2018*
245.4 M€

 

 

* *

*HEADCOUNT*
ca. 350 employees

 

 

*INTERNATIONAL*
9 subsidiaries  and a distribution network in 50 countries

 

 www.bigben-group.com  

Bigben Interactive is a European player in video game publishing, in design and distribution of smartphone and gaming accessories as well as in audio products.
The Group, which is recognized for its capacities in terms of innovation and creativity, intends to become one of Europe's leaders in each of its business segments.

 

Company listed on Euronext Paris, compartment B - Index : CAC SMALL - Eligible SRD long
ISN : FR0000074072 ; Reuters : BIGPA ; Bloomberg : BIGFP

 

 

*PRESS CONTACTS*

 

CapValue - Gilles Broquelet
gbroquelet@capvalue.fr - +33 1 80 81 50 01 

*Attachment*

· Bigben Year End Results 2017 18.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 58 minutes ago.

Obesity/Bariatric Surgery Devices Market Growing With the Changing Lifestyle Changes of the People in Today’s World: P&S Market Research

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NEW YORK, May 28, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The obesity/bariatric surgery devices market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.9% during 2017-2023, to reach $2.7 billion by 2023. The market is growing mainly due to rising awareness about bariatric surgery in obese population, increasing prevalence of obesity leading to high demand for obesity surgeries, technological advancements in the obesity surgery devices industry and lifestyle changes leading to high risk of obesity.*Request to get the sample pages: **https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/obesity-surgery-devices-market/report-sample*

It has been observed that various lifestyle related changes increase the risk of developing obesity among general population. Some of these lifestyle changes include sedentary lifestyle and over consumption of junk food. With various technological innovations in the mechanical engineering field, machines have made life for humans easy. These innovations have also given rise to the sedentary attitude and a physically less active lifestyle, especially in the urban areas. Additionally, the eating habits of people in the urban areas have also changed over the past few decades, and the overall consumption of fast food has also increased with time. Therefore, people consuming large amount of junk foods on a daily basis are at an increased risk of developing obesity during their lifetime, further driving the growth of the obesity surgery devices market.

European obesity surgery devices market is projected to account for more than 20% of the worldwide market by 2023. The market growth in Europe is mainly attributable to the increasing aging population and rising number of surgical procedures performed for the treatment of obesity in the region. Among all the European countries, France is expected to project the fastest growth in the European obesity surgery devices market. The growth in the country is mainly due to the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity, and high ratio of number of bariatric surgeries to the number of obese population in France as compared to other European countries.

*Browse Report Description with Detailed TOC on “Obesity/Bariatric Surgery Devices Market” at: **https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/obesity-surgery-devices-market*

The companies in the obesity surgery devices market are undergoing mergers and acquisitions to gain a larger market share and improve their position in the market. For instance, in October 2017, EnteroMedics Inc. acquired ReShape Medical, Inc. for a consideration payment of 2,356,729 shares of common stock, 187,772 shares of series C convertible preferred stock and approximately $5.0 million in cash. The acquisition was aimed at combining the complementary expertise and capabilities of both companies to offer better.

Some of the key manufacturers operating in the obesity surgery devices market include Johnson & Johnson, Medtronic plc, W. L. Gore & Associates Inc., Spatz FGIA Inc., Cousin Biotech and ReShape Lifesciences Inc. (formerly EnteroMedics Inc.).

*More Reports by P&S Market Research*

*Anti-Obesity Drugs Market*

Geographically, North America leads the global anti-obesity drugs market, due to high incidences of obesity, high healthcare expenditure, and increased awareness about obesity and obesity related risks among patients. In addition, the increasing involvement of government and non-government organizations to educate and aware people about the ill effects of obesity, and extensive research and development activities for the development of anti-obesity drugs are fueling the growth of the anti-obesity drugs market in North America.

https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/anti-obesity-drugs-market

*About P&S Market Research*

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*Connect with us: *LinkedIn* | *Twitter* | *Google +* | *Facebook Reported by GlobeNewswire 48 minutes ago.

Sam Torrance: Magnificent Molinari too good for McIlroy

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Sam Torrance: Magnificent Molinari too good for McIlroy Francesco Molinari played amazing golf to fully deserve his win, although it’s fair to say that the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth last week was a tournament of two halves.

Thursday and Friday was all about Rory McIlroy, who carded 67 and 65 to take a three-shot lead into the weekend and looked to have ironed out the creases in his game that had been troubling him.

But McIlroy struggled to sustain that form on Saturday and Sunday, when he shot 71 and 70, and found himself outplayed by Molinari, who was very impressive indeed.

*Read more*: BMW PGA Championship: Here's how much golfers can win at Wentworth

The Italian made just two bogeys all week and was the only player not to drop a shot on Saturday. This was not a case of Rory losing it; Molinari won because he was magnificent.

It was Molinari’s halved match with Tiger Woods that completed the Miracle at Medinah for Europe six years ago and this win has thrust him right into contention for a third Ryder Cup appearance.

The 35-year-old is ideally suited to the competition. He makes birdies and always finds the fairway – perfect attributes for a foursomes or fourballs partner.

He will be desperate to get back into the team, having missed out on the last two occasions. There is a long way to go until Thomas Bjorn’s team is finalised, but Molinari is currently on track to qualify and in a very strong position.

He can tighten his grip on a place later this week, when he tees up on home soil seeking a third victory at the Italian Open.

His win at Wentworth will only ramp up the pressure on the man most of the crowd will be rooting for, and he faces a difficult few days in the bulid-up to the event.

But Molinari isn’t one to have over-celebrated since Sunday, so once the pre-tournament hype dies down and the action begins you can be sure he’ll be as sharp as a tack.McIlroy failed to sustain his momentum over the weekend (Source: Getty)

For McIlroy, the weekend will have been hugely disappointing but there was still some brilliant golf by anybody’s standards and some encouraging signs a fortnight out from the US Open.

I spoke to Rory on the driving range on Wednesday and he was focusing on trying to keep his top half and bottom half in synch. He succeeded for the first two days but when the wind picked up on Saturday it seemed to become more difficult.

He heads across the Atlantic this week for the Memorial Tournament, where he will join the likes of Justin Thomas, Dustin Johnson, Jason Day and Tiger in tuning up for the year’s second Major.Rose underlined his status as Europe's current top player with victory in the US (Source: Getty)

Justin Rose triumphed on that side of the pond on Sunday when he beat Brooks Koepka to the Fort Worth Invitational title in typically classy style.

Koepka carded his second 63 of the week on Sunday in pursuit of Rose, but the Englishman, who went 66-64-66-64, still won by three strokes.

Europe’s most in-form player already has one US Open in the bag, from five years ago. He might just be due another one next month. Reported by City A.M. 16 minutes ago.

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Spain Legend Insists Barça Must 'Reflect on Priorities' Following Real Madrid's Success in Europe Reported by SI.com 10 minutes ago.

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[Europe], May 29 (ANI): Three people, including two policemen, were killed in a terror attack in the eastern city of Liege on Tuesday. Reported by Sify 2 hours ago.

TOUAX : REVENUES 1st Quarter 2018

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Press Release                                                                                                            Paris, May 29^th, 2018, 5:45pm

*YOUR OPERATIONAL LEASING SOLUTION*

*REVENUES 1st Quarter 2018*

Revenues in the first quarter of 2018 were stable at € 19.1 million (+4% at constant currencies). Favorable Forecast. Implementation of IFRS15 on going.

IFRS 15 "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" came into effect on January 1, 2018. Work on the implementation of this new standard is still ongoing and involves presentation elements that have no impact on our margins.

To date, the application of this standard could be as follows:

· The amount of the lease of all the assets, whether belonging to the Group or to third-party investors is recorded in Revenues from contracts with customers,
· the amount of sales in the case of Group equipment trading or the sale of used Group equipment to end users, is recorded in Revenues from contracts with customers,
· sales margins (and thus the amount of revenue offset from the charge) in the case of equipment sold to investors or syndicated to investors are not recorded in Revenues from contracts with customers but in Income.

*Income by nature
*(non audited consolidated data, in thousand of euros) *Q1 2018* *Q1 2017* *Variation*
Lease rental income 32 465 38 497 -16%
Sales proceeds 3 247 2 680 21%
*Revenues from contracts with customers* *35 712* *41 177* *-13%*
Sales fees 620 821 -24%
*Total Income* *36 332* *41 998* *-13%*

This presentation does not allow a clear understanding of the group's activities and the impact on the Group's margins.

We lease transportation equipment (freight wagons, river barges and shipping containers) and record lease rental income when we own the equipment. The change in Lease rental income from Group assets has a significant impact on our margins.

We manage assets on behalf of investors; we syndicate the equipment and the lease agreements attached to the investors and record syndication fees; We lease, repair, store materials on their behalf and record management fees; finally we sell the equipment on their behalf and record sales commissions. The change in Lease rental income of investor assets does not have a significant impact on our margins, but the variation in management, sales and syndication fees has a significant impact on our margins.

We have equipment trading activities and we sell our rental equipment occasionally and record sales proceeds.

The following presentation gives a better view and a better understanding of the Group's business. This presentation is very comparable to our US competitors.

*Income by nature
*(non audited consolidated data, in thousand of euros) *Q1 2018* *Q1 2017* *Variation *
Lease rental income 14 309 14 775 -3%
Management fees 952 908 5%
Sales proceeds 3 247 2 680 21%
Sales fees 620 821 -24%
*Total Income* *19 128* *19 183* *0%*

Income for the first quarter of 2018 amounted to € 19.1 million, stable compared to the first quarter of 2017 (+ 4% at constant currencies).

Lease Rental Income totaled € 14.3 million, down 3% (-1% at constant currencies). The decrease in the fleet and the currency effects mainly in the River Barges and Shipping Containers activities explains the decrease in Lease Rental Income. Freight Wagons Lease Rental income is up with higher demand.

Management fees are up by 5% thanks to the growth of the leasing of assets under management, the Shipping Containers division contributing 72%.

Sales proceeds increased by 22% to 3.2 million euros driven by the Shipping Container Division and, to a lesser extent, the River Barges Division.

Sales commissions decreased to 0.6 million euros with less disposal of investors' equipment, due to fewer containers available for sale given the high utilization rate offset by a margin of syndication on the 1st quarter 2018 from the syndication of 6,000 shipping containers (TEUs) to investors.

*Segment Information*

*Income by segment
*(non audited consolidated data, in thousand of euros) *Q1 2018* *Q1 2017* *Variation *
Lease rental income 10 009 9 763 3%
Management fees 234 108 117%
Sales proceeds 100 598 -83%
*Freight Railcars* *10 343* *10 469* *-1%*
Lease rental income 3 029 3 699 -18%
Sales proceeds 1 020 6 na
*River Barges* *4 049* *3 705* *9%*
Lease rental income 940 1 267 -26%
Management fees 718 800 -10%
Sales proceeds 1 436 1 089 32%
Sales fees 620 821 -24%
*Shipping Containers* *3 713* *3 977* *-7%*
Lease rental income 331 45 na
Sales proceeds 692 987 -30%
*Miscellaneous* *1 023* *1 032* *-1%*
       
*Total Income* *19 128* *19 183* *0%*

*Freight Railcars:* Freight Railcar's revenues amounted to € 10.3million, down € 0.1 million (-1%) compared to the first quarter of 2017. The leasing activity of the division grew by 3% to 10 million euros. Compared to March 2017, the utilization rate and the leasing rates show an increase of around 5% each. Management fees increased with more equipment under management and better leasing activity. A small number of railcars were sold in the first quarter of 2018.

*River Barges:* The River Barges division's revenues increased by 9% to 4 million euros, compared to the first quarter of 2017. Equipment sales amounted to 1 million euros at March 31, 2018, offsetting the decrease of 18 % of leasing activity, mainly due to a decrease in chartering activity in Europe and a currency effect related to the depreciation of the USD.

*Shipping Containers* The Shipping Containers division's revenues amounted to € 3.7 million, down from the first quarter of 2017. Lease rental income and Management fees decreased with fewer assets owned and managed due to disposals of assets in 2017. The leasing activity is very strong with a utilization rate of 99% in the first quarter of 2018. Sales revenue is up, reflecting strong momentum in new container trading activities. Sales commissions are down, with few used containers available for sale given the high utilization rate offset by higher syndication margins, the Group having resumed investment early 2018.

*FORECAST*

The transportation equipment leasing markets are well oriented.

After a GDP growth of 2.5% in 2017, the economic climate continues to improve in 2018, creating an increase in rail transport needs and freight railcar demand. As the 4th European operational leasing company, and the 2nd European provider of intermodal railcars, TOUAX Rail is well positioned and anticipates a rise in leasing rates.

The leasing of river barges in Europe is still well oriented. The need for river barges is significant in France with the many construction sites related to the "Grand Paris" infrastructure projects and the European growth contributes to the demand on the Rhine and the Danube. Only the South American market remains with overcapacity.

With a forecast of global GDP growth of 3.9% in 2018, the demand for shipping containers is expected to remain strong and TOUAX Container is starting a new growth cycle of its fleet under management allowing it to resume investment in 2018. These investments will have a positive impact from the second half of 2018.

*UPCOMING DATES*

· 20 June 2018:               Shareholders' general meeting (Hotel Hilton La Defense)
· 13 September 2018:     Half-year revenue and results

Half-year results 2018 financial analysts' meeting

· 14 September 2018 :    Half-year results 2018 Conference call
· 15 November 2018 :     Revenues Q3 2018

TOUAX Group leases out tangible assets (shipping-containers, freight railcars and river barges) on a daily basis to more than 5 000 customers throughout the world, for its own account and on behalf of third party investors. With €1.2 billion under management, TOUAX is one of the European leaders in the operational leasing of this type of equipment.

TOUAX is listed in Paris on EURONEXT - Euronext Paris Compartment C (Code ISIN FR0000033003) and on the CAC® Small and CAC® Mid & Small indexes and in EnterNext PEA-PME.

For more information: www.touax.com

Contacts:

TOUAX                                                                                                                                      ACTIFIN
Fabrice & Raphaël WALEWSKI                                                                                            Ghislaine GASPARETTO
Managing Partners                                                                                                                 ggasparetto@actifin.fr
touax@touax.com                                                                                                                  
www.touax.com                                                                                                                       Tel: +33 (0)1 56 88 11 11
Tel: +33 (0)1 46 96 18 00                                                                                                                     
                                                                                                                                                                                                               

*Appendix 1 - Implementation IFRS15*

IFRS 15 "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" came into effect on January 1, 2018.

Work on the implementation of this new standard is still ongoing and involves presentation elements that have no impact on our margins.

In view of all the new concepts introduced by IFRS 15, notably the indicator of the notion of control, the criteria for identifying a contract and the assessment of the practices of the leasing industry, the most significant impacts relates to the management activities.

To date, an application of this standard could exclusively modify the presentation of investor's equipment sales and syndications to investors. Thus Lease rental income would represent all Lease rental income from equipment belonging to the Group or investors as previously. Sales would exclusively record sales of equipment to end users. Sales of investors' equipment and syndications to investors would no longer be recognized in revenues from contracts with customers but in Income.

Because this IFRS15 application does not allow a clear reading of our activities and impacts on our margins, we have retained a second presentation very similar to our competitors which is detailed above.

In both presentations, these changes have no impact on margins (compensation of revenues and expenses related to asset management for third parties).

The transition table between 2017 Q1 revenue published in 2017 and the restated IFRS 15 Q1 is as follows:

As a reminder, since the European and American modular construction activities were sold in 2017, the data are restated in accordance with IFRS 5 to present a comparable scope:

*Income
*(non audited consolidated data, in thousand of euros) *Q1 2017 released* *Q1 2017 retreated IFRS 5*
Lease Income 55 374 38 498
Sales Income 22 157 15 070
*Total Income* *77 531* *53 568*

IFRS 15 presents the following changes:

*Income by segment
*(non audited consolidated data, in thousand of euros) *Q1 2017 retreated IFRS 5* *Q1 2017 retreated IFRS 15*
Lease Rental Income 11 929 11 929
Sales Proceeds 598 598
*Freight Railcarst* *12 527* *12 527*
Lease Rental Income 3 699 3 699
Sales Proceeds 6 6
*River Barges* *3 705* *3 705*
Lease Rental Income 22 824 22 824
Sales Proceeds 13 480 1 089
Sales fees   821
*Shipping Containers* *36 304* *24 734*
Lease Rental Income 45 45
Sales Proceeds 987 987
*Miscellaneous* *1 032* *1 032*
  * *  
*Total Income* *53 568* *41 998*

*Attachment*

· Press Release - Revenues Q1 2018.pdf Reported by GlobeNewswire 2 hours ago.
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