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Cenntro Electric Group Limited announces approval of the scheme of arrangement by the Supreme Court of New South Wales

FREEHOLD, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Cenntro Electric Group Limited (NASDAQ: CENN) (“Cenntro” or “the Company”), a leading electric vehicle technology company with advanced, market-validated electric commercial vehicles, refers to the proposed scheme of arrangement in relation to which Cenntro will re-domicile from Australia to the United States (“U.S.“, the “Scheme”), and under which Cenntro will become a subsidiary of Cenntro Inc., a corporation incorporated in accordance with the laws of the state of Nevada for the purpose of effecting the Scheme.

 

Cenntro is pleased to announce that the Supreme Court of New South Wales, Australia (the “Court“) made orders approving the proposed Scheme on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024 (Australian Eastern Daylight Time, “AEDT“).

 

Cenntro further confirms that it has today lodged an office copy of the orders made by the Court approving the Scheme with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (“ASIC“) pursuant to sub-section 411(10) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), as a result of which the Scheme is now legally effective.

 

An office copy of the Court orders lodged with ASIC is attached at Annexure A to this press release.

 

Eligible Cenntro shareholders who hold Cenntro ordinary shares of the Company as at 7 p.m. (AEDT) on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024 (the “Record Date“) will receive one share of common stock in Cenntro Inc. in exchange for every one ordinary share of the Company which such eligible Cenntro shareholder held as of the Record Date.

 

Next steps

An indicative timetable of the key milestones remaining under the Scheme is set out below:

Expected date*

Event

Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 7:00pm

Record Date – being the time and date for determining entitlements to Scheme consideration

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Implementation date – being the date on which the Scheme will be implemented and Cenntro shareholders will receive the Scheme consideration which they are entitled to

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Commencement of dispatch to Eligible Cenntro shareholders of statements confirming the issue of common stock in Cenntro Inc.

 

*All dates and times listed in the table above are in AEDT and are indicative only and subject to change. Cenntro, in consultation with Cenntro Inc., may vary any or all of these dates and times and will provide reasonable notice of any such variation. Any changes will be announced by Cenntro to Nasdaq and published on Cenntro’s website at www.cenntroauto.com.

 

About Cenntro Electric Group Ltd.

Cenntro Electric Group Ltd. (NASDAQ: CENN) is a leading maker and provider of electric commercial vehicles (“ECVs”). Cenntro’s purpose-built ECVs are designed to serve a variety of commercial applications inclusive of its line of class 1 to class 4 trucks. Cenntro is building a globalized supply-chain, as well as the manufacturing, distribution, and service capabilities for its innovative and reliable products. Cenntro continues to evolve its products capabilities through advanced battery, powertrain, and smart driving technologies. For more information, please visit Cenntro’s website at: http://www.cenntroauto.com/.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include all statements that are not historical facts. Such statements may be, but need not be, identified by words such as “may,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “could,” “should,” “intend,” “plan,” “will,” “aim(s),” “can,” “would,” “expect(s),” “estimate(s),””project(s),” “forecast(s)”, “positioned,” “approximately,” “potential,” “goal,” “strategy,” “outlook” and similar expressions. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements regarding assembly and distribution capabilities, decentralized production, and fully digitalized autonomous driving solutions. All such forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs, expectations and assumptions, and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied in this communication. For additional risks and uncertainties that could impact Cenntro’s forward-looking statements, please see disclosures contained in Cenntro’s public filings with the SEC, including the “Risk Factors” in Cenntro’s Annual Report on Form 10K/A filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 6, 2023 and which may be viewed at www.sec.gov.

Contacts

Investor Relations Contact:
Chris Tyson

MZ North America

CENN@mzgroup.us
949-491-8235

Company Contact:
PR@cenntroauto.com
IR@cenntroauto.com

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AM Best upgrades Credit Ratings of CG United Insurance Ltd.; affirms Credit Ratings for most of Coralisle Group Ltd. subsidiaries

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #insurance — AM Best has upgraded the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) to A (Excellent) from A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) to “a” (Excellent) from “a-” (Excellent) of CG United Insurance Ltd. (CG United) (Barbados).

 

The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) has been revised to stable from positive. Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed the FSR of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term ICRs of “a” (Excellent) for the life/health (L/H) and property/casualty (P/C) operating subsidiaries of Coralisle Group Ltd. (CG). The outlook of these ratings is stable. CG is a wholly owned intermediate holding company of Edmund Gibbons Limited, the ultimate parent company. All companies are domiciled in Bermuda, unless otherwise specified. (See below for a detailed listing of these companies).

 

The ratings reflect CG’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

 

On a consolidated basis, CG continues to demonstrate the strongest level of risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), supported by ample liquidity and fungibility of resources across the organization. Financial leverage was moderate in 2022, after the acquisition of CG United in May of 2022, which was partially financed with debt. This debt was fully repaid in 2023. Reinsurance capacity was severely constrained going into 2023, which drove an increase in retentions on proportional treaties. To secure appropriate excess of loss limits given the additional retentions, higher excess of loss deductibles were accepted.

 

These, combined with much higher property exposure after the CG United acquisition, materially increased reinsurance dependence. However, AM Best believes the program remains supportive of the overall balance sheet assessment.

 

CG’s year-end 2022 results were materially impacted by adverse investment results that more than offset otherwise favorable operating results. Despite the adverse net results in 2022, CG has reported consistent favorable operating and net results over the last five years driven by health and P/C lines. Reported premium growth has been strong over the last five years, and especially strong in 2022, as CG closed on its acquisition of CG United in May and included associated premiums for seven months. Growth in 2023 is expected to be strong with full year CG United results as large rate increases are realized throughout the property portfolio. Potential for volatility in earnings remains high due to catastrophe exposure and the risk of significant health reform in Bermuda.

 

The ratings of CG United reflect its increased strategic importance to CG and its substantially complete integration with the legacy business. This integration includes the rebranding of CG United in 2022, combined with reinsurance purchasing, the licensing of CG United entities to sell CG health products and cost synergies related to consolidation of core systems and processes.

 

The FSR of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term ICRs of “a” (Excellent) have been affirmed with stable outlooks, for the following subsidiaries of Coralisle Group Ltd.:

  • Coralisle Insurance (BVI) Ltd. (British Virgin Islands)
  • British Caymanian Insurance Company Limited (Cayman Islands)
  • Coralisle Insurance Company Ltd.
  • Coralisle Life Assurance Company Ltd.
  • Coralisle Medical Insurance Company Ltd.
  • CG Atlantic Medical & Life Insurance Ltd. (Bahamas)
  • CG Atlantic General Insurance Ltd. (Bahamas)

 

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2024 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

John McGlynn
Senior Financial Analyst
+1 908 882 2106
john.mcglynn@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Bridget Maehr
Director
+1 908 882 2080
bridget.maehr@ambest.com

Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com

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Mobile Academy hosts successful panel discussion on generational diversity

TRENTON, N.J. — The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey’s (AACCNJ) Mobile Academy showcased its commitment to fostering collaboration and understanding within the business community with a successful event on Jan. 23 at Middlesex College.

 

The evening, themed “Can We Talk: What Do You Really Know About Generational Diversity?” unfolded as a multifaceted experience, beginning with a dynamic networking segment and light refreshments.

The networking session provided a unique opportunity for attendees to not only exchange business cards but also to share experiences and insights. Entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals from various sectors engaged in conversations that transcended generational gaps, setting the stage for an enriching and inclusive panel discussion.

The Mobile Academy, known for its innovative approach to education and empowerment, curated a diverse panel of experts, each representing a different generation. Gene Bouie, a seasoned leader and Executive Director of AACCNJ’s Training and Development Institute, brought a wealth of experience as the Baby Boomer representative. Stacey Kavanagh, First Vice President and Market Manager at Provident Bank shared her insights as a representative of Generation X. Kyle Holder, Vice President at Optimus Partners, LLC, offered perspectives from the Millennial generation. Desiree Mitchell, a student at New York University, brought a fresh perspective as the Generation Z representative.

Dr. Kinna Perry, an accomplished scholar and Associate Dean at Rutgers Graduate School-Newark, delivered a keynote address that transcended the theoretical, offering practical insights into the day-to-day implications of generational diversity. Dr. Perry’s presentation explored how each generation’s unique values, communication styles, and attitudes toward work impact our daily lives, from the office to our interactions in society at large.

The heart of the evening unfolded with a moderated panel discussion with Perry expertly navigating the complexities and commonalities that define each generation. The audience actively participated in a robust Q&A session, providing a platform for direct engagement with the panelists.

This exchange facilitated a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that arise when working across generational lines.

John E. Harmon Sr., IOM, Founder, President and CEO of AACCNJ, delivered closing remarks, expressing his gratitude for the engaged audience and reinforcing the organization’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Harmon highlighted the pivotal role events like “Can We Talk” play in fostering a more cohesive and supportive business community.

About the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey

The AACCNJ performs an essential role in the economic viability of New Jersey. While providing a platform for New Jersey’s African American business leaders, to speak with a collective voice, the AACCNJ advocates and promotes economic diversity fostering a climate of business growth through major initiatives centering on education and public policy. The Chamber serves as a proactive advocacy group with a 501(c) 3 tax exemption, which is shared by the National Black Chamber of Commerce.

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The AACCNJ hosts  town hall meeting with over 200 in attendance — Topic: ‘The Fierce Urgency of Now’

TRENTON, N.J. —  The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) hosted a town hall on Feb. 7 , from 3 to 6 p.m., with over two hundred in attendance at the Crowne Plaza Princeton, Conference Center in East Windsor, N.J.

 

The meeting was convened to provide an open forum for discussion and included a presentation on the State’s newly released Disparity Study, conducted by Mason Tillman Associates, LTD.

 

The Presentation was led by Dr. Denise Anderson, Founder & CEO, Denise Anderson & Associates (DA&A) LLC, and moderated by John E. Harmon, Sr., IOM, Founder, President & CEO, AACCNJ, and included a lengthy Q&A session with the audience, which consisted of AACCNJ members, and stakeholders, elected officials, representatives from the state government, and Chambers of Commerce.

 

The State’s commissioned study documented institutional discrimination to African American businesses in NJ.  Dr. Denise Anderson received a positive response to her statement “Disparities need to be addressed between Blacks and Whites and within minority groups. We need specific solutions for different populations based on the data and their needs. Regardless of how we are classified – lumping us as “minority” does not make us monolithic.”

 

Dr. Anderson’s presentation was met with a standing ovation at the conclusion.  Dr. Anderson also quoted Frederick Douglass and James Baldwin in her presentation, quotes that resonated with the audience.

 

“Each day the AACCNJ and its members continue to fight what Dr. King called the ‘soft bigotry of low expectations,’ and we prove time and time again, that when the opportunity presents itself, we are ready,” said John E. Harmon, Sr.

 

Harmon set forth a call to action to those in attendance, to reach out to their local and state elected officials to voice their concerns, and to let them know they were in attendance.  CEO Harmon fielded more than two dozen questions during the audience Q& A segment.

 

“I knew that we invited the right person to make a presentation to our constituents on the Disparity Study, Dr. Anderson’s knowledge and analysis of the data was excellent and was presented in a straightforward manner to the audience,” said Gary Mann, AACCNJ, Chairman of the Board.

 

“Tuesday marks two weeks since the state released the long-promised disparity study — one that showed all minority groups, as well as females, have received nowhere near their “fair share” of state contracts, based on their population size and their ability to do the work.

 

The 221-page report, commissioned in 2020, was filled with stunning data, including this fact: Even though Black-owned companies in the state represent 9.19% of the available construction businesses, they received only 0.14% of the dollars on construction contracts valued over $65,000 to $5.71 million. (The report estimates this potentially cost these businesses $209 million).

 

More stunning: These numbers didn’t surprise anyone, including state officials.

 

Even more stunning: The state, after releasing this report, seemingly has done little to address the issue. No focus groups, roundtable discussions, executive orders or legislative proposals have been announced.

 

After years of saying it needed a study to be able to do something, the state has not made any public announcements on how it will address the findings.”1

 

“The Study, as expected, revealed that African American businesses received little of the $ 18.5 billion the Murphy administration spent on contracts for construction, professional services and goods and services from 2015 to 2020,” said John E. Harmon, Sr.

 

“While expecting the worst, little did we know that the Study would document African Americans received less than one (1) percent of the $18.5 billion dollars the State awarded to contractors.  African American businesses received a pittance despite the fact that we represent, 14 percent of the population, and over 10 percent of the businesses in New Jersey willing and able to contract with the State.”

 

“As we move forward, we ask the Governor and his administration to also hold a statewide meeting, to discuss the results of the disparity study,” said Harmon.

 

“The Administration needs to establish a race and gender-based program with minority and woman-owned business utilization goals to end the discriminatory practices in its award of contracts,” said Harmon. “Our mutual goal henceforth is to have a more equitable participation in every area of the public sector wherein economic opportunities exist.”

 

The AACCNJ has convened a Disparity Study Task Force Committee to work with the Murphy administration to outline our engagement plan with the state and develop a strategy to address disparities and underperformance among Blacks in New Jersey.  The task force will be co-chaired by Dr. Denise Anderson, Denise Anderson and Associates and Ferlanda Nixon, Esq., Chief of Public Policy & External Affairs, AACCNJ.  Committee Members include John E. Harmon, Sr., President  CEO, AACCNJ, Gary Mann, Chairman of the Board, AACCNJ, Tammeisha Smith, Vice Chair of the Board, Stan Prater, Senior Advisor to AACCNJ President & CEO, Tanya Freeman, Esq, Chair of the Board, NY State Black Business Alliance (NYSBBA), Robert Johnson, Esq., Secretary, AACCNJ, Board of Directors, Marcus Dyer, CPA, Treasurer, AACCNJ, Board of Directors, Robert Warrington, Esq., AACCNJ Board of Directors, and Monique Nelson, Executive Chair, UWG.

 

1  https://www.roi-nj.com/2024/02/06/diversity-inclusion/2-weeks-after-release-of-shocking-disparity-study-state-seemingly-has-done-little-to-address-issue/

 

About the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey

The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) performs an essential role in the economic viability of New Jersey. While providing a platform for New Jersey’s African American business leaders, to speak with a collective voice, the AACCNJ advocates and promotes economic diversity fostering a climate of business growth through major initiatives centering on education and public policy. The Chamber serves as a proactive advocacy group with a 501(c) 3 tax exemption, which is shared by the National Black Chamber of Commerce.

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Best’s Special Report: US economy could see slowdown after better-than-expected 2023

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE)–#insurance–The U.S. economy performed better than expected in 2023, significantly reducing the possibility of a recession in 2024. However, according to a new AM Best report, growth is still set to slow due to a variety of headwinds.

 

According to the Best’s Special Report, “US Economy: Soft Landing May Experience a Bumpy Road,” strong domestic consumption led to the GDP growth of 2.5% in 2023, aided by a tight labor market, growth in real incomes and positive wealth effects from the housing and stock markets. Government spending also contributed to economic activity, owing to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act and the Chips and Science Act, which boosted federal spending. Private investment and exports had mixed results, but the economy still ended on a positive note, growing by an annualized 3.3% on a fourth-quarter basis, bringing positive momentum into 2024.

 

The report also notes that inflation continues to move down toward the Federal Reserve’s target of 2.0% and is likely to continue to fall in the upcoming year. However, the risk that inflation may spike persists given the precarious geopolitical environment. Various conflicts around the world have the potential for supply chain disruptions and commodity price shocks, which would increase costs and cause higher inflation.

 

“As the Fed was tightening policy to rein in inflation, the government undertook expansionary fiscal spending with fiscal deficits running approximately 7%-8% of GDP,” said Ann Modica, director, credit rating criteria, research and analytics, AM Best. “If fiscal deficits continue to grow, policy rates are likely to remain higher due to the inflationary impact. Additionally, public debt is becoming a larger concern, with interest payments almost twice as much as they were three years ago.”

 

Interest rates may be at or near their peak, according to the report, with the Fed projecting rate cuts totaling 75 basis points in 2024. With the rate cuts, mortgage rates are expected to come down as well. However, monetary policy may remain somewhat restrictive, given its lagged effect. Consumer spending, which remains the main driver of US economic activity, likely will moderate in 2024. The expected economic slowdown, dwindling savings, rising debt levels and a weaker employment outlook all have the potential to lead to a decline in domestic consumption.

 

To access the full copy of this report, please visit http://www3.ambest.com/bestweek/purchase.asp?record_code=340405.

 

For a video discussion about this report with Ann Modica, director, AM Best, please visit http://www.ambest.com/v.asp?v=ambeconomy224.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2024 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Ann Modica
Director, Credit Rating Criteria,
Research and Analytics
+1 908 882 2127
ann.modica@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com

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OPEX® Corporation to demonstrate its Warehouse Automation technology at MODEX 2024, with launch of its newest solutions

MOORESTOWN, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — OPEX® Corporation, a global leader in Next Generation Automation for almost 50 years, will showcase its advanced Warehouse Automation solutions at MODEX 2024, the largest manufacturing and supply chain trade event, scheduled for March 11 through 14 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.

 

“We look forward to participating in MODEX once again in 2024,” said Alex Stevens, President, Warehouse Automation, OPEX.

 

“This gathering provides an ideal forum to engage with industry thought leaders, and to demonstrate the innovative solutions in our Warehouse Automation portfolio. We’re particularly excited to be introducing our most advanced sorting solutions yet at MODEX 2024.”

 

At MODEX Booth #B6602, OPEX will be exhibiting two of its premier solutions. Onsite will be the Infinity® automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS), first introduced at MODEX 2022. Designed to reduce labor challenges, drive order accuracy, maximize existing space, and scale to meet demand, the Infinity AS/RS features unparalleled storage density, configurability, and flexibility. This next generation goods-to-person solution is ideal for multiple applications, including omni-channel distribution, store replenishment, micro-fulfillment, and ecommerce.

 

Making its debut at MODEX will be OPEX Corporation’s newest innovations in automated sortation. A press conference will be held in OPEX Booth #B6602 on Monday, March 11 at 10:30 am ET, where the company will unveil its latest technology. Onsite demonstrations will occur throughout the duration of the show.

 

OPEX will also host an educational session titled “The Future of Sortation” on Tuesday, March 12, from 2:30 to 3:25 pm ET in the Emerging Technologies Theater. During this session, Drew Stevens, Vice President, Global Business Development and Marketing, OPEX, will discuss the benefits of automating the sortation process and the various options available across the marketplace.

 

For nearly five decades, OPEX Corporation has served as a trusted partner, collaborating closely with clients to develop customized, scalable solutions that transform how business is conducted. OPEX continuously reimagines automation technology to help clients solve their most significant business challenges, today and in the future.

 

About OPEX

OPEX® Corporation is a global leader in Next Generation Automation, providing innovative, unique solutions for warehouse, document and mail automation. With headquarters in Moorestown, NJ, USA—and facilities in Pennsauken, NJ; Plano, TX; France; Germany; Switzerland; the United Kingdom; and Australia—OPEX has more than 1,600 employees who are continuously reimagining and delivering customized, scalable technology solutions that solve the business challenges of today and in the future.

Contacts

Laura Evans

levans@opex.com
+1.856.727.1100 x 5012

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Affinity Federal Credit Union celebrates its first class of Certified Wellbeing Coaches

Coaches will support the wellbeing of Affinity members at each of its branches in NJ, NY and CT

 

 

BASKING RIDGE, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Affinity Federal Credit Union (“Affinity”) proudly announces the graduation of its inaugural class of Certified Wellbeing Coaches. The program and its first graduates mark an important step in Affinity’s ongoing commitment to the financial wellbeing of its members.

 

The program’s 42 graduates represent various departments within Affinity. Each participant invested approximately 75 hours in training, learning about how to provide members with the best possible support in managing their personal finances and overcoming financial challenges. Course topics include credit, foreclosure, bankruptcy, taxes, insurance, identity theft, and the resources and tools available to support a member’s financial wellbeing. The program was inclusive of class attendance, presentations, homework, and tests.

 

“We are immensely proud to introduce our first class of Certified Wellbeing Coaches, who embody Affinity’s purpose of ‘people helping people’ within our communities,” said Kevin Brauer, CEO and President of Affinity Federal Credit Union. “By investing in the financial wellbeing of our members, we are not just helping them navigate financial challenges but are also empowering them to achieve their long-term goals. We look forward to the positive impact our Wellbeing Coaches will have on our members’ lives.”

 

Affinity also wants to highlight the work of four of its coaches who went above and beyond to meet the demands of the program. Top graduates of the inaugural class of Certified Wellbeing Coaches include Bedminster and Morristown Branch Manager Andrea Alfaro, Norwalk Branch Manager Juan Londono, Financial Services Accountant Lizandra Blanco, and Loss Mitigation Specialist Auria Torres.

 

Coaches are now available at all of Affinity’s branches in New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut, ensuring that every member has access to this invaluable resource. Appointments with Wellbeing Coaches can be made online at https://www.affinityfcu.com/financial-wellbeing/certified-wellbeing-coaches.

 

About Affinity Federal Credit Union

Affinity Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution, member-owned and community-focused, with a mission to nurture your financial wellbeing. With more than 20 branches across the tri-state area, Affinity is the largest credit union headquartered in the state of New Jersey, proudly ranking in the top 2% of all credit unions in terms of asset size1. The Affinity difference is about people helping people on a deeper level and understanding what YOU need to make your unique dreams a reality. For more information, please visit www.affinityfcu.com.

 

1 Source: NCUA.gov. Using the “Credit Union and Corporate Call Report Data” found here: https://www.ncua.gov/analysis/credit-union-corporate-call-report-data

Contacts

Rocco Aloe

Gregory FCA for Affinity Federal Credit Union

affinity@gregoryfca.com
610-860-2075

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Avaya’s CEO Alan Masarek to deliver ITEXPO 2024 keynote: Deciphering the right innovation language for the boardroom

Avaya executives also featured in presentations focusing on balancing AI with better employee engagement, improving contact center agent experiences, and the future of work in the Contact Center

 

 

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. & MORRISTOWN, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Avaya, a global leader in customer experience solutions, continues to invest and anchor itself in wider industry conversations with its upcoming speaking engagements at this year’s 25th edition of ITEXPO 2024, one of the largest and longest-running technology events.

 

The technology conference is scheduled from Feb. 13 to 15 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

 

Avaya CEO Alan Masarek’s ITEXPO keynote will highlight a pivotal gap in communication between the business-results focus of CEO’s and boards of directors and the tech priorities of IT leaders, to help ITEXPO attendees understand how to better and more successfully communicate innovation projects with senior leaders, and how companies can correctly tie innovation investments to company financial results. The keynote session will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 14 at 2:30 p.m. ET in the Floridian ballroom.

 

“Understanding the critical balance between innovation and operational priorities is essential in today’s landscape, and I look forward to sharing practical insights on how to best position the critical role IT investments can make toward improved business performance,” said Alan Masarek, CEO of Avaya.

 

“In today’s experience economy, customer experience will be how brands grow, differentiate, and win, and Avaya can offer perspectives that can help CX practitioners and leaders get on the path to consuming AI-power innovation with faster time to value.”

 

In addition to the Avaya keynote, Global Vice Presidents Jay Patel (Product Management) and Susan Terry (Portfolio Maximization) will be participating in three on-stage panels on Feb. 14 in conversations with fellow industry leaders. Patel will participate in two sessions: “Finding the balance with AI for better employee engagement” at 9 a.m. (West building) room 209B, and “How successful companies improve agent experience” at 10 a.m. ET (West building) room 209A. Terry’s discussion will explore the future of work with a spotlight on contact center agents as their unsung heroes, at 10 a.m. ET (West building) room 209B.

 

ITEXPO brings communications and technology professionals together across the entire ecosystem: Enterprise and SMB telecom and IT executives, small business owners, MSP and Channel C-level executives and business owners, service provider/carrier engineers and network executives, and industry suppliers and solutions providers.

 

To register for attendance, visit ITEXPO’s registration page.

 

Additional Resources

 

About Avaya

Businesses are built by the experiences they provide, and every day, millions of those experiences are delivered by Avaya. Organizations trust Avaya to provide innovative solutions for some of their most important ambitions and challenges, giving them the freedom to engage their customers and employees in ways that deliver the greatest business benefits. Avaya contact center and communications solutions power immersive, personalized, and unforgettable customer experiences that drive business momentum. With the freedom to choose their journey, there’s no limit to the experiences Avaya customers can create.

Learn more at https://www.avaya.com

 

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements

This document contains certain “forward-looking statements.” All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking” statements for purposes of the U.S. federal and state securities laws. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “our vision,” “plan,” “potential,” “preliminary,” “predict,” “should,” “will,” or “would” or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of factors and uncertainties that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, risks attendant to the bankruptcy process, including the Company’s ability to emerge successful from the Company’s voluntary cases under chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code, and other factors discussed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC and other public statements made from time-to-time. These risks and uncertainties may cause the Company’s actual results, performance, liquidity or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance, liquidity or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. The Company cautions you that the list of important factors included in the Company’s SEC filings may not contain all of the material factors that are important to you. In addition, in light of these risks and uncertainties, the matters referred to in the forward-looking statements contained in this report may not in fact occur. The Company undertakes 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.

 

All trademarks identified by ®, TM, or SM are registered marks, trademarks, and service marks, respectively, of Avaya Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

 

Source: Avaya Newsroom

Contacts

Avaya Corporate PR:

Corpcommsteam@avaya.com

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Disneyland Paris Flagship Hotel re-opens in time for upcoming ‘World of Frozen’ launch

After three years of renovations, the Disneyland Hotel at Disneyland Paris, finally re-opened on Jan. 25 with a new focus on luxury.

 

Courtesy of Disney

With a five-star rating and a manager whose resume includes the Ritz and the Mandarin Oriental, the hotel, which is located over the main entrance to the park, boasts a spa, kids club, styling studio similar to Florida’s Bibbity Bobbity Boutique and even a pillow menu (there are seven different types of neck support to choose from) in addition to its 487 rooms and suites.

 

While Disney’s last foray into experiential accommodation ended in tears when Orlando’s Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel shut down last fall just eighteen months after it opened, the company’s latest endeavour (which launched just a week before new Pixar Place Hotel at Disneyland in Anaheim) proves lessons have been learned about what guests actually want.

 

Gone are the windowless cabins and mandatory character interaction. Instead visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Sleeping Beauty’s castle and soak in high-tech animated details, including a life-size version of Aurora’s dress made from fibreoptic fabric that turns from pink to blue at the touch of a button.

 

“You’re not only coming here to sleep in a bed,” manager Majbritt Iaconis tells Variety.

 

“Why are you coming here? It’s for all the different experiences on offer.”

 

Promising “excellence and immersive storytelling,” the hotel aims to offer both an extension of the company’s two French parks (as well as Disneyland Paris there is also a separately-ticketed park called Walt Disney Studios) and the first word in comfort, combining themed restaurants, character encounters and interactive suites inspired by classic films including “Beauty and the Beast” and “Cinderella” with amenities such as 24-hour room service and high-end bath products.

The lobby in the Disneyland Hotel in Paris (courtesy of Disney)

 

Disney’s French team, led by veteran Imagineer and art director Sylvie Massara (who was also responsible for the resort’s 2021 Marvel-themed hotel), were tasked with bringing the studio’s films to life, with Disney’s Burbank HQ providing archive art and props for inspiration as well as approving designs and interactive details, such as a glowing glass slipper in the Cinderella suite. Pixar Studios artists designed a “Brave”-themed tapestry, which was brought to life by craftsmen from a 130-year-old weaving workshop in the North of France and now hangs in the hotel’s Royal Banquet restaurant.

 

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— Variety

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Donnell Rawlings stand-up special produced by Dave Chappelle, lands Netflix premiere

Netflix has picked up the stand-up special “Chappelle’s Home Team – Donnell Rawlings: A New Day,” the latest installment in a series of stand-alone comedy specials executive produced by Chappelle. Ok

 

“Chappelle’s Home Team – Donnell Rawlings: A New Day” is Rawlings’ first solo stand-up comedy special for Netflix, and is set to premiere on Feb. 27.

 

Directed by Emmy and Grammy award winner Stan Lathan, the special was filmed at the Hard Rock Hotel in New York City during the New York Comedy Festival in November. “Chappelle’s Home Team – Donnell Rawlings: A New Day” is executive produced by Chappelle, Rikki Hughes and Lathan.

 

“It’s a new day, and Donnell Rawlings is feeling good. Dressed in a blue suit, red socks and lotioned ankles, he’s here to discuss toxic relationships, traveling to New Zealand, aging, co-parenting and much more,” reads the special’s synopsis.

 

Rawlings was previously featured on “The Degenerates” (2019) and on “Snoop Dogg’s F*cn Around Comedy Special” (2022). Rawlings then joined Chappelle on his special “Dave Chappelle and Friends” at the Hollywood Bowl and performed a solo during the previous Netflix is a Joke comedy festival, where he will perform again as it returns this spring.

 

Rawlings was previously seen in sketches as “Ashy Larry” on “Chappelle’s Show.” He also appeared as Damien “Day-Day” Price on HBO’s “The Wire,” and he also starred as Dez in the animated Pixar film “Soul.”

 

The Rawlings special is the third installment of “Home Team,” which features comedians spotlighted and chosen by Chappelle.

 

“I’ve been doing this a long time, and comedians like Donnell are not only friends but have inspired my own career,” Chappelle said in a statement.

 

“Anyone in the comedy community knows these names and knows their time to shine is long overdue. I am proud to be a part of this moment.”

 

The first special released as part of “Home Team” was “Chappelle’s Home Team – Earthquake: Legendary,” which premiered in February 2022. It was followed by “Chappelle’s Home Team – Luenell: Town Business” on September 2023.

 

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— Variety (EXCLUSIVE)