Categories
Healthcare Sports & Gaming

NIMBL launches first-to-market subscription programs for muscle recovery products & education

Market Disruptor Subscription Approach Offers Fitness Professionals, Corporations, Universities, PT Clinics, Sports Teams and Individuals Affordable Access to Percussion Guns, Muscle Recovery Instruction, Custom Movement Plans and Certification Courses.


NEW YORK — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #businessdisruptionNIMBL, Inc. on Tuesday announced the introduction of the first-to-market muscle recovery subscription programs. The offerings combine world-class percussion devices, education and customized movement plans to help increase performance and prevent injuries.

 

While percussion gun use is now common at gyms, physical therapy offices, and on NBA and NFL sidelines, the high cost of premium devices keeps them out of reach for many corporations, organizations and individuals.

 

“At NIMBL, we want to democratize muscle wellness and make it accessible to everyone, including athletes, weekend warriors, line-workers, soldiers, corporations and anyone looking to improve movement,” said Pete Brand, CEO and Co-Founder of NIMBL.

 

“By lowering the barriers to entry, NIMBL subscriptions provide access and value through a focus on muscle percussion education and elite products,” he added.

 

NIMBL is leading the industry by introducing a completely new model that eliminates sticker shock with affordable subscription programs that tailor individual movement plans to help virtually anyone perform better and reduce pain.

 

Education and content are foundational to NIMBL subscriptions with the overarching goal to help people move better. For fitness experts, trainers and physical therapists, the NIMBL Fit Pro subscription includes the leading certification courses in the space, education workshops, an on-demand video library and a commercial-grade NIMBL XLR8 percussion gun.

 

For the consumer audience, NIMBL offers two subscription tiers, both of which create a personalized movement plan (PMP), an on-demand movement video library and either a NIMBL XLR8 percussion gun or the top-selling compact XPRS percussion gun.

 

While the fitness market is a huge opportunity, Josh Brand, co-founder of NIMBL, sees a larger play: “Regardless of white-collar or blue-collar, athletic or not, chances are you have your pain points or areas you want to improve.

 

“Through the proper use of percussion, improved movement can be achieved. We envision NIMBL membership to be commonplace throughout corporations across the world, supporting the gig economy and part of the uniform to police, military and athletes everywhere. Our subscribers will receive the best percussion device on the market and the information they need to achieve the results they expect. Our no questions asked subscription policy demonstrates our confidence in what will be achieved.”

 

The NIMBL Fit Pro subscription includes:

  • The commercial-grade NIMBL XLR8 Percussion gun, $369 value
  • Percussion Certification Course earning valuable continuing education credits with ISSA, NSCA, NASM, a $129 value
  • Quarterly Workshops
  • On-demand custom video content
  • Advisory consultation

 

The NIMBL Elite and NIMBL Plus subscriptions are geared to the consumer seeking to move, feel and perform better and includes:

  • The original commercial-grade NIMBL XLR8 Percussion gun (Elite plan), a $369 value or the record-selling compact NIMBL XPRS Percussion (Plus plan) gun, a $199 value.
  • Movement evaluation and plan
  • On-demand movement video library and instruction
  • Regular workshops
  • Chat with movement specialists

 

NIMBL, Inc. (www.joinnimbl.com), the muscle wellness company, packages percussion therapy products and personalized education programs into cost-effective subscription programs. The company serves fitness organizations, sports teams, physical therapists, corporate wellness programs and individuals worldwide. Founded in 2020, NIMBL is privately held with headquarters in Holmdel, New Jersey.

Contacts

NIMBL, Inc., New York

Tom Becktold, Chief Marketing Officer

tom@nimblinc.com or 310-866-6366

Categories
Business Sports & Gaming

New York Jets announce a multi-year partnership with Fubo Sportsbook

First NFL team partnership for forthcoming Fubo Sportsbook includes new Fubo Sportsbook Lounge at MetLife Stadium for Jets games

 

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. & CHICAGO — (BUSINESS WIRE) — The New York Jets today announced a multi-year partnership with Fubo Sportsbook, the comprehensive sports entertainment and wagering experience expected to launch in the fourth quarter 2021 (subject to all applicable regulatory approvals), to become an Official Sports Betting partner of the club. This agreement marks Fubo Sportsbook’s first sponsorship of a professional sports team. The partnership centers around the creation of the Fubo Sportsbook Lounge at MetLife Stadium for Jets home games, set to debut during the 2021-22 NFL season, and will be the first authorized, mobile sports betting lounge in the stadium. In addition, Fubo Sportsbook will become the presenting partner of the Jets Mobile App and is the team’s first legal sports betting (LSB) partner to leverage the Jets’ new advertising data partnership with Sportradar.

“This partnership with Fubo Sportsbook is another major step for the New York Jets in our journey to prioritize engagement with our fan base, including the enhancement of their overall stadium experience on game day,” said Jeff Fernandez, Jets Vice President, Business Development + Ventures. “With Fubo Sportsbook, Jets fans will be treated to their innovative mobile viewing and wagering platform, which will be brought to life at the dynamic new Fubo Sportsbook Lounge.”

 

At approximately 7,000 sq. ft., the Fubo Sportsbook Lounge will be open to the public for guests 21 and over and will offer Jets fans the opportunity to enjoy the look and feel of a casino-style sportsbook with betting odds integration, as well as incentives and special bonus offers provided by Fubo Sportsbook. Additionally, fans will be able to watch every game from around the NFL in the Lounge and conduct live mobile wagering via the Fubo Sportsbook app all while enjoying an incredible view of the Jets action on the field from the Lounge’s outdoor patio.

 

“The New York Jets is a leading sports organization with a strong base of enthusiastic and loyal fans and we strongly believe in the future success of the team,” said Scott Butera, President of Fubo Gaming. “We are excited to be their partner in offering this community a truly unique sports betting and entertainment experience. The Fubo Sportsbook is designed to meet the increased demand for interactivity by integrating real-time sports streaming with personalized wagering experiences. The Fubo Sportsbook will also have the ability to leverage first-party data to understand viewing preferences and provide relevant bet recommendations.”

 

Jets Mobile App users will receive access to special Fubo Sportsbook offers as well as game day incentives tied to the Lounge. Fubo Sportsbook customers will also be rewarded with access to unique hospitality including VIP pregame sideline experiences. In addition, Fubo Sportsbook intends to utilize the new programmatic ad network created for the Jets utilizing Sportradar’s programmatic activation platform.

 

ABOUT NEW YORK JETS

The New York Jets were founded in 1959 as the New York Titans, an original member of the American Football League (AFL). The Jets won Super Bowl III, defeating the NFL’s Baltimore Colts in 1969. In 1970, the franchise joined the National Football League in the historic AFL–NFL merger that set the foundation for today’s league. As part of a commitment to its fan base through innovation and experiences, the team has created initiatives such as, its trailblazing Jets Rewards program, a state-of-the-art mobile app, and Jets 360 Productions, a comprehensive content platform that gives fans greater access to the team across all digital and social platforms. The organization takes great pride in a long-standing, year-round commitment to their community. These programs are funded by the New York Jets Foundation and look to positively influence the lives of young men and women in the tri-state area, particularly in disadvantaged communities. The organization supports the efforts of the Lupus Research Alliance, youth football and numerous established charitable organizations and causes sponsored by the NFL. The New York Jets play in MetLife Stadium, which opened in 2010, and are headquartered at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center in Florham Park, New Jersey.

 

ABOUT FUBO GAMING

Fubo Gaming Inc., is a Chicago-based subsidiary of live TV streaming platform fuboTV Inc. (NYSE: FUBO) that is dedicated to delivering a unique, hyper-personalized sports entertainment and wagering experience. Launched in 2021, Fubo Gaming brings together fuboTV’s leading sports-first live TV streaming platform with the soon-to-be-launched Fubo Sportsbook to create an omniscreen ecosystem in which the wagering app automatically syncs with users’ interests and viewing. Fubo Sportsbook is expected to launch in Q4 2021, subject to obtaining requisite regulatory approvals. In addition to its licenses and market access agreements in Arizona via Ak-Chin Indian Community and Iowa via Casino Queen, Fubo Gaming has also obtained market access agreements in Pennsylvania via The Cordish Companies as well as Indiana and New Jersey via Caesars Entertainment Inc. For more information, visit fubosportsbook.com.

Contacts

Meghan Gilmore, New York Jets

mgilmore@jets.nfl.com

Deliah Mathieu, Fubo Gaming

dmathieu@fubo.tv

Lexi Panepinto, Fubo Gaming

lpanepinto@ctpboston.com

Categories
Sports & Gaming Technology

theScore selects Toronto’s Waterfront Innovation Centre as site for new, expansive headquarters

80,000-Square-Foot Waterfront Location Will House Company’s Rapidly Expanding Workforce

 

TORONTO — (BUSINESS WIRE) — $SCR–Score Media and Gaming Inc. (TSX: SCR; NASDAQ: SCR) (“theScore” or the “Company”) and Menkes Developments Ltd. (“Menkes”) together with partner BentallGreenOak announced today that they have entered into an agreement for theScore to lease an 80,000-square-foot space in the Waterfront Innovation Centre, an office and retail development property in downtown Toronto. The Company will occupy more than 85-percent of The Exchange, one of two buildings that make up the state-of-the-art complex.


theScore, an innovative digital sports media, gaming and technology leader, is headquartered in Toronto with roots in the city that date back to 1997. This new expansive office space will house theScore’s rapidly growing workforce and accommodate its accelerating business operations, including the highly anticipated rollout of online sports betting in Canada.

“As our technology-driven business has grown across North America so too has theScore family, particularly in product development and engineering, with new team members joining every week. We are committed to supporting our strong Toronto roots, continuing to grow our operations and workforce, and are thrilled to do so in a new, state-of-the-art waterfront office space,” said theScore Chairman and CEO, John Levy. “Moving into this newly constructed building affords us the opportunity to design our ideal work environment and provides ample space for our rapidly expanding team. The Waterfront is fast becoming a hub for some of Ontario’s most innovative and forward-thinking companies, and we are excited that it will be our home for many years to come.”

“Ontario’s deep talent pool, cutting edge innovation ecosystem, and competitive business costs make our province an ideal place for businesses to invest and grow,” said Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade, Vic Fedeli. “Leaders in Ontario’s tech and entertainment sector like theScore will be at the forefront of our economic growth and recovery as we proceed out of the pandemic. We congratulate theScore on their expansion in Toronto and for their continued support of homegrown tech talent.”

“The decision made by theScore to lease space at Toronto’s Waterfront Innovation Centre is not only a testament to the continued growth of our technology and innovation sector, but it will act as another confidence boost as we move forward in our pandemic recovery. Toronto has long been a city where businesses have chosen to come set up shop or expand their operations, and the decision by theScore will help further amplify that Toronto story that we are a city that welcomes businesses, new ideas, innovation and much more,” said Mayor John Tory. “I want to thank theScore and Menkes for this partnership and for choosing to expand their team here – all of which will help increase economic growth and create new opportunities for our city and its residents.”

“This is an exciting partnership for us and we are proud to bring a like minded company into our unique space,” said Menkes Developments President, Commercial/Industrial, Peter Menkes. “With theScore looking to expand and grow their business in Canada, we believe the Waterfront Innovation Centre will set them up for success through an environment that fosters collaboration by providing superior technology and amenities.”

The building’s design will allow theScore to create an open and collaborative office environment tailored to its business. In particular, theScore will benefit from the Waterfront’s ultra-high-speed broadband fibre-optic network, which will deliver internet connection speeds faster than the North American average, as well as sophisticated audio-visual and video conferencing tools.

On August 5, 2021, it was announced that Penn National Gaming, Inc. (“Penn National”) had entered into an agreement to acquire theScore in a deal that brings together two industry leaders to create North America’s leading digital sports media, gaming and technology company. Pursuant to the agreement, Penn National intends to operate theScore as a stand-alone business, led by the Levy Family, with the Company remaining headquartered in Toronto. Penn National was attracted to theScore, in part, for its ready access to a deep pool of Canadian engineering and technology expertise. Penn National expects to leverage Canada’s world class technology talent pool to expand theScore’s engineering and production workforce based in Toronto as the business scales.

Designed by Toronto’s Sweeny & Co Architects Inc., the 475,000-square-foot Waterfront Innovation Centre is comprised of two buildings, with three distinct but interconnected components: The Exchange, The Hive, and The Nexus, a space that will serve as a public square and directly connect the two buildings. The complex offers state-of-the-art amenities, including high-speed broadband networking (fueled in part by self-generating solar power), floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive collaboration spaces. The Waterfront Innovation Centre, co-owned by Menkes and BentallGreenOak, on behalf of Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, was developed in partnership with Waterfront Toronto, neighbours Sugar Beach on Toronto’s eastern waterfront. The building’s office space is now approximately 91% pre-leased.

About Score Media and Gaming

Score Media and Gaming Inc. empowers millions of sports fans through its digital media and sports betting products. Its media app ‘theScore’ is one of the most popular in North America, delivering fans highly personalized live scores, News stats, and betting information from their favorite teams, leagues, and players. The Company’s sports betting app ‘theScore Bet’ delivers an immersive and holistic mobile sports betting experience and is currently available to place wagers in New Jersey, Colorado, Indiana and Iowa. Publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: SCR) and the Nasdaq Global Select Market (NASDAQ:SCR), theScore also creates and distributes innovative digital content through its web, social and esports platforms.

About Menkes

Menkes Developments Ltd. is an award-winning, fully integrated real estate company involved in the construction, ownership and management of office, industrial, retail and residential properties. Founded in 1954, the company is one of the largest private developers in Canada, with a primary focus in the Greater Toronto Area. Menkes is known for its innovative, multi-disciplinary approach and particularly for its expertise in large-scale, mixed-use development. Past projects include the Empress Walk entertainment, shopping and residential complex in North York City Centre, and two landmark projects in Toronto’s South Core district, 25 York (TELUS Harbour) office tower and the two million square foot One York commercial retail complex.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws.

These statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “expects,” “believes,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “goal,” “seeks,” “may,” “will,” “should,” or “anticipates” or the negative or other variations of these or similar words, or by discussions of future events, strategies or risks and uncertainties. Specifically, forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Penn National’s acquisition of theScore, Penn National’s digital strategy, and the potential benefits of the acquisition of theScore, including benefits for Penn National’s digital betting and content platform through the integration of theScore. Such statements are all subject to risks, uncertainties and changes in circumstances that could significantly affect the Company’s future financial results and business. Accordingly, the Company cautions that the forward-looking statements contained herein are qualified by important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected by such statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: (a) the magnitude and duration of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on general economic conditions, capital markets, unemployment, consumer spending and the Company’s liquidity, financial condition, supply chain, operations and personnel; (b) the closing of the acquisition of the Company may be delayed or may not occur at all, for reasons beyond our control; (c) the requirement to satisfy the closing conditions in the agreement with Penn National, including receipt of regulatory approvals and the approval of shareholders of theScore; (d) potential adverse reactions or changes to business or regulatory relationships resulting from the announcement or completion of the acquisition; (e) the ability of Penn National or theScore to retain and hire key personnel; (f) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the right of one or both of Penn National and theScore to terminate the agreement between the companies; and (g) other factors as discussed in theScore’s Annual Information Form as filed with applicable securities regulatory authorities in Canada and as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and elsewhere in documents that theScore files from time to time with such securities regulatory authorities in Canada and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Management’s Discussion & Analysis and Management Information Circular. The Company does not intend to update publicly any forward-looking statements except as required by law. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this press release may not occur.

Contacts

Dan Sabreen

Director, Communications

Score Media and Gaming Inc,

Tel: 917-722-388 ext. 706

E: dan.sabreen@thescore.com

Jamie Okorofsky

Manager, Communications

Menkes Developments Ltd.

Tel: 647-252-1952

E: jamie.okorofsky@menkes.com

Categories
Art & Life Sports & Gaming

Jamaica’s fast Olympic sprinters ran to sweep the women’s 100 meters

TOKYO — Elaine Thompson-Herah won the women’s 100-meter gold medal for the second consecutive Olympics, edging out her Jamaican teammate Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. Shericka Jackson won the bronze, completing a Jamaican sweep of medals — the country’s first three medals of the Games.

 

Thompson-Herah, 29, set an Olympic record with her time of 10.61 seconds and was 12-hundredths of a second off the world record set by Florence Griffith-Joyner in 1988. Fraser-Pryce, who led midway through the race, was overtaken by Thompson-Herah at about the 60-meter mark.
After two days of heats, the athletes have been calling the Olympic Stadium track fast — “superfast,” as Fraser-Pryce put it. And the women’s 100 final was just that, with Thompson-Herah’s Olympic record and Jackson’s personal best time of 10.76.

Fraser-Pryce relies heavily on her start and needed to build an early lead over Thompson-Herah of at least a couple of meters if she was to win. But Thompson-Herah had one of the best starts of her career and stayed close to Fraser-Pryce during the acceleration phase of the race — up to 30 meters or so.

Thompson-Herah and Fraser-Pryce begin to separate themselves from the pack. But Fraser-Pryce had to know she was in trouble with Thompson-Herah already by her side. The early gap Fraser-Pryce needed simply didn’t exist.

Fraser-Pryce and Thompson-Herah appeared to be moving in sync for much of the middle portion of the race, but eventually the taller Thompson-Herah would use her longer strides to create a higher top-end speed, and maintain it longer. At about 60 meters into the race, Thompson-Herah began to overtake Fraser-Pryce.

Thompson-Herah maintained more speed in the latter part of the race and extended her lead during the final 20 meters. Jackson, the bronze medalist, closed well, almost passing Fraser-Pryce. It was an impressive sprint and finish for Jackson, a 400-meter specialist who doesn’t possess the same top-end speed as the other two medalists. Thompson-Herah remained tall and loose in the final meters, and showed why she is considered a fast closer — her long legs carried her well over two meters per stride; longer, and faster, than Fraser-Pryce’s.

Four in a row for Jamaica

Thompson-Herah’s win extends Jamaica’s Olympic reign in the women’s 100-meter dash to four straight golds, starting with Fraser-Pryce’s victory at the 2008 Games in Beijing.

 

— The New York Times

Categories
Sports & Gaming

Gannett and Tipico announce strategic sports betting agreement

Multi-year deal powered by Tipico’s proprietary technology and gaming data, and USA TODAY NETWORK’s scale and fanbase

 

MCLEAN, Va. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Gannett Co., Inc (“Gannett”, “we”, “us”, “our” or “the Company”) (NYSE:GCI), today announced an exclusive agreement with Tipico USA Technology, Inc. (“Tipico”), a U.S.-based subsidiary of European based Tipico Group of Companies, the leading sports betting provider in Germany, utilizing their Tipico Sportsbook brand. This strategic alliance leverages the power and breadth of the USA TODAY NETWORK consisting of more than 250 daily local sites including The Indy Star and Detroit Free Press, and its USA TODAY Sports Media Group, including in-depth USA TODAY Sports coverage across the country with over 200 additional sports sites in the portfolio, such as For The Win, Golfweek, and MMA Junkie.

“Our highly engaged audience of more than 46 million sports fans crave analysis, betting insights, odds and unique features which we will provide with our Tipico alliance,” said Michael Reed, Gannett Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Tipico adds incredible expertise from their European operations and next generation product capabilities, which offer our sports enthusiasts and local consumers a way to become even more invested in the games and sports they care about.”

 

Transaction Highlights

  • Tipico to become the exclusive sports betting and iGaming provider for Gannett, with integration of odds, props, free to play games and betting trends across the USA TODAY NETWORK.
  • The five-year agreement includes $90 million in media spend by Tipico together with performance incentives payable to Gannett for customer referrals.
  • Subject to certain conditions being met over the five-year term of the agreement, Gannett will have the right to acquire up to 4,990 common shares in Tipico’s US business, representing a minority interest. The exercise of such right will be subject to applicable laws including applicable gaming regulations.
  • Gannett will provide Tipico exclusive access to premium marketing assets at a pre-negotiated value based upon the expected aggregate sum of the cash consideration, performance incentives, and right to acquire common shares.
  • These assets will focus on integrating year-round custom content across the USA TODAY NETWORK, including video series, columns, blog posts, newsletters, contests, social media and events, beginning with the 2021 NFL season.
  • Additionally, Tipico will co-brand all NFL Wire Team sites and For The Win, including a re-launch of the Bets subsection to “Bet For The Win, powered by Tipico Sportsbook” and providing co-branded digital odds pages throughout the USA TODAY NETWORK, in print and digital.

 

“We are thrilled to gain exclusive access to Gannet’s portfolio of iconic brands and premium digital properties,” said Adrian Vella, Tipico U.S. Chief Executive Officer. “Integrating their leading media properties with Tipico Sportsbook marks an important moment as we begin our acceleration in the U.S. Gannett’s best-in-class editorial operations and massive local footprint, partnered with Tipico’s game changing technology, including end-to-end proprietary sports betting and iGaming products, will offer U.S. fans a slam dunk combination.”

 

Gannett is uniquely positioned to reach sports enthusiasts through its footprint in over 250 communities across the U.S., and with more than 500 respected sports journalists covering both professional and college sports and writing for dedicated NFL, NBA, and college football fan sites such as HoopsHype, Broncos Wire, Rockets Wire and Buckeyes Wire. The Company also plans to invest in talent across product and editorial divisions to develop new, innovative experiences and content for its sports readers. The Company plans to also leverage its live events and promotions division, USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures, to help drive awareness and activations during popular sports seasons.

 

“This historic agreement with Gannett, one of the most trusted names in global News media and sports, will immediately bring additional credibility and trust to Tipico Sportsbook’s U.S. operations,” said Stephen Krombolz, Tipico Vice President of U.S. Business Development and Strategy. “These assets will serve as a key component of our North American marketing strategy, driving awareness of the Tipico brand and our products among Gannett’s millions of readers, viewers and listeners – ultimately delivering fantastic acquisition and retention opportunities as we prepare to scale rapidly in the U.S.”

 

Product integrations are expected to begin in August to complement the start of the NFL season. USA TODAY Sports Media Group audiences across digital platforms will experience new integrations powered by Tipico Sportsbook’s betting odds on digital sites. For residents in Colorado and New Jersey, where Tipico operations will be live this fall, readers will experience a seamless integration to Tipico’s Sportsbook. Visitors to any other USA TODAY Sports Media Group sites will find a listing of sports betting odds and sports betting content, as well as iGaming, free to play games and sweepstakes. In addition, readers of USA TODAY and many local print newspapers within the USA TODAY NETWORK will find Tipico betting odds within the Sports section.

 

ABOUT GANNETT

Gannett Co., Inc. (NYSE: GCI) is a subscription-led and digitally focused media and marketing solutions company committed to empowering communities to thrive. With an unmatched reach at the national and local level, Gannett touches the lives of millions with our Pulitzer Prize-winning content, consumer experiences and benefits, and advertiser products and services. Our current portfolio of media assets includes USA TODAY, local media organizations in 46 states in the U.S., and Newsquest, a wholly owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom with more than 120 local news media brands. Gannett also owns the digital marketing services companies ReachLocal, Inc., UpCurve, Inc., and WordStream, Inc., which are marketed under the LOCALiQ brand, and runs the largest media-owned events business in the U.S., USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures. To connect with us, visit www.gannett.com.

 

About Tipico U.S.

Tipico is a U.S. sportsbook originally founded in Europe in 2004. As the leading sports betting provider in Germany and one of the top sports betting companies worldwide, Tipico offers digital and mobile betting entertainment across 30 different sports and invests heavily in the development of technologies that make the sports betting experience better and safer, placing the highest value on player protection. Tipico Group Ltd. employs over 1,800 people worldwide and another 4,200 people working in the Tipico associated franchise network. Launched in the United States in 2020, Tipico is a fast-rising player in the space, with established U.S. operations and business headquarters in Hoboken, New Jersey. For more information, please visit www.tipico.com/us, or www.tipico-group.com.

 

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain items in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the strategic alliance and sports betting agreement, and our future plans and expectations. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. These and other risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, many of which are beyond our control. The Company can give no assurance its expectations will be attained. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements contained in

this press release. For a discussion of some of the risks and important factors that could cause actual results to differ from such forward-looking statements, see the risks and other factors detailed from time to time in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Furthermore, new risks and uncertainties emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict or assess the impact of every factor that may cause its actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

Contacts

Gannett Investor Relations Contact
Trisha Gosser

SVP, Finance & Investor Relations

703-854-3000

investors@gannett.com

Gannett Media Contact
Lark-Marie Anton

Senior Vice President, Communications

(646) 906-4087

lark@gannett.com

Tipico Media Contact
Keith Gormley

VP, US Marketing

Keith.gormley@tipico.com

Categories
Business Sports & Gaming

Fubo Gaming, The Cordish Companies announce completion of market access agreement in Pennsylvania for forthcoming mobile Fubo Sportsbook

Fubo Gaming Now Holds Market Access Deals in 4 States

 

NEW YORK — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Fubo Gaming, a subsidiary of leading sports-first live TV streaming platform fuboTV Inc. (NYSE: FUBO), and The Cordish Companies announced today the completion of a market access agreement for the forthcoming mobile Fubo Sportsbook in Pennsylvania. Fubo Gaming’s agreement with The Cordish Companies, owner and operator of Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia and Live! Casino Pittsburgh, provides for state-wide mobile access for both sports betting and iGaming. The launch of Fubo Sportsbook in Pennsylvania is subject to obtaining requisite regulatory approvals.

Through Fubo Sportsbook, fuboTV intends to integrate gaming with its expansive live sports offering for a seamless user experience enabling consumers to wager while they watch. fuboTV currently has a leading sports offering in Pennsylvania through its carriage agreements with regional sports networks NBC Sports Philadelphia (Philadelphia 76ers, Philadelphia Flyers, Philadelphia Phillies) and AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh Penguins, Pittsburgh Pirates), in addition to local and national network coverage.

 

Today’s agreement in Pennsylvania will bring Fubo Sportsbook to a minimum of four states following previously announced market access agreements in New Jersey and Indiana (through Caesars Entertainment, Inc.) and Iowa (through Casino Queen). Fubo Sportsbook is expected to begin rolling out state-by-state in the fourth quarter 2021, subject to obtaining requisite regulatory approvals in each jurisdiction.

 

“Entering Pennsylvania, one of the largest sports betting and iGaming makers in the U.S., is a significant accomplishment for our forthcoming Fubo Sportsbook which, in this market, can also include mobile casino games,” said Scott Butera, president, Fubo Gaming. “We are also excited to be partnering with Cordish who has been a leader in gaming and sports entertainment for decades.”

 

“Our agreement with The Cordish Companies will bring Fubo Sportsbook to consumers in Pennsylvania, expanding our sportsbook’s reach to at least four states,” said David Gandler, co-founder and CEO, fuboTV. “With our sportsbook, we’re looking forward to delivering a comprehensive sports entertainment experience that combines live streaming and wagering. We expect to launch Fubo Sportsbook in the fourth quarter of this year pending regulatory approvals.”

 

“Partnering with Fubo Gaming to bring our guests this exciting, integrated mobile sports betting option is the natural evolution of our Live! Casino brands in Pennsylvania,” said Rob Norton, president, Cordish Gaming Group. “Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are both iconic sports cities that are deserving of best-in-class sports betting platforms, so we look forward to working with Fubo Gaming on this new endeavor.”

 

About The Cordish Companies

The Cordish Companies’ origins date back to 1910 and encompass four generations of privately-held, family ownership. During the past ten decades, The Cordish Companies has grown into a global leader in Commercial Real Estate; Entertainment Districts; Sports-Anchored Developments; Gaming; Hotels; Residential Properties; Restaurants; International Development; Coworking Spaces; and Private Equity. One of the largest and most respected developers in the world, The Cordish Companies has been awarded an unprecedented seven Urban Land Institute Awards for Excellence for public-private developments that are of unique significance to the cities in which they are located. The Cordish Companies has developed and operates highly acclaimed dining, entertainment and hospitality destinations throughout the United States, many falling under The Cordish Companies’ Live! Brand, highly regarded as one of the premier entertainment brands in the country. In gaming, The Cordish Companies has developed among the most successful casino hotel resorts in the world including the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa and Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland. Welcoming over 55 million visitors per year, these developments are among the highest profile dining, entertainment, gaming, hotel and sports-anchored destinations in the country. Over the generations, The Cordish Companies has remained true to the family’s core values of quality, entrepreneurial spirit, long-term personal relationships, and integrity. As a testimony to the long-term vision of its family leadership, The Cordish Companies still owns and manages virtually every business it has created. For more information visit www.cordish.com or follow us on Twitter.

 

“The Cordish Companies,” “The Cordish Company” and “Cordish” are trademarks used under license by independent corporations, legal liability companies and partnerships (“Cordish Entities”). Each Cordish Entity is a separate, single-purpose legal entity that is solely responsible for its obligations and liabilities. No common operations or financial interdependency, and no intermingling of assets or liabilities of the Cordish Entities exists, or should be deemed to exist, as a result of the potential common reference to multiple independent entities operating under the names “Cordish,” “The Cordish Companies” or “The Cordish Company” here or elsewhere.

 

About Fubo Gaming

Fubo Gaming Inc. is a subsidiary of fuboTV Inc. (NYSE: FUBO) that launched in 2021. Complementing fuboTV’s leading sports streaming platform, Fubo Gaming aims to provide a comprehensive sports entertainment experience through sports betting and interactive gaming. The online wagering experience, Fubo Sportsbook, is expected to launch in Q4 2021, subject to obtaining requisite regulatory approvals. Fubo Gaming is based in Chicago.

 

About fuboTV

With a mission to provide the world’s most thrilling sports-first live TV experience through the greatest breadth of premium content, interactivity and integrated wagering, fuboTV Inc. (NYSE: FUBO) is focused on bringing to life its vision of a streaming platform that transcends the industry’s current virtual MVPD model. fuboTV Inc. operates in the U.S., Canada and Spain.

Leveraging its proprietary data and technology platform optimized for live TV and sports viewership, fuboTV Inc. aims to turn passive viewers into active participants and define a new category of interactive television. Through its cable TV replacement product, fuboTV, subscribers can stream a broad mix of 100+ live TV channels, including 74 of the top 100 Nielsen-ranked networks across sports, news and entertainment — more than any other live TV streaming platform (source: Nielsen Total Viewers, 2020). fuboTV intends to add interactivity to its streaming experience with the launch of predictive free-to-play gaming in Q3 2021.

Fubo Gaming Inc., a subsidiary of fuboTV Inc., expects to launch Fubo Sportsbook, a comprehensive sports entertainment experience through sports betting and interactive gaming, in Q4 2021, subject to obtaining requisite regulatory approvals.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This letter contains forward-looking statements of fuboTV Inc. (“fuboTV”) that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “could,” “will,” “plan,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “approximate,” “expect,” “potential,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements that fuboTV makes due to a number of important factors, including (i) risks related to the ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Balto and Vigtory acquisitions, (ii) risks related to the company’s access to capital and fundraising prospects to fund its ongoing operations, (iii) risks related to diverting management’s attention from fuboTV’s ongoing business operations to address integration and fundraising efforts, (iv) risks related to our ability to capitalize successfully on market trends and develop and market a sports wagering offering, and (v) other business effects, including the effects of industry, market, economic, political or regulatory conditions, future exchange and interest rates, and changes in tax and other laws, regulations, rates and policies, including the impact of COVID-19 on the broader market. Further risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from those matters expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements are discussed in the company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and we encourage you to read such risks in detail. The forward-looking statements in this press release represent fuboTV’s views as of the date of this press release. fuboTV anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause its views to change. However, while it may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, it specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. You should, therefore, not rely on these forward-looking statements as representing fuboTV’s views as of any date subsequent to the date of this letter.

Contacts

Investor Contact:

The Blueshirt Group for fuboTV

ir@fubo.tv

Media Contacts:

Jennifer L. Press, fuboTV

jpress@fubo.tv

Katie Minogue, fuboTV

kminogue@fubo.tv

Cari Furman, The Cordish Companies

cfurman@cordish.com

Carmen Gonzales, Live! Casinos & Hotels

Carmen.Gonzales@livech.com

Categories
Entertainment News Sports & Gaming

Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Company announces partnership with Esports Entertainment Group

EEG will operate esports facility at the Hall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls and will be the Destination’s exclusive esports provider

 

 

CANTON, Ohio — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Company (“HOFV”) (NASDAQ: HOFV, HOFVW), the only resort, entertainment and media company centered around the power of professional football and the owner of the Hall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls (the “Destination”), and Esports Entertainment Group (“EEG”) (NASDAQ: GMBL), a full-stack esports and online gambling company fueled by the growth of video-gaming and the ascendance of esports, today announced a partnership that will bring esports to the Destination.

EEG will now become the official esports provider for the Village and will operate a Helix eSports entertainment center, a dynamic interactive esports complex as part of the retail and entertainment offerings at the destination, joining Topgolf Swing Suites and Don Shula’s, among others. This new location, which is slated to open in mid-2022, will serve as a practice, competition and tournament space for a variety of esports activities and events and will allow HOFV to benefit from the strong demand for esports worldwide. In addition to the location, this new partnership allows for the consideration of additional growth in several other business lines, including the potential for esports betting and fantasy sports betting as legislators continue to entertain the opportunity to legalize sports betting within Ohio over the next few months.

 

“With the popularity of esports and its continued upwards trajectory, we are thrilled to partner with the highly respected EEG to offer fans a new state-of-the-art facility at the Village,” said Michael Crawford, President & CEO of HOFV. “Having an EEG-powered esports complex as part of our development on campus adds another compelling opportunity for gaming enthusiasts and guests to engage in virtual environments as well as offering us the ability to draw in fans from all over the world – both in person and virtually – providing us with strategic growth opportunities within our company’s gaming vertical.”

 

“We are excited to work with HOFV to bring esports to the Hall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls,” said Grant Johnson, CEO of Esports Entertainment Group. “This partnership places our brand in front of professional football fans globally and will place a Helix eSports center right in Canton. It also aligns extremely well with our recent strategic push into Ohio, which gained momentum in recent months through our partnership with the Cleveland Cavaliers as well as last month’s testimony in front of the Ohio State Senate Select Committee on Gaming by our CFO Dan Marks and VP of Strategy Jeff Cohen as advocates for the esports industry.”

 

According to market researcher Newzoo, the total competitive gaming audience for esports will continue to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7 percent to 577.2 million in 2024, while the live streaming audience total is on track to reach 920.3 million within the next three years. What’s more, Juniper Research has estimated that the global esports and games streaming business will be worth more than $3.5 billion by 2025, up from $2.1 billion in 2021.

 

The EEG Esports Complex at the Destination will feature 80 high-end PCs, both next-generation console systems (Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5) as well as other leading state-of-the-art gaming and computing equipment. It will be open for casual gameplay, allowing the Destination’s guests to enjoy spontaneous, gaming sessions in addition to future planned tournaments and events. Additionally, there will be capacity for community and educational events meant to empower the next generation of gamers with equitable access to technology and STEM education.

 

About Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Company

Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: HOFV, HOFVW) is a resort and entertainment company leveraging the power and popularity of professional football and its legendary players in partnership with the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Headquartered in Canton, Ohio, the Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Company is the owner of the Hall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls, a multi-use sports, entertainment and media destination centered around the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s campus. Additional information on the Company can be found at www.HOFREco.com.

 

About Esports Entertainment Group

Esports Entertainment Group is a full stack esports and online gambling company fueled by the growth of video-gaming and the ascendance of esports with new generations. Our mission is to help connect the world at large with the future of sports entertainment in unique and enriching ways that bring fans and gamers together. Esports Entertainment Group and its affiliates are well-poised to help fans and players to stay connected and involved with their favorite esports. From traditional sports partnerships with professional NFL/NHL/NBA/FIFA teams, community-focused tournaments in a wide range of esports, and boots-on-the-ground LAN cafes, EEG has influence over the full-spectrum of esports and gaming at all levels. The Company maintains offices in New Jersey, the UK and Malta. For more information visit www.esportsentertainmentgroup.com.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made herein are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words and phrases such as “opportunity,” “future,” “will,” “goal,” and “look forward” and other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the Company’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors, among others, that may affect actual results or outcomes include the inability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the business combination; costs related to the business combination; the inability to obtain or maintain the listing of the Company’s shares on Nasdaq; the Company’s ability to manage growth; the Company’s ability to execute its business plan and meet its projections; potential litigation involving the Company; changes in applicable laws or regulations; general economic and market conditions impacting demand for the Company’s products and services, and in particular economic and market conditions in the resort and entertainment industry; the potential adverse effects of the ongoing global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on capital markets, general economic conditions, unemployment and the Company’s liquidity, operations and personnel, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed from time to time in our reports and other public filings with the SEC. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Contacts

Media/Investor Contacts:

For Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Company

Media Inquiries: public.relations@hofreco.com
Investor Inquiries: investor.relations@hofreco.com

For Esports Entertainment Group

Media Inquiries: Jeff@esportsentertainmentgroup.com
info@spectrumgamingcapital.com

US Investor Relations

RedChip Companies, Inc.

Dave Gentry

dave@redchip.com

Categories
Sports & Gaming Technology

Esports Entertainment Group named official esports tournament provider of the New York Rangers

Esports Gaming League will Host Three Rangers-Themed Esports Tournaments

 

NEW YORK — (BUSINESS WIRE) — The New York Rangers announced today a marketing partnership with Esports Entertainment Group Inc. (EEG), naming the esports company their Official esports tournament provider, beginning on July 1. As part of this relationship, EEG will operate three Rangers-themed esports tournaments utilizing its Esports Gaming League brand and platform. EEG will work with the Rangers organization to create custom videos that promote these tournaments across all Rangers digital platforms. Each tournament will include incredible prizes such as Rangers merchandise and memorabilia.

 

Over the last few years, we’ve hosted dozens of amateur esports tournaments with our esports organization CLG, which have been incredibly well received and we can’t wait to expand on this with the Rangers,” said Dan Fleeter, Vice President, Business Operations, MSG Sports Corp. “We look forward to a long and mutually rewarding relationship with EEG and believe this is a wonderful opportunity to engage with an audience interested in hockey and gaming.”

 

Esports Gaming League enables live and online events and tournaments where gamers can compete and enjoy a wide range of content relating to esports and video games on a proprietary technology platform. Services include full turnkey esports events, live broadcast production, game launches, and online branded tournaments.

 

We are thrilled to welcome another leading professional sports team to our tournament platform,” said Grant Johnson, CEO of Esports Entertainment Group. “We look forward to working with the Rangers as they extend their brand into the rapidly growing world of esports.”

 

We are quickly becoming the industry standard tournament platform for professional sports, as teams recognize the strength of our platform and its ability to meet the demanding needs of large-scale deployments,” said Magnus Leppäniemi, President of Esports at Esports Entertainment Group. “We look forward to helping the Rangers achieve their goals in this exciting new arena.”

 

Madison Square Garden Sports Corp.

Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. (MSG Sports) is a leading professional sports company, with a collection of assets that includes: the New York Knicks (NBA) and the New York Rangers (NHL); two development league teams – the Westchester Knicks (NBAGL) and the Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL); and esports teams through Counter Logic Gaming, a leading North American esports organization, and Knicks Gaming, an NBA 2K League franchise. MSG Sports also operates two professional sports team performance centers – the MSG Training Center in Greenburgh, NY and the CLG Performance Center in Los Angeles, CA. More information is available at www.msgsports.com.

 

About Esports Entertainment Group

Esports Entertainment Group, Inc. is an esports and iGaming company. The Company maintains offices in New Jersey, the UK and Malta. For more information, visit: www.esportsentertainmentgroup.com

Contacts

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Madison Square Garden Sports:

Ryan.Watson@msgsports.com

Esports Entertainment Group:
jeff@esportsentertainmentgroup.com

Categories
Local News Sports & Gaming

They’re back! Trenton Thunder to host Triple-A Buffalo Bisons during 2021 baseball season

 

TRENTON, N.J. – The Trenton Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance Group, along with County Executive Brian M. Hughes, are excited to announce that they will host the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons this year.

 

The 2021 season is expected to kickoff at the Trenton Thunder home park Monday, May 24th.

 

“After 27 years serving as the Double-A home of the Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, and New York Yankees, we are excited to welcome the highest level of Minor League Baseball to New Jersey,” said jeff Hurley, GM & COO, Trenton Thunder.

 

“We look forward to working with the Bisons, Blue Jays and Major League Baseball to make this a successful season start,” he said.

 

The owner of Trenton Thunder, Joe Plumeri, also added that, “Mercer County and everyone at the Thunder are proud to welcome the Buffalo Bisons to one of the top ballparks in America. Our family of fans will be able to root for future Blue Jays big leaguers against the top prospects from the Phillies, Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, and Nationals, while enjoying the beautiful setting along the banks of the Delaware. Go Thunder!”

 

Mercer County has made this a top-rated facility year after year, so it was a welcome home for the Bisons to start the season.

 

“This is terrific news for Mercer County, our Capital City and baseball fans throughout the region who are eager to root for the Thunder again this season,” said Mr. Hughes.

 

“The county’s investments in the stadium in conjunction with Thunder management have ensured that it remains a first-rate facility for players and fans alike, and we look forward to another exciting summer at the ballpark,” he said.

 

Over the years, Mercer County has continued to make improvements around the ballpark to keep up with Major League standards. Some larger projects include updating ballpark lighting, new stadiums seats, new infield grass, and new wall pads along the lower level of the outfield wall to ensure player safety.

Categories
Business Sports & Gaming

Bogota Financial Corp. reports results for the three months ended March 31, 2021

TEANECK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Bogota Financial Corp. (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BSBK), the holding company for Bogota Savings Bank (the “Bank”), reported net income for the three months ended March 31, 2021 of $3.0 million, compared to net loss of $1.3 million for the comparable prior year period. The Company recorded a bargain purchase gain of $1.9 million associated with the acquisition of Gibraltar Bank during the most recent quarter. Also, during the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company had merger-related expenses of $318,000. The Company contributed cash and stock with a value of $2.9 million ($2.1 million after-tax) to the Bogota Charitable Foundation during the three months ended March 31, 2020. Excluding the bargain purchase gain and the merger-related expenses in 2021 and the contribution to the charitable foundation in 2020, net income for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 was $1.4 million and $734,000, respectively.

On January 15, 2020, the Company became the holding company for the Bank when it completed the reorganization of the Bank into a two-tier mutual holding company form of organization. In connection with the reorganization, the Company sold 5,657,735 shares of common stock at a price of $10 per share, for gross proceeds of $56.6 million. The Company also issued 263,150 shares of common stock and $250,000 in cash to Bogota Savings Bank Charitable Foundation, Inc., and issued 7,236,640 shares of common stock to Bogota Financial, MHC, its New Jersey-chartered mutual holding company. Shares of the Company’s common stock began trading on January 16, 2020 on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the trading symbol “BSBK.”

On February 28, 2021, the Company completed its acquisition of Gibraltar Bank and as part of the transaction, the Company issued 1,267,916 shares of its common stock to Bogota Financial, MHC. The conversion and consolidation of data processing platforms, systems and customer files is expected to occur in August 2021. The merger added three branches to the Bank’s network and, in the second quarter of 2021, the Bank will be opening a new branch in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, which will also include additional offices for staff.

Other Financial Highlights:

  • Total assets increased $103.0 million, or 13.9%, to $843.9 million from $740.9 million at December 31, 2020, primarily due to acquiring $106.0 million in assets from the Gibraltar Bank acquisition.
  • Net loans increased $52.1 million, or 9.3%, to $609.8 million at March 31, 2021 from $557.7 million at December 31, 2020.
  • Total deposits were $584.4 million, increasing $82.4 million, or 16.4%, during the three months ended March 31, 2021.
  • Return on average assets was 1.57% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 compared to (0.75) % for the corresponding period of 2020. Without the bargain purchase gain and merger-related expenses in 2021 and the charitable foundation contribution in 2020, the return on average assets would have been 0.73% and 0.41% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
  • Return on average equity was 9.11% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 compared to (5.97) % for the corresponding period of 2020. Without the bargain purchase gain and merger-related expenses in 2021 and the charitable foundation contribution in 2020, the return on average equity would have been 4.59% and 2.54% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Joseph Coccaro, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “During the first quarter, we successfully completed the acquisition of Gibraltar Bank. We are very pleased to have completed our combination with Gibraltar Bank and extend a warm welcome to Gibraltar’s customers and employees. We look forward to working with the Gibraltar team in delivering to all of our customers and shareholders the benefits that we expect from this transaction.”

“We are pleased with our continued strategy to expand our loan portfolio and the positive overall impacts of doing so on assets and income. We continue our efforts to expand our market presence, improve and expand our technology platform and offerings and manage our interest rate risk.”

Mr. Coccaro further stated, “We are pleased with our first quarter results and we continue to enjoy strong credit quality as non-performing loans and criticized assets remain very low. We are off to a very strong start for 2021 with our net interest margin rising 71 basis points on a year of year comparison. We have started a second round of SBA PPP loans and look forward to continuing to serve our community during the pandemic. The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company’s operations was not material during 2020. Our loan deferrals are down to five loans as of March 31, 2021.”

Paycheck Protection Program

As a qualified Small Business Administration lender, the Company was automatically authorized to originate loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”). During 2020, the Company received and processed 113 PPP applications totaling $10.5 million. The Company is participating in the 2nd round of PPP loans and during the first quarter of 2021, the Company received and processed 46 PPP applications totaling $5.7 million.

COVID

The Company is also providing assistance to individuals and small business clients directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic by allowing borrowers to modify their loans to defer principal and/or interest payments. Through December 31, 2020, the Company granted 172 loan modifications totaling $67.9 million, of which 153 loans remained in the portfolio at March 31, 2021, totaling $62.3 million, which represented 11.6% of the total loan portfolio. As of March 31, 2021 5 loans are still on deferral, which represents $708,000 or 0.1% of net loans and all the loans are within the one-to-four family residential real estate portfolio.

Income Statement Analysis

Compared to the first quarter of 2020, net interest income increased $1.5 million, or 48.5%, to $4.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. During the same period, the Company’s net interest margin increased from 1.79% to 2.50%, while the ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities increased 1.0% to 123.09%. The increase in net interest margin during the three months ended March 31, 2021 was mostly due to the higher ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities and a lower cost of funds.

The Company reported a reduction to the allowance for loan losses of $59,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 compared to a $25,000 provision for loan losses during the same period last year. The $19.6 million repayments of residential loans and the sale of $6.3 million of residential loans during the first quarter of 2021 was the main reason for the decrease in the allowance for loan losses.

Non-interest income was $2.3 million for the three months March 31, 2021, an increase of $2.2 million, or 1,810.2%, compared to $121,000 in the prior year period. The increase was due to the $1.9 million bargain purchase gain associated with the Gibraltar Bank acquisition and a $236,000 gain on sale of $6.3 million residential loans during the three months ended March 31, 2021.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, non-interest expenses decreased $1.6 million to $3.4 million, over the comparable 2020 period. Expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2020 included the $2.9 million contribution to the Bogota Charitable Foundation. Professional fees increased $445,000, or 336.2%, due in part to merger expenses of $318,000 associated with the Gibraltar Bank acquisition. Salaries and employee benefits increased $281,000, or 22.4%, which was attributable to adding the new Gibraltar Bank employees. Data processing expense increased $422,000 or 289.2%, due to core conversion costs and higher data processing costs. The increase of other general operating expenses was mainly due to increased occupancy costs for the acquired Gibraltar Bank branches and the new branch location in Hasbrouck Heights expect to be open in June.

Balance Sheet Analysis

Total assets were $843.9 million at March 31, 2021, representing an increase of $102.9 million, or 13.9%, from December 31, 2020. Cash and due from banks increased $45.6 million during the period primarily due to $19.6 million in repayments in residential loans and $19.3 million in cash from the Gibraltar Bank acquisition. Net loans increased $52.1 million or 9.3%, due to new production of $21.2 million, consisting of a relatively equal mix of residential real estate loans and commercial real estate loans and $77.0 million of loans acquired from Gibraltar Bank, which was offset by $46.1 million in repayments. Securities held to maturity increased $2.9 million due to the purchase of corporate bonds and mortgage-backed securities with excess cash.

Delinquent loans increased $1.4 million, or 152.3%, during the three-month period ended March 31, 2021, finishing at $2.2 million or 0.37% of total loans. During the same timeframe, non-performing assets increased $306,000, or 45.8%, to $974,000 due to the addition of one loan acquired in the Gibraltar Bank acquisition and were 0.11% of total assets at March 31, 2021. The Company’s allowance for loan losses was 0.36% of total loans and 225.94% of non-performing loans at March 31, 2021.

Total liabilities increased $88.4 million, or 14.4%, to $700.8 million mainly due to deposits and borrowings acquired from Gibraltar Bank. Deposits increased $82.4 million, or 16.4%, which included $81.4 million of deposits acquired from Gibraltar Bank. Federal Home Loan Bank advances increased $3.5 million, or 3.4%, as the $10.0 million of borrowings acquired from Gibraltar Bank were offset by $6.5 million of borrowings that matured.

Stockholders’ equity increased $14.6 million to $143.1 million, as a result of $11.5 million of capital acquired from Gibraltar Bank and net income of $3.0 million for the first quarter of 2021. At March 31, 2021, the Company’s ratio of average stockholders’ equity-to-total assets was 15.83%, compared to 16.27% at March 31, 2020.

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The Company was formed to serve as the mid-tier stock holding company for the Bank in connection with the reorganization of the Bank and its mutual holding company, Bogota Financial, MHC, into the two-tier mutual holding company structure.

About Bogota Financial Corp.

Bogota Financial Corp. is a Maryland corporation organized as the mid-tier holding company of Bogota Savings Bank and is the majority-owned subsidiary of Bogota Financial, MHC. Bogota Savings Bank is a New Jersey chartered stock savings bank that has served the banking needs of its customers in northern and central New Jersey since 1893. It operates from five offices located in Bogota, Newark, Oak Ridge, Parsippany and Teaneck, New Jersey.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements about the Company and the Bank. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding anticipated future events and can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often include words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” and “intend” or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” or “may.” Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results include increased competitive pressures, changes in the interest rate environment, general economic conditions or conditions within the securities markets, and legislative, accounting and regulatory changes that could adversely affect the business in which the Company and the Bank are engaged.

Further, given its ongoing and dynamic nature, it is difficult to predict the full impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the Company’s business. The extent of such impact will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain, including when the coronavirus can be controlled and abated and whether the gradual reopening of businesses will result in a meaningful increase in economic activity. As the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related adverse local and national economic consequences, the Company could be subject to any of the following risks, any of which could have a material, adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations: demand for the Company’s products and services may decline, making it difficult to grow assets and income; if the economy is unable to substantially reopen or remain open, and higher levels of unemployment continue for an extended period of time, loan delinquencies, problem assets, and foreclosures may increase, resulting in increased charges and reduced income; collateral for loans, especially real estate, may decline in value, which could cause loan losses to increase; the Company’s allowance for loan losses may have to be increased if borrowers experience financial difficulties, which will adversely affect the Company’s net income; the net worth and liquidity of loan guarantors may decline, impairing their ability to honor commitments to us; the Company’s cyber security risks are increased as the result of an increase in the number of employees working remotely; and FDIC premiums may increase if the agency experience additional resolution costs.

The Company undertakes no obligation to revise these forward-looking statements or to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release.

BOGOTA FINANCIAL CORP.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

March 31, 2021

December 31, 2020

Assets

(unaudited)

Cash and due from banks

$

6,365,160

$

5,957,564

Interest-bearing deposits in other banks

119,615,065

74,428,175

Cash and cash equivalents

125,980,225

80,385,739

Securities available for sale

11,581,122

11,870,508

Securities held to maturity (fair value of $61,002,894 and $58,872,451, respectively)

60,442,805

57,504,443

Loan held for sale

3,494,685

Loans, net of allowance of $2,182,174 and $2,241,174, respectively

606,256,792

557,690,853

Premises and equipment, net

7,147,170

5,671,097

Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) stock

5,994,000

5,858,100

Accrued interest receivable

3,002,984

2,855,425

Core deposit intangibles

400,000

Bank owned life insurance

17,005,303

16,915,637

Other assets

2,581,213

2,153,076

Total Assets

$

843,886,299

$

740,904,878

Liabilities and Equity

Liabilities

Non-interest bearing

$

34,855,515

$

27,061,629

Interest bearing

549,559,379

474,911,402

Total Deposits

584,414,894

501,973,031

FHLB advances

107,841,368

104,290,920

Advance payments by borrowers for taxes and insurance

3,564,260

2,560,089

Other liabilities

4,987,627

3,612,762

Total liabilities

700,808,149

612,436,802

Commitments and Contingencies-see note 5

Stockholders’ Equity

Preferred stock $0.01 par value 1,000,000 shares authorized, none issued

and outstanding at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Common stock $0.01 par value, 30,000,000 shares authorized, 14,425,441

issued and outstanding at March 31, 2021 and 13,157,525 outstanding at December 31, 2020

144,254

131,575

Additional Paid-In capital

68,448,042

56,975,187

Retained earnings

80,366,044

77,359,737

Unearned ESOP shares (485,660 at March 31, 2021 and 489,983 shares at December 31, 2020)

(5,650,109

)

(5,725,410

)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(230,081

)

(273,013

)

Total stockholders’ equity

143,078,150

128,468,076

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$

843,886,299

$

740,904,878

BOGOTA FINANCIAL CORP.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

Three months ended

March 31,

2021

2020

(unaudited)

Interest income

Loans

$

5,464,961

$

5,097,251

Securities

Taxable

673,547

431,053

Tax-exempt

12,585

11,661

Other interest-earning assets

123,004

377,363

Total interest income

6,274,097

5,917,328

Interest expense

Deposits

1,263,682

2,316,321

FHLB advances

431,125

517,072

Total interest expense

1,694,807

2,833,393

Net interest income

4,579,290

3,083,935

(Credit) Provision for loan losses

(59,000

)

25,000

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

4,638,290

3,058,935

Non-interest income

Fees and service charges

52,527

19,717

Gain on Sale of Loans

236,037

Purchase bargain gain

1,933,397

Bank owned life insurance

89,666

99,711

Other

6,979

1,954

Total non-interest income

2,318,606

121,382

Non-interest expense

Salaries and employee benefits

1,538,920

1,257,598

Occupancy and equipment

266,479

169,540

FDIC insurance assessment

45,000

45,000

Data processing

568,309

146,025

Advertising

60,000

59,634

Director fees

198,239

186,281

Professional fees

577,182

132,333

Contribution to Charitable Foundation

2,881,500

Other

178,317

194,703

Total non-interest expense

3,432,446

5,072,614

Income (loss) before income taxes

3,524,450

(1,892,297

)

Income tax (benefit) expense

518,143

(554,714

)

Net income (loss)

$

3,006,307

$

(1,337,583

)

Earnings (loss)per Share

$

0.23

$

(0.13

)

Weighted average shares outstanding

13,107,593

10,699,272

BOGOTA FINANCIAL CORP.

SELECTED RATIOS

At or For the Three Months

Ended March 31,

2021

2020

Performance Ratios (1):

Return (loss) on average assets (2)

1.57

%

(0.75)%

Return (loss) on average equity (3)

9.11

%

(5.97)%

Interest rate spread (4)

2.26

%

1.42

%

Net interest margin (5)

2.50

%

1.79

%

Efficiency ratio (6)

51.71

%

158.26

%

Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities

123.09

%

121.87

%

Net loans to deposits

104.34

%

114.46

%

Equity to assets (7)

15.83

%

16.27

%

Capital Ratios:

Tier 1 capital to average assets

17.93

%

17.39

%

Asset Quality Ratios:

Allowance for loan losses as a percent of total loans

0.36

%

0.37

%

Allowance for loan losses as a percent of non-performing loans

225.94

%

347.89

%

Net recoveries to average outstanding loans during the period

0.00

%

0.00

%

Non-performing loans as a percent of total loans

0.16

%

0.11

%

Non-performing assets as a percent of total assets

0.11

%

0.08

%

(1)

Performance ratios are annualized.

(2)

Represents net income divided by average total assets.

(3)

Represents net income divided by average equity.

(4)

Represents the difference between the weighted average yield on average interest-earning assets and the weighted average cost of average interest-bearing liabilities. Tax exempt income is reported on a tax equivalent basis using a combined federal and state marginal tax rate of 30%.

(5)

Represents net interest income as a percent of average interest-earning assets. Tax exempt income is reported on a tax equivalent basis using a combined federal and state marginal tax rate of 30% for 2021 and 2020.

(6)

Represents non-interest expenses divided by the sum of net interest income and non-interest income.

(7)

Represents average equity divided by average total assets.

BOGOTA FINANCIAL CORP.

RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP

The Company’s management believes that the presentation of net income on a non-GAAP basis, excluding nonrecurring items, provides useful information for evaluating the Company’s operating results and any related trends that may be affecting the Company’s business. These disclosures should not be viewed as a substitute for operating results determined in accordance with GAAP.

Three months ended March 31, 2021

Income

Before

Income Taxes

Provision for

Income Taxes

Net Income

GAAP basis

$

3,524,450

$

518,143

$

3,006,307

Add: merger-related expenses

318,265

318,265

Less: Bargain purchase gain

(1,933,397

)

(1,933,397

)

Non-GAAP basis

$

1,909,318

$

518,143

$

1,391,175

Three months ended March 31, 2020

Income

Before

Income Taxes

Provision for

Income Taxes

Net Income

GAAP basis

$

(1,892,297

)

$

(554,714

)

$

(1,337,583

)

Add: Charitable Foundation Contribution

2,881,500

809,990

2,071,510

Non-GAAP basis

$

989,203

$

255,276

$

733,927

Three months ended March 31,

Return on average assets (annualized):

2021

2020

GAAP

1.57

%

(0.75)%

Non-GAAP

0.73

%

0.41

%

Return on average equity (annualized):

GAAP

9.11

%

(5.97)%

Non-GAAP

4.59

%

2.54

%

Contacts

Joseph Coccaro – President & CEO, 201-862-0660 ext. 1110