Sonata Software Joins the World Economic Forum's Community of Global Growth Companies
BANGALORE, India, December 20, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
Leading Indian Technology Solutions Company, Sonata Software Ltd, has announced that
the World Economic Forum has selected Sonata Software to join the Community of Global
Growth Companies. Incorporated as a not-for-profit foundation in 1971, and headquartered
in Geneva, Switzerland, the World Economic Forum is an independent international
organization committed to improving the state of the world by engaging business,
political, academic and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry
agendas.
"Sonata Software was the natural choice for membership in our Community of Global
Growth Companies (GGC), as it is a highly reputed technology solutions and services
company with a global presence and has solid growth potential," said Jeremy Jurgens,
Senior Director, Head of Membership, Community of Global Growth Companies of the World
Economic Forum. "As of November 2011, 333 companies from over 60 countries had been
admitted to the GGC Community. We are extremely pleased to invite Sonata to join this
exclusive Community," says Jurgens.
GGC was formed in 2007 to engage dynamic high-growth companies with the potential to
be tomorrow's industry leaders and to become a driving force of economic and social
change. Membership in GGC, apart from a lot of privileges, offers a unique opportunity for
interaction and the exchange of expertise with the Community's other Members, including
Strategic and Industry Partners, Foundation Members, Technology Pioneers, Young Global
Leaders, Media Leaders, cultural and spiritual leaders and public figures.
"It is a great honour for Sonata to be invited to join the GGC Community. I have
always admired the World Economic Forum for its impact on global geo-politics and
industry. Being a member of a community that includes the world's fastest-growing
corporations is an endorsement of our growth plans," said Sanjay Viswanathan, CEO of
Sonata Software. "Membership in the GGC would help Sonata explore new opportunities across
industries and regions, establish relationships with the world's leading businesses and
policy experts, have peer-to-peer collaboration, and contribute to industry-specific and
cross-industry technology solutions and best practices," he added.
About Sonata Software Limited
Sonata Software (http://www.sonata-software.com), headquartered in Bangalore,
India, is a global IT consulting and services company. Sonata's customers are located
across the US, Europe, Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region. Its key service lines
include Microsoft Services, Emerging Technologies (Mobility and Cloud), Business
Intelligence and Analytics, IP/Domain led services, Testing, Enterprise Solutions Open
Source/ Java and Remote Infrastructure Management. As per the industry rankings released
by NASSCOM for FY 2009-10, Sonata Software figured among the Top 20 IT Software Services
Exporters in India for the third consecutive year. Sonata has been recognized for its
excellence in providing Software/ISV R&D and Cloud Computing Services to global customers
by Zinnov Management Consulting Pvt. Ltd. Sonata features both under the Software/ISV as
well as Cloud Computing verticals in Zinnov's "Execution Zone".
Sonata's subsidiaries include (1) TUI InfoTec - Sonata's Joint Venture with TUI,
Europe's largest tourism group, (2) Sonata North America Inc (formerly Offshore Digital
Services Inc) - Sonata's arm in the US, which provides development and consulting services
to clients, using an Onsite-Offshore Delivery Model, (3) Sonata Software FZ LLC - Sonata's
fully-owned subsidiary that provides value-based IT solutions to customers in the Middle
East and (4) Sonata Information Technology Limited, which is a premier software services
and product distribution company with India-focused business operations.
For further information, please contact :
Swati Sengupta
Sonata Software Limited
A.P.S. Trust Building,
Bull Temple Road, N.R. Colony
Basavanagudi,
Bangalore 560019, India
Tel : +91-80-30971999
IBM Creates Smarter Cities Exploration Center in Collaboration with the University of Guadalajara in Mexico
ARMONK, N.Y. and GUADALAJARA, Mexico, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced the creation of a Smarter Cities Exploration Center in collaboration with the University of Guadalajara (UdeG) in Mexico. Supported by technical and intellectual guidance of IBM's global research lab experts, the Center will be the first of its kind in Latin America, tasked with the mission to design solutions to tackle infrastructure challenges faced by Guadalajara and other cities around the world.
City infrastructures that deliver vital services such as transportation, healthcare, education, public safety, energy and water, must rely on a wealth of new information and technologies that will allow them sense and respond intelligently to the needs of their growing populations.
Joint work between IBM and the University of Guadalajara will focus on research aimed at identifying ways to apply advances in technology to the high degrees of instrumentation and massive data volumes that comprise the core systems of a city.
The center has already started the development of a transportation pilot that could reduce commuting time in the city by 15%, representing approximately US$ 90 million in savings per year by enabling citizens to use their time more productively and decrease carbon emissions.
This pilot - the first in a series of initiatives - will provide real-time analysis and forecasting of traffic behavior for 1.7 million vehicles in Guadalajara, enabled by supercomputing technology, analytics and web services connected to mobile devices feeding updates to users. The objective is to increase the efficiency of commuting alternatives, including a 17-km-long (or approximately 10 miles) north-to-south corridor that currently takes more than an hour to complete.
Guadalajara is Mexico's second largest city. It is known as Mexico's leading IT hub and one of the most prestigious IT regions globally, as it is home to a strong electronics industry, and has earned recognition as the Mexican capital of IT and software development. Guadalajara was considered the city of the future by FDI Magazine's 2008 studies, due to its largely young population, its low unemployment, the large inflow of recent foreign investments, and the number of projects it has in the pipeline. Additionally, it has been selected as the venue of the 2011 Pan-American Games.
IBM and the University will share knowledge through the exchange of intellectual property among researchers, and the use of IBM's data analytics, supercomputing and cloud computing capabilities to drive the development of new pilots and solutions.
The University will foster the assimilation of high-level competencies and expertise by its doctoral students and researchers, to support efforts designed to tackle issues that have a high social and economic impact for Latin America.
About UdeG
University of Guadalajara is an educational community with more than two hundred years of history. Its campuses in Guadalajara and eight regions of Jalisco State have 209,466 students, who attend the University's 422 academic programs at the technical, baccalaureate, master's and PhD levels. University of Guadalajara has one of the largest academic communities in Mexico.
Media Contact:
Meredith Hannon
IBM Media Relations
512-740-3285
merhannon@us.ibm.com
TidalTV Launches Most Comprehensive, End-to-End Video Advertising Solution and Media Platform for Automotive Marketers
- Includes Full Integration of Polk's in-market auto segment information through Datalogix for local, regional and national auto advertisers
NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- TidalTV--an online video advertising platform and solutions provider--today announced the launch of the industry's most comprehensive set of audience targeting products for the automotive industry. The products enable local, regional and national automotive advertisers to leverage Polk market intelligence, via Datalogix, for video targeting at scale against distinct auto consumer segments and links online ad exposure directly to offline automotive purchase activity.
By aligning with Polk--the premier provider of automotive information and marketing solutions--and Datalogix--the leader at integrating database marketing and digital media--TidalTV continues to bridge the gap between targeted online video exposure and real world purchase behaviors.
Integrating Polk data directly and through Datalogix's technology, TidalTV can now provide auto manufacturers and regional or local dealers an online video advertising solution to reach consumers who are likely to be in the market for a car - by vehicle style and make.
"This product brings auto advertisers a scalable targeting solution for online video and mobile video campaigns that gives manufacturers and dealers the ability to reach the right consumers for their advertising objectives," said Kevin Haley, Chief Scientist, TidalTV. "Coupled with our complementary products that measure brand metrics and offline purchases, it is a tremendously exciting evolution, and one that could significantly impact the flow of automotive dollars to online video as marketers seek greater addressability and accountability in their media spend."
"As the exclusive on line targeting provider of Polk data to the digital marketplace, we continue to roll out additional household level automotive segments in response to the growing demand among auto marketers," said Joe Kyriakoza, General Manager, Automotive, Datalogix. "By working with Polk and TidalTV to pair this robust auto data with the unique targeting capabilities of online video, we're helping create a truly powerful new platform for automotive marketers in the interactive space."
Automotive marketers spend more than $13 billion in measured media annually, with 50-60% of those dollars going toward television. (Source: Kantar Media, 2010 Spending). TidalTV's new product offering enables these marketers to take advantage of the important brand building capabilities associated with traditional television, while leveraging the precise targeting and ROI optimization capabilities of digital video.
"Automotive marketers have come to rely on Polk market intelligence to gain insights into their consumers and achieve better return on their media investments for many years," said Andrew Price, vice president, sales and client services at Polk. "Our relationships with TidalTV and Datalogix bring this same intelligence to the online video space--a growing medium that we believe will become an increasingly important brand-building tool for automotive advertisers."
About TidalTV
TidalTV is a video advertising platform and solutions provider that flawlessly connects some of the world's most powerful brands with their targeted consumers. Working with over 1,000 premier content creators and publishing partners, TidalTV has access to an online addressable universe of over 80 million unique viewers per month. The network is the largest aggregator of 1:1 addressable audience data from third-party providers, with the ability to target precise consumer segments by demographic, psychographic and behavioral metrics. TidalTV is headquartered in Baltimore, MD, with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco and London. For more information, visit http://www.tidaltv.com.
For more information, contact Hank Kim, hank@hankkimconsulting.com, 917-647-0500.
New Energy Systems Group Announces Open Market Stock Purchases by Chairman Mr. Yu
SHENZHEN, China, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- New Energy Systems Group (NYSE Amex: NEWN) ("New Energy" or the "Company"), a vertically-integrated original design manufacturer and distributor of consumer branded backup power systems, lithium ion batteries, battery parts and solar panels, today announced that Chairman and CEO, Weihe "Jack" Yu, has purchased an additional 238,000 shares of the Company's common stock in the fourth quarter of 2011. Details of these open market purchases can be found in the Form 4 filed with the SEC on December 19, 2011.
"I remain confident about our Company's long-term outlook despite challenges we have experienced throughout the year," stated Chairman Mr. Yu. "As we regain our position in the market with Anytone® branded mobile power devices and grow our Kim Fai solar related products sales, my management team and I are equally confident our efforts will produce returns for our shareholders in 2012."
About New Energy Systems Group
New Energy Systems Group is a vertically integrated original design manufacturer and distributor of lithium ion batteries and backup power systems for leading manufacturers of mobile phones, laptops, digital cameras, MP3s and a variety of other portable electronics. The Company's end-user consumer products are sold under the Anytone® brand in China while it's commercial and OEM batteries and battery components are sold under New Power and E'Jenie. The fast pace of new mobile device introductions in China combined with a growing middle class make it fertile ground for New Energy's end-user consumer products, as well as its high powered, light weight lithium ion batteries. In addition to historically strong organic growth, New Energy is expected to benefit from economies of scale, broader distribution and higher profit margins in 2011. Additional information about the company is available at: http://www.newenergysystemsgroup.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This release contains certain "forward-looking statements" relating to the business of the Company and its subsidiary and affiliated companies. These forward looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects" or similar expressions. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to be materially different from those described herein as anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in the Company's periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on its website (http://www.sec.gov). All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or to persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors other than as required under the securities laws. The Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements.
For more information, please contact:
COMPANY
New Energy Systems Group
Ken Lin, VP of Investor Relations
Tel: +1-917-573-0302
Email: ken@newenergysystemsgroup.com http://www.newenergysystemsgroup.com
INVESTOR RELATIONS
MZ
John Mattio, SVP
Tel: US +1-212-301-7130
Email: john.mattio@hcinternational.net http://www.mz-ir.com
Cox Launches Popular Faith-based Network Called Daystar
ROANOKE, Va., Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Cox Communications has announced that Roanoke customers now have access to a new faith-based network, Daystar. The mission of Daystar is to "reach souls with the good news of Jesus Christ and to seek out every available means of distribution to a world in need of hope." This network has an extensive blend of interdenominational and multi-cultural programming.
Daystar is available on Cox channel 115 as part of the Advanced TV package.
Daystar's programming features influential ministers and speakers from around the world. The majority of Daystar's broadcasts are from groups and individuals aligned with various charismatic and Pentecostal movements.
This network airs paid programs from ministries such as Ministers John Hagee, Benny Hinn, and Jonathan Falwell.
For more information contact Felicia Blow at (757) 222-8432 or at Felicia.Blow@cox.com.
About Cox Communications
Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet and telephone services over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable TV company, Cox serves more than 6 million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers, and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and new media advertising.
Cox is known for its pioneering efforts in cable telephone and commercial services, industry-leading customer care and its outstanding workplaces. For seven years, Cox has been recognized as the top operator for women by Women in Cable Telecommunications; for five years, Cox has ranked among DiversityInc's Top 50 Companies for Diversity, and the company holds a perfect score in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at http://www.cox.com and http://www.coxmedia.com.
Media Contact:
Felicia Blow, Cox Communications, 757-222-8432, felicia.blow@cox.com
ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- General Communication, Inc. announced the launch of 4G wireless service in the Fairbanks area today, further expanding its 4G network footprint. GCI was the first to bring the technology to Alaska when they launched in Anchorage in September and has an aggressive rollout plan that will soon expand the technology to other Alaska communities.
GCI's 4G, or fourth generation wireless technology, allows Alaskans to surf the Internet, watch videos, social network and work without the delays experienced on competing networks. The new 4G service is capable of download speeds rated up to 21 Megabits per second, with typical speeds more than 10 times faster than current network speeds.
"GCI has long been the company Alaskans turn to for innovation and high-speed broadband," said Paul Landes, GCI senior vice president, consumer services. "GCI users in the Fairbanks area will now have access to some of the most advanced wireless technology in the world."
In order to use the 4G network, users must have a 4G compatible phone, a new GCI SIM card and associated GCI data plan. Learn how to upgrade to GCI's 4G wireless network online at http://www.gci.com.
GCI offers three 4G phones in Fairbanks. The Samsung Galaxy SII has the largest high definition screen available. The LG Optimus 3D lets you shoot & watch photos and video in 3D. The Sony Xperia Play puts PlayStation in the palm of your hand with a slide-out gaming pad.
GCI (Nasdaq: GNCMA) is an Alaska-based integrated communications provider and the second largest wireless provider in Alaska. As a pioneer in bundled services, GCI provides local, long distance and wireless telephone, cable television, Internet and data communications services throughout Alaska. For more information, visit http://www.GCI.com.
SOURCE General Communication, Inc.
General Communication, Inc.
CONTACT: Tom Zulz, GCI, +1-907-374-3139, tzulz@gci.com, or David Morris, GCI, +1-907-227-4919, dmorris@gci.com
OAKLAND, Calif., Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The award-winning 511 traveler information system is offering new functionality to the Bay Area traveling public through a significant update and overhaul of the 511 Traffic page.
The new 511 Traffic page, now being launched in beta at trafficbeta.511.org, provides information to help commuters avoid traffic jams and incidents, and suggests alternate routes to keep travelers moving and reduce congestion in the Bay Area. Visitors to the 511 Traffic page at traffic.511.org will see a banner at the top of the page inviting them to go to the beta version. The new page features real-time and predicted traffic information and driving times, an enhanced map with improved navigation and easier access to information, and personalization, such as saved recent trips and map preferences. 511 Traffic excels at providing highly accurate, real-time and predicted traffic information for the Bay Area.
"We made major enhancements to our traffic map and information tools based on input from 511 users," says Shauna Callow, 511 Website Coordinator and Project Manager. "We're excited to offer a beta version of the new 511 Traffic page now so users can help us confirm the page is working as designed." The full launch of the new 511 Traffic page is expected spring 2012.
The enhanced traffic map shows travelers real-time traffic congestion, incidents, and construction projects on freeways and highways, at a glance. Users can also use map tools to view predicted traffic congestion (based on historical averages) when planning a future trip - especially one that requires arriving on-time, like a trip to the airport. 511 operators update incident and construction information 24/7 so that 511 users can access information specific to their trip, whenever they need it.
"The 511 Traffic page is the only resource of its kind built and continually customized for the Bay Area," says Callow. "So much of the work that we do is related to collecting and verifying traffic data, so it's exciting to release these website improvements that enable travelers to quickly access this powerful data via a fresh, streamlined design."
The 511 Driving Times(SM) feature delivers personalized point-to-point driving times, including speeds and incidents along a route, and is now better integrated into the traffic map. Travelers can find out how long a trip will take to the minute, given current traffic conditions. Users can check a typical driving time compared to the current time to know whether conditions are better or worse than usual. When available, alternate routes are provided to allow travelers to choose a different path and avoid congested areas. 511 users can also calculate driving times for a specific future day and time. For example, when making weekend getaway plans, users can enter their trip and select "Fridays" as the day type to view predicted driving times for Friday travel.
With cookies enabled, 511 Traffic will personalize the user experience so that each time users return, their maps preferences and trips are immediately available to them. The Recent Trips feature will save up to three of a user's most recent trips for quick access to current driving times, incidents, and speeds along the route.
As always, the 511 Traffic page consistently provides the most accurate, latest-breaking traffic news and emergency information affecting drivers. When urgent news breaks or emergencies occur, 511 Traffic displays a ticker at the top of the page to make sure motorists stay informed about major traffic impacts in the region and their commute alternatives.
About 511
511 is a one-stop phone and web source for up-to-the-minute Bay Area traffic, transit, rideshare and bicycling information. It's free of charge and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from anywhere in the nine-county Bay Area. Call 511 or visit 511.org. 511 is managed by a partnership of public agencies led by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, the California Highway Patrol, and the California Department of Transportation.
SOURCE 511
511
CONTACT: Craig Noble, +1-510-817-5867, or John Goodwin, +1-510-817-5862, or Kit Powis, +1-510-273-3650
Making Your Ultimate Racing Adventure Just a Simple Click Away!
PARIS, December 19, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
Gameloft, a leading global publisher of digital and social games, today announced
their partnership with Google to bring its high-quality game GT Racing: Motor Academy
[https://plus.google.com/u/0/games/777131296458 ] to Google+.
Now available to the more than 40 million people that have signed up for Google+, GT
Racing: Motor Academy is the first 3D HTML5 racing title to offer a fully immersive racing
experience on the platform. With over 26 manufacturers and 111 licensed cars to buy, drive
and upgrade including the Nissan GT-R, Audi R8, and top of the line Ferrari models, GT
Racing: Motor Academy is a rich racing simulation that allows Google+ users to pass
driving tests, participate in prestigious racing events, and play against drivers from all
over the world with the game's multiplayer options.
"Gameloft is very excited about offering our games to Google+ users," said Baudouin
Corman, VP Publishing for the Americas at Gameloft. "GT Racing is bringing a stunning
racing experience right in the browser, and we are happy to be pioneering the field with
Google to bring the social gaming platform to the next level."
A leading global publisher of digital and social games, Gameloft(R) has established
itself as one of the top innovators in its field since 2000. Gameloft creates games for
all digital platforms, including mobile phones, smartphones and tablets (including
Apple(R) iOS and Android(R) devices), set top box, connected TVs and consoles. Gameloft
partners with leading international brands such as UNO(R), Spider-Man(R), James Cameron's
Avatar(TM), Ferrari(R) and Sonic Unleashed(R). Gameloft also operates its own established
franchises, such as Real Football, Asphalt(TM), Modern Combat 2: Black Pegasus and N.O.V.A
Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance(R). Gameloft is present in all continents, distributes its
games in 100 countries and employs over 4,000 developers.
Gameloft is listed on the Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN: FR0000079600, Bloomberg: GFT FP,
Reuters: GLFT.PA).
Gameloft PR:
Jessica W. Lewinstein
+1-415-615-0520
Jessica.Lewinstein@gameloft.com
Foodie Frenzy: LivingSocial Gourmet Now Live in Seven Markets
Boston, Atlanta Join D.C., San Francisco, New York, Philadelphia, and Portland, Ore.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- LivingSocial today announced the continued expansion of Gourmet, its high-end restaurant product to seven cities with the launch of Boston and Atlanta, which join recent launches in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, New York, Philadelphia and Portland, Ore., with more to come in 2012.
"In just two months we've introduced our Gourmet product in seven markets and the response from both our members and our restaurateur partners has been fantastic," said Alli Phillips, GM of Restaurants at LivingSocial. "Our Gourmet offers connect restaurateurs with the clientele they desire - people who appreciate food and dine out frequently, while at the same time giving our members access to one-of-a-kind culinary experiences that aren't available anywhere else."
An average Gourmet offer costs upward of 100 dollars per person and includes some of the finest foods, wines and spirits LivingSocial's restaurateur partners have to offer. To date, Gourmet offers have ranged from a meatball making class with Joey Campanaro at Little Owl in New York, to an eight-course prix-fixe tasting menu at two-Michelin starred Saison in San Francisco, to exclusive tickets to ChurchKey's New Year's Eve bash in Washington, D.C. Each offer is available for two weeks or until it sells out, which happens often. In fact, LivingSocial sold out 4 of 5 Gourmet offers featured in the past two weeks.
"LivingSocial's Gourmet product is unlike anything else in the market," said Peter Smith, Owner & Chef, PS 7's Restaurant in Washington, D.C. "By working with LivingSocial we were able to create a one-of-a-kind experience for potential customers and have seen great results."
LivingSocial extends Gourmet invitations to its members that show an interest in food and experiencing new things through past purchases, however food connoisseurs that have not received an invitation and are interested in joining can also log on to livingsocial.com/gourmet and submit a request for admittance.
For a full list of LivingSocial products and the cities where products are available, go to livingsocial.com. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/livingsocial. Join us on Facebook at facebook.com/livingsocial. LivingSocial products and services are subject to the Terms and Conditions found at livingsocial.com/terms.
About LivingSocial
LivingSocial helps people around the world find, share and enjoy great local deals and new experiences. We'll help you get more out of your city. Through its daily deal e-mails and alerts, LivingSocial introduces members to handpicked local businesses, products or services each day at significant savings. With a range of products for different interests, like Families and Adventures, LivingSocial helps delight members with the perfect deal for them. Other services include LivingSocial Escapes, which features easy "vacations in a box" to leading destinations, and LivingSocial Instant, which helps members discover real-time discounts at nearby restaurants, stores and businesses. LivingSocial works with each merchant partner to create customized marketing solutions that attract and retain loyal, long-term customers. Based in Washington, D.C., LivingSocial now has more than 46 million members in 25 countries.
SOURCE LivingSocial
LivingSocial
CONTACT: Jody Gavin of LivingSocial, +1-202-695-7127, Jody.Gavin@LivingSocial.com
Telligent Acquires Leverage Software; Furthering Telligent's Leadership in Enterprise Social Software
Telligent's Acquisition Signals Social Market Consolidation and Fuels Company Growth
DALLAS, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Telligent, a leader in social community software for the enterprise, today announced its acquisition of San Francisco-based Leverage Software, a leader in enterprise social networking.
"We are particularly thrilled to gain the leading cloud technology, people-centered design, prestigious customer list and employee talent that Leverage brings," says Telligent CEO Patrick Brandt. "Telligent and Leverage have roots as pure-play social community providers; consolidation in the market is natural and it's how we grow together."
Leverage is recognized as a pioneer in social on-demand (SaaS) with well-known customers including The Home Depot, Redken, Wells Fargo, and Stanford University that rely on its cloud-based social networking capabilities for outward customer as well as internal employee uses including field sales and marketing enablement.
"It's becoming more and more obvious that social is the new norm. Just look at the extraordinary adoption rates of Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter," says Brandt. "We continue to see proof that companies are experiencing enormous real benefit with social; evident by the sheer number of success stories illustrating how businesses are reaping benefit by engaging customers, facilitating partners and enabling employees."
According to Forrester Research, the social enterprise apps market will approach $6.4B by 2016. (1) Moreover, Forrester recognized Telligent as a leader in its "The Forrester Wave(TM): Enterprise Social Platforms, Q3 2011" report earlier this year. (2)
Telligent and Leverage management anticipate a seamless integration. "Both Telligent and Leverage share a similar business culture around devotion to customer success, and both are built on Microsoft technology. Our respective customers will reap the benefits of our shared services, talent and technology," says Leverage founder Joe Kleinschmidt.
Kleinschmidt, who will join the Telligent team as Vice President of Cloud Products, adds that Telligent will expand services and functionality for existing Leverage customers in the following ways:
-- The ability to tap into a large customer community of brands that are
industry pioneers and innovators in adopting social across their global
organizations
-- Access to highly rated customer experience and support as well as
Telligent's expanded services offerings around implementation, training
and educational programs
-- Becoming part of a larger partner ecosystem comprised of application
developers, digital agencies and system integrators
"We are shaping the next decade of social," explains Rob Howard founder and CTO of Telligent. "Telligent and Leverage are expanding our platform capabilities, delivering social anywhere - on your website, smartphone, or your corporate intranet - and we are accelerating our ability to do it in the cloud."
Catapult Advisors LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to Leverage Software on the transaction.
(1) Social Enterprise Apps Redefine Collaboration, Forrester Research, Inc., November 30 2011.
(2) The Forrester Wave(TM): Enterprise Social Platforms, Q3 2011, Forrester Research, Inc., August 24, 2011.
About Telligent
One of the pioneers in enterprise social community and workforce collaboration software, Telligent helps companies worldwide to implement social communities for their employees, customers and partners. Its powerful community development platform allows customers and partners to customize their community experiences and build award-winning applications on top of the platform.
Telligent differentiates itself with an ease of business and a level of confidence to which seasoned and successful organizations are accustomed. With a customer-focused culture, Telligent sets the social enterprise standard for positive business outcomes. With Telligent, thousands of organizations worldwide have created successful communities that drive collaboration, communication, innovation, networking and support, including American Marketing Association, Dell, Microsoft, Psion, U.S. Department of Defense - All Partners Access Network (APAN) and more.
Learn more about Telligent by visiting telligent.com.
Maxthon 3 Now Available for Download in India and Indonesia: Superior Web Browsing for a Quarter of the World's Population
SAN FRANCISCO, December 19, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
Maxthon (http://www.maxthon.com), a global software and web services company,
announces the launch of Maxthon 3 in India and Indonesia. Users can download the latest
version of Maxthon 3 in the respective languages of these two countries at http://id.maxthon.com and http://hi.maxthon.com.
"With Maxthon 3 now available in India and Indonesia, a quarter of the world's
population can enjoy the speed, safety, ease of use and innovative features responsible
for our success," says Jeff Chen, CEO of Maxthon. "The inclusion of India and Indonesia
also means Maxthon 3 is available in 30 languages, including Hindi and Bengali, among
various countries, bringing our users in Indian alone to over 400 million people."
"Users in India and Indonesia can enjoy the advantages of Maxthon 3, which make
browsing the web fast and fun. With pages in Hindi and Bengali, our fans in India are part
of our global community of supporters who can attest to the benefits of Maxthon. Join this
movement today," says Karl Mattson, GM of Maxthon International/Chief of Product
Development
About Maxthon
Headquartered in Beijing, Maxthon Ltd. is an innovative software company and developer
of superior web browsers which continue to set new standards for simplicity, speed and
security. Each month more than 130,000,000 people use Maxthon's web browser in 120
countries across the world. Maxthon also brings its best-of-breed browsing to the Android
platform for mobile devices and tablet computers. For more information about Maxthon
please visit http://www.maxthon.com.
Edenred Joins With Partech International to Promote Innovation
PARIS, December 19, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
In line with its Invent 2016 strategy to prepare its expansion into new territories,
Edenred today announced a partnership with venture capital firm Partech International.
The Group is investing EUR15 million in the Partech International VI fund, which is
raising an initial EUR100 million. The fund will invest in young, fast-growing companies
involved in the digital economy and offering new web-based, e-commerce and e-marketing
services as well as new payment media solutions.
The investment will enable Edenred to explore new opportunities in adjacent sectors.
Edenred will also be able to track emerging developments, with the goal of anticipating
changes that impact its shareholders: client companies, employees and affiliates.
Through its support for high potential companies, Edenred - in keeping with its
pioneering spirit - has made innovation a priority driver of future growth.
Edenred, which invented the Ticket Restaurant(R) meal voucher and is the world leader
in prepaid corporate services, designs and delivers solutions that make employees' lives
easier and improve the efficiency of organizations.
By ensuring that allocated funds are used as intended, these solutions enable
companies to more effectively manage their:
The Group also supports public institutions in managing their social programs.
Listed on the NYSE Euronext Paris stock exchange, Edenred operates in 40 countries,
with 6,000 employees, nearly 530,000 companies and public sector clients, 1.2 million
affiliated merchants and 34.5 million beneficiaries. In 2010, total issue volume amounted
to EUR13.9 billion, of which 55% was generated in emerging markets.
Ticket Restaurant(R) and all other tradenames of Edenred products and services are
registered trademarks of Edenred SA.
Comwave Launches Android App with Free Calling to 57 Countries
TORONTO, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hot on the heels of the success of their iPhone App, Comwave has launched their Mobile App for the Android OS. Comwave's new Mobile App has eliminated cell phone long distance charges to 57 countries. Available today in the Android Market for the US & Canada for $30 per year, users are able to place long distance calls directly through their existing contact lists on their Android Smartphones, to 57 countries including the USA & Canada. There are no monthly bills and there is a 100-minute free trial available at http://www.comwave.net/mobile.
"Android is now the most popular OS and those users now have the same access to Call the World and enjoy significant savings," says Yuval Barzakay, President and CEO. "It's so simple to use, and it is the only app that allows you to call 57 countries from your Smartphone."
Customers can register at http://www.comwave.net/mobile and then download the App for free in the Android Market or on iTunes for iPhone users. There is a BlackBerry version coming soon.
$30/year Includes:
-- Ability to change your Caller ID
-- 250 free local & long distance minutes per month for 12 months to call
across the street or around the globe (That's 3,000 free minutes to 57
countries)
-- Lower rates than Skype if you go over the free 250 minutes/month or call
outside of the 57 countries
-- No monthly fees...Just an annual fee of $30
About Comwave
Comwave is Canada's largest independent communications company specializing in Voice Over IP (VoIP), long distance and mobile for residential and business customers. It has recently released the very successful ePhone for the Blackberry Playbook, PC & Mac. Led by President and CEO, Yuval Barzakay, Comwave has become Canada's leader in VoIP solutions. Comwave serves over 500 cities in Canada and over 1100 in the United States.
In our competitive landscape Comwave has always been the go-to company for great savings and we continue to bring our customers the absolute best rates. We are never undersold, and we don't compromise on reliability and customer satisfaction.
Our Focus:
-- To improve on the customer experience and overall satisfaction
-- Keep things simple
-- Innovate
SOURCE Comwave
Comwave
CONTACT: Jamie Fine, Social Media and Communications Specialist, +1-416-663-9700 x 329, jfine@comwave.net
IM+ Adds Own In-App Messenger "Beep", Angry Birds Theme
BOSTON and STUTTGART, Germany, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- IM+ announces today its own cross-platform messenger "Beep" for iOS, Android, BlackBerry and Windows Phone. With Beep, IM+ users are now able to chat with contacts from their phone's Address Book as well as with IM friends in a single unified interface.
"6.1 trillion SMS text messages were sent in 2010. We believe, there is a huge market to disrupt," said Igor Berezovsky, IM+ CEO. "IM+ unites everything a person needs for messaging: free SMS and MMS replacement, local and group chat, Facebook Chat, Skype, Twitter, Google Talk... There is no need to know what your friends are using for messaging - IM+ is the universal answer."
Beep is available today for all IM+ users of free and paid versions for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad, Android phones and tablets, BlackBerry and Windows Phone.
Beep isn't the only surprise for iOS users of IM+. Thanks to cooperation with Rovio, latest IM+ update has a beautiful Angry Birds inspired theme. The Angry Birds theme includes fun animations such as moving background, flying birds and pigs showing up on the screen time to time.
About IM+:
Since 2002, IM+ shapes mobile instant messaging. 17 million people are using IM+.
For more information, please visit: http://www.shapeservices.com
On4 Communications, Inc. launches new corporate website
VANCOUVER, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - On4 Communications, Inc. ("On4") (OTCQB:ONCI) is pleased to announce that it has launched its new corporate website to
reflect the changes in direction and management. Shareholders and
potential investors are encouraged to visit the new site at http://www.on4communications.net
About On4
On4 is a development stage company, whose original business was
providing wireless communications solutions to telecommunication
companies, consumers and businesses. Its main technology was a
platform that was comprised of a global positioning management system
that was able to track people, pets, assets and inventory via two-way
communication devices such as Web browsers, instant messengers and
mobile phones. On4 has been actively seeking other promising projects
in the technology sector that will continue to add to the bottom line
and enhance shareholder value. Management has identified NetCents
Systems Ltd., a British Columbia based technology company, that is on
the verge of establishing itself as a global contender in the online
payment industry. On December 15, 2011 On4 entered into a definitive
share exchange agreement with NetCents Systems Ltd. ("NetCents") where
at closing On4 will acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding shares
of NetCents and NetCents will become a wholly owned subsidiary of On4.
NetCent's main asset is a technology that delivers a 100% secure,
self-administered and anonymouspayment system developed for the purpose of making safe online purchases
and money transfers. The technology is simple yet innovative and
provides a real-time two-way flow of funds over the web while
protecting the users from identity theft or credit card fraud.
The Company is a Development Stage Company, as defined by Financial
Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification
("ASC") 915, Development Stage Entities, and has not yet generated significant revenues from their intended
business activities.
About NetCents
Net-Cents is a seamless, transparent enabling technology adopted by
financial institutions to allow their clientele the option of
conducting financial transactions on the web in a secure fashion
without the use of credit card information. Triggered by a valid email
address, the Company uniquely delivers a 100% secure, self-administered
and anonymouspayment system for the purpose of making safe online purchases and
transferring funds. It enables a simple yet innovative, swift, two-way
flow of funds when paying for goods and services over the Internet.
NetCents provides the merchant with the means to connect with all
consumers whether or not they hold direct access to a credit card.
This payment option for consumers and merchants provides peace-of-mind
with no fear of identity theft or credit card fraud.
Forward-Looking Statements
Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters
discussed in this press release are forward-looking statements. Actual
results may differ materially from those described in forward-looking
statements and are subject to risks and uncertainties. See ON4's
filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission which
may identify specific factors that may cause actual results or events
to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking
statements.
SOURCE On4 Communications, Inc.
On4 Communications, Inc.
CONTACT: Please contact: 480-525-4361 or 888-583-7158
On the web: www.on4communications.net or www.net-cents.com
Santa.com Launches Santa.com Gift Card and the Santa Talks Online Blog
SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Santa.com today announced two additional online offerings that are sure to make the holiday season easier and more fun - the Santa.com Gift Card and the Santa.com Online Blog, Santa Talks. Santa.com (http://www.santa.com) is a one-stop gift-management and shopping destination designed to make the holidays easier and more magical.
The Santa.com Gift Card, powered by Tango Cards, opens up a whole world of gift possibilities by enabling gift card holders to use the card at multiple popular retailers. Santa.com's Founder and CEO Will Weisman said, "Santa.com's gift card offers the ultimate flexibility. You can use it at top retailers including Amazon.com, Target ®, Zappos, The Home Depot, Pottery Barn, REI, Groupon and Starbucks. You can also donate the balance to charities or redeem the gift card for cash." In the true holiday spirit of giving, cardholders can donate their balances on Santa.com to several leading non-profits including USO, National Park Foundation, The World of Children Award and Habitat for Humanity.
Giving back is a core value at Santa.com. The site seeks to instill a sense of gratitude and social awareness in its young audience. In addition to enabling the donation of card balances to charities through its gift card, Santa.com will be donating 1% of Santa.com gift card sales to The World of Children Award, an organization that sets the standard of excellence for child advocacy.
Additionally, Santa.com has launched Santa Talks, a blog where parents, gift givers and kids alike can get fun and practical advice for the holidays and other special occasions. In her column, Mrs. Claus offers advice to parents who write to her with holiday-related questions and dilemmas. The Kids Corner column provides kids ideas for making the holidays brighter and more meaningful. In Going Nutcracker, readers share fun stories of Christmas' past. The Highlights column offers parents and kids tips on gift giving, decorating, and entertaining, as well as ideas for fun family holiday activities and much more!
As previously announced, Santa.com offers an electronic postal service accessible on the web, iPhone and iPad. The service enables children to write letters to Santa and hear back from him. By approving their child's account on Santa.com, parents receive a copy of their children's letter to Santa and can help Santa send a personalized letter back either digitally or through a beautiful paper scroll for under the tree. Additionally, the site allows kids to search for their favorite toys and create their ultimate holiday Wish List. Santa.com's team of highly trained elves has teamed up with the North Pole to help Santa and other gift givers manage the Wish Lists of the good little boys and girls online.
"Santa.com makes gift-giving easier during the holiday season and throughout the entire year," said Weisman, "Santa.com's solution for wishing, sharing, giving and receiving can be used year-round for birthdays, graduations or just because. At Santa.com, every day is a holiday."
About Santa.com
Santa.com is a safe and social Wish List and gifting site for the entire family. It's a magical place where kids can exchange letters with Santa, discover fabulous toys, and create their ultimate wish list. Santa.com's versatile gift card and registry solution makes gift giving easy and rewarding 365 days a year.
Bulova Unveils Another First, Introduces Alarm and World Time iPhone Application
NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Bulova broadens its legacy of innovation with the release of Bulova Time, an alarm clock and world time iPhone application with the accuracy of the atomic clock and the simplicity of the company's first alarm clocks. Bulova proudly unveils Bulova Time as a force, fusing fashion and function in an easy-to-use app for the iPhone and iPod touch.
"Bulova is the first in the watch industry to make an app worth using every day," says Eric Hofmann, Vice President of Marketing at Bulova Corporation. "By leveraging Bulova?s iconic design and dedication to uncompromising precision, we created the Bulova Time alarm and world time app to reflect our commitment to innovation since 1875."
Bulova Time was created in honor of the company?s history in timekeeping, paying tribute to the first full line of men's and ladies' jeweled wristwatches, the first plant dedicated to the standardization of watch parts, the first clock radio, the first fully-electronic wristwatch with Accutron and now Bulova Time, the first iPhone alarm and world time application from the watch industry.
Block Upgrade Program Enhances Interoperability of Lockheed Martin's C-130J Super Hercules
MARIETTA, Ga., Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has been awarded a $167 million U.S. Air Force contract to develop a new block upgrade for the C?130J Super Hercules.
The Block 8.1 enhancement, containing both software and hardware capability expansion, will be installed on all U.S. government C-130Js and C-130Js of operator countries that select the upgrade. The C-130J fleet is currently flying with the Block 6.0 configuration, while the Block 7.0 configuration is in flight trials.
"Throughout its history, the C-130 has constantly changed and adapted to ensure it is always relevant and meeting the latest operational requirements," said Lorraine Martin, Lockheed Martin vice president for C-130 programs. "The C?130 is the benchmark for airlift around the world and the Block Upgrade Program ensures interoperability across the worldwide C-130J fleet. This sophisticated degree of commonality across C-130J types and variants is one reason the proven Hercules is in such high demand."
The new Block 8.1 configuration will include items such as updated Identification Friend or Foe (IFF); TEMPEST compliance; Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast; a Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management Data Link; an Enhanced Inter-Communication System; enhanced Approach and Landing Systems; Enhanced Diagnostics; and additional Covert Lighting.
C-130J aircraft are currently in production for the U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps, Iraq, Israel, Republic of Korea, Kuwait, Oman and Tunisia. C-130Js are also flown by Australia, Canada, Denmark, India, Italy, Norway, Qatar, the United Kingdom and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 126,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation's 2010 sales from continuing operations were $45.8 billion.
Don't Be a Scrooge in Choosing a Network for Hot Holiday Gadget Gifts
Verizon FiOS Delivers Internet Speed, HD Quality for Maximum Impact
NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- It's the network that gives those hot, holiday electronics the speed, high definition and selection for top-rated performance now and down the road. And Verizon's FiOS network can do it all.
Here's how the FiOS network can provide maximum enjoyment and satisfaction for holiday gadget gifts:
-- That sleek new laptop tablet - Connect it to the Internet with FiOS, and
download speeds of up to 150 Mbps (megabits per second) turn it into a
Formula 1 experience on the information superhighway.
-- The newest game console - FiOS Internet's unmatched downstream and
upstream speeds provide an exhilarating online gaming experience. Plus,
with FiOS TV, you are now able to watch select, live FiOS HD TV programs
with a qualified Xbox 360 game console.
-- Super-small HD video cameras or digital SLR cameras - Once you've
recorded those digital HD memories, you'll want to post them to the Web
to share with friends and families. FiOS Internet's unmatched 35 Mbps
upstream speeds allow you to upload a 1 gigabyte, 20-minute HD home
video in 4.3 minutes.*
-- The latest big-screen, 3D TV - Tune to ESPN 3D, the industry's first 3D
network, featuring live major sporting events like NCAA basketball and
football, Wimbledon, the U.S. Open, the Masters Tournament and the NBA.
FiOS TV Video on Demand also offers the hottest Hollywood blockbusters
in 3D, and premium subscribers have access to even more on-demand titles
from HBO and Starz.
The FiOS network also brings consumers Flex View and FiOS TV Online, extending TV programming beyond the home to the Internet and a range of mobile devices. Wrap this all up with a feature-rich, digital voice service - FiOS Digital Voice - and you have a unique gift package.
And unlike that desktop PC now collecting dust in the basement, or the ponderous tube TV taking up garage space, the FiOS network is built for the future. As a 100 percent fiber-to-the-home network - an advantage cable doesn't offer -- FiOS has the capacity and flexibility to accommodate even more speed, more HD channel selection, and more advanced services and devices.
In November, Verizon announced it is collaborating with Microsoft to provide consumers with access to live FiOS TV channels over the Xbox 360 Entertainment System, including the ability to integrate consumers' TV experience with voice and gesture commands through Kinect.
"Consumers want greater anytime, anywhere control of their many electronic devices, their digital files of photos and videos and their home environment," said Eric Bruno, vice president of consumer and mass business product management for Verizon. "People want a borderless lifestyle, where everything is just a click away. This is what drives Verizon's development of new FiOS TV services, and it's why FiOS Internet was built to deliver the best online experiences, both downstream and upstream."
For example, the new My FiOS app provides Verizon FiOS customers with a single point of access to a vast variety of FiOS remote-access services, including FiOS Mobile Remote, which includes DVR manager, and Verizon's Home Monitoring & Control service, as well as personal content with Media Manager, and movies and TV shows with Flex View. The easy-to-access app also provides users with the ability to manage billing and FiOS Digital Voice service. In addition, the app reflects Verizon's customer focus by organizing apps according to customer needs, like accessing entertainment on the go, checking in on your home, managing your account and other remote-access benefits.
Additionally, current FiOS bundle offers make signing up for a two-year, triple-play plan the equivalent of a gift within a gift. Bundles of TV, Internet and Digital Voice start as low as $79.99 a month and include a $300 Visa gift card to qualifying new customers who sign up online, with a two-year agreement, with no startup costs and a 30-day Worry-Free Guarantee. That Visa gift card becomes a $500 value when new FiOS customers place an online order for a $109.99 a month bundle of FiOS TV Ultimate HD, FiOS Internet 35/35 Mbps and FiOS Digital Voice with unlimited calling in a two-year plan.
All in all, FiOS is a way to make the holidays more rewarding for the entire family.
* Upload and download time estimates based on maximum connection speeds. Actual throughput speeds will vary.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to consumer, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, with more than 107 million total connections nationwide. Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America's most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers in more than 150 countries, including all of the Fortune 500. A Dow 30 company with $106.6 billion in 2010 revenues, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 195,000. For more information, visit http://www.verizon.com.
VERIZON'S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts, high-quality video and images, and other information are available at Verizon's News Center on the World Wide Web at http://www.verizon.com/news. To receive news releases by email, visit the News Center and register for customized automatic delivery of Verizon news releases.
BBVA Compass Provides Online Privacy for Customers Nationwide With Reputation.com
BBVA Compass Selects Reputation.com's MyPrivacy to Provide Online Privacy Protection to Customers and Employees
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. and REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- BBVA Compass today announced a partnership with Reputation.com, the leader in online privacy and reputation management solutions, to provide Internet privacy solutions for BBVA Compass customers and employees. BBVA Compass, one of the top 25 largest commercial banks in the U.S. based on deposit market share, is providing customers and employees with Reputation.com's MyPrivacy solution. MyPrivacy is a patented technology solution that finds, protects, removes and monitors individuals' personal information online.
"In today's digital age, it's essential that our customers and employees have solutions that ensure privacy and protect their identity," said Jon Mulkin, consumer segment director at BBVA Compass. "MyPrivacy is an innovative and proven technology solution that offers a way to manage personal information online. MyPrivacy aligns with our core strategy to provide simple, efficient solutions and services that benefit our customers, with a focus on innovation.
Mulkin continued, "We chose to affiliate ourselves with Reputation.com based on the company's industry leadership and technological edge."
MyPrivacy removes personal, private information--such as name, address, phone number, age, financial information, date of birth and more--from hundreds of people search databases online. With MyPrivacy, users benefit from continual, automated safeguarding of their private and personally identifiable information (pii) online.
"Individuals want control of their private information online and the businesses that deliver on this are at a huge competitive advantage," said Owen Tripp, co-founder and COO at Reputation.com. "BBVA Compass is ahead of the curve--they're putting privacy first. By doing so, they improve security and bring peace of mind to their customers."
MyPrivacy is being offered in all 712 BBVA Compass branch locations and to all customers via the bank's Privacy and Security center at http://www.bbvacompass.com/personal/security/my_privacy.cfm. For more information, customers may call 1-800-COMPASS.
ABOUT BBVA COMPASS
BBVA Compass is a Sunbelt-based financial institution that operates more than 712 branches including 374 in Texas, 93 in Alabama, 78 in Arizona, 65 in California, 45 in Florida, 36 in Colorado and 21 in New Mexico. BBVA Compass ranks among the top 20 largest U.S. commercial banks based on deposit market share and ranks among the largest banks in Alabama (3rd), Texas (4th) and Arizona (5th). BBVA Compass has been recognized as one of the nation's leading Small Business Administration (SBA) lenders, earning 'Lender of the Year' honors in 2009 and 2010. Additional information concerning BBVA Compass can be found on our website http://www.bbvacompass.com.
BBVA Compass is a subsidiary of BBVA Compass Bancshares, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of BBVA (NYSE: BBVA) (MAD: BBVA). BBVA is a financial services group with approximately $800 billion in total assets, 48 million clients, 7,400 branches and approximately 110,000 employees in more than 30 countries. BBVA ranks among the top 20 largest financial institutions in the world based on market capitalization and 17th in Global Finance magazine's list of the "World's 50 Safest Banks" for 2011. BBVA provides its customers around the world with a full range of financial services, including commercial and wholesale banking, retail banking services, consumer loans, mortgages, credit cards, securities brokerage, wealth management, pension plan management and insurance. The BBVA Group maintains a leadership position in Spain, Mexico, Latin America and the Sunbelt Region of the United States, as well as operations in China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. More information about the BBVA Group can be found at http://www.bbva.com.
Editor's Note: BBVA Compass is a trade name of Compass Bank. Compass Bank, member FDIC.
ABOUT REPUTATION.COM
Reputation.com's mission is to empower individuals and businesses to control their privacy and reputation online. Reputation.com was founded in 2006 and is the pioneer of online reputation management solutions. The company is recognized by World Economic Forum as a Technology Pioneer 2011 for its global technology leadership and innovation. The privately held company is headquartered in Silicon Valley, has an office in Germany and serves customers in more than 100 countries.
Network to Unveil First-of-its-Kind "Fantasy Election" Game
2012 Election Coverage Kicks Off with GOP Candidates in MTV News Special "Our Voice" Premiering Tuesday, December 20
MTV Goes Inside the Lives of Presidential Hopefuls in the Documentary "When I was 22" Premiering in 2012
NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --MTV today unveiled the first phase of its 2012 Election campaign, "Power of 12," which aims to inform and engage young voters and amplify their voices throughout the 2012 elections. On-air, the network will premiere "Our Voice," an MTV News Short-form Documentary with Andrew Jenks that brings the voices of young voters directly to Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney, Ron Paul and other GOP candidates and "When I was 22," an MTV News documentary that will give viewers a unique portrait of select Presidential candidates. Online, MTV plans to release a first-of-its-kind game, "Fantasy Election '12" which will mirror the mechanics of popular "fantasy" games for football or baseball, and today launched the campaign hub, Powerof12.org. Powerof12.org offers young voters a "what it means for you" take on the candidates, issues and election news, as well as quick and easy voter registration. Additionally, MTV News will begin its coverage of the election on the ground in Iowa and New Hampshire, with documentary filmmaker Andrew Jenks and MTV News Correspondent Sway Calloway helming MTV's "Power of 12" political news coverage. Additional campaign elements will be announced leading up to the 2012 election.
Building on MTV's nearly 20-year Emmy and Peabody Award-winning political legacy with "Choose or Lose," MTV's "Power of 12" campaign is built specifically to reflect the Millennial generation and changes in the economic and political climate, and is designed to empower them to have a major impact on Election Day and beyond. 45 million 18-29 year olds will be eligible to vote in the 2012 election, representing the largest potential voting bloc in the country. However, according to recent Pew Research data, only 13 percent of Millennials have given a lot of thought to the 2012 candidates, down from 28 percent in 2007, and markedly lower than other age groups.
"Through their sheer size, Millennials have the power to be a deciding factor in the 2012 elections and help set the country's direction," said Stephen Friedman, President of MTV. "Our goal for the 'Power of 12' is to encourage candidates to tap into the power of the largest generation in history and respond to their concerns."
Details on the initial elements of MTV's "Power of 12" include:
-- "Fantasy Election '12" - For the first time ever, MTV will build a game
layer on top of the election and offer young people a new way to become
power players in the electoral process. Similar to popular "fantasy"
games for football or baseball, users will draft a team of candidates
pursuing the Presidency, U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. In
the way that Fantasy Football awards points when your players score
touchdowns and deducts points when they throw interceptions, "Fantasy
Election '12" will reward candidates for exhibiting the behaviors voters
deserve, and penalize politicians for behaviors that hurt our democracy.
Additionally, users will be rewarded for getting involved with Election
'12 - earning bonus points for actions like registering to vote,
"checking-in" to debates and town hall events, and discussing issues
with friends. The game will launch closer to the kick-off of the
general election, with more details to be announced.
-- "Our Voice" - MTV will premiere a first-person MTV News documentary
on-air and online by Andrew Jenks that takes the temperature of young
voters and brings their concerns and priorities directly to the GOP
Presidential candidates. The short-form piece chronicles 25-year-old
Jenks' journey across America as he spends time with a cross-section of
his peers, and heads out on the campaign trail, posing questions to
candidates including Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Rick Santorum
and John Huntsman. The documentary will premiere on-air Tuesday,
December 20, 2011 at 4:54pm ET/PT, and will be available online at http://www.powerof12.org.
-- "When I was 22" - In early 2012, MTV News will premiere the documentary
"When I was 22," which will give viewers a unique look inside the lives
of the Presidential candidates when they were 22 years old. Each
episode will paint a portrait of a candidate at a younger age, focusing
on their dreams, triumphs, setbacks and the moments of resiliency that
ultimately shaped their world view.
-- Powerof12.org - MTV today unveiled a new Web site that will feature a
stream of the election news that is most relevant to its audience,
snapshot views of the political candidates, easy-to-understand primers
on the major issues that affect young people in the election, and
information for first-time voters. The site also features an
easy-to-use voter registration tool from Rock the Vote, plus clear
information on registration deadlines, polling locations, and more. In
the months ahead, additional tools and features will be added to make it
easy for young people to get informed and to make their voices heard.
-- MTV News Coverage: As always, MTV News will be on-the-ground, covering
the major political events leading up to and following election 2012.
MTV News Correspondent Sway Calloway and documentary film-maker Andrew
Jenks will be helming MTV's "Power of 12" coverage, and will be on the
ground starting with their coverage for the Iowa caucuses and New
Hampshire primary and will be on the ground throughout the year.
For more information on MTV's "Power of 12" campaign, or details on how to get involved, please visit http://www.Powerof12.org.
Embed Code for Excerpt of MTV News Documentary "Our Voice"
Aiseesoft Brings Wonderful Christmas Gifts: 20% Off Coupon and "Buy One, Get One" Promotion
BEIJING, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- To celebrate the coming Christmas, Aiseesoft specially prepares wonderful Christmas gifts for all customers - the 20% off coupon code and the "Buy One, Get One" promotion. Customers can purchase the products listed on Aiseesoft Christmas promotion page with the coupon code (AISE-MKS), which allows users to save up to $102.8 before Dec. 26, 2011.
Among all these discount products on the promotion page, Aiseesoft DVD Converter Suite Platinum and iPad Converter Suite are highly recommended applications. The DVD Converter Suite Platinum is the a newly released software suite, which is packed with DVD Ripper, Total Video Converter, DVD Creator, and iPhone Transfer Platinum. With this all-in-one software, users can easily convert all popular DVD and video files, create DVD with any video file and customized DVD menu/audio track/subtitle. Also, users can export iPhone files to computer and import local files to PC, and even make their own iPhone ringtones with the help of this amazing DVD Converter Suite Platinum.
Aiseesoft iPad Converter Suite is one of the best iPad assistant tools designed for iPad users. It includes DVD to iPad Converter, iPad Video Converter, and iPad Transfer. It can assist users in converting DVD/video file to iPad compatible formats, and transfer files between iPad and computer. With this amazing iPad software, users can enjoy any favorite video on iPad anywhere and anytime.
In reference to the "Buy One, Get One" promotion, there are 5 products (iPhone Ringtone Maker, iPhone SMS Transfer, Audio Converter, PDF to Word Converter, and MP3 to DVD Burner), from which users can choose as the preferred free gift. Anyone who purchases software on our official website is entitled the chance of getting one application for free.
System Requirements for Windows
Version
Windows NT4/2000/2003/XP and Windows
OS Supported: Vista, Windows 7
800MHz Intel or AMD CPU, or above;
Hardware Requirements: 512MB RAM or more
System Requirements for Mac
Version
OS Supported: Mac OS X v10.4 - v10.7
512MB RAM, Super VGA (800×600)
resolution, 16-bit graphics card or
Hardware Requirements: higher
About Aiseesoft Studio
As a professional multimedia software provider, Aiseesoft Studio is dedicated to developing the best multimedia desktop applications to help the Windows and Mac users smoothly convert, edit and transfer various video/audio files. In order to meet users' various requirements, Aiseesoft Studio constantly brings in new ideas, technologies, etc. To Aiseesoft Studio, Users' satisfaction is a consistent pursuit. For more information, please visit: http://www.aiseesoft.com.
SOURCE Harbour Software
Harbour Software
CONTACT: Alva Jones of Aiseesoft Studio at Tel: +86-13466759823 or pr@aiseesoft.com; http://www.aiseesoft.com
GameFly Launches Public Beta for Digital PC Client -- Access to Hundreds of Free PC Games for all GameFly Members in "Unlimited PC Play"
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- GameFly, Inc., the leading online video game rental subscription service, has launched the public beta for its new one-stop shop PC client. Available to all gamers for free, the PC client features up-to-the-minute news and vibrant games pages with HD videos and screenshots. In addition to the ability to manage one's GameQ, all GameFly members have access to hundreds of PC games they can play anytime, anywhere. The Unlimited PC Play library will continue to grow with more core, casual, classic and independent games that gamers can download onto any of their PCs to play for no additional cost as long as they are active GameFly subscribers.
"We are thrilled to finally be able to open up the beta so anyone interested in video games can start using the client, and we are hard at work expanding our catalog of PC titles for our users to play for free in the Unlimited PC Play section," said Sean Spector, GameFly co-founder and SVP of Business Development and Content. "Casual to hardcore gamers can enjoy titles like Assassin's Creed, Deus Ex or Saints Row 2, to Earthworm Jim, Jewel Quest or World of Goo at no additional cost to their GameFly subscription."
GameFly will also begin selling PC games at GameFly.com, and on their leading video game mobile App for iOS and Android. There will be over 1,500 Windows/Mac games for sale, in addition to used console games and new console and PC releases for pre-order.
Current Unlimited PC Play publishers include:
1C
2D BOY
Atari
Bohemia Interactive
Capcom
Iceberg Interactive
Interplay
iWin
Kalypso Media
Layernet
Legacy Interactive
Meridian4
MumboJumbo
Paradox Interactive
PlayFirst
Playrix
SelectSoft
SouthPeak Games
Spicy Horse
Square Enix
Strategy First
Telltale Games
THQ
Ubisoft
Viva Media
About GameFly
GameFly, the leading subscription video game rental service, allows members to rent one or more video games concurrently, with no due dates, late fees or shipping charges. Users can easily select from over 8,000 titles and manage their list of games online from the GameFly website at http://www.gamefly.com or from the GameFly App for iOS and Android devices. Members receive games via First-Class Mail and return them to GameFly at their convenience using prepaid mailers. In addition to selling video games through the "Keep" feature, GameFly also sells new and used video games. GameFly recently acquired Direct2Drive.com, a leading online retailer for downloading Windows and Mac video games, with over 1,500 titles available for purchase.
Warranty Positions Casio as the Leader in Lamp Free Projection Technology
DOVER, N.J., Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading the digital projection industry with innovative and cutting-edge technology, Casio America, Inc. continues to raise the bar by extending its LASER & LED HYBRID Light Source warranty from three to five years. The improved warranty is good for five years or 10,000 hours of reliable operation -- eliminating the hassle of replacing traditional mercury lamps. Based on the cost of bulb replacement, during the warranty period, professionals could save nearly as much as the cost of a new projector.
Casio is the only company offering a warranty on a light source for up to 10,000 hours, which further positions its status as the preferred provider of digital projection technology. With the cost of a replacement lamp being approximately 30% of the cost of a projector, in addition to the man hours to change out the projector bulb and the down time that occurs while the projector is not in service, this warranty is expected to be the benchmark for the future. The warranty applies to the Signature, Short Throw and Pro series of projectors.
"Extending the warranty to five years further emphasizes Casio's assurance in the reliability of our light source and demonstrates our commitment to next generation products by setting new standards," said Matt Mustachio, general manager of Casio's Business Projector Division. "The increased warranty also makes the projector's total cost of ownership even more attractive as compared to lamp-based projectors. With a Casio projector you no longer have to worry about the cost of replacing lamp bulbs for up to five years."
Casio's LASER & LED HYBRID Light Source utilizes a hybrid combination of Laser and LED devices as well as a fluorescent element to generate high output red, green and blue light. A DLP® chip is used to form the image which is passed through the projection lens. This technology achieves an increase in color spectrum compared with a mercury lamp, while lowering the projector's total cost of ownership and maximizing investment.
For additional information regarding Casio's projectors, please visit casioprojector.com.
*DLP is a registered trademark of Texas Instruments of the United States.
About Casio America, Inc.
Casio America, Inc., Dover, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Casio Computer Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, one of the world's leading manufacturers of consumer electronics and business equipment solutions. Established in 1957, Casio America, Inc. markets calculators, keyboards, digital cameras, mobile presentation devices, disc title and label printers, watches, cash registers and other consumer electronic products. Casio has strived to fulfill its corporate creed of "creativity and contribution" through the introduction of innovative and imaginative products. For more information, visit http://www.casiousa.com.
MEDIA INQUIRIES ONLY CONTACT:
Christine Azzolino/Tania Fonovic
Coyne PR
(973) 588-2000
cazzolino@coynepr.com
tfonovic@coynepr.com
Elizabeth Garcia/Sue VanderSchans
CASIO AMERICA, INC.
(973) 361-5400
egarcia@casio.com
svanderschans@casio.com
Zillow Mortgage Marketplace Launches on AOL Real Estate and DailyFinance
SEATTLE, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Zillow® (NASDAQ: Z), the leading real estate information marketplace, today launched the Zillow Mortgage Marketplace shopping experience on AOL® Real Estate and DailyFinance(TM), providing tools to research, shop for and compare mortgages.
AOL Real Estate and DailyFinance visitors now have easy access to important home financial information, such as mortgage calculators, real-time mortgage rates, and Zillow's innovative mortgage shopping experience, which allows users to compare personalized loan quotes and lender reviews, and connect directly with lenders. Already this year, consumers have submitted nearly 5 million loan requests in Zillow Mortgage Marketplace, receiving an average of 18 customized loan quotes per loan request.
Home and mortgage shoppers can find the Zillow Mortgage Marketplace shopping experience on AOL by visiting:
"We planned to launch this integration next year, but as mortgage rates remain at historic lows consumers are clamoring for quick and useful mortgage information. In less than two months, Zillow and AOL's development teams worked closely together to launch Zillow Mortgage Marketplace on AOL Real Estate and DailyFinance," said Spencer Rascoff, Zillow CEO. "Expanding Zillow Mortgage Marketplace to AOL is an important milestone, and will expose our unique mortgage offering to many more millions of mortgage shoppers."
"Our goal is to provide a suite of best in class financial tools and resources to support our users as they make personal finance and real estate decisions through their life stages," said Jay Kirsch, SVP & GM, AOL Marketplace. "We are thrilled to have Zillow join our team of outstanding partners. Collectively, we are bringing the best of the Web to our AOL users in one comprehensive online destination."
About Zillow, Inc.
Zillow (NASDAQ: Z) is the leading real estate information marketplace, providing vital information about homes, real estate listings and mortgages through its website and mobile applications, enabling homeowners, buyers, sellers and renters to connect with real estate and mortgage professionals best suited to meet their needs. Nearly 22.5 million unique users visited Zillow's websites and mobile applications in November 2011. Zillow, Inc. operates Zillow.com®, Zillow Mortgage Marketplace, Zillow Mobile, Postlets® and Diverse Solutions(TM). The company is headquartered in Seattle.
Upsher-Smith Women's Health Launches "Clinicians Corner"
Women's Health Portal Designed Exclusively for NPs, PAs, Nurses and Midwives
MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Clinicians Corner, a new, comprehensive women's health portal, was recently made available to advanced practice clinicians with an interest in women's health. The website, http://www.clinicianscorner.com,provides this dedicated group of health care practitioners with relevant resources and educational materials in one convenient location.
Since its successful debut, advanced practice clinicians, including nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses and midwives, have accessed Clinicians Corner to utilize useful tools that aid in providing advice and services to the women they care for every day. The resources featured include relevant articles on women's health, education to benefit patients, links to key nursing and patient blogs, links to Twitter feeds, motivational quotes and direct links to upcoming events and conferences.
"Upsher-Smith recognizes the valuable role advanced practice clinicians play in women's health care," said Jim Hughes, Vice President, Marketing, Upsher-Smith Laboratories. "Clinicians Corner is a trusted resource and one-of-a-kind educational community for busy clinicians, with direct, focused information tailored specifically to their practice. As an advocate promoting women's health, Upsher-Smith believes that these customized tools will benefit practitioners and the patients that they care for each day."
To join the free educational community and receive up-to-date women's health information, visit Clinicians Corner at http://www.clinicianscorner.com.
About Upsher-Smith Women's Health
Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. is a privately held company devoted to improving health and advancing wellness since 1919. Upsher-Smith demonstrates its commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of its customers through the manufacturing and marketing of consumer and prescription products. Upsher-Smith Women's Health is committed to providing options specifically designed to meet the ever-changing needs of women throughout their lives such as prenatal nutritional support, bone health and symptom relief during menopause. For additional information, visit http://www.upsher-smith.com/products/womens-health.
106094.01
SOURCE Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.
Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.
CONTACT: CONTACT: Daina Cardillo, Kovak-Likly Communications, +1-203-762-8833, dcardillo@klcpr.com
Award-Winning Audi Magazine Goes Digital: New App for iPad Users in the U.S.
HERNDON, Va., Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- As more consumers own smart phones, iPads and other mobile devices, Audi of America is continually taking strides to innovate and reach these potential buyers wherever they are. In a new move for the brand in the U.S., Audi has brought the award-winning Audi Magazine, known for its innovative design, opulent visuals and informative articles, to the iPad®.
iPad users can download the app, "Audi USA Magazine," for free on iTunes®. The magazine can also be viewed online in digital format.
"The iPad app will combine the same great story telling and reporting that our readers are used to with new, interactive elements and compelling content," said Scott Keogh, Chief Marketing Officer, Audi of America. "By bringing Audi Magazine to the iPad, we're able to reach our progressive, plugged in and tech-savvy audience in new ways."
Over the years, Audi Magazine - with its "drive," "move" and "inspire" sections centered around automobile, sports and lifestyle - has won numerous awards, including the 2011 Gold Addy Award (DC Ad Club), Gold Ink Award in 2010 and Sappi Printer of the Year Award in 2010 and 2009.
ABOUT AUDI
Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. During 2010 Audi was the top performing luxury brand in Europe, and broke all-time company sales records in the U.S. Over the next few years, AUDI AG will invest nearly $16 billion on new products and technologies. Visit http://www.audiusa.com or http://www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.
SOURCE Audi of America, Inc.
Audi of America, Inc.
CONTACT: Audi of America Communications: Brad Stertz, +1-703-364-7440, or Mob.: +1-703-344-1320, brad.stertz@audi.com
simplyCT Releases simplyAPPS. Virtual Call Center Applications Portal
NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- simplyCT a provider of Virtual Call Center solutions has announced the launch of its innovative web applications portal, simplyAPPS. In keeping with the principal 'Simplicity as a Service', the newly released apps portal sets a benchmark for enhanced user experience and functionality.
"Taking our call center solution to a visually enhanced, user friendly space is always on our roadmap and part of our work plan. simplyAPPS. unites the user experience with our easy to use services. Through this portal, the entire call center workforce can easily access and operate our various web applications - simplyTALK, simplyVIEW, simplyWISE, simplyREPORT and simplyMANAGE - from any location at any time," said Paz Biber, Director of R&D at simplyCT.
simplyAPPS. is built on a two tier concept and ties into the branding of the solution. The first is the management tier that consists of simplyCONFIG, simplyMANAGE and simplyWISE - the tools designed for end to end call center configuration, supervision and management.
The second is the workforce tier that consists of core components simplyTALK (Unified Agent Communication), simplyVIEW (the Real-time Activity Wallboard), and simplyREPORT (Call Center Activity Reports).
Hagay Elyakim, EVP Sales & Marketing said "By presenting our new enhanced user experience apps portal, we are fulfilling our commitment to bringing significant innovation to the industry. simplyAPPS. allows supervisors and managers to proactively handle the common challenges facing call centers in real time. Proactive management of the entire call center workforce makes a profound impact on customer operations and bottom line."
The release of the simplyAPPS. marks a milestone for the 100% cloud based call center provider in its continued commitment to the development of innovative web based applications.
About simplyCT:simplyCT is a cloud based virtual call center platform; our innovative end-to-end online web application enables businesses to launch an out-of-the-box cost effective call center solution according to their on-demand business needs and preferences.
simplyCT enhances the customer experience through highly effective multi-communication channels and features inbound, outbound and blended queues.
simplyCT identified the main challenges facing businesses when trying to bridge the gap of expectation between today's demanding customer experience and current supporting technologies. By signing up with simplyCT.com, more and more companies benefit from the ease of access and tangible advantages of a cloud based call center solution that delivers an enhanced customer experience.
Digital Li-Ning Announces Introduction of Iconic Sportswear Brand to the U.S. Market
Premier Basketball, Women's Fitness and Running Lines Now Available
CHICAGO and BEIJING, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital Li-Ning, the joint venture between Li-Ning Company and Acquity Group, today announced the launch of its Brand eCommerce(TM) business, which brings the Li-Ning sportswear brand to U.S. consumers.
In the United States, Digital Li-Ning (http://www.li-ning.com) will showcase the Li-Ning brand across three core categories - basketball, women's fitness and running, allowing it to reach a broad demographic group of sports and wellness enthusiasts.
Founded in 1989 by Mr. Li Ning, a world-renowned gymnast who won six medals (three gold, two silver, one bronze) in the 1984 Olympic Games, the company has grown to become a publicly traded, premier sports entity with more than 8,000 retail stores. Digital Li-Ning represents part of the company's efforts in exploring and learning the U.S. market via Brand eCommerce.
"We believe many Americans will be attracted to Li-Ning's fresh and unique perspective on the connection of mind, body and spirit in fitness and sports," said Ray Grady, General Manager of Digital Li-Ning. "We're very excited by our unique go-to-market approach and our relationship with Acquity Group, which together will serve as the foundation for a successful U.S. launch."
"We are proud to be the U.S. partner that introduces Li-Ning to American consumers through our powerful Brand eCommerce platform," said George Lu, Chairman of Acquity Group. "Li-Ning is an iconic brand, and we are committed to its success in the U.S. market and the opportunities it will create here. In fact, Acquity Group added 200 jobs in the U.S. in 2011, and we expect that the introduction of the Li-Ning brand will accelerate our hiring in the U.S. for 2012 and beyond. We're certain that the success of Digital Li-Ning will serve as the bellwether to encourage more global brands to invest in the United States."
"Digital Li-Ning is well positioned to launch the leading Li-Ning brand in the United States," said Craig Heisner, head of marketing for Digital Li-Ning. "Our experience and understanding of the American consumer underscore why the status quo is no longer an option in sportswear. The arrival of Digital Li-Ning is well-timed and our three categories should experience an attractive level of growth."
American athletes and consumers can purchase Li-Ning sportswear by visiting Digital Li-Ning at http://www.li-ning.com. Digital Li-Ning can also be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/LiNingUSA and on Twitter at @Li_Ning_USA.
About Digital Li-Ning
Digital Li-Ning is a joint venture between Acquity Group, a leading Brand eCommerce and digital marketing company, and Li-Ning, a leading sportswear brand that inspires athletes--body, mind and spirit--and empowers them to stand apart from the ordinary. Digital Li-Ning was formed to introduce the Li-Ning brand to the U.S. market as part of Li-Ning's efforts in exploring overseas market expansion opportunities, and it is managed from Chicago. For more information, please visit http://www.li-ning.com.
About Acquity Group
Acquity Group is a leading global Brand eCommerce and digital marketing company, creating award-winning digital experiences for global brands. Our multi-disciplinary approach brings together strategy, design, and technology to create brand-unique experiences that build firm customer relationships. Acquity Group works with leading brands like Adobe, AT&T, General Motors, Motorola, and Saks Fifth Avenue through offices in North America and Asia. To define a unique perspective for your business, contact Acquity Group at http://www.acquitygroup.com.
About Li-Ning
Li-Ning is a leading sportswear brand that inspires athletes--body, mind and spirit--to make positive changes and stand apart from the ordinary. Founded by an Olympic gold medalist, Li-Ning brings a fresh, new perspective to sports and fitness by offering products designed with passion, wisdom and innovation. As part of Li-Ning's U.S. expansion, the company has entered into a joint venture with Acquity Group, a leading Brand eCommerce and digital marketing company, to create Digital Li-Ning (http://www.li-ning.com), which will introduce the Li-Ning brand to the U.S.
SOURCE Digital Li-Ning
Digital Li-Ning
CONTACT: Elise Spadavecchio of Ogilvy Chicago, +1-312-397-6012, Elise.Spadavecchio@ogilvy.com
Belden Announces Intention to Make All-Cash Offer for RuggedCom Inc. for C$22.00 per Share
ST. LOUIS, Dec. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Belden Inc. (NYSE: BDC), a global leader in signal transmission solutions for mission-critical applications, today announced its intention to make an all-cash offer to acquire RuggedCom Inc. for C$22.00 per share, which implies a total purchase price of approximately C$280 million (the "Offer").
Highlights
-- Combined company would be a clear leader in the industrial networking
solutions market;
-- All-cash offer of C$22.00 per RuggedCom share;
-- Offer represents a substantial 62% premium to the closing RuggedCom
share price of C$13.61 as of December 16, 2011;
-- Cash offer provides immediate value for RuggedCom shareholders;
-- Offer is not subject to any financing contingency.
Under the terms of the Offer, Belden will propose to acquire all of the outstanding RuggedCom common shares for C$22.00 in cash per share. This represents a 62% premium to the closing share price of C$13.61 as of December 16, 2011. Importantly, given the net cash position of RuggedCom's balance sheet, the offer also represents an 87% premium to the enterprise value as of that date.
"For RuggedCom shareholders, the Offer is compelling in that it provides certainty of value and immediate liquidity at an attractive premium to RuggedCom's pre-offer share price," said John Stroup, President and CEO of Belden. "This Offer is grounded in Belden's growth strategy to enhance our global networking business portfolio. We believe that the combined company would be a technology leader in Belden's target market segments and would deliver considerable value for Belden customers and shareholders, as well as provide growth opportunities to RuggedCom employees."
Headquartered in Concord, Ontario, Canada, RuggedCom is a leading provider of rugged communications networking solutions designed for harsh environments, including those found in electrical power substations, oil refineries, military applications, intelligent transportation and metals and minerals processing.
Belden and RuggedCom have highly complementary business models and technologies. The acquisition of RuggedCom would accelerate the growth of Belden's networking business in the electric power transmission and distribution and transportation sectors. Belden's global footprint, with manufacturing facilities in North America, South America, Europe and Asia and a market presence in nearly every region in the world, coupled with its diverse networking business portfolio - including Byres, GarrettCom and Hirschmann - provides a broader platform and market reach upon which to leverage RuggedCom's talent and capabilities.
Belden has a longstanding presence and growing business interests in Canada, where RuggedCom's facilities are primarily located, with established Belden operations in Montreal, Cobourg and Vancouver.
Funding
The Offer is not subject to any financing conditions. Belden has sufficient cash and previously committed financing in place to pay for the consideration payable under the Offer and associated expenses.
The Offer
Full details of the Offer will be set out in an Offer to Purchase and Circular, which will be filed with the Canadian securities regulators in the days to come and will be available at http://www.sedar.com and subsequently mailed to RuggedCom's shareholders.
The Offer will remain open for at least 35 days following commencement of the Offer. The Offer will be subject to certain conditions, including there having been validly deposited under the Offer and not withdrawn at the Expiry Time that number of Common Shares which, together with any Common Shares owned by the Offeror or its affiliates (if any), represents not less than 66 2/3% of the Common Shares outstanding (calculated on a fully-diluted basis), and the Offeror having determined that there shall not exist and shall not have occurred, and that the Offer if completed, will not be reasonably likely to cause or result in, a Material Adverse Effect.
Advisors and counsel
Belden's financial advisor in connection to the Offer is Goldman, Sachs & Co., with Osler, Hoskin, Harcourt LLP acting as Canadian legal counsel. Hill + Knowlton Strategies Canada is acting as communications advisor.
Kingsdale Shareholder Services Inc. has been retained as depositary and information agent for the Offer. Shareholders may contact Kingsdale toll-free in North America at 1-888-518-1565, or collect from outside North America at 416-867-2272, or by email at contactus@kingsdaleshareholder.com.
Conference Call and Webcast
Belden will hold a conference call to discuss the announcement on December 20, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. EST. To join the call, please dial 888-686-9705 or 913-312-1448, passcode: 9894752. A live webcast of the call can also be heard on Belden's website at http://investor.belden.com/news-events.cfm. A replay of the call will be available for a limited time. In order to access the replay, please dial 888-203-1112 or 719-457-0820, replay passcode: 9894752.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information contained in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" (or "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of Canadian and U.S. securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical or present fact, constitute forward-looking information and typically include words and phrases about the future such as will, anticipate, estimate, expect, plan, intend, predict, goal, target, project, potential, strategy and outlook. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Belden cautions the reader that such forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. These risks, factors and assumptions include, but are not limited to: the assumption that Belden will acquire a 100% interest in RuggedCom through the Offer; the assumption that there are no inaccuracies or material omissions in RuggedCom's publicly available information and the risk that RuggedCom has not disclosed events or facts which may have occurred or which may affect the significance or accuracy of any such information; and assumptions about anticipated operations in the networking and connectivity products space. Certain of these factors are discussed in greater detail in Belden's most recent 10-K on file with the U.S. securities regulatory authorities and RuggedCom's most recent Annual Information Form and MD&A on file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, which we recommend that you review for more information about these assumptions and risks. The information concerning RuggedCom contained in this press release has been taken from or is based upon RuggedCom's publicly available documents on file with Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Neither Belden nor any of its directors or officers assumes any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information, or for any failure by RuggedCom to disclose events or facts which may have occurred or which may affect the significance or accuracy of any such information, but which are unknown to Belden. Forward-looking information is designed to help you understand management's current views of our near and longer term prospects, and it may not be appropriate for other purposes. Belden does not undertake any obligation to update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent legally required.
About Belden
St. Louis-based Belden Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets cable, connectivity, and networking products in markets including industrial automation, enterprise, transportation, infrastructure, and consumer electronics. It has approximately 6,800 employees, and provides value for industrial automation, enterprise, education, healthcare, entertainment and broadcast, sound and security, transportation, infrastructure, consumer electronics and other industries. Belden has manufacturing capabilities in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia, and a market presence in nearly every region of the world. Belden was founded in 1902, and today is a leader with some of the strongest brands in the signal transmission industry. For more information, visit http://www.belden.com.
Contacts:Shareholder of RuggedCom Contact:Kingsdale Shareholder Services Inc.North America (toll-free) 1-888-518-1565Outside North America (call collect) 416-867-2272 Media Contact:Hill+Knowlton Strategies CanadaLindsay Broadhead416-413-4693lindsay.broadhead@hillandknowlton.ca