Fintech
Rainy Hollow Ventures Inc. and Sustainable Produce Urban Delivery Inc. Announce Execution of Arrangement Agreement and Update Regarding Concurrent Private Placement
Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – December 22, 2020) – Rainy Hollow Ventures Inc. (TSXV: RHV.P) (“Rainy Hollow“) and Sustainable Produce Urban Delivery Inc. (“SPUD“) are pleased to announce that, further to their joint news release dated October 1, 2020, they have entered into an arrangement agreement dated December 21, 2020 between Rainy Hollow and SPUD (the “Arrangement Agreement“), which sets out the terms of the reverse take-over of Rainy Hollow by SPUD by way of a statutory plan of arrangement under Section 288 the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the “BCBCA“) involving Rainy Hollow, SPUD and the securityholders of SPUD (the “Arrangement“). It is anticipated that the Arrangement will constitute the Qualifying Transaction (as such term is defined in Policy 2.4 – Capital Pool Companies of the Corporate Finance Manual of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV“)) of Rainy Hollow and Rainy Hollow is seeking conditional acceptance from the TSXV in respect of same.
Concurrently with the Arrangement, Rainy Hollow intends to consolidate the common shares of Rainy Hollow (the “Rainy Hollow Shares“) on an eight (8) to one (1) basis (the “Consolidation“) and change its name to “Sustainable Produce Urban Delivery Inc.” or such other name as may be agreed to by SPUD and Rainy Hollow and accepted by the relevant regulatory authorities (the “Name Change“). Upon completion of the Arrangement, the combined entity (the “Resulting Issuer“) will carry on the current business of SPUD and will qualify as a Tier 1 Industrial Issuer pursuant to the policies of the TSXV.
The Arrangement Agreement
The Arrangement Agreement contemplates that, among others, the following conditions precedent be met prior to the closing of the Arrangement: (a) receipt of all required regulatory approvals with respect to the Arrangement and listing of the common shares of the Resulting Issuer (the “Resulting Issuer Shares“) on the TSXV or the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX“), as the case may be; (b) all third party consents and corporate approvals are obtained, including approval of SPUD shareholders and the Supreme Court of British Columbia (the “Court“) both necessary to complete the Arrangement, and approval of the Name Change and the Consolidation by the board of directors of Rainy Hollow; (c) no adverse material change in the business, affairs, financial condition or operations of SPUD or Rainy Hollow has occurred between the date of entering into the Arrangement Agreement and the closing date of the Arrangement; (d) no order or decree is in effect restraining closing of the Arrangement; (d) SPUD shareholders holding no more than 5% of the issued and outstanding common shares of SPUD (the “SPUD Shares“) have exercised dissent rights; (e) the signature of lock-up agreements required of certain SPUD and Rainy Hollow shareholders; (f) the signature of voting agreements required of certain SPUD shareholders; and (g) the Concurrent Financing (as defined below) shall have been completed.
The Arrangement will not constitute a Non-Arm’s Length Qualifying Transaction (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSXV). No person who or which is a Non-Arm’s Length Party (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) of Rainy Hollow has any direct or indirect beneficial interest in SPUD or its assets prior to giving effect to the Arrangement and no such person is an insider of SPUD. Similarly, there is no known relationship between or among any person who or which is a Non-Arm’s Length Party of Rainy Hollow and any person who or which is a Non-Arm’s Length Party to SPUD.
If all conditions to the implementation of the Arrangement have been satisfied or waived, Rainy Hollow and SPUD will carry out the Arrangement. Pursuant to the terms of the Arrangement, it is expected that the following security conversions, exercise and issuance will occur among Rainy Hollow, SPUD and the securityholders of SPUD immediately prior to completion of the Arrangement:
(a) all Convertible Debentures (as defined below) and Subscription Receipts (as defined below) shall automatically convert into SPUD Shares in accordance with their respective governing documents;
(b) all or a portion of the principal amount of outstanding convertible notes of SPUD plus accrued interest shall, pursuant to a written agreement to be entered into with the holders thereof, convert into SPUD Shares at a price of $6.00 per share;
(c) all the 3,600,000 outstanding convertible note warrants of SPUD shall, pursuant to a written agreement to be entered into with the holders thereof, be exercised, on a cashless exercise basis, into 720,000 SPUD Shares; and
(d) SPUD shall issue an aggregate of 2,967,013 SPUD Share purchase warrants to certain SPUD shareholders, pursuant to a right to receive such SPUD Share purchase warrants upon the occurrence of the Arrangement as set forth in pre-existing SPUD Share subscription agreements entered into with such SPUD shareholders.
The following security exchanges, cancellations and issuances will occur or be deemed to occur among Rainy Hollow, SPUD and the securityholders of SPUD sequentially upon completion of the Arrangement:
(a) all issued and outstanding SPUD Shares outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Arrangement, being the 35,536,681 SPUD Shares currently issued and outstanding plus all the SPUD Shares to be issued pursuant (a), (b) and (c) above, shall be transferred by each SPUD shareholder to Rainy Hollow in exchange for post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Shares, such that each holder of SPUD Shares will receive one (1) post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Share for each SPUD Share held;
(b) all the 4,437,200 outstanding SPUD stock options (each a “SPUD Option“) shall be cancelled in exchange for Rainy Hollow issuing to each holder of a SPUD Option an option to purchase post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Shares from Rainy Hollow pursuant to Rainy Hollow’s existing stock option plan (each a “Rainy Hollow Replacement Option“), such that: (i) upon exercise of each Rainy Hollow Replacement Option, the holder will be entitled to acquire, and will accept in lieu of the number of SPUD Shares to which such holder was entitled immediately before the Arrangement upon the exercise of each SPUD Option held by such holder, the number of post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Shares equal to the number of SPUD Shares subject to the SPUD Option immediately before the Arrangement; (ii) each such Rainy Hollow Replacement Option will have an exercise price per post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Share equal to the exercise price per SPUD Share subject to such SPUD Option immediately before the Arrangement; and (iii) all other terms and conditions of such SPUD Option in effect immediately prior to the Arrangement will govern the Rainy Hollow Replacement Option for which such SPUD Option is so exchanged; and
(c) all of the aforementioned 2,967,013 SPUD Share purchase warrants and all outstanding SPUD broker purchase warrants (which includes the Debenture Broker Warrants (as defined below) and the Subscription Receipt Broker Warrants (as defined below)) (each a “SPUD Warrant“) shall be cancelled in exchange for Rainy Hollow issuing to the holders of such SPUD Warrants for each such SPUD Warrant a warrant to purchase post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Shares from Rainy Hollow (each a “Rainy Hollow Replacement Warrant“), such that: (i) on exercise of each Rainy Hollow Replacement Warrant, the holder will be entitled to acquire, and will accept in lieu of the number of SPUD Shares to which such holder was entitled immediately before the Arrangement upon the exercise of each SPUD Warrants held by such holder, the number of post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Shares equal to the number of SPUD Shares subject to the SPUD Warrant immediately before the Arrangement; (ii) each such Rainy Hollow Replacement Warrant will have an exercise price per post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Share equal to the exercise price per SPUD Share subject to such SPUD Warrant immediately before the Arrangement; and (iii) all other terms and conditions of such SPUD Warrant in effect immediately prior to the Arrangement will govern the Rainy Hollow Replacement Warrant for which such SPUD Warrant is so exchanged.
Upon completion of the Arrangement, it is anticipated that an aggregate of 43,267,801 post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Shares will be issued to former holders of SPUD Shares and that an aggregate of 8,292,349 post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Shares will be reserved for issuance to former holders of SPUD Options and SPUD Warrants pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Rainy Hollow Replacement Options and the Rainy Hollow Replacement Warrants, respectively.
The Arrangement requires approval by the Court. SPUD intends to seek an interim order, which shall provide for the calling and holding of the special meeting of the shareholders of SPUD (the “Special Meeting“) and other procedural matters, and a final order from the Court to approve the Arrangement.
In connection with the Special Meeting being held to approve the Arrangement, an information circular will be prepared, filed and sent to all shareholders of SPUD in accordance with the requirements of the BCBCA. The only securityholders entitled vote at the Special Meeting will be the holders of SPUD Shares as at the record date for Special Meeting. Although no other holders of SPUD securities are expected to have a right, to vote at the Special Meeting, either under the BCBCA nor pursuant to the documents governing such other SPUD securities, SPUD intends to provide the holders of such other SPUD securities the right to attend the hearing for the final order from the Court and oppose the Arrangement if they so choose.
Trading in the Rainy Hollow Shares is currently halted and will remain halted until completion of the Arrangement. Rainy Hollow does not intend to apply to the TSXV for reinstatement of trading of the Rainy Hollow Shares at this time.
About Rainy Hollow
Rainy Hollow was incorporated under the BCBCA and is a Capital Pool Company governed by the policies of the TSXV. Rainy Hollow’s principal business is the identification and evaluation of assets or businesses with a view to completing a Qualifying Transaction. Investors are cautioned that trading in the securities of a Capital Pool Company should be considered highly speculative.
About SPUD
SPUD is a corporation resulting from the amalgamation of Small Potatoes Urban Delivery Inc. and Spud USA Holdings Corp. on September 28, 2014 under the BCBCA and carries on business in the Provinces of British Columbia and Alberta. SPUD provides an online grocery shopping platform focused on organic and natural foods through SPUD.ca, where consumers can order and schedule home delivery of groceries and other essentials.
FoodX Technologies is the software behind SPUD.ca’s integrated food business eco-system that includes online retail, community retail locations, food preparation services, wholesale and last mile distribution. FoodX Technologies is the only scalable end-to-end eGrocery Management Solution (eGMS) designed to meet the needs of large and small grocery retailers while providing profitable unit economics. FoodX’s award winning eGrocery platform is the culmination of 20 years of experience in online grocery and has a proven track record of delivering efficiency, sustainability and profitability. FoodX utilizes Microsoft as its technology partner and has partnered with Canada’s Digital Technology Super Cluster in the advancement of its innovation pipeline.
No registered or beneficial shareholder of SPUD holds, directly or indirectly, a controlling interest in SPUD.
SPUD is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. For more information, please visit http://spud.ca.
Financial Information
The following financial information is based on SPUD’s unaudited financial statements as at and for the year ended October 3, 2020 and on audited financial statements as at and for the years ended September 28, 2019 and September 29, 2018:
(In thousands of Canadian dollars) | Year ended October 3, 2020 (unaudited) ($) |
Year ended September 28, 2019 (audited) ($) |
Year ended September 29, 2018 (audited) ($) |
Net sales or total revenues | 107,538 | 76,528 | 76,163 |
Adjusted operating loss before depreciation and amortization(1) | 9,340 | 13,502 | 6,383 |
Total assets | 45,535 | 36,672 | 25,941 |
Active Customers (1)(2) | 18,408 | 11,835 | 13,120 |
eGrocery Average Order Size (1)(3) | $114.79 | $95.24 | $100.41 |
(1) Non-IFRS financial measure. For an explanation of non-IFRS financial measures, see “Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Metrics” below.
(2) Based on the number of individual customer accounts that have completed an order on our ecommerce platform in the past 30 days, measured as of the period end noted.
(3) The eGrocery Average Order Size (“AOS“) is defined as total sales net of returns and credits, divided by number of orders made for the period. We believe that AOS is a useful metric for the readers because it is indicative of eGrocery adoption, consumers expanding their share of purchases made online and the strength of our online consumer business.
Management of the Resulting Issuer
Subject to TSXV approval, upon completion of the Arrangement, it is expected that the board of directors and the senior officers of the Resulting Issuer will be the current directors and senior officers of SPUD. The following is a brief biography of each of the proposed individuals:
Peter van Stolk – Chief Executive Officer and a Director
Mr. van Stolk brings more than 30 years of experience to SPUD and serves as its Chief Executive Officer. Mr. van Stolk oversees all marketing, branding and purchasing, and sets the strategic direction for SPUD. As founder of Jones Soda Co. in 1987, Mr. van Stolk served as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors through 2007. Jones Soda was one of the first consumer branded companies recognizing the potential of social media to create an emotional connection with its consumers. Jones Soda invited its followers to participate and interact with the brand through proprietary custom labeling and unique flavor development. Mr. van Stolk has been recognized for his innovative branding strategy and business savvy in publications such as The New York Times, CNN, The Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, Inc. Magazine, and People Magazine. He has received numerous business awards including PricewaterhouseCoopers’ 40 under 40, Brand Week’s Top 100 Marketers, and was chosen as one of Canada’s Top One Hundred Canadians by MacLean’s Magazine.
Monique A. Wilberg – Director
Ms. Wilberg is a founding shareholder of Gateway Casinos and Entertainment Inc. Founded in 1992, the small company of two properties with 150 employees grew to nine properties with a staff of 3,000. As the Chief Operating Officer of Gateway Casinos and Entertainment, Ms. Wilberg was responsible for strategic operating decisions as well as management of execution and measurement of performance. The company was sold in 2007 to Crown Casinos and Macquarie Group. Ms. Wilberg is an active angel investor and mentor to several local, gluten-free, niche vegan food operations. A musician, she sits on the Board and plays the flute with Ambleside Orchestra. Ms. Wilberg is Chair of the Finance Committee and Board Member of the Vancouver Academy of Music and holds an ICD. D designation granted by the Institute of Corporate Directors.
Todd Cherniak – Director
Mr. Cherniak is the Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel of Canadian Magnetic Imaging (CMI), a diagnostic imaging company he founded in 2002. CMI operates a full-service MRI clinic that offers both routine and specialized imaging, as well as contrast-enhanced studies and arthrograms. CMI operates in Vancouver, BC and is fully accredited by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia. Prior to founding CMI, Mr. Cherniak practiced as a commercial trial lawyer with Walsh & Company, a litigation boutique he co-founded in 1990. In practice, Mr. Cherniak specialized in complex commercial disputes, shareholder actions, product liability law, and securities litigation acting for both Plaintiffs and Defendants at all levels of the Courts. Mr. Cherniak continues to be a full practicing member of the Law Society of British Columbia and provides legal services to CMI.
Eric Phaneuf – Director
Mr. Phaneuf is the President & Chief Executive Officer of Walter Capital Partners. Mr. Phaneuf has occupied a number executive positions, mainly in North American publicly traded companies active in international markets. Over the years, he has developed extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, business process improvement and growth strategies. Mr. Phaneuf holds a degree in business administration and the title of Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). He currently serves on several Board of Directors for Canadian-based companies specifically focusing on food, healthcare and technology sectors.
Terry Vanderkruyk – Director
Mr. Vanderkruyk is an experienced executive in the life sciences sector, with a focus on business development and finance. Most recently, he was part of the senior management team at Coastal Contacts, a world leading ecommerce optical company that was acquired by Essilor International. Mr. Vanderkruyk is the President of ZT Capital Inc., which focuses on investing in early stage companies and assisting in their growth. He holds a BA Economics from the University of Victoria.
Adrienne Uy – Chief Financial Officer
Ms. Uy is the Chief Financial Officer of SPUD, where she oversees all finance, accounting, payroll and legal operations at SPUD. Prior to SPUD, Ms. Uy was Corporate Controller for 3TIER, a global, renewable energy information-to-decision technology company with offices in Seattle, Panama, India, Germany and Australia. Prior to that she was Vice-President at Jones Soda Company, where she was responsible for the distribution and logistics for both the company’s independent distribution and direct store delivery (DSD) networks across North America and its e-commerce business units. In addition, Ms. Uy has held roles at Starbucks Coffee Company in their Financial Policies & Compliance, Financial Reporting and Corporate Accounting groups. Ms. Uy holds an MBA from Seattle University and is a CPA (WA state).
Jef King – Chief Technology Officer
Mr. King is the Chief Technology Officer of SPUD, where he oversees all technology advancement including software development at SPUD and FoodX. This also includes all operational uptime through to customer satisfaction. Prior to SPUD, Mr. King held several senior roles at Microsoft including the distinguished title of Principal Technical Evangelist. While at Microsoft Mr. King, incubated and accelerated hundreds of western Canada’s high-tech companies. Prior to that, he worked with numerous start-ups and founded five. Mr. King is a graduate from the British Columbia Institute of Technology.
Following the proposed Arrangement, including the Concurrent Financing, a director will indirectly control more than 10% of the Resulting Issuer, namely Eric Phaneuf, director, (15.05% held by Walter Capital Partners. (Mr. Phaneuf is the President & Chief Executive Officer of Walter Capital)).
Closing of the Convertible Debenture Financing
On October 21, 2020, SPUD completed a brokered private placement financing (the “Convertible Debenture Financing“) pursuant to which it issued an aggregate principal amount of $15,500,000 unsecured convertible debentures (the “Convertible Debentures“), each Convertible Debenture being convertible into a SPUD Share at a price of $6.375. In connection with the Convertible Debenture Financing Canaccord Genuity Corp. (“Canaccord“) and Desjardins Securities Inc. (“Desjardins“) acted as lead agents and received, as consideration for their services, a commission equal to 6.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds of the Convertible Debenture Financing. Canaccord and Desjardins also received 124,000 broker warrants (the “Debenture Broker Warrants“), each entitling the holder thereof upon a liquidity event, such as the Arrangement, to purchase one (1) SPUD Share or one (1) Resulting Issuer Share, as applicable, at a price of $6.375 until October 21, 2022.
Immediately prior to closing the Arrangement, the Convertible Debentures will automatically be converted into an aggregate of 2,431,365 SPUD Shares at a price of $6.375 per SPUD Share, representing a 15% discount to the listing price of the Resulting Issuer Shares on the TSXV or the TSX, as the case may be.
Concurrent Financing
In connection with, and as a condition of, the Arrangement, SPUD will complete a brokered private placement financing of subscription receipts (the “Subscription Receipts“), at an issue price of $7.50 per Subscription Receipt (the “Purchase Price“), for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $25,000,000, with an additional agents’ over-allotment option of 15% (the “Concurrent Financing“). The Subscription Receipts will be governed by the terms of a subscription receipt agreement (the “Subscription Receipt Agreement“) to be entered into between SPUD, Computershare Trust Company of Canada, as subscription receipt agent (the “Subscription Receipt Agent“) and Canaccord and Desjardins (the “Co-Lead Agents“). Each Subscription Receipt will be automatically exchanged, without any further action by the holder of such Subscription Receipt, and for no additional consideration, for one (1) SPUD Share upon the satisfaction of certain Escrow Release Conditions (as defined below). Upon completion of the Arrangement, each underlying SPUD Share issued pursuant to exchange of the Subscription Receipts will then be exchanged for one (1) post-Consolidation Rainy Hollow Share. The Co-Lead Agents, and Cormark Securities Inc. and PI Financial Corp. (collectively, the “Agents“) have been engaged to act on a commercially reasonable efforts agency basis in connection with the Concurrent Financing.
Proceeds of the Concurrent Financing will be held in escrow pending satisfaction of certain escrow release conditions (the “Escrow Release Conditions“), including completion of the Arrangement, as will be set forth in the Subscription Receipt Agreement to entered into.
It is anticipated that net proceeds of the Concurrent Financing will be used: (a) to fund the business plan of SPUD; (b) for Arrangement expenses; and (c) for general corporate purposes and future working capital of the Resulting Issuer. Although SPUD intends to use the net proceeds of the Concurrent Financing as described herein, the actual allocation of proceeds may vary from the uses set forth herein, depending on future operations or unforeseen events or opportunities.
In connection with the Concurrent Financing, the Agents will act as agents and receive, as consideration for their services, a commission equal to 6.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds of the Concurrent Financing (provided that the foregoing will be 3.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds raised in the Concurrent Financing in respect of certain purchasers on the “president’s list” provided by SPUD). Furthermore, the Agents will also be issued that number of broker warrants (the “Subscription Receipt Broker Warrants“) as is equal to 6.0% of the number of Subscription Receipts issued under the Concurrent Financing (provided that the foregoing will be 3.0% of the number of Subscription Receipts issued under the Concurrent Financing to purchasers on the “president’s list” provided by SPUD), each entitling the holder thereof to purchase one (1) SPUD Share or one (1) Resulting Issuer Share, as applicable, at the Purchase Price for a period of 24 months following the release of escrow funds. In addition, Canaccord shall also be entitled to receive a corporate finance fee of $100,000 plus applicable taxes, of which $50,000 shall be payable in cash and $50,000 shall be payable by the issuance of SPUD Shares at the Purchase Price.
Sponsorship of the Arrangement
Sponsorship of the Arrangement, as the Qualifying Transaction of Rainy Hollow, is required by the TSXV unless an exemption from this requirement can be obtained in accordance with the policies of the TSXV. Rainy Hollow intends to apply for an exemption to the sponsorship requirement. There is no assurance that an exemption from this requirement will be obtained.
Further Information
Rainy Hollow will provide further details in respect of the Arrangement and Concurrent Financing in due course by way of a subsequent news release, however, Rainy Hollow will make available to the TSXV or the TSX, as the case may be, all information, including financial information, as may be requested or required by the TSXV or the TSX.
All information contained in this news release with respect to Rainy Hollow and SPUD was supplied by the respective party, for inclusion herein, without independent review by the other party, and each party and its directors and officers have relied on the other party for any information concerning the other party.
Completion of the Arrangement is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV or TSX acceptance and if applicable pursuant to TSXV or TSX requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. The Arrangement cannot close until the required SPUD shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Arrangement or the Concurrent Financing will be completed as proposed or at all.
Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular of SPUD or filing statement of Rainy Hollow to be prepared in connection with the Arrangement, any information released or received with respect to the Arrangement may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Rainy Hollow should be considered highly speculative.
Neither the TSXV nor the TSX has in any way passed upon the merits of the proposed Arrangement and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release.
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.
For further information:
Rainy Hollow Ventures Inc.
Michael Atkinson – Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary, and
Director
Phone: (604) 689-1428
Sustainable Produce Urban Delivery Inc.
Peter van Stolk – Chief Executive Officer
Phone: (604) 215-7783
Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Notice on Forward Looking Information
Certain statements and information herein, including all statements that are not historical facts, contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements or information include but are not limited to statements or information with respect to: the Concurrent Financing, including amounts anticipated to be raised thereunder, the Escrow Release Conditions and the use of net proceeds therefrom; the terms and conditions of the Arrangement, including receipt of TSXV and SPUD shareholder approval; mailing of the SPUD information circular; holding the SPUD shareholder meeting; the details of any securities issuances, conversions, exchanges or cancellations; obtaining the interim order and final order from the Court to approve the Arrangement; the anticipated directors, officers and insiders of the Resulting Issuer; and the closing of the Arrangement. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements or information can be identified by the use of words such as “estimate”, “project”, “belief”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “plan”, “predict”, “may” or “should” and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information.
With respect to forward-looking statements and information contained herein, Rainy Hollow and SPUD have made numerous assumptions including among other things, assumptions about general business and economic conditions of SPUD and the market in which it operates. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive.
Although management of Rainy Hollow and SPUD believe that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such statements or information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements or information herein will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking statements and information by their nature are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. These factors include, but are not limited to: risks relating to the Concurrent Financing; risks relating to the receipt of all requisite approvals for the Arrangement, including the approval of SPUD shareholders and the TSXV; risks associated with the business of SPUD; business and economic conditions in the eGrocery industry generally; the supply and demand for labour and other project inputs; changes in commodity prices; changes in interest and currency exchange rates; risks relating to unanticipated operational difficulties (including failure of technology or processes to operate in accordance with specifications or expectations, cost escalation, unavailability of materials and equipment, government action or delays in the receipt of government approvals, industrial disturbances or other job action, and unanticipated events related to health, safety and environmental matters); changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets; changes in laws; risks related to the direct and indirect impact of COVID-19 including, but not limited to, its impact on general economic conditions, the ability to obtain financing as required; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time. Rainy Hollow and SPUD do not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Metrics
This news release contains certain non-IFRS financial measures and metrics as defined under applicable securities legislation, including adjusted operating loss before depreciation and amortization. In determining these measures, SPUD excludes certain items which are otherwise included in determining the comparable IFRS financial measures. SPUD believes such non-IFRS financial measures improve the period-to-period comparability of SPUD’s results and provide investors with more insight into SPUD’s operating results from management’s perspective. They also serve as additional tools to understand and assess, the performance of SPUD’s ongoing core business operations. Investors and other readers should consider non-IFRS financial measures and metrics only as a supplement to, and not as a substitute for or as a superior measure to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.
Adjusted operating loss before depreciation and amortization, a non-IFRS financial measure, represents Operating loss before depreciation and amortization, accounting for installation fees net of capitalized costs, less gain (loss) on disposal of property and equipment, and share-based compensation. The term “adjusted operating loss before depreciation and amortization” does not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and is therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Adjusted operating loss is not a measurement of financial performance under IFRS and should not be considered as an alternative to Net Earnings (loss) as an indicator of SPUD’s operating performance or any other measures of performance derived in accordance with IFRS. SPUD has included this non-IFRS financial measure because it believes that it allows investors to make a more meaningful comparison of the SPUD’s performance between periods presented by excluding certain non-operating expenses, non-cash expenses and, where indicated, non-recurring expenses. In addition, adjusted operating earnings (loss) is used by management in evaluating SPUD’s performance because it believes it provides an indicator of the SPUD’s performance that is often more meaningful than IFRS financial measures or the reasons stated in the previous sentence.
Not for distribution to U.S. Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. Securities laws.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/70817
Fintech
Asian Financial Forum held next week as the region’s first major international financial assembly of 2025
The 18th Asian Financial Forum 2025 (AFF), co-organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) on 13 and 14 January (Monday and Tuesday). As the region’s first major international financial conference in 2025, the forum will examine the landscape for new business opportunities in various industries and regions in the coming year and promote global cooperation, and is expected to attract more than 3,600 finance and business heavyweights.
Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the AFF will bring together more than 100 global policymakers, business leaders, financial experts and investors, entrepreneurs, tech companies and economists to share their views on the shifting global economic landscape and financial ecosystem. These industry experts will dissect the risk management strategy, discover new business opportunities, and explore how Hong Kong can seek breakthroughs in a period of change.
First flagship financial event to showcase Hong Kong’s financial strengths
Launched in 2007, the AFF has become a flagship financial event for Hong Kong and the broader region, highlighting the city’s pivotal role as a globally renowned financial hub with a highly competitive economic and business environment. Amid a rapidly changing global macroeconomic landscape, and shifts in geopolitical dynamics and monetary policies, Hong Kong’s financial services sector continues to leverage its strengths across various domains, drawing on its world-class business infrastructure and robust regulatory regime to help drive cooperation and mutual success across Asia and around the world.
Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR Government, said: “Hong Kong’s financial market went through a lot of reforms and innovation last year. We have also launched a roadmap on sustainability disclosure in Hong Kong and issued a policy statement on responsible application of artificial intelligence in the financial market with a view to boosting green finance and sustainable financing. The upcoming Asian Financial Forum will gather the top-tier of the financial and various sectors from all around the world, the Mainland and in Hong Kong and hence is the perfect occasion for us to showcase to the world the new momentum and latest advantages of Hong Kong in the financial realm. Participants will also have a chance to learn more about how Hong Kong can partner with them to explore new collaborations and development areas while expanding their network here.”
Luanne Lim, Chairperson of the AFF Steering Committee and Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong, of HSBC, said: “The global economy faces greater uncertainties in 2025 compared to 2024. However, robust growth in India and ASEAN nations, combined with increased policy support from Mainland China, is expected to keep Asia’s (ex-Japan) GDP growth at a strong 4.4%, well above the global average of 2.7%.” Against this backdrop, this year’s Asia Financial Forum is aptly themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine” and will focus on high-potential markets such as ASEAN, the Middle East (particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council countries), and the role that Hong Kong can play. Ms Lim said Hong Kong’s unique role as a bridge between the mainland and international markets allows it to support mainland enterprises expanding globally. She added that Hong Kong is committed to attracting global talent and investors, driving growth for both mainland and international businesses.
Patrick Lau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: “As we move into the new year, different economies around the world are facing challenges in maintaining economic growth. As an international financial centre, Hong Kong is playing an important role both as a ‘super-connector’ and a ‘super value-adder’ to link the world, enabling investors and fundraisers to leverage the city’s professional services and investment platforms to facilitate collaboration and create business opportunities. This year’s forum not only brings together heavyweight speakers and thought leaders but also builds on the success of previous years to provide a business platform for international participants, promoting financial and business cooperation and working together to launch new engines for growth.”
Exploring new trends as the world’s economic centre of gravity continues its shift east
Reflecting on a trend where the world’s economic centre of gravity continues to take an eastward shift, Christopher Hui will host two plenary sessions on emerging prospects in the region on the first day of the forum (13 January). The morning session of Plenary Session I will feature H.E. Adylbek Kasymaliev, Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan, finance ministers from countries such as Pakistan and Luxembourg, and Yoshiki Takeuchi, Deputy Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), who together will explore the financial policy outlook for 2025. In the afternoon, Plenary Session II will bring together leaders from multilateral organisations to share their views on the role of multilateral cooperation in regional economic development. Speakers will include Roberta Casali, Vice-President, Finance and Risk Management, Asian Development Bank; Jin Liqun, President and Chair of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); and Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Economic Community, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Moreover, a new session, the Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter, will bring together HE Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), speakers from the Middle East and local experts to discuss prospects in fostering financial cooperation and investment between the member states of the GCC and Hong Kong.
Also on the first day, Eddie Yue, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, will host the Policy Dialogue session with speakers including European representatives such as Philip Lane, Chief Economist and Member of the Executive Board of the European Central Bank, and Dr Olli Rehn, Governor of the Bank of Finland. The discussion will explore the opportunities and challenges arising from the global shift towards more accommodative monetary policies and national authorities’ strategic deployment of measures to revitalise their economies and accelerate growth through innovation.
The panel discussion on China Opportunities returns this year with senior figures invited to analyse investment prospects under China’s commitment to technological innovation and its impact on global business. The panellists included Li Yimei, Chief Executive Officer of China Asset Management; and Ken Wong, Executive Vice President of Lenovo and President of Lenovo Solutions & Services Group.
Top economist and leading AI expert take the stage at keynote luncheons
Another highlight of this year’s AFF will be the two keynote luncheons featuring thematic speeches by two distinguished guests: Prof Justin Lin Yifu, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2008-2012), and Prof Stuart Russell, Co-chair of the World Economic Forum Council on AI. These two prominent figures will dissect the evolution of the global economic landscape amid changing international dynamics, and examine how artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a new driving force for rapid global economic growth respectively.
Exploring hot topics in the financial and economic sectors
The afternoon panel discussion, Global Economic Outlook, will feature a special address from Liu Haoling, Vice Chairman, President and Chief Investment Officer, China Investment Corporation. The panel will analyse international economic trends and provide insights into business opportunities and wealth accumulation in emerging industries and regions in 2025.
Other sessions titled Global Spectrum, Dialogues for Tomorrow and Thematic Workshop will feature in-depth discussions focusing on the latest industry trends, including AI, Web 3.0, sustainability, philanthropy and family offices. As AI becomes increasingly widespread and diversified in its societal applications, the second day of the forum will introduce a special session, Dialogue with Kai-Fu Lee, in which Dr Kai-Fu Lee, Chairman of Sinovation Ventures, will discuss the transformative power of AI and its impact on technological advancements in the global business ecosystem.
Exploring the impact of sustainable disclosure on investment strategies
Sustainable finance and environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations have become an irreversible global trend. In 2025, Hong Kong is set to fully align its regulatory framework with the sustainability disclosure standard of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). Sue Lloyd, Vice Chair of the ISSB, will join other experts in discussing how adopting international financial sustainability disclosure standards can strengthen market confidence in Hong Kong’s capital markets, address post-COP29 implementation in Asia, and share strategies for sustainable investing across three separate sessions. In addition, the Breakfast Panel on the second day will focus on the flows of transition finance in shaping a sustainable future in the Greater Bay Area and beyond. Furthermore, the HKTDC has partnered with EY to conduct a joint market survey on sustainable development, aiming to explore the views and practices of Asian businesses and investors on topics such as sustainability reporting, sustainable finance and preparations for dealing with climate change. The results of the survey will be unveiled on the first day of the forum.
Expanding cross-border opportunities through the HK global investment platform
As a key element of this year’s forum, AFF Deal-making offers one-on-one matching services for project owners and investors. More than 270 investors and 560 projects are expected to participate, with investment opportunities across industries such as environmental, energy, clean technology, food and agriculture tech, healthcare tech, fintech and deep technology. The exhibition sections of the AFF – Fintech Showcase, InnoVenture Salon, FintechHK Startup Salon and Global Investment Zone – will attract more than 130 local and global exhibitors, international financial institutions, technology companies, start-ups, investment promotion agencies and sponsors, including Knowledge Partner EY, HSBC, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Standard Chartered Bank, UBS, Prudential, China International Capital Corporation (CICC), Huatai International and more. Notably, the InnoVenture Salon will provide a platform for more than 100 start-ups to showcase innovative technologies in a variety of fields such as finance, regulation, sustainability, health and agriculture, supported by more than 110 Investment Mentors and Community Partners.
IFW 2025 creates synergies with AFF to boost mega event economy
International Financial Week (IFW) 2025 runs from 13 to 17 January with the AFF as its highlight event. This year’s IFW will feature more than 20 partner events, covering a wide range of global financial and business topics, including private equity, family offices, net-zero investing and generative AI. As the region’s first major financial event of the year, the AFF attracts top global enterprises and leaders to Hong Kong, creating connections between capital and opportunities. The forum assists industry professionals in seizing opportunities in the new year and helps promote the mega event economy in Hong Kong.
This year, the AFF has collaborated with various organisations to provide special travel, dining and shopping discounts and privileges for overseas participants joining the event. Activities include Peak Tram and Sky Terrace trips, the iconic Aqua Luna red-sail junk boat, and guided tours of Man Mo Temple and Tai Kwun arranged by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Participants can also enjoy dining discounts and guided tours from the Lan Kwai Fong Group, as well as the Winter Wonderland at the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Happy Wednesday at Happy Valley Racecourse, all designed to immerse overseas visitors in the vibrancy and diversity of Hong Kong.
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Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)
As we close out 2024, the fintech industry continues to deliver headlines that underscore its dynamism and innovation. From IPO aspirations to groundbreaking regulatory milestones, today’s updates highlight the transformative power of fintech partnerships, regulatory evolution, and disruptive technologies. Here’s what you need to know.
Chime’s Quiet Step Toward Public Markets
Chime, the U.S.-based financial technology startup best known for its digital banking services, has taken a significant step by filing confidential paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO). As one of the most valuable private fintechs in the U.S., Chime’s move could potentially signal a renewed appetite for fintech IPOs in a market that has been cautious following fluctuating valuations across the tech sector.
With a valuation that reportedly exceeded $25 billion in its last funding round, Chime’s IPO could set a new benchmark for the industry. Observers note that its strong customer base and revenue growth may make it an appealing choice for investors seeking to capitalize on the digital banking boom. However, the timing and success of the IPO will depend on broader market conditions and the regulatory landscape.
Source: Bloomberg
ZBD’s Pioneering Achievement: EU MiCA License Approval
ZBD, a fintech company specializing in Bitcoin Lightning network solutions, has made history by becoming the first to secure an EU MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license. This landmark approval by the Dutch regulator positions ZBD at the forefront of compliant crypto-fintech operations in Europe.
MiCA, which aims to harmonize the regulatory framework for crypto-assets across the EU, has been a focal point for industry players aiming to establish legitimacy and expand their offerings. ZBD’s achievement not only validates its operational rigor but also sets a precedent for other fintech firms navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry insiders view this as a strategic advantage for ZBD as it broadens its footprint in Europe. By leveraging its regulatory approval, the company can accelerate its product deployment and establish trust with institutional and retail users alike.
Source: Coindesk, PR Newswire
The Fintech-Credit Union Synergy: A Blueprint for Innovation
The convergence of fintechs and credit unions continues to reshape the financial services ecosystem. Collaborative initiatives, such as the one highlighted in the recent partnership between fintech innovators and credit unions, are proving to be a potent force in delivering tailored financial solutions.
This “dream team” approach allows credit unions to leverage fintech’s technological expertise while maintaining their community-focused ethos. Key areas of collaboration include digital payments, personalized financial management tools, and enhanced loan processing capabilities. These partnerships not only enhance member engagement but also enable credit unions to remain competitive in an increasingly digital-first financial environment.
Industry analysts emphasize that such collaborations underscore a broader trend of traditional financial institutions embracing fintech-driven solutions to bridge service gaps and foster innovation.
Source: PYMNTS
Tackling Student Loan Debt: A Fintech’s Mission
Student loan debt remains a pressing issue for millions of Americans, and a Rochester-based fintech aims to offer relief through its cloud-based platform. This innovative solution is designed to simplify loan management and provide borrowers with actionable insights to reduce their debt burden.
The platform’s features include repayment optimization tools, personalized financial education, and seamless integration with loan servicers. By addressing the complexities of student loan management, this fintech is empowering borrowers to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability.
As the student loan crisis continues to evolve, solutions like this highlight the critical role fintech can play in addressing systemic financial challenges while fostering financial literacy and inclusion.
Source: RBJ
Industry Implications and Takeaways
Today’s updates underscore several key themes shaping the fintech landscape:
- Regulatory Milestones: ZBD’s MiCA license approval exemplifies the importance of regulatory compliance in unlocking growth opportunities.
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration between fintechs and credit unions demonstrates the value of combining technological innovation with traditional financial models to drive customer-centric solutions.
- Market Opportunities: Chime’s IPO move reflects a potential revival in fintech public offerings, signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects.
- Social Impact: Fintech’s ability to tackle systemic issues, such as student loan debt, showcases its role as a force for positive change.
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Fintech
SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025
Leading global payments platform SPAYZ.io has confirmed it will be attending iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 on 14 to 16 January. Exhibiting at Stand 64 at Trade Centre Dubai, SPAYZ.io’s team of professionals will be on hand providing live demonstrations of its renowned payment services for payment providers. Attendees will also receive exclusive insight into SPAYZ.io’s plans for 2025 alongside early early access to its upcoming plans for the new year.
SPAYZ.io delivers a host of payment solutions that leverage the latest technological innovations and open access to the fastest growing emerging markets across Africa, Europe and Asia. Over the past year, there has been huge demand for its Open Banking and local payment method services, alongside bank transfers, mass payouts, online banking and e-wallets.
Yana Thakurta, Head of Business Development at SPAYZ.io commented: “We look forward to once again participating at iFX Dubai to expand our network of partners and clients. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the year, connecting with thousands of industry leaders from FOREX platforms to trading companies, and everything in between.
“Our key goal for iFX Dubai EXPO 2025 is to expand our portfolio of solutions and geographies. We’re using this as an opportunity to partner with like-minded entities who share our ambition to provide payment solutions that are truly global.”
Come meet SPAYZ.io’s team at the Trade Centre Dubai at Stand 64. You can also book a meeting slot with a member of a team.
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