Fintech

Agrinam Acquisition Corporation Files Preliminary Prospectus For U.S.$150M IPO

Published

3 years ago

January 21, 2022

Seeking a Qualifying Acquisition to Form a Leading Agribusiness Company Led by Experienced Agribusiness Management Team and Board of Directors

Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – January 21, 2022) – Agrinam Acquisition Corporation (“Agrinam” or the “Corporation“) announced today that it has filed a preliminary prospectus dated January 21, 2022 (the “Preliminary Prospectus“) with the securities regulatory authorities in all provinces and territories of Canada, except Québec, in respect of its initial public offering (“IPO” or the “Offering“) of U.S.$150,000,000 of Class A Restricted Voting units (“Class A Restricted Voting Units“). Each Class A Restricted Voting Unit has an offering price of U.S.$10.00 per Class A Restricted Voting Unit and consists of one class A restricted voting share of Agrinam (a “Class A Restricted Voting Share“) and one-half of one share purchase warrant of Agrinam (each whole warrant, a “Warrant“). The proceeds from the distribution of the Class A Restricted Voting Units will be deposited into an escrow account and will only be released upon certain prescribed conditions. Agrinam intends to grant the Underwriters (as defined below) a non-transferable over-allotment option (the “Over-Allotment Option“) to purchase up to an additional 2,250,000 Class A Restricted Voting Units on the same terms and conditions, exercisable in whole or in part, by the Underwriters up to 30 days following closing of the Offering. If the Over-Allotment Option is exercised in full, the gross proceeds of the Offering would be U.S.$172,500,000.

Agrinam is a newly-organized special purpose acquisition corporation formed under the laws of the Province of British Columbia for the purpose of effecting, directly or indirectly, an acquisition of one or more businesses or assets, by way of a merger, amalgamation, arrangement, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization, or any other similar business combination within a specified period of time following the completion of the Offering (the “Qualifying Acquisition“).

Agrinam intends to identify, evaluate, and execute an attractive Qualifying Acquisition by leveraging its robust network to find attractive investment opportunities. It intends to focus its search for one or more companies that operate across the Agribusiness industry in North America, either in the primary sector (with a focus on Superfoods and specialty products produced in high-tech greenhouses) or the value-added sector (with a focus on Food Tech as well as Wine & Spirits produced in new regions that have a niche differentiator relative to the competition). Agrinam also intends to generally target companies for its Qualifying Acquisition that have adopted best ESG practices and technologies for the efficient use of resources and are committed to taking care of the environment, including companies that will seek to promote the recycling of resources by applying the circular economy concept to reuse all possible inputs and avoid or reduce pollution and environmental degradation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, it is not limited to a particular industry or geographic region for purposes of completing its Qualifying Acquisition.

Agrinam Investments, LLC, the sponsor of the Corporation (the “Sponsor“), is a limited liability company formed by Demeter Capital and Maquia Capital, which are firms founded by Agribusiness entrepreneurs, investment bankers, consultants and investors with the desire to boost the agribusiness sector in North America. Maquia Capital’s advisory division is the largest corporate governance advisory firm in Mexico, having advised more than 100 agribusiness companies (65 out of the top 100 in Mexico), and members of Demeter Capital, an Agribusiness growth equity fund based in Mexico, have invested over U.S.$300 million across more than 40 Agribusiness projects and companies in Mexico through several Agribusiness investment funds.

The Corporation’s strategy is to leverage its directors’ and officers’ and the Sponsor’s executive leadership and entrepreneurial expertise, strong advisory and finance capabilities, and industry and investment experience in order to identify and execute an attractive Qualifying Acquisition. Agrinam’s management team and directors will undertake to identify potential investment targets, and use their relationships with senior agribusiness executives to continue to build relationships with company owners, executives, stakeholders, industry experts and financial intermediaries to uncover attractive acquisition opportunities.

Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Agustin Tristan Aldave, Agrinam will seek to form a leading agribusiness company. The Agrinam management team and board of directors include:

Mr. Agustin Tristan Aldave – CEO and Director
Mr. Guillermo Eduardo Cruz – Chief Operating Officer and Director
Mr. Gustavo Castellanos Lugo – Chief Sustainability Officer
Mr. Jeronimo Peralta del Valle – Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Luis Alberto Ibarra Pardo – Chief Investment Officer
Mr. Nicholas Thadaney – Chairman of the Board and Directors
Ms. Lara Zink – Director
Ms. Jennifer Reynolds – Director
Mr. Donald J. Olds – Director and Chair of the Audit Committee

Upon the closing of the Qualifying Acquisition, each Class A Restricted Voting Share (unless previously redeemed) will be automatically converted into one common share (“Common Share“) of the Corporation and each Class B share (“Class B Share“) of the Corporation will be automatically converted on a 100-for-1 basis into new proportionate voting shares of the Corporation (the “Proportionate Voting Shares“), with each Proportionate Voting Share being entitled to 100 votes per Proportionate Voting Share and, subject to certain restrictions, being convertible at the option of the holder into Common Shares at a ratio of 100 Common Shares per Proportionate Voting Share. Each Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one Class A Restricted Voting Share (and following the closing of a Qualifying Acquisition, each Warrant would represent the entitlement to purchase one Common Share) for a purchase price of U.S.$11.50, commencing sixty-five (65) days after the completion of the Qualifying Acquisition and will expire on the day that is five years after the closing date of the Qualifying Acquisition or earlier, as described in the Preliminary Prospectus. Prior to the consummation of the Qualifying Acquisition, the Class A Restricted Voting Shares may only be redeemed upon certain events. The Class A Restricted Voting Units are intended to begin trading promptly after closing of the Offering (“Closing“). The Class A Restricted Voting Shares and Warrants comprising the Class A Restricted Voting Units will initially trade as a unit but it is anticipated that the Class A Restricted Voting Shares and Warrants will begin trading separately approximately 40 business days following the Closing. The Class B Shares will not be listed at the Closing and it is anticipated that they will not be listed prior to the Qualifying Acquisition, as described in the Preliminary Prospectus.

The Sponsor, and certain of the Sponsor’s and the Corporation’s affiliates, directors and officers, namely Agustin Tristan, Gustavo Castellanos, Luis Alberto Ibarra, Guillermo Eduardo Cruz, Jeronimo Peralta, Nicholas Thadaney, Lara Zink, Jennifer Reynolds, and Donald Olds (collectively with the Sponsor, the “Founders“), intend to purchase an aggregate of 6,250,000 share purchase warrants (“Funding Warrants“) at an offering price of U.S.$1.00 per Funding Warrant (for an aggregate purchase price of U.S.$6,250,000) and 4,312,500 Class B shares of Agrinam (“Founders’ Shares“) for an aggregate price of U.S.$25,000, or approximately U.S.$0.006 per Founders’ Share (or U.S.$0.007 per Founders’ Share if the Over-Allotment Option (as defined herein) is not exercised) concurrently with the closing of the Offering. Up to a maximum of 562,500 of the aggregate 4,312,500 Founders’ Shares being purchased by the Founders prior to closing shall be relinquished by the Founders without compensation depending on the extent to which the Over-Allotment Option is exercised.

The Class A Restricted Voting Units are proposed to be distributed by BMO Capital Markets (as lead underwriter and sole bookrunner) and Canaccord Genuity Corp. (as lead manager), acting as underwriters (collectively, the “Underwriters“). Borden Ladner Gervais LLP is acting as legal counsel to Agrinam and to the Sponsor. Stikeman Elliott LLP is acting as legal counsel to the Underwriters.

A preliminary prospectus containing important information relating to these securities has been filed with securities commissions or similar authorities in each of the provinces and territories of Canada, except Quebec. The Preliminary Prospectus is still subject to completion or amendment. Copies of the Preliminary Prospectus may be obtained from the underwriters listed above. There will not be any sale or any acceptance of an offer to buy the securities until a receipt for the final prospectus has been issued.

The Preliminary Prospectus has not yet become final for the purpose of a distribution of securities to the public. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale or acceptance of an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the time a receipt for the final prospectus or other authorization is obtained from the securities commission or similar authority in such jurisdiction. 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“). This press release is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States, and the securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration under the U.S. Securities Act. Copies of the Preliminary Prospectus will be available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Completion of the Offering is subject to the receipt of customary approvals, including regulatory approvals. About Agrinam Acquisition Corporation

Agrinam Acquisition Corporation is a newly organized special purpose acquisition corporation incorporated under the laws of the Province of British Columbia for the purpose of effecting a qualifying acquisition.

About Agrinam Investments, LLC

Agrinam Investments, LLC is a limited liability company formed under the laws of Delaware.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflects the Sponsor’s and Agrinam’s current expectations regarding future events. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Sponsor’s or Agrinam’s control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, failure to complete the Offering, intentions related to Agrinam’s Qualifying Acquisition and related transactions, and the factors discussed under “Risk Factors” in the Preliminary Prospectus. Neither the Sponsor nor Agrinam undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Agustin Tristan Aldave
Chief Executive Officer
Agrinam Acquisition Corporation
[email protected]

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/111178

Fintech

Banking and Capital Markets: Navigating a Complex Future

Published

13 hours ago

November 29, 2024

Zoltan Tundik

banking-and-capital-markets:-navigating-a-complex-future

Curated in collaboration with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

The global financial industry stands at a pivotal juncture, facing a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by technological disruption, sustainability mandates, and geopolitical uncertainties. The end of prolonged accommodative monetary policies has ushered in an era of increased scrutiny, regulatory tightening, and heightened demand for innovation. At the same time, financial technology (fintech) continues to transform the sector, driving new opportunities and challenges for traditional banking systems.

This article delves into the strategic issues currently defining Banking and Capital Markets. Drawing from expert insights curated by Lutfey Siddiqi, Visiting Professor-in-Practice at LSE, it examines the dynamic risk environment, emerging technology trends, shifts in banking business models, and the growing focus on sustainability and talent development.

Key Issues Influencing Banking and Capital Markets

The Financial Risk Landscape: Heightened geopolitical tensions and regulatory demands are reshaping the industry.
Financial Technology: Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain offer potential but also pose significant implementation challenges.
Banking Business Models: Institutions are adopting diverse strategies to navigate competition and shifting market demands.
Financial Talent: Attracting the next generation of banking professionals requires a clear purpose and forward-thinking policies.
Sustainability and Finance: Balancing environmental and social goals with immediate business priorities is a growing challenge.

1. Latest Insights: Shifting the Banking Paradigm

Experts highlight the profound challenges and opportunities facing financial institutions today. From geopolitical volatility to advances in fintech, the banking landscape demands unprecedented agility. Recent developments include:

Monetary Policy Adjustments: China’s central bank explores easing policies to boost investment.
Regulatory Scrutiny: Global banking rules, such as Basel 3.1 reforms, are under review, signaling potential shifts in global supervision.
Financial Inclusion: Updates from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) aim to balance anti-money laundering standards with broader access to financial services.

These trends emphasize the need for financial institutions to anticipate disruptions while fostering resilience and innovation.

2. Strategic Context: Transforming Banking in a High-Stakes Era

2.1 The Financial Risk Landscape

Banks are grappling with an increasingly volatile environment characterized by geopolitical tensions, regulatory reforms, and market disruptions. The end of ultra-loose monetary policies has highlighted weaknesses in traditional funding models, exemplified by the high-profile collapses of Silicon Valley Bank and Credit Suisse in 2023.

Regulators are tightening oversight, expanding their focus to include non-bank institutions and fintech companies. Additionally, rising geopolitical tensions demand localized data operations, robust cybersecurity measures, and new approaches to global strategy.

Key takeaway: In an age of uncertainty, resilience and stability are essential.

2.2 Financial Technology

The Fourth Industrial Revolution continues to reshape banking through advancements like AI, blockchain, and quantum computing. However, challenges remain, such as limited real-world blockchain applications and increasing cybersecurity risks tied to digitalization.

Financial institutions must adopt technology thoughtfully, focusing on solutions that address specific operational pain points and align with organizational goals. Balancing efficiency with contingency planning for outages and cyber threats is paramount.

Key takeaway: Tech adoption must prioritize practicality, security, and alignment with purpose.

2.3 Banking Business Models

Global trends are driving a diversification of banking models. Some institutions are scaling back operations in unprofitable markets, while others are leveraging acquisitions or digital innovation to expand. The rise of big tech competitors—armed with vast behavioral data—adds a new layer of complexity to the competitive landscape.

Emerging trends include:

Consolidation of corporate and private banking services.
Strategic retreats from costly markets, such as HSBC’s exit from US retail banking.
Big tech firms offering financial services as data-driven loss leaders.

Key takeaway: Differentiation and adaptability are critical in a fragmented, competitive market.

2.4 Financial Talent

The banking sector faces a mounting talent crisis, particularly among younger generations who view the industry as outdated or misaligned with their values. To attract top talent, banks must redefine their purpose and emphasize their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and career growth opportunities.

Surveys indicate that young professionals seek workplaces offering training, flexibility, and inclusive leadership. Reskilling initiatives and a focus on digital expertise will also be key to preparing employees for the future.

Key takeaway: A compelling vision for the future of banking is essential to attract and retain top talent.

2.5 Sustainability and Finance

Sustainability has become a focal point for the financial industry, driven by growing demand for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives. However, backlash against greenwashing and tokenism has led banks to reevaluate their approaches.

Balancing short-term priorities like energy security with long-term goals like combating climate change requires bold leadership. Opportunities abound in areas such as carbon trading, green bonds, and sustainability-linked investment products. However, success demands authenticity and a commitment to systemic change.

Key takeaway: Embedding sustainability into core operations is vital for long-term success.

Transformation Maps: A Strategic Tool for Leaders

This analysis leverages the World Economic Forum’s Strategic Intelligence Transformation Maps, which provide an interconnected view of global trends and challenges. These tools enable leaders to explore key topics, such as cybersecurity, fintech, and sustainability, and understand how they shape the future of Banking and Capital Markets.

Conclusion

The financial industry’s journey through this transformative era requires agility, innovation, and a deep commitment to purpose. From adapting to geopolitical tensions to embracing sustainability and nurturing top talent, financial institutions must strike a delicate balance between tradition and progress.

By leveraging technology, redefining business models, and embedding ESG principles into their strategies, the sector can navigate today’s challenges and build a resilient, forward-thinking future.

For more insights and resources, visit the World Economic Forum’s Strategic Intelligence platform.

The post Banking and Capital Markets: Navigating a Complex Future appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Fintech

Former MD of SUI Foundation, Greg Siourounis, Joins xMoney Global as Co-Founder and CEO to build MiCA-Regulated Stablecoin Platform

Published

3 days ago

November 27, 2024

Adrienn Sarkany

former-md-of-sui-foundation,-greg-siourounis,-joins-xmoney-global-as-co-founder-and-ceo-to-build-mica-regulated-stablecoin-platform

xMoney Global, the global, inter-bank and cross crypto/fiat integrated payments platform has appointed award-winning economist Dr. Greg Siourounis as Co-Founder and CEO. The company is a Mastercard principal member, with strategic European licenses, such as e-Money and VASP.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve with the coming MiCA regulation, xMoney Global intends to lead Europe into this new transformative EU regulated stablecoin era. Greg Siourounis will lead the integration of xMoney’s advanced blockchain-enabled payments infrastructure with its upcoming stablecoin program. Stablecoins are a key driver of blockchain adoption in today’s market, now surpassing Bitcoin, remittances, and PayPal in annual transaction volume. As such, xMoney’s Global reputation positions it to bridge Web3 innovation with traditional finance, leading Europe into a new transformative EU regulated stablecoin era.

Dr. Greg, who has played a pioneering role in the growth of Sui Foundation as its former Managing Director and who previously founded Everypay, will drive xMoney Global’s next wave of growth. Beyond the standard reference of his academic work in 2024’s Nobel Prize in Economics, Dr. Greg’s career is also decorated with awards such as the 2005 Young Economist Award from The European Economic Association and the 2008 Austin Robinson Prize from The Royal Economic Society. His immediate target will be to focus on partnerships, regulatory alignment and market expansion, as xMoney Global looks to build a comprehensive payments platform that bridges legacy financial systems with the potential of decentralized finance.

Commenting on his appointment, Dr. Greg Siourounis, CEO of xMoney Global, said, “As Europe prepares to embrace MiCA regulation, xMoney Global is positioned to redefine what compliant, secure, and seamless digital payments can be. Our goal is to deliver a solid and trusted ecosystem that combines the strengths of traditional finance with the flexibility of blockchain technology to create a future-ready payment experience.”

Beniamin Mincu, Co-founder of MultiversX, said, “xMoney Global’s mission aligns perfectly with the vision of MultiversX to bring scalable and secure blockchain solutions to mainstream finance. This appointment marks a significant step toward building a more inclusive and resilient financial system.”

The launch of xMoney Global aims to offer a next-gen blockchain-as-a-service module backed by its native stablecoin, with key white-labeled services including acquiring, issuing, onramps/offramps and a sticky loyalty program, all backed by MultiversX’s state-of-the-art sharding technology. Following the surge in crypto markets after Trump’s pro-crypto Presidential win, xMoney will be ideally placed to accelerate real-world adoption as the easiest way for everyone (consumers, retail and e-commerce) to seamlessly access fiat and crypto currencies in an app, card or payment gateway.

The post Former MD of SUI Foundation, Greg Siourounis, Joins xMoney Global as Co-Founder and CEO to build MiCA-Regulated Stablecoin Platform appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Fintech

Fintech Pulse: A Daily Dive into Industry Innovations and Developments

Published

3 days ago

November 26, 2024

Peter Tolan

fintech-pulse:-a-daily-dive-into-industry-innovations-and-developments

The financial technology sector continues to evolve at a rapid pace, offering innovations that disrupt traditional paradigms. Today’s briefing underscores fintech’s diverse growth avenues: from substantial venture capital plays and strategic partnerships to groundbreaking implementations in lending. Here’s a closer look at recent developments shaping the landscape.

Synapse’s Comeback and Andreessen Horowitz’s Strategic Bet

Source: Axios
Synapse, a financial infrastructure company previously embattled by controversy, is staging a remarkable comeback, backed by none other than venture capital heavyweight Andreessen Horowitz (a16z). With this new infusion of funds, Synapse aims to consolidate its position as a premier platform for building financial services tools.

This resurgence demonstrates the resilience of the fintech ecosystem, where innovation often prevails over turbulence. Synapse’s renewed vigor also signals that top-tier investors remain bullish on infrastructural solutions pivotal to the future of digital finance. Andreessen Horowitz’s participation not only validates Synapse’s model but also underscores the VC giant’s enduring interest in fintech infrastructure, even amid global economic uncertainties.

Analysis:
This partnership exemplifies the dynamism within fintech, highlighting the interplay of innovation, capital, and resilience. It also raises questions about the broader implications of giving second chances to firms with turbulent histories. While Synapse’s evolution could inspire others, it also places a spotlight on governance and accountability in high-growth sectors.

Israel’s Fintech Scene Gets a Boost with Investment in Finova Capital

Source: Calcalistech
Israeli fintech startup Finova Capital has raised an impressive $20 million in a funding round led by prominent institutional investors. This marks a significant milestone for the company as it seeks to expand its suite of financial solutions aimed at underserved markets.

Israel’s fintech ecosystem has long been recognized as a hub of innovation, and this latest investment only reinforces its global standing. Finova Capital’s focus on empowering smaller businesses and fostering financial inclusivity aligns with emerging trends where tech-driven solutions bridge critical gaps in financial services.

Analysis:
With this funding, Finova is poised to enhance its technological offerings while contributing to economic inclusion. However, the broader fintech industry will watch closely to see how the company leverages this capital amid increasing competition from regional and global players.

India’s Yubi Plans a Fundraising Push

Source: Bloomberg
Yubi, a prominent Indian fintech platform backed by Insight Partners, is reportedly preparing for a new fundraising round. Having already established itself as a leader in credit infrastructure, Yubi aims to bolster its offerings and expand its market footprint.

India’s fintech landscape is witnessing explosive growth, with platforms like Yubi playing a critical role in the credit ecosystem. Yubi’s planned fundraising reflects the broader appetite for scaling solutions that streamline credit access, particularly in emerging markets where traditional lending models often fall short.

Analysis:
This development highlights two key trends: the increasing reliance on credit platforms in high-growth economies and the strategic role of international investors like Insight Partners in driving fintech innovation. Yubi’s expansion plans could set a precedent for other regional fintech players seeking to scale amid global economic headwinds.

Provenir and Hastings Financial Services Win Global Recognition

Source: Business Wire
In a testament to the transformative power of digital lending solutions, Provenir and Hastings Financial Services have been jointly recognized for the Best Digital Lending Implementation at the IBSi Global Fintech Innovation Awards. This accolade underscores the success of their collaboration in modernizing the lending process through cutting-edge technology.

Provenir’s advanced decision-making platform and Hastings Financial Services’ lending expertise have delivered a solution that significantly enhances user experience, operational efficiency, and risk management. Such innovations highlight the increasing role of partnerships in advancing fintech’s digital transformation.

Analysis:
This recognition not only validates the efficacy of digital lending but also emphasizes the importance of partnerships in driving innovation. It signals to the industry that collaboration can be a powerful tool for staying ahead in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Microf and Quantum Financial Technologies Forge New Alliances

Source: PR Newswire
Microf, a financial solutions provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Quantum Financial Technologies. This collaboration aims to expand lending solutions for contractors, providing streamlined access to capital for businesses in need of flexible financing options.

This partnership is a timely response to the growing demand for specialized financial products in niche markets. By leveraging Quantum’s technology, Microf can now offer more tailored solutions, particularly to contractors navigating complex financial requirements.

Analysis:
This development reflects a growing trend: the diversification of fintech offerings to serve specific market segments. As competition in mainstream fintech intensifies, targeting underserved niches could become a defining strategy for success.

Key Takeaways for the Fintech Ecosystem

Resilience in Fintech Funding: Despite economic uncertainties, venture capital continues to fuel innovative fintech players like Synapse and Finova Capital.
Regional Growth Stories: From Israel to India, fintech ecosystems are thriving, attracting global attention and investment.
Collaboration as a Catalyst: The success of partnerships like Provenir-Hastings and Microf-Quantum underscores the importance of strategic alliances.
The Power of Recognition: Awards like the IBSi Fintech Innovation Awards validate industry achievements, inspiring others to push the envelope.
Focus on Inclusion: Whether through credit platforms or lending solutions, fintech is playing a pivotal role in fostering financial inclusivity worldwide.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

The fintech sector’s journey is far from linear. Regulatory complexities, technological disruptions, and market volatility remain persistent challenges. However, as seen in today’s developments, the opportunities far outweigh the risks. By prioritizing innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity, fintech players can navigate the complexities of the global financial landscape.

This moment in fintech history is pivotal. It’s a time for bold decisions, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to bridging financial divides. As industry players rise to the occasion, the road ahead promises a future where technology and finance intertwine to empower individuals and businesses alike.

The post Fintech Pulse: A Daily Dive into Industry Innovations and Developments appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.