TransCanna Announces Signing of Definitive Agreement with SolDaze

TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE: TCAN)(FSE: TH8)(“TransCanna” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has executed a definitive purchase agreement (the “SPA”) for all of the outstanding equity interest in Tres Ojos Naturals LLC, doing business as SolDaze, a limited liability company based in Santa Cruz, California. The transaction will absorb SolDaze’s branding asset package into the Company’s expanding asset portfolio, which the Company believes will provide significant penetration into the cannabis market in California. SolDaze is an operating company producing and selling the only all-natural cannabis-infused fruit snack in California.

“We are very pleased and excited to welcome the SolDaze team into the TransCanna family. We would like to recognize their efforts, achievements and in particular their patience and dedication to this process. The SolDaze brand has a very bright future and with the support of TransCanna will be introducing a variety of new SKUs, including the much anticipated launch of ‘Spicy Mango’. The Company is excited about the prospects of future growth that this acquisition will provide once consummated,” commented Arni Johannson, President & Chair of Transcanna.

“Since legalization while working in the California cannabis market, rarely have I had such strong interest in a new SKU as what I am seeing for Soldaze’s Spicy Mango product. We are beyond excited for this highly anticipated product to hit the market,” Added Dakota Sullivan, CEO of Calyx Brands Inc., California distibutor of SolDaze-branded products.

Pursuant to the SPA, the purchase price will be comprised of an aggregate cash payment of US$350,000 (less a previously paid deposit of US$50,000) and the issuance of 810,000 common shares in the capital of the Company at a deemed price of $1.14 per share. The share component of the purchase price is payable in instalments over a two-year period, provided that the timing of such instalments may be accelerated should the sales of SolDaze products meet specific revenue targets. The number of shares issuable may also be reduced in the event that certain revenue targets are not met by the dates specified.

“On behalf of the founding members of SolDaze snacks (Hand Shake Farms, GoldCoast Gardens, Plaid Cannabiz, SolDaze suppliers and manufacturing partners), we are honored and ecstatic about our company merging into the TransCanna ecosystem. We look forward to bringing to fruition our vision of delivering healthy sustainable edibles to the masses on a very large scale, while at the same time supporting social responsibility, job creation and ethical sourcing of organic fruit in Mexico,” commented Shawn Shevlin, Founder of SolDaze.

For more information on SolDaze product lines, please see its website at https://www.soldazesnacks.com.

About TransCanna Holdings Inc.

TransCanna Holdings Inc. is a Canadian based company providing branding, transportation and distribution services, through its wholly-owned California subsidiaries, to a range of industries including the cannabis marketplace.

For further information, please visit the Company’s website at www.transcanna.com or email the Company at info@transcanna.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about management’s view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward looking statements. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to: timing of the completion of the SPA and the satisfaction of closing conditions, and the expected benefits of SolDaze to the Company’s business. Any number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements as well as future results. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward looking statements or otherwise.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/46927

The Blockpass Quiz Campaign Registration Will Close Tomorrow

There’s only one day left to register to participate in the newly revamped Blockpass Quiz campaign for the chance to win $1000USD in PASS tokens. Following numerous successful campaigns over Telegram, Blockpass has brought back the Blockpass Quiz to reward its user base. Registrations will close at 10am GMT on Thursday August 15, 2019.

The Blockpass Quiz will consist of a number of questions which will be sent out via email to those that register to participate using their Blockpass identity (only name and email required). Once the registration period concludes on 15 August 2019 at 10am GMT, an email containing the questions will be sent out to those that registered. The first person to reply to the email with the correct answers to all of the questions will be awarded $1000USD in PASS!

Questions will vary from general crypto knowledge to the history of blockchain, and from technical questions to those on current crypto events. You can expect a number of questions to focus around Blockpass and its partners, so keep the whitepaper and the website at hand.

Blockpass brought back the successful quiz campaigns in celebration of the recently announced Marketplace, which provides a gateway for users to find and sign up for campaigns, exchanges, wallets and other services that have integrated with Blockpass.

For more information or to register now for the Blockpass Quiz at www.blockpass.org/quiz

About Blockpass Marketplace

The Marketplace is designed to be a one-stop shop for those looking to use their Blockpass identity to access services and opportunities where they remain in control of their personal information. Blockpass is a one-click compliance gateway to financial services, regulated offerings and virtual banking. Companies such as Tokenomica, Glenbit and Korporatio are featured, with a short description and links to more detailed information to allow users to quickly and clearly see the opportunities opened to them by using their Blockpass identity. In the future, the marketplace will introduce even more partnerships and campaigns as Blockpass continues to grow, and additional functionality will be added to provide simple sign-up options and facilitate participation in special events.

Make sure you have created your Blockpass identity in order to register for the quiz. You can find the registration link here (http://www.blockpass.org/quiz). For additional information join the Blockpass Telegram or follow Blockpass on Twitter. Good luck!

The Blockpass Quiz is subject to the Quiz Terms and Conditions and by submitting your answers you are accepting to be bound by them. For more information on data use please read our Privacy Policy. The Blockpass Quiz is not available for US persons. Registrations close at 10am GMT on 15 August 2019, and an email containing the quiz questions will be sent to the email address used to register at 10am GMT on 16 August 2019. Please be sure to check your spam folder and add quiz@blockpass.org to your address book.

About Blockpass IDN

Blockpass offers digital identity verification for businesses that participate in regulated industries, including crypto wallets and exchanges, virtual banks, traditional financial institutions and gaming. Blockpass provides an alternative process to cumbersome, repetitive and expensive Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) verification through an easy-to-use mobile application and seamless merchant dashboard. For individuals, Blockpass is a secure, user-centric gateway to financial services and other regulated offerings, allowing one click KYC submission. Blockpass alleviates the pain of opening new accounts and redoing KYC over and over. Registered in Hong Kong, Blockpass IDN is a joint venture of Infinity Blockchain Labs and Chain of Things. Blockpass IDN licenses its technology from the non-profit Blockpass Foundation, registered in the Isle of Man.

For more information and updates, please visit and sign up to the following:
Promotional video: https://youtu.be/SvO2cw3e-SI
Website: http://www.blockpass.org
Medium: https://medium.com/@blockpass
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlockpassOrg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blockpassorg/
Telegram: https://t.me/blockpass

Contact: Caitlin Fargo, +852 9733 4935, press@blockpass.org

LHN Limited achieves a 70.7% jump in net profit after tax of S$2.3 million in 3Q2019 on a quarter-on-quarter basis

– Revenue from the Group’s Residential Properties under the Space Optimisation Business in 3Q2019 increased by approximately S$0.8 million over the same period in 2018 due to the co-live business at 31 Boon Lay Drive in Singapore which started to generate revenue from 2Q2019.
– On 29 July 2019, the Group announced its grand opening and ribbon cutting of the 13-storey property at 137 Upper Pansodan Road, Yangon.

Real estate management services group LHN Limited (“LHN”, and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) reported revenue of approximately S$27.8 million in the three months ended 30 June 2019 (“3Q2019”), representing an increase of 5.6% from approximately S$26.3 million in 3Q2018. Such increase was mainly attributable to the increase in revenue from the (i) commencement of operations of a new premise under the co-live business under the Residential Properties; (ii) management of new carparks under the Facilities Management Business; and (iii) Logistics Services Business.

The Group achieved a net profit after tax of approximately S$2.3 million in 3Q2019, compared with net profit after tax of approximately S$1.3 million in 3Q2018. The increase in net profit after tax of 70.7% over the same period in 2018 was mainly attributable to the gain on disposal of our security business, which was partially offset by the increase in administrative expenses.

Table 1 - Key Financial Highlights
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
S$'000                  3Q2019  3Q2018  Change(%)  9M2019  9M2018  Change(%)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenue                 27,824  26,339     5.6     81,423  82,543    (1.4)
Gross profit             6,615   6,637    (0.3)    18,792  22,086   (14.9)
Administrative expenses (5,934) (5,699)    4.1    (17,107)(18,727)   (8.7)
Share of results of associates and joint ventures
                           345     152    >100      2,298     800    >100
Profit after tax         2,265   1,327    70.7      5,361   3,723    44.0
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table 2 - Segmental Revenue Breakdown
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
S$'000                                             3Q2019  3Q2018  Change(%)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Industrial Properties                               9,717  10,070    (3.5)
Commercial Properties                               5,307   5,169     2.7
Residential Properties                              1,226     400    >100
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Space Optimisation Business                        16,250  15,639     3.9
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Facilities Management Business                      5,063   4,539    11.5
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Logistics Services Business                         6,511   6,161     5.7
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                                              27,824  26,339     5.6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Space Optimisation Business revenue increased by approximately S$0.6 million or 3.9% from approximately S$15.6 million in 3Q2018 to approximately S$16.2 million in 3Q2019, mainly attributed to (i) the co-live business at 31 Boon Lay Drive in Singapore which started to generate revenue from the second quarter of our financial year ended 30 September 2019 (“2Q2019”); and (ii) increase in rental income from the Commercial Properties as a result of higher occupancy rates. These were partially offset by the decrease in revenue from the Industrial Properties due to (i) movement of tenants due to expiry of subleases; and (ii) renewal of sub-leases at lower rental rates.

Revenue derived from our Facilities Management Business increased by approximately S$0.5 million or 11.5% from approximately S$4.5 million in 3Q2018 to approximately S$5.0 million in 3Q2019 mainly due to increase in revenue from management of new carparks in Singapore. This was partially offset by the decrease in revenue from the security services business as a result of the completion of the disposal of the business as disclosed in the announcement dated 31 May 2019.

Revenue derived from our Logistics Services Business increased by approximately S$0.3 million or 5.7% from approximately S$6.2 million in 3Q2018 to approximately S$6.5 million in 3Q2019 mainly due to an increase in transportation services provided from the trucking business and increase in demand for storage and repairs of leasing containers in Thailand.

Business Outlook

Based on advance estimates as announced in the press release dated 12 July 2019 issued by the Ministry of Trade and Industry Singapore[1], the Singapore economy grew by 0.1% on a year-on-year basis in the second quarter of 2019, slower than the 1.1% growth in the previous quarter. On a quarter-on-quarter seasonally-adjusted annualised basis, the economy shrank by 3.4%, after posting growth of 3.8% in the preceding quarter.

Given the present economic outlook, the Group continues to remain very cautious in its business outlook. As announced in The Business Times[2] dated 13 July 2019, the Singapore economy has now notched its lowest quarterly growth since 2009, and has slowed sharply from the first quarter’s 1.1% expansion. With the road ahead looking rocky, the Group is cautiously exploring new opportunities in Singapore and also other growth markets in the ASEAN region to expand its current business offerings.

For our Space Optimisation Business, the Group continues to grow its co-living space business. In May 2019, the Group was awarded a three-year lease by the Singapore Land Authority to operate a student hostel at 1A Lutheran Road, Singapore 267745. The lease includes a three years option to renew with a further option to renew for another three years.

On 29 July 2019, the Group announced its grand opening and ribbon cutting of the 13-storey property at 137 Upper Pansodan, M-8, Mingala Taung Nyunt Township in Myanmar. The 13-storey property has completed the renovation and is now fully operational to be managed as a premium serviced residence. It comprises 88 units of premium one-bedroom apartments that are equipped with smart-home features including digital lockset, smart lightings, controlled air-conditioning system, and wash-and-dry toilet system. The property is also fitted with Japanese Onsen SPA facilities and has a rooftop bar and restaurant for residents to enjoy their al fresco dining while admiring the panoramic view of the city and the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda.

[1] https://bit.ly/33zlb20
[2] https://bit.ly/2N3q7WP

Under the Group’s Facilities Management Business, the Group announced on 31 May 2019 that it had completed the disposal of the Industrial & Commercial Security Pte Ltd (“ICS”) security services business (the “Completion Date”). As there may be additional client contracts to be novated to Prosegur Singapore Pte Ltd (the “Purchaser”), additional adjustments to the completion payment may be payable by the Purchaser to ICS on the date falling eight months after the Completion Date. With the Completion of the disposal, other than those contracts that are not novated to the Purchaser in accordance with the business purchase agreement, the Group will no longer engage in ICS security services business except for the supply, installation, and maintenance of security cameras as part of a full suite of facilities management services at premises owned or managed by the Group. Please refer to the announcement of the Company dated 31 May 2019 for further details.

Moving forward, the Group continues to provide integrated facilities management services and carpark management. On 9 July 2019, the Group announced that it had secured a third carpark contract in Hong Kong from the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Situated on an estimated land area of 19,100 square metres at Tuen Yee Street, Area 16, Tuen Mun, New Territories, the carpark offers private car parking and lorry parking of all sizes including trailer parking which is in high demand.

Under the Logistics Services Business, the Group announced on 17 May 2019 that it has received an option to purchase a property at 7 Gul Avenue, Singapore 629651, where the property will be used to operate a parking yard for our logistics vehicles, ISO tank depot and provide logistics services. The property has a total land area of approximately 22,479.7 square meters, gross floor area of approximately 8,284 square meters with a remaining leasehold life of approximately 13 years. The consideration of the property is S$13.0 million and a 5% deposit has been paid. In the event that our Group accepts the offer to purchase the property, the consideration will be funded from net proceeds of approximately S$1.8 million from the global offering of the Company in Hong Kong and the balance will be funded by internal source of funding and bank borrowings. Please refer to the announcements of the Company dated 17 May 2019 and 8 August 2019 for further details. The Company will make further announcement(s) as and when there are material development(s) to the proposed acquisition.

About LHN Limited

LHN Limited (the “Company”, and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) is a real estate management services group, with the ability to generate value for its landlords and tenants through its expertise in space optimisation, and logistics service provider headquartered in Singapore.

The Group currently has three (3) main business segments, namely: (i) Space Optimisation Business; (ii) Facilities Management Business; and (iii) Logistics Services Business, which are fully integrated and complement one another.

Under its Space Optimisation Business, the Group primarily secures master leases of unused, old and under-utilised commercial, industrial and residential properties and through re-designing and planning, transforms them into more efficient usable spaces, which are then leased out by the Group to its tenants. Space optimisation generally allows the Group to enhance the value of properties by increasing their net lettable area as well as potential rental yield per square feet.

The Group’s Facilities Management Business offers car park management services and property maintenance services such as cleaning, landscaping, provision of amenities and utilities, and repair and general maintenance principally to the properties it leases and manages, as well as to external parties.

Under its Logistics Services Business, the Group provides transportation services, container depot management services and container depot services. The Group transports mainly ISO tanks, containers, base oil and bitumen, provides container depot management services and provides container depot services which include container surveying, container cleaning, on-site repair and storage of empty general purpose and refrigerated containers (reefer).

The Group currently operates mainly in Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Hong Kong and China.

Issued for and on behalf of LHN Limited

For more information please contact:
Jess Lim Bee Choo
Group Deputy Managing Director
E-mail: jess.lim@lhngroup.com.sg

FXCPD Management launched Its FERS Fund on July 29

FXCPD Management Ltd is pleased to announce FERS (FX Enhanced Returns Structured Strategy Fund) has launched globally. The Fund went live on July 29, 2019.

Mr Gerald Robinson, founder of FXCPD, said, “The FERS Fund is a combination of defensive and offensive approaches towards FX options and FX trading, utilizing sophisticated hedging strategies with many formulas integrated.”

FXCPD Managing Director, Mr Mike Lam said, “With this innovative approach, it is now possible for advisers to apply these 2 investment strategies within a single fund whilst retaining the flexibility to withdraw at any particular stage.” Mr Lam stressed the importance of achieving the capability to safe-guard investment principal. 

FXCBD Strategy Fund utilizes a variety of strategies available within structured investments. As opposed to buying individual structured products, FXCBD Strategy Fund specializes in FX option products which offer daily returns. By reinvesting these returns in spot FX algorithmic trading, the fund will be further enhanced.

Mr Robinson will be actively managing the portfolio, “Based on tried and tested strategies. We think this has the power to transform the way advisers and clients think and invest in structured products.”

Media contact:
Ms Jennifer Shaw
FXCPD Management, 
London, UK
T: +44 20 8089 8669
E: enquiry@fxcpd.com
U: https://fxcpd.com

PowerACE 2019 to ignite the vision of clean energy among promising startups

Competition to serve as a platform for clean-energy startup ecosystem players to share innovations that transform energy for the future, with shortlisted startups to be featured at ACES 2019

Sustainable Energy Association of Singapore (SEAS), in partnership with Private Financing Advisory Network (PFAN), will be staging PowerACE 2019 for the second year, providing an avenue for players in the clean-energy startup space to showcase solutions for building a robust and sustainable energy ecosystem in Singapore and the region amidst climate change and limited access to alternative energy sources. 

From now until 22 August 2019, energy startups and startups supporting the energy sector can apply for PowerACE 2019, which will give promising new energy companies exposure and opportunities to pitch to innovators at the Asia Clean Energy Summit 2019 (ACES 2019), Asia’s leading clean energy event, as part of the bigger goal to propel the sustainable development of clean energy in Singapore and the region. This year, key themes for PowerACE 2019 revolve around digital applications, decentralised systems & energy storage, clean energy, new frontier technologies and e-mobility solutions.

According to the Asian Development Bank, Asia’s demand for energy is expected to increase by 2.1 percent annually until 2035. While the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN) has committed to increasing renewable energy usage by 23 percent in 2025 to combat climate change and ensure sustainable energy growth, some countries, including Singapore, face challenges around the adoption of clean energy sources such as solar power and hydroelectricity due to inadequate infrastructure and funding.

“Progressive technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence and decarbonisation are unlocking new doors and paving the way forward into a data-driven future for clean energy. PowerACE 2019 presents a great opportunity for innovators and fast-growing startups to connect with investors, business leaders and industry experts and gain new insights and mentorship opportunities for scaling up and bringing more value to the greater community,” said Kavita Gandhi, Executive Director, SEAS.

Eligible clean energy startups around the world who have been registered for up to five years and who have received up to S$5 million in funding are welcomed to apply. Participants in PowerACE 2018 are welcome to participate in PowerACE 2019 as long as they meet the qualifying criteria.

12 startups will be selected from the pool of applications to pitch and display their solutions at innovation pods in the Innovation Arena at ACES 2019, which will be held from 30 October to 1 November 2019. Aside from being featured on ACES’ website and networking opportunities with industry experts, the shortlisted startups will also have the opportunity to gain visibility, avail of a free booth at ACES 2019, get mentorship for refining their business models and pitches over a period of one month, and win cash prizes. To top it all, the winning startup company will receive a S$50,000 grant and an invitation to participate at Asia’s international startup pitching competition SLINGSHOT 2019, which will be held from 11 to 13 November, during the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH).

The PowerACE 2019 pitching session will be held at Level 4 of the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore on 31 October 2019. The shortlisted PowerACE 2019 participants will be exhibiting their ideas and innovations for two days, 30 October to 31 October 2019.

A total of 60 startups participated in PowerACE 2018, with 13 startups showcasing their innovations at ACES 2018. These include Advanced Vision Analytics Pte Ltd (AVA Asia), a data analytics company developing turnkey solution for autonomous drone data analytics solution for the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry; Positive Energy Limited, a platform for simplifying renewable energy finance; and V-Flow Tech Pte. Ltd, a uniquely designed, long-lasting and reliable energy storage solution for the utility and renewable energy industry. 

AVA Asia, which bagged the first prize at PowerACE 2018, has since managed to scale its operations and successfully commercialised its innovations following the competition. “PowerACE 2018 opened up new opportunities for us to realise our vision of revolutionising solar PV plants through leveraging autonomous drones and artificial intelligence. We have benefited a lot from the support and mentorship received and this has since enabled us to scale our business,” said Wei Yik Lee, Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder, AVA Asia.

PowerACE 2019 is supported by Enterprise Singapore (ESG), Startup SG and EcoLabs Centre of Innovation for Energy (EcoLabs) at Nanyang Technological University (NTU).

“Enterprise Singapore is excited to support PowerACE 2019 to provide a platform for startups in the clean energy ecosystem to showcase their innovation. Following the momentum of PowerACE 2018, we hope to create synergies among investors, large companies and startups as Singapore continues to develop into a global sustainable energy hub,” said Geoffrey Yeo, Director, Urban Solutions, Enterprise Singapore.

Interested participants may apply to participate in PowerACE 2019 here. http://bit.ly/2N0zQxb

About Sustainable Energy Start-Up Network (SESUN)

SEAS Sustainable Energy Start-Up Network (SESUN) was established in August 2018 which saw the sustainable energy industry and many new start-up companies coming together to brainstorm and share their feedback on the various challenges they face as start-up companies. This new group provides the members an opportunity to seek market exposure, strategic partnerships and investments and is mostly focused in the area of digital applications, decentralised and off-grid system, clean energy (renewables, energy efficiency) and new frontier technologies (AI, blockchain, IoT).

About Sustainable Energy Association of Singapore (SEAS)

The Sustainable Energy Association of Singapore (SEAS) represents the interests and provides a common platform for companies in Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, e-mobility, smart grids and Financial Institutions to meet, discuss, collaborate and undertake viable projects together. The Association is a non-profit, non-government business association, and its mission is to assist its members in achieving sustainable growth locally and regionally through business and market development. SEAS plays a strategic role in supporting and promoting Singapore’s vision to be a global centre for sustainable energy, where products and solutions are developed and exported. For more information about what the association does and its services, please visit www.seas.org.sg

Contact
PRecious Communications for PowerACE 2019
Charlene Pe / Terence Ong 
aces2019@preciouscomms.com
+65 6303 0567

Press release (PDF): http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/PowerACE.pdf

Trintech Named to the 2019 Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies

Trintech, a leading global provider of integrated Record to Report software solutions for the office of finance, announced it has been ranked No. 2688 on Inc. Magazine’s annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment – its independent small businesses. Microsoft, Dell, Domino’s Pizza, Pandora, Timberland, LinkedIn, Yelp, Zillow, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

“We were honored that Inc. reached out to us this year to apply for this recognition and are thrilled that Trintech has been recognized as one of America’s fastest growing private companies,” said Teresa Mackintosh, CEO of Trintech. “We’re appreciative of our thousands of loyal clients, some of whom have been with us since we were founded 30 years ago. We’re also thankful for our employees, who share the commitment of delighting our customers across the globe. They have been the foundation of our continued growth and success each year.”

Not only have the companies on the 2019 Inc. 5000 been very competitive within their markets, but the list as a whole shows staggering growth compared with prior lists. The 2019 Inc. 5000 achieved an astounding three-year average growth of 454 percent, and a median rate of 157 percent. The Inc. 5000’s aggregate revenue was $237.7 billion in 2018, accounting for 1,216,308 jobs over the past three years.

“The companies on this year’s Inc. 5000 have followed so many different paths to success,” says James Ledbetter, Editor-in-Chief at Inc. “There’s no single course you can follow or investment you can take that will guarantee this kind of spectacular growth. But what they have in common is persistence and seizing opportunities.”

The annual Inc. 5000 event honoring the companies on the list will be held October 10th to the 12th, 2019, at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona.

About Inc. 5000

The 2019 Inc. 5000 is ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2015 and 2018. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2015. They had to be U.S.-based, privately held, for profit, and independent – not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies – as of December 31, 2018. (Since then, a number of companies on the list have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2015 is $100,000; the minimum for 2018 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Companies on the Inc. 500 are featured in Inc.’s September issue. They represent the top tier of the Inc. 5000, which can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000.

About Inc. Media

Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures, Inc. is the only major brand dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies, with the aim to deliver real solutions for today’s innovative company builders. Inc. took home the National Magazine Award for General Excellence in both 2014 and 2012. The total monthly audience reach for the brand has been growing significantly, from 2,000,000 in 2010 to more than 20,000,000 today. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

The Inc. 5000 is a list of the fastest-growing private companies in the nation. Started in 1982, this prestigious list has become the hallmark of entrepreneurial success. The Inc. 5000 Conference & Awards Ceremony is an annual event that celebrates the remarkable achievements of these companies. The event also offers informative workshops, celebrated keynote speakers, and evening functions. For more information on Inc. and the Inc. 5000 Conference, visit http://conference.inc.com/.

About Trintech 

Trintech Inc., a pioneer of Financial Corporate Performance Management (FCPM) software, combines unmatched technical and financial expertise to create innovative, cloud-based software solutions that deliver world-class financial operations and insights. From high volume transaction matching and streamlining daily operational reconciliations, to automating and managing balance sheet reconciliations, intercompany accounting, journal entries, disclosure and fiduciary reporting and bank fee analysis, to governance, risk and compliance – Trintech’s portfolio of financial solutions, including Cadency(R) Platform, Adra(R) Suite, and targeted tools, Trintech Disclosure Management(R), ReconNET(TM), T-Recs(R), and UPCS(R), help manage all aspects of the financial close process. Over 3,100 clients worldwide – including the majority of the Fortune 100 – rely on the company’s cloud-based software to continuously improve the efficiency, reliability, and strategic insights of their financial operations.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Trintech has offices located across the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, France, Ireland, the Netherlands and the Nordics, as well as strategic partners in South Africa, Latin America and Asia Pacific. To learn more about Trintech, visit www.trintech.com or connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

Media Contact:
Kelli Shoevlin
1 (972) 739-1680 
Kelli.Shoevlin@trintech.com

Champion REIT Announces 2019 Interim Results

– Distributable income grew 7.0%, Distribution per Unit up 6.8%
– Office portfolio was the growth driver and continued to enjoy solid rental reversion 
– Improved credit profile by refinancing the existing secured loan with new unsecured loan facilities

Champion Real Estate Investment Trust (stock code: 2778), the owner of Three Garden Road and Langham Place, announces its financial results for the six months ended 30 June 2019.

Overview 
For the first half of 2019, Champion REIT recorded solid results with distributable income increasing by 7.0% to HK$869 million and distribution per unit (“DPU”) increasing by 6.8% to HK$0.1335. The growth was achieved against the backdrop of geopolitical volatilities and stagnant economic growth of Hong Kong.

Three Garden Road 
Leasing demand was mainly fueled by business expansion of existing tenants, while some occupiers maintained a cautious approach. Three Garden Road continued to sustain solid rental income growth in the first half of 2019, which went up 9.9% to HK$738 million, primarily due to positive rental reversion. The passing rents of the property further increased to HK$105.35 per sq. ft. (based on lettable area). Occupancy was 95.8% as at 30 June 2019. 

Langham Place Office Tower 
Positioned as a lifestyle hub, demand for Langham Place Office Tower from lifestyle tenants remained solid. While existing beauty tenants continued to show interest in expanding their footprint, new healthcare and medical operators also opted to set up their presence in the property. Total rental income of Langham Place Office Tower went up 10.8% to HK$185 million. The growth was mainly attributable to positive rental reversion with passing rents rising to HK$44.73 per sq. ft. (based on gross floor area). Occupancy stood at a high level of 98.8% as at 30 June 2019.

Langham Place Mall 
While Hong Kong retail sales weakened in the first half of 2019, Langham Place Mall’s total rental income went up 2.8% to HK$477 million mainly driven by the growth in base rents from overall positive rental reversion. Tenant sales remained resilient and recorded a mild decrease of 0.6%, compared with 2.6% decrease in Hong Kong retail sales. The Mall maintained 100% occupancy as at 30 June 2019. 

Financing 
During the first half of 2019, the Trust has drawn new unsecured loan facilities of HK$5,814 million to refinance the secured bank loan maturing in 2019 and to partially repay the secured bank loan due in 2021. The refinancing would enhance the credit profile, where the secured debt portion was lowered significantly to 24.5% as at 30 June 2019. Gearing ratio further reduced to 17.1% due to increase in appraised value of investment properties. 

Distribution 
For the first half of 2019, the Trust’s distributable income increased by 7.0% to HK$869 million and distribution per unit (“DPU”) increased by 6.8% to HK$0.1335 (2018: HK$0.1250). This represents an annualized distribution yield of 4.3% based on the closing price of HK$6.51 as at 28 June 2019.

Asset Value 
The Trust’s investment properties were appraised at a total value of HK$85.6 billion, representing a 3.0% increase from HK$83.1 billion as at 31 December 2018.

Outlook 
The global macroeconomic environment is expected to remain unclear in the second half of 2019. Underlined by the US-China trade tensions, recent local protests and other macro factors, both office and retail sectors’ leasing demand will be affected. Nonetheless, given the considerable gap between passing rents and market rents for the office portfolio, positive rental reversion should continue. The Trust will continue to adopt an agile leasing management strategy to drive sustainable growth.

Volatilities in the market may bring viable investment opportunities for the Trust. We will continue to take a prudent approach in evaluating potential opportunities globally in the uncertain market environment. 

About Champion REIT (stock code: 2778)
Champion Real Estate Investment Trust is a trust formed to own and invest in income- producing office and retail properties. The Trust focuses on Grade-A commercial properties in prime locations. It currently offers investors direct exposure to 2.93 million sq. ft. of prime office and retail properties by way of two landmark properties, Three Garden Road and Langham Place, one on each side of the Victoria Harbour.
Website: www.championreit.com

Media Contacts: Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Vicky Lee Tel: 2864 4834 Email: vick.lee@sprg.com.hk
Christina Cheuk Tel: 2114 4979 Email: christina.cheuk@sprg.com.hk
Website: www.sprg.com.hk

TTI Delivers a Strong First Half Performance With Record Revenue

New Products Driving Strong Growth

Hong Kong-based global power equipment and floor care company Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (“TTI” or the “Group”) (stock code: 669, ADR symbol: TTNDY) announced its results for the six months ended June 30, 2019. It was another record first half for the Group with revenue increasing 8.7%, EBIT and net profit both increasing 11.9%, and earnings per share increasing 12.4%, to approximately US15.61 cent. Revenue grew 10.7% in local currency. The strong first half performance was driven by the launch of new products, category and geographic expansion. Gross margin increased in the first half for the eleventh consecutive year, up 50 bps, increasing from 37.1% to 37.6%. TTI’s disciplined working capital management continued to yield solid performance at 18.4% of sales. The Board is recommending an interim dividend of HK45.00 cents (approximately US5.79 cents) per share, against HK38.00 cents (approximately US4.89 cents) per share in 2018, an increase of 18.4%.

– First Half 2019 Revenue Totaled US$3.7 Billion up by 10.7% in local currency
– Net Profit Continues to Grow at a Faster Rate than Sales, up 11.9%, Driven by the 11th Consecutive First half of Gross Margin Improvement 
– Disciplined Working Capital Management, Delivered Working Capital of 18.4% of Sales
– The Flagship Milwaukee Tool Business continues to Grow 20%+ in local currency 

The Power Equipment segment continued the strong momentum with 14.3% growth in local currency, to revenue of US$3.3 billion. New products, geographic expansion, and entry into new categories all contributed to the excellent performance. Our flagship Milwaukee Tool business once again grew over 20% globally in local currency and our Power Equipment business outperformed the market with double-digit growth. The Floor Care business is starting to improve with a strategic focus on our next generation cordless vacuums, carpet washing products and solutions range. 

Our geographic expansion was also a highlight for the first half with the European team delivering an outstanding 14.2% growth in local currency, led by Milwaukee Tool with over 25% growth. In rest of world, Australia and our Asian companies continued to deliver above market growth at 12.8%. Our North American businesses continued to perform exceptionally well at 9.7% growth with Milwaukee Tool up 20%+ in the US and 28%+ in Canada.

Mr. Horst Pudwill, Chairman of TTI, said, “We are pleased to have achieved another record first half of outstanding growth. Our expanding global manufacturing network and world class supply chain continues to deliver consistent productivity gains. We are well positioned to deliver a strong second half, and importantly, a strong future.” 

Mr. Joseph Galli, CEO of TTI, commented, “New product development is a core strength of TTI and our new product flow continues to accelerate. We continue to aggressively invest in this high speed, world class process so that we can bring to market a stream of high margin new products with cutting edge technology for the months and years to come. With the strength of our new product programs, our outstanding team and strong brand portfolio, we are poised to deliver excellent results.”

About TTI 
Founded in 1985 and listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited in 1990, TTI is a world leader in cordless technology spanning Power Tools, Outdoor Power Equipment, Floor Care Appliances and Accessories for the consumer, professional, and industrial users in the home, construction, maintenance, industrial and infrastructure industries. The Company has a foundation built on four strategic drivers – Powerful Brands, Innovative Products, Exceptional People and Operational Excellence – reflecting a long-term expansive vision to advance cordless technology. The global growth strategy of the relentless pursuit of product innovation has brought TTI to the forefront of its industries. TTI’s powerful brand portfolio includes MILWAUKEE, AEG and RYOBI power tools, accessories and hand tools, RYOBI and HOMELITE outdoor products, EMPIRE layout and measuring products, and HOOVER, ORECK, VAX and DIRT DEVIL Floor Care and Appliances.

TTI is one of the constituent stocks of the Hang Seng Index, FTSE Developed Index and MSCI ACWI Index. For more information, please visit www.ttigroup.com.

All trademarks listed other than AEG and RYOBI are owned by the Group. AEG is a registered trademark of AB Electrolux (publ.), and is used under license. RYOBI is a registered trademark of Ryobi Limited, and is used under license.

For enquiries:
Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd.
Isabella Chan Tel: +(852) 2402 6495 Email: isabella.chan@tti.com.hk
Website: www.ttigroup.com

Strategic Financial Relations Limited 
Veron Ng +(852) 2864 4831 veron.ng@sprg.com.hk
Beverly Chiu +(852) 2114 4329 beverly.chiu@sprg.com.hk
Karen Kwan +(852) 2114 4171 karen.kwan@sprg.com.hk
Website: www.sprg.com.hk

Chlitina Holding Achieved NT$ 8.96 EPS, Revenue Hits Record High

Chlitina Holding (“Chlitina”, ticker:4137 TT) held a board meeting on Aug. 12 to discuss the company’s 2019H1 operating results and dividend policy. Chlitina also announced July 2019 revenue. 

Summary:
– In the first half of 2019, Chlitina reported consolidated sales of NT$ 2.45 billion. Benefiting from its beauty salon franchise core business, Chlitina maintained a steady performance. Additionally, franchisee recruitment and product sales to franchisees both experienced steady growths. Chlitina achieved a gross profit margin of 84%, an operating profit margin of 35.5%, a net profit after tax of NT$ 712 million and after-tax earnings per share (EPS) of NT$ 8.96. Revenue and profit both hit record highs.

– In July 2019, Chlitina reported consolidated sales of NT$ 363 million and YTD consolidated sales of NT$ 2.82 billion, which grew 14% YoY. In May and June 2019, Chlitina sponsored the Shanghai TV Festival and the Shanghai International Film Festival to enhance its brand image. In the second half of 2019, Chlitina will launch more campaign events in airports, on TV shows, and through travel promotions to prepare for the upcoming Autumn-Winter season skin care campaigns.

– Since last year, Chlitina has strategically expanded the UPLIDER Medical Beauty Clinics’ operating size. The company plans to establish five clinics in Shanghai, Nanjing and other cities. Besides medical beauty projects, Chlitina will provide high-end anti-aging services, hoping to take advantage of its research, product development and innovation abilities in order to improve service quality, as well as build a cornerstone for the company’s future development.

– Looking forward to the second half of 2019, the company anticipates high demand within the Chinese beauty industry and a clear path for growth. Thus, we expect continuous sales growth in individual Chlitina stores. So far, Chlitina has 4,829 global franchise stores, and we are optimistic we can achieve our target of adding 400-500 new stores this year earlier than planned.

Looking back at operation results in the first half of 2019:
Chlitina Holding reported consolidated sales of NT$ 2.45 billion, which translates to a YoY growth of 16.86%, driven by positive performances from Chlitina franchises’ steady expansion, franchisee recruitment and product sales to franchisees. The company also adapted policies to enhance internal operational efficiency. Supported by both internal and external improvement, Chlitina achieved a gross profit margin of 84% and an operating profit margin of 35.5%. In addition to revenue from its skin care business, in the first quarter, Chlitina received a 22.24 million RMB financial subsidy from the Shanghai city government. Overall, Chlitina had a net profit after tax of NT$ 712 million, and after-tax earnings per share (EPS) of NT$ 8.96, growing 21.28% and 20.27% respectively. Revenue and profit both hit record highs.

Chlitina Holding explained that the company’s core business, “CHLITINA”, the beauty salon franchise, accounted for up to 96.87% of the company’s total revenue, which benefited from a successful franchise strategy and development in new markets. Additionally, the company paid attention to employee training and upgraded franchise operation quality, which helped operations improve steadily during the period. Chlitina also invested in a branding and advertisement strategy. The company updated its slogan from “Women Love Bravely” to “Love Bravely, Not Hesitantly” to convey the idea of “beauty in action”. Chlitina held a special exhibition to celebrate this theme at the Shanghai Hongqiao Airport with exhibits on 32 walls, and joined the Shanghai TV Festival and the Shanghai International Film Festival, investing in three documentaries while also conducting charity activities. Moreover, Chlitina made use of social media (Weibo) together with other brands to amplify its messages and boost market share, effectively sustaining its core business’s development.

Looking back at operation results in July 2019:
In July 2019, Chlitina reported consolidated sales of NT$ 363 million, which were influenced by the beauty industry’s seasonality. The YTD consolidated sales achieved NT$ 2.82 billion, or a 13.80% increase YoY. As of the end of July, Chlitina had already added 350 franchise stores and the total store number reached 4,829, a 10% increase compared with the same period last year. This development fully showed the company’s stability. Chlitina will keep hosting training courses, consumer acquisition tea parties and experiential activities to maintain franchise store owners’ active attitude and help prepare for the upcoming Autumn-Winter season skin care campaigns.

Second half year of 2019 operation outlook:
Looking to the second half of 2019, we expect high demand within the Chinese beauty industry, and we will focus on Taiwan, Hong Kong and Southeast Asian markets to maintain our core business’ revenue. At the same time, Chlitina will continue to promote our UPLIDER Medical Beauty Clinics and services. We plan to open two general clinics (in Shanghai and Nanjing separately) and three medical beauty clinics (two in Shanghai and one in Nanjing). Aside from general medical beauty services, Chlitina will provide more services to improve suboptimal health and provide anti-aging treatments with products developed through our joint research platform with Tongji University: the Tongji University-Chlitina Regenerative Medical Research Institution. Additionally, all new products will be distributed in all channels. In other words, Chlitina aims to build omni-channel high-quality services, which will become a cornerstone for the company’s future development.

Moreover, Chlitina’s mission is not to satisfy consumers’ desire of beauty, but instead to satisfy high-end anti-aging medical needs in the future. Thus, since 2017, Chlitina has cooperated with Tongji University and established the Tongji University-Chlitina Regenerative Medical Research Institution to research skin recovery and other anti-aging related topics. Already, stem cell skin repair research has delivered preliminary results. According to our study, adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSC) is not only a convenient raw material to acquire, but its derivatives also help promote collagen synthesis, inhibit melanin production, accelerate skin wound healing and delay skin aging in clinical trials. ADSC could become a practical ingredient for medical beauty and health maintenance. Chlitina hopes it will soon bring to fruition current products and aging and regeneration medical beauty projects. At the same time, Chlitina will also develop more competitive new products and projects to increase diversity, improve the company’s operations level and maintain a top position in Asia’s beauty industry.

Media Contact:
IR Trust Director Vicky Zhang 
(02) 2585-5702/0920-286-136
vicky@ir-trust.tw
Investor relations contact:
Chlitina Investor Relations Director Anita Hu
(02)2723-8666
ir@chlitinaholding.com

About Chlitina
Chlitina’s core business is franchise beauty salons. The company was founded in 1989, and the founder Dr. W.K. Chen is known as the Father of Amino Acids, the first medical beauty expert to apply amino acids in skincare. In 1997, Chairman Chen Pi-hua expanded Chlitina to the Mainland China market, achieving great renown with high-quality products and a successful business model. The company went public in Taiwan in 2013. The business operates in Mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, and it is expanding throughout Southeast Asia. Chlitina has more than 4,829 franchised shops globally and 4,476 shops in Mainland China. It has trained more than 300,000 professional beauty consultants and become a symbolic Chinese beauty salon chain brand. 
Besides the core business’s steady growth, Chlitina is expanding its business with new programs, such as the Xinmeili e-commerce platform, UPLIDER Medical Beauty Clinic, RnD nails and eyelashes salon. Chlitina hopes to seize new development opportunities with these initiatives. Taking advantage of research, production, branding and distribution channels, Chlitina has become a beauty industry chain. 
Chlitina Official Website: www.chlitina.com

Disclaimer:
Some of the statements contained in this press release may be considered forward-looking statements. These statements identify prospective information. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time and/or management’s good faith belief with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in the statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations described, which include but are not limited to economic, competitive, market, currency, governmental and financial factors. Chlitina Holding assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions.

Zhonghua Gas Holdings Limited Announces Audited Results for the Six Months Ended 30 June 2019

Profit Attributable to Owners Increased 81.5% to HK$37.0 Million

Zhonghua Gas Holdings Limited (the “Company”; Stock Code: 8246) together with its subsidiaries (collectively the “Group”) today announces that the audited results for the six months ended 30 June 2019 (“Current Period”). Total revenue from the continuing operation recorded a 122.3% year-on-year increase from HK$112.7 million to HK$240.0 million in the Current Period. Net profit after tax showed an outstanding growth of over 74.5% to HK$44.1 million and profit attributable to the owners of the Company recorded over 81.5% increase to HK$37.0 million as compared to the Corresponding Period. Basic and diluted earnings per share for the Current Period were both HK$1.0 cent, as compared to both HK$0.6 cent in the Corresponding Period.

The growth was driven by a surge in revenue from the New energy business, primarily brought by the trading of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). The Group recorded contribution from the New energy business to total revenue 99.9% for the both period in 2018 and 2019, reflecting its important role in the operations. Gross profit of the New energy business dropped due to a thinner gross profit margin of LNG trading business compared to that of construction related and consultancy services. 

During the Current Period, the Group has successful completed business restructuring following the completion of the disposal of the catering business on 30 April 2019, and will continue to remain focused on developing and expanding the New energy business with an objective to maximize the profitability of the Group. The cooperation with one of the world’s largest engineering and consultancy company, Tractebel Engineering S.A. (“Tractebel”), Tianjin Jinre Heat Supply Group Co. Ltd. (“Jinre Group”) also allowed the Group to explore and expedite further collaboration with top industry players in fields of technological and infrastructure-related business.

Looking forward, the Group will continue to strive to actively expand in the LNG trading segment. In order to firmly grasp future business expansion in the sector, not only will the Group step up the efforts in LNG trading in existing operating locations, but also eye on developing the LNG trading business in other potential regions in the PRC and extend our footprints worldwide. Identifying suitable LNG suppliers locally and globally and delivering LNG products will be of the Group’s first priority in near future.

The Group also aims to build up strong relationship with new partners in order to cater to future needs and foster further business opportunities. The Group will also pursue long term cooperation with our key partners to diversify our business scope and enhance services, while seeking for collaboration projects in possible areas of LNG trading. It will also put its focus on capturing and developing new consultancy projects as it is one of its current major revenue sources.

The Group will always continue to look for opportunities to venture into business relating to New Energy business in order to expand the business and market coverage and ultimately to build it into a leading diversified and integrated new energy service provider in the Greater China Region.

Zhonghua Gas Holdings Limited
Zhonghua Gas Holdings Limited is principally engaged in provision of diversified and integrated new energy services including technological development, construction related and consultancy services in relation to heat supply and coal-to-natural gas conversion, supply of Liquefied Natural Gas, coupled with trading of new energy related industrial products. The Group is also engaged in the property investment business.

Media Contacts:
Angel Yeung
Jovian Communications Ltd
Tel: +852 2581 0168
Email: news@joviancomm.com