Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 4:59 PM on Monday, May 11th, 2020
Eyecarrot Goes Beyond Fixing Eyes That Simply Can’t Read Letters On An Eye Chart
THE MARKET OPPORTUNITY
Vision Therapy captures 3% of a $36B Yearly Vision Market today
Vision Therapy will grow by 22% this year and account for 4% of the $39B Yearly Market by year end
Sights are set on disrupting the sports performance industry in 2020 while receiving engagement from leaders within the human performance – sport performance industry
The size of the sports performance market reached a value of nearly $488.5B in 2018, having grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% since 2014
Expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% to nearly $614.1B by 2022
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 9:42 AM on Monday, May 11th, 2020
Secured non-exclusive rights to COVID-19 test kits with Health Canada approval,
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Saudi Food & Drug Authority approval, and
CE marking certification for European Economic Area countries, which covers the 27 member states of the EU, the 4 members of EFTA, plus Turkey and the United Kingdom under Brexit.
latest, and fourth kit to be added by Datametrex to distribute is the 1copy™ COVID-19 qPCR Multi Kit
Datametrex anticipates that it will have little or no upfront costs associated with importing and selling these test kits.
TORONTO, May 11, 2020 — Datametrex AI Limited (the “Company†or “Datametrexâ€) (TSXV: DM, FSE: D4G, OTC: DTMXF) is pleased to announce that it has secured non-exclusive rights to COVID-19 test kits with Health Canada (“HCâ€) approval, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Saudi Food & Drug Authority (“SFDAâ€) approval, and CE marking certification (“CEâ€) for European Economic Area (“EEAâ€) countries, which covers the 27 member states of the EU, the 4 members of EFTA, plus Turkey and the United Kingdom under Brexit.Â
The latest, and fourth kit to be added by Datametrex to distribute is the 1copy™ COVID-19 qPCR Multi Kit (“qPCR kitâ€), which is Health Canada approved with Authorization Reference Number 312777, Device ID 1020660 and Model No. M22MD100. It is a nucleic test kit providing results in less than two hours that verifies the RdRp gene for SARS-CoV-2 with real-time qPCR kit via a nasopharyngeal swab and oropharyngeal swab, specifically targeting the E gene sequences of COVID-19. The kits are made by 1drop Inc. (“1dropâ€) in South Korea, and are immediately ready for sales orders in Canada.
1drop is located in South Korea and is a medical technology spin-off from Samsung Electronic’s C-Lab program. The C-Lab is an internal incubation program within Samsung that first started in 2012 to help inspire a more creative company culture. 1drop already has more than five products approved in Europe in the past 18 month under the CE marking certification. “CBC News reported that Canada lost almost two million jobs during the month of April as the impact of COVID-19 according to Stats Canada’s release on May 8, 2020. The team has been working around the clock to identify and source high quality test kits from South Korea for Canada. We are thrilled to have secured the rights to sell kits from 1drop, Health Canada approved manufacturer. We will be able to start filling orders immediately and are looking forward to help flatten the curve and get Canadians back to work safely,†says Marshall Gunter, CEO of the Company.
The Company’s ability to fulfill any purchase order for COVID-19 test kits is subject to the availability of inventory at the time of order. Due to the extraordinarily high demand for COVID-19 tests, there is volatility in the supply chain, and available supply may fluctuate on a daily basis.
Datametrex anticipates that it will have little or no upfront costs associated with importing and selling these test kits. Assuming these test kits are purchased by the Canadian Government, the manufacturer will ship the test kits directly to the Canadian government or hospitals, and Datametrex will not be involved in the shipping, warehousing, or distribution process.
The Company did not pay consideration to the manufacturer to obtain sales rights.
The Company granted 16,500,000 incentive stock options to its directors, officers, employees and consultants in accordance with the Company’s Stock Option Plan. These stock options have an exercise price of $0.17 and expire on June 30, 2022. All options will be subject to a vesting schedule, with 25% immediately vesting and 25% vesting on the three, six and nine month anniversaries of the grant date.
About CE Marking
CE marking is a certification mark that indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). The CE marking is also found on products sold outside the EEA that have been manufactured to EEA standards. This makes the CE marking recognizable worldwide even to people who are not familiar with the European Economic Area (the 27 member states of the EU, the 4 members of European Free Trade Association (“EFTAâ€), plus Turkey and United Kingdom). CE marking also supports fair competition by holding all companies accountable to the same rules. For more information please consult the European Commission website at: CE marking
About Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Saudi Food & Drug Authority (“SFDAâ€)
The Saudi Food & Drug Authority (SFDA) is the government agency that regulates drugs and medical devices in Saudi Arabia. It is also in charge of biological and chemical substances, as well as electronic products. The agency was established under the Council of Ministers and functions under the Council of Ministers as an independent body that reports to the President of Council of Ministers.
SFDA is in charge of overseeing the safety, security and effectiveness of medical devices, ensuring their accuracy, and controlling and supervising manufacturing facilities, as well as overseeing the importation and registration of these products.
A list of regulations can be found here on SFDA website.
About 1drop Inc.
1drop is located in Jungwon-gu, South Korea, and was incorporated in 2017 following a technology spin-off from Samsung Electronic’s C-Lab program. Samsung Electronic’s C-Lab, located in South Korea is an internal incubation program that first started in 2012 to help inspire a more creative company culture. 1drop already had more than five products approved in Europe in the past 18 month under CE marking is a certification.
For more information please consult the website at: 1drop
About Datametrex
Datametrex AI Limited is a technology focused company with exposure to Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning through its wholly owned subsidiary, Nexalogy (www.nexalogy.com). Additional information on Datametrex is available at www.datametrex.com
For further information, please contact:
Marshall Gunter – CEO Phone: (514) 295-2300 Email: [email protected]
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor it’s Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information†within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as “mayâ€, “willâ€, “expectâ€, “likelyâ€, “shouldâ€, “wouldâ€, “planâ€, “anticipateâ€, “intendâ€, “potentialâ€, “proposedâ€, “estimateâ€, “believe†or the negative of these terms, or other similar words, expressions and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions “may†or “will†happen, or by discussions of strategy.
Readers are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this press release and is based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations and opinions of management on the date such forward-looking information is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 9:45 PM on Sunday, May 10th, 2020
SPONSOR: Hollister Biosciences Inc. (HOLL:CSE) A vertically integrated cannabis company with products in 220 California dispensaries and joint ventures, licensing agreement & partnerships with global brands. The company recently closed $20 MILLION deal with Venom Extracts adding $CDN 16.4 million in revenue and $CDN 2.48 million in EBITDA. Learn More
How The Cannabis Industry Is Coping In 2020
Canada and most U.S. states with legalized cannabis industries declared dispensaries as essential services, allowing sales to continue throughout the COVID-19 crisis, enabling robust demand to be met
Even with strong sales momentum, cannabis stocks broadly suffered during the quarter amid heightened market volatility
Early-stage cannabis companies rely heavily on external capital to fuel their growth ambitions, but investors are stepping back from financing riskier industries in the current environment
Despite these near-term challenges, we remain optimistic on the longer-term prospects for cannabis as its acceptance grows
Amid widespread COVID-19-related retail store closures, many cannabis dispensaries received “essential business” designations. This allowed cannabis consumers to stock up on medicinal and recreational cannabis, fueling strong sales figures despite a tumultuous Q1 2020. Yet, even with strong sales momentum, cannabis stocks broadly suffered during the quarter amid heightened market volatility. Early-stage cannabis companies rely heavily on external capital to fuel their growth ambitions, but investors are stepping back from financing riskier industries in the current environment. Some cannabis companies are now running low on cash, forcing them to sell stakes at undesirable valuations or scale back operations or staffing.
Despite these near-term challenges, we remain optimistic on the longer-term prospects for cannabis as its acceptance grows. New store openings and the sale of edibles are helping to fuel greater legal consumption. In addition, COVID-19’s economic impact is broadly hurting tax revenues at the local, state, and federal level, potentially providing greater impetus to legalize and tax cannabis. With only about 10% of cannabis sales occurring through legal channels, we believe there is substantial opportunity for continued growth across regulated channels.
Is Cannabis A Consumer Staple?
The COVID-19 crisis is plunging the global economy into recession, yet its impact will not be felt equally across industries. During recessions, consumers may forgo discretionary items like jewelry or electronics, but staples such as essential food and beverages tend to see robust sales. Historically, alcohol and tobacco exhibit staples-like characteristics, demonstrating strong sales despite economic weakness. During the global financial crisis, for example, alcohol consumption increased 7.2% in 2008-09 from 2006-07 levels, while total sales in the consumer discretionary sector fell by -9.35% over that time frame.1,2
Legalized cannabis did not exist during the Great Recession, but recent figures suggest cannabis sales share similar characteristics with alcohol and tobacco. Canada and most U.S. states with legalized cannabis industries declared dispensaries as essential services, allowing sales to continue throughout the COVID-19 crisis, enabling robust demand to be met.
Online cannabis purchases in Ontario have surged from 5,000 orders in mid-March to 9,000 orders by mid-April.3
Oregon’s cannabis sales increased 37% year over year in March, its highest single-month increase.4
Between March 16th and March 22nd, year-over-year sales of recreational cannabis across key US markets, including California, Colorado, Oregon and Alaska, were up 50%.5
One of Nevada’s largest cannabis delivery businesses reported a 400% increase in cannabis retail deliveries since March 20th.6
While lockdown may have accelerated cannabis demand, cannabis sales were already on an accelerating path. January and February sales numbers in Canada increased 181% year-over-year to C$154 million and 190% to C$150 million.7 Estimates from Cannabis Benchmarks for March sales show a spike to C$216 million, more than three times March 2019’s sales of C$59 million.8
The shift towards greater cannabis acceptance has spurred much of this growth. Cannabis consumers among the legal adult population in Canada grew to 63% at the end of 2019 from 54% in 2018.9
Canada’s new recreational cannabis market, dubbed Rec 2.0, is also fueling growth. Rec 2.0 officially launched at the end of 2019, almost a year after legalization in Canada. Before Rec 2.0, only dried flower and oil were products sold, but now the sale of cannabis beverages, edibles and vapes, among other forms, is permitted. Derivative formats like these account for almost half of sales in mature and developed markets such as Colorado, showing how Rec 2.0 could play a major role in accelerating cannabis sales in Canada. Aurora Cannabis (ACB), for example, recently mentioned that approximately 20% of total sales could come from Rec 2.0 products.10 OrganiGram Holdings (OGI) also reported new Rec 2.0 products to account for 13% of total revenue in its most recent quarter.11
New Store Openings Grow Legal Cannabis’s Market Share
Curbing illicit cannabis sales is on the agenda for many governments around the world. Globally, legal cannabis sales reached $15 billion at the end of 2019, which is less than 10% of the estimated total market of $160 billion.12 Such low penetration both demonstrates the growth opportunity ahead as well as highlights some of the challenges for the legal market. In Canada, for instance, limited dispensary licenses plays a major factor, as recreational cannabis sales per capita are highly correlated to the number of stores.
In Q1 2020, Canada opened 191 new stores, bringing its total to 806.13 Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, now has 52 stores, versus just 27 at the end of 2019. But the few dozen stores represent just four per 1 million people. For comparison, Colorado has 180 stores for every 1 million people.14 The store comparison between the two countries is notable, as further licenses should help meet consumer demand and promote greater legal sales.
Within the U.S., active dispensary licenses are up 5.5% year-to-date, with 385 new stores opening around the country.15 Yet, given that the US has nine times more dispensary licenses than Canada, more stores is a less critical factor than wider legalization across populous states or at the broader federal level.
Cannabis Industry Leveraging E-commerce To Further Grow Sales
Oftentimes, crises breed both new problems and new solutions. During this social distancing era, Colorado legalized online sales of recreational cannabis, fulfilling a longstanding request from cannabis companies.16 Cannabis consumers can now order, pay online and pick up at-store. A few other states – Massachusetts, Illinois, Michigan and Oregon – already allow cannabis e-commerce.
In Canada, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) authorized cannabis retail stores to offer e-commerce solutions, starting April 7th.17 E-commerce authorization resulted from an emergency order by the Government of Ontario to deter illegal cannabis sales amid physical distance mandates. For now, the measure is temporary, but it includes the possibility of extension.
Financing Cannabis’s Growth
Early-stage industries tend to rely on the capital markets to fund growth. The phenomenon describes a healthy dynamic between those with capital to invest and those seeking capital for growth. The cannabis industry is particularly dependent on capital, as growing, harvesting, packaging and distribution require property, equipment and employees. With high growth expectations, cannabis companies tend to plow their freshly raised capital into various parts of the ecosystem, leaving little cash available to weather a storm. The constant need for new financing can expose weaker companies that may need to raise capital at undesirable terms, or worse, cannot raise additional capital at all.
HEXO Corp. (HEXO), for example, a leading cannabis grower in Canada, recently closed a C$46 million public offering but was forced to sell its equity 20% below its last traded price.18 Other larger players have followed suit, like Tilray (TLRY), which raised C$90 also at a 20% discount.19
There are companies, however, with strong cash positions that may be able to weather this challenging financing environment better than others. Canopy Growth Corp. (CGC) and Cronos Group (CRON) both have over $1 billion in cash & equivalents on their balance sheets. GW Pharmaceuticals (GWPH) holds over $500 million in cash & equivalents. Balance sheet strength allows these companies to potentially wait longer before needing to raise additional outside capital.
COVID-19 Could Expedite Cannabis Legalization
In our article “Themes for Defensive Positioning,” we highlighted that economic downturns can accelerate efforts to find new sources of economic stimulus and tax revenue. Legalizing (and taxing) recreational cannabis is one such avenue states could pursue given its track record of generating economic growth and taxes. Estimates hold that nationwide legalization in the U.S. could generate $132 billion in aggregate tax revenue and more than a million new jobs across the country by 2025.20 Such growth comes not from an unproven, speculative market, but from the conversion of a largely illicit market to a legal, regulated one. Such taxes and economic growth could be particularly welcome given stalling economic growth and swelling debt caused by COVID-19.
This year, several states could legalize recreational use. Virginia recently decriminalized cannabis, joining 27 other states that have taken such actions.21 The bill doesn’t legalize cannabis sales yet, but Virginia’s Governor is also clearing the path for easier access for medicinal uses.22 In New Jersey, lawmakers voted to add legalization to November’s ballot. Should the bill pass, it could add additional pressure to neighboring New York and Connecticut.
Illinois, where legalized cannabis went into effect in January, is the most recent model other states could follow. Illinois has the second-highest tax regime on cannabis sales in the country, where taxes vary from 10% to 25%.23 In Q1, Illinois cannabis stores sold $110 million, generating at least $11 million in tax revenues. Another benchmark is Colorado, which legalized cannabis in 2014. In Q1 2020, Colorado generated $79 million in tax revenue from cannabis-related sales.24 In 2019 alone, the state collected over $300 million in tax revenue, which was earmarked for cannabis regulation, research and schools.25
With a global recession looming, the economic benefits of legalized cannabis could be too enticing for states, provinces and countries to ignore.
Conclusion
The recent increase in cannabis sales in the U.S. and Canada since COVID-19 reflects the non-cyclical nature of cannabis sales. While some cannabis companies may struggle from lack of access to capital during this volatile period, the stronger ones could continue to see substantial growth as they meet robust consumer demand. Trends in new dispensary openings, a shift to e-commerce, and the introduction of new consumable forms of cannabis should further fuel growth across North America. Longer term, the potential for further legalization efforts amid the COVID-19 crisis should provide a tailwind to the industry.
Related ETFs
POTX: The Global X Cannabis ETF seeks to invest in companies across the cannabis industry. This includes companies involved in the legal production, growth and distribution of cannabis and industrial hemp, as well as those involved in providing financial services to the cannabis industry, pharmaceutical applications of cannabis, cannabidiol (i.e., CBD), or other related uses including but not limited to extracts, derivatives or synthetic versions.
Please click on the fund name for current holdings.
Footnotes
1. Jacob Bor, et al. “Alcohol Use During the Great Recession of 2008-2009,” January 29, 2013.
2. U.S. Census Bureau. Discretionary sales including retail sales of Motor Vehicles & Parts, Furnitures, Electronics & Appliances, Clothing, Sporting Goods, General Merchandise, and Miscellaneous Stores. Accessed on April 2020.
3. Cannabis Benchmarks, “Canada Cannabis Spot Index (CCSI)”, April 17, 2020.
4. Willamette Week, “Oregon Cannabis Sales in March Were the Highest Ever for a Single Month,” April 6, 2020.
5. New York Post, “Cannabis sales hit new highs in US and Canada,” March 24, 2020
6. Reno Gazette Journal, “Nevada marijuana deliveries are skyrocketing. Is this the new normal for the pot industry?,” March 30, 2020.
7. Statistics Canada, “Cannabis Stores Sales,” Accessed on April 2020.
8. Cannabis Benchmarks, (n3).
9. BDS Analytics, “How Will “Cannabis 2.0″ Affect the Legal Canadian Market?,” February 18, 2020.
16. The Colorado Sun, “Coronavirus fuels marijuana industry’s push for online sales, delivery in Colorado,” April 13, 2020.
17. Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, “Ontario Allows Cannabis Delivery and Curbside Pick-up from Authorized Retail Stores During COVID-19,” April 7, 2020.
18. Hexo Corp, “HEXO Corp. Closes $46 Million Underwritten Public Offering,” April 13, 2020.
19. Tilray, “Tilray, Inc. Announces Pricing of its $90.4 Million Registered Offering,” March 13, 2020.
20. The Washington Post, “Study: Legal marijuana could generate more than $132 billion in federal tax revenue and 1 million jobs,” January 10, 2018.
21. Leafly, “Virginia just decriminalized marijuana. Here’s what that means,” April 13, 2020.
22. Marijuana Moment, “Virginia Governor Urges Medical Marijuana Expansion As Amendment To Recently Approved Bill,” April 15, 2020.
23. Illinois Policy, “What you need to know about marijuana legalization in Illinois?,” January 1, 2020.
24. Colorado Department of Revenue, “Marijuana Tax Data,” April 2020.
25. Ibis.
Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. The investable universe of companies in which POTX may invest may be limited. The Fund invests in securities of companies engaged in Healthcare and Pharmaceutical sectors. These sectors can be affected by government regulations, expiring patents, rapid product obsolescence, and intense industry competition. International investments may involve risk of capital loss from unfavorable fluctuation in currency values, from differences in generally accepted accounting principles or from social, economic or political instability in other nations. POTX is non-diversified.
POTX’s investments are concentrated in the cannabis industry, and the Fund may be susceptible to loss due to adverse occurrences affecting this industry. The cannabis industry is a very young, fast evolving industry with increased exposure to the risks associated with changes in applicable laws (including increased regulation, other rule changes, and related federal and state enforcement activities), as well as market developments, which may cause businesses to contract or close suddenly and negatively impact the value of securities held by the Fund. Cannabis Companies are subject to various laws and regulations that may differ at the state/local, federal and international level. These laws and regulations may significantly affect a Cannabis Company’s ability to secure financing and traditional banking services, impact the market for cannabis business sales and services, and set limitations on cannabis use, production, transportation, export and storage. The possession, use and importation of marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law. Federal law criminalizing the use of marijuana remains enforceable notwithstanding state laws that legalize its use for medicinal and recreational purposes. This conflict creates volatility and risk for all Cannabis Companies, and any stepped-up enforcement of marijuana laws by the federal government could adversely affect the value of the Fund’s investments. Given the uncertain nature of the regulation of the cannabis industry in the United States, the Fund’s investment in certain entities could, under unique circumstances, raise issues under one or more of those laws, and any investigation or prosecution related to those investments could result in expense and losses to the Fund.
Shares of ETFs are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. Brokerage commissions will reduce returns. Global X NAVs are calculated using prices as of 4:00 PM Eastern Time. The closing price is the Mid-Point between the Bid and Ask price as of the close of exchange. Closing price returns do not represent the returns you would receive if you traded shares at other times. Indices are unmanaged and do not include the effect of fees, expenses or sales charges. One cannot invest directly in an index.
Since the Fund’s shares did not trade in the secondary market until several days after the Fund’s inception, for the period from inception to the first day of secondary market trading in Shares, the NAV of the Fund is used to calculate market returns.
Global X Management Company LLC serves as an advisor to Global X Funds. The Funds are distributed by SEI Investments Distribution Co. (SIDCO), which is not affiliated with Global X Management Company LLC or Mirae Asset Global Investments. Global X Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by Solactive AG, nor does Solactive AG make any representations regarding the advisability of investing in the Global X Funds. Neither SIDCO, Global X nor Mirae Asset Global Investments are affiliated with Solactive AG.
Tags: Cannabis, CBD, CSE, Hemp, small cap, tsx, tsx-v, weed Posted in Hollister Biosciences | Comments Off on How The #Cannabis Industry Is Coping In 2020 – SPONSOR: Hollister Biosciences $HOLL.ca $WEED.ca $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $OGI.ca $FAF.ca
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 9:30 PM on Sunday, May 10th, 2020
SPONSOR: Esports Entertainment Group(GMBL:NASDAQ) – Millions of people from around the world tune in to watch teams of video game players compete with each other. In first quarter 2020, YouTube reported 1.1 billion hours watched, an increase of 13% when compared to fourth quarter 2019. Wagering on Esports is projected to hit $23 BILLION this year although that number will likely be eclipsed due to the recent pandemic. Esports Entertainment Group is the next generation online gambling company designed for the purpose of facilitating as much of this wagering as possible. LEARN MORE.
CSGO has a million active players, is CSGO the best esports for tournaments?
With over a million active players playing CSGO it’s a huge game and with over 450 million esports fans worldwide. Of these 450 million fans 201 million are active players from League of Legends, Dota 2 and CSGO.
CSGO only recently hit the 1 million milestone. Previously at 950,000 and jumped to 1 million active users. In areas like China, CSGO is unpopular but the game is still clearly the most popular.
Looking at CSGO with Asiabet.org, sites like these offer a wide range of games and reviews that show how much esports fans love esports betting.
Big tournaments in the CSGO Esport universe provide the ability to inspire and improve your style by seeing the incredible talents of athletes representing your favourite team.
Please enjoy this list of the next CSGO 2020 tournaments if you share our enthusiasm. Don’t forget – the list is in progress, and when it is publicly released, we will include updates on other contests according to the CSGO tournament schedule.
Many tournaments have different formats, however, esports platforms have data on each match and data on all teams.
Most pro players do not only use different skins to customise their characters but also to personalise csgo settings.
List of the most-watched CSGO tournaments:
ESL One Cologne (506,000 viewers)
IEM Katowice (1,200,000)
StarLadder Berlin (838,000)
These tournaments see millions of views following the tournament due to esports fans not being able to watch the tournament live.
What is CSGO?
CSGO or lengthened to Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is the Valve and Secret Path Entertainment squad focused the first-person shooter, published in 2012. The name itself was a standalone game developed in 1999 and eventually adapted into a Valve game series.
Players play the role of a terrorist or counter-terrorist with each side having a particular task to achieve before they are eliminated by the opposing team, or according to the full timeline, such as, for example, planting and protecting a bomb on a specific location, while counter-terrorist agents must destroy the terrorists before they can be planted or re-armed
Esports fills the gap while sports declines
In recent years, global recognition on a different stage has been influenced by esports clubs, competitions and matches. The result was that the marketers were looking more and more at the sporting industry in the same way as they consider conventional American sport like basketball and football.
Earlier in this year, we saw leading brands like Nike, BT, and Kia Motors all partner with sports teams at Louis Vuitton’s then planned 2020 League of Legends World Championships.
With the advent of the pandemic of coronavirus, athletics have now another feature where the sporting industry maintains: widespread suspension of live activities and all the resulting destruction.
But one distinction with esports is that it is fairly well placed to change to the pandemic environment, given its increasing popularity for filling stages and arenas around the world. Live sporting competitions can be moved online very quickly, unlike conventional sporting. Even though IEM Katowice is absent from his usual live crowd, the annual Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO) game event set a new crowd record in early March, making it one of the most highly watched major tournaments ever.
It can only be the solution for the millions of fans whose regular activities are now held. Announcers are informed. So why are companies only just coming on board if they should have had an edge in the first mover?
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 9:00 PM on Sunday, May 10th, 2020
SPONSOR: New Age Metals Inc. The company owns one of North America’s largest primary platinum group metals deposits in Sudbury, Canada. The company has an updated NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate of 2,867,000 PdEq Measured and Indicated Ounces, with an additional 1,059,000 PdEq Ounces Inferred. Learn More.
BAML sees platinum, palladium deficit this year as South Africa production losses bite
There is likely to be a deficit of platinum and palladium this year after a COVID-19 lockdown in South Africa, the world’s biggest platinum producer, forced mines to shut, analysts at Bank of America Merrill Lynch predicted on Friday
While demand for platinum group metals, which are mainly used in cars and jewellery, has also plummeted due to the global pandemic, the analysts said they expect demand to rebound, while mine production will take months to build back up.
By Helen Reid; Editing by Mark Potter
In South Africa, which produces 78% of the world’s platinum and 36% of palladium according to BAML, a strict lockdown to stop the spread of COVID-19 forced most mines to shut from March 27.
Though the government allowed mines to restart at up to 50% capacity from April 16, BAML analysts predict it will take six months for production to ramp back up to pre-pandemic levels.
“Our base line assumption is that output runs at 50% in May and June, before rising to capacity by December,” they wrote in a note dated May 7 but distributed to media on May 8.
“Putting it all together, we anticipate that both platinum and palladium will be in deficit this year. As such, we remain bullish the white metals into year-end.”
South Africa’s biggest platinum miners have cut production guidance for 2020 and announced production losses due to the lockdown.
Anglo American Platinum said quarterly production decreased by 7%, while Impala Platinum reported a 6% drop.
Analysts are split on how the demand-supply dynamics will play out: Citi on Wednesday predicted platinum group metals prices could fall 15-20% due to a “rising surplus”.
Platinum prices are down 20% since the start of the year, while palladium prices have fallen 3.6%.
Tags: CSE, palladium, PGM, PGM Demand, tsx Posted in New Age Metals | Comments Off on BAML sees #platinum, #palladium deficit this year as South Africa production losses bite – SPONSOR: New Age Metals $NAM.ca $WG.ca $XTM.ca $WM.ca $PDL.ca $GLEN #PGM
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 8:43 PM on Sunday, May 10th, 2020
Loncor Resources ( LN:TSX ) is the preeminent gold exploration company to own. Armed with a Barrick JV on their 200km NGAYU Greenstone property anticipates a maiden drill program on multiple targets in 2020. Loncor controls 3.6 million ounces of high grade gold outside of this relationship.
If the JV and Ounces aren’t enough to grab your attention, then look at ownership; African Majors own impressive pieces of Loncor:
Resolute Mining owns 27% and has a 30% ROFR on any Loncor financing,Â
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 6:12 PM on Thursday, May 7th, 2020
SPONSOR: Else Nutrition Holdings Inc. (TSX-V: BABY)The award winning, plant-based nutrition company for small cap investors. The company has a $10,000,000 cash balance for US product launch In Q2 2020 with International agreements in Q3. Learn More
My Search for the Healthiest Baby Formula
by Robin Barrie Kaiden, MS, RD, CDN
Robin Barrie Kaiden, MS, RD, CDN is renowned for helping people of all ages embrace a healthier lifestyle through nutrition and fitness counseling. As a Licensed Registered Dietitian and Personal Trainer, her smart and sensible approach to pediatrics, weight loss, sports nutrition, allergies, cardiovascular health, pre/post natal, and other areas of clinical and lifestyle nutrition has resonated with hundreds of people across the United States. Robin received her B.S. and M.S. degrees in Nutrition and Exercise Science from Cornell and Columbia Universities.
A Personal Note from this Pediatric Registered Dietitian and Mom
When I began working as a Registered Dietitian in Pediatric Nutrition over 15 years ago, we, of course, were taught, and shared with patients, that breast milk was the best, healthiest option for feeding babies. When that wasn’t possible, sufficient, or babies were being weaned, I knew that there were a variety of infant and toddler formulas available. We could recommend:
Pre-term infant formula: higher calories and minerals for infants born early
Standard term infant formula: intact milk protein
Gentle/sensitive formulas: whey protein in milk partially broken down
Soy-based formulas: for those with milk intolerance, noting that over 50% of infants who don’t tolerate dairy, also do not tolerate soy protein
Hydrolyzed formulas: proteins are mostly, but not completely broken down
Elemental formulas: proteins completely broken down for severe milk allergies
At this point in my career, I did not study the ingredients of each, but rather selected the best option available to best aid in tolerance, intake and growth for the child. There always seemed to be one that worked well…..at least well enough. The biggest problem with the hydrolyzed and elemental formulas was that they smelled and tasted terrible, and babies often refused to drink them.
Over 8 years ago, when I was pregnant with my first baby, I began to examine the healthiest baby formula options more in depth. I discovered that not much had changed in this industry, except that there were a couple of organic options. After discussing with a colleague, I decided on a formula. When my son was less than a week old, this product was recalled due to high arsenic levels. Plus, it seemed to upset his stomach. When my baby nurse suggested a non-organic, but “gentle†formula, I (reluctantly) agreed. I disliked that it had corn syrup (processed inflammatory sugar) as one of the main ingredients, but I was a new mom, overwhelmed, and figured she had so much experience and knew what she was talking about. Plus, my pediatrician agreed as well. A few weeks later, I just went back to the only other organic option on the market, and my son seemed to tolerate it well enough. It was the best I could find at that time.
When it came time to find the healthiest baby formula for my second child, almost 2.5 years later, I become aware that there were some European products that had better ingredients. However, it was pretty difficult and expensive to get these in the U.S. back then. I took comfort in the fact that my baby would be able to get great nutrition in the form of real food within about 4-5 months, and wean off formula totally at 1 year. But all I could think was that I would love to create a new healthy baby formula myself. Why hadn’t someone come up with a better alternative yet? Aren’t the infant and toddler stages the most important as they are developing and growing so rapidly? Why wouldn’t everyone want offer the best possible nutrients to this group, if/when/after breast milk was not an option.
My children are now in elementary school and the infant/toddler formula industry is still, in my opinion extremely limited. I was thrilled to hear about Else Nutrition, and flattered to consult on their timely products. Formulation of plant-based products is way overdue. In the wake of a huge movement towards plant-based and plant-forward diets, due to increased research and interest, Else is a wonderful product to support infant and toddler Nutrition. Read on to learn about all of its positive attributes.
Benefits of Else Plant-Based Formula Alternative
Choose Else Nutrition because it is:
Organic: This means that the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) has determined that the ingredients in this healthy baby formula are free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), fungicides, herbicides, and pesticides. Organic practices result in enhanced soil and water quality and, in general, more overall sustainable farming (1). Translation: Organic foods are beneficial for our environment. Research has shown that organic produce is more nutritious: It has higher levels of antioxidants and lower levels of toxic metals (such as Cadmium). Increased exposure to pesticides has been shown to increase risk for ADHD, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, and some cancers (2). The effects of chemicals used in conventional farming may be more detrimental to the small developing brains and bodies of babies/children than to those of adults.
Glyphosate-free: Yes, the USDA Organic Label is important, however, it may not be enough today. It ensures that crops are GMO-free, but this doesn’t mean a product is 100% free of pesticides. Glyphosate is an herbicide (pesticide) that is carcinogenic (can cause cancer). Final organic food products are often NOT tested. The USDA does not check for glyphosate residue. The buckwheat and almond sources in Else formulas are glyphosate-free.
Made from clean ingredients: Else formulas are simple and pure. Almonds, buckwheat, and tapioca make up about 92% of the product. The ingredient list is short and easy to understand. There are no added unhealthy oils, inflammatory sugar/corn syrups, artificial sweeteners, or gums/stabilizers/fillers than can upset small bellies. For moms looking to supplement breast milk or wean their children after 1 year of age, it may seem that there are many dairy-free milk substitutes and products on the market today; however, none are quite right for little developing brains and bodies. They are not nearly as nutritionally dense as breast milk (or full-fat dairy milk). They may be low-fat, low in protein, and other nutrients, and often contain added sugars and fillers as mentioned above. They are simply NOT appropriate, and in fact, unhealthy as a foundation for a toddler’s diet. This is especially true for vegans and/or those who truly cannot tolerate dairy protein.
Pleasantly mild in flavor: When babies are weaned off breast milk and/or need a supplement or substitute for human or cow’s milk, they are more likely to accept a drink/formula that tastes great (they are indeed little humans). Other formulas may not be as mild. In fact, the hydrolyzed/elemental formulas have a reputation of smelling bad and tasting worse. Such formulas may be indicated for little ones with dairy allergies and intolerances, and digested well; however, if the child will not drink due to the smell/taste, this can be an issue.
Vegan/Plant-based: In case you haven’t noticed, there has been a huge buzz surrounding “plant-based†and “plant-forward†nutrition. This is not new news to us health professionals. We have always known that a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fiber, and healthy fats were integral for good health. The research is finally catching up. We now know that our microbiome (the collection of microorganisms-bacteria, fungi, viruses-that live in/on the human body) can benefit our health, especially immunity, aging, digestion, metabolism, mood and mental health. We can best benefit our microbiome by consuming a diet rich in a variety of plant-based foods. Why not start our little ones on such a diet with a plant-based formula?! Research shows that children on a predominantly plant-based diet have increased microbial biodiversity and richness (3).
Dairy-Free and Soy-free: Infants and toddlers with food allergies, intolerances, and/or sensitivities simply cannot tolerate many formulas on the market today. The incidence of food allergies is on the rise in children and adults. According to the Mayo Clinic: “Food allergy is an immune system reaction that occurs soon after eating a certain food. Even a tiny amount of the allergy-causing food can trigger signs and symptoms such as digestive problems, hives or swollen airways. In some people, a food allergy can cause severe symptoms or even a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis.â€(4) Cow’s milk is the most allergenic food for in children in the U.S. (followed by peanuts, eggs and soy). Most of the formulas on the market are based on cow’s milk.
Else’s products can be tolerated by children with dairy and soy allergies and sensitivities. Anaphylaxis due to almond or buckwheat allergy is very rare (<1% and 1% of anaphylaxis cases in children respectively) with numbers well below egg, wheat, fish, goat/sheep’s milk, lentils, cashew, and peanut.
Also, just as an update and reminder about almonds: recent research demonstrates that delaying introduction of potential allergenic foods (wheat, dairy, eggs, fish and nuts) may actually increase the risk of food allergies and/ or eczema. The American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology (AAAAI) now recommends they be introduced without delay, and not wait up to 1-3 years of age, as advised in the past (5).
Nutrient composition matches breast milk: We all know that breast milk is the gold standard for feeding infants. However, if and when it is not possible, and/or a child requires supplementation or is being weaned, Else Nutrition provides a formula with nutrients that match that of breast milk. The macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, and protein) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are the same in Else formula-even though Else is a vegan product. Moms and caregivers can be confident that their babies are being nourished while they slowly learn how to eat solids.
Created and supported by the best team: These formulas were created by leaders in the infant and toddler nutrition industry. Their formulation and ingredients have been tested, approved, and supported by pediatricians, gastroenterologists, registered dietitians, and MOMS and DADS!
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 10:39 AM on Thursday, May 7th, 2020
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Online education now a new normal for govt, edtech platforms
As millions of kids take online school classes from home globally including in India, government along with private education sector have a great responsibility to offer online e-Learning to more than 60 million college students and 1.5 billion school students worldwide, experts said on Thursday
Private colleges in India which were already offering online education for last two decades now have a massive surge in e-Learning demand to meet.
“e-Learning or online education is the new normal. In future, we will see the proliferation of information technology tools and gadgets, post-COVID-19. But internet and broadband will remain an issue,” said Professor NK Goyal, Vice Chairman, ITU APT India and former adviser of Gujarat Technological University.
If e-Learning apps like BYJU’s and Khan academy are targeting schools, others like Adda24x7 are offering specialised coaching for entrance exams like IIT and JEE.
Robust connectivity is undoubtedly critical for the success of e-Learning.
According to Rajan S Mathews, DG, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), post COVID-19, there will be a surge in online education by schools and colleges in the country.
“The telecom industry is fully prepared with 99.9 per cent network capacity. The telecom companies have taken appropriate measures to meet the surge in traffic due to online education and other online activities using telecom infrastructure,” said Mathews.
Union Human Resources and Development (HRD) Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank recently said that the government is offering a slew of educational applications and platforms for both school and higher education institutes.
In addition to teachers, Nishank urged parents and students to make maximum use of online education to ensure their academic continuity is maintained.
The World University of Design (WUD) claims that it has collected materials for online learning across its courses during the last one year.
“WUD is using technology-enabled AI, supervision technologies and video conferencing and other tools to enable virtual learning. This includes a mix of online platforms for sharing files, conducting meetings and lectures in association with online services iamp; resource providers like Coursera, Bloomsbury, EBSCO etc. as partners in its strategy,” said Dr Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor, World University of Design (WUD).
