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RBC $RY.ca Report: #Crypto and #Blockchain Could Unlock $10 Trillion Market $IDK.ca #Blockstation #Bitcoin #Ethereum $HIVE.ca $BLOC.ca $CODE.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 10:27 AM on Thursday, January 4th, 2018
Jan 3, 2018 at 19:15 UTC
  • Research analyst at the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) sees cryptocurrency, blockchain technology and decentralization as a potential $10 trillion ecosystem
  • Mitch Steves, an equities analyst with RBC’s Capital Markets subsidiary, laid out his bull case for why the future of transactional services will ultimately be decentralized
  • “While the cryptocurrency space has many risks, the opportunity appears vast with constant technology updates,” he wrote

In a new report released Wednesday, Mitch Steves, an equities analyst with RBC’s Capital Markets subsidiary, laid out his bull case for why the future of transactional services will ultimately be decentralized. “While the cryptocurrency space has many risks, the opportunity appears vast with constant technology updates,” he wrote.

Though startups that enable cryptocurrency protocols to serve as decentralized alternatives to proprietary services or as a means of transmitting remittances have garnered the most interest throughout the ecosystem’s formative years, Steves argues that the protocol layer (on which these services will be built) is where most of the value will be realized.

“We see that the protocol layer will capture more value than the applications,” he wrote, adding:

“As the application becomes successful, the protocol layer captures more value, which then creates more interest in additional decentralized application development.”

As such, the comments echo the fat protocol theory put forward by Union Square Ventures, which states value creation on decentralized cryptocurrencies will occur at the lower infrastructure layers.

The report also asserts that the market for cryptocurrency mining is here to stay, arguing that there currently exists an at least $4.2 billion market for bitcoin mining equipment with an additional $350-$450 million for other ASIC-mined cryptocurrencies like bitcoin cash and another $1.9 billion market for GPU-mined coins like ethereum and monero.

Notably, the report argues that decentralized technology in its current state is misunderstood and underrated, claiming that cryptocurrencies are becoming better able to handle an increasing number of transactions. In particular, Steves sees the Lightning Network as a tool to enable more than a million transactions per second on bitcoin.

Still, scalability, along with government intervention and the creation of more sophisticated wallet hacking techniques, was identified as one of the key risks facing the ecosystem.

Continued progress on these fronts, however, will be a boon for the development and mainstream adoption of a global supercomputer, whether it be ethereum-based or on an alternative, provided that blockchain’s impeccable security record remains spotless, Steves said.

“As scaling and protocols mature, the value of a decentralized world computer could potentially become a multi-trillion dollar industry,” Steves wrote, concluding: “If there’s one positive technology item we can agree on, it’s that the blockchain has never been hacked. What happens if we build on top of this secure layer?”

Source: https://www.coindesk.com/crypto-blockchain-create-10-trillion-market-rbc-analyst-says/

ThreeD Capital $IDK.ca Updates Strategic Plans $HIVE.ca $BLOC.ca $CODE.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 8:17 AM on Thursday, January 4th, 2018

Threed capital

  • Announced the creation of a special purpose division within its wholly owned subsidiary Blockamoto.io Corp
  • Specifically invest in a number of strategic tokens and Initial Coin Offerings (“ICO”) especially those which are protocol based
  • cryptocurrency portfolio is primarily a simplified vehicle for investing in the complex emerging cryptocurrency market, while taking advantage of the expertise of Blockamoto.io’s team of advisors

TORONTO, Jan. 04, 2018 — ThreeD Capital Inc. (the “Company”) (CSE:IDK), a Canadian-based venture capital firm focused on investments in promising, early stage companies with disruptive capabilities, is pleased to announce the creation of a special purpose division within its wholly owned subsidiary Blockamoto.io Corp. (see previous announcements October 26, 2017 and December 19, 2017) to specifically invest in a number of strategic tokens and Initial Coin Offerings (“ICO”) especially those which are protocol based.

Total cryptocurrency capitalization in the world now exceeds $650 billion US, and the best-known currency of this type being the Bitcoin. Blockamoto.io cryptocurrency investment portfolio will initially invest primarily in the leading cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.  It may also invest in various emerging altcoins, based on strong fundamentals, and could invest into ICOs.

The cryptocurrency portfolio is primarily a simplified vehicle for investing in the complex emerging cryptocurrency market, while taking advantage of the expertise of Blockamoto.io’s team of advisors. Cryptocurrencies may be the opportunity of a generation, as the Internet boom was in the 1990s. The implementation and adoption of this revolutionary technology is still in its infancy.

About ThreeD Capital Inc.

ThreeD is a publicly-traded Canadian-based venture capital firm focused on opportunistic investments in companies in the junior resources, Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain sectors.

ThreeD seeks to invest in early stage, promising companies where it may be the lead investor and can additionally provide investees with advisory services, mentoring and access to the Company’s network in order to earn increases to the Company’s equity stake.

For further information:
Gerry Feldman, CPA, CA
Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary
[email protected]
Phone: 416-606-7655

Namaste $N.ca $NXTTF Live 420 Stream: Latest Press Releases | Aurora Cannabis $ACB.ca – Live Today At 4.20pm EST

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 4:05 PM on Wednesday, January 3rd, 2018

INTERVIEW: Namaste $N.ca $NXTTF Discusses Strategic Private-Label Software and Patient Referral Agreements with Aurora Cannabis $ACB.ca $AERO $CBDS $CGRW $APH.ca $GBLX

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 4:33 PM on Tuesday, January 2nd, 2018

Tetra Bio-Pharma $TBP.ca Enters into Agreement to Acquire Remaining 20% Interest in Phytopain Pharma Subsidiary $AERO $CBDS $CGRW $APH.ca $GBLX #CBD #Marijuana

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 9:13 AM on Tuesday, January 2nd, 2018

Logo tetrabiopharma rgb web

  • Announced that it has entered into a share purchase agreement  with entities controlled by André Rancourt, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corporation, and Guy Chamberland, Chief Scientific Officer of the Corporation
  • Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, Tetra will acquire from the Vendors all of the remaining issued and outstanding common shares of Tetra’s subsidiary, Phytopain Pharma Inc.

OTTAWA, ONTARIO–(Jan. 2, 2018) Tetra – Bio-Pharma Inc. (“Tetra” or the “Corporation“) (TSX VENTURE:TBP)(OTCQB:TBPMF), a global leader in cannabinoid-based drug development, today announced that it has entered into a share purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement“) with entities controlled by André Rancourt, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corporation, and Guy Chamberland, Chief Scientific Officer of the Corporation (collectively, the “Vendors“).

Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, Tetra will acquire from the Vendors all of the remaining issued and outstanding common shares of Tetra’s subsidiary, Phytopain Pharma Inc. (“PPP“), currently held by the Vendors (representing 20% of the issued and outstanding shares of PPP) for an aggregate purchase price (the “Purchase Price“) of $12,425,089 (the “Transaction“). Upon completion of the Transaction, PPP will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tetra.

“Upon completion, this transaction will be a significant milestone for Tetra Bio-Pharma and all our stakeholders,” said Bernard Fortier, Tetra’s CEO.

“The two selling shareholders – our Chairman and our Chief Scientific Officer – are both committed to the long-term success of Tetra as evidenced by their agreement to accept shares in Tetra in lieu of an all- cash transaction. As well, a percentage of those shares are going to be released once certain key milestones for the company have been reached,” he said.

“This transaction will allow Tetra to gain 100% control of Phytopain Pharma, a key asset in the development of our pipeline of cannabinoid-based drugs and gives our company full flexibility to enter into other partnerships or agreements in the future.”

The Transaction is subject to customary closing conditions including, but not limited to, approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV“) and any other approval that may be required by the TSXV.

The Transaction

Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, the Purchase Price for the Transaction is comprised of the following:

  • Cash: An aggregate cash payment of $248,000 (the “Cash Payment“). Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, the Cash Payment is payable in escrow as of the signature of the Purchase Agreement and has been paid to the Vendors’ legal counsel in trust for the Vendors pending receipt of approval for the Transaction from the TSXV. In addition, Tetra has agreed to pay the Vendors, immediately upon signature of the Purchase Agreement, a non-refundable amount of $200,000, payable out of the funds available for the Cash Payment, to induce the Vendors to provide an exclusivity of negotiation to the Purchaser for the Transaction.
  • Promissory Notes: Promissory notes issued by Tetra to the Vendors in an aggregate principal amount of $2,236,696 (the “Notes“), which Notes are payable in accordance with a specified milestone schedule as described in the Purchase Agreement. Pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, the Notes have been delivered to the Vendors’ legal counsel in trust for the Vendors pending receipt of approval for the Transaction from the TSXV.
  • Tetra Shares: Common shares of Tetra (“Common Shares“) will be issued to the Vendors as follows:
    • Upon completion of the Transaction, an aggregate of 2,485,218 Common Shares will be issued to the Vendors.
    • Upon completion of the Transaction, 7,455,653 Common Shares will be issued to
      Computershare Trust Company of Canada, as escrow agent (the “Escrow Agent“), to be held in escrow and released by the Escrow Agent under the terms and conditions set forth in the Purchase Agreement and the terms and conditions of an escrow agreement to be executed at closing by the Vendors, the Corporation and the Escrow Agent.

The Vendors under the Purchase Agreement are entities controlled by André Rancourt, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corporation, and Guy Chamberland, Chief Scientific Officer of the Corporation and are therefore considered “non-arm’s length parties” under the rules of the TSXV. Mr. Rancourt and Mr. Chamberland have properly disclosed their respective interest in the Transaction to the board of directors of the Corporation.

The Transaction constitutes a “related party transaction” within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101”). While MI 61-101 would generally subject the transaction to minority shareholder approval and formal valuation requirements, the Corporation will avail itself of the exemptions applicable under Section 5.5(a) of MI 61- 101.

Mr. Rancourt currently has ownership or direction and control over (i) an aggregate of 465,000 Common Shares, (ii) 1,600,000 options to acquire Common Shares and (iii) 4,000,000 Common Share purchase warrants, representing approximately 0.37% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non- diluted basis and approximately 4.66% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially diluted basis. Further to the completion of the Transaction, and assuming that all of the Common Shares issued in escrow and allotted to Mr. Rancourt are released to Mr. Rancourt or an affiliate of Mr. Rancourt in accordance with the Purchase Agreement, Mr. Rancourt would then have ownership or direction and control over (i) 5,435,436 Common Shares, (ii) 1,600,000 options to acquire Common Shares and (iii) 4,000,000 Common Share purchase warrants, representing approximately 4.20% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis and approximately 8.17% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares.

Mr. Chamberland currently has ownership or direction and control over (i) an aggregate of 1,250,000 Common Shares, (ii) 350,000 options to acquire Common Shares and (iii) 4,000,000 Common Share purchase warrants, representing approximately 1.00% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis and approximately 4.32% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially diluted basis. Further to the completion of the Transaction, and assuming that all of the Common Shares issued in escrow and allotted to Mr. Chamberland are released to Mr. Chamberland or an affiliate of Mr. Chamberland in accordance with the Purchase Agreement, Mr. Chamberland would then have ownership or direction and control over (i) 6,220,436 Common Shares, (ii) 1,600,000 options to acquire Common Shares and (iii) 4,000,000 Common Share purchase warrants, representing approximately 4.78% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis and approximately 8.70% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares.

Each of Mr. Rancourt and Mr. Chamberland proposes to acquire the common shares for investment purposes, and has no current intention to increase his beneficial ownership of, or control or direction over, securities of Tetra. These investments will be reviewed on a continuing basis and their holdings may be increased or decreased in the future.

The Transaction is subject to customary conditions including, but not limited to, approval of the TSXV. The Transaction has been unanimously approved by Tetra’s board of directors (with André Rancourt abstaining from voting) and Tetra anticipates that the Transaction will be completed in the first quarter of 2018.

About Tetra Bio-Pharma:

Tetra Bio-Pharma (TSX VENTURE:TBP)(OTCQB:TBPMF) is a biopharmaceutical leader in cannabinoid- based drug discovery and clinical development. Tetra is focusing on three core business pillars: clinical research, pharmaceutical promotion and retail commercialization of cannabinoid-based products. More information at: www.tetrabiopharma.com

Source: Tetra Bio-Pharma

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its 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

Some statements in this release may contain forward-looking information. All statements, other than of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Corporation believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements regarding potential acquisitions and financings) are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of the words “may”, “will”, “should”, “continue”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “believe”, “intend”, “plan” or “project” or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Corporation’s ability to control or predict, that may cause the actual results of the Corporation to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, without limitation, the inability of the Corporation, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, GrowPros MMP Inc., to obtain a licence for the production of medical marijuana; failure to obtain sufficient financing to execute the Corporation’s business plan; the success of the Rx Princepsproduct offering and inhalation device; guidance on expected sales volumes associated with the Rx Princepsproduct offering and inhalation device; competition; regulation and anticipated and unanticipated costs and delays, and other risks disclosed in the Corporation’s public disclosure record on file with the relevant securities regulatory authorities. Although the Corporation has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results or events not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Corporation does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities legislation.

Tetra Bio-Pharma Inc.
Bernard Fortier, MBA
Chief Executive Officer
(514) 360-8040 Ext. 206
[email protected]
www.tetrabiopharma.com

Aurora $ACB.ca and Namaste $N.ca $NXTTF to Complete Strategic Private-Label Software and Patient Referral Agreements $AERO $CBDS $CGRW $APH.ca $GBLX

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 7:19 AM on Tuesday, January 2nd, 2018

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  • Namaste will provide CanvasRx with a customized, CanvasRx-branded version of NamasteMD
  • Namaste will provide CanvasRx with a two-year exclusivity period for the private label version of NamsteMD.com in Canada

EDMONTON and VANCOUVER, Jan. 2, 2018 – Aurora Cannabis Inc. (the “Company” or “Aurora”) (TSX: ACB) (OTCQX: ACBFF) (Frankfurt: 21P; WKN: A1C4WM) and Namaste Technologies Inc. (“Namaste”) (CSE: N) (FRANKFURT: M5BQ) (OTCMKTS: NXTTF) today announced the signing of a binding term sheet towards a final Private-Label Software Agreement (“Private Label Agreement”), whereby Namaste will provide Aurora’s wholly-owned subsidiary, CanvasRx Inc. (“CanvasRx”) with a customized version of Namaste’s patient acquisition tool, NamasteMD.com (“NamasteMD”),  as well as desktop and mobile applications for Google Android and Apple iOS platforms. The companies have 30 days to complete a final agreement.

Private Label Agreement

NamasteMD is an online telemedicine platform for patient consultation and registration, bringing together Namaste`s tested technology platform, including certain proprietary authentication technologies, as well as consultation, education and medical document issuance processes. Under the terms of the Private Label Agreement:

  • Namaste will provide CanvasRx with a customized, CanvasRx-branded version of NamasteMD
  • Namaste will provide CanvasRx with a two-year exclusivity period for the private label version of NamsteMD.com in Canada
  • Namaste will initially provide the application for both the Google Android and Apple iOS platforms
  • CanvasRx will require their own doctors and/or nurse practitioners to operate the platform
  • Commercial terms of the agreement are not disclosed
  • In consideration of Aurora’s assistance for the future optimization of NamasteMD, Namaste has issued Aurora 500,000 stock options, exercisable at $3.35 per common share for 48 months, vesting quarterly over 12 months.

Support Services Agreement

In addition, the companies have also signed a non-binding, non-exclusive Letter of Intent to complete a final Consultation & Support Services Agreement (“Consultation Agreement”), whereby Namaste will provide patient referral services to Aurora, where applicable under Canada’s Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes (“ACMPR”) regulations. Under the terms of the Consultation Agreement:

  • Namaste shall provide certain patient-focused education and strain selection services, as well as assistance in preparing the requisite paperwork (Medical Documentation) for registering patients with Aurora
  • The Agreement is non-exclusive for a one-year term
  • Namaste shall provide the services under the agreement on preferential terms to Aurora
  • Commercial terms of the Consultation Agreement are not disclosed

The agreements further strengthen the strategic ties between the two companies, who already collaborate on eCommerce (sale of Namaste-sourced, curated selection of vaporizers through Aurora website, utilizing Namaste’s technology platform), and the distribution of BC Northern Lights products. Once completed, the new agreements will provide Namaste with recurring revenues through the private label platform, while Aurora will be the only licensed producer able to offer Namaste`s streamlined online patient acquisition platform under its own (CanvasRx) brand.

Management Commentary

“NamasteMD provides an innovative and efficient extension to our industry-leading in-person cannabis counseling and education services provided through CanvasRx,” said Terry Booth, CEO. “The new platform will enable us to extend our industry leading patient care to areas where we currently have no physical presence. This will allow us to leverage the strength of both the CanvasRx and Aurora brands, without having to commit to substantial investments in brick and mortar facilities. Namaste is a trusted partner with whom we already successfully collaborate on two promising initiatives, and we look forward to extending our partnership based on innovation and customer care excellence.”

Sean Dollinger, President and CEO of Namaste added, “We are thrilled to have Aurora, the industry’s most innovative and dynamic Licensed Producer, as our preferred strategic partner. Our drive to innovate meets the cannabis industry`s need for reliable technological solutions to improve operational efficiencies and expand the customer experience. We are very proud to be aligned with Aurora’s team, and look forward to executing on our ongoing collaboration.”

About Aurora

Aurora’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Aurora Cannabis Enterprises Inc., is a licensed producer of medical cannabis pursuant to Health Canada’s Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (“ACMPR”). The Company operates a 55,200 square foot, state-of-the-art production facility in Mountain View County, Alberta, known as “Aurora Mountain”, a second 40,000 square foot high-technology production facility known as “Aurora Vie” in Pointe-Claire, Quebec on Montreal’s West Island, and is currently constructing an 800,000 square foot production facility, known as “Aurora Sky”, at the Edmonton International Airport, as well as is completing a fourth facility in Lachute, Quebec through its wholly owned subsidiary Aurora Larssen Projects Ltd.

In addition, the Company holds approximately 17.23% of the issued shares in leading extraction technology company Radient Technologies Inc., based in Edmonton, and is in the process of completing an investment in Edmonton-based Hempco Food and Fiber for an ownership stake of up to 50.1%. Furthermore, Aurora is the cornerstone investor with a 22.9% stake in Cann Group Limited, the first Australian company licensed to conduct research on and cultivate medical cannabis. Aurora also owns Pedanios, a leading wholesale importer, exporter, and distributor of medical cannabis in the European Union, based in Germany. The Company offers further differentiation through its acquisition of BC Northern Lights Ltd. and Urban Cultivator Inc., industry leaders, respectively, in the production and sale of proprietary systems for the safe, efficient and high-yield indoor cultivation of cannabis, and in state-of-the-art indoor gardening appliances for the cultivation of organic microgreens, vegetables and herbs in home and professional kitchens. Aurora’s common shares trade on the TSX under the symbol “ACB”.

About Namaste Technologies Inc.

Namaste is the largest online retailer for medical cannabis delivery systems globally. Namaste distributes vaporizers and smoking accessories through e-commerce sites in 26 countries and with 5 distribution hubs located around the world. Namaste has majority market share in Europe and Australia, with operations in the UK, US, Canada and Germany, and has opened new supply channels into emerging markets, including Brazil, Mexico and Chile. Namaste, through its acquisition of Cannmart Inc., a Canadian based late-stage applicant for a medical cannabis distribution license (under the ACMPR Program) is pursuing a new revenue vertical in online retail of medical cannabis in the Canadian market. Namaste intends to leverage its existing database of Canadian medical cannabis consumers, along with its expertise in e-commerce to create an online marketplace for medical cannabis patients, offering a larger variety of product and a better user experience.

On behalf of the Boards of Directors

Terry Booth

Sean Dollinger

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

This news release includes statements containing certain “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities law (“forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as “plan”, “continue”, “expect”, “project”, “intend”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “may”, “will”, “potential”, “proposed” and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur. These statements are only predictions. Various assumptions were used in drawing the conclusions or making the projections contained in the forward-looking statements throughout this news release. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Aurora and Namaste are under no obligation, and expressly disclaim any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.

Neither TSX or CSE, nor their Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of Toronto Stock Exchange and CSE) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

#Bitcoin or #Blockchain ? Bet That Both Will Thrive in 2018 $IDK.ca #Entherium #Blockstation $HIVE.ca $CODE.ca $BLOC.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 11:24 AM on Friday, December 29th, 2017
  • Bitcoin and blockchain are often pitted against each other, but I come from both worlds and believe that both are game-changers in their own right
  • Cryptocurrencies will continue to attract users as more folks learn about distortions in mainstream financial markets that just don’t make sense

Caitlin Long is the chairman and president of Symbiont, an enterprise blockchain platform. 

The following article, an exclusive contribution to CoinDesk’s 2017 in Review, outlines Long’s personal views and is not intended to provide investment advice.

Bitcoin and blockchain are often pitted against each other, but I come from both worlds and believe that both are game-changers in their own right.

I first learned about bitcoin in 2012 through liberty-oriented channels, which I’d discovered during a search for answers about the financial crisis in 2008. But I also took a deep dive into enterprise blockchain in 2014 while at Morgan Stanley, as a side interest to my day job of running its pension solutions business. In August 2016, I joined Symbiont full-time.

When I look ahead, I see 2018 as a year of maturity for both the bitcoin and enterprise blockchain parts of the space. Bitcoin will yet again prove its anti-fragility, more corporates will embrace it for payments, and the community will successfully resist its financialization. Enterprise blockchain will gain wider acceptance in production applications.

Bitcoin goes corporate

Bitcoin will increasingly be used for B2B foreign-exchange payments by multinational companies in 2018, as bid-offer spreads continue to tighten, daily liquidity consistently exceeds $5 billion and corporate new entrants gain comfort with liquidity providers (which enable corporates to use bitcoin for “cross-currency” transactions without touching the bitcoin itself–in other words, as an intermediary currency for foreign exchange in illiquid currencies).

Corporate bitcoin use will remain predominantly for payments in markets where banking systems are not well-developed. A tell-tale sign that corporate demand is sustainable would be this: when foreign exchange (FX) trading desks start making markets in bitcoin non-deliverable forwards (NDFs).

When that starts – possibly within the next 2 years – Jamie Dimon will admit his mistake and encourage corporate clients to route payments through JPMorgan’s foreign exchange desk, which will become one of the most active market-makers for cross-currency FX involving bitcoin.

Cryptocurrencies will continue to attract users as more folks learn about distortions in mainstream financial markets that just don’t make sense, such as this:  household net worth in the U.S. was $96.9 trillion, up $7.2 trillion in the year ending September 30, 2017 (according to the Fed’s latest Z.1 report).

This means the U.S. economy supposedly generated wealth at a rate equal to roughly 40% of its annual income (GDP), despite Americans consuming virtually all of their income and saving very little. Wow, that’s a miracle!

Remember this: all prices are fractions. Prices can go up either because numerators go up or because denominators go down (such as when central banks dilute fiat currencies). So…are financial markets climbing because we’re truly getting richer, or because of central bank-induced asset price inflation? Are quantity-constrained cryptocurrencies a safe-haven alternative? Time will tell, but I predict cryptocurrencies will broadly benefit as more folks come to understand what’s driving distortions in financial markets.

One of the “big 3” cross-currency central banks will announce in 2018 that it is preparing to issue its currency on a blockchain. The “big 3” are the “super-regional” central banks through which most “cross-currency” foreign exchange transactions settle, including the Fed, the Bank of England and the Bank of Japan. The Fed is behind the curve, but in 2018 either the BoE or the BoJ will step forward to allow tokenization of its currency to be executed by institutions in regulatory sandboxes. Corporate treasurers around the world will cheer at the prospect of same-day FX settlement through one (or two) of these “big-3” currencies because it will free up hundreds of billions of capital currently trapped on corporate balance sheets, due to payment system latency.

Yet for all bitcoin’s strengths, I believe advances in the enterprise blockchain will outpace those of bitcoin in 2018.

Let’s face it – enterprises are slower to move than the cryptoasset sector, which moves-fast-and-sometimes-breaks-things.

I believe 2018 will be the year in which a watershed event happens: an enterprise blockchain platform passes a CISO (chief information security officer) audit and is deployed inside the firewall of major financial institutions.

Enterprise goes live

Consensus 2018 will be “back to the suits.” Let’s face it: attire at industry’s biggest conference has been a pretty good barometer of what’s hot in the space. At the inaugural Consensus conference in 2015, bitcoin t-shirts dominated the audience. In 2016, business suits dominated as bankers discovered the space. In 2017, the dominant attire swung back to t-shirts, but this time for ethereum and ICOs. In 2018, I predict it will be “back to the suits” as enterprise blockchain accomplishments will again dominate the sector’s headlines, late-followers will scramble to catch up, and corporate treasurers will attend en masse.

The first institutional bond offering will be issued on a blockchain in the U.S. in 2018. Bond markets, not stock markets, will see the first U.S. institutional-level securities issued on a blockchain. Because the regulatory requirement to issue securities in “depository-eligible” (indirect) form does not apply to bond markets, the first institutional securities issued on a blockchain will be bonds – something I’ve predicted for years. In 2018, I believe it will finally happen. Yet, the coming clash between the federal securities laws that govern equities (which contemplate indirect ownership via the DTCC’s Cede & Co.) and state corporate laws (which contemplate that shares are owned directly by shareholders) will not happen yet in 2018.

No new blockchain consortiums will be formed in 2018. If 2017 were the year of forming new consortiums, 2018 will be the year of bilateral projects. Blockchains are networks and therefore suffer from the proverbial chicken and egg problem – consortium first and then project, or project first and then consortium? Consortiums now exist across a wide variety of industries, but – at least for now – more action is happening outside of consortiums than inside them.

Enterprise blockchain adoption will advance beyond incremental-type uses in production, such as sharing of data, to include transformational uses, such as custody of institutional financial assets that only ever exist on a blockchain. This will shine light on quality differences between platforms — and separate those that are decentralized and offer transformational benefits from those that don’t quite. A big gap will open in 2018 between the “haves” and “have-nots” in enterprise blockchain.

2018 will be a consolidation year as the sector matures. The sector came of age in 2017, as adoption broadened in both bitcoin and blockchain. In 2018, both will strengthen and deepen further. And property owners the world round will rejoice.

Disclosure: Caitlin owns cryptocurrency (bitcoin, almost exclusively) and has equity investments in Symbiont, Overstock.com and Payward, the parent company of Kraken.

Source: https://www.coindesk.com/bitcoin-blockchain-bet-will-thrive-2018/

7 Social Media Trends That Will Dominate 2018 #LiveStreaming #Peeks $PEEK.ca $BCOV $AVID

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 11:24 AM on Thursday, December 28th, 2017
Jayson DeMers , Contributor

I demystify SEO and online marketing for business owners. Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.

  • Live streaming will continue its explosive rise in popularity
  • About 80 percent of consumers would rather watch a live video from a brand than read a blog, and 82 percent would prefer live video to written social media updates

7 Social Media Trends That Will Dominate 2018

How do you plan on socializing next year? How do you plan on reaching your target audience, who will be socializing with each other, next year? By default, we underestimate how our lives will change in the future.

We tend to think of next year as ending more or less the same as this year (with the exception of any personal plans you might have). In addition, we tend to underappreciate the progress of technology, at least on a smaller scale.

That’s because our favorite social media apps tend to roll out updates on a nearly constant basis, changing slightly but frequently; just as we don’t notice children getting taller day by day, we don’t always recognize how the social media landscape around us evolves. But it is evolving, constantly, and in 2018, there are going to be a handful of highly important trends dictating how that evolution unfolds.

These are seven of the most important trends I’m predicting will make their presence known in 2018:

1. Augmented reality will finally take off. About five years ago, Google came out with a pair of glasses—Google Glass—that promised to bring augmented reality (AR) to the mainstream and change how we live and interact with each other. It was a flop. But now, multiple companies—including Facebook, Google, and Snap—are competingLive streaming will continue its explosive rise in popularity. to enter or re-enter the AR ring. After a handful of highly successful AR apps, rising sales of VR headsets, and greater technological sophistication (including faster internet speeds and better visual rendering), 2018 could finally be the year that AR takes off. If it does, and stays in the mainstream, you can bet that social media will be one of the most popular applications for the technology, bringing people together over vast distances, and providing an entirely new UI for social interactions.

2.Live streaming will continue its explosive rise in popularity You could make the argument that live streaming dominated 2017; about 80 percent of consumers would rather watch a live video from a brand than read a blog, and 82 percent would prefer live video to written social media updates. Live streaming statistics exploded in 2017, thanks in part to all the social platforms and other companies supporting the format. But 2018 will be an even bigger year, now that both audiences and brands have settled into the format. This is no longer a cool new way to interact with audiences—it’s an expectation for your brand.

3. Privacy and open source will take precedence. The use of social media requires the forfeiture of certain types of privacy. Though Facebook, Twitter, and other platforms have attempted to crack down on users abusing the system, and are trying to keep customers informed about their privacy rights, some users are still hungry for an app that won’t sell their information to advertisers. I think in 2018, we’ll see an increase in the number and popularity of apps that keep user privacy as a top priority, or offer open-source APIs to make users feel more comfortable with using them.

4. Gamification will extend to social media apps. Users love to interact with each other, but they also love game-like experiences—and because many companies have generated significant revenue from microtransactions and immersive gaming experiences, it’s only a matter of time before we see an app that tries to blend social media and gaming more organically. Time will tell what kind of app could result from this hybridization, but it’s likely going to make a significant impact in 2018.

5. Ad growth will accelerate. Early in their development, social media platforms made building a user base their highest priority. Now that they’re more firmly established and have proven their long-term viability, their biggest concern has shifted to revenue. Most major social media brands have already started shifting their focus toward building more advertising, but 2018 will see an even bigger shift in that direction.

6. Brand fatigue will force changes to the current social media formula. In 2017, there were more than 50 million small businesses using social media pages to interact with their customers. Social media is incredibly popular for a reason, but that increased volume of businesses is also leading to an increased presence of brand-written content. This is already leading to some signs of brand fatigue, making consumers less likely to engage with sponsored or branded content than content from independent sources. That’s going to put more pressure on brands to make better, more independently verifiable sources.

7. Local and personal experiences will sharply increase in popularity. Partially as an extension of the brand fatigue, 2018 will be a year for more local and personal experiences. With Google putting a higher emphasis on search results for local companies, and online consumers wanting more local, interpersonal interactions, I expect to see an increase in the number of local business owners reaching out to individuals, and doing more to engage with their respective communities. This is going to be a benefit for both entrepreneurs and consumers, as well as the communities in which they reside.

Are these trends going to completely change how brands and consumers use social media? I doubt it, but we’re in for one interesting year. If you want to remain competitive in the world of social media marketing, and prevent your competitors from getting ahead of you, stay tuned to the latest changes, and don’t hesitate to update your brand strategy to fit new trends, expectations, and opportunities.

The more modern your campaign is, the better chances you’ll have at connecting with your audience, and differentiating yourself from the crowd. For more help with your social media marketing strategy in 2018, see The Definitive Guide to Social Media Marketing.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jaysondemers/2017/12/27/7-social-media-trends-that-will-dominate-2018/2/#1b1366597aba

 

Monarques #Gold $MQR.ca Announces Positive Results for the Updated Beaufor Mine Technical $MUX.ca $SII.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 9:29 AM on Thursday, December 28th, 2017

  • Reports results of the updated mineral resource and reserve estimates for its wholly-owned Beaufor mine
  • Confirms profitability of the Beaufor mine

MONTREAL, Dec. 28, 2017 - MONARQUES GOLD CORPORATION (“Monarques” or the “Corporation”) (TSX.V:MQR) (OTCMKTS:MRQRF) (FRANKFURT:MR7) is pleased to report the results of the updated mineral resource and reserve estimates for its wholly-owned Beaufor mine. The mineral resource and reserve estimates were prepared by InnovExplo inc., in collaboration with Beaufor mine personnel and the Corporation in accordance with NI 43-101. Unless otherwise indicated, all amounts in this press release are presented in Canadian dollars.

The Beaufor mine is located approximately 20 km northeast of Val-d’Or, in the province of Quebec. The mine has been in operation since 1930. The ore from the Beaufor mine is processed at the Camflo mill, which has a 1,600 tonne-per-day milling capacity. The mill is operated by Usine Camflo inc., also wholly-owned by Monarques.

“The outcome of the technical report is positive for Monarques, as it confirms the profitability of the Beaufor mine,” said Jean-Marc Lacoste, President and Chief Executive Officer of Monarques. “Furthermore, the report does not consider the Camflo mill’s current custom milling activities, which could enhance the mine’s profitability. We are also continuing to assess our options for extending the mine life through targeted drilling programs on the most promising identified zones.”

Key economic parameters

Based on a gold price of $1,638/oz, reflecting a gold price of US $1,280/oz and an exchange rate of 1.28 CAD/1 USD, the study demonstrates that the Beaufor mine could generate an after-tax net present value of $4.41 million at a 5% discount rate with a total production of 30,018 ounces over the mine life. Operating costs would total $41.5 million and the total project cost would be $43.0 million. The average production cost would be $1,433/oz.

Table of economic parameters

Notes:

  • The independent and qualified person for the mineral reserve estimate, as defined by NI 43-101 is Laurent Roy, Eng. (OIQ No. 109779), of InnovExplo Inc. The effective date of the estimate is September 30, 2017.
  • The economic viability of the mineral reserve is proven.
  • Results are presented including dilution. Dilution varies from 10% to 15% for the long-hole stopes based on the position of the dyke, and is 0% for the room-and-pillar stopes as the stope width is less than 2.40m.
  • Results are presented including mining recovery rates. Mining recovery varies from 85% to 90% for long-hole stopes based on the position of the dyke and is 90% for room-and-pillar stopes.
  • The metallurgical gold recovery at the Camflo mill is 98%.
  • The mineral reserve was compiled using cut-off grades of 3.95 g/t Au (long-hole) to 4.66 g/t Au (room-and-pillar). Cut-off grades must be re-evaluated in light of prevailing market conditions (gold price, exchange rate and mining cost).
  • A constant specific gravity value of 2.75 t/m3 was used.
  • A minimum true thickness of 2.40 m was applied.
  • Ounce (troy) = metric tons x grade / 31.1035. Calculations used metric units (metres, tonnes, and g/t).
  • The mineral reserve was estimated using a long-term gold price of CAD 1,638.40 per ounce (metal price of USD 1,280 per ounce and an exchange rate 1.28 CAD/1 USD).
  • Tonnage and ounces estimates were rounded to the nearest hundred. Any discrepancies in the totals are due to rounding effects; rounding followed the recommendations in Form 43-101F1.
  • The mineral reserve estimate is compliant with CIM standards and guidelines.
  • InnovExplo is not aware of any known environmental, permitting, legal, title-related, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issue that could materially affect the mineral reserve estimate.

Resources

Estimated mineral resource table, exclusive of mineral reserve

Notes:

  • The independent and qualified person (“QP”) for the Mineral Resource Estimate as required by NI 43‑101 is Carl Pelletier, P.Geo. (OGQ 384), employee of InnovExplo Inc. The effective date of the estimate is September 30, 2017.
  • Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.
  • Mineral reserves have been subtracted from mineral resources.
  • Results are presented in-situ and undiluted. The reported mineral resource is considered by the QP to have reasonable prospects for underground economic extraction.
  • The estimate includes 63 mineralized zones in the Beaufor mine.
  • Mineral Resources are estimated at variable cut-off grades ranging from 3.95 g/t Au (long-hole) to 4.66 g/t Au (room-and-pillar). Cut-off grades must be re-evaluated in light of prevailing market conditions (gold price, exchange rate and mining cost).
  • A specific gravity value of 2.75 t/m3 was used.
  • A minimum true vein width of 2.40 m was used.
  • Capping of high-grade values was done at 68.5 g/t Au for zones 8, B, M, M1 and Q, while all other zones were capped at 34.25 g/t Au and drill hole intersections were capped at 16.5 g/t over 2.40 m. Capping was done on raw assays.
  • The estimation method was polygonal on cross section.
  • Polygons for measured resources extend 8 m above and below development and up to 10 m laterally. Polygons for indicated resources do not extend more than 20 m from drill hole intercepts, along dip and along strike. Polygons for inferred resources do not extend more than 40 m from drill hole intercepts, along dip and along strike; they are generated where the drill spacing generally ranges from 20 m to 40 m and/or in areas of isolated drill holes where mineralization is interpreted to be the extension of known mineralized zones.
  • Ounce (troy) = metric tons x grade / 31.1035. Calculations used metric units (metres, tonnes, g/t)
  • Mineral Resources are estimated using a long-term gold price of CAD 1,638.40 per ounce (metal price of USD 1,280 per ounce and an exchange rate of 1.28 CAD/1 USD).
  • Tonnage and ounce estimates were rounded to the nearest hundred. Any discrepancies in the totals are due to rounding effects; rounding followed the recommendations in Form 43-101F1.
  • CIM definitions and guidelines were followed in estimating mineral resources.
  • InnovExplo is not aware of any known environmental, permitting, legal, title-related, taxation, socio-political, marketing or other relevant issue that could materially affect the mineral resource estimate.

A technical report on the Beaufor mine’s mineral resource and reserve estimates, as presented above, will be filed today, Thursday, December 28, 2017, on SEDAR following the publication of this press release.

Qualified person

The technical content of this press release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Marc-André Lavergne, Eng., a qualified person according to NI 43-101.

The mineral resource estimate of the Beaufor mine was prepared under the supervision of Mr. Carl Pelletier, B.Sc. Geo., an employee of InnovExplo Inc. Mr. Pelletier is an independent qualified person according to NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical content of this release, which corresponds to the mineral resource estimate of the technical report. The mineral reserve estimate of the Beaufor mine was prepared by Mr. Laurent Roy, Eng., an employee of InnovExplo Inc. Mr. Roy is an independent qualified person according to NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical content of this release, which corresponds to the mineral reserve estimate of the technical report.

 

ABOUT MONARQUES GOLD CORPORATION

 

Monarques Gold Corp (TSX-V:MQR) is an emerging gold producer focused on pursuing growth through its large portfolio of high-quality projects in the Abitibi mining camp in Quebec, Canada. The Corporation currently owns close to 300 km² of gold properties (see map), including the Beaufor mine, the Croinor Gold (see video), Wasamac, McKenzie Break and Swanson advanced projects, and the Camflo and Beacon mills, as well as six promising exploration projects. It also offers custom milling services out of its 1,600 tonne-per-day Camflo mill. Monarques enjoys a strong financial position and has more than 150 skilled employees who oversee its operating, development and exploration activities.

Forward-Looking Statements

The forward-looking statements in this press release involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Monarques’ actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied therein. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its 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 press release.

SOURCE Monarques Gold Corporation

View original content with multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/December2017/28/c8698.html

Jean-Marc Lacoste, President and Chief Executive Officer, 1-888-994-4465, [email protected], www.monarquesgold.com; Elisabeth Tremblay, Senior Geologist – Communications Specialist, 1-888-994-4465, [email protected], www.monarquesgold.comCopyright CNW Group 2017

Namaste $N.ca Announces Wholesale Supply LOI With Israel-Based BRLEV $AERO $CBDS $CGRW $APH.ca $GBLX

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 9:42 AM on Wednesday, December 27th, 2017

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  • Signed a Letter of Intent (“LOI”) with BRLEV AGRICULTURAL CROPS LTD
  • BRLEV will supply CannMart with high quality medical cannabis, to be imported by CannMart from Israel and offered in the Company’s online marketplace

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 27, 2017 — Namaste Technologies Inc. (“Namaste” or the “Company”) (CSE:N)(FRANKFURT:M5BQ)(OTCMKTS:NXTTF) is pleased to announce that it has signed a Letter of Intent (“LOI”) with BRLEV AGRICULTURAL CROPS LTD. (“BRLEV”), through its wholly owned subsidiary, Cannmart Inc. (“CannMart”), whereby BRLEV will supply CannMart with high quality medical cannabis, to be imported by CannMart from Israel and offered in the Company’s online marketplace. BRLEV is Israel’s largest licensed producer of medical cannabis, with over 40 years of experience in commercial agricultural production and export. BRLEV will work with Namaste to export medical cannabis to the Canadian market, which will fall under Canada’s Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (“ACMPR”) guidelines. The LOI and the proposed medical cannabis supply agreement (“Supply Agreement”) highlight Namaste’s intentions of becoming Canada’s leading online retailer for medical cannabis products, by focusing on importation of high quality medical cannabis from industry-leading countries like Israel. Namaste believes that the demand for imported cannabis and the opportunity it presents has been largely overlooked. This deal solidifies Namaste’s commitment in seeking the best cannabis products in global markets and offering them to Canadian cannabis users.

Terms of the LOI:

  • Namaste will submit purchase orders to BRLEV for medical cannabis.
  • Namaste will provide 50% payment against each purchase order once the goods arrive at the airport and have been tested by a third-party laboratory facility. The balance of payment will be due within 30 days from the shipment date.
  • Product cost to Namaste will be determined as 30% of Namaste’s retail price.
  • Namaste will be responsible for shipping and import costs.
  • Namaste’s product branding and naming conventions for each strain will adhere to Israeli government requirements where applicable.
  • Namaste will mark each customer package with BRLEV’s name and logo.

The LOI and proposed Supply Agreement reinforce Namaste’s effort to provide imported medical cannabis products to its patients by offering the largest variety of products from domestic and international producers. BRLEV boasts one of the largest production facilities in Israel and is a strong partner for Namaste. Namaste believes that BRLEV’s existing license and infrastructure will be suited to accommodate the Company’s expected demand for high quality Israeli grown medical cannabis. Namaste is highly focused on cannabis importation for its CannMart facility and specifically on sourcing from the Israeli market. This partnership will allow Namaste to offer greater value for its patients by allowing CannMart to provide a larger offering in comparison with domestic ACMPR licensed producers.  The Company expects to see strong demand for imported cannabis products and looks forward to a growing relationship with BRLEV and its management team.

Management Commentary
Asaf Bardichev, President and CEO of BRLEV comments: “BRLEV is very excited to announce the signing of this LOI. We see Namaste as a central and leading figure in the growing Canadian retail market and see this as a great opportunity for collaboration. We believe that the partnership with Namaste that we are beginning now can be a long and lasting one. It will be one that strengthens Namaste, BRLEV, and the Canadian medical cannabis market.”

Sean Dollinger, President and CEO of Namaste comments: “While the Canadian market continues to be a leader with regards to the production of high quality cannabis, Namaste remains of the opinion that Canadian consumers will demand other high-quality products from markets abroad. Through our partnership with BRLEV, Namaste fully intends to meet that demand. This transaction represents the first of many partnerships by which Namaste intends to create the largest and most diverse marketplace for Canadian cannabis consumers. We are very pleased to have signed this LOI and are looking forward to working with the BRLEV Group. Namaste believes this represents a strong partnership based on BRLEV’s credentials and experience in cultivation and agricultural export. The BRLEV management team has exceptional talents for cultivation and production of the highest quality medical cannabis in the Israeli market. We look forward to working with BRLEV and their team in creating the most diverse offering of medical cannabis in the Canadian online retail marketplace.”

About BRLEV
The BRLEV Group manages cannabis based medicine production from mother plants to final product. The group is fully licensed in all aspects of cannabis cultivation and processing as well as in the manufacturing of cannabis based medication in Israel. With an impressive lineup of high-end facilities and over 40 years of experience in agriculture the BRLEV group meets the highest industry standards including GMP, Global Gap and Tesco. Working closely with the leading Israeli research bodies in plant genetics, virus and pest control, cannabis processing and active substance extraction, BRLEV uses state of the art methods and knowledge in cannabis cultivation and processing. The BRLEV group has also secured a cannabis trading license which enables the group to start exporting its products overseas as soon as export regulations are in place.

About Namaste Technologies Inc.
Namaste is the largest online retailer for medical cannabis delivery systems globally. Namaste distributes vaporizers and smoking accessories through e-commerce sites in 26 countries and with 5 distribution hubs located around the world. Namaste has majority market share in Europe and Australia, with operations in the UK, US, Canada and Germany and has opened new supply channels into emerging markets including Brazil, Mexico and Chile. Namaste, through its acquisition of Cannmart Inc., a Canadian based late-stage applicant for a medical cannabis distribution license (under the ACMPR Program) is pursuing a new revenue vertical in online retail of medical cannabis in the Canadian market. Namaste intends to leverage its existing database of Canadian medical cannabis consumers, along with its expertise in e-commerce to create an online marketplace for medical cannabis patients, offering a larger variety of product and a better user experience.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

“Sean Dollinger”
Chief Executive Officer
Direct: +1 (786) 389 9771
Email: [email protected]

Further information on the Company and its products can be accessed through the links below:

www.namastetechnologies.com
www.namastevaporizers.co.uk
www.everyonedoesit.co.uk

FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION This press release contains forward-looking information based on current expectations. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by such statements. Although such statements are based on management’s reasonable assumptions, Namaste assumes no responsibility to update or revise forward looking information to reflect new events or circumstances unless required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks including various risk factors discussed in the Company’s disclosure documents which can be found under the Company’s profile on www.sedar.com. This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The CSE has neither reviewed nor approved the contents of this press release.