Technology

PADLOCK FUNDS ANNOUNCE RECEIPT OF EXEMPTIVE RELIEF RELATING TO SPECIAL MEETINGS

Published

6 months ago

July 19, 2024

/Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services or for dissemination in the United States/

TORONTO, July 19, 2024 /CNW/ – Padlock Partners UK Fund I (“Fund I”), Padlock Partners UK Fund II (“Fund II”) and Padlock Partners UK Fund III (“Fund III”, and together with Fund I and Fund II, the “Padlock Funds”) today announced that further to the announcement on June 19, 2024 of the Padlock Funds relating to the proposed consolidation of the assets of the Padlock Funds through an acquisition of Fund II and Fund III by Fund I, which will be renamed Padlock Euro Storage Fund I (the “Merged Fund”) by way of a plan of arrangement (the “Arrangement”), the Padlock Funds have received discretionary exemptions from the Ontario Securities Commission (the “OSC”) from the certain requirements of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 — Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101”) which would allow the Padlock Funds to conduct a single vote of each Padlock Fund with unitholders voting together as a single class in connection with the previously announced security holder meetings to approve the Arrangement.

MI 61-101 requires approval of the Arrangement to be received from a majority of the votes attached to the existing units of each of the Padlock Funds (“Existing Units”) voted by disinterested unitholders voting separately on a class-by-class basis at each of the Padlock Fund’s meetings. The OSC has granted exemptive relief from this requirement, and instead unitholders of each Padlock Fund will vote as a single class, on the basis that, among other reasons (i) each Padlock Fund’s governing declaration of trust provides that unitholders vote as a single class unless the nature of the business to be transacted at the meeting affects holders of one class of units in a manner materially different from its effect on holders of another class of units, and each Padlock Fund, the asset managers of the Padlock Funds and the independent trustees of each Padlock Fund have determined that the Arrangement does not affect holders of one class of Existing Units in a manner materially different from its effect on holders of another class of Existing Units of that Padlock Fund; (ii) as the relative returns (and, accordingly, the number of units of the Merged Fund to be received on exchange of Existing Units of each class of each Padlock Fund) are to be determined in accordance with the terms established in the governing declaration of trust of each Padlock Fund that were set at the time of each such issuer’s initial public offering when investors selected their preferred class and purchased their Existing Units, the interests of the holders of each class of Existing Units of each Padlock Fund are aligned in respect of the Arrangement, and (iii) the Arrangement is subject to a number of procedural mechanisms to ensure the collective interests of the existing Padlock Fund unitholders were protected, including, but not limited to, that (a) negotiation of the Arrangement was overseen by the independent trustees of each Padlock Fund, (b) both the independent trustees of each Padlock Fund and the board of trustees of each Padlock Fund have received a fairness opinion, (c) the independent trustees of each Padlock Fund determined that the net asset value attributable to each Padlock Fund, respectively, and the exchange ratio, were reasonable, (d) each Padlock Fund will hold its respective meeting to allow unitholders to consider and, if deemed advisable, approve the Arrangement, and (e) the Padlock Funds have prepared and delivered to its respective unitholders an information circular dated June 24, 2024 (the “Information Circular”) which describes the Arrangement.

As of the date hereof and to the knowledge of each of the Padlock Funds, pursuant to MI 61-101, no Existing Units are held by existing Padlock Fund unitholders that would not be “disinterested unitholders” within the meaning of MI 61-101.

Subject to obtaining Court approval and the satisfaction or waiver of all other conditions relating to the Arrangement, if unitholder approvals from each of the Padlock Funds are obtained at each respective meeting, it is anticipated that the Arrangement will be completed in late-July 2024.

About the Padlock Funds

Each of the Padlock Funds is an unincorporated investment trusts formed under the laws of the Province of Ontario and was established for the primary purpose of investing in a diversified portfolio of income producing commercial real estate properties in the United Kingdom with a focus on self-storage and mixed-use properties. Currently, the Padlock Funds have acquired self-storage properties in Bicester, Letchworth, Leighton Buzzard, Wimbledon, Chippenham, Enfield, Huntingdon, Brentwood, Newmarket, Houghton Regis, Brighton, Watford, Woking, Southend and Seaford.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain statements which may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws, including, but not limited to, statements or information relating to the successful completion of the Arrangement and timing thereof. Such forward-looking information, in some cases, can be identified by terminology such as “may”, “will”, “would”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “intend”, “target”, “potential”, “continue”, or the negative thereof or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts.

By their nature, forward-looking statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities may not be achieved. A variety of factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Padlock Funds, affect the operations, performance and results of such issuer’s and their respective businesses, and could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations of estimated or anticipated events or results. The reader is cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information as there can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. These risks include, but are not limited to, the risk of failure to satisfy the conditions to completion of the Arrangement. For more information on risks relating to the Arrangement, read the Information Circular.

Information contained in forward-looking statements are based upon certain material assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances.

These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as expressly required by law, the Padlock Funds undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

SOURCE Padlock Partners UK Fund I, Padlock Partners UK Fund II and Padlock Partners UK Fund III

Technology

Equipboard Unveils Sleek Redesign to Enhance Music Gear Discovery for Musicians Worldwide

Published

35 minutes ago

January 11, 2025

Redesign Introduces Modern Features, Streamlined Navigation, and Richer Content to Inspire and Support Music Makers Globally

AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Equipboard, the leading online community for musicians and gear enthusiasts, announces the launch of its newly redesigned website. With a modern look, streamlined navigation, and powerful new features, the redesign sets a new standard for connecting artists, producers, and hobbyists with the tools they need to create music.

Since its inception in 2013, Equipboard has grown into the world’s largest database of music gear used by professionals and amateurs alike. The redesign reflects the platform’s commitment to fostering creativity, offering transparent information, and making gear discovery and purchasing easier and more enjoyable for its global user base.

What’s New?

Equipboard’s redesign is more than just a fresh coat of paint. It introduces a host of improvements aimed at elevating the way users explore, share, and connect over their favorite gear:

Modernized Design: A sleek, responsive layout ensures a seamless experience across all devices, with improved readability and accessibility. Enhanced Navigation: Faster, more intuitive browsing helps users discover gear, artists, and inspiration effortlessly. Whether searching for a guitarist’s pedalboard or a producer’s go-to synth, the information is now at their fingertips. Richer Content: Equipboard now features in-depth guides, expert-curated collections, and a revamped artist gear section to inspire and inform users at all levels of their musical journey. Personalized Experience: Registered users can now enjoy a more tailored interface, saving their favorite gear and creating wishlists for their next creative adventure. Price Comparisons Across Leading Retailers: Equipboard helps musicians make informed decisions by comparing prices on music gear from top retailers, ensuring they get the best value for their investment. Community-Focused Features: New tools make it easier for users to contribute to Equipboard’s ever-growing database, ensuring the platform remains the most trusted source for music gear information.

“Equipboard has always been about empowering musicians by connecting them with the tools and insights they need,” said Michael Pierce, Co-Founder. “This redesign reflects our commitment to innovation and community, creating an experience that’s as inspiring as the gear our users discover. From in-depth artist insights to real-time price comparisons, we’re excited to see how these improvements help musicians worldwide make better gear choices and create amazing music.”

About Equipboard

Equipboard is the ultimate online resource for musicians and gear enthusiasts. With a mission to provide transparent, community-driven information about the gear used by artists and professionals, Equipboard has become a trusted destination for millions of music creators. The platform also simplifies the buying process with its innovative price comparison tool, helping users find the best deals from leading retailers. From electric guitars to studio monitors, Equipboard’s extensive database helps users make informed decisions about their music-making journey.

The redesigned Equipboard is now live at https://equipboard.com, offering a fresh look and enhanced tools to support music creators in exploring the gear behind their favorite artists’ sound.

Media Contact

Michael Pierce, Equipboard, 888-888-8888, contact@equipboard.com, https://equipboard.com/

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SOURCE Equipboard

Technology

CES 2025: The Global Stage for Innovation, Connecting the World, Creating the Future

Published

6 hours ago

January 11, 2025

Where Technology Meets Humanity to Create Extraordinary Possibilities

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CES® 2025, the most powerful tech event in the world, welcomed over 141,000 attendees from around the globe. With more than 4500 exhibitors, including 1400 startups, and more than 6000 media attendees, CES highlights the innovation and technology trends addressing global challenges and shaping the future.

“CES is where innovation comes to life,” said Gary Shapiro, CEO and Vice Chair, Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, owner and producer of CES. “From the largest companies to trailblazing startups, the entire tech ecosystem is at the show. CES is the stage for groundbreaking product launches, transformative partnerships, and serendipitous business moments that define the future of technology.”

CES 2025 by the Numbers*

4500+ exhibitors, including 1400 startups141,000+ attendees, of which 40% were international from over 150 countries, regions, and territories6000+ global media, content creators, and industry analystsOver 60% of Fortune 500 companies300+ conference sessions with 1200+ speakers27,000+ news stories and content

*pre-audit figures

“From groundbreaking innovations that improve lives to transformative ideas that redefine industries, CES is a celebration of the art of the possible, showcasing how technology enriches our world and inspires a brighter future for all,” said Kinsey Fabrizio, President, CTA. “The evolution of CES has surged at this year’s show, where creativity, connectivity, and innovation inspire with visionary keynotes, thought-provoking conference sessions, and mind-blowing exhibits.”

As one of the most transparent trade shows, CES adheres to rigorous auditing standards established by UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry. To maintain the integrity of its reports, CES engages independent auditors, fostering trust among stakeholders.

“CES reaffirms its status as the largest audited annual business event,” said Fabrizio. “We look forward to releasing third-party confirmation in the spring, because at CTA we believe auditing is not just a nice-to-have, but the gold standard for global business events.”

Catch all the highlights and announcements from CES 2025 – including all conference programming—via CES YouTube and the CES Tech Talk Podcast. Watch the CES 2025 State of the Industry Address here.

CES 2025 Highlights

Artificial Intelligence – CES 2025 connected the dots between humanity and AI through powerful exhibits and programming. From AI-driven productivity tools to breakthroughs in medical advancements, products and services on the show floor demonstrated that artificial intelligence is not just a technology trend but a transformative force improving lives worldwide.
Exhibitors included: AMD, Hisense, LG, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Samsung, Siemens, TCL

Digital Health – This year, CES 2025 saw tremendous energy at the Venetian where attendees witnessed the category’s seamless alignment with the smart living experience. CES has cemented itself as a premier convenor for the healthcare industry, bringing together trailblazers to explore biotechnology, telehealth, and wellness advancements that enhance patient care and longevity. Attendees celebrated the vibrant and dynamic environment that underscored how technology is transforming everyday life, particularly in health and wellness.
Exhibitors & Sponsors included: AARP, Abbott, Eyebot, FlowBeams, Lumia Health, OnMed, Panasonic, ResMed, Withings

Energy Transition – With the growth of high-power demand technologies like AI, cloud, and other data center innovations, the energy transition to zero carbon sources was a significant focus at CES 2025. Experimental energy solutions including battery and energy storage technologies, emerging energy sources like green hydrogen, and small modular nuclear reactors were highlights on the show floor.
Exhibitors included: Eaton, Jackery, Otrera, SK, Sony Honda Mobility

Mobility – Mobility innovation spanned construction, agriculture, marine tech, and advanced air travel. At CES 2025, self-driving and electric technologies enhanced planes and boats, and EV market growth brought new models from global OEMs to the show. Automation in construction and industry enhanced safety and addressed workforce gaps in labor-intensive roles.
Exhibitors included: Aptera Motors, BMW, Bosch, Brunswick, Caterpillar, Daedong, Garmin, Honda, Invo Station, John Deere, Kubota, Mobileye, Oshkosh, Scout Motors, Sumitomo Rubber, Scout Motors, Suzuki, Waymo, Xpeng AeroHT, Zeekr

Quantum – CES 2025 featured the latest innovations in quantum technologies, offering a glimpse into the future. Quantum technology uses properties of quantum mechanics to enable three distinct disciplines: improved networking, computing, and sensing. Innovations at the show demonstrated how quantum computing, working alongside AI, will allow for breakthroughs in research and computing for finance, chemistry, materials, logistics, and more.
Exhibitors included: Integrated Quantum Photonic, IonQ, QSIMPLUS, Quandela, SK

Sustainability – Sustainability is a crucial trend shaping technology innovation, especially in the context of energy transition. CES featured key advancements including new battery technologies, alternative material development like graphene, and off-grid renewable energy solutions. The show also put a spotlight on innovations such as synthetic microbes, bioplastics, and self-healing concrete that will contribute to sustainable construction.
Exhibitors included: Hydrific, Lyten, Melliens, Panasonic

Startups – Eureka Park was completely full, with 1400 startups from 39 countries including country pavilions representing Africa, European Union (EU), France, Italy, Israel, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Ukraine. Eureka Park is where innovators, investors, and the media meet to highlight and get hands-on with the technologies that will shape our collective future in core areas including accessibility, AI, digital health, and sustainability.

Keynotes

NVIDIA
NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang on Monday drew 6300 attendees to unveil the GeForce RTX 50, surpassing the RTX 4090 in performance, and introduced Agentic AI, a real-time assistant to streamline consumer workflows. Huang also showcased the Cosmos World Foundation Model and generative AI tools to advance robotics navigation. Highlighting AI-driven innovation, Huang announced a partnership with Toyota to develop next-gen autonomous vehicles using the safety-certified NVIDIA DriveOS.

Panasonic Holdings Corporation
Panasonic Holdings Group CEO Yuki Kusumi shared Panasonic Group’s vision for sustainability, artificial intelligence, and the health of future generations. DJ and record producer Steve Aoki jump-started the keynote with a performance before Mr. Kusumi, joined on stage by Marvel actor Anthony Mackie and other Panasonic Group leaders, delivered Panasonic’s “Well Into the Future” message. As an extension of the current Panasonic Well portfolio, Panasonic announced Umi, a holistic digital family wellness platform and coach.

SiriusXM
Jennifer Witz, CEO, SiriusXM, joined Ashley Flowers, #1 female podcaster in the U.S. and host of the hit podcast Crime Junkie, on the C Space stage to deliver a keynote on the intersection of technology, creativity, and storytelling in audio. The conversation covered the importance of authenticity, how AI is changing the creative landscape, and adapting consumer interests.

X Corp.
Linda Yaccarino, CEO, X Corp., spoke with award-winning journalist Catherine Herridge about how the company is defining the future of digital communication. The conversation focused on X’s transformational work to create a “global newsroom in your pocket.” Yaccarino highlighted the significance of Meta’s announcement that the company will follow X’s lead in adopting a community notes approach to content moderation.

Delta Air Lines at Sphere
The first keynote at Sphere in CES history wowed over 8000 attendees! The immersive experience spotlighted Delta Air Lines’ innovations in seamless travel, onboard experiences, and the future of flight. Ed Bastian, CEO, Delta Air Lines, announced Delta Concierge and partnerships with Airbus, DraftKings, Joby, Uber, and YouTube. Special guests included actress Viola Davis, football legend Tom Brady, and GRAMMY-winning icon Lenny Kravitz.

Volvo Group
Martin Lundstedt, President and CEO, Volvo Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to building a safer, more sustainable, and more productive future. He called on policymakers and industry leaders to accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and discussed the company’s partnership with Aurora, aimed at advancing the development of safer, self-driving vehicles.

Accenture
Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO, Accenture, discussed how data, AI, and new ways of working are transforming industries and addressing global challenges with Julia Boorstin, CNBC senior media & tech correspondent. Sweet emphasized the need for businesses to build trust in AI technologies, especially as AI becomes increasingly autonomous in a society where trust is scarce. She also highlighted Accenture’s 25th annual Tech Vision, which explores the paths leaders can take when AI is ubiquitous.

Waymo
Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO, Waymo, spoke with Bloomberg Technology’s Ed Ludlow on the company’s progress in developing its self-driving technology, Waymo Driver. Mawakana emphasized safety and expanding its autonomous ride-hailing service to new cities while showcasing advancements in technology and outlining a vision for a safer and more accessible future.

Conference Programming
CES 2025 offered more than 300 conference sessions, exploring how tech solves some of the world’s greatest challenges.

C Space – C Space at ARIA brought together thousands of senior-level marketing professionals to explore the intersection of technology, media, and branding. Attendees heard from leading industry innovators from brands like Reddit, NBCUniversal, and Microsoft Advertising about how technology is shaping the future of storytelling, consumer engagement, and brand strategy. C Space sessions emphasized the importance of creativity and authenticity in navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape.CES Creator Space – The first-ever CES Creator Space, presented by Sony, gathered storytellers to network, create content, and relax in between visiting exhibitors. Sessions led by industry experts helped creators elevate their craft, featuring discussions on storytelling, content monetization, brand partnerships, rights and ownership, and more.Digital Health Summit brought together the entire health ecosystem to learn, network, and explore the role technology plays in advancing and reforming medicine, healthcare, and consumer wellness.Great Minds series explored the intersection of technology and humanity. Speakers included C-Suite executives, philanthropists, influencers, government leaders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and more.Innovation for All Track included dedicated programming focused on ensuring all voices are represented in technology and innovation, bringing together thought leaders for a series of engagement opportunities, dynamic session content, and networking events.Innovation Policy Summit advanced CTA’s Innovation Agenda. CES brought together policymakers and government guests from around the world to discuss domestic and global tech policy issues including AI, privacy, trade, competition, and more. Conference sessions featured high-level government speakers from the White House, Department of Commerce, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Transportation, Federal Communications Commission, Federal Maritime Commission, Federal Trade Commission, and more.Mobility Stage made its debut in West Hall, exploring the future of mobility tech on the CES show floor. Topics included AI, connected vehicles, software, supply chain, and more.Quantum Means Business, a multi-session conference track developed with Quantum World Congress, gathered some of the brightest quantum minds, showcasing breakthroughs that were once confined to science fiction. Industry leaders from IBM, Microsoft, and beyond shared insights into how quantum, paired with advancements in AI and machine learning, creates unparalleled opportunities across industries.Startup Stage in Eureka Park brought together visionaries to discuss AI, health, startup funding, and more.

Celebrities at CES
Celebrity brand ambassadors like Alexis Ohanian, Denim Richards, Karlie Kloss, Maria Shriver, Mark Cuban, Martha Stewart, Meghan Trainor, Sophia Bush, Stevie Wonder, Terry Crews, Tim Meadows, Tunde Oyeneyin, and will.i.am attended the show. Read more about CES 2025 celebrity guest participation here.

Visit CES or the CES App, sponsored by Panasonic, for keynotes, sessions, and product announcements. View the high-res image gallery and download B-roll. Check out news from this week with CTA press releases including CTA’s U.S. Consumer Technology One-Year Industry Forecast, CES 2025 Green Grants, CTA 2025 Global Innovation Scorecard, CES 2025 Open, and a new investment in Quantum Word Congress.

We’ll DIVE IN again as CES returns to Las Vegas January 6-9, 2026.

About CES®:
CES is the most powerful tech event in the world – the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world’s biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) ®, CES features every aspect of the tech sector. CES 2025 takes place Jan. 7-10, 2025, in Las Vegas. Learn more at CES.tech and follow CES on social.

About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®:
As North America’s largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world’s leading innovators – from startups to global brands – helping support more than 18 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES® – the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech.

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SOURCE Consumer Technology Association

Technology

KNEX Technology CTO Gustavo Gonzalez Elected 2025 President-Elect of OATUG

Published

8 hours ago

January 11, 2025

Gustavo Gonzalez, KNEX Technology’s CTO, has been elected 2025 President-Elect of OATUG, emphasizing his dedication to Oracle innovation, collaboration, and leadership, including Ascend 2025’s strategic initiatives.

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — KNEX Technology, a leading Oracle Cloud solutions provider, is proud to announce that its Chief Technology Officer, Gustavo Gonzalez, has been elected as the 2025 President-Elect of the Oracle Applications & Technology Users Group (OATUG). This esteemed appointment highlights Gonzalez’s longstanding commitment to advancing innovation and collaboration within the Oracle community.

OATUG has played a pivotal role in my professional growth, and it is a privilege to contribute to this community which has enriched my career. As President-Elect, I look forward to collaborating with my peers to strengthen the Oracle user community and further its impact on businesses worldwide.

In his new role, Gonzalez will work closely with the OATUG leadership team throughout 2025, preparing to serve as OATUG President in 2026. He will focus on empowering Oracle professionals worldwide by fostering knowledge-sharing, community engagement, and professional development. OATUG, a globally recognized organization, supports its members in overcoming challenges, enhancing the value of Oracle solutions, and driving organizational success.

“OATUG has played a pivotal role in my professional growth, and it is a privilege to contribute to this community which has enriched my career,” said Gustavo Gonzalez. “As President-Elect, I look forward to collaborating with my peers to strengthen the Oracle user community and further its impact on businesses worldwide.”

Gonzalez’s election underscores his dedication to giving back to the Oracle ecosystem. A key focus of his role will include shaping OATUG’s strategic initiatives, such as the annual Ascend Conference, which unites Oracle users, thought leaders, and technology innovators for unparalleled learning and networking opportunities.

The upcoming Ascend 2025 Conference, scheduled for June 8–11 in Orlando, Florida, promises to build on the success of the 2024 event, which attracted more than 1,800 attendees. With early bird registration now open, Gonzalez aims to ensure the conference continues to deliver transformative insights and experiences for the Oracle community.

About OATUG

The Oracle Applications & Technology Users Group (OATUG) is the premier global organization for Oracle users, providing year-round education, networking, and advocacy. OATUG empowers its members to unlock the full potential of Oracle solutions, fostering innovation and collaboration across industries.

About KNEX Technology

KNEX Technology is a trusted leader in Oracle Cloud solutions, delivering cutting-edge products and services to help businesses achieve their objectives. Through its innovative approach and customer-focused strategies, KNEX enables organizations to navigate the complexities of today’s technology landscape. For more information, visit www.knextech.com.

Media Contact

Husna Gyasi, KNEX Technology, 1 (949) 232-0786, husna.ghayaisi@knextech.com, https://knextech.com/

Twitter, LinkedIn

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SOURCE KNEX Technology