Technology

Washington Trust Announces Closing of Upsized Stock Offering

Published

6 days ago

December 16, 2024

WESTERLY, R.I., Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: WASH) (the “Corporation”), parent company of The Washington Trust Company, of Westerly (the “Bank”), today announced the closing of its previously announced underwritten public offering of 1,911,764 shares of its common stock at a public offering price of $34.00 per share. The 2,198,528 shares sold in the offering include 286,764 shares sold pursuant to the exercise of the underwriters’ purchase option. BofA Securities is serving as the sole book-running manager for the offering.

The expected proceeds to the Corporation, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions but before deducting operating expenses payable by the Corporation, are approximately $71.01 million. The Corporation intends to use the net proceeds of this offering for general corporate purposes to support continued organic growth and capital generation, which are expected to include investments in the Bank and Bank balance sheet optimization strategies involving the sale of lower-yielding loans and available for sale debt securities, the repayment of wholesale funding balances and the purchase of debt securities with current market yields.

SPECIAL NOTE CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains statements that are “forward-looking statements.” Forward looking-statements include all statements that are not historical facts and include any statements regarding the intended use of net proceeds from the offering. We may also make forward-looking statements in other documents we file with the SEC, in our annual reports to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials, and in oral statements made by our officers, directors, or employees. You can identify forward-looking statements by the use of the words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “assume,” “outlook,” “will,” “should,” and other expressions that predict or indicate future events and trends and which do not relate to historical matters. Such forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking statements. A detailed discussion of factors that could affect our results is included in the Corporation’s SEC filings, including Item 1A. “Risk Factors” of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. You should not rely on forward-looking statements, because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. These risks, uncertainties, and other factors may cause our actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the anticipated future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. The Corporation undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement to conform the statement to actual results or changes in our expectations, except as required by law.

ABOUT WASHINGTON TRUST BANCORP, INC.

Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc., NASDAQ: WASH, is the publicly-owned holding company of The Washington Trust Company (“Washington Trust”, “the Bank”), with $7.1 billion in assets as of September 30, 2024. Founded in 1800, Washington Trust is recognized as the oldest community bank in the nation, the largest state-chartered bank headquartered in Rhode Island and one of the Northeast’s premier financial services companies. Washington Trust values its role as a community bank and is committed to helping the people, businesses, and organizations of New England improve their financial lives. The Bank offers a wide range of commercial banking, mortgage banking, personal banking and wealth management services through its offices in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts and a full suite of convenient digital tools. Washington Trust is a member of the FDIC and an equal housing lender.

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SOURCE Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc.

Technology

VPN Proxy Master Leads the 2024 VPN Market with New Features and Holiday Deals

Published

22 minutes ago

December 23, 2024

SINGAPORE, Dec. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — As the demand for online privacy reaches unprecedented levels, the global VPN market has seen a remarkable surge of over 30% in 2024. Addressing this growing need for secure and unrestricted internet access, VPN Proxy Master, a trusted name in network security, has introduced significant updates and exclusive offers to empower users worldwide.

A Growing Need for Privacy: VPN Market Trends in 2024

With increasing concerns over cybersecurity, the VPN market has become essential for professionals and everyday users alike. The growth in 2024 has been driven by heightened awareness of data privacy, as cyber threats and public Wi-Fi risks make secure browsing a top priority.

VPN Proxy Master continues to lead the charge in the cyber security space, offering cutting-edge security features that protect users from various online vulnerabilities. From securing sensitive work documents to maintaining anonymity while streaming, VPN Proxy Master is designed to meet the diverse needs of its growing user base.

Enhanced Features for Windows Users

One of VPN Proxy Master’s most exciting updates for 2024 is the introduction of seven free server options for Windows users, expanding access far beyond the single US-based server previously available. This feature ensures a smoother and more flexible browsing experience, allowing users to choose the best connection for their location and needs.

“Our goal has always been to provide users with unparalleled convenience and security,” says a VPN Proxy Master spokesperson. “This update is part of our commitment to creating a user-friendly platform that exceeds expectations.”

Why Users Choose VPN Proxy Master

With over 6,000 fully encrypted servers worldwide, VPN Proxy Master has become a preferred choice for professionals and individuals seeking secure online solutions. The platform’s top features include:

100% No-Log Policy: User activity is never tracked or storedAES 256-Bit Encryption: The highest standard of online securityMulti-Device Coverage: Protect up to six devices simultaneouslyExceptional User Reviews: High ratings from satisfied customersLightning-Fast Connections: Optimised servers ensure speed without compromise

Users Are Empowering Online Freedom

Across the globe, VPN Proxy Master users are benefiting from its powerful features.

Jonathan, a frequent traveler from the US, shares: “I rely on VPN Proxy Master to access work files securely when I’m on public Wi-Fi. It’s fast, reliable, and keeps my data safe.”Sophie, a digital nomad from the UK, adds: “Online privacy is non-negotiable for me. VPN Proxy Master ensures I can browse and work securely, no matter where I am.”

These testimonials illustrate how VPN Proxy Master not only protects users but also enhances their productivity and peace of mind.

Celebrate the Holidays with a Special Christmas Offer

As a token of appreciation for its loyal users, VPN Proxy Master is introducing an exclusive Christmas promotion. From now until January 2, 2025, customers purchasing a VPN subscription will receive an additional three months of service free. This limited-time offer provides an excellent opportunity for users to safeguard their online activities during the festive season and into the new year.

The Most Secure Global VPN for Professionals

VPN Proxy Master’s dedication to innovation and user-focused solutions has cemented its position as a leader in the industry. With a no-log policy, AES 256-bit encryption, and multi-device support, the platform is designed for users who value privacy, efficiency, and reliability.

Join the VPN Proxy Master Community

The company’s mission is to make the Internet a safer and more accessible space for all. Whether you’re a professional protecting sensitive work data, a student seeking unrestricted access to resources, or a family looking to enhance online safety, VPN Proxy Master has the right solution for you.

To learn more about VPN Proxy Master, explore its features, or take advantage of the Christmas promotion, visit the official website at vpnproxymaster.com or follow our X account: https://x.com/VPNProxyMaster_ for the latest updates and offers.

About VPN Proxy Master
VPN Proxy Master is a flagship product of Lemon Clove Pte. Limited, committed to delivering advanced VPN technology to users worldwide. With an emphasis on privacy, security, and reliability, the platform empowers users to take control of their digital experiences in an increasingly connected world.

For inquiries, please contact:
Email: support@vpnproxymaster.com

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of online security with VPN Proxy Master—where privacy and performance meet.

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SOURCE VPN Proxy Master

Technology

Goldpac Wins the 2024 KPMG China Corporate Governance Pioneers Award

Published

22 minutes ago

December 23, 2024

HONG KONG, Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, KPMG China announced the winners of the Second KPMG ESG 50 Awards • 2024. Goldpac was awarded with the Corporate Governance Pioneers with its outstanding performance in terms of governance structures, decision-making mechanisms, internal control, information disclosure, protection of shareholders’ equity, etc.

As the leading fintech enterprise around the globe, Goldpac has always maintained good profitability since its listing, and has achieved a total revenue of RMB 16.1 billion and a total profit of RMB 1.9 billion, remaining leading profitability in the industry. While committing itself to steady growth, Goldpac also maintains an active and stable dividend policy to actively return to its shareholders.

At the same time, Goldpac attaches great importance on technology development and sustainable growth. Riding the wave of global digitalisation, Goldpac is accelerating the promotion of its digital and platform-based strategy, using the UMV platform that integrates cutting-edge technologies such as AI and big data to build an innovative ecosystem of secure payment chain with upstream and downstream industry participants. Moreover, Goldpac also continues to promote the expansion of secure payment chips into multiple fields, broadening its service territory.

Goldpac always combines its business operations with the co-development of the environment and the society, and has established an effective ESG governance system covering ESG objectives such as energy saving and emission reduction, promotion of green and low-carbon products, green procurement, digital construction, competitiveness and profitability.

Regarding the protection of shareholders’ equity, Goldpac adopts sufficient and effective information disclosure and market communication strategies to maintain good transparency, which is acknowledged by the capital market. Therefore, Goldpac was awarded with many honors like the “Best Shareholder Return Listed Company”, the “Most Social Responsible Listed Company” , building a sustainable internal and external ecology.

In recent years, ESG practices have become one of the key elements for corporate value realisation and resilient growth. Looking ahead, Goldpac will adhere to the global ESG development trend, give full play to its advantages in financial technology, and continuously improve its digital competitiveness to promote sustainable economic and social development.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/goldpac-wins-the-2024-kpmg-china-corporate-governance-pioneers-award-302337109.html

SOURCE Goldpac Group

Technology

JA Solar and Huawei Collaborate with UNESCO and Thailand’s Ministry of Education to Advance Green Education

Published

22 minutes ago

December 23, 2024

BEIJING, Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — JA Solar, a global leader in the PV industry, recently joined forces with Huawei, UNESCO, and Thailand’s Ministry of Education to launch a green education initiative at the Banna District Learning Encouragement Center in Nakhon Nayok Province, Thailand. The project aims to provide clean energy solutions and digital education opportunities to 11 schools and community centers, fostering a new generation equipped with green skills and digital literacy.

As a key component of this initiative, JA Solar donated its high-efficiency n-type PV modules, DeepBlue 4.0 Pro, to schools, deeply engaging in the construction of a green school education system by installing solar PV and energy storage equipment in multiple middle schools, and providing training on the application and management of green energy for teachers and students to help them understand the practical value of clean energy. DeepBlue 4.0 Pro, renowned for its high conversion efficiency and high reliability, enabling schools to achieve a sustainable clean energy supply.

Moreover, JA Solar is committed to enhancing vocational education by helping schools establish dedicated training bases for solar PV system installation. Through comprehensive practical courses, students gain vital skills in installation, maintenance, and operation of PV systems, preparing them for future careers in the burgeoning renewable energy sector.

One of the project’s first implementation sites, Kanchanapisek Vocational Training College, is integrating the donated solar PV system into its teaching curriculum. Students benefit from simulated real-world installation and maintenance scenarios, gaining key employability skills. Meanwhile, at the Banna District Learning Encouragement Center, JA Solar and its partners installed solar energy storage systems for the community library and learning center. In addition, a “Digital Bus” was introduced to offer mobile digital education, providing free training on telecommunications, cybercrime awareness, and green energy to local residents and students. These efforts not only improve the community’s energy efficiency but also create valuable learning and development opportunities.

With plans to extend this program to additional schools and communities, JA Solar and its partners aim to maximize the dual benefits of green energy and digital education, contributing significantly to sustainable development in Thailand and globally.

“We are honored to contribute to Thailand’s green education project,” said Aiqing Yang, Executive President of JA Solar. “Upholding our mission of ‘Developing Solar Power to Benefit the Planet,’ this initiative not only accelerates Thailand’s energy transition but also empowers students with practical knowledge to build a sustainable future. Looking ahead, JA Solar will continue to deliver green energy solutions and educational resources to more regions, advancing together toward a low-carbon, sustainable future.”

SOURCE JA Solar Technology Co., Ltd.