The Future is Now: Mobile Couponing Streamlined
The Future is Now: Mobile Couponing Streamlined
Momentum Public Relations
People have been using coupons for as long as the saving’s catalyst has existed. Interestingly, 315 billion coupons-valued at approximately 510 billion dollars-were distributed via all mediums in 2013. What’s more, it is estimated that there will be over a billion mobile coupon users by 2019, which is more than double the amount of digital coupon users in 2014. As can be seen, as technology has evolved over the decades consumers have looked for newer and more convenient ways to save. To address this growing problem Mobi724 was founded. Mobi724 is dedicated to one swipe couponing; a seamless transactional experience whereby consumers are able to enjoy digital promotional incentives-such as loyalty rewards rebates-via their mobile devices. Furthermore, their cutting edge technology provides proprietary payment processing that uses the latest security safeguards.
Interestingly, many enterprises are excited about the ingenuity that Mobi724 brings to the digital realm and are quickly joining in on the mobile couponing revolution. For instance, Mobi724 Global Solutions Inc. (MOS: CSE) recently signed a commercial agreement with Movistar to provide its cutting edge technology to its 17+ million subscribers. (View Press Release) As a result, any of its legions of dedicated subscribers will be able to take full advantage of their smart transactions technology at any point of sale that is operated by a participating retailer.
In terms of the industries that Mobi724s technology is currently targeting, large retailers, telecom providers, and banks are currently their three largest demographics. Of course, this is with good reason, as it will benefit consumers greatly in the long run. Imagine having to do away with a plethora of coupons and loyalty cards-such as Air Miles-by having all of the clutter seamlessly integrated into an existing debit card or credit card. Not only would such an integrated approach greatly convenience consumers around the world but retailers, telecom providers, and banks can also provide the service to entice new customers/clients to do business with them, while delighting existing customers; promoting customer/brand loyalty in the process.
Moreover, as an added bonus, the underlying technology that Mobi724 provides allows for instant, real time tracking of consumer and client behavior; allowing partnering enterprises to collect timely, accurate, and relevant data in regards to their clients’ spending habits and preferences. As a result, companies will be able to send their customers targeted coupons that cater to their unique needs; instead of the mass marketing “shotgun” approach that has left customers embittered and frustrated for the last few decades. Niche is the name of the game, and companies have quickly adapted to “future-tech” by being proactive instead of being passive reactionaries to the fluidity of the capitalist milieu.
In regards to how Mobi724 monetizes its tech, the concern collects a monthly maintenance fee for its integrated service platform as well as a modest percentage in revenue share from each coupon transaction. Furthermore, prognosticators estimate that 10{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} of the revenue that the company generates in the next 18 to 24 months will come from maintenance fees, while the remaining 90{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} will be generated via recurring revenue generated by transaction fees.
Given their forward thinking modus operandi, it is evident that their bottom line has ample space to grow exponentially in perpetuity. With new international conglomerates joining forces with Mobi724 with each passing day, and the use of coupons no longer being a taboo in our progressive postmodern zeitgeist, one can only imagine where Mobi724’s market share will be just 5 years from now. The sky is the limit, as Mobi724’s state of the art tech allows for coupons to be validated, consumer/client data to be collected, and relevant discounts to be relayed back to the customer, with a simple card swipe. Why go back to the future when the future is already here?
- Published in Blog, Mobi724 Global Solutions
Fort McMurray: The Next Canadian Ghost Town?
The continued decline of oil prices reminded me of this article put out about a year ago. This year has taken it’s toll on Fort McMurray and its population. Their lively-hoods as well as Canada’s economy heavily relies on the oil market. Asking the question last year implying that Fort McMurray might be on the road to becoming a ghost town was seen as a ridiculous overstatement by some. The current situation will likely have more convinced that this isn’t a scary campfire ghost story, rather a very harsh reality that has many hard working Canadians questioning where to look next to build their futures.
Can Fort McMurray break the ‘Boom and Bust Cycle?
Momentum Public Relations
The decline of oil prices since last June has caused upheaval in the Canadian economy and world markets. From a global perspective, many countries are in dire straights with oil hovering under $50 per barrel. Major oil producing countries like Russia and OPEC member Venezuela face economic collapse with oil staying at the current price. The volatility in the Middle East with the death of King Abdullah and the presence ISIS make forecasting OPEC̕̕ s oil policy a difficult challenge. On the home front, Alberta is expected to fall $7 Billion short of its forecasted revenue. The Bank of Canada cut the national interest rate to prevent inflation and a housing downturn in light of the oil shock. The current situation has forced Alberta Premier Jim Prentice to consider an unpopular provincial sales tax. News of the federal budget potentially going into a small deficit with oil at the current price presents new challenges to the Harper government in what could be an election year. Plunging oil prices have already started to affect the labour market as oil companies like Shell and Suncor have already started laying-off workers and slashing capital budgets. In the midst of all this, Fort McMurray Mayor Melissa Blake is still hopeful of her town’s prospects. Blake states that residents are still “living life as they alwayshave.”
One would expect a politically savvy person like Blake to respond to crisis with optimistic platitudes. The reality is that Fort McMurray exists solely because of the oil industry and the facile argument of life being the same fails to address issues that residents have to face. In a town of 76,000 people made up of mostly migrant and temporary workers and where housing is at a premium, life has already started to change. Mayor Blake states that “Plants are still in operation, we still have jobs, we get up and go to work every day, and we spend our money just as we normally would”. Business owners beg to differ as they have seen a decline in sales as a result of the downturn.
This isn’t the first time the residents of Fort McMurray have faced economic woes. Residents weathered the most recent downturn in 2009; one which many have called a blessing in disguise. This downturn could last longer a lot longer with companies cutting future projects and more layoffs on the horizon should oil hover at its current price. The uncertainty has forced some residents to put their homes on the market as a precautionary move. While many living in Fort McMurray believe that they can weather the storm, a sustained downturn of could see Fort McMurray become a ghost town.
Sources: Business News Network, Globe and Mail, CTV News, CBC News
- Published in Blog, Oil and Gas
Cannabinoids – Investors See Green
Cannabinoids – Investors See Green
Momentum Public Relations
The current debate in Canada around legalizing or decriminalizing the use of marijuana is highlighting potential for mainstream investors to capitalize on opportunities being created by companies who are pioneers in developing medical products made from cannabis. The recent election of the Trudeau government has triggered anticipation that important reforms and regulatory changes will be introduced to fulfill promises that were included in the Liberal Party’s platform.
Scientists today have a better understanding of how the various molecules and compounds in cannabis trigger a response in human beings. This is permitting new classes of pharmaceutical products to emerge offering investors opportunities that eclipse the returns that can be generated in some of the more mature pharmaceutical segments.
InMed Pharmaceuticals (IN:CSE) http://www.inmedpharma.com is a leader in a growing segment that is seeking to identify new bioactive compounds in cannabis plants that may interact with certain genes that cause specific diseases or medical conditions. Their pioneering research is opening the door to new therapies that meet the needs of patients who suffer from a variety of illnesses including debilitating dermatological conditions and ocular nerve disorders like glaucoma. These new therapies are expected to generate substantial returns for investors.
Marijuana, in its many different forms, contains a variety of active ingredients. One of these ingredients, perhaps the most well known entity, is a cannabinoid known as tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. This is the primary psychoactive compound of cannabis. THC was first synthesized by Dr. R. Mechoulan at Jerusalem University in 1964. Since that time researchers have identified and isolated at least 85 different cannabinoids from cannabis, each with its own effects. Opportunities to investigate these effects and produce useful therapies is creating a potential pipeline of commercially viable pharmaceutical products as a result of the evolving public perception, advances in scientific knowledge and changes in laws and regulations
For most of the 20th century, marijuana was classified as an illegal drug in most jurisdictions in North America and Europe. It’s use, in a number of forms, was partially revived in the 1960’s as part of a counter cultural movement. Despite a well documented history of medical applications that date back to 2500 BC, the more recent mainstream public perception of cannabis was limited to publicity that highlighted the various negative consequences of smoking marijuana. This perspective, and the laws that were enacted that criminalized the possession of quantities of cannabis in any form, created an environment that impeded serious scientific investigation of its potential medicinal properties.
The use of cannabis in medicine is not a recent phenomenon. It actually pre-dates recorded history. There is clear evidence that a number of medicinal properties were well understood by Chinese emperors, Egyptian Pharaohs and Greek Philosophers. It was used by physicians in ancient times to treat ailments as diverse as glaucoma, gout, indigestion and anxiety. Eventually a debate about its use emerged among physicians. Around 900 AD two highly respected Islamic doctors had widely disparate opinions on the usefulness and efficacy of marijuana.
Eventually cannabis emerged in North America, primarily in the form of hemp. Two of the founding fathers of the United States of America, George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, both highly curious scientist-farmers, carefully documented experiments that they conducted in growing hemp and investigating a variety of medicinal uses for it.
At the beginning of the 20th century there was a movement to regulate and classify any product that made a medical claim. In 1906 President Teddy Roosevelt signed the Wiley Act into law. This legislation became the foundation for future food and drug related regulation. The objective of politicians and the medical community was to regulate or ban products that made health related claims but lacked any scientific credibility or were proven to be dangerous.
Marijuana, and its chemistry, was not well understood in that era and efforts were made to determine if it had helpful medicinal properties or if it was highly addictive. By the 1930’s there was considerable discussion around marijuana. In 1940 a committee of medical practitioners was established by the state of New York to study its use and effects. This was known as the “LaGuardia committee on the use of marihuana” (note the different spelling). The report that was produced in 1944 did not provide a clear recommendation on restricting its use. It did suggest that there was no evidence that that it was addictive or led to other more serious addictions.
“The practice of smoking marihuana does not lead to addiction in the medical sense of the word. The use of marihuana does not lead to morphine or heroin or cocaine addiction.” – LaGuardia committee report on the use of Marihuana (1944)
Nonetheless, the fact that cannabis was not treated as a legal compound led to an underground trade for recreational purposes. This discouraged investigation by medical researchers within the scientific community throughout most of the late 20th century. However, this is changing rapidly in the 21st century.
With accelerated scientific knowledge fueled by technology and communication, cannabinoid science is emerging into the mainstream. Scientists and medical professionals are already participating in trials that are being conducted to test new compounds from cannabinoids. Additional medical advances cannot be not far behind. Additionally, the anticipated change in the regulatory environment can only further fuel opportunities.
- Published in Blog, InMed Pharmaceuticals, Medical Marijuana
Follow the Money: The Rise of Mobile Technology
Follow the Money: The Rise of Mobile Technology
Momentum Public Relations
The phrase “follow the money” has been used to suggest that finding the truth behind a political scandal can be achieved by investigating a series of financial transactions that will point directly to the main perpetrators. However, this phrase can have a much more positive connotation. If investors are seeking a good bet (and who isn’t) following the money often leads to opportunities for superior returns. Financial technology, or fintech, is an opportunity that needs to be explored in 2016.
Business segments that are profitable are frequently suitable targets for disruptive startups. This situation is most certainly the case in the Canadian financial sector. The major players are justifiably proud of their heritage, stability, and profitability. The worldwide financial crisis of 2008 was barely a blip on the radar screen of Canada’s financial institutions. They did not suffer a liquidity crisis. Profits soared again post-2009. The major Canadian banks recorded net profits 31.7 billion dollars in 2014, a slight increase from the total of 29.2 billion in 2013. The trend continued in 2015.
So why are the big banks, and a wide variety of other related financial services companies, preparing for waves of technology based disruption in 2016 and beyond? Simply stated, their profitability and relatively stable position exist in combination with an absence of agility. Large legacy companies have a hard time becoming agile despite rousing speeches from the C-suite. The opportunity for startups that bring new technological approaches to financial management is enormous because the potential audience is large. The early adopting customers alone, 2-3{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} of the market, can generate revenue and profits that are too large to be ignored. Groundbreaking financial technologies are increasingly robust, and they are beginning to change the expectations and demands of consumers. Consequently, there is a high degree of likelihood that the entire sector is about to undergo a redefinition. Smart investors will follow the money and profit from the disruption!
Several emerging realities are at the core of the revolution in financial technology. There is an abundance of startups challenging the accepted norms of this highly regulated and traditional industry. The threat of disruptive entrants is forcing cautious organizations like banks and insurance companies to change or adapt their processes at a speed that may prove to be uncomfortable. Additionally, these startups are creating new products and services that are defining new market spaces.
Expect two significant financial technology trends to dominate the conversation in 2016. They include the need for increased data security coupled with a rise of mobile technology. Both trends have significant implications for the financial sector given that mobile transactions, while still nascent, are likely to grow exponentially over the next five years.
Entrepreneurs and investors have been quick to seize on this movement. Markets like Japan and Korea provide some early indications of how the field may sort itself out. Yes, the first wave of adoption has been dominated by the under 30-year-old cohort, but this is just the beginning of the wave. The fact is that over 2/3 of smart phone users have more than one shopping app on their device. However, there is a perception that using them is either a hassle or potentially not secure. Soon everyone’s grandma will use these apps along with a digital wallet. The challenge, for the moment, is to ensure that this technological change is easy to use and 100{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} secure. Most experts contend that the development of blockchain is a seminal event that will have broad implications for both challenges in managing mobile transactions. It has certainly grabbed the headlines and is celebrated as the functional dimension that makes Bitcoin usage possible. However, the Bitcoin phenomenon is likely more sizzle than steak. The real opportunity for blockchain lies in its potential to transform the way all financial transactions occur.
What is “a blockchain”? It is just a record, or ledger, of digital events. It is openly shared among many different parties and can only be updated by consensus of a majority of the participants in the system. And when data or information has been entered it can never be erased. It makes data manipulation and transactional fraud close to impossible because of the disparate and shared nature of the data. The result of secure transactions is that they lead to improved functionality and drive more usage. If the process is totally secure and incredibly easy why not use it?
Increasingly, everything is connected, and every connected device is becoming a commercial device. This connectedness is setting up an opportunity to develop superior tools to protect and secure the information that is being sent and stored. Financial institutions have historically been reluctant to make process changes because of legitimate security concerns and a variety of regulatory imperatives. Many of the things that look like changes have merely involved automating long-standing manual processes. Blockchain could change the paradigm completely. Once it is fully commercialized, it will provide opportunities to the financial sector. Startups are embracing this technology. They are seeking to invade traditional markets by offering new options and services that banks have been hesitant to embrace.
Several innovative fintech start-ups have been trumpeting marketing messages that threaten the existence of traditional banks. However, many of them are relying heavily on underlying infrastructure that banks provide to conduct their business. Some are beginning to operate as banks themselves and are free of dependency on other players. Building independent structures is a slow and expensive process, but the potential rewards may justify the strategic risk. In the meantime, the big banks are sending signals of “willingness to partner” with startups that have begun to carve into their traditional territory with new innovative products and services.
How does this impact the savvy investor? Just follow the money! The most likely scenario for many disruptive startups in fintech is that success and growth will result in an opportunity for their shareholders to cash out by being acquired and merged into the operations of existing financial institutions. Yes, there will be some fintech startups that won’t make it, and there will be some that emerge as stable standalone businesses. 2016 looks to be a watershed year in fintech – one to watch carefully for sure.
- Published in Blog, Business, Mobi724 Global Solutions
The Canadian Economy is Resilient
The Canadian Economy is Resilient
Momentum Public Relations
The volatility of oil prices has been a major global economic factor for the past few years. The unprecedented price drop from levels of close to $100 a barrel in June 2014 down to the mid 30’s a barrel in December 2105 has had a gigantic ripple effect in every industry and in every part of the world.
As we approach 2016, where will oil prices go and how will this impact the overall economy of Canada? Investors, businesses and consumers are watching closely. To suggest that there is a lot of nervousness in the market is an understatement. Accompanying this concern is a number of forecasts that anticipate further oil price drops. At the same time, other forecasters provide strong reasons why there will be a price recovery. Of course, if anyone was actually capable of making a credible prediction on the price and supply of oil the investment community would be paying much closer attention.
The price of oil impacts the Canadian economy differently when it is contrasted with most of the other larger economies in the world. The difference is due to the complexity of Canada being almost equally a producer and a consumer of petroleum. If Canada was primarily an importer or a major net exporter the help/hurt argument would be much more clear. Canada’s economic sectors that rely on the production of oil are suffering from a drop in prices making a return on investment challenging. The inescapable reality is that lower revenues produce a reduction in profitability. At the same time, other important sectors in Canada, like manufacturing and transportation, stand to benefit from a cost reduction for fuel and raw materials.
The short term pain of lower oil prices may actually be beneficial for Canada in the medium term. Sure, in the short term, there is evidence that this is having a significant negative impact in Canada, particularly in places like Alberta. Lagging indicators such as the low rate of GDP growth, the Bank of Canada’s key interest rate and rising regional unemployment are all cause for concern. Nonetheless, there are three reasons why investors and interested observers should be encouraged to take a slightly longer view of the prospects of Canada’s ability to weather the storm.
- Oil is here to stay. The fundamental need for petroleum products is not about to evaporate. Unlike major transitions in technology that have occurred in history, the need for oil and its derivative products will continue. When wood gave way to coal and coal to the use of oil there were substantial technical advances that accompanied each shift. At the moment there is no game changing technical advance that is emerging to render oil obsolete. With little prospect of diminishing tension in places like the Middle East there will continue to be a need for a reliable supply of oil and gas for big consumers like China, Japan and the USA. Even if the consumption of gasoline fell due to the use of alternative energies there would continue to be a very large need for a wide variety of chemicals, consumer goods and medical products that are manufactured from petroleum. Typical products of this sort are listed on this link.
http://www.ranken-energy.com/products{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce}20from{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce}20petroleum.htm
- An exceedingly diverse economy. Canada is in a far better position to maneuver and manage in a volatile environment. Countries like Russia, Saudi Arabia and even the United States have more compelling concerns. Russia and Saudi Arabia are undoubtedly being forced to deal with a major budgetary shortfall at the moment. The United States has to make a number of important strategic decisions regarding long term supply in an environment where predicting the future is extremely challenging. Canada, on the other hand, is likely to suffer a relatively small loss of overall revenue and may actually see some stronger growth in the medium term if the Canadian dollar remains weak. The complexities and concerns associated with falling oil prices for a number of countries who have much more to lose is outlined in a recent post by Ravi Srikant.
http://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/051315/complex-story-global-impact-low-oil-prices.asp
- Cities emerging as wealth hubs. The growth of the Canadian economy is, like most major economies in the world, increasingly centered in cities rather than in resource extraction or the sale of commodities. There are six Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs) in Canada that all have relatively high employment levels and continue with a track record of significant job growth. They are Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa-Gatineau, Calgary and Edmonton. These locations account for roughly 50{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} of Canada’s employment and consequently are a major centre for wealth creation. A great amount of the economic activity in cities comes from the development of new technologies that make new services and product possible. This phenomenon is displayed in Professor Livio Di Matteo’s graph.
http://www.macleans.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Di-Matteo.png
Some people believe that history repeats itself. In the case of oil, that would mean that the world will see prices that move higher before very long. The theory that what goes up must come down (and vice-versa) is a compelling one. It may be more important to learn from history rather than be resigned to it. Short term issues aside, Canada’s wealth of natural resources is complimented by its open economy and well educated workforce. The future price of oil is anyone’s guess. The future of the Canadian economy, however, isn’t dependent on low or high priced oil. It is dependent on making wise choices around new technologies and ensuring that the cities, that are driving growth, are adequately resourced and that the infrastructure they require to compete effectively on the world stage is second to none.
- Published in Blog, Business, Oil and Gas
International Wastewater Systems: The Next Disruptor In The Greentech Space
Heat from Wastewater: A Very Green Investment Opportunity
– Momentum Public Relations –
The recent COP21 summit in Paris featured a variety of strong messages from various world leaders related to the need for a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. There are a variety of nuances in their statements however their overall message can be summed up by the following statement; the status quo is not an option. Every country needs to change its approach to energy and lower Co2 emissions. Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s speech at the summit highlighted his commitment to make Canada a global leader when it comes to reducing carbon emissions. The Liberals provided a very large figure to show its dedication to the cause and have pledged to spend an extra $5.65 billion over the next four years on green infrastructure. The Prime Minister later discussed the importance of implementing some form of carbon pricing at an event held by the World Bank where he explained carbon pricing as “a crucial tool to begin the shift we need towards sustainable economic growth.”
Watch Video: Justin Trudeau tells Paris climate summit Canada ready to do more
Technological advances can contribute to meaningful reductions in energy use and emissions. Many new technologies are complex and have questionable return on investment metrics. Wise investors must evaluate how technological advances can translate into investment opportunities. There are numerous examples of good ideas that don’t translate into good investments. However, it is reasonable to wonder when the time is right to invest in an emerging idea or business. Is there merit in waiting to assess the ultimate commercial viability of a technology before making a significant investment commitment?
Many solutions to today’s energy challenges are simple and right in front of us. Investing in emerging technologies comes with inherent risks however it can be helpful to test any potential investment by using four investment evaluation principles that evaluate the potential of an opportunity. One such opportunity is International Wastewater Systems (IWS:CSE) and their SHARC technology.
Four Investment Evaluation Principles:
1.Is it simple?
2.Is the business model viable?
3.Is the potential large enough?
4.Is it disruptive?
Is it simple?
Investment opportunities need to be understandable. A complicated story around a technology often makes the product or service harder to explain to an investor. If an investor doesn’t understand it a customer won’t either. Consequently, simplicity matters . Sometimes investment in innovation is not about spending millions in research. Often, major investment opportunities are found by discovering companies that are developing innovative ways to use existing technologies.
In almost every home and building large quantities of heat in water is discarded. Typically, water enters buildings at 7-9 degrees Celsius and leaves into the sewer system at 20-25 degrees Celsius. The IWS SHARC solution extracts heat from waste water and captures it in a closed system allowing it to be reused. When captured, this wasted heat is used to meet as much as 50{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} of a building’s energy requirements. This allows the warmth from waste water to be captured and transferred to clean water with no risk of cross-contamination. Even though the technology is complex, the solution is simple and the benefit is easily understood.
Is the potential large enough?
Investment in a technology with a narrow base of potential customers is often risky. An emerging technology needs to have a broad potential market in order to grow quickly and produce a reasonable return. Flexible and scalable technologies present more viable commercial opportunities with better ROI.
International Wastewater Systems SHARC solution has proven effective in buildings and installations that are as small as 60,000 square feet and as large as several million square feet. Virtually any building is a potential user of this product. Depending on the scope of the installation, the payback from recycling wasted energy averages 3-5 years making it more attractive than new installations of solar or wind energy. Capturing wasted heat is more cost effective than installing new methods of energy generation. In addition, the technology works in new facilities or may be retrofitted in existing buildings. This means that the market potential is huge. Not surprisingly, the SHARC solution is being deployed in places as diverse as Camden County, New Jersey, Seven35 Condominium complex in Vancouver, Canada and Borders College in the southeast of Scotland.
Is it disruptive?
Investment opportunities in new or emerging technologies usually need to disrupt a market or change an existing paradigm in order for an investor to be motivated to take a position early in the company’s growth cycle. A disruptive technology displaces an established way of doing things. It may also shake up an existing industry or become a component in a completely new industry.
The fundamental concept of a major change to how wasted energy in waste water is captured and reused is highly disruptive.The SHARC system that has been developed by IWS is changing the way that building owners and government stakeholders view energy conservation. Yet it uses well proven technology that is designed to be trouble free with full backup capacity providing for zero down time. Furthermore its flexibility is also a disruptive force. It can be tailored to almost any size facility and functions in either heat exchange or heat pump applications. It even measures its own ROI. A typical installation includes a DDC or BACnet interface and a wireless or Ethernet connection for data retrieval and instantaneous calculation of COP and GHG savings.
Is the business model viable?
Investment opportunities need to consist of much more than a great idea or an incredibly innovative product. They require finely tuned management expertise and a sound business model coupled with a clear value proposition.
Lynn Mueller, President and CEO of International Wastewater Systems, was previously President of Water Furnace and Earth Source Energy, the world’s largest installer of heat pumps. He has assembled an experienced team of people who have significant expertise in the geothermal heat pump and renewable energy industries. IWS created the SHARC system as a response to a clear need for an easy, maintenance-free solution to address the need for energy efficiency. They did it using their expertise in geothermal heat pumps and chillers.
Watch Video: CEO Lynn gives a virtual tour and explains installation that is providing heating and cooling for the 60,000 sq/ft Gateway Theatre building in Richmond, British Columbia.
The company has continued to ramp up its order book in 2015 with significant revenue growth in its pipeline. IWS has also established marketing and distribution channels in 40 US states and in Canada. A recent IWS press release highlights the major upcoming projects: CORPORATE UPDATE
Additionally, it has been supported financially by leading institutional green energy investors. Recently, IWS’s fully owned UK based subsidiary (SHARCenergy.com) secured a £4 million investment from Equitix and the UK Green Investment Bank plc (GIB) to finance the installation of what will be the first major system in a new program that could see sewage heat recovery systems installed across the UK.
Today: (the 8th of December, 2015)
The UK’s Energy Minister, Fergus Ewing will help with the official unveiling and launch of the SHARC system that will provide 95{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} of heat needed at the Borders College campus.
Read More: UK’S first heat from sewage scheme to be launched in Galashiels
All are welcome to attend and take one of the scheduled tours, but more notably, some of the World’s largest greentech / renewable energy funds will be attending the inauguration of UK’s first SHARC energy system.
IWS.C has only been available to investors as a publically listed company for a little over a month, which makes this early stage opportunity’s upside potential all the more rewarding. Things can move quickly, the public, through increasing media exposure, is starting to understand the direction and huge potential that IWS represents. Potential clearly highlighted in a recent interview with International Wastewater Systems UK division’s CEO, Russell Burton. Mr.Burton, “founder and chief executive of Leicester-based SHARC Energy Systems said the firm’s turnover would jump from about £3 million to about £60 million in the next three to five years.”
Full Interview with Russell Burton, CEO: Sales Bonanza for Renewables Firm SHARC Energy Systems
Conclusion:
Sewage isn’t as inherently attractive as solar or wind power but the SHARC system represents an accessible, cost-effective renewable energy system that is fully commercialized.
The consensus that is emerging at conferences like the COP21 summit in Paris supports the need for simple, cost effective and easy to implement technologies that will radically change the trajectory of the climate change reality. The future of our planet may depend upon the extent to which countries and stakeholders collaborate in the effort to reduce Co2 emissions. Energy users like municipalities and building owners are increasingly being challenged to efficiently decrease their greenhouse gas emissions. Investors need to pay attention. Challenges like this generate major investment opportunities. Ultimately, a company like IWS provides investors with an opportunity for significant return in a market space that is going to be an important dimension of the emerging economy.
- Published in Blog, International Wastewater Systems
Mobi724 (MOS:CSE) Signs a Commercial Agreement With Movistar
MOBI724 Global Solutions Inc. (MOS:CSE), Signs a Commercial Agreement With Movistar to Provide its Coupon Solution to Movistar’s 17 M Subscribers
Mobi724 Global Solutions Inc. (“Mobi724” or the “Company”) (MOS:CSE), a technology leader in the digital incentives, couponing and payment space, announces that its wholly owned Argentinian subsidiary, Mobi724 S.R.L., has signed a commercial agreement with Movistar to design, implement, integrate, manage and support MOBI724’s mobile coupons solution for Movistar’s Discount and Rewards program.
MOBI724’s innovative global mobile couponing solution will allow Movistar to create, manage and send mobile campaigns to their 17 million subscribers, who will be able to redeem the couponing benefits directly at any point of sale operated by a participating retailer enrolled by MOBI724.
Marcel Vienneau, CEO of the Company, stated: “We are thrilled to team up with such a global leader and offer the best of breed mobile couponing solution for Movistar’s benefits program, a major communication platform, for their 17 million customers. This level of confidence confirms that our approach in developing innovative value added solutions in a very competitive market is gaining momentum.”
About Movistar
Movistar is the major Spanish mobile phone operator owned by Telefónica S.A. It operates in Spain and in most Latin American countries (including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela, Colombia, Mexico, Guatemala, Panamá, El Salvador, Costa Rica and Nicaragua). Movistar is the largest carrier in Spain with 22 million customers (cellphone services only) and 41.58{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} of market share. In Latin America, Movistar has a 30{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} market share with almost 200 million subscribers. In Argentina, Movistar has a 35{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} market share with a base of 17 million subscribers.
About Mobi724 Global Solutions
Mobi724 Global Solutions (CSE:MOS), a corporation based in Montreal, Canada, is a technology leader in digital incentives and payment solutions. It offers a unique and fully integrated suite of solutions – PAYMENT-COUPONING AND LOYALTY all in one.
Our vision is to enhance the value of commoditized payment transactions to the players in this eco-system (ex: customers, banks, mobile carriers and retailers) by adding layers of intelligence to these transactions (i.e. smart transactions) in a seamless manner.
Mobi724 Global Solutions unleashes the true potential of both payment and couponing/rewards transactions for both online and offline points of sale.
The Corporation is fully dedicated to delivering unique “real time” and seamless digital promotional incentives (coupons including card linked coupons, bank cards, loyalty rewards) embedded into the most secured payment environment. The Corporation provides its customers with full and comprehensive traceability and enriched consumer data through its offering. Its solutions enable retailers, manufacturers, offer providers, mobile operators and card issuers to create, manage, deliver and “track and measure” incentive campaigns worldwide to ANY mobile device and allow its redemption at ANY point of sales.
Their credit and debit EMV payment solutions will allow banks to process end to end EMV transactions, focusing on authentication, approved security and quick merchant adoption which allows the users to process payments with a wide range of devices over a secure and seamless transaction.
Mobi724’s PCI and EMV cloud-based switch, with their device agnostic connectivity, simplifies deployment and integration, and introduces new payment and digital incentives solutions to the market enabling multi layered intelligent transactions therefore SMART TRANSACTIONS.
For more information on its products and on Mobi724 Global Solutions, visit www.mobi724globalsolutions.com.
InMed’s (IN:CSE) INM-750 Shows Positive Effects on Wound Healing
InMed Provides Update on Progress of Its Development Program for Epidermolysis Bullosa
Including New Pre-clinical Results on the Wound Healing and Anti-inflammatory Properties of INM-750
InMed Pharmaceuticals Inc. (“InMed”) (IN:CSE)(IMLFF:OTCQB), a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the research and development of novel, cannabinoid-based therapies would like to provide an update on the progress of INM-750, its lead product in development for epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a serious and severe genetically inherited skin disorder.
INM-750 is a topical formulation of phytocannabinoids that have been carefully selected using our proprietary bioinformatics discovery platform to treat: (i) the underlying cause of the disease in patients with epidermolysis bullosa simplex (the most common form of the disease), and (ii) to treat the major symptoms of the disease in all patients with EB.
InMed’s initial pre-clinical studies were focused on studying the potential of INM-750 to treat the cause of the disease by modulating the expression of the various keratins that are critical to maintaining the integrity of the skin. We have previously reported that InMed has been able to demonstrate that certain phytocannabinoids are able to positively influence the expression of the key keratins K5, K6, K14, K15 and K16. We continue to make progress in studying the effect of different cannabinoids at different doses on keratin expression, and a summary of our initial results are now available on our website.
InMed is now pleased to report that INM-750 has demonstrated positive effects in pre-clinical studies on wound healing and in inflammation. InMed has been studying the potential of certain cannabinoids to expedite the wound healing process using the electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) wounding assay. The ECIS wounding assay is a state-of-the-art assay that replaces the traditional scrape or scratch assay. Using this assay, InMed has been able to identify certain cannabinoids that significantly potentiate the wound healing process, when compared to other less active cannabinoids, or to the vehicle control. Dr. Sazzad Hossain, Chief Scientific Officer of InMed, stated, “The results we are obtaining with the ECIS wound assay are significant for the development of INM-750. Through the use of the ECIS assay we are able to demonstrate the wound healing and skin regeneration properties of INM-750; these properties will be critical to help alleviate the primary symptoms of patients with EB”.
In addition to the ECIS studies, InMed has also studied the anti-inflammatory effect of certain cannabinoids included in INM-750. It has been demonstrated that cannabinoids included in INM-750 are able to down regulate the production of IL-8 by human keratinocytes, and inhibit IFN╔ú/TNFΓì║ induced production of IL-6 by human keratinocytes. Dr. Sazzad states, “These results are important to demonstrate that in addition to having an effect on wound healing, the cannabinoids included in INM-750 should also help down regulate the chronic inflammation that is present in EB patients”.
InMed continues to develop INM-750 with the goal of entering the clinic in the first half of 2016. Initial proof of concept studies in human subjects should be completed by the end of 2016. Paul Brennan, CEO of InMed says “I am pleased with the progress of our development program, and the data that has been generated by Dr. Hossain and his colleagues. INM-750 has the potential to provide a significant addition to the treatment options for patients with EB and EBS.”
A summary of the pre-clinical results on INM-750 is available on InMed’s website under the Investors and the Pipeline sections.
About Epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS)
Epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS) is one of the major forms of epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a group of genetic conditions that cause the skin to be very fragile and to blister easily. It is a result of a defect in anchoring between the epidermis and the dermis, resulting in friction and skin fragility. The severity of this condition ranges from mild to lethal. There is no cure or approved treatments for EB. Wound care, pain management and preventative bandaging are currently the only options available.
About InMed
InMed is a preclinical stage biopharmaceutical company that specializes in developing novel therapies through the research and development into the pharmacology of cannabinoids combined with innovative drug delivery systems. InMed’s proprietary platform technology, product pipeline and accelerated development pathway are the fundamental value drivers of the company. For more information, visit www.inmedpharma.com.
- Published in Blog, Business, Medical Marijuana
Int’l Wastewater (IWS:CSE) Investor Lee Acquires 27.5 M Shares
International Wastewater Systems (IWS:CSE) Investor Paul Bernard Lee Acquires 27.5 Million Shares
Paul Bernard Lee of 180 Swick Rd., Kelowna, B.C., Canada, V1W 4J5, has acquired ownership and control of 27.5 million common shares of International Wastewater Systems Inc. (formerly Amana Copper Ltd.), at a deemed price of 14 cents per common share, pursuant to a share exchange agreement among IWS, International Wastewater Heat Exchange Systems Ltd. (IWHES) and the shareholders of IWHES dated Sept. 4, 2015. The shares were issued to Mr. Lee is exchange for his common shares of IWHES at a ratio of 250,000 common shares of IWS for each common share of IWHES. These securities represent approximately 34 per cent of the issued and outstanding common shares of IWS.
The securities were acquired for investment purposes, and Mr. Lee may acquire further securities of IWS in the future.
The securities were issued under an exemption from the prospectus requirements set out in Section 2.16 of NI 45-106, Prospectus Exemptions.
An early warning report of Mr. Lee containing additional information with respect to his acquisition of common shares of IWS will be filed under IWS’s SEDAR profile within the time permitted by law.
A copy of the early warning report may be obtained by contacting Lynn Mueller, chief executive officer of IWS, at 1-604-219-2838.
Mobi724 Global Solutions Inc. Acquires the Remaining 49 Shares of Mobi724 Solutions Inc.
Mobi724 Global Solutions Inc. (MOS:CSE) Acquires the Remaining 49{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} Shares of Mobi724 Solutions Inc. (“Solutions Inc.”)
Mobi724 Global Solutions Inc. (the “Company”) (MOS:CSE), a technology leader in the digital incentives, couponing and payment space, announces that it has successfully completed the acquisition of the remaining 49{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} tranche of Solutions Inc. The Company had initially acquired a 51{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} controlling interest in Solutions Inc. in July 2013. This transaction renders Solutions Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.
Stephane Boisvert, Chairman of the Board stated: “As one of the instigators of the initial transaction 2 years ago, I am very pleased as this transaction will bring the digital couponing solution, which is now core to our suite of solutions and which is already generating revenue from multiple global brands in various countries, 100{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} under the Company’s control.”
The purchase price for the remaining 49{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} shares of Solutions Inc. represents 20.70{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} of the aggregate total issued and outstanding shares of the Company as of the 19th of October 2015 (the “Purchase Price”) after issuance of shares to the remaining shareholders of Solutions Inc. (the “Remaining Shareholders of Solutions Inc.”). At closing, the Remaining Shareholders of Solutions Inc. received 14,493,074 common shares of the Company which represents 20.70{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} of the aggregate total issued and outstanding shares of the Company as of the 19th of October 2015. The Purchase Price is subject to a pre-defined anti-dilution provision with a cap of 18.05{92d3d6fd85a76c012ea375328005e518e768e12ace6b1722b71965c2a02ea7ce} of the total issued and outstanding shares of the Company. The anti-dilution provision covers the current $3,200,000 round of financing, which the Company is seeking to raise and all outstanding debentures that are slated to be converted at year’s end including the debentures converted on October 20, 2015.
As the CEO of the Company, Marcel Vienneau stated: “Today all of the founders of Mobi724 Solutions Inc. are key executives of the Company. This shows the degree of confidence and commitment that the founders of Mobi724 Solutions Inc. have in the future success of the Company. As a shareholder group, the shareholders of Mobi724 Solutions Inc. now represent the largest shareholder group of the Company and, as key members of the management team, we intend to accelerate the creation of value for all of the Company’s investors. Our digital incentives and couponing solutions are very innovative and bring a great deal of value to players in the global payment space such as banks, mobile carriers and large retailers. Our “best of the breed” solutions are in revenue mode and have begun to gain traction with many global brands in multiple countries. All of this simply adds to the Company’s ‘smart transaction’ vision.”
About Mobi724 Global Solutions
Mobi724 Global Solutions (MOS:CSE), a corporation based in Montreal, Canada, is a technology leader whereas we offer a unique fully integrated suite of solutions – PAYMENT-COUPONING AND LOYALTY all in one.
Our vision is to leverage commoditized payment transactions with layers of intelligence on top of these transactions (smart transactions) and enhance their value for the players in this eco-system: customers, banks, mobile carriers and retailers in a seamless experience.
Mobi724 Global Solutions unleashes the true potential of both payment and couponing/rewards transactions for both online and offline points of sale.
The Corporation is fully dedicated to deliver unique “real time” and seamless digital promotional incentives (coupons including card linked coupons, bank cards, loyalty rewards) embedded into the most secured payment environment. The Corporation provides to its customers full and comprehensive traceability and enriched consumer data through its offering. Its solutions enable retailers, manufacturers, offer providers, mobile operators and card issuers to create, manage, deliver and “track and measure” incentive campaigns worldwide to ANY mobile device and allow its redemption at ANY point of sales.
Their credit and debit EMV payment solutions will allow banks to process end to end EMV transactions, focusing on authentication, approved security and quick merchant adoption which allows the users to process payments with a wide range of devices over a secure and seamless transaction.
Mobi724 PCI and EMV cloud-based switch, with their device agnostic connectivity, simplifies deployment and integration, and introduces new payment and digital incentives solutions to the market enabling multi layered intelligent transactions therefore SMART TRANSACTIONS.