Middle East Live

• A bold and sleek design combining modern features and specifications with the dynamic performance of an all-new vehicle.

• Fuel-efficient, multi-purpose, multi-functional 7-seater.

• Unrivalled storage space that perfectly suits individual needs

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia-Sunday 28 March 2021 [ AETOS Wire ]

Al Alesayi Motors, the official and the exclusive distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Saudi Arabia, introduced the all-new 2021 XPANDER, a fuel-efficient seven-seater small MPV, with a variety of capabilities and features, providing unparalleled levels of comfort, practicality, and impeccable quality.

“The crossover MPV and compact sports utility vehicles continue to be the most popular and emerge as the fastest growing segment in the automotive sector globally and regionally,” commented Bandar Alesayi, CEO of Alesayi Motors. “This category of vehicles has seen steady growth in the GCC markets since 2013 and will continue to grow at a robust pace in the coming years.”

“The remarkable growth was mainly driven by customers, who want vehicles that are well suited to modern life requirements, which offer all the benefits of SUVs, such as the elegant sleek design and high seating position, with excellent fuel economy, at the same price range of other passenger cars,” he continued.  

Mr. Bandar Alesayi stressed that the company is beyond thrilled to roll out the all-new Mitsubishi XPANDER in the Saudi market. “The new Mitsubishi XPANDER is aptly positioned to delight customers in the Saudi market and achieve unprecedented success and satisfaction.”

He continued: “The Mitsubishi XPANDER boasts the most advanced features and specifications, with exceptional fuel economy, futuristic exterior design and versatile and luxurious interior. It features a roomy cabin space with wide-ranging amenities, and ample, secure storage space for personal belongings, powered by the latest smart technologies. High ground clearance and handling stability makes the XPANDER easy to drive, even on rough roads, providing an enjoyable and safer driving experience for our customers.”

He noted that Al Alesayi Motors endeavors to provide dependable, high-quality spare parts readily available to customers, through spare part distribution centers across Saudi Arabia, and other authorized dealers. It also has a network of repair maintenance centers in various regions across the country, as well as a mobile service team and customer service call centers.

The all-new XPANDER’s Exterior Design

The new XPANDER features a front-end futuristic design; a chrome upper front grille, auto LED headlamps and swept back daytime running lamps, with the signature ‘Dynamic Shield’ front design look concept that is incorporated in every newly launched Mitsubishi car, which ensures protection for passengers and pedestrians alike. Aesthetically, the XPANDER includes an impressive kit list, including LED Headlamps and Crystal blocks LED position lamp, to provide better visibility for the driver.  The L-illumination LED Taillights extend onto the tailgate and accentuate the car’s strong stance.

The car is equipped with 16-inch diamond-cut dual tone alloy wheels, a universal shark fin antenna, a rear-view camera above the tailgate. The sleek side fenders merge stylishly with the side and rear panels and complete the car’s sculpted look.

The new XPANDER also features a 2,775 m wheelbase: an overall length of 4,475 m, 1,750 m width, with overall height of 1,730 m and   an overall height of 1,750 m, as well as a height of 1,700 m (Midline)/ 1,730 m (High line).

The all-new XPANDER’s Interior Design

Moving inside, the XPANDER was designed to provide the best-in-class spacious cabin space, offering more legroom and comfort for all seven adult passengers, thanks to easy-to-maintain seats, luxurious amenities, as well as refined materials that make journeys comfortable and complement the premium-looking interior.

To reduce both engine and external noise, the XPANDER has sound absorbing and vibration-blocking material, ensuring a noticeably quiet experience.  The silent and powerful air conditioning system can be finely adjusted thanks thanks to its 8 power settings for the front seats, and its 4 settings in the rear, s eight fan adjustment levels in the front, four levels at the back, as well as four rear roof vents, to keep all passengers comfortable.

One of the many benefits of the XPANDER cabin is that the seats can be flexibly arranged in a variety of combinations, to meet changing needs. A mechanism allows the third and second row seats to fold forward easily, to provide a large, flat cargo space. For added practicality, the armrest in second row can be folded down to clear space for extra-long items.  

Additionally, the car includes a modern and hands-free operation infotainment hub, with the 7-inch Smartphone Link Display Audio (SDA) system, fully compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, to get directions, make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music all while enjoying a safer and more engaging driving experience.

Modern Features for Extra Comfort and Luxury

The XPANDER boasts plenty of space to meet everyone's needs. Even with seven passengers taking up the third row of seats, it still has enough luggage space to hold four-gallon water bottles.

In addition to the glove box, the XPANDER has several multi-purpose storage, door pockets, cup holders, seat back pockets, center console box, passenger seat undertray and cargo floor box.

The car is also fitted with easy charging capability on the move, with USB power outlets for smartphone and device charging throughout the vehicle. Each of the three seating rows has a 12 V power charge point and a nearby pocket space to store the device.

Advanced Safety and Security Features

Designed with passenger safety in mind, the XPANDER is built using Mitsubishi Motors' advanced Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body, which helps protect all occupants with a solid cabin structure that absorbs the energy of collisions from every direction.  

The 4 doors are fitted with a support beam inside to reduce any door deformation in case of a side impact.

Other safety features include Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) System, Active Stability Control (ASC), as well as Hill Start Assist (HSA) among others.

New Levels of Performance

The XPANDER is powered by a 1.5-litre double overhead camshaft, 16-valve petrol engine with advanced MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control System) that produces 104,5 PS at 6,600 rpm and 141 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. The XPANDER comes with a four-speed automatic transmission optimized for power and fuel economy, for extra easy hill start assist even with seven passengers on board.

The XPANDER is the most fuel-efficient car in its class, with an impressive average fuel consumption of 5 liters/100 km. The car relies on the front traction system, which accelerates from a sleep mode to 100 km / h in just 13.8 seconds. It also features a multi-point indirect fuel injection system, with a fuel tank capacity of 45 litres.

The XPANDER is a smooth-driving vehicle, with a relatively high ground clearance that provides confidence on rough or flooded roads. With optimally designed high-performance shock absorbers raised suspension, solid and lightweight chassis, the vehicle enjoys optimized road stability, and provides an unparalleled driving experience.

Colors

The XPANDER is available in 6 different colors: Red Metallic, Diamond Black Mica, Titanium Grey Metallic, Deep Bronze Metallic, Quartz White Pearl and Sterling Silver.

https://youtu.be/JdVFug24Fp4

Contacts

Mohammed Ehtasham

malikhan@alesayi-motors.com

Hatoon Bukhari

hbukhari@alesayi-motors.com

toll free # : 8002440060

https://www.alesayi-motors.com

 
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• Integration of Thales Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) with Microsoft Double Key Encryption allows companies to protect customers’ data in Microsoft 365 applications while maintaining control of their encryption keys

• This collaboration with Microsoft protects sensitive data in the cloud and meets major data privacy regulations and requirements for companies and organizations using Microsoft 365 applications

PARIS LA DÉFENSE-Tuesday 23 March 2021 [ AETOS Wire ]

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Thales announces a new data protection capability for Microsoft customers to benefit from the power of the full range of Microsoft 365 applications while protecting sensitive data in the cloud and meeting major data privacy regulations and requirements.

Designed for companies that operate in highly-regulated sectors such as financial services and healthcare, they can now leverage Thales Luna Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) with Double Key Encryption for Microsoft 365 and comply with regulations such as the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and the recommendations from the European Data Protection Board (EDPR) following the Schrems II ruling.

Securing Data in the Era of Remote Working and Increased Privacy Regulations

Today’s remote working environment relies heavily on the collaborative sharing of information, challenging organisations to maintain the security of confidential data and regulatory compliance while driving employee productivity. For organisations in highly regulated industries such as financial services, governments, and healthcare, their sensitive data requires the highest level of control and security. The integration of Luna HSMs with Double Key Encryption for Microsoft 365 delivers the protection required to protect highly sensitive data and meet unique regulatory requirements.

“The premise of remote working is no longer a perk reserved for a select few, but now the default operating model for many companies,” said Imran Mohiuddin, DKE partner director at Microsoft. “Our collaboration and productivity tools for Microsoft 365 customers are designed to enable companies to thrive in any situation. A key part in enabling this to happen though is ensuring they have the best security and compliance solutions when it comes to protecting sensitive data. Our Double Key Encryption integration with Thales enables customers who have enhanced data protection requirements, compliance obligations and regulatory restrictions to protect their highly sensitive information. By having full control of their encryption keys, customers can be certain that no third-party has access to their unencrypted data -- including Microsoft. Security should never be something that holds companies back in this remote era and from moving their sensitive information to the cloud, and with Thales, we’re ensuring it won’t for our customers.”

Thales has integrated its industry-leading Luna HSMs with Microsoft Double Key Encryption for Microsoft 365. This allows customers to protect their most confidential or sensitive data while maintaining control of their encryption keys in the cloud. The solution works by using two keys to protect data. One key is managed securely by the customer via the Luna HSM and a second key in Microsoft’s control. To view the data, one must have access to both keys, meaning it can’t be used without the customer’s permission.

“Our collaboration with Microsoft is designed to give peace of mind to customers when it comes to security, no matter where or what Microsoft applications they’re accessing,” said Todd Moore, vice president of encryption solutions at Thales. “The way we work has changed forever and in order to thrive, businesses have had to increasingly adapt and adopt collaborative applications. The integration of Thales Luna HSMs with Microsoft Double Key Encryption provides businesses with control over their encrypted data, in line with regulatory requirements, regardless of their industry.”

About Thales

Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies, investing in digital and “deep tech” innovations – connectivity, big data, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and quantum computing – to build a confident future crucial for the development of our societies. The Group provides its customers – businesses, organisations and governments – in the defense, aeronautics, space, transport, and digital identity and security domains with solutions, services and products that help them fulfil their critical role, consideration for the individual being the driving force behind all decisions. Thales has 81,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2020 the Group generated sales of €17 billion.

PLEASE VISIT

Thales Group
Market page

Contacts

PRESS

Thales, Media Relations
Market
Laura Bandiera
+33 (0)7 64 48 51 64
laura.bandiera@thalesgroup.com

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Follow-up share buyback program expected to begin in April 2021 and run until 2022 Annual General Meeting.

ZURICH, Switzerland-Thursday 25 March 2021 [ AETOS Wire ]

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- ABB has completed its initial share buyback program that was launched in July 2020 as part of the company’s commitment to return to shareholders cash proceeds from the Power Grids divestment of $7.6-7.8 billion. Through the initial buyback program, ABB repurchased a total of 128,620,589 shares – equivalent to 5.93 percent of its issued share capital at launch of the buyback program – for a total amount of approximately $3.5 billion over the past 8 months.

At today’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), as separately announced, ABB shareholders approved the cancellation of 115 million shares purchased under the initial share buyback program.

Consistent with ABB’s capital structure optimization program, ABB’s Board of Directors today approved a further share buyback program of up to $4.3 billion. With today’s decision, the Board confirms ABB’s intention to return $7.8 billion of cash proceeds from the Power Grids divestment to shareholders through share buybacks. The program is expected to be launched in April 2021. It will be executed on a second trading line on the SIX Swiss Exchange and is planned to run until the company’s 2022 AGM.

ABB intends to request shareholders to approve the cancellation of the remaining shares purchased under the initial program as well as those purchased under this new program at its 2022 AGM.

In addition, ABB intends to purchase up to 35 million shares until the 2022 AGM mainly for use in connection with its employee share plans.

ABB currently owns approximately 163 million treasury shares including the 115 million shares approved for cancellation at today’s AGM.

ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) is a leading global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry to achieve a more productive, sustainable future. By connecting software to its electrification, robotics, automation and motion portfolio, ABB pushes the boundaries of technology to drive performance to new levels. With a history of excellence stretching back more than 130 years, ABB’s success is driven by about 105,000 talented employees in over 100 countries. www.abb.com

Important notice about forward-looking information
This press release includes forward-looking information and statements concerning the share buyback program. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the factors that may affect our future performance, and are generally identifiable by statements containing words such as “intends”, “expects,” “plans”, or similar expressions. However, there are many risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, that could affect our ability to achieve any or all of our stated targets. Factors that could cause such differences include, among others, business risks associated with the volatile global economic environment and political conditions, changes in governmental regulations and currency exchange rates and such other factors as may be discussed from time to time in ABB Ltd’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Reports on Form 20-F. Although ABB Ltd believes that its expectations reflected in any such forward-looking statement are based upon reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that those expectations will be achieved.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210325005714/en/

Contacts
For more information please contact:

Media Relations
Phone: +41 43 317 71 11
Email: media.relations@ch.abb.com

Investor Relations
Phone: +41 43 317 71 11
Email: investor.relations@ch.abb.com

ABB Ltd
Affolternstrasse 44
8050 Zurich
Switzerland

LAUSANNE, Switzerland-Thursday 25 March 2021 [ AETOS Wire ]

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Philip Morris International Inc. (PMI) (NYSE: PM) announced in the 2021 Proxy Statement filed today that its Board of Directors has nominated two new members, Dr. Juan José Daboub and Mr. Shlomo Yanai.

Additionally, Mr. Jacek Olczak has been nominated to the Board following the announcement of his appointment as CEO, a role he will assume immediately following the Annual Shareholders Meeting on May 5.

Dr. Juan José Daboub
Dr. Daboub is an entrepreneurially minded professional who started his career as an engineer before moving into government. In 1999, he was the youngest senior cabinet member in El Salvador, serving first as Chief of Staff to the president and then as Minister of Finance. Later, as a Managing Director at the World Bank Group, he was credited with having driven several corporate initiatives and reforms, including leading the institution’s global agenda on governance and anti-corruption. In the last decade, Dr. Daboub has focused on climate adaptation and energy transition through public and private investment vehicles and not-for-profit organizations, including as Chair of the Council on Climate Change at the World Economic Forum and founding CEO of the Global Adaptation Institute. He is currently President of The Daboub Partnership and of ThinkHUGE USA-Central America Job Creation Council.

Mr. Lucio Noto, PMI’s interim Chairman, welcomed the nomination, saying: “Juan José fully embraces PMI’s commitment to delivering a smoke-free future. Juan José’s experience across multiple business sectors, combined with his deep understanding of geopolitics and international institutions, will be a great addition to the PMI board.”

Dr. Daboub studied industrial engineering at North Carolina State University in the United States, where he earned a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and a PhD.

Mr. Shlomo Yanai
Mr. Yanai was President and CEO of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries from 2007 to 2012. In that time, he led the company’s international expansion and increased annual revenues by nearly USD 10 billion. Prior to that, Mr. Yanai was President and CEO of ADAMA (formerly Makhteshim Agan Industries Ltd.) for three years. His time at those organizations and later as a board member or Chair of several other companies in the pharma space, as well as his current position as Chairman of the Board of Lumenis, a medical devices company, have given Mr. Yanai a solid understanding of the science behind drug discovery, development, and regulation. He also served in the Israeli Defense Forces for more than 30 years, reaching the rank of Major General. In his military career, Mr. Yanai worked extensively with politicians and public sector bodies.

Mr. Noto endorsed the nomination, saying: “The combination of Shlomo’s broad board experience and his knowledge of the pharma industry and its regulatory processes will bring to the Board an extremely relevant set of skills as PMI continues to develop and commercialize scientifically validated smoke-free products and starts deploying its beyond-nicotine strategy.”

Mr. Yanai, a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program (AMP), holds a BA (cum laude) in political science and economics from Tel Aviv University and a master’s degree (MPA) in national resources administration from George Washington University. He is also a graduate of the National War College of the U.S. National Defense University.

The nominations announced today follow the appointments of Michel Combes and Bonin Bough to the Board of Directors in December 2020 and February 2021, respectively. Mr. Combes is President of SoftBank Group International and oversees several SoftBank portfolio companies. He was Chief Financial Officer and then CEO and a member of the board of directors of Sprint, CEO of Vodafone Europe, CEO of Alcatel-Lucent, CEO and Chief Operating Officer of Altice, and Chairman and CEO of SFR Group. Prior, he held several positions within French ministries, at France Telecom (including Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer) and TDF (Télédiffusion de France). Mr. Bough is the founder and Chief Growth Officer of growth accelerator Bonin Ventures. He has been Chief Growth and Marketing Officer of Sundial Brands (Unilever); Chief Media and E-commerce Officer of Mondelez International; Vice President, Global Media and Consumer Engagement of Kraft Foods Group; and Chief Digital Officer of PepsiCo.

Philip Morris International: Delivering a Smoke-Free Future
Philip Morris International (PMI) is leading a transformation in the tobacco industry to create a smoke-free future and ultimately replace cigarettes with smoke-free products to the benefit of adults who would otherwise continue to smoke, society, the company, and its shareholders. PMI is a leading international tobacco company engaged in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes, as well as smoke-free products, associated electronic devices and accessories, and other nicotine-containing products in markets outside the U.S. In addition, PMI ships versions of its IQOS Platform 1 device and consumables to Altria Group, Inc. for sale under license in the U.S., where these products have received marketing authorizations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the premarket tobacco product application (PMTA) pathway; the FDA has also authorized the marketing of a version of IQOS and its consumables as a modified risk tobacco product (MRTP), finding that an exposure modification order for these products is appropriate to promote the public health. PMI is building a future on a new category of smoke-free products that, while not risk-free, are a much better choice than continuing to smoke. Through multidisciplinary capabilities in product development, state-of-the-art facilities, and scientific substantiation, PMI aims to ensure that its smoke-free products meet adult consumer preferences and rigorous regulatory requirements. PMI’s smoke-free product portfolio includes heat-not-burn and nicotine-containing vapor products. As of Dec. 31, 2020, IQOS is available for sale in 64 markets in key cities or nationwide, and PMI estimates that approximately 12.7 million adults around the world have already switched to IQOS and stopped smoking. For more information, please visit www.pmi.com and www.pmiscience.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210325005426/en/

Contacts
David Fraser
Philip Morris International
T. +41 (0)79 843 8603
E. david.fraser@pmi.com

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• Strong R&D commitment to developing therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 virus

• Overall R&D investment up 7% to 3.7 billion EUR in 2020 (18.9% of net sales)

• Outlook 2021: slight year-on-year increase in net sales on a comparable basis

INGELHEIM, Germany-Wednesday 24 March 2021 [ AETOS Wire ]

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Boehringer Ingelheim stepped up its investments in R&D significantly in 2020 in pursuit of innovative medicines and therapies for diseases for which no satisfactory treatments are available. In particular, efforts to research potential COVID-19 related therapies were accelerated. The company spent 3.7 billion EUR on R&D, 7% more than in the previous year. This represents the highest annual investment in R&D in the 136-year history of the research-driven biopharmaceutical company.

“We started our R&D for potential COVID-19 therapies early in the first quarter of 2020, recognizing the urgent need,” said Hubertus von Baumbach, Chairman of the Board of Managing Directors. “Together with many partners worldwide, this work is ongoing. Our employees have done remarkable work to fight COVID-19, ensure our medicines continued to reach patients and animals, and physicians continued to be supported. Our achievements in 2020 are the result of their effort.”

Building on its vast knowledge in various therapeutic areas, such as respiratory diseases and virology, Boehringer Ingelheim is engaged in several projects aimed at finding medical solutions to treat COVID-19. In December 2020, the company announced together with Cologne University Hospital, the University of Marburg, and the German Center for Infection Research the initiation of Phase I/IIa clinical investigation of BI 767551, the first SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody administrated via inhalation as a potential new therapeutic and prophylactic option to block the virus at the site of infection. Other COVID-19 initiatives include the research and development of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies that can be combined with BI 767551, small molecules to inhibit its replication, and therapy development to prevent microcoagulation (blood clots).

Solid performance despite COVID-19 pandemic
2020 was a good year for Boehringer Ingelheim, although the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were omnipresent. All of its businesses contributed positively to net sales and operating income. The company recorded net sales of 19.57 billion EUR, a 3% increase compared to the previous year. Foreign currency headwinds had a considerable impact; adjusted for currency effects, net sales rose by 5.6% year on year.

Emphasis on profitable growth and protecting liquidity
Operating income at Group level rose to 4.62 billion EUR (2019: 3.78 billion EUR). One-time gains from divestitures supported the operating income. Income after taxes saw a 12.5% year-on-year increase to 3.06 billion EUR (2019: 2.72 billion EUR). Cash flow from operating activities increased by 619 million EUR to 3.96 billion EUR (2019: 3.34 billion EUR). At the end of 2020, the equity ratio stood at 47% (2019: 44%).

“We are pleased with the results we achieved in 2020, considering the challenging conditions we faced,” said Michael Schmelmer, the Member of the Board of Managing Directors responsible for Finance and Group Functions. “We met our ambitious targets, both in terms of our contribution to the wellbeing of humans, pets and livestock, and our business performance. This allows us to continue to invest even more in R&D, as well as in the long-term opportunities we have identified, most notably in the fields of oncology as well as digital and data technologies.”

Continued high investments in tangible assets
The company invested 1.05 billion EUR (2019: 1.07 billion EUR) in tangible assets in 2020, including the large-scale production facility for biopharmaceutical products (LSCC) in Vienna, Austria, and the new development center for biopharmaceutical medicines (BDC) in Biberach, Germany. Expenditures in tangible assets decreased slightly compared to the all-time high in 2019, due to the partial delay of construction work caused by COVID-19.

Targeted M&A activities round off the portfolio
Boehringer Ingelheim completed several acquisitions in 2020 to selectively expand its portfolio. In July, the company announced the acquisition of Global Stem cell Technology (GST), a Belgian veterinary biotech company. Boehringer Ingelheim acquired GST to develop and produce state-of-the art stem cell products for horses and pets. In September, an equity stake in the China-based New Ruipeng Group, a company that specializes in providing medical care services for pets, was acquired. In December, the company announced the acquisition of all shares of NBE-Therapeutics, a clinical-stage Swiss biotechnology company focused on antibody-drug conjugates and advancing targeted cancer therapies derived from its immune stimulatory iADC™ platform. This acquisition adds another key dimension to Boehringer Ingelheim’s focus on patients with difficult-to-treat solid tumors as part of the company’s comprehensive oncology development portfolio.

Human Pharma – Strong growth across all regions
At 14.42 billion EUR, net sales of human pharmaceuticals grew strongly by 5.8% (year on year and adjusted for currency effects) and accounted for 74% of total net sales. All regions contributed to the strong results in Human Pharma. The United States remains the largest market for Boehringer Ingelheim with the highest regional net sales in the Human Pharma business. Boehringer Ingelheim generated net sales of 5.66 billion EUR in the US, up 3.4% (year on year and adjusted for currency effects). In the EUCAN region (Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand), net sales rose by 6.0% (year on year and adjusted for currency effects) to 4.59 billion EUR. In Emerging Markets, including the People’s Republic of China, Boehringer Ingelheim registered net sales of 2.84 billion EUR, a 10.4% increase (year on year and adjusted for currency effects). In Japan, net sales increased by 6.2% (year on year and adjusted for currency effects) to 1.33 billion EUR.

Medicines for the treatment of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, as well as respiratory diseases, remain the most important contributors to net sales. JARDIANCE®, a medicine used along with diet and exercise to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes, remains the biggest revenue contributor in Human Pharma, generating net sales of 2.48 billion EUR (2019: 2.15 billion EUR). JARDIANCE® reduces the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes who have known cardiovascular disease. OFEV® was the company’s second-strongest revenue contributor for the first time, with net sales of 2.06 billion EUR and growth of 41% (year on year and adjusted for currency effects) (2019: 1.49 billion EUR). OFEV® is a medicine for the treatment of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) and, in some countries, other chronic fibrosing interstitial lung diseases with a progressive phenotype.

High R&D investment in Human Pharma
R&D investments in the Human Pharma business amounted to 3.28 billion EUR or 22.8% of net sales. There are around 100 projects across all phases of the research process. The goal is for 75% of these projects to be either the first molecule in their active ingredient class or in a new therapeutic area. Over 50% of them have breakthrough potential. The focus of R&D in Human Pharma lies on cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, oncology, respiratory, immunology, diseases of the central nervous system and retinal health.

Animal Health – Strong performance in a highly competitive market
The Animal Health business of Boehringer Ingelheim is one of the largest providers of veterinary vaccines and medicines and has a strong presence in the livestock and companion animal segments. In 2020, the Animal Health business delivered a strong performance in a highly competitive market and grew by 5% (year on year and adjusted for currency effects), with net sales of 4.12 billion EUR. The swine and pet antiparasitics segments in particular developed successfully and outperformed expectations. In 2020, the decrease in the incidence of African swine fever in China had a rebound effect on the swine segment. As a result, the swine vaccine INGELVAC CIRCOFLEX® registered a strong 14.9% increase in net sales (year on year and adjusted for currency effects) to 264 million EUR (2019: 238 million EUR). The parasiticide NEXGARD® for dogs remained the best-selling product, with growth of 12% (year on year and adjusted for currency effects) and net sales of 804 million EUR.

Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing – One of the leading providers in the industry
Boehringer Ingelheim is one of the leading manufacturers of biopharmaceuticals, both for its own portfolio and for partners in the industry. 60% of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies and innovative biotech firms are clients of Boehringer Ingelheim’s Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing business, known under the brand name Boehringer Ingelheim BioXcellenceTM. The biopharmaceuticals business achieved net sales of 837 million EUR in 2020, up 6.6% (year on year and adjusted for currency effects).

Outlook 2021: Boehringer Ingelheim expects a slight year on year increase in net sales on a comparable basis
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and a more challenging industry environment with increasing price pressure in several key markets is expected to have an impact on Boehringer Ingelheim’s results in 2021. Assuming that the approved vaccines and other medicines currently undergoing the approval process help curb the COVID-19 pandemic, the company expects strong general market growth for prescription pharmaceuticals. For 2021, Boehringer Ingelheim expects to achieve a slight year-on-year increase in net sales on a comparable basis.

The 2020 Annual Report can be found here: https://annualreport.boehringer-ingelheim.com/

Boehringer Ingelheim
Boehringer Ingelheim is working on breakthrough therapies that improve the lives of humans and animals. As a leading research-driven biopharmaceutical company, the company creates value through innovation in areas of high unmet medical need. Founded in 1885 and family-owned ever since, Boehringer Ingelheim takes a long-term perspective. Around 52,000 employees serve more than 130 markets in the three business areas, Human Pharma, Animal Health, and Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing.

Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com.

Please click on the link for ‘Notes to Editors’:
http://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/press-release/2020-positive-business-momentum-despite-covid-19-impact

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210324005375/en/

Contacts
Boehringer Ingelheim
Corporate Communications and Public Affairs
Mattias Reinig
55216 Ingelheim/Germany
Phone: +49 6132 - 77 18 48 55
Fax: +49 6132 - 77 6601
Email: press@boehringer-ingelheim.com

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HOUSTON-Tuesday 23 March 2021 [ AETOS Wire ]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Total Safety, a global leader in industrial safety solutions, has announced the launch of their new SafeTek™ worker safety technology solutions that will improve the protection of workers worldwide. SafeTek™ is a continuation of Total Safety’s commitment to delivering industry leading worker safety solutions that incorporate new and emerging connected, data-enabled technologies, equipment, and services.

Ensuring The Safe Wellbeing of Workers Worldwide

At Total Safety, providing a safe environment for workers worldwide is the company’s highest priority. In fact, it’s their mission. When it comes to hazardous conditions, no matter what industry or location, Total Safety is the company to count on to keep workers safe.

The Future of Worker Safety

“We are creating the future of worker safety with our advanced SafeTek™ technology,” said George Ristevski, Total Safety Chief Executive Officer. “As we look forward, we will lead the next generation of safety technology. We will continue to innovate our safety solutions and expand our global reach. We envision a future where technology can assist all workers in hazardous and life-critical situations to bring them home safely. Our SafeTek™ solutions will be at the forefront of worker safety technology and will help set the gold standard for connected safety innovations.”

Revolutionary Safety Technology

SafeTek™ solutions empower work sites with the technologies and equipment to keep workers protected and connected 24/7. Industry leading safety monitoring software, wearable technologies, connected area monitoring, personal gas detection, and communications systems report critical safety related data in real-time, helping save lives and streamlining costs. Total Safety SafeTek™ solutions include:

SafeTek Smart Monitor™ - Real-time integrated Centralized Confined Space Monitoring (CCSM) technology maximizes worker safety in confined spaces, monitoring work atmosphere, activities, and employee identification remotely from a central control room.

SafeTek Shield™ - From personal gas detection to lone worker location monitoring and fall recognition, wearable GPS-enabled devices with innovative technology monitor, alert, and provide immediate and real- time assistance to protect workers during critical situations.

SafeTek WorkZone™ - Advanced connected atmospheric monitoring, mobile-connected smart inspections, alerts, and asset distribution and tracking safeguard job sites and ensure work site safety and compliance with OSHA regulations.

SafeTek Communications™ - SafeTek’s 2-way radios, networks, and real-time connected communication systems provide a direct link with workers to a centralized control room for immediate assistance and responsive incident resolution.

SafeTek eDistribution™ - Cutting-edge technology makes it easy to order, monitor, and distribute PPE and tooling. Total Safety’s suite of eProcurement solutions combines technology and advanced reporting to ensure you have supplies in stock for workforce safety.

SafeTek Hub360™ - This multifunctional platform monitors worksites in real-time, displaying critical safety and performance data, incident reporting, gas exposure mapping, predictive analytics, and worker efficiency reports.

Compliance

Total Safety’s innovative solutions and team of experts keep workers and worksites safe and in compliance with regulatory requirements. The company manages local, state, federal, and industrial compliance standards to ensure that businesses are OSHA compliant.

Making the Complex, Simple

Implementing permanent onsite digitization programs and/or temporary connected technology deployments for projects can be daunting, Total Safety has the data-enabled technology, equipment, people, and expertise to connect your workers to increase productivity and keep them safe. With Total Safety, you’re not just buying a product or service, you’re getting a safety focused, connected solutions technology partner who is reliable, professional, knowledgeable, and committed to protecting your business.

Join Us

Total Safety works with some of the world’s largest companies, currently protecting 50 million workers worldwide in industries such as refining, aerospace, automotive, petrochemical, and more. Join us on a mission to protect 200 million workers by 2025. To get started, call to speak with one of our safety expert technicians. Also, visit https://www.totalsafety.com/safetek/ to find out more about SafeTek™ and how Total Safety solutions can help safeguard your workforce.

About Total Safety

Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Total Safety is a leading provider of global integrated industrial safety services, strategies, and equipment. With nearly 4,000 employees and over 180 locations worldwide, they help customers increase employee safety, meet compliance, boost productivity, and reduce downtime. Total Safety is driven by an unwavering commitment to their mission …to ensure the safe Wellbeing of Workers Worldwide®.

When Safety Matters, We’re Ready

With advanced technology, over 250,000+ supplies and PPE, and a suite of comprehensive safety solutions, Total Safety has you covered - providing immediate service when you need it most. Total Safety delivers complete, cost-effective safety service solutions as promised and without compromise, with the resources and the support to back it up.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210322005525/en/

Contacts
Paul Tyree
Total Safety
ptyree@totalsafety.com

Permalink : https://www.aetoswire.com/news/total-safety-launches-safetek-technology-solutions-to-help-keep-workers-safe-worldwide/en

BlueSky™ technology now integrated into the SyncServer instrument to protect integrity of its time and frequency outputs.

CHANDLER, Ariz.-Tuesday 23 March 2021 [ AETOS Wire ]

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Mission-critical networks and other essential enterprise infrastructure can only maintain reliable operation if they continuously receive accurate timing information from network time servers, but these servers can be vulnerable to Global Positioning System (GPS) jamming and spoofing, a cybersecurity threat. Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announced a solution to this problem with the integration of its BlueSky technology signal-anomaly detection software into the SyncServer S600 Series network time server and instruments.

Microchip is the first to fully integrate GPS jamming and spoofing detection and protection, in combination with local Radio Frequency (RF) data logging and analysis, inside a time server. The SyncServer S600 Series Stratum 1 instrument along with the BlueSky technology's intelligent jamming and spoofing detectors continuously monitor local GPS constellation health and examine GPS and local RF signal integrity to assure validity.

If an anomaly is detected, the solution sends an alarm and, if necessary, the SyncServer instrument can be shifted to alternative time sources or an internal oscillator. This protects ongoing timing outputs while ensuring only minimal, predictable timing degradation to vital network and business operations in applications ranging from banking and stock trading to electric utilities and aerospace and defense.

The SyncServer BlueSky technology, which provides continuous detection and protection against GPS jamming and spoofing. includes a comprehensive suite of logging, charting and measuring tools to characterize local GPS satellite signals as well as local RF events over time. This can help enable correlating, troubleshooting, identifying and correcting local anomalies, some of which may be related to consumer electronics, or nearby RF signal broadcasts. The solution is optionally available through the SyncServer v4.1 software release that provides a selection of features found in Microchip’s proven BlueSky GNSS Firewall solution for third-party GPS receivers and critical infrastructure.

Availability

Complete product information about the SyncServer software featuring BlueSky capabilities is available at www.microchip.com/en-us/products/synchronization-and-timing-systems

Application Image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/50997322926/

Product image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/50996630903/

Contacts
For further information
Suzy Kenyon
Napier Partnership
Tel: +44 1243 531123
E-mail: suzy@napierb2b.com
www.napierb2b.com

Permalink : https://www.aetoswire.com/news/microchiprsquos-syncserverreg-s600-series-time-server-now-defends-against-gps-jamming-and-spoofing/en

● MediaTek Dimensity 5G chipset Family brings the smartest and fastest technologies together to power the world’s most capable devices and enter a new era of Mobility, Innovation and Connectivity

● Saudi Arabia is demonstrating the world’s leading coverage and performance for 5G connectivity and MediaTek is at the forefront of powering 5G with its advanced chipset and modem technology.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia-Monday 22 March 2021 [ AETOS Wire ]

As the world moves towards a faster and more reliable way of connecting with 5G, MediaTek introduces its Dimensity Family with a fully integrated in-chip 5G modem and features that improve connection coverage, deliver reliability, and provide ultrafast speeds. Between smart TVs, mobile devices, Chromebook, and smart speakers, MediaTek has made its way into millions of lives and households, enhancing experiences and connectivity globally through its global OEM partners Xiaomi, Oppo, RealMe and Samsung. At its core, MediaTek is committed to providing new-age technologies that give people the tools they need to expand their horizons and more easily achieve their goals. This falls under our vision, as MediaTek is the world’s 4th largest global fabless semiconductor company and is committed to powering everyday life through chipsets and technologies that keep the world connected at home, at work, and on the go.

The powerful MediaTek Dimensity Family will be at the forefront of the activity by providing the advanced technologies needed to lift barriers between devices, allowing for seamless connectivity for smartphones, and ultimately bringing 5G to everyone. The Dimensity 5G Family includes Dimensity 700 Series, 800 Series, and 1000 Series. Each demonstrates premium performance, power efficiency, and extraordinary AI.

The MediaTek APU 3.0 combines three different types of AI processors. This versatile and unique design meets the needs of the latest AI-camera, AI-assistant, in-app and OS-enhancements, that make up modern smartphone experiences.
MediaTek 5G UltraSave is the world’s most power-efficient 5G modem design for smartphones.
Dimensity Family features MediaTek Miravision technology that intelligently adjusts a wide range display and video stream factors, including color, brightness, contrast, sharpness, and dynamic range, to bring cinema-grade visuals to the small screen.
Speaking of Saudi Arabia as one of the most advanced markets globally:

“Saudi Arabia is demonstrating the world’s leading coverage and performance for 5G connectivity as per our testing with local operators STC, Mobily, and Zain. Some metrics exceeded those in South Korea, which is known as a top global mobile technology market. Our Dimensity chipset Family will power premium and flagship 5G devices. Local Saudi companies such as Azom Tech and Telo Gamez are starting to design and bring new phones to the market, such as the DesertOne, in hope to secure government support to expand local manufacturing and design”, said Rami Osman, Director for Corporate Sales and Marketing at MediaTek Middle East, Africa, Turkey and Pakistan.
 

“In Saudi Arabia STC collaborated with MediaTek and Ericsson to demonstrate the first ever real-world viability of 5G Carrier Aggregation using Ericsson Spectrum Sharing (ESS) in live network conditions”, said Mr. Rami.
“MediaTek is at the forefront of NR CA innovation, developing and testing the next generation of 5G NSA and SA technologies to bring robust 5G coverage to consumers around the world”, said Mr. Rami, “Our Dimensity portfolio of high performance and ultra-low power chipsets supports several different carrier aggregation configurations for comprehensive NR CA support”.  
MediaTek is also introducing its powerful and widely accepted MediaTek Helio G Series, with MediaTek HyperEngine Game Technology to the Saudi market. This prompts the next generation of gaming experience that supports the country’s youth in their gaming needs with more models, as well as Helio G coming to market with partners such as RealMe and Xiaomi.  The MediaTek Helio G95 features multi-camera support, unrivalled speed, and AI Super Resolution for video streams offering gaming enthusiasts faster performance and high-end features like advanced photography; and carrying up to four cameras with an inbuilt AI processing unit (APU). The series is also equipped with an ultra-low power DSP which minimizes power consumption while applications are in use.

The year 2020 has marked significant milestones for MediaTek with Dimensity Family powering smartphones from MediaTek partners to cover a range of price-points and bring high-quality 5G experiences to a wider audience than ever before. MediaTek Dimensity 5G Family of chipsets brings the smartest and fastest together to power the world’s most capable 5G devices. MediaTek technologies are integrated into products across the 5G ecosystem including smartphones, computing, connectivity for routers and other smart devices.

For details on MediaTek Dimensity series visit: https://i.mediatek.com/mediatek-5g

About MediaTek Inc.

MediaTek Incorporated (TWSE: 2454) is a global fabless semiconductor company that enables nearly 2 billion connected devices a year. We are a market leader in developing innovative systems-on-chip (SoC) for mobile device, home entertainment, connectivity and IoT products. Our dedication to innovation has positioned us as a driving market force in several key technology areas, including highly power-efficient mobile technologies, automotive solutions and a broad range of advanced multimedia products such as smartphones, tablets, digital televisions, 5G, Voice Assistant Devices (VAD) and wearables. MediaTek empowers and inspires people to expand their horizons and achieve their goals through smart technology, more easily and efficiently than ever before. We work with the brands you love to make great technology accessible to everyone, and it drives everything we do. Visit www.mediatek.com for more information.

Contacts
Joy Sahyoun

+971-50-4815537

Joy.dubai@equation-media.com

Permalink : https://www.aetoswire.com/news/mediatek-introduces-5g-dimensity-family-to-power-new-wave-of-5g-smartphone-experiences-in-saudi-arabia/en

PFORZHEIM, Germany-Wednesday 17 March 2021 [ AETOS Wire ]

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Continuous Monitoring in Life Sciences has reached the cloud, and with the use of Big Data, Kaye now presents user connectivity that surpasses the competition. Building on the legacy of Kaye’s LabWatch Pro system, LabWatch IoT takes connectivity, security, data access and analysis to a new level.

“Designed specifically for GxP and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, Kaye LabWatch IoT Cloud allows simplification of the IT infrastructure,” says Kaye’s Product Manager Jon Aldous. “The reduction of system hardware is an enormous cost-saver, and by having all environmental measurements managed in the cloud - unlike self-hosted systems - the clouds’ continual 24/7 remote data access ensures that monitoring and alarming will never fail.”

With the cloud, users get instant data access through mobility - alarm message boards, email, SMS and voice services - allowing immediate access to real-time data of their critical processes and products. No more interrogation required – the information is all visually presented to the user so they can take immediate actions.

“Facilities can take full advantage of the Artificial Intelligence modules within LabWatch IoT allowing teams to predict environmental or sensor failures” said Aldous. “After learning the heartbeats of individual chambers or freezers, LabWatch IoT can predict faulting items – and therefore save time and money by scheduling required maintenance and reducing the risk of lost product.”

Using either Kaye’s redundant wired or wireless sensor solutions, or any OPC compliant transmitter, data is sent directly to the GxP Cloud via secure and encrypted connectivity. Here, the increased flexibility to fully access views, alerts, and reports, from any browser – mobile or fixed - gives the user freedom to truly understand the monitoring conditions of their installation.

This latest release of the LabWatch IoT monitoring system further compliments Kaye’s Validation and Cold Chain products, and takes the next step into big data/IoT and its inherent analysis capability.

For information on the product, please visit kayeinstruments.com/en/labwatch-iot

About Kaye

For more than sixty years, Kaye has been at the forefront of high accuracy process measurement, for applications from thermal process validation and environmental and cold chain monitoring, to sensor calibration. https://www.kayeinstruments.com

Kaye is a subsidiary of Amphenol Corporation.

Contacts
Nicole Rauenbühler
Global Marketing Manager
E-Mail: news@amphenol-sensors.com

Permalink : https://www.aetoswire.com/news/kaye-launches-labwatchregnbspiot-an-intelligent-cloud-based-monitoring-alarming-system-designed-to-protect-critical-gxp-products-and-ensure-patient-safety/en