CaribPR Wire

IBFD is looking to expand its network of international contributors and needs passionate tax specialists to share their expertise and insights with a global tax audience.

Join our network of international contributors

We look forward to working with you!

CARIBPR WIRE, AMSTERDAM, March 11, 2021: IBFD relies on knowledgeable and passionate contributors for each jurisdiction covered in the IBFD Tax Research Platform – the world’s most comprehensive collection of international tax information.

We require country survey authors and Tax News Service (TNS) correspondents specialized in Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, the BES Islands, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Cuba, Curaçao, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, the Turks and Caicos Islands and the US Virgin Islands.

Obtaining accurate, timely and relevant tax information in the Caribbean presents its own unique challenges, ranging from internet connectivity issues to limited access to online tax technical publications, but local tax specialists usually know the tips and tricks for obtaining the right information.

Authors are our lifeblood

A key component of IBFD’s Tax Research Platform is our collection of survey chapters for all countries in the world, including countries in the Caribbean. Authors play a vital role in ensuring that the country survey chapters contain accurate and timely information for IBFD subscribers with regard to corporate and individual taxation, as well as business and investment. Publication cycles vary, but survey chapters are generally updated once a year, preferably after major changes in legislation. Authors are paid for each survey based on the input further to a word count.

Correspondents keep on top of developments

Correspondents are responsible for preparing and submitting TNS reports when newsworthy items arise in the jurisdiction at hand, including budgets, legislation, tax rulings and cases. In essence, these are short newsflashes that are published daily on the IBFD Tax Research Platform, providing the essentials of important developments and key links, wherever possible, to the source or other government documents. Each report begins with the name and affiliation of the correspondent, which further increases your reach and reputation. You can also take on the role of an author. Correspondents are paid a fixed fee per report. The more active correspondents are, the higher the pay.

Benefits of joining IBFD

As an author or correspondent, you will be working alongside and sharing information with the most world-renowned authors on international tax.

Working with us stimulates you to stay on top of tax developments, provides marketing benefits for your practice, broadens your professional global network and provides access to the world’s most comprehensive cross-border tax database. Our correspondents find, almost universally, that the time and effort (small or large) they devote to writing for IBFD pay dividends many fold in the rest of their business.

Interested in joining IBFD?

If you would like more information about becoming an author or correspondent for IBFD, please contact us via email at [email protected] or visit https://www.ibfd.org/Authors-Correspondents/Write-us

If you would like a PDF of the press release, please contact Phil Windus, Senior Marketing Coordinator, at [email protected].

About IBFD

IBFD is a leading international provider of cross-border tax expertise, with a long-standing history of supporting and contributing to tax research and academic activities. As an independent foundation, IBFD utilizes its global network of tax experts and its Knowledge Centre to serve Fortune 500 companies, governments, international consultancy firms and tax advisers.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/15c8dc92-3338-4bab-a625-b8795371d640

¡IBFD anuncia búsqueda de autores y corresponsales en el Caribe!

IBFD espera expandir su red de colaboradores internacionales y necesita especialistas tributarios entusiastas para compartir su experiencia y perspectivas con una audiencia tributaria global.

Únase a nuestra red de colaboradores internacionales

¡Esperamos trabajar con usted!

CARIBPR WIRE, ÁMSTERDAM, March 11, 2021: IBFD cuenta con colaboradores conocedores y entusiastas para cada jurisdicción cubierta por la Plataforma de Investigación Tributaria de IBFD, la recopilación de información tributaria internacional más completa del mundo.

Necesitamos autores de encuesta de país y corresponsales del Servicio de Noticias Tributarias (TNS – Tax News Service) especializados en Anguila, Antigua y Barbuda, Barbados, Islas BES, Islas Vírgenes Británicas, Islas Caimán, Cuba, Curazao, Haití, Jamaica, San Cristóbal y Nieves, Islas Turcas y Caicos e Islas Vírgenes de Estados Unidos.

Obtener información tributaria precisa, oportuna y relevante en el Caribe representa sus propios desafíos únicos, que van desde problemas de conectividad a Internet hasta acceso limitado a publicaciones técnicas tributarias en línea, sin embargo, los especialistas tributarios locales, casi siempre conocen las recomendaciones y trucos para obtener la información apropiada.

Los autores son el alma de nuestra organización

Un componente clave de la Plataforma de Investigación Tributaria del IBFD es nuestra colección de capítulos de encuestas para todos los países del mundo, incluidos los países del Caribe. Los autores juegan un papel vital para garantizar que los capítulos de encuesta de país contengan información precisa y oportuna para los suscriptores de IBFD con relación a impuestos corporativos e individuales, así como negocios e inversiones. Los ciclos de publicación varían, sin embargo, los capítulos de encuesta, generalmente se actualizan una vez al año, preferiblemente después de cambios importantes en la legislación. Los autores ganan por cada encuesta en base a la contribución, además del conteo de palabras.

Los corresponsales se mantienen actualizados de los avances

Los corresponsales son responsables de preparar y presentar informes de TNS cuando surjan artículos de interés noticioso en la jurisdicción en cuestión, incluidos presupuestos, legislación, casos y resoluciones impositivas. En resumen, son breves noticiosos publicados diariamente en la Plataforma de Investigación Tributaria de IBFD, que ofrecen lo esencial de avances importantes y enlaces clave, siempre que sea posible, a la fuente u otros documentos gubernamentales. Cada informe comienza con el nombre y la afiliación del corresponsal, lo que aumenta aún más su alcance y reputación. También puede asumir el rol de autor. Los corresponsales ganan una tarifa fija por informe. Mientras más corresponsales activos, más alto el pago.

Beneficios de unirse a IBFD

Como autor o corresponsal, trabajará estrechamente y compartirá información con los autores de impuestos internacionales más reconocidos en el mundo.

Trabajar con nosotros le incentiva a mantenerse actualizado de los avances tributarios, le ofrece beneficios de marketing para su práctica, amplía su red global profesional y le ofrece acceso a la base de datos tributarios internacionales más completa del mundo. Nuestros corresponsales hallan, casi de modo universal, que el tiempo y el esfuerzo (pequeño o grande) que dedican a escribir para IBFD paga múltiples dividendos en el resto de su negocio.

¿Está interesado en unirse a IBFD?

Para obtener más información sobre cómo convertirse en autor o corresponsal de IBFD, comuníquese con [email protected] o visite https://www.ibfd.org/Authors-Correspondents/Write-us

Para obtener un PDF del comunicado de prensa , comuníquese con Phil Windus, coordinador sénior de marketing, en [email protected].

Acerca del IBFD

IBFD es un proveedor internacional líder de conocimientos tributarios internacionales, con una trayectoria comprobada de apoyo y colaboración con investigación tributaria y actividades académicas. El IBFD (International Bureau of Fiscal Documentation – Buró Internacional de Documentación Fiscal), como una fundación independiente utiliza su red global de especialistas tributarios y su Centro de Conocimientos para asistir a empresas Fortune 500, gobiernos, firmas de consultoría internacional y asesores fiscales.

Una foto asociada con este comunicado de prensa está disponible en: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/15c8dc92-3338-4bab-a625-b8795371d640/es

SYDNEY and GEORGE TOWN, Grand Cayman, Feb. 21, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Channel Capital Pty Ltd. (Channel), a leading Australian multi-affiliate investment management company servicing more than A$16 billion in assets, has established Channel Capital Cayman, an offshore governance services business based in the Cayman Islands.

Mark Cook, an experienced director for Cayman Islands and other offshore investment funds will lead the business, which will focus on establishing and operating investment funds domiciled in the United States, Cayman Islands and other offshore financial centres, as well as ensuring ongoing compliance with regulatory obligations including anti-money laundering and tax transparency.

Mark has worked with many globally recognized fund managers and financial institutions since arriving in the Cayman Islands in 2005. After qualifying as a chartered accountant in Australia and spending more than 10 years in public practice there, he obtained fund administration experience with Citco Fund Services in the Cayman Islands and since 2008 has been engaged as an investment fund director.

The Cayman Islands is a world leader in the establishment of offshore funds due to its tax-neutrality, stable economy, sophisticated banking sector, and professional financial service industry. Approximately 70% of non-US domiciled alternative investment funds managed by US SEC-registered advisors are domiciled in the Cayman Islands.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Mark in the Cayman Islands” said Glen Holding, Channel’s co-founder and managing director. “We see this as a natural extension of the support and oversight we have traditionally offered to fund managers in Australia, and is consistent with our strategy to build out a global platform capable of supporting investment managers and their clients in all major jurisdictions”.

Executive Director at Channel Capital Cayman, Mark Cook, said: “The Cayman Islands remains by far the most popular jurisdiction for hedge, private equity and infrastructure funds. I’m really looking forward to working with the Channel team and leveraging the platform they have developed. I anticipate opportunities across the spectrum for straight governance services, or to more widely assist with an investment manager’s business needs”.

About Channel Capital

Established in 2013, Channel has 30 employees across Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Grand Cayman, and currently partners with eight investment management firms. Channel provides incubation, distribution, operational and responsible entity services to a select group of investment management firms and their clients across the institutional, family office, high net worth and advisor-led investor space. Channel’s subsidiary entity, CIML, provides responsible entity services to a limited set of funds. https://www.channel.capital

CaribPR Wire, MIAMI BEACH, Fla., Dec. 08, 2020: The Herzfeld Caribbean Basin Fund, Inc. (NASDAQ: CUBA) (the “Fund”) today announced its quarterly distribution pursuant to the Fund’s managed distribution policy (the “MDP”) and reported the results of its 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

Quarterly Distribution:

The Fund today declared the following distribution pursuant to the MDP:

The primary purpose of the MDP is to provide stockholders with a constant, but not guaranteed, fixed minimum rate of distribution each quarter (currently set at the annual rate of 15% of the Fund’s net asset value as determined on March 31, 2020 and payable in quarterly installments). The Fund cannot predict what effect, if any, the MDP will have on the market price of its shares or whether such market price will reflect a greater or lesser discount to net asset value as compared to prior to the adoption of the MDP. The quarterly distribution for the Fund’s second fiscal quarter constitutes the fifth consecutive quarterly distribution under the MDP.

The $0.15525 per share amount announced today reflects a distribution of 3.36% based upon the market price per share of the Fund and 2.64% based upon the net asset value per share of the Fund, each as of November 30, 2020. No conclusions should be drawn about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the Fund’s distributions or from the terms of the MDP.

Results of 2020 Annual Meeting:

In addition, the Fund held its annual stockholder meeting on November 12, 2020 (“Annual Meeting”). At the Annual Meeting, the Fund’s stockholders re-elected Mr. Thomas J. Herzfeld as Class III Director of the Fund, for a term of three years. Mr. Herzfeld is Chairman of the Fund’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) and President and Chairman of Thomas J. Herzfeld Advisors, Inc. (“THJA”), and a Portfolio Manager of the Fund.

Details regarding the Managed Distribution Policy:

Under the MDP, the Fund will distribute all available investment income to its stockholders, consistent with its investment objective and as required by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). The amount distributed per share is subject to change at the discretion of the Board. If sufficient investment income is not available on a quarterly basis, the Fund will distribute long-term capital gains and/or return capital to its stockholders in order to maintain its managed distribution level. The Fund is currently not relying on any exemptive relief from Section 19(b) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). The Fund may make additional distributions from time to time, including additional capital gain distributions at the end of the taxable year, if required to meet requirements imposed by the Code and/or the 1940 Act. Please note that for stockholders enrolled in the Fund’s Dividend Reinvestment Plan (“DRIP”), the distribution will be reinvested in additional shares of the Fund as described in the DRIP.

The Fund expects that distributions under the MDP will exceed investment income and available capital gains and thus expects that distributions under the MDP will likely include returns of capital for the foreseeable future. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of a stockholder’s investment is paid back to the stockholder. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund’s investment performance and should not be confused with ‘yield’ or ‘income.’ Any such returns of capital will decrease the Fund’s total assets and, therefore, could have the effect of increasing the Fund’s expense ratio. In addition, in order to maintain the level of distributions called for under its MDP, the Fund may have to sell portfolio securities at a less than opportune time.

The following table sets forth the estimated amounts of the current quarterly distribution and the cumulative distributions paid this fiscal year to date from the following sources: net investment income, net realized capital gains and return of capital. All amounts are expressed per common share.

No conclusions should be drawn about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the Fund’s distributions or from the terms of the MDP.

The amount distributed per share is subject to change at the discretion of the Board. The MDP is subject to ongoing review by the Board to determine whether it should be continued, modified or terminated. The Board may amend the terms of the MDP, suspend the MDP, or terminate the MDP at any time without prior notice to the Fund’s stockholders if it deems such actions to be in the best interest of the Fund or its stockholders. The amendment or termination of the MDP could have an adverse effect on the market price of the Fund’s shares.

With each distribution that does not consist solely of net investment income, the Fund will issue a notice to stockholders and an accompanying press release that will provide detailed information regarding the amount and composition of the distribution and other related information. The amounts and sources of distributions reported in the notice to stockholders are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund’s investment experience during its full fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send stockholders a Form 1099-DIV for the respective calendar year that will tell them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. Stockholders should consult their tax advisor for proper tax treatment of the Fund’s distributions.

About Thomas J. Herzfeld Advisors, Inc.

TJHA, founded in 1984, is an SEC registered investment advisor, specializing in investment analysis and account management in closed-end funds. The Firm also specializes in investment in the Caribbean Basin. The HERZFELD/CUBA division of Thomas J. Herzfeld Advisors, Inc. serves as the investment advisor to The Herzfeld Caribbean Basin Fund, Inc. a publicly traded closed-end fund (NASDAQ: CUBA).

More information about the advisor can be found at www.herzfeld.com.

Past performance is no guarantee of future performance. An investment in the Fund is subject to certain risks, including market risk. In general, shares of closed-end funds often trade at a discount from their net asset value and at the time of sale may be trading on the exchange at a price which is more or less than the original purchase price or the net asset value. An investor should carefully consider the Fund’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses. Please read the Fund’s disclosure documents before investing.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release, and other statements that Thomas J. Herzfeld Advisors, Inc. (“TJHA”) or the Fund may make, may contain forward looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, with respect to the Fund’s or TJHA’s future financial or business performance, strategies or expectations. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as “trend,” “potential,” “opportunity,” “pipeline,” “believe,” “comfortable,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “current,” “intention,” “estimate,” “position,” “assume,” “outlook,” “continue,” “remain,” “maintain,” “sustain,” “seek,” “achieve,” and similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or similar expressions. TJHA and the Fund caution that forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and TJHA and the Fund assume no duty to and do not undertake to update forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from historical performance. With respect to the Fund, the following factors, among others, could cause actual events to differ materially from forward-looking statements or historical performance: (1) changes and volatility in political, economic or industry conditions, particularly with respect to Cuba and other Caribbean Basin countries, the interest rate environment, foreign exchange rates or financial and capital markets, which could result in changes in demand for the Fund or in the Fund’s net asset value; (2) the relative and absolute investment performance of the Fund and its investments; (3) the impact of increased competition; (4) the unfavorable resolution of any legal proceedings; (5) the extent and timing of any distributions or share repurchases; (6) the impact, extent and timing of technological changes; (7) the impact of legislative and regulatory actions and reforms, including the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and regulatory, supervisory or enforcement actions of government agencies relating to the Fund or TJHA, as applicable; (8) terrorist activities, international hostilities and natural disasters, which may adversely affect the general economy, domestic and local financial and capital markets, specific industries or TJHA or the Fund; (9) TJHA’s and the Fund’s ability to attract and retain highly talented professionals; (10) the impact of TJHA electing to provide support to its products from time to time; and (11) the impact of problems at other financial institutions or the failure or negative performance of products at other financial institutions. Annual and Semi-Annual Reports and other regulatory filings of the Fund with the SEC are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on TJHA’s website at www.herzfeld.com/cuba, and may discuss these or other factors that affect the Fund. The information contained on TJHA’s website is not a part of this press release.

TORONTO, Dec. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – Sovereign Pacific Capital, an Asia wealth and asset management organization establishes a USD $500M Sovereign Pacific Fund, in partnership with Possibility Group, for sustainable investments in St. Kitts & Nevis and the Caribbean region.

Sovereign Pacific Capital Ltd., www.sovereignpacific.co, a Singapore based wealth and asset management organization, partners with Possibility Group Ltd., a Caribbean value creation organization, to establish a USD $500M Sovereign Pacific Fund for sustainable investments in St. Kitts & Nevis and the Caribbean region. Sovereign Pacific Fund will be administered and managed by Possibility Capital Inc., www.possibility.capital, a Caribbean wealth and asset management organization.

Sovereign Pacific Capital’s focus includes Financial Services, Real Estate, Healthcare, Renewable Energy, Hotels & Resorts, Manufacturing and Agriculture.

Sovereign Pacific Capital’s Chairman, Umashanker Mishra, is an Indian Canadian, Philanthropist, Attorney and Solicitor and Investment Banker. He is the Founder & Chairman of Global Human Care Foundation, which is a private Canadian entity focused on charitable projects in Asia, Africa and the Caribbean region.

Possibility Group, www.possibility.capital, is a leading value creation organization in Asia, Caribbean and North America. Possibility creates, develops and manages sustainable business for stakeholders based on a life cycle engineered, performance driven, partnerships = possibilities system.

Possibility’s Caribbean business includes Real Estate Development, Renewable Energy, Asset Management, Possibility Capital, Investment Management, Sustainable Manufacturing, Proprietary Agriculture and Medical Healthcare.

Possibility Group’s President & CEO, Leslie Thomas, P. Eng., is a Caribbean Canadian, born in St. Kitts & Nevis, with a personal motivation to “give back” to Tabernacle, St. Kitts & Nevis and the Caribbean and to contribute in a “unique and lasting” way to the region through Possibility Group, Possibility Capital and Global Human Care Foundation.

“We are very excited about our partnership with Sovereign Pacific Capital; Chairman, Umashanker Mishra and Sovereign Pacific’s USD $500M Fund, which will help to address a significant Barrier to Growth (access to Financing) in the Caribbean Region”.

“Sustainable manufacturing in the Caribbean region and the production of high quality Caribbean steel rebar and also environmentally friendly Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF), will help property owners, developers, resorts, hotels, governments, institutions and asset managers to reduce capital cost, energy cost and construction time, and significantly increase buildings strength (hurricane proof). Further benefits include developing new skills, trades, occupations, employment for Women in the construction industry and our Suncastle Resorts, Condos & Commercial buildings will be constructed primarily by Caribbean Women (to the highest industry standards and without compromise in quality, safety, strength or finish), which will be innovative, revolutionary, unique and life changing”, said Mr. Thomas.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1345026/Possibility_Group_Ltd__Sovereign_Pacific_s_USD__500M_Fund_for_Th.jpg
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1345025/Possibility_Group_Ltd__Sovereign_Pacific_s_USD__500M_Fund_for_Th.jpg

Leading NYC-based boutique financial advisory brings three decades of experience providing innovative solutions for the Caribbean’s
most pressing infrastructure challenges

CaribPR Wire, New York, NY , Mon. November 30, 2020: Standard International Group, a leading New York City-based boutique financial advisory firm with a focus on revitalizing critical infrastructure projects across the U.S. Municipal, Caribbean, and West Africa, announced the completion of $193M in financing for St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) Terminal Reconstruction. André Wright, Executive Vice President of Standard International Group, made the announcement.

On behalf of St. Maarten and Princess Juliana International Airport, Mr. Wright advised on the $50M loan from The European Investment Bank (EIB) and $50M grant from The World Bank, for a total of $100M in investment capital combined with $22M from the Government of St. Maarten in the form of liquidity support. Mr. Wright also ensured the project received a maximum insurance claim payout of $71M by introducing Willis Towers Watson to serve as insurance advisory services provider.

Princess Juliana International Airport is among the busiest airports in the North Eastern Caribbean, serving St. Maarten, St. Martin, Saba, St. Eustatius, Anguilla, and St Barthélemy and is the engine of St. Maarten’s economy, serving over 1.8 million passengers and employing over 1,000 local residents each year.

Following the destruction from hurricane Irma, Princess Juliana International Airport required massive remediation and reconstruction. Standard International Group provided end-to-end advisory, from creating the financial models, structuring the plan of finance, liaising with current bondholders and providing rating agency advisory, with a vision of success and prosperity for this important project. The new airport design will feature security improvements and is expected to surpass its past performance. Terminal reconstruction is slated to commence in 2021.

For over 20 years, Standard International Group has worked collaboratively with St. Maarten leadership to create transformative solutions that improve the bottom line and local economy. During this period, Standard International Group has provided financial advisory for a variety of infrastructure advancements, including the original Princess Juliana International Airport transaction (2004), several financial advisory and capital raises for the St. Maarten electricity company (GEBE), cruise port facilities, shopping and real estate development, and other projects. With a long history of working with government leadership and multiple investment teams, Standard International Group was able to successfully complete these projects and ensure positive results for all stakeholders.

“Investing in better infrastructure, solutions for climate change and the wellbeing of local communities is a major priority across the Caribbean, but it is often a difficult process,” stated Mr. Wright. “Standard International Group specializes in securing financing for complex infrastructure projects, creating win-win situations for investors as well as communities.”
About Standard International Group

Standard International Group is an independent financial advisory boutique that emphasizes service and innovation. Founded by André Wright in 1996, Standard International Group focuses on revitalizing critical infrastructure projects across the U.S. Municipal, Caribbean, and West Africa. Mr. Wright brings a decade of Wall Street experience and over thirty years of financial advisory and investment banking expertise to some of these regions’ most pressing infrastructure problems. Standard International Group does business where others either cannot or are not willing to go. The firm’s financial advisory services are built around comprehensive financial and credit analysis, local knowledge and industry expertise with a focus on creating transformative solutions and successful outcomes. Standard International Group creates and shares opportunities with global investors, delivers debt and equity capital to sovereign and municipal governments and corporations, all while emphasizing the importance of positive results on a local level. For more information, please visit www.sig-usa.com.—

PHOTO CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE

The survey shows results about the essential aspects of Latin Americans’ lives after quarantine.
The new Mastercard campaign seeks to support consumers and small businesses as they return to a new normal.

CaribPR Wire, MIAMI, Oct. 08, 2020: Latin America and the Caribbean are entering a new reality: many countries are reopening their borders, governments are easing distance measures, and non-essential businesses are opening to the public again.

During this new phase, Mastercard announced its new regional campaign, “Lo Esencial” (The Essentials) to highlight those everyday moments that became essential after COVID-19. The campaign will provide consumers and local businesses with safe shopping experiences, tools, and education that help fulfill their everyday needs.

To develop this initiative, Mastercard conducted a survey in 13 countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean including, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru, to better understand consumption and purchase habits after the period of confinement.

According to the “Lo Esencial” survey, 67% of Latin Americans surveyed said they have a greater appreciation for their family than before the quarantine. The survey also highlights an increased awareness of other essentials such as health (47%), taking personal time (41%), mental health (32%), and spending time with friends (26%).

As consumers engage in their return to a new normal, 6 out of 10 people (57%) plan to invest in the quality of their family experiences. Additionally, 46% of Latin Americans indicated their wish to support local businesses more in this return phase, than before the pandemic.

In terms of payment experiences, for purchases made in person as well as online, the essentials cited by consumers include, security (59%), speed (23%), and convenience (17%). Purchases with chip cards and contactless payments were the most popular options for payment. Furthermore, 62% of Latin Americans stated that they used a home shopping service during the quarantine. In fact, almost half of them (46%) said that they would continue to use this service in the future.

As a leader in the payments industry, Mastercard is committed to developing a global technology infrastructure and use its brand strength to positively impact society with safer, faster, and more efficient payment experiences. This new regional campaign reflects this commitment and seeks to highlight everyday moments that have become “The Essentials” (Lo Esencial) in the aftermath of the pandemic. The campaign will continue to provide unique shopping experiences, relevant consumer education, and tools to help society thrive.

“The pandemic helped us realize the importance of the everyday moments we lost and grew to miss as we all did our part to stay at home. The experience associated with getting our morning coffee, or meeting up with friends have a renewed level of appreciation, and the ability to recover these essential moments today is priceless,” said Roberto Ramirez Laverde, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Mastercard Latin America and the Caribbean. “This campaign seeks to help individuals welcome a new normal with a new sense of gratitude while also helping consumers and small businesses make them a reality as part of our role as the strategic partner for local businesses.”

About Mastercard (NYSE: MA), www.mastercard.com
Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere, by making transactions safe, simple, smart, and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships, and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments, and businesses realize their greatest potential. Our decency quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything we do inside and outside our company. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we build a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

A Photo accompanying this PR is at: https://www.newsamericasnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/lo-esencial-lac-infographics-eng.jpg

TORONTO, Oct. 6, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – SQL Power (www.sqlpower.ca), the global leader in financial regulatory and advanced analytics technology is proud to announce the implementation of their supervisory platform, the SQL Power Suite, on September 22, 2020 at the Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission (TTSEC).

According to the TTSEC, the Electronically Advanced Submission interface or EASi platform will revolutionize the way in which the securities industry is regulated, as it puts market players front and center in navigating the system, from submission and renewal of applications to disclosure filings among other important services.

The implementation of the EASi platform also comes in the midst of a national public health crisis (and global pandemic) when the demand for contactless delivery of services is paramount to ensuring business continuity and the stability of the economy, whilst safeguarding public health. The integrated system allows for a greater degree of transparency in the regulatory process and will strengthen confidence in the local securities market.

“I am confident that the TTSEC digital transformation initiative (EASi) will be a huge success, and will serve as a showcase implementation for all Security Exchange Commissions around the World,” said Sam Selim, President and CEO of SQL Power.

The SQL Power Suite is the most robust financial regulatory (SupTech) solution on the market, delivering the ultimate in regulator flexibility, efficiency and transparency; increasing the likelihood of timely successful intervention while providing all interested parties with the ultimate confidence in the regulated market.

About SQL Power:

Founded in 1989, and headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, SQL Power Group Inc. is a global application software firm specializing in data collection, data integration, business intelligence, and regulatory implementations.

Since implementing the first supervisory solution in Canada in 2009, SQL Power has been at the forefront of financial regulatory software innovation – rolling out the world’s first fully-integrated XBRL-based data collection, risk management, case management and advanced analytics solution that evolves seamlessly with evolving Global Financial Standards.

The SQL Power Supervisory Platform is an end to end solution for financial regulation. The platform is multilingual, modular and includes: Data Collection, Registration and Licensing, Case Management, Risk Management, and Onsite inspection solutions. The platform also comes bundled with built-in Advanced Analytics capabilities and a world-class Business Intelligence Tool.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico and MIAMI, June 18, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – GM Sectec, a global leader in cybersecurity, and Visa, the world’s leader in digital payments, have announced the development of a virtual initiative – following a series of successful roadshows in Latin America in 2019 – where they will work together, with the objective of evangelizing, educating and guiding companies in the adoption of secure payment technologies and practices, taking into consideration the moment that we are living in worldwide due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The COVID-19 health crisis is putting the world at risk. The impact on businesses, markets and economies is already beginning to be felt, and in business ecosystems the demand for strong measures to ensure business continuity is fundamental.

At a global level, the changes and challenges that companies have faced include adapting to new tele-working scenarios, unknown until only about three months ago, have created unique opportunities on all ends of the digital divide. For many large corporations, this option has become the norm and many have chosen to adopt it permanently, at least for the rest of 2020.

As a result, the number of people making electronic payments has multiplied, as shown by the recent Visa study which presented that more than 13 million of its cardholders made an e-commerce transaction for the first time in the first quarter of 2020, in key markets in Latin America and the Caribbean. This means that two out of every 10 active e-commerce cardholders are “new to e-commerce,” representing up to 14 percent of all active Visa accounts in key markets during this period.

“Our intention in developing our GM Sectec & Visa ‘PaySec Talks’ on the heels of our successful ‘PaySec Day’ Events throughout Latin America in 2019; is to promote the adoption of secure payment technologies and practices in concert with our Strategic Partner, Visa. Offering organizations and individuals who are working from home, the opportunity to learn about the tools, tactics and procedures they have available today to prevent multi-vector fraud and identity theft is a critical objective for all of us here at GM Sectec.” said Héctor Guillermo Martínez, President of GM Sectec.

Through the “PaySec Talks”, which will be held throughout July, in three sessions – English, Spanish and Portuguese – GM Sectec and Visa will be sharing better strategies and practices on how to maintain the security of their customers’ information and data when conducting electronic transactions.

“We have seen a pivotal change in consumer shopping behaviors as a result of the pandemic, which has rapidly reinforced the multiple benefits of e-commerce and contactless payments, as consumers prioritize health, safety and hygiene both at home and when out shopping,” said Eduardo Perez, Chief Risk Officer for Visa Latina America and the Caribbean.  ”Now is the time for issuers, acquirers and businesses to invest in quickly implementing payment services that consumers will increasingly demand during and as we overcome this situation.”

for this reason, we want through the PaySec Talks, to educate companies in Latin America, where e-commerce is a growing alternative, to ensure the safety of their customers and their business.”

The “PaySec Talks” will be held on July 2nd, 16th and 30th, to participate you just have to register through the following link: https://events.gmsectec.com/visagmsectec

About GM Sectec

GM Sectec offers innovative solutions and services in cybersecurity, governance, and compliance focused on managing digital risk. Its solutions are designed to detect advanced attacks and respond to them effectively, reducing business risk, fraud, and cybercrime. Founded in 1970 as General Computer Corporation and later as GM Group in the 1990s, GM Sectec has an extensive track record and experience in the management of policies and integrated processes of technologies and standards for data protection in payment system risk.  Its commitment to the principles of simplicity, innovation and customer success has made them the leading and fastest growing provider of security and technology in Latin America and the Caribbean. GM Sectec has been selected as one of the “Hot 150 Cybersecurity Companies to watch in 2020″ by Cybercrime Magazine. To learn more about GM Security Technologies, visit our website: www.gmsectec.com

About Visa Inc.

Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) is the world’s leader in digital payments. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, reliable and secure payment network – enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. Our advanced global processing network, VisaNet, provides secure and reliable payments around the world, and is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second. The company’s relentless focus on innovation is a catalyst for the rapid growth of digital commerce on any device for everyone, everywhere. As the world moves from analog to digital, Visa is applying our brand, products, people, network and scale to reshape the future of commerce. For more information, visit  About Visa, visa.com/blog and  @VisaNews.

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The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank and Toronto Centre lead workshop for supervisors and regulators of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union to help identify climate and other environmental risks to financial institutions, economies, and consumers

CaribPR Wire, BASSETERRE, St. Kitts and Nevis, Dec. 02, 2019: At the request of, and in partnership with, the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, Toronto Centre is holding its first five-day cross-cutting climate risk workshop. The workshop is aimed at helping financial sector supervisors and regulators identify the risks that climate change and other environmental factors pose to financial institutions, economies, consumers and vulnerable groups. Participants will learn how to develop action plans to deal with climate change and other environmental risks, and how to identify and communicate effectively with key stakeholders to achieve results.

The IMF’s Global Financial Stability Report, 2019 prominently highlights climate risk as a risk to financial stability. In addition to examining the nature of these risks and their potential effects, the program identifies steps that supervisors and financial institutions can take to deal with these risks. Product design, investment, lending, and strengthening risk management and stress testing are areas that supervisors and financial institutions can explore. The workshop additionally highlights steps that could be taken to manage risks to consumers, such as improving financial literacy and inclusion.

Timothy N.J. Antoine, Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) said: “As the custodians of the payment system, our Central Bank is advocating for and facilitating disaster and climate resilience strategies inclusive of investment in physical and digital infrastructure, early warning systems, and fiscal resilience. ECCB is pleased to host this inaugural workshop on coping with climate change and other environmental risks and key actions that can be taken by supervisors and those they supervise to deal with these risks. Toronto Centre’s capacity building efforts are essential as financial sector supervisors and regulators in our region tackle these risks.”

Babak Abbaszadeh, CEO and President, Toronto Centre said: “Climate risk is an emerging risk for financial policy makers, standard setters, and supervisors. Toronto Centre applauds the ECCB’s initiative and leadership to be an early mover in building their capacity to deal with climate risk.”

LEARN MORE

www.eccb-centralbank.org/

The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) was established in October 1983. It is the monetary authority for a group of eight small country economies namely – Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Agreement establishing the ECCB as the monetary authority for the eight ECCB participating governments was signed on 5 July 1983 in Trinidad and Tobago. The ECCB was officially commissioned on 1 October 1983, replacing the Eastern Caribbean Currency Authority (ECCA) which was established in March 1965.

The primary objective of the ECCB is to maintain the stability of the Eastern Caribbean Currency and the integrity of the banking system.

LEARN MORE

www.torontocentre.org

Established in 1998, Toronto Centre for Global Leadership in Financial Supervision (Toronto Centre) is an independent not-for-profit organization that promotes financial stability and access to financial services globally. Our mission is to provide high quality capacity building programs for financial supervisors and regulators, primarily in emerging markets and developing countries. We believe that for countries to thrive, their financial systems must be stable and inclusive. Our mission supports sustainable growth and job creation and helps to reduce poverty by helping to build these economic foundations. In turn, stable, sustainable economic growth is a vital enabler of infrastructure investments, strengthening international trade and reducing poverty as confirmed by the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, Financing for Development. Our mission is aligned with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy. Since our inception, we have trained more than 12,000 supervisors and regulators from over 190 jurisdictions. Toronto Centre is supported by Global Affairs Canada, the International Monetary Fund, Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), Comic Relief, Jersey Overseas Aid, and other valuable international partners.

CaribPR Wire, MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, Nov. 22, 2019: Highgate Systems Inc. today announced that Kelley Gray, has been named interim Managing Director of Highgate Systems Inc., replacing Aldo Campodonico effective immediately.

After 3 years, Aldo and Highgate Systems Inc. have decided to part ways and we wish to thank Aldo for his contribution to Highgate Systems.

Reporting to Highgate’s Board of Directors, Kelley will focus on strategies and tactics in support of the company’s future global growth initiatives.

Kelley remarked, “My key to success has been built on a passion for building strong relationships and obtaining results through collaboration. I am very excited to have this opportunity to contribute to Highgate’s present and future growth.”

Barry Walsh, Highgate’s Chairman said, “On behalf of the management and staff at Highgate, I’d like to congratulate Kelley on her appointment to the leadership team and wish her every success in her new role.”

Kelley, brings over 25 years of technology experience in executive management roles for companies such as: Symcor, Manulife Canada, CGI, Bell and Sun Microsystems. Her diverse background in the area of information technology, financial services, telecommunications, and government will be an invaluable asset to Highgate Systems Inc.

In addition to her impressive professional qualifications and experience, Kelley maintains an interest in both professional and recreational sporting activities. She is an accomplished golfer, hockey player, softball player and bowler.

About Highgate
Highgate Systems Inc. is a trusted provider of fully integrated, end-to-end Banking solutions to the financial services industry. Founded in 1986, Highgate Systems, technological footprint and Clients spans across Canada, the U.S and the Caribbean. Highgate Systems Inc. is a proudly Canadian Company delivering cutting edge solutions to Commercial Bank, Development Banks and Credit Unions.

Highgate Systems nombra a Kelley Grey como Directora General Interina

CaribPR Wire MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, Nov. 27, 2019: Hoy, Highgate Systems Inc. (Highgate) anunció que Kelley Grey, fue nombrada Directora General Interina de Highgate, en reemplazo de Aldo Campodonico.

Después de tres años trabajando en conjunto, Aldo y Highgate decidieron emprender rumbos diferentes. Queremos agradecerle a Aldo por sus contribuciones a Highgate.

Kelley, que estará bajo la supervisión de la junta directiva de Highgate, se enfocará en estrategias para apoyar las futuras iniciativas de crecimiento global de la empresa.

Kelley destacó: “Mi clave para el éxito ha sido la dedicación para construir relaciones sólidas y obtener resultados a través de la colaboración. Estoy muy entusiasmada por tener esta oportunidad para contribuir al crecimiento de Highgate tanto en el presente como en el futuro”.

Barry Walsh, Presidente de Highgate, dijo: “En nombre de la Gerencia y el personal de Highgate, me gustaría felicitar a Kelley por su nombramiento y desearle mucho éxito en su nueva función”.

Kelley tiene más de 25 años de experiencia técnica en funciones de administración ejecutiva para empresas como: Symcor, Manulife Canadá, CGI, Bell y Sun Microsystems. Su experiencia integral en las áreas de tecnología de la información, servicios financieros, telecomunicaciones y Gobierno será un recurso invaluable para Highgate.

Además de sus impresionantes calificaciones profesionales y experiencia, Kelley mantiene un interés en actividades deportivas tanto profesionales como recreativas. Es una excelente jugadora de golf, de hockey, de softball y, además, de boliche.

Acerca de Highgate
Highgate Systems Inc. es un proveedor confiable de soluciones bancarias integradas punta-a-punta, para la industria de servicios financieros. Fundada en 1986, la tecnología y los clientes de Highgate Systems se extienden por Canadá, Estados Unidos y el Caribe. Highgate Systems Inc. es una empresa orgullosamente canadiense que ofrece soluciones de vanguardia a bancos comerciales, bancos de desarrollo y cooperativas de crédito.

MONTREAL, Oct. 30, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ - Equisoft, a leading global financial technology company providing advanced solutions for the insurance and wealth industries, today officially announced the appointment of Ruben Veerasamy as Senior Vice President, Caribbean.

Equisoft’s strategic objective is to diversify and accelerate their global expansion. The company has delivered significant strategic business value in the Caribbean market for more than 10 years, working with clients in Jamaica, The Bahamas, Bermuda and Trinidad, and is continuing to scale up rapidly. With the objective of developing a team dedicated to servicing Caribbean clients, the time has come to nominate a leader for the region.

Ruben has performed different delivery and sales roles at Equisoft for over 10 years. With over 20 years of experience in the IT industry, he brings a strong expertise in establishing and managing sustainable client, partner and employee relationships.

“Ruben’s ability to build connections and confidence has been instrumental in helping us develop a great reputation in the Caribbean over the years,” said Equisoft’s CEO, Luis Romero. “We already serve six companies with our insurance and wealth solutions, and we are shortlisted for multiple large opportunities in the region. Appointing a dedicated leader was the next logical step to make sure that we provide our customers with the level of support they are expecting from their technology partner.”

“Being active in the region since 2009, we have a deep understanding of the specific challenges that Caribbean insurers and financial institutions are facing, both from a business and technology standpoint,” said Ruben. “I’m looking forward to continuing to work closely with our customers to help them achieve their business goals.”

About Equisoft

Founded in 1994, Equisoft is a global provider of advanced digital solutions in life insurance and wealth management. Recognized as a valued partner by over 50 of the world’s leading financial institutions in 15 countries, Equisoft offers innovative front-end applications, extensive back-office services and a unique data migration expertise. The firm’s industry-leading products include CRM, financial needs analysis, asset allocation, quotes and illustrations, electronic application, agency management systems, as well as customer, agent and broker portals. Equisoft is also Oracle’s main global partner for the Oracle Insurance Policy Administration platform. With its business-driven approach, deep industry knowledge, state-of-the-art technology, and a growing team of over 400 specialized resources based in the USA, Canada, Latin America, South Africa and India, Equisoft helps financial institutions tackle any challenge in this new era of digital disruption. Website: equisoft.com

CaribPR Wire, CALGARY, Alberta, Oct. 17, 2019: Parkland Fuel Corporation (“Parkland”) (TSX:PKI) announced today that it is launching JOURNIE™, a nationwide rewards and customer loyalty program with CIBC as its strategic banking partner. JOURNIE™ will offer Canadians compelling fuel savings and merchandise offers and will launch in select Ontario, British Columbia and Quebec markets this fall with a full national rollout in early 2020.

JOURNIE™ members that link their personal CIBC credit and debit cards will enjoy fuel savings of three cents per litre at participating locations when paying with their CIBC card. Following its full national rollout, JOURNIE™ Rewards and the CIBC fuel savings will be available across Parkland’s coast-to-coast network of approximately 1,300 Chevron, Ultramar, Pioneer and Fas Gas sites. In addition to instant fuel savings, customers can simultaneously collect JOURNIE™ Rewards as well as rewards they already earn with their CIBC credit card.

“The launch of our JOURNIE™ Rewards program and CIBC’s participation is a major milestone for Parkland,” said Ian White, Senior Vice President of Strategic Marketing and Innovation. “By connecting our national network of fuel retail sites and On the Run and Marché Express convenience stores under a single proprietary rewards program with compelling fuel and merchandise offers, we are creating a powerful customer loyalty offer with nationwide scale.”

“This is an exciting loyalty program bringing together two innovative and customer focused companies that have an extensive nationwide retail presence and broad consumer reach,” added White. “In addition to enhancing our JOURNIE™ value proposition, our partnership with CIBC supports our strategy to grow our fuel sales volumes and increase foot traffic in our Canadian convenience stores.”

“This partnership builds on our exceptional credit card benefits, such as our four per cent cashback on fuel purchases with our CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* Card,” said Jeff Smith, Vice President, Client Loyalty Solutions and Partnerships, Personal Banking Products, CIBC.  “With JOURNIE™ Rewards, we’re making it radically simple for our clients to receive discounts at the pump, while helping them achieve their reward ambitions sooner.”

Parkland’s JOURNIE™ Rewards program is supported by a newly developed mobile app which will be available for anyone to download on iOS and Android platforms from October 23, 2019. For more information on JOURNIE™ and how to become a registered member please visit www.journie.ca.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking information and statements (collectively, “forward looking statements”). When used in this news release, the words “expect’’, ‘‘will’’, ‘‘could’’, ‘‘would’’, ‘‘supports’’ and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things, launch of JOURNIE™ in early 2020, the availability of JOURNIE™ in Parkland’s coast-to-coast network, growth of fuel sales volumes and increase foot traffic in our Canadian convenience stores.

These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Parkland does not undertake any obligations to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements except as required by securities laws. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of numerous risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to: failure to achieve the anticipated benefits of the JOURNIE™ loyalty program, general economic, market and business conditions, industry capacity, competitive action by other companies, refining and marketing margins, the ability of suppliers and/or strategic business partners to meet commitments, actions by governmental authorities and other regulators including increases in taxes, changes and developments in regulations, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Parkland. See also the risks and uncertainties described under the headings “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” in Parkland’s current Annual Information Form, and under the headings “Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” in Parkland’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the most recently completed financial period, each as filed on SEDAR and available on Parkland’s website at www.parkland.ca.

About Parkland
Parkland is an independent supplier and marketer of fuel and petroleum products and a leading convenience store operator. Parkland services customers across Canada, the United States, the Caribbean region and the Americas through three channels: Retail, Commercial and Wholesale. Parkland optimizes its fuel supply across these three channels by operating and leveraging a growing portfolio of supply relationships and storage infrastructure. Parkland provides trusted and locally relevant fuel brands and convenience store offerings in the communities it serves.

Parkland creates value for shareholders by focusing on its proven strategy of growing organically, realizing a supply advantage and acquiring prudently and integrating successfully. At the core of our strategy are our people, as well as our values of safety, integrity, community and respect, which are embraced across our organization. *JOURNIE and associated work marks are trade-marks of Parkland Fuel Corporation.

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NINGBO, China, Sept. 24, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) recently released its Solar Module & Inverter Bankability 2019 report. For the first time, the company made investigations into solar inverters, surveying the bankability of several inverter brands.

‘Bankability’ means banks are more willing to offer non-recourse loans to photovoltaic power generation projects that opt to use a particular inverter brand.

Solis’ inverters ranked third for Asian brands: a testament to the brand’s products being well-recognised by global technical experts and respondents. This incredible result also means project developers are more likely to receive bank financing if they use Solis’ products over those of other brands.

With a team of experts spread across six continents, BNEF analyses complex data from around the globe to procure in-depth forecasts which highlight the financial, economic and political implications of industry-transforming trends and technologies.

For this survey, BNEF sought information from banks, developers and technical due diligence firms about which brands, out of 48 module manufacturers and 17 inverter manufacturers, they considered to be bankable.

Interestingly, regional differences are far starker when considering the bankability of inverters compared to modules. Unlike panels, inverters are less of a commodity as modules have only one function – producing energy – while inverters have multiple purposes. Aside from converting direct current into alternating current, inverters interact directly with the grid and aggregate power output data. As such, there are different types of inverters for different project requirements (for example, some projects require central inverters while string inverters are more suitable for others).

About Ginlong Technologies

Established in 2005, Ginlong (Solis) Technologies is one of the oldest and largest manufacturers of PV string inverters. Presented under the Solis brand, the company’s portfolio uses innovative string inverter technology to deliver first-class reliability that has been validated under the most stringent international certifications. Armed with a global supply chain, world-class R&D and manufacturing capabilities, Ginlong optimizes its inverters for each regional market, servicing and supporting its customers with its team of local experts.

For more information on how Solis delivers value while maximizing reliability and cost-saving for residential, commercial, and utility customers, visit ginlong.com.