Ingredion Incorporated 報告第一季度業績並提高全年的收益預期

• 2023 年第一季度報告和調整後每股收益^*分別為 2.85 美元和 2.80 美元，而 2022 年第一季度報告和調整後每股收益分別為 1.92 美元和 1.95 美元
• 與去年同一季度相比，第一季度毛利率增長 280 個基點，達到 22.8%
• 公司將 2023 年全年調整後每股收益預期由 7.70-8.40 美元上調至 8.70-9.40 美元

伊利諾伊州韋斯特切斯特, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE via SEAPRWire.com) — 全球領先的食品及飲料製造業成分解決方案供應商 Ingredion Incorporated (NYSE: INGR)，今天發佈了 2023 年第一季度業績。根據美國公認會計原則（「GAAP」）報告的 2023 年和 2022 年第一季度業績包括從公司列報的非美國公認會計原則 (non-GAAP) 財務指標中剔除的項目。

Ingredion 的總裁兼首席執行官 Jim Zallie 表示：「我們 2023 年開門紅，錄得創紀錄的季度利潤和每股收益。今年開始，我們預計玉米和製造成本將連續第二年上漲。我們的銷售團隊有效地執行了產品和客戶組合管理，包括針對即將到期的多年期客戶合同進行價格調整，以連續第三個季度成功重建利潤率。此外，隨著經濟增長放緩，供應鏈成本有所下降，從而提高了毛利率和營業收入。」

「本季度，特種原料繼續保持積極勢頭，與去年相比，所有四個地區的淨銷售額均實現兩位數增長。我們的供應鏈團隊繼續改進服務提供，我們的工廠運行良好以增加特種原料的供應。此外，我們進一步投資於我們產品的口感和營養網絡能力，以實現與客戶未來的增長機會。」

「我們更新的全年展望反映了價格和客戶組合管理得到改善，以及我們在成本管理方面的持續警惕。我們預計，繼第一季度銷量疲軟之後，這主要是由於消費者需求放緩和客戶重新平衡存貨，下半年客戶需求將穩步增長。我們對未來增長戰略充滿信心，以為我們的股東創造長期價值，」Zallie 總結道。

*調整後每股攤薄收益（「調整後每股收益」）、調整後營業收入、調整後實際所得稅稅率和調整後攤薄加權平均已發行普通股均為非 GAAP 財務指標。有關該等非 GAAP 財務指標與最直接可比的 GAAP 指標的對賬，請參閲本新聞稿中包含的簡明綜合財務報表後標題為「非 GAAP 資料」的補充財務資料的第二節。

每股攤薄收益 (EPS)

	1Q22	1Q23
Reported EPS	$1.92	$2.85
Restructuring/Impairment costs	0.03	–
Acquisition/Integration costs	0.01	–
Tax items and other matters	(0.01)	(0.05)
Adjusted EPS**	$1.95	$2.80

影響報告及調整後 EPS 變化的估計因素

	1Q23
Total items affecting EPS**	0.85
Total operating items	0.88
Margin	1.42
Volume	(0.36)
Foreign exchange	(0.12)
Other income	(0.06)
Total non-operating items	(0.03)
Other non-operating income	(0.01)
Financing costs	(0.09)
Shares outstanding	0.02
Non-controlling interests	–
Tax rate	0.05

**由於四捨五入，總數可能不足；

財政摘要

• 截至 2023 年 3 月 31 日，包括短期投資在內的總債務和現金分別為 26 億美元和 2.21 億美元，而 2022 年 12 月 31 日分別為 25 億美元和 2.39 億美元。
• 第一季度報告的淨融資成本為 3,200 萬美元，而去年同期為 2,400 萬美元。
• 第一季度報告和調整後的實際稅率分別為 25.1% 和 27.7%，而去年同期分別為 28.9% 和 28.9%。報告的實際稅率下降主要是由於墨西哥比索兌美元匯率的變化。
• 資本支出為 7,600 萬美元，較去年同期減少 900 萬美元。

業務回顧

所有 Ingredion
淨銷售額

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Volume	Price mix	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	1,892	(63)	(116)	424	2,137	13%	16%

報告的營業收入

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Business Drivers	Acquisition / Integration	Restructuring / Impairment	Other	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	210	(12)	95	1	2	(5)	291	39%	44%

調整後營業收入

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Business Drivers	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	213	(12)	95	296	39%	45%

淨銷售額

• 第一季度同比增長 13%。這一增長由客戶和產品組合管理帶來的強勁價格組合所推動，部分被銷量下降和匯率影響所抵銷。

營業收入

• 第一季度報告的營業收入比去年同期增長 39%，達到 2.91 億美元，調整後營業收入增長 39%，達到 2.96 億美元。這些增長由有利的價格組合所推動，部分被投入成本上升和銷量下降所抵銷。剔除匯率影響後，報告和調整後營業收入分別較去年同期增長 44% 和 45%。

北美洲
淨銷售額

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Volume	Price mix	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	1,174	(8)	(82)	272	1,356	16%	16%

分部營業收入

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Business Drivers	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	156	(2)	53	207	33%	34%

• 北美洲第一季度營業收入為 2.07 億美元，較去年同期增加 5,100 萬美元。這一增長由有利的價格組合所推動，部分被投入成本上升和銷量下降所抵銷。剔除匯率影響後，分部營業收入增長 34%。

南美洲
凈銷售額

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Volume	Price mix	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	252	(13)	(7)	37	269	7%	12%

分部營業收入

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Business Drivers	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	38	(4)	7	41	8%	18%

• 南美洲第一季度營業收入為 4,100 萬美元，較去年同期增長 300 萬美元。這一增長由有利的價格組合所推動，部分被投入成本上升、匯率影響和銷量下降所抵銷。剔除匯率影響後，分部營業收入增長 18%。

亞太區
淨銷售額

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Volume	Price mix	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	272	(13)	(25)	43	277	2%	7%

分部營業收入

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Business Drivers	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	22	(1)	7	28	27%	32%

• 亞太區第一季度營業收入為 2,800 萬美元，比去年同期增長 600 萬美元。這一變化由有利的價格組合所推動，部分被投入成本上升和銷量下降所抵銷。剔除匯率影響後，分部營業收入增長 32%。

歐洲、中東及非洲 (EMEA)
淨銷售額

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Volume	Price mix	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	194	(29)	(2)	72	235	21%	36%

分部營業收入

$ in millions	2022	FX Impact	Business Drivers	2023	Change	Change excl. FX
First quarter	31	(5)	31	57	84%	100%

• 歐洲、中東及非洲第一季度營業收入為 5,700 萬美元，較去年同期增長 2,600 萬美元。這一變化由有利的價格組合所推動，部分被投入成本上升和匯率影響所抵銷。剔除匯率影響後，分部營業收入增長 100%。

股息和股份回購
第一季度，我們向股東支付了 4,700 萬美元的股息，並宣佈將在第二季度支付每股 0.71 美元的季度股息。Ingredion 考慮透過現金股息和股份回購向股東回報價值，作為其資本配置戰略的一部分，以支援股東總回報。

第二季度和更新後的 2023 年全年展望
與 2022 年第二季度相比，公司預計 2023 年第二季度的淨銷售額增長將達到中個位數，營業收入將達到低兩位數至中兩位數。

公司現時預計，其 2023 年報告和調整後每股收益的全年展望分別在 8.85 美元至 9.35 美元和 8.70 美元至 9.40 美元之間。這一預期不包括與收購相關的整合和重組成本，以及任何潛在的減值成本。

公司現時預計，2023 年全年淨銷售額將上升至高個位數至低兩位數，反映出銷量疲軟和玉米成本的預期佈局。報告和調整後營業收入預計都將達到兩位數的高位。

與去年相比，2023 年全年展望如下：北美洲營業收入預計將增長 20% 至 25%，價格組合繼續超過銷量下降和成本增加的速度；南美洲營業收入預計持平至中個位數，投入成本上升部分抵銷了有利的價格組合；在有利的價格組合和 PureCircle 增長的推動下，亞太區的營業收入預計將增長兩位數，部分被投入成本上升所抵銷；在有利價格組合的推動下，歐洲、中東及非洲的營業收入預計將增長 40% 至 50%。預計企業成本將上升至高個位數。

對於 2023 年全年，公司預計報告和調整後的實際稅率分別為 25.0% 至 28.0% 和 27.0% 至 28.5%。

預計 2023 年全年的經營活動所得現金將在 5.5 億美元至 6.5 億美元之間，這反映了我們的營運資本餘額預期增長。全年的資本支出預計約為 3 億美元。

電話會議和網絡直播詳情
Ingredion 將於 2023 年 5 月 3 日星期三上午 8 時（中部時間）/上午 9 時（東部時間）召開電話會議，由總裁兼首席執行官 Jim Zallie 和執行副總裁兼首席財務官 Jim Gray 主持。該電話會議將進行實時網絡直播，並可在 https://ir.ingredionincorporated.com/events-and-presentations 存取。包含額外財務和經營資料的演示文稿可透過公司網站存取，並可在電話會議開始前幾個小時下載。將限時提供重播，請造訪 https://ir.ingredionincorporated.com/financial-information/quarterly-results。

關於公司
Ingredion Incorporated (NYSE: INGR) 總部位於芝加哥郊區，是全球領先的配料解決方案供應商，為 120 多個國家的客戶提供服務。該公司 2022 年的淨銷售額為 79 億美元，將穀物、水果、蔬菜及其他植物性原料轉變為食品、飲料、動物營養、釀造及工業市場的增值原料成分解決方案。透過 Ingredion 的 Idea Labs^®、公司遍佈全球的創新中心及約 12,000 名員工，公司與客戶共同創造並實現了將人、自然及技術的潛力融合在一起以改善生活為目標。瀏覽 ingredion.com 以了解更多資訊及公司的最新消息。

前瞻性陳述

本新聞稿包含《1933 年證券法》（修訂版）第 27A 條及《1934 年證券交易法》（修訂版）第 21E 條所界定的前瞻性陳述。該公司擬對該等前瞻性陳述適用管轄該等陳述的安全港規定。

前瞻性陳述包括但不限於有關公司對 2023 年第二季度淨銷售額和營業收入、2023 年全年報告和調整後每股收益、淨銷售額、報告和調整後營業收入、分部營業收入、公司成本的預期的任何陳述，報告和調整後的實際稅率、經營活動所得現金、資本支出以及關於公司前景及其未來經營、財務狀況、銷量、現金流量、費用或其他財務項目的任何其他報表，包括管理層對任何上述內容的計劃或策略和目標以及基於任何上述內容的任何假設、預期或信念。

這些陳述有時可透過使用前瞻性詞語來識別，例如「可」、「將」、「應」、「預計」、「假設」、「相信」、「計劃」、「預料」、「估計」、「期望」、「意圖」、「繼續」、「備考」、「預測」、「展望」、「前景」、「機會」、「潛在」、「臨時」、或其他類似的表達方式或其反面用法。除本新聞稿中的歷史事實陳述或本新聞稿中提及或併入的所有其他陳述均為「前瞻性陳述」。

這些陳述基於當前情況或預期，但受到某些固有風險和不確定性的影響，其中許多風險和不確定性難以預測且超出我們的控制範圍。儘管我們認為我們在這些前瞻性陳述中反映的預期是基於合理的假設，但我們提醒投資者，我們不能保證預期是正確的。

由於各種因素，實際結果及發展可能與這些陳述表達或暗示的預期存在重大差異，其中包括：俄羅斯和烏克蘭之間衝突的影響，包括對原材料和能源供應的可用性和價格的影響以及外匯和利率的波動；與高果糖粟米糖漿和我們生產的其他產品有關的消費偏好變化；全球經濟狀況以及影響我們購買原材料或製造或出售產品的各個地理區域和國家／地區的客戶及消費者的總體政治、經濟、商業及市場條件的影響，以及這些因素可能對我們的銷量、產品定價以及我們向客戶收取應收賬款的能力產生影響；我們服務的主要行業之未來財務業績，並從中獲得很大一部分營業額，包括但不限於食品、飲料、動物營養廠和釀造行業；COVID-19 對我們業務、對我們產品的需求以及我們財務業績的影響；透過基因改造和生物技術開發產品的可接受度性之不確定性；我們以足以獲得市場認可的速度或質量開發或獲取新產品和服務的能力；粟米提煉行業和相關行業的競爭和／或客戶壓力增加，包括我們的主要產品和副產品（尤其是粟米油）的市場和價格；價格波動、供應鏈中斷和短缺影響我們生產過程和交付渠道的投入，包括原材料、能源成本和可用性以及貨運和物流；我們控製成本、實現預算和實現預期協同效應的能力，包括我們按時、按預算完成計劃維護和投資項目的能力，以及運費和運輸成本；我們生產設施的運營困難以及與產品安全和質量相關的責任；氣候變化的影響以及應對氣候變化的法律、監管和市場措施；我們以優惠條件成功確定和完成收購或戰略聯盟的能力，以及我們成功整合收購業務或實施和維持戰略聯盟並實現上述所有預期協同效應的能力；在國外以外幣開展業務所固有的經濟、政治和其他風險；金融和資本市場的行為，包括外匯波動、利率和匯率波動以及市場波動以及對沖此類波動的相關風險；未能維持令人滿意的勞資關係；我們吸引、發展、激勵員工並與員工保持良好關係的能力；自然災害、戰爭、威脅或恐怖主義行為、COVID-19 等流行病的爆發或持續，或我們無法控制的其他重大事件的發生對我們業務的影響；減值費用對我們的商譽或長期資產的影響；政府政策、法律或法規的變化以及遵守法律的成本，包括遵守環境法規；我們的税率發生變化或承擔額外的所得税責任；利率上升可能導致我們的借貸成本增加；我們以合理的利率籌集資金的能力以及其他影響我們獲得足夠資金用於未來增長和擴張的因素；有關資訊技術系統、程序和網站的安全漏洞；股票市場的動盪以及其他可能對我們的股價產生不利影響的因素；影響我們繼續執行股息政策的風險；以及我們維持財務報告有效內部控制的能力。

我們的前瞻性陳述所提供的資訊僅截至作出陳述的日期，我們沒有義務更新任何前瞻性陳述，以反映因新資訊或未來事件或發展而導致在陳述日期之後發生的事件或情況。如果我們更新或更正其中的一項或多項陳述，投資者及其他人不應斷定我們將進行額外的更新或更正。有關這些風險和其他風險的進一步描述，請參閲我們向美國證券交易委員會提交的截至 2022 年 12 月 31 日止年度的 10-K 表格年度報告以及我們隨後提交的 10-Q 表格和 8-K 表格報告中包含的「風險因素」和其他資料。

Ingredion Incorporated
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)
(in millions, except per share amounts)		Three Months Ended March 31,							Change %
		2023			2022
Net sales		$	2,137		$	1,892			13	%
Cost of sales			1,650			1,513
Gross profit			487			379			28	%
Operating expenses			187			169			11	%
Other operating expense (income)			9			(2	)
Restructuring/impairment charges			—			2
Operating income			291			210			39	%
Financing costs			32			24
Other non-operating (income)			—			(1	)
Income before income taxes			259			187			39	%
Provision for income taxes			65			54
Net income			194			133			46	%
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interests			3			3
Net income attributable to Ingredion		$	191		$	130			47	%
Earnings per common share attributable to Ingredion common shareholders:
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic			66.1			66.9
Diluted			67.1			67.6
Earnings per common share of Ingredion:
Basic		$	2.89		$	1.94			49	%
Diluted		$	2.85		$	1.92			48	%

Ingredion Incorporated
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in millions, except share and per share amounts)		March 31, 2023				December 31, 2022
		(Unaudited)
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents		$	216			$	236
Short-term investments			5				3
Accounts receivable – net			1,455				1,411
Inventories			1,663				1,597
Prepaid expenses			63				62
Total current assets			3,402				3,309
Property, plant and equipment – net			2,397				2,407
Intangible assets – net			1,297				1,301
Other assets			549				544
Total assets		$	7,645			$	7,561
Liabilities and equity
Current liabilities
Short-term borrowings		$	701			$	543
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities			1,191				1,339
Total current liabilities			1,892				1,882
Long-term debt			1,938				1,940
Other non-current liabilities			450				477
Total liabilities			4,280				4,299
Share-based payments subject to redemption			38				48
Redeemable non-controlling interests			51				51
Equity
Ingredion stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock — authorized 25,000,000 shares — $0.01 par value, none issued			–				–
Common stock — authorized 200,000,000 shares — $0.01 par value, 77,810,875 issued at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022			1				1
Additional paid-in capital			1,133				1,132
Less: Treasury stock (common stock: 11,839,634 and 12,116,920 shares at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively) at cost			(1,127	)			(1,148	)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss			(1,098	)			(1,048	)
Retained earnings			4,354				4,210
Total Ingredion stockholders’ equity			3,263				3,147
Non-redeemable non-controlling interests			13				16
Total equity			3,276				3,163
Total liabilities and equity		$	7,645			$	7,561

Ingredion Incorporated
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(in millions)		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2023				2022
Cash (used for) operating activities:
Net income		$	194			$	133
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization			54				53
Mechanical stores expense			18				13
Margin accounts			(19	)			28
Changes in other trade working capital			(302	)			(290	)
Other			4				11
Cash (used for) operating activities			(51	)			(52	)
Cash used for investing activities:
Capital expenditures and mechanical stores purchases			(76	)			(85	)
Proceeds from disposal of manufacturing facilities and properties			1				5
Other			(6	)			4
Cash used for investing activities			(81	)			(76	)
Cash provided by financing activities:
Proceeds from borrowings, net			51				24
Commercial paper borrowings, net			107				178
Repurchases of common stock, net			—				(39	)
Issuances (settlements) of common stock for share-based compensation, net			2				(1	)
Dividends paid, including to non-controlling interests			(47	)			(43	)
Cash provided by financing activities			113				119
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash			(1	)			5
(Decrease) in cash and cash equivalents			(20	)			(4	)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period			236				328
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period		$	216			$	324

Ingredion Incorporated
Supplemental Financial Information
(Unaudited)
I. Geographic Information of Net Sales and Operating Income
(in millions, except for percentages)	Three Months Ended March 31,								Change				Change Excl. FX
	2023				2022
Net Sales
North America	$	1,356			$	1,174			16	%			16	%
South America		269				252			7	%			12	%
Asia-Pacific		277				272			2	%			7	%
EMEA		235				194			21	%			36	%
Total Net Sales	$	2,137			$	1,892			13	%			16	%
Operating Income
North America	$	207			$	156			33	%			34	%
South America		41				38			8	%			18	%
Asia-Pacific		28				22			27	%			32	%
EMEA		57				31			84	%			100	%
Corporate		(37	)			(34	)		(9		)%		(9		)%
Sub-total		296				213			39	%			45	%
Acquisition/integration costs		–				(1	)
Restructuring/impairment charges		–				(2	)
Other matters		(5	)			–
Total Operating Income	$	291			$	210			39	%			44	%

II. 非美國公認會計原則資料

為了補充根據美國公認會計原則（「GAAP」）編製的綜合財務業績，我們使用非 GAAP 歷史財務指標，當中剔除若干 GAAP 項目，如收購和整合成本、重組和減税、墨西哥税收（利益）規定和其他特定項目。我們通常在提及這些非 GAAP 金額時使用「調整後」一詞。

管理層在內部使用非 GAAP 財務指標，進行策略決策、預測未來業績及評估當前表現。透過披露非 GAAP 財務指標，管理層擬為投資者提供更有意義和一致的經營業績和趨勢比較結果。該等非 GAAP 財務指標可補充根據 GAAP 列報的業績並與之結合使用，反映了審閱我們運營各個方面的一種額外方式，當與 GAAP 業績一同審閱時，可提供對影響我們業務的因素和趨勢的更完整的理解。這些非 GAAP 指標應被視為補充（而非取代或優於）根據 GAAP 計算的相應指標。

非 GAAP 財務指標並未按照 GAAP 編製，因此，我們的非 GAAP 資料未必與其他公司列報的類似標題的指標具有可比性。下表列出每個非 GAAP 財務指標與最具可比性的 GAAP 指標的對賬。

Ingredion Incorporated
Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income attributable to Ingredion and Diluted Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) to
Non-GAAP Adjusted Net Income attributable to Ingredion and Adjusted Diluted EPS
(Unaudited)
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2023								Three Months Ended March 31, 2022
	(in millions)				Diluted EPS				(in millions)				Diluted EPS
Net income attributable to Ingredion	$	191			$	2.85			$	130			$	1.92
Add back:
Acquisition/integration costs (i)		—				—				1				0.01
Restructuring/impairment charges (ii)		—				—				2				0.03
Other matters (iii)		4				0.06				—				—
Tax item – Mexico (iv)		(7	)			(0.11	)			(1	)			(0.01	)
Non-GAAP adjusted net income attributable to Ingredion	$	188			$	2.80			$	132			$	1.95

由於數字經四捨五入，淨收入、每股收益和税率總數可能不足或無法重新計算。

附註
(i) 於 2022 年第一季度，公司錄得 100 萬美元的税前收購和整合費用，用於收購和整合 KaTech，以及我們對阿根廷合資企業的投資。

(ii) 於 2022 年第一季度，公司錄得與成本智慧計劃有關的剩餘税前重組相關費用 200 萬美元。

(iii) 於 2023 年第一季度，公司錄得 500 萬美元的税前費用，主要與美國工廠停工的影響有關。

(iv) 公司在 2023 年及 2022 年第一季度分別錄得 700 萬美元和 100 萬美元的稅務利益，這是由於墨西哥比索兌美元匯率的變動及其在此期間對墨西哥財務報表重新計量的影響。

Ingredion Incorporated
Reconciliation of GAAP Operating Income to Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Income
(Unaudited)
(in millions, pre-tax)	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2023			2022
Operating income	$	291		$	210
Add back:
Acquisition/integration costs (i)		–			1
Restructuring/impairment charges (ii)		–			2
Other matters (iii)		5			–
Non-GAAP adjusted operating income	$	296		$	213

對於附註 (i) 至 (iii)，請參閲 Ingredion 應佔 GAAP 淨收入及攤薄 EPS 與 Ingredion 應佔非 GAAP 調整後淨收入及調整後攤薄 EPS 的對賬中所包括的附註 (i) 至 (iii)。

Ingredion Incorporated
Reconciliation of GAAP Effective Income Tax Rate to Non-GAAP Adjusted Effective Income Tax Rate
(Unaudited)
(in millions)		Three Months Ended March 31, 2023
		Income before Income Taxes (a)			Provision for Income Taxes (b)			Effective Income Tax Rate (b/a)
As Reported		$	259		$	65		25.1	%
Add back:
Other matters (iii)			5			1
Tax item – Mexico (iv)			—			7
Adjusted Non-GAAP		$	264		$	73		27.7	%

(in millions)		Three Months Ended March 31, 2022
		Income before Income Taxes (a)			Provision for Income Taxes (b)			Effective Income Tax Rate (b/a)
As Reported		$	187		$	54		28.9	%
Add back:
Acquisition/integration costs (i)			1			—
Restructuring/impairment charges (ii)			2			—
Tax item – Mexico (iv)			—			1
Adjusted Non-GAAP		$	190		$	55		28.9	%

對於附註 (i) 至 (iv)，請參閲 Ingredion 應佔 GAAP 淨收入及攤薄 EPS 與 Ingredion 應佔非 GAAP 調整後淨收入及調整後攤薄 EPS 的對賬中所包括的附註 (i) 至 (iv)。

Ingredion Incorporated
Reconciliation of Expected GAAP Diluted Earnings per Share (“GAAP EPS”)
to Expected Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share (“Adjusted EPS”)
(Unaudited)
	Expected EPS Range for Full-Year 2023
	Low End of Guidance				High End of Guidance
GAAP EPS	$	8.85			$	9.35
Add:
Other matters (i)		0.06				0.06
Tax item – Mexico (ii)		(0.21	)			(0.01	)
Adjusted EPS	$	8.70			$	9.40

以上是我們預期的 2023 年全年每股攤薄收益與我們預期的 2023 年全年調整後每股攤薄收益的對賬。上述金額可能無法反映某些未來費用、成本和／或收益，這些費用、成本和／或收益由於其未知的時間、影響和／或重要性而本身難以預測和估計。這些金額包括但不限於就收購和整合成本、減值和重組成本以及某些其他項目對 GAAP 每股收益進行的調整。我們通常將這些調整從調整後的 EPS 指引中剔除。由於這些原因，我們對調整後 EPS 的預測能力比 GAAP EPS 的預測能力更有信心。

這些對 2023 年 GAAP 每股收益的調整包括以下內容：

1. 費用主要與美國工廠停工的影響有關。
2. 由於墨西哥比索兌美元匯率的變動及其對我們在此期間重新計量墨西哥財務報表的影響而產生的稅務（利益）。

Ingredion Incorporated
Reconciliation of Expected GAAP Effective Tax Rate (“GAAP ETR”)
to Expected Adjusted Effective Tax Rate (“Adjusted ETR”)
(Unaudited)
	Expected Effective Tax Rate Range for Full-Year 2023
	Low End of Guidance			High End of Guidance
GAAP ETR	25.0	%		28.0	%
Add:
Other matters (i)	0.3	%		0.3	%
Tax item – Mexico (ii)	1.7	%		0.2	%
Adjusted ETR	27.0	%		28.5	%

以上是我們預期的 2023 年全年 GAAP 實際稅率與我們預期的 2023 年全年調整後實際稅率的對賬。上述金額可能無法反映某些未來費用、成本和／或收益，這些費用、成本和／或收益由於其未知的時間、影響和／或重要性而本身難以預測和估計。這些金額包括但不限於就其他事項和若干其他税項對 GAAP 實際稅率進行的調整。我們通常將這些調整從調整後的 ETR 指引中剔除。由於這些原因，我們對調整後 ETR 的預測能力比 GAAP ETR 的預測能力更有信心。

這些對 2023 年 GAAP 實際稅率的調整包括以下內容：

1. 稅務影響主要是與美國停工影響相關的費用。
2. 由於墨西哥比索兌美元匯率的變動及其對我們在此期間重新計量墨西哥財務報表的影響而產生的稅務利益。

聯絡方式：
投資者：Noah Weiss, 773-896-5242
媒體： Becca Hary, 708-551-2602

source https://netdace.com/globenewswire/ingredion-incorporated-%e5%a0%b1%e5%91%8a%e7%ac%ac%e4%b8%80%e5%ad%a3%e5%ba%a6%e6%a5%ad%e7%b8%be%e4%b8%a6%e6%8f%90%e9%ab%98%e5%85%a8%e5%b9%b4%e7%9a%84%e6%94%b6%e7%9b%8a%e9%a0%90%e6%9c%9f/

SEAPRwire為亞洲的AI初創企業推出"AI Branding Plan"服務

Singapore – 亞太地區領先的新聞稿分發平臺SEAPRWire宣佈,正式推出”AI Startup  Plan”服務,旨在説明東亞、東南亞及中東地區的人工智慧初創企業進一步提高品牌知名度和美譽度,獲得更高的媒體曝光率和融資機會。

“AI Branding Plan”為人工智慧初創企業提供定制化的新聞稿撰寫和分發服務。SEAPRWire將與AI初創企業合作,瞭解其技術優勢、產品特點以及未來發展藍圖,並撰寫有利於展示企業形象和品牌影響力的新聞稿。SEAPRWire將通 過其覆蓋東亞、東南亞和中東地區的媒體網路發佈這些新聞稿,為AI初創企業提供有力的曝光和宣傳支援。

SEAPRWire首席技術官Alex Wong表示:”我們瞭解作為一家AI初創企業,獲得品牌知名度和市場影響力至關重要。SEAPRWire憑藉多年的行業經驗和龐大的媒體網路,能夠説明AI初創企業實現該目標。我們的’AI Branding Plan’設計得非常務實,不僅可以增強企業的外部形象,還可以影響潛在客戶和投資者的決策。”

SEAPRWire的優勢:

• 15年來深耕東亞、東南亞市場,積累了龐大的本地語言媒體資源;
• 支援多語言新聞稿發佈,包括英語、中文、馬來語、泰語、越南語等;
• 媒體網路覆蓋面廣,涵蓋國內外主流媒體和行業垂直媒體;
• 提供定制化服務,根據客戶的需求提供相應的新聞稿和媒體關係方案;
• 在行業內擁有良好的信譽,與眾多客戶和媒體機構建立了長期合作關係。

關於SEAPRWire

SEAPRWire(https://www.SeaPRWire.com/)是一家為媒體關係和行銷傳播專業人士提供新聞發佈服務的全球領先供應商。SEAPRWire的平臺允許客戶在確定其新聞稿的關鍵要素和衡量有意義的影響力方面具有更大的靈活性。它在東南亞具有一個強大的媒體網路,索引了來自全球數千個來源的新聞。SEAPRWire的媒體網路支援多語言新聞稿發佈,包括英語、中文、越南語、泰語、馬來語、印尼語和菲律賓語等。SEAPRWire一直致力於通過不斷創新和改進為客戶提供更好的服務。

Media Contact

Tina Lee, PR manager

cs@SeaPRWire.com

https://SeaPRWire.com

SOURCE: SeaPRWire

source https://netdace.com/top-story/seaprwire%e7%82%ba%e4%ba%9e%e6%b4%b2%e7%9a%84ai%e5%88%9d%e5%89%b5%e4%bc%81%e6%a5%ad%e6%8e%a8%e5%87%baquotai-branding-planquot%e6%9c%8d%e5%8b%99/

Sudan’s warring parties to hold talks in Saudi Arabia

Smoke rises in Khartoum, Sudan, May 3, 2023. Many people are fleeing the conflict in Sudan between the military and a rival paramilitary force. (PHOTO / AP)

RIYADH — Sudan's warring parties were set to hold talks on Saturday in the Saudi city of Jeddah, Riyadh and Washington said, as mediators pressed for an end to a conflict that has killed hundreds and sent tens of thousands fleeing abroad.

Saudi Arabia and the United States welcomed the start of the "pre-negotiation talks" between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and urged both to actively engage and come to a ceasefire, a joint statement said.

Numerous truces have been violated since the conflict broke out in mid-April, and while Sudan's armed forces said it sent a delegation to the Red Sea city on Friday evening, the RSF did not immediately confirm its attendance.

READ MORE: Heavy fighting in Sudan's capital, children caught in crisis, says UN

The US-Saudi initiative in Jeddah is the first serious attempt to end fighting that has endangered Sudan's fragile transition following years of unrest and uprisings.

Western powers have backed the transition to a civilian government in a country that sits at a strategic crossroads between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia and Africa's volatile Sahel region

Sudan's Forces of Freedom and Change, a political grouping leading an internationally backed plan to transfer the country to civilian rule, also welcomed the Jeddah talks, and regional broadcasters said there was no exchange of gunfire in and around Khartoum in the early hours of Saturday.

But the warring sides have said they will only discuss a humanitarian truce and not an end to the fighting, which unlike previous conflicts has hit the capital hard rather than remote areas such as Darfur.

It erupted on April 15 between the army of Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the RSF of commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, a former militia leader known as Hemedti, following the collapse of an internationally-backed plan for a transition with civilian parties.

Burhan, a career army officer, heads a ruling council installed after a 2021 military coup and the 2019 ouster of long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir, while Hemedti is his deputy.

Prior to the fighting, Hemedti had been taking steps like moving closer to a civilian party that suggest he has big political plans. Burhan has blamed the war on his "ambitions."

Burhan's special envoy, Dafallah Alhaj, said that the army will not sit down directly with any delegation the "rebellious" RSF might send.

Humanitarian catastrophe

Western powers have backed the transition to a civilian government in a country that sits at a strategic crossroads between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia and Africa's volatile Sahel region.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said he is travelling to Saudi Arabia on Saturday for talks with Saudi leaders.

Saudi Arabia has had close ties to Burhan and Hemedti, both of whom sent troops to help the Saudi-led coalition in its war against the Houthi group in Yemen. The kingdom is also focused on security in the Red Sea, which it shares with Sudan.

The UN has significantly cut back its operations in Sudan after three of its employees were killed and its warehouses were looted in the fighting, and sought guarantees of safe passage of humanitarian aid.

The fighting has impacted vital infrastructure and caused the closure of most hospitals in conflict areas. UN agencies have warned of a major humanitarian catastrophe if fighting continues.

ALSO READ: Arab foreign ministers to discuss Syria, Sudan in Cairo

On Saturday, the World Health Organization said 30 tons of medical supplies had arrived in Port Sudan by plane, one of the first such shipments since the fighting began.

A group of countries led by Britain, the United States, Germany and Norway is set to request a UN Human Rights Council meeting on Sudan next week, a document showed on Friday.

source https://netdace.com/latest-news/sudans-warring-parties-to-hold-talks-in-saudi-arabia/

‘Police arrest Republc leader Smith ahead of King coronation’

Graham Smith of the campaigning group Republic speaks during an interview in London on April 27, 2023. Smith was arrested ahead of King Charles' coronation on May 6, 2023, a spokesperson for the group said. (PHOTO / AP)

LONDON – British police arrested Graham Smith, leader of an anti-monarchist group Republic, ahead of King Charles' coronation on Saturday, a spokesperson for the group said.

London police chief Mark Rowley had warned on Friday that there would be a "very low tolerance for disruption" on the streets in central London where tens of thousands of people have gathered to watch the royal processions.

An officer at the scene near Trafalgar Square said three republican protesters had been arrested for carrying paint

Police did not confirm the arrest, saying they did not immediately name those arrested.

A photo posted on Twitter showed Smith sitting on the ground surrounded by a group of police officers. An officer at the scene near Trafalgar Square said three republican protesters had been arrested for carrying paint.

ALSO READ: King Charles coronation to be recorded as an album

More than 11,000 police officers are on patrol for the coronation, the biggest ceremonial event staged in the British capital for 70 years.

Rowley said ahead of the event that police would take action if protesters tried to "obstruct the enjoyment and celebration" of a significant number of people.

source https://netdace.com/latest-news/police-arrest-republc-leader-smith-ahead-of-king-coronation/

FinXCoin Announces Cutting-edge Web3 Solutions Using Blockchain Technology

Dubai, UAE, May 06, 2023 – (SEAPRWire) – FinXCoin Project, initiated by Transborder Logistics, has announced its plans to provide Web3 solutions for supply chain and various industries using blockchain technology. The blockchain-based Web3 solution, has received high praise from industry experts for its innovative approach to revolutionizing traditional business processes.

The FinXCoin team has devised a distinctive strategy to build its Web3 solutions, collaborating with accomplished professionals and firms from each sector. This collaborative approach empowers the team to identify the specific pain points of each industry and customize solutions that address them with utmost efficacy and efficiency. By closely working with these experts, FinXCoin demonstrates its unwavering dedication to innovation and agility in adapting to the evolving needs of its clients.

Leveraging their experience of more than eight years in freight management, FinXCoin is creating applications that overcome all the prevalent issues in the current scenario. Their areas of focus include 

• Management:  Capacity planning, Quality control, Cost management and reduction, Risk Management, Sustainability, Compliances
• Data: Data management, Inventory Management, Demand Forecasting, Technology Integration
• Communication: Collaboration, Cultural Differences, Communication Gap, Transportation, Supplier Relationship Management
• Enhancements: Lead Time, Capacity Constraints, Order Fulfillment, Reverse Logistics, Ethical Sourcing

The company is collaborating with healthcare and educational institutions to develop Web3-enabled solutions to impact these sectors positively. Aamir Khan, the CEO, and Co-Founder of the FinXCoin Project, expressed his excitement at the project’s presale launch, offering investors a chance to participate in the project at a 25% reduced rate. He also thanked the community for its support and interest in the project. 

With over 25 global partnerships, FinXCoin has expanded its reach and expertise, creating a network of collaborators that helps the company understand the platform better and collaborate with other industry leaders, exchange ideas, and share resources, all aimed at providing the best possible service to their clients. The company official, Natali Nadoevi explained that this growing network is key to expanding revenue streams, which include transaction fees over each platform in the FinXCoin Ecosystem, subscriptions, premium feature sales, and a growing number of FinXCoin token adoptions. Each new partnership acquisition exponentially increases the number of users.

With its versatility and unwavering commitment to innovation, FinXCoin is set to become a trailblazer in the Web3 space. Investors are urged to refer to the whitepaper and roadmap on the FinXCoin website to understand better the project’s vision, goals, and technical specifications for its blockchain-based solutions. The FinXCoin token price is estimated to grow from $0.20 to $5.00, making it a potentially profitable investment opportunity.

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fixcoin

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/finxbit/

LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fixcoin/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/finxbit

Discord: https://discord.gg/vDnMKUuG

Telegram Channel: https://t.me/finxbitoken

Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/fixcoin-revolution

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCerCM4WUWDrqYk9pwIwtxGg

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SOURCE: FinXCoin

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source https://netdace.com/top-story/finxcoin-announces-cutting-edge-web3-solutions-using-blockchain-technology/

SEAPRwire為亞洲的AI初創企業推出"AI Branding Plan"服務

Singapore – 亞太地區領先的新聞稿分發平臺SEAPRWire宣佈,正式推出”AI Startup  Plan”服務,旨在説明東亞、東南亞及中東地區的人工智慧初創企業進一步提高品牌知名度和美譽度,獲得更高的媒體曝光率和融資機會。

“AI Branding Plan”為人工智慧初創企業提供定制化的新聞稿撰寫和分發服務。SEAPRWire將與AI初創企業合作,瞭解其技術優勢、產品特點以及未來發展藍圖,並撰寫有利於展示企業形象和品牌影響力的新聞稿。SEAPRWire將通 過其覆蓋東亞、東南亞和中東地區的媒體網路發佈這些新聞稿,為AI初創企業提供有力的曝光和宣傳支援。

SEAPRWire首席技術官Alex Wong表示:”我們瞭解作為一家AI初創企業,獲得品牌知名度和市場影響力至關重要。SEAPRWire憑藉多年的行業經驗和龐大的媒體網路,能夠説明AI初創企業實現該目標。我們的’AI Branding Plan’設計得非常務實,不僅可以增強企業的外部形象,還可以影響潛在客戶和投資者的決策。”

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source https://netdace.com/top-story/seaprwire%e7%82%ba%e4%ba%9e%e6%b4%b2%e7%9a%84ai%e5%88%9d%e5%89%b5%e4%bc%81%e6%a5%ad%e6%8e%a8%e5%87%baquotai-branding-planquot%e6%9c%8d%e5%8b%99/

Sunak’s Conservatives lose seats in early election results

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak comes out from 10 Downing Street to welcome Rwanda's President Paul Kagame, in cental London on May 4, 2023 ahead of a meeting. (PHOTO / AFP)

LONDON — British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservatives lost dozens of seats in local elections in England with voters punishing his party over political scandals, sluggish economic growth and high inflation, early election results showed on Friday.

While governing parties often struggle at mid-term elections, the results will be the largest, and possibly last, test of voter sentiment before the next general election which is expected to be held in 2024.

Sunak has tried to restore the credibility of the Conservatives since he was made prime minister in October following months of economic chaos, strikes, and political scandals

The Conservative Party suffered a net loss of 88 seats on local councils that were up for re-election, the early results showed. The main opposition Labour Party, which is hoping to gain hundreds of seats in a mid-term vote, added 64 seats.

READ MORE: Sunak investigated over wife's interest in UK childcare firm

The Liberal Democrats had a net gain of 24 seats.

The results will decide more than 8,000 council seats in 230 local government authorities who are responsible for the day-to-day provision of public services such as bin collections and schools.

John Curtice, Britain's best-known pollster, said based on the results so far, the Conservatives could face a net loss of about 1,000 seats, which would be one of the party's worst performances in local elections in recent memory.

Sunak has tried to restore the credibility of the Conservatives since he was made prime minister in October following months of economic chaos, strikes, and political scandals.

The Conservatives changed prime ministers three times in the past year after Boris Johnson was ousted partly over parties held in government buildings during COVID-19 lockdowns, and Liz Truss was brought down following a gamble on tax cuts that shattered Britain's reputation for financial stability.

In the local elections, the Conservatives were facing a fight on two fronts: with the main opposition Labour Party seeking to reclaim seats in the so-called Red Wall areas in north and central England, and the Liberal Democrats attempting to make gains in the south.

In early results, Sunak's party lost control of three councils Brentwood, Tamworth and North Leicestershire. Labour won Plymouth in a key battleground area regarded as important to the party's hopes of winning the next general election.

READ MORE: Britain's Sunak boosts defense spending to try to silence critics

Johnny Mercer, a member of parliament for the area, said it had been a "terrible" night for the Conservatives.

The Labour leader Keir Starmer visited Plymouth early in the local elections campaign as the party threw resources into winning back control of the council.

A full picture of the state of the parties will not become clear until later on Friday when most of the councils will announce their results.

source https://netdace.com/latest-news/sunaks-conservatives-lose-seats-in-early-election-results/

Farms, wildlife at risk as Spanish wetland shrinks

Paper birds hang on strings outside the Spanish Parliament in Madrid, Spain, Nov 24, 2016. Environmentalists have displayed hundreds of colored origami paper birds outside the Parliament to demand greater government action to protect Spain's Donana National Park, one of Europe's most celebrated conservation wetlands, which they say is in danger of being placed on UNESCO's endangered list due to a grave risk from excessive water extraction. (PHOTO / AP)

EL ROCIO – Spain's Donana wetland has been a rich farming area for decades and a wildlife haven for centuries, but climate change is drying it out and has set regional and national authorities on a collision course over how to safeguard its future.

A water meter stands in a dry wetland in Donana natural park, southwest Spain, on Oct 19, 2022. (PHOTO / AP)

Scientists, meanwhile, say the water needs of the farmers who grow thousands of tons of red berries per year are making the problem worse.

Andalusia's conservative regional government plans an amnesty that would legalize additional irrigation around Donana, prompting an outcry from environmentalists

The Donana national park lies atop a 2,700-square km underground water reserve, one of the largest of its kind in Europe and an area almost twice the size of London.

Its beautiful lagoons are being depleted by a long drought and hotter weather, and they are surrounded by a sea of greenhouses and a complex system of pipes that takes water from in some cases illegally drilled wells.

Andalusia's conservative regional government plans an amnesty that would legalize additional irrigation around Donana, prompting an outcry from environmentalists and – with regional and local elections due this month – a pledge from the Socialist-led national government to protect the park.

READ MORE: Pacific islanders feeling the full force of climate change

The region, and more specifically the province of Huelva, where the park is located, produces 97 percent of Spain's red fruits and is the world's largest exporter of strawberries.

Farmers divided

Farmers are divided over the regional plan.

One group in favor says it only want permission to irrigate with surface water, without jeopardizing the underground reserves.

"There is enough surface water to irrigate all the hectares in the area, some of which are using ground water," their spokesman Julio Diaz told Reuters.

Temporary workers plant strawberries in farm in Almonte, southwest Spain, Oct 18 2022. Farming and tourism had already drained the aquifer feeding Donana. Then climate change hit Spain with record-high temperatures and a prolonged drought this year. (PHOTO / AP)

But the central government says that's not true, and scientists say water extraction, both legal and illegal, is affecting the park's biodiversity.

The reserve also boasts marshlands, scrub woodland and beaches and is home to deer, badgers and endangered species including the Spanish imperial eagle and the Iberian lynx.

ALSO READ: China proves itself a real friend of Mother Earth

"The lagoons directly depend on the aquifer. If the lagoons are disappearing, it is because the aquifer is diminishing," said Eloy Revilla, head of the Donana Biological Station, calling for policies to reduce dependence on water in these areas because they are not going to be sustainable.

Cracks in the mud are seen in a dry wetland in Donana natural park, southwest Spain, Oct 19, 2022. The European Union has warned Spain for a second time that it won't tolerate renewed plans by regional politicians in the country's south to expand irrigation near the prized Donana wetlands, which scientists and ecologists say are in danger of drying up. (PHOTO / AP)

Last year, Europe experienced its hottest summer on record, compounded by several extreme events including intense heat waves, drought conditions and extensive wildfires, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, and many scientists say droughts are becoming more frequent and water more scarcely.

As the prolonged drought has left the Guadalquivir river basin's reservoirs at a quarter of capacity, water management authorities last month reduced the amount of water available for legal irrigation.

READ MORE: ADB sets funding plan for Asia to combat climate change

That forced those Donana farmers who use legally-extracted water to kill part of their crops to save the rest, and they are not too happy about the regional plan to amnesty hundreds of illegally-watered hectares. WWF ecologists estimate that 1,900 hectares of illegal crops in Donana could be legalized.

"Those who have been cultivating illegally for 15 years are going to be rewarded with surface water so they can irrigate on demand," said Manuel Delgado, spokesman for Puerta Donana farmers association, standing in one of the greenhouses that grows 50 tons of berries per hectare.

source https://netdace.com/latest-news/farms-wildlife-at-risk-as-spanish-wetland-shrinks/

8 dead in Serbia’s second mass shooting, suspect arrested

Forensic police inspects the scene around a car in the village of Dubona, some 50 kilometers south of Belgrade, Serbia, May 5, 2023. (PHOTO / AP)

BELGRADE – Eight people were killed and 14 wounded in Serbia's second mass shooting in two days and a suspect was arrested, authorities said on Friday, causing horror in a nation that had just started three days of mourning for victims of the first shootings.

The latest incident occurred late on Thursday in the village of Dubona, 42 km south of Belgrade, authorities said.

State broadcaster RTS said the suspect, a young man, had been involved in an altercation in a school yard. He left and then returned with an assault rifle and a handgun, opened fire and continued to shoot at people at random from a moving car.

"The suspect UB, born in 2002, has been apprehended in the vicinity of the city of Kragujevac, he is suspected of killing eight people and wounding 14 overnight," Serbia's Interior Ministry said in a statement. An investigation was ongoing.

An off-duty policeman and his sister were among those killed, RTS reported.

ALSO READ: Boy shoots dead nine people in Belgrade classroom

"This is sad, the young policeman is my daughter's age, born in 1998," said Danijela, a middle-aged woman in Dubona. "My daughter is taking sedatives, we could not sleep all night. They grew up together."

Police used a helicopter, drones and multiple police patrols to hunt down the suspect.

'A huge defeat'

"This is terrible for our country, this is a huge defeat. In two days so many … killed," said Ivan, a Dubona resident.

The suspected shooter in that incident took two of his father's handguns to kill eight pupils and a security guard in a hallway and history class at their school in Belgrade

Serbs were still reeling from a mass shooting on Wednesday, when a 13-year old boy shot dead nine and injured seven at a school in Belgrade before turning himself in.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic was scheduled to address the nation around 10:30 am (0830 GMT) on Friday.

READ MORE: Five dead in Texas shooting, armed suspect on the loose

Around 600 Serbian police, including elite Special Anti-terrorist Unit (SAJ) and Gendarmerie were involved in the hunt for the suspect overnight in what was dubbed Operation Whirlwind, RTS reported.

Heavily armed police set up a checkpoint in the village of Dubona overnight and searched incoming traffic. Armored police SUVs and black vans circled the area.

The wounded have been transported to several local hospitals and the Health Ministry has appealed to people to donate blood, RTS reported.

Serbia has an entrenched gun culture, especially in rural areas, but also strict gun control laws. Automatic weapons are illegal and over the years authorities have offered several amnesties to those who surrender them.

Police officers guard the Vladimir Ribnikar school in Belgrade, Serbia, May 4, 2023. (PHOTO / AP)

The Balkan nation began three days of official mourning on Friday for the victims of Wednesday's mass shooting.

The suspected shooter in that incident took two of his father's handguns to kill eight pupils and a security guard in a hallway and history class at their school in Belgrade.

Hundreds of school children with candles and flowers had gathered for a vigil on Thursday evening in streets around the school, while churches planned memorial prayers.

READ MORE: S. African police: 10 killed in Pietermaritzburg mass shooting

Dozens of high school teachers rallied in front of the Education Ministry in downtown Belgrade on Thursday, demanding improvements to school security and the education system.

After Wednesday's shootings, the government introduced a two-year ban on the issuing of new gun permits, a revision of existing permits and checks on how gun owners store their arms.

Still, Serbia and the rest of the Western Balkans remain awash with military-grade weapons and ordnance that remained in private hands after the wars of the 1990s.

source https://netdace.com/latest-news/8-dead-in-serbias-second-mass-shooting-suspect-arrested/

8th DX Leaders Strategy Forum Philippines to tackle “Future-proofing digital-first enterprises in interconnected disruptions”

MANILA, May 5, 2023 – (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) – The 8th DX Leaders Strategy Forum Philippines is set to take place on June 14, 2023, at Dusit Thani Manila. The theme of the event, “Future-proofing digital-first enterprises in interconnected disruptions”, aims to explore how enterprises are re-calibrating their digital transformation strategy to respond to the changing network landscape.

The event will host over 30 speakers and 120+ digital transformation leaders and attendees inside round-table conversations and interactive debates, with exclusive networking sessions, one-to-one meetings, polling conversations, and panel discussions. Joining this year’s roster of speakers and facilitators are Department of Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Aboitiz Group Chief Information Officer Charmaine Valmonte, and PLDT Group FVP, Chief Information Security Officer Angel Redoble.

Topics to be discussed at the event include Big Data and Analytics, Cloud and Cloud Infrastructure, Cybersecurity architecture, AI and Machine Learning, DevOps, ITSM and ITOM, Containers and Cloud Native, Banking and Financial Service Institutions, The Public Sector, Manufacturing, and Retail and Commerce, among others.

“We are excited to bring together the top enterprise leaders and experts in Asia and the Philippines to discuss the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation,” said Geri Purisima, EDX GM. “Like its previous editions, we want to continue providing an excellent platform for attendees to exchange strategies and innovations, share insights, and network closely with their peers. We look forward to facilitating meaningful conversations that will shape the future of digital-first enterprises.”

As the business landscape continues navigating with a jagged pace rocked by the pandemic and global conflict, enterprises must re-calibrate their digital transformation strategies to ensure they remain future-proofed against disruptions. The DX Leaders Strategy Forum series seeks to provide a platform to address leading digital transformation objectives, including data-driven performance, security risks, data protection, regulatory compliance, and automation, among other aspects.

About EDX

EDX is a corporate events firm that specializes in organizing industry-focused events for C-level executives. EDX platforms provide attendees with data-driven and actionable insights into industry trends, best practices, complemented by high-potential networking opportunities. With a strong track record of delivering high-quality events, EDX has become a trusted partner for businesses looking to engage with their target audience.

For more information about the event, please visit the event website at: https://dxphilippines2023.edxevents.com/.

Media Contact
Name: Geri Purisima
Email: geri.p@edxevents.com

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

source https://netdace.com/acn-newswire/8th-dx-leaders-strategy-forum-philippines-to-tackle-future-proofing-digital-first-enterprises-in-interconnected-disruptions/

Updated Schedule Now Live for Dispatchable & Flexible Solar Power Online Workshop

Singapore, May 5, 2023 – (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) – Infocus International Group is bringing back the Dispatchable & Flexible Solar Power Online Workshop this year, and it will be commencing live on 1st September 2023.

A business-focused training course designed to provide business developers with an accessible and concise, yet comprehensive understanding into how advanced utility-scale solar power projects are providing greater value to the industry, its investors and energy system planners alike.

‘Dispatchable’ solar power projects are crucial to the scalability of solar within energy systems, increasing its ability to replace conventional thermal power capacity while maintaining power system flexibility and resilience. Compared to traditional solar-only projects, new considerations include the components required and the project design, development and integration processes involved. Understanding the market drivers and new revenue opportunities that such hybrid, multi-technology projects create are key to making the business case.

This course will lead attendees through the technologies, processes and financial return and risk considerations for those involved in dispatchable solar project development, with a particular focus on solar + storage. Explanations will be provided in clear, business-friendly language accessible to non-engineers. If you need a valuable, up-to-the-minute and independent introduction to these crucial trends in the future development of solar power projects, this online course provides a unique learning opportunity.

“We learn something new everyday, even after 5 – 6 years in the renewable industry. I perfonally find Infocus’ training on Dispatchable & Flexible Solar Power very resourceful with a deep dive in energy markets, market value erosion & cannibalisation, Levelized Cost of Storage calculation and methods to integrate (various) energy systems to meet future demand for electricity. Thank you for the amazing training”, shared by one of a past participant from InfraCo Africa.

Past attendee from Crédit Agricole CIB shared, “Highly accomplished trainer with a broad knowledge and the right mix between slides and exercises.”

“This was one of my best weeks of training all year! I found him very knowledgeable and enthusiastic in presenting the material, also enabling knowledge exchange between participants in the group. I really enjoyed his interesting lessons and the group work he provided for additional learning outcomes. Thanks.”, said a past participant from Statkraft Development AS.

Course Sessions

1. Market trends and business cases driving ‘dispatchable’ solar power
2. Integrating utility-scale solar power with battery storage
3. Hybrid projects, hydrogen integration and other solutions to dispatchable solar power
4. Economic variables and sizing of solar + storage projects

Among the key points to be answered

• What are the market factors driving integrated solar + storage projects?
• How can the addition of storage and other flexibility solutions create new revenue opportunities?
• Which other technology integration trends are emerging, including hybridisation & hydrogen?
• How are competitive tenders and utility & regulatory requirements driving dispatchable solar?
• What do examples from around the world indicate about changing market environments?
• What are the key considerations around plant design, components and grid connectivity?
• How do economic & financial aspects of solar with/without storage compare?
• How does solar resource assessment data feed into project design, sizing and site selection?
• How much storage or flexible capacity is needed, and which technologies are most appropriate?

Want to learn more?

Simply email to esther@infocusevent.com or call +65 6325 0210 to obtain your FREE COPY of event brochure. For more information, please visit https://www.infocusinternational.com/dispatchable-solar

About Infocus International Group

Infocus International is a global business intelligence provider of strategic information and professional services for diverse business communities. We recognises clients’ needs and responds with innovative and result oriented programmes. All products are founded on high value content in diverse subject areas, and the highest level of quality is ensured through intensive and in-depth market research from local and international insights. For more information: www.infocusinternational.com

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

source https://netdace.com/acn-newswire/updated-schedule-now-live-for-dispatchable-flexible-solar-power-online-workshop/

South Africans call for UK to return diamonds set in crown jewels

This file photo shows a cafe displays a poster to celebrate the coronation of Britain's King Charles III in London, April 28, 2023. The Coronation will take place at Westminster Abbey on May 6. (PHOTO / AP)

JOHANNESBURG – Some South Africans are calling for Britain to return the world's largest diamond, known as the Star of Africa, which is set in the royal scepter that King Charles III will hold at his coronation on Saturday.

The diamond, which weighs 530 carats, was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and presented to the British monarchy by the colonial government in the country, which was then under British rule

The diamond, which weighs 530 carats, was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and presented to the British monarchy by the colonial government in the country, which was then under British rule.

ALSO READ: Coronation: King Charles to reuse historic garments

Now amid a global conversation about returning artwork and artefacts that were pillaged during colonial times, some South Africans are calling for the diamond to be brought back.

"The diamond needs to come to South Africa. It needs to be a sign of our pride, our heritage and our culture," said Mothusi Kamanga, a lawyer and activist in Johannesburg who has promoted an online petition, which has gathered about 8,000 signatures, for the diamond to be returned.

"I think generally the African people are starting to realize that to decolonize is not just to let people have certain freedoms, but it's also to take back what has been expropriated from us."

ALSO READ: Britain's King Charles unveils Eurovision competition stage

Officially known as Cullinan I, the diamond in the sceptre was cut from the Cullinan diamond, a 3,100 carat stone that was mined near Pretoria.

A smaller diamond cut from the same stone, known as Cullinan II, is set in the Imperial State Crown which is worn by British monarchs on ceremonial occasions. Along with the scepter, it is kept with the other crown jewels in the Tower of London.

This file photo shows the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II with the Imperial State Crown resting on top proceeds towards St. George's Chapel, Windsor, Sept 19, 2022. (PHOTO / AP)

A replica of the whole Cullinan diamond, which is about the size of a man's fist, is displayed at the Cape Town Diamond Museum.

"I believe it should be brought back home because at the end of the day, they took it from us while they were oppressing us," said Johannesburg resident Mohamed Abdulahi.

ALSO READ: King Charles' coronation: Lionel Richie, Katy Perry to perform

Others said they didn't feel strongly about it.

"I don't think it matters anymore. Things have changed, we're evolving," said local resident Dieketseng Nzhadzhaba.

"What mattered for them in the olden days about being superior… it doesn't matter to us anymore."

source https://netdace.com/latest-news/south-africans-call-for-uk-to-return-diamonds-set-in-crown-jewels/

Heavy fighting in Khartoum as power struggle rages

Smoke billows during fighting in the Sudanese capital Khartoum, on May 3, 2023. Persistent fighting between Sudan's rival generals undermined efforts to firm up a truce, as a senior UN official arrived for talks on providing relief to millions of trapped civilians. (PHOTO / AFP)

KHARTOUM – Fierce fighting could be heard in central Khartoum on Thursday as the army tried to push back the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from areas around the presidential palace and army headquarters, with a lasting ceasefire appearing elusive.

ALSO READ: Sudanese army agrees to 7-day truce extension in Khartoum

Each side appears to be battling for control of territory in the capital ahead of any possible negotiations, though the leaders of both factions have shown little public willingness to hold talks after more than two weeks of fighting.

Both sides had agreed to a seven-day ceasefire, which has been violated

Heavy bombardments also rang out in the adjoining cities of Omdurman and Bahri. Both sides had agreed to a seven-day ceasefire, which has been violated.

"Since yesterday evening, and this morning, there are air strikes and the sounds of clashes," said Al-Sadiq Ahmed, a 49-year-old engineer speaking from Khartoum.

"We've got into a state of permanent terror because the battles are around the centers of residential neighborhoods. We don't know when this nightmare and the fear will end."

ALSO READ: Air strikes heard in Sudan's capital after more truce pledges

The United Nations, meanwhile, pressed Sudan's warring factions on Wednesday to guarantee safe passage of humanitarian aid after six trucks were looted and air strikes in the capital undermined a supposed truce.

U.N. aid chief Martin Griffiths said he hoped to have face-to-face meetings with Sudan's warring parties within two to three days to secure guarantees from them for aid convoys to deliver relief supplies.

The UN has warned that fighting between the army and RSF risks causing a humanitarian catastrophe that could spill into other countries

The United Nations has warned that fighting between the army and RSF, which erupted on April 15, risks causing a humanitarian catastrophe that could spill into other countries. Sudan said on Tuesday that 550 people had died and 4,926 people wounded so far in the conflict.

About 100,000 people have fled Sudan with little food or water to neighboring countries, the U.N. says.

The army said it killed RSF fighters and destroyed a number of vehicles "belonging to the rebels", after clashing with the group in the Bahri military region.

The army and RSF joined forces in a coup two years ago and had shared power as part of an internationally backed transition towards free elections and civilian government before falling out over the transition.

READ MORE: Navy completes its mission to evacuate Chinese from Sudan

The RSF accused the army of breaching a ceasefire and attacking forces since dawn. It said the army attacked its residential neighborhoods with artillery and aircraft in a "cowardly manner".

source https://netdace.com/latest-news/heavy-fighting-in-khartoum-as-power-struggle-rages/