Shift4’s Acquisition of Givex: A Game-Changer in the Global Payment and Loyalty Solutions Market

Key Points:
– Expansion of global reach with 130,000+ new locations
– Enhanced offering with advanced gift card and loyalty programs
– Strategic alignment for increased customer value and retention

Shift4, the leading integrated payments and commerce technology company, is set to make waves in the global market with its latest acquisition announcement. The company has signed a definitive arrangement agreement to acquire Givex Corp., a renowned provider of gift cards, loyalty programs, and point-of-sale solutions. This strategic move is poised to reshape the landscape of payment processing and customer engagement technologies.

The acquisition, expected to close in the fourth quarter of this year, will significantly expand Shift4’s global footprint. With Givex’s impressive network of over 130,000 active locations across more than 100 countries, Shift4 is positioning itself as a major player in the international payments arena. This expansion not only increases Shift4’s customer base but also opens up new markets and opportunities for growth.

One of the most compelling aspects of this acquisition is the enhancement of Shift4’s service offerings. Givex brings to the table a suite of robust gift card and e-gift solutions, along with customizable loyalty programs that have been adopted by industry giants such as Nike, Marriott, and Wendy’s. These additions will allow Shift4 to offer a more comprehensive package to its existing clients, potentially increasing customer retention and attracting new business.

The synergy between the two companies is evident in their complementary technologies. Shift4’s end-to-end payment solution, combined with Givex’s value-added engagement services, creates a powerful toolkit for businesses looking to streamline their operations and enhance customer relationships. This integration is expected to deliver an unparalleled package to both companies’ customer bases, setting a new standard in the industry.

From a financial perspective, this acquisition aligns perfectly with Shift4’s capital deployment strategy. By acquiring a company with an established customer base, Shift4 is effectively lowering its customer acquisition costs while simultaneously expanding its service portfolio. This approach is likely to contribute positively to Shift4’s bottom line and create long-term value for shareholders.

The merger also presents exciting opportunities for innovation. As the payments industry continues to evolve, the combined expertise of Shift4 and Givex could lead to the development of cutting-edge solutions that address emerging market needs. This potential for innovation could be a key differentiator in a highly competitive market.

As businesses increasingly prioritize customer engagement and loyalty, the timing of this acquisition couldn’t be better. The integration of Givex’s loyalty and gift card solutions into Shift4’s existing infrastructure will enable businesses to create more personalized and rewarding experiences for their customers. This focus on customer retention and engagement is crucial in today’s market, where consumer loyalty is harder than ever to maintain.

In conclusion, Shift4’s acquisition of Givex Corp. marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy. By expanding its global reach, enhancing its product offerings, and strengthening its market position, Shift4 is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for integrated payment and loyalty solutions. As the transaction moves towards completion, industry observers and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how this strategic move unfolds and shapes the future of payment processing and customer engagement technologies.

Noble Capital Markets Investor Events

Noble Capital Markets, a full-service SEC / FINRA registered broker-dealer, dedicated exclusively to serving emerging growth companies, hosts a wide range of investor events throughout the year, including in-person non-deal roadshows around the United States, sector specific virtual equity conferences, and Noble’s flagship in-person equity conference, NobleCon.

In-Person Non-Deal Roadshows

Noble hosts in-person meetings with executives from companies listed on Channelchek throughout the United States. Qualified Investors, at all levels, as well as registered representatives, are welcome to attend these breakfasts, lunches, cocktail receptions, and 1×1 days at no cost, with no obligation to invest. Seating for these events is limited. Click below to view the calendar to request attendance.

Virtual Equity Conferences

In 2024, Noble is hosting 3 sector specific virtual equity conferences, featuring emerging growth public company executive presentations from a variety of sectors, Q&A sessions moderated by Noble’s Analysts and Bankers, and scheduled 1×1 meetings with qualified investors.

Presenting company registration is still open for our next virtual conference, The Basic Industries Virtual Equity Conference, in September. No-cost investor / attendee registration is also open. Click the banner below to learn more about this event.

If you missed the first two virtual conferences this year, replays of the corporate presentations and moderated Q&A sessions are available to registered Channelchek members, at the links below.

Noble Capital Markets Emerging Growth TMT / Consumer Conference Presentation Replays

Noble Capital Markets Emerging Growth Virtual Healthcare Conference Presentation Replays

Noble Capital Markets 20th Annual Emerging Growth Equity Conference

NobleCon has become the preeminent showcase of emerging growth companies. It’s about unfettered access to 200+ public company c-suite executives. Attendees ranging from high-net-worth individuals through to institutional portfolio managers. Panels of key opinion leaders covering topics that matter. Scheduled 1×1 meetings for qualified attendees. Past headliners ranging from Larry King to President George W. Bush. Networking and wind-down events designed to both entertain and keep productivity going. Organizational excellence in a technologically advanced environment. NobleCon20 at Florida Atlantic this December. If you’re looking for the next apple, this is your orchard. Presenting company and investor / attendee registration is now open! Click below to learn more.

Release – The GEO Group Announces Date for Second Quarter 2024 Earnings Release and Conference Call

July 9, 2024

  • Earnings Release Scheduled for Wednesday, August 7, 2024 Before the Market Opens
  • Conference Call Scheduled for Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at 11:00 AM (Eastern Time)

BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jul. 9, 2024– The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE:GEO) (“GEO”) will release its second quarter 2024 financial results on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 before the market opens. GEO has scheduled a conference call and simultaneous webcast for 11:00 AM (Eastern Time) on Wednesday, August 7, 2024.

Hosting the call for GEO will be George C. Zoley, Executive Chairman of the Board, Brian R. Evans, Chief Executive Officer, Mark Suchinski, Chief Financial Officer, Wayne Calabrese, President and Chief Operating Officer, and James Black, President, GEO Secure Services.

To participate in the teleconference, please contact one of the following numbers 5 minutes prior to the scheduled start time:

1-877-250-1553 (U.S.)
1-412-542-4145 (International)

In addition, a live audio webcast of the conference call may be accessed on the Webcasts section of GEO’s investor relations home page at investors.geogroup.com. A webcast replay will remain available on the website for one year.

A telephonic replay will also be available through August 14, 2024. The replay numbers are 1-877-344-7529 (U.S.) and 1-412-317-0088 (International). The passcode for the telephonic replay is 4116450. If you have any questions, please contact GEO at 1-866-301-4436.

Pablo E. Paez 1-866-301-4436
Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations

Source: The GEO Group, Inc.

Kelly Services (KELYA) – Motion Recruitment Partners in the Fold

Tuesday, June 04, 2024

Kelly (Nasdaq: KELYA, KELYB) connects talented people to companies in need of their skills in areas including Science, Engineering, Education, Office, Contact Center, Light Industrial, and more. We’re always thinking about what’s next in the evolving world of work, and we help people ditch the script on old ways of thinking and embrace the value of all workstyles in the workplace. We directly employ nearly 350,000 people around the world and connect thousands more with work through our global network of talent suppliers and partners in our outsourcing and consulting practice. Revenue in 2021 was $4.9 billion. Visit kellyservices.com and let us help with what’s next for you.

Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Completed. Kelly Services has completed the acquisition of Motion Recruitment Partners, LLC (“MRP”), from Littlejohn & Co., LLC, a private investment firm. As we highlighted in past reports, this is a transformational acquisition for Kelly, the largest in its history. We believe MRP will be a key driver in Kelly posting a higher revenue growth rate as well as continued expansion of Kelly’s adjusted EBITDA margin.

MRP Refresher. MRP is the parent company to a group of leading global talent solution providers. The acquisition of MRP strengthens the scale and capabilities of Kelly’s staffing and consulting solutions across technology, telecommunications, and government specialties in North America, and recruitment process outsourcing solutions globally.


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*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Squarespace Buyout Could Unlock Hidden Potential for Small-Cap Tech Investors

In a $6.9 billion megadeal that underscores private equity’s rekindled appetite for undervalued tech assets, website builder Squarespace is being taken private by European investment giant Permira. This blockbuster buyout could have major reverberations across the small-cap software landscape as the No-Code movement continues disrupting how businesses establish digital presences.

For small and micro-cap investors attuned to sifting out overlooked gems, the Squarespace acquisition shines a spotlight on a vital but often-neglected corner of the tech universe. Despite its ubiquity in helping small businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs create web presences, the versatile platform had seen its public market value plummet from pandemic-era highs over $8 billion to just $2 billion last year.

Permira’s acquisition at a nearly $7 billion valuation represents both validation of Squarespace’s resilient business model and the turnaround potential achievable under private ownership insulated from quarterly earnings pressures. It’s a staggering premium to where shares traded for much of the past 18 months.

At the heart of Squarespace’s appeal is its flagship website builder offering an intuitive, drag-and-drop interface enabling rapid launches of customized online storefronts, portfolios, and digital hubs. This democratization of web development tooling has fueled Squarespace’s growth into a over $1 billion annual revenue business catering to small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

However, Squarespace is far more than just websites. It encompasses a full ecosystem powering e-commerce transactions, online marketing campaigns, appointment booking, analytics and other capabilities critical for SMEs to effectively run digital operations. Its recent exploration of generative AI to automate content creation and email campaigns makes Squarespace a prime platform for capitalizing on the latest tech disruptors reshaping modern business workflows.

This is the type of robust, diversified product suite often valued at premium multiples in large-cap counterparts. Yet Squarespace languished in public market purgatory as Wall Street consistently underappreciated the depth of its platform and upside potential to cross-sell new offerings across its vast installed SME customer base.

For Permira, taking the company private removes constraints imposed by quarterly earnings whiplash and nearsighted market mentalities. It gives Squarespace’s visionary founder and CEO Anthony Casalena — who is staying aboard — considerable flexibility to focus resources on longer-term initiatives like AI, fin-tech, and verticalized solutions to create more enduring competitive advantages.

From the acquirer’s standpoint, Squarespace represents a savvy, well-timed bet on secularly ingrained tech trends expected to drive durable growth for years to come. The democratization of business tools for an entire generation of entrepreneurs and small enterprises is underpinned by rising self-employment, gig-economy dynamics, and startup formation catalyzing demand for easy, affordable website builders and marketing automations.

It’s little surprise Permira sees the opportunity to build a true industry juggernaut by capitalizing on Squarespace’s headstart in capturing this coveted market as digital transformation initiatives proliferate. The PE firm has a proven playbook for propelling verticalized software champions forward through its investments across sectors like cybersecurity, fintech, and manufacturing.

For smaller investors able to scour opportunities more nimbly than institutional counterparts, the Squarespace deal highlights several key themes to monitor going forward:

First, differentiated innovators commercializing technologies that flatten the digital playing field consistently fetch premium valuations, even amidst broader tech routs. As entrepreneurship and SME formation remain robust, enablers of this ecosystem will stay in hot demand.

Secondly, the abundance of depressed small-cap software valuations creates fertile ground for well-capitalized consolidators to pounce. Many unloved public companies commanding strong niches and cash flows could become prime targets for buyouts aiming to revitalize growth trajectories away from quarterly investor scrutiny.

Finally, generational tech disruptors like no-code platforms, AI, fin-tech and vertical SaaS models are seen as highly strategic assets warranting aggressive investments from value-conscious buyers. As industry convergence intensifies, small-caps effectively straddling multiple megatrends could emerge as diamonds in the rough.

The Squarespace saga underscores why diligent small-cap investors must maintain a watchful eye for overlooked assets with compelling runway stories. In today’s environment of dizzying tech change and plentiful private capital awaiting deployment, the most unassuming names may harbor some of the market’s most extraordinary upside opportunities.

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Perficient to be Acquired by EQT, Taken Private

Perficient (NASDAQ: PRFT), a global digital consultancy renowned for its transformative solutions for enterprises and brands, has made headlines with its recent announcement of an acquisition agreement. The company is set to be acquired by an affiliate of BPEA Private Equity Fund VIII, part of EQT AB, a prominent global investment organization. This all-cash transaction, valued at approximately $3.0 billion, marks a significant milestone for Perficient and its shareholders.

Key Details of the Acquisition:

  • Perficient has entered into a definitive agreement with EQT AB for acquisition in an all-cash transaction.
  • The deal values Perficient at an enterprise value of approximately $3.0 billion.
  • Perficient stockholders will receive $76 per share, representing a remarkable 75% premium to Perficient’s closing stock price on April 29.
  • The transaction has been unanimously approved by Perficient’s board of directors and is expected to close by the end of the year.

Rationale Behind the Acquisition:

  • Jeffrey Davis, Chairman of the Board of Perficient, highlighted the comprehensive review conducted by the board to maximize value for shareholders.
  • The acquisition provides shareholders with compelling, certain cash value for their shares while enabling Perficient to continue supporting clients in achieving business success.
  • By partnering with EQT, Perficient aims to leverage resources and expertise to accelerate its growth trajectory and enhance its position as a global digital consultancy leader.

Impact on Perficient and Shareholders:

  • Following the transaction’s closure, Perficient will transition from being a publicly traded company on NASDAQ to a private entity.
  • The company plans to remain headquartered in St. Louis, with Tom Hogan continuing in his role as CEO and the current management team expected to stay onboard.
  • Perficient’s commitment to delivering innovative digital transformation solutions remains unwavering, supported by EQT’s strategic backing.

Market Response and Guidance Withdrawal:

  • The announcement of the acquisition propelled Perficient’s stock, with PRFT surging more than 50% in early Monday trading.
  • In response to the acquisition news, Perficient withdrew its guidance for the full year, reflecting the transformative nature of the impending transaction.

Perficient’s acquisition by EQT marks a pivotal moment in the company’s journey, reflecting its commitment to maximizing shareholder value and accelerating growth. With a focus on delivering innovative digital solutions, Perficient remains poised to continue its legacy of excellence in the ever-evolving digital landscape. As the transaction progresses, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Perficient’s evolution under EQT’s strategic stewardship.

Release – Kelly Announces First-Quarter 2024 Conference Call

Research News and Market Data on KELYA

April 24, 2024

TROY, Mich., April 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kelly, a leading global specialty talent solutions provider, will release its first-quarter earnings before the market opens on Thursday, May 9, 2024. In conjunction with its first-quarter earnings release, Kelly will publish a financial presentation on the Investor Relations page of its public website and will host a conference call at 9 a.m. ET.

The call may be accessed in one of the following ways:

Via Internet:
kellyservices.com

Via the Telephone
(877) 692-8955 (toll free) or (234) 720-6979 (caller paid)
Enter access code 5728672
After the prompt, please enter “#”

A recording of the conference call will be available after 1:30 p.m. ET on May 9, 2024, at (866) 207-1041 (toll-free) and (402) 970-0847 (caller-paid). The access code is 5728672#. The recording will also be available at kellyservices.com during this period.

About Kelly

Kelly Services, Inc. (Nasdaq: KELYA, KELYB) helps companies recruit and manage skilled workers and helps job seekers find great work. Since inventing the staffing industry in 1946, we have become experts in the many industries and local and global markets we serve. With a network of suppliers and partners around the world, we connect more than 500,000 people with work every year. Our suite of outsourcing and consulting services ensures companies have the people they need, when and where they are needed most. Headquartered in Troy, Michigan, we empower businesses and individuals to access limitless opportunities in industries such as science, engineering, technology, education, manufacturing, retail, finance, and energy. Revenue in 2023 was $4.8 billion. Learn more at kellyservices.com.

KLYA-FIN

Analyst & Media Contact:
Scott Thomas
(248) 251-7264
scott.thomas@kellyservices.com

Release – The GEO Group Announces Date for First Quarter 2024 Earnings Release and Conference Call

Research News and Market Data on GEO

April 22, 2024

PDF Version

  • Earnings Release Scheduled for Tuesday, May 7, 2024 Before the Market Opens
  • Conference Call Scheduled for Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at 11:00 AM (Eastern Time)

BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 22, 2024– The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE:GEO) (“GEO”) will release its first quarter 2024 financial results on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 before the market opens. GEO has scheduled a conference call and simultaneous webcast for 11:00 AM (Eastern Time) on Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

Hosting the call for GEO will be George C. Zoley, Executive Chairman of the Board, Brian R. Evans, Chief Executive Officer, Shayn March, Acting Chief Financial Officer, Wayne Calabrese, President and Chief Operating Officer, and James Black, President, GEO Secure Services.

To participate in the teleconference, please contact one of the following numbers 5 minutes prior to the scheduled start time:

1-877-250-1553 (U.S.)
1-412-542-4145 (International)

In addition, a live audio webcast of the conference call may be accessed on the Webcasts section of GEO’s investor relations home page at investors.geogroup.com. A webcast replay will remain available on the website for one year.

A telephonic replay will also be available through May 14, 2024. The replay numbers are 1-877-344-7529 (U.S.) and 1-412-317-0088 (International). The passcode for the telephonic replay is 2879740. If you have any questions, please contact GEO at 1-866-301-4436.

View source version on businesswire.comhttps://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240422631871/en/

Pablo E. Paez 1-866-301-4436
Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations

Source: The GEO Group, Inc.

Release – The GEO Group Closes Senior Notes Offering and New Term Loan

Research News and Market Data on GEO

April 18, 2024

BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 18, 2024– The GEO Group (NYSE: GEO) (“GEO” or the “Company”) announced today that it has closed a private offering of $1.275 billion aggregate principal amount of senior notes, comprised of $650.0 million aggregate principal amount of 8.625% senior secured notes due 2029 (the “Secured Notes”) and $625.0 million aggregate principal amount of 10.25% senior unsecured notes due 2031 (the “Unsecured Notes” and, together with the Secured Notes, the “Notes”), exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Notes are guaranteed by GEO’s domestic subsidiaries that are guarantors under a new senior secured credit facility and outstanding senior notes. GEO also announced today that it has closed a new five-year $450.0 million Term Loan B (the “Term Loan”), bearing interest at SOFR plus 5.25%, under a new $760.0 million senior secured credit facility. The new senior secured credit facility also includes a five-year revolving line of credit for $310.0 million.

The offering of the Notes and the new Term Loan resulted in net proceeds of approximately $1.67 billion, after deducting the initial purchasers’ discount and estimated expenses payable by GEO. GEO intends to use the net proceeds of the offering of the Notes, borrowings under the new Term Loan, and cash on hand to refinance approximately $1.5 billion of existing indebtedness, including to fund the repurchase, redemption or other discharge of the Company’s existing Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan under its prior senior credit facility, the 9.50% senior second lien secured notes, the 10.50% senior second lien secured notes, and the 6.00% senior notes due 2026, to pay related premiums, transaction fees and expenses, and for general corporate purposes of the Company. GEO also intends to retire or settle a portion of the 6.50% exchangeable senior notes due 2026 issued by GEO Corrections Holdings, Inc., using shares of GEO common stock and cash. GEO expects to fund the cash portion of the retirement or settlement, which is expected to total up to $177.1 million, using a combination of the net proceeds from the offering of the Notes and cash on hand. Nothing in this press release should be construed as an offer to purchase, notice of redemption or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of the existing term loans or notes.

The Notes were offered and sold in the United States only to persons reasonably believed to be “qualified institutional buyers” pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and outside the United States only to non-U.S. persons pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act. The Notes have not been registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements under the Securities Act and applicable state laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the Notes in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

About The GEO Group

The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE: GEO) is a leading diversified government service provider, specializing in design, financing, development, and support services for secure facilities, processing centers, and community reentry centers in the United States, Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. GEO’s diversified services include enhanced in-custody rehabilitation and post-release support through the award-winning GEO Continuum of Care®, secure transportation, electronic monitoring, community-based programs, and correctional health and mental health care. GEO’s worldwide operations include the ownership and/or delivery of support services for 100 facilities totaling approximately 81,000 beds, including idle facilities and projects under development, with a workforce of up to approximately 18,000 employees.

Use of forward-looking statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding GEO’s intended use of the net proceeds. These forward-looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in GEO’s business and market conditions. This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in GEO’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including GEO’s report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and GEO’s reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K filed with the Commission. GEO wishes to caution readers that certain important factors may have affected and could in the future affect GEO’s actual results and could cause GEO’s actual results for subsequent periods to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of GEO, including the risks that the repurchase, redemption or other discharge of its Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan under its existing senior credit facility, the 9.50% senior second lien secured notes, the 10.50% senior second lien secured notes, and the 6.00% senior notes due 2026 cannot be successfully completed, and that the retirement or settlement of a portion of the 6.50% exchangeable senior notes due 2026 issued by GEO Corrections Holdings, Inc. cannot be successfully completed. GEO undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.comhttps://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240418215262/en/

Pablo E. Paez (866) 301 4436
Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations

Source: The GEO Group, Inc.

Noble Capital Markets Brings the ‘Sharks’ to Boca for NobleCon20

Noble Capital Markets has officially announced that its 20th annual emerging growth equity conference – NobleCon20 – will be held December 3-4, 2024, at Florida Atlantic University, College of Business Executive Education in Boca Raton, FL. NobleCon20 coincides with Noble’s 40th anniversary, with its roots in South Florida since 1984. Also announced, three of the original “Sharks” from the ABC hit series Shark Tank will headline NobleCon20. Venture capitalist Kevin O’Leary (aka “Mr. Wonderful”), FUBU founder Daymond John, and cyber-tech giant Robert Herjavec will be featured on the same stage as NobleCon19 keynote, President George W. Bush.

Although last year’s NobleCon was the first to be held at Florida Atlantic, Noble has been actively involved with the university for more than a decade, through development of educational programs for equity analysts and equities trading, in addition to internship opportunities for its students. The university’s facilities are unquestionably the most technologically advanced on the equity conference circuit, and the environment is without the distractions often associated hotel environments. Located right off I95 in the heart of Boca Raton, with dedicated covered parking for 800 vehicles makes Florida Atlantic a particularly attractive destination for locals.

“We’re delighted that we will host NobleCon20, which will be a great way to celebrate Noble’s 40th anniversary and our second large-scale event partnership,” said Vegar Wiik, assistant dean of Executive Education. “The recent completion of the Executive Education complex allowed us to take the relationship to another level.”

Bringing all three celebrity investors together was no small challenge and their joint appearance for a 95-minute, two-part event on the NobleCon20 stage will be one of a kind. First, the trio will give a moderated fireside chat, followed by a series of business pitches from hopeful entrepreneurs selected by Noble and from Florida Atlantic students and alumni.

“Working with Noble is a lot of fun because they understand the importance of integrating business and education, all while promoting an entrepreneurial approach,” said Daniel Gropper, Ph.D., dean of the College of Business. “Our past Business Pitch Competitions have been great and having these ‘Sharks’ weigh-in on the pitches brings an incredible new dimension to the competition.”

Last year’s event, NobleCon19, was Noble’s most successful equity conference yet, with an attendance increase of 50% over the previous year. Presentation rooms and one-on-one meetings were at capacity, with corridors crowded.

Noble’s Managing Partner Mark Pinvidic attributes the boost in attendance and enthusiasm to the strong lineup of presenting companies, the dramatic migration of financial services organizations from the NE to Florida, a strong investor outreach initiative, and the increased awareness of the conference that a high-profile keynote like President Bush brings. “While marque attention is key, the message delivered is far more important,” said Pinvidic. “President Bush masterfully delivered a message of optimism; regardless of these trying and divisive times, democracy will survive. For NobleCon20 we want to focus on the importance of entrepreneurship, the economic significance of emerging growth companies, and the methodology of making strategic and disciplined investments. These “Sharks” bring all of that to the stage.”

NobleCon20 will also feature two topical panel presentations featuring notable opinion leaders, an expanded one-on-one meeting schedule, presentations from emerging growth public company senior executives and an opening-session keynote speech. The disco-themed 2024 edition of the “After,” hosted in conjunction with Money Channel NYC / Moneyball Networking and Goliath Resources, will be held at the Privaira Hangar at the Boca Raton International Airport.

Noble has now opened the selection process for public company executives who would like to join the roster of speakers. General attendance registration will be available in July. Preliminary info can be obtained at www.nobleconference.com.

About Florida Atlantic University:

Florida Atlantic University, established in 1961, officially opened its doors in 1964 as the fifth public university in Florida. Today, the University serves more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students across six campuses located along the southeast Florida coast. In recent years, the University has doubled its research expenditures and outpaced its peers in student achievement rates. Through the coexistence of access and excellence, FAU embodies an innovative model where traditional achievement gaps vanish. FAU is designated a Hispanic-serving institution, ranked as a top public university by U.S. News & World Report and a High Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. For more information, visit www.fau.edu.

About Noble Capital Markets, Inc. and Channelchek:

Noble Capital Markets (Noble), established in 1984 as a full-service SEC / FINRA registered broker-dealer, dedicated exclusively to serving underfollowed emerging growth companies through investment banking, wealth management, trading & execution, and equity research activities. Over the past 40 years, Noble has raised billions of dollars for companies and published more than 45,000 equity research reports. Noble launched www.channelchek.com in 2018 – an investor community dedicated exclusively to public emerging growth and their industries. Channelchek is the first service to offer institutional-quality research to the public, for FREE at every level without a subscription. More than 7,000 public emerging growth companies are listed on the site, and content including equity research, webcasts, and industry articles. For more information, visit www.noblecapitalmarkets.com

Release – CoreCivic Announces 2024 First Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call Dates

Research News and Market Data on QMCI

April 8, 2024

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., April 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CoreCivic, Inc. (NYSE: CXW) (the Company) announced today that it will release its 2024 first quarter financial results after the market closes on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. A live broadcast of CoreCivic’s conference call will begin at 10:00 a.m. central time (11:00 a.m. eastern time) on Thursday, May 9, 2024.

To participate via telephone and join the call live, please register in advance here https://register.vevent.com/register/BIa41ba53918294659afa34f33febf12cc. Upon registration, telephone participants will receive a confirmation email detailing how to join the conference call, including the dial-in number and a unique passcode.

Participants may access the audio-only webcast of the conference call from the Company’s website at www.corecivic.com under the “Events & Presentations” section of the “Investors” page. A replay of the webcast will be available for seven days.

About CoreCivic
CoreCivic is a diversified, government-solutions company with the scale and experience needed to solve tough government challenges in flexible, cost-effective ways. We provide a broad range of solutions to government partners that serve the public good through high-quality corrections and detention management, a network of residential and non-residential alternatives to incarceration to help address America’s recidivism crisis, and government real estate solutions. We are the nation’s largest owner of partnership correctional, detention and residential reentry facilities, and one of the largest prison operators in the United States. We have been a flexible and dependable partner for government for 40 years. Our employees are driven by a deep sense of service, high standards of professionalism and a responsibility to help government better the public good. Learn more at www.corecivic.com.

Contact:  Investors: Michael Grant – Managing Director, Investor Relations – (615) 263-6957
Media: Steve Owen – Vice President, Communications – (615) 263-3107

Release – The GEO Group Enters Into Private Exchange Agreements With Certain 6.50% Convertible Senior Noteholders

Research News and Market Data on GEO

April 5, 2024

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BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 5, 2024– The GEO Group (NYSE: GEO) (“GEO” or the “Company”), announced that it has entered into private exchange agreements with certain holders (the “Noteholders”) of GEO Corrections Holdings, Inc.’s 6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes due 2026 (the “6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes”).

The Noteholders have agreed to exchange $177 million in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes for a current estimated valuation of $305 million. The consideration will consist of cash and shares of GEO’s common stock issued at closing. The final exchange value and number of shares of common stock to be issued by GEO to the Noteholders will be determined based upon a volume-weighted average price per share of common stock during an averaging period commencing today and lasting 20 trading days.

GEO expects to fund the cash portion for the exchanges, which totals $177 million, with the net proceeds from its previously announced offering of senior secured notes due 2029 and senior unsecured notes due 2031 or, if necessary, cash on hand.

The 6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes to be exchanged represent approximately 77% of the outstanding principal amount, with $53 million in aggregate principal amount remaining outstanding following the exchange.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any of the securities described herein, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation, or sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About The GEO Group

The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE: GEO) is a leading diversified government service provider, specializing in design, financing, development, and support services for secure facilities, processing centers, and community reentry centers in the United States, Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. GEO’s diversified services include enhanced in-custody rehabilitation and post-release support through the award-winning GEO Continuum of Care®, secure transportation, electronic monitoring, community-based programs, and correctional health and mental health care. GEO’s worldwide operations include the ownership and/or delivery of support services for 100 facilities totaling approximately 81,000 beds, including idle facilities and projects under development, with a workforce of up to approximately 18,000 employees.

Use of forward-looking statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding the closing of the private exchange transactions and expected reduction in the total outstanding 6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes. These forward-looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in GEO’s business and market conditions. This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in GEO’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including GEO’s report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and GEO’s reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K filed with the Commission. GEO wishes to caution readers that certain important factors may have affected and could in the future affect GEO’s actual results and could cause GEO’s actual results for subsequent periods to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of GEO, including the risks that the private exchanges cannot successfully be completed. GEO undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.comhttps://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240404523690/en/

Pablo E. Paez, (866) 301 4436
Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations

Source: The GEO Group, Inc.

Release – The GEO Group Prices Senior Notes Offering and New Term Loan

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April 4, 2024

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BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 4, 2024– The GEO Group (NYSE: GEO) (“GEO” or the “Company”) announced today that it has priced a private offering of $1.275 billion aggregate principal amount of senior notes, comprised of $650.0 million aggregate principal amount of 8.625% senior secured notes due 2029 (the “Secured Notes”) and $625.0 million aggregate principal amount of 10.25% senior unsecured notes due 2031 (the “Unsecured Notes” and together with the Secured Notes, the “Notes”), exempt from registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Notes will be guaranteed by GEO’s domestic subsidiaries that are guarantors under a new senior secured credit facility and outstanding senior notes. The offering of the Notes is expected to close on April 18, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions. GEO also announced today that it has priced a new $450.0 million Term Loan B (the “Term Loan”), bearing interest at SOFR plus 5.25%, under a new senior secured credit facility, which is expected to close on April 18, 2024. The offering of the Notes and the new Term Loan are expected to result in net proceeds of approximately $1.67 billion, after deducting the initial purchasers’ discount and estimated expenses payable by GEO.

The net proceeds of the offering of the Notes, borrowings under the new Term Loan, and cash on hand will be used to refinance approximately $1.5 billion of existing indebtedness, including to fund the refinance, repurchase, redemption or other discharge of the Company’s existing Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan under its existing senior credit facility, the 9.50% senior second lien secured notes, the 10.50% senior second lien secured notes, and the 6.00% senior notes due 2026, to pay related premiums, transaction fees and expenses. GEO also intends to retire or settle a portion of the 6.50% exchangeable senior notes due 2026 issued by GEO Corrections Holdings, Inc., using shares of GEO common stock and cash. GEO expects to fund the cash portion for the retirement or settlement, which is expected to total up to $180.0 million, with a portion of the net proceeds from the offering of the Notes or, if necessary, cash on hand. Nothing in this press release should be construed as an offer to purchase, notice of redemption or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of the existing term loans or notes, and the closing of the offering of the Notes is not conditioned on the consummation of such repurchase, redemption or other discharge; however, the repurchase, redemption or other discharge of the existing term loans and notes are conditioned on the consummation of the offering of Notes and the closing of the new Term Loan and certain other financing transactions.

The Notes were offered and will be sold in the United States only to persons reasonably believed to be “qualified institutional buyers” pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and outside the United States only to non-U.S. persons pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act. The Notes have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements under the Securities Act and applicable state laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the Notes in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

About The GEO Group

The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE: GEO) is a leading diversified government service provider, specializing in design, financing, development, and support services for secure facilities, processing centers, and community reentry centers in the United States, Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. GEO’s diversified services include enhanced in-custody rehabilitation and post-release support through the award-winning GEO Continuum of Care®, secure transportation, electronic monitoring, community-based programs, and correctional health and mental health care. GEO’s worldwide operations include the ownership and/or delivery of support services for 100 facilities totaling approximately 81,000 beds, including idle facilities and projects under development, with a workforce of up to approximately 18,000 employees.

Use of forward-looking statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding GEO’s intention to issue the Notes, borrow the term loan and its intended use of the net proceeds. These forward-looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in GEO’s business and market conditions. This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in GEO’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including GEO’s report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and GEO’s reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K filed with the Commission. GEO wishes to caution readers that certain important factors may have affected and could in the future affect GEO’s actual results and could cause GEO’s actual results for subsequent periods to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of GEO, including the risks that the offering of the Notes and/or the closing of the new Term Loan cannot be successfully completed, that the refinance, repurchase, redemption or other discharge of its Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan under its existing senior credit facility, the 9.50% senior second lien secured notes, the 10.50% senior second lien secured notes, and the 6.00% senior notes due 2026 cannot be successfully completed, and that the retirement or settlement of a portion of the 6.50% exchangeable senior notes due 2026 issued by GEO Corrections Holdings, Inc. cannot be successfully completed. GEO undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.comhttps://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240404983014/en/

Pablo E. Paez (866) 301 4436
Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations

Source: The GEO Group, Inc.