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Converge Reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2024 Results

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TORONTO and GATINEAU, QC, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Converge Technology Solutions Corp. (“Converge” or the “Company”) (TSX:CTS) (FSE:0ZB) (OTCQX:CTSDF) is pleased to provide its financial results for the three months and fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. All figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.

Fourth Quarter 2024 Highlights (year-over-year, unless otherwise noted):

Gross sales1 of $1.11 billion, an increase of $27.4 million or 2.5%;Gross sales organic growth1 of 3.0% and gross profit organic growth1 of (0.0%);Revenue of $680.8 million, an increase of $29.7 million or 4.6%;Gross profit decreased 1.6% to $178.6 million, representing a gross margin of 26.7%;Adjusted EBITDA1 increased by 3.0% to $47.9 million;Cash from operating activities was $57.0 million, a decrease of $57.5 million, compared to $114.5 million for the comparative period in the prior year;Returned $20.6 million of capital to shareholders1 as compared to $4.7 million return of capital to shareholders in Q4 FY23; andReduced net debt1 by $14.5 million from $127.9 million at Q3 2024; maintaining a leverage ratio1 below 0.7x.

Fiscal Year 2024 Highlights (year-over-year, unless otherwise noted):

Gross sales1 of $4.12 billion, an increase of $82.8 million or 2.1%;Gross sales organic growth1 of 2.3% and gross profit organic growth1 of (0.7%);Revenue of $2.59 billion, a decrease of $113.1 million or (4.2%);Gross profit decreased 1.6% to $691.4 million, representing a gross margin of 26.7%;Adjusted EBITDA1 decreased by 1.7% to $167.3 million;Net loss of $181.0 million, an increase in loss of $174.6 million, driven by the non-cash impairment charge on the Germany segment of $176.1 million;Returned $82.3 million of capital to shareholders1 as compared to $23.5 million return of capital to shareholders for the comparative period in prior year;Cash from operating activities was $269.4 million, an increase of $39.9 million, compared to $229.5 million for the comparative period in the prior year; andReduced net debt1 by $96.4 million to $113.4 million, from $209.8 million at Q4 2023.

_________

1

This is a Non-IFRS measure (including non-IFRS ratio or supplementary financial measure) and not a recognized, defined or standardized measure under IFRS. See the “Non-IFRS Financial Measures” section of this press release for definitions, uses and a reconciliation of historical non-IFRS financial measures to the most directly comparable IFRS financial measures.

Financial Summary

Three months ended
December 31,

Fiscal year ended
December 31,

In $000s except per share amounts

2024

$

2023

$

2024

$

2023

$

Gross Sales1

1,106,055

1,078,663

4,120,717

4,037,921

Revenue

680,778

651,090

2,592,081

2,705,207

Gross profit (GP)

178,629

181,529

691,442

702,880

Gross profit (GP)%

26.2 %

27.9 %

26.7 %

26.0 %

Adjusted EBITDA1

47,885

46,505

167,315

170,294

Adjusted EBITDA as a % of GP1

26.8 %

25.6 %

24.2 %

24.2 %

Net loss

(9,174)

4,781

(180,986)

(6,393)

Adjusted net income1

45,586

38,214

130,289

108,399

Adjusted EPS1

0.23

0.19

0.66

0.53

Converge to be Acquired by H.I.G. Capital

On February 7, 2025, Converge announced that it had entered into an arrangement agreement (the “Arrangement Agreement”) with an affiliate of H.I.G. Capital (“H.I.G.”), whereby H.I.G will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares (the “Common Shares”) of the Company (the “Transaction”). Under the terms of the Arrangement Agreement, shareholders will receive $5.50 per Common Share in cash, other than Common Shares held by certain shareholders who enter into rollover equity agreements, representing approximately 56% and 57% respective premiums to the closing price and 30-day volume weighted average price of the shares on the TSX on February 6, 2025, the last trading day prior to the date of the announcement of the Transaction. The purchase price of the Transaction values Converge at an enterprise value of approximately C$1.3 billion. Upon completion of the Transaction, the Company intends to apply to delist the Common Shares from all public markets and cease to be a reporting issuer under Canadian securities laws.

The Transaction is to be considered by shareholders at a special meeting of shareholders to be held on April 10, 2025. A management information circular with respect to the matters to be considered at that meeting will be filed by Converge on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, and will been mailed to shareholders.

As a result of the proposed Transaction, the Company will not be holding an earnings conference call and is suspending its practice of providing its outlook for revenue, gross profit and Adjusted EBITDA for the 2025 fiscal year. As part of the Arrangement Agreement, Converge has agreed that its regular quarterly dividend during the pendency of the Transaction will not be declared.

__________

1

This is a Non-IFRS measure (including non-IFRS ratio or supplementary financial measure) and not a recognized, defined or standardized measure under IFRS. See the “Non-IFRS Financial Measures” section of this press release for definitions, uses and a reconciliation of historical non-IFRS financial measures to the most directly comparable IFRS financial measures.

About Converge

Converge Technology Solutions Corp. is reimagining the way businesses think about IT—a vision driven by people, for people. Since 2017, we have focused on delivering outcomes-driven solutions that tackle human-centered challenges. As a services-led, software-enabled, IT & Cloud Solutions provider, we combine deep expertise, local connections, and global resources to deliver industry-leading solutions.  

Through advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud platforms, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and workplace transformation, we empower businesses across industries to innovate, streamline operations, and achieve meaningful results. Our AIM (Advise, Implement, Manage) methodology ensures solutions are tailored to our customers’ specific needs, aligning with existing systems to drive success without complexity. 

Discover IT reimagined with Converge—where innovation meets people. Learn more at convergetp.com. 

Summary of Statements of Financial Position
(expressed in thousands of Canadian dollars)

December 31,

2024

$

December 31,
2023

$

Assets

Current

 Cash

142,733

170,419

 Trade and other receivables

1,000,573

803,652

 Inventories

62,938

73,166

 Prepaid expenses and other assets

30,728

26,528

1,236,972

1,073,765

Non-current

Investment in associates

4,795

–

Unbilled receivables and other assets

204,208

64,158

Property, equipment and right-of-use assets, net

69,696

75,488

Intangible assets, net

265,882

375,181

Goodwill

404,711

564,770

 Total assets

2,186,264

2,153,362

Liabilities

Current

Trade and other payables

1,202,943

853,655

Other financial liabilities

39,882

54,095

Deferred revenue

81,109

59,325

Borrowings

639

1,664

Income taxes payable

–

9,286

1,324,573

978,025

Non-current

Accrued liabilities and other payables

184,514

60,339

Other financial liabilities

34,174

57,668

Borrowings

255,464

378,007

Deferred tax liabilities

28,804

67,168

 Total liabilities

1,827,529

1,541,207

Shareholders’ equity

Common shares

555,521

599,434

Contributed surplus

16,532

10,970

Accumulated other comprehensive income 

28,603

3,963

Deficit

(241,921)

(28,167)

Total equity attributable to shareholders of Converge

358,735

586,200

Non-controlling interest

–

25,955

358,735

612,155

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

2,186,264

2,153,362

Summary of Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income
(expressed in thousands of Canadian dollars)

Three months ended
December 31,

Fiscal year ended
December 31,

2024

$

2023

$

2024

$

2023

$

Revenue

Product

555,055

490,948

2,058,494

2,098,880

Service

125,723

160,142

533,587

606,327

Total revenue

680,778

651,090

2,592,081

2,705,207

Cost of sales

502,149

469,561

1,900,639

2,002,327

Gross profit

178,629

181,529

691,442

702,880

Selling, general and administrative expenses 

134,040

137,451

534,918

541,118

Income before the following

44,589

44,078

156,524

161,762

Depreciation and amortization

20,283

29,212

89,665

111,451

Finance expense, net

8,098

10,355

30,979

41,225

Acquisition, integration, restructuring and other

5,737

2,679

16,429

13,648

Change in fair value of contingent consideration

6,293

5,464

10,582

14,673

Share-based compensation

1,185

954

5,858

3,692

Other loss (income), net

237

(132)

1,357

(4,362)

Loss on loss of control of Portage

–

–

117

–

Loss from investment in associates

23,962

–

25,930

–

Impairment loss – Germany segment

–

–

176,124

–

Loss before income taxes

(21,206)

(4,454)

(200,517)

(18,565)

Income tax recovery

(12,032)

(9,235)

(19,531)

(12,172)

Net (loss) income

(9,174)

4,781

(180,986)

(6,393)

Net (loss) income attributable to:

Shareholders of Converge

(9,174)

5,861

(177,713)

(1,448)

Non-controlling interest

–

(1,080)

(3,273)

(4,945)

(9,174)

4,781

(180,986)

(6,393)

Other comprehensive (loss) income

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations  

15,594

916

24,640

(9,745)

Comprehensive (loss) income

6,420

5,697

(156,346)

(16,138)

Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to:

Shareholders of Converge

6,420

6,777

(153,073)

(11,193)

Non-controlling interest

–

(1,080)

(3,273)

(4,945)

6,420

5,697

(156,346)

(16,138)

Adjusted EBITDA1

47,885

46,505

167,315

170,294

Adjusted EBITDA as a % of gross profit1

26.8 %

25.6 %

24.2 %

24.2 %

Summary of Statements of Cash Flows
(expressed in thousands of Canadian dollars)

Three months ended
December 31,

Fiscal year ended
December 31,

2024

2023

2024

2023

$

$

$

$

Cash flows from operating activities

Net loss

(9,174)

4,781

(180,986)

(6,393)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash from operating activities

Depreciation and amortization

23,579

31,369

100,456

119,983

Unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain)

197

(4)

1,077

(2,822)

Share-based compensation

1,185

954

5,858

3,692

    Finance expense, net

8,098

10,355

30,979

41,225

    (Loss) gain on sale of property and equipment

14

335

87

(263)

    Change in fair value of contingent consideration

6,293

5,464

10,582

14,673

Impairment loss – Germany segment

–

–

176,124

–

Loss on loss of control of Portage

–

–

117

–

Loss from investment in associates

23,962

–

25,930

–

   Income tax recovery

(12,032)

(9,235)

(19,531)

(12,172)

42,122

44,289

150,693

157,923

Changes in non-cash working capital items

16,822

71,888

148,464

90,746

58,944

116,177

299,157

248,669

Income taxes paid

(1,971)

(1,696)

(29,776)

(19,129)

Cash from operating activities

56,973

114,481

269,381

229,540

Cash flows from (used in) investing activities

Purchase of (proceeds from) property, equipment and intangible assets

206

(2,038)

(1,442)

(10,828)

Proceeds on disposal of property and equipment

–

7

–

3,756

Payment of contingent consideration

(5,971)

(1,238)

(25,299)

(24,773)

Payment of deferred consideration

–

–

(12,375)

(41,114)

Payment of NCI liability

–

–

–

(30,967)

Cash used in investing activities

(5,765)

(3,269)

(39,116)

(103,926)

Cash flows (used in) from financing activities

Transfers from restricted cash

–

3,162

–

5,230

Interest paid

(5,637)

(7,938)

(23,767)

(33,724)

Dividends paid

(2,852)

(2,042)

(10,777)

(6,156)

Payment of lease liabilities

(4,967)

(5,427)

(19,760)

(20,626)

Repurchase of common shares

(17,713)

(2,094)

(71,506)

(17,388)

Stock options exercised

–

–

875

–

Repayment of notes payable

–

(40)

(39)

(159)

Net repayment of borrowings

(61,502)

(29,882)

(139,848)

(40,475)

Cash used in financing activities

(92,671)

(44,261)

(264,822)

(113,298)

Net change in cash during the period

(41,463)

66,951

(34,557)

12,316

Effect of foreign exchange on cash

3,732

(1,753)

7,945

(1,787)

Cash derecongnized on loss of control of Portage

–

–

(1,074)

–

Cash, beginning of the period

180,464

105,221

170,419

159,890

Cash, end of the period

142,733

170,419

142,733

170,419

__________

1

This is a Non-IFRS measure (including non-IFRS ratio or supplementary financial measure) and not a recognized, defined or standardized measure under IFRS. See the “Non-IFRS Financial Measures” section of this press release for definitions, uses and a reconciliation of historical non-IFRS financial measures to the most directly comparable IFRS financial measures.

Non-IFRS Financial Measures

This press release refers to certain performance indicators including Adjusted EBITDA, gross sales, gross sales organic growth, return of capital, net debt, leverage ratio, adjusted net income (“Adjusted Net Income”) and adjusted earnings per share (“Adjusted EPS”) that do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies.  Management believes that these measures are useful to most shareholders, creditors, and other stakeholders in analyzing the Company’s operating results and can highlight trends in its core business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on IFRS financial measures. The Company also believes that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use non-IFRS measures in the evaluation of issuers.

Management also uses non-IFRS measures in order to facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period, prepare annual operating budgets and assess the ability to meet capital expenditure and working capital requirements. These non-IFRS financial measures should not be considered as an alternative to the consolidated income (loss) or any other measure of performance under IFRS. Investors are encouraged to review the Company’s financial statements and disclosures in their entirety, are cautioned not to put undue reliance on non-IFRS measures and view them in conjunction with the most comparable IFRS financial measures.

Please see “Non-IFRS Financial & Supplementary Financial Measures” and “Summary of Consolidated Financial Results” in the Company’s most recent Management’s Discussion and Analysis, which is available on the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, for further details on certain non-IFRS measures, which information is incorporated by reference herein.

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA represents net income or loss adjusted to exclude amortization, depreciation, net finance expense, foreign exchange gains and losses, other expenses and income, share-based compensation expense, income tax expense or recovery, change in fair value of contingent consideration, impairment loss, gain or loss on loss of control of subsidiary, income or loss from investment in associates and acquisition, integration, restructuring and other expenses.  Acquisition and transaction related costs primarily consists of acquisition-related compensation tied to continued employment of pre-existing shareholders of the acquiree not included in the total purchase consideration and professional fees. Integration costs primarily consist of professional fees incurred related to integration of acquisitions completed. Restructuring costs mainly represent employee exit costs as a result of synergies created from acquisitions and organizational changes. 

Adjusted EBITDA is not a recognized, defined, or standardized measure under IFRS. The Company’s definition of Adjusted EBITDA will likely differ from that used by other companies and therefore comparability may be limited. 

Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered a substitute for or in isolation from measures prepared in accordance with IFRS.

The IFRS measure most directly comparable to Adjusted EBITDA presented in the Company’s financial statements is net (loss) income before taxes.

The Company has reconciled Adjusted EBITDA to the most comparable IFRS financial measure as follows:

Three months ended
December 31,

Fiscal year ended
December 31,

In $000s

2024

$

2023

$

2024

$

2023

$

Net (loss) income before taxes

(21,206)

(4,454)

(200,517)

(18,565)

Depreciation and amortization

20,283

29,212

89,665

111,451

Depreciation included in cost of sales

3,296

2,427

10,791

8,532

Finance expense, net

8,098

10,355

30,979

41,225

Acquisition, integration, restructuring and other

5,737

2,679

16,429

13,648

Change in fair value of contingent consideration

6,293

5,464

10,582

14,673

Share-based compensation

1,185

954

5,858

3,692

Other loss (income), net

237

(132)

1,357

(4,362)

Loss on loss of control of Portage

–

–

117

–

Loss from investment in associates

23,962

–

25,930

–

Impairment loss – Germany segment

–

–

176,124

–

Adjusted EBITDA

47,885

46,505

167,315

170,294

Adjusted EBITDA as a % of Gross Profit

The Company believes that Adjusted EBITDA as a % of gross profit is a useful measure of the Company’s operating efficiency and profitability. This is calculated by dividing Adjusted EBITDA by gross profit.

Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS 

Adjusted Net Income represents net income or loss adjusted to exclude acquisition, integration, restructuring and other expenses, change in fair value of contingent consideration, impairment loss, gain or loss on loss of control of subsidiary, income or loss from investment in associates, amortization of acquired intangible assets, unrealized foreign exchange gain or loss, and share-based compensation. The Company believes that Adjusted Net Income is a more useful measure than net income as it excludes the impact of one-time, non-cash and/or non-recurring items that are not reflective of Converge’s underlying business performance. Adjusted EPS is calculated by dividing Adjusted Net Income by the total weighted average shares outstanding on a basic and diluted basis. The IFRS measure most directly comparable to Adjusted Net Income presented in the Company’s financial statements is net income (loss) and net income (loss) per share. The Company has provided a reconciliation to the most comparable IFRS financial measure as follows:

Three months ended
December 31,

Fiscal year ended
December 31,

In $000s except per share amounts

2024

$

2023

$

2024

$

2023

$

Net loss

(9,174)

4,781

(180,986)

(6,393)

Acquisition, integration, restructuring and other

5,737

2,679

16,429

13,648

Change in fair value of contingent consideration

6,293

5,464

10,582

14,673

Amortization on intangibles

17,386

24,468

75,158

87,259

Foreign exchange loss (gain)

197

(132)

1,077

(4,480)

Share-based compensation

1,185

954

5,858

3,692

Loss on loss of control or Portage

–

–

117

–

Loss from investment in associates

23,962

–

25,930

–

Impairment loss- Germany segment

–

–

176,124

–

Adjusted Net Income

45,586

38,214

130,289

108,399

Adjusted EPS – Basic

0.23

0.19

0.66

0.53

Return of capital

The Company calculates return of capital to shareholders as the total of cash used in dividend payments and share repurchases.

Net Debt

The Company calculates net debt1 as current and non-current borrowings less cash.

Leverage Ratio

The Company defines leverage ratio as net debt (current and non-current borrowings less cash) divided by trailing twelve months Adjusted EBITDA.

Gross sales and gross sales organic growth

Gross sales, which is a non-IFRS measure, reflects the gross amount billed to customers, adjusted for amounts deferred or accrued. The Company believes gross sales is a useful alternative financial metric to net revenue, the IFRS measure, as it better reflects volume fluctuations as compared to net revenue. Under the applicable IFRS 15 ‘principal vs agent’ guidance, the principal records revenue on a gross basis and the agent records commission on a net basis. In transactions where Converge is acting as an agent between the customer and the vendor, net revenue is calculated by reducing gross sales by the cost of sale amount. 

The Company has provided a reconciliation of gross sales to revenue, which is the most comparable IFRS financial measure, as follows:

Three months ended
December 31,

Fiscal year ended
December 31,

In $000s

2024

$

2023

$

2024

$

2023

$

Product

811,839

719,974

2,898,039

2,747,172

Managed services and professional services

119,128

138,001

472,535

522,827

Maintenance, support, and cloud solutions

175,088

220,688

750,143

767,922

Gross sales

1,106,055

1,078,663

4,120,717

4,037,921

Less: adjustment for sales transacted as agent

425,277

427,573

1,528,636

1,332,714

Revenue

680,778

651,090

2,592,081

2,705,207

Organic growth

The Company measures organic growth on a quarterly and year-to-date basis, at the gross sales and gross profit levels, and includes the contributions under Converge ownership in the current and comparative period(s). In calculating organic growth, the Company therefore deducts gross sales and gross profit generated from all corresponding prior period comparable pre-acquisition period(s) from the current reporting period(s) included in the consolidated results.

Organic growth calculation for the three months and fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, deducts gross sales and gross profits from Portage CyberTech Inc. (“Portage”) for the three and six months ended December 31, 2023 due to deconsolidation of Portage on June 27, 2024.

Gross profit organic growth is calculated by deducting prior period gross profit, as reported in the Company’s public filings, from current period gross profit for the same portfolio of companies. Gross profit organic growth percentage is calculated by dividing organic growth by prior period reported gross profit.

Three months ended
December 31,

Fiscal year ended
December 31,

 In $000s

2024

$

2023

$

2024

$

2023

$

Gross sales

1,106,055

1,078,663

4,120,717

4,037,921

Less: gross sales from companies not owned in comparative period

–

17,286

–

611,045

Gross sales of companies owned in comparative period

1,106,055

1,061,377

4,120,717

3,426,876

Less: prior period gross sales(i)

1,074,132

956,803

4,028,409

3,090,981

Organic Growth – $

31,923

104,574

92,308

335,895

Organic Growth – %

3.0 %

10.9 %

2.3 %

10.9 %

(i)

For the three months ended December 31, 2024, Portage prior period gross sales of $4,531 is excluded and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, Portage prior period gross sales1 of $9,512 is excluded.

Gross profit organic growth is calculated by deducting prior period gross profit, from current period gross profit for the same portfolio of companies. Gross profit organic growth percentage is calculated by dividing organic growth by prior period reported gross profit.

Three months ended
December 31,

Fiscal year ended
December 31,

 In $000s

2024

$

2023

$

2024

$

2023

$

Gross profit

178,629

181,529

691,442

702,880

Less: gross profit from companies not owned in comparative period

–

3,032

–

107,295

Gross profit of companies owned in comparative period

178,629

178,497

691,442

595,585

Less: Prior period gross profit(i)

178,656

168,916

696,556

550,767

Organic Growth – $

(27)

9,581

(5,114)

44,818

Organic Growth – %

–

5.7 %

(0.7 %)

8.1 %

(i)

For the three months ended December 31, 2024, Portage prior period gross profit of $2,873 is excluded and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, Portage prior period gross profit of $6,324 is excluded.

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains certain “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation regarding Converge and its business. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected” “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”. “estimates”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Specifically, statements regarding the Transaction, anticipated timing of the special meeting of shareholders in respect of the Transaction, the delisting from the TSX and ceasing to be a to be a reporting issuer under Canadian securities laws , are considered forward-looking information. The foregoing demonstrates Converge’s objectives, which are not forecasts or estimates of its financial position, but are based on the implementation of its strategic goals, growth prospects, and growth initiatives. The forward-looking information are based on management’s opinions, estimates and assumptions, including, but not limited to: assumptions as to the ability of the parties to the Transaction to receive, in a timely manner and on satisfactory terms, the necessary regulatory, court and shareholder approvals; the ability of the parties to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions for the completion of the Transaction, and other expectations and assumptions concerning the proposed Transaction. The anticipated dates indicated may change for a number of reasons, including the necessary regulatory and court approvals or the necessity to extend the time limits for satisfying the other conditions for the completion of the proposed Transaction.

 While these opinions, estimates and assumptions are considered by the Company to be appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances as of the date of this press release, they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

The forward looking information are subject to significant risks including, without limitation: the failure of the parties to obtain the necessary regulatory and court approvals; failure of the parties to obtain such approvals or satisfy such conditions in a timely manner; H.I.G’s ability to complete the anticipated debt and equity financing as contemplated by applicable commitment letters or to otherwise secure favourable terms for alternative financing; significant transaction costs or unknown liabilities; the ability of the Board to consider and approve, subject to compliance by the Company with its obligations under the Arrangement Agreement, a superior proposal for the Company; the market price of Common Shares and business generally; potential legal proceedings relating to the Transaction and the outcome of any such legal proceeding; or the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Arrangement Agreement and general economic conditions. Failure to obtain the necessary shareholder, regulatory and court approvals, or the failure of the parties to otherwise satisfy the conditions for the completion of the Transaction or to complete the Transaction, may result in the Transaction not being completed on the proposed terms or at all. In addition, if the Transaction is not completed, and the Company continues as an independent entity, there are risks that the announcement of the Transaction and the dedication of substantial resources by the Company to the completion of the Transaction could have an impact on its business and strategic relationships, including with future and prospective employees, customers, suppliers and partners, operating results and activities in general, and could have a material adverse effect on its current and future operations, financial condition and prospects. If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if the opinions, estimates or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results or future events might vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other risk factors not presently known to the Company or that the Company presently believes are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking information.

There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future results. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the company’s expectations as of the date specified herein, and are subject to change after such date. However, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking information or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any of those statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws.

All of the forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements.

For further information contact: Converge Technology Solutions Corp., Email:  investors@convergetp.com, Phone:  416-360-1495

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/converge-reports-fourth-quarter-and-fiscal-year-2024-results-302393686.html

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In HelloNation, Custom Fabrication Expert Mark Coyle Explains a Common Mistake in Custom Aluminum Design

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The article explains why smart geometry, not thicker walls, creates stronger, more efficient aluminum components.

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What early design choice causes many custom aluminum projects to become heavier, costlier, or harder to manufacture? That question is addressed in a HelloNation article featuring insights from Custom Fabrication Expert Mark Coyle of American Custom Metals, Inc. in Rochester, New York, that outlines how misunderstanding aluminum behavior leads designers to rely on thick walls instead of stronger geometry.

The article begins by explaining that many people assume thicker walls automatically make aluminum parts stronger. It notes that aluminum does not respond to wall thickness the way steel does. Instead, its performance is shaped by how the metal flows through the extrusion die. The article states that custom aluminum design is more effective when profiles use ribs, chambers, and flanges to create stiffness without adding unnecessary weight. This guidance helps readers understand why adding material often increases cost without improving strength.

The article also highlights that thicker walls change how aluminum moves during extrusion. When heavy areas fill more slowly, the metal cools unevenly and can develop stress that only appears later. The HelloNation piece explains that well-balanced geometry keeps extrusion smooth and predictable. This consistency makes it easier to maintain dimensional accuracy across long production runs. By focusing on geometry, custom aluminum design avoids the problems that come with slow extrusion speeds and uneven cooling.

Another insight in the article centers on how ribs and internal supports influence stability. It describes how a thin wall supported by a properly placed rib often performs better than a thick wall with no reinforcement. This happens because the rib helps distribute load, improve stiffness, and guide the aluminum as it cools. The article explains that this structural approach makes custom aluminum design more efficient and gives designers more control over how the final part behaves under pressure.

The article also shows why early collaboration between designer and fabricator prevents costly changes. It states that a fabricator familiar with extrusion can catch potential issues before a die is built. Small adjustments to corners or transitions can remove weak points or improve metal flow. The article notes that this teamwork keeps the design aligned with real-world production. By working together early, both sides reduce the risk of redesigning the die after the first test run.

Machining is another area where the article explains how wall thickness affects performance. Features such as deep pockets or sharp internal angles may require slow feed rates or special tooling. When walls are thicker than needed, those areas can become difficult to machine cleanly. The article states that thoughtful custom aluminum design makes machining more predictable. Small changes, such as adding radiused edges or sizing features to match standard tools, help shorten cycle times and prevent tool wear.

Thermal behavior receives detailed attention as well. The article explains that aluminum retains heat differently depending on the mass of each section. Thicker walls hold heat longer, which increases the chance of distortion during extrusion, machining, or finishing. When a design uses geometry to create strength, the material cools more evenly. This reduces warping and helps long profiles stay aligned. The article notes that stable cooling is important for components that require a precise fit and consistent shape throughout an entire production run.

Cost is also a key topic in the article. It states that heavier profiles increase material use, extrusion time, and tooling needs. A custom aluminum design that relies on geometry instead of mass lowers material consumption and keeps the fabrication process efficient. The article explains that lighter parts are easier to handle, ship, and assemble. This saves money across multiple stages of production and supports long-term manufacturing efficiency.

The article also notes that smart custom aluminum design creates profiles that behave predictably during extrusion and machining. Smooth transitions, balanced wall dimensions, and structural features help reduce the chance of distortion or dimensional drift. These elements also lower scrap rates and support reliable performance. By using geometry instead of excess material, designers build parts that maintain strength without compromising manufacturability.

As the article concludes, it emphasizes that avoiding thick walls is one of the best ways to improve performance and lower cost. It states that the most dependable custom aluminum components come from designs that use structural features to strengthen the profile. When designers understand how aluminum behaves at each stage of extrusion and machining, they create parts that are strong, efficient, and consistent from batch to batch. This approach turns custom aluminum design into a predictable process rather than a series of uncertain adjustments.

A Common Mistake in Custom Aluminum Design features insights from Mark Coyle, Custom Fabrication Expert of Rochester, NY, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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SOURCE HelloNation

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World Young Scientist Summit 2026 Opens in Wenzhou, Zhejiang

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WENZHOU, China, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — This is a report by China Daily:

On October 24, the World Young Scientist Summit 2026 opened in Wenzhou, Zhejiang. The event is hosted by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government, and the World Association of Young Scientists. Nearly 800 representatives, including scientists, educators, and entrepreneurs from more than 60 countries and regions, are attending the summit.

He Junke, Vice President of CAST in charge of daily work and First Secretary of its Secretariat; Lian Yimin, Chairman and Party Group Secretary of the Zhejiang Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference; Marcelo Knobel, Executive Director of The World Academy of Sciences; and Zhang Zhenfeng, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Zhejiang Provincial Committee and Secretary of the CPC Wenzhou Municipal Committee, attended the summit and delivered remarks. Yao Gaoyuan, Vice Governor of the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government, presided over the first segment of the plenary session.

With the theme “Gathering Talents Worldwide to Create a Better Future,” the summit’s annual agenda is “Global Youth Action in the AI Era: Building a Sustainable Future.” It aims to draw on the insights of young people around the world, deepen international sci-tech cooperation, and jointly address questions about young people, science, the world and the future.

Efim Zelmanov, Fields Medalist and Foreign Member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences; Chen Yunji, Deputy Director of the Institute of Computing Technology, CAS, and Director of the National Key Laboratory of Processor Chips; Mary Garson, President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry; and Lu Chaoyang, Member of the Standing Committee of CAST, Executive Dean of the Shanghai Institute of Advanced Study, University of Science and Technology of China, and Chairman of the Council of the World Association of Young Scientists, delivered keynote speeches respectively on education reform in the AI era, AI and processor chips, young women scientists’ participation in science, and quantum computing. They explored new opportunities for scientific research, talent cultivation, and international cooperation in the AI era.

This year’s summit placed greater emphasis on the growth needs of young scientists, with young talents under the age of 45 accounting for 88 percent of participants. It aimed to build a cluster of international journals, bring together young scientific talent, facilitate a batch of international collaborative projects and advance the application and commercialization of scientific and technological achievements. The summit released the Report on the Distribution and Mobility of Young Scientists in the Field of Embodied Intelligence, launched the World Young Scientist Summit Partner Journal Program and the 2026 World Young Scientist Innovation and Entrepreneurship Growth Support Program. It also published the “Young Scientist Pioneers 2035” list and announced the 2026 Sustainable Development Young Scientist Award. The awards were presented to four Chinese and foreign scientists.

Chen Tianrun, Founder of Hangzhou Moxin Technology Co., Ltd.; Yuan Yang, Assistant to the Dean of the Institute for Interdisciplinary Information Sciences at Tsinghua University; and two of the 2026 Sustainable Development Young Scientist Award winners, César de la Fuente and Nicola Segata, among other Chinese and foreign young scientist representatives, spoke at the flash-talk session to share their research practices and reflections.

In addition, the conference focused on fields such as future manufacturing, quantum information, embodied intelligence, brain-computer intelligence, environmental science, deep-sea resources, and life and health, and held 12 parallel forums. It also included the “Gravitation π” Future Technology and Concept Products Exhibition and Exchange, local thematic side events, and sci-tech and humanities study visits, further building an interdisciplinary, cross-regional and cross-sector platform for youth sci-tech exchange and cooperation.

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SOURCE China Daily

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The Ultimate Send-off to Summer: CSTS Debuts Global Entertainment IP PremierX at New York’s Pier 17, Ushering in a New Era of Live Entertainment

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NEW YORK, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CSTS Enterprises (‘CSTS’), a New York-based sports, entertainment, integrated media and travel technology group, today announced the official launch of PremierXTM, its flagship live entertainment brand, with a landmark Halloween Weekend event “AFTER DARK” at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York on October 30, 2026.

Capping off Seaport’s 2026 Summer Season in unforgettable fashion, the grand finale brings a powerhouse lineup of stars to the PremierXTM stage at Pier 17, featuring Lil Xan, Armani White, DJ Soda, Nate Wyatt, and surprise A-list guest headliners. Set against the iconic Manhattan skyline, the landmark eventing unites chart-topping hip-hop and high-octane electronic music for a festival-grade experience as The Rooftop at Pier 17 transforms into the city’s premier live music destination.

Building on the momentum of the PremierXTM After Party for the 2026 World Cup Final that took place in New York on July 19th, “AFTER DARK” signals the official debut of PremierXTM, a proprietary, New York – born global entertainment IP created by CSTS to deliver defining cultural experiences at the intersection of music, sport, art and lifestyle. Centred on the power of cultural crossover, PremierXTM serves as an international bridge connecting East and West, modern innovation and timeless classical, while uniting world-class artists, creators, performers and audiences through the universal language of entertainment and premium live experiences.

The launch also marks the beginning of a promising relationship with Pier 17, providing a world-class stage for PremierXTM to accelerate its growth in the U.S. and engage international audiences over the long term. By combining PremierXTM’s global entertainment vision with Pier 17’s iconic waterfront setting, the partnership aims to create a premier destination for live experiences, empowering both platforms to expand their global reach, deepen audience engagement, and drive sustainable growth.

As a key pillar of CSTS’ integrated ecosystem spanning entertainment, sports, travel, integrated media and marketing solutions, PremierXTM further strengthens the Group’s ability to create high-impact experiences that connect audiences, destinations and brand partners. With the global live entertainment market projected to grow from approximately US$203 billion in 2025 to US$270 billion by 2030[1], PremierXTM is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for premium, experience-led entertainment while creating long-term value to the Group through recurring audience engagement, tourism and brand partnerships.

“PremierX TM represents a significant milestone in CSTS’ evolution from a leading operator of global sports and hospitality platforms into a creator of world-class entertainment experiences,” said Abel Zhao, Group CEO and Executive Director at CSTS Enterprises. “The season finale at Pier17 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for CSTS as we expand our entertainment footprint and introduce a platform designed to deliver iconic live experiences and bring together artists and audiences from across the globe.”

“PremierXTM was built from the ground up as a bespoke platform to champion multicultural talent and visionary creative performers.” said Jason Liu, Regional Director of CSTS USA. “Starting from New York, we are building a scalable global brand that brings iconic live experiences to audiences worldwide while expanding our presence across key entertainment hubs in North America, Asia and Europe.”

Following its New York launch, PremierXTM plans to expand through a broader international rollout across North America, Asia and Europe, with future editions planned as part of a growing network of recurring live entertainment properties and flagship cultural events.

For ticket information on PremierXTM: “AFTER DARK”, visit
https://www.axs.com/events/1644912/after-dark-tickets

About CSTS Enterprises

CSTS Enterprises is an integrated media, entertainment, sports, and travel technology group. Headquartered in New York City, the company develops and partners with intellectual properties and brands to deliver compelling experiences that connect with audiences across the world. In addition to its own initiatives, including Generation CTM and PremierXTM, it collaborates with international IPs including FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and Formula 1.

CSTS integrates experiential marketing, travel, data, and technology to deliver seamless end-to-end audience experiences. The company engages consumers across physical events and digital channels, executing at scale worldwide, turning complex activations into co-ordinated, measurable outcomes.

[1] Source: Industry research by Markets and Markets, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030.

 

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SOURCE CSTS Enterprises

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