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Asetek – Q1 2025: Liquid cooling on track, soft start to year for SimSports

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Q1 2025 revenue of $9.8 million, compared with $12.2 million in Q1 2024Gross margin of 44%, level with Q1 2024Q1 adjusted EBITDA of ($306) thousand compared with ($37) thousand in Q1 2024SimSports revenue of $1.1 million, a decline from $2.2 million in Q1 2024, following soft demand after high year-end 2024 activityCompleted rights issue in January 2025 raising $10.4 million net proceeds to strengthen financial positionFull year 2025 outlook reduced due to lowered SimSport segment revenue expectations – Group revenue expected in the range of $45 to $53 million with adjusted EBITDA at 0% to 3%

AALBORG, Denmark, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Asetek reported first-quarter revenue of $9.8 million, compared with $12.2 million in the same period of 2024. The change from last year reflects principally a lower average selling price on liquid cooling products, resulting from a recent shift in the market toward increased demand of more affordable gaming PC’s with value based liquid coolers. Gross margin was 44% for the first quarter, level with the same period of 2024.

“The Liquid Cooling business is on track as the volume impact from two OEMs moving to dual sourcing is already offset by increased demand from all other customers, showing that the demand for Asetek’s quality products is intact, despite customers moving to lower ASP products, with strong margins maintained. SimSports demand was soft during the quarter, reflecting the strong end to 2024, with several shipments delayed into late Q1 2025 due to global logistics challenges, as well as weaker consumer spending amid heightened macroeconomic uncertainties,” says André S. Eriksen, the CEO of Asetek.

“It is too early to predict the long-term impact of the import tariff scheme introduced by the U.S. in early April. The duties are industrywide and create uncertainties across the value chain from manufacturers to end-users. For now, it has effectively shut down the U.S. market for our sim racing equipment, while we, at least for now, experience more resilience in the Liquid Cooling segment. We focus on what we control and believe we have a good relative competitive position with a growing share of production outside China and a lowered cost base,” Eriksen continues.

Total operating expenses decreased 9% to $6.1 million in the quarter, from $6.7 million in the same period of 2024. Personnel costs declined by 12%, reflecting the ongoing rightsizing of the organization. Adjusted EBITDA was negative $306 thousand and operating loss was $1.8 million in the quarter, both compared with adjusted EBITDA of negative $37 thousand and operating loss of $1.4 million in the first quarter of 2024.

To strengthen the Company’s financial position and enable continued investments in the SimSports segment, Asetek completed an equity rights offering in early January, raising net proceeds of $10.4 million through the issuance of 219.9 million new common shares. In the quarter, over $3 million of the proceeds were used to settle accrued liabilities and debt.

At March 31, 2025, total assets were $83.3 million ($79.4 million at December 31, 2024) and total equity was $50.9 million ($41.1 million). Working capital at March 31 increased to $13.1 million ($4.4 million at December 31, 2024) including $9.0 million of cash and cash equivalents ($3.3 million).

OPERATIONS

In the first quarter, the Company shipped 171 thousand sealed loop coolers compared with 172 thousand in the first quarter of 2024. In the quarter, 5 new SimSports products and 11 new liquid cooling products began shipping. In the second quarter of 2025, about 10 new liquid cooling products are expected to begin shipping, as well as 4 new SimSports products.

In March, Asetek announced the launch of its Next-Gen collection of SimSports offerings, a dynamic range of options including new variants of its popular steering wheels, release of the Dished Suede Rim for enhanced steering control and grip, and re-launch of its Invicta pedals with an advanced hydraulic brake cylinder that replicates the sensation of a real race car. Products will be available for customers from the second quarter of 2025.

As previously communicated in the prospectus issued in connection with Asetek’s rights issue at the end of 2024, Asetek has received an indication of interest concerning its Liquid Cooling business. Such interest has increased in relevance, and discussions are taking place with multiple parties related to a potential partnership focused on utilization of the currently dormant data center related liquid cooling asset portfolio. Discussions are ongoing, and no agreements, terms or commitments have been entered into by the Company at this stage, and it is uncertain whether any formal agreements will materialize.

US TARIFFS

The U.S. administration announced a new baseline 10% import tariff on goods from all countries, along with higher reciprocal tariffs for selected countries, most significantly on products made in China. With limited exceptions, these broadly applied measures impact the entire value chain for Asetek and its industry peers.

EXPECTATIONS FOR 2025

On April 25, Asetek updated its revenue outlook for the SimSports segment for the full year 2025. Revenue for the SimSports business segment is now expected to be in the range of $5 to $10 million, with the previously communicated gross margin guidance of 30–35% expected to decrease to 28-33%. The prior revenue guidance for the SimSports segment indicated an expected revenue in the range of $12 to $15 million in 2025.

Guidance for the Liquid Cooling segment remains unchanged, based on present discussions with the majority of the Company’s key Liquid Cooling customers, who have confirmed that, at present, no changes are being made to their purchasing plans. Given the high level of uncertainty, Asetek remains committed to maintaining regular and proactive communication with all customers to promptly identify and implement any necessary measures should conditions change.

As a result, total group revenue for 2025 is now expected to be in the range of $45 to $53 million, compared to the previous guidance of $52 to $58 million. The Group’s adjusted EBITDA margin is now expected to be in the range of 0–3%, revised from the previous guidance of 3–5%.

The adjusted outlook mainly reflects the impact of tariffs implemented to date by the U.S. government on imports from other countries, most significantly related to products made in China. In 2024, approximately 50% of total revenue in the SimSports segment was derived from sales to the U.S. market. Due to the tariffs, Asetek has ceased all SimSports shipments to the U.S. as well as major U.S.-based consumer electronics retailers have ceased purchasing from China, which effectively means that, at present, no sales are being made to the U.S. market. The updated full-year revenue guidance for the SimSports business segment also reflects the above-mentioned soft start to 2025.

Asetek continues to focus on factors within its control. In 2024, approximately two-thirds of the Company’s production was based in China and one-third in Malaysia. The sim racing products are currently made in China while manufacturing of liquid coolers is split between both countries. In response to potential additional tariffs on Chinese goods, Asetek began expanding its production capacity in Malaysia late last year. This geographic diversification provides Asetek with a relative advantage over competitors with greater exposure to China-based manufacturing.

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST

CEO André Sloth Eriksen and CFO Peter Dam Madsen will present the Company’s results today at 1:30 pm CEST and invite investors, analysts and media to join the presentation. The presentation is expected to last up to one hour, including Q&A, and can be followed via live webcast or conference call.

Webcast – audio and slide presentation:

All participants wishing to join the webcast are required to pre-register using the following link:
https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/625030454

Registration must be completed before the event starts.

Q&A: questions can be submitted through the online webcast during the presentation.

The first quarter 2025 earnings release and presentation are available online at ir.asetek.com, as well as through news agencies. A recorded version of the presentation will be made available at ir.asetek.com shortly after the presentation has concluded.

For questions or further information, please contact:
Per Anders Nyman, Head of Investor Relations
+45 2566 6869
investor.relations@asetek.com

About Asetek

Asetek (ASTK), is a developer and manufacturer of high-quality gaming hardware. Founded in 2000, Asetek established its innovative position as the leading OEM developer and producer of the all-in-one liquid cooler for major PC & Enthusiast gaming brands. In 2021, Asetek introduced its line of products for next level immersive SimSports gaming experiences. Asetek is headquartered in Denmark and has operations in China and Taiwan.

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China’s Long March: The Journey Goes On

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MACAO, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — This is a report from Xinhua News Agency:

There is a chapter of history every Chinese child learns in school.

There is a poem that generations of Chinese people have learned by heart.

There is a song millions can sing from its very first notes.

In stories, in verses, in melodies, they all point to the same chapter of history: the Long March.

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SOURCE Xinhua News Agency

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Target Makes it Easier for Guests to Discover Stylish Holiday Gifts They Can’t Wait to Give

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Target is offering more than 8,000 new gifts, with more than half exclusive to the retailerMost new holiday items at Target are $20 or less, including thousands $5 and underNew AI-powered shopping experiences, daily deals and early Black Friday savings simplify gifting

MINNEAPOLIS, Oct 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) is putting gifting at the heart of the holidays, bringing guests more than 8,000 new stylish gifts they can’t wait to give. More than half of the new assortment is available only at Target, with thousands of gifts priced at $5 and under. New AI-powered shopping experiences, fresh ways to discover gifts and deals throughout the season will make it easier for guests to find something special for everyone on the list.

“This holiday season, guests will see and feel the changes we’ve been making across Target, bringing together the style, design and value they expect from us with an experience that makes shopping easier and more inspiring,” said Michael Fiddelke, chief executive officer, Target. “We know guests turn to Target for gifting, gathering and everything in between, and our team is ready to help busy families discover more joy in those moments throughout the season.”

Stylish gifts at an incredible value
As consumers continue to look for affordable ways to give gifts that feel special, Target is leaning into one of the season’s biggest trends: luxe-for-less gifting. This year’s assortment includes 100% cashmere (excluding functional trim) starting at $25, pajamas for all from $10, festive decor from $5, faux fur throws at $30, top toys from LEGO, Barbie and Nintendo, new and exclusive gifts from prestige, emerging and global beauty brands at Target Beauty Studio, nostalgic sweet treats and host gifts from Favorite Day and exclusive finds for sports and wellness fans, making it easy for guests to find gifts that feel elevated at every price point.

“Guests tell us they want to give gifts that are thoughtful and personal, while feeling good about what they’re spending,” said Cara Sylvester, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, Target. “That’s why we’ve brought together the brands they love, exciting trends and unexpected finds they won’t see anywhere else — all at prices that make it easier to get that ‘I can’t wait to give this’ gift.”

More ways to discover the perfect gift
New this season, Ask Target, an AI-powered shopping assistant available in beta on Target.com and the Target app, helps guests find inspiration, narrow their choices and shop with confidence and ease. Additional AI-powered features and a digital holiday kids catalog offer more ways to discover gifts for everyone on the list.

Target’s new Academy of Giftology holiday marketing campaign, launching in November, will tackle familiar gifting dilemmas with playful inspiration to help guests gift it their all and find gifts they’ll be excited to give.

More ways to save, from the first gift to the last
Beginning Nov. 1, guests can shop a new Deal of the Day every day through Dec. 24, with a first-ever one-day preview of upcoming offers to help them plan ahead. Early Black Friday deals run Nov. 5–7, followed by new limited-time offers every weekend throughout the holiday season.

The joy of gift giving
Through Target’s partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, guests can give a gift that helps give back with the Gigglescape St. Jude bear, with a donation tied to each purchase while supplies last.

About Target
Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) brings together style, design and value to offer a distinct assortment and elevated shopping experience across more than 2,000 U.S. stores and online. Powered by more than 400,000 team members, Target serves millions of families each week and invests in the communities where they live and work to support growth and opportunity for all.

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SOURCE Target Corporation

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illumend CEO: Building a COI Tracker with AI Is Easy. Verifying Insurance Compliance Is Not.

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Kristen Nunery warns that homegrown Certificate of Insurance tracking tools can create a false sense of security when businesses mistake collecting insurance documents for verifying coverage and compliance

INDIANAPOLIS, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As general-purpose artificial intelligence (AI) makes it easier for businesses to build their own software, Kristen Nunery, founder and CEO of illumend, is warning construction and property management companies against a costly misconception: that building a Certificate of Insurance (COI) tracking system is the same as verifying that contractors and other third parties have the insurance coverage their contracts require.

In her new article, “You Can Build a COI Tracker with AI. That Doesn’t Mean You Should,” Nunery explains that general-purpose AI tools such as ChatGPT can help businesses create applications that collect certificates, track expiration dates, and automate reminders. But those capabilities address only part of the insurance compliance process. Determining whether coverage satisfies contractual requirements involves interpreting insurance documents, reviewing endorsements, identifying exclusions and resolving discrepancies that basic tracking software may overlook.

“AI has democratized the ability to build software. It hasn’t democratized the expertise to make the right insurance decision,” said Nunery, who has spent 16 years in insurance compliance. “If you don’t have a compliance process today, you’re not automating a process. You’re automating your best guess.”

Why a COI Tracker Is Not an Insurance Compliance Verification System

According to Nunery, the critical distinction is between tracking the existence and expiration of insurance documents and verifying whether the underlying coverage meets contractual obligations.

A homegrown COI tracker may confirm that a certificate is current, record policy limits, and flag missing documents. But a current certificate does not necessarily mean a contractor is adequately insured or compliant with an agreement’s terms.

For example, a subcontractor may submit a certificate showing sufficient general liability limits and additional insured status. Yet the underlying endorsement may be a CG 20 10 covering ongoing operations only, while the contract also requires completed-operations coverage under a CG 20 37 or equivalent endorsement. A basic tracker could mark the subcontractor as compliant despite the missing coverage.

“The tracker didn’t misread anything,” Nunery said. “It never had the contract requirement, the endorsement language, or the connection between the two.”

Other potential gaps include incorrectly named insured entities, missing endorsements, inadequate completed-operations coverage, and policy provisions that fail to satisfy contractual insurance requirements. Identifying these issues requires evaluating insurance evidence in context, not simply extracting data from a certificate.

Why Insurance Compliance Verification Requires Specialized Technology

Nunery argues that businesses seeking to move beyond basic COI tracking need technology designed specifically for insurance compliance verification, with insurance expertise embedded in how the system evaluates coverage.

Unlike homegrown tracking tools, specialized compliance platforms such as illumend compare insurance documents against established contractual requirements, examine supporting endorsements, identify coverage gaps, and explain findings that require attention.

This approach powers Lumie, illumend’s specialized AI-powered insurance compliance expert. Lumie reviews certificates and endorsements against established requirements, flags potential deficiencies and provides supporting evidence for its determinations, while allowing compliance professionals to review and resolve exceptions.

“AI should do more than flag a problem. It should show you what it found, which requirement it evaluated, and the evidence behind its assessment,” Nunery said. “Lumie applies insurance expertise at scale and creates a clear record of its findings, so teams can act on routine determinations efficiently and focus their attention on exceptions that need a closer look.”

Nunery’s perspective draws on her experience building myCOI, whose technology has reviewed more than 45 million insurance documents and identified more than 2 million coverage gaps before they became claims, according to company figures.

Build a COI Tracker or Buy a Compliance Platform? The Questions Businesses Should Ask

For organizations considering building their own COI software, Nunery recommends first determining whether they need a document-tracking application or a comprehensive insurance compliance verification system.

Basic tracking needs may be addressed with spreadsheets, conventional software, or applications built with general-purpose AI. But verifying compliance requires substantially more: translating contractual insurance requirements into rules, reviewing endorsements and policy evidence, identifying exceptions, documenting decisions, and maintaining an auditable compliance process.

Businesses must also consider who will keep insurance requirements current, validate the system’s determinations, investigate discrepancies, and maintain the records needed to support compliance decisions during claims or audits.

“Building the software happens once,” Nunery said. “Running a compliance system means keeping requirements, evidence, follow-ups, decisions and the audit trail current, every day it’s in use.”

To read Nunery’s full article, visit https://www.illumend.ai/evaluation-buying/build-vs-buy-coi-tracking-software-ai

About illumend
Founded in 2025, illumend™ is the AI-powered platform redefining how businesses manage third-party insurance compliance and risk. Backed by myCOI, the leader in third-party insurance compliance management with more than 16 years of expertise, illumend reimagines compliance by guiding every step of the process—from document review and expiration tracking to risk flagging, communication, and resolution—within one intuitive system. Built on myCOI’s institutional foundation—having processed more than 45 million documents, managed over 1.2 million agreements, cleared more than 750,000 third-party partners, and identified more than two million coverage gaps before claims—illumend brings this depth of compliance intelligence into an AI-native platform. At its core is Lumie, illumend’s conversational AI guide that reads complex insurance documents, flags issues in real time, and explains them in language anyone can act on. To learn more, visit https://www.illumend.ai.

Media contact:
Michael Tebo
Gabriel Marketing Group (for illumend)
Phone: 571-835-8775
Email: michaelt@gabrielmarketing.com

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