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IFS Completes Acquisition of Copperleaf

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LONDON and VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2024 /CNW/ – Copperleaf Technologies Inc. (TSX: CPLF) (“Copperleaf” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that Industrial and Financial Systems, IFS AB (“IFS”) has completed the previously announced acquisition of Copperleaf pursuant to a statutory plan of arrangement (the “Arrangement”) under the Canada Business Corporations Act. In accordance with the terms of the Arrangement, IFS indirectly acquired all of the issued and outstanding common shares in the capital of Copperleaf (the “Shares”) for $12.00 in cash per Share, representing a total equity value of approximately $1.0 billion on a fully diluted basis.

The Shares are expected to be de-listed from the Toronto Stock Exchange on or about the closing of trading on August 30, 2024. It is anticipated that Copperleaf will apply to cease to be a reporting issuer under applicable Canadian securities laws.

The Arrangement was originally announced on June 11, 2024, and was approved by the Company’s shareholders at a special meeting held on August 2, 2024. The Company obtained a final order in respect of the Arrangement from the Supreme Court of British Columbia on August 7, 2024.

Further information regarding the Arrangement is provided in the management information circular of the Company dated June 28, 2024 (the “Circular”) prepared in connection with the Arrangement and the Company’s subsequent related news releases, all of which are available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on Copperleaf’s website at https://investors.copperleaf.com.

Enclosed with the Circular was a letter of transmittal explaining how registered shareholders of the Company can submit their Shares in order to receive the consideration to which they are entitled in connection with the Arrangement. Registered shareholders who have questions on how to complete the letter of transmittal should direct their questions to the Company’s transfer agent and depositary, Odyssey Trust Company, 1-888-290-1175 (toll-free within North America), 1-587-885-0960 (outside of North America), or by email at Corp.actions@odysseytrust.com. Beneficial shareholders holding Shares that are registered in the name of an intermediary must contact their broker or other intermediary to submit their instructions with respect to the Arrangement and to arrange for the surrender of their Shares in order to receive the consideration to which they are entitled in connection with the Arrangement.

Advisors

BMO Capital Markets acted as exclusive financial advisor to a special committee of independent directors of Copperleaf (the “Special Committee”) formed to evaluate the Arrangement. Fort Capital Partners acted as independent financial advisor to the Special Committee and the board of directors of Copperleaf. Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP acted as legal counsel to Copperleaf and the Special Committee in connection with the Arrangement.

Arma Partners LLP acted as exclusive financial advisor to IFS, and Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP and White & Case LLP acted as legal counsel to IFS.

About Copperleaf Technologies Inc.

Copperleaf (TSX:CPLF) provides enterprise decision analytics software solutions to companies managing critical infrastructure. Copperleaf leverages operational and financial data to empower its clients to make investment decisions that deliver the highest business value. What sets Copperleaf apart is its industry-leading products and its commitment to providing extraordinary experiences, shaped by people who care deeply and partnerships that stand the test of time. Copperleaf is actively involved in shaping and implementing global industry standards and sustainability principles through its participation in the United Nations Global Compact, the Institute of Asset Management, and other organizations. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, Copperleaf’s solutions are distributed and supported by regional staff and partners worldwide. Together, we are transforming how the world sees value.

About IFS

IFS develops and delivers cloud enterprise software for companies around the world who manufacture and distribute goods, build and maintain assets, and manage service-focused operations. Within IFS’s single platform, the company’s industry specific products are innately connected to a single data model and use embedded digital innovation so that company customers can be their best when it really matters to their customers—at the Moment of Service™. The industry expertise of the company’s people and of its growing ecosystem, together with a commitment to deliver value at every single step, has made IFS a recognized leader and the most recommended supplier in its sector. IFS’s team of over 6,000 employees every day live our values of agility, trustworthiness, and collaboration in how the company supports its 6,500+ customers.

Additional Early Warning Disclosure

Immediately prior to the closing of the Arrangement, 16091857 Canada Inc. (the “Purchaser”), a corporation formed by IFS to effect the Arrangement, held no Shares. Following the closing of the Arrangement, the Purchaser owns 100% of the outstanding Shares. Copperleaf is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Purchaser and IFS will maintain an indirect ownership interest in Copperleaf.

An early warning report with additional information in respect of the foregoing matters will be filed and made available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca under Copperleaf’s profile or may be obtained directly upon request by contacting the IFS contact persons named below. The head office of Copperleaf is 2920 Virtual Way, Suite 140, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5M 0C4.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws in Canada.

Forward-looking information may relate to our future business, financial outlook, and anticipated events or results, and may include information regarding our financial position, business strategy, growth strategies, addressable markets, budgets, operations, financial results, taxes, dividend policy, plans and objectives. Particularly, information regarding our expectations of future results, performance, achievements, prospects, or opportunities, or the markets in which we operate, is forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “targets”, “expect” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “is poised to”, “an opportunity exists”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “outlook”, “future”, “financial outlook”, “forecasts”, “projection”, “prospects”, “strategy”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “does not anticipate”, “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases, or statements that certain actions, events, or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will” occur or be taken, or “will continue to” or “are poised to” be achieved. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, intentions, projections, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent management’s current expectations, estimates and projections regarding possible future events or circumstances.

Forward-looking information is necessarily based on a number of opinions, estimates and assumptions that we considered appropriate and reasonable as at the date such statements are made, and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: statements with respect to the delisting of the Shares and Copperleaf ceasing to be a reporting issuer following closing of the Arrangement as well as statements regarding the impact of the Arrangement on IFS’ and the Company’s respective businesses and the intended conduct and growth of the Company’s business following closing of the Arrangement; and the risk factors described in our 2023 Annual Information Form (“AIF”) under “Risk Factors”. A copy of the 2023 AIF can be accessed under our profile on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval Plus (“SEDAR+”) at www.sedarplus.ca. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as at the date made. We are under no obligation (and we expressly disclaim any such obligation) to update or alter any statements containing forward-looking information, the risks or assumptions underlying them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. All of the forward-looking information in this news release is qualified by the cautionary statements herein.

SOURCE Copperleaf Technologies Inc.

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Axera’s ADAS Chip Arrived in Europe with Leapmotor, Advancing Global Expansion

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SHANGHAI, Oct. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Axera’s intelligent driving chip has entered the European market in Leapmotor’s new global compact electric hatchback, marking a major step in the company’s international automotive expansion. Purpose-built for global markets, the chip brings Axera’s production-proven driver assistance technology to European consumers.

The vehicle is a core offering in Leapmotor’s global lineup, designed to make intelligent driving more accessible and support the automaker’s international growth. Industry data show that Leapmotor delivered over 660,000 vehicles from January to September 2026, including over 150,000 exports. With overseas sales approaching 23% of total deliveries, Leapmotor’s international momentum provides a strong foundation for expanding deployments of Axera’s ADAS chip beyond China.

Designed as a standardized ADAS SoC for global applications, the chip features Axera’s proprietary AXNeutron mixed-precision NPU. It natively supports BEV perception models and dynamic allocation of compute resources across INT4, INT8, and INT16 precision levels. Its proprietary AI-ISP supports 8MP@50fps, enabling reliable detection of pedestrians, non-motor vehicles, and road signs in challenging lighting conditions, including backlit scenes, rainy nights, and tunnels.

The chip first entered mass production in China in April 2026, debuted in a best-selling Leapmotor model. Powered by the chip, the complete driver assistance system was an early adopter of BEV perception models and introduced the industry’s first visual HMI prompts for road markings in its system class. It also meets China’s latest mandatory regulatory requirements, enhancing driving safety and comfort. With Leapmotor’s overseas production rollout, this mature ADAS solution is now reaching European consumers.

Since mass production began, Axera’s ADAS chip has rapidly scaled to more than 50,000 vehicle installations per month. It is now deployed across key models from leading Chinese brands, including Leapmotor, etc., with production ramping up well beyond industry expectations. The European launch is only the beginning of Axera’s global automotive expansion. Combining high integration and performance with low power consumption, and backed by comprehensive functional safety and cybersecurity certifications, the chip serves as a standardized ADAS platform. Multiple international Tier 1 suppliers have incorporated it into their global supply chains, while design wins with overseas automakers continue to advance.

Axera’s ability to deliver its proprietary intelligent driving chip platforms at scale has helped it respond to demand generated by China’s new mandatory regulations and the international expansion of the Chinese automotive supply chain. The company has quickly established itself among China’s leading automotive ADAS chipmakers. According to industry research, Axera’s share of its intelligent driving chip market segment rose from 8.9% in the first half of 2025 to 33.32% in the first half of 2026. It was the only domestic chipmaker in that segment to more than double its market share over the period, reinforcing its growing influence in the automotive chip market.

Automotive SoCs have become a core growth driver for Axera. Its first-half 2026 financial report recorded shipments of 420,000 automotive intelligent SoCs and 24 new design wins. The number of vehicle brands it serves grew to 25, including seven international and joint-venture automakers, reflecting continued growth in both scale and international reach.

Building on its established presence in China, Axera is expanding its role in the global ADAS market. The company will draw on its successful mass-production deployments to secure and bring more domestic and overseas vehicle programs to production, increase automotive chip shipments, and support sustained international growth.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/axeras-adas-chip-arrived-in-europe-with-leapmotor-advancing-global-expansion-302913700.html

SOURCE Axera Semiconductor Co., Ltd.

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The Eurovision Effect: Agoda Maps Asia’s Travel Interest Ahead of the Bangkok Grand Final

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SINGAPORE, Oct. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has seen a rise in travel interest to Bangkok this November, building towards one of the region’s biggest cultural moments of the year with the inaugural Eurovision Asia Grand Final, happening in the Thai capital on 14 November.

The contest marks a milestone for the region: the first-ever pan-Asian expansion of the 70-year-old Eurovision franchise, bringing finalists from 11 countries to the stage for a potential regional audience of millions. Against this backdrop, Agoda’s insights on travel interest suggest the region is packing its bags in more ways than one.

A Region Watching Bangkok

Travel interest to Bangkok is up 14% year on year for stays around the Grand Final period (9–22 November), based on Agoda accommodation searches from travelers across Asia. The leading markets considering Bangkok stays during this period include Thailand, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and India.

Vietnam travel interest to Bangkok more than doubled for the Grand Final period year on year based on accommodation searches, up 105%. India followed with a 43% increase, reflecting Indian travelers’ continued interest in short-haul travel to Southeast Asia, while Malaysia recorded a 4% rise, building on an already well-established travel relationship with Thailand. As host nation, Thailand is also embracing the moment at home: domestic travel interest to Bangkok for the same period is up 30% year on year, as Thai travelers plan to be part of the excitement in their own capital.

Opening Acts: Regional Interest Ahead of the Grand Final

Beyond Bangkok, Agoda search data reveals increasing travel interest amongst some popular travel destinations across Asia that have also had their own National Finals.

South Korea’s national selection show, Korea’s Next Wave, aired on 4 September, and general travel interest to South Korea from across the region rose 18% year on year. Vietnam saw a similar effect, with travel interest in the country rising 5% year on year around its own national selection show on 3 October.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda, shared: “As the Official Travel Partner of Eurovision Song Contest Asia, Agoda is proud to support this cultural milestone and first in the region. We believe that Asia doesn’t just watch moments like these, but travels for them. Whether you’re heading to Bangkok for the Grand Final or inspired to explore the city this November, Agoda makes it easy to find the right stay for every kind of traveler, from Siam’s shopping energy to the culture of the Old Town.”

Where to Stay in Bangkok: A Neighborhood Guide for The Grand Final Season

For travelers planning a trip around the Grand Final, Bangkok offers a distinct experience depending on where you base yourself. Here’s a closer look at four neighborhoods worth considering.

Siam, Bangkok’s commercial heart, is where the city’s retail culture is on full display. Malls like Siam Paragon and Siam Center sit alongside boutiques and department stores, plus some of the city’s most photographed street energy. There is easy access to the BTS Skytrain, with the rest of the city a short ride away. Between shopping runs, visitors can explore Jim Thompson House, a preserved home-turned-museum, or cool off in one of the area’s food courts.

Thonglor and neighboring Ekkamai are Bangkok’s go-to districts for nightlife. Packed with cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, live music venues, and talked-about restaurants, the area draws locals and travelers alike for a livelier evening. It’s a fitting base for anyone attending Grand Final events after dark, with plenty nearby to keep the celebration going.

Sathorn, home to many of Bangkok’s most prestigious hotels and business towers, offers a more refined side of the city. Its riverside setting along the Chao Phraya makes it popular for skyline and sunset views, particularly from the district’s signature rooftop bars, alongside fine dining, dinner cruises, and the ICONSIAM mall across the water.

Bangkok’s Old Town is where the city’s history comes alive, for travelers seeking a deeper connection to Thai culture. Home to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and its Reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun’s riverside spire, the area rewards exploration on foot or by longtail boat along the canals. It offers a quieter, more traditional base for balancing Grand Final excitement with a slower side of Bangkok.

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View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/the-eurovision-effect-agoda-maps-asias-travel-interest-ahead-of-the-bangkok-grand-final-302913675.html

SOURCE Agoda

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Ingenico Selects Cognizant as Global Strategic Technology Partner

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Five-year agreement will help simplify and modernize Ingenico’s global technology operations

LONDON, Oct. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) today announced that it has been chosen by Ingenico, the smart technology powering in-person commerce, as its global strategic technology partner. Under the five-year agreement, Cognizant has been tasked with embedding AI across Ingenico’s infrastructure and operations, security and data to support the modernization of Ingenico’s technology operations, including infrastructure, security, business and corporate applications and data systems, while providing managed services across end-user services, service desk, application support and engineering.

Every day, Ingenico’s smart technology powers millions of interactions worldwide, helping businesses deliver better customer experiences, build loyalty and drive growth. By combining seamless payment acceptance with powerful data and insights, Ingenico enables customers to reduce complexity and get more from every interaction, all backed by the security, reliability and trust the company is known for. To support its next phase of growth and innovation, Ingenico sought a strategic technology partner to simplify and modernize its technology operations and create a scalable foundation for future growth.

Cognizant will support the consolidation and modernization of Ingenico’s IT environment, helping strengthen security, improve operational efficiency and increase agility across the business.

“The payments industry continues to evolve rapidly, with growing demands around security, resilience, operational efficiency and innovation,” said Rohit Gupta, UK&I Managing Director at Cognizant. “We’re proud to have been selected by Ingenico as a strategic partner. Together, we’ll help modernize key operations, strengthen core technology foundations and support Ingenico’s long-term growth ambitions.”

“At Ingenico, we’re constantly evolving our technology and capabilities to help our customers grow, simplify complexity and deliver superior customer experiences,” commented Tim Fulton, CIO at Ingenico. “As we looked for a partner to support the next phase of that journey, Cognizant stood out through its industry expertise, global scale and understanding of our business. Together, we will modernize key IT operations, strengthen the foundations that underpin the trusted solutions our customers rely on, and increase agility across the business to support future growth and innovation.”

About Cognizant
Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) is an AI builder and technology services provider, building the bridge between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, realize tangible returns and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at www.cognizant.ai or @cognizant.

About Ingenico 
Ingenico is the smart technology powering in-person commerce. Every day, its intelligent solutions help businesses turn millions of payment interactions into opportunities to deliver superior customer experiences, build loyalty and increase revenue. 

With more than four decades of innovation and expertise, over 3,000 employees worldwide, and tens of millions of devices deployed across more than 120 countries, Ingenico combines seamless acceptance with powerful data and insights. Its intelligent solutions help businesses reduce complexity, grow faster and get more from every customer interaction, backed by the reliability, security and trust for which Ingenico is known. For more information, visit www.ingenico.com

Media contacts:

U.S.
Alex Dudley
alex.dudley@cognizant.com 

Europe / APAC
Sarah Douglas
sarah.douglas@cognizant.com 

India
Vipin Nair
vipin.nair@cognizant.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ingenico-selects-cognizant-as-global-strategic-technology-partner-302912595.html

SOURCE Cognizant Technology Solutions

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