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Ball Announces Third Quarter 2022 Results

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Ball Corporation (NYSE: BALL) today reported, on a U.S. GAAP basis, third quarter 2022 net earnings attributable to the corporation of $392 million (including a net after-tax gain of $154 million, or 49 cents per diluted share for business consolidation and other non-comparable items, including the gain on disposal for the Russian beverage packaging operations) or diluted earnings per share of $1.24, on sales of $3.95 billion, compared to $179 million net earnings attributable to the corporation, or 54 cents per diluted share (including net after-tax charges of $134 million, or 40 cents per diluted share for business consolidation and other non-comparable items) on sales of $3.55 billion in 2021. Results for the first nine months of 2022 were net earnings attributable to the corporation of $664 million, or $2.07 per diluted share, on sales of $11.80 billion compared to $581 million, or $1.75 per diluted share, on sales of $10.14 billion for the first nine months of 2021.

Ball’s third quarter and year-to-date 2022 comparable diluted earnings per share were 75 cents and $2.34, respectively, versus third quarter and year-to-date 2021 comparable diluted earnings per share of 94 cents and $2.52, respectively. The impact of unfavorable foreign exchange translation on comparable net earnings was 3 cents per diluted share in third quarter of 2022, and 7 cents per diluted share for the first nine months of 2022.

Details of segment comparable operating earnings, business consolidation and other activities, business segment descriptions and other non-comparable items can be found in the notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements that accompany this news release. References to volume data represent units shipped except where specifically referenced otherwise. Beginning in the fourth quarter of 2022, year-over-year global and EMEA segment volume data will exclude the impact of the Russian beverage can business sale completed in third quarter of 2022.

“Our year-to-date comparable net earnings reflect resilient global demand for our sustainable aluminum beverage and personal care packaging solutions, up 3.2 percent and 11.2 percent, respectively, and solid aerospace segment performance, offset by inflation and unfavorable foreign exchange translation headwinds. During the quarter, we proactively prepared the business for continued macroeconomic volatility by executing a comprehensive fixed and variable cost-out plan. In 2023, the cost-out plan benefits of at least $150 million will more than offset the loss of operating earnings from the recently divested Russian beverage can business and will be complemented by net contractual inflationary cost pass through across all of our packaging businesses throughout 2023 and beyond. Our recent actions will reinforce Ball’s durable growth characteristics, significantly improve our cost structure, maximize cash and EVA generation, and improve our financial performance in 2023 and beyond,” said Daniel W. Fisher, president and CEO.

Beverage Packaging, North and Central America

Beverage packaging, North and Central America, segment comparable operating earnings for the third quarter 2022 were $205 million on sales of $1.80 billion compared to $186 million on sales of $1.52 billion during the same period in 2021. For the first nine months, segment comparable operating earnings were $543 million on sales of $5.18 billion compared to $519 million on sales of $4.34 billion during the same period in 2021. Year-over-year sales reflect the contractual pass through of higher aluminum costs.

Third quarter segment comparable operating earnings improved year-over-year due to higher volume offset by the impact of higher manufacturing and inflationary costs and unfavorable customer mix. Segment volumes increased 2.5 percent in the third quarter and aluminum beverage packaging continues to be more resilient than other substrates. Despite this favorable trend, customer demand continues to be lower than expectations driven by higher year-over-year retail prices impacting consumer demand, particularly in the U.S.

In response to lower than expected near-term demand and to optimize low-cost production across our North American manufacturing footprint, during the quarter the company announced permanently ceasing production at the company’s Phoenix, Arizona, and St. Paul, Minnesota, facilities, in the fourth quarter of 2022, and the first quarter of 2023, respectively, resulting in approximately $65 million of fixed cost savings largely in 2023 and beyond.

Beverage Packaging, EMEA

Beverage packaging, EMEA, segment comparable operating earnings for third quarter 2022 were $82 million on sales of $1.03 billion compared to $125 million on sales of $937 million during the same period in 2021. For the first nine months, segment comparable operating earnings were $311 million on sales of $3.11 billion compared to $349 million on sales of $2.64 billion during the same period in 2021. Year-over-year sales reflect higher shipments and the contractual pass through of higher aluminum costs offset by unfavorable foreign exchange translation and the sale of the Russian operations during the third quarter of 2022. Historical results for the Russian operations will continue to be reflected in beverage packaging, EMEA segment results. See Note 1 “Business Segment Information” for additional information about the sale agreement and historical results.

Third quarter segment comparable operating earnings decreased versus the same period in 2021 and reflect 5.5 percent segment volume growth being more than offset by unfavorable currency translation, the impact of higher inflation, energy costs and supply chain disruptions across the region and unfavorable year-over-year performance in the Russian business ahead of the sale. Packaging mix shift to aluminum cans supported by ongoing packaging legislation in certain countries continues to be a driver of aluminum beverage packaging growth. Given strong regional demand, the construction of new beverage can manufacturing facilities in the U.K. and Czech Republic remain on track and will enable further growth for sustainable aluminum beverage packaging across the region. Projects are supported by long-term contracts with improved contractual terms and conditions. In advance of new production coming online in EMEA, imports from the company’s joint venture beverage can manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia supplemented existing production capabilities across Europe during the quarter.

Beverage PackagingSouth America

Beverage packaging, South America, segment comparable operating earnings for third quarter 2022 were $67 million on sales of $466 million compared to $74 million on sales of $462 million in 2021. For the first nine months, comparable segment operating earnings were $197 million on sales of $1.49 billion compared to $245 million on sales of $1.40 billion during the same period in 2021. Year-over-year sales reflect lower revenue recognition volumes, the contractual pass through of higher aluminum costs and regional price/mix. Third quarter segment comparable operating earnings decreased year-over-year and reflect unfavorable regional customer/product mix and fixed cost absorption in Brazil.

Demand trends across the company’s South American operations remain favorable as we enter the summer selling season and shipments during the third quarter were up 5.2 percent. During the quarter, the company permanently ceased operations at its Santa CruzBrazil, beverage can manufacturing facility to further optimize low-cost production across our broad Brazilian manufacturing footprint.  This action will generate approximately $10 million of fixed cost savings and aid supply/demand balance across Brazil.

Aerospace

Aerospace segment comparable operating earnings for third quarter 2022 were $47 million on sales of $477 million compared to $46 million on sales of $498 million in 2021. Third quarter backlog reached $3.0 billion, and contracts won, but not yet booked into backlog, ended the quarter at $4.6 billion. For the first nine months, segment comparable operating earnings were $126 million on sales of $1.47 billion compared to $115 million on sales of $1.38 billion during the same period in 2021.

Third quarter segment comparable operating earnings reflect solid execution on existing and new programs offset by supply chain inefficiencies. The segment continues to leverage its talent, manufacturing and test capabilities, engineering, and support workspace to secure additional defense, climate change and Earth-monitoring contracts to provide mission-critical programs and technologies to U.S. government, defense, intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance customers.

In mid-November, the joint NASA and NOAA Earth observation JPSS-2 satellite with the Ball-built OMPS (Ozone Mapping Profiler Suite) is scheduled to launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base. Ball’s contributions to the JPSS series of satellites reinforces our commitment to delivering extreme weather data, weather forecasts and ozone measurements to develop climate models and monitor global ozone and atmospheric temperature. Because of its wide swath, the satellite will observe every spot on Earth at least twice daily.

Non-reportable

In addition to undistributed corporate expenses, the results for the company’s global aluminum aerosol business, beverage can manufacturing facilities in IndiaSaudi Arabia and Myanmar and investments in the company’s aluminum cup business continue to be reported in other non-reportable.

Third quarter 2022 results reflect higher year-over-year undistributed corporate expenses, higher aluminum cup demand in food service channels, 12.2 percent volume growth for extruded aluminum bottles and aerosol containers and 46.7 percent volume growth in the other non-reportable beverage can manufacturing facilities where certain production is being exported to support EMEA segment demand prior to new capital projects coming online in 2022. During the quarter, the company’s global aluminum aerosol customers continued to pursue next generation lightweight sustainable personal care packaging solutions and the company entered an alliance with Boomerang Water to expand usage of refillable aluminum bottled water at closed-loop venues.

Outlook

“We are focused on cost, cash and capital management. The successful completion of the Russian business sale allows us to incrementally de-leverage and focus regional resources on improving operational performance. We are controlling the things we can control in today’s global economic and geopolitical environment. Demand continues to be quite resilient and supports the durability of our earnings and cash generation. We remain well-positioned for growth and returning value to shareholders,” said Scott C. Morrison, executive vice president and chief financial officer.

“We continue to actively manage our businesses through the lens of Drive for 10 and EVA to execute cost-out initiatives, ensure tight supply/demand balance across our global plant network and benefit from contractual inflationary cost recovery to achieve our long-term diluted earnings per share growth goal over time, generate cash and return value to shareholders. Our aluminum product portfolio and aerospace technologies and offerings remain resilient and bolster our prospects for improved sustainable performance in 2023 and the years ahead,” Fisher said.

Artificial Intelligence

Clinical Trials Matching Software Market Projected to Reach $832.56 million by 2030 – Exclusive Report by 360iResearch

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PUNE, India, April 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The report titled “Clinical Trials Matching Software Market by Functionality (Analytics & Reporting, Compliance Tracking, Data Management), Deployment (Cloud & Web Based, On-Premise), End-Use – Global Forecast 2024-2030” is now available on 360iResearch.com’s offering, presents an analysis indicating that the market projected to grow from a size of $342.20 million in 2023 to reach $832.56 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 13.54% over the forecast period.

“The Global Surge in Adoption of Matching Software for Enhanced Participant Enrollment”
Clinical trials matching software stands at the forefront of revolutionizing clinical research by automating the process of identifying and enrolling eligible participants. These platforms offer a streamlined approach to match patient health profiles with trial requirements, accelerating enrollment and supporting the shift toward personalized healthcare using these advanced AI and ML technologies. Although integrating these systems poses challenges due to variations in healthcare IT infrastructure and the imperative for rigorous data security, the potential for market growth is substantial. In the Americas, a robust clinical trials ecosystem thrives; in the European Union, it has unified regulatory standards and extended to emerging regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and the APAC countries; the demand for such innovative solutions is on a steep rise. This demand is fueled by governmental support, the evolving regulatory landscape, and strategic partnerships to embed these solutions within electronic health records, underscoring a global movement toward optimizing clinical trial processes to better cater to specific patient demographics.
Download Sample Report @ https://www.360iresearch.com/library/intelligence/clinical-trials-matching-software
“The Rise of Virtual Trials and Advanced Matching Software”
The healthcare landscape is witnessing a transformative shift toward virtual clinical trials, fueled by technological advancements and the necessity for continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic. This transition supports research amid social distancing measures and introduces significant cost savings by reducing the need for physical infrastructure and in-person interactions. The efficiencies brought by electronic health records (EHR), wearable technologies, and automation streamline the entire process, from patient recruitment to data analysis. Several approaches, endorsed by regulatory bodies such as the FDA, represent a leap forward in making clinical trials more accessible and streamlined, ensuring that more patients can participate in potentially life-saving research without the geographical and logistic constraints of traditional trials.
“Enhancing Clinical Trials through Advanced Analytics, Rigorous Compliance, and Precision-Patient Matching”
Integrating advanced analytics, meticulous compliance monitoring, and precision-patient matching marks a significant advancement toward maximizing efficiency and fostering trial diversity. The software delivers insightful data on trial progress, participant demographics, and enrollment figures, empowering stakeholders to make well-informed decisions and optimize resource distribution to meet trial goals effectively by implementing cutting-edge analytics. The built-in compliance feature ensures trials are conducted in strict adherence to regulatory standards, minimizing risks associated with non-compliance. Furthermore, a robust data management system guarantees the integrity and availability of clinical trial data, which is critical for the seamless operation and real-time analysis of trials. The software includes state-of-the-art patient matching technology, which employs sophisticated algorithms and artificial intelligence to expedite recruitment by accurately identifying candidates who match specific trial requirements. This innovative approach accelerates the recruitment timeline and enhances the diversification of trial participants, paving the way for more inclusive and representative clinical research outcomes.
Request Analyst Support @ https://www.360iresearch.com/library/intelligence/clinical-trials-matching-software
“Medidata by Dassault Systèmes SE at the Forefront of Clinical Trials Matching Software Market with a Strong 11.30% Market Share”
The key players in the Clinical Trials Matching Software Market include International Business Machines Corporation, Science 37, Inc. by eMed, LLC, Medidata by Dassault Systèmes SE, AutoCruitment LLC, Deep 6 AI Inc., and others. These prominent players focus on strategies such as expansions, acquisitions, joint ventures, and developing new products to strengthen their market positions.
“Introducing ThinkMi: Revolutionizing Market Intelligence with AI-Powered Insights for the Clinical Trials Matching Software Market”
We proudly unveil ThinkMi, a cutting-edge AI product designed to transform how businesses interact with the Clinical Trials Matching Software Market. ThinkMi stands out as your premier market intelligence partner, delivering unparalleled insights with the power of artificial intelligence. Whether deciphering market trends or offering actionable intelligence, ThinkMi is engineered to provide precise, relevant answers to your most critical business questions. This revolutionary tool is more than just an information source; it’s a strategic asset that empowers your decision-making with up-to-the-minute data, ensuring you stay ahead in the fiercely competitive Clinical Trials Matching Software Market. Embrace the future of market analysis with ThinkMi, where informed decisions lead to remarkable growth.
Ask Question to ThinkMi @ https://app.360iresearch.com/library/intelligence/clinical-trials-matching-software
“Dive into the Clinical Trials Matching Software Market Landscape: Explore 190 Pages of Insights, 286 Tables, and 22 Figures”
PrefaceResearch MethodologyExecutive SummaryMarket OverviewMarket InsightsClinical Trials Matching Software Market, by FunctionalityClinical Trials Matching Software Market, by DeploymentClinical Trials Matching Software Market, by End-UseAmericas Clinical Trials Matching Software MarketAsia-Pacific Clinical Trials Matching Software MarketEurope, Middle East & Africa Clinical Trials Matching Software MarketCompetitive LandscapeCompetitive PortfolioInquire Before Buying @ https://www.360iresearch.com/library/intelligence/clinical-trials-matching-software
Related Reports:
Clinical Trial Support Services Market – Global Forecast 2024-2030Virtual Clinical Trials Market – Global Forecast 2024-2030Clinical Trials Management System Market – Global Forecast 2024-2030About 360iResearch
Founded in 2017, 360iResearch is a market research and business consulting company headquartered in India, with clients and focus markets spanning the globe.
We are a dynamic, nimble company that believes in carving ambitious, purposeful goals and achieving them with the backing of our greatest asset — our people.
Quick on our feet, we have our ear to the ground when it comes to market intelligence and volatility. Our market intelligence is diligent, real-time and tailored to your needs, and arms you with all the insight that empowers strategic decision-making.
Our clientele encompasses about 80% of the Fortune Global 500, and leading consulting and research companies and academic institutions that rely on our expertise in compiling data in niche markets. Our meta-insights are intelligent, impactful and infinite, and translate into actionable data that support your quest for enhanced profitability, tapping into niche markets, and exploring new revenue opportunities.
Contact 360iResearchMr. Ketan Rohom360iResearch Private Limited,Office No. 519, Nyati Empress,Opposite Phoenix Market City,Vimannagar, Pune, Maharashtra,India – 411014.Email: [email protected]: +1-530-264-8485India: +91-922-607-7550
To learn more, visit 360iresearch.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.
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RepTrak Announces 2024 Global RepTrak® 100 Report

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BOSTON, April 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The RepTrak™ Company, the world’s leading reputation data and insights company, released its annual Global RepTrak 100 report. Utilizing its advanced reputation monitoring software, RepTrak gathered data from more than 243,000 survey responses across 14 major economies to rank the world’s 100 most reputable companies. They share that ranking alongside a full analysis of global corporate reputation trends and corresponding public sentiment in the 2024 report.

After two years of consecutive Reputation Score declines, this year’s Score is back up with an increase from 73.2 in 2023 to 73.8 in 2024. It’s a small increase after 2023’s full one-point drop. However, it’s an encouraging sign that companies have begun to recover from reputation falls driven by many challenges: macroeconomic issues, workplace difficulties, product problems, and corporate responsibility skepticism.
“This year’s report underscores a pivotal shift in the corporate landscape, spotlighting the remarkable adaptability and dedication of the Top 100 companies in responding to the dynamic needs of stakeholders,” states RepTrak CEO Mark Sonders. “The companies featured in our report are not just riding the wave of change; they are the ones steering it, proving that the best approach to business is one that embraces evolution and champions progress.”
RepTrak’s report explores how people thought, felt, and acted toward companies over the past year. Findings include notable increases in Conduct and Citizenship efforts, stakeholders’ rising willingness to invest, culturally resonant brand communications, and ESG Scores that soared despite skepticism around the acronym.
To read the full 2024 Global RepTrak 100 report, please visit: www.reptrak.com/globalreptrak
About RepTrak
The RepTrak™ Company is the world’s leading reputation data and insights company. We help companies by organizing and grading a variety of reputational elements, offering a real-world report card on their corporate reputation. Subscribers to the RepTrak program use our predictive insights to protect business value, improve return on investment, and increase their positive impact on society. RepTrak’s pairing of advanced metrics and dedicated reputation advisors offers clients an actionable analysis of their reputation data, aligning business objectives with stakeholder sentiment across different markets and sectors.
Established in 2004, The RepTrak Company owns the world’s largest reputation benchmarking database, gathering over 1 million company ratings per year used by CEOs, boards, and executives in more than 60 countries worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.reptrak.com
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Group-IB takes part in a global operation to cripple Canadian Phishing-as-a-Service provider LabHost

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SINGAPORE, April 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Group-IB, a leading cybersecurity company aimed at investigating, preventing, and fight digital crime announced today that it participated in a coordinated global takedown operation against prominent Canadian Phishing-as-a-Service (PhaaS) provider LabHost, which has led to the arrest of 37 suspects across the United Kingdom and around the world by law enforcement agencies. As part of the operation, Group-IB also conducted an extensive analysis of LabHost’s criminal history and infrastructure, including insights into LabHost’s administrative platform and the services it provides to its purported user base which exceeds 2,000 subscribers worldwide, who illegally obtained around 480,000 card numbers, 64,000 pin numbers, and over 1 million passwords from victims used for websites and other online services, according to law enforcement agencies.

“By leveraging our Threat Intelligence and Digital Risk Protection, we are able to identify and monitor phishing attacks and websites like those deployed by LabHost and its subscribers around the world, enabling us to actively alert and protect our customers, and in turn, their customers as well,” said Dmitry Volkov, Chief Executive Officer of Group-IB. “Today’s takedown operation demonstrates the agility and responsiveness of our decentralized Digital Crime Resistance Centers, and how quickly we can provide immediate and local assistance wherever our customers may be.”
First uncovered in late 2021, LabHost emerged as a fully automated Phishing-as-a-Service (PhaaS) platform, streamlining the creation of phishing websites meticulously mirroring the interface and functionality of prominent banking, postal, and financial entities, aimed at intercepting, seizing, and profiting from users’ personal, credit card, and online banking credentials. Users are prompted to select from various “membership plans,” tailored to target businesses and individuals in either the United States and Canada, or globally, akin to mobile subscription models. These plans encompass “standard,” “premium,” and “world membership” tiers, priced between US$179 and US$300 monthly, with options for monthly, quarterly, or annual billing cycles.
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