Investment Strategy - FinTecBuzz https://fintecbuzz.com Fintech News Fri, 26 Jul 2024 06:41:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://fintecbuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cropped-Original-black-FinTech-512-32x32.png Investment Strategy - FinTecBuzz https://fintecbuzz.com 32 32 How ESG Aligns with Changing Consumer Values: The Rise of Socially Responsible Consumers https://fintecbuzz.com/environmental-social-corporate-governance-esg/ Thu, 25 Jul 2024 13:00:26 +0000 https://fintecbuzz.com/?p=62526 Discover how ESG strategies align with evolving consumer values and the rise of socially responsible consumers driving market trends.

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Table of contents:

1. Understanding ESG Investing
2. The Rise of Socially Responsible Consumers
2.1 Demographic Shifts
2.2 Consumer Values and Expectations
3. The Link Between ESG and Consumer Behavior
3.1 Consumer Awareness and Education
3.2 Brand Loyalty and Trust
3.3 Case Studies
4. The Impact of ESG on Business Performance
4.1 Financial Benefits:
4.2 Market Share and Competitive Advantage:
4.3 Long-term Sustainability:
5. Conclusion: A Symbiotic Relationship

Consumers are changing. Today it is no longer a matter of who has offered a cheaper product or a ‘better’ product but consumers are conscious of how those products are being produced, and the role that these companies play in the world. his shift towards socially responsible consumption has sparked a parallel movement in investing: Environment Social Governance – ESG.

Effectively, ESG investing considers firms through a celluloid of environmental, social, and governance issues in response to the values of these wary buyers. It’s a win-win: the organizations that aim for good results concerning people and the environment are also supported by like-minded customers and investors which, in return, bring positive outcomes to both aspects.

1. Understanding ESG Investing
Another term that has received considerable attention is ESG investing, a framework that measures the organization’s Environmental, Social, and Governance performances. This investment strategy aims at evaluating a business entity’s long-term worth by incorporating social and ecological factors into the equation apart from the financial indicators as usual practice.

  • Environmental (E) aspect relates to the responsibilities of a company with regard to the environment, such as energy consumption, carbon emissions, the disposal and usage of natural resources.
  • Social (S) elements entail organizational relationships with employees, customers, and communities. These are the labor issues, rights issues, and the social issue of the community involvement.
  • Governance (G) factors assess the board of directors, executive management, corporate culture, and shareholder relation.

The origin of ESG investing can be associated with socially responsible investing (SRI) of the 1960s and 1970s. But over the past few decades, it has become more assertive and relies on quantitative factors, which is referred to as ESG investing. Some of the important milestones are, the upgrading of ESG risks and opportunities in analysts’ conventional models, the emergence of ESG rating agencies, and more focus on sustainable reporting by the regulators.
There are already regulationss that have defined what ESG investing is going through or that will provide classification for sustainable economic activities, like the EU Taxonomy, and there is also the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) that requires increased transparency of the companies that engage in ESG investing.

2. The Rise of Socially Responsible Consumers
There is mounting evidence of a paradigm shift in the behavior of these consumers particularly because of the emergence of a new culture of socially and environmentally sensitive citizens. It also has a concepts and priorities shift which has important significance for business, providing an example of perceptions born by new consumer values.

2.1 Demographic Shifts
Consumers across the globe are increasingly being driven by the millennials and Generation Z consumers. These cohorts are noted to be very much conscious in issues of social and ecological responsibility. Born with a social conscience due to the current awareness on climate change, equity, and ethics, this generation wants the companies they deal with to be socially responsible.

2.2 Consumer Values and Expectations
Contemporary consumers are aware of several ethical factors that should be taken into consideration when buying products. Corporate responsibility, clear supply chain, and fairness in doing business are key factors that define the requirement. They look for brands that would reflect a genuine policy for protection of the environment, employment of right labor and political correctness among others.
For instance, the consumer will prefer products that are packed less or those packagings that are made from recyclable materials. Some of them want to know more about origin of the purchased products while others are also supporting the brands that consider the ethical issues of supply chain. Besides, there is an increased demand for the business to publish its operations and effects on the society and the external environment.
These shifts in consumer behavior point to the significance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria for organisations that want to grow in the current economy.

3. The Link Between ESG and Consumer Behavior
There is a clear shift due to consumers’ increased awareness and understanding that conscious consumption is the way forward. Such a change to the consumer profile is highly significant for companies if one wants to grasp the interactions between ESG factors and consumers.

3.1 Consumer Awareness and Education
The awareness regarding environmental and social issues has encouraged the consumers with tools to make better decisions. The information through the media, through the availability of information on the digital platforms, has been vital in informing consumers of the consequences of corporate activities. Hence, people have started paying more attention to the actions of a brand and pressure has been mounted on brands to deliver accountability.

3.2 Brand Loyalty and Trust
Companies demonstrating a genuine commitment to ESG principles are fostering stronger bonds with consumers. By aligning their values with societal concerns, these businesses build trust and loyalty. Consumers are more likely to support brands that share their ethical convictions, creating a powerful competitive advantage.

3.3 Case Studies
Numerous companies have successfully integrated ESG practices into their business models, reaping the rewards of enhanced consumer perception and loyalty. For instance, Patagonia’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability has cultivated a dedicated customer base. Similarly, companies like Unilever and Ben & Jerry’s have leveraged their ESG initiatives to drive positive brand image and consumer engagement.
These examples underscore the correlation between ESG and consumer behavior, highlighting the importance of incorporating ESG principles into a holistic business strategy.

4. The Impact of ESG on Business Performance
Beyond ethical considerations, embracing ESG principles offers tangible business advantages. Companies demonstrating strong ESG practices often reap significant rewards.

4.1 Financial Benefits:
ESG performance can directly influence a company’s financial health. By mitigating environmental risks, optimizing operational efficiency, and fostering positive social impact, businesses can reduce costs, enhance profitability, and attract investors seeking sustainable investments.

4.2 Market Share and Competitive Advantage:
In today’s consumer-driven market, aligning with ESG values is essential for gaining a competitive edge. Consumers increasingly prioritize brands with a strong social and environmental conscience. By demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, companies can build stronger brand loyalty, attract new customers, and differentiate themselves from competitors.

4.3 Long-term Sustainability:
ESG is not merely a trend but a fundamental shift in business operations. By integrating ESG principles into core strategies, companies ensure long-term resilience and adaptability. This forward-thinking approach not only benefits the planet but also positions businesses for sustained growth and success in an evolving marketplace.

5. Conclusion: A Symbiotic Relationship
The convergence of ESG investing and socially conscious consumerism marks a pivotal shift in the business landscape. As consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability, ethics, and transparency, companies that embrace ESG principles gain a significant competitive advantage. This symbiotic relationship is not merely a trend but a fundamental transformation in how businesses operate and how consumers make choices.
By aligning their values with those of their customers, companies can build enduring brand loyalty, enhance their reputation, and contribute to a more sustainable future. As the world becomes more interconnected and aware of the environmental and social challenges we face, ESG will continue to be a driving force in shaping the business landscape.

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Alternative Data Rise: FinTech Innovation with Sean Adler, GZI Finance https://fintecbuzz.com/alternative-data-rise-fintech-innovation-with-sean-adler-gzi-finance/ Thu, 18 Apr 2024 12:46:54 +0000 https://fintecbuzz.com/?p=58411 Alternative Data refers to non-traditional data sets that investors use to guide investment strategy, examples being credit card transactions, mobile device data, satellite imagery, social media sentiment, product reviews, weather data, web traffic, and app usage. The number of alternative-data providers is more than 20 times larger now than it was 30 years ago — with more than 400 currently active providers, compared to only 20 in 1990. A survey by the Alternative Investment Management Association...

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Alternative Data refers to non-traditional data sets that investors use to guide investment strategy, examples being credit card transactions, mobile device data, satellite imagery, social media sentiment, product reviews, weather data, web traffic, and app usage. The number of alternative-data providers is more than 20 times larger now than it was 30 years ago — with more than 400 currently active providers, compared to only 20 in 1990. A survey by the Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA) found that 34 percent of hedge fund managers surveyed said their firms are newly investing in alternative data.1 In an educational discussion with Karla Jo (KJ) Helms, the host of the Disruption Interruption podcast, Sean Adler—a versatile leader with a solid background in international tech startups, biotech, and fintech—offers insights into the intricate world of alternative data and its burgeoning influence on financial markets and biotech sectors. “Analyzing the effectiveness of alternative data is paramount,” Adler emphasizes. “It’s not just about the data itself, but how it’s interpreted and utilized.” He alludes to the fact that, while alternative data has gained traction, it is still in the process of being integrated more deeply into financial operations.

Fintech and Alternative Data

Fintech is a combination of the words “financial technology”—a catch-all term for technology used to augment, streamline, digitize, or disrupt traditional financial services.2   It refers to software, algorithms, and applications for both desktop and mobile.

With an astute focus on fintech’s revolution, Adler and KJ navigate the complex terrain of alternative data, from satellite imagery to mobile app analytics. They unpack the challenges of defining this emerging field, emphasizing the imperative of effective utilization.

Adler sheds light on the significance of alternative data in the financial services industry and how it presents a paradigm shift in decision-making processes, drawing from diverse sources such as tweet scores and credit card data.

Reshaping FinTech through Alternative Data          

With a keen eye on the future, Adler unveils the transformative potential of alternative data in reshaping the fintech landscape and revolutionizing traditional investment strategies. In discussing the tokenization of assets to the emergence of asset-backed cryptocurrencies, he hints at a future where data-driven innovation reigns supreme and becomes a cornerstone of decision-making across industries. He discusses the potential applications of alternative data beyond the financial sector, suggesting its relevance for enterprise expansion and analysis. He emphasizes the importance of understanding client needs to tailor data offerings effectively.

Reflecting on the future of his company GZI Finance, he expressed openness to exploration and collaboration, inviting feedback and engagement from interested parties with a focus on building mutually beneficial relationships. “We anticipate alternative data becoming more prevalent in the coming years,” shared Adler. “Understanding the market needs and designing products accordingly will be instrumental in this transition.”

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Morningstar brings the Evolving Investor to Future Proof https://fintecbuzz.com/morningstar-brings-the-evolving-investor-to-future-proof/ Tue, 12 Sep 2023 14:00:25 +0000 https://fintecbuzz.com/?p=49814 Morningstar launches new advisor-centered research, business intelligence solution for home offices, and the next step for its AI chatbot Mo

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Morningstar, Inc, provider of independent investment insights, joins Future Proof, the world’s largest wealth festival, Sept. 10-13, 2023 in Huntington Beach, Calif. with new market research and product developments that center around the Evolving Investor. The Morningstar Booth is #300, located at the south-central section of the boardwalk.

“Investor needs are changing, as they navigate opportunities brought upon by fast-moving technological developments, increases in investment choice, wealth transfer between generations, and the need for sound advice,” said Kunal Kapoor, chief executive officer at Morningstar. “We look forward to connecting with advisors and financial professionals alike this week at Future Proof to share our independent research and insights to empower investor success.”

Following the launch of The Voice of the Investor research at the Morningstar Investment Conference in April, Morningstar today published The Voice of the Advisor, which takes the pulse on the behavior of more than 600 financial advisors and wealth managers across the United States to reveal trends in their product and service offerings, how they allocate their times, and where they are looking for help.

The report found that advisors are focusing on the needs of their clients more than ever before, as shown by these key findings:

  • Advisors are responding to client needs and an uncertain market environment by offering more products – in the form of alternative assets. Advisors who are offering a wide variety of products to their clients say alternatives (cryptocurrency, structured products, liquid alternatives, REITs, private debt, and private equity) make up between 14% and 19% of their total AUM.
  • Advisors seemingly have a good basis for investors’ increased desire for personalization – spending an average of 20 hours per week on client-focused activities. This focus on the advisor-client relationship includes helping to identify and achieve specific life goals as well as customizing an investment strategy to risk tolerance, tax optimization, and time horizon.
  • Advisors are adapting to evolving market demand for additional services. 27% of advisors intend to expand their offerings in the next 12 months, with “sustainability advice” and “education planning” leading the way as the top new services advisors say they will explore.

Morningstar Launches Enterprise Analytics, Offering Compliance and Business Insights to Advisor Firms

Morningstar® Advisor WorkstationSM today debuted Enterprise Analytics, a suite of dashboards that surfaces business intelligence based on firmwide activities in Advisor Workstation. The three dashboards– Compliance, Insights, and Performance – help identify valuable data intel such as the percentage of proposals that may pose a regulatory risk, month-over-month trends in proposal volume, or the breakdown of most frequently proposed asset classes. Enterprise Analytics also enables firms to compare their activity to industry benchmarks.

“The Voice of the Advisor survey shows that advisors are spending more time creating personalized proposals that recommend a wider range of asset classes. As advisors work to meet evolving investor needs, home offices at advisor firms are eager to understand the impact to their business,” said Vimal Vel, head of enterprise software at Morningstar. “For our clients, Enterprise Analytics tells the story of how a firm’s advisors are adapting their investment recommendations using a powerful set of dashboards and aggregated business metrics.”

  • The Compliance Dashboard, which will be available at the end of the month, flags proposals that are likely to pose a regulatory risk from a variety of regulations, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission Marketing Rule, the Department of Labor Rollover Rule, or the Canadian Client-Focused Reforms regulation. Compliance teams can customize parameters to ensure that the dashboard aligns to the nuances of their compliance programs.
  • The Insights Dashboard will provide a holistic view of a firm’s investment recommendations, including the types of investments commonly researched and proposed, proposal generation numbers, and their geo-footprint. These insights show how a firm’s client relationships and investment recommendations are evolving.
  • The Performance Dashboard will offer benchmarking metrics that show firms how their advisors perform against the industry or their peer groups, helping to identify strengths and areas for opportunity.

Morningstar is offering Enterprise Analytics demonstrations at the Morningstar Booth #300 this week at Future Proof. Stop by to learn more and click here to learn about Morningstar Advisor Workstation.

Morningstar’s AI Chatbot Graduates to API

In continuing its efforts to bring artificial intelligence to the investing ecosystem, Morningstar is now making the platform that powers Mo, its AI chatbot that debuted in May, available through a new service. The Intelligence Engine API provides financial services firms with a means to build their own generative AI solutions, tailored to their distinct needs.

“Mo has answered tens of thousands of investment research questions in a few short months, demonstrating the impact generative AI can have on this space,” said Lee Davidson, chief analytics officer at Morningstar. “Resources are tight, and firms are looking for ways to streamline processes with AI. The Intelligence Engine API enables teams to redefine workflows, shifting analyst focus away from recurring tasks and toward higher value activities.”

The Intelligence Engine API draws from Morningstar’s breadth of independent data, research, and editorial content to produce relevant insights, and allows firms to integrate their own proprietary research so that responses generated from the service reflect their brand, perspective, and product offerings. The platform also incorporates responsibility in its design to help manage AI-related risks. With the Intelligence Engine API, firms can more quickly leverage this burgeoning technology to create engaging digital experiences for their advisors and their end clients.

Learn more about the Intelligence Engine here. The avatar version of Mo will also be on display all week at Future Proof at Morningstar Booth #300.

Morningstar Booth at Future Proof

Learn more about Morningstar’s presence at Future Proof and Evolving Investor activations at Booth #300 at the south-central part of the Huntington Beach boardwalk. The booth features Morningstar product demos, raffles for exciting giveaways, and receptions on Sunday and Monday. Reach out to newsroom@morningstar.com for additional information.

Fintech News – The Latest News in Financial Technology.

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Trinity Capital Inc. announced CEO Transition https://fintecbuzz.com/trinity-capital-inc-announced-ceo-transition/ Thu, 07 Sep 2023 15:00:29 +0000 https://fintecbuzz.com/?p=49626 Trinity Capital Inc, a leading provider of diversified financial solutions to growth-stage companies, announced that as part of the Company’s long-term succession plan, its Board of Directors has named Kyle Brown as Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2024. At the same time, Trinity’s current CEO, Steve Brown, will become Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors. This carefully designed leadership transition reflects the vision and planning of the Company’s management team and Board of Directors, who have...

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Trinity Capital Inc, a leading provider of diversified financial solutions to growth-stage companies, announced that as part of the Company’s long-term succession plan, its Board of Directors has named Kyle Brown as Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2024. At the same time, Trinity’s current CEO, Steve Brown, will become Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors.

This carefully designed leadership transition reflects the vision and planning of the Company’s management team and Board of Directors, who have worked collaboratively to ensure a seamless and effective handover of responsibilities. It underscores the Company’s long-term vision and commitment to delivering value to its stakeholders and positioning itself for continued excellence in the evolving growth-stage lending landscape.

Steve Brown, who founded Trinity Capital’s predecessor in 2008 and has served as Chairman and CEO since the Company’s inception, will continue to remain active in the firm’s operations, focusing on identifying value-enhancing strategic opportunities and continuing to serve on the Company’s Investment Committee. This new role will allow him to stay committed to the firm’s expansion and strategic vision, in collaboration with the Board of Directors.

Steve Brown commented, “This announcement is simply a formalization of what’s been happening at Trinity for quite some time now. Kyle and the executive team have been successfully leading day-to-day operations at Trinity, and I believe they are the best leadership team in the business. Kyle has been an integral part of Trinity’s growth and building our world-class team. As an accomplished entrepreneur, Kyle has demonstrated his ability to execute in a highly competitive industry. As the Trinity platform evolves, I believe Kyle’s leadership and experience, along with the deep experience of the executive team, will result in the continued growth of our platform, both on and off the balance sheet, driving shareholder value.”

Kyle Brown currently holds the position of President and Chief Investment Officer at Trinity, where he oversees the executive team, growth initiatives, and investment strategy. He also serves on the Board of Directors and will continue in that capacity. Kyle has a long tenure with Trinity Capital, starting early on, while the Company was managing private funds, and will begin his 10th year with the firm in January 2024. Under his leadership, the team has grown the balance sheet from $100 million to more than $1.1 billion AUM as of the second quarter of 2023.

“We greatly value Steve’s vision in leading Trinity to its current standing within the industry,” said Ronald Estes, Chair of the Audit Committee and Lead Independent Director at Trinity. “Kyle’s exceptional leadership, coupled with his experience as a successful entrepreneur and vast knowledge of the financial services sector, uniquely position him to take Trinity to its next phase of growth. The Board and I look forward to this next chapter and working with Kyle to oversee the execution of Trinity’s strategy.”

Kyle Brown said, “I am honored and thrilled to be stepping into the role of CEO of Trinity Capital. I am committed to building upon the solid foundation laid by Steve, and I am grateful for the trust placed in me by the management team and Board of Directors. With a continued focus on diversified and strategic investment in our various vertical markets, our goal is to continue to maximize Trinity’s platform and expand the portfolio, while implementing rigorous underwriting measures to mitigate risk. We will continue to identify, hire, and invest in the best talent in the world and provide those individuals with growth opportunities as we build out the Trinity platform. We believe that, together with our remarkable team and a differentiated strategy focused on return on equity, we will deliver for our investors and create long-term value.”

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Bake rolls out “Recurring Buys”, new dollar-cost averaging feature that enables customers to maximize returns and minimize risk https://fintecbuzz.com/bake-rolls-out-recurring-buys/ Thu, 10 Aug 2023 14:00:36 +0000 https://fintecbuzz.com/?p=48475 In conjunction with the launch, Bake is running a lucky draw contest in which winners
stand a chance to win $200,000 worth of prizes, including a brand new Tesla.

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Bake, a one-stop platform that provides easy access to decentralized finance (DeFi) services and applications, has rolled out Recurring Buys on its mobile app to make it easy for investors to dollar-cost average (DCA). The Recurring Buys feature leverages the power of DCA through automated token purchases at regular intervals.

DCA is a technique employed by experienced investors to lower average buying price, reduce price volatility and emotional buying decisions, and alleviate the complexity of market timing. By integrating DCA into their investment strategy, investors can eliminate the need to predict market movements and evenly distribute their investments through regular purchases. This protects investors from the impulse to time market fluctuations, a challenge amplified by the considerable volatility often seen in the cryptocurrency space.

Starting this August, Bake mobile app users can conveniently engage in monthly recurring purchases of their preferred cryptocurrencies through Recurring Buys, accompanied by the ability to earn a bonus of up to 11% monthly. Moreover, members of Bake’s membership program, ELITE, are entitled to receive an additional 1% on top of this bonus. DeFiChain (DFI) is the first cryptocurrency available, with plans for other coins to be supported soon.

In line with the roll-out of Recurring Buys, Bake has launched a Baking Hot Summer Giveaway promotion, which is running until 1 November 2023. Bake customers can collect tickets that will be entered into a lucky draw contest, in which winners stand a chance to win $200,000 worth of prizes, including a brand new Tesla.

To participate, customers simply need to set up a Recurring Buy on the Bake mobile app to earn tickets. They can also earn more tickets and increase their chances of snagging a prize by inviting friends to participate, and by signing up to be a member of ELITE. Participants who invite friends to participate will also earn commission rewards.

About Bake

Bake is the retail arm of Cake Group, one of the fastest growing digital assets innovators. Bake is a one-stop platform that provides easy access to decentralized finance (DeFi) services and applications, empowering customers to generate returns on their cryptocurrencies in a secure and transparent way.

Bake combines the best features of centralized finance (CeFi) and DeFi, including the customer support and ease-of-use of CeFi and the transparency and traceability of DeFi. In turn, Bake shapes a superior CeDeFi experience for retail customers.

For more information, please visit https://bake.io

Fintech News – The Latest News in Financial Technology.

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Ellington Financial and Great Ajax Corp. Announce Merger Agreement https://fintecbuzz.com/ellington-financial-and-great-ajax-corp-announce-merger-agreement/ Mon, 03 Jul 2023 15:00:33 +0000 https://fintecbuzz.com/?p=47050 − Transaction Increases Scale and Enhances Access to Securitization Markets –

− Synergistic Expansion Expected to Drive Earnings Accretion and Long-Term Growth −

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Ellington Financial Inc, (“Ellington Financial”), a real estate investment trust investing in a diverse array of financial assets including residential and commercial mortgage loans, and Great Ajax Corp. (NYSE: AJX) (“Great Ajax”), a real estate investment trust that invests primarily in residential mortgage loans, announced today that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement pursuant to which Ellington Financial will acquire Great Ajax. The transaction is expected to close by year-end 2023.

Pursuant to the merger agreement terms, each share of Great Ajax common stock will be converted into 0.5308 shares1 of Ellington Financial common stock, or approximately 12.5 million shares of Ellington Financial common stock in the aggregate.2 Ellington Financial’s common stock closing price on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) on June 30, 2023 implies an offer price of $7.33 per share of Great Ajax common stock, representing an approximate 19% premium to the Great Ajax common stock closing price on the NYSE on June 30, 2023. Upon the closing of the transaction, Ellington Financial stockholders are expected to own approximately 84% of the combined company’s stock, while Great Ajax stockholders are expected to own approximately 16% of the combined company’s stock.3 In addition, Ellington Financial will assume Great Ajax’s outstanding senior unsecured notes and convertible senior notes.

The combined company will operate as “Ellington Financial Inc.” and its shares will continue to trade on the NYSE under Ellington Financial’s current ticker symbol, “EFC.” Ellington Financial Management LLC, an affiliate of Ellington Management Group, L.L.C., will continue to manage the combined company.

“We are extremely excited about the opportunity to add a significant portfolio of strategic assets, including over $1 billion of highly creditworthy first-lien residential RPL and NPL investments at attractive prices, which complement our existing investment portfolio nicely and align with our expertise and existing management platform,” stated Laurence Penn, Ellington Financial’s Chief Executive Officer. “We believe that the benefits of this acquisition also include greater operating efficiencies, a larger market capitalization, and a closer relationship with Gregory Funding, Great Ajax’s highly respected affiliated mortgage servicer. We believe that this transaction will position us well to drive accretive earnings growth and provide strategic and financial benefits to our stockholders.”

“We are pleased to combine our investment portfolios and create a company that we believe will be well positioned for growth and value creation,” said Lawrence Mendelsohn, Great Ajax’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to working closely with the Ellington Financial team to complete the transaction and deliver value for our stockholders.”

Anticipated Benefits to Ellington Financial and Great Ajax Stockholders from the Acquisition:

  • Synergistic Expansion of Existing Business Lines: Great Ajax’s investment portfolio includes over $1 billion of first-lien residential re-performing loans (“RPLs”) and non-performing loans (“NPLs”), most of which are financed through term, non-mark-to-market, non-recourse securitizations, which would significantly expand Ellington Financial’s current RPL/NPL strategy. Combining Ellington Financial’s hedging, trading, and structuring capabilities with Great Ajax’s whole loan asset management resolution expertise is expected to create a unique platform that will optimize Great Ajax’s portfolio and deliver greater returns to shareholders.
  • Strategically Compelling: Great Ajax’s strategic equity investment in Gregory Funding LLC, its affiliated servicer, is expected to unlock multiple synergies and operating efficiencies across Ellington Financial’s investment portfolio.
  • Significant Increase to Scale: Estimated pro forma market capitalization in excess of $1 billion, which is expected to enhance liquidity for both Ellington Financial and Great Ajax shareholders. Anticipated increase in operating expense efficiencies resulting from fixed expenses spread over a larger equity base.
  • Strong Financial Rationale: Ellington Financial expects to rotate out of selected lower-yielding Great Ajax assets and redeploy capital in higher-yielding strategies. The transaction is expected to be accretive to earnings within one year of closing.
  • Enhanced Portfolio Diversification: Great Ajax’s NPL investment portfolio would enhance Ellington Financial’s portfolio diversification with assets that complement Ellington Financial’s existing investment strategy and align with Ellington’s expertise.

Additional information on the transaction and the anticipated effects on Ellington Financial can be found in Ellington Financial’s investor deck relating to the transaction posted on Ellington Financial’s website. The investor deck is also being furnished by Ellington Financial in a Current Report on Form 8-K being filed by Ellington Financial with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on the date hereof.

Management, Governance and Corporate Headquarters

Upon completion of the transaction, Ellington Financial’s Chief Executive Officer and President, Laurence Penn, will continue to lead the combined company, and Ellington Financial executives Michael Vranos, Mark Tecotzky, and JR Herlihy will remain in their current roles. The combined company will remain headquartered in Old Greenwich, Connecticut.

Timing and Approvals

The transaction has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of Ellington Financial and Great Ajax. The Board of Directors of Great Ajax formed a Special Committee comprised of independent directors (the “Special Committee”) to review the transaction and make a recommendation to the Board of Directors of Great Ajax. The transaction was unanimously recommended by the Special Committee. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2023, subject to approval by Great Ajax’s stockholders and other closing conditions set forth in the merger agreement.

Advisors

Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company is acting as exclusive financial advisor and Vinson & Elkins is acting as legal advisor to Ellington Financial. Piper Sandler & Co. is acting as exclusive financial advisor and Mayer Brown LLP is acting as legal advisor to Great Ajax. BTIG, LLC is acting as exclusive financial advisor to the Special Committee and Sheppard Mullin LLP is acting as legal advisor to the Special Committee.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE MERGER

In connection with the proposed merger, Ellington Financial intends to file a registration statement on Form S-4 with the SEC that includes a Great Ajax proxy statement and an Ellington Financial prospectus. This communication is not a substitute for the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus or any other documents that will be made available to the stockholders of Great Ajax. In connection with the proposed merger, Ellington Financial and Great Ajax also plan to file relevant materials with the SEC. GREAT AJAX STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ ALL RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC, INCLUDING THE RELEVANT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED MERGER. A definitive proxy statement/prospectus will be sent to Great Ajax’s stockholders. Investors may obtain a copy of the proxy statement/prospectus (when it becomes available) and other relevant documents filed by Ellington Financial and Great Ajax free of charge at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by Ellington Financial with the SEC will be available free of charge on Ellington Financial’s website at http://www.ellingtonfinancial.com or by contacting Ellington Financial’s Investor Relations at (203) 409-3575. Copies of the documents filed by Great Ajax with the SEC will be available free of charge on Great Ajax’s website at www.greatajax.com or by contacting Great Ajax at (503) 505-5670.

PARTICIPANTS IN SOLICITATION RELATING TO THE MERGER

Ellington Financial and Great Ajax and their respective directors and executive officers and certain other affiliates of Ellington Financial and Great Ajax may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Great Ajax stockholders in connection with the proposed merger.

Information about the directors and executive officers of Great Ajax is available in the proxy statement for its 2023 annual meeting of stockholders filed with the SEC on April 21, 2023. Information about the directors and executive officers of Ellington Financial is available in the proxy statement for its 2023 annual meeting of stockholders filed with the SEC on April 6, 2023. Other information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials filed with the SEC regarding the proposed merger when they become available. Great Ajax stockholders should read the proxy statement/prospectus carefully when it becomes available before making any voting or investment decisions. Investors may obtain free copies of these documents from Ellington Financial or Great Ajax using the sources indicated above.

NO OFFER OR SOLICITATION

This communication and the information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities or a solicitation of a proxy or of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed merger.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not historical in nature and can be identified by words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “plan,” “continue,” “intend,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “goal,” “objective,” “will,” “may,” “seek” or similar expressions or their negative forms. Such forward-looking statements may include or relate to statements about the proposed merger, including its financial and operational impact; the benefits of the proposed merger; the scale, market presence, portfolio diversification, liquidity or earnings of the combined company; enhanced access to securitization markets; anticipated synergies regarding Great Ajax’s equity investments in its affiliated servicer, Gregory Funding LLC; the relationship with Gregory Funding LLC; anticipated creditworthiness of acquired assets; alignment of acquired assets with existing management platform; anticipated operating efficiencies; anticipated market capitalization; beliefs about strategic and financial benefits; expected enhancements to liquidity; anticipated operating expense efficiencies; implementation of hedging, trading, and structuring capabilities and their impact on the portfolio and returns to stockholders; capital rotation out of certain assets and redeployment into other strategies; expected accretion to earnings and the timing of the expected accretion; investment opportunities and returns of the combined company; future growth; portfolio optimization; delivery of greater returns; the timing of future events; and other statements of management’s beliefs, intentions or goals. These statements are based on Ellington Financial’s and Great Ajax’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Ellington Financial and Great Ajax can give no assurance that their expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Ellington Financial’s or Great Ajax’s expectations include, but are not limited to, the risk that the proposed merger or any other proposed strategic transaction will not be consummated within the expected time period or at all; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement or the definitive agreement for any other proposed strategic transaction; the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the proposed merger or any other proposed strategic transaction, including any necessary stockholder approvals; risks related to the disruption of management’s attention from ongoing business operations due to the proposed merger or any other proposed strategic transaction; the effect of the announcement of the proposed merger or any other proposed strategic transaction on the operating results and businesses generally of Ellington Financial, Great Ajax or any other party to a proposed strategic transaction with Ellington Financial; the outcome of any legal proceedings relating to the proposed merger or any other proposed strategic transaction; the ability to successfully integrate the businesses following the proposed merger or any other proposed strategic transaction; changes in interest rates or the market value of the investments of Ellington Financial, Great Ajax or any other party to a proposed strategic transaction with Ellington Financial; market volatility; changes in mortgage default rates and prepayment rates; the availability and terms of financing; changes in government regulations affecting the business of Ellington Financial, Great Ajax or any other party to a proposed strategic transaction with Ellington Financial; the ability of Ellington Financial and Great Ajax to maintain their exclusion from registration under the Investment Company Act of 1940; the ability of Ellington Financial and Great Ajax to maintain their qualification as a REIT; changes in market conditions and economic trends, such as changes to fiscal or monetary policy, heightened inflation, slower growth or recession, and currency fluctuations; and other factors, including those set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Ellington Financial’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Great Ajax’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Ellington Financial’s and Great Ajax’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC, and other reports filed by Ellington Financial and Great Ajax with the SEC, copies of which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance or results and speak only as of the date such statements are made. Except as required by law, neither Ellington Financial nor Great Ajax undertakes any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement in this communication, whether to reflect new information, future events, changes in assumptions or circumstances or otherwise.

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WisdomTree Launches CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios https://fintecbuzz.com/wisdomtree-launches-corbu-x-wt-polymacro-model-portfolios/ Wed, 28 Jun 2023 17:02:03 +0000 https://fintecbuzz.com/?p=46858 WisdomTree, Inc, a global financial innovator, announces the launch of the CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios, a collaborative effort with CORBU, a research intelligence and advisory platform, designed for a rapidly changing global investment landscape. These model portfolios seek to capitalize on key policy pivots through a thematic view of global markets and asset allocation – a distinct process from the traditional index approach. CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios are designed using CORBU’s...

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WisdomTree, Inc, a global financial innovator, announces the launch of the CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios, a collaborative effort with CORBU, a research intelligence and advisory platform, designed for a rapidly changing global investment landscape. These model portfolios seek to capitalize on key policy pivots through a thematic view of global markets and asset allocation – a distinct process from the traditional index approach.

CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios are designed using CORBU’s proprietary “bottoms-up macro” thematic framework. This dynamic, data-driven process creates model portfolios that seek to exploit both strategic and tactical investment opportunities from a macroeconomic, geopolitical and national security perspective.

“CORBU’s experience on global economics and policy, combined with our innovative model trading and implementation platform, allows investors to harness the ever-evolving investment landscape in a forward-thinking way,” said Thomas Skrobe, Head of Product Solutions at WisdomTree. “This collaboration reinforces our dedication to help financial advisors deliver customized portfolios to their clients that in turn enables them to maximize efficiency and growth.”

The CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios will be available through the WisdomTree Portfolio and Growth Solutions platform. Designed for low turnover and driven by a continuous research process, materials summarizing the results of proprietary research that supported the model portfolio construction process will be made available on the platform. The current PolyMacro Model has three investment themes at its core:

  • Re-Regionalization: One of the major economic trends in the post-COVID world is “friend-shoring” to “de-risk” supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly with China. Countries in North America and Eastern Europe have been the beneficiaries of “near-shoring” efforts by the manufacturing and industrial sectors – now reluctant to commit further capital in China.
  • Return of the Alliance: Allies across Europe and Asia are critical to sustained U.S. global leadership across the economic, security, and technology frontiers. This renewed focus on the treaty allies and partners will be a key component of all ex-U.S. investment allocations.
  • From the Fed’s PoV: The Federal Reserve is trapped in a “Price over Volume”, or PoV, spiral. PoV has led corporate management teams to prioritize maintaining margins rather than expanding market share. This dynamic will continue to drive volatility in U.S. monetary policymaking.

“The CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios are the first collaboration of its kind to integrate geopolitics, policy, and global macro analysis into an actionable investment framework, and we’re excited to partner with WisdomTree in this innovative direction,” said Renè Aninao, the Managing Partner of CORBU.

Samuel Rines, CORBU Managing Director and the Portfolio Manager for the CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios notes that “WisdomTree’s active, differentiated suite of ETFs and Portfolio and Growth Solutions provide us with a unique capability to execute models in a cost-efficient manner, equipping investment advisors with the tools to navigate any market environment.”

Model rebalancing and trading will be provided by Adhesion Wealth, a provider of outsourced investment management solutions, giving their advisor clients direct access to a platform that will deliver a more customizable approach with advisor input. WisdomTree’s Portfolio and Growth Solutions platform enables advisors to prioritize customizable brand practices and fact sheets, investment design of models, and efficiencies across implementation, trading and tax transitions, which can serve as a springboard toward their growth.

CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolio information is designed to be used by financial advisors solely as an educational resource, along with other potential resources advisors may consider, in providing services to their end clients. The CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios and any related content are for informational use only and are not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, accounting, investment or financial planning advice by WisdomTree, nor should any CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolio information be considered or relied upon as investment advice or as a recommendation from WisdomTree, including regarding the use or suitability of any CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolio, any particular security or any particular strategy.

The CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios are not intended to constitute investment advice or investment recommendations from WisdomTree. The CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios do not take into account an individual’s financial circumstances. The strategies discussed are strictly for illustrative and educational purposes and are not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. There is no guarantee that any strategies discussed will be effective. The CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios should not be relied upon as a sole basis for an investment decision. Rather, an assessment should be made as to whether the information is appropriate in individual circumstances and consideration should be given to talking to a financial professional before making an investment decision. Your investment advisor may or may not implement CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios in your account.

The CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios do not constitute research, are not personalized investment advice or an investment recommendation from WisdomTree to any client of a third party financial professional, and are intended for use only by a third party financial professional, with other information, as a resource to help build a portfolio or as an input in the development of investment advice for its own clients. Such financial professionals are responsible for making their own independent judgment as to how to use the CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios. The performance of your account may differ from the performance shown for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to: your investment advisor, and not WisdomTree, is responsible for implementing trades in the accounts; differences in market conditions; client-imposed investment restrictions; the timing of client investments and withdrawals; fees payable; and/or other factors.

WisdomTree is not responsible for determining the appropriateness or suitability of the CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios, or any of the securities included therein, for any client of a financial professional. Information concerning the CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios – including holdings, performance, and other characteristics – may vary materially from any portfolios or accounts derived from the CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios. WisdomTree is also not responsible for determining the suitability or appropriateness of a strategy based on the CORBU x WT PolyMacro Model Portfolios. WisdomTree does not have investment discretion and does not place trade orders for your account. This material has been created by WisdomTree, and the information included herein has not been verified by your investment advisor and may differ from information provided by your investment advisor. WisdomTree does not undertake to provide impartial investment advice or give advice in a fiduciary capacity. Further, WisdomTree receives revenue in the form of advisory fees for our exchange-traded Funds and management fees for our collective investment trusts.

There are risks involved with investing, including possible loss of principal.

WisdomTree Funds are sold by prospectus only. You should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the WisdomTree Funds before making an investment decision. The prospectus contains this and other important information. Please read it carefully before investing. To obtain a printed copy, please call 866.909.WISE (9473).

WisdomTree Funds are distributed in the U.S. by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.

Thomas Skrobe is a registered representative of Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside Fund Services is not affiliated with other entities mentioned.

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Investing for Women – Strategies for Building Wealth and Achieving Financial Goals https://fintecbuzz.com/investing-for-women-strategies-for-building-wealth-and-achieving-financial-goals/ https://fintecbuzz.com/investing-for-women-strategies-for-building-wealth-and-achieving-financial-goals/?noamp=mobile#respond Tue, 07 Mar 2023 13:00:06 +0000 https://fintecbuzz.com/?p=42673 Learn to be financially savvy this International Women’s Day! Use these 5 strategies to build wealth and achieve your financial goals.

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Women actively started joining the workforce in industrialized nations, and a huge boom was noted in their participation, especially in the 20th century. Even then, women were largely limited to poor status and low-paid jobs in the economy. They didn’t earn enough to even think of investing, it was at best a foreign concept to most. So the popular adage in the financial world that says ‘men invest and women save’ proves to be true for the most part. The situation in the higher education sector looked no different for women. Even top universities like Cambridge started validating degrees for women in late 1947.

Today, times have changed. Women have started acquiring C-level positions in the workforce. There sure still is a huge disparity between the percentage of men and women who occupy higher job positions in the workforce, but we’re getting there. The point is, women are still very new to the concept of investments. All they’ve ever had the money for was to allocate to necessities and save the remaining. Now that women do earn enough to start investing and building wealth, they also have to work on the risk-averse nature that stops them from taking any financial risk. The unique challenges and needs that they face in their entire life make it even harder for them to properly plan their retirement.

In this blog, we’ll explore some effective strategies that will help women all around the world to work on achieving their financial goals, building wealth, and leading an independent and secure life. Let’s get right into it!

Crafting A Goal-Driven Investment Strategy

Having a specific goal can do wonders for your investment strategy. When you invest money with no distinct thought in mind you can sometimes be tempted to indulge in overspending. With a clear money strategy, you can get rid of this habit. It’s important to build a corpus keeping in mind inevitable circumstances such as inflation and retirement. 

Invest in both conservative annuity plans that guarantee risk-free investments and market-linked and fixed-income options that come with a part annuity. This way you take a partial risk and can be assured of sure-shot returns from part investment. Conduct thorough research before investing in market-linked options as they possess the potential for higher returns and are tax-efficient. 

Diversifying Your Asset Allocation Pool

Women tend to be more risk-averse when it comes to investing their money. According to a survey conducted by BlackRock, only 45% of women in the US invest in the stock market, compared to 63% of men. This risk-averse behavior can limit women’s ability to grow their wealth over time.

One of the first steps that women can take toward attaining financial independence is to challenge their risk-averse tendencies.

Instead of solely relying on savings accounts, women can diversify their investment portfolios across different asset classes such as stocks, bonds, cash, equity, gold, and real estate. Diversification helps spread out the risk and protect against market volatility. Diversification also leads to higher returns over the long run. A study by Vanguard found that a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds outperformed a portfolio that only invested in stocks over a 20-year period. By diversifying your portfolio, you can achieve a balance between risk and reward that aligns with your financial goals.

Consolidating Your Individual Assets And Liabilities

It’s important to have a strategic plan in place for managing your finances as a couple, including how to allocate your assets. You and your partner should work together to determine a sound asset allocation strategy that takes into account your monthly income, expenses, and savings. This means considering not only your salaries, but also any other sources of income such as investments in stocks, mutual funds, gold, property, and more.

By thoroughly evaluating your investment options and determining how much you can earn from each, you can create a comprehensive investment plan that aligns with your shared financial goals. This will help you make informed decisions about how to consolidate your individual assets and liabilities in a way that is mutually beneficial for both partners. 

Preparing For Retirement 

By beginning to save and invest for retirement as early as possible, you can create a larger corpus and achieve greater financial comfort in your golden years. For women in particular, planning for retirement is especially important. As women tend to live longer than men on average, they often have to rely solely on their own savings in later life. It’s important to start building a retirement corpus early on, taking into account the potential impact of factors such as inflation, increased longevity, and rising healthcare costs.

Make a list of rewarding investment plans that can generate income that exceeds your lifestyle needs, and explore different options for building your retirement corpus, such as investing in a variety of financial instruments, real estate, or starting your own business. By taking a proactive approach to planning for retirement, you can avoid financial stress and enjoy a comfortable retirement. Keep in mind that retirement planning is an ongoing process, so be sure to regularly review and adjust your strategy as needed. Remember, the earlier you start planning, the better off you’ll be in your golden years.

Engaging An Investment Advisor 

Engaging the services of a qualified investment advisor can be a smart move for women looking to take control of their financial future. While it’s great to have a trusted friend or family member to turn to for financial advice, there are often inherent biases and emotional attachments that can make it difficult to make objective decisions.

A professional investment advisor can help you navigate the complex world of finance, and provide you with expert guidance and support as you make important investment decisions. Working with an advisor can also help you stay on top of changes in the market, and ensure that your portfolio is structured to be tax-efficient. 

Remember, choosing an investment advisor is a personal decision, and it’s important to find someone who shares your values and understands your unique financial situation.

Summing Up

Investing for women is a critical component of building long-term financial security and achieving important life goals. By taking a proactive approach to managing your finances, seeking the advice of qualified professionals, and making informed investment decisions, you can create a strong foundation for a brighter financial future.Remember, investing is a long-term process, and it requires patience, discipline, and a commitment to ongoing learning and growth. With the right mindset and the right tools, however, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve success on your own terms. So take the first step today, and start investing in yourself and your future. The rewards will be well worth the effort.

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