SINGAPORE, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verde AgriTech Ltd. (TSX: “NPK”) ("Verde” or the “Company”) held its Annual General Meeting of shareholders (the “Meeting”) on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 300 Prof. Antônio Aleixo, Lourdes Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais Brazil, and is pleased to announce that its shareholders approved all items put before them. The results were as follows: Item Voted UponVoting Results Votes ForVotes AgainstAdoption of the 2024 Audited Statement of Accounts10,835,601(98.971%)112,679 ...

Group 1 - The article highlights that current market conditions and geopolitical shifts are creating unique investment opportunities that are often overlooked [1] - The author expresses a belief that it is an opportune time to revisit investment strategies due to these changing dynamics [1] Group 2 - There is a mention of a beneficial long position in the shares of NPK, indicating a positive outlook on this specific stock [2] - The article is presented as an independent opinion, with no external compensation influencing the views expressed [2]

Core Insights - Verde AgriTech Ltd reported a significant decline in sales and revenue for Q1 2025, primarily due to the ongoing crisis in Brazil's agricultural sector, which has affected product deliveries and market conditions [2][10][23]. Financial Performance - In Q1 2025, Verde's sales volume was 48,000 tons, a 44% decrease compared to Q1 2024, with revenue dropping to $2.9 million, also a 44% decline [8][25]. - The average revenue per ton sold decreased slightly to $59, while the average production cost per ton fell by 21% to $16, resulting in a gross profit margin of 73% [21][26]. - The net loss for Q1 2025 was $3.8 million, an improvement from a $4.8 million loss in Q1 2024, attributed to reduced non-cash expenses related to stock options [25]. Market Conditions - The Brazilian agricultural sector continues to face financial difficulties, with restricted access to credit and high debt levels among producers, leading to a conservative sales approach by Verde [10][12]. - Potash prices remained stable with an upward trend, indicating potential recovery in credit availability and commercial activity [11][14]. - The Selic rate, a key interest rate in Brazil, was at 14.75% at the end of Q1 2025, contributing to high financing costs and limiting investments in the agricultural sector [13]. Operational Highlights - Verde's installed capacity allows it to supply approximately 4% of Brazil's potash demand, highlighting the growth opportunity in a market valued at over $6 billion annually [4]. - The company has approved and delivered volumes equivalent to over 70% of the total delivered throughout 2024, with confirmed orders in 2025 being 40% higher than the same period in 2024 [3]. Debt Restructuring - Verde secured court approval for a debt renegotiation agreement, with approximately 92% of creditors agreeing to extended repayment terms of up to 126 months and reduced interest rates [8][9]. - The total restructured loan amount is approximately C$42.4 million, following a 75% reduction in principal obligations for certain debts [46]. Environmental Impact - Verde's products have the potential to capture up to 5,730 tons of CO2 through Enhanced Rock Weathering, with a total potential impact of 306,165 tons of CO2 since production began in 2018 [8][60].

Core Viewpoint - National Presto Industries, Inc. has experienced a significant decline in stock performance despite reporting strong earnings growth, particularly in its Defense segment, while facing challenges in consumer-facing segments due to tariffs and elevated material costs [1][5][6]. Financial Performance - The company reported first-quarter 2025 earnings per share of $1.07, up from 92 cents a year ago [2]. - Net sales reached $103.6 million, a 35.2% increase from $76.7 million in the prior-year period [2]. - Net earnings rose to $7.6 million, reflecting a 15.9% increase from $6.6 million in the first quarter of 2024 [2]. Segment Performance - The Defense segment saw sales surge by $25.9 million, or 47.1%, driven by increased backlog shipments [3]. - Operating earnings in the Defense segment climbed by $4.9 million or 58.6% [3]. - The Housewares/Small Appliance and Safety segments showed only nominal gains, with the Small Appliance business posting an operating loss due to unfavorable product mix and elevated material costs [4]. Management Insights - President Maryjo Cohen highlighted Defense growth as the main driver of overall performance, attributing it to increased shipments from backlog [5]. - Challenges in the Housewares segment were noted, particularly due to the impact of "Trump tariffs" set at 145% on certain imported goods, which significantly affected earnings [5]. - The company has paused new product announcements and purchasing activity in response to these challenges [5]. Cost Environment - Elevated material costs and punitive tariff rates have pressured margins, especially in the Housewares/Small Appliance segment [6]. - Tariff-related expenses were expensed immediately, further impacting profitability [6]. - The Safety segment continued to be a drag on overall profitability despite improved sales [6]. Portfolio Income - The company's portfolio earnings were described as "nominal" due to capital allocation needs in the Defense business [7]. - Increased inventory investments to support expanded Defense contracts limited funds available for interest or dividend-yielding instruments [7].

Company Overview - National Presto Industries, Inc. reported its results for the fiscal quarter ended March 30, 2025, in a press release issued on May 2, 2025[4]. - The company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol NPK[2]. - The registrant's address is 3925 North Hastings Way, Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54703-3703[1]. - The company has not indicated whether it is an emerging growth company[3]. Financial Reporting - The registrant's financial condition and results of operations are detailed in the press release[4]. - The report includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including government defense spending and competitive pricing pressures[5]. - The company has not disclosed specific financial metrics or performance indicators in the provided content[4]. Corporate Governance - The report was signed by Maryjo Cohen, President and Chief Executive Officer, on May 7, 2023[8]. Customer Relationships - The report emphasizes the importance of continuity in relationships with major customers, including the United States Government[5]. Regulatory Filings - The press release is filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Form 8-K[5].

Core Insights - Verde AgriTech Ltd has appointed Guilherme Medeiros as Chief Marketing Officer, effective March 2025, to enhance its marketing strategies and brand visibility [1][3] - Mr. Medeiros has nearly a decade of experience in agribusiness, having held significant roles at Syngenta Biologicals, ICL, and Stoller, where he implemented innovative marketing strategies and demand generation initiatives [1][2] - The appointment is seen as a strategic move to support Verde's expansion in Brazil and globally, focusing on low-carbon solutions and customer engagement [3] Company Overview - Verde AgriTech is dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture through the innovation of specialty multi-nutrient potassium fertilizers, aiming to increase agricultural productivity and enhance soil health [5] - The company utilizes proprietary technologies to develop solutions that address global challenges such as food security and climate change, with a commitment to carbon capture and eco-friendly fertilizers [5] Leadership Transition - The company expressed gratitude to Newton Nagumo, the previous CMO, for his contributions in shaping Verde's marketing strategy and will continue to support the company as a member of the Advisory Committee [4][5] - Mr. Medeiros's role will be pivotal in driving marketing innovation and supporting new product introductions, marking a turning point in Verde's journey [3]

Company Overview - Verde Agritech Ltd is an agricultural technology company focused on producing potash fertilizers, aiming to enhance the health of people and the planet [4] - The company operates fully integrated operations, mining and processing its feedstock from 100% owned mineral properties, and distributing its products internationally [4] - Verde is Brazil's largest potash producer by capacity, licensed to produce up to 2.8 million tonnes per year of multinutrient potassium fertilizers [4] Project Update - The company has issued a news release regarding the Man of War Project following a review by the Ontario Securities Commission, which includes an amended and restated National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report [1][2] - The updated Technical Report, effective December 18, 2024, has removed disclosures of geological resources and in-situ resources that do not have reasonable prospects for economic extraction [2] - The report is available on SEDAR+ under the company's profile [3] Mineral Resources - Verde has a combined measured and indicated mineral resource of 1.47 billion tonnes at 9.28% K2O and an inferred mineral resource of 1.85 billion tonnes at 8.60% K2O, totaling 295.70 million tonnes of potash in K2O [4] - In 2021, Brazil's total consumption of potash in K2O was 6.57 million tonnes, highlighting the significant demand for potash in the country [4] - Brazil ranks second in global potash demand and is the largest importer, relying on external sources for over 97% of its potash needs [4]

Core Viewpoint - Verde Agritech Ltd has successfully renegotiated its debt, securing extended payment terms and reduced interest rates, which enhances the company's liquidity and financial stability [1][16]. Group 1: Debt Renegotiation Details - The civil court has homologated Verde's Debt Renegotiation Agreement, which affects 92.2% of the total outstanding debt [1][2]. - Adherent creditors will benefit from a grace period of 18 months, during which all payments are suspended [5]. - The repayment term for the debt is set to 108 months, with a structured repayment plan that includes 10% repayment between months 19 and 54, 30% between months 55 and 90, and 60% between months 91 and 126 [5]. Group 2: Financial Terms - The principal amount will see a 75% reduction, equating to approximately R$7.0 million [5]. - Interest rates will be reduced to the Taxa Referencial (TR), currently around 0.81% per year, with interest accruing at CDI + 1.25% for the first three years, increasing to CDI + 2.5% thereafter [5]. - A symbolic monthly payment of R$100,000 will commence after six months [16]. Group 3: Company Overview - Verde Agritech is focused on sustainable agriculture through the innovation of specialty multi-nutrient potassium fertilizers, aiming to enhance agricultural productivity and soil health [3]. - The company utilizes proprietary technologies in Brazil to address global challenges such as food security and climate change [3].

Core Viewpoint - Verde Agritech Ltd and Nautica Holdings Limited have executed a Share Sale Agreement for the acquisition of high-grade magnetic rare earths exploration assets in Brazil, positioning Nautica as a significant player in the rare earths sector amid increasing global demand for critical minerals [1][2]. Transaction Overview - Nautica will acquire exploration assets from Verde's subsidiary, Oby Rare Earths Pty Ltd, which includes three primary targets with a maiden mineral resource estimate of 1.35 billion tons averaging 3,437 ppm Total Rare Earth Oxides (TREO) and 793 ppm Magnet Rare Earth Oxides (MREO) [6][7]. - The consideration for the assets involves the issuance of 2 billion shares in Nautica at $0.01 per share to Verde shareholders on the Record Date, resulting in a total of approximately 2.24 billion shares post-completion [6][7]. Strategic Rationale - The transaction aims to deliver long-term shareholder value for Verde's shareholders while aligning with Nautica's vision to secure rare earth minerals critical for technological advancements, including electric vehicles and renewable energy [8]. - Nautica's commitment of AUD $1 million for the project underscores confidence in the asset quality and potential economic value [10]. Strategic Next Steps - Following the acquisition, Nautica will prioritize preparations for an IPO on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and evaluate alternative strategic options, including potential listings in New York or direct asset sales [9]. Leadership Structure and Corporate Governance - The leadership structure post-completion will include Cristiano Veloso as Managing Director of Nautica, with robust governance measures in place to address potential conflicts of interest [11][12].

Core Insights - Verde AgriTech Ltd reported significant financial challenges in FY 2024, with a 43% decrease in revenue to CAD 21.6 million and a net loss of CAD 12.6 million, compared to a net loss of CAD 6.0 million in FY 2023 [13][21][22] - The Brazilian agricultural sector faced severe liquidity issues, leading to increased insolvencies among farmers and suppliers, which impacted Verde's sales and operational strategies [2][9][12] - The company successfully renegotiated its debts, covering over 99.8% of its outstanding obligations, which is expected to strengthen its financial position moving forward [4][5][6] Financial Performance - In FY 2024, Verde's sales volume decreased by 25% to 319,000 tons, with average revenue per ton falling by 23% [13][20] - EBITDA before non-cash events was -CAD 2.5 million in FY 2024, compared to CAD 2.0 million in FY 2023, indicating a significant decline in operational profitability [13][21] - The average cost of debt for the company was 16.2% per annum, reflecting the high-interest environment in Brazil [11] Market Conditions - The Brazilian agricultural market is experiencing a "perfect storm" of economic and climatic challenges, leading to a historic number of insolvencies [2] - High interest rates, projected to rise to 15.00% by the end of 2025, have restricted farmers' access to credit, further complicating their financial situations [10] - Despite these challenges, there is optimism for H2 2025 due to improved commodity prices and better climatic conditions [3] Debt Restructuring - Verde renegotiated loans with its two largest creditors, resulting in a repayment term extension to 120 months and a suspension of principal payments for 18 months, generating projected cash savings of R$115 million [4] - An agreement with creditors representing over 92% of total debt is expected to lead to a 75% reduction in outstanding balances for non-adherent creditors [5] - The restructuring plan is pending court approval, but the company is confident in its imminent recognition [7] Environmental Impact - Verde's products have the potential to capture up to 231,376 tons of CO2 and prevent 66,405 tons of CO2 emissions since production began in 2018 [56] - The company emphasizes its commitment to sustainable agriculture and carbon capture through its innovative fertilizer solutions [45]