COVID-19 has caused 6.9 million deaths globally, more than double what official reports show

New analysis from IHME highlights the true toll of the pandemic

SEATTLE, May 6, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Globally, COVID-19 has caused approximately 6.9 million deaths, more than double what official numbers show, according to a new analysis by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington School of Medicine. IHME found that COVID-19 deaths are significantly underreported in almost every country. The updated analysis shows that the United States has had more COVID-19 deaths to-date than any other country, a total of more than 905,000. By region, Latin America and the Caribbean and Central Europe, Eastern Europe and Central Asia were hardest hit in terms of total deaths. This figure only includes deaths caused directly by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, not deaths caused by the pandemic’s disruption to health care systems and communities.

“As terrible as the COVID-19 pandemic appears, this analysis shows that the actual toll is significantly worse,” said Dr. Chris Murray, IHME’s director. “Understanding the true number of COVID-19 deaths not only helps us appreciate the magnitude of this global crisis, but also provides valuable information to policymakers developing response and recovery plans.”

The 20 countries with the highest number of total COVID-19 deaths, March 2020­–May 2021 

Country Total COVID-19 deaths Reported COVID-19 deaths
United States of America 905,289 574,043
India 654,395 221,181
Mexico 617,127 217,694
Brazil 595,903 408,680
Russian Federation 593,610 109,334
United Kingdom 209,661 150,519
Italy 175,832 121,257
Iran 174,177 72,906
Egypt 170,041 13,529
South Africa 160,452 54,390
Poland 149,855 68,237
Peru 147,765 62,739
Ukraine 138,507 46,737
France 132,680 105,506
Spain 123,786 85,365
Germany 120,729 83,256
Indonesia 115,743 45,938
Japan 108,320 10,390
Romania 87,649 28,382
Kazakhstan 81,696 5,620

Many deaths from COVID-19 go unreported because countries only report deaths that occur in hospitals or in patients with a confirmed infection. In many places, weak health reporting systems and low access to health care magnify this challenge.

IHME’s analysis found that the largest number of unreported deaths occurred in countries that have had the largest epidemics to-date. However, some countries with relatively smaller epidemics saw a large increase in the death rate when accounting for unreported deaths. This analysis shows that they may be at greater risk for a wider epidemic than previously thought.

“Many countries have devoted exceptional effort to measuring the pandemic’s toll, but our analysis shows how difficult it is to accurately track a new and rapidly spreading infectious disease,” Murray said. “We hope that today’s report will encourage governments to identify and address gaps in their COVID-19 mortality reporting, so that they can more accurately direct pandemic resources.” Moving forward, IHME’s COVID-19 modeling, which forecasts the potential course of the pandemic over the next several months, will be based on these estimates of total COVID-19 deaths. IHME’s modeling is updated weekly and can be accessed at covid19.healthdata.org.

Methodology

These estimates are based on IHME’s long-standing methodology for measuring the burden of diseases on a global scale. Since 1990, the Global Burden of Disease study has measured the total human cost of diseases.

IHME estimated total COVID-19 deaths by comparing anticipated deaths from all causes based on pre-pandemic trends with the actual number of all-cause deaths during the pandemic. This “excess mortality” figure was then adjusted to remove deaths indirectly attributable to the pandemic (for example, due to people with non-COVID conditions avoiding health care facilities) as well as deaths averted by the pandemic (for example, declines in traffic deaths due to lower mobility). The resulting adjusted estimates include only deaths directly due to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. A detailed write-up on methodology is available on IHME’s website.

About the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation

The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) is an independent global health research organization at the University of Washington School of Medicine that provides rigorous and comparable measurement of the world’s most important health problems and evaluates the strategies used to address them. IHME is committed to transparency and makes this information widely available so that policymakers have the evidence they need to make informed decisions on allocating resources to improve population health.

CONTACT: media@healthdata.org

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HF Markets (DIFC) Ltd to attend iFX EXPO Dubai 2021

DUBAI, UAE, May 6, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — On 19th May the leading and largest B2B conference in online trading, financial services and fintech opens its doors to event guests in Dubai, at iFX EXPO. HF Markets (DIFC) Ltd, the local subsidiary of HF Markets Group, is attending as event sponsor and exhibitor.

The eagerly anticipated iFX EXPO will take place at the exclusive 5-star Grand Hyatt Hotel, Dubai from 19-20 May 2021. Trusted by thousands of brands, the event is set to connect high-level executives in financial services and fintech from around the world.

During the two-day event, HF Markets (DIFC) Ltd representatives will welcome visitors and clients at the official company exhibition booth no.89 and provide them with a series of valuable information on the award-winning services of the company. Attendees will also have the opportunity to book a private session in advance, to meet with a member of the team and interact in person.

An HF Markets (DIFC) Ltd spokesperson commented: “We are excited to participate in such a prestigious event and be among industry pioneers. Our team will be looking forward to meeting with everyone who wishes to receive first-hand information about our award-winning affiliate program, the trading environment and multiple trading options that HF Markets (DIFC) Ltd offers to its regional traders.”

HF Markets (DIFC) Ltd is looking forward to meeting existing and prospective clients at iFX Expo Dubai 19-20 May 2021.

Visit the company’s website for more details about the event and to book your appointment.

About HF Markets Group

HF Markets Group, of which HF Markets (DIFC) Ltd is the locally DFSA regulated subsidiary, is an award winning forex and commodities broker, providing trading services and facilities to both retail and institutional clients. Through its policy of providing the best possible trading conditions to its clients and allowing both scalpers and traders using advanced trading AI algorithms unrestricted access to its liquidity. HF Markets Group has positioned itself as the forex broker of choice for traders worldwide. HF Markets Group offers various accounts types, trading software and tools to facilitate individuals and institutional customers to trade Forex and CFDs online.

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Knight-Hennessy Scholars announces new scholars in its 2021 cohort representing 26 countries and 37 graduate degree programs at Stanford

STANFORD, Calif., May 6, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program (https://kh.stanford.edu/) at Stanford University announced its 2021 cohort of 76 new scholars, with students from 26 countries, pursuing degrees in 37 graduate degree programs across all seven of Stanford’s graduate schools. The 76 new scholars will be joined by five scholars deferring from 2020, bringing the cohort size to 81. Profiles of the 2021 Knight-Hennessy Scholars are here (https://kh.stanford.edu/program/scholars) and summary statistics are here (PDF LINK).

Denning House. Photo Credit: Henrik Kam

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program cultivates and supports a highly engaged, multidisciplinary and multicultural community of graduate students from across Stanford University, and delivers a diverse collection of educational experiences, preparing graduates to address complex challenges facing the world. Knight-Hennessy Scholars participate in the King Global Leadership Program and receive up to three years of financial support to pursue a graduate degree program in any of Stanford’s seven graduate schools.

“At a time when humanity faces difficult challenges ranging from the pandemic to climate change to racial justice, we are delighted to welcome a set of scholars determined to contribute to finding solutions and making a better world,” said John L. Hennessy, president emeritus and the Shriram Family Director of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program.

The program strives to develop transformational leaders who have a strong cross-cultural perspective, create a bold vision for the future, inspire others through their words and actions, and are committed to a greater good. The King Global Leadership Program provides a collection of community building experiences, interactive workshops, meetings with global leaders, and personal development opportunities.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program has no quotas or restrictions based on region, college or university, field of study, or career aspiration. Among new 2021 scholars, 57% are women and 46% hold a passport from a non-U.S. country. Fifty-six percent of U.S. scholars identify as a person of color, and 11% have served in the U.S. military. The scholars earned undergraduate degrees at 16 international and 32 U.S. institutions. Twenty percent are the first in their family to attend college.

The inaugural cohort enrolled in 2018, and the fourth cohort brings the total scholar count to 270 to date. The program will eventually increase the intake of scholars to 100 per year. Scholars are selected based on their demonstration of independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset. “Each scholar is selected to add a unique perspective to the cohort, contributing to a highly multicultural and multidisciplinary community,” said Tina Seelig, Executive Director of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program.

The application for the 2022 cohort will open August 1 and is due October 6. The program offers online information sessions to describe the community, program, and admission process.

About Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Announced in 2016, the program is named for Phil Knight, MBA ’62, philanthropist and co-founder of Nike Inc., and John Hennessy, chairman of Alphabet Inc. and president of Stanford (2000-2016). Knight-Hennessy Scholars is the largest fully endowed graduate fellowship in the world.

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‫أعلن برنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز عن التحاق باحثين جدد بفوج عام 2021 ممثلين 26 دولة و37 برنامجًا للدراسات العليا في جامعة ستانفورد.

 جامعة ستانفورد، كاليفورنيا، 6 مايو 2021 /PRNewswire/ — أعلن برنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز (https://kh.stanford.edu/) في جامعة ستانفورد عن التحاق 76 باحثًا جديدًا بفوج عام 2021، مع وجود طلاب من 26 دولة، يسعون للحصول على درجات علمية في 37 برنامجًا للدراسات العليا في جميع كليات الدراسات العليا السبع الموجودين في جامعة ستانفورد. وبالإضافة إلى انضمام 76 باحثًا جديدًا، سينظم للبرنامج خمس باحثين مؤجلين من عام 2020، بحيث يصبح إجمالي عدد الباحثين بالفوج 81 باحثًا. يرد في الرابط التالي الملفات التعريفية الخاصة بالباحثين المشاركين في برنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز لعام 2021 (https://kh.stanford.edu/program/scholars) وترد بالرابط التالي إحصاءات موجزة (رابط ملف بصيغة بي دي إف).

Denning House. Photo Credit: Henrik Kam

ينمي برنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز مجتمعًا من الطلاب الخريجين الملتزمين تمامًا ومتعددي التخصصات والثقافات في نطاق جامعة ستانفورد ويدعمهم، ويقدم مجموعة متنوعة من التجارب التعليمية، حيث يعمل على تحضير الخريجين للتصدي التحديات المعقدة التي تواجه العالم. يشارك الباحثين من برنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز في برنامج ذا كينج للقيادة العالمي “The King Global Leadership Programويتلقون الدعم المالي لفترة تصل إلى ثلاث سنوات للمشاركة في أحد برامج الدراسات العليا في أي من كليات الدراسات العليا السبع الموجودين في جامعة ستانفورد.

 قال جون إل.هينيسي، الرئيس الفخري ومدير عائلة شري رام في برنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز “وفي الوقت الذي تشهد فيه البشرية تحديات تمتد من انتشار الجائحة وتصل حتى تغير المناخ والعدالة العرقية، يسرنا أن نرحب بمجموعة من الباحثين الذين من المقرر أن يساهموا في التوصل إلى حلول وجعل العالم مكانًا أفضل”

يسعى البرنامج لإعداد قادة قادرين على إحداث تغيير ولديهم رؤية شاملة لعدد من الثقافات، وخلق رؤية جريئة للمستقبل وإلهام الآخرين من خلال أقوالهم وأفعالهم وملتزمين بتحقيق المصلحة العامة. يقدم برنامج ذا كينج للقيادة العالمي مجموعة من التجارب وورش العمل التفاعلية واجتماعات مع قادة عالميين وفرص للتنمية الذاتية بحيث تسهم في بناء المجتمع.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University

 لا يقوم برنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز على نظام الحصص ولا يخضع لأي قيود تتصل بالدين أو الكلية أو الجامعة أو مجال الدراسة أو التطلعات الوظيفية. تصل نسبة النساء بين الباحثين الجدد لعام 2021 إلى 57% و46% من الباحثين يحملون جواز سفر من خارج الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية. ستة وخمسون بالمئة من الباحثين المتواجدين في الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية من أصحاب البشرة الملونة و11% منهم خدموا في الجيش الأمريكي. حصل الباحثون على درجاتهم الجامعية من 16 مؤسسة عالمية و32 مؤسسة تقع في الولايات المتحدة. عشرون بالمئة منهم هم أول من يرتاد الجامعة في أسرتهم.

 التحق الفوج الأول بالبرنامج عام 2018، ومع تسجيل الفوج الرابع وصل إجمالي عدد الباحثين المشاركين حتى الآن إلى 270 باحثًا. مع مرور الوقت، سيقوم البرنامج بزيادة عدد المشاركين ليصل إلى 100 باحث في العام الواحد. يتم اختيار الباحثين وفقًا لما يتضح منهم من استقلالية في الفكر والقيادة الهادفة والعقلية المدنية. قالت تينا سيليج، المديرة التنفيذية لبرنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز “يتم اختيار كل باحث حتى يضيف رؤية فريدة إلى الفوج، ويساهم في مجتمع متعدد التخصصات والثقافات”.

سيبدأ التقديم على الالتحاق بفوج عام 2022 في 1 أغسطس وسينتهي في 6 أكتوبر. يقدم البرنامج دورات للمعلومات على الإنترنتلشرح طبيعة المجتمع والبرنامج وعملية الالتحاق.

معلومات حول برنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز

أطلق البرنامج عام 2016، سمي البرنامج نسبة إلى فيل نايت، حامل درجة الماجستير في ريادة الأعمال ’62، رجل الخير والشريك المؤسس لشركة نايكي، وجون هينيسي، رئيس شركة ألفابت ورئيس جامعة ستانفورد (2000-2016). يُعد برنامج نايت هينيسي سكولارز أكبر برنامج للزمالة مقدم بالكامل للخريجين في العالم.

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Hisense Kicks off #UpgradeYourHome Campaign for UEFA EURO 2020 with Campaign Ambassador Dwyane Wade and Football Legends

NYON, Switzerland, May 6, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Hisense, as a Global Partner of UEFA EURO 2020, launches the #UpgradeYourHome campaign to encourage consumers to upgrade their home appliances for summer season.

Dwyane Wade officially kicks off Hisense's #UpgradeYourHome campaign by calling out to European football legends including Marco Materazzi and Lukas Podolski to bring the Upgrade Season to Europe.

Hisense appointed Dwyane Wade as the global ambassador for this year’s campaign to encourage sports fans and consumers to upgrade their home with prize. Wade officially kicks off the #UpgradeYourHome campaign by calling out to European football legends including Marco Materazzi and Lukas Podolski to bring the Upgrade Season to Europe.

#UpgradeYourHome is activated on May 6th, consumer who purchases a Hisense product before July 11th, will be invited to register at global.hisense.com for a valid competition entry. Participants are eligible to enter the giveaway to win €10,000. To tie in with the “Upgrade” theme, the campaign provides an opportunity for consumers to upgrade their home appliances to get ready for the summer season and creates an exclusive connection among the tournament’s audience in a compelling way.

Along with the #UpgradeYourHome campaign, Hisense introduces hero products to get sports fans ready for UEFA EURO 2020.

U7QF

A ULED TV with Quantum Dot Colour delivers over a billion shades of colours. Hisense’s Full Array Local Dimming technology utilizes independently controlled dimming zones for added precision. With the Sports Mode feature, U7QF creates a truly vibrant crystal-clear sports scene full of vivid colours and rich layers. It brings the authentic cinematic experience home with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision™ support, plus immersive sound by Dolby Atmos®.

U8GQ

Astonishing levels of colour purity are unlocked with U8GQ. This Quantum Dot HDR ULED TV gets users closer to reality with over 1 billion true-to-life colours, while Ultra HD Premium offers exceptional 4K clarity. Over 90 independently controlled dimming zones achieve pinpoint detail even in the darkest scene. An AI Picture Optimization system automatically adjusts the picture quality for the best viewing experience according to the scenario identified. The TV brings the actual cinematic experience home with IMAX Enhanced, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision IQ™ support and immersive Dolby Atmos® sound with Multi-Channel Surround.

PureFlat

Hisense’s PureFlat series is advanced in design and ice and water dispenser. With the integrated ice and water dispenser, users have a permanent supply of chilled water and a crushed or cubed ice maker. The interior space is massive and adaptable with innovative storage solutions such as the convertible door that can turn into a fridge or a freezer in a wide temperature range.

For more information on the campaign, visit global.hisense.com.

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Bombardier Reports First Quarter 2021 Financial Results, Affirms Full Year Financial Guidance and Delivery Outlook

  • Business jet revenues of $1.3 billion, up 18% year-over-year, mainly driven by a favourable mix of large-cabin aircraft deliveries, including eight Global 7500 aircraft

  • Adjusted EBITDA(1) from continuing operations of $123 million, up 43% year-over-year, reflecting an improved aircraft mix, Global 7500 aircraft learning curve progress and cost structure improvements; adjusted EBIT(1) from continuing operations of $29 million. Reported EBIT from continuing operations for the quarter was $19 million

  • Free cash flow usage(1) from continuing operations of $405 million, including ~ $100 million of non-recurring cash items(2), an improvement of $357 million year-over-year. Reported cash flows from operating activities – continuing operations for the quarter was a usage of $372 million and net additions to PPE & intangible assets – continuing operations for the quarter were $33 million

  • First quarter book-to-bill(3) > 1.0 on strong sales activity, which is expected to continue(4) into the second quarter

  • Strong pro-forma liquidity(4) of $2.6 billion, which includes $0.6 billion in proceeds from sale of Alstom shares. Bombardier has deployed ~ $2.4 billion toward balance sheet deleveraging year-to-date, expected to reduce annual cash interest costs by ~ $200 million versus its 2020 debt servicing cost

All amounts in this press release are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated.
Amounts in tables are in millions, unless otherwise indicated.

MONTRÉAL, May 06, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bombardier (TSX: BBD.B) announced today its financial results for the first quarter of 2021 and affirmed its full year 2021 financial guidance and delivery expectations of 110-120 aircraft.

“In our first quarter as a pure-play business aviation company, Bombardier delivered solid financial performance,” said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bombardier. “This includes growth in business jet revenues, margin expansion and significantly improved cash performance. We also continue to make strong progress on each of our strategic priorities: maturing the Global 7500 aircraft program, delivering on our productivity initiative, executing our aftermarket growth strategy and deleveraging our balance sheet – setting the foundation for a more resilient and profitable business.”

First Quarter 2021 Financial Performance

Business jet revenues during the first quarter of 2021 totalled $1.3 billion, an 18% year-over-year increase. This increase was mainly driven by an improved mix of large-cabin aircraft deliveries, including eight Global 7500 aircraft. Total aircraft deliveries in the quarter equalled 26, in line with expectations and the company’s full-year delivery targets. Order activity in the quarter was strong, resulting in a book-to-bill ratio of greater than 1.0. Robust sales activity and positive market trends are expected to continue(5) into the second quarter.

Adjusted EBITDA for continuing operations in the quarter was $123 million, a 43% increase year-over-year, reflecting a favourable aircraft mix, progress on the Global 7500 aircraft learning curve, cost structure improvements and the divestitures of margin dilutive businesses. Adjusted EBIT for continuing operations was $29 million.

First-quarter free cash usage for continued operations totalled $405 million, including approximately $100 million of non-recurring cash items, representing a $357 million year-over-year improvement.

Balance Sheet Deleveraging Actions

As previously disclosed by Bombardier, the sale of its Transportation business was completed on January 29, 2021. Since the divestiture of Bombardier Transportation, Bombardier has deployed approximately $2.4 billion of liquidity, including proceeds from the Transportation sale, toward deleveraging its balance sheet. This includes the full repayment of the total outstanding balance of $750 million drawn on the $1.0 billion senior secured term loan facility with HPS Investment Partners, LLC and the recently concluded approximately $1.6 billion tender offer to purchase certain outstanding notes. Together, these actions are expected to reduce the company’s annual cash interest costs by approximately $200 million versus its 2020 debt servicing cost.

The company continues to consider various options to address other debt maturities in an opportunistic manner, with a focus on clearing a three-year runway providing the company with a path to execute its strategy.

Affirming Full Year 2021 Guidance and 2025 Objectives

“With our solid performance in the first quarter, and our markets in recovery and key initiatives well underway, we remain confident in our ability to deliver on both our full-year financial guidance and longer-term objectives,” Martel continued. “This includes: (i) diversifying the company’s revenue mix by growing aftermarket services to ~ 27% of revenues by 2025; (ii) achieving a 20% reduction in Global 7500 aircraft unit costs between the 50th and 100th aircraft delivery; and (iii) obtaining $400 million in recurring savings by 2023. Through these actions, we work on transforming Bombardier into a more predictable, profitable and resilient company.”

SELECTED RESULTS

Results of the Quarter
Three-month periods ended March 31 2021
2020 Variance
restated(6)
Revenues(7) $ 1,341 $ 1,522 (12)%
Adjusted EBITDA $ 123 $ 86 43 %
Adjusted EBITDA margin(1)(7) 9.2 % 5.7 % 350 bps
Adjusted EBIT $ 29 $ 9 222%
Adjusted EBIT margin(1)(7) 2.2 % 0.6 % 160 bps
EBIT(7) $ 19 $ 105 (82)%
EBIT margin(7) 1.4 % 6.9 % (550) bps
Net loss from continuing operations $ (251 ) $ (281 ) 11 %
Net income from discontinued operations $ 5,321 $ 81 6,469 %
Net income (loss) $ 5,070 $ (200 ) nmf
Diluted EPS from continuing operations (in dollars) $ (0.10 ) $ (0.12 ) $ 0.02
Diluted EPS from discontinued operations (in dollars) $ 2.13 $ 0.01 $ 2.12
$ 2.03 $ (0.11 ) $ 2.14
Adjusted net loss(1)(7) $ (173 ) $ (182 ) (5)%
Adjusted EPS (in dollars)(1)(7) $ (0.07 ) $ (0.08 ) $ 0.01
Cash flows from operating activities
Continuing operations $ (372 ) $ (686 ) (46)%
Discontinued operations $ (621 ) $ (857 ) (28)%
$ (993 ) $ (1,543 ) (36)%
Net additions to PP&E and intangible assets
Continuing operations $ 33 $ 76 (57)%
Discontinued operations $ $ 23 (100)%
$ 33 $ 99 (67)%
Free cash flow (usage)
Continuing operations $ (405 ) $ (762 ) (47)%
Discontinued operations $ (621 ) $ (880 ) (29)%
$ (1,026 ) $ (1,642 ) (38)%
As at March 31, 2021
December 31, 2020 Variance
Cash and cash equivalents excluding Transportation $ 3,153 $ 1,779 77 %
Cash and cash equivalents from Transportation $ $ 671 (100)%
$ 3,153 $ 2,450 29 %
Available short-term capital resources(8) $ 3,153 $ 3,203 (2)%
Aviation order backlog (in billions of dollars)
Business aircraft(9) $ 10.4 $ 10.7 (3)%


KEY HIGHLIGHTS AND EVENTS

Progress on the Reshaping of Bombardier’s Balance Sheet

Following the conclusion of the sale of its Transportation business, Bombardier has proceeded to deploy approximately $2.4 billion of available cash towards debt repayment, including proceeds from the sale of the Transportation business. As a result, Bombardier expects to reduce its annual cash interest costs by approximately $200 million versus its 2020 debt servicing cost. Following the first quarter results, as well as the conclusion of these actions, the Corporation’s pro-forma liquidity remains strong at $2.6 billion, which includes $0.6 billion in proceeds from the sale of Alstom shares.

The deployment of the proceeds consisted of the following initiatives:

  • On February 19, 2021, Bombardier deployed $0.8 billion and completed the full repayment of its senior secured term loan with HPS Investment Partners, LLC.
  • On April 19, 2021, Bombardier announced the expiration of its tender offer to purchase for cash certain of its outstanding Notes. The aggregate purchase amount of the cash tender offer amounted to a total consideration of $1.6 billion.

First Quarter Financial Performance

  • Business jet revenues up 18% year-over-year, totalling $1.3 billion; this increase is mainly driven by a favourable mix of large-cabin aircraft deliveries and the fact that we are now operating at a steady delivery rate for the Global 7500.
  • Adjusted EBITDA of $123 million from continuing operations for the quarter up 43% year-over-year reflecting an improved aircraft mix, an acceleration of the Global 7500 learning curve benefits, and improvements in the cost structure. Reported EBIT from continuing operations for the quarter was $19 million.
  • Free cash flow usage from continuing operations for the quarter totalled $405 million including approximately $100 million of non-recurring cash items, representing an improvement of $357 million year-over-year. Reported cash flows from operating activities – continuing operations for the quarter was a usage of $372 million and net additions to PPE & intangible assets – continuing operations for the quarter were $33 million.
  • Business aircraft deliveries for the quarter totalled 26 units, on par with 2020; company remains on plan for 110-120 deliveries in 2021 within a market showing preliminary signs of recovery(5). Stronger sales activity in the first quarter yielded a unit book-to-bill ratio above 1.0, which is expected to continue into the second quarter.

About Bombardier

Bombardier is a global leader in aviation, creating innovative and game-changing planes. Our products and services provide world-class experiences that set new standards in passenger comfort, energy efficiency, reliability and safety.

Headquartered in Montréal, Canada, Bombardier is present in more than 12 countries including its production/engineering sites and its customer support network. The Corporation supports a worldwide fleet of approximately 4,900 aircraft in service with a wide variety of multinational corporations, charter and fractional ownership providers, governments and private individuals.

News and information is available at bombardier.com or follow us on Twitter @Bombardier.

Bombardier, Global and Global 7500 are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

For information

Francis Richer de La Flèche Anna Cristofaro
Vice President, Financial Planning Manager
and Investor Relations Communications
Bombardier Bombardier
+514 855 5001 x13228 +514 855 8678

The Management’s Discussion and Analysis and the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements are available at ir.bombardier.com.

bps: basis points
nmf: information not meaningful
(1) Non-GAAP financial measures. Refer to the Non-GAAP financial measures section in Overview for definitions of these metrics and to the Analysis of consolidated results section and Liquidity and capital resources section in Overview for reconciliations to the most comparable IFRS measures.
(2) Non-recurring cash items include the impact of winding down the reverse factoring programs, payments of residual value guarantee liability and restructuring costs.
(3) Ratio of new aircraft orders in units over aircraft deliveries in units.
(4) Non-GAAP measure. Pro-forma liquidity is defined as cash and cash equivalents as at March 31, 2021, of $3.2 billion, plus approximately $0.6 billion of Alstom shares, plus $0.4 billion of short-term restricted cash as collateral for bank guarantees, and less $1.6 billion paid to repurchase certain outstanding Notes in April 2021.
(5) See the forward-looking statements disclaimer.
(6) Restated for the sale of Transportation, refer to Note 17 – Disposal of business to our Interim consolidated financial statements for more details.
(7) Includes continuing operations only.
(8) Defined as cash and cash equivalents as at March 31, 2021; defined as cash and cash equivalents including cash and cash equivalents from Transportation plus the undrawn amounts under Transportation’s revolving credit facility and our senior secured term loan as at December 31, 2020.
(9) Includes order backlog for both manufacturing and services.

CAUTION REGARDING NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This press release is based on reported earnings in accordance with IFRS and on the following non-GAAP financial measures:

Non-GAAP financial measures
Adjusted EBIT EBIT excluding special items. Special items comprise items which do not reflect the Corporation’s core performance or where their separate presentation will assist users of the consolidated financial statements in understanding the Corporation’s results for the period. Such items include, among others, the impact of restructuring charges, impact of business disposals and significant impairment charges and reversals.
Adjusted EBITDA Adjusted EBIT plus amortization and impairment charges on PP&E and intangible assets.
Adjusted net income (loss) Net income (loss) excluding special items, accretion on net retirement benefit obligations, certain net gains and losses arising from changes in measurement of provisions and of financial instruments carried at FVTP&L and the related tax impacts of these items.
Free cash flow (usage) Cash flows from operating activities less net additions to PP&E and intangible assets.

Non-GAAP financial measures are mainly derived from the consolidated financial statements but do not have standardized meanings prescribed by IFRS. The exclusion of certain items from non-GAAP performance measures does not imply that these items are necessarily non-recurring. Other entities in our industry may define the above measures differently than we do. In those cases, it may be difficult to compare the performance of those entities to ours based on these similarly-named non-GAAP measures.

Adjusted EBIT, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income (loss)
Management uses adjusted EBIT, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income (loss) for purposes of evaluating underlying business performance. Management believes these non-GAAP earnings measures in addition to IFRS measures provide users of our Financial Report with enhanced understanding of our results and related trends and increases the transparency and clarity of the core results of our business. Adjusted EBIT, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income (loss) exclude items that do not reflect our core performance or where their exclusion will assist users in understanding our results for the period. For these reasons, a significant number of users of the MD&A analyze our results based on these financial measures. Management believes these measures help users of MD&A to better analyze results, enabling better comparability of our results from one period to another and with peers.

Free cash flow (usage)
Free cash flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities less net additions to PP&E and intangible assets. Management believes that this non-GAAP cash flow measure provides investors with an important perspective on the Corporation’s generation of cash available for shareholders, debt repayment, and acquisitions after making the capital investments required to support ongoing business operations and long-term value creation. This non-GAAP cash flow measure does not represent the residual cash flow available for discretionary expenditures as it excludes certain mandatory expenditures such as repayment of maturing debt. Management uses free cash flow as a measure to assess both business performance and overall liquidity generation.

Reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable IFRS financial measures are provided in the table hereafter, except for the following reconciliations:

  • adjusted EBIT to EBIT – see the Consolidated results of operations section; and
  • free cash flow usage to cash flows from operating activities – see the Free cash flow usage table in the Liquidity and capital resources section in the MD&A.
   Reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA to EBIT(1)
Three-month periods
ended March 31

2021 2020
EBIT $ 19 $ 105
Amortization 94 77
Impairment charges on PP&E and intangible assets(2) 3 11
Special items excluding impairment charges on PP&E and intangible assets(2) 7 (107 )
Adjusted EBITDA $ 123 $ 86
(1) Includes continuing operations only.
(2) Refer to the Consolidated results of operations section for details regarding special items.

SALE OF THE TRANSPORTATION BUSINESS TO ALSTOM SA

On September 16, 2020, the Corporation, Alstom and CDPQ and certain related parties signed a definitive sale and purchase agreement for the sale of the Transportation business through the sale of the entire issued share capital of BT Holdco (“SPA”). On January 29, 2021, the Corporation closed the sale of the Transportation business to Alstom.

See Note 21 – Commitments and contingencies, to our interim consolidated financial statements, for more information regarding the indemnities and guarantees related to the sale of Transportation.

The transaction resulted in a gain of $5,321 million reflected in net income from discontinued operations.

For details, refer to Note 17 – Disposal of businesses, to our interim consolidated financial statements.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release includes forward-looking statements, which may involve, but are not limited to: statements with respect to our objectives, anticipations and outlook or guidance in respect of various financial and global metrics and sources of contribution thereto, targets, goals, priorities, market and strategies, financial position, financial performance, market position, capabilities, competitive strengths, credit ratings, beliefs, prospects, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions; general economic and business outlook, prospects and trends of an industry; customer value; expected demand for products and services; growth strategy; product development, including projected design, characteristics, capacity or performance; expected or scheduled entry-into-service of products and services, orders, deliveries, testing, lead times, certifications and execution of orders in general; competitive position; expectations regarding revenue and backlog mix; the expected impact of the legislative and regulatory environment and legal proceedings; strength of capital profile and balance sheet, creditworthiness, available liquidities and capital resources, expected financial requirements, and ongoing review of strategic and financial alternatives; the introduction of, productivity enhancements, operational efficiencies, cost reduction and restructuring initiatives, and anticipated costs, intended benefits and timing thereof; the anticipated business transition to growth cycle and cash generation; expectations, objectives and strategies regarding debt repayment, refinancing of maturities and interest cost reduction; expectations regarding availability of government assistance programs, compliance with restrictive debt covenants; expectations regarding the declaration and payment of dividends on our preferred shares; intentions and objectives for our programs, assets and operations; and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the foregoing and the effectiveness of plans and measures we have implemented in response thereto; and expectations regarding gradual market and economic recovery in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. As it relates to the sale of the Transportation business to Alstom, this press release also contains forward-looking statements with respect to the benefits of such transaction, the use of the proceeds derived from the transaction and its impact on our outlook, guidance and targets, operations, infrastructure, opportunities, financial condition, business plan and overall strategy.

Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “shall”, “can”, “expect”, “estimate”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “foresee”, “believe”, “continue”, “maintain” or “align”, the negative of these terms, variations of them or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements are presented for the purpose of assisting investors and others in understanding certain key elements of our current objectives, strategic priorities, expectations, outlook and plans, and in obtaining a better understanding of our business and anticipated operating environment. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

By their nature, forward-looking statements require management to make assumptions and are subject to important known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause our actual results in future periods to differ materially from forecast results set forth in forward-looking statements. While management considers these assumptions to be reasonable and appropriate based on information currently available, there is risk that they may not be accurate. The assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements made in this press release include the following material assumptions: the deployment of the proceeds from the sale of the Transportation business to Alstom on terms allowing the Corporation, when combined to other financing sources and free cash flow generation, to repay or otherwise manage its various maturities for the next three years; growth of the business aviation market and increase of the Corporation’s share of such market; proper identification of recurring cost savings and executing on our cost reduction plan; optimization of our real estate portfolio, including through the sale or other transaction in respect of real estate assets on favorable terms; and access to working capital facilities on market terms. For additional information, including with respect to other assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements made in this press release, refer to the Forward-looking statements — Assumptions section in the MD&A of our financial report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 which may be viewed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Given the impact of the changing circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the related response from the Corporation, governments (federal, provincial and municipal), regulatory authorities, businesses, suppliers, customers, counterparties and third-party service providers, there is inherently more uncertainty associated with the Corporation’s assumptions as compared to prior years.

Certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, risks associated with general economic conditions, risks associated with our business environment (such as risks associated with the financial condition of business aircraft customers; trade policy; increased competition; political instability and force majeure events or global climate change), operational risks (such as risks related to developing new products and services; development of new business ; order backlog; the transition to a pure-play business aviation company; the certification of products and services; the execution of orders; pressures on cash flows and capital expenditures based on seasonality and cyclicality; execution of our strategy, productivity enhancements, operational efficiencies, restructuring and cost reduction initiatives; doing business with partners; product performance warranty and casualty claim losses; regulatory and legal proceedings; environmental, health and safety risks; dependence on certain customers, contracts and suppliers; supply chain risks; human resources; reliance on information systems; reliance on and protection of intellectual property rights; reputation risks; risk management; tax matters; and adequacy of insurance coverage), financing risks (such as risks related to liquidity and access to capital markets; retirement benefit plan risk; exposure to credit risk; substantial debt and interest payment requirements; restrictive debt covenants; reliance on debt management and interest cost reduction strategies; and reliance on government support), market risks (such as foreign currency fluctuations; changing interest rates; increases in commodity prices; and inflation rate fluctuations). For more details, see the Risks and uncertainties section in Other in the MD&A which may be viewed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Any one or more of the foregoing factors may be exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak and may have a significantly more severe impact on the Corporation’s business, results of operations and financial condition than in the absence of such outbreak. As a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic, additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: risks related to the impact and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on economic conditions and financial markets and the resulting impact on our business, operations, capital resources, liquidity, financial condition, margins, prospects and results; uncertainty regarding the magnitude and length of economic disruption as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak and the resulting effects on the demand environment for our products and services; uncertainty regarding market and economic recovery in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic; emergency measures and restrictions imposed by public health authorities or governments, fiscal and monetary policy responses by governments and financial institutions; disruptions to global supply chain, customers, workforce, counterparties and third-party service providers; further disruptions to operations, orders and deliveries; technology, privacy, cyber security and reputational risks; and other unforeseen adverse events.

Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future growth, results and performance is not exhaustive and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. Other risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we presently believe are not material could also cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in our forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements set forth herein reflect management’s expectations as at the date of this press release and are subject to change after such date. Unless otherwise required by applicable securities laws, we expressly disclaim any intention, and assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.