Latest news with #SeanO'Connor
Hamilton Spectator
31-07-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
StoneX Completes Acquisition of R.J. O'Brien, Becoming the Largest Non-Bank FCM in the United States and Enhancing Global Multi-Asset Capabilities
NEW YORK, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — StoneX Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SNEX) ('StoneX' or the 'Company'), today announced the successful completion of its previously announced acquisition of R.J. O'Brien ('RJO'), the oldest independent futures brokerage in the United States. This transformative acquisition makes StoneX the largest non-bank Futures Commission Merchant ('FCM') in the U.S. and positions the company as a market leader in global derivatives. Founded in 1914, RJO supports over 75,000 client accounts and serves the industry's largest global network of approximately 300 introducing brokers ('IBs'), as well as commercial and institutional clients, and individual investors. RJO brings an attractive financial profile to StoneX, having generated $766 million in revenue and approximately $170 million in EBITDA during calendar 2024. As a combined company, StoneX provides clients with access to nearly every major global derivatives exchange, and offers one of the most comprehensive multi-asset platforms in the industry. RJO's clients can now access StoneX's extensive range of markets, products, and services, including an expansive over-the-counter ('OTC') hedging platform, physical commodity hedging, financing, and logistics services, as well as access to deep liquidity across fixed income products. Through the integration of the two companies, StoneX has targeted significant revenue synergies via cross-sell opportunities in OTC derivatives, physical commodity trading, and fixed income products. StoneX has also targeted $50 million in expense savings and unlocking at least $50 million in capital synergies through operational consolidation. The acquisition, which expands StoneX's client float by nearly $6 billion, is expected to enhance StoneX's margins, return on equity and be accretive to earnings. 'This is a proud moment for both companies. With more than 200 years of combined futures and commodities expertise, we are strengthening StoneX's role as an integral part of the global financial infrastructure,' said Sean O'Connor, Executive Vice-Chairman of StoneX. 'This acquisition creates an unmatched knowledge base and reinforces our position as the counterparty of choice for clients.' Philip Smith, Chief Executive Officer of StoneX, added: 'This transaction significantly expands our scale and increases our capabilities in several critical areas, including through a materially expanded client network and the addition of the leading introducing broker business. The combination of the companies' leading technologies and tools, such as in OTC hedging, risk management, and trading execution and liquidity across multiple asset classes, will deliver clients important benefits. This transaction adds significant value for our clients and reinforces our ability to deliver across asset classes through every market cycle.' Gerry Corcoran, Chairman and CEO of RJO, said: 'Today marks an exciting milestone as RJO joins StoneX to deliver broader services and greater reach to our clients. We will continue to deliver the same level of outstanding and personalized service we've always provided – now on an even larger scale with more extensive resources. We couldn't be more pleased about the cultural fit and strong client-first approach at StoneX that mirrors RJO's philosophy.' Speaking on behalf of the O'Brien family, the majority shareholders in RJO, Board member John O'Brien, Jr. said: 'We are incredibly proud of our heritage in the futures industry spanning nearly 111 years, along with the clients we've served and the industry we helped grow. We are grateful for the thousands of employees who have met our clients' needs so faithfully for all these years. And now, as we embark on the next chapter of this amazing story, we are confident that StoneX will carry on the important legacy of both firms while building a leading multi-asset global organization for the future.' About StoneX Group Inc. StoneX Group Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates a global financial services network that connects companies, organizations, traders and investors to the global market ecosystem through a unique blend of digital platforms, end-to-end clearing and execution services, high touch service and deep expertise. The Company strives to be the one trusted partner for its clients, providing its network, product and services to allow them to pursue trading opportunities, manage their market risks, make investments and improve their business performance. A Fortune 50 company headquartered in New York City and listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (NASDAQ: SNEX), StoneX Group Inc. and its more than 4,700 employees serve more than 54,000 commercial, institutional, and global payments clients, and more than 260,000 self-directed/retail accounts, from more than 80 offices spread across six continents. Further information on the Company is available at . About R.J. O'Brien Founded in 1914, R.J. O'Brien & Associates is one of the leading futures brokerage and clearing firms in the United States, serving more than 75,000 institutional, commercial and individual clients globally, in addition to a network of approximately 300 IBs. RJO services the industry's most expansive global network of IBs, a vast array of middle market firms and many of the world's largest financial, industrial and agricultural institutions. The firm offers state-of-the-art electronic trading and 24-hour trade execution on every major futures exchange worldwide. RJO received the FOW International Award for Non-Bank FCM of the Year for five consecutive years, and the firm and its UK affiliate have earned eight honors from the HFM Global publications (now With Intelligence) in recent years. Press Inquiries: stonex@ Investor Relations Inquiries: Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this release that are not historical facts are 'forward-looking' statements and 'safe harbor statements' within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks and/or uncertainties, including those described in StoneX's public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and not on historical facts. Examples of these statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the benefits of the proposed acquisition of RJO, including expected synergies and future financial and operating results, the plans, objectives, expectations and intentions of StoneX after the acquisition, the expected timing to close the acquisition and the expected use of proceeds of any debt financing. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. Therefore, we caution you against relying on any of these forward-looking statements. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in such forward-looking statements include the risks related to the proposed acquisition and the integration of RJO as well as the risks and other factors described in StoneX's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In providing forward-looking statements, StoneX is not undertaking any duty or obligation to update these statements publicly as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. If StoneX updates one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those other forward-looking statements. SNEX-G
Cision Canada
29-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
4AG Robotics Raises $40 Million Series B to Accelerate Global Adoption of Autonomous Mushroom Harvesting
, July 29, 2025 /CNW/ - 4AG Robotics, the global pioneer in fully autonomous mushroom harvesting, today announced the close of its $40 million CAD Series B financing, led by Astanor and Cibus Capital, with support from new investor Voyager Capital and existing investors InBC, Emmertech, BDC Industrial Innovation Fund, Jim Richardson Family Office, Stray Dog Capital and Seraph Group. This round follows a $17.5 million round in 2023, bringing total capital raised to $57.5 million in the past two years. The funding positions 4AG to meet surging global demand for its robotic harvesting platform, already in use across Canada, Ireland, and Australia, with new deployments soon to be underway in the Netherlands and the United States. "This funding helps us leap from a start-up proving our product works to a scale-up manufacturer trying to keep pace with demand," said Sean O'Connor, CEO of 4AG Robotics. "In just two and a half years, we've gone from asking farms to trial our technology to having deposits for over 40 additional robots. As one of the first companies to fully automate the human hand in produce harvesting, we're ushering in a new era for mushroom farming." 4AG's system uses AI-powered computer vision, precision suction grippers, and advanced motion control to autonomously harvest, trim, and pack mushrooms 24/7—without manual labor. Designed to retrofit into existing Dutch-rack infrastructure, the robots enable consistent quality, reduced labour costs, and real-time operational data for growers. "What sets us apart is we are not just a theoretical robotics project that works in a controlled lab environment—it's the real world experience and the systems thinking that is critical to working with the complexity of real farm environments, and being able to deliver commercially successful automation into those environments" said Chris Payne, COO of 4AG Robotics. The investment marks Astanor's entry as a major partner to 4AG Robotics. "We believe that, of all the agricultural sectors, mushrooms are the most poised for robotic solutions—and we believe that 4AG is not only the clear global leader today, but also has the potential, thanks to AI advances and their rich image data, to drive up yields and reduce inputs across the industry. 4AG could be at the forefront of the transformation of agriculture through AI and robotics," said Harry Briggs, Partner at Astanor Ventures. Cibus Capital, a leading agri-food tech investor based in the UK, also joined the round to support 4AG's continued expansion into Europe and beyond. "We are very excited to partner with 4AG, the global leader in agricultural harvesting robotics. Mushroom farming presents an enormous opportunity to utilise robotics and AI to drive labour optimisation together with higher yields and improved quality," said Archie Burgess, Investment Director at Cibus Capital. "The impressive 4AG team has already developed a fleet of robots that pick up to 1 million mushrooms per week. We look forward to supporting them in accelerating this trajectory." The global mushroom sector—expected to surpass $70 billion by 2030—continues to face labour shortages and margin pressure. In western markets, harvesting accounts for up to 50% of production costs. These challenges are amplified by the constant need of harvesting, with mushrooms doubling in size every 24 hours, and farms needing to harvest their crops everyday of the year. 4AG's plug-and-play robotic fleet offers growers a path to long-term competitiveness without reconfiguring their entire operation. "We're not just building robots—we're building a new operating system for the mushroom industry," said Michelle Lim, VP of Growth at 4AG Robotics. "Growers want tech that works out of the box, delivers ROI in under three years, and scales globally. That's what we've built. And this funding gives us the fuel to move even faster." With this capital, 4AG Robotics will: Expand its manufacturing footprint in Salmon Arm, BC Grow its field service and customer success teams Accelerate development of next-gen features like punnet packing, disease detection, and AI-driven yield optimization About Astanor Astanor is a leading impact investor transforming the agrifood sector, "from soil to gut" by backing ambitious entrepreneurs building scalable solutions for a regenerative, climate-positive future. Learn more at About Cibus Capital Cibus Capital is a London-based sustainable food and agriculture investment firm advising over USD 1 billion. Founded in 2016, the Cibus funds invest in companies transforming the food and agriculture value chain towards commercial viability, sustainability and resilience. Learn more at About 4AG Robotics 4AG Robotics builds fully autonomous harvesting systems that replace manual labour in commercial mushroom farms. Its AI-powered robots pick, trim, and pack mushrooms directly from existing infrastructure—around the clock, with precision and consistency. Founded in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, 4AG is active across five countries and backed by leading global investors. Learn more at
Irish Independent
25-05-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Ireland U-17s to face Paraguay, Uzbekistan and Panama in World Cup
Sean O'Connor Today at 14:58 Ireland's U-17s will face Paraguay, Uzbekistan and Panama in Group J in their first World Cup finals later this year. Colin O'Brien's side made history last March by becoming the first Irish side to qualify for the U-17 World Cup on account of their runners-up finish in Euro qualifying, and have today learned their group opponents for the tournament in Qatar, which kicks off on November 3.
Irish Independent
16-05-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
League of Ireland: All tonight's action as it happens
Just now The Union of European Clubs has signed up 125 clubs in 25 European leagues, including Ireland, with a proposal to allocate more UEFA funding to support clubs who bring through players from their academies. Several Irish sides could benefit: Irish clubs would gain six-figure fees from UEC plan on player development First Division side UCD would be in line for a boon of over €400,000 in solidarity payments from UEFA Champions League prize money if a proposal by lobby group Union of European Clubs is taken on board by UEFA. 4 minutes ago Some pre-match watching for you all – Aidan Fitzmaurice and Sean O'Connor preview tonight's round of League of Ireland action: 7 minutes ago Good evening and welcome to another live blog covering Matchday 16 of the League of Ireland Premier Division. My name is Ultán Corcoran, and I will be keeping you up to speed with all the action it unfolds around the grounds. We have five games kicking off at 7.45pm tonight as Bohemians host reigning champions Shelbourne with televised coverage on Virgin Media Two. We will also have updates from Drogheda United vs Derry City, Galway United vs Sligo Rovers, Athletic vs Cork City and Waterford vs Shamrock Rovers
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
R.J. O'Brien Agrees to Acquisition by StoneX Group
Combination Strengthens Firms' Position as a Leading Futures Brokerage and Clearing Firm CHICAGO and NEW YORK, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- R.J. O'Brien & Associates (RJO), the oldest futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States, announced today that its parent company has reached a definitive agreement with StoneX Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SNEX), to merge all of RJO's global businesses into StoneX, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Upon the closing of the transaction, anticipated in the third quarter of this year, the combined firm will become a leading futures commission merchant (FCM) in the U.S., enhancing its role in the global financial market structure. StoneX is a Fortune 100 company with operations in six continents and a market capitalization of over $3.5 billion. Privately held R.J. O'Brien has offices and affiliates in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Sean O'Connor, Executive Vice-Chairman of StoneX, said: "This is a transformational transaction for StoneX, establishing us as a leading global derivatives clearing firm and reinforcing our position as an integral part of the global market structure across asset classes. Combining R.J. O'Brien's extensive client network and proven clearing capabilities with StoneX's deep liquidity, innovative OTC hedging solutions and leading risk management infrastructure, we are well-positioned to continue to deliver exceptional services, broader market access and industry-leading solutions to our combined client base. We are very pleased that Gerry Corcoran, who has been the CEO and driving force behind RJO, will continue on with StoneX in a senior leadership role." RJO Chairman and CEO Gerry Corcoran said: "We're extraordinarily excited about this partnership between two great companies that each bring over a century of history in the futures industry and complementary capabilities, products, services and cultures. We both prioritize a profound commitment to our clients and a focus on prudent risk management. RJO's clients will continue to enjoy the same enduring relationships with the brokers they know so well and the high level of service they know they can expect from us. In addition to all the products we offer today, our clients and brokers will have a plethora of new products and services across asset classes available at their fingertips, bringing meaningful new trading and hedging opportunities. At the same time, our organization will benefit from new efficiencies, premier technologies and greater growth potential." Speaking on behalf of the O'Brien family, the majority shareholders in RJO, Board member Bob O'Brien, Jr. said: "This transaction is the right step to take for all of our stakeholders to ensure we carry on the values that have made the firm successful while putting us in the strongest position to compete and meet the challenges of the evolving financial landscape. StoneX was founded just 10 years after my grandfather, John V. McCarthy, started our firm in 1914. Like RJO, it was one of the earliest clearing members of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. So many of our family members have been privileged to lead the company and provide guidance and counsel. We feel so close to our clients, brokers and employees; they're extended family to us. This merger is the natural next step in the history of the company, and the O'Brien family is enthusiastic about playing a new role as major shareholders in another great company that will build on that legacy." RJO Board member John O'Brien, Jr. said: "My father, John O'Brien, Sr. – and his father before him, Robert J. O'Brien, Sr. – led the firm to new heights. My dad worked harder than anyone I have ever met, and his focus on integrity and profound impact on the business were matched only by how much he loved to talk about and spend time with RJO's clients, brokers and amazing employees. He would be the number one advocate for this transaction because it makes so much sense for all of our stakeholders – from employees and brokers to clients and shareholders. My father always said, 'If you're not growing, you're dying.' Gerry has done an incredible job leading the company and driving growth for over two decades while remaining true to our family's principles. He found just the right home for us with StoneX. Both RJO and StoneX have remained leaders in the industry, evolving with the times and expanding to ensure clients were best served. Moving forward together is the best way to stay a leader in this space and operate at an even higher level." Broadhaven Capital Partners is serving as exclusive financial advisor to RJO, and Mayer Brown LLP is serving as its legal advisor. The StoneX announcement about the transaction can be found at StoneX will host a conference call to discuss the transaction today at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time. A live web cast of the conference call as well as additional information to review during the call will be made available in PDF form on-line on the StoneX corporate web site at approximately ten minutes prior to the start time. Participants may preregister for the conference call here. About R.J. O'Brien Founded in 1914, R.J. O'Brien & Associates is the oldest independent futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States, serving more than 75,000 institutional, commercial and individual clients globally, in addition to a network of approximately 300 introducing brokers (IBs). RJO services the industry's most expansive global network of IBs, a vast array of middle market firms and many of the world's largest financial, industrial and agricultural institutions. The firm offers state-of-the-art electronic trading and 24-hour trade execution on every major futures exchange worldwide. RJO received the FOW International Award for Non-Bank FCM of the Year for five consecutive years, and the firm and its UK affiliate have earned eight honors from the HFM Global publications (now With Intelligence) in recent years. About StoneX Group Inc. StoneX Group Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates a global financial services network that connects companies, organizations, traders and investors to the global market ecosystem through a unique blend of digital platforms, end-to-end clearing and execution services, high touch service and deep expertise. The Company strives to be the one trusted partner to its clients, providing its network, product and services to allow them to pursue trading opportunities, manage their market risks, make investments and improve their business performance. A Fortune 100 company headquartered in New York City and listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (NASDAQ:SNEX), StoneX Group Inc. and its more than 4,400 employees serve more than 54,000 commercial, institutional, and payments clients, and more than 400,000 retail accounts, from more than 70 offices spread across six continents. Further information on the Company is available at View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE R.J. O'Brien & Associates Sign in to access your portfolio
