Northern Territory Don't miss out on the headlines from Northern Territory. Followed categories will be added to My News. One of the best things about living in the Northern Territory is the quality of its dining experiences. Our strong Asian influences from our near neighbours, the quality of our seafood and beef, and our boundary pushing in native game meats and Aboriginal techniques combine to give the NT a regional identity that cities in the golden triangle of southeast Australia could only dream of. Despite persistent concerns about the impacts of elevated levels of crime and economic headwinds, dozens of small businessmen and women invested to fulfil dreams of feeding the people in 2024. These are the 25 new entrants we were most taken by. SMOKEY J’S BREW & QUE Located at Coolalinga Central, Smokey J’s instantly struck a chord with locals in Darwin’s rural fringe , many of whom knew pitmaster Justin Whitrow from his time slinging low ‘n’ slow Texas-style barbecue at the Beachfront and Darwin River hotels. Smokey J's Brew & Cue Coolalinga Central thumbnail art. Picture: File His menu is a carnivore’s delight: the offering of pit-smoked meats includes Angus brisket, pork belly, pulled pork shoulder, jalapeño cheese links, burnt ends, and chargrilled chicken, while burgers and an extensive snack list (chargrilled corn ribs, mac ‘n’ cheese etc) also feature prominently. Smokey J’s, which is fully licensed, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday. BEEF & BAR Darwin Waterfront has been a flurry of activity on the hospitality front this year, but perhaps no change was more unexpected than when owner Jazz Walia shuttered his well-regarded Urban Spice Pantry Restaurant and turned it into up-market steakhouse, Beef & Bar . Jazz Walia, who also owns the Top End’s three Fresh Point Co. cafes. Picture: Che Chorley Mr Walia, who is among the Top End’s first line of hospitality kingpins, courtesy his ownership of the Fresh Point Co. trio of cafes and also Bellamack’s Palates of India, said he made the switch with an eye on Darwin’s overall gastronomic mix, noting we have far fewer steakhouses than Indian restaurants. The ribeye at new Darwin steakhouse Beef & Bar. Picture: Supplied/ Shah Shoots Boasting a tight menu of six cuts of steak and eight mains, allied to an innovative cocktail menu and a seafood-heavy list of entrees, Beef & Bar sings all the greatest hits but also strikes a few new notes as well. DOCK ONE BAR & FOOD An instant hit courtesy its prime position overlooking Stokes Hill Wharf, Darwin Waterfront and Fort Hill, Dock One Bar & Food is the newest outpost in the expanding empire of Darren Lynch and his business partners , which includes Wharf One, The Precinct and Bella Bar. Courtesy the nifty cantilevered design, punters are able to sit out over the harbour and quaff cocktails while nibbling at tapas seven days a week. Dock One Bar & Food at Darwin Waterfront. Picture: File Choice cuts from the menu include smoked lamb ribs with Davidson plum sauce, harissa and parmesan arancini, barramundi with mash and mango vinaigrette, and roasted cauliflower with mustard and macadamia. KASAMA CAFE Located within Casuarina Square’s The Quarter precinct, the backstory of Filipino restaurant Kasama Cafe’s owner Tina Patterson is almost as good as her chicken and pork savoury adobo. Beef bulalo at Kasama Cafe. Picture: Facebook Having honed her skills at Mindil Beach Casino Resort and gained qualifications via Charles Darwin University TAFE, Ms Patterson was able to gain the confidence to take the plunge in small business, with her daughter Julia at her side. Kasama Cafe, a new venue that opened up in Casuarina Square. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin According to Ms Patterson, Filipino cuisine is heavy on marinated meats, as traditionally there were no fridges to store the perishable food, and most dishes are built on bases of soy and vinegar. PERK & PALATE Move over Melbourne, because with the addition of Perk & Palate , the second Darwin cafe by Jayson Javier and Cess Vizcarra, after their debut Coffee Man, the NT capital is rising fast in the estimation of out-and-proud coffee snobs. Jayson Javier has opened his second Darwin cafe, Perk and Palate. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin Perk & Palate, located on the ground floor of the TIO Centre, has some of Darwin’s most outstanding baristas manning the portafilters, and expands upon a grab ‘n’ go sandwich and snack menu with a full a la carte brunch menu. Jayson Javier has opened his second Darwin cafe, Perk and Palate. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin Going one step further than a classic smashed avo, Perk & Palate offers such brunch creations as chicken adobo benny, soft shell crab salad, and chilli scramble with slipper lobster. MERAKI GREEK TAVERNA / BARAKI Not quite a debut, more a revival, but the whole of Darwin raised a glass of ouzo when Meraki Greek Taverna returned after a hiatus forced upon it due to structural issues at its former Smith St premises. Popular Darwin Greek restaurant Meraki has reopened in Austin Lane. Meraki, with its city chic coolness and sophisticated fit-out, is a perfect match for Austin Ln, its new home, while the more spacious surrounds also allowed it to open up a meze and cocktail bar, Baraki, next door. Popular Darwin Greek restaurant Meraki has reopened in Austin Lane. The restaurant, which was awarded best international restaurant at the 2022 NT Gold Plate Awards, offers some of the most authentic Greek food you are ever likely to see on this side of the Aegean, with Kalymnian dishes especially prominent. BEER GARDEN OF EDEN Meraki wasn’t the only new addition to Austin Ln, with Babylon Bar and Lola’s Pergola supremo Matt Mulga establishing Beer Garden of Eden in an under-utilised carpark . Beer Garden of Eden comes alive during events such as the Darwin Street Art Festival and Austin Lane Markets. Beer Garden of Eden at intersection of Austin Ln and Spain Pl. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin The bar is memorably capped with a large fibreglass cow, its hide decked out in mirror tiles, the sort of wacky fairground decor aficionados of Mulga’s other venues will be well familiar with. KROME Another expansion of a burgeoning Darwin coffee empire, Krome is perfectly positioned to capture the 9–5 crowd at Casuarina Plaza . It is the second cafe by Reed Alanes, whose debut offering, The 1995 on Cavanagh St, has become one of the city’s busiest cafes since its September 2022 opening. Reed Alanes owner of the 1995 Cafe, is getting ready to launch a new coffee spot called KROME in Casuarina. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin Customers can expect the “same vibe [and the] same good looking people” at Krome as The 1995, but with a new “deli style” grab ‘n’ go range of food, headlined by a range of sandwiches and rolls made with in-house cured meats like pastrami, Mr Alanes previously said. BARRA BANH MI Banh mis have swiftly risen to become one of Australia’s favourite sandwiches and in Darwin the local offering has been further expanded by Barra Banh Mi, located at Casuarina Square. Boasting noodle salads, Vietnamese iced coffee and the famous sandwiches, which typically contain crispy roast pork, lashings of chilli and pate, coriander, carrot, and cucumber stuffed within a freshly baked roll, Barra Banh Mi is a fine addition to Darwin’s stable of Vietnamese eateries. SCROLL TIME BAKERY & CAFE The third Casuarina Square addition to make this list, Scroll Time made the jump north of the Berrimah Line around the same time as Barra Banh Mi. Cherry and Emman Angcon, founders of Scroll Time Bakery & Cafe. Beginning life at Coolalinga Shopping Centre, where its main bakery cafe remains, owners Cherry Angcon and her husband Emman previously said they had been wanting to take their award-winning pies, rolls and scrolls closer to town . Cherry is responsible for the scrolls, while Emman takes the lead on pies and sausage rolls. ROLL’D DARWIN AIRPORT Roll’d has, since its first outlet opened in 2012, gone on to become a homegrown fast food giant, with about 100 outlets nationwide, but until now, its growth had circumvented the Territory. However, their fresh rice paper rolls, noodle salads, banh mis and phos finally made it to the NT with the opening of their first outlet at Darwin Internatinal Airport . The new outlet will is operated by SSP Australia, one of the ‘big four’ which has cornered the airport food and beverage market in Australia. Most travellers would be unaware who SSP is, but Darwin jetsetters owe them a debt of gratitude – they were also the company that brought the ever-popular Red Rooster outlet to the airport. BRAVO PASTA & WINE BAR The brainchild of Italian Australian restaurateur Anthony Falanga, Bravo, which opened on January 3, is yet another new addition to Darwin Waterfront’s burgeoning dining scene. Anthony Falanga. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin Featuring heavily Venetian artwork, vintage posters celebrating the cuisine and culture of the peninsula nation, and tasteful wood panelling, Mr Falanga previously promised an “intimate” environment for diners. “You’re supposed to feel like you’re sitting at your grandparents’ house,” he said. Inside Bravo Pasta & Wine Bar. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin “It’s meant to be intimate and cozy – it’s not fine dining, but it’s a nice atmosphere.” Its menu is a greatest hits set list of Italian favourites – several recipes have come directly from his family – including ravioli milanese, veal scaloppine, osso bucco, and polpette al sugo. CRAZY CHICKS CAFE Replacing the long-term vacancy created by the departure of Oka Malaysian & Chinese Cuisine from Bakewell Shopping Centre, Crazy Chicks Cafe was born of a desire to offer cash-strapped families an affordable option to take the crew out for brunch and not break the bank. Sisters in law, Lisa Mason and Jennifer Burslem, who between them have eight children – you might even be served at the cafe by one of their older offspring – have long collaborated, with previous businesses including event hire, a gift shop and market stalls. Sisters in law and business partners Lisa Mason and Jennifer Burslem at Crazy Chicks cafe, gifts and catering at Bakewell Shopping Centre. Picture: Supplied Crazy Chicks Cafe, which offers catering and event hire, and is chock full of locally made trinkets (the pastry cabinet is also a who’s who of Top End baking talent), combines many of the pair’s previous businesses into a one-stop shop. The $10 meal deal, featuring a gourmet sandwich such as BLT alongside a regular coffee, has proven especially popular. SIMPLY DONUTS Another new addition to Bakewell Shopping Centre, Simply Donuts previously lived life as a pop-up retailer that flitted variously between Gateway Shopping Centre and Casuarina Square, but its first brick and mortar store represented a step change for the family business . Simply Donuts opened on June 7 – National Donut Day. Simply Donuts' new shopfront at Bakewell Shopping Centre. Picture: Supplied Owned by husband and wife duo Isaac and Vanessa Broad, ably supported by their children and a cast of nieces and nephews, Simply Donuts sets itself apart by its gluten-free offering. But, lest punters equate gluten-free with dry and stodgy product that is a pale imitation of the original, Mr Broad previously said his business stood by the moistness and richness of its doughnuts. Grace, Isaac and Vanessa Broad at Simply Donuts Bakewell. Picture: Supplied Their menu is a movable feast, with various flavours being introduced and pulled from shelves in response to customer demand. Recently featured flavours include egg nog, Caramilk and cookies, Nutella swirl, Boston custard, s’more, and lemon cheesecake. Q EATS New bites south of the Top End are few and far between, but Thai restaurant Q Eats flew the flag in Alice Springs, with sibling duo Jojo and Winwin Pethsri calling Todd St home since late August The pair come from good pedigree, with their mother formerly running a Thai restaurant herself. Qeats Alice Springs owners Jojo and Winwin Pethsri out the front of the their new Alice Springs restaurant. Picture: Gera Kazakov The pair’s menu starts off as reasonably western at breakfast, transitions to western-Thai fusion at lunchtime, and by dinner becomes fully Thai. Dinner options include sophisticated dishes such as red duck curry with lychee and pineapple, soft shell crab with tamarind sauce, and whole baby barramundi with ginger and a green apple salad, alongside Thai classics like pad see ew and pad Thai, Masaman curry, and chilli basil stir-fry. FIN & TONIC Local produce is king at chef-owner Kerry Brown’s Fin & Tonic at Cullen Bay, which replaced La Beach after the latter business shut in the wake of liquidations involving the company director. Mr Brown previously said he had a laser-like focus on sourcing only the best wild-caught local seafood , with threadfin salmon, crimson and goldband snapper and, of course, barramundi featuring prominently on his menu. Fin & Tonic, Cullen Bay. Picture: Facebook Fin & Tonic also has a number of local beers on tap, a cocktail menu, a coffee machine, and offers breakfast on weekends. Mr Brown, the owner, first rose to local prominence via his food van Rescue Me Food Services, which is part of the furniture along the Nightcliff foreshore BANJO BAR + TERRACE Katherine’s Contour Hotel upgraded its in-house restaurant by extending the bar and redesigning the restaurant to include an al fresco dining option after receiving a grant under the former Labor government. And the investment has paid dividends: the bar restaurant, now known as Banjo Bar + Terrace, has become ground-zero for hobnobbing in the Big Rivers capital, and it was awarded Best Contemporary Restaurant at the 2024 Gold Plate Awards , run by Hospitality NT. Banjo Bar + Terrace Katherine. Picture: Facebook Featuring a marble-topped bar, tasteful wood finishes, spacious backlit display shelves stocked with premium liquor, and house plants dotted throughout, Banjo is easy on the eyes – and that’s before even considering its menu. A fusion restaurant in every sense of the word, items with Asian, Mediterranean, South American and Australian influences all happily commingle on this menu. MAKAN STOP A sibling venue to Harriet Place’s Kopi Stop, Makan Stop continues owner Jules Mou’s mission to fuse award-winning coffee with Singaporean hawker dishes such as char kway teow, nasi lemak, congee, and roti prata. Makan Stop, located on Smith St, has already become a particular favourite of former chief minister Michael Gunner’s, with the ex-pollie taking to social media on three separate occasions singing the praises of the new eatery. Jules Mou. Picture: Che Chorley It also claimed gold at this year’s Darwin International Laksa Festival , winning the best laksa inspired-by dish in Darwin for its savoury laksa muffin, and placing inside the judges’ top 10 for its Penang assam laksa. Kopi Stop was the people’s choice best laksa in Darwin for the second year running. FLORA’S TEMPER Northern suburbs residents were struck a blow earlier this year when popular cafe Lucky Bat at Nightcliff shut up shop , with the venue playing an exaggerated role in Darwin’s cultural life via its regular hosting of gigs, poetry readings, and other events. However, its replacement, Flora’s Temper, has carried forth the creative flame while reaching new heights in culinary excellence . Boss Nick Peters, who headed north in 2023 after a successful career establishing and operating Mexican restaurants in Melbourne, has used all his hard-earned expertise to craft a menu of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Levantine cuisine that pushes boundaries. Flora's Temper venue manager 'Mookie' Hesketh alongside co-owner Nick Peters. Picture: Alex Treacy Their green shakshuka has already become a local favourite, while Flora’s Temper’s Darwin Laksa Festival creation, laksa benedict on prawn toast, earnt rave reviews. O.G. BREW Eaton’s O.G. Brew, which replaced Muzz Buzz, has struck an instant chord with commuters, with tradies and salary earners queuing up outside the drive-through cafe for Jag Sekhon’s expertly made coffees and selection of grab ‘n’ go items, Tommo’s Pies, and sandwiches. Thumbnail art Jag Sekhon O.G. Brew Darwin opening In addition to his personable service, Mr Sekhon also boasts a fantastic backstory – after spending six years as a workers compensation lawyer following his graduation from Charles Darwin University, Mr Sekhon took the plunge on a career in hospitality and has never looked back. SWEETHEARTS Named originally for Sweetheart, the iconic Territory crocodile that throughout the 1970s was our version of Mothman or the Hound of the Baskervilles, Sweethearts and its sibling venue Flick’s, alongside function venue BOH, form the Cinema Collective on Mitchell St. Sweethearts on Mitchell St. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin The redevelopment of the old Cinema Darwin was watched with eagle eyes by Darwinites, protective as we are of the places that shaped childhoods, but the ownership trio of Lachlan Michell, Chloe Moo, and Justin Coleman exceeded expectations. The centrepiece of Sweethearts is undoubtedly its grand piano, which sits in the centre of a bar that hums and throbs with the knock-off crowd, while the fit-out also includes quality exposed brick and seated booths perfect for socialising. FLICK’S This masthead ummed and aahed over whether to include Sweethearts and Flick’s in the same entry a le Meraki/Baraki, but ultimately decided the venues had been designed with such different audiences in mind that they ought to exist separately. Flick’s on Mitchell St. Picture: File Whereas Sweethearts is tidy and utilitarian, favoured by the beer crowd and with a menu that steers more towards hearty individuals feeds, Flick’s is more Burleigh Heads or Byron Bay than Darwin. Flick's has a menu designed to be shared over a bottle of ice cold prosecco or a couple of cocktails. Picture: Facebook/Flick's Darwin With a bright fit-out, high roof and a menu that places greater weight on cocktails and share plates than its sibling venue next door, Flick’s has created a personality all of its own. TERRITORY TRUE CAFE It feeds and caffeinates an underserviced suburb, Durack, and boasts the sort of classic Australian menu that appeals to tradies, office workers and brunching mums alike, but those are not the only virtues of Territory True Cafe . The eatery, located opposite the Palmerston Golf & Country Club, is a supported employment venue, affording economic opportunities to people living with a disability who are clients of the McMaster family’s disability support service, Territory True. Territory True participant Bailey Briggs, who cooked the inaugural basket of fries, with Territory True Cafe manager Tom McMaster. Picture: Facebook The McMasters claimed a number of awards in 2024 for their thoughtful business. Patriarch Aaron McMaster won the workplace leader category in the inaugural NT News Leader of the Year awards , while cafe manager Tom McMaster, Aaron’s son, won the Somerville Promoting Disability Rights and Inclusion Award at the Northern Territory Young Achiever Awards. Customers of Territory True Cafe have reported their pleasure in the large serving sizes, affordable prices, and friendliness to both children and dogs alike, with plenty of room to play. FOOD MAFIA Food trucks along the Nightcliff foreshore are as Darwin as a Sunday morning laksa, but few traders have established such a loyal fanbase so soon after their debut as Food Mafia. The brainchild of Courtney Hill and Alex Howard, Food Mafia introduced itself to Darwinites in August, drumming up support via giveaways and competitions that soon led to sold-out nights in the kitchen. Banana prawns, mac 'n' cheese and trio of dipping sauces at Food Mafia. Picture: Facebook “For the team, sellout nights often mean late-night cooking sessions that stretch into the early hours – 2am has become a cherished time for creating some of their fondest memories together,” says Ms Hill. “It’s during these moments that the camaraderie and passion for food truly shines.” DIY baked potato kit at Food Mafia. Picture: Facebook The undoubted star of Food Mafia is its birria tacos (stewed Mexican meat on a soft taco that’s then fried), but the often changing menu has seen its share of other runaway success stories, including the DIY baked potato kits and southern-style seafood boils. “Some sceptics questioned our decision to trade during the build-up, but the moves made by the Mafia are always strategic and well thought out,” Ms Hill says tongue-in-cheek. THE LOOSE GOOSE The Top End’s prominent Venturin family, who own the Darwin Transit Centre on Mitchell St , home to prominent watering hole Shenannigans, put a touch of themselves into the commercial premises with their introduction of The Loose Goose cafe and wine bar. New cafe and wine bar The Loose Goose. Picture: File Open from 7am to late, six days a week, The Loose Goose is another that seeks to distil the essence of the Territory into their menu, with offerings including red curry barramundi, crocodile and lemon myrtle spring rolls, and barbecue-spiced kangaroo. New cafe and wine bar The Loose Goose. Picture: File Local PR maestro Kate Dinning previously wrote in this masthead’s pages the hero of the venue (where Ruby G’s Canteen was formerly located, before moving to bigger digs at Coconut Grove) was undoubtedly the laser-cut screens with pandanus motifs which help turn the al fresco dining area into an oasis of calm. More Coverage NT documentary probes Cyclone Tracy aftermath and recovery Camden Smith ‘Pivotal moment’: Singaporeans to test laser tech in the Territory Harry Brill Originally published as Darwin and the Northern Territory’s 25 best new cafes, bars and restaurants of 2024 Join the conversation Add your comment to this story To join the conversation, please log in. Don't have an account? Register Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout More related stories Northern Territory What’s on: Where to party this New Year’s Eve around Darwin After a week of snacking on leftover ham, and perhaps some Christmas pud, the time comes again to celebrate, and wish in the new year with a bit of fun. Read more Northern Territory Territory’s top cop flags potential regulation amid alarming trend The Territory’s Police Commissioner says he wants to treat one everyday product like ‘Rexonas and glues’ after learning what some people were doing with it in the Red Centre. Find out what. Read moreThe Prime Minister said the season was a time to remember the importance of “being there for one another”, including in “the more difficult times”. He also expressed hope for “peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story” amid spiralling conflict across the region. The message comes after a challenging first five months in office for the Labour Government and against the backdrop of a flatlining economy and rising inflation. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season. “It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people. “Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.” To our military and veterans, the whole nation thanks you for the sacrifices you make to keep us safe. My government will serve you as you have served your country. I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. pic.twitter.com/LphMZog6np — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 22, 2024 The Prime Minister sought to strike an optimistic note following another year of political upheaval for Britain, which saw Labour win a landslide victory after a surprise election called by Rishi Sunak in the summer. After taking office in July, the new Government made a series of unpopular decisions as ministers confronted the realities of creaking public services and strained national finances. As well as dealing with the economic inheritance, Sir Keir said he needed to fix a “broken society” which manifested itself in summer riots across the country after the Southport knife attack. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story. “I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings. “So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.” The message comes after revised official figures released on Monday indicated that UK gross domestic product (GDP) showed no growth between July and September. Downing Street defended the Government’s record so far when asked about the data, telling reporters: “We had to take those tough decisions to lay the foundations of growth such that we can then deliver the higher living standards over this Parliament that people want to see.” The Prime Minister also used his message to thank those spending Christmas serving others, including in the NHS and emergency services, the armed forces, churches and charities. “I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. “Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone,” he said. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch said Christmas was a time to reflect on “all that’s happened in the year” and “support all of those people who need our assistance”. “I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone, not just in the Conservative Party or in my constituency, but across the country,” the Tory leader said. “For all that you have been doing in your communities, supporting each other and helping to keep all our towns, villages and places going. “I think that Christmas is a time for us to reflect on all that’s happened in the year. “Sometimes we have amazing years. “Sometimes, like when I lost my dad, we have difficult years and we’re commiserating, but we do it together. “But it’s a time for us to support all of those people who need our assistance, who need our help, who need our support.” She added: “And I’m looking forward to 2025. “I wish you all the very best for the New Year and all of the exciting things to come.” Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “This year, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some amazing young carers. “Incredible young people who will spend this Christmas doing what they do all year round; looking after loved ones who are ill or disabled. “Carers embody the Christmas spirit of love, selflessness and generosity. “So I hope we can all take some time to think of them, and keep them in our hearts. “And wish them – and everyone – a Christmas full of peace, joy and love.”
Saquon Barkley tops 2,000 yards rushing and moves within 100 of Dickerson's record PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Saquon Barkley became the ninth running back in NFL history to top 2,000 yards rushing in a season, reaching the milestone with a 23-yard run in the fourth quarter against the Dallas Cowboys. That rush gave Barkley 2,005 yards with one game left and left him exactly 100 yards from Eric Dickerson’s record of 2,105, set in 1984 for the Los Angeles Rams. Barkley could potentially top the record in next week’s finale against the New York Giants. However, that game will be mostly meaningless for the Eagles, who could opt to rest Barkley to protect him from injury ahead of the playoffs. Bills clinch the AFC's No. 2 seed with a 40-14 rout of the undisciplined Jets ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen threw two touchdown passes and ran for another score and the Buffalo Bills clinched the AFC’s No. 2 seed with a 40-14 rout of the New York Jets. The Bills put the game away by capitalizing on two Jets turnovers and scoring three touchdowns over a 5:01 span in the closing minutes of the third quarter. Buffalo’s defense forced three takeaways overall and sacked Aaron Rodgers four times, including a 2-yard loss for a safety in the second quarter. The five-time defending AFC East champion Bills improved to 13-3 to match a franchise single-season record. Saquon Barkley tops 2,000 yards rushing as Eagles beat Cowboys 41-7 to clinch NFC East PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Saquon Barkley rushed for 167 yards to top 2,000 on the season, backup quarterback Kenny Pickett ran and threw for scores before departing with injured ribs, and the Philadelphia Eagles clinched the NFC East title by routing the Dallas Cowboys 41-7. Barkley has 2,005 yards and needs 101 in next week’s mostly meaningless regular-season finale to top Eric Dickerson and his 2,105 yards for the Los Angeles Rams in 1984. The Eagles led 24-7 in the third quarter when Pickett was drilled by defensive end Micah Parsons, ending his first start in place of the concussed Jalen Hurts. Penn State coach James Franklin says Nick Saban should be college football's commissioner SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Penn State coach James Franklin believes college football needs a commissioner and he even has a candidate in mind: former Alabama coach Nick Saban. Franklin made the suggestion Sunday at Penn State’s College Football Playoff quarterfinals media day ahead of the Fiesta Bowl. The sixth-seeded Nittany Lions are preparing for their game against No. 3 seed Boise State on Tuesday. The veteran coach was responding to a question about Penn State’s backup quarterback situation after Beau Pribula transferred to Missouri before the playoff. Pribula’s decision highlighted some of the frustrating aspects of a new college football world in the Name, Image and Likeness era and the transfer portal, forcing players to make tough decisions at inopportune times. Mayfield throws 5 TD passes and Bucs keep playoff, NFC South hopes alive with 48-14 rout of Panthers TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Baker Mayfield threw for 359 yards and five touchdowns to help the Tampa Bay Buccaneers keep their division and playoff hopes alive with a 48-14 rout of the Carolina Panthers. The team’s fifth win in the past six weeks nudged the first-place Bucs a half-game ahead of Atlanta for the best record in the NFC South at 9-7. The Falcons played on the road later Sunday night at Washington. Atlanta holds the tiebreaker in the division race and can end Tampa Bay’s three-year reign as NFC South champions by beating the Commanders and winning again next week at home against the last-place Panthers. Lakers send D'Angelo Russell to Nets in trade for Dorian Finney-Smith, Shake Milton LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Lakers have traded guard D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets for forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. The Lakers also sent forward Maxwell Lewis and three second-round draft picks to Brooklyn. Russell averaged a career-low 12.4 points per game for the Lakers this season in a diminished role under new coach JJ Redick. Finney-Smith is a steady 3-and-D wing who fills an obvious need for the Lakers. Russell is being traded by the Lakers to the Nets for the second time in his career. He also made the move in 2017. LeBron James at 40: A milestone birthday arrives Monday for the NBA's all-time scoring leader When LeBron James broke another NBA record earlier this month, the one for most regular-season minutes played in a career, his Los Angeles Lakers teammates handled the moment in typical locker room fashion. They made fun of him. Dubbed The Kid from Akron, with a limitless future, James is now the 40-year-old from Los Angeles with wisps of gray in his beard, his milestone birthday coming Monday, one that will make him the first player in NBA history to play in his teens, 20s, 30s and 40s. He has stood and excelled in the spotlight his entire career. Rising Sun Devils: Arizona State looks to pull off another big surprise at the Peach Bowl ATLANTA (AP) — As they prepare for Arizona State’s biggest game in nearly three decades, the guys who made it happen aren’t the least bit surprised to be rated a nearly two-touchdown underdog in the College Football Playoff. That’s a familiar position for the Sun Devils. They've been an underdog most of the season. Of the eight teams still vying for a national championship, there’s no bigger surprise than 11-2 Arizona State. The Sun Devils went 3-9 a year ago and were picked to finish dead last in their first season in the Big 12 Conference. Now, they're getting ready to face Texas in the Peach Bowl quarterfinal game on New Year’s Day. Penn State's polarizing QB Drew Allar puts critics on mute and keeps winning games SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Even when Penn State quarterback Drew Allar gets some praise, it’s usually a backhanded compliment. They say he’s a good game manager and stays within himself, or that he doesn’t try to do too much. They mention he might not be flashy, but he gives the team a chance to win. And here’s the thing about Penn State since Allar stepped under center: The Nittany Lions have won games. A lot of them. Sometimes that’s hard to remember considering the lukewarm reception he often gets from fans. The polarizing Allar has another chance to quiet his critics on Tuesday, when Penn State plays Boise State in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals at the Fiesta Bowl. Feels like 1979: Nottingham Forest moves into 2nd place behind rampant Liverpool in Premier League The Premier League table is starting to have a 1979 kind of feel to it with Liverpool at the top of the standings and Nottingham Forest in second place as the closest challenger. Liverpool padded its lead with a 5-0 rout of West Ham on Sunday while upstart Nottingham Forest climbed into second place by beating Everton 2-0 to continue its surprising push for a Champions League place. Manchester City marked Pep Guardiola's 500th game in charge by beating Leicester 2-0 but is still 14 points behind Liverpool having played a game more.Konference v Tchien-ťinu se zaměřila na odborné vzdělávání v globálním kontextuTrump asks Supreme Court to delay TikTok ban so he can weigh in after he takes office
What's the outlook for Sayona Mining shares in 2025?SUGAR LAND, Texas, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. AAOI (" AOI ," " we ," " us " or " our ") announced today that it has closed its exchange with holders (the " Noteholders ") of its 5.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2026 (the " 2026 Notes ") of approximately $76.7 million principal amount of the 2026 Notes for (i) $125 million aggregate principal amount of 2.75% Convertible Senior Notes due 2030 (the " 2030 Notes "), (ii) 1,487,874 shares of our common stock (the " Exchange Shares ") and (iii) approximately $89.6 thousand in cash representing accrued interest on the 2026 Notes and the value of fractional shares (such transactions, collectively, the " Exchanges "). The 2030 Notes are our senior, unsecured obligations and are equal in right of payment with our existing and future senior, unsecured indebtedness, senior in right of payment to our existing and future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated to the 2030 Notes and effectively subordinated to our existing and future secured indebtedness, to the extent of the value of the collateral securing that indebtedness. The 2030 Notes bear interest at a rate of 2.75% per year, payable semiannually in arrears on January 15 and July 15 of each year, beginning on July 15, 2025. The 2030 Notes will mature on January 15, 2030, unless earlier repurchased, redeemed or converted. The 2030 Notes are convertible at the option of holders of the 2030 Notes under certain specified circumstances, as set forth in the indenture governing the 2030 Notes. We will settle conversions by paying or delivering, as applicable, cash, shares of our common stock or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock, at our election, based on the applicable conversion rate. The initial conversion rate is approximately 23.0884 shares of our common stock per $1,000 principal amount of 2030 Notes, representing an initial conversion price of approximately $43.31 per share of our common stock, an approximately 27.50% premium to the closing price of our common stock on December 18, 2024. If a Make-Whole Fundamental Change (as defined in the indenture governing the 2030 Notes) occurs, and in connection with certain other conversions, we will in certain circumstances increase the conversion rate for a specified period of time. Except in connection with the completion of the Specified Divestiture (as described below), we may not redeem the 2030 Notes prior to January 15, 2027. On or after January 15, 2027, and on or before the 40 th scheduled trading day immediately before the maturity date, we may redeem all or part of the 2030 Notes for cash if the last reported sale price per share of our common stock exceeds 130% of the conversion price on (i) each of at least 20 trading days, whether or not consecutive, during the 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the trading day immediately before the date we send the related redemption notice; and (ii) the trading day immediately before the date we send such redemption notice, at a cash redemption price equal to the principal amount of the 2030 Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Holders may require us to repurchase their 2030 Notes upon the occurrence of a Fundamental Change (as defined in the indenture governing the 2030 Notes) at a cash purchase price equal to the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. In addition, the 2030 Notes will be redeemable, in whole or in part, at our option at any time, and from time to time, on or before the 40 th scheduled trading day immediately before the maturity date, at a cash redemption price equal to the principal amount of the 2030 Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the redemption date, if the "Specified Divestiture" (as defined in the indenture governing the 2030 Notes) is completed. If the Specified Divestiture is completed, each holder will have the right to require us to repurchase its 2030 Notes for cash at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of such 2030 Notes to be repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the repurchase date. The issuance of the 2030 Notes, the Exchange Shares and the shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion of the 2030 Notes have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the " Securities Act "), and the 2030 Notes, the Exchange Shares and such shares issuable upon conversion of the 2030 Notes may not be offered or sold without registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state or other jurisdictions' securities laws, or in transactions not subject to those registration requirements. Concurrently with the Exchanges, AOI issued an aggregate of 1,036,458 shares of common stock, at a purchase price of $33.97 per share, in a registered direct offering (the " Registered Direct Offering "). Estimated net proceeds from the Registered Direct Offering are approximately $33.7 million after deducting placement agent fees and estimated offering expenses incurred by us. We intend to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes, which may include, among other things, capital expenditures and working capital. We may also use such proceeds to fund acquisitions of businesses, technologies or product lines that complement our current business; however, we have no present plans, agreements or commitments with respect to any potential acquisition. Stefan Murry, AOI's Chief Financial Officer and Chief Strategy Officer, stated that "AOI expects to benefit from the convertible debt exchange transactions and the concurrent registered direct offering by, among other things, extending our convertible debt from 2026 to 2030, reducing our existing interest expense and strengthening the cash position of our balance sheet by approximately $30.2 million through the registered direct offering. In addition, the convertible debt exchange transactions increase our financial flexibility by removing certain existing restrictive covenants in our 2026 Notes. We were able to execute these transactions with minimal additional dilution of approximately 0.5%, compared to the implied dilution of the shares underlying the 2026 Notes." The Registered Direct Offering was made pursuant to an automatic shelf registration statement on Form S-3ASR (Registration File No. 333-283905), which was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the " SEC ") on December 18, 2024, and became effective immediately upon filing, including the prospectus contained therein, as supplemented by the prospectus supplement dated December 18, 2024 filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act on December 20, 2024. The prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to the Registered Direct Offering are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov . Raymond James & Associates, Inc. acted as AOI's exclusive financial advisor in connection with the Exchanges and acted as the sole placement agent in connection with the Registered Direct Offering. Haynes Boone LLP acted as legal advisor to AOI and Mayer Brown LLP acted as legal advisor to Raymond James & Associates, Inc., in connection with the Exchanges and the Registered Direct Offering. This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor will there be any sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Forward-Looking Information This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "believe," "may," "estimate," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "should," "could," "would," "target," "seek," "aim," "predicts," "think," "objectives," "optimistic," "new," "goal," "strategy," "potential," "is likely," "will," "expect," "plan" "project," "permit" or by other similar expressions that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes. Such forward-looking statements reflect the views of management at the time such statements are made. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, as well as assumptions and current expectations, which could cause our actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: reduction in the size or quantity of customer orders; change in demand for our products due to industry conditions; changes in manufacturing operations; volatility in manufacturing costs; delays in shipments of products; disruptions in the supply chain; change in the rate of design wins or the rate of customer acceptance of new products; our reliance on a small number of customers for a substantial portion of its revenues; potential pricing pressure; a decline in demand for our customers' products or their rate of deployment of their products; general conditions in the internet datacenter, cable television (CATV) broadband, telecom, or fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) markets; changes in the world economy (particularly in the United States and China); changes in the regulation and taxation of international trade, including the imposition of tariffs; changes in currency exchange rates; the negative effects of seasonality; the impact of any pandemics or similar events on our business and financial results; and other risks and uncertainties described more fully in our documents filed with or furnished to the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2024, June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024. More information about these and other risks that may impact our business are set forth in the "Risk Factors" section of our quarterly and annual reports on file with the SEC. You should not rely on forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon information available to us as of the date hereof, and qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this press release to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations. About Applied Optoelectronics Applied Optoelectronics Inc. (AOI) is a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced optical products, including components, modules and equipment. AOI's products are the building blocks for broadband fiber access networks around the world, where they are used in the CATV broadband, internet datacenter, telecom and FTTH markets. AOI supplies optical networking lasers, components and equipment to tier-1 customers in all four of these markets. In addition to its corporate headquarters, wafer fab and advanced engineering and production facilities in Sugar Land, TX, AOI has engineering and manufacturing facilities in Taipei, Taiwan and Ningbo, China. Investor Relations Contacts: The Blueshirt Group, Investor Relations Monica Gould +1-212-871-3927 ir@ao-inc.com Cassidy Fuller +1-415-217-4968 ir@ao-inc.com © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Enphase Energy, Inc. Investor Alert: Robbins LLP Reminds Stockholders of the ENPH Class Action Lawsuit