This Agreement and the rights and obligations hereunder may not be assigned by either party hereto without the prior express written consent of the other party hereto. Notwithstanding the foregoing, it is expressly understood and agreed that the Consultant may retain the services of third parties to research, conduct due diligence and write research and related reports about the Company which may be utilized by the Consultant in performing its obligations hereunder. The rights and obligations of the parties under this Agreement shall insure to the benefit of, and shall be binding upon , the successors and permitted assigns of the parties hereto.