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Community Accelerator Grant Program to Distribute $10M in Second Round of Funding for Arts and Culture in Washington

Paul G. Allen Family Foundation

Today, ArtsFund and the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation announced the 2024 Community Accelerator Grant program, which will distribute $10 million in unrestricted funding to organizations across Washington whose primary mission is to produce or support arts and culture activities. This second round of funding builds on the program’s groundbreaking 2023 pilot, which provided a total of $10 million to 671 organizations and will continue to prioritize organizations that center BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and people with disabilities, and those located in rural communities. “The initial round of the Community Accelerator Grant taught us so much about the positive impact unrestricted funding has on arts and culture organizations,” said ArtsFund President and CEO Michael Greer. “Empowered by the unrestricted funds provided by the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, recipients have been able to address their specific needs, and invest in their missions and essential roles serving communities across Washington State.” The program funded every eligible applicant in 2023, including organizations in 35 of Washington’s 39 counties. While the funding could be used for any aspect of the grantees’ work, recipients indicated their greatest needs were for salaries and labor, programming, and rent and facility costs. For instance, Spectrum Center, an Eastern Washington 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Trans, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and other sexual identities) organization, used their Community Accelerator Grant to fund their Adult Art Camp program, a free and inclusive set of classes for individuals interested in discovering new modes of self-expression and fostering community “This funding was pivotal in launching Adult Art Camp,” said Executive Director Roo Ramos. “The program was so well received, we plan to offer it again later this year and integrate it into our regular programming.” The low-barrier application and relatively fast turn-around time between application and funding also played an important role in supporting organizations as they bounced back from the pandemic. Ultimately, 97 percent of 2023 grant recipients reported that they believe this program will help them raise additional revenue, supporting the “accelerator” concept. “The Community Accelerator Grant shows the power of this community-driven model, and the impact that can be made when organizations themselves choose how to use urgently needed funds,” said Lara Littlefield, Executive Director for Partnerships & Programs of the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation. “Arts and culture organizations are central to vibrant and healthy communities and we recognize the broader need to empower these organizations and all that they do for Washingtonians across our state.” Applications for the 2024 program will run from February 5 to March 5, 2024. The process will again utilize a Community Advisory Panel, which will inform the application, outreach, and awardee slate. Further details about the application process, the advisory panel, and criteria will be shared in January of next year. About ArtsFund ArtsFund supports the arts through leadership, advocacy, and grantmaking in order to build a healthy, equitable, and creative Washington. ArtsFund was originally founded to bring corporate and civic leaders together to help establish and sustain our region’s arts and cultural institutions. Over its grantmaking history, ArtsFund has granted more than $115MM to over 1,000 organizations in 37 out of 39 Washington state counties. Additionally, leadership and advocacy programs such as Board Leadership Training, the Cultural Partners Network, and Arts Impact Reports support the health and wellbeing of our communities. Learn more at www.artsfund.org. About Paul G. Allen Family Foundation Founded in 1988 by philanthropists Jody Allen and the late Paul G. Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, the foundation invests in communities across the Pacific Northwest to enhance the human experience of arts & culture, center under-served populations, and mobilize young people to make impact. In addition, the foundation supports a global portfolio of nonprofit partners working across science and technology solutions to protect wildlife, preserve ocean health, and create lasting change. The foundation also funds the Paul G. Allen Frontiers Group, which works to advance cutting-edge research in all areas of bioscience. Learn more at www.pgafamilyfoundation.org. Contact Details Kristen Armellini +1 805-630-7013 karmellini@wearerally.com Company Website https://www.artsfund.org

November 16, 2023 10:00 AM Pacific Standard Time

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Redbreast Irish Whiskey Teams Up With Cian Ducrot To Shed Light On The Loss Of Morning Bird Song With Wake Up Call Performance

Redbreast Irish Whiskey

1 in 8 bird species are on the brink of extinction, yet a significant 48% of the general population remains unaware about this decline in numbers [1] To mark Robin Redbreast Day, 16th Nov, Cian and the Irish Whiskey brand unite to promote awareness of the dwindling bird population. LONDON, UK - Media OutReach - 16 November 2023 - With global bird populations in decline, skies may soon be empty of melodies. If the birds disappear, the silence will be deafening. This year on Robin Redbreast Day, Redbreast Irish Whiskey and singer-songwriter and social media star, Cian Ducrot, have taken to the streets of London in the early hours of the morning to give the city a much needed wake up call to raise awareness of declining bird populations. In a captivating and emotional performance, Cian Ducrot, accompanied by a live choir, emerged at Cardinal Place, London at dawn, filling the city's streets with the beautiful sound of song. Commuters and passersby were greeted with the enchanting melodies, brightening their morning. However, as the sun climbed higher in the sky, a sudden and profound silence descended upon the choir. One by one, their voices fell silent, mirroring the fading melodies of our cherished feathered friends. This dramatic moment served as a powerful metaphor for the loss of bird songs that once graced our mornings, leaving the public in contemplative silence. Redbreast Irish Whiskey celebrates the fourth consecutive year of Robin Redbreast Day, an annual global date dedicated to raising awareness and donations for its conservation charity partner, BirdLife International. Since 2020, Redbreast Irish Whiskey has successfully raised over €250,000 in support of BirdLife's vital initiatives. The brand stands steadfast in its unwavering commitment to nurturing a positive future for all birds. A survey conducted across the UK, US and Ireland found that 48% of the general public is unaware of the disappearance of birds happening in their own back gardens. The survey also found that 52% of people rely on bird song as a way of connecting to nature, feeling calm and having a positive effect on their own mental health. With this being stripped from urban areas and cities around the world, Redbreast and Cian Ducrot are on a mission to wake up the world and shed light on the issue. Cian Ducrot expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, commenting: " I am very excited and honoured to be collaborating with Redbreast Irish Whiskey for such an important cause. It's more than just raising awareness for the loss of bird song but highlighting the much broader issue of the decline of many bird populations, which is an alarm bell for the health of our environment and planet. Our actions are impacting the world around us, which is leading to more polluted, less green, and very unwelcoming urban areas for nature and birds to thrive. The loss of bird song isn't something we want to witness and it is so crucial that we all work together to ensure that doesn't happen! " Currently, one in eight bird species faces the threat of extinction, while half of all bird populations globally are declining. [2] According to BirdLife International, the overwhelming majority of these declines can be attributed to human actions such as deforestation, agricultural expansion and habitat loss. Through its partnership with BirdLife International, Redbreast continues to play a pivotal role in fostering a positive future for all birds by combating these existential threats. Zoë Traynor, Head of Brand Sustainability and Responsibility for Irish Distillers said: " We're absolutely thrilled to continue our partnership with BirdLife International, and we're honoured to have the support of singer-songwriter Cian Ducrot to further the reach of our mission. Redbreast's connection to birds has been at our core since day one when we named our whiskey. After four years of work with BirdLife International, we are more committed than ever to helping our partners address the decline of bird populations worldwide, which is often driven by our own human actions." Martin Harper, Interim CEO of BirdLife International comments: " Bird song has decreased massively over the years, particularly in urban areas, making the work we are doing with Redbreast critically important. Redbreast's support has helped us benefit 726 threatened species with our conservation action and reached over 7.4 million young people in communities around the world with environmental action which we feel is truly remarkable! " To further amplify its commitment, Redbreast has once again released the popular limited-edition bottle of Redbreast 12-year-old whiskey, adorned with an intricately designed case that transforms into a bird feeder. A survey revealed that half of the general public across the UK, Ireland, and the US are actively using bird feeders in their back gardens. Redbreast is continuing its mission to supply all gardens with the equipment they need to feed our feathered friends and help combat the decline in populations this winter. Part of the proceeds from the sale of this special edition bottle will be donated to BirdLife International, a testament to Redbreast's unwavering dedication to creating a positive future for all birds. The limited-edition bird feeder bottle is available for purchase via MidletonDistilleryCollection.com and select retail locations in Ireland, Northern Ireland, Slovakia, Canada, China, Germany, Global Travel Retail, Hong Kong, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Slovakia and the USA priced at €78. Visit redbreastwhiskey.com to find out more about Redbreast, its partnership with BirdLife International, and how you can help create a positive future for all birds. Follow us on social: Instagram @RedbreastIrishWhiskey Facebook @RedbreastSinglePotStill [1] This survey data is based on a poll by One Poll, conducted with 3,000 participants across the UK, US, and Ireland, carried out on the 23rd-30th October 2023. [2] BirdLife International's 2022 State of the World's Birds Report A bout Irish Distillers Irish Distillers is Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines and producer of some of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys. Led by Jameson, our brands are driving the success of Irish whiskey globally. Jameson is the world’s fastest-growing Irish whiskey, selling 6.4m cases in H1 FY23. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets around the world, with many of those experiencing double-or triple-digit growth. Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and Cork Distilleries Company. In 1988 Irish Distillers joined Pernod Ricard, gaining access to unprecedented levels of investment and an extensive global distribution network. In 2022, we announced our ambition to significantly reduce carbon emissions across our distilling operations at Midleton Distillery in addition to our plans to invest in a new distillery on a site adjacent to our existing operations in Midleton. We employ over 800 people across our operations in Cork and Dublin. About BirdLife International BirdLife International is the world’s largest nature conservation Partnership. Together we are 116 BirdLife Partners worldwide and growing, with almost 11 million supporters, 7,000 local conservation groups and 7,400 staff. BirdLife is widely recognised as the world leader in bird conservation, a United Nations-recognised civil society observer, and our unique local-to-global approach delivers high impact and long-term conservation for the benefit of nature and people. Find out more at www.birdlife.org Contact Details Pavlina Micha, Pangolin PR pavlina@pangolinpr.com

November 16, 2023 10:28 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Beyond Recycling: Aqua Metals Leads The Charge In Building Circular Domestic Supply Chain of Critical Minerals for Lithium Batteries

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga As the world ushers in a new era of sustainability and electrification, the ability to recycle the critical minerals that will power our devices, our vehicles and our economy is fundamental to achieving the most ambitious global clean energy goals. In this fast-approaching future, developing truly sustainable recycling stands out as a crucial component of building a circular economy for the critical minerals necessary for manufacturing solar panels, wind turbines, and especially lithium-ion batteries. Companies like Aqua Metals Inc. (NASDAQ: AQMS) are at the forefront of this transition, redefining the recycling landscape with innovative technologies that are delivering a clear path to net-zero battery recycling. Understanding Clean Recycling Sustainable recycling is the process of converting end-of-life products and materials into new resources that can be fed right back into the supply chain, without creating a new environmental hazard due to harmful emissions or significant waste. Today, most lithium battery recycling uses fossil fuel-powered furnaces and/or intensive chemical processes that produce significant carbon emissions and generate untenable waste streams that end up in landfills (or worse, dumped in the ocean). Just because something is labeled as recycling doesn’t mean that it is inherently clean or sustainable – how we recycle matters. With the mounting dependency on battery technology and the need to recycle millions of tons of lithium-ion batteries in the coming years, adopting environmentally sound recycling methods is essential to support the deployment of clean energy technologies and combat climate change. Aqua Metals' Mission And Technology Aqua Metals is pioneering the path toward environmentally responsible recycling with its commitment to clean recycling practices. Utilizing its proprietary AquaRefining™ technology, the company leverages the power of electricity to extract valuable metals from spent lithium and EV batteries. This innovative and patented process, which circumvents the need for thermal processing or trainloads of consumable chemicals, drastically cuts down on both waste and emissions. The crux of their mission is to turn the tide on traditional, environmentally burdensome recycling methods by offering a solution that is not only cleaner but also cost-effective and able to produce battery-grade recycled materials from spent batteries. With this approach, Aqua Metals is hoping to set a new benchmark for sustainability within the clean metals recycling industry – and build a circular domestic supply chain for critical battery minerals. The AquaRefining Process At the core of Aqua Metals' innovation is the AquaRefining process, a sophisticated system that transforms lithium battery ‘ black mass ’ – the industry term for the composite of shredded battery metals and manufacturing scraps ready to be recycled – into high-purity, reclaimed materials ready to be delivered back into the supply chain. Initiating by dissolving this black mass in a specialized solution of water and diluted acid, the process is meticulously automated to yield uniform and predictable outcomes across varying batches of black mass from various sources. The dissolved material then flows through a number of finely tuned stages, from various filters to remove impurities to a number of specific unit operations to capture individual metals found in lithium batteries (including lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, and manganese). The main differentiator – and what enables the patented recycling process to boast such an environmental and economic advantage – is replacing the polluting furnaces and intensive chemical processes used today with clean electricity. Instead of using heat or chemical reactions to extract the valuable materials, Aqua Metals uses an innovative application of electroplating – quite literally pulling the dissolved metals out of the solution atom-by-atom and attaching them to an electrode for recovery of high-purity materials. The other hallmark of this groundbreaking process is its regenerative approach, where electricity is also employed to replenish the proprietary solution the company uses to dissolve the materials – thereby enhancing economic viability and lowering chemical usage on site by more than 95% compared to competing recycling technologies. These distinctive advantages underscore Aqua Metals' commitment to a sustainable and economically sound recycling methodology that enables a truly circular supply chain – without all the chemical waste and climate pollution of today’s leading recycling processes. Economic And Environmental Impact The economic benefits of Aqua Metals' approach are clear. Aqua Metals' AquaRefining technology delivers advantages through the production of high-purity metals from spent batteries using clean electricity. Replacing furnaces and significant chemical and waste storage facilities in traditional recycling could lower necessary capital costs by as much as half for a new recycling facility. And managing on-site storage for trainloads of chemicals each week, producing and disposing of equal amounts of chemical byproducts, and powering energy-intensive furnaces create much higher and less predictable operating costs. Environmentally, Aqua Metals reports that AquaRefining reduces carbon emissions by more than 83% compared to hydrometallurgy competitors. While traditional methods emit tons of CO2 and generate more sodium sulfate waste than valuable materials recovered, AquaRefining’s emissions are as clean as the electricity the company is able to source, with exceptionally high recovery rates and no waste byproducts sent to a landfill. This approach not only minimizes the environmental footprint but also bolsters the United States' efforts to establish a sustainable loop for lithium and other critical battery minerals. Strategic Partnerships For A Circular Economy Through strategic partnerships with companies like 6K Energy, Aqua Metals is poised to create the first sustainable circular domestic supply chain for critical minerals, creating a continuous loop of recycled materials feeding back into the lithium battery manufacturing supply chain. This venture will see the co-location of recycling and cathode manufacturing facilities, leading to the first production of low-carbon cathode active materials from recycled battery elements in the industry. Advancements In Battery Manufacturing Aqua Metals has also collaborated with Dragonfly Energy Holdings Corp (NASDAQ: DLFI) to supply the manufacture of lithium-based battery cells using high-purity lithium hydroxide recovered through their recycling process. This marks a stride toward a more sustainable lithium battery manufacturing industry, potentially setting the stage for a closed lithium loop within the state of Nevada. Critical Minerals And National Interests In the wake of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), Aqua Metals is emerging as a key player in realizing the U.S.'s ambition for a clean, electrified economy. The company's AquaRefining™ technology revolutionizes the recycling of lithium-ion batteries, offering a net-zero emissions pathway that aligns with the IRA's emphasis on sustainable practices and building domestic capacities to produce critical minerals. Critical mineral security is not just an economic opportunity for the country but also a national security necessity as these refined metals become more central to our economy. The company’s innovative approach tackles the challenges of critical mineral scarcity and environmental degradation, ensuring a more sustainable and circular approach to battery recycling, which is crucial for the burgeoning EV sector. Aqua Metals is pushing to become a leader in sustainable lithium battery recycling, offering innovative solutions to the waste and emissions challenges inherent in current recycling. With its advanced technology and strategic initiatives, Aqua Metals is not just recycling materials but possibly reshaping the very fabric of the industry for a sustainable future. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 16, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Q3 2023 Proportionate Royalty Revenue Jumps To $1.9M For Altius Renewable Royalties And ARR Secures A $247M Credit Facility

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga Altius Minerals (OTCQX: ATUSF) (TSX: ALS) has strategically positioned itself within the mining sector by developing an environmentally friendly royalty portfolio, showcasing its commitment to sustainable practices. While the mining industry has faced criticism for its detrimental environmental impact, Altius aims to address these concerns by focusing on minerals that are vital to modern infrastructure while minimizing exposure to environmentally harmful commodities. In addition to its core holdings, Altius owns 58% of Altius Renewable Royalties (OTCQX: ATRWF) (TSX: ARR) which provides royalty financing to the U.S. renewable energy sector. ARR last week announced its Q3 2023 proportionate royalty revenue of $1.9 million, excluding interest income. This revenue represented an increase from $1.6 million recorded in Q3 2022 and $1.0 million last quarter, indicating ARR's growth trajectory. The Q3 2023 royalty revenue reflects ARR's 50% ownership interest in Great Bay Renewables (GBR), which the company reports is rapidly building a customer base with U.S. renewable energy counterparties. The revenue generated by ARR through its ownership stake in GBR highlights the performance of the partnership. ARR also just recently announced that GBR has secured senior secured credit financing agreements totaling $247 million. The financing consists of an initial term facility (ITF) worth $123.5 million, a delayed draw term facility (Delayed Draw Facility) worth $100 million, and a letter of credit facility (L/C) worth $23 million. Both term facilities meet the requirements for green loan eligibility. Great Bay is managed jointly by ARR and funds managed by Apollo Global Management, Inc. Commenting on the quarter and the credit facility, Frank Getman, CEO of GBR, shared, “With the recent closing of our new debt facility, we have demonstrated the underlying strength of our current asset portfolio in the eyes of sophisticated global lenders and have positioned ourselves to continue to seize upon our strong pipeline of growth opportunities. In a few short years, we have scaled up a portfolio of renewable royalties on over 2.3 GW of operating projects and a pipeline of development stage royalties of over 15 GW, providing an embedded stream of future cash-flowing royalties that ensures strong revenue growth for GBR through the remainder of the decade." This financial milestone seems to reinforce ARR's position as a key player in the industry, demonstrating an ability to continue to deploy capital in new, accretive investments without having to return to the equity market. With a track record of revenue growth, ARR seems to prove its commitment to driving innovation and contributing to the sustainable development of the renewable energy sector. As the global shift towards clean and sustainable energy continues, ARR's strategic positioning within the industry could help it capitalize on this growing market opportunity. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 16, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

WHAT’S HOT THIS HOLIDAY – BLACK FRIDAY & CYBER MONDAY DEALS

News Media Group, Inc.

Contact Details Karl Wayne +1 334-440-6397 karl@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/

November 16, 2023 07:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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News Release

Winter Crypto Picks: Optimism, Rebel Satoshi, or Lido DAO?

Blockchain Digest

Summary The crypto market is set to see intense heat amid the freeze this winter as the next major rally approaches. Meanwhile, investors seek the best crypto investment for substantial gains. Three crypto coins offering huge gains prospects include Optimism (OP), Rebel Satoshi, and Lido DAO (LDO). Let’s compare OP, $RBLZ, and LDO and find the best crypto to invest in for a higher return on investment! Market Analysts Believe Optimism’s Coin OP Can Grow by 107% in 2024 At the start of 2023, Optimism demonstrated strength, reaching its 2023 peak of $3.2622 per OP in February, aligning with the broader market trends. However, the subsequent months saw a decline in OP's value by 49% until November, attributed to the challenges posed by regulatory uncertainties across the crypto landscape. In a strategic move to enhance its network capabilities, Optimism announced the implementation of the Canyon upgrade in November. This marks Optimism's first post-Bedrock network upgrade and introduces key features such as Shanghai and Capella hardfork support, along with various bug fixes. A notable enhancement includes Optimism's ability to handle unclosed channels, addressing a limitation where only one channel could be active at a time. The Canyon upgrade is expected to optimize the operational efficiency of OP and overall network performance. So, does it mean that OP is the best crypto to buy now? Here is what experts say! In an optimistic outlook for OP, experts forecast that Optimism could experience a surge of over 107%, reaching $3.41 per OP in 2024. The implementation of the Canyon upgrade and the potential for increased network efficiency are cited as factors contributing to this positive trajectory for Optimism. Acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the crypto market, a more conservative estimate for Optimism in a bearish scenario suggests that OP might stabilize around $2.21 in 2024. Investors Flock to $RBLZ as Experts Predict 150% Growth for the New Meme Coin As the winter season approaches, investors are flocking to seize promising opportunities. Among the contenders, Rebel Satoshi's $RBLZ is stealing the spotlight, with experts predicting a spectacular 150% growth for this new meme coin. At the core of this surging interest is the $RBLZ token, an ERC-20 standard token that goes beyond the conventional definition of a meme coin. Rebel Satoshi's $RBLZ is not merely a digital asset; it's a symbol of a movement inspired by the spirits of historical figures such as Guy Fawkes and Satoshi Nakamoto. This movement challenges the status quo, promoting unity, defiance, and decentralization within the cryptocurrency landscape. Therefore, RebelSatoshi is not just a meme coin; it's a vibrant, community-driven initiative. Moreover, RebelSatoshi aims to rewrite the rules of the cryptocurrency landscape, encouraging active participation and engagement. $RBLZ introduces a unique concept known as stack-to-earn, wherein users can stake their $RBLZ tokens, actively contribute to the ecosystem, and unlock additional rewards. The Rebel Satoshi presale becomes a focal point as investors seek winter crypto picks. With $RBLZ priced attractively at $0.010 in its Early Bid Round, the presale is anticipated to witness a substantial 150% surge, reaching $0.025 per $RBLZ upon official launch. This projection reflects the collective confidence in RebelSatoshi's potential to disrupt the meme coin space and provide an enticing blend of entertainment and financial incentives. $RBLZ is undoubtedly one of the top altcoins to watch for in 2024. Experts Predict Lido DAO Will Cross the $3.5 Price Mark in 2024 Lido DAO, a prominent player in the crypto sphere, faced challenges throughout 2023 after a promising start to the year. Recent developments, however, have propelled LDO into the spotlight once again. Commencing 2023 with strength, LDO reached its 2023 peak of $3.2994 in February, aligning with market trends. However, subsequent months witnessed a decline in LDO's value by 33% until November, attributed to regulatory uncertainties impacting the broader crypto landscape, including Lido DAO. To enhance its utility and accessibility, Lido DAO's governing body approved the deployment of Wrapped Staked Ether (wstETH) to Coinbase’s Base network. Lido DAO, known for its liquid staking protocol, enables users to stake cryptocurrencies while concurrently utilizing them in decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. As announced by Lido DAO, the deployment of wstETH to the Base network introduces an official token version, facilitating trading and utilization within the Base network's DeFi ecosystem. In an optimistic outlook for Lido DAO, experts forecast that LDO could experience a surge, potentially crossing the $3.5 price mark to reach $3.80 per LDO in 2024. The integration of wstETH into Coinbase’s Base network is seen as a catalyst for increased demand and utility of LDO. However, a more conservative estimate in a bearish scenario suggests that LDO might stabilize around $2.39 in 2024. For the latest updates and more information, be sure to visit the official Rebel Satoshi Presale Website or contact Rebel Red via Telegram Contact Details Rebel Red marketing@rebelsatoshi.com

November 15, 2023 11:45 AM Eastern Standard Time

Macao Poised to Woo Global Travelers with Knockout Events and Streamlined Traffic Facilities

Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO)

MACAO SAR - Media OutReach - 15 November 2023 - Macao, the top vibrant and dynamic Asian city, is thrilled to once again welcome travellers worldwide with a series of fabulous activities. With a rich selection of exciting events and the highly anticipated 70 th Macau Grand Prix, Macao targets to curate an unparalleled travel experience. The Macao Government Tourism Office (“MGTO”) is also delighted to emphasize the city’s unique charm and convenience by highlighting the new intermodal bonded bus service between Macao and Hong Kong International Airport (“HKIA”). Macao is among the frontrunners of tourist destinations eagerly refreshing their touristic landscapes with upgraded tour packages. Many captivating events, including the highly anticipated Macau Food Festival and the awe-inspiring Light Up Macao 2023, usher global travellers with dazzling festivals and attractive performances. The eye-catching Macau Grand Prix resumes at the racing track The highlight of this year’s events is the much-awaited Macau Grand Prix. Revving up the excitement, this grand occasion just ignited this past weekend and will continue from 16 th to 19 th, captivating racing enthusiasts globally. As the only street circuit racing event for cars and motorcycles, Macau Grand Prix showcases exhilarating races featuring world-class drivers on its iconic Guia Circuit. It epitomizes Macao’s commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences to visitors and contestants. Streamlined traffic facilities to connect travellers and Macao in no time A new intermodal bonded bus service has been launched from HKIA to Macao. Established in the restricted area in HKIA, one of the world’s busiest airports, this service eliminates the nuisance of multiple transfers and provides a seamless and hassle-free travel experience. Passengers can board a direct bus to Macao, where luggage check-in and security procedures are handled in one go. With time and effort saved, passengers can enjoy the scenic route as they embark on their Macao adventure. Macao is also pleased to announce a new direct flight route between Macao and Jakarta to be commenced very soon. It aims to strengthen the bond and offer travellers from Jakarta the ease to experience Macao. Macao sincerely invites travellers worldwide to rediscover its magic. With world-class events, cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and convenient traffic, Macao promises an extraordinary destination for travellers from far and wide. About Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) MGTO is responsible for implementing, analyzing, and assisting in formulating the tourism policies of the Macao SAR to enhance its reputation as a quality destination. Together with local trade, MGTO promotes local tourism products and services in the leading and emerging tourism markets, meanwhile evaluating and exploring potential markets. The Office works to strengthen its connections with overseas travel trade as well as regional and international tourism organizations to boost Macao’s tourism development. For more information, please visit: https://www.macaotourism.gov.mo/en/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stopovermacao Instagram: @makmakmacao Contact Details Sandy Ip sandy.ip@vs-media.com

November 15, 2023 09:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Decoding Pre-IPO Funding: Key Points and Considerations

Benzinga

Pre-IPO Funding is a form of lending that provides individuals and companies with the opportunity to access capital using their equity holdings in private companies before those companies go public through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Through pre-IPO Loans, individual investors and companies can unlock the value of their shares in private companies without having to sell them. This type of financing allows stakeholders to preserve ownership and participate in potential future gains after the company goes public. By leveraging the collateral of privately held shares, pre-IPO funding offers a flexible financing option for those seeking to capitalize on their investments before the IPO. This type of funding is particularly attractive for investors and early-stage companies looking to access liquidity and diversify their investment portfolios. “The pre-IPO loan is important to a business because it sets them up for success,” said Liquidty Group managing director Yaron Primovich. Pre-IPO Funding provides various benefits, including the ability to access capital quickly, flexibility in loan terms, and the opportunity to make informed investment decisions. It allows individuals and companies to secure financing against the anticipated value of their shares, based on the growth potential and market interest in the private company. Overall, pre-IPO Funding is an innovative financial solution that harnesses the potential value of equity holdings in private companies, allowing individuals and businesses to unlock capital while maintaining ownership and participation in the future success of these companies. Understanding pre-IPO Funding's Unique Value Proposition Essentially, pre-IPO Financing provides a conduit for individuals and firms to tap into capital based on their equity in private enterprises before the transformational event of an Initial Public Offering. Notably, it empowers stakeholders to: Unlock value from their privately-held equity without parting with it. Enjoy the privilege of gaining potential rewards after a public listing. Obtain swift capital access with tailored loan specifications. Leverage anticipated equity value, informed by the enterprise's growth trajectory and market appetite. This means that pre-IPO “primes the pump” for IPO success, something that most companies definitely would welcome in nearly any context. Why Opt for pre-IPO Financing? The consideration of a pre-IPO loan is a multifaceted strategy, essential for companies navigating the intricate transition from private to public status. One critical aspect is operational and growth finance. Prior to a public debut, organizations frequently require an infusion of capital to drive expansion, refine product or service offerings, recruit top-tier talent, or bolster their brand visibility. Securing this interim funding can serve as a strategic lever, ensuring they are ideally positioned for an impactful market entry. Furthermore, addressing the inevitable expenses associated with an IPO process is paramount. The journey from being a private company to a public entity is laden with significant expenditures, including costs related to regulatory compliance, underwriting fees, and extensive marketing campaigns. Pre-IPO loans offer a timely solution, conveniently supporting these financial demands without disrupting operational cash flow. Additionally, such financing allows companies to streamline their financial structures. This could involve settling outstanding liabilities or renegotiating terms on existing, high-cost debt. By optimizing their financial statements, companies can present a more attractive and secure profile, ultimately appealing to a broader spectrum of prospective investors. Not to be overlooked is the powerful signaling effect of securing pre-IPO financing. It's a strategic move that communicates an organization's confidence and belief in its growth story and future prospects. This, in turn, enhances the company's credibility and appeal, particularly in the eyes of savvy institutional investors who can discern such subtle yet confident market signals. Lastly, a vital tactical advantage of pre-IPO loans is the avoidance of equity dilution. By choosing debt financing over issuing new equity, existing shareholders can keep their current ownership percentages. This approach ensures that their interests remain tightly aligned with the company's future success, fostering an environment of trust and shared objectives as the enterprise embarks on its new journey as a publicly-traded entity. How do you apply for a pre-IPO loan? To apply for pre-IPO funding, companies need to go through a comprehensive application process. This process typically involves several steps and requirements. First, the company needs to contact a lender or financial institution that specializes in pre-IPO financing. The lender will usually ask for a business plan and financial statements, including balance sheets and income statements. These documents provide an overview of the company's financial health and growth potential. Additionally, the company needs to provide a valuation of its shares. This valuation is crucial as it determines the loan amount and the lender's assessment of risk. Lenders consider various factors when assessing the risk level, including the company's growth prospects, market competitiveness, management team, and the industry in which it operates. Once the initial evaluation is complete, the lender may ask for further due diligence. This can involve a more in-depth analysis of the company's financials, market positioning, and competitive landscape. The lender may also ask for meetings or interviews with management to gain a better understanding of the company's operations and plans. After the lender is satisfied with the due diligence process, loan terms and conditions will be negotiated. If both parties agree, the loan agreement will be finalized, and the funds will be disbursed to the company. A pre-IPO loan can benefit various individuals and entities. Companies can use the funds to cover IPO-related expenses, optimize their financial structure, and demonstrate confidence to potential investors. Institutional investors, private equity firms, and other early-stage investors can also benefit by providing capital to companies in exchange for future gains. Additionally, lenders themselves can benefit from pre-IPO loans by earning interest on the loan amount and potential future returns as the company goes public. How does a pre-IPO Loan work? A pre-IPO Loan is a financing option available to private companies in the pre-IPO stage. This type of loan allows companies to obtain capital before going public by using equity as collateral. Here is how it works: 1. Equity Collateral: In a pre-IPO Loan, the company offers its shares as collateral to the lender. The lender's valuation of the shares typically determines the value of the loan. This allows the company to access the capital it needs without giving up ownership or control. 2. Lender's Valuation: The lender evaluates the company's financials, growth potential, and market conditions to determine the value of the shares. This valuation helps determine loan amount and interest rates. Companies with a strong business model, promising growth prospects, and a solid management team are more likely to secure favorable loan terms. 3. Expected Growth of Equity: The pre-IPO Loan is structured in a way that aligns the repayment with the company's expected growth post-IPO. As the company goes public and its share prices increase, the value of the collateral (equity) also grows. This provides the lender with assurance that their investment will generate enough returns. 4. Importance of Future Business Plans: Lenders closely analyze the company's future business plans to assess its potential for success and growth. These plans demonstrate the company's strategy for using the loan proceeds and achieving milestones that will ultimately lead to a successful IPO. A well-defined and compelling business plan increases the company's chances of obtaining a pre-IPO Loan. In conclusion, a pre-IPO Loan allows private companies to access funding by using their equity as collateral. The loan amount is based on the lender's valuation of the shares, and repayment is aligned with the expected growth of equity post-IPO. Future business plans are crucial in attracting lenders and securing favorable loan terms, as they demonstrate the company's potential for success and growth. Other considerations for pre-IPO lending Other considerations for pre-IPO lending include factors such as share transfer restrictions, margin calls, and default scenarios. These factors add complexity to pre-IPO loans and underscore the importance of carefully assessing the borrower's financial situation and mitigating potential risks. Share transfer restrictions play a crucial role in pre-IPO lending. These restrictions prevent the borrower from freely transferring or selling their shares until the company goes public. Lenders need to carefully evaluate these restrictions to understand the limited liquidity options for collateral. This evaluation helps lenders gauge the potential difficulties in recovering their investments in case of default or other adverse scenarios. Margin calls are another crucial factor in pre-IPO lending. Lenders may require the borrower to maintain a certain loan-to-value ratio, and if the value of the collateral falls below this threshold, a margin call is triggered. This means that the borrower must repay a part of the loan or provide additional collateral to restore the required ratio. Margin calls can significantly impact the borrower's liquidity and ability to repay the loan. Default scenarios also need to be considered. In case of a default, lenders may have limited legal recourse due to the share transfer restrictions and the borrower's potential lack of assets other than the pre-IPO shares. Therefore, a thorough evaluation of the borrower's financial situation, creditworthiness, and risk management practices is essential to minimize the risk of default. In the end, the pre-IPO loan is a great vehicle to carry a company towards real success and growth, something even the most battle-hardened CEO can get behind. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 15, 2023 09:25 AM Eastern Standard Time

BENZINGA VIRTUAL EVENTS PRESENTS: METALS AND MINING MARKET OUTLOOK WEBINAR

Benzinga

Benzinga, a leading financial media and events company, is excited to announce its upcoming virtual event, the "Metals and Mining Market Outlook" webinar. This free webinar will delve into critical topics shaping the future of the metals and mining industry, featuring expert insights and discussions on the latest market trends and opportunities. The webinar will explore the following topics and more: Will this Bullish Trend in the Precious Metals Market Persist? Industry experts will analyze the factors contributing to the current bullish trend in the precious metals market and discuss whether this momentum is expected to continue. How Much Potential Value Still Remains for North American Gold Mining Companies Today? The webinar will explore the opportunities and challenges facing North American gold mining companies and assess the potential value that still exists in the market. Is the Lithium Market Outlook Positive? Attendees will gain valuable insights into the lithium market, exploring its current outlook and potential for growth. Experts will discuss key drivers and challenges within the lithium sector. And Much, Much More! The webinar will cover a broad range of topics, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the current dynamics in the metals and mining industry. Event Details: Date: November 16, 2023 Time: 11:00 AM - 12:15pm, EST Location: Virtual Registration Information: To secure your spot at this informative event, register for free at https://www.benzinga.com/events/metals-mining-nov-16/ During the webinar, attendees will have the chance to learn from: Imaru Casanova, Portfolio Manager, Gold and Precious Metals, VanEck Jason Barnard, CEO and President, Foremost Lithium Miles Rideout, Vice President Exploration, Argentina Lithium Dennis Higgs, President & Director, Austin Gold Christopher Gerteisen, CEO & Director, Nova MInerals Limited Benzinga's commitment to providing high-quality financial information and fostering industry dialogue makes this webinar a must-attend for investors, industry professionals, and anyone seeking valuable insights into the metals and mining market. For media inquiries, please contact Matt Steinmetz, Vice President of Virtual Events at Benzinga. About Benzinga Benzinga is a dynamic and innovative financial media and events company that empowers investors with high-quality, unique content. With a focus on breaking news and expert insights, Benzinga strives to educate, inform, and inspire. Learn more at www.benzinga.com. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 15, 2023 09:25 AM Eastern Standard Time

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BENZINGA VIRTUAL EVENTS PRESENTS: METALS AND MINING MARKET OUTLOOK WEBINAR