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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

A Record Number of International Professionals Attend the Fourth Edition of TCCF

Taiwan Creative Content Agency

TAIPEI, TAIWAN - Media OutReach - 15 November 2023 - Last Sunday, November 12, concluded the fourth edition of the Taiwan Creative Content Fest (TCCF), an international meeting point for content industry professionals organized by the Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA) in Taipei. During the 6-day event, thousands of guests from 29 countries attended the on-site activities, with 241 international professionals landing in Taipei —a record number for the emerging event. TCCF 2023 Opening Ceremony PITCHING This is the first year TCCF accepts international entries receiving a record-breaking 539 projects from 29 regions. The 53 selected titles were eligible for 30 awards sponsored by local and international partners. In the award ceremony on November 10, the Taiwan-Japan heartfelt documentary After the Snowmelt and the Filipino supernatural drama Mother Maybe were both selected the TAICCA X CNC award winners, receiving a cash prize of US$30,000 each. Another selected project, the Taiwanese series Maid of Vengeance, received the Chunghwa Telecom Award, together with a cash prize NT$600,000, and the Series Mania Award, which means the project will participate in Series Mania 2024. Finally, Taiwan-Hong Kong feature Appetite for Desire won the MIFFEST Award, the Choice of Deep Waters Award, and the Taipei International Film Award. MARKET Featuring local and international licensors, national pavilions, innovative tech companies, and film commissions, this year’s B2B marketplace hosted more than 100 booths. With more than 1,400 business meetings in 4 days, MARKET attracted international exhibitors looking for Taiwanese distributors. Among them was the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) whose representative, Yuichi Ito, was very excited to participate in TCCF for the first time, "Our goal is to find buyers interested in Japanese animation, films and dramas. It's a great opportunity for us to find partners and buyers because there are so many great companies at TCCF that we haven't met before." INNOVATIONS The section dedicated to the latest technological advancements in the content industry hosted 23 panels, workshops, industry insights and showcases with trailblazers in the industry from local and international institutions such as PHI Centre, Ars Electronica or KKCompany. In addition, it showcased 21 immersive artworks including installations and MR/AR experiences. One of the speakers at INNOVATIONS, Liz Rosenthal, curator at Venice Immersive (Venice International Film Festival), expressed her excitement for this year's event, "TCCF is really an amazing place to discover all the latest projects from Taiwan and to meet all of the players in the immersive industry. It’s very useful for me at the Venice Film Festival because we love featuring all the amazing talent from Taiwan." Beyond the three main sections at TCCF 2023, there were other important announcements and discussions about the current role of Asian content in the world. At a panel hosted by Janice Chua, vice president at Imagine International, about the increasing presence of Asian creative in Hollywood, Adele Lim, writer of Crazy Rich Asians and director of Joy Ride, explained that even at first she felt at a disadvantage when she moved from her native Malaysia to LA, she quickly realized that "growing up in Asia had tremendous advantages, which first of all made me much more multicultural and open to different types of entertainment." During a press conference, KOKO Entertainment and DaMou Entertainment presented their new series Fired Up!, a remake of the popular K-drama Itaewon Class. Starring Taiwanese singer Eric Chou, the show will go into production this December. In addition, they also revealed the second season of their multi-awarded project The World Between Us. Once again in collaboration with streaming platform CATCHPLAY and Taiwan's Public Television Service, the second season will follow a new story reflecting on Taiwanese public health, law, politics, and mental illness. A series of MOUs were also signed on stage between TAICCA and several local and international partners, including Centre national du cinéma et de l'image animée, CJ ENM Hong Kong. The goal of these agreements is to continue to develop and elevate Taiwanese productions, to gain further visibility on international stages, and to support emerging talents. Contact Details DDG - International PR & Marketing Manager Jaime Costas Nicolás jaime.costas@ddg.com.tw TAICCA Representative Wengin Hsu wengin.hsu@taicca.tw

November 15, 2023 05:26 AM Eastern Standard Time

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News Release

Shiba Inu’s Price Trajectory: Evaluating the Recovery Prospects Against Rebel Satoshi

RoundHouse Media

The crypto market has rebounded impressively in Q4 2023. As a result, novice investors are increasingly asking whether top altcoins like Shiba Inu (SHIB) will continue performing bullishly. Meanwhile, Rebel Satoshi ( $RBLZ ), a new meme coin, is stealing the limelight from popular tokens after promising to generate a 150% ROI during its public presale. Why is Shiba Inu losing investors to emerging tokens like Rebel Satoshi? Continue reading to discover! Shiba Inu Gains 2% In a Week: What’s The Future Outlook? Shiba Inu has performed decently over the past seven days, starting November 2. On November 2, SHIB was trading around $0.000007861. SHIB surged marginally until the Shiba Inu team announced that Shibarium would spread decision-making across the community as part of its 2024/2025 roadmap on November 6. As a result, Shiba Inu surged as high as $0.000008696 on November 9. However, news of a whale transferring 4 trillion SHIB saw the price correct downward to stabilize around $0.000008090. This November 9 price means SHIB has only gained 2.98% in a week. So, based on this performance, is SHIB a good crypto to buy? According to analysts, SHIB will continue plunging in November as the selling force from the whale activity intensifies. To be specific, experts set the end-of-November SHIB prediction at $0.000007617. However, the end-of-2023 SHIB forecast is bullish, with experts predicting SHIB will soar as high as $0.000010779. This forecast makes SHIB one of the best coins to invest in. Analysts peg this prediction on SHIB getting more adoption as more investors embrace it because of its 2024/2025 roadmap. Visit Rebel Satoshi Presale Website Rebel Satoshi Challenges Top Meme Coins After Promising a 150% Presale Jump! Rebel Satoshi, a new meme coin that aims to challenge the status quo in the crypto industry, has witnessed a steady flow of investors into its public presale. The Rebel Satoshi project aims to topple centralized organizations and usher in a new era of decentralization by banding together Recusants, anyone who refuses to accept or obey without question. In the center of the Rebel Satoshi ecosystem is $RBLZ. $RBLZ is the governance and membership token of the Rebel Satoshi ecosystem. With a supply cap of 250 million tokens and a deflationary mechanism, $RBLZ positions itself as the best cryptocurrency to buy now! Moreover, $RBLZ investors will get access to 9,999 NFTs that symbolize Rebel Satoshi ’s story of unity, courage, and defiance against oppressive rules. On top of this, investors can stake $RBLZ to get staking rewards, explaining why Rebel Satoshi has left investors buzzing about its presale. By November, Rebel Satoshi had initiated the Early Bird Round of its public presale, with $RBLZ going for $0.010. $RBLZ is set to surge to $0.013 when it enters the next round, dubbed Rebel. Furthermore, investors in the Early Bird Round will see their $RBLZ holdings surge 150% once Rebel Satoshi completes its presale at the projected price of $0.025. For the latest updates and more information, be sure to visit the official Rebel Satoshi Presale Website or contact Rebel Red via Telegram Please note that the Discord and Telegram communities are for Recusants and $RBLZ holders only. Contact Details Rebel Red marketing@rebelsatoshi.com

November 14, 2023 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Celebrates 89 Years of Entertaining Families Across the City and Country with Marching Bands, Giant Balloons, Festive Floats, Staged Performances and Equestrian Units

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

The award-winning and iconic Chicago Thanksgiving Parade returns on Thursday, November 23, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. CT, traveling up Chicago’s legendary State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street featuring the return of the beloved giant balloons. This free family tradition, now in its 89 th year, joyfully showcases the best talent from across the nation, featuring the country’s top marching bands, including Tennessee State University, Minnesota State University, and Marist High School, festive floats, staged performances, equestrian units, cultural performance troupes, and inflatables, all led by celebrity hosts and a special visitor from the North Pole—offering a celebration with jolly sights and sounds for attendees of all ages. This year’s Parade will be co-hosted by actors Jen Lilley (Days of Our Lives, B&B Merry, Paris Christmas Waltz) and Jesse Hutch (Batwoman, B&B Merry, Blessings of Christmas). There will also be special appearances by HGTV’s Lauren Makk and Chicago’s Poet Laureate avery r. young. A highlight of the 2023 parade will be performances by country music’s Reyna Roberts and Tayler Holder. “We are absolutely thrilled to create a long-lasting memory for all generations, one that is a tradition for so many people attending and watching from home. Our Chicago Thanksgiving Parade has become through the years a vibrant event that is an integral piece of what makes our city so great and unique,” said Daniel Mulka, Executive Director of the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Foundation. Pluto TV will live stream this year’s parade. As a pioneer of FAST, Pluto TV’s signature style of curation, with hundreds of channels and categories programmed daily, is a known catalyst that sparked acceleration and fandom around free, ad-supported streaming television. The service curates a diverse lineup of channels, in partnership with over 400 international media companies, offering a wide array of genres, languages and categories featuring movies, television series, sports, news, lifestyle, kids and much more. Pluto TV can be easily accessed anywhere you stream - across all major mobile, web and connected TV devices. “Pluto TV is honored to bring the parade to audiences across the country on our Pluto TV Christmas channel alongside an abundance of holiday content,” said Scott Reich, Senior Vice President of Programming at Pluto TV. “The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade provides a magical kickoff to the holiday season.” For those seeking an extra-special experience, the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade offers VIP seating providing the best view of the Parade and the opportunity to enjoy the staged-for-TV performances right before their eyes, in addition to the forward-motion parade. Tickets for VIP access to the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade are $70 and available for purchase at www.chicagothanksgivingparade.com. Jen Lilley expresses her excitement for hosting: “I am absolutely thrilled to be co-hosting the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade! As an ambassador for the ‘Christmas Is Not Cancelled’ non-profit, which raises funds for families across the nation to receive Christmas gifts, I’m grateful for this opportunity to help spread the word and to spread joy for families and children in need!” Jesse Hutch shares the sentiment: “I look forward to supporting the amazing people of the windy city and hosting the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade with Jen. To say that I am thankful is not only true but also fitting for the day of celebration and reflection.” Attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators each year, the 2023 Chicago Thanksgiving Parade features an eclectic roster of festive participants from across the city and the globe, including: Staged Live Entertainment Performances from 8-9 a.m., including American Blues Theater (Chicago, IL), avery r. young- Poet Laureate of Chicago (Chicago, IL), Ballet Folklorico Sones Mexicanos (Franklin Park, IL), Black Ensemble Theater (Chicago IL), Chicago Korean Dance Company (Rolling Medows, IL), Dong Fang Chinese Performing Arts (Chicago, IL), Huaxing Arts Group (Naperville, IL), John Vincent (Chicago, IL), Korean Performing Arts Institute of Chicago (Skokie, IL), Suktinis (Lemont, IL), Musical Theater Works (Skokie, IL), Renacer Boliviano (Chicago, IL), Reyna Roberts (La Vergne, IL), Tayler Holder (Nashville, TN), Texas State University Strutters (San Marcos, TX). Marching Bands— an annual family favorite of the Parade programming—hail from 16 high schools and universities, including Arcadia High School (Arcadia, CA), Battery Creek High School (Beaufort, SC), Bedford High School (Temperance, MI), Bishop Noll Institute (Hammond, IN), Bloom Township District 206 (Chicago Heights, IL), Horace Mann Academy (Chicago, IL), Marist High School (Chicago, IL), Minnesota State University, Mankato (Mankato, MN), Portage High School (Portage, WI), Riverside Brookfield High School (Riverside, IL), Southland College Prep Charter High School (Richton Park, IL), Thomas Kelly College Preparatory (Chicago, IL), Thornwood High School (South Holland, IL), Thorton Fraction North High School (Calumet City, IL), Tennessee State University - “The Aristocrat of Bands”, first HCBU to play the Parade. Specialty Units: 501 st Legion Midwest Garrison. (Chicago, IL), Aloha Center Chicago (Chicago, IL), Ballet Folklorico Yolotzin (East Chicago, IN), Bloom Township High School District 206 Choir (Chicago Heights, IL), Chicago Boyz (Chicago, IL), Chicago Chinese Culture & Arts Society (Chicago, IL), Chicago Korean Dance Company (Rolling Meadows, IL), Chicago Spirit Brigade (Chicago, IL), Chicago Wheel Jam by Cirques Experience (Chicago, IL), Crystal Lake Strikers Drumline (Crystal Lake, IL), CTSHealth (Chicago, IL), Jesse White Tumbling Team (Chicago, IL), Jurassic Park Motor Pool: Midwest and Indiana Divisions (Osage, IA), Korean Performing Arts Institute of Chicago (Skokie, IL), Michigan City Soul Steppers Drill Team (Michigan City, IN), Mobile Azalea Trail Maids (Saraland, AL), Ozinga (Mokena, IL), Pro Dance Elite Studios (Algonquin, IL), Rebecca McCarthy School of Dance (Lakewood, IL), Renacer Boliviano Dance Troupe (Chicago, IL), St. Paul Winter Carnival Royal Family (Anoka, MN), Texas State University Strutters Dance Team (San Marcos, TX), Thistle & Heather Highland Dancers (Downers Grove, IL), Unicycling Society of America, Inc. (Garden City, MI), Windy City Ghostbusters (Lockport, IL), Marcedes Benz of Chicago, NASCAR. Equestrians: Bertrand’s Miniature Horses (Watseka, IL), Herder Holiday Horses (Frankfort, IL), Miss Rodeo Illinois and Miss Teen Rodeo Illinois (Ramsey, IL), Ray of Hope Riders (Lowell, IL), Red Hats and Purple Chaps (Lafayette, IL), SOUL Harbour Ranch Animal Therapy Program (Barrington, IL). Festive Floats: Casa de la Cultura Guatemalteca en Chicago, Mid-USA Falun Dafa Association, Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago, Santa’s Village, Krewe of Europa. Honored Guests: avery r. young- Poet Laurate of Chicago, Lauren Makk of HGTV, Miss Ilinois Jessica Tilton, Miss Illinois' Teen Isabella Waggoner, Country Artist Reyna Roberts, and Country Artist and Actor Tayler Holder. The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade sponsors include Atwood, CD One Price Cleaners, CTSHealth, CW26, HI Chicago, Radio 95.5 Rock, Jewel-Osco, Kinsale Contracting Group, Mercedes-Benz of Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, NASCAR, Ozinga, Pluto TV, Raising Cane’s Santa’s Village, Setna iO, Sexual by Michel Germain Parfums, Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, Staypineapple, Washington Hall, and WorldStrides OnStage. For more information and updates about the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, visit www.chicagothanksgivingparade.com. ABOUT THE CHICAGO THANKSGIVING PARADE Originally called the Christmas Caravan in the 1930s, the Parade, now in its 89th year, was created in 1934 to help lift the spirits of residents suffering through the Great Depression. Since then, it has developed into a full-scale spectacle that celebrates the holiday season. What once started as an attempt to boost Chicago’s economy, has evolved into a cherished holiday tradition for Americans across the country. Over thirteen different cultures will share their enriched traditions with Chicago’s Parade this Thanksgiving morning. The sights on State Street give the audience a chance to travel the world and embrace other traditions, all without leaving downtown Chicago. Follow Chicago’s Thanksgiving Parade on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. ABOUT PLUTO TV Pluto TV, a Paramount Company, is the leading free streaming television service delivering hundreds of live linear channels and thousands of titles on-demand to a global audience. The Emmy ® award-winning service curates a diverse lineup of channels, in partnership with over 400 international media companies, offering a wide array of genres, languages and categories featuring movies, television series, sports, news, lifestyle, kids and much more. Pluto TV can be easily accessed and streamed across mobile, web and connected TV devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Pluto TV’s growing international footprint extends across four continents and over 35 markets. Contact Details Noreen Heron or Stacey Coakley +1 312-415-4204 noreen@heronagency.com Company Website https://www.chicagothanksgivingparade.com/

November 14, 2023 11:11 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Hotimage.ai Unveils Enhanced AI Image Generator with Expanded User Preferences and Streamlined Accessibility

Hotimage.AI

Hotimage.ai, a leading AI image generator, has announced a significant upgrade to their platform, catering to a broader spectrum of user preferences and delivering a more seamless user experience, including advanced options for image generation, expanded background choices, and enhanced accessibility features. In response to the evolving needs of our diverse user base, Hotimage.ai has expanded its image generation capabilities to include a broader range of categories, now encompassing nuanced characteristics such as Ethnicity, hairstyles, and additional body attributes. This enhancement aims to provide users, including artists and designers, with a more personalized and inclusive image creation process using advanced AI art generator techniques, enabling them to accurately reflect their desired visual representations and unleash their creativity. Furthermore, the platform has introduced new background options, allowing users to seamlessly integrate their AI-generated images into various settings, further enhancing the versatility and applicability of the generated content. Hotimage.ai has also implemented a smoother log-in experience, optimizing the user interface for effortless navigation, even though the platform does not mandate users to register or log in to access its robust suite of AI image generation tools. The streamlined log-in process serves to enhance overall usability and efficiency, ensuring a frictionless experience for users who opt to leverage advanced customization features. Moreover, Hotimage.ai has augmented the user experience for those creating AI Nsfw content by introducing an expanded array of categories and a more extensive feed of AI-generated images. With an enriched library of AI-created photos, Hotimage.ai empowers users in the AI nsfw content creation space to explore a wider spectrum of possibilities and refine their artistic expression with greater flexibility and depth. "We are thrilled to introduce these comprehensive enhancements to our AI image generator, empowering users with greater customization options and a seamless, secure user experience," stated E dward Ocean, Head of Product Development at Hotimage.ai. "Our goal is to continually evolve our platform to meet the diverse needs of our global user community while maintaining the highest standards of user safety and privacy." About Hotimage.ai: Hotimage.ai is a pioneering AI technology company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for image generation and customization, including nsfw AI images. With a focus on user-centric design and advanced AI algorithms, Hotimage.ai empowers users to create visually captivating content tailored to their unique preferences and project requirements. Contact Details Adam Scott +1 346-428-8364 support@hotimage.ai

November 14, 2023 10:33 AM Eastern Standard Time

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One Of The Hottest Wall Street Trends In 2023 Has Been AI – Trust Stamp Is Leveraging AI To Ensure Security In The New Reality

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga Wall Street has become increasingly focused on the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and the role it can play in transforming business and the global economy. While some experts are concerned about the hype and fear that a bubble is forming around the technology, there is growing evidence that more and more companies are embracing AI to drive innovation and growth. Multiple research reports and studies have been released by investment research firms, highlighting the transformative potential of AI and its ability to boost worker productivity and contribute to GDP growth. Carlyle recently called the birth of generative AI a “watershed in human history,” and Wall Street seems quite bullish on the long-term prospects of AI. This is unsurprising considering that AI is becoming increasingly vital to businesses across a range of industries. Many firms are recognizing the need to incorporate AI into their operations and processes to remain competitive and meet the evolving demands of consumers. For example, companies are using AI to improve customer experience, enhance data analysis capabilities and streamline business operations. As AI technology continues to evolve, its role in driving innovation and growth in the business world is likely to become even more significant. Among companies leveraging AI, Trust Stamp (NASDAQ: IDAI) is one that stands out in its field – the company is looking to revolutionize digital security. Trust Stamp is a global provider of AI-powered, privacy-first trust and identity services used across multiple sectors – such as banking and finance, real estate, communications, regulatory compliance and government. Trust Stamp offers a range of innovative services. Their biometric capture and analysis technology enables secure and convenient identity verification, allowing businesses to streamline onboarding processes. By integrating advanced document verification, Trust Stamp helps verify the authenticity of important documents, reducing the risk of fraud. Trust Stamp has recently received a Notice of Allowance from the United States Patent and Trademark Office. This notice marks a significant milestone for Trust Stamp's AI-powered, tokenized identity products, which are leveraged in its global operations. It follows the announcement of three additional patent applications made by the company in April 2023. The new patent, titled “Systems and processes for lossy biometric representation," further bolsters the company's IP protection for its innovative biometric hashing technology, which is used for subject identity verification. The technology in the patent uses neural network processing and pseudorandom matrix multiplication to generate anonymized vector representations of biometrics that can be verified for identity authentication. The anonymized vector representations are "lossy," meaning that not all the information from the original biometric data is retained, thereby enhancing security when dealing with sensitive biometric data while still allowing for identity verification with a degree of certainty. Dr. Norman Poh, Trust Stamp’s Chief Science Officer, shared, “This latest Notice of Allowance marks an important win and significantly enhances the IP around our AI-based authentication technology. With over 30 patents now issued, allowed, or pending, over the last seven years our team has developed a highly defensible IP position that is now being productized across an ever-growing range of use cases. The IT² represents an evolution of biometric authentication that provides the subject with an exceptional level of security, while greatly enhancing the utility of the original biometric capture. These capabilities have clearly differentiated Trust Stamp in the market, and industry feedback has been extremely positive, resulting in a rapidly growing commercial sales pipeline.” Trust Stamp has integrated the innovative identity verification processes from this patent into its Irreversibly Transformed Identity Token (IT2) technology, a unique privacy-first solution. Using its AI-based IT2, Trust Stamp ensures the benefits of biometric-derived authentication while keeping control of and not sharing the original biometric data. The IT2 cannot be converted back to the original data, keeping the biometric templates secure and offering privacy-protecting methodology to enjoy biometric-based authentication advantages without the risk of storing biometric templates. This patent is a significant step forward for Trust Stamp in the AI-powered identity and trust services landscape. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Trust Stamp's emphasis on privacy and data protection is aimed at ensuring that users’ personal information is safeguarded at all times. The ability to enhance security while maximizing the benefits of biometric data is a game-changer for financial institutions and companies dealing with sensitive data. Trust Stamp's products and services are set to play a significant role in shaping the future of finance and identity verification in the coming years. 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 14, 2023 09:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

Mainz Biomed Partners With Liquid Biosciences in Exclusive Relationship To Harness The Power Of Artificial Intelligence (AI) To Develop Next-generation Colorectal Screening Test

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in biotechnology is rapidly gaining momentum, revolutionizing the field of life sciences. AI technologies, such as machine learning and deep learning algorithms, have the potential to analyze complex biological data more efficiently and accurately than ever before. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of genomic, proteomic, and clinical data, leading to new insights and discoveries that were previously inaccessible. This integration of AI and biotech holds great promise for enhancing scientific understanding, improving healthcare outcomes, and ultimately transforming the way we approach biotechnological advancements. Mainz Biomed (NASDAQ: MYNZ), a company that specializes in developing molecular genetic diagnostic solutions for life-threatening conditions, has created ColoAlert®, an innovative product that addresses the need for easier and more accessible cancer screenings for quick detection and treatment of colorectal cancer. This non-invasive and user-friendly test aims to make colorectal cancer screening fast, simple and precise. The company has recently formed a partnership with Liquid Biosciences, aiming to leverage the capabilities of AI in developing an advanced colorectal screening test. Its partnership with Liquid Biosciences will help expand the company’s existing cutting-edge products. Recently, Mainz Biomed conducted a multi-center international clinical trial in Germany and Norway to evaluate the effectiveness of incorporating mRNA biomarkers into ColoAlert®, their leading product for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. The study yielded impressive findings, demonstrating a high sensitivity of 94.4% and specificity of 97.5% for detecting CRC. Additionally, the screening test showed a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 95.2% in detecting precursor lesions, including advanced adenomas that may develop into CRC. These results were nothing short of groundbreaking for the company. The partnership with Liquid Biosciences has the potential to move the needle forward more as Liquid Biosciences has a history of using AI to advance similar technologies. Liquid Biosciences has made a significant impact on the life sciences industry with its EMERGE bio-analytics platform. This platform has been utilized in more than 240 projects for prominent pharmaceutical companies and emerging therapeutic and diagnostic firms. It plays a crucial role in various areas such as biomarker discovery, clinical trial screening, and post-FDA approval services including patient treatment selection and optimal dosing regimens. “As artificial intelligence continues to disrupt every aspect of the healthcare sector, we are excited to establish a robust partnership with a genuine leader in the field as we head into the final development stage of our next-generation CRC screening test,” commented Guido Baechler, Chief Executive Officer of Mainz Biomed. “We look forward to continuing our highly productive partnership with the Liquid Biosciences team as we execute on our mission to bring the most effective self-administered cancer detection products to the market.” Liquid Biosciences reports that what makes EMERGE truly stand out from other AI and machine learning solutions is its exceptional computational speed and ability to handle a vast amount of variables. It operates without making any assumptions or constraints, allowing for an unbiased and scalable approach. The platform's transparency and ability to generate algorithms from complex data without prior assumptions enable the identification of variables that may have low expression but hold functional significance due to the intricate interactions inherent in complex biological systems. “We are excited to extend our relationship with Mainz Biomed into a formal partnership as we take great pride in working with companies who represent disruptive innovation that will impact disease prevention and treatment,” shared Patrick Lilley, Chief Executive Officer of Liquid Biosciences. “The work Mainz Biomed is doing will be crucial to saving lives from a disease where mortality is driven by late detection. As such, we are very pleased to have the opportunity to play an integral role in helping it develop the next generation of its pioneering products.” This partnership with Liquid Biosciences comes after a string of previous partnerships with other industry leaders like Zöller-Kipper and Ärztliches Labor Dr. Buhlmann. Through the partnership between Mainz Biomed and German company, Zöller-Kipper, accessibility to ColoAlert® test has been greatly enhanced for both patients and healthcare providers. All of Zöller-Kipper’s over 2,500 employees can now easily request the test through Mainz Biomed's online portal and have it delivered to their doorstep. Once the sample is received and processed, the employee can access their confidential test results through the portal. The portal also provides an explanation of the results to ensure that the employee understands them and if the employee has given consent for their physician to be notified, the doctor can directly follow up with them based on the test results. With colorectal cancer being the third most prevalent form of cancer and a troubling trend of this cancer affecting more and more young people, the need for biotech companies to innovate detection and treatment could not be understated. Mainz Biomed’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of diagnostic technology, increasing accessibility, and its growth trajectory seems to be making it a force to be reckoned with in the industry, setting it apart from its competitors. 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 14, 2023 09:25 AM Eastern Standard Time

Green Lantern Solar Sponsors Team USA Cross Country Skiing Athlete Ava Thurston

Green Lantern Solar

Green Lantern Solar, a leading renewable energy development and finance company focusing on commercial solar and energy storage systems, is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of Ava Thurston, a promising talent on the Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team. Ava, a native of Green Lantern Solar’s “hometown” Waterbury, Vermont, and a member of the Dartmouth College ski team, is set to embark on her first year with the national team, bringing with her a record of achievements in cross-country skiing. Green Lantern Solar renewed its support for Ava by sponsoring her headgear during this year’s cross-country season. The company previously sponsored Ava in her quest for the Junior World Cross Country Ski Championships, and this collaboration underscores its dedication to investing in the future of athletes in the region. “Ava has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of cross-country skiing,” said Luke Shullenberger, Founder, Green Lantern Solar. “With three Junior National championships and eight Vermont State titles to her name, Ava’s dedication and passion for the sport have been evident from a young age. Her impressive journey also includes being a part of the Junior Worlds team, a testament to her exceptional skills and commitment to excellence in the field.” “Green Lantern Solar has been amazing in supporting me at international races these past few years, and I am very excited to be continuing my sponsorship with them,” said Ava. "As a skier who loves training and racing on snow, it means a lot to me to partner with a company leading the shift to more sustainable energies. I am quite proud to be repping Green Lantern Solar’s logo on my headgear this winter!” “As Ava embarks on her journey with the Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team, Green Lantern Solar proudly stands beside her, offering unwavering support and encouragement,” said Scott Buckley, President of Green Lantern Solar. “Together, we look forward to witnessing Ava’s continued success and contributions to both the world of sports and the preservation of our environment.” Beyond cross-country skiing, Ava enjoys a wide range of activities, including hiking, reading and pursuing her education at Dartmouth College. Green Lantern Solar has a longstanding tradition of supporting the community through sponsorships of various non-profit organizations, sports clubs and environmental awareness initiatives. About Green Lantern Solar Green Lantern Solar is a vertically integrated regional renewable energy development company with a particular emphasis on turn-key commercial solar solutions for municipal, education, healthcare and government entities. Green Lantern works with landowners to revitalize and re-develop low-value sites such as brownfields, landfills, quarries/pits/extraction sites and other challenging real estate. The company provides a full suite of services: development, financing, construction and operations, maintenance and asset management. For more information, https://www.greenlanternsolar.com/, on LinkedIn and @GrnLntrnSolar on X/ Twitter. Contact Details Leah Wilkinson +1 703-907-0010 leah@wilkinson.associates Company Website https://www.greenlanternsolar.com/

November 14, 2023 08:37 AM Eastern Standard Time