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City of Portland, NTEN, and Comcast Announce Fellows Selected to Help Expand Digital Equity Programs Locally

Comcast Pacific Northwest

Today, the City of Portland, Comcast, and NTEN announced the five fellows and organizations in the 2024 Portland Digital Equity Service Corps (DESC) that were selected to receive a grant of up to $5,000 to help launch or expand a sustainable digital literacy program within their missions. They are: Marina Alvarez, Latino Network; Isa Alvarez, Hacienda CDC; Jeremy Gomez, Free Geek; Rukia Aweys Mohamed, African Refugee Immigrant Organization; and Fabiola Sanchez from Rosewood Initiative. In addition to funding assistance, the DESC fellows will receive training in program design and management, accessibility, adult education learning methods, impact evaluation, coalition building, leadership skills, workforce development strategies, and more. The Portland DESC, administered by NTEN, was selected as a $250,000 grant winner of the Talent for Tomorrow: Digital Equity Challenge that was launched as a joint initiative earlier this year by the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) and Comcast’s Project UP. The Digital Equity Challenge supports the development and expansion of local workforce programs designed to grow college and career readiness, close the digital skills gap, advance economic mobility, and lay the foundation for generational wealth in under-resourced communities. “Tackling digital equity requires multi-stakeholder collaboration and a holistic approach to inclusive community access. We believe that the outcomes from this fellowship will help expand pathways for educational and workforce advancement,” said Rebecca Gibbons, City of Portland Digital Equity Manager. “Nationwide and locally, Indigenous people, Black Americans, Latino Americans, low-income households and people living with disabilities face barriers that result in the lowest rates of accessibility to the internet and to devices. The City of Portland’s strategy to closing the digital divide calls for a cross-sectional and root-cause approach.” The Portland DESC, which models and builds on a decade of insights from NTEN's Digital Inclusion Fellowship, will equip fellows with the tools to establish sustainable digital literacy programs in the rural and urban communities most affected by digital inequities. NTEN provides mentors and comprehensive support to all fellows as they develop and implement a digital inclusion program tailored to their organization's and community's specific needs and contexts. The five organizations participating in the fellowship have deep roots in their communities and working on issues such as affordable housing, tech sustainability, digital access and youth engagement. "Organizations face many barriers to meeting their community's socioeconomic and civic needs. When community members don't have internet access or the skills to use it, those barriers are even higher," said Amy Sample Ward, CEO of NTEN. "We believe that the organizations best positioned to provide critical digital literacy programs are those that are already in and trusted by impacted communities. Our program is designed to build the skills, confidence and effectiveness of the fellows to deliver an innovative, sustainable digital literacy program that meets communities where they are." Project UP is Comcast’s a comprehensive initiative to advance digital equity and help build a future of unlimited possibilities. With a substantial commitment of $1 billion to reach tens of millions of people, Project UP encompasses programs and community partnerships across Comcast, NBCUniversal, and Sky to connect people to the Internet, promote economic mobility, and create opportunities for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and creators. "Comcast is proud to partner with NTEN and the city to build on our shared commitment to digital equity through Portland's Digital Equity Service Corps," said Rodrigo Lopez, Region Senior Vice President for Comcast in the Pacific Northwest. "Together, we are pleased to support an impressive group of people passionate about bringing digital equity to communities. These individuals will ensure that more people, especially those most often left out of the digital economy, can take advantage of the opportunities that come with acquiring digital skills." About NTEN NTEN is creating a world where missions and movements are successful through the skillful and equitable use of technology. We build transformative power by connecting people who are putting technology to work for social change. We strengthen their individual and collective capacity for doing good by offering expert trainings, researching effective approaches, and providing places where relationships can flourish. We relentlessly advocate for the redesign of the systems and structures that maintain inequity. NTEN’s amazing community is made up of nonprofit staff, volunteers, board members, funders, consultants, and vendors from all walks of life. For more information, visit: https://www.nten.org/about-nten. About the City of Portland’s Digital Equity Strategic Initiatives Program The Strategic Initiatives program champions public policy and local resources and investments to ensure the benefits of communications technology are available to all in support of an equitable, sustainable, and economically healthy city. BPS’s Digital Equity Strategic Initiatives team helps ensure all have the opportunity to thrive in the digital economy by focusing on just and equitable strategies to achieve digital access and adoption for all. The Coalition of Digital Equity (CODE), of which the City of Portland and NTEN are members, is a coalition of community organizations interested in raising awareness about digital equity barriers and developing local solutions to bridge the digital divide. Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms, we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Rachael Arnold Rachael_Arnold@Comcast.com Company Website https://oregon.comcast.com

October 30, 2024 08:55 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Debt.com Provides Essential Financial Guidance for Victims of Hurricanes Helene and Milton

Debt.com

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, countless families are grappling not only with the physical destruction of their homes and properties but also with severe financial setbacks. Debt.com, a trusted leader in financial education and debt relief, is extending its support to help those affected by the storms manage the financial fallout and rebuild their economic stability. “With two powerful hurricanes striking in quick succession, many people are facing unforeseen expenses, loss of income, and mounting debt,” said Don Silvestri President of Debt.com. “In times like these, it’s easy for financial problems to escalate if people don’t know where to seek help. Our mission is to offer resources and guidance to help these families regain control of their finances and avoid long-term financial hardship.” Don Silvestri President of Debt.com Debt.com is providing free resources, financial counseling, and expert advice specifically tailored for hurricane victims. These services aim to help affected individuals explore their options, recover more quickly, and rebuild stronger financial foundations. The organization has also compiled a list of personal finance tips and links to government assistance programs to assist during this critical time. Personal Finance Tips for Hurricane Victims Document All Damage and Expenses: Keep detailed records of storm damage, repairs, and temporary living expenses. This will be crucial for insurance claims and any potential assistance from FEMA. Contact Your Insurance Provider First: Call your insurance company to understand what’s covered and how to file a claim. Homeowners, renters, and auto insurance policies may all have provisions for storm damage. Reach Out for Help if You Can’t Pay Your Bills: Many creditors and utility companies offer temporary payment relief in times of disaster. Contact your lenders and service providers to ask about deferment options and waived fees. Be Cautious When Using Credit: If you have to use credit cards to cover emergency expenses, be strategic. Use the card with the lowest interest rate and prioritize paying off those balances as soon as possible. Create an Emergency Budget: If your income has been disrupted or you’re facing higher expenses, build a temporary budget that prioritizes essentials like housing, food, and medical care. Cut back on non-essentials until you have a clearer picture of your financial situation. Avoid High-Cost Loans and Scams: After natural disasters, scammers often target victims with high-interest loans or fraudulent services. Stick to reputable sources of assistance and avoid payday loans or predatory lending. Seek Professional Advice: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your financial situation, reach out to Debt.com for a free consultation. They can help you develop a recovery plan and provide guidance on managing debt. Government Resources Available for Hurricane Victims Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): FEMA provides financial assistance for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses. Visit www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) for help. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans: The SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, and businesses to help cover losses not fully covered by insurance. Visit www.sba.gov or call 1-800-659-2955 for details. American Red Cross: The Red Cross provides emergency shelter, food, and financial assistance. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (733-2767). Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Disaster Resources: HUD offers foreclosure relief and other housing assistance for those in disaster areas. Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor at 1-800-569-4287 or visit www.hud.gov. State and Local Emergency Management Agencies: Many states and counties have additional resources and recovery programs for disaster victims. Check your state or local emergency management website for specific help. Rebuilding takes time, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Debt.com encourages anyone struggling financially after Hurricanes Helene and Milton to seek help before debt becomes unmanageable. “These storms can have a lasting impact not just on your home, but on your finances as well,” Silvestri adds. “By taking the right steps now, you can protect yourself from making rushed financial decisions that could lead to long-term debt.” Don Silvestri President of Debt.com For personalized advice or to schedule a free counseling session, visit www.debt.com. About: Debt.com is a resource that offers consumers education, self-help guides, professional solutions, and more. On Debt.com, consumers can find expert money advice–how to make it, how to save it, and how to spend it. They also assist consumers by matching them with the perfect debt-solution company for their situation and making sure they are happy with the results. Debt.com has been featured in the Washington Post, Yahoo! Finance, Forbes, and more, making them a pillar of the debt relief industry. Contact Details Jill Randolph JRandolph@mediamgmtgroup.com Company Website https://www.debt.com/research/

October 30, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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NowSecure Launches PTaaS to Secure Roku, WebOS, Tizen, AndroidTV and tvOS Apps

NowSecure

NowSecure, the leading provider of mobile app risk management solutions, has expanded its mobile Pen Testing as a Service (PTaaS) offering to include security, privacy and compliance testing for apps on popular streaming, gaming and media platforms. Delivered via NowSecure Platform, the enhanced mobile application security testing service covers platforms such as Roku, WebOS, Tizen, Android TV OS, PlayStation, Xbox, tvOS and HarmonyOS, providing comprehensive, scalable security testing to help organizations mitigate risks and protect their reputation. Expansion of NowSecure security testing to cover apps on additional critical operating systems is essential for companies as they develop apps for connected devices.These platforms handle sensitive data like user credentials, payment information and personal preferences and run on operating systems whose security and privacy is more challenging to test. “Building on our success in mobile application security testing for streaming apps, we’re now expanding to protect apps on TV and gaming platforms,” said NowSecure CEO Alan Snyder. “By broadening our PTaaS capabilities, NowSecure ensures that businesses can protect user data and comply with privacy mandates across a full spectrum of operating systems, from smartphones to streaming to IoT devices and everything in between.” Why TV and Gaming Apps Require Strong Security Streaming devices and gaming consoles now support a wide range of apps for streaming, e-commerce and more. Platforms such as Roku, PlayStation and Android TV OS are found in millions of households worldwide, making them significant targets for cybercriminals. Security vulnerabilities on these platforms can enable attackers to access microphones and private data collected from connected systems, violating customer privacy and damaging corporate reputations. In the most severe scenarios, attackers can take control of the apps and IoT devices which can create a physical security issue in addition to the privacy issues. NowSecure cloud subscription-based PTaaS helps developers and security teams continuously secure apps via: Standards-based, on-demand penetration testing to identify app vulnerabilities across multiple environments, including streaming and gaming platforms Integration into ticketing and vulnerability management systems and detailed reporting and remediation guidance to resolve issues before release Historic record and audit trail of testing results and policy attestation Customized Security Testing Across Leading Platforms NowSecure PTaaS is designed to meet the unique security requirements of each platform: Roku: Focus on vulnerabilities related to authentication, API security and user data privacy Tizen & WebOS: Rigorous security assessments for smart TVs from Samsung and LG smart TVs, targeting secure data transmission and code integrity PlayStation & Xbox: Pen testing for streaming apps and utilities that run on popular gaming consoles HarmonyOS & Android TV OS: Comprehensive testing for apps on these growing platforms, addressing third-party library vulnerabilities and secure communication protocols. “As more devices integrate apps and connect to home networks, securing those apps is essential,” said Michael Krueger, senior director of application security services for NowSecure. “Our expanded PTaaS ensures that apps on these platforms meet the highest security standards, protecting customers and enabling safe digital experiences.” Securing the Future of TV and Gaming Apps The expanded NowSecure PTaaS offering provides companies developing apps for TV and gaming platforms with the tools they need to reduce the risk of breaches, regulatory fines and brand damage. NowSecure delivers on-demand penetration testing and actionable insights, helping organizations stay ahead of emerging threats in fast-evolving environments. To learn more about securing your apps on TV and gaming platforms with NowSecure PTaaS, visit our website, read our blog and contact us to discuss. ABOUT NOWSECURE Mobile apps define an enterprise’s digital presence and drive engagement with both employees and customers. However, the rapid pace of mobile innovation introduces security, safety and privacy risks that traditional risk management technologies often miss. By partnering with NowSecure to build a Mobile Applications Risk Management (MARM) program, organizations are better protected against the risks that plague the largely insecure mobile app ecosystem. NowSecure provides policy-driven progressive testing tailored to risk tiers, combining automated continuous assessments with expert Pen Testing as a Service (PTaaS) to pinpoint and remediate security, safety, and privacy issues. This approach shrinks the mobile app attack surface and accelerates app releases. Built on a foundation of industry standards by mobile security experts, NowSecure safeguards many of the world’s leading brands and their employees, partners and customers. Contact Details Jon Brody +1 202-240-7611 press@nowsecure.com Company Website https://www.nowsecure.com/

October 30, 2024 10:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Market Insight: Power Struggle Arises at XTL Biopharmaceuticals: Court Documents Reveal ‘The Social Proxy’ Founders Fear Collapse Amidst Refusal for Cash Infusion (NASDAQ: XTLB)

Veritas Research Alliance

XTL Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. (NASDAQ: XTLB) is facing a dramatic internal struggle that could spell the collapse of Social Proxy, the AI data company it recently acquired. Initially seen as a bold move to diversify XTL’s portfolio, the acquisition has led to a court battle, a special comittee, and an unsettling silence from the company’s leadership. Investors are left wondering what's next for XTL and the Social Proxy. A Storm Brews: From Autoimmune Focus to Corporate Power Play XTL Biopharmaceuticals, once a promising player in the biotech space with a focus on autoimmune diseases like lupus and Sjögren’s syndrome, has evolved over the years into something of a shell company. The company’s pivot came in August 2024, when it acquired Social Proxy, an AI-based proxy technology and data extraction platform. The acquisition was meant to reignite XTL’s fortunes, providing a foothold in the rapidly growing web data market. In exchange for 5.29 million American Depositary Shares (ADS), representing 44.6% of XTL’s outstanding share capital, and $430,000 in cash, XTL took control of Social Proxy. The plan appeared straightforward: leverage Social Proxy’s scalable AI technology to diversify into high-growth sectors. However, almost immediately after the acquisition, internal conflict began to surface. Financial Discrepancies and Legal Quandaries The first public sign of trouble came on October 9, 2024, when Tal Klinger and fellow XTL board member Yair Redl filed an emergency motion with the Tel Aviv Economic Court. They requested an immediate $200,000 cash injection into Social Proxy to prevent what they described as "irreparable damage" to the company. Klinger and Redl feared that Social Proxy, the company Klinger had built, was in danger without this urgent support. But the court rejected their motion, ruling that it was up to the special committee formed after the acquisition to address the financial situation. The court emphasized that the governance structure of XTL, particularly through the special committee, was the appropriate avenue for resolving these disputes—not the judiciary. This decision shifted the responsibility back to XTL’s board, which accordingly acted to create the special comittee, according to a recent filing, but it also raised questions: Will the special committee act in time to save Social Proxy, or was this delay part of a broader power play? Alexander Rabinovitch: A Key Player with a History of Corporate Takeovers Alexander Rabinovich, a director and shareholder of XTL and seen by many as a key controlling figure, is known for his role in the corporate world. Most notably, he was involved in a high-profile 'takeover' of InterCure (NASDAQ: INCR), a cannabis-focused company. Rabinovitch’s track record of successfully navigating corporate control has made him a figure of interest in XTL’s current situation. However, this time, the company in question is Social Proxy, and the stakes are just as high. While there is no direct evidence suggesting Rabinovich is actively undermining Social Proxy, his role as a key decision-maker and his history of takeovers lead some to speculate on his motives. Investors are left to wonder if Rabinovitch’s influence on XTL and The Social Proxy is what's behind the seemingly odd occurances. Israeli media has often referred to the merger as a move orchestrated by Rabinovich himself, given he tendency to get personally involved in the companies he owns. Moreover, Rabinovich himself was named in the court filing. Silence and Lack of Transparency: Investors in the Dark One of the most unsettling aspects of the ongoing conflict is XTL’s lack of communication. Since the acquisition, XTL has remained silent, issuing no press releases to inform investors of the internal turmoil or the ongoing legal motion. The company has made no moves to rebrand or clarify its strategic direction, leaving shareholders in the dark. The only public acknowledgment of any issues came on October 15, 2024, when XTL filed with the SEC, disclosing disputes over the financial data provided by Social Proxy during the acquisition. However, this filing made no mention of the court motion or the urgency of Social Proxy’s financial distress. This absence of transparency has fueled speculation and raised concerns about XTL’s leadership and intentions. The Court Ruling and Its Aftermath The Tel Aviv Economic Court's October 9 ruling dealt a blow to Klinger and Redl’s attempt to secure immediate funding for Social Proxy. The court deferred to the special committee to handle the situation, reinforcing the idea that internal governance should decide Social Proxy’s fate. This decision puts Social Proxy’s future in the hands of a few powerful figures at XTL, with Rabinovitch playing a central role in that decision-making process. Although the court did not interfere directly, it left Social Proxy hanging by a thread, dependent on decisions made by XTL’s special committee. With the fate of the company in the balance, the question remains whether the committee will act in time to save Social Proxy or if this marks the beginning of the end for the AI company. This market transparency report is not financial advice. The content may unintentionally include errors or information that is not up to date. Readers are responsible to do their own research. We encourage you to read XTL's full filing on the matter. We are not licensed nor do we seek to provide any form of licensed advice. All content is for informational purposes only. Readers are advise to do their own research and seek out professional advice. Contact Details Veritas Research Alliance Nasdaq research@veritas-research.org Company Website http://veritas-research.org

October 30, 2024 10:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

ZeaKal’s PhotoSeed Technology Validated as First Sustainability-Embedded Trait

ZeaKal

ZeaKal today announced that PhotoSeed ™ has been validated as the first sustainability-embedded trait technology for agriculture. PhotoSeed enhances photosynthetic capacity, increasing soybean oil by 15% and protein by one point without compromising yield or requiring additional inputs. The technology is projected to expand the volume of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production by approximately one billion additional gallons on existing U.S. soybean acreage. Foxley, LLC conducted an independent analysis of PhotoSeed’s impact on the carbon intensity (CI) score of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from soybean oil according to multiple global standards and programs. The data is also being reviewed by SCS Global Services, a leader in the field of sustainability standards and third-party certification. The modelling shows that PhotoSeed can reduce SAF CI scores by up to 4.6 points (grams of carbon dioxide equivalent per megajoule). This comes as U.S. farmers seek new ways to compete in the global commodity market. Soybeans, the primary source of oil and protein for food and fuel, currently occupies 87.5 million acres in the U.S. PhotoSeed soy can create an additional 13 million acres’ worth of oil production while improving protein content in the meal co-product for animal feed. Han Chen, co-founder and CEO of ZeaKal, said, “At a time when the cost and scale for renewable fuels production still falls short of petrochemicals, we can leverage plant genetics to capture carbon and expand the volume of global oil production without needing new land or infrastructure. ZeaKal’s genetics and agricultural partnerships offer the energy industry economically feasible feedstocks with improved CI features in the production of SAF and other renewable fuels.” Potential PhotoSeed Oil Volume Flies Past Global Decarbonization Targets Recent bipartisan legislative efforts bolster the U.S. government’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge, which aims to produce three billion gallons of SAF annually and reduce emissions by five percent by 2030. The Farm to Fly Act, introduced in January 2024 by a group of bipartisan senators, seeks to accelerate SAF production by clarifying SAF eligibility within USDA Bio-Energy Programs, promoting collaboration across USDA agencies, establishing a common SAF definition, and codifying greenhouse gas measurement standards aligned with Treasury Department and IRS guidance. PhotoSeed can be the catalyst to achieve these goals efficiently and cost-effectively for farmers and buyers alike. Gordon Denny, Board Advisor for ZeaKal, said, “PhotoSeed offers a win-win-win for growers, energy, and agriculture and puts the food vs fuel debate to rest. As key contributors to our national security and economy, American farmers can differentiate from global commodity markets while qualifying for CI tax incentives and value-added pricing for their crops. With these incentives, why would anyone grow another soybean?” Over the past several years, ZeaKal has built a harmonized supply chain for PhotoSeed soy, which includes Gro Alliance, Nutrien Ag Solutions, and Perdue AgriBusiness. The collaboration enables improved oil and protein production with improved sustainability features for the food and agriculture industry. With growing demand from energy, the initial three-million-acre East Coast footprint is an attractive source for low CI feedstock. PhotoSeed soybeans will be available for the 2026 growing season. PhotoSeed’s verification as a technology pathway for reducing CI also opens opportunities across the company’s other crop programs. For ZeaKal’s key crop programs, the company forecasts that the global volume of SAF production could expand to 7.5 billion gallons per year. For more information about ZeaKal and PhotoSeed technology, or to become part of the NewType model, visit zeakal.com. About ZeaKal At ZeaKal, we are building a value driven “NewType” of agriculture to harmonize the needs of farmers, consumers, and our planet. Our flagship plant trait technology, PhotoSeed™, helps crops capture more carbon and sunlight, leading to healthier, nutrient-rich food, feed, and fuel grown on a smaller environmental footprint. We go beyond science to make affordable nutrition more sustainable, with marketable differentiation for growers. Discover how we are transforming carbon to nutrition: zeakal.com or @zeakal on Twitter (X). # # # At ZeaKal, we are building a value driven “NewType” of agriculture to harmonize the needs of farmers, consumers, and our planet. Our flagship plant trait technology, PhotoSeed™, helps crops capture more carbon and sunlight, leading to healthier, nutrient-rich food and feed grown on a smaller environmental footprint. We go beyond science to make affordable nutrition more sustainable, with marketable differentiation for growers. Discover how we are transforming carbon to nutrition: zeakal.com or @zeakal on Twitter. Contact Details AgTech PR for ZeaKal Jennifer Goldston jennifer@agtechpr.com Company Website https://www.zeakal.com

October 30, 2024 08:30 AM Central Daylight Time

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What Opportunities Could The Disruptive Pace Of Technology Today Present? Hear From Cathie Wood At Crossroads Summit On Cutting Through The Chaos

Benzinga

By Josh Enomoto, Benzinga With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and other groundbreaking developments in recent times, disruption represents a key theme in the current environment. Given the blistering velocity of these innovations, individual investors face a binary outcome: either leverage this transformation or become a victim of it. For those looking to find opportunity in the chaos, Crossroads Summit speaker Cathie Wood is an expert at navigating dynamic markets – and she’s ready to share insights into her strategy at this can’t-miss event. One of the most respected experts on Wall Street, Wood has been an early investor in several business categories, including generative AI, genomics, cryptocurrencies and the financial technology ecosystem and electric vehicles. In fact, Wood famously sparred with entrepreneur and “Shark Tank” personality Kevin O’Leary in early 2018, asserting that Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: TSLA) represented the future of mobility. In many ways, Wood won that debate, as in the trailing five years, TSLA stock soared almost 900%. And now, after years of leading the charge in several burgeoning sectors, Wood is bringing her forward-thinking insights directly to attendees at the Crossroads Summit. Hosted by the online brokerage platform TradeStation Group, the seminar represents a key opportunity to learn firsthand how to capitalize on kinetic environments. Embracing Disruption As Progress At first glance, Cathie Wood may seem to run counter to the image of an equities standard-bearer. According to The New York Times, she is a product of “Wall Street’s asset management industry and the well-heeled Connecticut suburbs.” In addition, she carries a strong faith-backed compass; a rarity in high finance. Still, it’s this self-confident spirit – a refusal to simply tag along with the consensus – that has made Wood and her Ark Invest empire so resoundingly successful. A central motif that undergirds Wood’s investing philosophy is the embracement of disruption as a catalyst for progress, not as an inhibitor. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced a global shutdown, Ark Invest wagered heavily on tech firms that aligned with the wider remote operation theme. At that time, its flagship ARKK exchange-traded fund loaded the boat on enterprises like Roku Inc (NASDAQ: ROKU), Zillow Group Inc (NASDAQ: Z) and Block Inc (NYSE: SQ), among others. Contrarianism As A Winning Strategy A significant reason Cathie Wood has resonated with retail investors is precisely because she holistically embodies contrarianism. She doesn’t seem to come off as the stereotypical Wall Street hotshot who upholds traditional values over more whimsical pursuits, and this grassroots sentiment has also attracted legions of fans. Nevertheless, contrarianism for its own sake can also potentially quickly become stale. Like a crafty chess player, Wood isn’t just focused on present circumstances, but on projected developments. When the investing expert debated O’Leary, TSLA stock traded hands at just below record valuations, despite the underlying company suffering severe financial challenges. Still, Wood recognized that irrespective of the headwinds, the core elements of software, AI and auto manufacturing would converge. Tesla was positioned for this singularity, while most traditional automakers were not. In the same vein, Ark Invest has been aggressively investing in Coinbase Global Inc (NASDAQ: COIN), with Wood arguing that the virtual currency complex could see even more astounding growth over the next few years. In particular, the planned scarcity of benchmark digital assets, along with cryptocurrencies’ potential to act as a buffer against chaotic government policies and geopolitical dynamics, could usher in a new financial paradigm. Finally, Wood has been vocal in articulating the bullish narrative for genomics-related investments. Analogous to the singularity in the automotive market, the entrepreneur anticipates the merging of AI and gene sequencing as a significant growth catalyst in the biotech industry. Profitably Adjusting To A New World As machine intelligence and other groundbreaking innovations stand poised to potentially radically alter social and economic structures, investors and leaders have arrived at a critical juncture. Cathie Wood will bring her insights to the Crossroads Summit. Conventional wisdom may simply be incapable of addressing the radical changes imposed by emerging technologies. In conjunction with shifting sands in the political realm, smart contrarianism could command quite a high premium. With the support of TradeStation Group, the Crossroads Summit offers insights for investors to navigate these challenging waters. Hear directly from visionary investor Cathie Wood about her approach to investing in the future by attending the Crossroads Summit 2024! Featured photo by Margit Wallner on Pixabay. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. 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

October 30, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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From Inking Multiple Deals To Record Revenue Growth, U Power Had A Busy First Half Of 2024

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga U Power Limited (NASDAQ: UCAR), the Chinese EV power solution company making a name for itself thanks to its advanced UOTTA technology, shared a financial update for the first half of 2024, with revenue growing 595.7% year-over-year to RMB13.2 million. U Power attributes that growth to increased usage from existing and new customers as the economy in China continues to recover following the COVID-19 pandemic. U Power’s UOTTA technology enables consumers and fleet operators to replace dead EV batteries with fully charged ones in under five minutes. The company also offers companies a battery-swapping ecosystem from building the infrastructure to managing it. “We've been successful in transforming our vehicle sourcing business to provide EV battery power solutions in China,” said Jia Li, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of U Power. “We believe that this shift has enhanced our competitiveness, and we expect it to expand our future revenue growth potential." Revenue Shifts To Product Sales Of the RMB13.2 million in revenue U Power earned during the first half of 2024, 93.9% came from product sales. In the year-ago first half, U Power had no product revenue. U Power said that positive change was thanks to the improving economy, which enabled it to sell more battery stations. Meanwhile, sourcing services revenue of RMB0.1 million was down 0.6% year-over-year. However, U Power confirmed that was because the company focused more on its charging and swapping-related products. Meanwhile, battery-swapping services revenue of RMB0.7 million was up year-over-year from RMB0.5 million, driven by the deployment of U Power’s second battery-swapping station, which went live in March 2023 and remains operational. As of March 2023, U Power had a vehicle sourcing network of about 100 wholesalers and 30 dealers across China’s lower-tier cities. Last year it sold and delivered six battery-swapping stations to four customers. All told it has already sold eleven battery-swapping stations. "Our financial results for the first half of fiscal year 2024 demonstrate our commitment to responsible financial management while simultaneously making strategic investments for our future growth,” said Bingyi Zhao, Chief Financial Officer of U Power. “Our R&D expenses decreased as we have successfully completed several key projects, and we remain committed to innovation and have strategically allocated resources to new and high-potential research initiatives. Our improved credit management practices have yielded positive results, as we generated an expected gain on credit of RMB0.5 million in the first half, compared to a loss in the same period last year.” U Power ended the first half with RMB40.5 million in cash and cash equivalents, up from RMB36.2 million at the end of 2023. Deal Making On Display In addition to reporting record revenue in the first six months of the year, U Power inked deals that give it inroads into other geographies. Take its deal with Velo Labs Technology Ltd., the global fintech company for starters. In August, the two entered into a memorandum of understanding to establish a battery infrastructure investment ecosystem in Thailand. The idea is to create a battery bank asset and fund trading platform based on Velo’s blockchain technology. Through the platform, U Power and Velo Labs hope to attract external funding to promote the large-scale development of the battery bank industry. A battery bank is a collection of batteries that are connected and store energy together. The collaboration’s idea is to create battery bank stations for EVs around the country where drivers quickly swap out dead batteries for new ones. The trading platform would integrate battery assets from various UOTTA battery bank scenarios, including batteries for four-wheel and two-wheel electric vehicles, batteries from various battery swap stations and batteries used in energy storage projects. Prior to that deal, U Power signed a memorandum of understanding with Pattaya AI Terminal Co., Ltd. to jointly drive the strategic development of green logistics and electric vehicle infrastructure in Thailand. Another key deal for U Power is its deal with UNEX, which was also inked during the first half of the year. Through the partnership, the two will provide battery-swapping vehicles and swapping station services to Associação Nacional dos Transportes Rodoviários em Automóveis Ligeiros (ANTRAL). ANTRAL is an association of companies in Portugal, representing public passenger road transport companies operating light vehicles designated as taxis. Through their collaboration, UNEX and ANTRAL aim to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector by 2030, in line with the European Union's decarbonization targets and Portugal’s regulatory requirements for taxi vehicles. “We believe we are well-positioned with the necessary working capital and strong foundation to support our growth plans, including the launch of operations in multiple international markets, and we are confident in the current financial state of the business,” said Zhao. Featured photo by Denys Nevozhai on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. 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

October 30, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Luxy Hair Launches in the U.S. Amazon Premium Beauty Store

Luxy Hair

Luxy Hair, the #1 leading clip-in hair extensions brand, is proud to announce its debut in the U.S. Amazon Premium Beauty Store. Luxy Hair, part of the Beauty Industry Group portfolio, is expanding its reach by providing easy access to its high-quality, ethically sourced products through one of the world’s largest e-commerce platforms. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Amazon to continue our mission of empowering women to feel confident in their own hair,” said Amy Sveda, President of Luxy Hair. “We are excited to bring our ethically sourced, premium-quality hair solutions to a larger audience, helping more women regain confidence and embrace their hair identity.” Amazon customers can now explore and shop Luxy Hair’s extensive shade range, including hair swatches for easy color-matching. Luxy Hair’s storefront will feature best-selling items including the Classic Clip-In Extensions, Seamless Clip-In Extensions, and Halo® Extensions; customer-loved accessories such as Signature Hair Curler, and TikTok favorite Luxy Hair x Acquired Style Collection; and the newer and fastest growing solutions-based products including Scalp Hair Fill-Ins and Thinning Hair Fill-Ins, directly in Amazon’s U.S. Premium Beauty Store. Since its inception in 2010, Luxy Hair has gained recognition for delivering natural-looking, premium quality, do-it-yourself hair extensions made from 100% ethically sourced Remy human hair. The brand is renowned for its dedication to exceptional customer service and its award-winning shade range that meets various hair needs—from adding instant volume and length to addressing hair thinning and loss. Luxy Hair sets itself apart through its exceptional craftsmanship, unwavering commitment to transparency, and dedication to sustainable practices. By fostering open dialogue about hair loss and challenging the stigma surrounding hair extensions, Luxy Hair creates an inclusive space where women feel empowered, supported, and confident throughout their unique hair journeys. For more information, please visit www.luxyhair.com or @luxyhair on social media. Explore the full range of products at www.amazon.com/luxyhair. About Luxy Hair: The #1 rated hair extensions brand in the world, Luxy Hair is on a mission to take the guesswork out of natural-looking beautiful hair. Made from 100% ethically sourced Remy human hair, Luxy Hair creates premium quality hair extensions for all of life’s moments. Having amassed over 250K customers in more than 165 countries, with a large loyal following, Luxy Hair is renowned for its exceptional customer service and engagement. Luxy Hair is the do-it-yourself solution for anyone, any day, anywhere. About Beauty Industry Group: BIG, established in 2004, is the global market leader for professionally installed hair extensions and related beauty products. BIG's professional products are sold in more than 1,300 stores throughout North America and its collective brands service more than 30,000 salons across 165 countries. BIG has offices in four countries and is headquartered in Salt Lake City, UT. Contact Details Six One Agency Camryn Carlson camryn@six-one.com Luxy Hair Gillian Fetters gillianf@luxyhair.com

October 30, 2024 08:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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CONSENSUS HEALTH CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MICHAEL LOVETT NAMED 2024 EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR-FOR PROFIT CATEGORY BY NJBIZ IN BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Consensus Health

Consensus Health, a leading New Jersey-based healthcare organization with a physician-led medical group and an Independent Physician Alliance (IPA), announced today Chief Executive Officer Michael Lovett was named a 2024 Business of the Year—Executive of the Year (For-Profit category) honoree by NJBIZ. Annually, NJBIZ Business of the Year Awards recognize the state’s most dynamic companies and leaders who share a commitment to professional excellence, business growth and their communities. This year, more than 50 organizations and only three individuals will be honored for their significant contributions to helping the state’s business community grow and prosper. "This recognition reflects Mike’s exceptional focus on leading with integrity, fostering local impact, and elevating the patient experience. His approach resonates with our mission to build a collaborative environment where both patients and providers thrive. Mike’s leadership is a key asset to our value-based care journey, and we’re honored to celebrate this achievement with him,” shared Dr. Nedal Shami, chief executive officer of CareAbout Health, a value-based care managed services organization supporting Consensus Health. Lovett commented on the acknowledgement from NJBIZ: “This honor is a tribute to Consensus Health’s 700+ team of professionals who – each and every day – positively impact healthcare across New Jersey. It is their dedication and unrelenting care for our patients’ health and wellness that allows Consensus Health to stand out. “I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our team for their contributions, our leadership for their confidence in me and the judges who took note of our impact on elevating patient care statewide. It’s truly a privilege to accept this prestigious accolade on behalf of our entire growing enterprise,” Lovett concluded. The awards will be bestowed in a ceremony hosted by NJBIZ on Thursday, December 12, 2024 to be held at The DoubleTree by Hilton Somerset. About CareAbout Health CareAbout Health provides management, resources, value-add services, technology, and other support to its portfolio of medical groups and healthcare focused companies. CareAbout Health is helping align incentives to create a world where patients, providers, and payers work together in a seamless, coordinated manner toward common goals: higher quality, lower costs, better outcomes, and healthier communities. For more information, please visit www.careabout.com. About Consensus Health Marlton, New Jersey-based Consensus Health is a leading physician-owned and -governed medical group comprised of New Jersey-based independent primary care providers and specialty doctors. Consensus Health affords its 169 member physicians across 56 practices and 69 locations clinical autonomy, which enables them to focus on the delivery of high levels of patient care within the local markets they each serve. Currently, Consensus Health provides medical care statewide throughout 18 New Jersey counties. For more information, visit www.consensushealth.com or connect with the Company on LinkedIn. Contact Details PAIRELATIONS, LLC Susan J. Turkell +1 303-766-4343 sturkell@pairelations.com Company Website https://www.consensushealth.com/

October 30, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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