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Soaring Ahead: ZenaTech (Nasdaq: ZENA) Makes Moves in the Booming Drone Market

ZENA

The global commercial drone market is on the rise, estimated at USD 19.89 billion in 2022 and projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.9% from 2023 to 2030. This surge is fueled by the increasing enterprise applications of drones across diverse industries and continuous technological advancements. As businesses strive to enhance operational efficiencies and reduce costs, innovative drone solutions are becoming indispensable. Amid this growth, ZenaTech (Nasdaq: ZENA) is positioning itself as a notable contender, leveraging its AI-driven drone technology to cater to the evolving needs of sectors like agriculture, defense, and logistics. ZenaTech: A Rising Player in AI Drone Technology ZenaTech is quickly emerging as a notable contender in the AI and drone technology sector, making strides in both drone manufacturing and enterprise SaaS solutions. Founded in 2017, the company has grown its software development expertise and expanded into cutting-edge drone technologies, positioning itself as a promising stock for investors interested in innovative solutions driving operational efficiency across various industries. With a focus on enterprise applications in law enforcement, government, industrial sectors, and beyond, ZenaTech’s diverse product lineup and recent regulatory milestones are pushing the company to the forefront of the drone services industry. ZenaDrone 1000: Enhancing Efficiency in Critical Operations At the heart of ZenaTech’s drone division is ZenaDrone, a wholly-owned subsidiary. ZenaDrone’s flagship product, the ZenaDrone 1000, is an intelligent unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to tackle a variety of industrial tasks, from military surveillance and agricultural monitoring to humanitarian missions. The ZenaDrone 1000 offers cutting-edge capabilities such as autonomous flight, heavy-lift capabilities, and long-range operation, making it suitable for mission-critical tasks where reliability and precision are paramount. The ZenaDrone 1000 incorporates advanced machine learning and AI, allowing it to automate tasks like plant tracking, crop management, and land surveys. Its heavy-duty construction, featuring carbon fiber layering, 360-degree Lidar, and a 4K stabilized camera, positions it as a top choice for industries like construction, defense, and environmental inspection. With 90-degree tilting rotors and quick-swap batteries, it offers flexibility and ease of use in dynamic environments. According to Dr. Shaun Passley, Ph.D., CEO of ZenaTech, “The ZenaDrone 1000 empowers businesses and organizations with precise and efficient mission execution, offering new horizons in unmanned aerial vehicle applications.” Recent Product Launch: The IQ Nano Most recently, on October 10, 2024, ZenaTech announced the launch of the IQ Nano, a compact indoor drone designed for warehouse inspections and inventory management. The IQ Nano is small but powerful, offering features like autonomous data collection, obstacle avoidance, and a charging pad for convenient use. Weighing just 1.5 kg, the IQ Nano is ideal for indoor applications where space is tight, and drones need to navigate safely around obstacles. “The IQ Nano is breakthrough technology,” said Dr. Passley. “Its ability to automate inspection, maintenance, and inventory monitoring tasks provides immense value to companies in sectors like warehousing and logistics.” FAA Approval: A Critical Milestone One of ZenaTech’s most significant achievements came on October 2, 2024, when the company announced that it had received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to begin live testing and demonstrations of the ZenaDrone 1000 in the United States. This FAA exemption for visual line-of-sight commercial applications is a game changer for ZenaTech, as it enables the company to test its drone solutions with U.S.-based partners in real-world scenarios. “This milestone is central to our work with U.S.-based customers and partners as we refine our drone solutions and expand distribution in the U.S.,” said Dr. Passley. This regulatory approval not only validates the technology but also positions ZenaTech for broader adoption across agriculture, defense, logistics, and search and rescue sectors in the U.S. ZenaDrone’s recent joint venture with Night Sun, a Native American Corporation, highlights its strategic push into the U.S. market. The venture aims to develop drone applications for search and rescue, firefighting, cargo delivery, and land surveying, specifically for use by Native American tribes across the country. The FAA approval allows ZenaDrone to move forward with these initiatives, expanding its footprint in mission-critical drone services. Launching Commercial Drone Services in the U.S. Building on the momentum from its FAA approval, ZenaDrone has initiated Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) operations through its Phoenix, Arizona, office as of October 8, 2024. This marks a significant step for the company, as it begins generating revenue from commercial drone services, offering solutions in land surveying, inspection, monitoring, and tracking. The company is also working towards receiving an aerial spraying license (14 CFR Part 137), which will enable it to offer agricultural services like plant nourishment and pest control. “We are excited to commence commercial operations in the U.S., which will allow us to expand our reach and revenue streams,” said Dr. Passley. “We believe this is just the beginning as we pave the way for additional regulatory approvals in other countries.” A Stock to Watch With significant technological advancements and growing commercial opportunities, ZenaTech is emerging as a strong player in the AI and drone sectors. Its FAA approval, joint ventures, and commercial operations in the U.S. create a compelling growth narrative for potential investors. As the company continues to expand its product lineup and regulatory approvals, it stands to benefit from the increasing demand for AI-driven drone solutions across multiple industries. For those seeking an up-and-coming company in the drone technology space, ZenaTech (Nasdaq: ZENA ) is one to watch. Disclaimers: RazorPitch Inc. "RazorPitch" is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment adviser. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performances are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward-looking statements in this action may be identified through the use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements indicating certain actions & quote; may, could, or might occur. Understand there is no guarantee past performance will be indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap and growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investor's investment may be lost or impaired due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. RazorPitch has been retained and compensated by the company to assist in the production and distribution of this content. RazorPitch is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. This content is for informational purposes only; you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer by RazorPitch or any third-party service provider to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. RazorPitch is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details RazorPitch Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 Mark@razorpitch.com Company Website http://razorpitch.com

October 15, 2024 06:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Novidea and Pathpoint Explore E&S Insurance Growth Live at ITC Vegas

Novidea

Novidea, creator of the cloud-based, data-driven enterprise insurance management platform for brokers, agents, MGAs/MGUs, carriers, and wholesalers, and Pathpoint, the modern wholesaler where insurance agents can get bindable, small commercial E&S quotes in just a few minutes, will present a live Q&A at ITC Vegas, the world's largest gathering of insurance innovation. Jeff Heine, Chief Revenue Officer of Novidea, and Alexander Bargmann, CEO and Co-founder of Pathpoint, will present " ITC Brokers: Powering E&S Growth through Strategic Tech Investments," on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 11:15 a.m. Pacific Time at ITC Las Vegas at Ballroom F of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. Pathpoint is one of the fastest-growing Excess & Surplus (E&S) insurance wholesalers in the U.S. Since implementing Novidea's insurance management platform, the company has achieved a 20 percent policy submission growth rate and doubled its sales and underwriting operations to further expand its presence across the country. Novidea's technology enabled the seamless integration of data and applications across Pathpoint's underwriting, account, sales, and operations departments, eliminating data silos and facilitating data-driven decisions about the business. With greater access to customer and operational data across the business, Pathpoint gained greater insights into which lines of business were performing well. They were also able to uncover new opportunities to launch additional risk products in key geographic regions best positioned for growth. "The strategic technology investments we've made over the last few years and the ecosystem we've built have been instrumental in our growth strategy," Bargmann said. "I'm looking forward to joining Jeff Heine of Novidea on stage at ITC to share the Pathpoint story. I hope to inspire and educate other E&S and intermediary insurance leaders with valuable advice that they can implement in their own organizations." Experts across the insurance industry predict the E&S segment will outpace the overall commercial lines market within the next few years. E&S saw double-digit, year-over-year growth for four consecutive years. To support this unprecedented growth, E&S brokers and agents must make investments in modern, highly scalable technology so they can keep up with demand and respond faster. "Novidea research shows that 49% of insurance business decision-makers say enabling growth is the number one priority when choosing a new technology. E&S and the broader intermediary market that lack modern technology systems to help them streamline processes at scale will lose out on the massive growth potential this sector is experiencing," said Jeff Heine, CRO at Novidea. "In our presentation at ITC, Alex and I will talk about the need for agile, cloud-native technologies that deliver a great digital experience while eliminating the need for agents to re-key information or fill out clunky forms. We will show how speed, accuracy, efficiency, and scale are the keys to success for E&S players like Pathpoint." In addition to the presentation, Novidea is a sponsor and exhibitor at ITC Vegas. For more information about Novidea's award-winning technology, visit ITC booth number #2365 or visit www.novidea.com. About Novidea Novidea is the leading Insurtech provider of a cloud-native, data-driven insurance management system. With its open API architecture, Novidea enables brokers, agents, MGAs, and carriers to modernize and manage the customer journey end-to-end and drive growth across the entire insurance distribution lifecycle. Novidea's streamlined and automated platform fully integrates front, middle, and back offices. The Novidea platform boosts operational efficiency while providing a seamless digital experience for team members and customers alike. Insurance businesses benefit from a 360-degree view of customers and policies and can access data and actionable insights anytime, anywhere, and on any device. Novidea supports more than 100 customers across 22 countries. For more information, visit www.novidea.com. About Pathpoint Pathpoint is the modern wholesaler where insurance agents can get bindable small commercial E&S quotes in just a few minutes. Pathpoint combines proprietary technology and first-class service to enable strategic partners to give retail insurance agents fast access to quotes from multiple, A-rated carriers in the contractors, vacants, lessor's risk, monoline property, restaurants, and cyber verticals. Pathpoint is licensed in all 50 states and a coverholder at Lloyd's of London. To learn more about Pathpoint, and become a strategic partner, visit www.pathpoint.com. Contact Details Michelle Barry +1 603-809-2748 Michelle.barry@chameleon.co Company Website https://novidea.com/

October 14, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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VTS Recognized on Commercial Observer’s Annual Power Proptech List For Third Consecutive Year

VTS

VTS, the industry's only technology platform that unifies owners, operators, brokers, and their customers across the real estate ecosystem, today announced that Commercial Observer has recognized CEO Nick Romito, Chief Strategy Officer Ryan Masiello, and Chief Technology Officer Swaroopa Penikelapati in its third annual Power Proptech List. “We’ve seen immense product-led growth in 2024, and our recognition as a power player in proptech is a testament to all of the hard work our team at VTS has invested since day one,” said Nick Romito, CEO of VTS. “We look forward to maintaining our position at the forefront of industry transformation and to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation for real estate.” Under Romito, Masiello, and Penikelapati’s leadership, VTS has celebrated numerous company milestones in the past year and continued to expand its platform’s capabilities. In March 2024, VTS announced the launch of VTS 4, the company’s novel predictive analytics solution powered by the newly developed VTS Demand Model. Along with the launch of VTS 4, VTS expanded its VTS Data offering to the London market, bringing commercial real estate’s only real-time data and insights to the United Kingdom. In April 2024, the company announced it would be expanding into the multifamily sector with the launch of its resident experience offering, VTS Activate Multifamily, and major residential industry players Lendlease, Habitat, and Stonehenge all selected and deployed it as their resident experience solution of choice. In May 2024, VTS introduced VTS Activate Workplace, the first workplace experience solution that can combine native workplace and building systems into one application. VTS continues to be a trusted source for industry data, with its quarterly VTS Office Demand Index (VODI) and annual Global Landlord Report. In February 2024, VTS introduced its Global Workplace Report, which leverages data to pinpoint corporate tenant needs and expectations related to office space. “We’re honored to be recognized once again on Commercial Observer’s Power PropTech list,” said Ryan Masiello, Chief Strategy Officer at VTS. “At VTS, we have always focused on anticipating industry needs and delivering solutions that drive meaningful impact for both landlords and tenants. We remain committed to being a leader in proptech, and are incredibly excited for what the future holds for both VTS and the real estate industry at large.” "I’m thrilled to be recognized by the Commercial Observer in their annual Power Proptech List alongside Nick and Ryan, as well as other innovators in the proptech space” said Swaroopa Penikelapati, Chief Technology Officer at VTS. “VTS is committed to innovation by driving meaningful outcomes through our technology and solving problems for our customer base. I look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of what our platform can deliver and drive maximum value for our customers.” Commercial Observer’s annual Power Proptech List is a compilation of the most influential individuals in the rapidly evolving world of proptech. In a field that continues to undergo significant transformation, this list recognizes executives and companies that shape the industry and possess the resilience and innovation necessary to thrive in changing times. About VTS VTS is the commercial real estate industry’s only technology company that unifies owners, operators, brokers, and tenants in a single platform to capitalize on opportunities revealed in every square foot of their properties. In 2013, VTS revolutionized the commercial real estate industry’s leasing operations with what is now VTS Lease. Today, the VTS Platform is the largest first-party data source in the industry, transforming how strategic decisions are made and executed by CRE professionals across the globe. With the VTS Platform, consisting of VTS Lease, VTS Activate, VTS Data, and VTS Market, every business stakeholder in commercial real estate is given real-time market information and workflow tools to do their job with unparalleled speed and intelligence. VTS is the global leader, with more than 60% of Class A office space in the U.S., and 12 billion square feet of office, retail, and industrial space is managed through our platform worldwide. VTS’ user base includes over 45,000 CRE professionals and industry-leading customers such as Blackstone, Brookfield Properties, LaSalle Investment Management, Hines, BXP, Oxford Properties, JLL, and CBRE. To learn more about VTS, and to see our open roles, visit www.vts.com. Contact Details Sofia Chevez +1 646-912-5354 schevez@marinopr.com Company Website https://www.vts.com/

October 14, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Celebian Continues Its Phenomenal Growth, Transforming the Social Media Landscape

Rev Up Marketers

Celebian, the cutting-edge platform that connects influencers with followers, continues to go from strength to strength in 2024. Following a year of remarkable milestones and exponential growth, the company is setting new standards in the digital influencer marketing space, helping users achieve unprecedented levels of social media success. Rapid User Growth & Expanding Influence Since its launch, Celebian has experienced skyrocketing demand, with thousands of new users joining the platform daily. This surge in popularity is fueled by Celebian’s ability to help influencers and content creators grow their follower base organically while maximizing engagement on TikTok and other platforms. The company’s innovative tools, strategies, and personalized services have made it easier than ever for users to take their social media presence to new heights. “We’re thrilled with how the community has embraced Celebian,” said Julius Tirra, Founder and CEO of Celebian. “Our mission is to empower influencers at every stage of their journey. The continuous success of our clients is proof that the right strategies can create life-changing opportunities in today’s digital world.” Innovative Services Leading the Industry Celebian's unique approach to social media growth and engagement includes customized growth strategies, data-driven content optimization, and exclusive tools that provide influencers with a competitive edge. With a focus on authenticity and long-term follower retention, Celebian helps clients achieve sustainable success across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Exciting New Features & Future Expansion As part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing the user experience, Celebian is set to introduce several exciting new features in the coming months, including AI-powered insights to help influencers fine-tune their content strategies. In addition, the company plans to expand its services globally, allowing even more creators to benefit from its unique offerings. “With the influencer market continuing to grow at an incredible pace, Celebian is positioned to lead the charge,” added Julius Tirra. “Our vision for the future includes broadening our reach, helping more creators worldwide, and continuing to revolutionize how people grow their social media presence.” About Celebian Celebian is a leading social media growth platform, offering tools and strategies designed to help influencers and content creators expand their online presence. Whether you're new to social media or a seasoned influencer, Celebian provides expert guidance and cutting-edge solutions to increase followers, engagement, and influence. Contact Details Celebian Julius Tirra +1 855-946-1644 supports@celebian.com Company Website https://celebian.com/

October 14, 2024 07:14 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Comcast Opens New Xfinity Store in Crystal, Minn.

Comcast Twin Cities

Comcast today announced that a new Xfinity store has opened in Crystal, Minn. to meet the needs of residents and business owners. Located at 5606 W. Broadway in Crystal, the new store features an interactive design and provides a destination for visitors to experience the complete line of Xfinity products and services, including Xfinity Internet, Xfinity Video, Xfinity Mobile, and Xfinity Home Security. The new Xfinity store is open Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. With the addition of the new Xfinity store, Comcast now offers 16 convenient Xfinity retail locations in the Twin Cities where customers can receive personalized support, exchange and upgrade equipment, pay their bill and more. For local businesses interested in the latest in internet and technology solutions, the store has a dedicated space for Comcast Business customers and prospects to discuss their business technology needs. The store is equipped to host live demos and provide hands-on account management services. Customers can also conveniently book appointments online ahead of time through Xfinity’s website. “We are happy to welcome Comcast to Crystal as the location for their newest Xfinity store,” said Jim Adams, Mayor of Crystal. “The city knows how important access to the newest technology is, and with the store’s prime location, it is easier than ever for Crystal customers to access the latest technology and stay connected.” Comcast has also further invested in the Crystal community by donating $2,500 to NEAR Food Shelf. This is part of Comcast’s ongoing commitment to supporting the cities where they operate. “We are thrilled to bring this new state-of-the-art Xfinity store to Crystal,” said Rachel Johnson, vice president, Sales and Marketing, Comcast Midwest. “Our Xfinity stores give customers personalized service, the ability to explore hands-on device demonstrations, and get expert support tailored to enhance your connectivity experience. Whether you're looking for the latest technology or need assistance with your account, our knowledgeable staff is here to help.” The new Xfinity Store is a testament to Comcast's ongoing investment in Minnesota. Over the past three years, Comcast has invested more than $525 million in technology and infrastructure across the state, focusing on network expansion and upgrades. About Comcast Corporation 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 Patrick Stumpf +1 651-968-7382 Patrick_Stumpf@comcast.com Company Website https://midwest.comcast.com/

October 11, 2024 08:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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AI Specialist Rezolve Ai Forges Strategic Alliance And Co-Sell Support With Microsoft To Transform The Retail Industry

Benzinga

By Josh Enomoto, Benzinga Driving practical artificial-intelligence-based innovations for the retail and e-commerce industry, Rezolve Ai Limited (NASDAQ: RZLV) recently inked a strategic partnership with tech juggernaut Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT). Primarily, this high-level collaboration aims to deliver advanced digital capabilities to retailers, with the goal of enabling them to bolster customer engagement, improve the overall shopping experience and ultimately catapult growth. By combining their strengths, the partnership goes beyond just offering new technologies. It is a strategic alignment where Microsoft’s extensive cloud infrastructure and market reach meet Rezolve’s tailored AI solutions for retail, and Rezolve expects it to benefit from a minimum of $130 million of Go-to-Market support from Microsoft over the next five years. This collaboration is designed to address long-standing challenges in the e-commerce space, making it easier for retailers to integrate advanced machine intelligence into their operations, improve customer engagement and scale with confidence. How Rezolve Drives Much-Needed Change In Retail Engagement The collaboration will spotlight Rezolve’s Brain Suite, a collection of AI tools exclusively designed for the retail industry, and will drive Rezolve Ai’s target of over $100 million ARR for 2025. These solutions – Brain Commerce, Brain Checkout and Brain Assistant – deliver personalized customer experiences by utilizing proprietary machine learning protocols to analyze customer intent and behavior in real-time. This advanced functionality seeks to revolutionize the customer journey, from search and discovery to checkout and post-purchase engagement. Specifically, Brain Commerce eliminates pain points associated with irrelevant search results, instead focusing on products aligned with the customer’s unique preferences. Brain Checkout addresses one of the most vexing problems in e-commerce – cart abandonment – by delivering faster and more intuitive payment options. Finally, Brain Assistant fosters real-time conversational support in 95 languages, making it a valuable asset in an increasingly globalized retail arena. For its part, Microsoft offers its robust, enterprise-grade Azure cloud infrastructure, allowing Rezolve’s Brain Suite to be deployed internationally with ease. Moreover, Azure’s cloud services ensure that the AI specialist’s solutions can accommodate large-scale operations. With the ability to support millions of transactions and interactions across different regions, Rezolve can scale its business as demand accelerates. Plus, Microsoft goes beyond infrastructure with its extensive Go-to-Market (GTM) support. In particular, the tech giant’s co-sell support strategy incentivizes its own sales teams to promote and sell partner products, such as Rezolve’s Brain Suite. Given the unparalleled opportunity to expand its market presence, RZLV stock saw a significant boost in equity value following the disclosure of the partnership. Positioning Retailers For The Personalization Paradigm Fundamentally, Rezolve Ai’s partnership with Microsoft empowers retailers to position themselves for the personalization paradigm. This attribute, as McKinsey & Company noted, is not just a crucial capability but one that “punches above its weight, no matter whether the company is a digital native, a brick-and-mortar player, or a behind-the-scenes producer or supplier.” In today’s retail environment, it’s not just that customers desire personalization – they demand it. To be sure, COVID-19 sparked new shopping behaviors, a component of the broader retail revenge phenomenon. However, the difference between the pandemic and other disruptive events is that these new behaviors command sticking power. More to the point, McKinsey & Company revealed that personalization can boost a retail enterprise’s revenue by as much as 15%. With many households still struggling under the weight of inflation and a challenging labor market, businesses can’t afford to ignore such robust performance metrics, underscoring the collaborative potential of the Microsoft partnership. In addition, the efficiency improvements that Rezolve’s retail-centric AI protocol offers could be a game-changer. Research and advisory firm Gartner noted that organizations deploying machine intelligence can reduce their operational costs by 30%. This improvement stems from the combination of reworked processes combined with hyper-automation – the directive to automate all possible workflows. Finally, one of the biggest potential catalysts for Rezolve is its unique BrainPowa large language model (LLM). Tailored specifically for e-commerce, BrainPowa offers an alternative to off-the-shelf AI platforms that may hinder the customer experience through irrelevant talking points. With AI in e-commerce projected to experience a compound annual growth rate of 14.6% from 2023 to 2032, Rezolve is looking to redefine the game, enabling retailers to deliver captivating engagement and fuel higher revenues. A Game-Changing Alliance For The Future Of Retail? Rezolve’s partnership with Microsoft isn’t just another tech collaboration – it’s potentially a fundamental shift in how retailers will operate moving forward. By leveraging cutting-edge AI tools built specifically for e-commerce, combined with Microsoft’s global cloud infrastructure, this alliance delivers the kind of transformation retailers may need to stay competitive in an increasingly shifting paradigm. Featured photo by Adrian from 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 11, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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XLB ETF Highlights Its Strategic Holdings Amid Potential Increase In Global Activity

Select Sector SPDR

The Fed started cutting rates in September in an attempt to spur economic activity. China has done the same with both monetary and fiscal easing. If successful, these moves could impact global demand for economically sensitive sectors like materials. Investors interested in this opportunity may want to consider the Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB), an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that offers targeted exposure to the materials sector. Comprehensive Exposure to the Materials Sector The XLB ETF’s holdings provide a comprehensive snapshot of the materials sector, encompassing diverse businesses within chemicals, construction materials, packaging and containers, metals and mining, as well as paper and forest products. Currently, XLB's portfolio includes 28 companies, each contributing to the ETF’s robust portfolio. Key Holdings* Within XLB Linde (LIN): 17.57% Sherwin-Williams (SHW): 6.79% Freeport-McMoRan (FCX): 5.50% Air Products & Chemicals (APD): 5.07% Ecolab (ECL): 4.96% Newmont (NEM): 4.70% Corteva (CTVA): 4.46% Dow (DOW): 4.20% Dupont (DD): 4.08% Nucor (NUE): 3.91% These strategic holdings offer investors access to various facets of the materials sector, which can be advantageous during periods of economic expansion or increased infrastructure investment. Steady Demand for Building Materials The ongoing demand for building materials has been a critical factor in the growing relevance of the XLB ETF. As construction activities increase, there is a corresponding surge in the need for raw materials. This trend is further amplified by the recent focus on infrastructure development across the country. Infrastructure Development Boost The passage of the infrastructure bill has opened avenues for substantial investments in various fields, including transportation, broadband, and clean energy. This legislative development has the potential to further drive the demand for materials, making XLB a potentially attractive investment option. Expense Ratio and Positioning With an expense ratio of 0.09%**, XLB remains well-positioned to provide exposure to the materials sector. Its strategic holdings and the potential increasing demand for construction materials highlight its relevance in the current market landscape. About Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB) The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB) offers investors a means to gain exposure to the materials sector, benefiting from the potential rise in construction activity and infrastructure expenditure. As an ETF, XLB provides a balanced approach to investing in the materials sector, catering to those looking to capitalize on these constructive trends. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. *Holdings, Weightings & Assets as of 9/30/24 subject to change **Ordinary brokerage fees apply DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007861 EXP 11/30/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

October 11, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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The Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA) Leads Economic Growth as EIRC Initiative Surpasses $500 Million Milestone

Bermuda Business Development Agency

October 10, 2024 – The Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA) is pleased to announce that the Economic Investment Residential Certificate (EIRC) initiative has surpassed $500 million in investments. This milestone reinforces Bermuda’s position as a premier destination for global investors, showcasing the EIRC’s pivotal role in driving sustained economic growth while enhancing the island’s appeal to high-net-worth individuals seeking both exceptional investments and an unmatched island lifestyle. Since its launch in 2021, The BDA has successfully provided concierge services for all EIRC applicants, guiding them through each phase of the process and ensuring a smooth, seamless experience. This tailored approach has been instrumental in driving economic growth, attracting affluent investors from around the world, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Spain. With a minimum investment of $2.5 million, participants gain permanent residency in Bermuda and the flexibility to invest in real estate, new and existing local businesses, Government bonds (previously offered), or social causes. To date, 58 approved applications have driven substantial capital into local enterprises and the property market. The EIRC does however offer more than financial benefits; many certificate holders are drawn to Bermuda because of personal connections, whether through birth, marriage, or long-standing relationships with the island. As a result, these stakeholders are not solely investing capital—they have become part of Bermuda’s community. Data shows that nearly half of a country’s economic growth typically originates from individuals already embedded in the community, and Bermuda is no different. By becoming part of the island’s fabric, these stakeholders unlock even greater opportunities for investment and growth, driving Bermuda’s continued economic success. The Honourable Jason Hayward, Minister of Economy and Labour, commented on the programme's success: "The EIRC initiative has proven to be a vital tool for stimulating economic development in Bermuda. By attracting high-net-worth individuals who are not only investing but also establishing Bermuda as their home, we are creating long-term opportunities for the island. Surpassing the $500 million mark is a significant achievement, and we are confident that the BDA and EIRC programme will continue to contribute positively to Bermuda’s economic growth." Kyle Rogers, Research and Intelligence Manager at the BDA, is also responsible for overseeing the concierge service that supports applicants throughout the entire EIRC process. He ensures seamless management of the certificates, providing crucial guidance from initial inquiry, through comprehensive candidate evaluation, to final approval. He stated, "Reaching $500 million is a testament to Bermuda’s unique offering as both a business hub and an exceptional place to live. The EIRC initiative continues to generate significant value by attracting capital and new residents who are committed to the island’s long-term success. We are excited about the programme’s growth and the bright future ahead." Of the total $500 million investment, $212 million has been directed towards new businesses, $231 million into real estate, $49 million into existing local enterprises, $2.6 million into Government bonds, and $6 million into social ventures deemed beneficial to Bermuda and subject to the Minister’s approval. Jonathan Halata, a developer, investor, and successful EIRC applicant, shared his experience: "As Canadians and Brits, my family has been connected to Bermuda since the 1970s. The EIRC wasn’t just about investing money; it was about building a life for my husband and daughter, and contributing to the community my family has become part of." "My investment in Bermuda extends far beyond financial returns—it's about contributing to the development of premier assets like hotels and tourism infrastructure. Island Realty projects like Azura and Nautilus have brought something unique to Bermuda and created dozens of jobs, which are vital for both airlift and the livelihoods of Bermudians. "I see a direct link between the EIRC programme and Bermuda’s future growth. It’s not just about selling homes—it’s about creating lasting opportunities. Multiplying our experience by 10, 50, or 100 could generate significant new jobs for Bermudians." "The EIRC certificate process was much easier than I expected, especially knowing the complexities with immigration and work permits. The BDA’s white-glove service, with Kyle’s personal attention to detail, made a tremendous difference. They delivered exactly what was promised, with a ribbon on top." For more information on the Economic Investment Residential Certificate and how to apply, visit bda.bm. Media Contact: Simone Gibbons Head of Marketing, Communications & Events D. +1 441 297 7774 | M. +1 441 707 0038 | E: simone@bda.bm The Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA) encourages direct investment and helps companies start up, re-locate, or expand their operations in our premier jurisdiction. An independent, public-private partnership, we connect you to industry professionals, regulatory officials, and key contacts in the Bermuda government to assist domicile decisions. Contact Details Bermuda’s Business Development Agency (BDA) +1 441-707-0038 info@bda.bm Company Website https://bda.bm

October 10, 2024 02:35 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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MedCognetics Introduces the First Embedded AI Cancer Detection System for Mammography Imaging

MedCognetics

MedCognetics, Inc., a company focusing on medical imaging AI, today announced the successful testing and implementation of the first embedded AI image processing and cancer detection system for mammography. The system utilizes the NVIDIA IGX Orin TM medical-grade edge AI platform alongside MedCognetics’ advanced AI-enabled software, CogNet AI-MT, which was developed in collaboration with clinical leaders worldwide. CogNet AI-MT has been trained on a diverse global dataset to enhance the performance of radiologists and help improve patient outcomes worldwide. Incorporating MedCognetics’ new system would allow for AI-driven image enhancement and cancer detection to occur in real-time within the mammography device itself. The embedded solution eliminates latency, delivering immediate, high-quality image analysis, a significant improvement over traditional setups that require external workstations or cloud-based processing. This approach is poised to improve patient outcomes through faster results, enhanced image quality and reduced hardware costs. “Embedding our CogNet AI-MT software directly into mammography imaging equipment means we can enhance image quality and provide immediate cancer detection without the need for costly hardware upgrades,” said Debasish “Ron” Nag, CEO of MedCognetics. “Using the NVIDIA IGX platform, we’re advancing medical imaging technology, making high-quality diagnostic tools more accessible to radiologists and imaging centers around the world.” The NVIDIA IGX Orin platform combines enterprise-level hardware, software, and support. It is purpose-built for industrial and medical edge computing. The platform delivers the performance, durability, security, and safety required for advanced AI applications and features programmable safety extensions, commercial OS support, and powerful AI software. These capabilities, equip organizations to confidently deploy AI safely and securely for enhanced human and machine collaboration. The embedded AI system developed by MedCognetics offers several key benefits: On-Premises Device: Rapid, complete analysis right in the radiology workflow. Enhanced Image Quality: AI-driven enhancements improve the clarity and detail of images without requiring high-end, expensive hardware. Immediate Results: Processing occurs within the device, providing instant analysis and reducing the wait time for results. Cost Efficiency: Medical device manufacturers can achieve high-end image quality at a fraction of the cost by utilizing AI rather than upgrading hardware. Workflow Optimization: Enables worklist prioritization and clinic-determined workflow optimization, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of radiologists and imaging centers. Easy Upgrades and Maintenance: Software-based solutions are easier to update and maintain, helping to ensure that medical imaging equipment remains cutting-edge without frequent hardware replacements. Earlier this year, MedCognetics was awarded a groundbreaking patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for its inclusive, unbiased medical imaging AI technology in mammography. Its expertise in embedded engineering, combined with the NVIDIA IGX platform, is poised to significantly advance medical imaging technology. This work underscores the importance of integrating AI into medical devices to enhance diagnostic capabilities and patient care. For more information about this new embedded AI cancer detection system, visit here. About CogNet AI-MT® CogNet AI-MT is part of MedCognetics' comprehensive CogNet AI™ platform, designed to enhance radiologists' capabilities by expanding insights and awareness in medical imaging. This unbiased platform, trained on a diverse global dataset, advances the performance of radiologists and imaging centers, delivering accurate care for patients worldwide. CogNet AI-MT employs advanced AI and Machine Learning (ML) to detect early signs of cancer across all ethnicities and can be deployed on customer premises, in the cloud, or via the web. The platform is FDA 510(k) cleared for triage of mammogram images. Useful Links: Learn More: www.medcognetics.com Follow us: X | LinkedIn Sales and Partnership Inquiries: Please contact MedCognetics, Inc. at: media@medcognetics.com About MedCognetics, Inc. MedCognetics provides an advanced AI software platform that integrates into radiology workflow. In addition, the AI algorithm is trained on a diverse global patient dataset to mitigate data biasing. The future of AI in healthcare is unbiased services and MedCognetics is at the forefront of creating a more predictable medical outcome and ultimately saving lives. Founded in 2020, the company is based in Dallas, Texas. For more information, please visit our website at www.medcognetics.com. # # # Contact Details ANW Networks Alicia Nieva-Woodgate +1 415-515-0866 alicia@anwnetworks.com Company Website https://www.medcognetics.com

October 10, 2024 11:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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