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ECOBANK FACES $68 MILLION LEGAL CLAIM IN CONNECTION WITH ALLEGATIONS OF DEFAMATION, ABUSIVE PROCEEDINGS, AND COERCION

SOOB

A $68 million legal claim in the UAE was filed against Jeremy Awori, CEO of Ecobank Transnational Inc (ETI); ETI Specialized Resolutions Company (ETISRC); Ecobank Nigeria (ENG); and Oladele Alabi, Managing Director of ETISRC, on allegations of defamation, abusive proceedings and coercion in Nigeria. The defendants are alleged to have attempted to coerce Wilben Trade and its CEO, Marcus Wade, into making substantial undue payments to ENG and ETISRC following a loss suffered in 2015. Over the last two years, accusations made by ETISRC, led by Oladele ‘Dele’ Alabi and ENG, have caused significant distress and reputational and financial harm to Wilben Trade. In 2015, ENG suffered losses exceeding $42 million from two transactions with its existing customer, Agrico Agbe Limited and its associate company, Little Rose Trading LLC. At Ecobank’s request, Wilben Trade was brought into the transactions solely to provide an intermediary service and discount Letter of Credit issued by Ecobank and had no other involvement. Following multiple failed attempts to recover losses from the original customers and those directly responsible, ETISRC turned its focus to Wilben Trade. Given the company's limited role in the transaction, legal counsel has labelled the defendant’s pursuit as ‘an extortion attempt’. In 2022, ETISRC escalated its actions, filing a report with the Nigeria Police Force through legal practitioners Wigwe & Co. The report alleged that Wilben Trade had improperly received $42,485,900 from EBN and had engaged in “Conspiracy and Fraudulent Conversion”. Wilben Trade contends that these allegations are baseless and were knowingly fabricated by Oladele Alabi, Managing Director of ETISRC, the ETI subsidiary responsible for the complaint, as a result of the ability of powerful private interests to instrumentalise public institutions and resources in Nigeria. This legal action underscores Wilben Trade and Marcus Wade’s commitment to protecting its reputation and seeking redress for the significant distress and damages inflicted by these unfounded allegations. Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe SAN, Partner, Sofunde Osakwe Ogundipe & Belgore Legal Practitioners, commented: “In addition to taking action in Nigeria, our client is pursuing international legal action to address Ecobank’s abusive tactics and repair the ongoing damage caused to our client by Ecobank’s improper use of public institutions to pursue its baseless complaints against our client. “Despite repeated appeals for constructive dialogue to address these issues and end the misconduct, Ecobank has refused to engage meaningfully.” -END- Contact Details Sofunde Osakwe Ogundipe & Belgore Legal Practitioners Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe SAN +234 1 630 7215 loakangbe@sooblaw.com

January 21, 2025 12:37 PM Eastern Standard Time

LIVE TINTED Unveils Its First-Ever Commercial with “It Feels Good To Be Seen” Campaign

Live Tinted

LIVE TINTED, the prestige beauty brand founded by industry changemaker Deepica Mutyala, announces today the launch of the brand’s “It Feels Good To Be Seen” campaign, debuting LIVE TINTED’s first-ever TV commercial, which emphasizes the brand’s role as an innovator and pioneer in inclusive makeup. LIVE TINTED celebrates the campaign launch in partnership with Ulta Beauty, featured in the commercial, as LIVE TINTED sets out to expand to all 1,400 Ulta Beauty stores by Spring 2025. In tandem with the campaign launch, the brand has also welcomed new products to their robust offerings with the launch of the Legacy collection. LIVE TINTED’s “ It Feels Good To Be Seen ” highlights the brand’s mission to bring change and representation to the $570B+ beauty industry. Inspired by Deepica’s own founding story, the 90’s-set commercial depicts two teenage girls of different skin tones experimenting with makeup. One girl, with darker skin, is disheartened when the foundation options are too light for her, reflecting the collective struggle of women of color to find inclusive makeup. The scene transitions to the present day, where the same young girl is now a mother, and she is able to find makeup to match her skin tone with confidence. Together, the mother and daughter explore LIVE TINTED's display of makeup available in inclusive shade ranges at Ulta Beauty, celebrating beauty for all. “The scene in the commercial is representative of moments myself and many other women of darker skin tones have experienced throughout life,” said LIVE TINTED Founder and CEO Deepica Mutyala. “Since I was a little girl playing with makeup in search of a product that matched my skin, I knew I wanted to create a beauty brand where women would feel seen and represented for who they are. Seeing this commercial come to life is monumental for the brand, especially since it airs near the 10-year anniversary of my viral YouTube video that catapulted the launch of LIVE TINTED to where we are today.” The campaign employs a comprehensive 360-degree strategy to maximize impact, featuring influencer and celebrity makeup artist collaborations and engaging in-store marketing assets at Ulta Beauty. Additional efforts include PR initiatives and social media strategies to drive brand engagement and widespread awareness. LIVE TINTED will continue to reinforce the campaign’s message throughout the year to sustain momentum and reach a broader audience. “As the first South Asian-owned makeup brand at Ulta Beauty, Live Tinted has deeply resonated with our diverse community of beauty enthusiasts, especially through its inclusive ethos and versatile products like the Huestick – which went viral on social and is now a tried-and-true staple in our guests’ beauty routines,” said Jessica Phillips, Vice President of Merchandising, Ulta Beauty. “With a shared mission to create new beautiful possibilities for beauty lovers of all generations, skin tones and types, we’re so proud to see Live Tinted’s incredible growth continue to shine and serve as an inspiring success story for up-and-coming beauty brands.” Ulta Beauty has been an integral player in the campaign and has contributed significantly to the brand’s growth since its launch in 2018. The brand first debuted exclusively in select stores in 2021 through the retailer’s Sparked initiative and then went on to be available at Ulta Beauty at Target locations. LIVE TINTED has become one of many fastest-growing prestige brands at Ulta Beauty, taking up six feet of retail space and will now be available to shop in all 1,400 stores across the U.S. by the spring. This will include the brand’s new Legacy collection which launched online and in stores on Thursday, January 9. Inspired by the legacy you dream of leaving on the world, the volumizing eye makeup trio features: Legacy Lash Volumizing & Lengthening Mascara ($26; $16 travel size): A serum-mascara delivering instant volume and long-term lash benefits with clean, weightless ingredients. Clinically proven to boost lash volume by +171% instantly and +113% over time. Legacy Liner Liquid Kajal ($22): Carbon-black-free and eye-safe, this liquid liner features 100% natural bamboo charcoal and a flexible felt tip for precise lines with a satin finish. Quick-drying and smudge-proof, it's been tested against water, tears, and life itself—this liner stays flawless all day. Legacy Eyelash Curler ($17): Wide, curved design for all eye shapes, featuring hypoallergenic silicone pads and a marigold orange tone for enhanced lash visibility. The launch of LIVE TINTED’s “ It Feels Good To Be Seen ” campaign coincides with the 10th anniversary of Deepica’s 2015 viral YouTube video (11M views) showing how to conceal dark under eye circles using red lipstick. The video catapulted Deepica’s influence in the beauty space and championed her as an advocate for inclusivity and representation. She has since been awarded TIME Magazine’s Next Generation Leader in 2022, co-created Mattel’s first South Asian CEO Barbie, and continues to use her platform and vision for the future of beauty to further establish LIVE TINTED as a premier clean, inclusive beauty brand. The “ It Feels Good To Be Seen ” commercial can be viewed on Warner Bros Discovery streaming platforms, @livetinted, and livetinted.com. LIVE TINTED products can be purchased at livetinted.com, Ulta Beauty, Ulta Beauty at Target Sephora, and Amazon. For more information, visit livetinted.com, follow on Instagram @livetinted @deepica, and on TikTok @livetinted @deepica. About LIVE TINTED: Providing universal shades with purposeful formulas, LIVE TINTED’s products are clean, vegan, and cruelty-free. From SPF-infused skincare to lip, cheek, face, and eye makeup, LIVE TINTED products are packed with skincare ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamins C and E, and Squalane to hydrate and brighten your skin. Founded in 2019 by Deepica Mutyala, LIVE TINTED exists to provide makeup wearers of every skin tone and color products where they feel represented and seen. LIVE TINTED products can be purchased online at livetinted.com, Sephora, and ULTA. Learn more at livetinted.com and @livetinted. About Deepica Mutyala: Deepica Mutyala is the Founder & CEO of Live Tinted, renowned, South-Asian American beauty entrepreneur on a mission to champion multicultural beauty through brand/products, community, conversation, and awareness – working to create a beauty brand where everyone feels seen and changing the beauty industry to broaden what's considered beautiful with the power and voice of both her personal and Live Tinted platforms. Mutyala rose to the forefront of the beauty industry in 2015 when her YouTube video, depicting a beauty hack to cover dark undereye circles using red lipstick, went viral – now boasting over 10 million views. Since then, Mutyala has been recognized by some of today’s most prestigious publications for her achievements in the beauty space, including accolades such as her 2022 dedicated feature as a TIME Magazine Next Generation Leader. Today, Mutyala's brand is sold across channels including DTC, on LiveTinted.com, and at top beauty retailers Ulta Beauty nationwide– the first South-Asian brand in the prominent retailer—and in-store and online at Sephora Canada. Follow her journey to revolutionize beauty at @LiveTinted and @deepica. Contact Details Powers PR Alex Wollman livetinted@powers-pr.com Company Website https://www.livetinted.com/

January 21, 2025 12:03 PM Eastern Standard Time

3 Reasons Why You Should Invest In The New Transformative Token, Elluminex (ELX)

Elluminex

The world of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) is evolving at a lightning pace. Protocols like Uniswap, PancakeSwap, and Jupiter have their respective blockchain ecosystems and have driven tens of millions in revenue. Now, a new contender has arrived with the potential to reshape the landscape of the TON blockchain and the broader DeFi space as a whole — Elluminex. With its cutting-edge features, this revolutionary DeFi hub has the potential to not only elevate the TON ecosystem but also deliver massive returns for early buyers. Let's explore the three main reasons why Elluminex should become a staple in every 2025 portfolio. 1. The DeFi Trailblazer On The TON Blockchain The TON blockchain taps directly into Telegram’s vast network and its massive 950-million user base. The numbers don't lie, with over 100 million registered addresses, TON is one of the fastest-growing ecosystems in crypto. Despite this, the TON network still underperforms when it comes to DeFi. Elluminex will change this by introducing a comprehensive DeFi ecosystem. This platform will address the inefficiencies that have stunted the expansion of DeFi. These include fragmented liquidity and the lack of seamless cross-chain interoperability. By enabling users to trade, stake, and manage assets securely and efficiently, Elluminex has the potential to unlock a whole new realm of possibilities for the TON network. 2. Unparalleled Cross-Chain Interoperability And Liquidity One of the major pain points in DeFi today is the challenge posed by having liquidity across blockchains, which already face substantial difficulties when interfacing with one another. Elluminex solves this by leveraging a revolutionary cross-chain bridge, allowing users to easily trade and transfer assets between major blockchains, including Ethereum and Solana, with minimal slippage, low fees, and near-instant speeds. When Jupiter was first launched, it significantly boosted Solana's ecosystem activity and contributed almost single-handedly kickstarted Solana’s 2024 rally, which culminated with a new all-time high. Elluminex aims to mimic this success by boosting the TON ecosystem, positioning itself as the go-to platform for developers, and investors alike. Additionally, Elluminex introduces staking and farming features that reward long-term holders of $ELX, priming the token for sustainable growth. Combined with its AI-powered portfolio tracker with built-in analytic tools, Elluminex will provide a well-rounded investing experience that empowers users to always have the right information at hand. 3. Exclusive Access To Unlisted TON Projects Elluminex is set to introduce a game-changing feature that sets it apart from traditional DeFi protocols: early access to exclusive TON projects. This feature will allow users to invest in new token launches before they are released on the markets, allowing stakeholders to stay ahead of the curve and granting them the opportunity to secure an early allocation in next-gen projects. Moreover, as this feature is directly integrated into a decentralized ecosystem, Elluminex eliminates third parties, providing users with transparency and control over their investments. Why $ELX Is A Must-Have Token For 2025 The $ELX token powers the Elluminex ecosystem, as it plays a crucial role in the staking mechanism, governance, and cross-chain liquidity. The token is also designed to be deflationary, meaning that recurring token burns will continuously reduce the circulating supply, stabilizing the price in times of market-wide turbulence, while simultaneously ensuring sustainable growth. As the TON network continues to expand and DeFi adoption accelerates, the demand for $ELX is expected to soar as soon as the presale kicks off. Early buyers could have a bullish gem at hand, especially as Elluminex could claim a substantial cut of the DeFi market. Don’t miss the opportunity to invest in a project that could reshape DeFi on one of the world’s fastest-growing blockchains. Keep an eye on Elluminex’s socials and website because the presale of the $ELX will start very soon! For more information about Elluminex (ELX) visit the links below: Website: https://elluminex.com/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/elluminex Telegram: https://t.me/Elluminex Elluminex is a next-generation DeFi platform built on the TON Blockchain and Ethereum, offering a seamless decentralized finance experience with innovative features. Users can engage in staking, farming, and enjoy AI-powered portfolio tools, all while participating in a cross-chain ecosystem. Elluminex is unique in that it is bringing DeFi to the TON Network/Blockchain which at the moment is very limited in this sense with very few options available to its users. Despite this the TON Network is still the fastest growing blockchain in the world and many view it as a future powerhouse to rival Bitcoin, Ethereum and Solana. By bringing DeFi to the TON Network, Elluminex would immediately transform the chain and take its capabilities and vast reach to the next level. Much like Uniswap did with Ethereum, Pancakeswap did with Binance Chain and Jupiter did with Solana. Cryptocurrency may be unregulated in your jurisdiction. The value of cryptocurrencies fluctuates and it is important that you thoroughly understand the risks associated with acquiring cryptocurrencies, as outlined in the Disclaimer. You confirm that you are not a citizen or resident of the United States, United Kingdom, or any prohibited jurisdiction, or any other location where the purchase of Elluminex and $ELX token may be legally restricted. Please note that our list of restricted countries and terms of service may undergo updates, and it is your responsibility to stay informed about the latest version.By proceeding to continue to use Elluminex.com, you acknowledge and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Contact Details Andy Green press@elluminex.com Company Website https://elluminex.com/

January 21, 2025 11:58 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Flash Earns HITRUST Certification, a First in Parking Technology

Flash

Flash, the leading AI-powered parking technology provider, today announced it has achieved HITRUST Certification for its PARCS and Valet solutions, the first and only parking technology provider to earn the distinction. The achievement confirms Flash’s data security practices meet the highest standards trusted by 81 percent of U.S. hospitals and health systems. Flash's HITRUST-certified PARCS and Valet solutions align its security frameworks with those of its healthcare clients and reduce their implementation complexity and risk. The certification also gives assurance to patients, visitors, physicians and staff that their information is safe from the moment they enter the parking facility. “We have a track record of setting new standards in parking," said Flash CEO Dan Sharplin. “Our focus on reimagining the parking experience calls for putting security front and center, within and beyond healthcare. We’re also committed to a great experience for operators and owners, and this certification allows us to carry the technical burden of compliance on their behalf.” Flash PARCS and Valet solutions have earned the trust of the country’s largest medical district and from healthcare systems in major metros nationwide, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Houston, New York City, Orange County, Phoenix, Pittsburgh and San Diego. Flash’s industry-leading parking technology has also earned designation as a Level 1 Service Provider by the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standards (DSS), which it has maintained for 11 consecutive years. Its cloud-based platform can process over 500 million transactions yearly in a secure environment that limits the risk of data loss, disruption, or corruption. Operating entirely in the cloud also allows Flash to manage compliance for operators and owners, pushing security updates and routine system checks required by PCI and HITRUST standards over the air, which become operational within minutes. About Flash Flash is a pioneering technology company bringing seamless parking and EV charging experiences to drivers through a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem. Flash’s platform connects reservable parking and charging in the apps drivers use daily with garage, surface lot, event, and valet parking locations—connected and controlled via a cloud-based operating system with unrivaled intelligence. Customer-obsessed brands partner with Flash to deliver digital, easy-to-use, reliable, and increasingly frictionless experiences to drivers eager to pay for a solution that eliminates wasted time, excess emissions, and stress. The solution has arrived. Visit www.flashparking.com to learn more. Contact Details Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com Company Website https://www.flashparking.com/

January 21, 2025 10:00 AM Central Standard Time

IntusCare Announces Marcus Whitney as New Board Member, Strengthening Leadership and Expertise in Healthcare Innovation

IntusCare

IntusCare, a technology leader in the PACE market, today announced the addition of Marcus Whitney, founder and managing partner of Jumpstart Health Investors (JHI), to its Board of Directors. A healthcare venture capitalist, author, and thought leader, Whitney brings his extensive expertise in healthcare innovation and strategic investments and marks a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for older adults through technology and services. As a founding partner of JHI, an early-stage healthcare venture capital firm, Whitney has been instrumental in driving investments that focus on high-impact healthcare solutions that address healthcare disparities and push for equitable access to care. Whitney’s approach emphasizes not use innovation but inclusivity – values that align with IntusCare’s mission to enhance PACE and value-based care (VBC) organizations. Whitney joins the board at IntusCare as the company continues to expand its technology platform, recently announcing a new EMR and practice management solution, CareHub, along with a risk adjustment system, IRIS, both uniquely designed specifically for PACE and VBC organizations. “Marcus’s visionary approach and expertise in healthcare innovation will enhance our approach at IntusCare as we continue to look for ways our technology and services will empower the healthcare providers we support,” said Robbie Felton, CEO at IntusCare. “His expertise will be invaluable as we continue to develop technology that enables healthcare providers to deliver more effective, compassionate care to underserved elderly populations.” “I am honored to serve on the board for IntusCare. The IntusCare team is leading the industry in redefining care for a critical population,” said Whitney. “I look forward to contributing to their mission and the bright future ahead.” In addition to his role at JHI, Whitney is a best-selling author of “Create and Orchestrate,” about claiming your creative power through entrepreneurship. Whitney is an Aspen Health Innovators Fellow and serves on multiple boards that support healthcare and the arts; this includes the Healthcare Financial Management Association National Board. He is also co-founder and minority owner of the Major League Soccer team, Nashville Soccer Club. Whitney competes in Jiu Jitsu as an International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) World Master Champion. For more information about IntusCare’s software and services or to schedule a demo or consultation, reach out through IntusCare’s website. About IntusCare ‍ IntusCare develops innovative predictive analytics platforms aimed at improving geriatric care outcomes. Founded in 2019 by Brown University undergraduate students, IntusCare empowers geriatric care providers to deliver more effective patient management and treatment for dual-eligible seniors – some of the most socially vulnerable and clinically complex individuals in the U.S. healthcare system. Visit our website to learn more intuscare.com. Contact Details SVM PR & Marketing Alison Matthiessen +1 401-490-9700 intuscare@svmpr.com Company Website https://intuscare.com/

January 21, 2025 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

NAVEX Celebrates the Grand Opening of its New Bangalore Office

NAVEX Global

NAVEX, the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software, today announced the grand opening of its permanent Global Capability Center (GCC) office in Bangalore, India. In May 2024, NAVEX established a permanent presence in India as a significant step forward in executing on its strategic goals driven by the company’s ongoing commitment to international growth, talent acquisition, and investment in technology and services. The new office will house around one hundred experts including the customer success, product engineering, marketing, human resources, product planning, management, and information technology teams. The center will help the business operate with agility while building awareness among companies in India, and Asia more broadly, seeking governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) expertise. It will play a pivotal role in accelerating product innovation, providing excellence in customer experience, and building on the company’s legacy. Udayakumar Sethu, Vice President of Software Engineering and India Site Leader at NAVEX, adds, “We are delighted to reveal our new Global Capability Center! It is a huge development in our globalization strategy, and it will help us to build awareness and momentum in the vibrant Bangalore market. As a purpose driven company, NAVEX prides itself on creating a people-first culture that is meaningful and relatable to each person. We aim to be a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable company that celebrates cross-cultural collaboration and communication.” The India office showcases NAVEX’s commitment towards expansion into South Asia. The company’s global footprint provides more opportunities for its team members to grow, contribute, and thrive, as the center offers a new workspace that will inspire everyday collaboration, shared knowledge, and learning. Current facilities include designated parking, a food court, employee transport and more to ensure all employees work in a supportive, safe, and secure environment. The NAVEX GCC’s proximity to key Asian markets, such as Singapore, Japan, and Australia, also adds fundamental value to business operations. With a presence now across America, Europe, and Asia, NAVEX’s impact spans the globe, providing over 88 million employees at more than 13,000 organizations with a safer place to work. Due to significant international customer momentum in Europe, the company opened a new London office in 2023. The move follows its growing presence in Finland, the acquisition of WhistleB in Sweden, and the establishment of its Frankfurt data facility. Learn more about life at the new NAVEX India GCC on our website. About NAVEX NAVEX is the recognized leader in risk and compliance management software and services, empowering thousands of customers around the world to manage and mitigate risks with confidence. NAVEX’s mission is to help customers promote ethical, inclusive workplace cultures, protect their brands, and preserve the environment through sustainable business practices. For more information, visit our website and our blog. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. NAVEX is trusted by thousands of customers worldwide to help them achieve the business outcomes that matter most. As the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software and services, we deliver solutions through the NAVEX One platform, the industry’s most comprehensive governance, risk and compliance (GRC) information system. For more information, visit NAVEX.com and our blog. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Contact Details Navex Global +1 617-388-5773 anita.lo@navex.com Company Website https://navex.com

January 21, 2025 09:39 AM Eastern Standard Time

Trump Gives Crypto A Boost – Here’s How BitFuFu Could Benefit

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin Benzinga Bitcoin, blockchain and digital tokens are having a moment, and President-elect Trump is a big part of the reason. Ever since Trump won the U.S. presidential election, Bitcoin prices have soared. On the day of Trump’s victory, Bitcoin hit a new high of $75,358, and it hasn’t looked back, hitting $100,000 in December 2024 and recently hitting an intra-day high of $102,750. Bulls predict a continued rise in price after Trump takes office. The euphoria around Trump’s win lifted the overall crypto market as optimism grew that there would be a more favorable cryptocurrency policy with the new administration, with analysts at one Wall Street investment bank putting the odds of Trump creating a Bitcoin reserve in 2025 at 60%. These factors have led many market watchers to be optimistic about continued good times for crypto. All of this has ushered in a new growth cycle for cryptocurrencies, one that BitFuFu (NASDAQ: FUFU), a global leader in Bitcoin mining and comprehensive mining services, is taking advantage of and preparing for with its 1GW Global Capacity Expansion Plan, which the company said will lead the platform and its users to a new era of efficient mining. BitFuFu’s 1GW Global Capacity Expansion Plan is aimed at adding 1GW of capacity by the end of 2026. To meet that goal, the company has been busy acquiring mining farms, purchasing mining machines and improving the operating capacity of its existing mining farms. In December, BitFuFu announced that it was evaluating approximately 700 MW of potential projects as it moves toward its 1GW capacity increase goal. As of December 31, 2024, the company had 551 MW of mining capacity and nearly 600,000 registered cloud mining users putting BitFuFu squarely in a global leadership position. More recently, BitFuFu signed a deal with BITMAIN, the largest digital asset mining hardware manufacturer, to purchase up to 80,000 S-series miners and to rapidly expand mining infrastructure globally with a target of adding 1 GW in capacity by the end of 2026. Trump’s Crypto Cheerleading It makes sense that cryptocurrency is having a moment and that BitFuFu could be poised to benefit. In July 2024, Trump announced that he would list Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset of the United States and since then, the cryptocurrency industry has generally experienced growth. BitFuFu’s stock price and market capitalization of BitFuFu have been on an overall upward trend in the half year following Trump’s announcement. In November, Wall Street firm H.C Wainwright initiated coverage of BitFuFu with a “buy” rating and price target of $7.00. During the run-up to the election, Trump vowed to make the U.S. the leader in crypto, indicating he preferred regulators that supported minimal regulation of the crypto industry. The incoming president had previously said he would get rid of Gary Gensler, the current Securities Exchange Commission Chairman. Critics blame Gensler for stifling innovation in the crypto market with his hard stance on the industry. Gensler beat Trump to the firing, announcing he would step down on January 20, 2025, paving the way for Trump to name a more crypto-friendly chairman. Congress is also expected to be more pro-crypto under a Trump administration. All of this is good news for crypto investors, trading platforms and miners like BitFuFu. Under Trump’s presidency, Bitcoin could possibly continue to set record highs, Bitcoin ETFs may lure more everyday investors to the market, and friendlier legislation could spur innovation and growth. This newfound attention could drive demand for digital assets and, thus, move the price of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies higher – potentially lifting all the players in the ecosystem. Leading Global Position in Cloud Mining BiFuFu reports it is already seeing rapid growth as it cements itself as a leader in the cryptocurrency space. In BitFufu's December 2024 Production and Mining Operations Update, the company reported that its cloud-mining registered user base has seen remarkable growth. As of December 31, 2024, the number of registered users reached 591,751. Compared with 455,764 as of September 30, 2024, registered users grew nearly 30% over the three-month period. BitFuFu reports that it now leads globally in cloud-mining user scale and growth rate, showing that more users are actively participating in the digital economy. BitFuFu has been steadily strengthening its capabilities as a mining service platform. Currently, its total hashrate stands at 23.5EH/s with hosting capacity of 551 MW up from 11.1 EH/s and 336 MW at the end of 2022. Additionally, BitFuFu has launched services such as mining pools and software. By integrating miners, hosting, mining pools and software services, BitFuFu provides users with a one-stop mining experience, enabling them to easily participate in the digital economy and share in the profits. BitFuFu plays a multifaceted role in the crypto mining scene offering a user-friendly mining platform as well as self-mining. As of December 31, 2024, BitFuFu reported that it held 1,720 Bitcoins, one of the largest BTC holdings of any public mining company and positioning it well in the evolving digital currency market. Positioning For Growth Unlike traditional miners such as MARA Holdings (NASDAQ: MARA) that focus primarily on self-mining and holding BTC, BitFuFu engages in both self-mining and cloud mining, which provides the company with greater flexibility and reduced volatility in an unpredictable market. The cloud-mining business, in which BitFuFu rents its hash rate to customers for a specified period of time ranging from 30 days to 360 days, provides BitFuFu with a more stable source of cash flow despite the volatility in the price of Bitcoin. This is due to the fact that BitFuFu receives payment up front and effectively locks in revenue at the prevailing price of Bitcoin. So, even if the price of Bitcoin declines, BitFuFu has already been paid. This cash flow fuels the company's development. BitFuFu has adopted a smart strategy to dynamically shift the amount of hash rate allocated between cloud-mining and self-mining. Given BTC's price volatility, rather than hoarding or dumping, BitFuFu sells more hash rate (cloud-mining) when the price of BTC is high and buys or self-mines when the price of BTC is low. This way, BitFuFu reports it adeptly copes with market changes, maximizes overall returns and rides out BTC's bull and bear cycles. The benefits of this strategy seem to be evident based on BitFuFu’s financial results in the past few quarters. In the third quarter, BitFuFu reported revenue of $90.3 million, up 47.5% year-over-year, and posted adjusted EBITDA of $5.8 million. The quarter marked the first full three months following the Bitcoin halving event in late April, which reduced the Bitcoin block subsidy to 3.125 Bitcoin per block from 6.25, so the quarter was challenging for Bitcoin miners due to the reduced reward. “I am proud to say that the third quarter of 2024 is the 11th consecutive quarter BitFuFu has generated positive adjusted EBITDA,” said BitFuFu’s Lu. “This consistency demonstrates the profitability and resilience of our business model, regardless of whether the price of Bitcoin is in a bear market or bull market.” Among mining companies, only two have achieved consistent revenue growth over the past three years: CleanSpark Inc. (NASDAQ: CLSK) and BitFuFu. With Q3 2024 revenue of $90.3 million and a cumulative revenue of $364 million for the first three quarters of 2024, BitFuFu stands as the third-largest mining company globally, following MARA Holdings and Core Scientific Inc. (NASDAQ: CORZ), reports BitFuFu. Both of its larger rivals reported a net loss for Q3 2024. To boost hash power and cut electricity costs, BitFuFu is aggressively looking for premium power sources to acquire or partner with around the globe for. Here are the latest developments: Dec. 2024：33 MW Capacity in the U.S. Oct. 2024: 80 MW mining site in Ethiopia BitFuFu’s strategic investments in vertical integration, securing long-term hash rate and expanding its geographic footprint seem to be paying off. The company reports it has a strong and growing user base and a leading position in the cloud mining market just as Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are expected to take off under incoming president Trump. With its 1GW Global Capacity Expansion Plan underway, BitFuFu plans to lead the platform and its users to a new era of efficient mining. Featured photo by Scottsdale Mint 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 is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

January 21, 2025 08:35 AM Eastern Standard Time

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News Direct Revolutionizes News Release Distribution with Launch of "News Direct Louder"

News Direct

Ne ws Direct, a pioneer in the modernization and digitalization of the newswire industry, in partnership with Louder.ai, the world’s first patented technology platform enabling text and multimedia to be turned into content seen by viewers across a multitude of key online media properties, today announced the launch of News Direct Louder, a transformative solution designed to amplify the visibility of, and engagement with, your news and multimedia content on major online news platforms. This groundbreaking service addresses longstanding challenges in content accessibility and performance metrics, offering clients unprecedented control over their communication strategies. Introducing News Direct Louder News Direct Louder is a first-of-its-kind solution that ensures your content achieves prominent display and delivers actionable engagement insights. With this new service, clients can: Guarantee Prominent Placement: Maximize visibility by securing prime positioning for your content on the world's most valuable and relevant online media properties. Track Engagement Metrics: Gain access to detailed performance data, allowing you to measure impact and refine your strategy. Reach Target Audiences Effectively: Deliver your message directly to the audiences that matter most on the platforms they rely on for news and information. The Problem: Visibility on Major Platforms While major online news sites attract more than 1 billion visitors per month, the visibility of individual releases on these sites remains a significant hurdle. Finding specific content directly on these platforms is notoriously difficult, leaving issuers with limited opportunities to gain visibility: Google Search – Content may rank highly, but it relies on the user’s ability to search using precise keywords or headlines. Direct Links – Links provided by newswires like News Direct are effective but limited to the audiences with which they are directly shared. Adding to these challenges, traditional newswires are unable to provide engagement metrics for content on these platforms. While there is undoubtedly value in the exposure placement on these sites provide, the lack of data specific to the performance of individual releases leaves a critical gap regarding how to determine the true ROI of such placements. Revolutionizing the Newswire Experience News Direct is committed to leveraging the most current available technology to transform the newswire industry. From streamlining workflows to enhancing the user experience, the platform’s innovations have consistently delivered exceptional value. News Direct Louder represents the next step in this journey, empowering clients with tools that prioritize transparency, visibility, and results. “At News Direct, we’ve always believed in challenging the status quo to deliver better outcomes for our clients,” said Gregg Castano, Founder and CEO of News Direct. “With News Direct Louder, we’re not just addressing visibility challenges —we’re redefining what’s possible in news and content distribution.” About Louder.AI Louder.ai Louder.ai is a patented, programmatic advertising technology platform that automatically distributes hyper-targeted public relations and investor relations campaigns across the Web, reaching any demographic, with optimized pricing per impression. Louder.ai also offers campaigns that can be instantly crowd-funded by viewers or shared to their social media accounts with the click of a mouse. About News Direct News Direct is a technology-driven content distribution and amplification platform for PR, IR, corporate communications and marketing professionals. Our automated platform delivers a completely reimagined, modernized user experience for newswire users that has reshaped the industry landscape. Additionally, the company has expanded its offerings to include an array of technology-enhanced message amplification tools ranging from sponsored content to podcasting products, all from a single online destination. Contact Details News Direct Corp. Media Relations +1 917-698-4131 getlouder@newsdirect.com Company Website http://www.newsdirect.com

January 21, 2025 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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How Pasofino Gold Is Leveraging Gold Potential In Mining-Friendly Liberia Through Its Scalable Project

Benzinga

By JE Insights, Benzinga While the hottest themes of the market often vary from year to year, one storied asset has stood as the ultimate benchmark for wealth: gold. Even in contemporary times, investors continue to turn to the precious metal as a vehicle for enhancing capital gains as well as a strong hedge against inflation. Of course, buying physical bullion presents many challenges, bringing mining enterprises like Pasofino Gold Ltd (TSX.V:VEIN) (OTC: EFRGF) into a particularly attractive light. Headquartered in Toronto, the Canadian exploration and production specialist focuses on Liberia, a predominantly English-speaking nation home to 5.3 million people. Thanks to a combination of a resource-rich environment, sustained political stability and a favorable regulatory framework, Pasofino says the West African republic represents a largely untapped golden frontier. As such, Pasofino secured a 100% ownership interest in the Dugbe Gold Project, located in southeastern Liberia. Fundamentally, one factor that generally appeals to investors interested in gold is accessibility. Unlike buying physical gold bullion, the securities of miners are easily available over the counter via broker-dealer networks. Additionally, investors don’t have to deal with associated hassles, such as storage and custodial protection. More importantly, Pasofino is an actual business, offering the prospect of additional returns beyond the rise of the underlying asset. In contrast, gold investment by itself requires collective speculation. Stated differently, there’s not much individuals can do to move the needle. However, with Pasofino, the exploration and development of untapped mines opens multiple possibilities. Just as importantly, investing in this company contributes directly to the Liberian economy, fostering a positive-sum game for all parties involved. Pasofino Gold’s Project Economics Typically, gold-mining enterprises are divided into four categories: exploration, development, production and reclamation. Pasofino predominantly operates within the development stage while preparing to advance toward production, which involves the extraction and processing of gold. The company also continues to explore additional targets within the 2,078-square-kilometer permit area of its Dugbe Gold Project. Quite often, what separates a purely speculative junior miner from a quality exploration and development specialist is the economic feasibility of the underlying project. Commonly, feasibility is defined as the confirmation of proven reserves and resources, key financial metrics such as net present value (NPV) and internal rate of return (IRR) and a clear path to production. These factors are exactly what contributes to Pasofino Gold’s position in the market. Right off the bat, Pasofino commands a strong reserve base of 2.76 million troy ounces (Moz), confirmed through drilling, sampling and feasibility studies. Better yet, thanks to the resource-rich environment, the company anticipates business upside through ongoing drilling targets and expansion initiatives. The potential for expansion is notable as the majority of targets within the Dugbe project have yet to be drilled. Second, Pasofino leverages promising financial metrics. Primarily, the company boasts a pre-tax NPV of $506 million assuming a spot gold price of $1,700 per troy ounce. This metric means that if the yellow metal maintains the aforementioned price, the Dugbe Gold Project should generate $506 million in profit (before taxes) over its lifetime. What’s more, management estimates that at $2,500 gold, Pasofino’s pre-tax NPV could soar to $1.52 billion. Finally, regarding project economics, the developmental specialist offers a tangible blueprint for production. Beyond the five targets at Dugbe that have been drilled to date, the gold miner still has 15 additional high-priority targets left to drill, translating to high deposit scalability. Furthermore, the vast size of the permit area offers the potential for new deposits, all within trucking distance of the planned processing plant to be built on the project site. Strategic Location And Operational Advantages Another advantage that Pasofino Gold possesses compared to many traditional gold miners is its foothold in Liberia. Known for its rich mineral reserves, Liberia enjoys a long-standing history of mining operations. As one of Africa’s oldest modern republics, the country has nurtured a mining-friendly environment backed by political stability and a pro-business regulatory framework. This dynamic aims to create an attractive jurisdiction for development, especially within the lucrative Birimian gold belt, which the company reports is one of the world’s most productive gold-bearing regions. The Dugbe Gold Project itself benefits from an advantageous logistical setup. Located just 76 kilometers from the Greenville port, Pasofino reports the project site enables cost-effective transportation of materials and supplies. This proximity also minimizes the logistical challenges associated with developing and maintaining large-scale mining operations. In addition, Pasofino’s infrastructure plans include liquified natural gas (LNG)-powered energy generation, with solar offsets ensuring sustainable operations. These initiatives not only drive down operational costs but also align with broader environmental, social and governance (ESG) objectives – a growing priority for global investors. From a mining operations perspective, Pasofino Gold reports that it employs modern, efficient techniques designed to maximize output and minimize costs. A critical element of this strategy is the development of two open pits strategically located four kilometers apart. This setup allows for concurrent mining operations, significantly boosting production rates and ensuring a steady flow of ore to the processing plant. A standout feature of the Dugbe Gold Project is its low strip ratio of 3.52:1 during the early years of operation. In mining, the strip ratio refers to the amount of waste material that must be removed to extract a given quantity of ore. A ratio of 3.52:1 means that for every 3.52 tonnes of waste, one tonne of ore is mined. This is considered favorable because lower strip ratios indicate less waste removal, directly translating to lower mining costs and improved efficiency. In turn, Pasofino effectively reduces both capital expenditures or the upfront costs tied to mine development and operational expenditures, the common term for the ongoing costs of running the mine. This combined positive impact enhances overall profitability and helps position Pasofino for higher margins out of the gate, says the company. Experienced Leadership And Optimized Development Plan Beyond the numbers and infrastructure, a significant element that adds to Pasofino’s position is the strength of its leadership team. After all, gold – as attractive as it may be – still represents a commodity. The people running the show matter to distinguish a company from the crowd. The company is led by CEO and Executive Director Brett Richards, an industry expert bringing an abundance of operational knowledge and strategic vision to the table. Commanding over 37 years of experience, Richards has held head executive roles for multiple mining firms, along with board positions at several public companies. In particular, his acumen in building out mining projects and conducting mergers and acquisitions is an important factor for the company. Moreover, the team’s forward-thinking approach is evident in Pasofino’s ongoing optimization studies. While Pasofino reports the Dugbe Gold Project’s feasibility study already boasts impressive economics, management continues to explore avenues for further improvement. These efforts include metallurgical enhancements aimed at increasing gold recovery rates from the current 83% to closer to 90%. Even a modest 2% improvement in recovery rates could significantly boost the project’s NPV. Additionally, Pasofino’s commitment to responsible mining practices underscores its long-term viability. The company actively engages with local communities, providing employment opportunities and supporting developmental initiatives. By fostering strong relationships with local stakeholders, Pasofino ensures smoother project execution while contributing to Liberia’s economic growth. The Next Gold Frontier? Pasofino Gold offers investors exposure to a development-ready project with scalability potential and established infrastructure. Specifically, the Dugbe Gold Project seeks to offer the potential for long-term growth through resource expansion and efficient operations in one of West Africa’s most promising gold regions. With low-cost mining, proximity to key infrastructure and a growing reserve base, Pasofino aims to balance the stability of a well-defined project with the upside of a significant untapped gold belt. This combination of measured progress and scalability potentially positions the company to capitalize on rising gold demand. Pasofino Gold highlights the qualities that define a serious exploration and development specialist – a focus on execution, expansion potential and a pathway to profitability – making it a project worth following closely. Featured photo by Csaba Nagy 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

January 21, 2025 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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