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Contact Details Karl Wayne +1 334-440-6397 karl@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/
May 20, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
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Digital Asset Direct
News ReleaseFah Mai Holdings' Jacob Carter explains auction process
Fah Mai Holdings Group Inc
Fah Mai Holdings UK head and manager of @whiskybullauctions Jacob Carter takes Proactive's Stephen Gunnion through the process of selling at auction. Initial contact can be made through the website’s chat box, email, or phone. Sellers need to provide a complete list of what they wish to auction. Fah Mai Holdings ensures transparency in pricing, providing honest valuations based on current market trends. Carter explained that the company charges a 7% commission to the buyer, with free membership, listing, and reserve fees. Storage costs £1 per year per bottle. Additionally, sellers receive an extra 1% on the hammer price. Sellers can send bottles directly to the company or use their insured collection service. The company conducts two auctions per month, each lasting 2 to 4 days. Types of auctions include no reserve, branded, and quarterly cask auctions. Auctions feature bottles and casks from global offices in New Jersey and Singapore. After the auction, sellers are provided with detailed receipts and are kept informed throughout the process. Contact Details Proactive UK +44 20 7989 0813 UKEditorial@proactiveinvestors.com
May 17, 2024 02:26 PM Eastern Daylight Time
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News ReleaseTackling Childhood Peanut Allergies
YourUpdateTV
Right now, more children in the U.S. are living with peanut allergy than ever before, and approximately 75% will not outgrow their allergy. Recently, Pediatric Allergist, Dr. Douglas Mack, and Sarah Korieshi, the Mother of a peanut allergic child, participated in a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss the impact on children and innovative new treatment options that can help. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/5uKicnsGHv8 The repercussions of this condition are profound, extending beyond mere dietary restrictions to impacting a child's daily life, social interactions, and overall well-being. The constant fear of accidental exposure and the potential for severe allergic reactions can also be extremely difficult for families to navigate. The increase in prevalence over the past 20 years has driven a growing need for effective treatment options to manage the condition. For doctors, that means treatments that reduces the likelihood of an allergic reaction in the case of accidental exposure, and treatments that work within the lifestyle of the child and family. The good news is that recent years have brought about a spate of new innovations in the allergy space. For example, there is currently an ongoing clinical trial evaluating Viaskin TM Peanut, a patch containing the equivalent of one one-thousandth of one peanut kernel. The patch is applied each day to a child’s back in order to build up a tolerance to peanut protein, making it less likely that a child will have a reaction after an accidental exposure. For parents, a treatment like this would be life-changing, as a non-invasive option – something that can be incorporated into our busy lives, without any restrictions to regular activities. Having access to a treatment option that allows children and parents to participate in typical activities for a child, such as birthday parties, sports activities, attending camp, or even school, would give parents peace of mind and children the care-free life they deserve. For more information, visit vitesseallergystudy.com About Dr. Douglas Mack Dr. Mack is co-author of clinical guidelines on the prevention of allergy, oral immunotherapy and anaphylaxis and focuses on oral immunotherapy for food at Halton Pediatric Allergy clinic. Dr. Douglas Mack has been a pediatric allergy, asthma, and immunology specialist for over 10 years. Dr. Mack is an assistant clinical professor in the Department of Pediatrics at McMaster University and is an affiliate of Sick Kids. He sits on the board of directors at the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. He is co-author of clinical guidelines on the prevention of allergy, oral immunotherapy, and anaphylaxis. Dr. Mack is co-founder of Halton Pediatric Allergy clinic where his focus is on oral immunotherapy for food. About Sarah Korieshi Sarah learned that her daughter Zara had a deadly peanut allergy when she was just 9 months old. The first thing she thought was, not only how life-threatening eating a food can be, but also living with the constant fear of what may happen every time she eats. There has always been constant fear with how unpredictable a reaction can be, and the anxiety that comes with solely relying on avoidance really takes a toll. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com
May 17, 2024 10:09 AM Eastern Daylight Time
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News ReleaseTHE MTV OF INDEPENDENT FILM!
YourUpdateTV
The 6th Annual Transparent Film Festival is set to take place at the iconic Producers Club in midtown Manhattan's Theatre District on June 13th, this festival will not only feature some of the best in Indie Film from over 1000 submissions world-wide but will also include the launch of ABFAB.COM, it’s digital app free streaming platform. ABFAB.COM aims to be the go-to hub for indie filmmakers, akin to what MTV did for musicians when it debuted in 1981, but with an expanded scope. With a commitment to showcasing diverse talents from across the globe, ABFAB.COM is not only partnering with festivals like Transparent Film Festival but also welcoming submissions directly from content creators. Phase 2 of its launch will broaden its scope to include comedians, theater groups, musicians, and more, in line with the original MTV ethos of celebrating creativity in all its forms. Brian McLane, the founder of Transparent Film Festival, emphasizes the need for platforms like ABFAB.COM to provide exposure and recognition to independent filmmakers, echoing the success of the festival in highlighting the abundance of talent in the indie film scene. Through ABFAB.COM 's 24-hour streaming network, every content creator will have a chance to display their work without the clutter of an app. “We want to do everything we can to promote independent filmmaking and independent filmmakers, so having been around when MTV first came out and seeing what that did for the music world, we wanted to create ABFAB.COM so all types of films from all over the world will have a home and a place to get exposure”, said McLane. Embracing the spirit of MTV's on-air VJs, ABFAB.COM is gearing up for worldwide auditions to find presenters who embody unity and individualism, much like the iconic personalities of MTV's golden era. Festival Co-Founder, Michael Farr said “It’s a cool time for content creators and on-air personalities so in addition to in-house productions like “Director’s Spotlight hosted by James Ylisela,” other ABFAB.COM original programming, plus the amazing content that gets submitted to us, we will pay homage to the MTV era by casting VJ’s to intro films and host content on the channel. As submissions for the 6th Annual Transparent Film Festival are now closed, the festival's commitment to reviewing every film in its entirety sets it apart, providing valuable feedback to content creators and ensuring a fair evaluation process. ABFAB.COM seeks to offer viewers an alternative to mainstream platforms, focusing on independent content creation and delivering a quality viewing experience. Festival Judge, Marc Mifsud said “We take great pride in the fact that we review each and every film that is submitted and provide direct feedback to filmmakers, I think the people who submit feel good knowing that their film will be reviewed and not just end up in a pile of films that never get a chance to be truly judged.“ For tickets to this year's festival or more information about Transparent Film Festival and ABFAB.COM, visit www.transparentfilmfest.com Don't forget to tune in to Transparent TV on Manhattan Cable Channel 34 Spectrum every Friday night at 12 midnight ET. About Transparent Film Festival: Founded by Brian McLane, Transparent Film Festival celebrates independent filmmaking by honoring each submission with a thorough review process that includes full viewing of every film submitted. With over 2500 films submitted in its first five years, the festival remains dedicated to its mission and is now in its 6th year, aiming for IMDb certification. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com
May 16, 2024 02:40 PM Eastern Daylight Time
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News ReleaseShareholder Warns Maker of Oreo That They are Endangering Their Brand
NLPC
Following the viral online ad it released about Oreo and its troubling partnership with LGBTQ advocacy group PFLAG, National Legal and Policy Center has published a follow-up video to promote a shareholder proposal it will present on May 22 at the annual meeting of Mondelez International, parent company of the cookie brand. NLPC’s resolution calls upon the multinational snack giant to scrutinize areas of risk where it has engaged in disturbing relationships with outside organizations, such as the one Oreo has with PFLAG. Other examples in the proposal cite Mondelez’s support for the Marxist, anti-law enforcement group Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, and the company’s partnership with the anti-Semitic UN Human Rights. “Mondelez is carelessly dashing through the consumer market dropping mines that very well could end up as tripwires for themselves,” said Paul Chesser, director of the Corporate Integrity Project for NLPC. “It’s not surprising since Chairman/CEO Dirk Van de Put also serves on the board of Anheuser Busch InBev, the company that self-inflicted the greatest brand destruction in many years last April with Bud Light.” As NLPC pointed out with its Oreo video released in February, PFLAG condones gender transition treatments for children as young as three years old, and battles to make sure books with explicit content are allowed in public schools and libraries. NLPC initiated its campaign to highlight the cookie-maker’s inappropriate relationship with PFLAG after it noticed the brand’s social media accounts – primarily on X (formerly Twitter) – were heavily populated with posts in support of PFLAG’s various narratives, causes and social advocacy. The new video released today calls attention to Mondelez’s alliances with BLM and UN Human Rights, as well as PFLAG. In a white paper filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission last month, NLPC also identified possible risky relationships the Chicago-based company has with organizations that include Human Rights Campaign, World Economic Forum, the World Health Organization, and others. The broader media is noticing the increasing criticisms of Corporate America’s fealty to the radical LGBTQ+ agenda that includes the sexualization of children. The Wall Street Journal last week reported on NLPC’s proposal for Mondelez, and last month the nonprofit corporate watchdog earned widespread coverage of its proposal at Disney, which sought equal treatment for employees who have been victimized by radical gender ideology. “The political winds have shifted from just a few years ago, yet Mondelez is still living in the past as if nothing has changed,” said NLPC Chairman Peter Flaherty. “Now that the extreme transgenderism push has inevitably progressed to endanger children, corporate involvement in social justice issues is more treacherous than ever. We urge Dirk Van de Put to wake up to the reality before it’s too late, or the consequences could be devastating.” ### For more information or to schedule an interview with Paul Chesser, contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or drene@nlpc.org. Please visit http://www.nlpc.org. Founded in 1991, the National Legal and Policy Center promotes ethics in public life through research, investigation, education and legal action. Contact Details National Legal and Policy Center Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 drene@nlpc.org Company Website http://www.nlpc.org
May 16, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
News ReleaseACTIVATE INTRODUCES INNOVATIVE GAMING EXPERIENCE FEATURING STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY TO CINCINNATIANS
Activate
Activate, the pioneering live-action gaming venue and viral sensation on TikTok, is excited to announce the grand opening of its first Ohio location opening in Cincinnati on May 31, 2024. The unique and dynamic venue promises an opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the nationwide gaming phenomenon. Activate Cincinnati is located at 3103 Disney St., Cincinnati, OH, United States, 45209. Activate is transforming the gaming landscape, expanding its influence across the United States with 11 thriving locations and a momentum that shows no signs of slowing down. With a global player base exceeding 2.5 million, this exhilarating experience seamlessly merges state-of-the-art technology with thrilling challenges, offering an electrifying social escapade. "Opening our first location in Ohio fills us with immense excitement,” says Will Gray, Director of Marketing at Activate Games. “We're eager to bring the thrill of Activate to a new market, where we can engage and entertain even more adventurers. Get ready, Cincinnati, because an unforgettable experience awaits!” Activate Cincinnati’s new state-of-the-art gaming facility welcomes all ages and skill levels, encouraging players to explore and create their own unique gaming experience. Here’s what to expect: Guests can sign up in groups of two to five players Through progress tracking via Activate’s high-tech electronic RFID wristbands, players can rack up points, leveling up and earning prizes along the way. Top gaming rooms include the TikTok viral sensation Mega Grid with 500+ multi-activated rainbow-coloured tiles, blasting the beaming bullseye in a game called Strike, and feel like a modern day spy in the Laser room. Try Level 1 easy or take it to Level 10 extreme. Play as a team in cooperative mode, or challenge your friends in competitive mode games. In addition to Cincinnati, Activate can be found in major U.S. markets such as Houston, Plano, Chicago, Atlanta, and New Jersey. Additional Activate locations are set to open in 2024 across the U.S. in markets such as Charlotte, Kansas City, Columbus, and Detroit, along with internationally in the UK and UAE. Today, Activate operates over 30 locations across Canada and the U.S. PLAN YOUR VISIT Book in advance to save time and ensure a game room is available. Each game lasts 1-3 minutes. The full gaming experience lasts 75 minutes. Complete the safety waiver required for you to play in advance. Wear activewear and flat, closed-toe shoes. Age requirements: Children 10 and under require a paid adult with them at all times in gaming rooms. Children ages 11 to 13 must have an adult present at the facility. Where: 3103 Disney St, Cincinnati, OH, United States, 45209. When: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. | Friday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. | Sunday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Cost: Monday through Thursday, $24.99 | Friday through Sunday, $29.99 For a sneak peek into Activate’s action-packed gaming experience, and to keep tabs on the Activate Cincinnati grand opening, visit www.playactivate.com/cincinnati. Gift cards are now available for Activate Cincinnati, here. Use promo code CINCYPRESALE50 to receive 50% off before opening day. Join the Inner Circle to be the first to hear about new locations, behind-the-scenes information, deals, and more. As a thank you for signing up, Activate will extend 50% off your first booking, valid until June 17, 2024. Please find imagery assets here. Founded in 2019, Activate is a state-of-the-art gaming facility with locations across the United States and Canada. Each Activate location offers a variety of unique gaming rooms with over 700 levels for players to compete, earn stars, and track achievements online. Activate combines physical activity and gaming to create an immersive experience as part of a healthy lifestyle. To learn more about Activate, please visit https://playactivate.com. Follow Activate on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/activategames and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/activategames/. Contact Details Jalila Singerff +1 613-614-6777 jalila@jiveprdigital.com Company Website https://playactivate.com
May 16, 2024 09:07 AM Eastern Daylight Time
News ReleaseMeritage Wealth Insurance Advisors Joins Forces with AmeriLife’s Saybrus Partners
AmeriLife
Saybrus Partners (“Saybrus”), a market leader in life and annuity distribution and an affiliate of AmeriLife Group, LLC (“AmeriLife”), announced today that it has entered into a partnership with Meritage Wealth Insurance Advisors (“Meritage”), a point-of-sale (POS) focused, national life insurance general agency that serves financial professionals across a spectrum of life, annuity, retirement, legacy and business/executive benefits planning solutions. Per the agreement, terms of the deal were not disclosed. “Meritage Wealth Insurance Advisors’ experience and success in the life insurance industry, sophisticated planning expertise, and strong operational capabilities make the firm an exciting complement to our business,” said Edward W. Cassidy, managing principal of Saybrus Partners. “I’m happy to welcome Meritage’s leadership team and employees to the Saybrus family, and look forward to our work together.” Founded in 2019 by a team of five industry veterans, Meritage has built a national reputation for expertly designed solutions and consistently exceeding expectations for the most sophisticated and complex client relationships. Among other capabilities, including point-of-sale support, Meritage’s full-service model offers access to advanced case design, deep carrier relationships and product options, and back-office and underwriting support. With over 100 years of combined experience, Meritage’s partners have built a company that is passionate about client service delivered through a high-touch, consultative approach that has helped the firm stand apart in the industry. “We are thrilled to be joining this industry-leading organization,” said Chuck Adam, one of Meritage’s founding partners. “Not only did we immediately connect with Saybrus’ culture and team, but the company’s strong track record, robust resources and long-standing relationships make it a great strategic fit for our firm.” Together with Saybrus, Meritage also becomes part of a fast-growing AmeriLife Wealth Group, a new kind of wealth distribution platform that aims to deliver a suite of best-in-class services to the modern agent and financial professional to ensure their clients – no matter their stage of life – never outgrow them. “Meritage brings all the components we look for in new wealth distribution partners and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the AmeriLife family of companies,” said Mike Vietri, Chief Distribution Officer for AmeriLife Wealth Group. “Indeed, Meritage is the perfect complement to Saybrus, and I have no doubt that – with the support of Ed and his team – Meritage will take an already stellar track record of growth and success to new heights.” Under Saybrus, the firm will continue to operate as a standalone company from its Cypress, Texas headquarters, led by its five founding partners who will report to Cassidy. ### About Meritage Wealth Insurance Advisors Meritage is a National Insurance General Agency with full support for client advisors managing important, sophisticated client relationships. Partnering with private and institutional practices, its team brings expertise in Family Planning, Legacy Planning, Retirement Planning and Business Planning. The firm’s comprehensive capabilities comprise point of sale consultation, advanced case design access, solutions from numerous life insurance carriers, high-end underwriting expertise and experienced case facilitation. For more information, visit www.meritagewia.com. About Saybrus Partners Saybrus Partners, LLC helps institutions and financial professionals address clients' needs with insurance and annuity solutions for basic protection as well as retirement, estate and business planning. Its partner firms include institutional financial advisories, insurance retailers, banks and broker/dealers. Customizing its services to best fit its partners' businesses, the company offers a complete set of distribution capabilities including assisted sales, traditional wholesaling, new business operations and custom product design. For more information, visit www.saybruspartners.com and follow Saybrus on LinkedIn. About AmeriLife AmeriLife’s strength is its mission: to provide insurance and retirement solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. In doing so, AmeriLife has become recognized as the leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities, and retirement planning solutions to enhance the lives of pre-retirees and retirees across the United States. For more than 50 years, AmeriLife has partnered with top insurance carriers to provide value and quality to customers served through a distribution network of over 300,000 insurance agents and financial professionals and more than 100 marketing organizations and insurance agency locations nationwide. For more information, visit AmeriLife.com, and follow AmeriLife on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details Media Jeff Maldonado media@amerilife.com Partnership Inquiries Patrick Nichols corporatedevelopment@amerilife.com Company Website https://amerilife.com/
May 16, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
News ReleaseSIGMA Announces 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art Lens, an Upgraded Follow-Up to its Popular Standard Zoom for Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras
SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA
SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art lens. This is the second generation of the highly successful SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. The new lens has undergone a significant evolution, including enhanced optical performance, AF speed and operability, while also achieving a more compact size than the original. The advancement of optical design has shortened the total optical length, and the lens barrel has been made slimmer by thoroughly downsizing the zoom mechanism. In addition, the lens barrel has been downsized by placing buttons and switches directly on the lens barrel. The weight has been reduced by approximately 10% compared to the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. By driving the lightweight focus group with the high-thrust HLA, autofocus is significantly swifter than the original version. 6 FLD glass elements, 2 SLD glass elements, and 5 double-sided aspheric lenses are used. Aberrations are highly corrected through advanced optical design made possible by advanced basic technologies in both design and manufacturing, including the use of new glass materials and aspherical lenses with thin walls and high degrees of asphericity. In particular, sagittal coma flare is heavily corrected to achieve MTF characteristics surpassing those of the highly-acclaimed 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. The high level of flare resistance also results in point images, such as stars, at the periphery of the image being closer to ideal points. A close-focusing distance of 6.7 inches (17cm) at the wide end at 1:2.7 magnification * adds to the versatility of this lens, and the addition of a click/de-click and lockable aperture ring, along with an additional AF-L button for vertical orientation still or video capture, are additional enhancements of this second-generation lens. The zoom lock switch, which disengages when zooming, is inherited from the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. Manual focus can be switched between Linear and Non-linear response (L-Mount only.) A splash- and dust-resistant structure, plus water and oil-repellent coating on the front element, add to durability. * close-focusing distance of 13.4 inches (34cm) with 1:4 magnification at 70mm The new SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art lens builds on the success and popularity of the original 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, and offers an impressive upgrade with added features and performance in a more compact package that is perfect for working pros in both still and video applications. Offered in Sony E-mount and L-Mount, the lens will be available through authorized retailers in late May 2024 and will sell for $1,199. Learn more at the SIGMA America website: https://www.sigmaphoto.com/24-70mm-f2-8-dg-dn-ii-a Exclusively for mirrorless cameras | Compatible with full-frame cameras A | Art SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II A classic, evolved. Rendering performance worthy of the flagship name Improved portability and expanded feature set A wealth of professional functions including high-speed autofocus Supplied accessories: CASE, LENS HOOD LH878-05, FRONT CAP LCF-82 III, REAR CAP LCR II Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount Launch date: May 30, 2024 * The appearance and specifications of the products are subject to change. * Sony E-mount lenses are developed, manufactured and sold in accordance with the E-mount specifications licensed under a license agreement with Sony Corporation. * L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG. #SIGMA #SIGMA2470mmF28IIArt #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtZoom #SIGMADGDN The Art 24-70mm F2.8, evolved on all levels: Rendering performance, functionality, and portability. The SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is SIGMA's flagship lens that has evolved significantly from the previous model by incorporating the most advanced technologies available to SIGMA from design to production. Compared to the previous SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art has improved resolving power throughout the entire zoom range, and also benefits from functional enhancements such as the addition of an aperture ring and high-speed AF with a redesigned AF motor, HLA (High-response Linear Actuator). The lens is also approximately 7% smaller and 10% lighter. This 24-70mm F2.8 Art zoom is a versatile and high-performance tool that will help photographers and filmmakers unlock their creative potential. [Key Features] 1. Rendering performance worthy of the flagship name The SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is the successor to the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, which is known for its high optical performance, and has further improved resolution throughout the zoom range. The lens has high sharpness throughout the entire image from its maximum aperture, even on high-resolution cameras. Focusing on enhancing its rendering performance, the brightness of F2.8 produces a large, beautiful bokeh effect, and allows users to experience the power of a flagship lens in all types of visual expression. In addition to its advanced close-up capability and resistance to flare and ghosting, the lens is designed to minimize focus breathing. High optical performance across the entire image and zoom range The optical design of the lens includes 6 FLD glass elements, 2 SLD glass elements, and 5 aspherical lens elements to thoroughly suppress various aberrations throughout the entire zoom range. In particular, sagittal coma flare has been well controlled to achieve consistently high resolution all the way to the periphery of the image. By also effectively correcting lateral chromatic aberration, high resolution, beautifully rendered images can be achieved, free from color fringing can be achieved. Incorporating 5 aspherical lenses The use of 5 high-precision aspherical lenses enables both high optical performance with minimal aberration correction and a compact optical design. The SIGMA's only manufacturing base, the Aizu factory’s ultra-high-precision aspherical molding technology makes it possible to produce the thin, highly polarized aspherical lenses that are essential for the construction of this lens. This has brought about a higher degree of freedom in optical design. Excellent close-up capability The lens has excellent close-up capability with a minimum focusing distance of 17cm / 6.7in. at the wide end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.7. This is useful when composing close-up shots of a subject, or when shooting in tight spaces where it is difficult to get a good distance from the subject. * Be extremely careful that the front lens element does not hit the subject when photographing. Remove the lens hood when photographing at the minimum focusing distance at the wide-angle end. Designed to minimize flare and ghosting Flare and ghosting, which reduce image quality, have been largely eliminated using advanced simulation technology, ensuring the lens renders rich, high-contrast results in all conditions. In addition, Nano Porous Coating and Super Multi-layer Coating have been applied to help suppress flare and ghosting to the utmost degree. High backlight resistance enables clear and sharp images under any lighting conditions. Minimal focus breathing The lens has been designed to suppress focus breathing. The change in angle-of-view due to focus shift across the entire zoom range is minimized, creating a natural-looking focus pulls when recording video. 2. Improved portability and expanded feature set The body of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is approximately 7% smaller in size and 10% lighter in weight than the previous model, while improving usability by adding an aperture ring and two AFL buttons. Despite the reduction in size and added features, the lens maintains SIGMA’s renowned excellent build quality, with the uncompromisingly precise and robust construction expected of a professional photographic tool. Highly portable lens body While the number of lens elements used in its construction is the same as that of the previous model, the overall length has been shortened owing to an advanced optical design. In addition, the more efficient mechanical design has resulted in a highly portable lens body with a maximum diameter of 87.8mm / 3.5in., length of 120.2mm / 4.7in., and weight of 745g / 26.3oz.* * These figures are for L-Mount. Excellent build quality Simultaneously focusing on reducing the size and weight of the lens body, the use of metal parts for the zoom extension unit and other parts, as well as the robust internal structure ensure rigidity during use, such as when operating the ring, pressing buttons, and carrying the lens. The design emphasizes the lens’ longevity and reliability as a tool, which cannot be achieved by solely pursuing a compact and lightweight body. Equipped with an aperture ring The lens is equipped with an aperture ring as well as an aperture ring click switch and an aperture ring lock switch, allowing for aperture operation suitable for various shooing situations. Equipped with two AFL buttons The lens is equipped with two AFL buttons*, to which a range of functions can be assigned via the menu on selected cameras, one more than the previous model. In addition to the side, the additional button has been positioned on the top to facilitate button operation when the camera is held in vertical orientation. * Functions can be assigned on supported cameras only. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used. 3. A wealth of functions including high-speed autofocus In addition to high-speed AF with HLA (High-response Linear Actuator), the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art has a full range of features including weather resistance such as a dust and splash resistant structure* and water and oil repellent coating, as well as a zoom lock switch. The lens delivers the best possible results in every shooting situation. * The structure is designed to be dust and splash resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable. Incorporating a linear motor HLA The lens incorporates a linear motor HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) for the AF actuator. The high output HLA makes the maximum drive speed more than three times faster than the previous model*, ensuring responsive AF shooting. * Compared by the maximum drive speed of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art with that of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art (It is different from the actual time for AF to focus). Dust and splash resistant structure and water and oil repellent coating In addition to a dust and splash resistant structure, the front element of the lens features a water and oil repellent coating, allowing users to shoot without concerns even in harsh outdoor environments. Equipped with a zoom lock switch at the wide end The lens is equipped with a zoom lock switch that locks the lens at the wide end and prevents the barrel from extending unintentionally under its own weight. The lock can be released not only by the switch but also via zoom operation, allowing for flexible handling of even impromptu shooting. Includes petal-type hood with lock A dedicated petal-shaped hood is supplied. A locking mechanism is provided for secure attachment. [ Additional Features ] Lens construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (6 FLD, 2 SLD, 5 aspherical elements) Inner focus system Compatible with high-speed autofocus HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction * Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections or auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model. * On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with "ON" or "OFF" in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to "ON" (AUTO). Supports DMF and AF+MF Compatible with AF assist (for Sony E-mount only) Nano Porous Coating Super Multi-Layer Coating Water- and Oil-Repellent Coating (front element) Aperture ring Aperture ring click switch Aperture ring lock switch AFL button (2 buttons) * Function can be assigned on supported cameras only. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used. Focus Mode switch Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only) * Function available on supported cameras only. Dust- and Splash-Resistant Structure Petal-type hood with lock LH875-05 Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only) Designed to minimize flare and ghosting Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system 11-blade rounded diaphragm High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount Mount Conversion Service available "Made in Aizu, Japan" craftsmanship [ Key Specifications ] The following specifications are for L-Mount. Lens Construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (6 FLD, 2 SLD, 5 aspherical elements) Angle of view: 84.1 - 34.3° Number of diaphragm blades: 11 (rounded diaphragm) Minimum aperture: F22 Minimum focusing distance: 6.7 (W) - 13.4 (T) in. / 17 (W) -34 (T) cm Maximum magnification ratio: 1:2.7 (W) - 1:4 (T) Filter size: 82mm Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length): 3.5 x 4.7 in. / 87.8 x 120.2mm Weight: 26.3 oz. / 745g [ Product Barcode ] Product Name Barcode L-Mount: 0085126 941420 Sony E-mount: 0085126 941413 [ Accessories: Supplied ] LENS HOOD LH878-05: 0085126 941406 FRONT CAP LCF-82 III: 0085126 930028 REAR CAP LCR II for L-Mount: 0085126 937256 REAR CAP LCR II for Sony E-mount: 0085126 929879 [ Accessories: Optional ] SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 for L-Mount: 0085126 878696 SIGMA WR CERAMIC PROTECTOR 82mm: 0085126 931834 SIGMA WR PROTECTOR 82mm: 0085126 930974 SIGMA PROTECTOR 82mm: 0085126 931100 SIGMA WR UV FILTER 82mm: 0085126 930714 SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER 82mm: 0085126 930844 [ Information ] SIGMA Corporation: https://www.sigma-global.com/ SIGMA Global Network: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/corporate/world-network/ Product Information: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/lenses/a024_24_70_28_ii/ [ About SIGMA Corporation ] Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA Cine lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA Cine lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production. Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with dozens of award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA's continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA's renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease. For more information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog. Follow SIGMA America (Photo): Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Follow SIGMA Ameica (Cine): Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Contact Details Jack Howard +1 631-201-7381 sigma.pr@sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigmaphoto.com/
May 16, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
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News ReleaseGrowth of Combat Sports Presents a Compelling Opportunity for Investors
MMA TKO
An estimated 640 million people are dedicated fans of Mixed Martial Arts, signaling that the popularity of the sport is at an all-time high across the globe. According to a report from TechSci Research, the global combat sports market has experienced significant expansion on the backdrop of rising global interest in fitness, coupled with the widespread adoption of combat sports as a means of physical exercise as consumers are increasingly recognizing the health benefits and mental discipline associated with these activities. Going forward, the market is set to experience robust growth, growing from $8.7 billion in 2023 to about $12.6 billion by 2029, representing a CAGR of 6.5%. For investors looking for a way to capitalize on the growing popularity of combat sports, little known Alta Global Group (NYSE:MMA) and TKO Group Holdings (NYSE:TKO) should be added to their watchlist. Alta Global Group (NYSE:MMA) is a technology company that is enabling the global martial arts and combat sports industry to maximize the monetization opportunities available to the sector by increasing consumer participation in the sport. Think of it this way: As the fanbase for combat sports has risen over recent years, so too has the level of consumer interest in how to get fit, train, and get into shape like a professional fighter. Whether it's women thinking about self-defense or kids dealing with bullying, more and more people have been looking into learning more about the various sports comprised in mixed martial arts. For example, the growth in participation in jiu jitsu has been soaring globally. With this huge growth in the combat sports fan base and increasing investor interest, Alta believes that the next phase of growth for the sector will involve transitioning fans from just strictly viewership to real interest in participation. That is why the company has developed digital solutions that bring together the whole MMA community—fans, participants, gym operators, and coaches in order to drive more participation. This unique idea has received significant consumer validation, as illustrated by the fact that Alta Global Group (NYSE:MMA) has already amassed a substantial user base and strong user engagement of about 15 million monthly views and over 5 million social media users. It also currently ranks in the top 3 for ‘MMA’ in global search results. Taking that into consideration, Alta’s value proposition is simple. It aids in the digital transformation of a sector where small businesses and owner-operators predominate. They can benefit enormously from a partner like Alta, who will give them a really high level of visibility in a digital sense and the ability to connect them with their underlying fans. In recent days, Alta announced its acquisition of a subscription based mobile marketing platform Hype, which they believe will provide an invaluable digital tool for their gym partners to connect and engage with members, and grow revenue more cost effectively. So far, Alta has signed partnership agreements across a large global inventory of gyms, which it will work with to help get fans of mixed martial arts on the mat, training in their gyms and academies. Those agreements include a relationship with UFC Gym Group, which has close to 200 locations globally, to roll out Alta’s training within those gyms. The company has been aggressively growing its published gym footprint. The company has built a huge database of 9870+ professional and amateur athlete profiles, 5645+ potential content creator profiles and 3500+ tutorial libraries. Alta Global Group (NYSE:MMA) will provide marketing content, training syllabus for gyms and coaches, and connect the underlying fans to an opportunity to train either online or inside a gym at one of the company’s gym partners globally. This is a win-win deal for everyone in the ecosystem, as fans interested in participating in the sport can be easily matched up with a coach and gym. And Alta controls the whole payment experience, so when the company charges a customer a monthly subscription to train with the coaches in one of its programs in a gym, the company collects 100% of the payments. It then keeps its split and pays the gym the residuals, meaning that the gyms don't have to go through the hassle of onboarding the customer, chasing the money, collecting it, reconciling the payments, etc. Alta monetizing in a way that the UFC and other large professional promotions don't presently do, which is through fan base participation, could make it a very attractive company in the eyes of these much larger companies down the line. In fact, the way Alta Global Group (NYSE:MMA) makes money is completely complementary to how other players in the sector make their money and it doesn't have any crossover or cannibalization. That means that in the coming years, as Alta scales up, the partnership with UFC gym will have the opportunity to continue growing. Thanks to its first mover advantage in aggregate participation in the MMA sector at a grass-root level, the opportunity for Alta is massive. To put it in better context, there are over 45,000 martial arts academies in North America alone, with some estimates suggesting that Americans are spending about $30 billion a year on training and martial arts. With the sector growing at double digits and participation growth surging, some analysts predict that the US will have 67,000 martial arts academies by the end of 2025, which bodes extremely well for Alta. Alta Global Group (NYSE:MMA) has built iconic partnerships with the most exciting and respected identities in MMA who amplify its brand and drive platform adoption. In fact, the company recently announced that five-time MMA world champion Conor McGregor had invested in Alta, whilst Conor voiced his support for the Alta Warrior Training Program through social media. Other Alta Ambassadors connected to the UFC include former 2-division Champion Daniel Cormier and Laura Sanko. At the moment, the company’s high profile brand ambassadors and investors have a reach of 60 million+ social media followers, allowing it to generate even more hype and reach more cost effectively. TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:TKO) had a solid start in 2024 with strong performance across both UFC and WWE. Coming off a record 2023 for both businesses in terms of revenue and profitability, the company continued to deliver through the first quarter. From our perspective, the health of the combat sports sector is overwhelmingly driven by the most dominant player, which is the UFC, and it is doing extremely well. The Endeavor-controlled company, which owns the UFC and WWE, reported revenue of $629.7 million, with a net loss of $249.5 million and adjusted EBITDA of $282.2 million. The company also raised its guidance for the year to up to $2.685 billion in revenue, and adjusted EBITDA to up to $1.205 billion. The loss was attributable to the $335 million UFC settlement from March. Unsurprisingly, the UFC saw its live events, sponsorships, and consumer products segments rise, with media rights down slightly due to one less numbered event. Most notably, the company secured a landmark global deal for WWE with Netflix and renewed UFC rights in multiple international markets, and UFC 300 became one of the highest grossing events in UFC history. During the quarter, the company also announced that Tourism Western Australia entered a multi-year partnership for UFC to return to Perth with at least two events, including the UFC 305 pay-per-view in August and one additional Fight Night in subsequent years. 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 performance are not statements of historical fact 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 which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward looking statements in this action may be identified through 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 investors investment may be lost or impaired due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. RazorPitch has been retained by Alta Global Group to assist in the production and distribution of content related to MMA. 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 Inc Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 mark@razorpitch.com Company Website http://razorpitch.com
May 16, 2024 06:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
