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Select Sector SPDR ETFs: Strategic Portfolio Management through Sector-Specific Investments

Select Sector SPDR

In an era characterized by dynamic market shifts, Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer a practical approach to portfolio management by allowing investors to harness the potential of sector-specific investments. By segmenting the expansive S&P 500 into distinct economic sectors, these ETFs present a focused pathway for both individual and institutional investors to tailor their portfolios with precision and strategic intent. A Focused Approach to Investment Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors align their portfolios with specific economic areas. This targeted investment framework not only allows for enhanced strategic decision-making but also provides a level of adaptability and transparency crucial in navigating today's volatile markets. With these ETFs, investors can craft portfolios that reflect their investment goals, risk tolerance, and market perspectives. Explore the Diverse Holdings of Select Sector SPDR ETFs Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLC): telecommunications and media sectors, capturing the essence of digital communication and connectivity Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY): non-essential consumer goods and services, encompassing retail, entertainment, and leisure industries Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP): essential consumer products, providing portfolio stability amid market fluctuations Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE): spanning fossil fuels to renewable resources for a comprehensive energy portfolio Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF): banking, investment, and insurance industries, serving as a financial foundation for investors Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV): pharmaceuticals, healthcare equipment, and services, addressing global health demands Industrials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI): manufacturing, construction, and logistics, broadening investment horizons in industrial fields Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB): chemicals, construction materials, and packaging, laying the groundwork for material investments Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLRE): commercial real estate services and REITs, providing exposure to real estate markets Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK): information technology and electronics, driving innovation and connectivity Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU): electric and gas utility companies, ensuring the flow of essential services Strategic Advantage and Value For both individual and institutional investors looking to refine their investment strategies, Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer a pathway to enhanced portfolio management. By leveraging the focused approach of these ETFs, investors can navigate the complex financial landscape, optimizing their investments for maximum potential. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL008083 EXP 3/31/25 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

January 03, 2025 05:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

REID HOFFMAN’S DIGITAL TWIN TO DELIVER HIS FIRST AI KEYNOTE AT SILICON VALLEY VIDEO SUMMIT

Silicon Valley Video Summit

ReidAI, the AI-generated digital replica of LinkedIn co- founder, entrepreneur, and venture capitalist Reid Hoffman, will keynote the 2025 Silicon Valley Video Summit (SVVS) on January 28 at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View, Calif. This annual event serves the information needs of enterprise video creatives, producers, and engineers, helping them to explore the future of media creation, enterprise broadcasting, immersive events and experiences, and emerging production workflows. ReidAI will be joined on stage in a fireside chat with his creator Ben Relles, former head of innovation at YouTube Originals, and currently working with Reid across a number of Hoffman’s investments in AI and video. In their conversation, ReidAI and Relles will discuss how the digital twin was built and what he means to the future of enterprise video and communications. The ReidAI persona was generated by a custom chatbot built on ChatGPT an ultrarealistic digital replica of Reid Hoffman. The chatbot was trained on 20 years of Hoffman's books, speeches, podcasts, and other content. Since then, ReidAI has appeared in interviews, judged competitions, translated speeches, and even had a conversation with a younger ReidAI (trained only on data created before 2004) talking to the present Reid Hoffman. This is his first-ever keynote in the ongoing exploration into the role of digital replicas. “I am super excited about this Summit and my first keynote,” ReidAI explained. “One fun fact is that in the time it takes for Ben and me to deliver our keynote, I could process over 10 million minutes of enterprise video, unlocking insights that would transform communication and collaboration.” The ReidAI keynote is being presented by Virtual Events Group (VEG) which curates the live-event portion of the SVVS program. “Video is transforming how the enterprise communicates, meets, and informs. Today, every company is a media company – or it is trying to become one. AI and new production techniques are rapidly transforming how that can be achieved,” says Robin Raskin, VEG founder. AI and media creation will be a consistent theme throughout many of the sessions at the upcoming show, which is free to qualified production professionals. B&H and ASG are the title sponsors for the third year running. SVVS is the once-a-year gathering of the Valley’s enterprise and broadcast media production, and event professional community. Other session highlights include: Status Report: AI and Media Creation 2025 When Worlds Collide: Virtual Production Meets AI AI Tools You Can Trust: AI Landscape Report GenAI for Post-Production: A Common Sense Approach Corporate Video at the Speed of Sports Immersive Corporate Experiences that Wow Producing The CEO Town Hall SMPTE 2110, AVoIP, Remote Production and more The 2024 SVVS drew over 670 attendees from over 160 Bay Area, Los Angeles, and Seattle companies, including media producers and engineers from every leading Big Tech company in Silicon Valley. For more information visit: www.siliconvalley.video Sponsorship Opportunities: Marty@martinporter.com or Rob@sportsvideogroup.org Contact Details The Virtual Events Group Robin Raskin Robin@robinraskin.com

January 02, 2025 10:04 AM Pacific Standard Time

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T3 Financial Crime Unit Marks Enforcement Victory: USDT 100 Million in Criminal Assets Frozen Across Five Continents

TRON DAO

January 2, 2024 – The T3 Financial Crime Unit (T3 FCU), a collaboration between TRON, Tether, and TRM Labs, has frozen more than USDT 100 million in criminal assets globally, passing a significant milestone in its fight against cryptocurrency-related financial crime. Launched in August 2024, T3 FCU has rapidly emerged as a model for public-private partnership in blockchain security, working directly with law enforcement agencies worldwide to identify and disrupt criminal networks. The unit has worked closely with global law enforcement agencies to successfully intervene in cases involving money laundering, investment fraud, blackmail operations, terrorism financing, and other serious financial crimes. "Criminals now have 100 million reasons to think twice before using TRON," said Justin Sun, founder of the TRON blockchain. "T3 FCU's rapid success in freezing criminal assets sends an unmistakable message: if you're using USDT on TRON for crime, you will be caught." The unit has already analyzed millions of transactions across five continents, monitoring over USDT 3 billion in total volume. This comprehensive monitoring capability enables T3 FCU to work across borders to identify and disrupt criminal operations in real-time, making it an invaluable resource for law enforcement agencies worldwide. "Tether is deeply committed to maintaining the integrity of the financial ecosystem by proactively collaborating with global law enforcement agencies,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. “By working closely with authorities across jurisdictions, Tether has been instrumental in freezing criminal assets and ensuring that bad actors do not exploit stablecoins like USDT. Alongside our T3 collaborators, we’ve demonstrated the transformative power of collaboration in setting new standards for transparency, security, and accountability in the digital asset space.” “T3 FCU’s ability to work closely with law enforcement worldwide to effectively disrupt cybercriminals from using USDT on TRON is a proof of concept for public-private partnerships,” said Chris Janczewski, head of global investigations at TRM Labs. “Surpassing USDT 100 million in frozen assets is just the beginning. In 2025 and beyond, as more and more lawful users enter the growing crypto ecosystem, it is more important than ever to keep it safe. T3 is dedicated to that mission.” About TRON TRON DAO is a community-governed DAO dedicated to accelerating the decentralization of the internet via blockchain technology and dApps. Founded in September 2017 by H.E. Justin Sun, the TRON blockchain has experienced significant growth since its MainNet launch in May 2018. Until recently, TRON hosted the largest circulating supply of USD Tether (USDT) stablecoin, exceeding $60 billion. As of December 2024, the TRON blockchain has recorded over 280 million in total user accounts, more than 9.2 billion in total transactions, and over $21.4 billion in total value locked (TVL), based on TRONSCAN. Media contact: press@tron.network About Tether Tether is a pioneer in the field of stablecoin technology, driven by an aim to revolutionize the global financial landscape. With a mission to provide accessible and efficient financial, communication, artificial intelligence and energy infrastructure. Tether enables greater financial inclusion, and communication resilience, fosters economic growth, and empowers individuals and businesses alike. As the creator of the largest, most transparent, and liquid stablecoin in the industry, Tether is dedicated to building sustainable and resilient infrastructure for the benefit of underserved communities. By leveraging cutting-edge blockchain and peer-to-peer technology, it is committed to bridging the gap between traditional financial systems and the potential of decentralized finance. Media contact: press@tether.to About TRM Labs TRM Labs provides blockchain intelligence to help law enforcement and national security agencies, financial institutions, and cryptocurrency businesses detect, investigate, and disrupt crypto-related fraud and financial crime. TRM’s Blockchain Intelligence platform includes solutions to follow the money, identify illicit activity, build cases, and construct an operating picture of threats. TRM is trusted by a growing number of leading agencies worldwide who rely on TRM for their blockchain intelligence needs. TRM is based in San Francisco, CA, and is hiring across engineering, product, sales, and data science. To learn more, visit www.trmlabs.com. Media contact: press@trmlabs.com Contact Details Yeweon Park press@tron.network Company Website https://trondao.org/

January 02, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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2024 IRS Tax Forms 940, 943, 944 and 941 Filing Software Released by Real Business Solutions

Rev Up Marketers

Real Business Solutions ( https://payroll.realtaxtools.com/ ), a nationwide provider of tax software solutions, has announced the release of its 2024 IRS tax forms filing engine for IRS tax forms 940, 943, 944, and 941. This latest version, included with 2024 Payroll Mate desktop payroll software, gives business owners and tax professionals the ability to easily populate and print-out these tax forms in-house. The 2024 IRS Tax Forms 940, 943, 944 and 941 filing modules from Real Business Solutions incorporate the latest IRS regulations and updates. The user-friendly interface and intuitive design make it easy for businesses, accountants and CPAs to navigate the year-end payroll tax filing process, reducing the risk of errors and minimizing the time spent on employment tax forms preparation. Form 940 has multiple changes for 2024 including increased credit reduction rates for California (0.9%), New York (0.9%), and U.S. Virgin Islands (4.2%), resulting in higher FUTA taxes for employers in these states. For forms 943 and 944, the Social Security wage base limit is $168,600 for 2024, with Social Security and Medicare tax rates remaining at 6.2% and 1.45% respectively for both employer and employee. COVID-19-related credits for qualified sick and family leave wages can no longer be claimed on form 944. Payroll Mate by Real Business Solutions is always one of the first payroll software products to implement tax updates and new IRS / state regulations. Year after year, thousands of businesses and accounting professionals trust Payroll Mate to do payroll and prepare employment tax forms. Business filers can try Payroll Mate risk-free by visiting https://payroll.realtaxtools.com/. Employers use Form 940 to report the annual Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) tax. Together with state unemployment tax systems, the FUTA tax provides funds for paying unemployment compensation to workers who have lost their jobs. The due date for filing Form 940 for 2024 is January 31, 2025. However, employers who deposited all FUTA tax when it was due, the deadline is February 10, 2025. Payroll Mate by Real Business Solutions auto calculates FUTA tax and prepares form 940 at the end of the year. Payroll Mate by Real Business Solutions is a robust desktop payroll software solution tailored specifically for use by small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). It handles the calculation of federal and state tax withholding on paychecks based on the pay period chosen which can be daily, weekly, biweekly, semimonthly, monthly quarterly and annual. It also has customizable income, tax and deduction categories which makes it highly suitable for different businesses. The software helps small businesses manage their payroll easily as they can export their payroll checks as journal entries to QuickBooks and other accounting products while providing support for vacation and sick pay accrual. It supports various payroll forms including mostly used 941, 940, 943, 944, W-2, W-3 and some state forms. Regarding functionalities, Payroll Mate by Real Business Solutions pays both W2 employees and 1099 employees. The software has features that allow for additional income calculation depending on the mileage driven or piecework done. The software is able to print W-2/W-3 as well as the 1099-NEC / 1096 tax forms. It is able to print detailed reports such as payroll journals and tax liabilities. Payroll Mate generates ACH direct deposit files, supports fringe benefits, runs over a network, exports payroll reports to Excel/CSV/PDF and prints MICR checks on blank check stock. Give the payroll software from Realtaxtools.com a test drive and see for yourself how easy managing payroll can be. Visit https://www.realtaxtools.com/payrollsoftware/payroll_software.html About Real Business Solutions Real Business Solutions is a software company specializing in payroll and tax preparation solutions for small to medium-size businesses, accountants, CPAs and payroll service providers. Founded in the early 2000s and headquartered in Orland Park, Illinois, the company has been providing comprehensive software products for over two decades. Their flagship products include Payroll Mate (complete and stand-alone payroll software), W2 Mate (W2 and 1099 printing and electronic filing software), 1095 Mate (ACA 1095 reporting and E-Filing software), and W2 Correction Mate (W-2C and W-3C printing and electronic filing software). To learn more about Real Business Solutions, visit https://www.realtaxtools.com/. Contact Details Real Business Solutions Liz Past +1 800-507-1992 sales@realtaxtools.com Company Website https://www.realtaxtools.com/

January 02, 2025 05:59 AM Eastern Standard Time

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SAL Accounting Announces Expertise in Resolving Cross-Border Tax Challenges for Toronto Residents

Rev Up Marketers

SAL Accounting, a leading provider of cross-border tax solutions in Toronto and Mississauga, is helping residents navigate the complexities of U.S.-Canada taxation with specialized expertise. As cross-border tax errors continue to pose significant financial risks, SAL Accounting offers tailored services to ensure compliance and optimize financial outcomes for individuals and businesses. Addressing Common Cross-Border Tax Mistakes Cross-border taxation requires compliance with the tax regulations of both Canada and the United States. Many Toronto residents, including dual citizens, expatriates, and entrepreneurs, face challenges such as double taxation, missed deductions, and severe penalties due to common filing mistakes. SAL Accounting highlights the following frequent errors: Failure to File Mandatory Tax Forms: Missing forms like the T1135 for foreign income or assets over CAD $100,000 can result in fines of up to $2,500. Neglecting Foreign Tax Credits: Many fail to claim credits for taxes paid in the U.S., leading to double taxation. Misreporting Global Income: Incorrect reporting of worldwide income can trigger audits and penalties. Overlooking Tax Treaty Benefits: The Canada-U.S. tax treaty offers provisions to reduce withholding taxes and exempt specific income categories, which are often underutilized. Inaccurate Currency Conversions: Using outdated exchange rates for U.S. income creates discrepancies in filings. Expert Solutions for Cross-Border Tax Compliance SAL Accounting’s team of specialized cross-border tax accountants ensures clients meet compliance standards for both the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Their expertise helps identify opportunities to reduce tax liabilities while adhering to the complexities of dual-jurisdiction regulations. Cross-border taxation can be overwhelming for individuals and businesses,” said Salman Salat, founder of SAL Accounting. “Our team is dedicated to simplifying the process, ensuring compliance, and maximizing financial outcomes for our clients. About SAL Accounting SAL Accounting, based in Toronto and Mississauga, specializes in cross-border tax compliance and financial optimization. With extensive knowledge of U.S. and Canadian tax laws, SAL Accounting delivers accurate filings and strategic advice for individuals and businesses with cross-border financial interests. For more information, visit http://salaccounting.ca. Contact Details SAL Accounting Salman Salat Tax@salaccounting.ca Company Website http://salaccounting.ca/

January 02, 2025 05:45 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Into The Sun Entertainment Announces the Premiere of Yi Zhou’s Debut Documentary In Between Stars and Scars: Masters of Cinema on Amazon Prime Video

Rev Up Marketers

Into The Sun Entertainment proudly announces the release of In Between Stars and Scars: Masters of Cinema, the debut documentary by acclaimed artist and filmmaker Yi Zhou, now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Launched on December 12, 2024, the film offers a profound exploration of the unsung heroes of the cinematic world, just in time for awards season. The documentary has already drawn critical attention and is being celebrated as a contender for Best Documentary at upcoming industry events, underscoring the significance of its tribute to the collaborative spirit of filmmaking. Showcasing Hidden Talent in Film Production Produced by Into The Sun Entertainment, In Between Stars and Scars: Masters of Cinema sheds light on the essential yet often overlooked roles that shape the film industry. Through intimate interviews with a distinguished roster of Academy Award® winners, the film provides an inside look at the meticulous artistry of filmmaking. Featured luminaries include Cameron Crowe ( Almost Famous, Jerry Maguire ), Robert Richardson ( Once Upon a Time in Hollywood ), Vittorio Storaro ( Apocalypse Now ), Dante Ferretti ( The Aviator ), Thom Noble ( Thelma & Louise ), and Giorgio Gregorini ( Suicide Squad ). Each contributor shares insights into their craft, offering audiences an unparalleled perspective on the creative processes behind iconic films. A Distinctive Voice in Documentary Filmmaking Yi Zhou’s artistic vision sets the tone for In Between Stars and Scars. With a background in visual arts, she brings a unique approach to storytelling that seamlessly blends behind-the-scenes footage with reflective commentary from cinema’s elite. The film captures the collaborative essence of filmmaking, highlighting the indispensable contributions of directors, cinematographers, production designers, and other key players. “This documentary is a tribute to the unseen artistry that makes cinema magical,” said Yi Zhou. Honoring the Legacy of Ennio Morricone The documentary’s musical score, created by Into The Sun Sounds, pays homage to legendary composer Ennio Morricone. Featuring original pieces inspired by his iconic works, the soundtrack is further enriched by contributions from Bryan Ferry and Cameron Crowe under the artistic direction of Yi Zhou. This evocative score serves as a narrative thread, emphasizing the powerful relationship between music and storytelling while honoring Morricone’s indelible legacy. Available Now on Amazon Prime Video In Between Stars and Scars: Masters of Cinema is now available for streaming worldwide exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. Whether for seasoned filmmakers, aspiring creators, or passionate cinema enthusiasts, this documentary provides a compelling and inspiring look at the creative forces behind celebrated films. Into The Sun Entertainment invites audiences to experience this masterful tribute to the artistry of filmmaking during the highly anticipated awards season. About Into The Sun Entertainment Into The Sun Entertainment is a Los Angeles-based production company dedicated to creating thought-provoking and innovative visual storytelling. With a mission to celebrate artistry and collaboration, the company produces films, documentaries, and other media that inspire and resonate with global audiences. About Yi Zhou Yi Zhou is an acclaimed artist and filmmaker known for her interdisciplinary approach to storytelling. Her work bridges visual arts and narrative exploration, and her debut documentary, In Between Stars and Scars: Masters of Cinema, exemplifies her commitment to celebrating collaboration in the cinematic world. Contact Details Into The Sun Entertainment Edward Cheung Pressoffice@intothesuncommunications.com Company Website http://www.intothesunentertainment.com

January 01, 2025 09:38 AM Eastern Standard Time

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PEL 83 Second Exploration Campaign – Update 4 Successful Operations at Mopane 2-A & Mopane 3-X Spud Date

Custos Energy

Custos Energy (Pty) Ltd. (“Custos” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide the following further update regarding the second exploration and appraisal campaign on blocks 2813A and 2814B located in the heart of Namibia’s Orange Basin, emerging as the one of the world’s most prospective oil and gas regions. The blocks are governed by Petroleum Exploration License 83 (“PEL 83”) which is operated by a subsidiary of Galp Energia (“Galp”) of Portugal. Custos is a 10% working interest owner in PEL 83 as is NAMCOR, the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia. We are pleased to announce that thePEL 83 Joint Venture partners have successfully drilled and logged the Mopane-2A well (Well #4) on PEL83 which was spud on December 2nd. Mopane-2A found a hydrocarbon column of gas-condensate in AVO-3 with a thin net pay in the reservoir sweet spot. The well also discovered a hydrocarbon column of light oil in a smaller reservoir, AVO-4. Both reservoirs showed good quality sands, with good porosities and permeabilities, high pressures and low fluid viscosity characteristics, with minimum CO2 and no H2S concentrations. Also, in line with all previous Mopane wells, no water contacts were found. Galp and its partners will continue to analyze and integrate all of the newly acquired data to allow a better understanding of the Mopane complex, which will support the continuing assessment of the commerciality of the discoveries. As part of the ongoing E&A campaign in the wider Mopane area, the drillship is now moving to the Mopane-3X exploration well location (Well #5), targeting two stacked prospects AVO-10 & AVO-13 with expected spud date around January 1st, 2025. In parallel, the JV is carrying out a high-density and high-resolution proprietary 3D development seismic campaign over the Mopane complex.” "The continuing success of the second campaign at Mopane including this second successful appraisal and immediate move to the 3-X exploration location is further evidence of the quality and potential of the Mopane complex. The exploration and appraisal activities anticipated over coming months should further unveil its world class scale and quality.” said Knowledge Katti, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Custos. “We are uniquely positioned at the heart of this emerging hydrocarbon province.” he added. ABOUT CUSTOS ENERGY: Custos is a Namibian independent oil and gas exploration company focused on attractinginvestment and expertise to the Namibian offshore industry. Founded over a decade ago by Mr.Knowledge Katti, Custos continues to develop its portfolio with international partners for thebenefit of all Namibians.Together with the Knowledge Foundation, Custos is committed to creating a better and sustainablefuture for all especially the stakeholder communities where we are present. We believe thatunderstanding and addressing the interest of our communities is critical. We are particularlyfocused on contributing to and ensuring the full spectrum of support and opportunity for the youthof Namibia. We are proud to be the first local company to make a discovery in Namibia togetherwith our partners. On behalf of Custos Energy (Pty) Ltd.,“Knowledge R. Katti”Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Contact Details Knowledge R Katti +1 475-477-9410 info@harbor-access.com

December 31, 2024 07:15 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Get Exposure To Interest Rate Movements Via Interest Rate Futures With Plus500

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga Bond investors know all too well how interest rates can impact the performance of their investments. After all, in 2022 alone, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates 11 times in an effort to curb inflation and slow the red-hot economy, sending bond returns plummeting. Bonds ended up having one of the worst years on record back then, with the Total Bond Index, which tracks U.S. investment-grade bonds falling more than 13%, intermediate-term Treasury bonds losing 10.6% and long-dated U.S. notes with 30 year maturities plummeting 39.2%. The Fed has changed course since then, raising interest rates three times this year. That allowed for more stability for bonds in the run up to the Fed actions but they are again in volatile territory, with the market unsure of what’s next for interest rates. Year-to-date the iShares Core US Aggregate Bond exchange-traded fund (ARCA: AGG), an index fund that gives investors access to a broad representation of the bond market, is down about 2.5%, even though it's yielding about 3.5%. Bond Market Malaise Optimism earlier in the year that the Fed would be aggressive in lowering rates seems to have dissipated, which is weighing on bond returns. At the Fed’s most recent rate cutting meeting the central bank lowered its benchmark interest rate by a quarter percentage point to a range of 4.25% to 4.5%, which was widely expected. What wasn’t as expected, however, was the Fed’s signal that it wouldn’t be so aggressive in slashing interest rates in 2025. The Fed said it now expects to cut rates by a half a percentage point in 2025, less aggressive than the full percent point reduction it had previously forecast for 2025. The Fed pointed to rising inflation as a reason to take a more cautious stance. Plus with a new administration coming into the White House in January and the prospects of potential tariffs impacting the economy, the Fed is unsure how the economy might fare in 2025. "It's kind of common sense that when the path is uncertain, you go a little bit slower," Fed chairman Jerome Powell told reporters. "It's not unlike driving on a foggy night or walking into a dark room full of furniture." The Fed’s new stance sent stocks plummeting and dampened optimism in the bond market. It will still make it cheaper to buy a car or home or borrow money, but for bond investors it means potentially more volatility and uncertainty. But it’s not all doom and gloom as we head into 2025. Bonds yields are doing much better than a few years ago when they offered a mere 1% to 2% payouts. That not only provides a cushion but is potentially making them attractive to some given that stocks have had a tough go of it as of late. Hedge Or Speculate With Interest Rate Futures While all that volatility could keep investors awake at night, it also presents an opportunity for bond investors to either hedge against rate increases or speculate on where interest rates will go via interest rate futures. These are derivative contracts in which the underlying asset is an interest bearing financial instrument such as a government bond. With an interest rate futures contract traders can lock in the price of the asset in the future. For institutional investors, interest rate futures can help them mitigate risk from interest rate exposures while for traders it can be a way to profit on betting the direction of interest rates. It can also be a capital efficient way to manage exposure to government bonds and money market securities, giving investors access to a wide range of benchmark products including U.S. Treasury Bonds, 10-Year Yield, 30-Day Fed Fund and more. Typically when it comes to interest rate futures the underlying assets include: Treasury Bonds, which are U.S. federal government long-term debt securities that provide semiannual interest payments. Treasury Bills, which are U.S. Treasury Department short-term debt. Their value is derived from interest rates and interest rate predictions. Eurodollars, which are deposits denominated in U.S. dollars and held in foreign banks or overseas branches of U.S. banks. The interest rates of Eurodollars serve as benchmarks for corporate funding. Plus500 Makes It Easy To Trade Interest Rate Futures Investing in interest rate futures is made easier with Plus500 Ltd. (OTC: PLSQF),Established in 2008, the firm has grown its importance as a player in the financial trading sector, being listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol PLUS and included in the FTSE 250 Index. Through its platform investors can trade a bevy of interest rate futures tied to debt instruments including two, five and ten year U.S. Treasury notes, the Micro Ultra 10-year U.S. Treasury Note, the U.S. T-Bond, Ultra T-Bond, Micro Ultra T-Bond, Micro 10-Year Yield, the Ultra 10-Year T-Note and the 3-Year T-Note. And all it takes to get started, according to Plus500, is $100. The trading platform is working hard on carving out a name for itself catering to new and experienced traders, providing a straightforward and accessible way to trade interest rate futures. From its free education videos and articles designed to help traders stay in the interest rate futures market loop to its 24-hour customer support seven days of the week, traders are never alone. Plus500 has been in the business for decades and is a full member of the CME Group and the National Futures Association. The online trading platform goes to great lengths to follow all regulatory requirements, keeping customers’ data safe and funds in segregated accounts. Getting started trading interest rate futures is easy with Plus500. You open an account, fund it with as little as $100, search for interest rates in the search bar or select the “interest rate” option in the options bar, open a buy or sell futures position based on your speculation and start trading. If you aren’t ready to commit, Plus500 also has a free and unlimited demo account. You can practice futures trading in real market conditions without the risk. In a world where interest rate volatility and uncertainty is front and center, interest rate futures provide a way for traders to hedge and speculate on their movement. At Plus500 you can do it easily with all the support you need. Ready to begin your interest rate futures trading journey? Click here to check out the Plus500 platform! Trading with leverage comes with a high risk and may not be suitable for everyone. Featured photo by Anne Nygård 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

December 30, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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News Release

Spread Joy this Holiday Season with PQ.Hosting: Join Our Charity Campaign and Win a MacBook Air!

BNP Paribas SA

PQ.Hosting, a global leader in high performance hosting solutions, is pleased to announce a special charity campaign. This initiative supports orphanages and offers participants the chance to win incredible prizes, including a MacBook Air 13. The holiday season is time for family, festivities and heartfelt wishes. However, for many children in orphanages, these cherished traditions can feel out of reach. PQ.Hosting has long supported orphanages and is now calling on its clients to join this meaningful cause. Together with our clients, we can bring holiday magic to children in need. How to Participate in the Charity Campaign? Joining the campaign is simple and rewarding: Order or Extend a Hosting Plan Enter the Prize Giveaway Join the Celebration: Win Exciting Prizes with PQ.Hosting This holiday season, PQ.Hosting offers clients an opportunity to win amazing prizes, including: iPhone 16 Pro Max 3 Gaming Accessories Sets €50 Account Balance Gaming Chair Smart Speaker 1 Year of Free VPS Hosting 3 Months of Dedicated Server Usage 1-Year VPN Subscription Exclusive PQ.Hosting Merch 10 Telegram Premium Subscriptions for 1 Year Grand Prize: MacBook Air 13 Visit our website for more details! Key Dates Campaign Period: From 18th December 2024 to 29th December 2024 (11:59 PM UTC+3). Winners Announcement is our way of ending the year on a heartfelt and impactful note,” said Ivan Neculiti, CEO of PQ.Hosting. “We invite everyone to join us in spreading joy and embracing the true essence of the holiday season.” Media Contact Organization: PQ.Hosting Contact Person: Stella Website: https://pq.hosting/en/ Email: social@pq.hosting About PQ.Hosting Founded in 2019, PQ.Hosting has earned a reputation for delivering high-performance VPS/VDS, dedicated servers, VPN, proxy and SSL certificates to over 150,000 clients worldwide. With a network spanning 42 countries and speeds up to 10 Gbps, PQ.Hosting continues to set industry benchmarks for speed, reliability and customer service. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and win amazing prizes. Together let’s make this holiday season unforgettable! nt: 30th December 2024 during a live broadcast on our YouTube Channel. Together We Can Create Holiday Magic “Our 2024 journey has been extraordinary, with milestones that reflect growth and success. This campaign Contact Details PQ.Hosting Stella social@pq.hosting Company Website https://pq.hosting/en/

December 27, 2024 02:21 PM Eastern Standard Time

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