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Navigate your Investment Roadmap with Select Sector SPDR ETFs

Select Sector SPDR

In an era where market dynamics shift as swiftly as the winds, Select Sector SPDR ETFs remain a beacon for investors aiming to harness the potential of sector-specific investments. Tailored to meet the diverse needs of both individual and institutional investors, these ETFs chart a course for strategic portfolio management by distilling the vast S&P 500 into accessible segments. Focused Investment Across Diverse Sectors Select Sector SPDR ETFs stand out by offering a focused approach to investing, breaking down the broad landscape of the S&P 500 into key sectors. This segmentation allows investors to pinpoint their investments according to specific economic areas, aligning their portfolios with their investment goals, risk assessments, and market perspectives. Below is a glimpse into the diverse holdings that form the core of the Select Sector SPDR ETFs: Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLC): Zooms in on the telecommunications and media sectors, capturing the pulse of digital communication. Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY): Targets the vibrant consumer goods and services sector, from retail giants to entertainment behemoths. Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP): Focuses on essential consumer goods and services, providing stability in fluctuating markets. Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE): Powers through with a dedicated look at the energy sector, from fossil fuels to renewable resources. Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF): Encompasses the robust banking, investment, and insurance industries, the backbone of economic infrastructure. Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV): Centers on the pharmaceuticals, healthcare equipment, and services sectors, addressing global health needs. Industrials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI): Broadens the horizon with manufacturing, construction, and logistics firms. Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB): Covers the foundational chemicals, construction materials, and packaging industries. Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLRE): Opens doors to commercial real estate services and REITs. Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK): Accelerates into the information technology and electronics sectors, powering innovation and connectivity. Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU): Illuminates the path with utility companies, ensuring the flow of essential services. A Path for Strategic Investment By offering a lens through which to invest in specific sectors, Select Sector SPDR ETFs enable investors to steer their portfolios with confidence and clarity. The ETFs’ commitment to transparency and strategic focus empowers investors to adapt and thrive amidst the ebb and flow of market conditions. In the evolving landscape of the financial markets, Select Sector SPDR ETFs stand as a testament to the power of targeted investment. Through detailed sector analysis and dedicated portfolio exposure, these ETFs offer a distinguished pathway for those seeking to refine their investment strategies with sector-specific allocations. About Select Sector SPDR ETFs Select Sector SPDR ETFs are a series of exchange-traded funds designed to provide investors with an effective way to engage in sector-specific investment strategies. By segmenting the S&P 500 into distinct sectors, Select Sector SPDR ETFs furnish investors with the tools necessary for targeted and strategic investment decisions. 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. SEL007734 EXP 10/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

August 22, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Avenue Z Announces Strategic Partnerships with TikTok Shops and Shopify: Driving New Advancements in Social Commerce

Avenue Z

Heading into the crucial Q4 holiday retail season, Avenue Z, a media and technology company, announced its strategic partnerships with TikTok Shops and Shopify. These collaborations amplify Avenue Z’s cutting-edge approach, highlighting its role as an official TikTok Shops Agency Partner and Shopify Plus Partner, delivering unmatched benefits to shoppers, creators, and brands. Avenue Z, a leader in social commerce, is renowned for its ability to drive influence across all channels, where Shopify’s e-commerce platform and TikTok Shops’ affiliate and influencer marketing abilities are a critical part. “Shopify and TikTok Shops are the key drivers paving the new path that is social commerce” said David Corchado, Chief Strategy Officer at Avenue Z, and Head of Channel Partnerships. “They continue to innovate store functionality and enhance the on-platform shopper experience. Now with the prioritization of TikTok Live content, any DTC / B2C brand heading into the holiday retail season must have these two pieces in their e-commerce ecosystem, or they’ll miss the mark on Q4 performance.” This partnership provides direct access to TikTok Shop expertise, along with insights from Shopify and Shopify Plus experts, all designed to optimize the shopping experience, boost revenue, and enhance brand reputation. Avenue Z will also be working with brands on TikTok to stream “LIVE” content allowing viewers and creators to interact in real-time. Easy Access to TikTok Shop Expertise for Brands With over 150 million monthly active users in the US, TikTok is revolutionizing social commerce. Avenue Z’s status as a preferred TikTok Shops Partner (TSP) allows brands to tap into platform expertise and support to leverage viral marketing trends, transforming product discovery into instant purchasing decisions. This collaboration enables brands to easily engage with TikTok’s dynamic audience through Avenue Z’s expertise and creator network, leveraging real-time analytics and advanced tools to maximize sales and brand presence. “Affiliate and influencer marketing have evolved and merged into a highly effective strategy for performance marketing,” said Jonathan Snow, Chief Innovation Officer at Avenue Z, in a recent Fast Company article. “Brands can make the most of this by engaging a large number of affiliates and offering attractive commissions, all through the TikTok Shop platform. Paired with our platform expertise, social commerce will be a critically important revenue generating channel for brands in Q4.” Shopify Expertise for eCommerce Brands As a Shopify Plus Partner, Avenue Z helps brands optimize their digital storefronts and expand their reach, driving growth in a competitive marketplace. With Shopify, brands can manage and grow their online presence across multiple channels, ensuring a seamless shopping experience that meets the evolving preferences of today’s consumers. “This is why our Shopify Plus Partner status is so important, we’re able to bring the best in e-commerce to our clients,” said Snow. “Shopify has the world’s highest converting checkout experience, augmented by Shop Pay which expedites the payment process and offers consumers rewards and cashback. Thanks to this, Shopify Payments represents a staggering 61% of Shopify’s GMV, which climbed $2B in Q2 2024 (YoY), and was able to do so despite unfavorable consumer market conditions. When the tide turns and we enter a stronger consumer market in the near future, just imagine what Shopify’s growth will accelerate to.” Snow’s outlook for DTC/B2C brand performance in Q4 2024 remains strong, but only when best-in-class e-commerce tools and talent align, as is the case with Avenue Z’s Shopify Plus Partnership. Biggest Brand Benefits: Driving Revenue, Elevating Reputation As Avenue Z continues to pioneer advancements in social commerce, the strategic partnerships with TikTok Shops and Shopify mark a significant milestone. “Channels like this - TikTok and Shopify - are critical avenues for driving influence today, for brands looking to elevate reputation or increase revenue,” said Jeffrey Herzog, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Avenue Z. “They are top performers in our channel network, excelling at driving commerce, connections, and conversions for our clients. We will undoubtedly expand in this area by adding more channels and expertise in the coming months." These partnerships highlight Avenue Z's continuous effort to stay at the forefront of innovation, ensuring that their clients can leverage the latest technological advancements to captivate and engage audiences across all channels. About TikTok Shop & TikTok Shop Partners (TSPs): TikTok Shops is a completely personalized and fully integrated commerce solution, where sellers can authentically connect with creators and communities to drive meaningful shopping experiences. Their network of experienced TikTok Shop Partners (TSPs) offer a range of services to sellers, enabling them to scale business on TikTok Shop effectively. About Shopify & Shopify Plus Partners: Shopify is the #1 complete commerce platform that lets anyone start, manage, and grow an e-commerce business. By bundling commerce activities into a single platform, business owners can sell in multiple places, across multiple channels, and integrate features and functionality that shape the future of commerce. Shopify Partners make up a diverse ecosystem across all segments of ecommerce, helping brands to innovate and implement faster. About Avenue Z: Avenue Z is a media and technology company breaking traditional boundaries between digital marketing, advertising and strategic communications. Our unique combination of smart media and smart content, informed by data science, has proven to increase a brand’s revenue and elevate its reputation. From the Wall Street Journal to TikTok, PR to social and search, our approach yields outcomes in commerce, connections, and conversion across all channels. With experts based in Miami, New York, and Orlando, serving a global roster of category leading brands - we drive influence. Visit www.avenuez.com Contact Details Avenue Z +1 407-637-2833 press@avenuez.com Company Website https://www.avenuez.com

August 20, 2024 08:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Exploring the High-End Retail Market with the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY)

Select Sector SPDR

For those interested in the luxury consumer market, the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY) offers a pathway for investors seeking to diversify their exposure to this sector. XLY encompasses an investment focus on the consumer discretionary sector, covering a wide array of non-essential goods and services — including advanced electronics, international travel, dining, hotels, and consumer durables. A Portfolio Reflecting Consumer Choices The core of XLY's strategy is its holdings*, which comprise leading companies that are at the forefront of their industries. These companies exemplify the fund's focus to capture diverse consumer spending habits, especially around luxury and discretionary purchases. Top holdings include: Amazon.com (22.24%): Dominating the e-commerce space, Amazon offers a broad selection of products and services, catering to various consumer needs. Tesla (17.12%): Redefining luxury in the automotive sector, Tesla stands out for its innovative electric vehicles. Home Depot (9.70%): A leader in home improvement retail, Home Depot caters to both individuals looking to enhance their homes and professional contractors. McDonald's (4.47%): Recognized worldwide, McDonald's adapts its offerings to meet a wide range of tastes and preferences. Booking Holdings (3.39%): A travel technology company that owns and operates numerous travel fare aggregators and search engines. A Strategic Focus XLY has accumulated over $19 billion in assets under management, maintaining an investor-friendly expense ratio of only 0.09%**. The fund aims to replicate the performance of the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector Index, offering investors a broad view of the consumer discretionary sector and enabling them to partake in the sector's dynamics. Adaptability in a Changing Economic Landscape As the global economy navigates through various phases of adjustment, the consumer discretionary sector could be of particular interest. XLY presents itself as a diversified and pragmatic choice for investors aiming to engage with the high-end retail market. The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY) represents an approachable option for investors interested in the multifaceted world of luxury consumer spending, without the complexity of analyzing individual companies. It offers a streamlined way to consider the various dimensions of discretionary consumer spending, making it a practical selection for those exploring investment opportunities in the consumer discretionary sector. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. *Holdings, Weightings & Assets as of 7/31/24 subject to change **Ordinary brokerage fees apply DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007727 EXP 10/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

August 12, 2024 11:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Back to School Ready 2024

News Media Group, Inc.

Contact Details News Media Group, Inc. Karl Wayne +1 334-440-6397 karl@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/

August 08, 2024 01:33 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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NAVEX to Demystify IT Risk Communication at ISACA GRC Conference

NAVEX Global

NAVEX, the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software, will deliver a key session at the upcoming ISACA Governance, Risk, and Control (GRC) Conference in Austin, Texas, August 12-14, 2024. The session, " Getting Our Wires Crossed: How to Speak IT Risk as a Compliance Professional," will be presented by Kyle Martin, Vice President of GRC Solutions at NAVEX, and Robert Clark, Chief Audit and Compliance Officer at Howard University. In an era where cybersecurity threats and regulatory pressures are at an all-time high, the ability to effectively communicate IT risks across organizational silos has become a critical skill for compliance professionals. Attendees can join the session, CS 7–4, on August 13th at 11:00 to gain valuable insights into: Understanding and translating risk and compliance terminology. Evaluating program maturity levels and their organizational implications. Assessing risks and controls across all business facets, including third-party risk management. Crafting compelling IT risk reports for executive teams and board directors. "In today's interconnected business environment, the ability to translate IT risk insights into compelling narratives for CEOs is no longer optional—it's essential," said Kyle Martin. "As a result, this session aims to empower compliance professionals with the tools they need to navigate this critical intersection confidently." The ISACA GRC Conference, now in its 11th year, brings together leading minds in governance, risk management, and control to provide world-class content and practical guidance. NAVEX's participation underscores its commitment to advancing the field of integrated risk and compliance management. For more information about NAVEX's participation in the ISACA GRC Conference 2024 or to schedule an interview with the speakers, please contact Senior Public Relations Manager, Scott Levesque at scott.levesque@navex.com. 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 scott.levesque@navex.com Company Website https://navex.com

August 06, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

From Demand to Delivery: ToolsGroup Transforms SLF Greece's Supply Chain

ToolsGroup

ToolsGroup and its Greek partner, THellas, announced that SLF Greece -a distributor of KIKO MILANO products in Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania- has implemented ToolsGroup SO99+ software. This move automates their omnichannel supply chain planning and shifts them from a supply-driven to a demand-driven model. SLF uses ToolsGroup SO99+ to plan daily forecasting, inventory optimization, and replenishment for approximately 2500 active items across more than 30 retail stores and two distribution centers in its Greece and Cyprus network, with plans to expand to Bulgaria and Romania. Two central planners manage demand across SLF's sales channels, including physical stores and online sales, generating optimal inventory and purchasing proposals from suppliers and inter-location stock transfers. “ToolsGroup's global leadership and local presence in Greece made SO99+ the clear choice for our advanced supply chain needs” stated Tilemachos Stylianos, Chief Development Officer of Fais Group. “Combined, these two factors gave us confidence for a successful project, right from our first introductory meetings. Having now gone live with the solution, we are very pleased with our choice, and we look forward to bringing significant contributions to the performance of our supply chain with this project.” Through this transformation project with THellas, SLF has achieved a highly automated, demand-driven planning process, increased visibility, and optimized inventory levels throughout its network. THellas customized SO99+ to provide systems integration and tailored capabilities, including assortment plans and minimum presentation quantities at the location-couvet level. The implementation supports the creation of ideal inventory targets compared to current operational levels and business parameters, using SO99+ modeling to demonstrate financial optimization opportunities. “The system has revolutionized our operations, automating daily store replenishment plans for Greece and Cyprus, while generating purchase recommendations for our team. Strategically, it helps us identify optimal inventory targets, balancing our current practices with supply chain limitations. SO99+'s success has motivated us to expand SO99+ to our other operating countries” noted Goldie Panovlepi, General Manager at SLF, highlighting the solution's benefits. “Our collaboration with THellas during the SO99+ implementation was exceptional. They provided invaluable insights on optimizing the system's setup and seamlessly integrating it with our ERP. SO99+ has proven to be a powerful yet user-friendly tool, offering high automation alongside transparent decision-making processes.” Stathis Nikolakopoulos, Managing Director at THellas added on their successful go-live: “We're honored to collaborate with SLF's commercial and IT teams on this project. Fais Group's trust in THellas and ToolsGroup solutions for their planning process transformation underscores our position in Greece's retail sector. Modeling complex business environments and optimizing millions of daily planning decisions is challenging, requiring expertise and advanced tools. We're proud of our success and excited to deepen our partnership with Fais Group, driving even better results for their customers.” Mauro Adorno, VP Global Alliances and Indirect Sales at ToolsGroup adds: “The successful implementation of ToolsGroup technology at SLF Greece exemplifies our commitment to transforming supply chain planning. This project demonstrates how ToolsGroup's solutions, combined with local expertise provided by our partner THellas, can deliver significant value to retailers facing complex supply chain challenges.” About Fais Group and SLF Fais Group of Companies has been operating in the retail/wholesale sector of apparel, footwear, accessories, for more than 40 years, dominating the Greek market & expanding its activities in Bulgaria, Romania & Cyprus. SLF company is part of Fais Group and is the master franchisee of leading Italian beauty brand KIKO MILANO’s products in Greece, Cyprus, Romania and Bulgaria. SLF runs a rapidly expanding network of 30+ locations and it currently trades more than 2500 SKUs through physical stores (owned and Shop In Shop) together with an on-line shop. For more information visit https://faisgroup.com About THellas THellas has been the official partner of ToolsGroup in Greece and Cyprus, since its foundation in 2017. THellas delivers simple Supply Chain Planning solutions for probabilistic forecasting & demand planning, promotion & price optimisation, inventory optimisation, network optimisation and production planning & scheduling, using sophisticated software from ToolsGroup and partners. The THellas tream has more than 20 years experience in advanced supply chain planning, both in consulting and in operations. We focus on delivering financial value faster, with less effort, for every type of organisation that plans their supply chain in uncertain times. For more information visit: www.thellas.com About ToolsGroup ToolsGroup’s innovative AI-powered solutions enable retailers, distributors and manufacturers to navigate through supply chain uncertainty. Our retail and supply chain planning suites empower a new level of intelligent decision-making and unlock powerful business improvements in forecast accuracy, service levels and inventory – delighting customers and achieving financial and sustainability KPIs. Stay in touch with ToolsGroup on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, or visit www.toolsgroup.com. Contact Details Meir Kahtan +1 917-864-0800 mkahtan@rcn.com Company Website https://www.toolsgroup.com

July 31, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Davis Davis & Harmon Partners With Alteryx to Transform Sales Tax Consulting Practice

Davis Davis & Harmon

Demonstrating its commitment to technological leadership in the sales tax consulting sector, Davis Davis & Harmon LLC (DDH), the nation's largest woman- and minority-owned firm, today announced its strategic adoption of Alteryx, a leading enterprise analytics platform. The adoption of Alteryx enhances DDH's robust data analytics capabilities and reinforces its position as an innovative service provider that leverages technology to address the dynamic needs of its clientele. The platform’s comprehensive data preparation and analytics tools establish repeatable workflows, freeing up DDH experts to focus on their value-added, sophisticated insights. “Our clients rely on DDH to navigate their most challenging sales tax issues,” said Chanel Christoff Davis, Davis Davis and Harmon CEO and founder. “DDH will fully integrate Alteryx into its operations by the end of the year, and anticipate that it will significantly enhance our in-depth analysis and strategic advising, catalyzing our growth and delivering bottom-line results for clients.” The combination of DDH's specialized expertise and Alteryx’s technological proficiency in managing high-volume, sophisticated data challenges positions DDH and its clients ahead of the digital transformation curve. “By deploying Alteryx for tax automation and analytics, DDH is, once again, blazing new ground for the benefit of its clients and team members,” said Mike Tagtow, Sales Director at Alteryx partner, Capitalize Analytics. DDH’s subject matter experts handle intricate transactions for Fortune 100 clients, who typically present much larger and more complex data sets. For example, DDH client Baker Hughes, one of the world’s largest energy companies, has fully transitioned to the new system. With Alteryx, DDH streamlined tax processing, identified potential tax savings and provided them with more accurate and timely tax advice. “We fearlessly embrace technological advancements,” says Deon Harmon, Davis Davis and Harmon's Chief Growth Officer. “Just as we blaze trails for minority and women-owned businesses, we are harnessing the power of technology to transform the sales tax advisory industry.” About Davis Davis & Harmon LLC - Sales Tax Experts Davis Davis & Harmon LLC (DDH), established in 2001 by rising entrepreneur Chanel Christoff Davis, is the largest woman- and minority-owned sales tax firm in the United States. Based in Dallas, the company guides businesses through the complexities of sales and use tax laws and regulations. Its team fosters an environment of compliance, education, and risk mitigation and delivers measurable bottom-line results to clients. To learn more about DDH, visit http://www.ddhtax.com. About Alteryx Alteryx (NYSE: AYX) powers analytics for all by providing our leading Analytics Automation Platform. Alteryx delivers easy end-to-end automation of data engineering, analytics, reporting, machine learning, and data science processes. It enables enterprises everywhere to democratize data analytics across their organizations for a broad range of use cases. More than 8,000 customers globally rely on Alteryx to deliver high-impact business outcomes. To learn more, visit http://www.alteryx.com. Alteryx is a registered trademark of Alteryx, Inc. All other product and brand names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Contact Details Davis Davis & Harmon Chanel Christoff Davis +1 972-488-5000 chanel@ddhtax.com Center Reach Communications Alexandra Campbell alexandra@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website http://www.ddhtax.com/

July 29, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Freelance jobs grow despite AI, finds new data from Freelancer.com

FREELANCER.COM

Freelancer.com (ASX: FLN), the world’s largest freelancing and crowdsourcing marketplace by number of users and jobs posted, today released its quarterly Fast 50 Index for Q2 2024 based on data from 251,000 jobs posted to the platform. Computer Security (up 27.1% from 868 to 1,103 jobs) emerges as the fastest-growing freelance skill on Freelancer.com, based on job postings across more than 2,000 skill categories from April 1 to June 30, 2024. This trend in cybersecurity skills suggests more small-to-medium businesses are turning to freelancers for cyber security support, further backed by Network Administration (up 9.9%, from 1,229 to 1,351) also placing in the top 25 fastest growing jobs on the platform. The data also shows no negative impact on generative AI tools on freelance jobs, evident in the growth of Writing, Business Service, and Legal Skills seen in this quarter’s Fast 50 report, all of which were predicted to decrease with the rise in generative AI. PDF writing (up 26.7%, from 2,533 to 3,210) was the second fastest growing job, followed by third place being Microsoft Word (up 23.9%, from 3,368 to 4,173) projects which are also associated with content writing. Writing job Copy Typing came in at the 16th place, growing 11.6% (from 4,428 to 4,941). Legal jobs, which were expected to have been ‘at threat’ to AI, have also increased (up 12.0% from 1,138 to 1,274), as well as Legal Research (up 10.8% from 917 to 1,016). In addition to the index, Freelancer.com ’s annual AI survey, which surveyed more than 4,100 workers globally, investigated AI impact on income and the initial results are shedding light on earnings. When asked how the introduction of AI tools have impacted earnings, more than half of workers (52.5%) reveal they’re earning either the same or more. One fifth (19.2%) say that they’re earning a lot more since generative AI tools were introduced, while only one sixth (17.7%) admit to earning less. “AI is creating more jobs than it takes. While many critics continue to speculate which jobs will be made redundant with AI tools, the data shows that freelance jobs which are labeled as the ‘most at risk to AI disruption’ are in fact growing. The preliminary results from our AI survey also dispel the myth that freelancer are earning less since the introduction of generative AI as more three quarters of workers we surveyed are either earning the same or earning more, with a subset taking advantage of AI and earning a lot more.” said Matt Barrie, Chief Executive at Freelancer.com. Cybersecurity threats are on the rise across all organizations, but are particularly harmful for small-to-medium sized businesses (SMBs) which have little-to-no security expertise and usually minimal protection. As a result, businesses turned to freelancers for help. In 2Q24, Computer Security jobs ranked as the fastest growing skills (up 27%), indicating there has been an uptick in cyber security threats targeting SMBs. Many of the projects posted throughout the quarter require help with network security, security assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities, and creation of cyber security response play books. General business services are also increasing on the platform as more employers are hiring freelancers to support their small businesses. A clear indication of this is the popularity of Market Research and Telemarketing jobs coming in as the fourth and fifth fastest growing skills in Q2 2024, up by 21.1% (from 1,525 to 1,859) and 19.4% (from 1,177 to 1,405), respectively. Other business related skills grew in Q2 2024, including Sales (up 15.5% from 3.467 to 4,005), Lead Generation (up 12.2% from 1,802 to 2,021) and Business Plans (up 10.9% from 1,197 to 1,328). A sudden increase in General business services means that many of the new businesses, which are usually started at the beginning of the year, now require further assistance in helping grow and scale their business. Fastest Falling Skills for Q2 2024 The main category of jobs that fell in Q2 2024 was eCommerce related jobs, which saw a significant increase in Q1 2024. Shopify Templates, ranked as the fastest falling skill and was down by 13% (from 1,476 to 1,284). CSS, which is commonly used in website development, was also down (11.8% from 9.486 to 8,368). Both WooCommerce (from 1.072 to 952) and Shopify (2,545 to 2,269) also fell in the quarter. The easing of eCommerce jobs in this quarter was mainly due to seasonality. Typically, entrepreneurs will start a business at the beginning of the year, requiring help to set up their websites or eCommerce platforms. From there, the entrepreneur either pivots to hiring freelancers for other business services, such as sales or research which we’ve seen in Q2 2024 fastest growing jobs, or are equipped with enough to run their business without any further help. Fastest Growing Overall Job The most popular online freelancing job by total volume is currently Graphic Design with almost double the amount of projects than the other top skills. Graphic Design is followed by PHP (programming), Photoshop, Website Design and HTML (programming). These are typically the best skills for any new freelancer to focus on initially when starting their freelancing journey. How Electronic Repairs Are Becoming the Fastest Growing Skill Globally Electronic Repairs has emerged as one of the fastest-growing job categories on the platform over the past year. In Q2 2024, it ranked 19th among the top 25 fastest-growing jobs, with a 10.7% increase (from 14,945 to 16,548 jobs). However, its most impressive growth is evident in the year-over-year comparison, where Electronic Repairs jobs surged by 162%, from 6,315 in Q2 2023 to 16,548 in Q2 2024. Electronic Repairs are in-person jobs where freelancers are deployed across select countries and cities to fix laptops, printers and computer hardware as part of the Freelancer Global Fleet Program. ##### Freelancer.com Fast 50 The Freelancer.com Fast 50 index is the world’s largest forward indicator of trends in online jobs related to industries, technologies, products, and companies. The data is based on 251,000 jobs posted to the Freelancer.com platform between 1st April to 30th June 2024. Data: Fast 50 Quarterly Index – Q2 2024 2023 Q2 v 2024 Q2 Fastest Growing Jobs for Q2 2024 Fastest Falling Jobs for Q2 2024 About Freelancer Twelve-time Webby award-winning Freelancer.com is the world’s largest freelancing and crowdsourcing marketplace by total number of users and projects posted. More than 74 million registered users have posted over 23.8 million projects and contests to date in over 2,000 areas as diverse as website development, logo design, marketing, copywriting, astrophysics, aerospace engineering and manufacturing. Freelancer owns Escrow.com and Loadshift. Freelancer Limited is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange under the ticker ASX:FLN and is quoted on OTCQX Best Market under the ticker FLNCF. Contact Details Freelancer.com Marko Zitko +1 650-800-6863 mzitko@freelancer.com

July 18, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

DB Schenker Showcases Thought Leadership in Import/Export Logistics Through New Video Series on the Port of Halifax

DB Schenker

DB Schenker, a global leader in logistics and supply chain management, is thrilled to announce the launch of an exclusive video series focused on the Port of Halifax. This series, designed for logistics experts and import/export professionals, highlights the Port of Halifax's strategic importance and innovative practices in global trade. The video series features insightful interviews with prominent figures, including: Marilisa Benigno, Honorary Consul of Italy, Atlantic Region Suzanne Rix, Honorary Consul of Germany for the Maritime Provinces Captain Allan Gray, President, and CEO of the Halifax Port Authority Jonathan Chia, Head of Commercial at PSA Halifax David Thomas, Executive Director at The PIER Key Highlights: Vision and Mission of the Port of Halifax: Capt. Gray elaborates on the Port of Halifax's mission to be Canada’s preferred gateway, emphasizing its global connectivity and economic impact. “Every day, we connect with markets in Central Canada, the U.S. Midwest and countries around the world,” said Capt. Gray. “These connections foster opportunities for business and support thousands of jobs today. Looking ahead, the port will continue to integrate innovation, sustainability and community into how we do business.” Economic Impact: The Port of Halifax is a significant economic driver. A recent study showed the port generates billions of dollars in economic activity annually, contributing $1.6 billion in labour income and supporting over 25,000 jobs in the region. Jonathan Chia discusses the port’s role in reducing logistics costs for inland Canada and its strategic positioning as a gateway port. Global Connectivity and Innovation: The port’s connection to more than 150 countries worldwide, along with substantial investments in mega cranes and digitalization, positions Halifax as a key player on the global stage. Sustainability and Community Engagement: The series delves into the port's collaborative efforts with the Port of Hamburg to accelerate decarbonization and sustainability initiatives. Capt. Gray will also highlight the port's commitment to community integration and sustainable growth through innovative projects and partnerships. Future Infrastructure Developments: Viewers will gain insights into the port's 50-year plan, which includes expanding rail capacity and optimizing existing infrastructure to meet future demand while focusing on sustainable growth. Strengthening Italy-Canada Relations: Marilisa Benigno, Honorary Consul of Italy, Atlantic Region shares the consulate’s efforts to strengthen ties between Italy and Canada through various initiatives, including visa facilitation, cultural events, and business collaborations. German-Canadian Collaboration: Suzanne Rix, Honorary Consul of Germany for the Maritime Provinces, discusses the burgeoning relationship between Germany and Halifax, particularly in the fields of hydrogen and wind energy. The collaboration between the Port of Hamburg and the Port of Halifax in seeking to decarbonize their respective route is a significant step towards sustainable trade practices. Innovation and the Living Lab: David Thomas, Executive Director at The PIER, explains the role of The PIER as Canada’s first living lab to help solve supply chain and logistics challenges. The PIER’s projects emphasize efficiency, resilience, transparency, and sustainability in supply chains. Catch the full Interviews on DB Schenker’s LinkedIn: The complete series of interviews is available on DB Schenker’s LinkedIn page, offering valuable insights for professionals in the logistics and supply chain sectors. Follow the link to stay updated and engage with industry leaders: DB Schenker LinkedIn. About DB Schenker With around 76,600 employees at more than 1,850 locations in over 130 countries, DB Schenker is one of the world’s leading logistics service providers. The company operates land, air, and ocean transportation services, and it also offers comprehensive logistics and global supply chain management solutions from a single source. Aiming for a sustainable future of the logistics industry, DB Schenker continuously invests in innovative transport solutions, renewable energies, and low-emission products for its customers. Contact Details Nicholas Leighton +1 949-478-5880 nick.leighton@nettresultsLLC.com Company Website https://www.dbschenker.com/usa

July 16, 2024 11:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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