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Consumer Discretionary XLY Takes Spending to Higher Levels

Select Sector SPDR

The United States is home to one of the largest consumer markets in the world, which is well known. However, understanding the different categories of where and why consumers are spending and how to capture that in an investment is key for advisors and investors when considering how to utilize retail into a diversified portfolio. The Consumer Discretionary Fund ( XLY ) offers the opportunity to capture a segment of the retail market, focusing on what might be considered the higher end, including services beyond goods, concert tickets, and vacations. Another way to think of it is buying goods and services using disposable income. XLY is a portfolio of U.S. large-cap consumer discretionary stocks. XLY's basket of stocks represents the sector well when looking at the names. The fund has 53 holdings in total. The top holding at 22.97% is the juggernaut retailer Amazon, followed by Tesla (19.41%), Home Depot (4.44%), McDonald’s (4.43%) and Nike (4.25%)*. The other names in the top 10 are Lowe’s, Starbucks, Booking Holdings, TJX, and Ford. Higher End vs Low-Cost Retail The theme is a contrast to consumer spending on goods such as food, soap, toothpaste, and tobacco products, or low-cost goods that are typically used on a daily basis. But with low-cost goods also comes low profit margins, and it is important for investors to understand that as well. Because Tesla and Nike sell high-priced goods, the opportunity for higher profit margins looms, particularly in an economy when spending is much more liberal than in a down economy. Even in a down economy, Nike has been established as a staple in culture and fashion, and sales are consistent through good and bad economies alike. The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR fund, XLY, offers a way to tap in the broad high-end retail market in an easy and inexpensive manner. The fund has attracted over $17 billion in assets under management since its inception in 1998. XLY has proven tradability and has stood the test of time as far as ETFs go. The fund also comes with an investor-friendly expense ratio of 0.10%**. Spending on apparel, electronics, travel, dining out, vacations, video games, toys, and entertainment are considered discretionary. And using a broad market index approach to this retail sector allows investors to play the field rather than trying to pick a winner in the high-end retail market. XLY opens the door for investors to this opportunity. 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 6/30/23 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. SEL006691 EXP 9/30/23 Contact Details Dan Dolan dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

July 12, 2023 03:13 PM Eastern Daylight Time

NowSecure Announces New Mobile SDK Pen Testing Service to Protect the Mobile Supply Chain

NowSecure

NowSecure, the recognized experts in mobile security and privacy, today launched a major expansion of the NowSecure Pen Testing as a Service (PTaaS) with a new SDK Pen Testing Service to help protect the global mobile software supply chain. Leveraging over a decade of penetration testing experience for more than 11,000 mobile apps and recognized industry security standards, this new NowSecure Service provides deep-dive testing of first-party and third-party mobile SDKs built and used by open-source teams, commercial SDK vendors and enterprise mobile app developers. Mobile app developers rely on third-party SDKs to speed delivery of their mobile apps with rich functionality and dependable infrastructure. The typical mobile app uses 8-15 mobile SDKs from commercial vendors and the open-source community. Overall, analysis shows over 30,000 mobile SDKs in use around the world including authentication, location data, ads and monetization, push notifications and messaging, crash analytics, image processing and more. However, NowSecure Pen Testing Services findings reveal that more than 50% of apps fail at least one critical standards-based control due to the mobile SDKs they integrate. Recent malicious SDKs and supply-chain attacks like Pushwoosh, Tushu/Twhoshu and Mintegral put mobile development teams and mobile users at risk. To help developers, security and privacy teams ensure the safety of their mobile SDKs, NowSecure SDK Pen Testing Service provides visibility into security, privacy and compliance risks of mobile SDKs. “The current late-stage process of identifying issues with mobile SDKs after they have been built into a mobile app makes it very difficult for development, security and privacy teams to respond without damaging the business,” said NowSecure CEO Alan Snyder. “Today we are empowering mobile development teams to choose wisely before they include an SDK in their mobile app, so they can build, ship and upload to app stores faster with confidence that their mobile app is safe for use and meets industry requirements.” NowSecure SDK Pen Testing Service helps protect the software supply chain across the entire mobile app ecosystem and developer community. Developers who use commercial and open-source mobile SDKs can secure their mobile apps against SDK supply-chain attacks, protect from SDK data leakage, and ensure compliance with industry mandates and regulatory requirements. The service includes a comprehensive report and expert consultation. Manufacturers of commercial SDKs can drive user trust and grow downloads by providing independent verification that they meet the high bar of standards-based security and privacy, while enabling their end customers to comply with industry mandates and regulatory requirements. The service includes a comprehensive report and NowSecure Letter of Attestation that can be used to demonstrate the rigorous security and privacy testing performed by NowSecure. NowSecure Pen Testing as a Service methodology uses recognized industry standards from the OWASP Mobile App Security (MAS) project and Google’s App Defense Alliance (ADA) Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) program. NowSecure PTaaS combines continuous automated security testing and expert pen testing to deliver the frequency, depth and coverage to meet the needs of all organizations. This new NowSecure SDK Pen Testing Service joins the industry’s most complete suite of mobile-specific pen testing assessment services including Rapid, Targeted, Full Scope, OWASP MASVS and ADA MASA. In addition, the NowSecure SDK Pen Testing Service enables mobile app developers to meet the latest app store attestation requirements for the Apple Privacy Nutrition Labels for iOS apps and the Google Google Play Data Safety section for android apps. Showcasing their dedication to privacy and transparency into how user data is handled and processed, Apple and Google have made developers responsible for attesting to how mobile user data is collected, used and transmitted for first-party, third-party and open source code. Mobile app developers who do not properly account for SDKs, their data handling practices, and the vulnerabilities they may introduce can result in costly release delays and app store rejections. The new NowSecure SDK Pen Testing Service is available to assess individual or multiple commercially developed, open source or internally developed mobile SDKs. In addition, organizations can request a NowSecure Mobile App Supply Chain Risk Assessment for expert review of a single mobile app with identification of all third party SDKs in the app, a security and privacy analysis of these third party SDKs, and a comprehensive report plus expert consultation. The NowSecure SDK Pen Testing Service joins the industry’s only full suite of mobile app security and privacy solutions from NowSecure including NowSecure Platform for automated security and privacy testing, NowSecure Workstation kit for pen tester productivity, NowSecure Supply Chain Risk Management, NowSecure expert Mobile Pen Testing as a Service (PTaaS), and NowSecure Academy training courseware for dev and security teams. Learn more about NowSecure Pen Testing as a Service here or book a meeting at booth 1168 at Black Hat in Las Vegas August 8-10, 2023. About NowSecure: As the recognized experts in mobile security and privacy, NowSecure protects the global mobile app economy and safeguards the data of millions of mobile app users. Built on a foundation of standards, NowSecure empowers the worldâs most demanding organizations with security automation to release and monetize 30% faster, reduce testing and delivery costs by 30% and reduce risk by 40%. Only NowSecure offers an award winning full solution suite of continuous security testing for DevSecOps, mobile app supply chain monitoring, expert mobile pen testing as a service (PTaaS) and training courseware. NowSecure actively contributes and supports the mobile security open-source community, standards and certification including OWASP MASVS, ADA MASA, NIAP and is recognized by IDC, Gartner, Deloitte Fast 500, Cyber Defense Magazine and TAG Cyber. Contact Details NowSecure Brian Reed +1 240-801-5773 press@nowsecure.com Company Website https://www.nowsecure.com/

July 12, 2023 12:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Kush Kriminals Lifts Off: Launching a Revolutionary Fusion of Digital Art, Cannabis Culture, and Cryptocurrency

Kush Kriminals

Kush Kriminals, the pioneering entertainment franchise, is excited to announce the launch of its Phase 1 collection of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). This revolutionary project is set to redefine the digital collectibles space, intertwining elements of cannabis culture with digital art and cryptocurrency. A Revolutionary Fusion Kush Kriminals is not just an NFT project; it's a cultural phenomenon. The series presents a blend of sci-fi, crime, action, and comedy elements, set in a universe where a mysterious cosmic particle, referred to as "KSH" or "kush," is a highly sought-after resource. This intertwining of art and culture offers an exclusive, one-of-a-kind experience that is both entertaining and engaging, providing a distinctive value proposition for potential investors. High-Quality Artwork and Strong Storytelling Kush Kriminals artistry is a cut above the rest, reflecting the profound skill of revered creators such as Sam Humphries, the esteemed comic book writer for both Marvel and DC Comics. Further deepening the enigma of our universe is the contribution from an elusive 'phantom' artist. This mastermind behind some of our most captivating pieces prefers to stay in the shadows, adding to the intriguing and mysterious vibe of Kush Kriminals. More than a mere visual spectacle, Kush Kriminals elevates the NFT experience by offering an immersive universe imbued with compelling narratives. Each character is not merely a figure but a story, adding layers of depth and interconnectedness to our universe. This robust storytelling combined with high-caliber artistry ensures a more engaging and unique experience for our holders, inviting them to not just view but be a part of our riveting cosmos. Exclusive Ownership Perks and Potential for Growth Owning a Kush Kriminals NFT is not just owning digital art; it's owning a piece of the Kush Kriminals universe. As an NFT holder, you get exclusive perks, early access to new releases, special invitations to community events, and potential for future rewards. Kush Kriminals presents a strong case for both short-term and long-term value appreciation. “Kush Kriminals® is more than just a digital collectible project. It's a community, a lifestyle, and a way to connect with like-minded individuals,” said Jimmy Holman, Co-Founder of Kush Kriminals. “We've created a world where fans can collect, trade, and interact with their favorite characters, while also enjoying exclusive benefits at select Cookies® cannabis locations." Join the Kush Kriminals Universe Kush Kriminals extends an open invitation to enthusiasts to join a vibrant, thriving community. This community is not just about buying and selling; it's a space for interaction, discussion, and collective growth. With a fully doxxed team, Kush Kriminals ensures complete transparency, building trust and confidence among its community members. The Kush Kriminals NFTs are a testament to the highest standards of excellence in the digital collectibles space. With the ease of purchase facilitated by Magic Eden, acquiring these high-quality NFTs is a breeze. But it's not just about owning digital art; it's about becoming part of an immersive universe that's set to expand through a captivating comic series. As a holder of Kush Kriminals NFTs, you'll have the opportunity to participate in future developments, adding an exciting dimension to your investment. Moreover, Kush Kriminals is proud of its real-world utility. With partnerships with Cookies and other dispensaries across the nation, the brand is bridging the gap between the digital and physical worlds. To learn more and become part of this transformative project, visit www.kushkriminals.com or contact the team at info@kushkriminals.com. About Kush Kriminals Kush Kriminals is a pioneering entertainment franchise dedicated to providing top-tier digital art experiences that cater to the evolving needs of the digital art and cryptocurrency communities. With a team of industry experts, including renowned comic writer Sam Humphries, Kush Kriminals is committed to innovation and transparency. The brand's clear roadmap includes expanding the Kush Kriminals universe through a compelling comic series, offering followers the opportunity to participate in future developments. With its high-quality NFTs, immersive experience, and real-world utility, Kush Kriminals is shaping the future of digital collectibles and establishing itself as a trusted leader in the NFT space. Contact Details For press inquiries, please contact: Celeste Morrison, Public Relations Director, Groundswole LLC celeste@groundswole.com Company Website http://www.kushkriminals.com/

July 12, 2023 10:09 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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SMART launches new research group M3S to advance AI, automation and the future of work

Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)

Five-year multi-million-dollar programme supported by NRF under its CREATE programme New interdisciplinary research group (IRG), SMART M3S, will bring together 17 MIT and Singapore professors to further Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative over five years The focus of the SMART M3S research will be to design the technology, training programmes and institutions for successful human-machine collaboration in the workplace and beyond The first of its kind, SMART M3S will integrate robotics and AI with human capital development, economic growth, and public acceptability SINGAPORE - Media OutReach - 12 July 2023 - Singapore MIT-Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART ), MIT’s research enterprise in Singapore, has launched a new interdisciplinary research group (IRG) aimed at tackling key social and institutional challenges around the rise of AI and new technologies, furthering advances in these fields to create impactful value for Singapore and the world beyond. In line with Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative and the National AI Strategy, and as part of SMART's commitment to foster collaborative research in Singapore that generates positive impact for society, Mens, Manus and Machina - How AI Empowers People, Institutions and the City in Singapore (M3S) will embark on an ambitious five year endeavour supported by a multi-million-dollar grant from the National Research Foundation (NRF) under its Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE) programme. Bringing together a diverse team of 17 professors from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Singapore, SMART M3S will also draw expertise from local researchers from Singapore Management University (SMU), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), the National University of Singapore (NUS), and the National Robotics Programme (NRP). As Asia’s smartest city, Singapore’s integration of AI, automation, and robotics has been facilitated by strategic use of data analytics, IoT technologies, and smart infrastructure. Amid the rise of AI and machine learning, SMART M3S will contribute to Singapore's AI ecosystem by focusing on the human-machine relationship, enhancing existing AI initiatives in the city-state. Mens, Manus and Machina (M3S) - inspired by MIT’s motto of mens et manus (mind and hand) - reflects the research group’s ideals to promote AI and machine use for practical application; technologies that are extensions of humans and augment their lives. SMART M3S, in a world first, integrates research into robotics and A.I. with human capital development, economic growth, and public acceptability - an intersectional approach to the ongoing transformation of how we work and live. This interdisciplinary approach encompasses tackling key issues such as physical and digital interfaces between humans and machines, machine learning fundamentals, and understanding the implications of AI for human and social capital development. Other issues of focus include work on structuring human-machine teams within organisations and the developing dynamics between humans and machines in resource allocation and manpower (as well as machine-power) management. The research conducted will significantly advance the fields of soft robotics, brain interfaces, learning algorithms, task allocation, team formation, model compression, sustainable technology, technology acceptability in the workplace, social acceptability of robotics and AI, and more. The impact of AI on human welfare and productivity and how AI technology can advance both areas will be central considerations for the work at SMART M3S, as society navigates the transition towards an AI- and machine-enhanced future. Through interdisciplinary research, knowledge sharing, and impactful collaborations, SMART M3S aims to redefine the boundaries of AI, automation, and robotics to scientific, societal and commercial impact. The work at M3S will explore the intricate interplay between human capabilities, emerging technologies, and societal structures, paving the way for designing inclusive, resilient, and innovative solutions that empower individuals, institutions, and cities in Singapore. SMART M3S, by collaborating with Singaporean partners, will enhance Singapore’s ability to create forward-looking AI policies, invigorate Singapore’s economic standing within AI, and support local workforce training and mentorship on AI topics. Since its inception in Singapore in 2007, SMART has pioneered innovations that have transformed and are transforming a multitude of fields such as autonomous driving, agriculture, microelectronics, cell therapy, mechanics and microfluidics platforms for biology and medical diagnostics, and antimicrobial resistance. “As a species, humans have spent eons learning how to work effectively with each other but, at the scale of human history, we are still neophytes to computation and automation,” said Professor Jinhua Zhao, Professor at MIT and Lead Principal Investigator at SMART M3S. “We focus on two questions at M3S: How will we design AI and Robotics technologies and train humans to build the skills and habits necessary for success in a robotics-heavy work environment? How will we adapt our social and business institutions to create the incentives and protections necessary to drive innovation and social welfare?” SMART M3S is helmed by Lead Principal Investigator (PI) Professor Zhao and Co-lead PIs MIT Professor Daniela Rus and SMU Professor Archan Misra. Professor Rus shared, “The M3S collaboration between MIT and Singapore, through SMART, will break new ground in our understanding of AI's impact on the future of work. By harnessing our collective expertise and innovative spirit, we aim to advance the state of the art in AI and turn this technological advancement into an engine for human potential and societal progress.” Professor Misra noted, “M3S is distinguished by its ambition to address the key challenges of human-AI synergy holistically, from both a scientific and societal perspective. It will focus not just on the technical breakthroughs that will allow human workers and AI-enabled machines and software to work interactively, but also on the training and governance mechanisms that ensure that individuals and organisations adapt to and thrive in this new future of work. I’m especially excited to partner MIT on this important national priority, which aligns perfectly with SMU’s strategic multi-disciplinary research priority area of Digital Transformation”. Eugene A. Fitzgerald, CEO and Director of SMART, added, “Since 2007, SMART has pioneered impactful innovations across various fields, transforming industries such as autonomous driving, agriculture, cell therapy, microelectronics, and medical diagnostics by bringing together some of the finest from MIT and Singapore. With our latest interdisciplinary research group SMART M3S, we further our commitment to bringing scientific, social, and commercial impact to Singapore and beyond. The focus on a human-centric approach to AI advancement will contribute towards Singapore being at the forefront of the future of work.” Seeking to redefine the boundaries of AI, automation, and robotics through interdisciplinary research, knowledge sharing, and impactful collaborations, SMART M3S aims to design inclusive, resilient, and innovative solutions that empower individuals, institutions, and cities. By exploring the intricate relationship between human capabilities, emerging technologies, and societal structures, it is envisioned that SMART M3S will drive scientific, societal, and commercial impact in Singapore and beyond. About Mens, Manus and Machina (M3S IRG) M3S is an interdisciplinary research group (IRG) launched in July 2023 by SMART, MIT’s research enterprise in Singapore. Inspired by MIT’s motto of mens et manus (“mind and hand”), the programme aims to promote AI and machine use for practical applications through an intersectional approach. The research at M3S addresses critical questions concerning the design of technology, the development of human skills, and the adaptation of institutions and social structures to effectively navigate the transformative impact of AI, automation, and robotics. By exploring the intricate interplay between human capabilities, emerging technologies, and societal structures, M3S seeks to drive scientific, societal, and commercial impact that will pave the way for the design of inclusive, resilient, and innovative solutions that empower individuals, institutions, and cities in Singapore and beyond. About Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) [新加坡-麻省理工学院科研中心] Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology ( SMART ) is MIT’s Research Enterprise in Singapore, established by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in partnership with the National Research Foundation of Singapore (NRF) since 2007. SMART is the first entity in the Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise ( CREATE ) developed by NRF. SMART serves as an intellectual and innovation hub for research interactions between MIT and Singapore. Cutting-edge research projects in areas of interest to both Singapore and MIT are undertaken at SMART. SMART currently comprises an Innovation Centre and four Interdisciplinary Research Groups (IRGs): Antimicrobial Resistance ( AMR ), Critical Analytics for Manufacturing Personalized-Medicine ( CAMP ), Disruptive & Sustainable Technologies for Agricultural Precision ( DiSTAP ), and Mens, Manus and Machina (M3S). SMART research is funded by the National Research Foundation Singapore under the CREATE programme. For more information, please visit http://smart.mit.edu Contact Details Media Contact Colin Lau +65 8182 3633 SMART@bluetotem.co

July 12, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Development Of Uranium, Copper And Nickel Resources Is Critical To The Transition To Clean Energy – Sprott’s ETFs Plan To Ride The Forecasted Growth

Benzinga

By David Willey, Benzinga The transition towards low-carbon, clean energy solutions is continuing to pick up pace, and with it, the demand for critical minerals is projected to continue increasing. Critical minerals are the natural resources necessary to generate, transmit and store low-carbon energy. Modern forms of clean energy, such as battery, wind, solar and nuclear all depend upon a steady supply of these critical minerals. To meet goals for lowering carbon emissions, governments and corporations have invested a historic $1.1 trillion into the transition to renewable energy sources. However, estimates say the figure needs to triple to meet net-zero targets. One concern with the transition is whether the supply of critical minerals will be able to keep up with the rapidly increasing demand. Copper, for example, is a critical mineral that is involved in almost every type of clean energy. One projection shows the energy transition demand for copper going from today’s demand of 5 million metric tons (MTs) to 50 million MTs by 2050, with demand expected to drive the commodity’s price up. It is currently worth about $8,500 per MT, however, the global head of commodities at Goldman Sachs expects the price to reach $10,000 in the short term and $15,000 in the longer term. That is one of a number of reasons why Sprott Asset Management, a subsidiary of Sprott Inc. (NYSE: SII), recently launched a series of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for critical minerals. Sprott Asset Management offers some of the only pure-play ETFs for critical minerals, including the Sprott Energy Transition Materials ETF (NASDAQ: SETM) and the Sprott Lithium Miners ETF (NASDAQ: LITP). One of its ETFs is the Sprott Junior Copper Miners ETF (NASDAQ: COPJ). It is the only pure-play ETF for small copper miners, and it currently has 39 holdings for $2.51 million in assets. Sprott’s ETFs In Uranium And Nickel Another of Sprott’s ETFs is the Sprott Junior Uranium Miners ETF (NASDAQ: URNJ). The company believes uranium is currently in a bull market, with the two previous uranium bull markets occurring in the 1970s and the early 2000s respectively. Investment is pouring into this sector, with 58 nuclear plants currently under construction globally and another 104 plants in the planning stage. URNJ has 32 holdings and $33.1 million in assets. The ETF is focused on tracking the growth of mid-, small- and micro-cap companies involved in uranium mining. A third ETF is the Sprott Nickel Miners ETF (NASDAQ: NIKL). Nickel is an important mineral with a range of uses in clean energy, including in electric vehicles (EVs), battery storage and additional infrastructure. Demand for this critical mineral may increase almost 20-fold between 2020 and 2040 as further uses are found for nickel within the clean energy space. Sprott reports taking advantage of the forecasted growth with its NIKL ETF, the only US-listed ETF with a pure-play focus on nickel mining companies. NIKL has 24 holdings and has $1 million in assets. The ETF tracks companies involved in producing, developing and exploring nickel. For more in-depth coverage of Sprott Asset Management’s ETFs and their role in the transition to clean energy, read this article and this article. Learn more about Sprott ETFs on its website. 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

July 12, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Crypto Payments Market Size to Reach Hundreds of Billion Dollars in Three Years, Report by Bing Ventures

Bing Ventures Limited

A Singapore-based pioneering venture capital and research firm, Bing Ventures, has published a market research report on the Crypto Payments Industry. The report, jointly produced by Bing Ventures and Alchemy Pay, presents the history, existing market status, and prospects of the crypto payments industry from technological, commercial, and regulatory perspectives, offering holistic insights into the key factors and trends driving the future growth, technological innovation, and competitive landscape. For the analysis of the market, the crypto payments industry is segmented into three sectors, namely, crypto on and off-ramps, crypto payments for real-life uses, and blockchain-native payments. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative analysis, the research studies the business model of market players and estimates the market size of each sector. It also covers discussions on cutting-edge payment methods such as money streaming and offers profiles of major market players like Alchemy Pay and Moon Pay. Key Trends and Analysis of the Crypto Payments Industry: Despite a challenging bear market for cryptocurrency in 2022, the crypto payments industry continues to witness rapid growth, reflected in more and more top brands embracing crypto, the entrance of many new market players, and the growing number of regulations being put in place worldwide. Nevertheless, the research finds that the penetration of cryptocurrency into the real economy is still less than 1%, with the biggest hurdle being the strong network effect created by the existing user base of traditional payments. But based on the estimated growth of the global payments industry and a sensitivity analysis of the market size of crypto payments for real-life uses, the report forecasts that the size of the crypto payments market will grow to hundreds of billions within three years. It emphasizes that the urgent directions for technological developments are to address security risks and ease trust between transaction parties. Although with over a decade of development, the efficiency and usability of crypto payments have been greatly improved, the security and trust issues are not fundamentally solved. In terms of the competitive landscape, compliance and merchant networks are expected to become the most important dual factors determining a crypto payment company’s success in the future. Against this backdrop, no single market player will be able to dominate the market easily. And the developing markets where e-payment methods are yet deeply rooted are expected to have the largest potential for growth. Download A Free Copy of the Report Here: https://www.bing-ventures.com/fe-common/crypto_payments_industry_research_report.pdf By producing this report, Bing Ventures and Alchemy Pay intend to equip enthusiasts and builders in Web3 and blockchain with knowledge of the crypto payments industry and draw attention to the opportunities and challenges that are present to facilitate the development of the industry and mass adoption of crypto payments. We welcome feedback and exchange of ideas to better understand this quickly evolving market. Bing Ventures also regularly produces insightful analysis and research on various topics including market trends, sector analysis, and emerging projects. These articles can be accessed at https://www.bing-ventures.com/insights. About Bing Ventures Founded in 2021 by former J.P. Morgan and Standard Chartered bankers, Bing Ventures is a pioneering venture capital firm that backs startups and entrepreneurs driving the next wave of Web3 and blockchain innovations. Its team of crypto veterans and natives collectively brings decades of experience in investing in, incubating, developing, and marketing Web 3.0 projects. With a sector-agnostic, value-investing approach, it now has a portfolio spanning DeFi, NFT, GameFi, DAOs, infrastructure, Web3, and more. Bing Ventures is headquartered in Singapore and has team members decentralized across Asia, the UK, and the US. For more information, please visit https://www.bing-ventures.com/. About Alchemy Pay Founded in Singapore in 2017, Alchemy Pay is a payment gateway that seamlessly connects crypto and global fiat currencies for businesses, developers, and users. The Alchemy Pay Ramp Solution is integrated, via plugin or API, with platforms and dApps, providing an easy on-ramp from fiat currency to crypto. Alchemy Pay supports payments from 173 countries - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Diners Club, Google Pay, Apple Pay, popular regional mobile wallets, and domestic transfers with a focus on emerging markets. Its off-ramping capability remits to users in 50+ local fiat currencies. ACH is the Alchemy Pay network token on Ethereum and BNB Chain. Contact Details Bing Ventures Limited Jenny Liu +86 159 2140 1005 jenny@bing-ventures.com Company Website https://www.bing-ventures.com/

July 12, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Nextech3D.ai announces company has submitted paperwork to uplist on the Nasdaq Capital Market

Nextech3D.AI

Evan Gappelberg, the CEO of Nextech3D.ai, joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share several exciting updates about the company. Firstly, he revealed that Nextech3D.ai has officially changed its name from Nextech AR Solutions to Nextech3D.ai, reflecting the company's focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration with 3D technology. Furthermore, Gappelberg announced the company's intention to list its common shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market, while maintaining its Canadian CSE listing for dual-listing. Gappelberg also informed Proactive that Nextech3D.ai has recently submitted a draft registration statement on Form F-1 to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in a confidential manner. This submission signifies the company's potential future offering of securities in the United States, further expanding its investor base and market presence. Gappelberg also shared with Proactive news about a new large enterprise customer that is part of the Wesfarmers Group, one of Australia's largest listed companies. Nextech3D.ai has renewed and expanded its contract with this customer, securing an agreement for over 1,000+ 3D models. This significant contract highlights the company's ability to deliver value to enterprise clients and further strengthens its position in the market. Contact Details Proactive Investors Canada +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

July 11, 2023 04:35 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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COMCAST COMPLETES INITIAL PHASE OF MULTI-MILLION-DOLLAR BROADBAND EXPANSION TO NEARLY 200 HOMES & BUSINESSES IN EAGLE CREEK AND ESTACADA, OREGON

Comcast Washington

Comcast today announced the company completed the initial phase of its expansion to bring its smart, fast and reliable fiber-rich network to nearly 200 homes and businesses in Eagle Creek and Estacada, Oregon including residential broadband speeds faster than 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) and businesses speeds up to 100 Gbps. Additional locations will be connected to Comcast’s network and full suite of services as construction continues through February 2024. “High-speed Internet access increases job and population growth, sparks higher rates of new business formation and home values, and lowers unemployment rates,” said Rodrigo Lopez, Senior Regional Vice President of Comcast’s Pacific Northwest Region. “That is why Comcast is committed to expanding its existing network to residents, businesses and communities in Oregon that currently do not have access to reliable, high-speed internet.” Comcast began construction in March and expects to extend its network to approximately 1,700 homes and businesses this year with the potential to add more locations next year. Once construction is complete, all of these homes will have access to to all Xfinity Internet service offerings with speeds faster than 1 Gig and advanced WiFi technology from powerful gateways capable of delivering reliable and consistent connections for real-time activities like gaming, live streaming, and video conferencing with ultra-low lag. Residents will also have access to Flex, a solution to help users search less and watch more with a voice-controlled 4K streaming TV box, putting everyone’s favorite streaming apps all in one place, the award-winning Xfinity X1 video platform, Xfinity Home, Comcast’s professionally installed home security solution, and Xfinity Mobile, a top ranked service in customer satisfaction that can save customers hundreds of dollars a year on their mobile bills. For local businesses, Comcast Business offers a suite of connectivity, cybersecurity, managed solutions and Comcast Business Mobile products designed specifically for their employee’s needs. Powered by the nation’s largest Gig-speed broadband network, and backed by 24/7 customer support, Comcast Business is the nation’s largest cable and internet provider to small and mid-size businesses and one of the leading providers to larger organizations in the Enterprise market. “The Estacada Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Comcast to our expanding community, providing residents and businesses with another option when selecting their Internet provider,” said a spokesperson for the Chamber. “This expansion, combined with Eagle Creek, makes our area an even more attractive place to work and live, especially meeting the needs of our members today and into the future for reliable and fast broadband network, which is more important than ever.” The network expansion is the latest example of Comcast’s investment to connect more households and businesses in the Pacific Northwest to its Internet services that deliver fast speeds, more reliability, broader coverage in the home, and greater capacity to support customers’ growing Internet usage. Comcast expanded service to more than 19,000 additional homes and businesses last year in Oregon. Further, the company has invested more than $534 million in technology and infrastructure investments in Oregon during the previous three years, including network expansion and upgrades. Powered by the Xfinity 10G Network Comcast’s network and Internet experience are powering homes and businesses today and into the future: Ultimate Capacity: Xfinity customers connect 1 billion devices across the company’s network annually. The Xfinity 10G Network with the next-generation Xfinity gateways deliver the most advanced WiFi technology carrying three times more bandwidth to power streaming, gaming, videoconferencing, and more, simultaneously. Fastest Internet: More than a third of Xfinity Internet customers subscribe to gigabit speed products, and symmetrical gig speeds are coming to the first homes this year. Unprecedented Coverage: The latest Xfinity Gateway provides a more reliable connection throughout the home. Customers can get wall-to-wall WiFi coverage with a powerful Xfinity WiFi Boost Pod that extends coverage to hard-to-reach areas, with plans for an offering of increased support for in-home WiFi through a “boost guarantee” later this year. Most Reliable Connection: Comcast is scaling the nation’s largest and most reliable network – the Xfinity 10G Network – that passes 60 million homes and businesses and counting. The company plans to launch a new device that is “storm ready” with cellular and battery backup to help keep customers connected even when the power goes out. Ultra-Low Latency: The Xfinity 10G Network and the latest Xfinity Gateway are a powerful combination that deliver ultra-low latency for those moments when response times matter most like video games, a fast-growing category with Xfinity households averaging more than one gaming console per home. Eagle Creek and Estacada residents also will have access to Internet Essentials, the largest and most comprehensive low-cost Internet adoption program for low-income Americans. Comcast proudly participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program, and offers Internet Essentials Plus, a $29.95/month home Internet service that is effectively free for eligible households, once the ACP credit is applied. Interested customers can visit Xfinity.com/ACP or call 1-800-Xfinity to learn more about this program and find out if they qualify. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Contact Details Comcast Andy Colley andy_colley@comcast.com Company Website https://oregon.comcast.com/

July 11, 2023 08:55 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Siyata Mobile’s “Must Have” SD7 Push-To-Talk Over Cellular (PoC) Handsets Lock In $1,400,000 In New Revenue, The Company’s Largest Order To Date

Siyata Mobile Inc.

By Jad Malaeb, Benzinga Siyata Mobile Inc. (NASDAQ: SYTA), a global vendor of Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) devices and cellular signal booster systems, is making waves in the industry with its recent developments. The company recently issued several press releases indicating that Siyata's product line may be gaining momentum, including the most recent press release from Thursday, July 6, 2023, announcing the receipt of their company’s largest SD7 purchase order of approximately $1.4 million. The SD7 handsets are approved for use by all major U.S. wireless carriers, and new orders continue to increase due to the demand for Push-to-Talk Over Cellular Handsets. In previous press releases, Siyata announced that it has received new orders during the second quarter of 2023. On June 22, 2023, Siyata announced approximately $600,000 in aggregate revenue. The orders include Siyata's SD7 Handsets and VK7 Vehicle Kits and come from customers of leading cellular carriers. Delivery of these orders is expected to take place in the second and third quarters of 2023. Marc Seelenfreund, CEO of Siyata, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "These orders are additional proof points of the sales momentum that we are building and the demand for our unique Push-to-Talk offering." He highlighted Siyata's strategy of leveraging the sales forces of major cellular carrier partners, enabling them to reach more customers across the U.S. and diversify into new markets. The announced orders will support operations in education, construction and logistics, showcasing the broad applicability of Siyata's SD7 handsets beyond the traditional emergency response market. The recent $600,000 in extra revenue is an add-on to the string of deals Siyata Mobile has been securing throughout the year. On June 1st, 2023, for example, the company received an order for $1.2 million for its UV350 In-Vehicle Devices and ‘Siyata Real Time View’ service. Four days later, on June 5th, 2023, Siyata received orders for $400,000 in aggregate revenue for its SD7 Handsets and VK7 Vehicle Kits. The combination of these press releases indicates a potentially promising trajectory for Siyata's product line. Including previous press releases, the total revenue of these press releases announcing certain sales so far in 2023 is $6.1 million – exceeding 2022’s full-year revenue figure of $6.0 million, with five months still left in the current year. Siyata's increasing presence in various industries demonstrates the growing adoption of its PoC devices and cellular booster systems. The company already serves sectors such as Public Safety, Transportation, Oil & Gas, School, Service Delivery and Waste Management, and it is actively seeking to expand into additional target markets. As the demand for efficient and reliable communication solutions continues to rise, Siyata may be well-positioned to capture a larger market share and drive further innovation in the industry. The company’s regulatory filings also indicate that its CEO Marc Seelenfreund participated in the last capital raise by purchasing 1.8 million shares. This is another indicator that the company believes that it is on the right path and insiders anticipate growth. Click here to learn more. Siyata Mobile Inc. is a B2B global vendor of next-generation Push-To-Talk over Cellular devices, cellular booster systems, and video monitoring solutions. Its portfolio of in-vehicle and rugged devices enables first responders and enterprise workers to instantly communicate, over a nationwide cellular network of choice, to increase situational awareness and save lives.Its portfolio of enterprise-grade and consumer cellular booster systems enables first responders and enterprise workers to amplify cellular signals in remote areas, inside structural buildings where signals are weak, and within vehicles for the maximum cellular signal strength possible.For its video monitoring system, Siyata integrates software that we license with off-the-shelf hardware providing our customers with an integrated advanced camera system for management and visual monitoring of their fleet vehicles. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Brett Maas +1 800-215-7015 SYTA@haydenir.com

July 11, 2023 09:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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