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Kaya Founders raises US$12 million in first close to support Philippine founders from start-up to scale-up

Kaya Founders

Kaya Founders, a Philippines-based venture capital firm, is today announcing the first close at US$12 million in funding across two new funds to back the next generation of tech-enabled, industry-shaping start-ups across Southeast Asia. The funding round was anchored by the Gokongwei family with participation from institutional investors, family offices, high-net-worth individuals, and prominent entrepreneurs. This brings the total committed capital managed by the firm to $16.5 million. Kaya Founders will be particularly focused on nurturing start-ups in its home country, the Philippines, which has been at the centre of attention for startup investing in the wider region. With a growing internet economy, a young and increasingly affluent population, a talented English-speaking population, the Philippines represents a significant opportunity. Amidst the global slowdown in VC investment activity, Southeast Asia has remained a relatively bright spot. The Philippines, in particular, is shaping up to be one of the region’s rising stars, as an emerging middle class, increasing digitization driven by growing internet penetration and smartphone usage, and new consumer and business behaviours spurred by the pandemic sustain opportunities for value creation. Funding closed by Philippine start-ups exceeded a record US$1 billion for two years in a row between 2021 and 2022, in stark contrast to the drop in funding faced by markets such as the US and Europe last year. Furthermore, in terms of dry powder, at least US$4 billion in capital has been closed by local and regional funds over the past two years. This creates an ideal environment for Kaya as an early-stage investor, providing existing and future portfolio companies with ample opportunities to raise follow-on funding. Founded in 2021 by veteran entrepreneurs and angel investors Paulo Campos (former CEO, ZALORA Philippines), Lisa Gokongwei-Cheng (President, Summit Media; Senior Vice President, JG Summit), and Constantin Robertz (CEO, Locad; former CEO, Entrego ), Kaya Founders has established itself as the leading early-stage investor in the Philippines. To date, it has 31 companies in its portfolio, spanning eCommerce, digital health, fintech, B2B SaaS, agritech, proptech, and more. Some of its most notable portfolio companies include eCommerce enabler, Etaily, salary-on-demand start-up, Advance, and MSME point of sale (POS) app, Peddlr. Managing General Partner Paulo Campos commented: “The burgeoning tech scene in the Philippines is reminiscent of previous growth narratives seen in markets such as India in the 2000s and Indonesia over the past decade. The surge in these countries’ technology sectors were propelled by a confluence of factors, including favourable demographics and supportive government policies, but arguably no other factor played a more pivotal role than the critical mass of tech talent. The same is proving to be true for the Philippines, as new breeds of founders begin to emerge. These founder profiles range from homegrown talent such as corporate executives and second generation tech talent from tech giants such as Grab, Lazada and ZALORA looking to strike it out on their own; as well as adopted Filipinos and Filipino returnees educated or trained abroad looking to make the Philippines their stronghold or make a difference in their motherland, respectively.” Over the past two years, Kaya has primarily made its mark operating in the pre-seed stage, which it will continue to do through the upcoming Zero to One Fund. As its name suggests, this pre-seed vehicle will focus on accelerating ventures as early as Day 0, partnering with founders even before they go to market. Grounded in the belief that there remain a multitude of other problems to be solved even as start-ups abound, and the mission to convince more talented individuals to throw their hats into the entrepreneurial ring, the pre-seed fund will follow a two-pronged investment approach: making high conviction bets in existing teams in search of its first institutional backer as well as generating a pipeline of high quality business ideas and scouting strong founder profiles to partner with to bring them to life. The One to Ten Fund, meanwhile, will invest in more mature opportunities ranging from Seed to Series A that show strong signs of product-market fit and a path to profitability. In addition to scouring for the best deals across the region, the larger fund will also back the top-performing companies from the Kaya Zero to One Fund—what is anticipated to be a robust source of dealflow —equipping them with the firepower to scale to new heights. Kaya Founders anticipates their investments to range from $150k to $500k. While both will remain sector-agnostic, new investment themes, in addition to the aforementioned focus sectors, include D2C eCommerce, B2B marketplaces, future of work, climate tech, and generative AI. “The Zero to One and One to Ten funds are the culmination of what each of us have individually been doing for years as some of the most active angel investors in the Philippines, and collectively over the course of the past year through our first joint investment vehicle. The early moment um we have seen with our first fund is what has given us confidence to take our partnership to the next level,” said Paulo Campos. Indeed, Campos, Gokongwei and Robertz are among the most prolific angels in the country, having been some of the earliest backers in now formidable start-ups like the Good Glamm Group, Kumu, Dali, and Edamama. Central to taking the partnership to the next level is further bolstering the leadership team. The first close announcement coincides with the appointment of Ray Alimurung, former CEO of Lazada Philippines and another notable entrepreneur-turned-angel investor, as General Partner of the Zero to One Fund. After a successful local fundraising campaign, the Kaya team will embark on a global roadshow starting this month. The firm seeks to tap foreign pools of LP capital searching for more enticing investment opportunities in emerging markets. About Kaya Founders Kaya Founders is on a mission to invest in the next generation of companies driving digital transformation in commerce and critical services in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Formed through a partnership between leading entrepreneurs and angel investors Paulo Campos III, Lisa Gokongwei-Cheng, Constantin Robertz, and Ray Alimurung, Kaya Founders is the output of their shared vision for a better Philippines and Southeast Asia—one that harnesses the power of technology to solve the most pressing problems of our time, fosters Filipino ingenuity and talent, and promotes entrepreneurship to spur economic prosperity. Kaya partners with founders from the earliest days, often writing their very first cheque and equipping them with the guidance and support they need to refine their ideas and get them off the ground. It sees its mission as threefold. As investors, Kaya is defining a new category of pre-seed, backing aspiring founders when they have little more than a vision and potential, while supporting them through the scale up phase through follow-on investments. By making the entrepreneurial journey less daunting and boosting the odds for success through the financial and operational support that Kaya offers, it hopes to establish entrepreneurship as a viable career path for the most talented individuals driven to make an impact. Lastly, for later-stage downstream investors, Kaya is an engine for dealflow, supplying them with companies ripe for investment. For further information, please visit: https://kayafounders.com/ Contact Details Kaya Founders Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://www.kayafounders.com/

June 14, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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JAMES PAUL CHEUNG LIGHTWEIGHT CASHMERE SCARVES NOW FEATURE WORKS OF ART

James Paul Cheung

Following a successful career, James Paul Cheung made the audacious decision to leave finance for fashion in 2017. For nearly a decade, he has continued the legacy begun by his mother who ran a small cashmere shop in La Jolla, California. A driving force in the industry, Cheung has created a strong following in the Hamptons, where the business is based, as well as throughout the country and the world. He is a creative thinker who is always searching for ways to elevate simple luxuries and take them to the next level. Forever a fan of the arts, Cheung got the idea to collaborate with a capsule of artists and create their work as luxurious wearable art. The idea is to celebrate art in a unique way. "Perhaps a client is an art lover who wishes to share their passion with those they meet, now they can by owning a piece of art as a wearable, inspiring lightweight, luxury cashmere scarf," says Cheung. For the 2023 spring/summer season Cheung has collaborated with two talented female artists, Carolyn Marks Blackwood and Angela Maritz. Marks Blackwood is a photographer who has spent her life looking at paintings. Her work is part of a movement known as Pictorialists, a group of photographers who created a style of photography based on painting rather than on documentation. Inspired by Color Field painters, and artists like Rothko and Newman, Blackwood focuses on images that have strong verticals or horizontals and which tend to fill the whole optical field. For Angela Maritz, her paintings are about the moments when she felt free to unleash her raw emotions through paint. These moments silenced her mind and from this state, a deeper connection to herself and her inner joy was born. Angela's intention is that her art does the same for you. Quietens your thoughts, conjures up your memories, emboldens you, inspiring purpose-filled living. Thus creating positive change in the world through art. James Paul Cheung Cashmere began as a pop-up in the Southampton salon of Kevin Maple. The demand for his light-weight cashmere was overwhelming and in 2018 he opened his own shop in Bridgehampton. Following the pandemic, Cheung joined Curated by Thuyen in East Hampton, where his designs are currently available. The luxury brand stands by ethical, sourcing and partners with suppliers that share those beliefs. Cheung embraces design, and sustainability principles that result in high-quality products that use traceable, renewable, and recycled materials, and are resilient and long-lasting. All of his scarves are 100% pure cashmere – seasonless, lightweight like a summer breeze and easy to wear. James Paul Cheung is available at 94 Newtown Lane in East Hampton and jamespaulcheung.com Contact Details James Paul Cheung Cashmere James Paul Cheung James@jamespaulcheung.com

June 13, 2023 09:37 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Minuteman Press in Nashville, TN Completes Exterior Full-Wrap Rebranding of the Iconic Grand Ole Opry House Music Venue

Minuteman Press International Inc

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Grand Ole Opry House, owned by Ryman Hospitality Partners, is one of the most legendary music venues in the USA. Thanks to Minuteman Press franchise owner John Taylor and his team at Minuteman Press in Nashville, the face of the Grand Ole Opry House now looks as good on the outside as the music sounds on the inside. What started out as a sales call and business cards order ten years ago has evolved into a trusted branding partnership between Minuteman Press in Nashville and Ryman Hospitality, and the result of that partnership includes incredible projects like this one – the full-wrap exterior rebranding of the Grand Ole Opry House. Minuteman Press in Nashville is located at 415 Spence Lane, Nashville, TN 37210. John Taylor has owned the business since January of 2014 and is a member of the President’s Club for top performers across the Minuteman Press franchise system. John shares key details on working to complete this huge project on such an iconic venue. How did the project with the Grand Ole Opry come about? John Taylor: “We acquired them as a client about ten years ago. It originated with a sales call at the original The Ryman Auditorium, in downtown Nashville. The first order was a few sets of business cards. Their parent company is Ryman Hospitality. Working inward through the marketing department at Ryman Hospitality, a relationship developed. They have a lot of printers, but we stayed in touch, cross-selling where possible. Ultimately, we set them up on an online portal ordering system for their printed collateral and admin items for their various brands. We make it a habit to deliver all prospects our "Portfolio Thumb-drive". It is branded Minuteman Press and goes to them pre-loaded with our most impressive projects in categorized folders. That led to us becoming one of their trusted branding partners, I would like to say their preferred branding partner. We've done projects from Nashville to New York City for them as they open new venues.” What specifically did you do for this project? John Taylor: “We have done multiple projects at the Grand Ole Opry House. Regarding this project: It is an extraordinary surface, in that it is stamped concrete. It is made to look like a ‘rough-cut cedar’ wooden surface, with deep woodgrain and over a half-inch depth difference between the faux planks. There are two installation processes in this type of project. One is to install and register the panels together (58" wide panels). The second process is to heat and press the vinyl into the grain and contours with a heat gun/torch and foam hand roller, roughly 4" at a time. We measured, scaled and templated the whole project. We printed the vinyl on an HP 360 Latex printer, then laminated the vinyl on a GBC roll laminator (3M IJ-480 Vinyl with 3M 8520 Matte Overlaminate). We used our 55' boom truck and a rented 45' boom lift to install. The first team and truck would hang and register the vinyl. The second lift would have a heat gun, a torch, and roller to get into the grain, and a single installer with very tired arms. We blocked off an area to work every morning so tours could still safely operate every 30-60 minutes. We installed in close coordination with the security team every day and evening to avoid periodic live shows in the evenings altogether." What was the timetable / what did it take to complete the project? John Taylor: “The exterior, as all large branding projects do, began with an intense set of measurements and a write-up of all inclusions and challenges with the surface(s). We then created an Illustrator template for their art department, advising best practices and highlighting any areas to which they should pay special attention during design. The timetable was roughly 7 weeks, synopsized below: We surveyed the first week and provided them a template for artwork technicals and construction. It took them 2-3 weeks to develop art, get the individual artists' approvals, and the necessary internal management approvals. We removed the old banners and aluminum hardware, as well as prepped/cleaned the building during that period. I asked for 7-10 days to produce the vinyl. It took about a week to print, laminate and cut. We should have been able to install it in roughly one week with a crew of three. It ended up taking two weeks since the Grand Ole Opry has shows every couple of days, which limited our time (we had to be packed up and out of the way by 3 pm). The weather was also a factor." TIME LAPSE VIDEO: Full-wrap rebranding of the face of the Grand Ole Opry House – Spring 2023 – Minuteman Press, Nashville: How happy are you with the completed project? What has been the feedback you’ve received? John Taylor: “I'm extremely happy with it. I really am humbled and honored to be given the opportunity. Now, for the less-than-humble perspective; it was an intense scope of work... and we got the job done! We've had only positive feedback about this installation and people are loving the new face of the Grand Ole Opry House. My favorite reaction was from a security guard that said, ‘I haven't seen this many people stop and have their pictures taken in front of the building in years and years!’. He's been there over 15 years, so that was so gratifying to hear him say that.” John concludes, “To have our hard work appreciated, especially on such a large-scale project, it’s just a great feeling of accomplishment.” For Minuteman Press products and services and to find your local Minuteman Press, visit https://minuteman.com. Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

June 12, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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LaBomme Beauty Is a Bold New Beauty Brand, Whatever the F*#k that Means, Launching at Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie

LaBomme Beauty

With a desire to spread her enthusiasm for beauty, makeup, and self-expression everywhere, Brandie LaBomme is bringing a spark of kickass fun back to the beauty industry with her new makeup brand, LaBomme Beauty. The highly pigmented line of artistic products was created to empower users to define their own beauty while refusing to succumb to traditional beauty standards and roles. This new line of carefully curated matte lipsticks, liquid and powder highlighters plus the world's first 360-degree eye liner, Angle Baby, is launching at Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie. Brandie created LaBomme Beauty to provide beauty lovers with innovative, high-performance products that empower them to look however they want. LaBomme Beauty’s highly pigmented, solution-oriented products cater to and empower all ages, races, sexes, and genders to experiment with makeup and discover or reclaim their self-expression. Developed with cutting edge formulations and inclusive, solution-oriented packaging, LaBomme Beauty launch collection includes four makeup products inspired by Brandie’s favorites: liquid liner, liquid lipstick and shimmering highlighter, with a price point ranging between $20 - $32. LaBomme Beauty’s innovative Angle Baby packaging enables people with differently abled bodies apply makeup more seamlessly and the La Bomb Highlighter packaging which features a unique resealable pan prevents typical product fallout and minimizes any mess at your makeup vanity. “ LaBomme Beauty exists to allow consumers to reimagine and redefine their beauty, “explains Founder Brandie LaBomme. “We are a new beauty brand, in a crowded space where we still feel like our message is fresh and we have something new to say. We can’t define beauty so we don’t try to. For too long the beauty industry perpetuated the impossible. It made us compare ourselves to the artificial, ultra-beautiful and then told us that anything different was inferior. The truth is beauty comes in all forms, shapes sizes and expressions, LaBomme exists to help people discover, appreciate, and celebrate theirs,” shares LaBomme Founder Brandie LaBomme. Angle Baby ($20): The first eyeliner pen that rotates 360 degrees and flexes at every angle. Eyeliner innovation at its best, makes this flow-through eyeliner much easier to apply than the traditional liquid liner pen. The 360-degree rotation at the tip of the pen allows for a perfectly comfortable application angle, fully customizable for the end user, helping prevent wrist strain. Designed to apply effortlessly around eyelash extensions, Angle Baby’s innovative flexible pen also enables beauty lovers with different levels of mobility to comfortably create a neatly lined siren-eye. Madame Matte Liquid Lipstick ($20): Ultra smooth and incredibly light-weight, Madame Matte is the f*$#ing ultimate liquid lipstick. Its pillow-soft mousse formula is infused with shea butter, lending moisture and ultra-comfortable wear to the high-impact matte lip colors, thus keeping the lips simultaneously richly-pigmented and nourished – aka kissable AF. Madame Matte is available in eight, longwearing shades with colors ranging across sexy nudes, demure pinks, alluring reds, and striking purples. Buildable payoff and unique, soft touch packaging make it fun to blend, play and slay all day. Flare Liquid Highlighter ($22): This long-lasting liquid highlighter illuminates the corners of your eyes, lips and cheekbones for a flame-like flare, creating a glow even the sun would envy. Designed with easy-to-open flared packaging, this shimmering, serum-y highlight is ideal for brow bones, cheek bones, décolletage or cupids bow. Additionally, Flare Liquid Highlighter can also be used as a luminous wash of blush or eyeshadow. The Flare Liquid Highlighter is available in two glimmering shades, Starburst and Limelight. La Bomb Highlighter ($32): Rethink loose powder packaging with LaBomb Highlighter, a light-catching pearl powder highlighter that captures all the attention in the room. Designed to dispense a precise amount of finely milled powder, giving the user total control and allowing you to easily sift the excess back into the jar. Its mess-free, resealable pan prevents product waste and unwanted spills in your make-up bag. The LaBomb Highlighter is available in three eye-catching shades, Honey Quartz, Gold Nugget and Pinky Promise. LaBomme Beauty is available at www.labomme.co and www.urbanoutfitters.com and will soon be available at Anthropologie.com. For all media inquiries, please contact: labommebeauty@firstandlastpr.com Contact Details First and Last PR Carissa Christy +1 201-569-2080 carissa@firstandlastpr.com

June 12, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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SIGMA Announces 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art – the World’s First 14mm F1.4 Lens – Designed Especially for Astrophotography

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens. This is the world's widest F1.4 single focal length lens *, born from our engineers' passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky images possible. Designed specifically for astrophotography, the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens is a full-frame, ultra wide-angle prime designed exclusively for mirrorless camera systems, and is available in Sony E-mount and Leica L-Mount. This lens offers a full set of features designed for astrophotography including a removable tripod socket, MFL switch (Manual Focus Lock function), lens heater retainer, rear filter holder, and a specially-designed front cap including a NEW locking mechanism and NEW filter storage slots. All this, plus thorough aberration correction make this possibly the best lens ever made for astrophotography. Its ultra-wide 14mm angle of view that captures wide starry skies and bright F1.4 aperture that minimizes exposure time are ideal specifications for astrophotography. Incredibly sharp from corner to corner with splash and dust-resistant construction, this lens retains the same high performance and quality standards found within the SIGMA F1.4 Art lens lineup. The astrophotography-focused feature set and total optical performance make this an excellent lens for high-end architecture, real estate, and landscape photography as well. The lens will retail for $1,599 through authorized US retailers and will be available in late June 2023. * Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA) Learn more about the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens: https://www.sigmaphoto.com/14mm-f1-4-dg-dn-a #SIGMA #SIGMA14mmF14Art #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtPrime #SIGMADGDN Exclusively designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras A | Art SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN New vision. Expanding possibilities. Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography Signature Art line features and high build quality Supplied accessories: Case, COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01, REAR CAP LCR II, TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141, PROTECTIVE COVER PT-41, GUIDE PLATE GP-11 Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount * The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change. * This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation. * L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG. The world's first and only* lens that combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4. All for the best starscape photography. The stars in the sky are a source of inspiration for viewers. On the other hand, the starry sky is a very demanding subject for a wide-angle lens, with its numerous tiny point light sources spread over the entire image. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is the world's widest F1.4 single focal length lens*, born from our engineers' passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky possible. Thanks to SIGMA's latest technology, the lens combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4. In addition, SIGMA's lens technology has achieved high optical performance with thorough correction of sagittal coma flare, specialized functions to support starry landscape photography, and high-speed AF with the HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) linear motor. The Milky Way stretching across the night sky, twinkling stars emerging over ridgelines ― the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can make this a reality as an image that surpasses the actual photographic experience. Its proven ability in shooting starscapes will provide new possibilities for visual expression and enjoyment in all scenes, including daytime landscapes, architecture, and indoor photography in dark and confined spaces. * Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA). [ Key Features ] 1. Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance This world-first performance was achieved by applying the best of SIGMA's optical technologies, from the design to the lens manufacturing process. 19 elements in 15 groups, including 1 SLD glass element, 3 FLD glass elements, and 4 aspherical lens elements, make up a luxurious lens configuration. This allows for advanced aberration correction and a high degree of precision in the lens construction. This allows both advanced aberration correction and F1.4 brightness. In particular, sagittal coma flare, which distorts the shape of stars, has been carefully corrected, and even at the widest aperture, the lens delivers high image reproducibility right to the periphery of the image. Ghosting and flare are also thoroughly addressed through both optical design and coatings. This allows for clear, crisp shooting of starry sky and night scenes. Optimized for starscapes, which require extremely high performance, this lens delivers images that exceed expectations in any scene, including landscapes, architecture snapshots, portraits, and indoor photography. 2. Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is equipped with a wealth of features to support starscape photography. This fully backs up the fun of starscape photography. Tripod Socket Includes a detachable tripod mount compatible with Arca-Swiss type. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can be mounted on a tripod in a more stable condition, as it is heavier on the front side. The shape is designed to prevent interference even when using the lens heater. MFL (Manual Focus Lock) Switch A switch to lock the manual focus at a desired position. Prevents focus shift caused by unintentional operation of the focus ring. This is useful for long time exposure photography, etc., where the focus is fixed. Lens Heater Retainer Steps around the front and lens heater retainers prevent the lens heater* from protruding into the front of the lens and causing vignetting on the periphery of the screen. * A belt-shaped heater that is wrapped around the lens to prevent condensation from forming inside the lens when the temperature drops. Rear Filter Holder A rear filter holder is provided as standard equipment at the lens mount for attaching a sheet-type rear filter. A lock mechanism is also provided to prevent the filter from falling out. Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slots Includes a cover-type front cap with locking mechanism. It also has a newly developed filter slot that can hold two rear filters depending on the application. The cap is specially designed for the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art to protect the sheet filters from scratches and dirt while ensuring that they are not mistakenly taken out or forgotten. 3. Signature Art line features and high build quality In addition to functions specifically designed for shooting starscapes, the lens is equipped with various functions to assist in shooting, including an AFL button to which any function can be assigned and an aperture ring. The body is dust and splash resistant, and the frontmost surface of the lens is coated with a water- and stain-repellent coating, so you can shoot outdoors in harsh environments with peace of mind. The HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) enables high-speed, quiet, and highly accurate autofocusing. In order to maintain performance while supporting a lens with a large aperture, the lens has a robust internal structure and uses lightweight materials such as polycarbonate TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which has a thermal shrinkage rate equivalent to that of aluminum, and magnesium in appropriate locations to reduce weight while ensuring robustness. The lens body is built with the high build quality of the Art line specifications, allowing the user to fully enjoy the unique performance of the lens in any environment, including shooting starscapes. [ Additional Features ] Lens construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (3 FLD,1 SLD, and 4 aspherical elements) Inner focus system Compatible with high-speed autofocus HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections and auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model. On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with 'ON' or 'OFF' in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to 'ON' (AUTO). Supports DMF and AF+MF Compatible with AF assist (Sony E-mount only) Super Multi-Layer Coating Water and Oil Repellent Coating (front element) Aperture ring Aperture ring click switch Aperture ring lock switch AFL button MFL switch Rear Filter Holder (compatible with GUIDE PLATE GP-11) Lens Heater Retainer Focus Mode Switch Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only) Dust and Splash Resistant Structure TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141 supplied Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slot: COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01 (NEW) Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only) Designed to minimize flare and ghosting Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system 11-blade rounded diaphragm High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount "Made in Japan" craftsmanship Learn more about SIGMA's craftsmanship here: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/about/craftsmanship/ [ Key Specifications ] The figures below are for the L-Mount version: [ Product Barcode ] [ Accessories: Supplied ] [ Accessories: Optional ] [ Contact ] For further information, please contact your local authorized SIGMA Service Station listed here: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/world-network/ [ Information ] SIGMA Corporation: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/ Product information: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/lenses/a023_14_14/ [ About SIGMA Corporation ] Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA Cine lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA Cine lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production. Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with over 30 award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA's continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA's renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease. For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog for helpful information about our products. Follow SIGMA America (Photo): Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Follow SIGMA Ameica (Cine): Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Contact Details SIGMA Jack Howard +1 631-201-7381 SIGMA.PR@Sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigma-global.com/en/

June 08, 2023 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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The Path to Full Transparency in Silver Production: The Launch of trueSilver by SMX (NASDAQ: SMX)

Security Matters PLC

Navigating the glittering labyrinth of the global silver market is no easy task. Beyond the glistening façade lie significant concerns relating to data reliability, counterfeit products, market manipulation, and the imbalance between paper and physical silver. These issues not only distort the market's clear reflection but can also pose real financial risks to investors and traders. In an era where trust is as valuable as the precious metal itself, understanding the veiled challenges of transparency and authenticity becomes paramount. This article illuminates the intricate maze, shedding light on these concerns, their implications, and how one company, SMX (NASDAQ: SMX) is taking the critical steps needed to ensure a more transparent and genuine global silver market. Authenticity, Traceability, and Transparency Issues Currently Plaguing the Global Silver Market There are several key issues related to the transparency and authenticity of the global silver market. One of the main concerns is the reliability of data regarding silver production, supply, and demand. Since silver is often mined as a byproduct of other metals like gold, copper, and zinc, accurate tracking of silver production can be challenging. Furthermore, the lack of standardized reporting practices among mining companies and nations adds another layer of complexity. This lack of reliable data makes it difficult to gauge the true state of the global silver market, which can lead to price volatility and speculation. Another issue is the authenticity of silver itself. The rise of counterfeit silver products, especially bars, and coins, has become a significant problem in recent years. These fake products are often so well-made that they can fool even experienced investors and collectors. The issue of counterfeit silver not only undermines the trust in the physical silver market but also poses financial risks to unsuspecting buyers. The lack of transparency in the over-the-counter (OTC) commodity markets is another significant concern. Unlike exchanges that have clear rules and oversight, OTC commodity markets are less regulated, making it difficult to monitor trades and transactions. This lack of oversight can lead to manipulation, which has been a long-standing concern in the silver market. Cases of market manipulation can distort prices, making it difficult for investors and traders to make informed decisions. Furthermore, there's a concern over the discrepancy between paper silver and physical silver. Many investors trade in silver futures contracts, which represent a promise to deliver silver in the future. However, the amount of these contracts often far exceeds the actual physical silver available for delivery. This disparity can lead to a lack of confidence in the paper silver market, as investors question whether the contracts can indeed be fulfilled if a large number of holders demand delivery at the same time. Addressing these issues will require concerted efforts from regulatory bodies, industry participants, and investors. Standardized reporting practices, rigorous authenticity checks, increased oversight of OTC commodity markets, and better alignment between paper and physical silver are some of the measures that can enhance the transparency and authenticity of the global silver market. SMX Launches New Platform, trueSilver, to Combat Silver Traceability Issues Security Matters (SMX) plc is at the forefront of establishing a new paradigm in the silver industry with the creation of a unique technology platform named trueSilver. This initiative is in response to a growing global demand for enhanced traceability and transparency in the sourcing and recycling of silver, a precious metal integral to numerous industries, from electronics to jewelry. Following the successful filing of patents related to gold, aluminum, steel, and cobalt in 2023, SMX is now focusing on silver. The decision comes because silver is seldom found in its pure form, with at least 80% of global silver production emerging as a by-product of mining for other metals, such as gold, copper, lead, and zinc. SMX's decision to create trueSilver reflects an understanding of the ever-increasing demand for silver. In the " World Silver Survey 2022 " released by Metals Focus and The Silver Institute, the total silver supply, which includes mine production, recycling, net hedging supply, and net official sector sales, was projected to reach 1,030.0 million ounces in 2022, an increase from 997.2 million ounces in 2021. Correspondingly, the total demand for silver was estimated to rise to 1,101.8 million ounces in 2022, up from 1,049.0 million ounces in 2021. Innovatively, trueSilver technology 'marks' silver invisibly with a durable marker, allowing for a comprehensive, transparent record of the metal's journey from mine to market, and subsequently to recycle and reuse. This breakthrough approach ensures an ethical silver supply chain, providing an irrefutable mechanism for authenticating the origination of silver and enabling credible Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting in real-time. SMX's collaboration with Sunshine Minting Inc., is a testament to the industry's readiness for embracing change. An exclusive agreement for 120 days has been reached to create a path to full transparency and traceability for silver products and establish an industry standard. This move demonstrates a proactive response to the increasing demand for transparency and ethically sourced materials and a desire to meet ESG compliance requirements. Sunshine Minting Inc., expressed their enthusiasm, stating, "As we see the demand for transparency in the pursuit of ethically sourced materials escalating, along with the requirements for ESG compliance, we are very excited to work with the team at SMX to help develop trueSilver as an industry-wide solution." Echoing this sentiment, SMX emphasized its optimism about the partnership, declaring: "We are extremely honored and looking forward to the new relationship with Sunshine Minting. With this cooperation, we look forward to trueSilver becoming the leading player in the silver industry on ESG IMPACT and setting new standards, including proving recycled silver content." Overall, SMX's trueSilver initiative is a powerful tool in the fight for better traceability and transparency in the silver industry. By adopting innovative technologies and collaborating with leading players in the field, SMX is paving the way for sustainable silver production, consumption, and recycling, aligning with broader efforts to build a more sustainable world. Conclusion In conclusion, the silver industry faces pressing issues related to data reliability, authenticity, transparency, and the alignment of paper and physical silver. These challenges, complex and interconnected, require comprehensive and innovative solutions to ensure a safer, more trustworthy global silver market. SMX, through the launch of its trueSilver platform, has established itself as a game-changer in the field. The platform's groundbreaking technology that 'marks' silver, coupled with its exclusive partnership with Sunshine Minting, embodies a concerted effort to tackle these problems head-on, elevating industry standards. By prioritizing ethical sourcing, traceability, and ESG compliance, trueSilver not only safeguards investor interests but also paves the way for more sustainable practices in silver production, consumption, and recycling, aligning with the broader global aspiration of building a more sustainable future. The launch of trueSilver by SMX is a promising stride towards full transparency in silver production, one that has potential ripple effects across industries and markets. Check Out SMX’s Upcoming Interview on a New to the Street Segment Tonight, Thursday, June 8 th at 9:30 pm PST on Bloomberg TV as Sponsored Programming and on Saturday, June 10 th at 3:30 pm EST Syndicated on Newsmax Nationwide Disclaimer: Spotlight Growth is compensated, either directly or via a third party, to provide investor relations services for its clients. Spotlight Growth creates exposure for companies through a customized marketing strategy, including design of promotional material, the drafting and editing of press releases and media placement. All information on featured companies is provided by the companies profiled, or is available from public sources. Spotlight Growth and its employees are not a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker Dealer or a member of any association for other research providers in any jurisdiction whatsoever and we are not qualified to give financial advice. The information contained herein is based on external sources that Spotlight Growth believes to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. Spotlight Growth may create reports and content that has been compensated by a company or third-parties, or for purposes of self-marketing. Spotlight Growth was compensated seven hundred and fifty dollars cash by a third party, Vince Caruso and FMW Media Works Corp. for the creation and dissemination of this content. This material does not represent a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Certain statements contained herein constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may include, without limitation, statements with respect to the Company’s plans and objectives, projections, expectations and intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the Company’s industry, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by management. The above communication, the attachments and external Internet links provided are intended for informational purposes only and are not to be interpreted by the recipient as a solicitation to participate in securities offerings. Investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors and may not be permissible in certain jurisdictions. Spotlight Growth and its affiliates, officers, directors, and employees may have bought or sold or may buy or sell shares in the companies discussed herein, which may be acquired prior, during or after the publication of these marketing materials. Spotlight Growth, its affiliates, officers, directors, and employees may sell the stock of said companies at any time and may profit in the event those shares rise in value. For more information on our disclosures, please visit: https://spotlightgrowth.com/disclosures/ The Post " The Path to Full Transparency in Silver Production: The Launch of trueSilver by SMX (NASDAQ: SMX) " First Appeared On Spotlight Growth. Contact Details SMX Spotlight Growth info@spotlightgrowth.com

June 08, 2023 05:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

WRINKLES SCHMINKLES IS RECYCLING THE ‘UNRECYCLABLE’!

Wrinkles Schminkles

Wrinkles Schminkles, the pioneer of the reusable Wrinkle Patch is now zero-waste through the innovative creation of the world’s first silicone patch recycling program, which launched in June in partnership with TerraCycle®, the global leader in innovative sustainability solutions. Now, brand fans can recycle their Wrinkles Schminkles sustainable skincare in three simple steps fully funded by the brand. Using a free, pre-paid shipping label, customers can send used products and packaging complimentary to a TerraCycle® warehouse where it is sorted, cleaned and transformed into something new. Wrinkles Schminkles started with a single product to provide a solution to wrinkle and line-refinement on the chest (thanks side-sleeping!). This year, the brand has a a lot to celebrate including their 10 th anniversary, TikTok virality, international recognition as a leader in non-invasive Skincare That Sticks ™, and now the ultimate gift of being zero waste! Founder Gabrielle Requena is delighted to have achieved this hard-fought milestone in sustainability after many years of being told that it simply was not possible to recycle silicone patches. “Since going viral on TikTok and significantly growing, at the very top of our brand’s to-do list has been finding a way to recycle a historically classed ‘non-recyclable’ category recyclable. Even my manufacturer insisted it wasn’t possible. I’m a big believer that aesthetics and ethics can go hand in hand. By pioneering the first silicone patch recycling program through TerraCycle ®, we are proud to offer our customers this simple and free option to ensure we keep our products and packaging out of landfills and contribute to our planet and people, like any future-focused brand.” TerraCycle® Founder and CEO Tom Szaky is excited to see that brands who gone viral on TikTok are stepping up to position a commitment to the planet at the front and center of their business. "For brands that are looking to meet the rising demand from consumers for sustainable practices, it is important to think consciously about end-of-life solutions for their products and packaging. With the launch of this innovative recycling program, Wrinkles Schminkles is demonstrating how brands can sustain success on social media without putting engagement ahead of the environment." To further prove what they promise, Wrinkles Schminkles has partnered with Provenance, the global leader in sustainable marketing technology that verifies all sustainability claims the brand makes. Look for the ‘proof points’ on each product page or read through the Wrinkles Schminkles sustainability profile on the Provenance website at provenenace.org. You won’t find any greenwashing here, just sustainable, zero waste Skincare That Sticks™. ABOUT WRINKLES SCHMINKLES Wrinkles Schminkles is a judgement-free zone; We’re here if you want affordable, non-invasive treatments for fresher-looking skin, targeted line-refining and Skincare That Sticks™. Fuelled by one woman’s personal mission almost a decade ago to correct the unwanted effects of side- sleeping and sun damage on her skin, the Australian-owned brand has since become the most trusted name in silicone patches. Thre brand has received global notoriety on TikTok and gone viral with one video fetching over 58M views and counting. The Forehead Patch completely sold out from its TikTok popularity and today, one sells every 60 seconds.” Manufactured in one of only two FDA-approved facilities in the USA and backed by extensive clinical testing*, Wrinkles Schminkles’ noninvasive, reusable patches are made of 100% Medical-Grade Silicone. They are suitable for all types of skin, ages and life stages. Proven to refine skin texture in a matter of hours, the high-performance patches also visibly improve the appearance of all kinds of unwanted crinkles (think: crow’s feet, lines around the mouth and on the forehead, chest and hand wrinkles and tech neck). With a fun name and products backed by science, Wrinkles Schminkles offers a complete range of skin-refining treatments and continues to win the trust and support of a loyal community of customers, skinfluencers, doctors and dermatologists all over the world. Skincare brand Wrinkles Schminkles. www.wrinklesschminkles.com *An independent testing of 92 women using Wrinkles Schminkles patches over a four-week period. About TerraCycle® TerraCycle® is an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse. Across 21 countries, TerraCycle® is on a mission to rethink waste and develop practical solutions for today’s complex waste challenges. The company engages an expansive multi-stakeholder community across a wide range of accessible programs, from Fortune 500 companies to schools and individuals. To learn more about TerraCycle and join them on their journey to move the world from a linear economy to a circular one, please visit www.terracycle.com Contact Details Wrinkles Schminkles Kim Farrington kim@farringtonpr.com Company Website https://wrinklesschminkles.com/

June 07, 2023 12:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

French-Inspired Body Care Brand ABI AMÉ Launches With Hero Product Summer Skin

ABI AMÉ

ABI AMÉ, a new clean body care brand from France, launched today with its mission to elevate the way women take care of the skin on their body from the neck down. Jordanian-Palestinian Founder and CEO Yasmin Zeinab created ABI AMÉ after recognizing the gap in the quality of products available for the face compared to the body. With community at the forefront of ABI AMÉ’s core values, as part of creating the brand, Zeinab spoke to 1,000 women from across the world. Through these conversations, she learned about a myriad of unaddressed needs and pain points in the body care space and set out to solve them. Pushing the boundaries of traditional body care, ABI AMÉ creates problem-solving products powered by active ingredients that deliver visible, lasting improvements. “The reality is that when it comes to skincare, our face gets all the attention,” said Yasmin Zeinab, founder of ABI AMÉ. “We believe in adopting a skincare mentality for the whole body. There’s a whole suite of pain points in the body care space that hasn’t been addressed by existing products. That’s why we set out to create high-performing skincare products for the body using the same nourishing and effective ingredients typically found only in products for the face, that solve specific problems we know our community experience.” ABI AMÉ is launching with its hero product, Summer Skin, designed to solve a problem their community told them about: the heaviness and sticky residue that traditional lotions leave on the skin in the summer. A lightweight, high-hydration, serum-lotion hybrid that combines four active ingredients, Saccharide Isomerate, Oat Extract, Niacinamide, and Vitamin B5, Summer Skin’s vitamin-rich formula hydrates the skin like a rich nourishing lotion but feels like a barely there serum. Designed to replace traditional body lotions and creams during the warmer months, Summer Skin is a fast-absorbing formula that leaves no sticky residue while still providing the skin with moisture and hydration. “Everything we do starts with our community – we call them our AMIES (the French word for friends) – and that’s because that’s what being part of our community feels like, it’s akin to being part of a friendship group,” said Zeinab. “We are in daily conversation with them, learning about their needs and pain points. We make the products they tell us they need, rather than using them as a sounding board or testing group to validate our product ideas. Our product development philosophy is simple: it starts by listening to our AMIES.” All ABI AMÉ products are made in France, a country globally recognized as a leader in cosmetics and skincare, and undergo strict safety and stability testing per EU regulations, giving the brand an edge in the U.S. market. “We started ABI AMÉ by speaking to 1,000 women about body care and listening to their needs," said Zeinab. "Each year, we’ll speak to over 1,000 women as part of our commitment to this ongoing dialogue with our community, our AMIES. Everything we do starts with them and that’s the way it will always be at ABI AMÉ.” Summer Skin is now available to purchase exclusively at www.abi-ame.com. Hi-res images, interviews, and media samples are available upon request. Contact Details Six One Agency Camryn Carlson +1 818-748-7444 camryn@six-one.com

June 06, 2023 08:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

D.I.MAR Makes Waves with Supply Chain Digital Transformation, Powered by ToolsGroup Automation

ToolsGroup

ToolsGroup, a global leader in retail and supply chain planning and optimization software, is thrilled to announce it has been selected by D.I.MAR, an Italian leader in the frozen food industry, to heighten its supply chain performance, bolster supplier relationships, and drive enhanced business results. D.I.MAR produces, distributes, and sells frozen seafood and fish products. It is renowned in both the domestic and international markets for its quality and freshness, selling its products both directly and via an extensive network of franchises. It supplies various channels, including retail, supermarkets, wholesale, and HORECA, and it manages a substantial number of suppliers worldwide. “D.I.MAR holds itself to the highest standard when it comes to the quality of our products,” said Alessandro Evandri, Supply Chain Manager. “We want every node of our supply chain – from upstream suppliers to downstream franchisers – to be just as customer-focused. ToolsGroup provides the solution we need to make faster, more accurate decisions that deliver the best consumer experience, while achieving our business metrics and strengthening relationships network-wide. We’re excited to transform our business while continuing to provide customers with the best products the sea has to offer.” After a rigorous selection process, D.I.MAR chose ToolsGroup Service Optimizer 99+ (SO99+) to drive its digital transformation. With Demand Planning & Forecasting, Inventory Optimization, and Replenishment, the company is now equipped with an automated, AI-driven supply chain. Aided by ToolsGroup’s built-in probabilistic forecasting, D.I.MAR can anticipate market changes and adapt quickly to satisfy customer demand regardless of uncertainty. “Artificial intelligence is the guide that steers resilient, profitable, and customer-centric supply chains, even amid rapid market changes,” said ToolsGroup CEO, Inna Kuznetsova. “By applying automation and AI to complex networks, we help organizations navigate uncertainty with confidence and success. We’re delighted to partner with D.I.MAR and, together, implement the technology and strategies that will catalyze their supply chain evolution and help their business thrive.” Learn more about how probabilistic forecasting outperforms traditional methods and yields significant business benefits here. About D.I.MAR D.I.MAR is an Italian company leader in the industry of production, distribution, and sales of frozen seafood products and frozen fish products. The company develops and produces a very articulated typology of fish and seafood products specifically acknowledged in the national and international market for the quality, freshness, and delicacy as well as for the strict compliance with all the best applicable rules governing their traceability, preservation, and use. 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 ESG 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

June 06, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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WRINKLES SCHMINKLES IS RECYCLING THE ‘UNRECYCLABLE’!

French-Inspired Body Care Brand ABI AMÉ Launches With Hero Product Summer Skin

D.I.MAR Makes Waves with Supply Chain Digital Transformation, Powered by ToolsGroup Automation