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Brand Engagement Network Partners With Valio Technologies To Support Mental Health Efforts With AI

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga South African youth are facing various mental health challenges. Some 73% of children and young people in South Africa indicated in a UNICEF poll that they needed mental health help, with 38% actively looking for it. Educational outcomes, a need for work skills, training and employment opportunities were the main topics causing stress and anxiety among 57% of respondents. While resolving mental health issues is complex, promising technologies and the companies behind them can contribute innovative remedies. Not everyone in South Africa has access to mental healthcare, but 92% of households do have access to a cell phone. Leveraging AI For Mental Health Hence, Brand Engagement Network Inc. (NASDAQ: BNAI), the maker of artificial intelligence (AI) assistants and avatars and Valio Technologies Pty Ltd., the operator of a digital platform network for patients, doctors, pharmacies, radiology, pathology and hospitals, have teamed up to increase access to mental health care in South Africa. The two recently entered into an agreement to develop healthcare AI assistants focused on providing mental health support for students attending several universities in the country, including Tshwane University of Technology, the University of Pretoria and the University of Johannesburg. All told, the AI assistants will be available to more than 315,000 college students. The goal is to promote better student mental health through avatars and assistants that can handle the appropriate conversation flow regarding mental health. Brand Engagement Network ( BEN ) is ideally suited for the role. The company is making a name for itself in the AI assistant market thanks to its human-like avatars that the company says drive better customer experience, increased automation and operational efficiencies. BEN uses much smaller data parameters than larger models like ChatGPT, enabling it to offer companies AI that is scalable and can be tailored to specific use cases. At the heart of its business model is a security-first approach. Unlike many of the unsecured AI systems that train with unknown data and have math limitations, BEN trains on client-provided data, uses mixed technology for precise math and follows clients’ internal client data management and privacy protocols. It’s also HIPAA and SOC 2 compliant. Under the partnership, BEN will ingest mental health content provided by Valio and Tshwane University of Technology. That content will be supplemented with other sources for a more rounded conversational experience. The idea is to create human-like avatars that can act like digital therapists, providing advice to help students manage stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, substance abuse and many other mental health issues. If the proof of concepts with the universities are successful, BEN and Valio will work with the universities to negotiate a platform services and license agreement. Accessing New Markets This partnership is a big deal for BEN and marks its first foray into the education and mental health markets, not to mention Africa. It also showcases what BEN is good at, creating responsible AI systems that have a positive impact on society. AI is often perceived negatively due to concerns about privacy, security, and transparency, yet it also holds significant potential for benefiting humanity. BEN is already demonstrating that in the healthcare market, by rolling out conversational AI that it says can improve patient experiences and medication understanding, leading to better outcomes. Its Remember Me technology syncs digital and physical interactions for an integrated, personalized customer experience, while Skye, BEN’s AI chatbot, assists patients when taking Metformin, the diabetes drug. The chatbot doesn’t claim to know everything nor does it hallucinate, which occurs when chatbots give incorrect answers. This is because Skye is loaded with very specific pharmaceutical data provided by the drug maker, as well as results from clinical trials and data from accredited medical groups like the American Diabetes Association. When a patient asks a question, Skye is drawing from a carefully selected data set which prevents it from hallucinating or interjecting bias into answers. The same approach is being applied to the mental health avatars. According to a recent study, South Africans suffer higher rates of probable depression and anxiety than other wealthier countries. BEN and Valio want to change that and are betting AI can provide a big assist. If its proof-of-concept AI assistants prove successful in helping students, it showcases what AI can do when unleashed for good rather than bad. Featured photo by Eye for Ebony on Unsplash Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

June 28, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Catalyst Marketing Agency named 2024 Colorado Companies to Watch winner

Catalyst Marketing Agency

Catalyst Marketing Agency has been selected as one of the prestigious winners of the 2024 Colorado Companies to Watch award. This statewide recognition celebrates Catalyst’s exceptional growth, innovation, and contribution to Colorado's economic landscape. Colorado Companies to Watch is a distinguished statewide awards program dedicated to honoring companies that are instrumental in fueling the economic vitality of the state. These winners represent Colorado's most innovative, visionary, and impactful second-stage entrepreneurs, actively expanding their businesses and enriching their networks. Being named a Colorado Companies to Watch winner signifies Catalyst's position as one of Colorado's most dynamic and promising businesses. "We are incredibly honored to be recognized as a 2024 Colorado Companies to Watch winner," said Catalyst’s CMGO, Robin Emiliani. "This award is a testament to our entire team's hard work, dedication, and innovation. We are proud to contribute to Colorado's vibrant business community and look forward to continuing our growth and impact in the years to come." As a Colorado Companies to Watch Award winner, Catalyst Marketing Agency joins an elite group of innovative entrepreneurs who are actively growing their businesses and expanding their networks. Through its strategic approach, creative solutions, and unwavering commitment to client success, Catalyst has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses seeking to elevate their brand presence and drive tangible results. This recognition highlights Catalyst’s achievements and underscores its potential for continued success and leadership in Colorado and beyond. Catalyst was officially honored at the 2024 Colorado Companies to Watch Awards Gala, where Robin and Gem (co-founders) had the opportunity to connect with other winners, industry leaders, and Colorado's business community supporters. The award reaffirms Catalyst’s position as a dynamic force in Colorado’s business landscape and sets the stage for even greater achievements in the future. For more information about Catalyst and its award-winning services/products, please visit https://catalystmarketing.io/. About Catalyst Catalyst is an award-winning creative marketing agency that positions you to think differently and reach your audiences in unique ways. We exist to jolt your creativity—giving you the strategy and unexpected creative direction your business needs to capture your customers’ attention. Based in Denver, our team knows how to develop strong marketing strategies and bring unignorable creative concepts to life. Contact Details Catalyst Marketing Agency Robin Emiliani +1 303-842-1189 robin@catalystmarketing.io Company Website https://catalystmarketing.io/

June 27, 2024 09:09 AM Mountain Daylight Time

What's Trending Now - Summer Must-Haves

News Media Group, Inc.

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

June 27, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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FeedSpot Recognizes Take Pride in Retirement Podcast as a Leading LGBTQ+ Voice for Pride Month 2024

Retirement.Radio

Retirement.Radio, a premier network dedicated to providing essential retirement planning information, announced today that its Take Pride in Retirement podcast has been recognized as a must-follow Pride-related podcast by FeedSpot, one of the web’s foremost aggregators of the “best of” across the internet. This recognition not only underscores the podcast’s commitment to sharing diverse voices and stories from the LGBTQ+ community but also highlights the importance of empowering and representing this community as it navigates its unique challenges during the golden years of retirement. “I am humbled and honored to receive this recognition,” said Matt McClure, founder and host of Take Pride in Retirement. “I started Take Pride in Retirement because I saw a need in my community for retirement planning, education, and assistance. Knowing that the podcast is reaching its intended audience and making a difference in their lives is extremely fulfilling.” The Take Pride in Retirement Podcast, a one-of-a-kind platform, focuses on financial issues relevant to the LGBTQ+ community. It has had the privilege of hosting distinguished guests such as Gabrielle Claiborne, Co-Founder and CEO of Transformation Journeys Worldwide, who has shared invaluable insights on the unique challenges the trans community faces in retirement planning. The podcast has also featured Katie Leikam, a licensed therapist, who has underscored the importance of living wills and estate plans for the LGBTQ+ community. These unique and insightful perspectives testify to the podcast's importance and relevance. Matt reiterates in every episode that the Take Pride in Retirement Podcast remains steadfast in its mission that everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or who they love, deserves a retirement they can be proud of. This commitment to diversity and inclusivity is at the heart of our podcast. It is a testament to our dedication to ensuring that all voices are heard, and all needs are met, making our audience feel valued and included. “The Retirement.Radio team is deeply committed to amplifying these crucial conversations on our radio shows and affiliated podcasts,” said Sam Davis, executive producer for Retirement.Radio. “Our unwavering mission is to provide essential information, ensuring that every senior citizen and retiree, regardless of their background or identity, has the information they need to navigate retirement confidently and clearly. This recognition by FeedSpot is a testament to our dedication to inclusivity and our ongoing efforts to serve all communities.” FeedSpot’s ranking of the Best Pride Podcasts results from a rigorous evaluation considering podcast popularity, content quality, update frequency, and audience engagement. This recognition places the Take Pride in Retirement podcast in an exclusive league of content creators leading the way in celebrating and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and stories. Other podcasts are available through the Retirement.Radio Network, including the Peak Financial Freedom Hour, Retirement Results, Guaranteeing Your Retirement, and the Federal Retirement Show. For more information, visit TakePrideInRetirement.com and subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcast. ### About Take Pride in Retirement Take Pride in Retirement is Retirement.Radio podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. During uncertain economic times, the safety of your principal is critical to planning a successful retirement. Our goal is to help educate you about ways to protect your hard-earned money while experiencing market-like growth at the same time. LGBTQ people face unique challenges when planning for their retirement future. Everyone's situation differs from legal barriers to a potential lack of family support. Tune in each week as we explore these obstacles and give you tips on overcoming them so you can get on the road to success. For more information, visit TakePrideInRetirement.com and subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. About Retirement.Radio Retirement.Radio is dedicated to providing essential retirement planning information to listeners across the United States. Our licensed financial professionals and insurance agents host weekly radio shows and podcasts, offering expert advice on various topics, including smart tax planning, retirement income strategies, and health care planning. Retirement.Radio is powered by national insurance distribution and marketing leader AmeriLife and features wide-reaching and impactful broadcasts. Our commitment is to help listeners invest wisely, plan effectively, and achieve successful retirement outcomes. Contact Details Retirement.Radio Sam Davis sdavis@amerilife.com Company Website https://retirement.radio/

June 26, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

FIRST AND LAST PR SUPPORTS BEAUTY, LIFESTYLE & WELLNESS BRANDS INTRODUCING NEW PR SERVICES AT BEAUTY INDEPENDENT’S UPLINK EXPO CONFERENCE

First and Last PR

First and Last PR, a communications agency that specializes in public relations, influencer campaigns and social media marketing, renowned for an unparalleled delivery in serving communication solutions to legacy brands announces its two new public relations offerings, tailored specifically to meet the needs of indie and emerging beauty, wellness and lifestyle brands: PR Powerboost for emerging brands and Seasonal Spotlights that will focus on inclusion during key holiday times of the year. “With over 25 years of industry experience, the one thing that remains consistent is that emerging brands need support and should not have to choose between a great communications team and packaging,” said Stephanie Scott-Bradshaw, First and Last PR ’s CEO & Communicator-in-Chief. “When it comes to media relations and digital marketing, we are here to serve. We look forward to seeing more indie and emerging brands grow with our newest service offerings. Whether you're a direct-to-consumer (DTC) brand with hopes of being in store or have recently landed at retail, we know that it's not enough to have shelf space. What you really need, is an experienced team with a strategic plan that will help push your brand’s visibility and awareness so that you remain on shelf. That's why we designed these programs for you.” First and Last PR has developed a proprietary communications formula for success that has been proven with a track record of long standing client relations and a range of case studies highlighting brands within beauty, wellness and lifestyle space and more. Recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities within the industry as of late, First and Last PR is leveraging their years of experience and deep understanding of the market by offering even more comprehensive solutions to new clients with two new offerings designed to cater to the distinct needs of brands: PR Powerboost Program: The new service tailors exclusively indie beauty, lifestyle and wellness brands looking to increase brand visibility and establish a strong presence in this saturated market. The PR Powerboost Program includes representation from First and Last PR’s experienced specialists who will actively craft press releases and media pitches, form media relations, create strategic PR plans including development into industry awards and more. With a focus on amplifying brand narratives and generating impactful media coverage, First and Last PR is committed to becoming a partner and empowering your brands to thrive in a competitive landscape. Seasonal Spotlights Pitch Program: As the holiday season quickly approaches, First and Last PR understands the importance of securing placements in top-tier gift guides, maximizing brand exposure and driving sales during the most important time of year. This exclusive new service offering is available to indie clients only, allowing them to stand out during three key holiday gifting times of the year. Each comprehensive four-month public relations campaign is available throughout key moments of the year such as Holiday season; Black History Month and Women’s History Month; Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Graduation time. This unique program will be highly focused and solely be dedicated to pitching beauty, lifestyle and wellness brands to the most top-tier holiday gift guides. With a strategic approach crafted from our seasoned publicists, this targeted outreach ensures your brands’ products will stand out as must-have gifts during the season. For more information on First and Last PR’s new and existing services, please visit FirstAndLastPR.com/Services. First and Last PR is looking forward to learning more about how they can partner with your brand to drive growth, build brand awareness and receive overall success together. About First and Last PR First and Last PR connects your company to the right people. Founded in 2012 by a frustrated beauty editor that wanted to change how brands were being represented in the market and the client experience, this highly regarded and influential public relations agency specializes in creating exceptional experiences and delivering unparalleled solutions to renowned public relations, social media marketing clients. The award-winning, results-focused and skilled at executing unique and purposeful messaging that leverages the power of connections, collaborations and conversations. Contact Details First and Last PR Camille Gordon hello@firstandlastpr.com Company Website https://firstandlastpr.com/

June 26, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Influencers Are Driving Consumers To Discount Clubs And Major Retailers Like Costco Finds IZEA’s Latest Survey

Benzinga

By James Blacker, Benzinga As digital marketing continues to evolve and consumer behavior is increasingly swayed by social media personalities, influencer marketing has become a critical strategy for brands aiming to expand their reach. Recent research by IZEA Worldwide (NASDAQ: IZEA) sheds light on the powerful impact that influencers have on purchasing decisions at discount clubs and major retailers, driving sales in brick-and-mortar stores such as Costco (NASDAQ: COST), Sam’s Club (NYSE: WMT) and BJ’s (NYSE: BJ). Based on a survey of over 1,100 U.S.-based consumers, the report reveals that 68% of respondents have an active membership at a discount club store. The percentage of influencers with an active membership is a notable 81%, of whom 93% have recommended a product they purchased inside a store to someone else. This shows that influencers not only promote these clubs to drive consumer interest but also participate in these clubs themselves. Influencer-Driven Purchasing Decisions IZEA’s report underscores how effective influencers can be in getting people to buy products. Among the respondents, 58% said they had purchased a product after seeing it being used by an influencer. Broken down by the discount club, 74% of BJ’s members have made an influencer-driven purchase, compared to 68% of Sam’s Club shoppers and 66% of Costco shoppers. Interestingly, influencer posts were shown to have the greatest impact on product consideration compared to other forms of marketing. This is the case across all age groups, but especially so for the 18-29 age group, with 39% of this demographic saying influencer posts are the most likely to persuade them to try a product. In terms of content preferences, short video content emerged as the most influential medium, with 41% of respondents in the 18-29 age group saying it is the type of content most likely to drive them to a store to make a purchase. Another revelation was that discount club members are also likely to search on social media before making a purchase, with 41% of BJ’s club members indicating that they do this. YouTube was the top platform used for this kind of product research. “Our latest report provides fascinating insights into the intersection of influencer marketing and discount club memberships,” said Ted Murphy, IZEA CEO and founder. “When it comes to shopping at brick-and-mortar locations, Influencers are significantly more likely to drive purchases at discount clubs among club members. This is especially true for Costco members, who are 2.3 times more likely to make their influencer-inspired purchases at the store vs. Target or Walmart.” Strategic Opportunities For Brands With IZEA The findings from this report highlight the significant opportunities available for companies to partner with influencers to boost sales through discount clubs. As a trailblazer in the influencer marketing space, IZEA offers a suite of tools and services designed to facilitate these partnerships and help make the most out of them. The company’s award-winning, next-gen influencer marketing platform, IZEA Flex, connects creators with brands to facilitate collaborations. Brands can also use it to track and measure campaign performance with detailed analytics. IZEA furthermore offers a suite of AI tools called FormAI, which brands and creators can use to create high-quality content. IZEA's recent research underscores the growth potential of influencer marketing. As a leader in the space, IZEA seems well-positioned to continue helping brands leverage this increasingly relevant form of digital marketing. To read the full report and learn more about IZEA’s services, visit the company’s website. Featured photo by Grant Beirute on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

June 25, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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SIGMA Announces Launch Schedule of SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary for Canon RF Mount

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 pricing and availability of the SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN |Contemporary for the Canon RF Mount System. It is the smallest and lightest F2.8 standard zoom for crop-sensor mirrorless cameras*. This is the first lens from SIGMA to be released for Canon RF Mount, and the lens offers a 28.8-80mm full-frame equivalent focal range on Canon APS-C format mirrorless cameras. R etail price is $599 through authorized US retailers, and the lens will be available in mid-July 2024. The SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary is currently available for Sony E-mount, L-Mount, and Fujifilm X Mount camera systems. *since time of original release in October 2021, and effective June 2024. Launch schedule of SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary for Canon RF Mount SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the launch schedule of SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN｜Contemporary for Canon RF Mount. Supplied accessories: PETAL-TYPE HOOD LH582-02, FRONT CAP LCF-55 III, REAR CAP LCR II Mount: Canon RF Mount Launch: July, 2024 * Product appearance and specifications are subject to change. #SIGMA #SIGMA1850mmF28Contemporary #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMADCDN #SIGMARFMount A large F2.8 aperture zoom lens that need never leave your camera. This exceptionally light, bright, and sharp standard zoom for crop-sensor mirrorless cameras is the ultimate workhorse lens. 【Long-awaited Canon RF Mount addition】 SIGMA's first APS-C size mirrorless dedicated zoom lens, the SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary, will now be available for the Canon RF Mount. This addition allows users to enjoy high-performance, and high-quality SIGMA zoom lenses in native mount on their Canon RF Mount system. A control algorithm including AF drive and communication speed optimization has been developed specifically for Canon RF Mount interchangeable lenses. In addition to realizing high-speed AF, the lens also supports Servo AF and in-camera aberration correction*. The mount is rubber-sealed to cater for use in a variety of environments. * Available on supported cameras only. Mount Conversion Service is available to convert other mounts of SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN｜Contemporary to Canon RF Mount. 【Features】１．Large F2.8 aperture and superb image quality The compact body offers a versatile full-frame equivalent zoom range of 28.8mm to 80mm, a wide aperture of F2.8 throughout the entire zoom range that allows you to enjoy bokeh expressions, and sharp images achieved by the latest optical design technology. With a minimum focusing distance of 12.1cm and a maximum magnification of 1:2.8 *1, it allows photographers to take advantage of the compact shooting system, such as shooting close-ups of your subject. ２．Exceptionally compact and lightweight body ideal for mirrorless cameras The main feature of the SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary is its overwhelmingly compact and lightweight body that maximizes the excellent portability and advantages of an APS-C mirrorless camera. Despite its large aperture of F2.8, it is the smallest and lightest in its class *2 boasting a maximum diameter of φ69.2mm, a length of 74.5mm and weight of 300g. *3 This makes the large-aperture standard zoom easy to carry around in daily life. *1 The minimum focusing distance and maximum magnification ratio are both values at the wide end. *2 As an AF compatible, F2.8 constant aperture standard zoom lens for APS-C (as of June 2024, by SIGMA). *3 Size and weight measurements given for Canon RF Mount version. 【Specifications】 Values are for Canon RF Mount Lens Construction：10 groups, 13 elements (1 SLD and 3 aspherical lenses)｜Angle of View (APS-C)：73.4°(W)-30.0°(T)｜Number of Diaphragm Blades：7 (rounded diaphragm)｜Minimum Aperture：F22｜Minimum Focusing Distance：12.1 (W) -30 (T) cm / 4.8 (W) -11.9 (T) in.｜Maximum Magnification Ratio：1:2.8 (W) -1:5(T)｜Filter size：φ55mm｜Dimensions (Diameter × Length)：φ69.2mm × 74.5mm / φ2.7in. x 2.9in.｜Weight：300g / 10.6oz. 【 Product Barcode 】 Canon RF Mount: 00-85126-58572-3 【 Accessories (Supplied) 】 Name of product / Product Barcode LENS HOOD LH582-02: 0085126 939694 FRONT CAP LCF-55 III: 0085126 930066 REAR CAP LCR II: For Canon RF Mount 0085126 941468 【 Accessories (Optional) 】 Name of product / Product Barcode SIGMA WR PROTECTOR 55mm: 0085126 930912 SIGMA PROTECTOR 55mm: 0085126 931049 SIGMA WR UV FILTER 55mm: 0085126 930653 SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER 55mm: 0085126 930783 【Contact】 For further information, please contact your local authorized SIGMA representative listed in the link below: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/about/world-network/ 【Information】 SIGMA GLOBAL VISION： https://www.sigma-global.com/ SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary product information： https://www.sigma-global.com/en/lenses/c021_18_50_28/ SIGMA Canon RF Mount special page： https://www.sigma-global.com/en/contents/sigma_rfmount_lenses/ Contact Details SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA Jack Howard +1 631-201-7381 sigma.pr@sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigmaphoto.com/

June 25, 2024 01:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Apple Becomes Latest Giant To Adopt AI, But Risks Persist – Brand Engagement Network May Have The Solution To Ensure Security In The Age Of AI

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga OpenAI, the brains behind ChatGPT, is taking off as companies like Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ: MSFT), Shutterstock Inc. (NYSE: SSTK) and Bain & Company adopt this game-changing technology. Even Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL), which has been relatively slower to embrace AI, seems to be going all in, recently announcing a partnership with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into Siri and other areas of its operating system. That will undoubtedly bring more convenience and assistance to Apple’s millions of users, but this technology is not without risks. In the wrong hands, AI can be used to create fake videos and content, spread incorrect news and information, enable plagiarism and provide biased results. High-profile lawsuits lodged by celebrities and artists have highlighted AI's negative aspects and are raising awareness about the dark side of AI. A survey conducted in August by Pew Research shined a light on this. It found that 52% of Americans are more concerned than excited about the increased use of AI. That wariness is up from 2022 and coincides with an uptick in awareness about AI. Pew found individuals who heard a lot about artificial intelligence are 51% more likely to express more concern than excitement about AI. Among those most aware, concern outweighs excitement by 47% to 15%. On the topic of privacy, 53% of Americans polled said AI is doing more to harm than help keep people’s personal data private. “Americans’ concerns about AI include a desire to maintain human control over these technologies, doubts that AI will improve the way things are now, and caution over the pace of AI adoption in fields like health and medicine,” wrote the researchers. In The Right Hands, AI Can Improve Life In the right hands, however, AI isn’t as scary as it seems to many. Companies using it responsibly and securely can transform industries with AI. Take Brand Engagement Network Inc. (NASDAQ: BNAI) – or BEN – the developer of generative AI and AI avatars, for one example. With its human-like AI assistants, BEN enhances customer service, productivity and overall performance for businesses, targeting markets facing significant workforce gaps and presenting an opportunity to transform how consumers engage with networks, providers and brands. The company’s secret sauce is a broad portfolio of conversational AI applications that drive better customer experience, increased automation and operational efficiencies. BEN uses much smaller data parameters than larger models like ChatGPT – enabling it to offer companies AI that is scalable and can be tailored to specific use cases. At the heart of its business model is a security-first approach. Unlike many of the unsecured AI systems that rely on unknown data sources and unverified information, BEN trains its AI on client-provided data and follows clients' internal client data management and privacy protocols. It’s also HIPAA and SOC 2 Type 1 compliant, and its AI platform is deployed and secured in an Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) Web Service environment, enabling BEN to support multiple companies securely. BEN Has To Be Secure Focusing on security is particularly important to BEN, given that its AI solutions are quickly finding their way into many data-sensitive areas like healthcare and finance. In healthcare, BEN says its conversational AI can improve patient experiences and medication understanding, leading to better outcomes. BEN takes the importance of security very seriously. Take Skye, BEN’s AI assistant that can assist patients taking Metformin, the diabetes drug, for another example. The assistant doesn’t claim to know everything, nor does it “hallucinate,” which occurs when generative AI gives incorrect answers. A big reason for that is that Skye is loaded with very specific pharmaceutical data provided by the drug maker, results from clinical trials and data from accredited medical groups like the American Diabetes Association. One of the biggest risks posed by generative AI in industries like healthcare is the risk of “hallucinations,” where the AI gives misleading or outright false answers because it is built on unknown data sources and designed to generate a response no matter what. This is where BEN may have the solution to the AI reliability and safety problem. BEN’s AI assistants won’t answer a question if it doesn’t know the answer. It is not connected to unverified information sources like the web, so when a patient asks a question, BEN’s AI, using what is known as RAG, draws from carefully selected and validated data sets. “More than generative AI, we like to call it retrieval AI,” said Paul Chang, BEN's Co-CEO, in a recent interview. The approach BEN is taking with Skye could be replicated over and over for the tens of thousands of drugs on the market. Healthcare is a big opportunity for BEN, given the company reports 145,000 organizations can benefit from BEN’s AI. In the financial market where security and data protection are top of mind all the time, BEN says its addressable market is over 227,000 organizations, while in automotive, there are over 450,000 companies that can leverage BEN’s platform. Businesses Are Taking Notice BEN’s focus on security and reliability seems to be proving to be a differentiator. It is why MedAdvisor Solutions (ASX: MDR), a global leader in pharmacy-driven patient engagement solutions, is partnering with BEN to bring BEN’s AI assistants to certain pharmacies to help enhance patient outcomes. Or why Provana, a highly specialized knowledge process management provider, is integrating BEN’s AI assistants into its contact center solutions. The list goes on, with all of BEN’s customers having one thing in common: a need for secure, reliable and responsible AI. AI is clearly taking off and will only get bigger as more companies embrace it. The ones who do it responsibly and securely like BEN will not only improve the quality of life for the masses but do it without infringing on their privacy and or compromising their data. Can the same be said about some of the other players in the AI marketplace? Featured photo by BoliviaInteligente on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

June 24, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Select Sector SPDR ETFs: A Focused Approach for Sector-Specific Portfolio Management

Select Sector SPDR

In the ever-changing landscape of the financial markets, Select Sector SPDR ETFs present a method for investors looking to engage in sector-specific investments. By breaking down the S&P 500 into distinct sectors, these ETFs provide a pathway for both individual and institutional investors to craft more targeted and strategic investment portfolios. The Select Sector SPDR ETFs encompass a range of sectors, each represented by a dedicated ETF. This structure allows investors to focus their investments on specific areas of the economy, depending on their investment objectives, risk tolerance, and market outlook. Overview of Select Sector SPDR ETFs: Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLC): Focuses on telecommunications and media companies. Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY): Targets companies focused on non-essential goods and services such as luxury items, travel, and leisure. Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP): Concentrates on essential consumer goods and services like food, clothing, and personal products. Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE): Dedicated to the energy sector, focused on oil and natural gas. Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF): Encompasses banking, investment, and insurance industries. Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV): Focuses on pharmaceuticals, healthcare equipment, and services. Industrials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI): Includes manufacturing, construction, and logistics firms. Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB): Covers the chemicals, construction materials, and packaging industries. Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLRE): Targets commercial real estate services and REITs. Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK): Concentrates on the information technology, semiconductor, and electronics sectors. Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU): Dedicated to electric and gas utility companies. By offering a straightforward and transparent approach to investing in specific sectors, Select Sector SPDR ETFs enable investors to adapt their investment strategies in response to changing market conditions. The Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer a focused approach to investment, allowing for detailed sector analysis and strategic portfolio management. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, these ETFs provide a valuable tool for investors looking to refine their investment strategies through sector-specific allocations. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007597 EXP 8/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

June 24, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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