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New Alvarez & Marsal Fall 2024 Consumer Sentiment Report Highlighting the Impact of Ongoing Consumer Skepticism on Holiday Plans and Winter Spending

Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group

· Since the sharp pullback observed during last year's holiday season, consumers have maintained conservative spending habits. · Consumers are demonstrating greater loyalty to stores over brands, challenging the conventional notion of brand loyalty · Shoppers are expected to pull back their spending across all major holiday spending categories this year · Although in-store shopping remains the primary channel, consumers are increasingly gravitating towards online platforms for their holiday purchases Global professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal’s Consumer and Retail Group (A&M CRG) released its latest consumer report, Consumer Sentiment Survey Fall 2024, which analyzes how shifting economic conditions have shaped consumer spending patterns over the past year and explores anticipated spending behaviors for the next six months. This seventh edition of the bi-annual Consumer Sentiment Report draws from a survey of 2,100+ U.S. adults, demographically representative across gender, age, ethnicity, region and income. The report examines evolving consumer behaviors in response to personal finances and economic conditions. It provides insights into shopping priorities across categories, economic conditions, holiday plans, and other key factors influencing purchase decisions for the upcoming fall season, alongside other relevant consumer trends. These insights help retailers optimize inventory, marketing, and pricing while improving their market position. “In today's cost-conscious market, consumers are doing more research and spending less. Retailers must deliver clear value to win their business,” stated Chad Lusk, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal’s Consumer and Retail Group. “Consumers are playing it safe with their wallets these days - the fizzle in their optimism since last spring tells us they tightened their belts after the holidays last year and aren't in a hurry to loosen up again. “ The study found that: Consumer outlook for holiday spending is weaker compared to Fall 2023, as consumers anticipate spending less Inflation, interest rates and the job market are the top three macro- economic trends impacting consumer spending decisions Higher income consumers ($100K+) have relatively consistent spending plans, while lower income brackets are planning to spend 13% less this year Higher income households are prioritizing saving, with plans to increase savings by 4% in households making $100K or more. In contrast, lower income households are planning to save 4% less compared to previous periods As consumers look for savvy ways to decrease holiday spending, lower income consumers (<$100K) will purchase less expensive gifts this year while higher income consumers will find other ways to cut back such as waiting for items to go on sale “This holiday season, retailers should be mindful of consumers' cautious approach to spending and adjust their strategies to better align with holiday shopping behaviors and budgets,“ Lusk advised. “To appeal to value-focused consumers, retailers can optimize their omnichannel experience and pricing structure to match evolving shopper priorities and spending plans.” To download a pdf of Consumer Sentiment Survey Fall 2024, please visit: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/consumer-sentiment-survey-fall-2024/ The Alvarez and Marsal Consumer and Retail Group (CRG) is a management consulting firm that tackles the most complex challenges and advances its clients, people, and communities toward their maximum potential. CRG combines the best of A&M’s broader firm's bias toward action and practicality with deep consumer and retail industry experience. CRG partners with businesses across a wide range of categories including Food & Beverage, Beauty & Personal Care, Grocery, Mass Merchandise, and Apparel & Footwear to drive significant performance improvement. Contact Details David Schneidman dschneidman@alvarezandmarsal.com Company Website https://www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail

November 21, 2024 03:15 PM Eastern Standard Time

COMCAST CELEBRATES 2024 RISE GRANT RECIPIENTS

Comcast Colorado

Yesterday, Comcast brought together more than 100 Comcast RISE recipients, partners, local officials, Comcast leaders and more from across Southern Colorado for Comcast RISE Day: an evening of education, collaboration, networking and recognition. The Comcast RISE program awarded a total of $500,000 in grants along with technology makeovers, marketing assistance, coaching sessions and education resources to 100 small businesses in Southern Colorado this year. Southern Colorado is one of five communities in the nation chosen for the 2024 program. “I’m confident that with the marketing assistance and technology makeover, we can more effectively share the type of experience we offer, increase our occupancy, and ensure more happy guests have a RAD Colorado experience,” said Erin Welch, RISE Grantee and Owner of RAD Hostel in Colorado Springs. Comcast RISE Day was a way to provide ongoing investment and help ensure the long-term success of these small businesses, which are the bedrock of economic growth in their communities. “Thanks to Comcast RISE, I now have an opportunity for a fresh start, and resources to grow my business.” Said Rique Lucero, RISE grantee and Owner of ColorSplashPaintball in Pueblo, CO. “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and Comcast is dedicated to the success and empowerment of these local businesses in Southern Colorado.” said J.D. Keller, Regional Senior Vice President, Comcast Mountain West Region. “Our mission for Comcast RISE is to ensure these businesses can prosper, thrive, and create a sustainable impact across Colorado.” Comcast RISE was created in November 2020 to help small businesses hardest hit by COVID-19 by providing the grants and services needed to survive and recover. The program since evolved from helping businesses survive the pandemic, to helping businesses and their communities achieve stronger economic growth. Held at the United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs, the event featured networking, a marketplace offering connections to local resources through Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC, the BBB of Southern Colorado, The Pueblo Economic Development Corp., and the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center, as well as Comcast Business. Robert Thompson, Vice President, Comcast Business in the Mountain West Region, emceed the evening, and we were honored to hear from Jonathan Liebert, CEO/Executive Director, Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado, who discussed how AI can be a power-up for small businesses. More information is available at https://www.comcastrise.com/. About Comcast RISE: Comcast RISE is part of Project UP, the company’s $1 billion commitment to advance digital equity through programs and community partnerships that connect people to the Internet, advance economic mobility and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers and creators. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Leslie Oliver +1 303-810-6326 leslie_oliver@comcast.com Company Website https://colorado.comcast.com/

November 21, 2024 11:33 AM Mountain Standard Time

California Transit Training Consortium Celebrates 20th Anniversary with New Brand Identity at California Transit Association Conference 2024

California Transit Consortium

The California Transit Training Consortium (CTTC) will celebrate its 20th anniversary at the 59th Annual California Transit Association Conference and Expo with the unveiling of a refreshed brand identity. This milestone marks two decades of leadership in transit workforce development and highlights CTTC’s ongoing commitment to empowering California’s public transit professionals through innovative training solutions. Founded in 2004 by James Ditch, who recognized the need for California’s transit agencies to collaborate on workforce training, CTTC has since become an essential force in the public transit industry. Ditch’s vision of unified efforts to strengthen workforce development remains central to the organization’s mission today. This 20-year milestone reaffirms CTTC’s brand promise, “Mastering Transit Excellence with Innovative Learning.” Legacy of Impact and a Future of Innovation Over the past two decades, CTTC has trained thousands of transit professionals with the skills needed to navigate the evolving landscape of public transit, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability across California’s systems. The refreshed visual identity honors CTTC’s storied past while looking ahead, positioning the organization to meet the demands of a rapidly changing transit workforce. “Our new brand honors the legacy that James Ditch built 20 years ago,” said Rashidi Barnes, CTTC marketing committee chair. “It reflects our core values of collaboration, education, and innovation—values that have been at the heart of our success. This rebranding not only refreshes our look but also reaffirms our purpose: to elevate California’s transit workforce through exceptional, forward-thinking training programs.” The 20th-anniversary celebration and rebranding will be highlighted at the California Transit Association Conference at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with Maggie Pears, CTTC’s executive director, to learn more about the organization’s future direction. Exclusive branded giveaways will also be available to commemorate the event which can be found at Booth #329 on the expo floor. Symbolism and Significance of the New Brand The refreshed brand features a modernized logo that emphasizes collaboration, with the two “T’s” symbolizing mentorship—one person guiding and training another. The updated color palette retains the signature Brand Blue, now paired with vibrant accents to symbolize the energy, innovation, and forward momentum defining CTTC’s future. “As we celebrate 20 years of CTTC’s leadership in transit training,” said Dr. Yachun Chow, manager of zero-emission truck and bus programs at the California Air Resources Board (CARB), “CARB recognizes the crucial role the organization has played in advancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability in California’s transit systems. As we accelerate the shift to zero-emission fleets, CTTC’s new forward-thinking brand highlights its commitment to preparing the workforce for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Ensuring our transit operators are equipped to support electric and clean energy technologies is vital to meeting California’s climate goals.” About CTTC Established in 2004 by James Ditch, the California Transit Training Consortium (CTTC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing public transit workforce development. Through strategic partnerships with transit agencies, educational institutions, and industry experts, CTTC delivers cost-effective, state-of-the-art training programs. For the past 20 years, CTTC has empowered thousands of professionals with the skills necessary to ensure the safety, reliability, and success of public transit across California. For more information, visit cttc.com. Contact Details California Transit Training Consortium Maggie Pears Executive Director +1 310-694-3969 maggie.pears@cttc.com Company Website https://www.cttc.com

November 21, 2024 12:18 PM Eastern Standard Time

Native Made Market Returns to Rochester NY for Its Third Year on Small Business Saturday

Native Made Market

The Native Made Market is back for its third annual event on Small Business Saturday, November 30th, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at 60 Brown’s Race, Rochester, NY 14614. This year, the celebration extends into the evening with a Community Dinner and Haudenosaunee Social Dance, hosted by Native American Community Services, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Native Made Market offers an immersive and intimate experience to shop Native made goods, connect with Indigenous artists, activists, and allies, and engage with organizations advancing the mission of increasing Indigenous visibility. This vibrant market celebrates Indigenous talent, cultures, and entrepreneurship, bringing together creators from across Turtle Island. Represented Nations include all Six Nations of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, Cherokee, Piscataway, Odawa, Navajo, Sac and Fox, and beyond! This year’s participants include: ● Dawn Doctor ● Taylor Bonaparte ● Mary Homer ● Jerome Waterman Jr. ● Ella Jamieson ● Allan Jamieson ● Beth Anderson ● Sharon Trudeau ● Ayanna Proctor ● Awendea Kabance ● Darelyn Spruce ● Rachel Schindler ● Heather Hill ● Dohbid Pierce ● Mary Elliott ● Felicia Oliver ● Jennifer Dalimonte ● Isaac Dalimonte ● Evan Dalimonte ● Janet Dalimonte ● Angelina Hilton Participating organizations: ● Indigenous Peoples Day Committee ● Our Voices Project ● Indigenous Health Coalition, an initiative of Common Ground Health ● Rochester Museum and Science Center ● Native American Community Services ● Cugini di ROC Attendees can shop a variety of goods, from art prints and jewelry to dreamcatchers, textiles, and more, while learning about the Nations and stories that inspire each craft. The market also highlights organizations and allied sponsors dedicated to building a more inclusive future. Guests will have the opportunity to engage with community organizations, savor small samples of Indigenous foods, connect with members of Nations from across Turtle Island, and win door prizes generously donated by local businesses. Additionally, attendees can listen to stories shared by the original inhabitants of this land. To enhance accessibility, the Native Made Market will feature ASL interpretation and be live-streamed on the event Facebook page for those unable to attend in person. The Community Dinner and Haudenosaunee Social Dance following the market is free and open to the public, inviting all to come together for an evening of food, fun, Haudenosaunee social dances, and cultural exchange. Special thanks to our sponsors: Native American Community Services, RocGrowth, Envision Productions, Rochester Area Community Foundation, Genesee Land Trust, Our Voices Project, Wegmans, Visit Rochester, Rochester Museum and Science Center, Partners and Napier, Rochester Democratic Socialists of America, Mindful Matters, Greenspark Solar, Geva Theatre, MagnusApollo Design, Syracuse Cultural Workers, Common Ground Health, Cugini di ROC, Tapas 177, Aporia, Blue Heron Hills Golf Club, New City Café and Roasters, Great Lakes Gaming, Chick’n Out, Grace & Disgrace, Project Lean Nation, Ballroom at Carey Lake, Diamond Dan Publications, and Razor Pitch. For more information about the Native Made Market, please contact: Angelina Hilton at nativemadehq@gmail.com or 585-524-7408 Visit: linktr.ee/nativemadehq Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/768840598504853 Make A Donation: https://square.link/u/LKluwnN0 For questions about the Community Dinner and Social Dance, please contact: Pete Hill at 716-574-8981 or phill@nacswny.org Join us on November 30th to celebrate and support Native creatives, entrepreneurs, and allied organizations. Together, we are uplifting Indigenous voices in the Rochester NY area and beyond. ### About Angelina Hilton and Native Made Angelina Hilton is an enrolled member of the Sac and Fox Nation of Missouri in Kansas and Nebraska and a descendant of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska, Buffalo Clan. She is the founder of Native Made with a mission dedicated to increasing Indigenous visibility. Through services in marketing and collaboration—including graphic design, web design, search engine optimization, event planning, and more— Native Made amplifies Indigenous voices and stories. Angelina’s passion extends to community service, where she volunteers with White Corn Project, serves on the Indigenous Health Coalition, an initiative of Common Ground Health, and contributes to the Indigenous Peoples Day Committee in Rochester, NY and the Native American & Indigenous Business Council at Target. Angelina holds a Bachelor of Science in Advertising from the Art Institute of California – San Diego. She enjoys photography, writing, painting, singing, dancing, traveling, spending time in nature and with her family. Contact Details Native Made Market Angelina Hilton +1 585-524-7408 nativemadehq@gmail.com Company Website https://nativemadehq.com/

November 21, 2024 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

Dawgz AI Bot Revolutionizes Automated Trading – 200K Raised in 24 Hours!

Dawgz AI

The new meme coin Dawgz AI Token ($DAGZ) introduces an AI trading bot with personalized recommendations. With strong utility, strategic token allocation, and a clear roadmap, $DAGZ has the potential for long-term success. Early birds can buy $DAGZ on presale at just $0.00177 since November 14. Dawgz AI Token ($DAGZ) is a ERC-20 token that merges the cultural appeal of memes with the technological potential of AI. Dawgz AI’s algorithm analyzes market trends and executes trades 24/7, so you can generate returns even if you're not actively monitoring the market. We explore the fundamentals of Dawgz AI and explain how you can become one of the first adopters. How to Buy Dawgz AI Token in 4 Easy Steps Visit the Dawgz AI official presale website. Use the buy widget to connect your wallet. Select your preferred crypto and enter the number of $DAGZ tokens you want to buy. Confirm the transaction. The Future of Meme Coins is AI Dawgz AI are developing an AI-powered trading bot that will maximize profits and minimize risk. The algorithm would also provide insights and recommendations for informed trading decisions. $DAGZ will serve as the ecosystem’s governance token, allowing its holders to vote on development proposals and shape the project’s future. To ensure transparency and security, SolidProof has audited the Dawgz AI Token smart contract. This audit assures investors that the project is built on a solid foundation and adheres to industry best practices. Dawgz AI Token aims to build an engaged, loyal online community where members can share memes, discuss market trends, and participate in various community-driven initiatives. $DAGZ Tokenomics and Roadmap $DAGZ's tokenomics focuses on supporting early adopters and long-term holders. A significant portion of the total token supply (20%) is allocated to staking rewards, allowing holders to earn passive income. Another 24% is reserved for marketing efforts to drive $DAGZ adoption. Given a whopping 8,317% staking APY and discounted presale price ($0.00177), $DAGZ has the potential to attract a massive investor base before its launch on exchanges. The project’s long-term vision is ambitious yet achievable. After the presale, $DAGZ will expand to other blockchain networks and forge strategic partnerships to expand its reach. Continuous AI bot improvements and the launch of NFT collectibles should further enhance the project’s appeal to potential investors and help $DAGZ become the leading doge-themed token. How to Buy $DAGZ on Presale With its strong fundamentals, $DAGZ could be the next 10x coin. This means early adopters may be up for the highest returns. If you want to be one of the alphas leading the Dawgz AI pack, here’s how to buy $DAGZ on presale. Step 1: Visit the Dawgz AI Website Only use the official link to protect your funds. Step 2: Connect Your Wallet Click on ‘Connect Wallet’ and follow the on-screen instructions. You can use any crypto wallet that supports Ethereum, Solana, or BNB Chain networks. Step 3: Select Your Purchase Method You can buy $DAGZ with $ETH, $SOL, $BNB, $USDT, or $USDC. Select your preferred cryptocurrency and enter the number of tokens you want to exchange for $DAGZ. Step 4: Confirm the Transaction Once you confirm the transaction in your crypto wallet, you'll need to wait until the presale concludes. After that, your $DAGZ tokens will be distributed to your wallet. Is $DAGZ the Next Alpha Dogecoin? Dawgz AI Token ($DAGZ) offers a unique blend of meme culture and cutting-edge technology. Transparent tokenomics, high staking rewards, solid utility, and low price make it one of the best crypto presales in 2024. The $DAGZ presale kicked off on November 14th and already raised over $200K. Don't miss this opportunity to secure $DAGZ tokens at a discounted price before they skyrocket! Follow Dawz AI: https://x.com/Dawgz_AI https://t.me/DawgzAI_Official https://www.instagram.com/dawgzaiofficial/ Contact Details Dawgz AI Sergejs Kravcovs +43 677 63731435 Business@wepromote.io Company Website https://dawgz.ai/

November 21, 2024 08:57 AM Eastern Standard Time

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BioRestorative Ends Q3 In ‘Strong’ Financial Position, Reports Positive Data For Its Phase 2 BRTX-100 Chronic Back Pain Trial

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga BioRestorative Therapies, Inc. (NASDAQ: BRTX), a regenerative medicine company focused on stem cell-based therapies and products, is advancing toward profitability, narrowing its loss in the third quarter and releasing favorable data for its BRTX-100 treatment for chronic back pain. The third quarter was a busy period for BioRestorative, as it secured a new patent, released what it says is encouraging trial data and continued licensing discussions with a commercial-stage regenerative medicine company – while also reducing its losses. For the three months ending Sept. 30, 2024, BioRestorative posted an operating loss of $2.3 million, marking a 26% year-over-year improvement from $3.1 million in the same period last year. The net loss for the third quarter was $1.1 million, or $0.13 per share. BioRestorative said it ended the quarter in a “very strong financial position” with $13 million in cash and short-term investments. The company had no debt as of the end of the third quarter. “We have continued to execute well across all areas of our business and are looking forward to continuing to update investors on our progress as we close out the remainder of 2024,” says Lance Alstodt, BioRestorative’s chief executive officer. “From an operating perspective, we are thrilled with our third quarter results, as we are seeing initial progress on our path to sustainable profitability, driven by cost containment activities coupled with increased resources dedicated to our commercial programs.” Commercial Programs Making Inroads BioRestorative’s commercial programs got a boost late in the quarter when it announced it obtained a provisional license from the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) to process, isolate, expand and preserve allogeneic (non-autologous) donor tissue, including stem cells, for medical research. Previously BioRestorative was licensed by the NYSDOH to act as a tissue bank for the processing of mesenchymal stem cells derived from autologous donors only. “It will significantly enhance our ability to develop an unrivaled clinical pipeline of off-the-shelf cell-based biologic products,” says Alstodt. Meanwhile, the company’s product, ThermoStem®, which uses adipose-derived (brown fat) stem cells to generate new brown fat tissue to target obesity and metabolic disorders, drew attention during the quarter. BioRestorative shared details of the ThermoStem platform at IFATS 2024, the annual industry conference focused on adipose therapeutics and science. BioRestorative believes cell-based therapy candidates generated from its ThermoStem program may allow for lower dosing than GLP-1 obesity drugs or provide an alternative biologic-based treatment. Studies have shown brown fat activation in addition to weight loss, can lead to positive effects on several organs, including the heart, liver and muscle. The company competes with giants like Novo Nordisk (NYSE: NVO), Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) and Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) in the space. During the quarter, the Israel Patent Office issued the company a Notice of Allowance for a new patent application covering several fundamental aspects of ThermoStem. It's the 14th international patent. In addition to all that, BioRestorative continued talks for a ThermoStem licensing deal with an undisclosed commercial-stage regenerative medicine company. BRTX-100 Data Encouraging In conjunction with third-quarter earnings, BioRestorative released clinical data for BRTX-100, its autologous stem cell product for chronic lower back pain. It uses a patient’s stem cells, which are harvested, cultured and then injected directly into the affected disc to start the repair process. It’s targeted at the more than 25 million people in the U.S. who suffer from chronic lower back pain each year. Safety and efficacy endpoints from an ongoing phase 2 trial for the treatment of chronic lumbar disc disease (cLDD) were encouraging, BioRestorative reported. The company said no serious adverse events (SAEs) were reported in any of the 10 first patients of the prospective, randomized, double-blinded and controlled study. BioRestorative said there was also no dose limiting toxicity at 26-52 weeks. “Blinded preliminary clinical data of safety and efficacy endpoints from the ongoing phase 2 clinical trial of BRTX-100 in the treatment of cLDD are very encouraging, with patient-reported pain and function outcomes demonstrating a positive trend,” said Alstodt. “Most importantly, at 26 weeks, 70% of the patients are reporting a greater than 30% increase in function and a more than 30% decrease in pain. If data continues with this trend, we are confident that we will hit our efficacy endpoints for the phase 2 trial.” A total of up to 99 eligible subjects will be enrolled at up to 16 clinical sites in the United States. Subjects included in the trial will be randomized 2:1 to receive either BRTX-100 or a placebo. The new blinded preliminary safety and efficacy data from the ongoing phase 2 clinical trial of BRTX-100 was described in a podium presentation at the Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS) Philadelphia Spine Research Society (PSRS) 7th International Spine Research Symposium. From posting encouraging data to narrowing its losses, BioRestorative seems to be making strides on its path to profitability. With more news to come, this may be a story worth paying attention to. To learn more about BioRestorative’s stem cell therapies, click here. Featured photo by National Cancer Institute 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

November 21, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Standard Time

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How The Intersection Of Public Health And Politics Can Shift The Societal Landscape

Benzinga

By Kyle Anthony, Benzinga French philosopher Voltaire is credited with saying, “History never repeats itself. Man, always does.” This adage aptly conveys the nature of human beings to repeatedly engage in risky behaviors despite history being a guide as to how said behavior could play out. Evidence of this behavior is arguably front and center now, as many would argue that there is a wave of populist movements occurring globally, coming after the COVID-19 pandemic and the elevated inflation that followed. As detailed in a report published by Goldman Sachs earlier this year, elections in more than 80 nations and territories occurred this year. As noted in the report, a common observation among political scholars is the growing “democratic backsliding” occurring within sovereign states. Democratic backsliding is a process of declining integrity for democratic values or institutions in a political system. Against the backdrop of a challenging economic environment, populist movements appear to be gaining momentum. As such, some voters are seeking alternatives to current parties or policies, which may be leaving traditional incumbents in places like the U.S. and Europe at a disadvantage during this election cycle, potentially setting the stage for less liberal challengers and some populists to succeed. In Europe, the 2024 European Parliament elections saw a significant shift to the right in many countries, and populist parties gained votes and seats across the EU. Similarly, the re-election of Donald Trump is a strong indication of a return to conservatism. Why The Rise In Populism? Though the fast-moving technological developments occurring in our modern society arguably contribute to populism's rise, the COVID-19 pandemic was an inflection point that shifted the global landscape and is viewed by many as an impetus for where we are now. Using history as a guide, research published in the American Journal of Public Health draws a connection between worsening public health and the support for radical political views, using the 1918 influenza pandemic and the rise of Italian fascism as a reference point. The researchers found statistically significant evidence from the quantitative and qualitative analyses conducted to support their thesis. As emphasized in the research’s main findings, “Mussolini’s newspaper tended to blame “others” for the pandemic, such as Spaniards, and portrayed themselves as the voice of the common people against an out-of-touch “elite,” exploiting the health crisis for political gain.” Drawing parallels from the research, the extrapolated idea is that the COVID-19 pandemic boosted populist sentiment in regions where public health declined and mortality rose. As stated in the research’s main findings, “counties where life expectancy stagnated or declined between 1980 and 2014 were more likely to swing toward support for Donald Trump in the 2016 presidential election. Similarly, communities experiencing worsening health in the United Kingdom saw greater support for Brexit. The same association also holds in different historical junctures. For instance, worsening mortality rates in German localities in the early 1930s were positively associated with the rise of the Nazi Party and influenza deaths in 1918 also correlated with the Nazi electoral boost.” Simply put, a decline in public health and the economic hardship it potentially initiates can be a political catalyst that shifts members of society towards more populist ideologues. Populism During A Precarious Period The global economy is presently in a precarious position where technological advancement and innovation could upend many of the accepted practices and concepts of the present. Furthermore, regional conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe (i.e., Russia – Ukraine), for which individuals have passionate opinions, can widen the ideological divide within our society. Given the range of global activities, the move to populism can be viewed as a validation of the Social Cycle Theory, which posits that events and stages of society and history generally repeat themselves in cycles. The rise of populist movements can be a powerful sentiment that could be a deciding factor for voters at the ballot box. While the inevitability of change is often challenging to convey to individuals facing it, humanity is also resilient and able to overcome the odds. Crossroads Summit 2024: Navigating Chaos, Innovate For The Future With so much potential uncertainty ahead, navigating the seeming chaos will likely be top of mind for many investors. It is this chaos that The Crossroads Summit seeks to help investors cut through. The summit gathers leaders from various sectors – including technology, business, geopolitics, education and public policy, among others – to discuss the global economy's critical issues and what the future could bring. Speakers include some of the brightest minds in their industries, including Microsoft’s (NASDAQ: MSFT) chief innovation officer Michael Jabbour, and Wall Street investor Cathie Wood. Panel discussion topics include “Strategic Adaptation: Preparing for Turbulence in the U.S. Landscape,” “Navigating the End of The World: Geopolitics and the Future of America” and “The New Economy: Bitcoin and the Rise of Alternative Hard Assets,” among others. The summit aims to inspire collaborative efforts that bring about meaningful change and identify opportunities in the chaos. Speakers will explore solutions to societal problems by emphasizing empowerment, innovation and entrepreneurship. This year’s broad theme, Navigating Chaos, Innovate For the Future, will focus on the rapid pace of change today, discussing topics like AI advancement, political and economic uncertainty and the increase in armed conflict globally, among others. Presenting thought leaders and visionaries at this year’s summit will share their insights into these themes and talk of innovative potential solutions for the future. The 2024 Crossroads Summit could be an excellent forum for investors and leaders to exchange and receive knowledge and forge relationships based on societal advancement – and prepare themselves to make the most of President-elect Donald Trump’s second term. Gain insights from thought leaders on the America of the near future: get your tickets by clicking here! Featured photo by Kyle Glenn 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

November 21, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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News Release

Worksport Ltd.’s (NASDAQ: WKSP) 581% Q3 Growth Highlights Potential in $2.56 Billion U.S. Truck Bed Accessories Market

WKSP

The U.S. truck bed accessories market is on a fast track to growth, estimated at USD 2.56 billion in 2024 and projected to expand at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2025 to 2030. This surge is fueled by the growing popularity of pickup trucks, with increasing consumer demand for accessories that boost both functionality and customization. Bedliners, tonneau covers, and storage solutions are among the top choices for truck owners looking to enhance vehicle utility. The expanding role of pickups in both work and recreational settings further drives the demand for these essential truck accessories. At the same time, the clean energy sector is experiencing rapid growth, with the solar generator market expected to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.5% from 2024 to 2032. As consumers increasingly embrace renewable energy solutions, these trends underscore a broader shift toward sustainable, high-performance products. Worksport Ltd. (NASDAQ: WKSP) is uniquely positioned to benefit from both of these growth trends. The company is making significant strides in the truck accessory market with its innovative products while also tapping into the rising demand for clean energy solutions. Known for its commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology, Worksport is preparing for a major expansion in 2025 and beyond, with the launch of several highly anticipated products. A Diverse and Expanding Product Line Worksport designs, develops, manufactures, and holds intellectual property for a variety of products, including tonneau covers, solar integrations, portable energy storage systems, and heat-pump technology. These products cater primarily to the pickup truck, overlanding, and global consumer goods sectors. The company’s flagship product line includes its hybrid tonneau covers, with a particular emphasis on its upcoming AL4 Premium Tonneau Cover, which is set for release in December 2024. The AL4 Premium Tonneau Cover is expected to make a substantial impact on Worksport’s revenue in 2025 and beyond. This product targets the largest segment of the tonneau cover market, and is designed to meet the high demand for hard covers that provide durability and functionality. The AL4 boasts several advantages, including a flip-up design for 95% use of the truck bed, a robust diamond SHIELD ceramic finish, and a lightweight yet strong construction. With an anticipated retail price of $1,099, the AL4 cover is expected to position Worksport competitively in the market, offering superior value at an attractive price point. Steven Rossi, CEO of Worksport, is optimistic about the impact of the AL4: “The upcoming launch of our AL4 Premium Tonneau Cover marks a significant milestone for Worksport. We are entering a high-demand segment of the market with a superior product that offers both quality and value. Combined with our aggressive brand expansion strategy, we anticipate this will drive substantial revenue growth in 2025 and beyond.” Revenue Growth and Financial Stability One of the key indicators of Worksport’s potential lies in its impressive financial performance. In Q3 2024, the company reported an eye-popping 581% year-over-year revenue growth, reaching $3.12 million compared to just $458,433 in Q3 2023. This surge follows a 275% increase from Q1 to Q2 2024, demonstrating the strength of Worksport’s strategic investments and growth initiatives. With plans to exceed its original 2024 revenue guidance of $6-8 million, Worksport is primed to hit new financial milestones in the coming years. Looking ahead to 2025, Worksport is targeting a revenue range of $25 million to $34.5 million, driven by the successful launches of new products like the AL4 tonneau cover, the SOLIS solar cover, and the COR portable energy storage system. “Our Q3 results are just the beginning,” says Rossi. “With our robust product pipeline and aggressive market penetration strategies, we are on a trajectory for sustained growth. Our goal is to become cash flow positive in 2025, with a keen focus on EPS and EBITA.” A Bright Future for Clean Portable Energy While tonneau covers remain a key focus, Worksport’s commitment to clean energy solutions offers even greater long-term growth potential. The company’s SOLIS solar tonneau cover and COR portable energy system are set to revolutionize the portable power market, which is expected to exceed $4 billion in the coming years. The SOLIS solar cover will soon feature a 60V output, which enhances compatibility with various portable energy systems, making it more accessible to a broader audience. This upgrade is anticipated to reduce consumer costs by up to $400, significantly expanding the market for this innovative product. “With this change, we expect to drastically enhance compatibility and materially reduce projected customer costs, so we can make our upcoming sustainable energy solutions more affordable to a wider audience,” said Rossi. This development will not only increase Worksport’s competitive position but also solidify its role as a leader in clean energy solutions. Meanwhile, the COR portable energy system, currently in the alpha release phase, promises to provide a compact, efficient, and reliable off-grid power solution, further enhancing Worksport’s position in the renewable energy space. The company has already begun collecting feedback from real-world testing, with preorders expected to open soon. Together, the SOLIS and COR products will form an integrated nano-grid system that can generate clean, portable energy for recreational and professional use alike. A Rapidly Expanding B2B Sales Channel In addition to its consumer-facing products, Worksport has experienced remarkable success in its B2B sales. In the last four months, Worksport achieved over 200% growth in dealer account sales, thanks in part to its highly competitive pricing and superior product quality. Worksport’s growing network of over 17,000 dealers in the U.S. and Canada signals an immense market opportunity. Furthermore, Worksport has already begun shipping retail display units, which have generated a 31% conversion rate, with more expected in the future. “The remarkable trend we have seen in our B2B segment is a testament to the market's appetite for high-quality, competitively priced tonneau covers,” said Rossi. The company’s rapid B2B growth, combined with strong demand for its products, positions Worksport for a banner year in 2025. By expanding its dealer network and securing preorders for the AL4, Worksport is set to capitalize on the increasing interest in its products and expand its footprint across North America. Conclusion: A Stock to Watch Worksport Ltd. (NASDAQ: WKSP) stands at a crucial inflection point. With its strong growth trajectory, cutting-edge products, and commitment to innovation, the company has significant potential for expansion and profitability in the coming years. Whether it’s the launch of the AL4 Premium Tonneau Cover or the release of the SOLIS solar cover and COR portable energy system, Worksport is positioning itself to capitalize on high-demand markets while diversifying into clean energy solutions. Disclaimers: RazorPitch Inc. "RazorPitch" is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment adviser. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performances are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward-looking statements in this action may be identified through the use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements indicating certain actions & quote; may, could, or might occur. Understand there is no guarantee past performance will be indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap and growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investor's investment may be lost or impaired due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. RazorPitch has not been retained and compensated to assist in the production and distribution of this content. RazorPitch is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. This content is for informational purposes only; you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer by RazorPitch or any third-party service provider to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. RazorPitch is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 Company Website http://razorpitch.com

November 21, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

340Bwell Presents the latest research for Optimizing STD Clinics at Global HIV and AIDS Conferences

Rev Up Marketers

340Bwell, a leader in the 340b consulting and solutions, presented their cutting edge research in two major global HIV/AIDS conferences - HIV4Prevention Conference held in Lima, Peru; and Fast Track City Conference held in Paris, France. Building upon the foundation of promoting evidence decision making within the organization and among its clients – that includes leading STD clinics of the United States – 340bwell team used regular client demographic and clinical data to uncover a diverse range of findings. In the Fast Track City Conference, the Bwell team presented a poster that highlighted the paucity of research on PrEP retention in the global south. The poster was the outcome of a systematic review being conducted by the team that examines PrEP retention and analyses the way researchers and practitioners measure it and define it. The poster revealed that the majority of the studies (>50%) were in the United States. The other two countries with a relatively large number of studies were South Africa (14.2%) and Kenya (12.5%). Bwell Managing Partner Mark Erwin also delivered a presentation on a novel telehealth model for PrEP service delivery that deployed an in-house assembled testing kits to save on cost and to expand access. In the HIV4Prevention Conference, two posters were presented. The first focussed on the science and dynamics of appointment scheduling – demonstrating that the association between client showing up and day of appointment, time slot, chosen, and if the appointment was in-clinic or telehealth was statistically significant. The second poster aimed to test the accuracy of a model that could predict if the client will show up or not using machine learning – deploying routine data. Considering that The United States' PrEP clinics have high no-show rates and not only do cancellations or no-shows result in lost opportunities to connect patients to PrEP therapy, but they also waste clinic time and resources – these findings and models can influence the way clinics can optimize their resources. Mark Erwin, the managing partner of the company said “We are excited to present evidence generated by our team at such esteemed global platforms and at the same time, learn from researchers across the world. It is truly a joyful experience to be around HIV/AIDS advocates and scientists with the common goal of reducing the impact of HIV for those who live with it or are vulnerable to it.” About 340Bwell: 340Bwell is a consulting firm specializing in optimizing 340B drug pricing programs for HIV and STD clinics. They use data-driven strategies to improve patient outcomes, clinic efficiency, and care access. Their innovative solutions have been presented at global HIV/AIDS conferences. 340Bwell is committed to advancing healthcare for underserved populations. For more information visit https://340bwell.com/ Contact Details 340bwell Harsh Agarwal - Data Scientist +1 919-903-1531 harsh@340bwell.com Company Website https://340bwell.com/

November 21, 2024 07:59 AM Eastern Standard Time

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