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FinServ Foundation Welcomes Three Distinguished Financial Services Executives and Academics to its Advisory Board

FinServ Foundation

FinServ Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering talent in the financial services sector, is delighted to announce the appointment of three esteemed professionals to its advisory board: Ashley Hardaway, Dr. Efthymia Antonoudi, and Dr. Terrance K. Martin. "FinServ Foundation is thrilled to welcome such great intellectual firepower to our advisory board,” said Jamie Hopkins, President at FinServ Foundation. “Their individual work in empowering people in the early years of their careers will support our mission to nurture the next generation of leaders in financial services." FinServ Foundation specializes in providing coaching, mentorship, and scholarships to empower individuals entering the financial services field. With a focus on education and professional growth, the foundation actively collaborates with more than 30 colleges and universities, impacting the lives of more than 400 FinServ Fellows. FinServ also covers trips to conferences for these students, sending more than 200 students to conferences in the past year. This initiative not only broadens their exposure to industry trends but also fosters connections that are integral to their future success. Ashley Hardaway is Wealth Advisor at Alexander Legacy Private Wealth in Southfield, Mich. Hardaway has an impressive history in the wealth management field and was named to the 50 Under 50 list by the Association of African American Financial Advisors in 2021. Hardaway holds Series 6, 7, 63 and 66 securities registrations. A graduate of Augustana College, her finance career began more than 15 years ago. Dr. Efthymia Antonoudi serves as an Assistant Professor and the Undergraduate Coordinator for all Financial Planning, Housing, and Consumer Economics majors and minors at the University of Georgia. She received a B.S. in Accounting and Finance from the University of Macedonia in Greece, an M.B.A. and Master's in Professional Accountancy from Georgia State University, and a Ph.D. in Personal Financial Planning from Kansas State University. Dr. Antonoudi is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). She has more than 10 years of experience in business – in financial consulting, marketing, accounting, auditing, and, most recently, international tax consulting. She has also worked with the Executive MBA Program at Georgia State University. Dr. Terrance K. Martin is Associate Professor and Director of the Center of Excellence in Financial Services at Winston-Salem State University, where he specializes in financial literacy and economic well-being. With a Ph.D. in Personal Financial Planning, he has led impactful programs, secured major grants, and authored research featured in Forbes. Originally from St. Kitts and Nevis, he is dedicated to empowering underserved communities through financial education. The addition of Hardaway, Antonoudi, and Martin reflects FinServ Foundation's commitment to ensuring a mission-driven and impactful leadership team. They join current and former advisory board members and leadership, including Anna N'Jie-Konte, Danny Harvey, Brian Money, Denise Sprung, Dr. David Rhoiney, Bonnie Treichel, Michaela Jungbluth, Kellan Brown, Dr. Craig Lemoine, JaQ Campbell, Dr. Preston Cherry, Kate Healy, Michael Lane, and Jamie Hopkins. For more information about FinServ Foundation and its programs, please visit www.FinServFoundation.org About FinServ Foundation FinServ Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals to excel in the financial services sector. Through coaching, mentorships, and scholarships, the foundation actively supports aspiring professionals and fosters a community committed to excellence. With partnerships across 30 colleges and universities, FinServ Foundation continues to make a lasting impact on the future leaders of the financial services industry. Visit www.finservfoundation.org or email president@finservfoundation.org for more information. Contact Details For FinServ Foundation Ray Hennessey, VOCATUS rh@vocatusllc.com Company Website https://finservfoundation.org/

January 22, 2025 08:56 AM Eastern Standard Time

How Monogram’s (NASDAQ: MGRM) Dynamic Approach To Robotics Could Help Reshape the Future Of Orthopedics

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin Benzinga Robots are becoming increasingly more common in the operating room, but just how automated are they? Monogram Orthopedics Inc. (NASDAQ: MGRM) would argue we have a long way to go before the full potential of robotic technology is fully tapped. The proliferation of robotics and increasing utilization is, at this point, likely a foregone conclusion. After all, some estimates predict that 50% of all knee procedures will be robotic by 2027, up from 11% in 2019. Yet despite the proliferation of AI and fully autonomous robotics in nearly every aspect of daily life, the surgical equipment currently in use for common orthopedic procedures is still reliant on surgeon skill. Monogram’s mBôs robotic technology aims to increase automation and reduce reliance on user skills. As a pioneer in autonomous saw-based cutting, the company has applied decades of robotics experience to amass an extensive portfolio of innovation, including some 23 patent applications in process. The majority of procedures done today combine manual surgery with robotics. The process can still rely heavily on surgeon skill to safely execute the surgery. Monogram’s mBôs aims to minimize direct surgeon contact with the robot mounted tools and hopes to provide surgeons a more autonomous platform for precise surgical bone cuts based on preoperative planning. Monogram’s autonomous robotics platform captured the attention of investment bank Roth Capital Partners, which recently initiated coverage of the company, noting mBôs simplifies surgery as a likely direct challenge to the dominant players in the space. “While orthopedic surgeons remain characteristically conservative, the clinical case for robotics technology is building, and robotics are changing market dynamics,” according to an analyst report compiled by Roth Managing Director Jason Wittes. “We anticipate adoption surpassing 50% over the next five years, and thus see significant strategic value in emerging robotics platforms such as MGRM's mBôs that can challenge MAKO’s dominance.” In addition, Monogram reports its technology pipeline is robust. It plans to introduce mVision in the future, which could enable faster registration and further optimize surgical time compared to competitors. Combination Of Advanced Technologies To Deliver Results Monogram leverages AI and robotics to develop state-of-the-art robots that can assist surgeons with knee reconstruction and, in the future, other procedures like hips, shoulders, ankles and spine. Monogram’s robotic systems aim for precise virtual assessment of laxity values to determine the potential clinical impact of planned resections. Its technology enables surgeons to place implants virtually before cutting to assess the impact of various resections on knee laxity with a target to achieve submillimeter bone cuts. These tools could dramatically simplify the complexity of joint reconstruction in the future. Monogram hopes the mBôs automation could increase throughput and hopes to reduce clinical risk with a planned clinical study to validate. The goal is for the robot to be easy to use and to lower the learning curve for surgeons. With accurate robotics, precision machine cuts can help enable the use of press-fit implants, eliminating the need for cement. Unlike traditional implants, press-fit implants rely on the patient’s bone to hold the implant in place instead of relying on cement. Natural biologic fixation could reduce the risk of the implant becoming loose for younger active patients as the cement breaks down over time. Showing Off The Tech At HQ Monogram’s unique approach to robotics was on display during an analyst meeting and demo day held in 2024 at the company’s cadaver lab and headquarters in Austin, Texas. Monogram executives – including CEO Ben Sexson, Founder and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Douglas Unis, Chief Technology Officer Dr. Kamran Shamaei and Chief Financial Officer Noel Knape – were on hand along with other senior management team members to provide an overview of the company's progress in combining advanced machine vision, AI and next-generation robotics to improve surgeries and patient outcomes. “We were extremely impressed with the management team, including founder Doug Unis, and the successful product Demonstration of the mBôs Precision Robotic Surgical System in a world-class cadaver lab,” said Dallas Salazar, Doctor Group investor. “The hands-free, fully active system demonstrated to us the ease of use and simplicity that was operated by the founder’s 11-year-old daughter giving more confidence of commercialization and acceptance in the orthopedic robotics community once approved. We believe there is clearly a disruptor in this space that is now bringing a product solution architecture to enable patient-optimized orthopedic implants at scale utilizing artificial intelligence and next-generation robotics.” Market Direction The company believes that the future of the market for robotics is bright. With continued robotic adoption driven by patient outcomes and healthcare providers, it believes robotics are likely to become increasingly autonomous. Given the advancements made in AI and robotics, the systems in place today may still be relatively constrained by a reliance on the precision of individual surgeons. The full potential of robotics could be realized across myriad industries. With the anticipated growth in surgical procedures and critical patient and healthcare business outcomes at stake, coupled with a declining number of orthopedic surgeons, automation could be an answer to the growing demand. Monogram aims to introduce an approach to enabling true automated robotic precision that has the potential to transform the way surgeons around the world perform knee replacements and other orthopedic procedures. Featured photo by SOMKID THONGDEE on Shutterstock. 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

January 22, 2025 08:45 AM Eastern Standard Time

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What Makes Liberia Ideal For Gold Mining?

Benzinga

By Johnny Rice, Benzinga Brett Richards, CEO of Pasofino Gold Limited ( TSX-V: VEIN) (OTC: EFRGF) (FSE: N07), was recently a guest on Benzinga’s All-Access. Pasofino Gold is a Canada-based mineral exploration company. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary ARX Resources Limited, Pasafino owns 100% of the Dugbe Gold Project in Liberia. The project is mineral-rich and in an ideal location, reports the company. Pasafino completed a bankable feasibility study that showed the project to be economically advantageous. Watch the full interview here: Featured photo by Edouard Dognin 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

January 22, 2025 08:40 AM Eastern Standard Time

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HNO International One Step Closer To Nasdaq Uplisting, Taps Investment Bank

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga Global demand for energy continues to grow, forecast this year to be among the highest levels seen in the past twenty years, as economic growth, increasingly intense heat waves, cryptocurrency mining, electric vehicles and other technology advances require a substantial amount of energy. In 2024, energy demand increased 4%, setting a record, and the same is expected in 2025. At the same time that demand for energy is growing, so too is the use of alternative energy sources, including hydrogen-based clean energy technologies, which is where HNO International Inc. (OTC: HNOI) comes in. HNO International specializes in the design, integration and development of green hydrogen-based energy technologies, including its Scalable Hydrogen Energy Platform (SHEP TM ), which is a modular hydrogen energy system that the company says efficiently produces, stores and dispenses green hydrogen made from water, and the Compact Hydrogen Refueling Station (CHRS TM ), which is a space-efficient solution designed to deliver high-quality, fuel cell-grade hydrogen to fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicles (HICEVs) and other fuel cell applications. The company has over 15 years of experience in green hydrogen production and is focused on growing both organically and through acquisitions. Nasdaq Uplifting One Step Closer To meet that goal, HNO International just tapped a Wall Street investment bank to help with its acquisition strategy, capital sourcing and Nasdaq uplisting process or the process of moving from the Over-the-Counter exchange to a Nasdaq listing. HNO International retained the investment banking firm as its placement agent and financial advisor for up to $20 million for capital expenditures and future acquisitions through a Reg-A capital raise. A Reg-A capital raise occurs when a company sells shares to accredited and non-accredited investors without all the requirements of an IPO. It’s known as a mini IPO and is usually used by smaller companies to access more investors to raise capital. The unnamed investment bank is a full-service broker/dealer, and has been providing services to both public and private companies through IPOs, Pre-IPO Special Vehicles (SPVs), Private Placements, Real Estate Investment Trusts, 1031 Tax Exchange Funds and Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) opportunities since the early 1980s. "The global demands for energy continue to climb at extraordinary rates, prompting the need for additional sources, of which HNO International is set to play a key role,” said the investment bank’s managing director. “We feel our extensive service portfolio is a great match, one that will take HNO International from the small OTC market space to a global reach, through additional financing and the NASDAQ uplist." Bitcoin Mining Opportunity? The deal with the investment bank comes at a time when Bitcoin mining is taking off, with the global market projected to reach $8.24 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 12.9% between now and 2034. That may present an opportunity for HNO International, given mining for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies can consume as much energy as all of Argentina. What’s more, the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that electricity demand associated with U.S. cryptocurrency mining operations accounted for 0.6% to 2.3% of U.S. electricity consumption in 2023. That equates to annual demand for three to six million homes in the U.S. The low end of the range is equal to annual electricity usage for states like Utah or West Virginia. With the incoming Trump administration expected to be pro-crypto, that figure may rise even further if the adoption of crypto increases. Green hydrogen, which is produced using renewable energy sources like solar or wind, can reduce Bitcoin mining energy consumption and lower costs. It can provide Bitcoin miners with clean energy that can be stored and used when renewable energy generation is low. That can then smooth out the fluctuations in the grid and decrease the carbon footprint of the miners. “The thing about Bitcoin mining, miners tend to run when energy is lowest, but having hydrogen stored makes sure miners are running at an optimal period of time,” said HNO International CEO Donald Owens in a recent interview with Nasdaq. In preparation for its Nasdaq uplisting, HNO International recently reduced its outstanding share structure to 74 million shares. By doing that, its earnings per share, a key financial metric, automatically improve. Fewer shares trading hands have the potential to drive the stock higher due to the lower supply. Owens said in the interview the goal was to uplist to Nasdaq in late summer 2025. Setting Itself Apart While HNO International isn’t the first company to go after green hydrogen, Owens said what sets it apart from its peers is that it is focused on building the infrastructure and creating a franchising model in which hydrogen is accessible locally without the need to liquify the hydrogen and ship it thousands of miles away via trucks, which requires energy. “Hydrogen is one of the most plentiful fuels on earth, but until it becomes available to people it's useless,” said Owens, noting that as it stands, most companies produce large-scale amounts of hydrogen but then have to liquify it for transport and then de-liquify it once it arrives at its intended location. “Part of the problem is the existing structure is not going to work,” he says. From tapping an investment bank to gearing up for a Nasdaq uplisting later this year, HNO International says it is making strides in its mission to bring hydrogen energy to the masses. With demand soaring and costs growing, this may be a company worth watching. To learn more about HNO International, click here. Featured photo by Shutterstock 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

January 22, 2025 08:35 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Cboe: Life Is Better With OptionsSM, Investing Could Be Too

Benzinga

By Kyle Anthony, Benzinga The adage ‘variety is the spice of life’ highlights that having more choices and options allows for a better quality of life. The ability to choose a desired item or outcome is a privilege that widens the scope of possibilities for individuals, allowing them to exercise creativity and engage ingenuity. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. (CBOE: CBOE) wants to bring you options – more choices for your trades – and is actively bringing to market a suite of investment offerings that aid investors and traders in realizing their investment goals. Variety Is the Spice of Life – Having Choices Makes Options Better Cboe ® offers traders a diverse selection of index options, which enable them to trade based on their directional view of the overall market – bullish, bearish or neutral. Individuals with a firm conviction of how the broad stock market will move could consider trading index options. If one anticipates the market will have an upswing, traders and investors may use call index options to capitalize on the potential movement. Conversely, to hedge against a market downturn, put index options may help mitigate losses to the portfolio. For individuals looking to trade index options, Cboe Global Markets has multiple offerings within its S&P 500 Index options suite: Cboe SPX,, Cboe XSP (Mini-SPX) and Cboe Nanos. Though the user-type for each product is distinct, the value proposition provided by each is consistent. SPX, Cboe’s leading index option offering, allows investors to gain efficient market exposure to the S&P 500 Index. The broad market exposure this offering provides makes it ideal for speculating on market movements or hedging portfolio risk. Experienced institutional investors and high-net-worth investors typically trade SPX. However, retail trading has seen an increase in recent years as well, Cboe says. Cboe’s XSP index options are typically traded by retail traders and smaller institutional investors, as it is one-tenth of the size of SPX. XSP’s greater flexibility in managing large-cap U.S. equity exposure makes it more affordable and accessible for smaller investors, while maintaining all of the benefits of index options. Though small in size, Nanos is distinct in its objective, as this offering allows individuals to familiarize themselves with index options. Nanos trades at one-hundredth the size of an XSP contract. The specific sizing makes them more accessible to retail investors with limited capital, enabling them to potentially capitalize on market movements at a limited cost outlay. Cboe says it is all about bringing more choice to traders, and it offers choices at the other end of the market capitalization spectrum, too. While the aforementioned index options focus on the S&P 500 Index – which tracks the stock performance of 500 of the largest listed U.S. companies – Cboe also has index options that provide exposure to the Russell 2000 Index, which tracks the smallest 2,000 stocks in the Russell Index. These include Cboe RUT and Cboe MRUT. Furthermore, Cboe also offers options on the Cboe Volatility Index. VIX index options, which were introduced by Cboe in 2006, were the first exchange-traded options that allowed retail traders to trade expected market volatility. Cboe VIX index options enable traders to hedge portfolio volatility risk distinct from market price risk and trade based on their expectation of the future direction or movement of volatility. As mentioned earlier, Cboe VIX index Options are based on the Cboe Volatility Index, one of the most well-known indices globally and a popular part of many traders’ options trading strategy. The VIX Index is essential to understanding market sentiment. The Value Proposition Of Index Options The primary value proposition of index options is their comprehensive market exposure and diversification. However, their functional benefits, namely, cash settlement and European-style exercise, are also among the top-of-mind benefits investors and traders may derive from using these instruments. Cash settlement means that the buyer of an option contract receives the cash difference between the strike price and the current market price of the underlying security. Practically speaking, given that the underlying asset is an index – physical settlement is not feasible; hence, the buyer receives an amount of cash equal to the underlying asset's value when the option is exercised. European exercise refers to index options only being exercised at expiration, eliminating the risk of early assignment - the chance that an option holder exercises it before the expiration date. This typically happens with American-style options, which allow early exercise. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, utilizing index options to generate income is another potential benefit, as investors and traders can sell covered calls or cash-secured puts and collect premiums as income. Finally, the financial efficiency within index options can allow investors and traders to control large positions with relatively small capital outlays. Taking Action With Cboe’s Index Options Cboe provides this information on its website, detailing the index options suite and the benefits investors and traders can derive from using these solutions. The exchange operator has also produced a guide that details the practical benefits of using index options. Additionally, Cboe offers The Options Institute, which helps both beginners and sophisticated options traders familiarize themselves with foundational knowledge on options or learn new developments taking place within the investment derivatives landscape. The Options Institute provides comprehensive courses and tools, equipping investors with much of the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of options trading effectively. Cboe's index options allow access to diversified markets, provide cash settlement, multiple expiries and contract sizes, and are accessible to a variety of traders, enhancing the product experience. For traders and investors who desire optionality and flexibility, Cboe’s suite of index options offers that and more. Featured photo by Tyler Prahm 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. Disclosure: Life is Better with Options SM is a service mark of Cboe Exchange, Inc. or its affiliates. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

January 22, 2025 08:35 AM Eastern Standard Time

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The Next Moncler? How Emerging Brand Perfect Moment Is Capitalizing On The Luxury Skiwear Market

Benzinga

By JE Insights, Benzinga While economic challenges continue to dominate headlines, history has consistently proven that well-run enterprises positioned in burgeoning markets can punch well above their weight – an ethos that luxury skiwear and lifestyle brand Perfect Moment (AMEX: PMNT) embraces. Leveraging premier fabric technology, fashion-forward designs and proven marketing strategies, Perfect Moment aims to duplicate the exponential growth witnessed in top-flight apparel brands. Any successful business will typically command a robust footprint in a relevant arena, a key advantage that the luxury brand has worked to develop. According to Grand View Research, the global ski equipment and gear market size reached a valuation of $15.9 billion in 2023. By 2030, the segment could expand to $22.9 billion, implying a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4%. Within the broader skiing ecosystem, the luxury ski clothing sector hit a market value of about $1.59 billion in 2023, per Business Research Insights. Furthermore, by 2032, experts anticipate that this segment may rise to $2.73 billion, expanding at a CAGR of approximately 6.2%. What’s especially attractive is the skiing industry’s higher-income participants. In a study by Snowsports Industries America conducted prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, 41% of cross-country skiers reported a household income above $100,000. Tellingly, even after the passage of time and wage inflation, real median U.S. household income in 2023 clocked in at $80,610. In other words, even with the obstacles affecting the broader economy, the skiing ecosystem appears to be more insulated than the average consumer ecosystem. Better yet, revenue growth metrics seem to underscore the reality that Perfect Moment resonates with its target audience, potentially laying the blueprint for additional success. Applying The Tried-And-True Deep Value Formula Although the wider apparel industry may appear saturated, saturation alone doesn’t dictate success or lack thereof. For companies that carve out a niche, loyal following like Perfect Moment has been striving to do, success can arrive not as a slow, gradual evolution but rather as an exponential surge. One example is Moncler (OTC: MONRF), an Italian luxury fashion brand specializing in ready-to-wear outerwear. During the late months of 2014, Moncler carried a market capitalization of less than $3.5 billion. However, by the spring of 2018, the Milan-based enterprise had soared to a valuation of $11.58 billion. Since then, the underlying security has ebbed and flowed, reaching a height of $21.07 billion in November 2021. A significant catalyst for Moncler’s growth during the first half of 2024 was its direct-to-consumer sales across regions. In addition, the company made inroads in Asia as other luxury brands faltered in key markets such as China. Furthermore, management reported that its Japan sales outperformed, leveraging the rise in tourism in the country post-COVID. These results demonstrate that a previously small entity can beat out larger rivals with a smart strategy and proper execution. Another successful fashion brand that originated from a more humble starting position is Canada Goose (NYSE: GOOS). Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, the Canadian winterwear specialist initially carried a market cap of $1.69 billion in early 2017, when it made its public market debut. However, by November 2018, the valuation shot up to $7.38 billion, a 337% expansion in less than two years. A major contributor to Canada Goose’s success was its structural directives, specifically its direct-to-consumer (DTC) model. In fiscal year 2018, DTC sales more than doubled, reflecting shifting trends in consumer behaviors. Additionally, Canada Goose attracted customers thanks to its high-quality material, indicating that even under challenging economic circumstances, people are willing to pay a premium for comfortable and dependable apparel. Perhaps the deep value formula is no better symbolized than with Alo Yoga, a premium athletic apparel retailer headquartered in Los Angeles, CA. Founded in 2007, the company started in relative obscurity, being dwarfed by sector rivals Nike Inc (NYSE: NKE) and Lululemon Athletica Inc (NASDAQ: LULU). However, in October 2023, a Reuters report noted that Alo Yoga’s parent company explored a potential investment that placed the value of the subsidiary at about $10 billion. Key to Alo Yoga’s rags-to-riches tale is its collaboration with relevant, high-profile celebrities. By aligning the brand with power influencers such as Taylor Swift, Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner, this high-leverage strategy solidified the company’s presence in the fashion industry, specifically in the niche workout clothes sector. Moving forward, Perfect Moment seeks to replicate this proven blueprint but for the burgeoning and relatively economically insulated luxury skiing apparel market. Perfect Moment's Strategic Advantage In Luxury Skiwear One of the key aspects of Perfect Moment’s growth strategy lies in its ability to fuse luxury with performance in a segment that thrives on exclusivity. While mainstream fashion brands chase volume, Perfect Moment plays a different game – targeting high-net-worth consumers who demand the best and are willing to pay for it. This approach seeks to mirror the meteoric rise of Moncler and Canada Goose but with a focus on the ski and outerwear market that the company says remains underserved in the luxury category. Perfect Moment says its DTC model represents a structural advantage, offering a streamlined connection between the brand and its affluent clientele. By emphasizing DTC sales channels, the company not only drives higher margins but also carefully curates the brand experience from start to finish. This approach isn’t just about moving product; it’s about reinforcing exclusivity and authenticity, attributes that resonate deeply with luxury buyers. Retail expansion plays a pivotal role in elevating Perfect Moment’s brand presence. The company’s move into elite locales like SoHo, New York, underscores its intent to capture high-income clientele at the ground level. Rather than mere retail spaces, these establishments represent immersive extensions of the brand, creating a tactile connection with consumers. Also, by opening physical stores in areas that cater to luxury shoppers, Perfect Moment mirrors the omnichannel strategies that fueled the growth of Moncler and Canada Goose, seamlessly blending digital and in-person engagement. Collaborations and influencer marketing remain critical drivers of brand visibility, as exemplified by Alo Yoga. Perfect Moment’s partnerships with cultural icons like Priyanka Chopra Jonas amplify its reach and embed the brand within elite fashion circles. Beyond influencer marketing for the sake of appearances, the strategy focuses on cultivating an aspirational lifestyle. Subsequently, this effort seeks to organically position Perfect Moment as a brand that embodies luxury both on and off the slopes. The directive aims to mirror the success Alo Yoga experienced by leveraging celebrities to dominate the leisure markets previously controlled by established giants. A ‘Perfect’ Example Of An Emerging Brand Positioned For Future Growth As the luxury ski apparel market continues its upward trajectory, Perfect Moment believes it stands uniquely positioned to capture outsized growth, and the combination of high-quality craftsmanship, selective distribution and cultural cachet seems to create a potent recipe for expansion. In a world where affluent consumers gravitate toward brands that embody performance, style and exclusivity, Perfect Moment is looking to check all the boxes. For investors looking to add an emerging luxury brand to their portfolio, Perfect Moment might be worth looking into. Ultimately, success in the luxury sector isn’t necessarily about reinventing the wheel – it’s about executing tried-and-true strategies with precision. Perfect Moment’s brand trajectory reflects a blend of structural discipline and creative flair, two hallmarks that have in the past separated rising stars from fleeting trends. As the company continues to expand its footprint, it is carving out its place even among the industry’s most coveted brands. Featured photo by Monika Szarawarska from Pixabay. 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

January 22, 2025 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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CPREX Enters Las Vegas Market with Acquisition of Martinique Bay Multifamily Property

Clarion Partners

Clarion Partners Real Estate Income Fund Inc. (“CPREX” or the “Fund”) announced today it has acquired Martinique Bay, a 256-unit garden style apartment community located in the Green Valley submarket of the Las Vegas/Henderson area of Nevada. Clarion Partners brings decades of experience in the Multifamily sector, with more than $11 billion currently invested across Class A and garden-style apartments in key markets throughout the U.S. This purchase brings the total amount of residential space owned by CPREX investors to more than 41% of the Fund. 1 More broadly, Clarion Partners has almost $2 billion invested in commercial real estate across the Las Vegas metro area. “The purchase of Martinique Bay, in the thriving planned community of Green Valley, is not only ideally located near the Harry Reid International Airport and major shopping and employment hubs, but it is also a great property for families with its above-average unit sizes and access to some of the best public schools in the greater Las Vegas metro,” says Clarion Partners Managing Director and Fund Manager Rick Schaupp. Clarion is part of Franklin Templeton’s alternatives business, which spans a broad range of strategies, including real estate, private credit, hedge funds and secondary private equity and co-investments with approximately $250 billion in assets under management as of September 30, 2024. Clarion Partners serves as CPREX’s sub-adviser and Franklin Templeton through different entities serves as the adviser, administrator and distributor of the Fund. For a deeper look at why Clarion Partners has high conviction in the multifamily sector, view our latest Clarion Calls Market Insights video: To read our latest whitepaper about the U.S. multifamily sector, click here: The Endurance of U.S. Rental Housing Investments. About Clarion Partners Clarion Partners, an SEC registered investment adviser with FCA-authorized and FINRA member affiliates, has been a leading U.S. real estate investment manager for more than 40 years. Headquartered in New York, the firm maintains strategically located offices across the United States and Europe. With over $73 billion in total real estate and debt assets under management, Clarion Partners offers a broad range of real estate strategies across the risk/return spectrum to 500 institutional investors across the globe. For more information visit www.clarionpartners.com. About Franklin Templeton Franklin Resources, Inc. [NYSE:BEN] is a global investment management organization with subsidiaries operating as Franklin Templeton and serving clients in over 150 countries. Franklin Templetonâs mission is to help clients achieve better outcomes through investment management expertise, wealth management and technology solutions. Through its specialist investment managers, the company offers specialization on a global scale, bringing extensive capabilities in fixed income, equity, alternatives and multi-asset solutions. With more than 1,500 investment professionals, and offices in major financial markets around the world, the California-based company has over 75 years of investment experience and over $1.6 trillion in assets under management as of June 30, 2024. For more information about CPREX and Alternatives by Franklin Templeton, please visit cprex.com or alternativesbyft.com. 1 Reflects the Gross Real Estate Value of each asset as a percentage of the Gross Real Estate Value of the Private Real Estate sleeve. Source: Clarion Partners. As of January 2, 2025, this investment represents 5.6% of relative percentage of the holding of the entire portfolio (100%). Characteristics and holdings weightings are based on total portfolio, are subject to change at any time, and are provided for informational purposes only. Not to be construed as a recommendation to purchase or sell any security. There can be no assurance that any unrealized investment described herein will prove to be profitable. Investment Risks: All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Liquidity Risk Considerations: The Fund should be viewed as a long-term investment, as it is inherently illiquid and suitable only for investors who can bear the risks associated with the limited liquidity of the Fund. Limited liquidity is provided to shareholders only through the Fund’s quarterly repurchase offers for no more than 5% of the Fund’s shares outstanding at net asset value. There is no guarantee these repurchases will occur as scheduled, or at all. Shares will not be listed on a public exchange, and no secondary market is expected to develop. Shareholders may not be able to sell their shares in the Fund at all or at a favorable price. Risks related to investment made by the Fund: The Fund’s investments are highly concentrated in real estate investments, and therefore will be subject to the risks typically associated with real estate, including but not limited to local, state, national or international economic conditions; including market disruptions caused by regional concerns, political upheaval, sovereign debt crises and other factors. Asset-backed, mortgage-backed or mortgage-related securities are subject to prepayment and extension risks. The Fund and/or its subsidiaries employ leverage, which increases the volatility of investment returns and subjects the Fund to magnified losses if an underlying fund’s investments decline in value. The Fund may use derivatives, such as options and futures, which can be illiquid, may disproportionately increase losses, and have a potentially large impact on Fund performance. Fixed income securities involve interest rate, credit, inflation and reinvestment risks. As interest rates rise, the value of fixed income securities fall. High-yield bonds possess greater price volatility, illiquidity and possibility of default. Before investing, carefully consider a Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. You can find this and other information in each prospectus, or summary prospectus, if available, at www.franklintempleton.com. Please read it carefully. Any information, statement or opinion set forth herein is general in nature, is not directed to or based on the financial situation or needs of any particular investor, and does not constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results, or a recommendation with respect to any particular security or investment strategy or type of retirement account. Investors seeking financial advice regarding the appropriateness of investing in any securities or investment strategies should consult their financial professional. INVESTMENT PRODUCTS: NOT FDIC INSURED | NO BANK GUARANTEE | MAY LOSE VALUE ©2025 Franklin Distributors, LLC, member FINRA, SIPC. Franklin Distributors, LLC, and Clarion Partners, LLC are all subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. Contact Details Chris Sullivan +1 917-902-0617 chris@craftandcapital.com Company Website https://www.clarionpartners.com

January 22, 2025 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Trending Meme Coin Cutoshi Announces New DeFi Wallet As Token Launch Nears

Cutoshi

The viral meme coin Cutoshi (CUTO) has been one of the most successful token presales lately. Due to its immense trader backing and increasing community support, it has trended on social media platforms multiple times. The project continues to boost its appeal with new innovative features and fun challenges for community members. Cutoshi recently made another positive announcement on X (formerly Twitter) about the presale phase accelerating faster than expected. To catch up with the demand, Cutoshi is increasing the project’s development momentum and stated that they will soon add the much-awaited Cutoshi DeFi wallet to the platform ahead of schedule. Cutoshi’s Vision For The Future Of DeFi Despite being a meme coin, Cutoshi also has a serious mission. The project takes inspiration from Satoshi Nakamoto and resonates with his teachings. While working towards creating a better decentralized global economy, which was the original purpose of developing blockchain technology. Besides providing practical solutions and real-world use cases to promote DeFi culture, Cutoshi aims to spread good luck and prosperity since its meme aspect is based on the Chinese Lucky Cat. People in Asian countries have traditionally kept this lucky cat in their homes because, according to folklore, the lucky cat extends good fortune to its owners. So, Cutoshi has brought the lucky cat to the blockchain as its native token, CUTO, and made it available for people worldwide. New Inclusion In The Hybrid Ecosystem At the heart of the hybrid ecosystem lies the Cutoshi DEX, a multi-chain decentralized exchange capable of performing cross-chain transactions at unmatched speeds. Through this DEX, users can efficiently swap their digital assets peer-to-peer and enjoy complete privacy and security. Moreover, the Cutoshi Wallet will soon be incorporated, providing users with a gateway to financial freedom. The wallet embodies self-custody and shifts authority from centralized organizations to the user, which means traders will have complete control over all their assets. With advanced built-in security features, the wallet ensures all assets are safe and sound. Thus, Cutoshi empowers users by allowing them to seamlessly manage and store all their investments across multiple blockchains under a single platform. Furthermore, Cutoshi plans to release limited-edition NFTs to create a more vibrant meme coin ecosystem. A total of 8,000 NFTs will be minted, and apart from being fantastic artwork, these will also have unique DeFi functionalities based on which Cutoshi will divide into five classes. Community members can hold these NFTs to unlock various platform features or swap with other members to make a profit. NFT holders will also be eligible for special discounts at the Cutoshi merch shop, where devotees can purchase CUTO-themed hoodies, beanies, T-shirts, coffee mugs, phone cases plus more, and keep the spirit of the lucky cat close to them to harness its powers. Earn With A Unique Token Farming Mechanism The Cutoshi token farming has over 3,700 active members harvesting CUTO by completing the fun quests and challenges. Participants rise through the leaderboard by collecting CUTO points, and higher ranks get more rewards, so members compete to rise to the top. The farming mechanism is designed to boost community growth, and participants receive rewards to help spread the project’s vision. After the presale, community members can convert their accumulated points to CUTO tokens and receive them in their Cutoshi wallets. The token is currently in presale stage four, priced at $0.031. The presale has been widely successful and has raised over $1.63 million. The early investors have more than doubled their investments with the periodic price surges. This is an excellent time to get in since stage four is almost over, meaning CUTO’s value will soon surge again, providing investors with another massive compounding return. For more information on the Cutoshi (CUTO) Presale: https://cutoshi.com/ Join and become a community member: https://twitter.com/CutoshiToken https://t.me/cutoshicommunity Cutoshi is a revolutionary meme coin inspired by the Chinese Lucky Cat and Satoshi Nakamoto’s teachings. It’s based on decentralization, privacy, and monetary freedom, embodying the blockchain's original purpose and ethos. And Cutoshi has a vision - to introduce more people to cryptocurrencies and bring financial freedom to all who want it. The regulatory environment surrounding cryptocurrencies is evolving and varies across jurisdictions. It is your responsibility to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations in your country or region before engaging with Custoshi. Contact Details Cutoshi Camila Perez Support@cutoshi.com Company Website https://cutoshi.com/

January 22, 2025 07:32 AM Eastern Standard Time

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ZenaTech (Nasdaq: ZENA): Tackling Wildfires and Beyond with Cutting-Edge Technology

ZENA

Wildfire season across the western United States isn’t what it used to be. Once confined to late summer and fall, wildfires now seem to ignore the calendar altogether. This January, massive blazes like the Palisades Fire have consumed tens of thousands of acres, displacing residents and devastating communities across Southern California. High winds and dry conditions have fueled these fires, leading to evacuations and overwhelming firefighting efforts. As climate change accelerates, such disasters are expected to become more frequent and severe. While no single solution can address the scale of the problem, technology is playing an increasingly critical role in mitigating its impacts. Companies like ZenaTech (Nasdaq: ZENA) are pioneering new ways to monitor, manage, and respond to wildfire risks using drones, AI, and quantum computing. ZenaTech’s Innovative Approach to Wildfire Management ZenaTech (Nasdaq: ZENA) is not directly fighting fires. Instead, the company is revolutionizing how we monitor and manage fire-prone areas using cutting-edge technology. The company recently made headlines with its acquisition of Weddle Surveying Inc., a key move that expands its capabilities in drone-based land surveying and fire management. ZenaTech’s approach leverages AI-powered drones and Quantum Computing to provide real-time data and predictive insights. The company’s drones are capable of covering vast, remote areas to monitor environmental conditions and detect fires before they escalate. Quantum Computing further amplifies ZenaTech’s capabilities by processing enormous datasets—from weather patterns to topography—at speeds far beyond traditional computing methods. This enables ZenaTech to create highly accurate predictive models that can optimize fire management strategies in real-time. The application of these technologies is already underway in wildfire-prone regions across the western United States. With its AI drones and quantum-powered analytics, ZenaTech is helping fire management teams deploy resources more efficiently, improving the speed and effectiveness of firefighting efforts. Expanding Beyond Wildfires: ZenaTech’s Diverse Technological Impact While wildfire management is an immediate priority, ZenaTech’s innovations stretch far beyond that. The company has made significant strides in precision agriculture, defense, and enterprise SaaS solutions, positioning itself as a leader in multiple high-growth sectors. Precision Agriculture ZenaTech is working on obtaining FAA Part 137 certification for its ZenaDrone 1000, which would enable the company to enter the rapidly expanding precision agriculture market. This certification will allow ZenaTech drones to assist farmers with crop spraying, fertilization, and pest control, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. By collecting real-time data on crop health, soil conditions, and environmental variables, ZenaTech’s drones help farmers improve yields while minimizing environmental impact—an essential factor as global food production faces growing challenges. Military Applications ZenaTech is also targeting the burgeoning military drone market with a new gas-powered version of its ZenaDrone 1000. This version is designed for long-endurance missions such as surveillance, reconnaissance, and border patrol. With the global military drone market expected to grow from $14 billion to $47 billion by 2032, ZenaTech is positioning itself to meet the demand for high-performance drones. The gas-powered ZenaDrone 1000 promises extended flight durations and enhanced payload capabilities, making it ideal for critical defense operations where long-range, high-stakes surveillance is essential. Enterprise SaaS Solutions ZenaTech is also venturing into enterprise software solutions. The company recently signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to acquire a workforce scheduling software company, a move that will enable ZenaTech to integrate quantum computing into workforce management systems. By leveraging quantum computing’s ability to process massive datasets, ZenaTech plans to revolutionize how multinational companies manage complex workforce scheduling in industries like healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing. The ability to process vast combinations of variables—such as employee availability, skills, and demand—will allow ZenaTech’s AI-driven SaaS solutions to significantly improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance productivity for large organizations. Why ZenaTech? ZenaTech’s approach to solving complex global challenges through a combination of AI, drones, and Quantum Computing makes it an intriguing investment opportunity. The company is addressing some of the most urgent societal issues of our time—such as wildfire management, climate change, and food security—while tapping into high-growth markets like defense and enterprise software solutions. With its recent acquisitions, expanding global presence, and diversified technological capabilities, ZenaTech is well-positioned for long-term growth. The company is not just innovating to meet current demands but is also defining the future of AI, drones, and quantum computing across various sectors. ZENA is leading the charge in integrating AI, drones, and quantum computing to solve some of the most pressing issues facing industries today. From wildfire management to precision agriculture, military defense, and enterprise software, ZenaTech’s far-reaching impact promises both social value and financial returns. With its robust technological portfolio, forward-looking strategies, and global reach, ZenaTech is primed to not only meet the needs of today but also to shape the future of the industries it serves. Investors who are looking to align with cutting-edge technology in a company that addresses both immediate global challenges and future market trends may want to take a closer look at ZenaTech (Nasdaq: ZENA) 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 been retained and compensated by the company 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 RazorPitch Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 Mark@razorpitch.com Company Website http://razorpitch.com

January 22, 2025 07:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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