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COMCAST TO DELIVER MULTI-GIG SYMMETRICAL SPEEDS TO CUSTOMERS OVER EXISTING CONNECTIONS IN WORLD-FIRST DOCSIS 4.0 DEPLOYMENT

Comcast Colorado

Comcast announced that next week it will begin to introduce the first residential customers in the world to next-generation Internet powered by DOCSIS 4.0 technology. The latest version of DOCSIS technology is a giant leap forward in Internet connectivity that can deliver multi-gigabit symmetrical speeds to customers over the connections that already exist in tens of millions of homes in Comcast markets across the country. As a part of the launch, Comcast will introduce a new portfolio of symmetrical products for residential customers. Comcast will begin rolling out DOCSIS 4.0 to select neighborhoods in Colorado Springs, CO, and will launch new markets throughout the country over the next few years. Select areas of Atlanta, GA and Philadelphia, PA are expected to begin rolling out before the end of this year. “The ubiquity of our network, which is already accessible to tens of millions of homes, provides us with an incredible opportunity to bring multi-gigabit upload and download speeds to communities across the country with the scale and efficiency that no other provider can replicate,” said Dave Watson, President & CEO, Comcast Cable. “Our connectivity experience, powered by the Xfinity 10G Network, will allow us to deliver speeds up to 10 Gbps over our traditional network to virtually all our customers, plus even better reliability, lower latency, and the best in-home WiFi coverage. We’re entering the next phase of this industry leadership with DOCSIS 4.0 technology to introduce X-Class Internet products that will revolutionize the way our customers get online today and many years into the future.” Introducing X-Class Internet Symmetrical 10 Gbps service based on fiber-to-the-home technology is already available in all of Comcast’s markets, and as part of its continued network evolution and the introduction of DOCSIS 4.0, multi-gig symmetrical speeds are rolling out. New and existing residential customers connected via DOCSIS 4.0 will have access to Comcast’s newly introduced next-generation X-Class Internet portfolio. X-Class speed tiers include X-300 Mbps, X-500 Mbps, X-1 Gbps and X-2 Gbps upload and download speeds and low lag for the ultimate live sports streaming experience on Peacock, smooth connections on work calls, and ultra-responsive gaming. “The enhancements that we have been making to our network over the past few years have been foundational to creating an award-winning network architecture that is fully virtualized and capable of delivering these exciting capabilities to our customers,” said Elad Nafshi, Chief Network Officer, Comcast Cable. “This is an awesome achievement and I’m incredibly proud of the team of brilliant technologists here at Comcast who have worked relentlessly to make DOCSIS 4.0 a reality ahead of schedule.” Full Duplex DOCSIS Comcast’s path to DOCSIS 4.0 leverages breakthrough network technology known as “Full Duplex” that utilizes the same network spectrum to dramatically increase upstream speeds without sacrificing downstream speeds. Comcast 10G Innovation The DOCSIS 4.0 launch is the latest in a long line of world firsts that Comcast has spearheaded in the effort to implement DOCSIS 4.0. In April 2021, Comcast conducted the first-ever live test of full duplex DOCSIS and later that year tested the world’s first 10G connection all the way from the network to a modem. In 2022, Comcast conducted a world-first live trial and connected a business location in the Philadelphia region to its live network including a DOCSIS 4.0-enabled 10G node and multiple cable modems. In February 2023, the company marked another major milestone in the nation’s largest and fastest multi-gig deployment by announcing its latest Xfinity 10G Network upgrade launched to 10 million homes and businesses. In addition to Comcast’s efforts to deploy DOCSIS 4.0 and other 10G upgrades across its footprint, the company continually invests in delivering a superior connectivity experience that is not only fast but is also reliable with less lag. Award Winning Tech – Comcast has lead the industry in deploying technologies within its network to enhance speed, reliability and latency like distributed access architecture (DAA) and a vCMTS, which earned an Emmy® Award for Technology and Engineering. Smart Network – Comcast-developed technology like Comcast Octave and Xfinity Fiber Meter (XMF), enables optimized network performance by proactively identifying and even repairing network impairments that impact customers’ services. Storm-Ready WiFi – In August 2023, Comcast introduced Storm-Ready WiFi, the first product of its kind offered by an Internet provider designed to maintain a connection during a power or local outage. Low Latency – Deployed Active Queue Management (AQM) system nationally and currently trialing the latest CableLabs low latency DOCSIS (LLD) specification. DOCSIS Technology Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) was first introduced in 1997 as a solution for high-speed data to be transmitted over existing cable wires, replacing dial-up phone lines for an Internet connection. Comcast has been a leader in deploying DOCSIS updates to deliver faster speeds to all the homes and businesses in its service areas. In early 2016, Comcast was the first to introduce DOCSIS 3.1-powered Gigabit Internet service and rapidly expanded Gigabit speeds across the country to more locations than any other provider. Xfinity customers in Colorado Springs will be able to sign up online for the new DOCSIS 4.0-powered Internet plans. ### About Comcast Corporation Comcast is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Leslie Oliver +1 303-810-6326 leslie_oliver@comcast.com Company Website https://colorado.comcast.com/

October 12, 2023 08:00 AM Mountain Daylight Time

NexTech3D.ai ending year with strong results in four key business units

Nextech3D.AI

NextTech3D.ai CEO Evan Gappelberg joined Steve Darling from Proactive with a comprehensive corporate update, shedding light on the various business units under NextTech3D.ai and their impressive achievements. One noteworthy highlight is the company's collaboration with major clients like Amazon, Kohl's, and others, where NextTech3D.ai has been instrumental in building over 60,000 models. The company's remarkable growth is reflected in its financial performance, with a 157% increase in revenue over the past six months and a remarkable 155% rise in Q2 revenue compared to the previous year. The company is well on track for a record-breaking fourth quarter as well. MapD, the company's events solutions platform, is also experiencing substantial growth, with multiple reseller agreements signed, including partnerships with Advanced Solutions, Rainfocus, CannaCon, and American Tradeshow Services, which has renewed its annual license. In just nine months, MapD has already surpassed its 2022 revenue figures. Toggle3D.ai, a SaaS solution that utilizes generative AI to convert CAD files, has garnered impressive traction with over 17,000 sign-ups and over 19,000 projects generated. The platform's integration with Sketchfab, boasting over 5 million 3D models available for download, has further strengthened its appeal. The company anticipates surpassing 30,000 users by year-end and plans to introduce additional pricing plans to enhance flexibility. Gappelberg also highlighted the success of ARway, which has secured key deals with prominent entities, including one of California's largest shopping malls, the second-largest university in Turkey, and the largest rental car company in South America. The company's robust pipeline includes 13 identified corporations as pilot project prospects across various vertical markets, including retail, healthcare, education, manufacturing, telecom, and digital marketing. ARway's selection to complete an initial build of the ARway Platform on Apple's Vision Pro hardware at Apple Park demonstrates its position at the forefront of augmented reality technology development. In summary, NextTech3D.ai's diverse business units are flourishing, with impressive growth, strategic partnerships, and a robust pipeline of opportunities across multiple industries. The company's innovative solutions and strong client relationships position them as a significant player in the ever-evolving fields of 3D modeling, augmented reality, and generative AI. Contact Details Proactive Investors Canada +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

October 11, 2023 01:31 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Oncotelic Therapeutics’ (OTCQB: OTLC) Lead Immunotherapy Candidate For Treating Deadly Cancers, OT-101, Could Hold Potential Applications In Multiple Multi-Billion Dollar Markets

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga Oncotelic Therapeutics (OTCQB: OTLC) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company. Its primary focus is on developing innovative drugs for oncology and infectious disease and aging. OT-101 is the company’s lead immuno-oncology drug candidate, showing promise in the treatment of deadly cancers as well as acute COVID-19. It is a first-in-class anti-TGF-β RNA therapeutic that inhibits a protein called Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β). TGF-β is known to suppress the immune system, help cancer cells evade the immune system and increase the growth and spread of cancer cells. OT-101 functions by interrupting the production of TGF-β, thereby allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. In preclinical trials, OT-101 demonstrated strong and selective expression of TGF-β inhibition, leading to the activation of the immune system in cancer patients. Phase 2 studies of OT-101 have shown promising results in treating pancreatic cancer, melanoma and glioblastoma, with strong efficacy and safety outcomes among treated patients. Pancreatic cancer, glioblastoma, melanoma and other cancers like colorectal cancer are all highly aggressive types of cancer that can be difficult to treat. Each year, thousands of people in the United States are diagnosed with these cancers. Experts predict 97,610 Americans will be diagnosed with melanoma in 2023, while pancreatic cancer is projected to affect 64,050 people. In the case of glioblastoma, it affects 12,000 to 15,000 people in the U.S. each year. These markets are all significant in the world of immunotherapy. For example, the global market size for pancreatic cancer was $2.22 billion in 2022, and it is expected to be worth around $7.91 billion by 2032. Similarly, the global glioblastoma market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8.8% from 2021 to 2028 to reach $4.2 billion by 2028. Despite the large markets, these cancer types still need more therapeutic options, especially for advanced cases or when existing treatments don't provide adequate results. Pancreatic cancer and glioblastoma, in particular, are often considered underserved areas due to limited treatment options, while melanoma and colorectal cancer have seen progress in their treatments in recent years, but there is still a need for more effective therapies. The successes of ongoing research in oncology, such as OT-101 in pancreatic cancer, bring hope that more breakthrough treatments will be available in the future. OT-101 was designed to improve existing cancer treatments, such as pembrolizumab marketed by Merck & Co’s (NYSE: MRK) as Keytruda. Pembrolizumab – is an immunotherapy used to treat various types of cancer, including lung cancer, melanoma and triple-negative breast cancer. In addition to showing promising results in treating cancer patients, OT-101 has seen success in helping combat infectious diseases. Recent phase 2 trial results have shown that OT-101 has activity against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, and was safe to administer to patients with COVID-19, including severe and critical cases. This indicates that the drug has potential therapeutic benefits in treating acute COVID, as well as other respiratory viral infections. The potential benefits of OT-101 could be especially important for people suffering from long COVID. Long COVID, also known as post-COVID conditions, refers to a broad range of signs, symptoms and conditions that persist or develop after an individual has recovered from an acute COVID-19 infection. These symptoms can last for weeks, months or even years after the initial diagnosis of COVID-19. Oncotelic is also advancing other drug candidates, including CA4P and Oxi4503. These drugs utilize different mechanisms of action to target cancer cells and disrupt their growth. This diversified pipeline strategy allows Oncotelic to explore multiple approaches to cancer treatment and increase the likelihood of success in addressing different types of cancer. The company seems to have a deep understanding of the field of oncology and is actively working to provide patients with better treatment options. 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

October 11, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Non-Dilutive Investment Is Back In Vogue

Benzinga

By John Biggs In the wake of a significant reduction in U.S. venture capital (VC) funding, which dropped from $345 billion in 2021 to $238 billion in 2022, there has been a marked shift towards non-dilutive funding among tech companies. D istinct from traditional equity funding, where companies trade ownership for capital, non-dilutive investment ensures businesses don’t lose their equity or control. Available options include revenue-based financing, debt financing, tax credits, and royalty financing. Late-stage growth companies find this method especially appealing as it spares them from personal guarantees or future revenue commitments. Liquidity Group, the largest AI-based financial asset management firm in the world, witnessed a 360% demand surge in Q2FY23. Ron Daniel, its CEO, noted, "We’ve transformed non-dilutive funding into an important alternative," a sentiment bolstered by the unstable VC equity funding environment. Benefits Of Non-Dilutive Funding Non-dilutive funding offers several advantages for businesses seeking capital without sacrificing ownership or control. One major advantage is the extended repayment periods typically associated with non-dilutive investments. This allows businesses to manage their cash flow more effectively by spreading out the repayment over a longer period. Additionally, non-dilutive funding options often do not require personal guarantees, reducing the risk for founders and executives. Instead, lenders or investors focus on the company's future revenue and growth potential to assess repayment likelihood. This makes non-dilutive funding an attractive option for businesses with predictable or steady revenue streams. By understanding these advantages and effectively negotiating with capital firms, businesses can access the capital they need while maintaining ownership and control. Types Of Non-Dilutive Funding There are several types of non-dilutive funding options available to businesses, each with its own unique advantages and requirements. One popular form of non-dilutive funding is revenue-based financing. This type of funding allows businesses to secure capital by selling a part of their future revenue to investors. Unlike traditional bank loans, revenue-based financing offers flexible repayment terms based on the company's monthly revenue, making it an attractive option for businesses in need of cash flow without the burden of fixed monthly payments. Here is a rundown of the most popular types: Revenue-based Financing: Companies pledge part of their future revenue to investors, offering more flexibility than standard loans. Tax Credits: Government-backed credits can significantly reduce a company's costs. Grants and Awards: Often provided by government bodies and foundations, these don’t require repayments or equity exchanges. Compared to traditional bank loans, non-dilutive funding options offer several advantages. Traditional loans often require personal guarantees and can come with extended repayment periods, putting personal assets at risk. Additionally, banks may require a substantial track record or collateral to secure a loan, making it difficult for businesses or early-stage companies to qualify. By leveraging non-dilutive funding options, businesses gain access to capital without incurring debt or giving up equity. This is particularly beneficial for businesses and high-growth companies seeking to maintain control over their business strategy and decision-making processes. If you're looking to grow your business while keeping full ownership intact, exploring non-dilutive investment options is a practical and attractive solution. In avoiding the downsides of traditional bank loans and maintaining control over your company's future, non-dilutive funding provides a valuable alternative for entrepreneurs seeking to maintain their vision while securing the necessary capital. Non-Dilutive Investment Appeals To VCs N on-dilutive financiers add a layer of security for VCs. They intensively assess and validate businesses, making such companies more appealing to those willing to invest further. That said, despite the advantages, non-dilutive funding also has its challenges. Accessibility can be an issue, and the need for proven revenue history may deter some. Furthermore, most non-dilutive methods still require repayments, putting future revenues under commitment. Negotiating terms in non-dilutive agreements can be intricate. Clear communication is imperative to find a mutually beneficial arrangement, focusing on interest rates, repayment terms, and other crucial factors. In conclusion, while non-dilutive funding presents itself as an attractive solution in the current financial landscape, businesses must weigh both the advantages and potential challenges before moving forward. As more and more move away from VC, however, it’s easy to say that non-dilutive investment is now the new hotness. 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

October 11, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Inspire Veterinary Partners Continues To Expand, Announces Proposed Acquisition In Pennsylvania

Benzinga

By Austin DeNoce, Benzinga Inspire Veterinary Partners Inc (NASDAQ: IVP), a trailblazer in pet healthcare services, is broadening its horizons. The company recently announced a non-binding letter of intent to acquire 100% ownership of an animal hospital in Pennsylvania, marking its initial venture into the Keystone State. With 13 animal hospitals already under its umbrella, this proposed acquisition is expected to add to Inspire’s expanding network and an early indicator of the company's vigorous growth strategy. The company expects to complete the acquisition sometime in October 2023, subject to standard closing conditions. Investing In Real Estate For the Virginia-based Inspire, the move north presents a fresh market in its ongoing nationwide expansion. Some 60% of Pennsylvania households own a pet — and, by extension, demand quality pet care services. In the words of Inspire CEO Kimball Carr, the company is "excited to continue our growth nationwide and for Pennsylvania to be added to the list of states” and “look[s] forward to more anticipated growth in the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Eastern U.S." Inspire’s planned investment in Pennsylvania is also in real estate. The purchase of a pre-existing pet hospital provides the company with an asset that has tangible value and the ability to be optimized for service delivery, which aligns well with Inspire’s proven operational practices and bottom-up business model. Anticipating Future Growth Inspire’s acquisition squarely sets Pennsylvania as the latest location in its sights – but likely not the final one. The company maintains an active pipeline of potential acquisitions across the animal hospital sector. With more announcements anticipated in 2023 and 2024, it's clear that Inspire is focused on strategically broadening its reach, not simply on one-off achievements. Instead, Inspire is laying the groundwork for a series of strategic acquisitions to diversify its revenue streams and bolster its credentials as an industry leader in veterinary care. This month, investors are eagerly awaiting the culmination of this Pennsylvania deal, as well as whatever comes next in Inspire’s carefully orchestrated growth plan. The Bigger Picture It’s worth emphasizing that the letter of intent is non-binding. But this shouldn’t detract from what Inspire is laying out: a blueprint for sustained and thoughtful expansion built by and for veterinary owners and staff. With a robust pipeline of potential acquisitions lined up for 2023, Inspire is signaling that growth in its operational footprint is expected to be robust and should translate to increasing revenue and profitability in 2024. The company is focused on its long-term goal to become not just a disruptive innovator but an industry leader. Its proposed acquisition in Pennsylvania serves as a statement that it is willing to venture into new territories and continually set higher standards in the pet healthcare industry. 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

October 11, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

AI Could Make Many Jobs Obsolete – Amesite (NASDAQ: AMST) Is Helping Empower The Workforce Of The Future Through Its AI-Powered Platform

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga With the economy slowing and advances in artificial intelligence (AI) technology accelerating, reskilling is becoming an important component of any company’s success. AI and its accompanying automation could render many jobs obsolete. But it's not just companies that stand at ground zero of this reskilling need. Universities too can play an important role in preparing today’s professionals for the jobs of tomorrow. A Seismic Shift In Skillsets The need to retrain existing employees comes at a time when the labor market is undergoing seismic shifts. The working population is aging, new jobs are emerging because of technological advances and employees need to learn more company-specific skills. As a result, many jobs could disappear in the coming years. In the next decade, PricewaterhouseCoopers predicts that 1 in 3 jobs will be severely impacted or rendered obsolete by technology. Nevertheless, many companies remain resistant to reskilling due to the cost in terms of money and time. But a lack of reskilling can hurt the bottom line. It affects customer retention and contributes to high turnover rates. By even the most conservative estimates, the cost to replace a worker can run twice their annual salary. A Growing Need? Organizations like Central Michigan University are taking note. The school recently renewed its partnership with Amesite (NASDAQ: AMST), an artificial intelligence software company that makes products to improve learning. CMU uses Amesite’s platform to train professionals in everything from additive manufacturing to workplace wellness. Amesite works closely with CMU to create and launch the programs. The expansion of the partnership is a nod to its success so far. “Partnership renewals validate our business model,” Amesite’s CEO Dr. Ann Marie Sastry said in a press release announcing the extended partnership. “Leveraging our state-of-the-art Version 6.3 platform with the latest GPT-4 technology and our comprehensive integration capabilities, we are able to launch solutions quickly and efficiently that generate sustainable university revenue in professional learning, and drive growth for Amesite.” Potentially Large Market Opportunity CMU isn’t the only university interested in software like Amesite’s offering. The continuing education market is expected to see growth in the coming years. It is forecast to grow from $60.5 billion in 2022 to about $93 billion by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR of 7.47%). And there are 474 regional public universities poised to benefit from rolling out upskilling programs for professionals in the U.S. alone. Some companies are ensuring they’re future-ready by investing in upskilling as well. But, according to a Harvard Business Review report, it may not be enough. In the coming decades, millions of workers will be forced to learn new skills — and may well use them to change occupations. Take AI. As of 2022, 19% of American workers worked in roles that could be replaced by AI. That’s expected to increase as technology advances and adoption grows, presenting an even larger market opportunity for Amesite and its software offering. Flexible And Fast When it comes to reskilling, being nimble is key. That’s where Amesite’s V6.3 platform comes in. Launched in the spring, it has expanded AI capabilities powered by GPT-4 – the same technology behind OpenAI’s ChatGPT Plus and Microsoft’s (NASDAQ: MSFT) new Bing. In fact, Amesite is a Microsoft Partner, who has lauded Amesite’s technology on Microsoft’s own website. With V6.3, businesses and schools can give learners AI-assisted learning and purpose-built features that will help them learn specific skills. The new version enables Amesite to quickly launch new offerings and scale programs, all the while efficiently supporting learners. Some of the customer offerings include AI-powered interactive experiences, whiteboarding sessions and other learning incentives. The workforce is rapidly changing as technology advances at breakneck speed. That requires companies to be able and willing to retrain their workers on the fly. Amesite looks to ensure that its software enables that. By leveraging GPT-4 and other AI, it can support businesses and educators as they retool America's workforce. 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

October 11, 2023 08:50 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Niche Media Events Hosts Largest Leadership Summit in Chicago

Niche Media Events

Over 90 niche media publishers, CEOs, revenue heads, and suppliers gathered in Chicago for the 11th annual Niche Media Leadership Summit. The 2023 media conference is the largest event in the history of the annual publishing leadership gathering and was held September 20-22, 2023. The 2023 event hosted over 90 attendees and 16 sponsoring vendors at the Royal Sonesta Riverfront, making it the largest leadership retreat of its kind in the media industry. The Niche Media Leadership Summit focuses on discussion groups and keynotes specifically to educate, inspire and connect magazine and media owners and leaders. Topics include digital and print publishing strategy, new media technologies, company hiring and culture, audience expansion, and revenue ideas for publishers. “We are excited and honored to welcome so many niche media owners and leaders to this year’s Summit. The record attendance is a testament to the importance of the niche audience media industry, as well as the need for leaders to share best practices and discuss industry challenges ahead of 2024 budgeting and strategy.”, said Ryan Dohrn, owner of Niche Media Events. Featured keynotes included Jonathan Reitz, CEO of Fluxify, who spoke to hiring and retaining media sales staff; Steven Iwersen, founder of Aurora Pointe, who presented on leading media companies in uncertain times; and Andrew Davis, marketing industry icon, who led discussion on AI influence, opportunities and cautions for media. Attendees also met throughout the event in discussion groups for B2B, Consumer and Sales Leadership. 80% of attendees' time was devoted to discussion groups, networking parties and dinners with colleagues. Sponsoring industry vendors included: 032 Outsourcing, Audativ, Media OS (formerly Ad Sales Genius), Publication Printers, AdCellerant, AdOrbit (formerly MagHub), Baxter Research Center, January Spring, KODI Collective, Omeda, Quad, Sheridan and The Magazine Manager. Additionally, new sponsors joined for the first time: AdMall/SalesFuel, Fox Associates and WoodWing. “The Niche Leadership Summit offers a unique opportunity to meet face-to-face with peers in your market (B2B or Consumer) or in specific roles (Sales Leadership) to share solutions, create connections for post-event conversations and resources, and access cutting edge leadership, culture, and industry developments to drive success for each attendee’s media company and employees”, continued Dohrn. The next Niche Media publishing conference will be their annual, multi-track, full staff training Niche Media Conference, April 17-19, 2024, also in downtown Chicago at the Radisson Blu Aqua. To learn more about Niche Media Events, visit NicheMediaEvents.com. About Niche Media Events Niche Media Events helps publishers generate growth in ALL their revenue channels: print, digital, sales, audience and events. We’ve got it all… incredible learning and peer-to-peer connections at our live conferences, awesome online educational content, and expert resources from the best minds in media. Whether you’re a B2B, B2C/Consumer, Digital-Only, City & Regional, or Association publisher, Niche Media is your “go-to” resource for practical, actionable education & training (plus a healthy dose of F-U-N) to help you maximize revenue. Together, we’re connecting the entire Niche Nation! Contact Details Niche Media Ryan Dohrn ryan@nichemediaevents.com Company Website https://www.www.nichemediaevents.com

October 10, 2023 11:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Global Connectivity looking to pass 350,000 UK homes within the next year

Global Connectivity PLC

Global Connectivity PLC (AQSE:GCON) Executive Chairman Keith Harris speaks to Thomas Warner from Proactive about the strides the business is making in bringing high-speed internet to the UK's rural communities. Founded three years ago as Rural Broadband Solutions PLC, GCON aims to narrow the digital divide between metropolitan and rural regions. Harris highlighted that 80% of the UK is designated as rural, housing 20% of the population. He says that while major firms focus on metropolitan areas, Global Connectivity instead zeroes in on rural communities. The company recently partnered with US-based Tiger Infrastructure Partners Fund III LP, which acquired 85% of Global Connectivity for a £75 million investment. Additionally, a merger with Macquarie and another infrastructure fund has positioned the resulting entity Voneus as the UK's largest rural broadband player, with plans to invest £250 million and reach 350,000 homes within the next year. Harris concludes by saying that he anticipates significant sector consolidation by early 2025. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

October 10, 2023 09:28 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Media Veterans to FCC: Lawsuits Bolster Claim that FOX & Murdochs Lack Character Required of Public Broadcast License Trustees

Raynor Ave.

Media veterans filed comments with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), bringing the FCC’s attention to four shareholder derivative lawsuits accusing Fox Corporation's (FOX) Board of Directors of breaching its fiduciary duty. The lawsuits allege that Rupert Murdoch, Lachlan Murdoch, and various officers and directors were complicit in decisions to disseminate false news and operate Fox News outside the bounds of First Amendment protections; and as a result, the company failed to safeguard shareholders from various journalistic integrity issues. The Media and Democracy Project (MAD) filed a motion requesting the FCC to compel FOX to produce key nonpublic discovery from its various lawsuits to ensure full transparency and accountability for its actions. MAD’s motion seeks evidence from the Dominion and Smartmatic litigations, all documents reviewed in the four stockholder derivative lawsuits, and internal communications from FOX Corp-owned television station FOX 29 Philadelphia (WTXF). Duggan-Kristol Derivative Filing The comment submitted by former PBS President and FCC Commissioner Ervin S. Duggan and media veteran and former Weekly Standard Editor William Kristol advances as yet another damning argument in support of the Media and Democracy Project’s (MAD) Petition to Deny the broadcast license renewal application for FOX Corp-owned television station FOX 29 Philadelphia (WTXF). “The pension funds' lawsuits address FOX leadership's willingness knowingly to lie about important matters, and go to the heart of the issue before the FCC,” said William Kristol. “These lawsuits paint the story of a corporation led by the Murdochs that lacks the character expected of a broadcast licensee.” Delaware law allows the plaintiffs to review nonpublic corporate information known as Section 220 material in preparation for drafting a complaint. This nonpublic information goes to the core questions before the commission. One lawsuit details how FOX scrapped processes in place at the Board of Directors level to monitor journalistic integrity issues in 2019. Those policies were only reconsidered in mid-2021 after the Dominion (and pending Smartmatic) litigation was filed, according to the complaint filed by Tredje AP-Fonden and other plaintiffs. The same complaint also raises the issue of whether the Board’s lack of journalistic integrity policies was related in some way to Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch’s desire to stem viewer defection to preserve their influence in conservative politics, which the complaint argues they prioritized above broadcasting the truth. These lawsuits offer critical new evidence from Section 220 material and reflect that FOX shareholders are as troubled by the same core issues that should trouble the Commission. The Duggan-Kristol filing ends by saying the FCC “should not—cannot—don blinders as to the implications that the questions being weighed in [the Delaware Court of Chancery] must have on its judgment as to whether FOX and its Controllers can be trusted to operate broadcast stations in the public interest.” “These lawsuits show the parent corporation of the broadcast licensee showed poor judgment and questionable character in managing a business that—but for FCC licensure—is identical in core objectives and operation of its subsidiary broadcast station,” said Ervin S. Duggan. “We believe firmly that these nonpartisan lawsuits demonstrating bad judgment and suspect character should speak loudly to the Commission.” Two of the four lawsuits filed by pension funds representing workers in New York City, Oregon, Rhode Island, and the Swedish Government, cite MAD’s Petition to Deny as an outcome of the recklessness of the FOX Board’s inability to reign senior leadership in, allowing them to continue to promote lies about the 2020 election. From the Tredje AP-Fonden Complaint: Defendants’ breaches of fiduciary duty have not only resulted in massive economic and reputational damages to the Company and caused untold societal harm, but they also threaten to deny Fox’s ability to continue operating as a broadcast news media business, which is its core business. ( paragraph 308 ) From the New York City Complaint: The Murdochs’ decision to embrace Trump’s claims of a stolen election not only led to the $787.5 million settlement payment to Dominion, but also endangered Fox’s broadcast licenses. ( paragraph 211 ) A copy of the filing from Duggan and Kristol can be found here. Media and Democracy Project Motion for Documents While a great deal of discovery evidence has been produced in the various FOX litigations, this evidence is only available to the FCC and MAD in snippets. The public interest imperative of this proceeding requires a full review of all the evidence to ensure a complete and transparent evaluation of the renewal application and the Commission’s decision to designate a hearing. MAD’s motion seeks the FCC to require FOX to produce a range of nonpublic documents, emails, and testimony related to the following areas: All documents and deposition transcripts submitted or provided in connection with the Dominion and Smartmatic litigations. All documents submitted in the four Delaware Chancery stockholder derivative lawsuits in response to any party’s Delaware Section 220 demand for inspection of books and records. From January 2020 to the present, all documents and written communications between political advertisers, their representatives and advertising agencies concerning political advertising, lowest unit rate charges or requests to purchase advertising on station WTXF-TV. From January 2020 to the present, all written communications from any FOX, Fox Television Stations, LLC or WTXF-TV station employees indicating that the FCC’s electronic filing system was malfunctioning or that an attempt was made to upload WTXF-TV political files but was unsuccessful due to the FCC database not operating properly. A copy of the motion from MAD can be found here. The Media and Democracy Project: MAD is a non-partisan, all-volunteer, grassroots civic membership organization fighting for a more informative and pro-democracy media operating in the public interest. MAD aims to improve our national discourse so that American voters can engage in informed decision-making. As part of that goal, MAD has an interest in the responsibility of journalists and media to report fully, accurately, and fairly on the electoral process and the outcome of elections. Additional information is available at www.MediaAndDemocracyProject.org. Ervin S. Duggan is a veteran of the Lyndon Johnson White House, a former Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission, and former President of PBS. William Kristol is a veteran political analyst and commentator. He served in senior positions in the Ronald Reagan administration and the George H.W. Bush White House. For two decades, he edited The Weekly Standard magazine, and is now editor at large of The Bulwark and a director of the educational and advocacy group, Defending Democracy Together. Contact Details Aaron Alberico +1 202-744-0786 aalberico@raynoravenue.com Company Website https://www.mediaanddemocracyproject.org/

October 10, 2023 09:10 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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