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Putin Asks Russian Government To Consider Limiting Nickel, Uranium Exports, Potentially Impacting Commodity Prices

Benzinga

By Kyle Anthony, Benzinga Political risk is an ever-present but often understated risk that investors face, as its occurrence can reshape the entire investment landscape. One asset class that is among the most susceptible to political risk is commodities. As Bloomberg reported recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin asked his government to consider limiting exports of some commodities like nickel, titanium and uranium in retaliation for Western sanctions. Against the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War, the U.S. and other developed economies have placed numerous sanctions on Russia, intending to weaken the nation’s economy. The Importance Of Russian Uranium Earlier this year, U.S. President Joe Biden signed the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act into law, effectively starting the process of ending the country's dependence on imported uranium supplies. The U.S. reliance on Russian uranium began in 1993 with the Megatons to Megawatts program, initiated soon after the Cold War. This initiative involved purchasing 500 metric tons of uranium from dismantled Russian nuclear warheads, which were then converted into fuel for nuclear reactors. Though this agreement ended in 2013, arrangements were made to facilitate further Russian uranium moving to the U.S. and other developed nations. As reported by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, as of June 2023, 12% of the country's yearly uranium imports originated in Russia. Data from the World Nuclear Association indicates Russia has the sixth-largest global mining production as of 2022. However, from a uranium enrichment perspective, the Kremlin-controlled nuclear giant Rosatom Corp. controls almost half the global enrichment capacity needed to convert the ore into energy. Implications Of Russia Restricting Critical Material Supply Uranium fuels nuclear reactors, playing a vital role in electricity generation. Though the U.S. and other developed economies are looking to build their uranium capacity, such long-tenured projects would not counteract the disruptive nature of Russia reducing its supply to the market in the near future and driving up prices. As noted in a recent Reuters report, President Putin’s remarks prompted an increase in the shares of uranium mining companies. The price of nickel also increased after his comments, as it is another critical material essential in producing batteries and alloys. Russia is home to Norilsk Nickel, which is the world's biggest producer of Class 1 nickel, as well as the top miner of palladium and a producer of other metals. Gaining Exposure To Uranium And Nickel Given its status as a major global metal producer, the impact on commodity markets would be material if Russia were to restrict supply, as lack of supply could potentially lead to price increases for uranium, nickel and other critical minerals. Such a market action could benefit companies capable of supplying these vital resources to the market, as they would reflect some of the fundamental economic value derived from the minerals. The Sprott Uranium Miners ETF (ARCA: URNM) provides investors with exposure to companies that devote at least 50% of their assets to the uranium mining industry – which may include mining, exploration, development and production of uranium, or holding physical uranium, owning uranium royalties or engaging in other, non-mining activities that support the uranium mining industry – by tracking the North Shore Global Uranium Mining Index. Similar to URNM but different in scope, the Sprott Junior Uranium Miners ETF (NASDAQ: URNJ) is designed to track the performance of mid-, small- and micro-cap companies in uranium-mining-related businesses. These funds seek to capitalize on the growing global demand for energy and the need to move away from fossil fuels, which could be setting the stage for nuclear power and the companies that can help provide it. While energy generation is a first-order consideration when discussing energy security, the second-order consideration is typically energy storage. As the world moves closer to net-zero emissions, the importance of nickel in electrification and energy storage is becoming increasingly apparent. For example, lithium-ion batteries are increasingly using more nickel to increase the drivable range. Adding nickel increases the energy density of these batteries, leading to a more extended drivable range. As such, nickel seems to be becoming an important part of the transition from gas-powered cars to electric vehicles in the coming decades for highly car-dependent geographies such as North America, based on currently popular battery chemistries. The Sprott Nickel Miners ETF (NASDAQ: NIKL) aims to capitalize on the growing demand for nickel and the integral part it is expected to play in the transition to a carbon-neutral society. The ETF will track the Nasdaq Sprott Nickel Miners™ Index, which is designed to track the performance of a selection of global securities in the nickel industry, including nickel producers, developers and explorers. The value proposition of the Sprott Nickel Miners ETF Fund is three-fold. Firstly, it seeks to offer value in the form of commodity exposure. Many commodity indexes tend to be underweight nickel or exclude it altogether. Investors may utilize this ETF to add more weight to nickel in their portfolio. Secondly, nickel may fit in as a thematic allocation or in a growth bucket. Thematic and growth can often go hand in hand. Since nickel is an area of the commodity sector that could grow in the coming decades, future-focused investors interested in the metals that could potentially power the future may be interested in what the ETF offers. Finally, it also offers global equity energy allocation. Given that non-U.S. countries hold the largest nickel reserves, investors looking to diversify their energy exposure may want to consider this fund. A Crucial Time For Critical Materials Geopolitics is high among the market dynamics that influence the investment landscape for commodities. If trends continue, and demand for critical materials such as uranium and nickel continues to increase, investors who have exposure to the right investment solutions could benefit from the demand for these rare and economically important resources. Featured photo by Dominik Vanyi 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. Important Disclosures Before investing, you should consider each Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. Each Fund’s prospectus contains this and other information about the Fund and should be read carefully before investing. A prospectus can be obtained by calling 888.622.1813 or by clicking these links: Sprott Uranium Miners ETF Prospectus, Sprott Junior Uranium Miners ETF Prospectus, and Sprott Nickel Miners ETF Prospectus. The Funds are not suitable for all investors. There are risks involved with investing in ETFs, including the loss of money. The Funds are non-diversified and can invest a greater portion of assets in securities of individual issuers than a diversified fund. As a result, changes in the market value of a single investment could cause greater fluctuations in share price than would occur in a diversified fund. Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are bought and sold through exchange trading at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. Shares may trade at a premium or discount to their NAV in the secondary market. Brokerage commissions will reduce returns." Authorized participants" may trade directly with the Fund, typically in blocks of 10,000 shares. Funds that emphasize investments in small/mid-cap companies will generally experience greater price volatility. Diversification does not eliminate the risk of experiencing investment losses. ETFs are considered to have continuous liquidity because they allow for an individual to trade throughout the day. A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses, affect the Funds’ performance. The North Shore Global Uranium Mining Index is designed to track the performance of companies that devote at least 50% of their assets to the uranium mining industry, which may include mining, exploration, development and production of uranium, or holding physical uranium, owning uranium royalties or engaging in other non-mining activities that support the uranium mining industry. The Nasdaq Sprott Junior Uranium Miners™ Index (NSURNJ™) is designed to track the performance of mid-, small- and micro-cap companies in uranium-mining related businesses. Nasdaq®, Nasdaq Junior Uranium Miners™ Index, Nasdaq Nickel Miners™ Index, NSURNJ™, and NSNIKL™ are registered trademarks of Nasdaq, Inc. (which with its affiliates is referred to as the “Corporations”) and are licensed for use by Sprott Asset Management LP. The Product(s) have not been passed on by the Corporations as to their legality or suitability. The Product(s) are not issued, endorsed, sold, or promoted by the Corporations. THE CORPORATIONS MAKE NO WARRANTIES AND BEAR NO LIABILITY WITH RESPECT TO THE PRODUCT(S). One cannot invest directly in an index. Sprott Asset Management USA, Inc. is the Investment Adviser to the Sprott ETFs. Sprott Asset Management LP is the Sponsor of the Funds. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is the Distributor for the Sprott ETFs and is a registered broker-dealer and FINRA Member. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with Sprott Asset Management LP. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

October 04, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Expanding Continuous Glucose Monitoring Options: How Glucotrack Is Helping Usher In The Next Generation Of Diabetes Care Technology

Benzinga

By Josh Enomoto, Benzinga Introduced in the late 1990s, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) revolutionized diabetes care. Prior to CGM, home blood glucose monitoring (BGM) methodologies – which involve patients using a lancet to prick their fingers and apply a drop of blood to a test strip – represented the norm. Still, even with the rise of CGM, several challenges remain. That’s what Glucotrack Inc. (NASDAQ: GCTK) is looking to address. In particular, while current CGM solutions have improved quality of life via informed decision-making, several obstacles – including discomfort and inconvenience – have left many patients as well as medical professionals wanting. Glucotrack aims to fill the opportunity gaps in the CGM industry by directly addressing the pain points of the contemporary standard of care. Most importantly, Glucotrack’s mainline innovation – known as the Continuous Blood Glucose Monitor (CBGM) – focuses on the patient. Diabetes affects 38 million people in the U.S. alone, according to the CDC, and it's the eighth leading cause of death, contributing to serious complications like kidney disease, blindness and cardiovascular risk. With such a vast population facing the daily burden of managing their blood sugar, innovations like Glucotrack’s real-time monitoring system could be essential to improving quality of life and healthcare outcomes. Assessing The Current State Of CGM Technology According to a publication posted by the National Library of Medicine, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first “professional” CGM in 1999. Since that time, there have been several major advancements in the technology. However, commercially available CGMs tend to measure glucose in interstitial fluid and not directly from blood. And, until relatively recently, all CGM devices required calibration via blood glucose measurements extracted from the fingerstick process. Generally, the calibration process is used to improve system accuracy by comparing it to a blood glucose measurement from a fingerstick. Even with the latest advancements, several challenges and inconveniences remain. Among the most vexing for patients is a lack of a platform that addresses all major concerns. Instead, sufferers of diabetes must compromise across a range of different sets of pros and cons. Abbott Laboratories (NYSE: ABT) has established a strong presence in diabetes management with its CGM system, FreeStyle Libre. Libre offers accurate and continuous glucose monitoring, but the platform also requires frequent sensor changes (every 14-15 days, depending on the model) and the use of a wearable. Dexcom (NASDAQ: DXCM) is also among the leaders in CGM technology, offering accurate and continuous glucose tracking. However, reports indicate the company’s platform falls short in terms of the adhesive patch potentially not properly sticking to the patient’s skin at all times. Senseonics Holdings Inc. (AMEX: SENS) has gained in popularity thanks to its product Eversense, an implantable CGM with a sensor life of up to six months, with the FDA recently clearing use for one year. While an enticing proposition, the system requires frequent calibration and patients still need to wear a transmitter over the skin. Medtronic PLC (NYSE: MDT) represents another of the innovative powerhouses in diabetes care, with its CGM integrated into a broader diabetes management ecosystem. Nevertheless, the underlying platform still requires regular calibration and the use of wearables. In contrast, Glucotrack seeks to address these shortcomings of contemporary CGM devices. One of the most distinct advantages of the company’s solution is a much longer sensor life. Moreover, it does away with wearables while providing real-time blood glucose monitoring. Key Advantages Of The Glucotrack System As mentioned earlier, sensor life represents a core struggle of many diabetes patients managing their condition. On one end of the scale, Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre, Dexcom systems and Medtronic systems offer a relatively pain-free sensor application process. However, the sensor requires replacement after 7-15 days, depending on the model. On the other hand, Senseonic offers a sensor life of up to half a year, with one-year recently approved by the FDA. This system is implantable, but still requires the need for a wearable transmitter, which impacts the patient’s quality of life. Furthermore, according to internal market research performed by Glucotrack, 73% of endocrinologists favor devices with a sensor life of three years. As shared in an earlier Benzinga article, the key advantage of the Glucotrack system is that the underlying implantable CBGM features a sensor that can last up to three years. That’s a significant improvement over many more popular options, thus reducing the frequency and hassle of updating prescriptions and ordering supplies. Speaking of organic benefits, Glucotrack’s device eliminates the need for wearables. This advantage automatically resolves common concerns tied to continuous glucose monitoring, including adhesive skin irritation, sensor detachment during activities and the burden of managing supplies and copayments. Another important attribute of the Glucotrack system is its real-time blood glucose measurement capabilities. Such measurements may provide much more accurate readings because the use of blood dramatically cuts the lag time present in traditional interstitial glucose monitors. Significantly, real-time measurements may potentially facilitate improved safety. Thanks to the quicker testing data, patients may be able to respond more quickly to urgent matters, such as low or high blood sugar events. This attribute may potentially reduce the risk of severe complications like diabetic ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic coma. A core advantage that Glucotrack claims is CBGM’s broad interest among healthcare professionals. The company recently conducted proof of concept research among 100 endocrinologists and 50 primary care providers (PCPs), which yielded much data, including the following statistics: Finding the implantable CBGM concept an intriguing and innovative one, 42% of endocrinologists expressed willingness to adopt the platform following approval and at a sensor life of only two years. Even more so than endocrinologists, PCPs have vocally expressed eagerness to try the implantable CBGM, with 68% willing to adopt the system at a sensor life of only two years. Individual PCPs reported that Glucotrack’s device can be a “game changer for diabetics,” along with labeling the concept itself as “genius.” Finally, Glucotrack offers an intuitive interface, requiring minimal calibration and thus reducing the daily burdens that patients must follow. Rising Need For CGM Innovation According to Lancet’s global burden studies, chronic conditions represented the root of 74% of all deaths across the world. That’s a noticeable rise from 67% of deaths in 2010, reflecting the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, of which diabetes is one. As such, the rise of diabetes – particularly type 2 and prediabetes – represents a significant area of concern. However, for Glucotrack, the main focus is on insulin-using people with diabetes, as these patients require continuous monitoring due to insulin therapy. With this population segment also growing, finding advanced solutions to address their unique challenges becomes even more critical. It’s not just about the inconveniences of frequent sensor changes and the irritation and discomfort involved in everyday utilization of standard CGM devices. It’s often also limiting the ability to participate in some activities such as swimming or hot yoga due to concerns about the wearable falling off. By facilitating a long-lasting alternative, Glucotrack’s CBGM makes glucose monitoring less intrusive and potentially more accessible. Most significantly, the accuracy behind real-time glucose measurements reported by the company may potentially improve quality of life and in some acute situations save it. Empowering Diabetes Care With Real-Time Solutions In an ever-growing diabetes landscape, Glucotrack’s advancements in continuous glucose monitoring offer a potential solution to the persistent challenges faced by insulin-using people with diabetes. By addressing key pain points such as short sensor life, the discomfort of wearables and the hassle of frequent replacements, Glucotrack potentially positions itself as a transformative force in diabetes care. Additionally, with its reported real-time, accurate blood glucose measurements, long-lasting sensor and lack of an intrusive wearable, the CBGM system not only improves day-to-day management but also has the potential to prevent life-threatening complications. As the need for better diabetes care intensifies, Glucotrack is looking to offer a brighter, healthier future for millions of people managing this chronic disease. Featured photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

October 04, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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TradeStation Group CEO John Bartleman’s Vision For Crossroads Summit: Empower Traders Amid Global Chaos

Benzinga

By Anthony Termini, Benzinga TradeStation Group (“TradeStation”) President and CEO John Bartleman says a large part of his success is tied directly to his vision for building a trading platform that is an elevated experience for the most active market tacticians. Now, his company is organizing a conference, the Crossroads Summit, that seeks to strategize to find opportunities amid the latest technologies and recent geopolitical chaos. The summit is a multi-disciplinary conference focused on the upheavals caused by rapid changes in technology and geopolitical risks generated by the effects of elections, polarization and internal and external conflict. Connecting The Dots Between Divergent Disciplines Bartleman’s initial career aspirations were focused on the intelligence and national security aspects of foreign policy, after earning an undergraduate degree in political science and international relations. But early in his career he pivoted and became a research systems analyst at Franklin Templeton Investments – today, Franklin Resources (NYSE: BEN). In 1999, Bartleman was recruited by TradeStation, called Omega Research at the time, to help it build similar capabilities. Bartleman has a long history in financial services with a solid foundation on the technology side. He says that both are passions of his. In 2016, after 17 years at TradeStation, Bartleman became the company’s CEO. TradeStation Securities Focuses on Active Traders, Including Sophisticated Individuals And Institutions Private Brokerage is a major new initiative of TradeStation’s main operating subsidiary TradeStation Securities, Inc. Private Brokerage is a new category of service in which Bartleman says the company has a strong foothold and appears to be meeting traders’ demands. He says Private Brokerage aims to provide the sophistication of a prime brokerage relationship with the premium level of service expected of a high-end private bank. Bartleman asserts that TradeStation Securities “is best positioned to help active traders, including sophisticated individuals and institutions.” He says that the combination of technology and customization delivered with white-glove service means that for those “looking to find the right broker, TradeStation Securities is a premium spot.” Private Brokerage aims to cater to the most demanding active trader clients, and the company actively works to provide these clients with extra care, attention and support. TradeStation Securities provides eligible clients with negotiable cost structures, one-on-one platform customization sessions and priority in resolving inquiries. The company has also recently incorporated more in-person networking opportunities; for example, Bartleman described an event organized for around 45 of TradeStation Securities’ Private Brokerage clients. The event culminated with a closed-door dinner at One Dine, the restaurant and bar in New York City at the One World Observatory. This event was a major success, according to Bartleman, and the company plans to cultivate more exclusive events with TradeStation Securities clients in major hubs across the nation, and eventually internationally. The Crossroads Summit Is A Place To Bring Together Tech, Politics And Investments The Crossroads Summit plans to provide insights from some of America’s foremost thought leaders in key industries like global economics, politics, sociology and history. The Summit will feature several keynote speakers, including bestselling authors Peter Zeihan and Neil Howe, City of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, Vice President of Mastercard Eduardo R. Abreu and more. Each of these disciplines has an impact on future investments. As such, Bartleman hopes the Crossroads Summit will be something of a master class for active traders. It is also something of a passion project for Bartleman, he says, as it brings together his excitement for trading, technology, political science and international relations. Bartleman says he talks with many colleagues and TradeStation Securities clients about these subjects frequently and that there is acute interest in them. So, creating a formal setting like the one that the Crossroads Summit provides is a natural extension of those conversations. “Everyone I talk to says, ‘tell me what to do, what do I invest in,’” Bartleman says. So these topics are very relevant to them, “no matter what their investment strategy is or how they decide to trade.” Speakers at the Crossroads Summit will offer attendees an opportunity to get plugged into important topics expected to impact the global economy and future investments. As Bartleman points out, they are already topics about which many sophisticated investors and institutions are talking. Rapid changes in technology in areas like bioeconomics, quantum computing and cryptocurrencies can contribute to a sense of chaos and stimulate disruption. Bartleman suggests that global economic shifts and geopolitical conflict can also generate additional chaos and disruption. Yet all of these can also be the catalysts for innovation and potential new investment opportunities. “I love what’s happening with quantum computing, that could disrupt everything… so what are the opportunities there for investing?” Bartleman asked. The Crossroads Summit is a forum to bring all of these subject areas together and present them through the analysis of experts in each field. Bartleman notes that some investors may be concerned about current events at home and around the world. There is real fear about what this instability might mean for the economy, he says. The Crossroads Summit should be seen as a tool for traders and investors to make sense of what’s going on and to find the potential for opportunities that may result from it. Register now to attend the 2024 Crossroads Summit. Featured photo by Gerd Altmann 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

October 04, 2024 08:20 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Paddington Bear’s unexpected journey to Peru portrayed in second trailer

Promperu

From today, audiences can join Paddington on a trip to the land where his remarkable journey began in the film's second trailer, which provides an enticing glimpse into the diverse landscapes of Peru that play a crucial role in his latest adventure. “Paddington in Peru”, the new installment of the world's most famous bear, tells the story of his return to his homeland to visit his Aunt Lucy, who now resides at the Home for Retired Bears. Along with the Brown family, he embarks on an exciting adventure through the country. With the trailer, viewers have been teased with a glimpse of what the incredible destination of Peru can offer. Paddington’s journey highlights the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, in the region of Cusco. This ancient site, known for its sophisticated dry-stone construction and panoramic views of the Andes, serves as a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca civilisation. The movie also portrays iconic locations in the country's capital, Lima. The vibrant streets of its Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with colonial architecture and bustling markets. The charming Miraflores boardwalk that overlooks the Pacific Ocean, where warm sunsets and coastal vistas create an idyllic backdrop. Starring acclaimed actors Olivia Colman and Antonio Banderas, “Paddington in Peru” is a Studio Canal (United Kingdom) production based on the English children's story “A Bear Called Paddington” by writer Michael Bond. It will be released in the US and Canada cinemas on January 17, 2025. Film In Peru, PROMPERÚ's strategy to promote the country as a filming location, provided assistance for filming in Lima and Cusco. This support involved coordinating with public and private entities to secure filming and drone usage permits. Additionally, guidance was provided in processing 26 visas for the film crew. In recent years, Film In Peru has supported international audiovisual productions such as Dora and the Lost City of Gold, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, Street Food Latin America, Down to earth with Zac Efron, La Reina del Sur, among others. You can watch the second trailer here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELfvaByE9Rg Peru Export and Tourism Promotion Board (PROMPERÚ). We are the government agency in charge of the development and implementation of global strategies to position Peru via the promotion of its image, touristic destinations, added value exports and inversions. Contact Details José Carlos Collazos jcollazos@promperu.gob.pe Company Website http://www.promperu.gob.pe

October 03, 2024 04:06 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Comcast Donates $65,000 for Technology Makeover at Northwest Paralyzed Veterans of America in Burien

Comcast Pacific Northwest

City of Burien Mayor Kevin Schilling joined Comcast at Northwest Paralyzed Veterans of America (NWPVA) today in Burien to showcase the facility’s assistive technology makeover made possible by a $65,000 contribution of equipment and in-kind services from Comcast. NWPVA’s upgraded facility will provide critical online resources and facilitate digital literacy training for veterans who have a spinal cord injury or dysfunction. Comcast began providing free WiFi service to NWPVA’s location in 2020 through the company’s Lift Zones program. The building is now equipped with hardware, furniture and support to aid NWPVA members in accessing vital resources, private meeting spaces and independent navigation of computers using assistive technology. Comcast engaged the Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP) to consult on the technology, software, equipment and furniture. WATAP provides assistive technology resources and expertise to Washington residents who face challenges related to disability. Some of the assistive technology now available in the facility include: GlassOuse Assistive Device that can navigate a computer through head movements and bite-click. Dragon Software by Nuance for high quality, powerful dictation through speech recognition. High visibility keyboards and mouse options for varying dexterity. Height adjustable desks and conference tables for varying wheelchair needs. Extendable monitor arms for users with low vision. “We are thankful for the investment Comcast is making to bring to life our vision for a facility that provides training in an inclusive and accessible environment to our veteran community,” said Joy Cochran, Vice President, Northwest PVA. “The financial support and complimentary WiFi service from Comcast combined with the WATAP consultancy are critical to providing the most relevant and impactful technology for our facility and members.” As part of Comcast’s ongoing commitment to help connect underserved communities to the Internet, the company has created free, WiFi-connected “Lift Zones” at nearly 100 non-profit organizations and community centers throughout Washington. Lift Zones are part of Comcast’s Project UP – a comprehensive initiative to advance digital equity. The initiative also provides access to hundreds of hours of educational and digital-skills content to help people navigate online learning. According to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), people with disabilities are among the groups most likely not to use the internet at home, often due to cost barriers, lack of interest or challenges with technology accessibility. Additionally, nearly 48 million U.S. workers — one-third of all U.S. workers — do not have the foundational digital skills needed to secure in-demand jobs. This points to a digital skill divide in Washington and the nation. “Having digital skills matters now more than ever. We recognize the challenges people with disabilities confront, which affects their ability to use the internet and technology,” said Roy Novosel, U.S. Marine Veteran and Vice President of Engineering for the Comcast Pacific Northwest Region. “That’s exactly why a fully accessible and digital community learning space like this one in Burien is so important, and why we at Comcast want to partner with organizations like Paralyzed Veterans of America to help close the digital skills divide in Washington.” To add some art to this unique learning space, Urban ArtWorks constructed a mural designed by veteran artist Charles Conner and hand-painted by Comcast employee volunteers. This mural is now on display inside the Northwest Paralyzed Veterans of America building in Burien. Lift Zones complement Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, which helps connect lower-income families to the Internet at home. Internet Essentials is Comcast’s signature digital equity initiative and the nation’s largest and most comprehensive broadband adoption program. Since 2011, Internet Essentials has connected a cumulative total of more than 8,800 low-income residents to broadband Internet in Kitsap County. Internet Essentials has a comprehensive design that addresses each of the three major barriers to broadband adoption. This includes: multiple options to access free digital literacy training in print, online, and in person; the option to purchase a heavily subsidized, low-cost Internet-ready computer; and low-cost, high-speed Internet service for $9.95 a month, plus tax. For more information about Internet Essentials and Comcast’s commitment to education and digital equity, please visit https://corporate.comcast.com/education. To apply, visit www.internetessentials.com or call 1-855-846-8376 for English or 1-855-765-6995 for Spanish. Comcast’s commitment to the military community goes back to our founder, U.S. Navy veteran Ralph Roberts. We are proud to create special experiences for military customers, hire military-connected talent, and support organizations that serve veterans and their families. About Northwest Paralyzed Veterans of America The mission of Paralyzed Veterans of America, Northwest Chapter is to improve the quality of life for Veterans of the United States Armed Forces & their family, for those who have a spinal cord injury or dysfunction, while advocating for civil and disability rights for all. The Northwest Chapter Paralyzed Veterans of America (NWPVA), a member chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, accomplishes it’s mission by coordinated efforts through programs that provide opportunities for health promotion, recreation, employment, sports and recreation, service and camaraderie for paralyzed veterans; elevate society’s information level about the attitudinal, physical and legal barriers that confront persons with disabilities in order to influence the removal of those barriers; advocate for and monitor the delivery of high quality and appropriate health care benefits and service; cooperate with and seek the support of other groups and individuals that share NWPVA’s objective; and educate the public with the current and ongoing needs and current and past contributions of America’s veterans. Learn more at https://nwpva.org/. Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) 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 Comcast Andy Colley andy_colley@comcast.com Company Website https://washington.comcast.com

October 03, 2024 03:37 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Holiday Gift Guide: Add These Luxury Cannabis Items to Your Shopping List

MJ Attaché

Cannabis is legal in 38 states and counting for medical use. Almost 40% of women over the age of 21 currently consume cannabis, and men are nearly twice as likely to use cannabis than women. Odds are, your holiday gift-giving list includes an herbalist who would cherish an easy and elegant addition to their self-care ritual. “Whether the cannabis connoisseur on your holiday giving list uses cannabis medicinally or recreationally, MJ Attaché gift options elevate the experience and simplify the lives of discerning herbal enthusiasts,” explains MJ Attaché founder Christy Fuicelli. “Not only are our attachés statement pieces for self-care rituals, but they’re discreet, lockable and customizable to suit individual consumption needs.” New-to-market, MJ Attaché luxury holiday gift options for cannabis enthusiasts The Anthony Bag - $2,150.00 The Anthony bag combines style and sophistication for the discerning herbalist. Built by Italian artisans with the finest materials, this attaché dispels outdated stereotypes and elevates self-care rituals with patent-pending technology. It is the first on the market to provide a subtle, smell-disguising, practical and elegant solution to suit a cannabis enthusiast’s lifestyle. Available in five colors, The Anthony contains a removable rolling tray and magnetic accessories for customizable storage of your cannabis and accouterments. Retractable Vape Pen Holder - $150.00 Give the gift of ease, and the herbalist on your list will never lose another vape pen. Made in Italy of metal, leather and elastic, this accessory ensures the safekeeping and easy access of a favorite pen. The branded snap hook clips to bags or clothing, and the monogrammed retractable piece allows for use without removal. Fits most batteries up to.5″ in diameter. Retractable Lighter Holder - $175.00 Place this holder under the tree, and your favorite cannabis enthusiast’s lighter will always be at hand. Like the pen holder, this lighter holder is made in Italy of metal and leather. It is engineered to ensure a lighter’s safekeeping and easy access. The accessory’s branded snap hook clips to clothing or bags for accessibility, and the monogrammed retractable piece allows for use without removal. Fits classic BIC lighter. “Our vape pen and lighter holders keep your cannabis accessories safe and right where you need them. The Anthony is a luxury storage solution for all your cannabis needs—making it the perfect gift for a sophisticated herbal enthusiast,” says Fuicelli. “In addition to beauty and refinement, The Anthony is equally functional in that the components can be customized to meet individual needs. For example, edibles, flower and prerolls can be stored in the provided smell-proof jars and locked in The Anthony bag for safekeeping and transport this holiday season,” Fuicelli explains. The Anthony bag makes cannabis self-care rituals easy and elegant Discreet, smell-disguising design you can take anywhere Patent-pending modular elements include smell-proof jars for edibles and flower, lighter holder and glass holder Removable rolling tray for ease of use and clean-up Zipper lock eliminates need for difficult-to-open childproof containers "The Anthony bag not only keeps all my sesh products nicely organized for on-the-go, but it also turns heads. All my colleagues are shocked to find out its purpose!" says Arend Richard, The Anthony bag purchaser and founder of Cirrus Social Club in Denver. Find holiday luxury at MJAttache.com. Connect on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and deals. # # # About MJ Attaché Launched in April 2024, MJ Attaché is a designer and developer of high-quality, handmade Italian leather bags and accessories for the cannabis connoisseur. The luxury brand, with its moniker “MJ” (short for Mary Jane—an alias for marijuana), was founded by entrepreneur Christy Fuicelli, a stylish herbalist. Realizing a void in the marketplace, Fuicelli created MJ Attaché to cache and carry her cannabis in a discreet manner reflective of the luxury she enjoyed in other personal products. Fuicelli spent years designing beautifully crafted bags that embody elevated style, sophistication, high quality and fine craftsmanship. Appealing to men and women alike, MJ Attaché products bring ease and style to the cannabis industry and challenge outdated stigmas. Contact Details MJ Attaché Katie Converse for MJ Attaché info@mjattache.com Company Website https://mjattache.com/

October 03, 2024 01:00 PM Mountain Daylight Time

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PathAI Announces Collaboration with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation to Advance Novel IBD Research and Development

PathAI

PathAI, a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital pathology solutions, today announced a partnership with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. The collaboration will empower academic and biopharmaceutical researchers to unlock insights into inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through the unique combination of quantitative histopathology data and well-characterized multi-modal clinical and molecular data. Quantitative histopathology data will be derived from the deployment of PathAI's IBD Explore ™ and AIM-HI UC ™ algorithm products 1 on digitized histology images from the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation’s IBD Plexus Ⓡ dataset. The parties will also pursue collaborative research using their complementary assets aimed at advancing the field of IBD research. Despite the current array of treatment options in ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, remission rates in induction trials are still less than 50%, revealing a therapeutic ceiling in the treatment of both diseases and potential challenges that need to be addressed 2-5. PathAI’s IBD Explore algorithm utilizes AI-powered histopathology analysis to provide detailed insights into the tissue’s inflammatory microenvironment. IBD Explore has the potential to lead to the discovery of novel biomarkers 6,7, disease subtypes, and treatment targets. Meanwhile, AIM-HI UC is the only AI-powered Geboes scoring tool that provides automated subgrade-level scores to accurately and reproducibly measure histological stage and improvement for ulcerative colitis research and clinical trials. “We are thrilled to collaborate with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, the leading nonprofit organization in the IBD space, as a preferred partner to meaningfully advance our understanding of IBD through this unique combination of datasets,” said Andy Beck, MD, PhD, co-founder and CEO of PathAI. “By partnering with PathAI, we aim to uncover valuable insights from well-characterized pathology images, enhancing our understanding of IBD at the microscopic level and paving the way for novel biomarkers, refined disease subtypes, and potential therapeutic targets,” said Angela Dobes, SVP IBD Plexus, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. By combining IBD Plexus’ deeply curated multimodal data, including its large-scale digitized pathology archive, with advanced AI analysis by PathAI, this collaboration aims to enhance researchers’ understanding of the histological factors of IBD to drive novel discoveries that improve quality of life for the millions of Americans living with these diseases. For more information on licensing a joint dataset from PathAI and the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, please reach out to bd@pathai.com. Register for a free demo of PathAI’s algorithm products here. Footnotes IBD Explore and AIM-HI UC are For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures. Danese S. et al. Unmet medical needs in ulcerative colitis: an expert group consensus. Dig. Dis. 2019;37(4):266–283. doi: 10.1159/000496739. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30726845 Colombel J.F. et al. Discrepancies between patient-reported outcomes, and endoscopic and histological appearance in UC. Gut. 2017;66(12):2063–2068. doi: 10.1136/gutjnl-2016-312307. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27590995 Colombel J.F. et al. Effect of tight control management on Crohn's disease (CALM): a multicentre, randomised, controlled phase 3 trial. Lancet. 2017;390(10114):2779–2789. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(17)32641-7. Alsoud D. et al. Breaking the therapeutic ceiling in drug development in ulcerative colitis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2021;6(7):589–595. doi: 10.1016/S2468-1253(21)00065-0. Shamshoian et al. 2024. United European Gastroenterology Week. ePoster PP0375. Griffin et al. 2024. European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation. P008. About PathAI PathAI is the only AI-focused technology company to provide comprehensive precision pathology solutions from wet lab services to algorithm deployment for clinical trials and laboratory use. Rigorously trained and validated with data from more than 15 million annotations, its AI-powered models can be leveraged to optimize the analysis of pathology samples, with the potential to improve efficiency and accuracy of pathology interpretation, as well as to better gauge therapeutic efficacy and accelerate drug development for complex diseases. PathAI is headquartered in Boston, MA. For more information, please visit www.pathai.com. About the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is the leading nonprofit organization focused on both research and patient support for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with the mission of curing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and improving the quality of life for the millions of people living with IBD. The Foundation’s work is dramatically accelerating the research process, while also providing extensive educational and support resources for patients and their families, medical professionals, and the public. To learn more about the IBD Plexus program, visit www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/research/plexus. Contact Details SVM Public Relations and Marketing Communications +1 401-490-9700 pathai@svmpr.com Company Website https://www.pathai.com/

October 03, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Intus Care Announces Launch of CareHub, an Integrated EMR System for PACE

Intus Care

Intus Care, a technology leader in the PACE market, will be previewing CareHub at the 2024 National PACE Association (NPA) Annual Conference in San Diego October 13-16. The product, set for an availability in 2025, is the one-stop-shop EMR and practice management system for workflows to manage PACE’s value-based care model, revolutionizing how interdisciplinary care teams, quality, and compliance managers care for older adults with complex healthcare needs. CareHub by Intus Care is modernizing the technology stack for complex care delivery. For the first time, PACE programs will have a value-based care management system for interdisciplinary care teams (IDT) to: Automate their tedious tasks in a single interface Harness generative artificial intelligence to ease the burden of documentation Access insights through predictive analytics to prioritize their daily workflows Leverage bidirectional data infrastructure for next generation interoperability With several customers already signed on, Intus Care is opening the implementation list for additional partners in 2025. Attendees at NPA 2024 will get an exclusive first look at the innovative features and capabilities that make CareHub the partner for the model of care. Enabling PACE & Building Momentum for 2025 with CareHub During the NPA 2024 event, Intus Care will showcase CareHub, allowing attendees to experience the platform and services available designed to improve staffing efficiency, communication, and patient care. This demo offers an early glimpse into how the product will partner with programs when it officially launches in 2025. “As a natural evolution from our Population Health Analytics and Integrated Care Services products, CareHub addresses three critical unmet needs in the PACE community, which are prevalent across value-based care systems. These needs include reducing staff documentation and administrative burden, integrating disparate data systems, and enabling actionable workflows for interdisciplinary care teams to provide high-quality participant care,” says Robbie Felton, CEO at Intus Care. The NPA 2024 event provides Intus Care with the opportunity to introduce CareHub alongside its suite of existing products. CareHub is the orchestration of comprehensive care management, data driven insights, and integrated workflow solutions. Key examples include EMR, CRM, and Intus Care’s IRIS and Population Health Analytics tools with more to come. Innovating through Deep Partnership with PACE Partners In order to ensure CareHub deeply meets the needs of the PACE community, Intus Care has collaborated with 18 PACE organizations, representing nearly 20,000 participants across the country, as part of its CareHub Product Steering Committee. Through a series of virtual and in-person focus groups, Intus Care gained invaluable insights into the challenges faced by every discipline using CareHub. These sessions have addressed key areas such as IDT coordination, task management, quality and compliance, CMS and state reporting, and health plan management analytics. This deep collaboration has shaped each module, ensuring CareHub is designed to streamline workflows and meet the specific needs of PACE programs. The company is excited to showcase the result of these impactful partnerships. Streamline IDT Coordination through Integrated Workflow Solutions CareHub is uniquely built for interdisciplinary workflows, with an IDT huddle tool and 360-degree view of patient information including clinical and non-clinical insights through a single platform. IDT Morning Meeting AI Intus Suggestions Assessments Care Planning Comprehensive Care Management to Optimize Clinical Outcomes The integrated, easy-to-use modules make it easy for team members to collaborate, communicate, and document so participants receive the right care at the right time. Task Management Notes Scheduling Transportation Patient History Enable Quality, Compliance, and Health Plan Management through Tech Modernization CareHub enhances service coordination with comprehensive compliance tracking and reporting capabilities, including robust tools for claims processing, audits, billing, and authorizations. SDAGs Enrollments Disenrollments Reporting Authorizations What to Expect in 2025 When CareHub launches in 2025, it will offer a care orchestration platform that ensures that complex care for older adults is efficient, compliant, and centered around value-based care outcomes. For more information and to schedule a demo or consultation, reach out through Intus Care’s website. About Intus Care Intus Care creates technology and services for PACE and value-based care organizations to achieve operational efficiency and better clinical and financial outcomes. Intus Care currently works with over 60 PACE programs across 16 states. Visit our website to learn more intuscare.com. Contact Details SVM Public Relations +1 401-490-9700 intuscare@svmpr.com Company Website https://www.intuscare.com/

October 03, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Direxion Launches Netflix and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Single Stock Leveraged and Inverse ETFs

Direxion

Furthering their continued success with Single Stock Leveraged and Inverse ETFs, Direxion, a leading provider of tradeable and thematic ETFs, today announced the launch of two additional pairs. These four funds allow active traders to obtain magnified, or inverse, exposure to the daily performance of the common stock of Netflix, Inc., or Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd., through either the Direxion Daily NFLX Bull 2X Shares ( Ticker: NFXL ) and Direxion Daily NFLX Bear 1X Shares ( Ticker: NFXS ), or the Direxion Daily TSM Bull 2X Shares ( Ticker: TSMX ) and Direxion Daily TSM Bear 1X Shares ( Ticker: TSMZ ). “Direxion launched its first two pairs of single stock leveraged and inverse ETFs just over two years ago, amassing more than $3 billion in the expanding suite since,” said Direxion Managing Director, Edward Egilinsky. “Netflix and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing are two of the hottest names in the retail space, lending themselves well to tactical trading in response to potential company events and market sentiment. We look forward to expanding our suite of single stock leveraged and inverse ETFs in the near future.” As ground-breaking products built for active traders, Direxion’s pairs of single stock leveraged and inverse ETFs are meant to be used for short-term trading purposes. Leveraged and inverse single stock ETFs should not be viewed as buy and hold investments, but rather trading tools for traders with a high risk tolerance. In addition, unlike traditional ETFs, or even other levered and/or inverse ETFs, these ETFs track the price of a single stock rather than an index, eliminating the benefits of diversification. All Direxion leveraged and inverse ETFs are intended only for investors with an in-depth understanding of the risks associated with seeking leveraged investment results, and who plan to actively monitor and manage their positions. There is no guarantee these ETFs will meet their objective. Please visit the Direxion Leveraged and Inverse ETF Education Center, where you will find educational brochures, videos, and a self-paced online course to help you understand if leveraged ETFs are right for you. About Direxion: Direxion equips investors who are driven by conviction with ETF solutions built for purpose and fine-tuned for precision. These solutions are available for a broad spectrum of investors, whether executing short-term tactical trades, or investing in thematic strategies. Direxion’s reputation is founded on developing products that precisely express market perspectives and allow investors to manage their risk exposure. Founded in 1997, the company has approximately $48.6 billion in assets under management as of September 30, 2024. For more information, please visit www.direxion.com. There is no guarantee that the Funds will achieve their investment objectives. For more information on all Direxion Shares ETFs, go to www.direxion.com, or call us at 866.301.9214. An investor should carefully consider a Fund’s investment objective, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. A Fund’s prospectus and summary prospectus contain this and other information about the Direxion Shares. To obtain a prospectus and summary prospectus call 866-476-7523 or visit our website at direxion.com. A Fund’s prospectus and summary prospectus should be read carefully before investing. Investing in the funds involves a high degree of risk. Unlike traditional ETFs, or even other leveraged and/or inverse ETFs, these leveraged and/or inverse single stock ETFs track the price of a single stock rather than an index, eliminating the benefits of diversification. Leveraged and inverse ETFs pursue daily leveraged investment objectives, which means they are riskier than alternatives which do not use leverage. They seek daily goals and should not be expected to track the underlying stock’s performance over periods longer than one day. They are not suitable for all investors and should be utilized only by investors who understand leverage risk and who actively manage their investments. The Funds will lose money if the underlying stock’s performance is flat, and it is possible that the Bull Fund will lose money even if the underlying stock’s performance increases, and the Bear Fund will lose money even if the underlying stock’s performance decreases, over a period longer than a single day. An investor could lose the full principal value of his or her investment in a single day. Investing in the Funds is not the same as investing directly in NFLX or TSM. Entertainment Industry Risk — Companies in the entertainment industry may be impacted by the high costs of research and development of new content and services in an effort to stay relevant in a highly competitive industry, and entertainment products may face a risk of rapid obsolescence. Entertainment companies are subject to risks that include cyclicality of revenues and earnings, changing tastes and topical interests, and decreases in the discretionary income of their targeted consumers. Consumer Discretionary Sector Risk — Because companies in the consumer discretionary sector manufacture products and provide discretionary services directly to the consumer, the success of these companies is tied closely to the performance of the overall domestic and international economy. Semiconductor Industry Risk – Semiconductor companies may face intense competition, both domestically and internationally, and such competition may have an adverse effect on such companies’ profit margins. Semiconductor companies may have limited product lines, markets, financial resources or personnel. Companies in the semiconductor industry may have products that face obsolescence due to rapid technological developments and frequent new product introduction, unpredictable changes in growth rates and competition for qualified personnel. Netflix, Inc. Investing Risk – Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment held by the Fund to be more volatile than the market generally. The value of an individual security or particular type of security may be more volatile than the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of the market as a whole. As of the date of this prospectus, in addition to the risks associated with companies in the consumer discretionary sector, and more specifically the entertainment industry, Netflix, Inc. faces risks related to maintaining and expanding membership for its streaming services; competition in the entertainment video market; unforeseen costs or liability in connection with content that is acquired, produced, licensed and/or distributed through its service; the ability to manage change and growth in its business; costs and challenges associated with strategic acquisitions and investments; regulatory changes and legal issues; protecting its intellectual property; consumer data privacy issues; and network operators handling and changing data access. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Investing Risk – Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment held by the Fund to be more volatile than the market generally. The value of an individual security or particular type of security may be more volatile than the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of the market as a whole. As of the date of this prospectus, in addition to the risks associated with companies in the semiconductor sector, TSM faces risks associated with: the highly competitive nature of the semiconductor industry; economic and market uncertainty; reductions in demand for its products; potential concentration of revenues in a few large clients; geopolitical events and pandemics; adequate protection of technology or other intellectual property; exchange rates; reliance on third parties to manufacture products; possible shortages of equipment or materials needed to manufacture products; cybersecurity attacks and data breaches; system failures or outages; potential incompatibility of product with some or all industry standard software and hardware; increases in costs; adverse government regulations; regulatory compliance costs; litigation; taxes; indebtedness; and the ability to attract and retain high quality talent. Direxion Shares Risks – An investment in each Fund involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Each Fund is non-diversified and includes risks associated with a Fund concentrating its investments in a particular security, industry, sector, or geographic region which can result in increased volatility. A Fund's investments in derivatives such as futures contracts and swaps may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other investments, including imperfect correlations with underlying investments or the Fund's other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility and lack of availability. As a result, the value of an investment in a Fund may change quickly and without warning. Risks of the Funds include Effects of Compounding and Market Volatility Risk, Derivatives Risk, Counterparty Risk, Rebalancing Risk, Intra-Day Investment Risk, Netflix, Inc. or Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Investing Risk, Market Risk, Industry Concentration Risk, Cash Transaction Risk, Indirect Investment Risk, and risks specific to the consumer discretionary sector, entertainment industry or semiconductor industry. Additional risks include, for the Direxion Daily NFLX Bull 2X Shares and Direxion Daily TSM Bull 2X Shares, Leverage Risk and Daily Correlation Risk, and for the Direxion Daily NFLX Bear 1X Shares and Direxion Daily TSM Bear 1X Shares, Shorting or Inverse Risk as well as Daily Inverse Correlation Risk. Please see the summary and full prospectuses for a more complete description of these and other risks of the Funds. Distributor: ALPS Distributors, Inc. Contact Details Ditto Public Relations Danielle Black, AD direxion@dittopr.co Company Website https://www.direxion.com/

October 03, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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