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AmeriLife To Acquire Crump Life Insurance Services

Amerilife

AmeriLife Group, LLC (“AmeriLife”), a national organization that develops, markets, and distributes life and health insurance, annuities, and retirement planning solutions, announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Crump Life Insurance Services and Hanleigh Management (collectively “Crump”) from TIH Insurance Holdings, LLC (“TIH”). Per the agreement, terms of the deal were not disclosed. "We are thrilled to welcome Crump into the AmeriLife family," said Scott R. Perry, chairman and CEO of AmeriLife. "Crump is a leading independent distributor of life insurance and this partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to provide enhanced Wealth solutions for our clients and partners. Crump's exceptional team and relentless dedication to customer satisfaction will further develop our capabilities in the marketplace. Together – through our shared culture and values – we will continue to redefine the standards of service and excellence in our industry.” "With the acquisition of Crump, we are continuing to transform how we approach Wealth distribution and deliver on our holistic commitment to agents, advisors, and leading financial professionals everywhere," added Mike Vietri, Chief Distribution Officer for AmeriLife Wealth Group. “Crump's breadth and depth of expertise, especially in the life insurance space, will enable us to deliver more comprehensive and integrated solutions and revolutionize how we help individuals and families protect and grow their wealth – no matter their stage of life.” Crump is one of the largest and most dynamic providers of life insurance and retirement products in the United States. Crump’s expertise spans the institutional/wholesale, IMO, and BGA sectors, and it partners with more than 31,000 financial professionals to deliver a range of holistic solutions including life, annuities, long term care, linked benefit, disability insurance, and other specialty offerings. “We are excited to join forces with AmeriLife,” said Mike Martini, CEO of Crump. “This highly complementary transaction marks a pivotal moment for our company and demonstrates our commitment to advancing our capabilities and services for our clients and partners. We look forward to leveraging AmeriLife's extensive network and deep resources to better serve the needs of our customers and to drive continued growth in the life insurance market.” As part of AmeriLife Wealth Group’s fast-growing and innovative distribution platform, Crump joins a distinguished network of affiliated companies who are working together to transform Wealth distribution and sustain the next generation of firms and their financial professionals. Crump will also gain access to new tools and expanded resources required to hone its already best-in-class capabilities and build upon its more than 100 years of success to deliver better, more secure futures for retirees. Piper Sandler & Co. and Truist Securities are acting as financial advisors and Simpson Thatcher & Bartlett LLP served as legal counsel to Crump and TIH in connection with the transaction, which is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. Kirkland & Ellis served as legal counsel and Paul Weiss served as financing legal counsel to AmeriLife. ### About Crump Life Insurance Services Crump Life Insurance Services is a leading third-party distributor and service provider of insurance and retirement products. Using a holistic approach to insurance planning, Crump distributes a diverse array of insurance products to more than 31,000 financial professionals. With the industry's premier sales and back-office support and technology services, Crump places $13B in annual premiums of life insurance, annuities, long term care, linked benefits, disability, and health products, equaling more than 145,000 insurance policies and $100B in life insurance protection annually. Crump markets under the following brands: Crump, Truist Life Insurance Services, and Tellus. Learn more at Crump.com About TIH Insurance Holdings TIH Insurance Holdings, LLC, headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is a leading Property and Casualty wholesale brokerage and MGA platform. TIH operates over 100 offices with more than 6,500 employees through its specialty wholesale and underwriting insurance businesses. To learn more, visit www.tihinsurance.com. About AmeriLife AmeriLife’s strength is its mission: to provide insurance and retirement solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. AmeriLife develops, markets and distributes life and health insurance, annuities, and retirement planning solutions to enhance the lives of pre-retirees and retirees across the United States. For more than 50 years, AmeriLife has partnered with top insurance carriers to provide value and quality to customers served through a national distribution network of over 300,000 agents and financial professionals and more than 160 marketing organizations and insurance agencies. For more information, visit AmeriLife.com, and follow AmeriLife on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details Media - AmeriLife Jeff Maldonado media@amerilife.com Media - Crump Life Insurance Services Jessica Marshall jmarshall@crcgroup.com Partnership Inquiries Alex Hyer corporatedevelopment@amerilife.com Company Website https://amerilife.com

January 06, 2025 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

The Allure of Bonus Codes: Why US Players Can't Resist Them

Acroud Media

In the competitive world of online gambling, casinos are constantly vying for the attention of players. One of the most effective tools in their arsenal? Bonus codes. These seemingly simple alphanumeric strings hold immense power, enticing players with extra cash, free spins, and a range of other enticing rewards. The US Market: A Land of Opportunity (and Regulation) The US online gambling market is booming, with more and more states legalizing and regulating various forms of online gaming. This burgeoning industry has created a fertile ground for casino operators to flourish, and bonus codes have become a cornerstone of their marketing strategies. Why Players Love Them Free Money (Almost): Enhanced Value: Risk-Free Exploration: Variety is the Spice of Life: The Thrill of the Hunt: Common Types of Bonus Codes in the US Welcome Bonuses: Such as bet365's famous bonus code. Reload Bonuses: Free Spins Bonuses: Cashback Bonuses: These offer players a percentage of their losses back as a bonus, often on a weekly or monthly basis. High Roller Bonuses: These are designed to attract high-spending players and often offer larger match bonuses and other exclusive perks. How Casinos Use Bonus Codes Strategically Player Acquisition: Welcome bonuses and free spins are crucial for attracting new players to a casino. Player Retention: Reload bonuses, cashback offers, and loyalty programs keep existing players engaged and encourage them to continue playing. Game Promotion: Seasonal Promotions: The Importance of Responsible Gambling While bonus codes offer exciting opportunities, it's crucial to remember that gambling should always be approached responsibly. Players should: Set a budget: Read the terms and conditions: Utilize responsible gambling tools: Take advantage of features such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and reality checks offered by reputable online casinos. Seek help if needed: If gambling is causing problems, seek help from organizations like Gamblers Anonymous or the National Council on Problem Gambling. The Future of Bonus Codes As the US online gambling market continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and exciting bonus codes emerge. Casinos will likely continue to refine their strategies, offering personalized bonuses based on player behavior and preferences. Conclusion Bonus codes have become an integral part of the US online casino landscape. They offer players a thrilling way to enhance their gameplay, explore new games, and potentially increase their winnings. By understanding the different types of bonus codes available and playing responsibly, players can maximize the benefits while minimizing the risks and enjoy a safe and entertaining online gambling experience. Contact Details Acroud Media info-media@acroudmedia.com

January 06, 2025 08:58 AM Eastern Standard Time

House Passes $196 Billion Social Security Bill: Will Repealing Pension Reductions Shorten The Program’s Lifespan?

Benzinga

By Kaili Killpack, Benzinga On Nov. 12, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Social Security Fairness Act, a bipartisan bill set in motion to eliminate two long-standing provisions that currently reduce Social Security benefits for public sector employees. The legislation was first introduced in 2023 and will now head to the Senate, where it has strong bipartisan support. If passed, it is estimated to cost $196 billion over the next decade. Critics worry that enacting this bill could further exacerbate Social Security’s funding challenges. Don’t Miss: The number of ‘401(k)’ Millionaires is up 43% from last year — Here are three ways to join the club. Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved? The percentage may shock you. What Does the Social Security Fairness Act Do? The bill addresses two key provisions – added to the Social Security Act in 1983 – that affect public sector workers: The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP): This rule reduces Social Security benefits for individuals who receive pensions from jobs where they didn’t pay Social Security taxes, like certain state and local government positions. According to the Congressional Research Service, about 2.1 million people are affected by this provision. The Government Pension Offset (GPO): The GPO reduces Social Security benefits for spouses, widows and widowers who receive government pensions. About 745,000 individuals currently receive reduced benefits under this provision. Those in support of repealing these rules argue that they unfairly penalize retired teachers, police officers, firefighters and other public servants, many of whom heavily rely on their Social Security and pension benefits for their income. Supporters Praise the Bill Proponents of the bill see it as a victory for equity. Representative Garret Graves (R-La.), a coleader of the bill, stated on the House floor, “This has been 40 years of treating people differently, discriminating against a certain set of workers.” The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare called the House vote a "bipartisan victory" for public employees and their families. See Also: ‘Scrolling to UBI’: Deloitte’s #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones – invest today with $1,000 for just $0.25/share Concerns About Social Security’s Future While the bill aims to address disparities among a demographic affected for over 40 years, critics are concerned that enacting it could further strain Social Security’s already depleting finances. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill would add $196 billion to deficits over the next 10 years and bring the trust fund depletion date forward by six months. Social Security funds are expected to run out at their current rate in 2033, meaning that beneficiaries would receive about 79% of their benefits. Some lawmakers, like Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.), argue that, while reform is necessary, it needs to be handled differently. “I could not vote for the bills on the floor tonight because they are not paid for and therefore put Americans’ hard-earned benefits at risk,” Larson said. “It would hurt most deeply the five million of our fellow Americans who receive below poverty checks and almost half of all Social Security recipients who rely on their earned benefits for the majority of their income.” Trending: 'Which Bucket Do I Draw From First?' Suze Orman Explains To 67-Year-Old The Best Order For Tapping Into Her Retirement Accounts Instead, Larson proposed an alternative proposal: the Social Security 2100 Act. This would also repeal the WEP and GPO and include additional measures to increase revenues, like raising payroll taxes for higher earners. Policy experts also express their concerns. Romina Boccia, director of budget and entitlement policy at the Cato Institute, criticized the bill, stating the policy is wrong and needs broader changes. “We should reform Social Security so that it provides basic income security to the most vulnerable Americans in old age without adding to the debt or tax burden that younger workers face,” Boccia said. What Happens Next? The Social Security Fairness Act has already garnered enough Senate cosponsors to pass if brought to the floor for a vote. If signed into law, repealing the WEP and GPO would apply to benefits starting in 2024, significantly changing the benefits for the affected retirees and leaving unresolved questions about the program’s long-term solvency. Read Next: The global games market is projected to generate $272B by the end of the year — for $0.55/share, this VC-backed startup with a 7M+ userbase gives investors easy access to this asset market. Deloitte’s fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart & Target – You can still get 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $1,000 Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. Benzinga may earn a commission from the partners associated with this article. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

January 06, 2025 08:50 AM Eastern Standard Time

'It’s Simple Math,' Musk Said – If You Work 100 Hours A Week And Others Work 50, You'll Accomplish Twice As Much As Them

Benzinga

By Adrian Volenik, Benzinga At a commencement ceremony for USC's Marshall School of Business in 2014, Musk told graduates, "You need to work super hard." He explained that when he and his brother started their first company, they couldn't afford an apartment, so they rented a small office and slept on the couch. " We showered at the YMCA and were so hard-up that we only had one computer," Musk said. He would code at night and the website would be live during the day. Don’t Miss The global games market is projected to generate $272B by the end of the year — for $0.55/share, this VC-backed startup with a 7M+ userbase gives investors easy access to this asset market. ‘Scrolling to UBI’: Deloitte’s #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones – invest today with $1,000 for just $0.25/share "I work hard, like every waking hour," he said. Musk believes that the more time you put into your work, the more you accomplish. "If somebody else is working 50 hours [per week] and you're working 100, you'll get twice as much done in the course of a year as the other company," he explained. In his eyes, it’s just "simple math." During the production crunch for Tesla's Model 3, Musk was known for sleeping on the factory floor to monitor operations. He once told CBS’s Gayle King that sometimes he didn’t even bother with the factory couch because "the couch was too narrow." Trending: Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved? The percentage may shock you. Telling the USC graduates, "Now is the time to take risks," Musk urged them to take advantage of possibilities while they were still young and had few responsibilities. According to Musk, that kind of fearless work ethic can help set you apart. Musk's strategy has inspired many people, but it has also generated much debate. Is working 100 hours a week sustainable or even healthy? Musk has admitted the potential personal cost, after all. Considering that this is coming from a man who has twelve children, one should logically wonder how much time he spends with them. These days, Musk is constantly embroiled in controversy, particularly with his purchase of Twitter and the devaluation of Twitter and his unrelenting support for Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential elections. His actions have raised questions about his leadership and intentions, adding complexity to the public's perception of his work ethic and vision for the future. Read Next: Deloitte’s fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart & Target – You can still get 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $1,000 Which Bucket Do I Draw From First?' Suze Orman Explains To 67-Year-Old The Best Order For Tapping Into Her Retirement Accounts Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. Benzinga may earn a commission from the partners associated with this article. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

January 06, 2025 08:45 AM Eastern Standard Time

Rezolve Ai’s Recent Deals With Microsoft, Google Could Jumpstart Its Revenues In $7.6 Billion Market

Benzinga

By Anthony Termini, Benzinga Rezolve AI (NASDAQ: RZLV) is making bold moves, teaming up with tech powerhouses Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) and Alphabet Inc.’s (NASDAQ: GOOG) Google in a pair of groundbreaking deals announced in November. The deals represent significant commitments from both partners and are expected to drive customer growth and strengthen Rezolve Ai’s position in the conversational commerce space. By teaming up with leaders in generative AI and cloud technology, Rezolve Ai is aiming to solidify its reputation as a go-to solution for businesses looking to enhance their digital shopping experiences. What The Microsoft Partnership Brings To The Table Rezolve Ai’s collaboration with Microsoft integrates its AI-powered tools with Microsoft Azure, creating a seamless digital shopping experience for eCommerce customers. From personalized product recommendations to fast checkouts and customer support, the partnership is designed to cover the entire online shopping journey. Microsoft is also backing Rezolve Ai with joint marketing campaigns, PR support and access to its massive network of 35,000 salespeople. This could help Rezolve Ai quickly expand its reach across Microsoft’s customer base. Nick Parker, Microsoft’s President of Industry & Partnerships, said, “Rezolve’s Brain Suite of AI solutions will help retailers deepen customer engagement, streamline operations, and boost sales with scalable AI-driven tools.” Rezolve Ai’s Brain Suite includes: Brain Commerce: A conversational search tool to help customers find products quickly. Brain Checkout: A feature that enables fast, personalized and frictionless checkouts. Brain Assistant: A real-time support tool designed to build customer loyalty. The Brain Suite will run on Microsoft Azure and be available globally through the Azure Marketplace and Microsoft’s co-sell channels. The partnership is set to last for at least five years. What The Google Deal Means For Rezolve Ai Rezolve Ai’s partnership with Google is similar in scope, with its Brain Suite being made available to Google Cloud customers worldwide. The deal also includes a co-development agreement, which could lead to Rezolve Ai’s technology being integrated into Google’s core services like Search, Maps, Android and YouTube. This could significantly accelerate the adoption of Rezolve Ai’s tools. The company expects the Google partnership to generate over 50% of its projected revenue in the coming years. CEO Daniel M. Wagner called the partnerships with Microsoft and Google “an extraordinary achievement” and a validation of the team’s hard work. How Rezolve Ai Stands Out In Conversational Commerce Rezolve Ai is on a mission to transform how people shop online. The company believes that traditional eCommerce experiences haven’t evolved much in the past decade, leaving room for innovation. Its Brain Suite aims to make online shopping more intuitive and personalized, much like interacting with a knowledgeable salesperson in a store. Instead of simply matching keywords or product features, Rezolve Ai’s tools analyze a customer’s specific needs to provide tailored recommendations. This end-to-end approach covers everything from initial engagement to post-purchase support, helping businesses improve customer satisfaction and drive revenue. A 2023 McKinsey & Company report noted that for retail and consumer packaged goods companies, the potential impact of AI on annual revenues could translate into an additional $400 billion to $660 billion annually. Unlike competitors that focus on narrow use cases, Rezolve Ai offers a comprehensive solution that addresses the entire digital shopping journey. Its cloud-agnostic platform and enterprise on-premise options also set it apart from the competition. The Growth Potential Of Conversational Commerce The conversational commerce market is currently valued at $7.6 billion and is expected to grow to over $34.4 billion by 2034, according to Future Market Insights. Rezolve Ai plans to expand beyond retail into industries like travel, finance, healthcare and entertainment, which could significantly increase its addressable market. The company estimates that its current target customers represent a $10 billion market opportunity. It also projects reaching $100 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR) by 2025. With a total addressable market of $480 billion to $540 billion globally, Rezolve Ai believes it’s well-positioned to capture a significant share of this growing industry. It also notes that it is currently working with more than 215,000 merchants globally. The company expects to achieve more than $100 million in ARR by 2025. Why These Partnerships Matter The deals with Microsoft and Google give Rezolve Ai access to billions of consumers and millions of businesses worldwide. By integrating its tools with these platforms, Rezolve Ai expects to see rapid growth in adoption and use cases. These partnerships mark a major milestone for the company as it works to establish itself as a leader in conversational commerce. Featured photo by Igor Omilaev 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

January 06, 2025 08:15 AM Eastern Standard Time

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News Release

Driving Change Pafikabgunungkidul.org Sets New Standards for Sustainable Development

Rev Up Marketers

Pafikabgunungkidul.org, a pioneering organization in community development and environmental sustainability, has been at the forefront of driving positive change within the Gunungkidul region. Committed to addressing the complex challenges faced by local communities, the organization has initiated a series of projects aimed at fostering sustainable development and improving the quality of life for residents. In recent years, Gunungkidul, located in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, has faced various socioeconomic and environmental hurdles, including limited access to education, inadequate healthcare services, and challenges related to environmental degradation. Pafikabgunungkidul.org has responded to these challenges by creating initiatives that focus on empowering local communities while ensuring environmental preservation for future generations. The primary focus of pafikabupatenkampar.org work lies in the development of sustainable solutions that address the unique needs of the region. By collaborating with local leaders, community members, and stakeholders, the organization has helped to implement strategies that promote economic resilience, environmental conservation, and social well-being. These initiatives range from providing access to clean energy and water resources to promoting education and healthcare programs that directly impact the lives of individuals and families in the region. One of the significant accomplishments of Pafikabgunungkidul.org is its focus on renewable energy projects aimed at reducing the region's dependence on nonrenewable resources. Through the installation of solar energy systems and the promotion of eco-friendly technologies, the organization has played a key role in reducing carbon footprints while providing sustainable alternatives for local communities. These solar initiatives not only supply affordable energy to rural areas but also contribute to long-term environmental goals, such as reducing the consumption of fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Explore pafikabupatennatuna.org: pafikabupatennatuna.org is the official platform for KabupatenNatuna, offering quick access to government services, local news, and community updates. This user-friendly website simplifies the way residents and visitors connect with essential resources. Whether you need administrative support or want to learn about Natuna’s culture, pafikabupatennatuna.org has it all. Visit today to stay informed and experience the convenience of Natuna’s digital gateway! In addition to its efforts in renewable energy, Pafikabupatensiak.org has placed a strong emphasis on water management and conservation. Many communities in Gunungkidul face challenges related to water scarcity, particularly in rural areas. Through collaborative efforts, the organization has worked to improve access to clean water by building sustainable water infrastructure and promoting water conservation practices. These efforts have had a tangible impact, with hundreds of families benefiting from reliable access to safe water, which is essential for both health and agricultural purposes. Environmental conservation efforts led by Pafikabgunungkidul.org have extended beyond water management and renewable energy. The organization has launched various projects that aim to protect local ecosystems and biodiversity. Through the restoration of degraded lands, the planting of native trees, and the promotion of sustainable farming practices, the organization has made strides in protecting the region’s natural resources. These environmental conservation efforts not only enhance biodiversity but also support the long-term viability of local agriculture, which is a crucial livelihood for many families. Alongside environmental initiatives, Pafikabgunungkidul.org has prioritized educational outreach and capacity-building programs. In remote areas where access to quality education can be limited, the organization has played a vital role in promoting literacy, technical skills training, and community engagement. By offering educational resources, workshops, and training opportunities, Pafikabgunungkidul.org has contributed to building a knowledgeable and empowered community that is better equipped to face the challenges of the modern world. Healthcare has also been a critical area of focus for the organization. Gunungkidul has historically faced challenges in providing adequate healthcare services to its residents, especially in more remote areas. Through partnerships with local health providers, Pafikabgunungkidul.org has facilitated healthcare programs aimed at improving access to medical services, promoting disease prevention, and providing essential healthcare supplies. These efforts have been instrumental in improving the overall health and well-being of local communities. Furthermore, Pafikabgunungkidul.org has emphasized the importance of creating sustainable livelihoods that empower local individuals and communities. By promoting entrepreneurship, supporting local artisans, and developing small-scale business initiatives, the organization has helped diversify income sources and improve the economic stability of families. These livelihood programs not only provide financial security but also foster a sense of ownership and self-reliance among participants, ensuring long-term success for individuals and communities alike. The impact of Pafikabgunungkidul.org’s work is evident in the measurable improvements seen across various sectors within Gunungkidul. The organization’s approach to development focuses on creating lasting change by addressing the root causes of poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. By involving local communities in decision-making processes and empowering them to take charge of their own development, the organization has fostered a sense of ownership and pride in the projects that are implemented. About Pafikabgunungkidul.org Pafikabgunungkidul.org’s success can also be attributed to its collaborative approach. By working closely with local governments, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, the organization has been able to leverage resources, share knowledge, and create synergies that enhance the effectiveness of its initiatives. These partnerships have enabled the organization to scale its efforts, reach more communities, and maximize its impact. As Pafikabupatenkarimun.org continues to drive change and set new standards for sustainable development, the organization remains committed to its mission of improving the lives of individuals and communities in Gunungkidul. The focus on collaboration, innovation, and community-driven solutions will remain central to the organization’s approach as it navigates the challenges of the future and works toward a sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for all. For more information visit Pafikabgunungkidul.org Contact Details Pafikabgunungkidul Mahone Rabado info@pafikabgunungkidul.org Company Website http://pafikabgunungkidul.org

January 05, 2025 01:11 PM Eastern Standard Time

News Release

Exotic Snack Guys Secures $3 million Funding to Fuel Ambitious Expansion

Rev Up Marketers

Plans 100 New Stores. Exotic Snack Guys, the largest exotic snack retail and wholesale company in the United States, is thrilled to announce a successful $3 million funding round, which values the company at $10 million. This investment will drive the company's ambitious plan to open 100 new stores over the next three years, bringing its unique range of international snacks and drinks to more customers than ever before. Founded in 2023 by entrepreneurs Zohaib Naman and Shafiq Rehman, Exotic Snack Guys has rapidly become a leader in the import and sale of snacks and beverages from over 40 countries. The company prides itself on delivering the most sought-after exotic flavors to snack enthusiasts nationwide. “New snacks are released around the world every day, and our job is to make sure they reach every snack lover," said Zohaib Naman, co-founder of Exotic Snack Guys. "With this significant investment, we're excited to expand our reach and bring more global delights to our customers." A cornerstone of the expansion strategy is a groundbreaking deal with one of the largest mall operators in the United States. This partnership will see the opening of 50 stores in 2025, marking a significant step in the company's growth trajectory. Furthermore, Exotic Snack Guys is set to go international, with plans to launch stores in the UK and Dubai Mall in 2025. "The support from our investors is a testament to the strong demand for unique and exotic snacks," added Shafiq Rehman, co-founder. "We are eager to share our passion for global flavors with an even larger audience, both in the US and internationally." With their innovative approach and extensive reach, Exotic Snack Guys is poised to redefine the snacking experience and set a new standard for exotic snack retailing. About Exotic Snack Guys Founded in 2023 by Zohaib Naman and Shafiq Rehman, Exotic Snack Guys is the largest exotic snack retail and wholesale company in the U.S. The brand specializes in importing and selling snacks and beverages from over 40 countries, delivering unique global flavors to snack enthusiasts. With innovative strategies and ambitious expansion plans, Exotic Snack Guys is redefining the snacking experience both in the U.S. and internationally. For more information about Exotic Snack Guys and their expansion plans, visit https://www.exoticsnackguys.com/ Contact Details Exotic Snack Guys Zohaib Naman contact@exoticsnackguys.com Company Website https://www.exoticsnackguys.com/

January 04, 2025 03:53 AM Eastern Standard Time

HIVE Digital (Nasdaq: HIVE) Makes AI Push With $30 Million Nvidia (Nasdaq: NVDA) Chip Investment

Benzinga

By Gerelyn Terzo, Benzinga Since the debut of ChatGPT, generative AI has taken center stage. On one side of the spectrum, AI startups are securing 40% of venture capital, while on the other, tech leaders like Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) and Meta (NASDAQ: META) are pouring anywhere between $30 billion and $60 billion in investment each year. According to Goldman Sachs, this technology cycle is the real deal, as evidence of a return on investment (ROI) in the space becomes more apparent. Two companies working hard to position themselves at the forefront of AI innovation are Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), which has become synonymous with AI chip technology, and HIVE Digital Technologies (NASDAQ: HIVE), a Vancouver, Canada-based company helping pioneer AI solutions and Bitcoin mining. HIVE has worked to position itself at the cutting edge of data center innovation and has been collaborating closely with Nvidia over the past year in a key strategic partnership. HIVE Digital Technologies reports it has advanced its high-computing capabilities by upgrading its Nvidia chip suite with state-of-the-art technology to fuel the AI boom. HIVE has made a blockbuster $30 million investment to secure Nvidia’s highly coveted H100 and H200 GPU clusters – powerful systems integrating GPUs on every node – set to be deployed in Quebec. HIVE Digital Technologies’ investment reflects its commitment to advancing its capabilities in AI and high-performance computing (HPC). Investors interested in exploring opportunities in AI technology can learn more about HIVE Digital Technologies here. Cluster Breakdown Through its investment, HIVE is deploying Nvidia’s supercomputing clusters with customers. These include the following: The Nvidia H100 cluster includes 248 GPUs across nearly three-dozen nodes that are connected with the Infiniband computer networking standard. This cluster is already fully configured and was planned to be operational before year-end 2024. The company predicts a run-rate revenue for its HPC business unit to hit $15 million in the quarter following H100 cluster deployment to end-users. The Nvidia H200 cluster boasts over 500 GPUs across 64 nodes, which is expected to reach Quebec in early January and be deployed to customers in Q1 2025. HIVE projects that the H200 cluster could generate an annualized run-rate revenue of over $20 million by Q2 2025, with margins potentially exceeding those of Bitcoin mining Hive’s Return On Invested Capital HIVE Digital Technologies reports it has established a strong foothold in HPC, generating approximately $10 million in annualized run-rate revenue in October and November. With its expanded Nvidia chip portfolio, HIVE aims to deepen its focus on AI opportunities. The company anticipates these new supercomputing clusters will unlock fresh AI revenue streams that align with its high sustainability standards by harnessing 100% green energy sources. HIVE Digital Technologies operates a dual-revenue model, combining digital currency mining with HPC hosting. With the deployment of Nvidia clusters for customers, HIVE projects its HPC services alone to achieve an annualized run-rate revenue of $20 million by Q2 2025, driven by high-margin cloud computing and AI model training services. HIVE Executive Chairman Frank Holmes likens the revenue potential from just 10 MW of HPC Nvidia chips serving global AI demand to that of 100 MW of Bitcoin mining. HIVE President and CEO Aydin Kilic commented, “Looking forward, we are very excited to build on this momentum and expand our server capacity with next-generation AI computing powered by NVIDIA’s latest GPUs, based on NVIDIA reference architecture. Further, we are preparing for the provision of liquid-cooled data center technology in our existing HIVE data centers for the next generation of high-density compute.” HIVE’s recent investment in Nvidia chip clusters looks to position the company for potential growth in the AI and HPC sectors. This investment aligns with HIVE’s focus on AI technology and its commitment to leveraging green energy infrastructure. HIVE has set a target of $100 million in revenue by 2025 through its HPC services and Bitcoin mining data center conversion, though achieving this depends on various factors, including market conditions. Investors who are interested in learning more about this play on high-performance computing and AI data centers can learn more about HIVE Digital Technologies’ stock here. Featured photo by haidermah on Pixabay. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

January 03, 2025 08:35 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Awareness Group Launches New Financing Options Citing Strong Performance Of Its Residential PPA

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga The Awareness Group (TAG) (OTC: FHLD), a solar energy services and financing solutions company, is helping transform the industry, rolling out innovative financing products that are making solar more accessible to U.S. households. Those efforts seem to be paying off. The company reports that it is seeing strong interest in its financing options, which include its Non-FICO Driven Residential Lease program that removes a minimum credit score requirement. Since launching that option in July, TAG says it has signed 475 solar projects, representing a total contract value of $36.9 million. Of those projects, 201 were from July to September, and 274 were in October and November, underscoring the pace of growth. Meanwhile, the total contract value increased from $15.7 million in the July through September period to $21.1 million in October and November alone. The projects have generated $28.8 million in interest-bearing TAG-owned notes and $13.6 million in investment tax credits that TAG owns, both of which can be monetized to generate cash flow. Boosting Access To The Masses "Our first-of-its-kind residential PPA, which eliminates FICO scores as a key determinant of approval, is a game-changer in the solar industry. The results speak for themselves: since July, we've signed 475 solar projects, representing a TCV of $36.9 million. These projects have generated $28.8 million in TAG-owned notes and $13.6 million in ITCs TAG owns which we can now monetize,” says Pablo Diaz, CEO and founder of The Awareness Group. “The amazing thing is that during the beta test phase from July through mid-September, we onboarded just two TAG GRID members to sell this product. Since the official launch in mid-September, we've been rapidly expanding, bringing our total to 10 TAG GRID members submitting projects for this innovative product and 21 total have been onboarded and are expected to begin producing in 2025. In addition, with our recently launched TAG-owned non-FICO driven residential solar leasing program, we now enable TAG GRID members to offer our residential solar solutions to homeowners in all 50 states.” By eliminating credit score barriers, TAG enables its channel partners to tap into a previously underserved customer base. As it stands, traditional solar financing typically requires a minimum credit score of between 600 and 650. TAG’s new Non-FICO Driven Lease eliminates that requirement, enabling homeowners previously shut out of the market to benefit from solar. While low and moderate-income households make up 43% of the households in the U.S., they only represent 15% of solar adopters. TAG is betting this new program will increase access to a part of the market that has long been underserved. Making The Cost More Manageable But that’s not the only way TAG is increasing access to residential solar panels. The company also just announced a 30-year loan option for TAG GRID members to offer on residential solar projects available in 26 states. The loan has no dealer fees (which can typically increase the amount of the project cost by up to 40% for homeowners) and offers flexible terms aimed at attracting new members to the company’s TAG GRID platform. In addition to the cost reduction related to not having dealer fees, it also spreads the monthly cost out for homeowners – making it a more affordable way to install solar on their homes. TAG says the product is a material addition to TAG Financial Services' financing offering and is set to empower TAG GRID members with financing solutions it believes will drive success. "This likely industry-first loan significantly broadens the TFS portfolio, delivering another highly compelling product for TAG GRID members to offer their customers,” says Diaz. “With no dealer fees, above-industry-average payouts that should drive enhanced customer service, and flexible terms, this financing solution is designed to increase sales velocity, attract new members to our platform, and position TAG as a leader in solar financing.” Timing Is Everything The launch of the 30-year loan, coupled with the Non-FICO lease program, seems perfectly timed to meet the growing demand for residential solar. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, the U.S. residential solar market is forecasted to grow at an average annual rate of 10% from 2025 to 2028, driven by strong consumer demand for clean energy solutions, declining technology costs and supportive federal policies. Meanwhile, by 2030, SEIA says there will be 10 million residential solar systems in the U.S., more than double the number of installations today. “We believe our diverse and innovative product portfolio is among the strongest in the residential solar space, and it positions us to continue driving growth across the TAG GRID while delivering exceptional value to our members, their customers and our investors,” said Diaz. TAG's 30-year loan is designed to capitalize on this growth, providing TAG GRID members with the tools to address these market trends head-on while helping homeowners access affordable, long-term financing for their solar projects, reports TAG. “With predictable lower monthly payments and flexible budgeting options, homeowners can better manage their cash flow while investing in sustainable energy,” says Diaz. “We're proud to lead the industry with innovative solutions that support the renewable energy transition and ensure TAG GRID members remain at the forefront.” Making Splashes In The Commercial Industry In addition to the residential solar market, TAG is aiming to make its mark on the commercial side, gearing up to offer in-house proprietary products as well as access to third-party products. Its new strategic partnership with Apollo Solar and Battery, an international solar consulting firm and founder of the Catalyst Network, underscores that. The Catalyst Network unites over 140 EPCs, equipment OEMs and solar industry professionals nationwide. Through the partnership, TAG became the exclusive commercial finance arm for Apollo's clients and Catalyst members, delivering tailored financial solutions. Unlike some competitors like SUNation Energy (NASDAQ: SUNE) and Sunrun Inc (NASDAQ: RUN), whose approaches are much more granular, TAG reports it is committed to diversifying its options for long-term longevity. TAG plans to reveal more about its plans in the commercial solar and commercial EV markets in 2025. Featured photo by Michael Roberts 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

January 03, 2025 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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