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ETFs: A Streamlined Approach to Sector-Specific Investment

Select Sector SPDR

In the dynamic world of financial markets, the Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer a practical method for investors seeking sector-specific investments. By segmenting the S&P 500 into defined sectors, these ETFs present both individual and institutional investors with an opportunity to build more targeted and strategic investment portfolios. Select Sector SPDR ETFs are designed to cater to various segments of the economy, allowing investors to concentrate their investments based on specific economic sectors, aligned with their investment goals, risk tolerance, and market perspectives. Overview of the available Select Sector SPDR ETFs Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLC) is centered around telecommunications and media companies. Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY) is comprised of companies involved in non-essential goods and services focused on luxury items, automobiles, and hotels. Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP) is primarily essential consumer goods and services like beverages, clothing, and personal products. Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE) is focused on the energy sector which includes oil and natural gas industries. Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF) includes banking, capital markets, and insurance industries. Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV) is dedicated to pharmaceuticals, healthcare equipment, and biotechnology. Industrials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI) encompasses manufacturing, construction, and aerospace companies. Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB) focuses on mining, construction materials, and packaging sectors. Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLRE) looks into commercial real estate services and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), excluding Mortgage REITs. Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) is focused on the information technology, semiconductor, and electronics industries. Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU) centers around electricity and natural gas companies. The Select Sector SPDR ETFs provide an uncomplicated and transparent way to navigate sector-specific investments, allowing investors to adjust their strategies in response to ever-changing market dynamics. This sector-focused approach can provide detailed analysis and strategic portfolio management, offering a valuable tool for investors to fine-tune their investment allocations. As the ETF landscape continues to evolve, the Select Sector SPDR provides a mechanism for investors aiming to fine tune their investment strategies through focused sector allocations. This structured investment avenue supports the development of robust and adaptive portfolios, tailored to meet diverse investor needs and market conditions. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007907 EXP 12/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

November 01, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

San Diego Foundation Launches National Rainbow College Fund in California

National Rainbow College Fund

Today, San Diego Foundation (SDF) launched the National Rainbow College Fund (NRCF) in California, the first scholarship designed to exclusively support LGBTQ+ students pursuing their ambitions for higher education regardless of the public nature of their sexual and gender identity. The National Rainbow College Fund is powered by San Diego Foundation, one of the largest community foundations in the U.S. and the largest provider of scholarships of any community foundation in California. The mission of the National Rainbow College Fund is to lessen the financial burden for young people who identify as LGBTQ+ or who are grappling with the secrecy of remaining in the closet. The groundbreaking fund addresses the unique challenges LGBTQ+ students face such as social acceptance, mental health issues and family rejection that can hinder their ability to afford college that in turn impacts long-term economic earning power. “Speaking from personal experience, I know that many young people struggle with the fear of being outed or coming out. It can be overwhelming. Like many young people, I did everything possible to hide who I was because I feared being kicked out of my home and my family, as well as being cut off financially and emotionally,” said Mark Stuart, President and CEO of San Diego Foundation. “Every LGBTQ+ person should have the means to realize their educational dreams, regardless of the public nature of their sexual and gender identity.” The $2,500 award per selected student may be used for tuition, books, fees, room and board and other educational expenses. It does not need to be repaid. The application period is from January 15, 2025 – March 5, 2025. San Diego Foundation will make students’ privacy the highest priority during the application process. All information submitted to the application portal will be confidential. Setting the precedent in California, San Diego Foundation’s vision is for the fund to grow to be a national source of financial aid for LGBTQ+ students to attend the technical school, college or university of their choosing. To apply, a student who identifies as LGBTQ+ whether publicly or privately must be a high school senior; an incoming or current college or university student; or an adult re-entry student. Applicants need to have lived in California for at least one year and must demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the California DREAM Act Application or the Federal Student Aid Estimator Tool. Students must plan to enroll in at least 6 units in an accredited public or nonprofit community college; four-year university or trade/vocational school anywhere within the United States. For more details about eligibility and selection criteria, please visit rainbowcollegefund.org/scholarship-program/. The need for this scholarship is well-documented. According to a survey conducted by Student Loan Hero, LGBTQ+ students face significant barriers in paying for their education. Families may not financially support their children, leading LGBTQ+ students to turn to loans to finance their schooling. LGBTQ+ borrowers had a higher debt burden on average, with $16,000 more than their cisgender/heterosexual peers: 60% of LGBTQ+ student loan borrowers regret taking out student loans; 28% feel that they can’t manage their student loan payments and more than 53% reported earning less than $50,000 per year. For every $1,000 scholarship a student receives, they are 5% more likely to complete their education. Privacy remains a major concern. A 2022 study from the Williams Institute found that LGBTQ+ students are four times more likely than non-LGBTQ+ students to choose college in a state with a more welcoming climate and to live away from family; 60% of white LGBTQ+ students are not out to staff/faculty and less than 40% of LGBTQ+ students of color are out to staff/faculty. Community colleges have even higher rates of keeping sexual identity private: more than 70% white LGBTQ+ students and 65% LGBTQ+ students of color are not out. LGBTQ+ rights have been under increased attack in general, but also transgender and gender diverse communities in particular. This political landscape is the backdrop by which teenagers are navigating their identities while emerging into adulthood. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published a study documenting that approximately 3.3% of high school students identify as transgender and another 2.2% are questioning their gender identity. Transgender and gender-questioning teenagers reported alarmingly higher rates of bullying at school, persistent sadness and suicidal thoughts and behavior. About one in four transgender students said they had attempted suicide in the past year, compared with 11% of cisgender girls and 5% of cisgender boys. * * * About National Rainbow College Fund National Rainbow College Fund (NRCF) is the first scholarship designed to exclusively support LGBTQ+ students pursuing their ambitions for higher education regardless of the public nature of the student’s sexual and gender identity. The groundbreaking fund addresses the unique challenges LGBTQ+ students face such as social acceptance, mental health issues and family rejection that can hinder their ability to afford college that in turn impacts long-term economic earning power. Setting the precedent in California, San Diego Foundation’s vision is for the fund to grow to be a national source of financial aid for LGBTQ+ students to attend the technical school, college or university of their choosing. Learn more at RainbowCollegeFund.org. Follow NRCF on social media: Instagram: @RainbowCollegeFund, Facebook: Rainbow College Fund, X (formerly Twitter): @RainbowColFund, LinkedIn: Rainbow-College-Fund About San Diego Foundation For nearly 50 years, San Diego Foundation has been inspiring enduring philanthropy and enabling community solutions to improve the quality of life in our region. Our strategic priorities include advancing racial and social justice, fostering equity of opportunity, building resilient communities, and delivering world-class philanthropy to realize our vision of just, equitable and resilient communities. Since our founding in 1975, SDF and our donors have granted $2 billion to support nonprofit organizations strengthening our community. Join us in commemorating 50 years of impact – and looking toward the next 50. Learn more at SDFoundation.org. Contact Details Landis Communications Inc. Cheryl Reiss +1 415-640-5431 NRCF@landispr.com Company Website https://rainbowcollegefund.org/

October 31, 2024 09:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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Luxy Hair Launches in the U.S. Amazon Premium Beauty Store

Luxy Hair

Luxy Hair, the #1 leading clip-in hair extensions brand, is proud to announce its debut in the U.S. Amazon Premium Beauty Store. Luxy Hair, part of the Beauty Industry Group portfolio, is expanding its reach by providing easy access to its high-quality, ethically sourced products through one of the world’s largest e-commerce platforms. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Amazon to continue our mission of empowering women to feel confident in their own hair,” said Amy Sveda, President of Luxy Hair. “We are excited to bring our ethically sourced, premium-quality hair solutions to a larger audience, helping more women regain confidence and embrace their hair identity.” Amazon customers can now explore and shop Luxy Hair’s extensive shade range, including hair swatches for easy color-matching. Luxy Hair’s storefront will feature best-selling items including the Classic Clip-In Extensions, Seamless Clip-In Extensions, and Halo® Extensions; customer-loved accessories such as Signature Hair Curler, and TikTok favorite Luxy Hair x Acquired Style Collection; and the newer and fastest growing solutions-based products including Scalp Hair Fill-Ins and Thinning Hair Fill-Ins, directly in Amazon’s U.S. Premium Beauty Store. Since its inception in 2010, Luxy Hair has gained recognition for delivering natural-looking, premium quality, do-it-yourself hair extensions made from 100% ethically sourced Remy human hair. The brand is renowned for its dedication to exceptional customer service and its award-winning shade range that meets various hair needs—from adding instant volume and length to addressing hair thinning and loss. Luxy Hair sets itself apart through its exceptional craftsmanship, unwavering commitment to transparency, and dedication to sustainable practices. By fostering open dialogue about hair loss and challenging the stigma surrounding hair extensions, Luxy Hair creates an inclusive space where women feel empowered, supported, and confident throughout their unique hair journeys. For more information, please visit www.luxyhair.com or @luxyhair on social media. Explore the full range of products at www.amazon.com/luxyhair. About Luxy Hair: The #1 rated hair extensions brand in the world, Luxy Hair is on a mission to take the guesswork out of natural-looking beautiful hair. Made from 100% ethically sourced Remy human hair, Luxy Hair creates premium quality hair extensions for all of life’s moments. Having amassed over 250K customers in more than 165 countries, with a large loyal following, Luxy Hair is renowned for its exceptional customer service and engagement. Luxy Hair is the do-it-yourself solution for anyone, any day, anywhere. About Beauty Industry Group: BIG, established in 2004, is the global market leader for professionally installed hair extensions and related beauty products. BIG's professional products are sold in more than 1,300 stores throughout North America and its collective brands service more than 30,000 salons across 165 countries. BIG has offices in four countries and is headquartered in Salt Lake City, UT. Contact Details Six One Agency Camryn Carlson camryn@six-one.com Luxy Hair Gillian Fetters gillianf@luxyhair.com

October 30, 2024 08:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Greg Olsen's Youth Inc. Expands with New Podcast Season and Upcoming Commerce Platform

Youth Inc.

Youth Inc., the first digital media network dedicated exclusively to youth sports content and commerce, today announced that Season Two of its popular Youth Inc. Podcast will launch on Wednesday, Oct. 30. Following the company’s 2024 $4.5 million seed funding round, led by Will Ventures, Youth Inc. is developing a new centralized hub blending news, original content, and retail for the youth sports market. Launched in 2022, Season One of the Youth Inc. Podcast featured conversations with iconic athletes like Jerry Rice, Russell Wilson, Jennie Finch, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. After a breakout debut season with more than 400,000 downloads, millions of impressions, and a nearly perfect viewership rating, Youth Inc. Is expanding its vision as it prepares to launch Season Two. Co-founded by Emmy Award-winning NFL analyst and Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen, former Fanatics executive Ryan Baise and Audacy, Inc.’s Tim Murphy, the podcast will feature acclaimed sports psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais as co-host, offering crucial insights for navigating today’s complex youth sports landscape. “While there are more than 30 million young athletes in our country today, there has never been a platform designed to speak directly to families, coaches, and players about the challenges of today’s current state of play,” said Olsen. “Season one taught us invaluable lessons, and we're excited to bring even more insights and depth in Season Two. Partnering with Dr. Gervais, we’ll provide our audience with the tools and knowledge to succeed, all while making the journey engaging and enjoyable." Season Two of the podcast will address the critical challenges young athletes face today including fostering resilience, managing the pressures of competition, and leveraging mindset training for long-term success. The six-episode season is presented by two Founding Partners: Players Health, a sports technology company offering digital risk management services and insurance products to ensure a secure environment for athletes, and MaxU, a cutting-edge platform providing personalized, 24/7 support to help young athletes build skills that enhance their mental performance and overall development. As Youth Inc. enhances its content offerings, it is also set to launch a robust commerce platform in early 2025, designed to further support young athletes and their families. Led by former Fanatics head of new ventures, Ryan Baise, the platform will offer a range of products and services tailored specifically for youth sports families and coaches. "The youth sports landscape is ripe for transformation, and we believe our platform will revolutionize how families access vital information and resources," said Baise. "Our aim is to create a comprehensive marketplace where parents, athletes, and coaches can discover rigorously vetted content and products that reflect the investment they make in their young athletes' futures." To listen to Season One of the Youth Inc. podcast (available on major podcast platforms, YouTube, and social media in both video and audio formats), watch the Season Two trailer or for more information, please visit Youth Inc. Youth Inc. is the first digital media network dedicated exclusively to youth sports content and commerce. Co-founded by NFL alum and Fox Sports broadcaster Greg Olsen, former Fanatics executive, Ryan Baise, and former Audacy and New York Times Co. executive, Tim Murphy, Youth Inc. provides parents, coaches, and athletes with expert-driven guidance and resources to navigate the evolving youth sports landscape. For more information, visit www.youth.inc or follow along on YouTube, Instagram, X, and TikTok. Contact Details Youth Inc. Jackson Gaskins jgaskins@hotpaperlantern.com

October 28, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Forum Health Launches Transformative Health Programs for Thyroid, Hormone, and Weight Management, Cementing Its Footprint in Michigan

Forum Health

Forum Health, LLC, a leader in personalized medicine, is excited to announce the launch of its new Integrative Health Programs in five Michigan locations. The programs feature Advanced Thyroid Care, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for men and women, and a competitively priced Medical Weight Loss Program. Learn more about Forum Health Michigan’s Integrative Health Programs. Bruce Hamby, PA-C: "Our comprehensive Integrative Health Programs aim to transform lives by tackling the root causes of health issues. We deliver personalized care that fosters long-term health optimization, providing affordable and effective solutions for individuals seeking to enhance their health and well-being." Led by Bruce Hamby, PA-C, Taylor Consiglio, PA-C, and Holly Alderman PA-C, the new programs combine cutting-edge diagnostics not normally offered in conventional medicine with tailored treatments to help individuals resolve thyroid dysfunction, hormone imbalance, and the challenges of weight management. Forum Health’s Integrative Health Programs Include: Medical Weight Loss with Competitive Pricing - Weight loss solutions featuring GLP-1 and GIP injections focused on delivering sustainable results starting as low as $50 per week. This affordable plan offers expert care for those struggling with metabolic imbalances, stubborn weight gain, or individuals seeking a tailored approach to effective weight management. Advanced Thyroid Care: Comprehensive testing and personalized treatment to optimize thyroid function for those with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and autoimmune thyroid conditions, combining nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and targeted therapies. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy: Restores balance and vitality for men and women using bioidentical hormones that closely mimic the body's natural hormones. This customized therapy targets patient's unique needs, effectively relieving symptoms of hormone deficiency and menopause like fatigue, weight gain, and low libido. Phil Hagerman, Forum Health CEO: “Our expansion in Michigan underscores Forum Health's commitment to providing accessible, personalized care that addresses the underlying causes of health concerns. By offering advanced solutions for thyroid and hormone health, and weight management, we’re empowering individuals to take charge of their health and achieve sustainable, long-term wellness.” About Forum Health, LLC Forum Health, LLC is a nationwide provider of personalized healthcare steeped in the powerful principles of functional and integrative medicine. Our providers take a root-cause approach to care exploring lifestyle, environment, and genetics to help each patient achieve their ultimate health goals. Members have access to advanced medical treatments and technology, with care plans informed by data analytics and collaborative relationships. For more, visit www.forumhealth.com. Contact Details Forum Health Britt Wittelsberger +1 410-852-0738 bwittelsberger@forumhealth.com Company Website https://forumhealth.com

October 22, 2024 08:50 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Players Health Becomes Founding Partner of Greg Olsen’s Youth Inc. to Champion Safety in Youth Sports

Players Health

Players Health, the leading provider of athlete safety and insurance solutions, today announced its partnership as a founding partner with Youth Inc., a content and commerce platform co-founded by NFL alum and Fox Sports broadcaster Greg Olsen. This collaboration marks a significant step toward enhancing safety standards in youth sports through engaging and informative content. It will offer valuable education for athletes, parents, and coaches, while promoting a culture of safety, risk management, and athlete well-being across all levels of play. As digital advertising evolves, and the youth sports industry continues to soar, the growing importance of community-driven strategies and content creation is fueling shifts in the way youth sports organizations engage with their audiences. Through this partnership, Players Health and Youth Inc. will collaboratively generate and distribute content that helps those entrusted with leading youth sports organizations create a safer and more informed environment for young athletes, parents, and coaches. “In today’s rapidly changing youth sports landscape, health and safety must remain at the forefront. Our partnership with Youth Inc. provides a unique opportunity to speak directly to changemakers in our industry and around the country, equipping them with the tools and insights needed to proactively address the challenges facing youth athletes today,” said Tyrre Burks, founder and CEO of Players Health. “Together, we’re not just providing solutions — we’re leading a movement to transform how health and safety is prioritized in youth sports." Youth Inc. provides content across all media platforms, including full-length video/audio podcasts available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. The network also shares clips on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn and X. Featuring interviews with some of the biggest stars and thought leaders in the sports world, Youth Inc. serves as a vital resource for navigating the complexities of youth sports today. "Youth sports should be a place where kids can grow, learn, and have fun, and that starts with creating a safe environment. Through our partnership with Players Health, we’re able to provide families and organizations with expert-driven content and resources to help navigate the challenges of today’s youth sports landscape,” said Olsen. “Our shared vision is to equip everyone involved with the knowledge and support they need to foster a safer, more positive experience for young athletes." Season two of Youth Inc. launches on Wednesday, October 30th with six new episodes. Fans, coaches, parents and young athletes can look forward to deeper conversations with top athletes, coaches, and experts in youth sports, as well as valuable advice on safety, well-being, and athletic development. This season promises to bring more exclusive content, further solidifying Players Health and Youth Inc.'s roles as a leading voice in youth sports education. The trailer for Youth Inc.’s upcoming season, featuring Players Health, Greg Olsen, and renowned sports psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais, offers a glimpse into the impactful conversations and expert commentary that will shape the future of youth sports safety and development. To learn more, visit: https://www.playershealth.com/ About Players Health Players Health is a sports technology company providing digital risk management services, reporting tools and insurance products to sports organizations to empower them to stay ahead of their ever-changing safety and compliance responsibilities. Working towards establishing the safest environment for athletes, Players Health views the health and safety of athletes as a priority in today's sports landscape. About Youth Inc. Youth Inc. is the first digital media network dedicated exclusively to youth sports content and commerce. Co-founded by NFL alum and Fox Sports broadcaster Greg Olsen, Youth Inc. provides parents, coaches, and athletes with expert-driven guidance and resources to navigate the evolving youth sports landscape. For more information, visit www.youth.inc or follow along on YouTube, X, and TikTok. Contact Details Players Health Jackson Gaskins playershealth@hotpaperlantern.com Company Website https://www.playershealth.com

October 21, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Grand Opening of New Mothers' Milk Bank California Collection Center in Santa Cruz County

The Mothers' Milk Bank

WHO: Mothers' Milk Bank California and RC Fam proudly announce the grand opening of a new donor milk collection center in Watsonville located in Santa Cruz County. WHAT: This kick off event will bring together the local community to raise awareness about the critical need for donor human milk, which helps save the lives of premature and medically fragile infants. Attendees will enjoy a day of fun, education, and community engagement, with presentations, a tour of the center, Bingo, and a raffle. The goal of the event is to inspire community members to consider becoming breast milk donors and support families and babies in need. WHEN: Saturday, October 19, 2024 – 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM WHERE: Raíces y Cariño at 1205 Freedom Blvd Ste 3B, Watsonville, CA 95076 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS: Presentations by Mothers' Milk Bank California & RC Fam: Learn about the life-saving impact of donor milk and how the new collection center will help support local families. Tour the New Collection Center: See firsthand how donor milk is collected and managed by the new collection center Community Resource Bingo & Raffle: Enjoy networking and learning more about our community's resources and participate in a raffle with exciting prizes, all while supporting a worthy cause. WHY: The need for donor breast milk is greater than ever. Donor milk plays a vital role in supporting infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) and families facing breastfeeding challenges. By opening this new collection center, we aim to increase milk donations from Santa Cruz County and surrounding areas to ensure that every baby who needs breast milk has access to it. This event is a chance for the community to come together and contribute to this life-saving mission. Founded 50 years ago, Mothers' Milk Bank California is a leading nonprofit dedicated to providing screened, donated human milk to babies in need. As a founding member of the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA), it helped set standards for nonprofit milk banks across North America. The organization collects, pasteurizes, and distributes safe human milk to hospitals and families, ensuring essential nutrition for infants. Committed to improving lives, Mothers' Milk Bank California supports families and advances neonatal care. Contact Details Jennifer Benito-Kowalski +1 408-831-7276 jbenito@mothersmilk.org Company Website https://camilkbank.org/

October 16, 2024 05:02 AM Eastern Daylight Time

New Study Shows Rise in Independent by Choice Workers over Traditional Employment

MBO Partners

A new study from MBO Partners highlights a transformative shift in the American labor market, revealing a 6.5% increase in full-time independent workers, now reaching 27.7 million, since last year. Nearly one in five independent workers now earn more than $100,000 annually, reflecting the expanding economic opportunities offering Americans options from traditional employment toward the freedom and flexibility of self-employment. “This 6.5% growth in full-time independents signals a clear rejection of the traditional employer-employee social contract,” said Miles Everson, CEO of MBO Partners. “The concept of stable benefits, job security, and mutual loyalty is unraveling. Our study found that 65% of full-time independent workers feel more secure in their careers, and their confidence is reflected in their decision to pursue autonomy and forge their own paths.” MBO’s State of Independence report, The Independent by Choice Movement: Authentic and Intentional, now in its 14th year, shows that 72.7 million Americans are choosing independent work in 2024. Millennials and Gen Z are at the forefront of this movement, with their combined share of the independent workforce rising from 52% in 2023 to 59% in 2024. As traditional employment loses its appeal, these younger generations are redefining career success, prioritizing flexibility, purpose, and financial independence over conventional job structures. Additional insights from the 2024 study include: Traditional Employment is on Shaky Ground The study reveals that 34% of traditional jobholders fear losing their jobs, while 42% are considering a career change this year. In contrast, 65% of full-time independents feel more secure, and nearly 60% say their work aligns with their identity, compared to just 47% of traditional workers. As the employer-employee social contract frays, traditional jobholders question employer commitment to retaining talent. Many workers are switching jobs more frequently or transitioning to independent work, with job tenure steadily declining. Independent by Choice Drives a Bold New Era of Self-Directed Careers In 2024, 61% of independent workers chose this path by choice, not necessity, with only 10% saying they felt forced into it. Confidence in independent work is growing, with 65% of full-time independents feeling more secure than in traditional jobs, and 54% saying they wouldn’t return to payroll employment. Independent work is now seen as a viable career strategy, with 4.7 million independents earning over $100,000 annually, up from 3 million in 2020. This shift represents a growing movement toward autonomy and purpose, not just a fallback option. AI and Global Reach Fuel Independent Growth In 2024, the number of full-time and part-time independent professionals providing services to businesses surged by 14%, reaching 11.2 million. These independents are climbing the value chain, leveraging specialized skills and generative AI—65% now use AI tools, up sharply from 37% in 2023. AI has become a game changer, enhancing productivity and competitiveness, leading to a rise in six-figure earners. Additionally, thanks to platforms, marketplaces, and social media, the global reach of independent workers is expanding. In 2024, 31% reported providing services to customers outside the U.S., nearly triple the proportion from 2012. “More people are turning to independent work,” Everson added. “This is not just a trend - it’s an inspiring shift, with a workforce determined to redefine success on its own terms.” About MBO Partners® MBO Partners is a global talent solutions platform designed to optimize the engagement between enterprise clients and high value independent workers. MBOâs comprehensive enterprise solutions allow clients to source exceptional talent, scale their independent workforce and optimize their workforce management practices. With vast experience and industry expertise, MBO helps you build a better, independent workforce for the future. For more information, visit mbopartners.com. Contact Details Words For Hire Karen Swim, APR, Public Relations +1 586-461-2103 karen@wordsforhirellc.com MBO Partners Michelle (Mick) Lee, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) MLee@MBOPartners.com Company Website https://mbopartners.com

October 15, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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HUSQVARNA® VIKING® Introduces Epic Quilt™ 97

SVP Worldwide

SVP Worldwide, the parent company of HUSQVARNA® VIKING®, a leader in the sewing industry, proudly announced today the launch of its latest innovation, the Epic Quilt™ 97, what quilt dreams are made of. The Epic Quilt™ 97 boasts a spacious workspace perfect for large projects, accommodating even king-sized quilts. With over 12" (310mm) to the right of the needle and a working area height exceeding 5.5" (140mm), it provides ample room for handling bulky materials. A particular standout feature of the Epic Quilt™ 97 is its sewing projection technology, allowing quilters to preview their stitches before sewing. Stitch preview ensures perfect placement every time. The adjustable lines, angles, and grids in sewing mode make aligning stitches effortless, saving valuable time while achieving precision. The Epic Quilt™ 97 also comes equipped with meticulously designed accessories that enhance creativity and ease of use. Included are advanced accessories providing quilters with the tools needed to elevate their craft to new heights including an Extension Table with Adjustable Guide, Rotating Self Healing Cutting Mat (12” x 12”), Rotary Cutting Tool + Replacement Blades, Ruler Set (6” x 12” and 6” x 6” sizes), Free Motion Ruler Foot, Quilt Binder, HUSQVARNA® VIKING® Universal Needles 80/12 5-Pack and the HUSQVARNA® VIKING® Quilting Needles Assorted Sizes 5-Pack. "We are excited to unveil the Epic 97Q, a groundbreaking advancement in our tradition of innovation,” stated Jason Zielke, chief product officer at SVP Worldwide. “Leveraging AI technology, the machine recommends the optimal sewing foot setup for each stitch, and the built-in projection system simplifies the process of creating complex stitches leading to exceptional precision and quality. We added to this machine a suite of the most important accessories that will advance the quilting experience. The Epic 97Q combines our rich heritage with cutting-edge technology, empowering you to create intricate, beautifully executed quilts with unparalleled ease and accuracy." The Epic Quilt 97 is now available online. For more information, please visit our website at www.husqvarnaviking.com. Media Assets About SVP Worldwide SVP Worldwide is the world’s largest consumer sewing machine company, accounting for approximately one out of every three sewing machines sold globally. The company’s iconic brands - SINGER®, VIKING®, PFAFF®, and mySewnet™, have collectively delighted consumers for over 170 years with a distinct heritage and global fanbase. These premium brands and products are regarded as the first-rate choice for a range of consumers from serious sewists to beginners in crafting. SVP Worldwide operates facilities around the globe that support designing, manufacturing, selling, and supplying the world’s most iconic sewing machine brands. Headquartered out of Nashville, TN (USA) with operations internationally, SVP Worldwide boasts regional headquarters, manufacturing facilities, and commercial offices across Europe, South America, Asia, and Australia. Combined, SVP reaches consumers in more than 180 countries on five continents. SVP brands and products are sold online at www.Singer.com and across a network of sewing machine dealers, mass, online, and specialty retailers, distributors, and through the company’s 130+ internally operated retail stores. In 2021, Platinum Equity acquired the controlling stake in SVP-Singer Holdings, Inc., and its wholly owned subsidiaries ("SVP Worldwide"). To learn more, visit www.svpworldwide.com. Contact Details Razor Sharp PR Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com

October 10, 2024 10:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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