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After Marking Multiple Milestones On Growth Journey Including Nasdaq Listing, Innovation Beverage Group Eyes Further Global Expansion Through Deep Beverage Portfolio

Benzinga

By Kyle Anthony, Benzinga A cocktail is not only for refreshment; it can also be an experiential offering for many individuals who want to entice and excite their taste palate with different flavor profiles. Innovation Beverage Group’s (NASDAQ: IBG) business model has been built on beverage brands tailored for various lifestyle occasions, allowing individuals to have a refreshing drink selection suitable for their distinct and everyday moments. IBG is a developer, manufacturer and marketer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands. Developments Occurring Within The Beverage Landscape As reported by Tastewise, the global beverage industry is experiencing double-digit growth, with projected revenue expected to reach $235.70 billion in 2024 – with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.05% from 2024 to 2029. Among the rising trends in the beverage market, flavored mixes and cocktails with low or no alcohol have risen in launches by 26%, as reported by Innova Market Insight. Ready-to-drink cocktails are also emerging, with an 18% increase in limited-edition products in the subcategory. Gen Z is helping drive interest in new, exciting experiences and novel flavors with their beverage consumption, underscoring demand for innovation in the industry. Brands are increasingly promoting their beverages via limited-edition products and unique collaborations with expected and unexpected companies. These factors are driving the emergence of D2C platforms catering to the specific needs of customers. IBG’s Distinct Value Proposition Within The Beverage Landscape Established in 2018, IBG is an Australia-based company with a global focus. The firm’s distillery/ innovation and manufacturing facility is in Sydney, Australia, while its U.S. sales office is in New Jersey. Focused on premium and super-premium brands and market categories that can disrupt age-old brands, IBG's brands include Australian Bitters, Bitter Tales, Drummerboy Spirits, Twisted Shaker and more. IBG's most successful brand to date is Australian Bitters, which the company reports disrupted a 200-year-old market leader, giving the company a market-dominating position in several territories, including a partnership in Australia with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. As detailed in IBG’s latest investor presentation, the global bitters markets represented wholesale sales of around $4 billion in 2020. The value of the total bitters market is forecasted to grow by over $800 million, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.7% over 2020-2025. Cocktail bitters experienced a 13.5% CAGR between 2015 and 2019 and the segment is expected to grow at over 9.3% annually between 2020 and 2025. Accounting for 40% of the global bitters market by volume, the U.S. is the most valuable bitters market in the world, with Australia being second, representing 13% of the global market by volume. Australian Bitters has an approximate 20% market share in Australia from a starting base of 0% in 2018. IBG’s Competitive Strengths And Capabilities As referenced previously, IBG has a deep and versatile beverage portfolio designed to appeal to a broad consumer base. Australian Bitters and BitterTales have been recognized and awarded by the LA Spirits Award, a prestigious competition that evaluates and recognizes excellence in the spirits industry. Winners of the LA Spirits Awards receive recognition for quality and craftsmanship. In the non-alcoholic category, IBG offers Drummerboy Spirits, a beverage developed with a focus on taste that appeals to a growing lifestyle market of non-alcoholic drinkers. Finally, Twisted Shakers are pre-mixed cocktails, crafted to be well-balanced, with just the right amount of sweetness, appealing to individuals that have a ‘go to’ favorite beverage. From a technology and logistical perspective, IBG has multiple-owned proprietary direct-to-consumer channels allowing scale and back-end integration of its owned brands. Bevmart Australia and Bevmart USA are platforms that enable consumers to purchase their desired beverage products and explore new offerings. Wired For Wine is an online, premium wine store acquired by IBG in November 2021, and based in the U.S. IBG reports that it brings vertical integration, exclusive brand strategy and broader offerings not previously offered on Wired for Wine. In 2023, the business structure was modified from selling value wines to premium and collectible wines with price points over $200 per bottle, now offering over 500 highly-rated and sought-after wines at, the company says, the best prices. Recently, IBG signed a distribution agreement with Sysco, a global leader in foodservice distribution. As part of this deal, IBG’s Australian Bitters, the first bitters to be sold by Sysco, will become available through Sysco.com, SyscoMarketplace.com and SuppliesontheFly.com. Sysco operates 340 distribution facilities worldwide and serves approximately 730,000 customer locations. As such, the deal also broadens IBG’s sales reach in the U.S. IBG Becomes A Public Company And Grows Leadership IBG became a publicly traded company this year, debuting on the Nasdaq, garnering $5.4 million on its issuance of 1,350,000 ordinary shares at a public offering price of $4.00 per share. With the company positioning itself for growth, particularly in the U.S., going public offered it an avenue to raise capital and tell its story to the investing public, building resonance and interest in its long-term development. The firm’s initial public offering was also a precursor to growth in the executive suite, as it was announced that former Angostura Holdings CEO, Genevieve Jodhan, would be joining IBG as chief sales officer. Angostura Bitters is the largest cocktail bitters brand with established distribution globally, and it is reported to be the world's most widely distributed beverage alcohol brand. Genevieve Jodhan's joining IBG indicates the firm’s goal of growing its market share within the industry. Jodhan's professional accolades are known, with the leader most notably having directed the commercial team that re-engineered the distribution model for Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Australia for Angostura and having marketed the company’s international brands, including Angostura Aromatic Bitters. She joins the executive leadership team at IBG. CEO Dean Huge has over 35 years of experience in various executive leadership roles and has demonstrated success in growing profitable operations and executing turnarounds. Sahil Beri, chairperson and COO, has a master's in pharmacy and over 10 years of operational experience in the beverage industry. Finally, Eric Yu, chief financial officer, has over 15 years of experience in accounting firms, management consulting and commercial corporations in the food and beverage industry. A Distinctive Company With An Eye On The Future IBG wants to disrupt the beverage landscape by making quality a table stakes attribute across its versatile product offerings. As IBG makes its way into the U.S. market, leveraging proprietary technology and vertical integration to disrupt the traditional path from distillery to customer and forging strategic partnerships with entities such as Sysco, the company is hoping to establish a footprint to distinguish itself from its peers and make its name as a global operator. Featured photo by Aleksandar Andreev 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 16, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Glory Zenith Group Paves the Way for Sustainable Development in the CVD Diamond Industry

Rev Up Marketers

Glory Zenith Group, a U.S.-based global leader in technological innovation, is dedicated to applying a wide range of diamond-based products across various industries. With robust research capabilities and a comprehensive production chain, the company continually advances technological innovation and product upgrades, covering everything from raw material production to the design and manufacturing of multi-industry applications, as well as online and offline retail brands. Located in the Zhengzhou Airport Economic Comprehensive Bonded Zone in Henan Province, China, the group's large-scale production base is designed to meet the extensive potential demands of the diamond industry. The establishment of this production base by Glory Zenith Group underscores its strategic focus on growing demand and technological innovation in the CVD diamond sector. Covering an area of approximately 40,000 square meters, the facility will be equipped with over 1,000 units of CVD reactors in various types (MPCVD, HFCVD, MOCVD), with an expected annual production capacity of 2 million carats of CVD diamonds. This production scale reaches the highest levels in the CVD diamond industry, enabling Glory Zenith Group's diverse diamond products to achieve strong global competitiveness. In recent years, diamonds, as high-performance materials, have been increasingly utilized in multiple fields. Beyond their common application in jewelry, they have expanded into semiconductors, precision tools, heat spreader, optical instruments, and even quantum computing. Through continuous exploration of the material properties of diamonds, Glory Zenith Group is poised to become a key force driving upgrades in national pillar industries such as medicine, manufacturing, defense, and aerospace, serving as a powerful engine to help companies reduce costs, increase efficiency, and break through technological bottlenecks. Furthermore, Glory Zenith Group operates with a firm commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, which are deeply embedded in every aspect of the new production base. The rooftop is covered with large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, allowing the production process to utilize renewable energy to the fullest extent, significantly reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering the carbon footprint. Alongside the installation of solar panels, energy storage systems ensure stable power supply even during periods of insufficient sunlight. These initiatives not only set a benchmark for other manufacturers but also pave the way for a greener future, where advanced technology complements environmental protection. From the initial design stage of the production base in Henan, China, Glory Zenith Group had already established long-term goals aimed at market expansion and product development. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, continuously improving production capacity and product quality, integrating smart sensors and AI models to enhance automatic control systems, and implementing real-time data collection, automatic temperature control, wafer loading, and automated quality inspection, the goal is to create the first lighthouse factory in the ultra-hard materials industry. Facing the challenges brought by global climate change, Glory Zenith Group remains committed to contributing to the protection of the Earth's environment through technological innovation, effectively reducing the extraction and consumption of natural resources, thereby alleviating the pressure on ecological environments caused by economic development. The launch of the new production base demonstrates the group's determination to shape a green future in the CVD diamond sector. As stakeholders participate in Glory Zenith Group's journey towards sustainability, they will also witness an era of transformative innovation in the CVD diamond industry. "In this globalized and digitalized age, innovation remains the key driver of industry transformation. In our new factory, we have adopted advanced production processes and technological means to significantly reduce energy consumption and emissions, achieving efficient energy utilization," said Dr. Troy Jonathan Baker, Senior Vice President of Glory Zenith Group, who studied under Professor Shuji Nakamura, the 2014 Nobel Prize laureate in Physics, during the inauguration ceremony. About the Company-Glory Zenith Group Glory Zenith Group, headquartered in the United States, is a globally - recognized technology company founded on the core values of integrity, innovation, collaboration, and shared success. Committed to applying diamond in diverse industries, it adheres to ESG principles, with a focus on environmental protection, social responsibility, and sound corporate governance. Its aim is to achieve both economic and social benefits through responsible business development. With strong research and development capabilities, Glory Zenith Group leads the industry with a comprehensive supply chain. Its products can be used in a wide range of sectors, including jewelry, high - power chip heat dissipation, advanced optical windows, cutting tool coatings, microwave radio frequency, industrial water treatment, quantum technology, and more. It intends to empower industries to reduce costs, improve efficiency, conserve energy, reduce emissions, and drive technological breakthroughs that promote global progress and contribute to a better planet for humanity. For more information, Glory zenith group’s website at https://gloryzenithgroup.com/ Contact Details Glory Zenith Group Victoria LU VictoriaLU@gloryzenithgroup.com Company Website https://gloryzenithgroup.com/

October 16, 2024 07:37 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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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

Hispanic Lifestyle to Honor Brilla Media Ventures/Nuestro Stories Co-Founder Angela Sustaita-Ruiz for Leadership at Connecting Latinas of Influence Awards-October 23

Brilla Latina

Hispanic Lifestyle announced that Brilla Media Ventures Co-Founder and Chairwoman Angela Sustaita-Ruiz will be recognized for her national leadership in the Latino community during Hispanic Lifestyle’s Connecting Latinas of Influence event, October 23 in Ft. Lauderdale. With 25 years in digital media, marketing and public relations, Angela has led award-winning U.S. Hispanic and multicultural programs. Prior to Brilla Media, she co-founded Hispanicize Media Group in 2009 and the first Latino influencer network, Latina Mom Bloggers (later renamed DiMe Media). She has led hundreds of influencer and community engagement marketing campaigns for major brands including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), The Ad Council, Disney, Unilever, P&G, Netflix, HBO, among many others. In 2019, she sold the majority of Hispanicize to John Leguizamo’s NGL Collective, and in 2022, Leguizamo and Angela were part of the collective that sold all of NGL to Go Digital/ MiTu. Angela’s most recent accolades include being named the 2023 Hispanic Heritage Entrepreneur of the Year Award by Latin American Business Association, a semi-finalist for Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition Prize, and winning the 2021 Hermes Creative Award for the CDC’s “How Right Now” COVID Mental Health Response Campaign. In 2021, Angela was a finalist for the PRWeek Multicultural Marketing Campaign of the Year for Altisimo Live for farmworker relief, and she is also a past recipient of the Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA) Professional of the Year Award. A proud third-generation Mexican-American and Texan, Angela comes from a family of migrant farmworkers, veterans, entrepreneurs and community advocates. She holds a B.A. in Latin American Studies from Baylor University, and currently resides in Miami, Florida. Below is a list of the other 2024 Latinas of Influencer Florida honorees: Adis M. Vila, Ph.D., Global, Chief Experience Officer – Vila & Associates AnaCristina Blandon, Senior Manager, International Wealth Structuring & Global Family Office – Scotiabank. ALPFA Miami Chapter Co-President Arlyn Broche, Actress, Entrepreneur and Producer Carolina Valderrama, AMP, Manager, Affordable Lending & Housing Outreach, Freddie Mac Charley Ferrer, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer and Founder – Cancer Tamer Foundation, Empowerment Speaker, Breast Cancer Awareness Advocate Dr. Luisa Montoya, Chief Executive Officer – Diversity Matters Mary Sol (Atienza) Gonzalez, Chief Executive Officer – Hispanic Entrepreneur Initiative Silvia Fresneda, Home Mortgage Consultant – Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Wendy Preciado, founder and Chief Executive Officer – CM & D National Construction LLC About Hispanic Lifestyle Hispanic Lifestyle is a leading masterbrand in digital media and event production, connecting business owners, professionals, and community leaders through engaging content and events. Trusted by top brands, we tailor messages to reach valued consumers and have earned multiple awards and recognitions. As an independently produced TV program, Hispanic Lifestyle highlights the achievements of Latino leaders, organizations, and businesses, with segments on health, travel, food, and entertainment. It has aired on PBS and independent stations across California, Arizona, Kansas City, Oklahoma, and Texas. Hispanic Lifestyle is certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) by the California Public Utilities Commission (MBE# 14110125) and as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) by the State of California (SBE# 1791437). About Brilla Media Ventures Brilla Media Ventures provides engaging cultural content for multicultural marketers through its owned and operated platforms, Nuestro Stories, Nuestro Studios, and Brilla Latina. Offerings also include programmatic advertising technology services for scalable media delivery, influencer marketing, creative studio services, and brand activations. The company is led by Angela Sustaita-Ruiz and Manuel Ruiz-Barrera, creators of Hispanicize, and trailblazers in the Hispanic media, social and influencer marketing industries, the Latino press release wire industry, and the first network of Hispanic print media companies online. Contact Details Brilla Media Rameh Ali Echeverri +1 305-303-2322 rameh@brillamedia.com Company Website https://brillalatina.com/

October 15, 2024 03:36 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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New ‘‘Sweep, Sweep’’ Campaign Promotes Urban Cleanliness and Environmental Stewardship Across the United States

Rev Up Marketers

A new community-driven movement, the ‘‘ Sweep, Sweep ’’ campaign, co-created by Eva Almeida, Audrey Star, SK Cummings and Sk Almeida, is setting a powerful example for communities across the United States. The initiative, aimed at promoting urban cleanliness and environmental preservation, seeks to inspire individuals to act for a cleaner and healthier planet, starting in their neighborhoods. With a focus on community engagement, the ‘‘Sweep, Sweep’’ campaign emphasizes that individual responsibility plays a crucial role in safeguarding the environment. Through volunteer clean-up events, educational workshops, and a strong social media presence, the campaign encourages citizens to unite to preserve their local surroundings' beauty and well-being. The founders of the initiative believe that small acts of care can lead to significant, lasting change. Audrey Star, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and a passionate advocate for sustainability explained, "If we want to save our planet, we need to start with our cities. Every effort counts." The campaign will expand across different regions, inspiring residents nationwide to take pride in their communities and join the movement toward a greener future. In collaboration with local organizations, the ‘‘ Sweep, Sweep ’’ campaign will host a series of volunteer clean-up events in parks, streets, and public spaces. Additionally, workshops on waste management, recycling, and sustainability practices will be offered to further educate participants on how to contribute to environmental preservation. A Vision for Sustainable Communities The ‘‘ Sweep, Sweep ’’ initiative aligns with Audrey Star’s commitment to fostering community and creating sustainable futures. Known for her extraordinary career as an actor has continually sought ways to blend her artistic endeavors with her dedication to social causes. This campaign is a reflection of her passion for the environment and her belief in collective action as a means to address pressing global challenges. While urban cleanliness is a central focus, the campaign also aims to build stronger, more connected communities. "We want people to feel empowered, not just to clean their surroundings, but to come together and take pride in the places they live," said Eva Almeida, co-creator of the campaign. About Audrey Star: A Multi-Talented Visionary Audrey Star is concerned about the situation in the city where she lives and in other parts of the United States. This project was created by Eva Almeida, Audrey Star, SK Cummings and Sk Almeida. The project is called “IF WE WANT TO SAVE OUR PLANET, LET’S START CLEANING OUR CITY.” Maintaining the cleanliness of the city also means keeping it a healthy place to live. While governmental policies are certainly important, most people think that better living circumstances might be achieved without them. They hold the government in high regard and don´t put themselves as part of that transformation. The truth is that even tiny actions of cleanliness can have a significant impact on preserving the environment. It appears that many hold the opposite view and think that significant modifications are necessary to bring about change. We recognize that significant changes frequently resemble the labor of tiny ants. Come help us preserve the environment and together let’s clean up our city. Cleaning up our homes and towns, protecting public spaces, and caring for the environment are the first steps in saving the planet. Audrey Star was recently seen dining at Catch LA restaurant creating quite a stir. To the surprise of her audience and fans, Star wore her stunning Sun Necklace Collection©™ and showcased a golden sun-inspired look, complete with light blonde highlights. The ensemble perfectly complemented her radiant appearance, embodying her signature Sun Collection style. Star’s golden aura, paired with the brilliance of her jewelry, captivated onlookers, further cementing her status as both a fashion icon and a creative visionary in the realm with her Visionary©™ technology. Contact Details Audrey Star Perfume Collection and Audrey Star Music Publishing Barbara Stanwy audreystarperfumecollection@hotmail.com Company Website https://audreystarperfumecollection.com/

October 15, 2024 01:27 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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NAFA Launches New eLearning Courses for Advanced Fleet Management

NAFA Fleet Management Association

NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA), the vehicle fleet industry’s largest membership association, is excited to announce the launch of the first two courses in its new eLearning series. These self-paced, virtual courses are designed to provide fleet professionals with a comprehensive understanding of core fleet competencies and best practices across a wide range of fleet management areas. By the end of 2024, a total of nine eLearning courses will be available, covering key topics across the industry. The first two courses—Asset Management and Sustainable Fleet—are live now, with additional courses to be released over the coming months. "The launch of NAFA’s eLearning Courses represents a significant step in providing flexible, accessible education for fleet professionals," said Bill Schankel, CAE, CEO of NAFA. "These courses allow fleet managers to gain critical skills and knowledge at their convenience, empowering them to implement best practices and drive their organizations forward." With the fleet industry advancing rapidly, NAFA’s eLearning platform offers interactive, up-to-date training that reflects the latest industry trends, technologies and practices. Fleet professionals across all sectors can access specialized learning modules, with the flexibility to complete the training at their own pace. Courses include interactive exercises, quizzes, checkpoints, and explainer animations to enhance the learning experience, with ongoing access to course materials for continuous review. First eLearning Courses Released: Asset Management eLearning: Covers the full spectrum of asset management activities including vehicle selection, procurement, commissioning and remarketing. Fleet managers skilled in asset management play a key role in boosting an organization’s profitability and operational efficiency. Sustainable Fleet eLearning: Focuses on integrating sustainability into fleet operations, from vehicle acquisition through remarketing. Topics include sustainable fleet planning, fuel use, life cycle cost analysis and leadership strategies for driving sustainability goals within fleet operations. These eLearning courses serve as a gateway to advanced fleet management learning, providing the tools and knowledge fleet professionals need to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. This is only the beginning, as NAFA will continue to roll out more courses, covering essential topics like Risk Management and Vehicle Fuel Management, ensuring professionals have the resources to thrive in modern fleet management. For more information on NAFA’s eLearning Courses and to register, visit https://www.nafa.org/elearning-courses/. NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year. For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Contact Details Keaveny Hewitt +1 919-622-5276 khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com Company Website https://www.nafa.org/

October 15, 2024 09:38 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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RedHill Biopharma Secures U.S. Government Funding Through BARDA To Advance Opaganib For Ebola Treatment

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga A decade after a deadly ebola outbreak that left more than 11,000 people dead and only six years after another outbreak killed over 2,000, more needs to be done to find an effective treatment for this infectious disease. That’s what RedHill Biopharma Ltd. (NASDAQ: RDHL), a specialty biopharmaceutical company, is seeking to do with its novel, potentially broad-acting, host-directed therapy, opaganib, a first-in-class new chemical entity with anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and antiviral activity. The U.S. government’s Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), a center of the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), just selected opaganib for further development to treat exposure to Ebola virus disease (EBOV). To date, RedHill Biopharma said opaganib has made positive progress on the expected Animal Rule pathway towards potential approval as a treatment for EBOV. The Animal Rule allows for the use of pivotal animal model efficacy studies to support the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of new drugs when human clinical trials are not ethical or feasible. New Treatments Needed Ebola is a rare and often deadly virus caused by infection by one of a group of four viruses known as ebolaviruses. Transmission of the disease is mostly through contact with an infected animal (bat or nonhuman primate) or a sick or dead person infected with an ebolavirus. Currently, only Inmazeb, a combination of three monoclonal antibodies and Ebanga, a single monoclonal antibody, are FDA-approved to treat EBOV. Both are intravenously administered. According to RedHill Biopharma, there is an urgent need for host-directed small molecule therapies that may be effective against multiple strains of ebolavirus, are less likely to be impacted by viral mutation and are easy to store, distribute and administer, especially in areas where healthcare services and infrastructures may be sub-optimal. With ebola cases predicted to grow in the years to come, driven by a lack of effective treatment, so is the market size for vaccines and treatments. According to one forecast, the ebola drug and vaccine market is poised to reach $223.7 million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 12.8% from 2022 to 2027. Opaganib, which is orally administered, is thought to work through the inhibition of multiple pathways, the induction of autophagy and apoptosis and the disruption of viral replication, through simultaneous inhibition of three sphingolipid-metabolizing enzymes in human cells (SPHK2, DES1 and GCS). BARDA To Provide Funding Under the cost-sharing agreement with BARDA, BARDA will provide funding to further advance opaganib to mitigate infections and contain EBOV outbreaks. In an in vivo EBOV study with the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, RedHill Biopharma said opaganib delivered a statistically significant increase in survival time when given at 150 mg/kg twice a day. RedHill Biopharma said it’s the first host-directed molecule to show activity in EBOV. What’s more, RedHill said opaganib also recently demonstrated a distinct synergistic effect when combined individually with the COVID-19 antiviral treatment remdesivir, significantly improving potency while maintaining cell viability. “EBOV is deadly, killing, on average, half of all those who contract it. This year marks ten years since the West Africa Ebola epidemic in which 11,000 people died, and yet there are still no host-directed, small molecule therapies approved to provide effective and usable treatment strategies,” said Guy Goldberg, RedHill’s Chief Business Officer. “There are also enormous geopolitical and logistical challenges to overcome in managing outbreaks such as EBOV, and others like Mpox, and so new host-directed, small-molecule therapeutic options for biodefense and global health preparedness could prove to be major life-saving advances – this is especially true if they are capable of viral mutation-resistance, have extended shelf-lives for long-term storage, are relatively straightforward to transport to hard-to-reach territories and are easy to administer without the need for cold-storage or injections.” Fighting More Than EBOV In addition to EBOV, RedHill said opaganib has demonstrated antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, multiple variants and several other viruses, including Influenza A. Opaganib is currently also in development for multiple oncology, viral, inflammatory and diabetes and obesity-related indications, including COVID-19, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and radiological and chemical protection or mitigation. RedHill Biopharma’s novel drug has also been selected for evaluation by other NIH-funded U.S. government countermeasure programs including the Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP) for development as a potential treatment for Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS) and by the BARDA Chemical Medical Countermeasures (Chem MCM) Program and the NIH/NIAID Chemical Countermeasures Research Program (CCRP), in addition to several other U.S. government and non-government collaborations. Ebola is a fast-spreading and often deadly disease that needs better solutions. RedHill Biopharma and BARDA are betting on opaganib to potentially provide another easier-to-mobilize option to fight outbreaks. To learn more about RedHill Biopharma’s novel drug, click here. Featured photo by CDC 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 15, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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AmeriLife's MCC Brokerage Strengthens Market Position with Diversity Insurance Agency Partnership

AmeriLife

MCC Brokerage, an innovative field marketing organization in the life and health insurance industry and affiliate partner of AmeriLife Group, LLC, today announced that it has partnered with Diversity Insurance Agency, a Medicare Advantage brokerage company with more than 900 contracted agents licensed in nearly all 50 U.S. states. Per the agreement, terms of the deal were not disclosed. “We are excited to welcome Tim Barlow and his team to our growing Health Distribution network,” said Darren Houck, President of MCC Brokerage. “Diversity Insurance has set itself apart from other agencies through its hands-on approach to training, lead programs, and expert support staff, and we are confident in its continued success.” By meeting people where they are, investing in them, and nurturing their growth, Diversity Insurance Agency provides its agents with the tools and training needed to succeed. Powered by a grassroots approach, a mature outreach program of specialized community events, and a traditional door-to-door educational initiative, licensed agents guide their clients through coverage that meets their personal health and financial needs. “Securing the proper Medicare coverage can be a complex, overwhelming task for many beneficiaries,” said Tim Barlow, President of Diversity Insurance Agency. “Our personalized approach and training protocols ensure that agents are well-versed in plan offerings available in each community we serve and are trained to help consumers balance the costs and benefits to meet their needs. We are thrilled to continue this level of service with the MCC Brokerage team and AmeriLife’s distribution and partnership platform.” With MCC Brokerage and AmeriLife, DIA will enjoy expanded access to tools and resources to boost its reach, productivity, and profitability. "Tim and his team have taken traditional, person-to-person relationship-building to the next level," said Scotty Elliott, Chief Distribution Officer of Health for AmeriLife. "This approach is vital to building trust with our customers, validates the importance of health insurance agents' role in the insurance process, and reflects an important segment of AmeriLife’s core, value-based belief in how we conduct our business." ### About Diversity Insurance Agency With headquarters in Saline, Michigan, Diversity Insurance Agency takes pride in its extensive agent training program, creating expert consumer journeys when seeking comprehensive consultation and personalized health insurance recommendations. Our agents live in the communities they serve. They are well-versed in all plan offerings they provide and are trained to assist with presenting all available options and customizations based on the individual's particular life journey. For more information, visit www.diversityins.com. About MCC Brokerage As an award-winning, innovative, and passionate field marketing organization in the life and health insurance industry, MCC Brokerage embodies a collaboration versus competition mindset, empowering agents to grow their businesses. We aim to assist agents in creating their most robust business possible, utilizing over 50 collective years of expertise. We strive to support our agents’ endeavors through building lasting relationships and unmatched customer service. For more information, visit www.mccbrokerage.com. About AmeriLife AmeriLife’s strength is its mission: to provide insurance and retirement solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. In doing so, AmeriLife has become recognized as the leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities, and retirement planning solutions to enhance the lives of pre-retirees and retirees across the United States. For over 50 years, AmeriLife has partnered with top insurance carriers to provide value and quality to customers through a distribution network of over 300,000 insurance agents, financial professionals, and over 100 marketing organizations and insurance agency locations nationwide. For more information, visit AmeriLife.com and follow AmeriLife on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details Jeff Maldonado media@amerilife.com Partnership Inquiries Alex Hyer corporatedevelopment@amerilife.com Company Website https://amerilife.com/

October 15, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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