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In a significant move to revolutionize podcast discovery, NumberEight, the trailblazing ID-less data platform, alongside Barometer, a leader in brand suitability and AI-powered, omnichannel, contextual analysis, proudly announce their strategic partnership. This alliance aims to overhaul the podcast advertising landscape by integrating NumberEight's sophisticated audience intelligence with Barometer's extensive contextual and brand safety data.

By leveraging state-of-the-art AI, this partnership is crafted to enhance the targeting and effectiveness of podcast ads, ensuring that they are not only precisely targeted but also strategically placed within the content that resonates with specific brand values and audience preferences. This innovative approach promises to significantly influence the industry by providing more effective and relevant advertising solutions and enhancing targeting, planning, and measurement strategies. The combination of both approaches allows for the discovery of the most relevant podcasts for advertisers seeking to align with suitable content, as well as the identification of podcast lookalikes, optimizing ad placement and audience engagement.

Innovative Approach to Podcast Advertising

The core of this partnership lies in the integration of NumberEight's technology, which utilizes anonymized publisher data and contextual information from RSS feeds, enabling the prediction of audience demographics without relying on traditional, privacy-invasive methods. This privacy-first approach uses machine learning to safeguard user privacy while providing accurate insights, allowing advertisers to effectively connect with the right audiences globally without geographical limitations.

Barometer's contextual engine complements this by offering real-time, AI-driven analysis of content suitability across multiple channels, ensuring that ads are not only effectively targeted but also placed within suitable and safe content environments. This dual approach ensures that podcast advertising is both impactful and aligned with brand values and audience preferences.

Key Benefits of the Partnership 

This collaboration enables advertisers to transcend traditional guesswork in media planning by providing precise contexts for their campaigns, aligning perfectly with audience interests and the content themes to drive higher ROI from premium, open-internet content. Publishers will benefit from access to nuanced data about their inventory, enhancing decision-making and monetization strategies while empowering sales teams and clients with valuable content insights. Platforms are invited to join in setting new standards for programmatic omnichannel advertising, leveraging our partnership’s advances in AI to significantly enhance advertising effectiveness across diverse media channels.

Dr. Tamara Zubatiy Nelson, CEO of Barometer, comments on the partnership: "By aligning Barometer’s robust contextual insights with NumberEight’s audience intelligence, we are setting a new standard in podcast advertising that prioritizes user privacy and brand safety. This marks a major step towards advertiser confidence and is truly a game-changer for the industry."

Abhishek Sen, CEO of NumberEight, adds: "Podcast advertising is all set to receive a turbo boost as we combine NumberEight’s ID-less data with Barometer’s  state-of-the-art contextual capabilities, thus empowering advertisers to create highly personalized ad experiences in previously challenging environments."

This collaboration enhances advertising by allowing brands to more effectively plan, target, and measure campaigns, aligning with privacy and safety standards to improve the experience for all parties involved and promising a transformation in podcast advertising through ethically sound solutions.

About Barometer

Barometer is an omni-channel, AI-powered contextual engine with best-in-class brand suitability and contextual targeting solutions in audio. They help the largest brands in the world responsibly activate at scale in impactful channels like podcasts. Their patent-pending AI Brand Integrity Cloud uses natural language processing to analyze podcasts based on industry standard taxonomies including the IAB Content taxonomy 3.0 for contextual targeting and the Global Advertisers for Responsible Media’s (GARM) Brand Safety Floor and Suitability Framework. Their solutions drive radical transparency across the entire ad ecosystem building trust between the buy and sell sides to usher in a new era of scale and contextual understanding. Through their investment in ensuring diverse voices & news content are not blocked inappropriately, Barometer helps brands ensure their brand standards don’t come at the expense of their brand values.

For more information, visit http://www.thebarometer.co.

About NumberEight

NumberEight is a pioneering behavioral intelligence company that has reimagined identity without the use of identifiers. Their innovative on-device AI products empower publishers and ad platforms to enrich their ads with intelligent, ID-less data, enabling advertisers to reach target audiences in a future-proof, privacy-first manner, without compromising effectiveness. To learn more, visit https://numbereight.ai.

Pronto Translations, a leading translation service in New York, has been integrating generative AI technology such as ChatGPT into its workflows for the past 18 months to support its translation processes. 

Following the initial report issued last April, which detailed common AI errors, continuous enhancements in deploying AI have necessitated an update due to the emergence of further drawbacks that impact AI translation processes. Despite ongoing improvements to AI engines, experiences at Pronto Translations confirm that while AI technologies like ChatGPT can assist with translation efforts, they are not capable of replacing human translators. Effective translation requires a collaborative approach between AI tools and skilled linguists. Below are the 10 most critical reasons identified by Pronto Translations:

1. Mistranslation Risks: ChatGPT generally excels more than many other machine translation tools in identifying the correct contexts for meanings. However, significant errors have been observed, such as confusing “nuts” meant for vehicle assembly with edible nuts, or misidentifying a washer as a laundry appliance in a car maintenance manual. These errors underscore the risks involved in relying solely on AI for translation.
   
   
2. Fabrication of Information: ChatGPT can occasionally generate inaccurate content, especially when dealing with less familiar or obscure terms and concepts. While it handles well-known information from its training data competently, it struggles in areas where the data is scant or the terms are not widely recognized. In such instances, ChatGPT may make educated guesses, leading to translations that are not only imprecise but also potentially misleading. This is particularly problematic in technical or specialized texts where each term has specific and significant implications.
   
   
3. Difficulty with Proper Names: Proper nouns, including company names, individual names, and titles, pose a major challenge for AI translation tools. Errors in translating company names or executive names can be particularly severe, especially when dealing with languages that use different alphabets, such as Chinese versus English. Mistranslating a company’s name or an executive’s name on a press release that goes out on the wires with the error intact could lead to severe repercussions for a translation agency.
   
   
4. Failure to Identify Obvious Errors in Original Text: Occasionally, documents sent for translation include errors so evident that any human translator would likely spot and report them to the client. However, ChatGPT may fail to recognize these mistakes, leading to inaccurate translations. This oversight can perpetuate and even amplify the original errors, potentially compromising the integrity of the entire translated document.
   
   
5. Overuse of Modern Jargon: ChatGPT often defaults to using trendy terminology due to recent updates in its data. For instance, terms like “pivotal” and “foundational” are overused where synonyms such as “critical,” “necessary,” “key,” “fundamental,” or “essential” could provide variety. In translating technology-related texts, the frequent use of “innovative” becomes monotonous. Using alternatives like “recent,” “sophisticated,” “state-of-the-art,” “original,” or “novel” could enhance the translation.
   
   
6. Omission of Content in Long Documents: In lengthy texts, AI may omit significant information, particularly towards the end, which can compromise the overall accuracy of the message. This issue is particularly critical in the translation of lengthy legal documents, where essential terms or conditions at the end of the document may be overlooked, potentially altering its legal meaning.
   
   
7. Overly Literal Translations: Striving for the "perfect" translation can lead AI to produce word-for-word interpretations, which miss the subtleties and adaptability necessary for genuine communication. For example, the phrase "break a leg" could be inaccurately translated into another language as a literal command to injure oneself, rather than as an expression of good luck.
   
   
8. Challenges in Resolving Ambiguity in Source Texts: AI often encounters difficulties in translating texts that lack clarity or contain ambiguous phrasing, impacting the accuracy and quality of translations. For instance, when the original text refers to "the bank" without additional context, AI might struggle to discern whether it pertains to a riverbank or a financial institution, leading to potential inaccuracies.
   
   
9. Introduction of Extraneous Content: Although this issue has been somewhat mitigated of late, it remains a substantial risk. ChatGPT can sometimes "hallucinate," inaccurately generating sections that were not present in the original text. For instance, when tasked with translating an article about a Nigerian artist in Italy, the AI included several paragraphs detailing multiple Nigerian artists residing in Italy, which were not mentioned in the original document.
   
   
10. Misunderstanding of Contextual and Cultural Subtleties: AI can sometimes misread or ignore subtle contextual and cultural aspects of language, particularly in professional or semi-formal settings. An example is the use of "abrazos" in Spanish or "abraços" in Portuguese, commonly used to conclude informal business communications. While translating these as "hugs" might be technically correct, it does not reflect the intended tone or cultural significance—a friendly yet professional farewell. To an English-speaking audience, ending a professional note with "hugs" might seem odd.

The above is just a partial list. To read the full report, visit: Why Chat GPT Isn’t Enough: 17 Crucial Points for Translation Tasks

These challenges are not unique to ChatGPT but are common issues found with all recently AI-enhanced machine translators, including those from Google, DeepL, and Microsoft, as well as ChatGPT’s rivals like Google’s Gemini and Baidu’s ERNIE. When you or your organization have important documents to translate, involving professional translators is essential to eliminate risk and maintain your reputation.

About Pronto Translations

In business for 25 years, Pronto Translations is a tightly run international organization, with offices in New York, Nîmes (France), Nanjing (China), Seoul, and Osaka, providing high-quality interpretation, translation and localization services.

Pronto’s team includes more than 1,000 translators covering 122 languages, each selected for their specific industry expertise. The translators, many of whom hold degrees from leading universities or certifications from professional associations, work through a secure portal to ensure quality and confidentiality. The operation’s 24/7 availability allows for quick turnaround on urgent projects, even during weekends and holidays.

With more than two decades of experience in transforming corporate messaging into the world’s most spoken and lesser spoken languages, Pronto Translations is the go-to service and solution for the marketing and public relations needs of any firm wishing to communicate with the world’s audiences in their own languages.

To learn more, visit https://prontotranslations.com.

On November 14, 2024, pianist-composer Omar Harfouch made history as the first artist to perform in the Apostolic Library of the Vatican, a sacred and exclusive venue that had never hosted a public event before. Accompanied by a symphony orchestra, he presented his "Concerto for Peace" in the Sistino Lounge, delivering a heartfelt message of unity and hope to an audience that included the greatest library representatives from around the world.

During this extraordinary evening, Omar Harfouch received the Pontifical Medal of the Vatican Jubilee 2025, awarded by Pope Francis himself. This exceptional honor symbolizes peace and hope, marking Omar as the first-ever recipient of this prestigious medal. The medal, which is a reproduction of a coin that St. Peter carried with him to his grave, is a true symbol of peace and hope.

In his speech, Monsignor Vincenzo Zani warmly welcomed Omar, while Pope Francis praised him as a "pilgrim of peace." The event was a profound call for harmony that transcended borders, resonating from the Vatican to the world.

“The Vatican Apostolic Library is very pleased to welcome this evening, together with the heads of the world's most important libraries, for the first time in this historic venue, a concert by Omar Harfouch. I extend to him my warmest greetings and sincere thanks," said Zani. An archbishop since 2013, Zani is an Italian prelate of the Catholic Church and was named Archivist and Librarian of the Holy Roman Church in September 2022.

Before performing, Omar Harfouch shared a few emotionally words: “I would like to recall that Pope Francis said a phrase: 'We must all work for peace by any means.' This phrase forms the basis of the music we're going to play for you this evening. Everyone must try to do whatever they can to help promote peace. This is the first time we've played this 'Concerto for Peace' in such a sacred place. We're going to try to speak to your hearts, and we hope that this appeal will cross borders because this appeal will be launched from the Vatican, which is very symbolic.”

After speaking, Omar Harfouch performed his "Concerto for Peace" for some twenty minutes. Warmly applauded at the end of his performance, Omar Harfouch was then treated to a few surprises, including receiving the Pontifical Medal of the Vatican Jubilee 2025.

A short video summary of the monumental evening can be found here.

"What sets 'Concerto for Peace' apart from similar initiatives is its ability to weave cultural diplomacy into the concert experience. By integrating local musicians and addressing region-specific conflicts, Harfouch ensures that the message of peace is adapted to resonate deeply with audiences. Harfouch’s efforts have received acknowledgment from international organizations like the United Nations and the International League Against Racism and Anti-Semitism (LICRA) for promoting peace through cultural exchange," wrote Maria Williams in an article for Us Weekly on November 7, 2024.

About Omar Harfouch

Omar Harfouch is a celebrated French pianist-composer and businessman. He studied piano in the Soviet Union, a country in which he also trained in diplomacy. Renowned for his lifelong dedication to using music as a platform for unity and social change and with a diverse background in classical music and modern media, Harfouch’s career uniquely bridges the artistic and cultural realms. For more information, visit https://www.omarharfouch.com.

PlayHub, a one-stop seamless marketplace for gamers to easily buy, sell, and trade in-game items, has grown quickly by offering reliable boosting services across 35 games, including popular titles like World of Warcraft, League of Legends, and Diablo 4. Though still growing in popularity, the platform competes well with established boosting websites, providing a broad catalog of supported games, a user-friendly experience, and 24/7 support.

PlayHub’s primary purpose is to connect boosters and gamers looking for assistance from pro players. The platform supports 35 games with services that cater to casual and competitive enthusiasts. The streamlined and user-friendly interface makes finding a suitable offer a seamless experience, and the website’s growing user base and positive sentiment proves PlayHub’s trustworthiness.

Navigating PlayHub is simple and intuitive. The homepage offers a clear overview of available games and categories. A quick scroll down the homepage showcases the search bar and other elements like “Popular Games,” “New Offers,” and “Top Categories.” The menu on the left provides quick access to the purchase and sell sections and a “Help” category. All sections have a logical organization, allowing users to find what they need without confusion.

Games are categorized by genre, popularity, and new releases. This makes browsing straightforward, as users can easily filter their options based on their preferences. The search function allows users to find specific titles quickly. It suggests relevant games based on partial keywords, improving the user experience.

PlayHub offers a diverse library of games. The platform includes 35 titles, which users can search alphabetically. The roster includes popular titles from genres like:

• Action
• Adventure
• Strategy
• Fantasy

Users can choose a different service for each game. This variety caters to different gaming styles and ensures there is something for everyone. Some of the most prominent titles include:

• World of Warcraft
• League of Legends
• Roblox
• Fortnite
• Valorant
• GTA 5
• Call of Duty
• Diablo 4

Each boost listing includes a brief description, pictures (and possibly screenshots), and user reviews. This helps users make informed choices before they decide to play. PlayHub also displays ratings and difficulty levels, which assists users in selecting games that match their skill levels and interests. The game launch process is fast, with minimal loading times, ensuring a smooth transition between titles. The list of services includes:

• Accounts
• Skins
• Items
• Top-ups
• Powerleveling
• Coaching
• Boosting
• Game coins

Security is a priority on PlayHub. The platform uses encryption to protect user data during transactions. This includes payment information and personal details stored in the account settings. Users can feel confident that their data remains secure while using the platform.

PlayHub supports multiple payment methods. Users can choose from credit and debit cards, Apple and Google Pay, and even crypto. The platform verifies each disbursement promptly, followed by a confirmation email with the purchase.

The website has a subscription model for members, which guarantees promo codes, discounts, and subscriber-only deals. The only fee is the 10% service cost added to the offer amount, making boosting services accessible and affordable. Best of all, the newest and most attractive offers are on immediate display, and users can take them instantly.

PlayHub’s customer support is one of the platform’s biggest advantages. The assistants are available 24/7 and reachable through chat, email, and a ticketing system. Of course, live chat is the most convenient option, with response times within minutes.

For those just browsing, there’s a comprehensive FAQ section covering common topics like account management, troubleshooting, bug bounty, and payment issues. Users can often go through the FAQ and find quick solutions to minor problems before contacting the support team.

PlayHub provides a transparent system for assessing the quality of boosters available on the platform. Buyers can view each seller’s history, including the latest successful boosts completed by the booster. This detailed information helps users gauge the reliability and consistency of the booster’s performance. Each booster profile also includes ratings, reviews, and comments from other buyers. This feedback allows potential customers to make informed decisions based on real experiences shared by others. The platform ensures only verified users can leave feedback, keeping the review system authentic and trustworthy.

User Reviews and Feedback

PlayHub values user feedback and incorporates reviews into its platform’s structure. Buyers can share their experiences directly on booster profiles, and the latest ones are displayed on the homepage. This creates a transparent environment where users can openly discuss and assess the service quality. Moreover, PlayHub encourages users to rate their experiences, helping others make informed choices.

 Pros of PlayHub

• User-Friendly Navigation: PlayHub is easy to use, and users can manage their accounts and access support without additional help. The search and filter options improve the user experience and make for a quick boost selection.
• Multiple Payment Options: PlayHub supports various standard payment methods, including innovative ones like crypto. This feature makes buying accessible to users worldwide while allowing new members to opt-in for the subscription model and take advantage of regular discounts, promo codes, and special offers.
• Reliable Assistance: The customer support team responds quickly and is available through multiple support channels.
• Comprehensive Privacy and Security Measures: The platform uses encryption to protect user data during transactions. The detailed privacy policy and user control over data sharing build trust with users.
• Cross-Device Compatibility: PlayHub performs well on both desktop and mobile devices. The responsive design and mobile app ensure users can access the platform easily, regardless of their device.
• Community Engagement: The social features, forums, and tournaments enhance the gaming experience by promoting user interaction. The platform’s moderation system ensures a respectful and safe community environment.

About PlayHub

PlayHub is a new platform that has quickly earned the trust of gamers by offering boosting services for popular games like World of Warcraft, League of Legends, and Diablo 4. Though still growing in popularity, the platform competes well with established boosting websites, providing a broad catalog of supported games, a user-friendly experience, and 24/7 support.

PlayHub, while still expanding its game library, has quickly gained user trust due to its robust security measures and dedicated customer support. The platform's intuitive design and comprehensive feature set make it a competitive choice for game boosts. With streamlined navigation, top-tier security, and various payment options, PlayHub provides an accessible, secure environment suited for gamers of all levels, offering affordable, high-quality boosting options.

For more information, visit https://playhub.com.

On November 7, Chinese solid-state battery enterprise Chongqing Talent New Energy Co., Ltd. (“Talent New Energy”) collaborated with leading Chinese automotive group, Changan Automobile, to release the world’s first separator-free solid-state battery technology.

The EV battery industry is experiencing a worldwide technological contest, with solid-state batteries playing a critical role in the automotive supply chain. In recent years, battery manufacturers worldwide have made continuous efforts to increase their production capacity and technological competence, seeking to take advantageous positions in this competition. EV battery makers in Japan and Korea are also seeking new market opportunities, while their rival companies in China have been working hard to become more renown and competitive on a worldwide scale, in an ever-changing global EV battery market.

Talent New Energy was established in 2018, and has been committed to the development and industrialization of solid-state lithium batteries. Its primary R&D team has been focusing on the critical technologies of solid-state batteries since 2011. Consists of independently developed intellectual properties such as: the high lithium conductivity oxygen/polymer composite material technology, in-situ submicron film development (ISFD) technology, and interface softening technology are protected by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

An official statement from Talent New Energy has claimed that the new solid-state lithium battery cell offers a capacity of 120 Ah, and an energy density of 720 Wh/kg in April 2024. This achievement sets an industry records for lithium battery capacity and energy density.

The newly released separator-free technology can be applied to both all-solid-state and semi-solid batteries, and it is compatible with various high-energy cathode and anode materials, allowing for flexible energy density customization, higher-level battery safety innovation, and comprehensive performance.

The separator and liquid electrolyte in conventional lithium batteries are prone to thermal runaway. With groundbreaking innovative technologies, for the first time, Talent New Energy removes the separator by introducing a high-density composite solid electrolyte layer on the surface of the electrode to replace the separator and liquid electrolytes with the solid electrolyte layers. The composite solid electrolyte material independently developed by Talent New Energy has a high lithium-ion conductivity of 1.5mS/cm², as well as high mechanical strength and chemical stability. The solid electrolyte layer has low flammability limit that can withstand over 500℃, while the separator made of traditional PE or PP material will shrink between 130℃ and 160℃.

Talent New Energy’s separator-free solid-state battery technology significantly enhances the batteries safety performance. It exceeded the conventional liquid lithium batteries in terms of extrusion, high temperature, and the batteries safety during overcharge: the ratio of deformation due to extrusion can exceed 60% without catching fire or explosion; passed 200°C thermal abuse test; and the battery can be overcharged at 19V without catching fire or explosion.

The removal of separator is just the start of the journey. At the press conference, Talent New Energy proposed the 4-3-2-1 technical route to gradually remove the separator and a portion of liquid electrolytes based on the four main materials of lithium batteries. The liquid electrolytes are completely removed; and finally a new generation of lithium batteries with inherent safety in all solid states is achieved by removing the anode material. Such “subtraction” has also created a new paradigm in the industry.

Major shifts are occurring in the global battery industry as battery demand rises and technological innovation accelerates. In the future, firms with technological breakthroughs, constant innovation, and superior production capacity layout will command high commercial values. The global market for lithium batteries is expected to be greatly affected by the prevalent use of separator-free solid-state battery technology.

About Talent New Energy

Chongqing Talent New Energy Co., Ltd. is a leading Chinese energy technology company focused on the development and industrialization of new solid-state lithium batteries and key lithium electric materials. The solid-state battery technology and products developed by the company have achieved important breakthroughs in key performance indicators with significant advantages in reliability, performance, and production cost. For more information, visit https://www.ctlne.com.

SugarMD, a trusted brand in health management products, is proud to announce a meaningful collaboration with Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), an independent medical humanitarian organization dedicated to providing emergency medical aid to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, and exclusion from healthcare around the world. Through this partnership, SugarMD is committed to giving back to communities in need, with a portion of every purchase going directly to support the vital work of Doctors Without Borders.

This partnership reflects SugarMD’s dedication to global health and aligns with its mission of making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by diabetes and related health conditions. By supporting Doctors Without Borders, SugarMD helps extend essential medical aid to the most vulnerable populations, especially children suffering from the impact of disease and displacement due to crises.

At SugarMD, every customer has the opportunity to be a part of this global mission. Each purchase directly contributes to funding Doctors Without Borders’ efforts in delivering life-saving healthcare to children and families worldwide. From treating patients in conflict zones to responding to natural disasters and health epidemics, the organization’s work saves lives and provides hope to communities facing extraordinary challenges.

Join Us in Making a Difference

By choosing SugarMD, customers play an essential role in supporting this vital humanitarian work. Together, we can contribute to life-saving healthcare, alleviate suffering, and bring healing to children and communities worldwide.

For more information about SugarMD’s mission and products, or to learn more about our partnership with Doctors Without Borders, visit https://sugarmds.com/charity.

About SugarMD

SugarMD is a leading health and wellness brand that specializes in innovative products designed to help manage diabetes and promote overall health. With a commitment to quality and customer well-being, SugarMD is dedicated to supporting healthier lifestyles while also contributing to global health efforts through charitable partnerships. With every purchase of SugarMD, you don’t just invest in your health—you join a community of customers dedicated to making a positive impact worldwide. To learn more, visit sugarmds.com.

Zenfinex Limited, authorized and regulated by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number 816055, has announced a strategic partnership with Your Bourse to improve its strong and diverse liquidity offerings across multiple assets, along with access to bespoke Your Bourse technology to boost profitability.

The partnership with Your Bourse, a top provider of ultra-low latency trade execution, risk management, and MT4 Bridge and MT5 Gateway solutions, allows retail brokers to access an advanced technological package at no additional cost when using Zenfinex as a liquidity provider. Click here to learn more about the offer.

This collaboration is set to benefit a diverse clientele, including professional clients, brokerages, regulated asset managers, hedge funds, and regional partners, giving them an advantage to succeed in the financial markets.

Zenfinex aims to provide its clients with better trading experiences in all asset classes by combining Your Bourse's ultra-fast trade execution technology, bridge solutions, and advanced risk management tools. The collaboration uses both companies' strengths to create customised liquidity solutions that meet the unique needs of different client segments.

Understanding the difficulties brokers face in obtaining efficient liquidity and technological benefits, Zenfinex has adopted a client-focused approach. This method encourages open and continuous communication, making it easier for clients to tackle market complexities.

Zenfinex offers custom liquidity solutions with deep pools and competitive pricing for over 1500 instruments, including forex, shares, commodities, and metals. Combined with Your Bourse's advanced trade execution technologies, this ensures a coherent trading environment for brokers of all sizes, improving performance and agility.

Zenfinex prioritizes security and uptime, protecting against cyber threats and minimizing downtime for uninterrupted trading. Brokers also benefit from enhanced transparency with comprehensive reporting, building trust and supporting informed decision making.

Moreover, the personalized support provided by Zenfinex is particularly valuable for startups and smaller firms. Tailored solutions to unique trading challenges and responsive service help brokers confidently handle the market's hurdles and intricacies.

Angelo Pieries, Commercial Director at Zenfinex, comments on the partnership's strategic impact: "Our collaboration with Your Bourse significantly enhances our ability to support a broad range of clients. By improving our liquidity offering, we're providing a stronger platform that enhances market access and execution speeds for our clients. Together, we're advancing brokerage services by integrating advanced technology with focused client engagement, aiming to improve outcomes in the financial markets."

Zenfinex and Your Bourse's partnership goes beyond just providing liquidity and technology—together, they help set brokers on a path to success by offering various services tailored to enhance brokerage operations.

Your Bourse is well known for their excellent features which make for a smooth trading experience, including ultra-fast trade execution using their Matching and Pricing Engine, easy platform integration with MT4 Bridge and MT5 Gateway, and effective risk control with their advanced risk management and hedging tools.

All in all, using Your Bourse comes with great benefits:

• Profit Maximisation: Your Bourse platform helps brokers optimise trade flow, streamline operations, and seize market opportunities, leading to higher revenue.
• Easy Integration: Our technology seamlessly connects with MT4/MT5 and other platforms, allowing you to use advanced features without altering your infrastructure.
• Improved Trade Management: Your Bourse provides tools for effective trade flow management, enabling brokers to match offerings with market demands, optimize routing, and make data-driven decisions for better profitability and efficiency.

By joining the Premium Liquidity program offered by Your Bourse and selecting Zenfinex as their liquidity provider, brokers can access Your Bourse's freemium solution, which includes the following features:

• Matching & Pricing Engine: This flagship product from Your Bourse boasts ultra-low latency (2-microsecond order processing), advanced order types, symbol mapping, custom price and volume multipliers, order routing, and advanced aggregation rules.
• Premium LP FIX Connector: Benefit from a FIX API and a cross-connect to Zenfinex.
• MT4 Bridge/MT5 Gateway: A high-performing, lightweight, and stable solution for processing trades outside MetaTrader, complete with advanced pricing and routing settings.
• Real-time Logs (System and FIX): Investigate trades in real time using real-time logs and a built-in FIX message parser.
• Customisable Real-time Reporting via Trade Blotter: Regulatory and brokerage performance reporting with raw and precalculated data.
• 250 Symbols of Choice: Brokers can choose from a variety of symbols offered by Zenfinex.
• 1 Billion Notional Volume (A-Book and/or B-Book): The volume calculated is based solely on executions within the Your Bourse platform.
• Platform Hosting in Equinix Data Centers: Your Bourse infrastructure is co-located with Premium LPs for optimal performance.
• Technical Support: Receive email support with a guaranteed 48-hour response time or instant escalation via Premium LP.

Brokers have the opportunity to review the complete trading terms offered by Premium Liquidity Providers. To access these services, they can sign up by creating a free account.

Disclaimer: Trading forex and other similar products comes with substantial risk. You should only invest in products that you are familiar with and where you understand the associated risks. You should carefully consider your investment experience, financial situation, investment objectives and risk tolerance and consult an independent financial adviser prior to making any investment. The value of your investment can go down as well as up, and you may not get back the amount you invested.

About Zenfinex

Zenfinex Global Limited is a company registered in Seychelles with registration number: 8428731-1, and is regulated by the Financial Services Authority of Seychelles (FSA) with License Number SD092. Its registered office is F20, 1st Floor, Eden Plaza, Eden Island, Seychelles. For more information, visit https://zenfinex.co.uk.

About Your Bourse

Your Bourse is the connectivity provider that offers software solutions for the retail and institutional MT4/MT5 brokers. Including: MT5 gateway & MT4 bridge, multi-asset liquidity aggregation, risk management, client profiling, real-time and historical reporting, MT4/MT5 hosting in all Equinix data centers with 99.999% SLA, plugins for MT4 & MT5 and FIX API connections for the B2B clients. To learn more, visit https://www.yourbourse.com.

Tulane University School of Medicine is proud to announce a groundbreaking CME program focused on the emerging research and clinical challenges surrounding kratom use. This live activity has been approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™, equipping healthcare professionals with essential knowledge from leading experts.

The program will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025.

Experts facilitating the program include:

• John Thompson, MD: Tulane University School of Medicine 
• Christopher R. McCurdy, PhD F.A.A.P.S.: University of Florida College of Pharmacy
• Oliver Grundmann, PhD: University of Florida College of Pharmacy
• Dr. Mark Gold, MD: Washington University, St. Louis, MO
• Jessica Hulsey, Founder: Addiction Policy Forum

The CME program will highlight a number of important topics, including:

• Historical and Indigenous Uses: Discover Kratom's traditional applications for energy enhancement, pain relief, and as a substitute for opium in Southeast Asia.
• Current Usage Patterns: Understand how Kratom is currently used and by whom in the USA, including average serving sizes, available product forms, and reasons for use.
• Problematic Use & Risks: Examine problematic use patterns, associated risks, and common presentations in emergency rooms, addiction clinics, and pain practices.
• Legislative Solutions: Explore potential legislative solutions to preserve responsible kratom use and address challenges faced by an evolving industry.
• Patient Communication: Gain practical advice for healthcare providers on communicating with patients who use Kratom and how to inquire about its use.

Register today to expand your clinical skills and gain evidence-based insights from Tulane University’s distinguished faculty.

Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your practice with the latest knowledge on kratom; please click here for more information.

Disclaimer

Tulane University Health Sciences Center presents this activity for educational purposes only and does not endorse any product, presentation content, or exhibit. Participants are expected to utilize their own expertise and judgment while engaged in the practice of medicine. The content of the presentations is provided solely by presenters who have been selected because of their recognized expertise.

About the Global Kratom Coalition

The Global Kratom Coalition is an alliance of kratom consumers, experts, and industry leaders dedicated to protecting and expanding access to kratom worldwide. The coalition focuses on advancing scientific research, driving consumer education, and developing robust regulations that protect consumers.

About Tulane University Health Sciences Center

Tulane University Health Sciences Center is a leading academic medical center committed to providing world-class education, research, and patient care. We are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of our community through innovation and collaboration.

Two startups were named the competition winners at Pitch HearstLab Atlanta, HearstLab’s pitch event for early stage, women-led technology startups. Five companies were selected as the finalists to present in-person at Google on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

Each founder pitched to a live audience and a panel of expert judges, including Eve Burton, Hearst EVP and HearstLab Chairwoman, Lisa Butters, SVP of Strategic Partnerships & Emerging Business, CAMP, and Shila Nieves Burney, founder and managing partner, Zane Venture Fund.

The event included a fireside panel discussion with Monica Delores Hooks, CXO, Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs at Rice University, Tara Seppa, National Director, Startups & Digital Native Growth, Google, Tamara Nelson, CEO and co-founder of HearstLab portfolio company, Barometer that was moderated by Kelli Dakake, VP of Engagement & Retention, Hearst Newspapers.

The event’s winners were as follows: Croux, founded by Jennifer Ryan, a temporary staffing solution for low income individuals and Zinnia, founded by Lauren Goodell, an AI co-pilot for sales representatives.

"We’re very excited to work with HearstLab and the entire team because they come with so much industry expertise and work with brands we know Zinnia can help, partner with, and learn from,” said Lauren Goodell, founder and CEO of Zinnia.

"Investment from HearstLab and Hearst is validation that we’re not only doing something meaningful but also game changing,” said Jennifer Ryan, founder and CEO of Croux. “We’re excited to have access to the HearstLab community who will be advocates, sponsors, mentors and will help us figure out which armor to put on as we navigate what comes next.”

Pitch HearstLab is the world’s largest pitch event for women-led startups, dedicated to funding high-growth B2B(2C) ventures in the U.S. and select international markets. With events held in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and London, HearstLab has invested in 14 early-stage startups through this series and 70+ women-led startups overall, now valued, in aggregrate, at over $2.4 billion. The competition aims to close the venture funding gap for women, who currently receive just 2% of all venture capital funding, despite the growing number of female entrepreneurs.

“It feels meaningful to be in Atlanta for our tenth pitch competition, witnessing first hand the growth and fruition of this startup ecosystem because Atlanta is where I had a personal and professional beginning of my very own,” said Eve Burton, HearstLab Chairwoman and Hearst EVP, in her opening remarks. “No startup succeeds on its own. The best ideas will never turn into the next best company without funding, without networks, and without the time and passion of the founders who brave this journey and the people who support them along the way.”

"This is the tenth pitch event we’ve hosted and we were thrilled to bring it to Atlanta—a thriving and collaborative startup ecosystem that knows it takes a village for a startup to succeed. We can’t wait to start working with Jennifer and Lauren and bring them into not only the HearstLab community but also the greater Hearst network to scale and grow their businesses," said Eastin Rossell, HearstLab Venture Director.

Beyond pitch events, female founders can apply for HearstLab investment anytime (ranging from $500K to $1M+ checks) throughout the year.

The event was sponsored by Milan Laser and co-hosted with Google.

For more information, visit the HearstLab website, follow HearstLab on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter.

About Croux

Croux connects trusted talent with flexible work opportunities in the hospitality industry. Croux empowers talent to maximize their earning potential while helping businesses run fully staffed and at top speed. For more information, visit https://www.croux.co/

About Zinnia

Zinnia is an AI co-pilot that helps sales executives close more deals in less time with detailed customer insights, tailored sales strategies, and personalized prospect messaging. For more information, visit https://www.getzinnia.ai/

About HearstLab

HearstLab provides cash investments and services to early-stage, women-led startups across sectors like fintech, data analytics, health, and enterprise technology. Its mission is to close the gap in venture capital funding for women by helping founders build sustainable, scalable businesses. To learn more about HearstLab, visit HearstLab.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Forte Speech & Language Therapy, a provider of virtual and in-home speech therapy in Los Angeles, is excited to announce the release of a new comprehensive report highlighting the profound benefits of reading to children, especially during their early developmental years. The report, developed in concert with the clinic’s team speech-language pathologists, outlines how consistent reading practices can enhance language skills, cognitive development, and overall emotional wellbeing in children.

The report focuses on the critical role that reading plays in early childhood development, particularly in fostering strong speech and language skills. According to the report, reading aloud to children promotes vocabulary growth, as they become exposed to new words and ideas. It also helps develop social skills, as age appropriate children’s books focus on concepts like respect, kindness, and turn taking. This in turn can help a child develop their sense of empathy – the ability to understand and share in the feelings of others.

In particular, the report references a 2019 study that underscores the massive difference in vocabulary of children who are read to and children who aren’t. Those who were never read to are estimated to hear 4,662 different words by their fifth birthday. Meanwhile, those who were read to twice a week would have heard 63,570 words. This underscores the importance of establishing a daily reading routine with children.

The report further explores age appropriate subject matter for children, particularly focused on levels of comprehension, and how to begin building a reading practice for children that’s internally rewarding.

“We’ve seen firsthand how beneficial reading aloud is in the context of pediatric speech and language therapy services, and our new report sheds light on how critical it is for all children, not just those with speech or language delays,” said a spokesperson from Forte Speech & Language Therapy. “This practice lays the groundwork for future academic success and is a key activity that can support speech development in the early stages.”

The clinic's team of speech therapists encourages parents, caregivers, and educators to incorporate reading into daily routines to foster early speech and language skills. They also suggest that parents choose books with engaging, age-appropriate content that allows for interactive discussions, helping to keep children actively involved in the learning process.

The report, titled Why Is It Important To Read To Your Child?, is available for free on the clinic’s website, as is additional information on the clinic's pediatric and adult speech therapy approach.

About Forte Speech & Language Therapy

Forte Speech & Language Therapy provides comprehensive speech therapy services for children and adults. The center addresses various speech and language challenges with a team of highly skilled therapists, offering personalized therapy to enhance communication abilities. Forte excels in creating and implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and provides robust advocacy support to ensure clients receive necessary services in educational settings. By fostering a holistic and supportive environment, Forte Speech & Language Therapy is dedicated to delivering exceptional outcomes and improving the quality of life for its clients. To learn more, visit https://www.fortespeech.com.

Asialuxe Travel, Uzbekistan's leading tour operator, proudly participated once again in the international World Travel Market (WTM) exhibition in London, one of the most significant events in the global tourism industry. Annually, WTM brings together over 50,000 professionals, media representatives, and key market players, offering a unique platform to present Uzbekistan’s tourism potential to the world.

At the Uzbekistan pavilion, tourism industry representatives and interested partners had the opportunity to discover new travel routes, exclusive programs, and cultural offerings that reveal the country’s rich heritage and unique atmosphere. Particular emphasis was placed on promoting cultural tourism, as well as opportunities for business and culinary tourism, highlighting the company’s commitment to fostering sustainable tourism development in the region.

Temur Khodjaev, Director of Inbound Department in Uzbekistan, underscored the importance of Asialuxe Travel’s presence at WTM, emphasizing that for the company, this participation has become an essential annual tradition:

“For us, participating in WTM is not only an opportunity to showcase our unique cultural and historical potential to a broad international audience but also an important step in solidifying Uzbekistan’s place on the global tourism map. We are confident that the partnerships and projects initiated here will continue to reveal our remarkable country to travelers from around the world,” said Temur Khodjaev, Director of Inbound Department in Uzbekistan.

During the exhibition, Asialuxe Travel also held a series of meetings and presentations, where international colleagues received in-depth information on travel routes along the ancient Silk Road, investment opportunities in the tourism sector, and the latest technologies being implemented to enhance guest experiences. The tour operator remains dedicated to developing tourism products that not only showcase Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage but also promote sustainable regional growth, engaging local communities and businesses in cooperative initiatives.

About Asialuxe Travel

Asialuxe Travel is Uzbekistan’s leading tour operator, offering exclusive tours, cultural programs, and high-quality services focused on providing unique experiences and comfort for travelers worldwide. With extensive experience in organizing both individual and group tours, the company aims to unveil the true charm of Uzbekistan to all visitors. For more information, visit https://asialuxe.uz.

Capitol Physical Therapy, a leading physical therapy clinic in Washington, DC, is hosting a free workshop on bladder control issues and urinary incontinence. This informative session is designed to help individuals better understand the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for urinary incontinence, with a focus on the role physical therapy can play in managing and improving bladder health.

Urinary incontinence is a common condition that affects an estimated 50% of adult women worldwide. However, many of these women feel embarrassed or unsure about seeking help. This workshop aims to create a supportive environment where attendees can learn practical strategies and exercises to manage and alleviate symptoms. It will be led by pelvic health specialists Drs. Alice Aehl, DPT, and Dr. Kaitlin Windingland, DPT.

During the workshop, Drs. Aehl and Windingland plan to cover:

• The types and causes of urinary incontinence
• Common misconceptions and myths about bladder control issues
• How physical therapy can help strengthen pelvic muscles and improve bladder control
• Effective exercises, lifestyle changes, and strategies to reduce symptoms
• When to seek professional help and how to choose the right treatment options

“We’re excited to offer this workshop as part of our commitment to promoting better health in the community,” said Dr. Subha Nagasubramanian, DPT, Director of Capitol Physical Therapy. “Bladder control issues are often overlooked or dismissed, but with the right education and support, many people can regain control and improve their quality of life. Our goal is to empower those with the knowledge they need to make the right decisions about their own health.”

The workshop is open to women experiencing bladder control issues, as well as those interested in learning more about pelvic floor physical therapy in Washington DC in general.

Space for the workshop is limited. To reserve a spot, please visit the event’s Eventbrite page. Details are below.

• Date: Tuesday, November 19, 2024
• Time: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. EST
• Location: Capitol Physical Therapy, 1331 H Street NW #200, Washington, DC 20005
• Cost: Free

About Capitol Physical Therapy

Founded in 2012, Capitol Physical Therapy offers full-service physical therapy with locations in the heart of historic Washington, DC and Upper Marlboro, MD. Led by Dr. Subha Nagasubramanian and our team of experienced specialists, we offer comprehensive solutions to provide the highest quality care for pain management and injury-related concerns. For more information on how we can assist you on your journey to recovery and improved physical health, please visit our website at https://capitolptdc.com.

The National CIO Review (TNCR) has announced its latest curation of CIOs on the Move, providing the most comprehensive roundup of CIOs, CTOs, CISOs, and technology leaders who have recently taken on new roles, celebrating their achievements and contributions to the industry.

This monthly feature serves as the go-to source for tracking the latest appointments, promotions, and transitions among technology executives across industries.

This edition of CIOs on the Move spotlights 36 IT executives who have recently taken on new roles in organizations including Denny's, District of Columbia (Washington DC) government, OpenAI, Instacart, and Moffitt Cancer Center. By featuring these changes, TNCR aims to help companies identify trends in leadership, recognize top talent, and understand the evolving demands placed on IT executives today.

"Technology leaders are at the forefront of digital transformation, and knowing where key players are moving provides a critical view of industry trends and organizational shifts," says Emily Hill, Managing Editor at TNCR. "The CIOs on the Move feature is designed to keep our audience informed about the individuals who are leading the charge in technology innovation."

As organizations look to adapt and thrive in the war for tech talent, remained informed of these leadership transitions can provide a strategic advantage. To stay up to date, register with The National CIO Review at https://nationalcioreview.com/sign-up.

Link to the full article: 36 CIOs on the Move – November 2024

About CIOs on the Move

CIOs on the Move is one of The National CIO Review's most anticipated features, highlighting key executive movements within the technology industry. Each month, TNCR provides an updated curation of the latest appointments, promotions, and transitions among CIOs, CTOs, CISOs, and other technology leaders.

About The National CIO Review

The National CIO Review (TNCR) is the leading voice for CIOs and IT leaders, championing insightful thought leadership and providing critical analysis on the latest trends in technology. TNCR aims to inform and inspire the technology executives who are shaping the future of business. To learn more, visit https://nationalcioreview.com.

The analytics company Esports Charts has teamed up with GG.BET, the official betting partner of BLAST Premier, to publish analytical insights for the entire BLAST Premier 2024 season, including data from the World Final. The 2024 season set a new record for BLAST Premier, drawing over 900,000 peak viewers.

From October 30 to November 3, World Final 2024—the last Counter-Strike 2 tournament in the BLAST Premier series—took place in Singapore at the Resorts World Convention Centre. G2 Esports emerged as the champions, winning 3 out of 5 maps in the final match.

BLAST Premier enjoyed a record-breaking season this year. After reaching over 900,000 concurrent viewers during the Fall Final, the tournament series made its second entry into the top 20 most popular Counter-Strike 2 events, following the Fall Finals 2021. Although the World Final didn't enjoy the same sky-high viewership, it still brought together eight of the world's best teams, making for an elite esports event.

Esports Charts, in collaboration with GG.BET, has released a series of articles with overviews of the teams' and players' achievements at the end of the tournament. Before the event, a retrospective analysis of the viewership for this season's tournaments and exclusive data on the pre-match bets placed by GG.BET users were published. After the tournament finished, Esports Charts released infographics with tournament viewership numbers, the most popular teams and players, and the achievements of the champions and the MVP. In the final article, GG.BET shared statistics on the entire season, along with advanced 2024 analytics on players and teams, including unique game stats and betting insights.

Esports Charts is an analytics company and a widely recognized source of data on the popularity of esports events. Together with GG.BET, a global betting brand with extensive experience in esports partnerships, they regularly publish in-depth tournament analytics, offering insights that often go unnoticed by the general audience.

About GG.BET

GG.BET is an international esports betting brand, which has a presence in the United Kingdom, Europe, and Asia. The brand is actively involved in developing esports by supporting international tournaments, sponsoring streams, and creating esports content with famous analysts, casters, and influencers. Since 2020, it has been a title partner of the esports club NAVI, and as of 2022, it has also been a partner of esports club Team Vitality's CS2 team. For more information, visit https://ggbet.ua.

David Bregger, an advocate for kratom regulation, led a demonstration outside the American Kratom Association (AKA) Leadership Summit today to protest the organization’s new stance on highly potent semi-synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7OH) products. Bregger called on the AKA to stand up and support regulations that truly protect consumers.

Bregger, who tragically lost his eldest son, Dan, in 2021 due to the combined toxic effects of concentrated kratom and diphenhydramine, is dedicated to preventing similar tragedies. Through his activism, Bregger is fighting for consumer safety by calling for the regulation of kratom products and a ban on those that are synthetic or manipulated with opioid-like compounds such as 7OH.

Opposing AKA’s Support of 7OH Products

Bregger protested against AKA claims that 7OH products are not kratom, yet AKA supported their sale by relaxing regulation in their model legislation. The AKA plans to make the 2% 7-hydroxymitragynine limit clause a labeling standard instead of a prohibited act which effectively eliminates the only protection against high-concentration 7OH products. This move would create a dangerous loophole that puts consumers at risk. Bregger emphasized that 7OH, regardless of its label, should not be sold as a dietary supplement or ingredient.

“Products are entering the market at a rapid rate that are mislabeled as kratom but are actually 7OH products more akin to opioids like morphine,” said Bregger. “7OH is not kratom. It is something entirely new. These are potent, synthetic compounds that should be vetted by research and approved by the FDA. On top of this, more needs to be done to regulate real kratom products to ensure consumers are well informed and have access to safe products.”

AKA Must Put Consumers Before Industry

With the aim of putting consumers before industry, Bregger also called for AKA to follow the advice of scientists who are opposed to 7OH.

“The AKA, led by the financial interest of its leader Mac Haddow, aims to create a dangerous loophole for these products which puts consumers at risk,” said Bregger. “Kratom regulations are desperately needed and 7OH, regardless of its label, should not be sold as a dietary supplement or ingredient.”

Bregger also called for the AKA to increase financial transparency. As the AKA appears to  advance causes of industry while financial information remains shrouded in secrecy (see Joseph Sokol podcast). 

Call to Action

Kratom consumers and companies interested in a safe industry led by common sense regulations should demand the AKA reinstate the 2% limit clause under prohibited acts of their model bill which offers the only protection against high-concentration 7OH products. This move prioritizes industry interests over consumer safety. More information is available at: https://www.7ohisnotkratom.com. They should also demand financial transparency from the AKA and its leadership.

Local residents in Rhode Island should similarly encourage common sense regulations that eliminate the risk of 7OH products. In June 2024, Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee vetoed a bill at the end of session that would have legalized kratom and protected consumers. Governor McKee cited opposition from multiple state agencies and the Attorney General’s office.

In nearby Massachusetts, several local cities are considering a local ban on kratom products. Local bans are known to not be effective. They only drive the market underground. Instead, lawmakers can introduce their own legislation including age restrictions, serving sizes, and clear labels. That would make kratom safe and legal and put safeguards against 7OH products.

Rhode Island and Massachusetts residents are urged to contact their local representatives and advocate for the kratom regulations to ensure that all kratom products sold in the state are safe, regulated, and accurately labeled.

About 7OH Is Not Kratom

7OH Is Not Kratom is an organization advocating for consumer safety by calling for the regulation of kratom and the investigation of dangerous synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7OH) products. The organization was founded by David Bregger, who tragically lost his eldest son in 2021 due to mislabeled synthetic kratom and is dedicated to preventing similar tragedies. For more information, visit https://www.7ohisnotkratom.com.

Innovate Global – Startupbootcamp, one of the world's leading accelerators, is proud to announce its second fund on the African continent in partnership with Mara Group and Blend Financial Services. This strategic alliance marks a significant commitment to the growth and success of African startups, focusing on building future industry leaders and driving innovation across the continent.

Since its first entry into Africa in 2017, Startupbootcamp has been an active supporter of the African startup ecosystem, investing in notable success stories such as Kuda Bank, Yobante, Curacel, and more. The accelerator’s impactful journey through the region has proven Africa's potential for pioneering change and pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation.

With a renewed vision and a powerful seven-year partnership with Mara Group and Blend, Startupbootcamp is returning to establish five innovation hubs across Africa and launch a $250 million USD fund. These hubs will act as catalysts for identifying, mentoring, and investing in the continent's most promising entrepreneurs and startups. The focus will be on empowering a new generation of founders to become industry leaders, setting the pace for Africa’s growth in finance, healthcare, logistics, and other key sectors.

"We are thrilled to reignite our commitment to Africa," said Kauan von Novack, Global CEO at Startupbootcamp. "Partnering with Mara and Blend allows us to tap into local expertise and networks, building upon the successes we've achieved and ensuring we support African startups with the capital, mentorship, and resources they need to thrive."

The five hubs will be strategically located across major cities in Africa, fostering a diverse and inclusive startup environment. With Blend's extensive market knowledge and Startupbootcamp's world-class acceleration capabilities, this collaboration will leverage their combined strengths to offer African founders access to a global network, funding, and industry expertise.

Blend’s founder and managing director, Ravi Gupta, commented, "Africa is brimming with entrepreneurial energy, and we are delighted to partner with Startupbootcamp to help unlock its vast potential. Together, we aim to accelerate the growth of startups that will transform industries and improve lives across the continent."

Startupbootcamp Africa chairman and founder of Mara Group and Mara Foundation, Ashish J. Thakkar, added, “I’ve always been extremely passionate about entrepreneurship and Africa. In my career I’ve always focused on enabling, empowering, and inspiring young and women entrepreneurs. With this partnership with Startupbootcamp, we are able to do exactly this at scale.”

With this initiative, Innovate Global – Startupbootcamp, Mara Group, and Blend are determined to shape the future of Africa by investing in, supporting, and nurturing visionary founders who will become the industry leaders of tomorrow.

About Innovate Global – Startupbootcamp

Innovate Global (IG) partnered with Startupbootcamp (SBC) to form IG-SBC. SBC is the world’s third-largest and Europe’s leading tech venture capital and accelerator. The IG-SBC partnership delivers a global platform for technological innovation and collaboration, with industry-leading business incubation and acceleration services. Entrepreneurs, innovators, and high-growth projects will be supported to expand and accelerate their business, connecting with potential supporters, investors, business leaders, mentors, and business partners around the globe.

About Startupbootcamp

Startupbootcamp is a network of accelerators active globally with a total portfolio valuation of €5.6 billion ($6 billion). To learn more, visit https://www.startupbootcamp.org.

About Blend Financial Services

Blend Financial Services is one of the leading integrated financial service providers worldwide. Since 1997, we have been tirelessly providing corporates, financial institutions and sovereigns with the best financial strategies to support their projects across the world and especially in economically challenged countries—augmenting job creation and sustainable economic growth, while simultaneously helping our clients further their own goals. For more information, visit https://www.blendfinance.com.

About Mara Group

Headquartered in Dubai, Mara is a diversified holding and investment company. It operates in the technology, financial services, real estate and asset management industries. The company was founded by Ashish J. Thakkar in 1996 and has active investments in over 26 countries.

The Real Feel, the first real-time human sentiment platform for businesses and government agencies, reveals exclusive insights into Americans' emotions during Election Week and reactions throughout one of the most anticipated and emotionally charged events of the year. Capturing U.S. sentiment data through public polling, AI, and data analysis, The Real Feel provides a look into how Americans felt about the outcome, with reactions ranging from relief and excitement to anger and frustration across different demographic groups (Figure 1).

According to The Real Feel’s 2024 Election Week data, as of Wednesday, November 6, the national mood score stood at 6.5 out of 10, slightly below the typical range of 6.6 to 7.3 observed over the past five weeks (counted as Sunday to Saturday). In the days leading up to Election Day and its results, 13% of Americans expressed positive feelings, while 72% reported heightened unease. Post election, the overall sentiment dropped to 6.2 with mixed emotions. This is based on a daily sample size of 1,000–1,500 Americans (Figure 2).

The data also confirms sentiment differences by political affiliation. Both parties were concerned while awaiting the outcome; however, as the results trickled in, we saw Republicans sharing their eagerness that former President Donald Trump would secure the presidency. To little surprise, the Democrats’ mood score dropped 17.6% (from 6.8 to 5.6) from the start of Election Day to shortly after results were announced, while the Republicans’ sentiment rose 13.2% (from 6.8 to 7.7) (Figure 3).

Following Trump's victory in the Presidential Election, Republicans primarily reported feeling calm, excited, and optimistic for the future. One person wrote, “I feel this way because Trump won the [election] and will turn this country around; we will be able to afford things and live again!” (Mood: 10, Excited, Female, 18–29, West Virginia). In contrast, Democrats largely reported feelings of sadness, anger, and anxiety about what lies ahead. One individual stated, “We now have a dictator coming back to the White House. Couldn't be much worse.” (Mood: 2, Angry, Non-binary, 60+, North Carolina).

For gender, White men aged 30–44 reported the highest mood score across demographic groups at 7.2. Despite feeling some election-related anxiety, they expressed excitement and hope for the outcome. One respondent wrote, “well the long awaited election is here and we are hoping for the best that's why i am excited i can't wait to see the winner” (Mood: 9, Excited, California). In contrast, White women aged 18–29 felt more uncertain, scoring their mood at 5.8, expressing concerns not only about the result but also about the consequences. As one woman noted, “...I really don’t want trump to win and there might be lots of violence if he doesn’t” (Mood: 5, Anxious, Oregon). These insights highlight both the divides and shared feelings among Americans (Figure 4).

Across age groups, people aged 18–29 notably saw a boost in their mood scores leading up to Election Day, with ratings between 6.0 and 6.3. This age group has consistently reported the lowest mood scores prior to Election Week; last week (October 27 to November 2) they rated their mood the lowest at 5.9. One woman stated, “I feel ok because Trump won the election, and I’m really not happy about it” (Mood: 5, Ok, Female, Florida). In contrast, older age groups were much more vocal when expressing their anger (Figure 5).

Beyond the election, The Real Feel captures general emotions as well as the challenges weighing on Americans. Major themes include financial hardship, career-related stress, and the ongoing quest for work-life balance, with many Americans hoping for positive changes in these areas.

The sentiment data serves as a powerful tool for organizations and businesses looking to engage with the public more meaningfully. By understanding the emotional landscape of their communities, brands, political campaigns, and policymakers can create strategies that resonate authentically with Americans during pivotal moments.

“Our goal at The Real Feel is to give businesses, organizations, and government agencies a direct window into the public’s emotional state, especially during high-stakes moments like this election,” said Lisa Hu, founder of The Real Feel. “This election has underscored the importance of connecting with Americans on a human level, understanding the emotional undercurrents that shape perspectives and priorities.”

For more information, please visit The Real Feel at https://www.therealfeel.ai.

About The Real Feel

Founded in 2024, The Real Feel is the first real-time human sentiment and insights platform for people and businesses. By capturing and analyzing sentiment data in real time using polling and AI, we enable individuals to track their feelings and provide businesses with detailed, anonymous insights to inform better decisions. Our diverse customer base includes data and marketing intelligence companies, financial institutions, tech firms, brands, agencies, government institutions, and media organizations. For more information, visit therealfeel.ai.

HEYTEA, China's leading new-style tea brand, proudly announces a groundbreaking partnership with the internationally acclaimed artist Yayoi Kusama. This partnership marks the first time a Chinese new-style tea brand has joined forces with a globally renowned contemporary artist, creating a unique fusion of tea culture and modern art.

Under the theme "Adding a Touch of BOBO to the World," the China Project of Love & Life merges Yayoi Kusama's iconic polka dot art with HEYTEA's signature BOBO elements—the cheerful, round bubbles that have become synonymous with the brand's innovative tea beverages. This fusion celebrates joy, vitality, and the infinite possibilities of artistic expression.

As part of this monumental partnership, HEYTEA is sponsoring Yayoi Kusama's iconic artwork "Life of the Pumpkin Recites, All About the Biggest Love for the People": The China Project of Love & Life. This exhibition features Kusama's largest pumpkin sculpture to date—a 10-meter-tall installation adorned with her signature polka dots. Embodying themes of love, unity, and peace, the sculpture will be unveiled at Shanghai's North Bund from November 12 to November 17, 2024.

A Fusion of BOBO and Polka Dots: The Heart of the Project

The partnership finds its roots in the shared affinity for "polka dots" between HEYTEA and Yayoi Kusama. Known as the "Queen of Polka Dots," Kusama has long used dots to symbolize infinity and interconnectedness in her art. Similarly, HEYTEA's BOBO—pearls in their bubble tea—represent joy and healing energy, making each sip a delightful experience. This commonality serves as a bridge, uniting the realms of contemporary art and new-style tea culture.

Limited-Edition Products and Merchandise

In celebration of this partnership, HEYTEA is launching seven BOBO tea series products, including the much-anticipated return of Supreme Brown Sugar Bobo Milk (Original), Soybean Pudding Bobo Milk, Mango Grapefriut Boom, Duo Matcha Buffalo Milk and etc. Each beverage will feature exclusive, limited-edition packaging inspired by Kusama's art, including limited-edition drink cups adorned with collaborative designs that blend Kusama's polka dots with HEYTEA's aesthetic, artfully designed paper bags and cup sleeves featuring whimsical illustrations. Additionally, HEYTEA stores worldwide will offer a range of specially crafted merchandise. These include exclusive keychains and mugs that encapsulate the artistic spirit of the partnership. These items will be available as exclusive gifts during the project, enhancing the emotional connection between HEYTEA and its customers.

"Life of the Pumpkin Recites": A Monumental Exhibition

The centerpiece of the collaboration is the sponsorship of Yayoi Kusama's China Project of Love & Life, featuring her largest pumpkin sculpture ever created. The 10-meter-tall installation, making its Asian debut, is a powerful metaphor for unity and collective harmony. Originally unveiled in Paris, the sculpture embodies Kusama's lifelong themes and offers a poignant message of love and life. Bringing this work to China not only fosters dialogue between contemporary art and global audiences but also amplifies Kusama's enduring message. At a time when the world yearns for unity and understanding, this exhibition serves as a reminder of the power of art to bridge cultures.

A Creative Short Film: "Adding a Touch of BOBO to the World"

To further enrich the collaboration, HEYTEA is releasing a creative short film titled "Adding a Touch of BOBO to the World." The film shares a series of delightful and unexpected stories that showcase how BOBO elements bring joy to everyday life. With warmth and humor, it conveys the brand's core message: even in uncertain times, we can find happiness through smiles and love.

Founded in 2012 in a small alley along the river in Jiangmen, Guangdong, HEYTEA introduced the world's first cheese-topped brewed tea, sparking a new era of tea culture in China. Over the years, HEYTEA has become synonymous with innovation in the tea industry, continually blending traditional elements with modern twists to create unique and exciting products.

In 2018, HEYTEA revolutionized the market by launching the BOBO Tea series. The introduction of playful packaging and a vibrant brand identity infused youthfulness and vitality into the ancient tradition of tea. The round, cheerful BOBO bubbles quickly captured the hearts of young urbanites, becoming a comforting companion in their daily lives. These BOBO drinks, including the Mango Grapefriut Boom, Soybean Pudding Bobo Milk and Mango Grapefruit Boom, have formed what HEYTEA affectionately calls the "BOBO Universe," embodying joy and healing energy in each sip.

Strengthening Brand Influence and Global Reach

This  project not only represents a significant milestone for HEYTEA but also amplifies the brand's global awareness. By partnering with a world-renowned artist like Yayoi Kusama, HEYTEA continues to elevate its presence on the international stage. The brand has a history of successful collaborations with international luxury brands and renowned artists, including FENDI, Hiroshi Fujiwara, Adidas, Nike and more. These partnerships have positioned HEYTEA as a trendsetter in the new-style tea industry, continually pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities.

"Through joint initiatives including offline art exhibitions, product packaging, and art peripheral design, HEYTEA has established a bridge for the public to engage with contemporary art using new-style tea as a medium," said a spokesperson for HEYTEA. "It also provides a new paradigm for new-style tea brands in exploring the combination of business and art."

Looking Ahead

HEYTEA remains committed to bringing joy to consumers by continually innovating and exploring new frontiers. The brand aims to connect new-style tea drinks to more life scenes, relying on strong product development and design prowess to interpret crossover collaborations at a high level. As the partnership with Yayoi Kusama unfolds, HEYTEA invites everyone to partake in this unique blend of art and tea culture. Whether through enjoying the limited-edition BOBO teas or experiencing the monumental pumpkin sculpture, consumers worldwide are encouraged to "Add a Touch of BOBO to the World."

About Yayoi Kusama: The Queen of Polka Dots

Born in Matsumoto, Japan, Yayoi Kusama is one of the most influential artists of our time. Her work spans painting, sculpture, performance art, and installations, all characterized by themes of repetition, pattern, and accumulation. Kusama's iconic use of polka dots symbolizes infinity and the interconnectedness of all things.

Growing up in a family that cultivated plant seeds, Kusama developed a deep connection to pumpkins, a motif that has recurred in her art since the late 1940s. She views each polka dot as a representation of individuals in society—unique yet interconnected—emphasizing the importance of unity and collective harmony. In the context of "Life of the Pumpkin Recites, All About the Biggest Love for the People," these ideas take on even greater significance. The installation not only reflects Kusama’s personal connection to the pumpkin but also serves as a powerful metaphor for unity and peace.

In today's era of unity and understanding, Kusama extends her message of love and peace to a global audience through this collaboration. "I hope that through the China Project presented together with HEYTEA, the audience can feel that the power of art can cross cultural barriers and convey hope and love," Kusama expressed. This sentiment resonates deeply with HEYTEA's mission to bring joy and inspiration to people's lives through tea.

About HEYTEA

HEYTEA is the originator of new-style tea industry founded in 2012. With over 4,300 stores worldwide, HEYTEA is dedicated to innovating traditional tea culture by infusing it with modern elements and creativity. Armed with the principal of using only real ingredients and no artificial flavors or colorants, HEYTEA created the first Cheese Tea by blending cheese foam with fresh tea. The brand also offers a diverse range of products, from cheese-topped teas to fruit-infused beverages, catering to a global audience seeking quality and novelty. 

For more information about HEYTEA, please visit: www.heytea.com, follow us on Instagram @heytea.official, or email pr@heytea.com.

Spice Palette, nominated "Best Indian Food" in the Best of Charleston 2024, announces its new Thali Lunch special. Thali in Hindi means “small plate.” This traditional Indian meal features a variety of dishes served together on a single platter, offering a balanced and flavorful dining experience, showcasing the diverse tastes of India.

Available Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., the Thali Lunch menu includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Each platter presents small bowls, or katoris, filled with popular dishes, allowing guests to sample multiple flavors in one meal.

The introduction of the Thali Lunch special by Spice Palette is important as it allows customers to sample the restaurant's most popular dishes in a convenient and visually appealing way. By offering a variety of small portions on a single platter, customers can experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine in one sitting.

Spice Palette, known for serving authentic Indian cuisine and being recognized for its excellence in the Charleston food scene, continues to innovate and provide unique dining experiences for its customers. The introduction of the Thali Lunch special further showcases the restaurant's commitment to offering traditional Indian flavors in a modern and accessible way.

"Our Thali Lunch offers a true taste of India in one sitting," says Sujith Varghese, owner of Spice Palette. "We’re excited to bring this unique experience to Charleston."

Spice Palette remains dedicated to bringing the vibrant flavors of India to Charleston, with a continued focus on delivering authentic and memorable dining experiences.

For more information on Spice Palette and the Thali Lunch special, follow @spicepalette on social media and visit www.spicepaletteindiancuisine.com.

About Spice Palette

Located in the heart of Mount Pleasant in South Carolina, Spice Palette is an authentic Indian restaurant dedicated to bringing the vibrant flavors of India to the Lowcountry. Our menu offers dishes prepared with authentic spices and ingredients from across India's varied culinary landscapes, and we specialize in the deep flavors found in South Indian cuisine. Our full-service bar features Indian liquors, spices and fresh ingredients, with a selection of imported Indian beer and wine. Experience the bold spices of South India and flavors from across the subcontinent at Spice Palette. For more information visit www.spicepaletteindiancuisine.com.

Reliable Parts has launched a new brand logo that includes an updated wordmark and a distinctive brand mark designed to effectively communicate the company's offerings to customers. Along with the logo, a new slogan has been introduced to highlight Reliable Parts' history. The logo redesign reflects a thoughtful approach to what makes Reliable Parts a trusted distributor for existing customers while aiming to attract new ones. The updated logo will be rolled out across all public and internal company touchpoints starting November 5, 2024.

About Reliable Parts

Since 1933, Reliable Parts has been serving North America with factory authorized replacement appliance and consumer electronic parts and accessories, evolving into one of the largest appliance parts and electronics parts distributors on the continent. There are three Canadian distribution centers in Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver and our head office in Coquitlam, British Columbia. The U.S. market is served by distribution centers in Sacramento, Mesquite, and Indianapolis and our U.S. headquarters in Dallas, Texas. All branches are located in major cities across North America. Visit Reliable Parts online at www.reliableparts.ca.