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Global MMA Superstar Conor McGregor Set To Drive Alta Global Group Growth After Ambassador Deal

RazorPitch MMA

Alta Global Group (NYSE:MMA), the premiere tech company on a mission to convert 640 million loyal combat sports fans to participants, has been gaining widespread attention from investors as it appears well positioned for major growth. In what is yet another critical milestone for the company, Alta Global Group (NYSE American: MMA) announced a new brand ambassadorship deal with Conor McGregor, the iconic former UFC superstar. This new deal incentivizes McGregor to assist Alta in any way possible and will potentially see him increase his stake in the company since he will get additional bonus shares as MMA’s stock price moves higher all the way to $20 per share. McGregor, who is known for his unparalleled reach and influence, boasting over 70 million followers across X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook, will leverage his extensive fan base to promote Alta's innovative products and programs. As a former UFC Featherweight and Lightweight Champion, the first to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously, and a former Cage Warriors Featherweight and Lightweight Champion, McGregor's achievements have cemented his status as the biggest pay-per-view draw in MMA history. His fights have consistently broken records, with his bout against Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229 drawing 2.4 million buys and his boxing debut against Floyd Mayweather Jr. garnering over 5.3 million buys illustrating his massive appeal to fans of combat sports. This ties in well with the fact that Alta Global Group (NYSE:MMA) has already amassed its own substantial user base and strong user engagement of about 15 million monthly views and over 5 million social media users. It also currently ranks in the top 3 for ‘MMA’ in global search results. In addition to that, McGregor's contribution to popularizing MMA and the UFC on a global scale is undeniable considering that in 2021 Forbes recognized him as the world's highest-paid athlete, earning $180 million. Nick Langton, Founder and CEO of Alta, remarked, "Conor McGregor’s involvement is a game-changer for Alta Global Group. His legacy and influence in the world of MMA are unmatched. We are honored and thrilled to have his endorsement and support, which will be instrumental in revolutionizing the martial arts and combat sports landscape." That is why McGregor's role will be pivotal in the growth of Alta’s Warrior Training Program and the promotion of Hype, Alta’s all-in-one marketing platform tailored for gyms, coaches, and combat sport participants. He will also play a significant part in promoting Alta’s newly established partnership with UFC Gyms, which will integrate the Warrior Training Program across their network of over 150 gyms worldwide. For context, Hype is like a mini-website builder, a CRM, and a payments processor, all built into one that you can operate from your smartphone. What this platform basically does is that it allows business owners to take their followers from social media apps and funnel them into a platform with more freedom and tools to communicate and monetize without being under the mercy of algorithms. Now add this to the fact that Alta has already built a huge database of over 9000 professional and amateur athlete profiles, 5645+ potential content creator profiles, and 3500+ tutorial libraries. That means that Alta Global Group (NYSE:MMA) is well positioned to provide marketing content, training syllabuses for gyms and coaches, and connect the underlying fans to an opportunity to train either online or inside a gym at one of the company’s gym partners globally. This is a win-win deal for everyone in the ecosystem, as fans interested in participating in the sport can be matched up with a coach and gym easily. Another important thing for investors to note is that Alta is monetizing in a way that the UFC or other large professional promotions don't presently do, which is through fan base participation and could make it a very attractive company in the eyes of these much larger companies in the future. More recently, the company announced that it had sealed a partnership deal with UFC Gym, including their Warrior Training program, which could bring in revenue of at least $7 million annually, illustrating just how substantial this opportunity is. Alta’s market capitalization is about $40 million right now, but there's plenty of room for upside, especially now that McGregor has become the company’s official ambassador based on the kind of social media reach he has. Moreover, according to a recent TechSci Research report, the global combat sports market is set for explosive growth driven by rising global interest in fitness and the widespread adoption of combat sports as a means of physical exercise as consumers realize the health benefits and mental discipline associated with these activities. This market is set to experience robust growth, growing from $8.7 billion in 2023 to about $12.6 billion by 2029, representing a CAGR of 6.5%. Disclaimers: RazorPitch Inc. "RazorPitch" is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment adviser. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact may be forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward looking statements in this action may be identified through use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements indicating certain actions & quote; may, could, or might occur. Understand there is no guarantee past performance will be indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap and growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investors investment may be lost or impaired due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. RazorPitch has been retained and compensated by the company to assist in the production and distribution of this content. RazorPitch is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer by RazorPitch or any third party service provider to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. RazorPitch is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 Mark@RazorPitch.com Company Website http://razorpitch.com

October 29, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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

Youth Inc.

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

October 28, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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

Forum Health

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

October 22, 2024 08:50 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Quantum BioPharma Ltd. Alleges Market Manipulation, Files Lawsuit, unbuzzed Continues To Gain Traction

QNTM

Quantum BioPharma Ltd. (NASDAQ: QNTM) (CSE: QNTM) continues to make strides in both biopharmaceutical innovation and its functional wellness product line. A biopharmaceutical company focused on the treatment of neurodegenerative and metabolic disorders, Quantum BioPharma’s recent efforts in launching a wellness beverage, unbuzzd, highlight a strategy to diversify and expand revenue streams beyond its core drug development. Expanding Market Reach with unbuzzd On October 7, 2024, Quantum BioPharma’s subsidiary, Celly Nutrition Corp., secured a Master Distribution Agreement with FUSION Consulting Group. This agreement grants unbuzzd, the company's innovative beverage designed to support the body in metabolizing alcohol, access to prominent retailers throughout Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and parts of Central and South America. Retailers such as Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, and Costco will soon offer unbuzzd, helping it penetrate vacation-heavy markets where alcohol consumption is a common part of the experience. John Duffy, CEO of Celly Nutrition, emphasized the significance of this partnership: “Our collaboration with FUSION allows us to reach a broader audience and help consumers make healthier choices when it comes to alcohol consumption.” Unbuzzd offers a unique value proposition by helping to expedite the body's alcohol metabolism process, promoting clarity and faster recovery. FUSION’s distribution expertise, which includes previous success with brands like CELSIUS and SHINE Water, further enhances the product’s growth prospects in new markets. Legal Action: Alleged Market Manipulation In addition to its expanding product portfolio, Quantum BioPharma has recently taken legal action to address what it claims is a multi-year market manipulation scheme. On October 20, 2024, the company filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, alleging that CIBC World Markets, RBC Dominion Securities, and other entities engaged in stock price manipulation, commonly referred to as "spoofing." This legal action seeks damages in excess of $700 million, a figure that reflects the significant harm Quantum BioPharma believes it suffered as a result of these activities. The lawsuit alleges that between January 1, 2020, and August 15, 2024, these defendants repeatedly manipulated the share price of Quantum BioPharma, contributing to a dramatic drop in its stock value. CEO John Duffy described this legal step as a necessary measure to protect the company’s interests and its shareholders: “The market manipulation we’ve experienced has had severe financial consequences for the company and our investors. We are pursuing this case with full confidence in the strength of the evidence.” Law firms Christian Attar and Freedman Normand Friedland LLP are representing Quantum BioPharma on a contingency basis, ensuring that the company does not bear immediate financial pressure for legal costs. They have conducted extensive investigations that they believe substantiate claims of substantial market manipulation, affecting both the company and its retail investors. "In the 21 years our team has been prosecuting market manipulation cases against Wall Street, I believe this could be one of the top 5 biggest spoofing/market manipulation cases we have handled," stated James Wes Christian, highlighting the potential damages in excess of $700 million USD due to the alleged manipulative practices. Key Milestones for the Future Beyond the current legal developments and the market expansion of unbuzzd, Quantum BioPharma is advancing its core biopharma pipeline. The company’s lead compound, Lucid-MS, is designed to address myelin degradation in multiple sclerosis. In August 2024, Quantum BioPharma announced that it had received ethics approval in Australia to commence Phase 1 clinical trials for Lucid-MS. This milestone marks a critical step forward in the development of a potentially groundbreaking treatment for this challenging neurodegenerative disorder. Quantum BioPharma’s focus on long-term innovation and near-term revenue generation is reflected in its diversified business model. By maintaining a 25.71% stake in Celly Nutrition and earning royalties from unbuzzd sales, the company is positioned to benefit financially while continuing its pioneering work in the biopharmaceutical sector. Additionally, Quantum BioPharma retains 100% of the rights to develop a pharmaceutical version of unbuzzd specifically for medical use, offering further growth potential in the future. Conclusion Quantum BioPharma Ltd. (NASDAQ: QNTM) (CSE: QNTM) is demonstrating solid progress on multiple fronts. With the successful launch and distribution agreement for unbuzzd, legal efforts to address past market manipulation, and key milestones in its drug development pipeline, QNTM’s multifaceted strategy positions it as a compelling stock to monitor. While the company’s biopharma ambitions, particularly with Lucid-MS, hold long-term promise, the expansion of unbuzzd into new markets could drive more immediate revenue growth, making QNTM a stock with strong potential in both the wellness and biopharmaceutical industries. Disclaimers: RazorPitch Inc. "RazorPitch" is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment adviser. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performances are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward-looking statements in this action may be identified through the use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements indicating certain actions & quote; may, could, or might occur. Understand there is no guarantee past performance will be indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap and growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investor's investment may be lost or impaired due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. RazorPitch has been retained and compensated by Lifewater Media to assist in the production and distribution of this content. RazorPitch is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. This content is for informational purposes only; you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer by RazorPitch or any third-party service provider to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. RazorPitch is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details RazorPitch Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 Mark@razorpitch.com Company Website http://razorpitch.com

October 21, 2024 11:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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

Players Health

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

October 21, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Denver Area’s “The Club at Ravenna” Earns Prestigious Platinum Club of America Status for 2025-2026

The Club at Ravenna

The leaders of private clubs across the United States have, for the first time, recognized the excellence of “The Club at Ravenna”, near Denver, as one of America’s top 150 private country clubs in the 2025-26 Platinum Clubs of America competition. The competition, sponsored by Club Leaders Forum, a worldwide organization committed to the advancement of excellence in global private club leadership, management and operations, places The Club at Ravenna in the top five percent of all private clubs nationwide, joining the ranks of such legendary institutions as Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland, Bel-Air Country Club in Los Angeles and The Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida. The voting body, comprised of the most informed Club Managers, CEOs, COOs, Presidents and Owners across the nation, selected Ravenna based on seven separate criteria, including amenities, service, staff, governance and overall experience. Approximately 4,100 ballots were distributed to private club leaders nationwide. "Judge us by the company we keep," said Kevin Collins, president & CEO of Ravenna. "To be ranked among the nation’s finest clubs confirms the unique community we've cultivated at Ravenna. Our members' passion and engagement, our employees and team leaders have propelled us to this exceptional status, and we are incredibly proud of what we've built together.” Only five other Colorado country clubs share the prestigious platinum ranking with Ravenna: Cherry Hills Country Club, Maroon Creek in Aspen, Roaring Fork in Basalt, The Country Club at Castle Pines and the Denver Country Club. For the past decade, under Collins’ leadership Ravenna has transformed from bankruptcy on the heels of the great recession with a tent for a clubhouse, limited amenities and just 50 golf members, into a nationally recognized top-tier country club with world-class status. Today, it stands among the nation’s elite clubs with a state-of-the-art clubhouse, diverse amenities and a thriving membership of more than 400. As part of its strategic plan, Ravenna will change its name to Ravenna Country Club to better reflect its status as an exclusive private club. This rebranding aligns with its newly attained platinum club status and will roll out over the next year. "Our transformation into Ravenna Country Club is a new chapter," said Collins. "This milestone will celebrate how far we've come and our commitment to elevate our already high standards of excellence in the years to come." # # # About The Club at Ravenna Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, The Club at Ravenna offers premier golf, world-class facilities and extraordinary experiences. A family-owned Private Club, Ravenna is known for its strong culture, dedication to excellence, and member camaraderie. Ravenna continues to elevate the standard, setting it apart as one of the most respected Private Clubs in Colorado. For more information about The Club at Ravenna, visit www.ravennagolf.com. Contact Details The Club at Ravenna Chris Collins +1 303-552-0593 ccollins@ravennagolf.com Company Website https://www.ravennagolf.com

October 18, 2024 08:05 AM Mountain Daylight Time

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The Great World Race Inaugural Event Features Terminal Cancer Survivor Sean Swarner and Social Media Star and Cancer Advocate Iain Ward, "The King of Chemo"

Ice Cap Adventures

The Great World Race announces its first annual event, launching on November 15th, 2024. This exciting competition invites participants to complete seven marathons on seven continents in seven consecutive days. Beginning at Wolf’s Fang in Antarctica, the 60 runners will then travel to Cape Town in Africa, followed by Perth in Australia. The Great World Race continues with two marathons in Istanbul, spanning both Asia and Europe across the Bosphorus. The final legs will take place in Cartagena, South America, and Miami, North America. Successful finishers will be eligible for The Global Marathon Club, recognizing those who complete all seven marathons in the designated timeframe. Additionally, there will be male and female champions determined by the fastest overall average marathon times across the continents. This year, The Great World Race has partnered with the non-profit charity LUNGevity who are transforming how people are diagnosed and live with lung cancer through research, education and support. LUNGevity will be represented by terminal cancer survivor Sean Swarner. Swarner was given 2 weeks to live as 16 year old, yet 33 years later he is getting ready for the 777 after having already completed the Explorers Grand Slam in 2017, one of only 50 people to ever complete the feat. His feat was all the more impressive given that Sean has only one functioning lung. Sean speaks of the bond he formed with LUNGevity and the community they help: “I spoke at the LUNGevity Hope Summit, an amazing event for lung cancer survivors and their caregivers. My immediate reaction was – this is my community! As a two-time cancer survivor, I understood what the attendees were going through, and decided then to help raise awareness for lung cancer and help raise funds for research. The Great World Race is the perfect platform to reach a whole new audience and get them involved. Please follow me and support the 1 in 18 people who will be diagnosed with lung cancer in their lifetime.” Becs Gentry, a Peloton instructor and marathon runner with a personal best of 2:32, is a prominent figure in the women's race. Based in New York City, Becs finished 4th in the 2021 British Olympic Trials, narrowly missing her chance to compete in the Olympics. Ashley Paulson, a two-time champion and record holder of the Badwater ultramarathon, will also race in Antarctica on November 15th. Additionally, Chirine Njeim from Lebanon brings impressive credentials, having represented her country at three Winter Olympics in skiing and at the marathon during the Beijing Summer Olympics. In the men's event, David Kilgore (USA) has carved out a reputation as one of the best in the world of endurance sport and ultrarunning. Two other athletes aim to achieve remarkable feats as they strive to be the oldest and youngest individuals to complete marathons on all seven continents within a week. Dan Little, an 81-year-old from Oklahoma, and Merrick Chernett, an 18-year-old from Michigan, are both seeking to make history. Notable participants include Alvaro Nunez, originally from Spain, who came to the United States on a tennis scholarship and has since become a successful ultramarathon runner, best-selling author, and entrepreneur based in Miami. Cole Brecka, son of well-known human biologist Gary Brecka, the man Dana White credited with changing his life and his health turnaround, will also join the event and aims to use the knowledge of his father in the science and nutrition space to turn himself into the first Ultimate Human Athlete. The Great World Race has gained international attention on social media, particularly with the involvement of social media creator and cancer awareness advocate, Iain Ward, known as @thekingofchemo. After being diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in 2020, Iain has dedicated his life to raising funds for cancer through athletic events. His inspiring journey and engaging posts have attracted over 12 million followers across social media platforms. Audiences are drawn to his ability to transform a tragic diagnosis into a proactive mission, combined with his witty humor. Iain is participating in the Great World Race to benefit the American Cancer Society by seeking corporate sponsorships and donations. When asked about this initiative, Iain stated: “My terminal brain cancer diagnosis has given me absolute clarity: I want to use the time I have left to laugh in cancer’s ugly face by raising more money for cancer research than anyone ever has. We want to break the world record of $3,000,000, starting with the Great World Race. You don’t even have to donate: The bigger the channel gets, the more sponsorships we get, and the more money goes to charity. But I can’t do this without you, and I need each and every one of you reading this to follow right now. It only takes seconds and it will help raise money for the 1 in 2 people who will get cancer in their lifetime. So do it for your friends, your family, everyone you know who is affected by cancer.” “I'm delighted to be joining forces with LUNGevity, the work they do is outstanding in helping their community through difficult times, sometimes when people have lost hope. It's also great to be working with all participants embarking on this outstanding physical and mental challenge. Sean's story is one that illustrates how you should never give up hope, no matter the circumstances and his adventures have shown what can be done when you believe in yourself. Iain is an incredible character, his ability to take a positive view on an extremely tough diagnosis is inspiring. We should all take a leaf out of his book and make the most out of life, health is too often a commodity we all take for granted”, said David Kelly, CEO of Ice Cap Adventures and Great World Race event director. For additional information or interest in joining the 2025 race, visit thegreatworldrace.com. To check out the great work LUNGevity do, visit HERE: www.LUNGevity.org/ To donate to Iain’s fundraiser for American Cancer Society visit HERE: https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR?pg=entry&fr_id=108295 About the Great World Race The Great World Race, organized by Ice Cap Adventures Limited, is the only 7-continents athletics event taking place in 2024. The CEO of the company and Race Director of the event, David Kelly, is a medical doctor and former Irish international athlete. David will be accompanied by a traveling support team of top professionals, all with extensive international experience in the polar regions and in round-the-world events. Among them are photographers and cameramen who will ensure every special marathon moment is captured for competitors and global media. Contact Details Ice Cap Adventures Limited David Kelly david@icecapadventures.com Company Website https://thegreatworldrace.com/

October 17, 2024 09:04 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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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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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. MBO’s 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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