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Market Alert: Actelis Networks Receives Buy Rating and $5 Price Target from Analyst Theodore R. O’Neill

Global Markets News

Actelis Networks Inc. (NASDAQ:ASNS), a leader in hybrid fiber-copper and cyber-hardened networking solutions, has received a vote of confidence from analyst Theodore R. O’Neill of Litchfield Hills Research. O’Neill has initiated coverage with a "Buy" rating and a price target of $5, citing Actelis’ innovative technology, growth trajectory, and potentially undervalued shares. A Leader in Cyber-Hardened IoT Networking Actelis (NASDAQ: ASNS) is a pioneering provider of rapid-deployment networking solutions for IoT and mission-critical broadband applications. The company's core technology enables fiber-grade performance over hybrid fiber-copper networks, a significant advantage for sectors needing cost-effective solutions without extensive infrastructure overhauls. The report also highlights Actelis’ "Cyber Aware Networking" initiative, which integrates AI-driven cybersecurity into its networking solutions. The report underscores Actelis' "well-protected technology moat," supported by 31 granted U.S. patents and proprietary trade secrets, which give the company a unique edge in a competitive market. Its Triple Shield Protection technology ensures secure, high-speed connectivity across diverse media types, such as fiber, coax, and copper, enabling seamless integration even in challenging environments. The analyst highlights the strength of Actelis' product portfolio, including the MetaLIGHT and GigaLine series, which address critical needs in intelligent traffic systems (ITS), military, utilities, and smart city projects. The report also notes the recent addition of the GL900 series, which offers ultra-low-power solutions tailored for multi-dwelling units (MDUs). Strong Growth Strategy The report points to Actelis’ strategic shift in 2023, where the company redirected its focus from legacy telecom customers to industrial and government clients. This shift has already shown results, with triple-digit year-over-year revenue growth reported in Q3 2024 and expectations of continued double-digit growth into 2025. Additionally, the report emphasizes Actelis’ global reach, serving over 300 customers across 30 countries, and its blue-chip client list that includes government agencies, transportation authorities, and defense organizations. Notably, recent deployments, such as modernizing Washington, D.C.'s traffic network, highlight the reliability and versatility of its solutions. O’Neill’s analysis suggests that Actelis shares, which closed at $1.03 on December 20, could be significantly undervalued. The report projects a $5 price target within 12 months based on discounted future earnings, using an 8% discount rate and assuming sustainable growth driven by Actelis’ innovative products and market position. The report further highlights Actelis’ steep discount to peers, trading at just 0.53x 2025 market cap/sales compared to a peer group average of 4.3x. If the stock were to trade at the peer group average, its valuation could exceed $8. The report also addresses several risks, including industry competition, regulatory challenges, and Actelis’ history of operating losses. However, it notes that financial risks appear manageable, with sustainable breakeven projected by late 2025 or early 2026 at quarterly revenue levels of approximately $3.4 million. Conclusion The initiation of coverage by Litchfield Hills Research marks an intruging endorsement for Actelis Networks. The report highlights Actelis’ robust technology portfolio, proven market presence, and significant growth potential as reasons for optimism. Actelis’ innovative approach to leveraging hybrid fiber-copper networks and its focus on cybersecurity position it well to potentially capitalize on the growing demand for modernized critical infrastructure. Based on the report, As urbanization and IoT adoption accelerate, Actelis is could to capture a larger share of this multi-billion-dollar market. * * * Important disclaimers and disclosures: This article includes speculative forward looking statements. Readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Companies in emerging industries such as Actelis (the “company”) are volatile and risky and readers are advised to seek out professional advice in the relevant fields from licensed professionals. This article was issued by Global Markets Media, a commercial digital brand operated for IR purposes who's operators are compensated by actelis for coverage and distribution services. The above content is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to serve as financial or investment advice and this constitutes an advertisement for the purposes of section 17(b) of the securities act. This above content has not been reviewed or approved by the company. Please review the full disclaimers and disclosures detailing conflicts of interest [ https://justpaste.it/ecto7/pdf ]. The report mentioned was issued by a licensed analyst who is subject to his own conflicts of interest and disclainers/disclosures and readers are advised to refer to the full report. Contact Details News Coverage ronald@futuremarketsresearch.com

December 23, 2024 08:10 AM Eastern Standard Time

Market Alert: Actelis Networks Introduces MetaShield, Pioneering AI Solutions for Critical Infrastructure Protection (NASDAQ: ASNS)

Global Markets News

Actelis Networks (NASDAQ: ASNS) has just announced the launch of MetaShield, a groundbreaking AI-based cybersecurity solution poised to redefine security protocols for IoT and critical infrastructure networks. This pivotal is representative exemplifies Actelis' visionary approach and marks a significant leap forward in its mission to enhance networks across the globe, setting a new standard in creating robust and secure IoT networks and achieving critical infrastrucutre modernization. Addressing Growing Threats to Critical Infrastructure The introduction of MetaShield is particularly significant as it directly responds to the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure. With cyberattacks on essential systems reportedly surging by 30% in 2023, organizations across sectors are under immense pressure to bolster their defenses. MetaShield’s advanced capabilities, including real-time anomaly detection and AI-driven threat mitigation, empower Actelis to offer a proactive solution that not only secures networks but also safeguards vital operations. This focus on protecting critical infrastructure aligns Actelis with the urgent needs of governments and industries, positioning it as a trusted partner in enhancing national and operational security. Expanding Opportunities for Upselling MetaShield is not just a standalone product; it represents a strategic opportunity for Actelis to deepen its relationships with existing clients and explore upselling potential. As organizations adopt MetaShield, Actelis can leverage this integration to provide additional services and upgrades, enhancing customer loyalty and increasing revenue per client. This ability to deliver comprehensive, layered security solutions creates a compelling value proposition, ensuring that Actelis remains indispensable to its clients' operational needs. A Lean and Growing Software Business Model The launch of MetaShield signifies a critical step towards a growing Software as a Service (SaaS) model that can drive recurring revenue and solidify Actelis’ position within the cybersecurity sector. By establishing a lean, software-focused business model, Actelis is positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for subscription-based cybersecurity solutions. This shift may not only only enhances the financial position in the long term, but also aligns with broader industry trends where clients prefer flexible, scalable solutions that adapt to their evolving security needs. Moreover, the ongoing software revenue stream may further allow Actelis to invest in continuous innovation and development, ensuring that its solutions remain at the forefront of cybersecurity technology. As the market for cybersecurity solutions continues to expand, Actelis' commitment to a growing software business model will be essential for long-term success and competitiveness. A New Era for Actelis Networks In summary, the announcement of MetaShield marks a revolutionary step for Actelis Networks, showcasing its commitment to innovation and leadership in the cybersecurity landscape. By addressing the urgent needs for robust security in critical infrastructure, creating upselling opportunities, and transitioning to a lean software business model, Actelis is exceptionally well-positioned to meet the growing demand for integrated security solutions. The launch of MetaShield could not only elevate Actelis' market position but also reinforce the resilience of critical infrastructure in an interconnected world. This launch is not just a new product; it may very well be the start of a transformative chapter for Actelis Networks as it aims to shape the future of cybersecurity. Read Actelis Networks' Latest Announcements * * * * This news alert may include speculative forward looking statements. Readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Companies in emerging industries are volatile and risky and readers are advised to seek out preffesional advice in the relevent feilds from licensed profesionals. This news alert was issued by Global Markets Media, a commercial digital brand operated for IR purposes who's operators are compensated by actelis for coverage and distribution services. The above content is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to serve as financial or investment advice and this constitutes an advertisement for the purposes of section 17(b) of the securities act. Please review the full disclaimers and disclosures detailing conflicts of interest [https://justpaste.it/ecto7/pdf]. Contact Details Global Markets News Desk ronald@futuremarketsresearch.com

December 20, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Sportradar Partners With The NBA To Help Bring A New Era Of Sports Viewership To Fans

Benzinga

By Anthony Termini, Benzinga Click here to listen to Sportradar’s 3 rd Quarter 2024 earnings call Melting into a leather recliner or plush couch facing a big screen to watch games on Sunday may have been a hallowed tradition for generations of sports fans. But according to St. Gallen, Switzerland-based Sportradar Group AG (NASDAQ: SRAD), this is changing – viewers in their twenties don’t see sports competing with linear viewing like feature movies. Sport remains one of the only experiences that demands being seen live, but for this audience, it also competes with gaming and social media for viewers’ attention. And Sportradar, positioned at the intersection of the sports, media and betting industries, is reimagining this shift. Marrying Live Sports With Immersive Data And A Game Of Opportunity? Sportradar is a global sports technology company creating immersive experiences for sports fans and bettors through deep and insightful analytics and value-added solutions served up in real time as a game is being played, immersing the viewer in the action. Part of this is achieved by using generative AI technology that can deliver a hyper-personalized experience with custom viewing angles and real-time, dynamic animation overlays. One result of this is that viewers interested in making online bets can potentially better understand what is happening on the court. Sportradar says it provides sports leagues, news media, consumer platforms and sports betting operators a range of solutions to help grow their businesses. As a result, Sportradar is partnered with some of the biggest sports organizations in the world. In 2016, Sportradar became the NBA’s official provider of real-time league statistics. In 2021, it announced a 10-year, exclusive global partnership with the NBA, WNBA and the NBA G League (the NBA’s minor league farm system) to distribute official league data and create content using the leagues’ exclusive data. Today, Sportradar is also partnered with organizations like the ATP, the NHL, MLB, NASCAR and top global soccer properties UEFA, CONMEBOL, FIFA and Bundesliga. The company says it covers close to a million events annually across several major sports. Sportradar’s push to find new ways for fans to get closer to the action has helped drive its topline growth. The company’s most recent earnings report is a testament to that. Sportradar’s Growth-Oriented Strategy To Drive Broad-Based Outperformance During Sportradar’s third-quarter 2024 earnings calls, the company reported that revenue increased 27% on a year-over-year basis for the same period. When earnings were released on Nov. 7, Carsten Koerl, Sportradar’s CEO, said that the company continues “to show strong momentum in the U.S., which we expect to be further bolstered by the growth of in-game betting and with the start of the NBA and NHL seasons.” The company’s optimism for this appears to be bolstered by its October 2024 announcement that it has expanded its relationship with the NBA with the launch of a suite of next-generation fan engagement products. These include a tool that transforms real-time official NBA data into 3D visualizations and customizable viewing angles that help keep fans engaged in a betting operator’s app as they are served in-play betting opportunities. Another tool works to predict possible outcomes in a game so that fans can have a greater appreciation of the action on the court and, if they so choose, make better informed betting decisions in real time. Furthermore, subscribers to NBA League Pass in the U.S. now have functionality that allows them to track bets within a broadcast. Innovations like these helped Sportradar’s quarterly profit to increase by 14.5% to €37 million. Adjusted EBITDA rose 30% to €66 million. And Adjusted EBITDA margin expanded to 25.8%. Net cash from operating activities for the quarter increased to €118 million, while free cash flow increased to €62 million. During the conference call, Sportradar announced that it was raising full-year guidance for revenue, adjusted EBITDA and margins. The company also noted it had repurchased $8.3 million worth of its shares during the quarter. Potential Opportunities Exist For Further Growth Sportradar says it has served over 50 billion ad impressions for over 200 gambling operators over the past year. During the company’s earnings call, Sportradar also noted that it had added paid search to its ad:s marketing service. This can enable operators to more effectively reach and acquire customers searching betting and gaming-related topics online. Sportradar also launched a micro markets strategy for soccer and the ATP, which provides up to 1,500 betting opportunities in a single match. The company plans to expand micro markets to basketball, baseball, American football and ice hockey in early 2025. The recipient of several industry awards, Sportradar was recognized in two categories at the 2024 American Gambling Awards. Its 4Sight technology was named Betting Product of the Year. The company was also named Data Service Provider of the Year. Sportradar is planning an Investor Day in 2025. Learn more about the Sportradar earnings call here. Featured photo courtesy of Sportradar. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. 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

December 10, 2024 08:35 AM Eastern Standard Time

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For the Second Year in a Row, Shareholder Calls for Microsoft Shareholders to Reject Reid Hoffman

NLPC

The annual meeting for Microsoft Corporation is on Tuesday, and for the second year in a row, an investor is calling upon shareholders to oppose the re-election of tech entrepreneur and political agitator Reid Hoffman to the board of directors. Earlier this year, National Legal and Policy Center sent a letter to Microsoft Corporation calling upon Hoffman to resign from the board, and if he refused, then for his fellow directors to call a special meeting to vote on his removal. The shareholder group wrote that he should not continue to serve on Microsoft’s board, after Hoffman wished for the death of former President Donald Trump just days before an attempted assassination on the now President-elect. The letter, sent in July, followed NLPC’s plea last year in advance of the tech company’s 2023 annual meeting, which asked voting shareholders to oppose Hoffman’s re-election to a seat on the board. NLPC argued then (and argues now) that the former member of the “Paypal mafia” harbors an unhealthy obsession with the personal and political destruction of President-elect Trump, and that he displays an intolerance and temperament that is unbefitting for a director of a prestigious multinational corporation like Microsoft. NLPC also called into question Hoffman’s extremely poor judgment in his visit to Little Saint James island with multi-millionaire financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as well as his regular associations with him, many years after the pedophile was convicted for the abuse of underage girls. For these same reasons, NLPC demanded that Hoffman be removed as a member of the Defense Department’s Innovation Advisory Board “Under any other circumstances, Reid Hoffman’s caustic rhetoric, his reckless conduct, and his preoccupation with the destruction of a political foe, would disqualify him from the privilege of serving on a corporate board,” said Paul Chesser, director of the Corporate Integrity Project for NLPC. “Corporate America seems to be coming to their senses finally on issues like DEI and the transgender delusion, so maybe shareholders will finally reject an extremist like Mr. Hoffman, because they should.” NLPC released a satirical video in October that identified several of Hoffman’s sins and shortcomings that make him unqualified for Microsoft’s board of directors. ### For more information or to schedule an interview with Paul Chesser, contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or drene@nlpc.org. Please visit http://www.nlpc.org. Founded in 1991, the National Legal and Policy Center promotes ethics in public life through research, investigation, education and legal action. Contact Details National Legal and Policy Center Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 drene@nlpc.org Company Website http://www.nlpc.org

December 09, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Velocity Global Welcomes Johan Land and Carol MacKinlay to Its Leadership Team As It Enters Its Next Phase of Growth

Velocity Global

Velocity Global, the leading expert on global workforce management, today announced the appointments of Johan Land as Chief Product Officer (CPO) and Carol MacKinlay as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). As CPO, Johan will be instrumental in driving the company's product vision and strategy to exceed customer expectations. As CHRO, Carol will lead Velocity Global’s human resources strategy and operations, ensuring the company has the right global talent to meet their customers’ needs. "I am excited to welcome Johan and Carol - they have impressive track records of growing innovative organizations that have disrupted their industries," says Francoise Brougher, CEO at Velocity Global. “Their exceptional leadership qualities come at a pivotal moment for Velocity Global, and I am confident they will have a significant positive impact on our customers and employees.” Johan brings a wealth of experience in building and scaling product teams, advocating for product-led growth, and driving innovation. He most recently served as CPO of TomTom, where he led a team of over 200 people through a pivot moving from hardware to software offering. His previous roles include transformative leadership positions at Kobalt Music, Waymo, YouTube and Google. "I am passionate about fostering teams that drive product innovation and create exceptional user experiences," states Johan Land. "I see a tremendous opportunity to disrupt and lead in our field, and I am thrilled to contribute to Velocity Global's potential." Carol is an experienced people leader, board member, and advisor with more than three decades of experience across all aspects of HR. Striking the balance between talent, culture, and efficient processes, she has created and scaled diverse teams at companies across different stages of growth from early seed rounds through IPO and as post-public companies. Most recently, Carol was the Chief People Officer at Binance.US, a technology and brand licensee of Binance.com, where she built the people team, grew in over 15 countries, and oversaw an eight-fold increase in headcount to a workforce of over 800. "Scaling companies and building strong financial foundations through strategic team assembly and a focus on culture is my forte," shares Carol MacKinlay. "I am eager to bring my expertise to Velocity Global and contribute to its next phase of growth and success." Velocity Global continues to redefine the global employment landscape by combining its AI-powered Global Workforce Platform with exceptional expertise and customer service. With the addition of Johan Land and Carol MacKinlay to their leadership team, the company is poised to lead the charge in empowering businesses across the globe to hire anyone, anywhere with confidence. For more information on how Velocity Global makes opportunity borderless for people everywhere, visit www.velocityglobal.com. About Velocity Global Velocity Global gives you the power to build your team everywhere—combining seamless technology and local expertise in 185+ countries. We make it simple to compliantly hire, pay, manage, and retain talent anywhere. With Velocity Global, the world is yours. Contact Details Media contact +1 720-650-4348 press@velocityglobal.com Company Website https://velocityglobal.com/

December 04, 2024 10:05 AM Pacific Standard Time

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Upcoming Book 'The FUSE Pathway' Introduces a Way for Combining Passions to Lead a Fulfilling Life

Paul Kirby

In anticipation of his April 2025 book launch, 'The FUSE Pathway: How to Find and Lead a Fulfilling Life,' Paul Kirby invites audiences to explore an immersive Virtual Reality (VR) tour of his art gallery and robotics studio. This early release provides a hands-on introduction to 'fusioneering'—Kirby’s innovative approach to merging diverse interests and passions for a richer, more fulfilling life. Now live on The FUSE Pathway website, the VR tour features "Dulcinea," Kirby’s self-engineered painting robot, demonstrating his groundbreaking fusion of art and science. “Embarking on 'The FUSE Pathway' has created insights to both invention and personal discovery," Kirby reflects. "This book and the accompanying VR tour reflect my quest to harmoniously blend art and science. I hope to serve as an inspiration, supporting others to realize the potential of fusing diverse interests and passions to pursue a more fulfilling and authentic way of life.” A Unique Gateway into The FUSE Pathway Experience the groundbreaking fusion of art and technology in The Paul Kirby Virtual Art Gallery and Robotics Studio tour. Visitors will witness the extraordinary results achievable through fusioneering, exemplified by "Dulcinea," the AI-driven painting robot Kirby designed and built. Each artwork created by Kirby and Dulcinea involves thousands of lines of code, with brushstrokes often numbering just as many, illustrating the meticulous precision and complex programming behind each piece. Among the artworks available for viewing is "Swirling Timbers of Chaos," which, for instance, comprises 24,875 unique brushstrokes —a creative outcome of a program Kirby developed inspired by the game of pickup sticks. Among the first of its kind, the VR tour offers a mixed media experience influenced by the digital experiences offered by the world’s most famous galleries, including London’s National Gallery. Inspired by the enthusiastic reactions of young visitors to Kirby’s physical gallery and studio, this ultra-high-resolution experience presents the vibrant color of brushwork as if you’re standing in front of the paintings before you. Interactive elements enable visitors to zoom in to see individual paint brushstrokes in great detail and explore videos that dive deeper into the artistic and technical story behind the paintings. Designed to inspire and excite readers about the possibilities of fusioneering, this immersive experience sets the stage for the deeper explorations and guidance provided in Kirby’s book, "The FUSE Pathway." Leading up to the book’s release, the VR tour serves as a unique, hands-on demonstration of Kirby’s philosophy, allowing visitors to see where Kirby and Dulcinea collaborate to create one-of-a-kind paintings. By immersing themselves in the VR tour, visitors can begin their own fusioneering journey, months before the book is released. Start Your Fusioneering Journey Today Future fusioneers can begin their journey by visiting the now-available VR tour, subscribing to Kirby’s newsletter, or pre-ordering The FUSE Pathway today. These resources are available to all and offer an immediate and interactive way to engage with the concepts fully explored in the forthcoming book. Follow The FUSE Pathway (@thefusepathway) on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to join the growing community of creative thinkers reshaping their worlds through fusioneering. About Paul Kirby: Paul Kirby is the creator of “fusioneering,” a methodology for combining two or more personal interests and passions to craft a vision and way of life aligned with one's true purpose. His unique application of fusioneering, through the integration of art and technology, has led to the development of Dulcinea, a robot that produces original artworks, illustrating this innovative philosophy's pragmatic, yet inspiring possibilities. Kirby’s forthcoming book, "The FUSE Pathway," explores how individuals can use fusioneering to craft a vision for a more exciting and fulfilling life. For more insights into Paul Kirby’s applied philosophy and to explore the world of fusioneering, visit TheFUSEPathway.com. Contact Details Center Reach Communications Alexandra Campbell alexandra@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website https://thefusepathway.com

December 03, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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New Alvarez & Marsal Fall 2024 Consumer Sentiment Report Highlighting the Impact of Ongoing Consumer Skepticism on Holiday Plans and Winter Spending

Alvarez & Marsal Consumer and Retail Group

· Since the sharp pullback observed during last year's holiday season, consumers have maintained conservative spending habits. · Consumers are demonstrating greater loyalty to stores over brands, challenging the conventional notion of brand loyalty · Shoppers are expected to pull back their spending across all major holiday spending categories this year · Although in-store shopping remains the primary channel, consumers are increasingly gravitating towards online platforms for their holiday purchases Global professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal’s Consumer and Retail Group (A&M CRG) released its latest consumer report, Consumer Sentiment Survey Fall 2024, which analyzes how shifting economic conditions have shaped consumer spending patterns over the past year and explores anticipated spending behaviors for the next six months. This seventh edition of the bi-annual Consumer Sentiment Report draws from a survey of 2,100+ U.S. adults, demographically representative across gender, age, ethnicity, region and income. The report examines evolving consumer behaviors in response to personal finances and economic conditions. It provides insights into shopping priorities across categories, economic conditions, holiday plans, and other key factors influencing purchase decisions for the upcoming fall season, alongside other relevant consumer trends. These insights help retailers optimize inventory, marketing, and pricing while improving their market position. “In today's cost-conscious market, consumers are doing more research and spending less. Retailers must deliver clear value to win their business,” stated Chad Lusk, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal’s Consumer and Retail Group. “Consumers are playing it safe with their wallets these days - the fizzle in their optimism since last spring tells us they tightened their belts after the holidays last year and aren't in a hurry to loosen up again. “ The study found that: Consumer outlook for holiday spending is weaker compared to Fall 2023, as consumers anticipate spending less Inflation, interest rates and the job market are the top three macro- economic trends impacting consumer spending decisions Higher income consumers ($100K+) have relatively consistent spending plans, while lower income brackets are planning to spend 13% less this year Higher income households are prioritizing saving, with plans to increase savings by 4% in households making $100K or more. In contrast, lower income households are planning to save 4% less compared to previous periods As consumers look for savvy ways to decrease holiday spending, lower income consumers (<$100K) will purchase less expensive gifts this year while higher income consumers will find other ways to cut back such as waiting for items to go on sale “This holiday season, retailers should be mindful of consumers' cautious approach to spending and adjust their strategies to better align with holiday shopping behaviors and budgets,“ Lusk advised. “To appeal to value-focused consumers, retailers can optimize their omnichannel experience and pricing structure to match evolving shopper priorities and spending plans.” To download a pdf of Consumer Sentiment Survey Fall 2024, please visit: https://alvarezandmarsal-crg.com/insight/consumer-sentiment-survey-fall-2024/ The Alvarez and Marsal Consumer and Retail Group (CRG) is a management consulting firm that tackles the most complex challenges and advances its clients, people, and communities toward their maximum potential. CRG combines the best of A&M’s broader firm's bias toward action and practicality with deep consumer and retail industry experience. CRG partners with businesses across a wide range of categories including Food & Beverage, Beauty & Personal Care, Grocery, Mass Merchandise, and Apparel & Footwear to drive significant performance improvement. Contact Details David Schneidman dschneidman@alvarezandmarsal.com Company Website https://www.alvarezandmarsal.com/industries/retail/retail

November 21, 2024 03:15 PM Eastern Standard Time

Media and Democracy Project Urges FCC to Establish a 'Bright-Line Test' with Hearing on FOX Affiliate’s Broadcast License

Media and Democracy Project

Today, the Media and Democracy Project (MAD), joined by a bipartisan coalition of prominent former FCC officials, legal experts, and media advocates, filed further comments with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) urging the agency to designate the WTXF-TV broadcast license application for a hearing. In its filing, the coalition asserts that this matter is not controversial nor political and that action by the Commission is a straightforward application of its statutory obligations. “Our petition is not about speech or political slant—it’s about the deliberate business decision by the Murdochs and Fox to lie to the American people about the 2020 election to protect the company’s profits,” said Brian Hansbury, Co-Founder of the Media and Democracy Project. “That decision cannot be squared with the character requirements of the Communications Act, and the FCC has the opportunity to prove that its public interest policy matters.” The filing argues that this case is “easily distinguishable from routine complaints by politicians about the political slant of a particular channel or classic journalistic prerogatives.” The group calls for the Commission to establish a “bright-line test to provide clear guidance on when a hearing is required.” The filing continues, “[p]roviding this guidance also would be a crowning addition to this Commission’s legacy.” “Commissioner Carr’s recent threat against the broadcast industry (an echo of Trump’s threat against ABC and CBS – against whom there has been no judicial finding) illustrates the importance of this commission adopting a more clear bright line test that invokes the character provision of the communications act only after there has been a judicial finding,” said former Murdoch lobbyist Preston Padden. “If the FCC fails to act, it risks setting a dangerous precedent that undermines its own authority and the public’s trust in broadcast media.” In urging Commission action, the group also called on the FCC to pay particular attention to three passages from earlier informal comments: In an earlier filing from Former FCC Chairman Alfred Sikes, the radio station owner recounted preparing his first application for a station license. It required him to commit to operate in the ‘public interest.’ He recalled wondering whether that language was “just some bureaucratic construct or a legally enforceable requirement.” Later, after serving as Chairman of the Commission, he notes that “the answer is still elusive.” In an informal objection, Former FCC Commissioner Ervin S. Duggan and former Editor of The Weekly Standard Bill Kristol, cited Judge Davis’s findings in US Dominion, Inc. v. Fox News Network, emphasizing that Fox’s behavior “is not consistent with the FCC’s character requirements for broadcast licensees who are supposed to operate their stations in the public interest first and foremost.” The pair continued, “given that the Murdoch/Fox lies contributed to the January 6 riot in the Capitol and duped millions of Americans into believing that the election was stolen, their actions shocked the conscience.” In informal comments from preeminent defender of media First Amendment rights, Floyd Abrams, he recounted his long history of serving as counsel to media organizations whose First Amendment rights were threatened. Notwithstanding that history, Abrams states, “but knowing and repeated distortion of information about a forthcoming election is precisely what a broadcaster may not do, and that the Commission may consider in determining whether license renewal is appropriate.” The joint informal comments were filed by Brian Hansbury, MAD’s Co-founder; Alfred Sikes, former Republican Chairman of the FCC, Ervin S. Duggan, former Democratic FCC Commissioner and former PBS President, William Kristol, longtime Editor of The Weekly Standard, William Reyner, longtime lead regulatory and commercial outside counsel To Murdoch/Fox, and Preston Padden, former executive of Fox Broadcasting Company and former lead lobbyist for Rupert Murdoch/News Corporation/Fox. A copy of the informal comments is available here. A link to a timeline of MAD’s petition is available here. The Media and Democracy Project: MAD is a non-partisan, all-volunteer, grassroots organization focused on strengthening a free and independent media in the public interest. MAD aims to improve our national discourse so that American voters can engage in informed decision-making. As part of that goal, MAD has an interest in the responsibility of journalists and media to report fully, accurately, and fairly on the electoral process and the outcome of elections. Additional information is available at www.MediaAndDemocracyProject.Org. Contact Details Aaron Alberico +1 202-744-0786 aalberico@raynoravenue.com Company Website https://www.mediaanddemocracyproject.org/

November 19, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

The Surety & Fidelity Association of America Congratulates Newly Elected Officials and Stands Ready to Work with Members of Both Parties to Advance Key Industry Priorities

SFAA

Following last week’s election, The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) extends congratulations to all newly elected officials and reaffirms its commitment to working across the aisle to advance the industry's interests. As a leading voice for the surety and fidelity industry, SFAA is dedicated to collaborating with policymakers on solutions that support economic growth, enhance public and private sector resilience, and protect taxpayers. “Now more than ever, we believe in the importance of bipartisan cooperation to advance our industry's top priorities before Congress, the Administration, and the States,” said SFAA President & CEO Ryan Work. “We look forward to working closely with new and returning leaders at every level of government to promote policies that empower businesses, safeguard consumers, protect workers, and strengthen our economy.” The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan trade association representing all segments of the surety and fidelity industry. Based in Washington, D.C., SFAA works to promote the value of surety and fidelity bonding by proactively advocating on behalf of its members and stakeholders. The association’s more than 425 member companies write 98 percent of surety and fidelity bonds in the U.S. For more information visit www.surety.org. Contact Details Peter Roth +1 703-401-0676 proth@surety.org Company Website https://surety.org/

November 15, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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