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Industrials Sector ETF (XLI) Offers Broad Exposure to the Industrial Sector with Top Holdings

Select Sector SPDR

The Industrials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI) offers investors a strategic avenue to engage with the broad industrials sector. This fund is designed to track an index of industrial stocks from the S&P 500, weighted by modified market capitalization. With assets under management surpassing $19 billion and an annual expense ratio of just 0.09%*, XLI presents an efficient and cost-effective method to gain exposure to this vital sector. Top 10 Holdings & Weightings** The fund’s diversified portfolio includes leading industrial companies, each representing significant facets of the sector. As of the latest update, the top 10 holdings and their respective weightings are: GE Aerospace: 4.94% Caterpillar: 4.58% RTX: 3.89% Uber Technologies: 3.81% Union Pacific: 3.62% Honeywell International: 3.25% Eaton: 3.18% Lockheed Martin: 2.99% Automatic Data Processing: 2.72% Deere: 2.58% ETF Industry and Sector Overview XLI's portfolio spans a comprehensive array of industries within the industrial sector, providing investors with diverse opportunities, including: Aerospace and Defense: The ETF features prominent companies like GE Aerospace, RTX, and Lockheed Martin, ensuring exposure to leaders in aerospace and defense technologies. Electrical Equipment Manufacturers: Holdings such as Eaton highlight the fund’s inclusion of top-tier electrical equipment manufacturers, reflecting advancements and innovations in this field. Construction and Engineering Firms: Investment in companies like Caterpillar allows investors to benefit from the ongoing trends in global infrastructure development and urbanization. Industrial Machinery Companies: By including firms such as Honeywell International, XLI enables participation in the machinery and equipment manufacturing landscape. Building Products: The fund also covers a range of building product companies, offering insights into the dynamic construction markets. With its extensive portfolio, XLI provides a balanced view of the industrial sector, from foundational infrastructure to cutting-edge technological advancements. As the industrial landscape continues to evolve, XLI stands out as a compelling option for investors keen on accessing the manifold opportunities within this dynamic sector. The fund’s holdings ensure a broad yet targeted exposure, making it an attractive choice for those looking to invest in the industrial domain. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. *Ordinary brokerage fees apply **Holdings, Weightings & Assets as of 9/30/24 subject to change DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007891 EXP 12/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

October 22, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

TRON DAO Supports Princeton Blockchain Club’s Crypto TigerTrek as Ruby Sponsor

TRON DAO

Geneva, Switzerland, October 21, 2024 – TRON DAO participated as a Ruby Sponsor at Princeton Blockchain Club ’s 3rd Annual Crypto TigerTrek, a novel Princeton experience that brought together students and industry professionals for a week filled with discussions, networking, and educational sessions, all focused on the evolving landscape of blockchain technology. TRON DAO has collaborated with top academic institutions through initiatives like the TRON Builder Tour, which has visited universities such as MIT, Harvard, and Columbia. Princeton was another important stop in TRON’s mission to mentor the next generation of blockchain developers and leaders. A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation As part of this event, Steven Bischoff, TRON Community Spokesperson, delivered a keynote to Princeton students. In his address, he emphasized the essential skills required to succeed in the cryptocurrency industry, along with providing a comprehensive overview of how to effectively communicate, navigate, and build collaborations within the industry. The keynote also provided an overview of TRON’s robust ecosystem and stablecoin solutions are driving adoption within emerging markets, showcasing real-world applications of blockchain technology in various industries. About TRON DAO TRON DAO is a community-governed DAO dedicated to accelerating the decentralization of the internet via blockchain technology and dApps. Founded in September 2017 by Justin Sun, the TRON network has continued to deliver impressive achievements since MainNet launch in May 2018. July 2018 also marked the integration of BitTorrent, a pioneer in decentralized Web3 services, boasting over 100 million monthly active users. The TRON network has gained incredible traction in recent years. As of October 2024, it has over 265 million total user accounts on the blockchain, more than 8.7 billion total transactions, and over $16 billion in total value locked (TVL), as reported on TRONSCAN. In addition, TRON hosts the largest circulating supply of USD Tether (USDT) stablecoin across the globe, overtaking USDT on Ethereum since April 2021. The TRON network completed full decentralization in December 2021 and is now a community-governed DAO. Most recently in October 2022, TRON was designated as the national blockchain for the Commonwealth of Dominica, which marks the first time a major public blockchain partnered with a sovereign nation to develop its national blockchain infrastructure. On top of the government’s endorsement to issue Dominica Coin (“DMC”), a blockchain-based fan token to help promote Dominica’s global fanfare, seven existing TRON-based tokens – TRX, BTT, NFT, JST, USDD, USDT, TUSD, have been granted statutory status as authorized digital currency and medium of exchange in the country. TRONNetwork | TRONDAO | X | YouTube | Telegram | Discord | Reddit | GitHub | Medium | Forum Media Contact Yeweon Park press@tron.network Contact Details Yeweon Park press@tron.network Company Website https://trondao.org/

October 21, 2024 12:34 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Allyzent Unveils Proprietary Conversational AI to Revolutionize Healthcare Administration

Rev Up Marketers

Healthcare providers often find themselves overwhelmed with non-clinical tasks, from endless appointment scheduling to navigating the complexities of billing and insurance. These burdens drain valuable time and divert attention away from patient care. To address this challenge, Allyzent has unveiled a game-changing Conversational AI solution that aims to redefine administrative efficiency in the healthcare sector. Allyzent's proprietary Large Language Model (LLM) promises a breakthrough in healthcare technology. Unlike other AI platforms that rely on third-party models, this in-house LLM will offer unmatched reliability while ensuring complete HIPAA compliance. This will significantly reduce the risk of data exposure and inaccuracies. It is set to provide healthcare providers peace of mind in managing sensitive patient information. According to Allyzent, this AI will also integrate seamlessly with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems, enabling it to identify patients due for their annual checkups and automatically schedule appointments. This level of integration will close care gaps more effectively. Additionally, the AI will handle routine non-clinical tasks like patient outreach, front-office support, billing reminders, and prior authorization checks. It will ensure healthcare providers can dedicate more time to patient care. "Our mission with Allyzent's Conversational AI is to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and their patients by eliminating the administrative tasks that often hinder efficient care,” says Shahbaz Sohail, the founder of Allyzent. “By developing our own in-house LLM, we’re ensuring complete data security and making advanced AI accessible to smaller practices. This is about giving healthcare professionals more time to focus on what truly matters — providing quality care,” he adds. By offering a secure, cost-effective, and tailored solution, Allyzent’s upcoming Conversational AI will mark a new era in healthcare administration. About Allyzent: Allyzent is a healthcare technology company focused on using Conversational AI to reduce administrative tasks for healthcare providers. With an internally developed Large Language Model (LLM), Allyzent emphasizes data security and compliance, especially concerning HIPAA regulations. Their AI capabilities extend to tasks like appointment scheduling, patient outreach, and insurance authorization, integrating seamlessly with existing healthcare systems. By prioritizing efficiency and accessibility, Allyzent aims to support a wide range of healthcare practices. This ensures practitioners dedicate more time to patient care. Contact Details Allyzent Shahbaz Sohail shahbaz@allyzent.com Company Website https://allyzent.com/

October 18, 2024 08:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Comcast to Connect Thousands of Homes and Businesses in Madera County to High-Speed Internet

Comcast California

Comcast is connecting more than 2,200 previously unserved homes and businesses across Madera County, California to reliable, high speed, symmetrical Internet by expanding its network to the region, enhancing digital infrastructure, promoting economic growth, and positioning residents and local businesses for success in an increasingly digital world. The network expansion brings residents and businesses in Madera, Chowchilla and other nearby communities, Internet, mobile, entertainment and security services from Xfinity and Comcast Business services to residents and businesses for the first time. The expansion is made possible by a nearly $17 million Federal Funding Account (FFA) grant from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and private funding by Comcast. Comcast also recently announced it has received an additional $26 million FFA grant to expand its fiber-rich network in Tulare County, which will bring broadband services to nearly 6,200 unserved locations by early 2026, continuing Comcast’s efforts to help close the digital divide in the Central Valley. “I’m thankful to Comcast and the CPUC for their partnership and their continued investments within our great community to bring digital access for our students, families, seniors and businesses to thrive,” said Supervisor Jordan Wamhoff, Madera County Board of Supervisors. “These investments will help bridge the digital divide many Madera County residents experience and help enhance the overall quality of life for our rural communities.” “The CPUC’s decision to award Comcast the Madera County FFA grant builds on our continued efforts in working tirelessly to close the digital divide across the Central Valley,” added David Tashjian, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast California. “This expansion will support our ongoing network expansion efforts in the Central Valley, in cities such as Biola, Planada, Caruthers, Le Grand and Gustine. We thank the CPUC for this public-private partnership as we continue to work together to increase digital equity within unserved communities and connect people and businesses to what matters most.” Residents and businesses can visit Xfinity.com/mytown and enter their addresses for additional details on construction timing and upcoming service availability. A Network You Can Trust to be Reliable, Fast and Secure Comcast’s state-of-the-art network is built to enable residents and businesses to thrive in today’s constantly connected world. Madera County joins the more than 63 million homes and businesses across the country to have access to a network that is trusted by essential community organizations like hospitals, schools, transportation systems and first responders, and federal agencies like the Department of Defense and FEMA. It delivers multi-gigabit Internet speeds, 99.9 percent reliability and security built in from the ground up to keep customers safe from cyber threats. Introducing Xfinity for Consumers Comcast’s residential services are marketed under the Xfinity and NOW and brands, and consumers in Madera County will be able to take advantage of Xfinity’s and NOW’s full suite of products, including Internet, video, mobile, voice and home security. With multi-gigabit Internet speeds, powerful WiFi that reaches every corner of the home, and super-responsive connections with low lag available with its plan, customers have a great experience using their connected devices to stream their favorite sports and entertainment content, video chat with coworkers and friends, learn from home or simply surf the web. Comcast Business to Power Madera County’s Workforce For local businesses, Comcast Business offers a suite of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions to help organizations of all sizes achieve their business goals. Industry analysts and associations have consistently recognized Comcast Business as a leader and innovator in flexible, scalable options as well as one of the fastest-growing providers of Ethernet services. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms, we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Jon Koriel +1 925-315-2690 jon_koriel@comcast.com Company Website https://california.comcast.com/

October 17, 2024 12:58 PM Pacific Daylight Time

MetaProp Accelerator at Columbia University Announces 2025 Program and Open Applications Period

MetaProp

MetaProp announced today the launch of applications for the 2025 MetaProp Accelerator at Columbia University, the world's premier PropTech Accelerator based in the heart of New York City. The flagship 22-week program connects up to 8 early-stage startups from around the world to award-winning investors, industry mentors, and diverse real estate, technology, and institutional partners. Entering its milestone 10th year, the MetaProp Accelerator has graduated over 50 startups, which have collectively raised more than $200 million in venture funding and achieved notable exits, including 6 acquisitions by industry leaders such as JLL, Comcast, Realtor.com, and Alarm.com. MetaProp is looking into several timely investment verticals to be represented within its 2025 cohort. Co-Founder and General Partner Zach Aarons commented, “Buildings account for two-thirds of the greenhouse gas emissions in New York City. After Local Law 97 was passed in 2019, it’s become imperative for MetaProp to identify and help grow emerging technologies in the decarbonization sector. In addition to climate tech, we’re looking into PropTech innovations touching artificial intelligence, software for affordable housing, and construction robotics.” The Accelerator provides a direct line into MetaProp’s stakeholders’ collective strength while giving unprecedented access to strategic funding and new enterprise clients worldwide. Detailed benefits include: Up to $250,000 in financing 22-week program focused on driving business growth and accelerated market penetration Curated access and introductions to industry decision-makers, technology pilots, premier sources of investment capital, and international media Free office space in Midtown Manhattan at the PropTech Place innovation hub Participation in exclusive Pilot Days and Demo Days, along with discounted or free attendance at numerous local, national, and international industry events. Pairing with select C-level mentors from MetaProp’s real estate industry mentor network Dedicated MetaProp VC platform services Access to consortium program partners, as well as free goods and services Historically, MetaProp limited partners including CBRE, JLL, Cushman & Wakefield, RXR, and PGIM have been deeply engaged throughout the 22-week accelerator programs. The new 2025 program also includes a renewed partnership with the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY). REBNY members will have exclusive opportunities to engage with cutting-edge PropTech innovations through events, pilot days, and mentorship programs. Sandhya Espitia, REBNY Chief Operating Officer, stated, "REBNY is proud to support MetaProp's Accelerator and is excited to see the innovative solutions to come out of this year's program. As New York City's premier trade association for the real estate industry, we understand the importance of engaging in PropTech efforts that solve real issues for our city and our industry." MetaProp unveiled the first company in its landmark cohort: BuildrFi, a Miami-based startup transforming the construction industry by simplifying financial workflows and enabling project-based financing. “At BuildrFi, we’re committed to solving one of the industry’s biggest challenges: payment delays,” said Isabel Rodriguez, Founder and CEO at BuildrFi. “We’re honored to be the first company selected for MetaProp’s 2025 Accelerator program. With MetaProp’s unparalleled network of industry leaders and our team’s deep expertise in this category, we’re ready to scale our impact and drive meaningful change across the sector.” The application deadline for the 2025 MetaProp Accelerator at Columbia University is December 31, 2024. Learn more and apply to the new program here: metaprop.com/accelerator About MetaProp MetaProp is a New York-based venture capital firm focused on the real estate technology (“PropTech”) industry. Founded in 2015, MetaProp’s investment team has invested in 175+ technology companies across the real estate value chain. The firm manages multiple funds for both financial and strategic real estate investors that represent a pilot- and test-ready sandbox of 20+ billion square feet across every real estate asset type and global market. The firm’s investment activities are complemented by pioneering community leadership including the PropTech Place innovation hub, MetaProp Accelerator at Columbia University programs, global events including NYC Real Estate Tech Week, and publications Global PropTech Confidence Index and PropTech 101. Contact Details MetaProp Wes Mizell wmizell@metaprop.com Company Website https://www.metaprop.com/

October 17, 2024 01:15 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Quantum Resistant Ledger (QRL) Strikes Key Industry Partnerships, Fortifying Its Position As Quantum Computing Era Nears

Benzinga

By Gerelyn Terzo, Benzinga Chinese researchers recently accomplished what they claim was the world’s first successful quantum attack on popular encryption algorithms. While the first cohort of thousands of quantum computers isn’t expected to come onto the scene until at least 2030, their problem-solving capabilities already appear to have become a reality. Some cutting-edge companies and projects like Quantum Resistant Ledger (QRL) already recognize the potential threats this technology could pose as it develops. QRL was designed to protect burgeoning technologies – including blockchains and cryptocurrencies – from any future threats that quantum computing may pose. In fact, the company shares that 99% of blockchains and cryptocurrencies are considered vulnerable in a post-quantum computing world, as blockchains and cryptocurrencies continue to remain heavily dependent on quantum-insecure cryptography. To strengthen its post-quantum preparedness, QRL has been striking key industry partnerships and integrations of late to serve the company’s vision for the foreseeable future. Chief among these collaborations is with the PKI Consortium. Founded in 2013, the PKI Consortium is a group dedicated to the future of Internet security, boasting high-profile members that, in addition to QRL, include Dell Technologies (NYSE: DELL), Fox Crypto and card giant Visa (NYSE: V), among many others. Not only is QRL a member of the organization, but it’s also one of the sponsors of an upcoming event hosted by the PKI Consortium. In early 2025, PKIC will host the Post Quantum Cryptography Conference in Austin, Texas, sponsored by QRL alongside peers such as Noreg, Entrust, PQ Shield, SSL.com, KeyFactor and HID. This sponsorship allows QRL the distinct opportunity to collaborate with other expert representatives from the likes of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as well as other industry leaders such as Google (NASDAQ: GOOG), IBM (NYSE: IBM) and Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON), to name a few. To register for this event, click here. PKI Consortium chair Paul van Brouwershaven stated, "We are delighted to welcome the QRL Foundation as an Innovator sponsor of the hybrid Post-Quantum Cryptography Conference on Jan. 15 - 16, 2025 at the University of Texas at Austin. Their commitment to advancing quantum-resistant technologies supports the collaborative effort needed to future-proof our cryptographic systems, ensuring a resilient and secure digital landscape for all." This partnership is only scratching the surface of all that the QRL team is doing behind the scenes and the important industry relationships it is building along the way. Blockchain industry participants who are interested in joining the project can learn more about all that QRL has to offer here. QRL’s Strategic Relationship Building Among the other strategic partnerships QRL has inked is its deal with the Linux Foundation, more specifically, its Post-Quantum Cryptography Alliance (PQCA) arm. Known as a neutral platform for developers to code and scale open technology, the Linux Foundation launched PQCA earlier this year to advance post-quantum cryptography and drive its adoption. Through this alliance, QRL joins in sharing its post-quantum cryptographic expertise to participate in the building of infrastructure of the future with its peers, which include the likes of Amazon Web Services (NASDAQ: AMZN), Google and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), to name a few. Through projects like Open Quantum Safe and Post-Quantum Code Package, PQCA deems its members as “essential to the success of the Foundation” and “instrumental in steering the alliance direction.” As one of the industry’s most loyal partners, QRL also continues to support The League of Entropy, a collaboration that delivers publicly verifiable decentralized randomness as a service (DRS), paving the way for a wide range of applications. As a play on power in numbers, this group shifts the randomness beacon focus from individual entities to a group mentality, where the benefits and security can potentially be more pervasive. QRL’s 2025 Pipeline With the power of its partnerships at its disposal, QRL is looking ahead to Q1 2025 for events such as the public release of its proof-of-stake (PoS) network, which as of early 2024 was in the beta testnet phase, aka Test Zond. This platform boasts compatibility with the industry standard – the decentralized Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) – and QRL will also be seeking new partnerships for which grants are available through its overarching foundation to enhance the technology and its reach. What that means is that developers desiring to build on Layer-1, the foundational layer of the blockchain network, will have the option to build on one that’s quantum secure from the bottom up – QRL. As always, security remains paramount for the QRL team, which has been prioritizing a series of audits before any definitive launch of the platform. The timing couldn’t be better. Indications suggest there might already be a quantum computer threatening to abscond with Bitcoin funds. Anecdotal evidence shows wallet and digital asset movements from legacy Satoshi Nakamoto-era wallets to crypto exchanges involving millions of dollars worth of Bitcoin. While there’s no hard evidence of QC involvement, it’s a good reminder of where vulnerabilities remain in a system that has already been demonstrated to have a target on its back from nefarious actors. The rise of quantum computing will have implications for the crypto sector at large, and those who stick their proverbial heads in the sand could be left behind. Astute industry participants who would like to join in the preparation should visit the QRL today. Featured photo by geralt on Pixabay. 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 17, 2024 08:35 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Investor Releases Satirical Video Calling for Reid Hoffman’s Removal from Microsoft’s Board

NLPC

Poor judgment that led him to visit [Jeffrey] Epstein Island, asking friends to meet with the late pedophile, and an overwrought obsession with the defeat and downfall of President Trump, are just a few of the reasons why tech investor Reid Hoffman should no longer serve on Microsoft’s board of directors, according to an investor in the company. And now that shareholder, National Legal and Policy Center, has released a satirical video to amplify the case it has made for the last 18 months – that the LinkedIn co-founder is unfit for such a prestigious role with the software giant. Last year NLPC submitted a memorandum to the Securities and Exchange Commission asking shareholders to vote against Hoffman’s re-election to the Microsoft board. The nonprofit investor again called for his removal this year in an additional filing at the SEC, after he told fellow billionaire elites at a Sun Valley, Idaho conference that he wished he had made Donald Trump an “actual martyr,” just days before an assassination attempt was made on the former President in Butler, Pa. “There are plenty of active and generous donors, mostly to left-leaning candidates, on corporate boards in the U.S., but we don’t consider them unfit to serve,” said Paul Chesser, director of NLPC’s Corporate Integrity Project. “But with his excessive Trump obsession, dubious political ethics and funding of lawfare, Reid Hoffman is in another class, which should eliminate him from consideration for any public company leadership role.” Microsoft’s annual meeting is scheduled for December 10, and release of the company’s proxy statement is expected before the end of October. Watch NLPC’s video on Hoffman and his role at Microsoft here. 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

October 16, 2024 03:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Agtonomy Closes $32.8M Series A to Accelerate AI-Driven Automation in Agriculture and Expand into Autonomous Industrial Equipment

Agtonomy

Agtonomy, the pioneer in AI-enabled automation software for agriculture and land maintenance, has raised an additional $10M to close its Series A round, bringing total funding to $32.8M. This significant investment, combined with Agtonomy’s commercial offerings and scalable business model, positions the company for accelerated growth and market expansion over the next few years. Autotech Ventures, the leading mobility venture fund, led the round. New investors include Rethink Food, Allison Transmission, and Black Forest Ventures. Existing backers Toyota Ventures, Flybridge, and Cavallo Partners continued their support. This funding marks a pivotal moment in Agtonomy's mission to address labor and climate change challenges through advanced automation for industrial equipment fleet management. “Agtonomy's innovative approach aligns with our mission to revolutionize mobility and automation across various sectors, starting with off-road autonomy. Their unique business model, which combines software expertise with established OEM partnerships, positions them to lead the transformation to autonomous fleet management. We look forward to supporting Agtonomy's experienced team as they address critical labor shortages and sustainability challenges in these industries,” said Alexei Andreev, founding partner of Autotech Ventures. Agtonomy’s immediate growth plans include scaling its West Coast technical team into new markets, expanding its 2025 paid pilot program for permanent crops by 500 percent, and developing technology solutions for other industrial markets that seek world-class automation to improve margins. “The impact Autotech has already had on our business is expansive. We could not have had a better lead investor in this round than this talented group who have focused on the world of mobility since their inception,” said Tim Bucher, CEO and Co-Founder of Agtonomy. Powerhouse Board Validates Agtonomy’s Market Potential Sterling Anderson, a Silicon Valley icon who led the team that created the original Tesla Autopilot and co-founded the leading independent developer of on-road autonomy, will join Agtonomy’s diverse Board of Directors. “Agriculture is a vast and essential element of the human experience. Autonomy can make it better. I’ve been impressed with Agtonomy’s approach, focus, and execution to date and look forward to advising them on this important journey.,” said Sterling Anderson, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of Aurora. In May, Agtonomy announced that Jorge Heraud, formerly John Deere’s vice president of automation & autonomy, joined the Board, which includes both co-founders Tim Bucher and Valerie Syme, and Board Chair Jim Meyer, former SiriusXM CEO and current Vice Chair. “By bringing together some of the most impactful technology leaders, our Board is enabling additional firepower in corporate strategy and governance to bring Agtonomy to its full potential,” said Valerie Syme, co-founder and COO of Agtonomy. About Agtonomy: Agtonomy is a California-based, farmer-founded software, services and technology company enabling autonomy to solve agriculture’s most immediate and pressing problems including labor scarcity, climate change and shrinking profit margins. Partnering within the equipment value chain for rapid commercialization, Agtonomy embeds their ‘smarts’ into brand-name tractors and implements, digitally transforming machinery into a remote-operated, task-driven ecosystem for safe, equitable, profitable and climate-smart agriculture. For more information, visit https://www.agtonomy.com/. Contact Details AgTech PR for Agtonomy Sara Winters sara@agtechpr.com Company Website https://www.agtonomy.com/

October 16, 2024 08:30 AM Pacific 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. MBOâs comprehensive enterprise solutions allow clients to source exceptional talent, scale their independent workforce and optimize their workforce management practices. With vast experience and industry expertise, MBO helps you build a better, independent workforce for the future. For more information, visit mbopartners.com. Contact Details Words For Hire Karen Swim, APR, Public Relations +1 586-461-2103 karen@wordsforhirellc.com MBO Partners Michelle (Mick) Lee, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) MLee@MBOPartners.com Company Website https://mbopartners.com

October 15, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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