29 Mar, 2023
Kanad Bahalkar
<p>Potion Launches, Aims to Use Generative AI to Mass-Create Personalized Videos</p><p>SAN FRANCISCO, CA – <a href="http://sendpotion.com">Potion</a>, which leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to produce high-quality videos on a large scale, has rolled out its online platform for sales teams. The goals of the company are threefold: to generate videos that are indistinguishable from those that are manually created, enable sales teams to quickly create them in large quantities, and give viewers a face to connect to a message.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/6SqvXtPiH2QiOi-LCyRaytKXaBT1Z1_j-ZyKxL3hjZJajuz349X4ALqYTu6RF5nrzNIfO0nWzcxIrl1wAUYrHIP_Tza8BJxR2yUmuypkytbTjYsNiLI580Lf0m9mNAWfspJzQiul-dvt349erU3Ti2A"></figure><p><i>Potion: generative AI that personalizes videos at scale</i></p><p>Kanad Bahalkar, Potion’s co-founder and Chief Product Officer, explains that despite the advanced technology that powers <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/sendpotion">Potion</a>, the platform is ultimately about simplicity. “Our industry research has shown that videos, which are so visual and can be personalized, are an increasingly popular way for sales teams to connect with potential clients,” he says. “People are more likely to listen to a message and actually process it if it’s via video. However, it is impossible to record hundreds of thousands of personalized videos manually. At Potion, we’ve built novel generative AI solutions to produce personalized videos and to increase the effectiveness of sales teams while improving their work-life.”</p><p>Through Potion’s web interface, users can record a video, select the parts of the video that need customization, and Potion’s generative video AI automatically creates those customized videos. Sales teams can now send these customized videos to potential clients. </p><p>Since the release of its platform, Potion has received $3.5MM in initial seed investment, and their product is being used by more than 6,000 sales, marketing, and support professionals. Potion’s product is also integrated with major sales tools, such as Outreach, Salesloft, and Hubspot. </p><p>“At Potion, we understand that videos, while an excellent tool for sales teams, take significant time to make,” says Bahalkar. “Generative AI provides a potential solution. With Potion, they can streamline their workloads and bring their message to clients in a way that is more accessible, easier to understand, and more likely to be remembered.”</p><p><i>Potion was co-founded by Kanad Bahalkar in 2021 and utilizes AI to personalize videos at scale. Users are able to easily record a video, enter customizable information, and generate hundreds of new videos in less time than doing so manually. </i></p><p><i>To learn more about Potion and generative AI, please see the company’s </i><a href="https://sendpotion.com/"><i>website</i></a><i> or contact:</i></p><p><i>Kanad Bahalkar, Potion</i></p><p><a href="mailto:kanad@sendpotion.com"><i>kanad@sendpotion.com</i></a><i> </i></p><p><i>617.816.2348 </i></p>
16 Mar, 2023
Zak Shaik IAR,WMS,CAPP,CWPP
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/WQAFHEkDF5rAp-SiSnDhZyrQO9ssYPwC5z6GVz2Q_9NK4SNynS0mem0qaVlCMPE-xjo0lMYurH6UB2ynaQYOWMAuvNTrPq6h6sPUD_dyqnu1Q7JSsYpuC6vGC631P9rcZWUtLYoi6Vi54tmuXmNA0w"></figure><h2>Being Tax-Savvy Can Help Investors Increase Yield by Up to 50%</h2><p>As the world of finance continues to evolve, new investment opportunities arise for those who are quick to adapt. For emerging hedge fund managers and investors, one strategy that can significantly increase their yield is the utilization of pre-tax investing strategies.</p><p>Zak Shaik is the CEO and Founder of <a href="http://www.saburpwm.com/">Sabur Private Wealth Management</a> (SPWM), a wealth management firm that provides little known advanced tax planning strategies to enhance investment returns for the most astute investors. With over three decades of expertise in the financial industry, Zak has established a reputation for delivering exceptional service and customized solutions to the investing public - and based on his experience, he says that all types of investors, emerging and established hedge fund managers, and small business owners can increase returns on their investments by using a slight pivot, he calls PRE-TAX investing.</p><p>Invest in anything your heart desires using advanced IRC (internal revenue codes) and increase your ROI. Imagine your current investments, in the stock market, real estate, crypto hedge funds or other assets while giving your ROI a boost of 18 - 50% (via taxes saved) depending on your income tax rate.</p><p>However, without proper implementation of these advanced strategies a significant portion of these profits are regularly lost to unnecessary taxation. This is especially true for investors of hedge funds who are taking higher risks with their earned dollars but they can easily reduce this risk with PRE-TAX investing of up to $10 Million with the Private 401(k) strategy enhanced by the passing of the TCJA 2017 by former president Trump and the SECURE act 2021 by president Biden. </p><p>By leveraging tax strategies, emerging and established hedge fund managers can mitigate risk for their investors while offering an additional 30-50% ROI beyond their proprietary investing strategy. </p><p>Unlike investing in municipal bonds issued by state and local governments that are recommended by many advisors for tax-free income, the Private 401(k) surpasses these yield by up to 50% and offers substantial advantage to investors that hedge fund managers can utilize to raise millions of dollars into their funds and overcome the “what's your track record” objection.</p><p>“Let’s talk about zero capital gains tax,” says Zak. “The US tax code offers over a dozen different strategies that can be used to prevent the taxation of capital gains at the time of sale. But many property owners are unaware of this.” By focusing on non-1031 exchange pre-tax strategies a whole new world of investing can open up with finger licking account growth to combat current high inflation economic environment.</p><p>He says that these property owners are often only familiar with the 1031 exchange or the DST (deferred sales trust) strategies, which are commonly offered by their CPA or broker. However, property owners can benefit by considering the other options that may align more closely with their investment goals. These lesser-known strategies can provide a more targeted approach, allowing individuals to make the most of their investments. </p><p>“By taking the time to educate yourself on the full range of tax strategies available, you can make a well-informed decision about how to best protect your assets and maximize your returns,” Zak urges. “So, rather than blindly following the crowd, take control of your financial future and explore the multitude of tax strategies available to you.”</p><p>Ultimately, utilizing pre-tax investing strategies is a smart way for emerging hedge fund managers to raise millions of dollars from risk averse investors and utilize “tax rescued” dollars while offering massive ROI to their investors. </p><p>It is important to note that tax laws are constantly changing, so it’s important to consult with a professional, such as those employed at SPWM, to ensure that you are taking advantage of the most current and effective tax strategies. </p><p>Hedge fund managers or tax stressed investors can reach Zak Shaik for a complimentary 30 mins consult by scheduling here https://calendly.com/saburpwm/strategymeeting or visiting www.saburpwm.com.</p>
24 Mar, 2023
Kyle McDowell
<p>Author/Leadership Expert Kyle McDowell: How Corporate America Can Inspire - Not Terrify - Our Workforce</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/4Kf3SqBNfuGOZtD61YQWQW6J6C_pXATCpLOMQa_G1CZH9ZHu-pZvBh0jVDYYgeEtNDW0T1IO2tGuvRiLpQTVq4Zhz8o_8-YrciXEGRfCuBkitAs3wxLtcHAPUbD-Ao2lCyCDkL-R0tksA0cR1-qNWB4"></figure><p>Catching up with <a href="http://kylemcdowellinc.com">Kyle McDowell</a>, the best-selling author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Begin-WE-Principles-Sustaining-Excellence/dp/1544529910"><i>Begin With We: 10 Principles for Building and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence</i></a><i>, </i>takes some tricky planning. McDowell maintains a strict schedule these days, plane-hopping around America, meeting with CEOs, and delivering keynotes to thousands of people. His goal is to do the seemingly impossible: redefine the work culture inside corporations, whose leaders have for years relied upon fear to lead their employees. McDowell’s framework for a new era of business relies on one idea: “WE” is far more important than “me.” With his new book leading the charts of <i>USA Today, Wall Street Journal,</i> and Amazon, he took some time out to talk about the secret to inspiring an apathetic workforce: trust, empathy, and authentic leadership.</p><p>“Stop me if you have ever said this before: I just don’t feel energized or passionate about my job anymore,” says McDowell. “Every hand goes up in the room - it doesn’t matter if it’s an executive or a person they lead. Even I felt that way at one point, and I was on top of my career, where I should have been enjoying my life.”</p><p>McDowell spent almost 30 years guiding teams through the gauntlet that is corporate America, including at UnitedHealth Group, General Dynamics, and CVS Health. While he excelled in the highly challenging environment and was the kind of leader that the business world expected him to be, he could feel himself growing more disillusioned as the years passed.</p><p>“Where was the fun? The relationships? The camaraderie? It was all missing,” McDowell recalls. “Worse, I looked around at the people I was leading, and I saw that same apathy and even fear mirrored in their eyes. Corporate America might have been fine with who I was as a leader, but I was not.”</p><p>When he left behind the golden handcuffs and big paycheck to start Kyle McDowell Inc., more than a few people thought he was crazy. McDowell admits that it was a risk, but he was determined to start a revolution by setting out on what he calls “his life’s mission.” </p><p>“Fear creates a barrier between team members and their leaders,” he says. “How on earth can anyone love their job and excel when they are scared of their boss? There was a double standard between boss and team. People felt disposable even though they were trying their hardest, and there was no real framework to help leaders reinstill that passion and purpose we all had early in our careers. It all really bothered me, and one night I came up with the answer: The 10 WEs.”</p><p>In a dark hotel room in Lawrence, Kansas, where McDowell was preparing to deliver a speech to 50 leaders of his 15,000-person organization, he created The 10 WEs, his framework for how leaders can create an environment that establishes accountability as well as a system of support. </p><p>“The 10 WEs are principles that govern first and foremost how team members treat one another and second, how the team treats who they serve, the client,” McDowell explains. “By definition, a principle is a fundamental truth or something we hold to be true. When you have a group of people, a team, aligned around a series of ‘fundamental truths,’ you remove any ambiguity about how we operate.”</p><p>He says The 10 WEs flew out of his mind onto a pad of paper and included:</p><p>1. WE do the right thing. Always. </p><p>2. WE lead by example. </p><p>3. WE say what WE’re going to do. Then WE do it. </p><p>4. WE take action. </p><p>5. WE own our mistakes. </p><p>6. WE pick each other up. </p><p>7. WE measure ourselves by outcomes. Not activity. </p><p>8. WE challenge each other. </p><p>9. WE embrace challenge. </p><p>10. WE obsess over details. </p><p>“When I finished, I read the WEs over and over and thought, ‘I’m not sure how this will resonate with the team, but it’s authentic. If nothing else, the team will know exactly what to expect from me and my leadership,’” McDowell recalls. “Leaders will be deemphasized and more approachable, teams will feel appreciated and empowered, and the talent and potential of “WE” will be spotlighted.”</p><p>Since the launch of his book, <i>Begin With We</i>, McDowell has been working with executives in nearly every industry. He laughs a little when he says that he knows how to speak their language and to bridge the gap between the down-to-earth ideas in his book and the jargon-filled, coat-and-tie environment in corporations. </p><p>“I am still, at heart, the guy who drank the corporate Kool Aid and rose to the top of my industry, so it’s a lot of fun to meet up with executives again,” he states. “What I’ve been finding is that so many of my peers are very receptive to The 10 WEs. They are disillusioned like I was and understand that the old leadership playbook needs to be tossed out. I am very happy - and fulfilled - to be helping them to lead with integrity and authenticity so that they can build trust with their teams and transform the future of their companies.”</p>
16 Mar, 2023
The REI Bros Speaking at a Half-Day Immersion Workshop & Networking Event March 16, 2023
<p> </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/A5N06zSlSWnOPwiIyh5U_dN5BFKDCTQQ2p_2s-LUdXeefEifZipUgsHJcMzBiI8G1r01ukN2BxHHFPiJ8XWsTNrO3VLDZ8hScM_xbr1nMBN6h3kiH0JEnE4XKHmnXHT4P7oWjWdryRlsR7ukgZx3LuQ"></figure><p><i>North Brunswick, New Jersey–</i> The REI Bros, a real estate education company formed by brothers Shomail and Farhan Malik, dedicated to helping working professionals add a substantial income stream to their household, has announced that it will be speaking at an upcoming immersion workshop taking place on March 16, 2023 at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel in North Brunswick New Jersey. The company will be speaking on their real estate machinery and showing the participants how to take leaps in their real estate business and work to turn it into a 6 or even 7 figure business. Keynote speakers, Santini Lancioni and Matthew Merenoff, will be presenting on how to use Creative Financing, Seller Financing, Sub-To, and Short Sale Acquisition strategies to acquire properties in this volatile real estate market.</p><p>Since starting their respective companies and partnering with one another, the REI Bros have closed 700+ real estate deals, and raised over $75M in private capital. The company also works to help many of the students who take their online courses to find success in real estate investing. </p><p>“We have worked with thousands of students nationwide who have been able to walk away from their full-time careers and are now working in real estate investing full-time,” Shomail says. “That is the goal that we have for all of our clients and students, if they choose to go down that path. If they wish to continue working their 9-to-5, this creates a nice back-up plan to fall back on.”</p><p>This event will shine a light and insight on the world of real estate investing. The duo is looking to pay forward the knowledge and experiences that they have acquired in this industry so that any new or seasoned real estate investor, whether they've flipped 10 properties or 0 properties, can take a system and learn how to invest in the industry and work towards financial freedom.</p><p>“We love teaching others how to use real estate as a platform to achieve financial independence through our courses, mentorship, and guidance,” Shomail goes on to say. In addition to this upcoming speaking engagement, the company also conducts weekly trainings on Zoom. This workshop and networking event on March 16 will be one of their bigger events, which they host quarterly. </p><p>REI Bros has had several years within the real estate investing industry and considers it a privilege to teach real estate investing to thousands of people both locally and on a nationwide scale, to help them develop a sense of financial freedom and independence. The company looks forward to helping more people transform their lives through real estate investing and building a community of like minded individuals to help scale their business </p><p><i>REI Bros offers several courses that touch on marketing and wholesale, Rehab Fix-and-Flips, rental property empires, and raising private capital. The upcoming speaking engagement will give the Malik brothers and their company the platform to share investing information and real estate insight. For more information regarding REI and their upcoming event, visit their </i><a href="https://thereibros-realestateprofitsystem.thinkific.com/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Shomail Malik</i></p><p><i>Farhan Malik</i></p><p><i>shomail@investwithapex.com</i></p>
10 Mar, 2023
Michelle (Barone media)
<p>Michelle Barone Media (MBM) To Expand R.E.D. Podcast</p><p><i>New York, NY</i> - Comprehensive marketing agency Michelle Barone Media (MBM) has announced plans to expand its podcast, R.E.D. (Relevant, Entertaining, and Dynamic), which serves as a platform for small business owners and those involved in social media and digital marketing.</p><p> </p><p>This decision was made based upon the success of the podcast, as well as the fact that the industry is growing. Podcasts fall under the global location-based entertainment market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of around 36.7% from 2021 to 2028, and is expected to reach a market value of $6 billion USD by 2028. Digital advertising and marketing is also growing significantly, projected to reach $786.2 billion USD by 2026 at a CAGR of 13.9%.</p><p> </p><p>MBM is launching a new website to promote both its marketing services and to support the R.E.D. podcast. The new site will offer expanded features, allowing users to download past episodes, view teasers for upcoming episodes, apply to become a guest, contact previous guests, view exclusive behind the scenes content, and access resources such as links to each guest’s e-commerce brands. The updated website is set to target Los Angeles, New York City, and Miami.</p><p> </p><p>President and CEO of MBM, Michelle Barone-Lepore, says that the services provided by MBM align with the goal of the podcast. “We are a digital marketing and advertising agency,” she says, “and as such, we have seen the massive impact of social media marketing, content creation, and the role of influencers in modern advertisement. The rules are changing, and marketing agencies need to change with them. R.E.D. promotes content creators and small businesses, offering them a platform to showcase their talents, products, and skills to the public.”</p><p> </p><p>She points to the ever-growing global market value of digital content creation, which is projected to reach $38.2 billion USD by 2030. “TikTok has been valued at as much as $75 billion,” she says, “with a billion users. Instagram is worth nearly $2 billion, Meta/Facebook at about $245 billion - to ignore these markets would be a mistake for any brand. People are turning to social media more and more for advertising and purchasing.”</p><p> </p><p>These apps have complex integrated algorithms tracking the types of content that users interact with (via likes, shares, and comments) and displays advertisements based upon past use. For example, a new mother may interact primarily with TikTok videos that focus on early childhood development; as a result, the ads that pop up on her feed will be for diapers, formula, toys that encourage learning, etc.</p><p> </p><p>MBM works with all types of businesses - entrepreneurs, startups, Fortune 500 companies -and Barone-Lepore states that businesses of all sizes can benefit from digital marketing. “We know that 97% of Fortune 500 companies depend on social media advertising,” she says. “Some of the biggest brands in e-commerce are reaching out to individual influencers to promote their products. Marketing and advertising firms need to be flexible and learn how to utilize these resources for their clients. That’s what we do at BMB - and that’s why it’s so important that we expand our podcast.”</p><p> </p><p>She says that her team already has an exciting lineup of guests for 2023 and is hard at working preparing the new website for launch. Barone-Lepore herself has been a radio personality for over 8 years, and leverages her extensive network to promote her clients to grow their businesses. She recently hosted the 2022 Think Duchess Business Excellence Awards at the Culinary Institute of America, and along with her team at MBM, frequently hosts events locally in New England and virtually.</p><p> </p><p>“In my 18 years of marketing, I’ve seen a lot of changes,” Barone-Lepore says. “The new wave of digital content as advertising is fresh and exciting. Participating in our podcast as an interviewer is a constant honor for me, and my goal is always to create an environment where these new voices can feel safe enough to tell their stories.”</p><p> </p><p><i>Michelle Barone Media (MBM) is a full service marketing and advertising agency based in New York City, NY. The company offers consulting, customized marketing campaigns, strategic planning, and resources for creating digital content, leveraging online platforms, and optimizing websites.</i></p><p>Website:<a href="https://michellebaronemedia.com/"> https://michellebaronemedia.com/</a></p><p>Email: info@michellebaronemedia.com</p><p><i> </i></p>
10 Mar, 2023
Michelle (Barone media)
<p>Michelle Barone Media Reveals Company Restructuring and Expansion</p><p><i>New York, NY</i> - Full-service marketing agency Michelle Barone Media (MBM) has released details about its company-wide restructuring and expansion for 2023. The company reveals that it is launching a new website with updates to promote the company’s signature podcast, and will be expanding its staff to accommodate increasing client needs.</p><p>MBM offers an extensive network of expert marketers who created customized marketing campaigns for any type of business. The team works with all types of companies: startups, entrepreneurs, and Fortune 500 companies. MBM provides resources for creating content, leveraging online platforms, optimizing websites, and creating marketing campaigns. The company offers project-based options, strategic planning, and consulting.</p><p>The<a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2022/09/28/2524217/28124/en/Global-Digital-Advertising-and-Marketing-Market-to-Reach-786-2-Billion-by-2026-at-a-CAGR-of-13-9.html"> global market size</a> of digital advertising and marketing is projected to reach $786.2 billion USD by 2026 at a CAGR of 13.9%. As of 2022, the current market value is estimated to be worth $476.9 billion; and as the industry grows, marketing agencies such as MBM are growing with it.</p><p>President Michelle Barone-Lepore says that her company is rising to the challenge of the increasing market. “Entrepreneur reported in 2021 that 97% of Fortune 500 companies rely on social media as part of their marketing strategy,” she says. “That number continues to rise as consumers are driven more and more by marketing campaigns on popular apps like TikTok and Instagram.”</p><p>She states that these apps have complex algorithms that track the types of things that users like, share, and comment on, and display ads based on these preferences. “And it works,” she says. “Essentially, a platform like TikTok is able to figure out what you personally are interested in, and it shows you ads based on your past choices. The consumer is shown things they actually want, and the companies benefit by increased sales.”</p><p>Barone-Lepore adds that advertising isn’t what it used to be. “In the past, advertising was strictly done by big firms, on television and in magazines and newspapers,” she says. “Now, even the biggest brands reach out to individuals to promote and share their products. This means that anyone can afford to advertise - and this has been essential to growing small businesses over the last few years.”</p><p>She points toward the COVID-19 pandemic as a significant driver in the increase of e-commerce success. While society quarantined, often the best option for shopping was virtual, which drove online sales and digital marketing. “E-commerce sales rose by $244.2 billion (43%) in 2020, the first year of the pandemic,” she says, “increasing from $571.2 billion in 2019 to $815.4 billion in 2020. As online sales increased, so has digital marketing. Our company saw significant growth during this period, which has led to our current need for expansion and for launching our new website.”</p><p>The new MBM website will offer more features allowing users to interact with the company’s podcast, R.E.D. (Relevant, Entertaining, and Dynamic), which serves as a platform for the promotion of small business owners and individual advertisers and product promoters. The new website is set to initially target Los Angeles, New York City, and Miami. Guests will be able to contact podcast hosts, apply to become guests on the show, and reach out to MBM for marketing services.</p><p>Barone-Lepore adds that the new staff at MBM will include a newly structured team of digital content mangers, advertising professionals, and digital marketing experts, who will offer consulting and marketing services to clients and advise on which guests to feature on the R.E.D. podcast. The new site will be live by early 2023.</p><p><i>Michelle Barone Media (MBM) is a full service marketing and advertising agency based in New York City, NY. The company offers consulting, customized marketing campaigns, strategic planning, and resources for creating digital content, leveraging online platforms, and optimizing websites.</i></p><p>Website:<a href="https://michellebaronemedia.com/"> https://michellebaronemedia.com/</a></p><p>Email: info@michellebaronemedia.com</p><p>Contact: Michelle Barone-Lepore</p>
10 Mar, 2023
Michelle (Barone media)
<p><br> </p><p><strong>Michelle Barone’s Hot New Podcast: Relevant, Entertaining, Dynamic</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>Michelle Barone, founder of Michelle Barone Media and the RED Podcast, is a radio and television personality, emcee, and leader in the marketing industry. She believes in delivering positive and entertaining content, and created her podcast to showcase the talents, skills, and abilities of enterprising influencers and content creators.</p><p> </p><p>“Influencing and content creation are the future of the marketing industry,” she shares. “Some of the world’s most recognized and successful brands are actively looking for individuals to promote their products on social media.”</p><p>She created the RED Podcast to bring these individuals to light, and points to the fact that the industry truly is booming. The Digital Content Creation global market is estimated to hit $38.2 billion USD by 2030. This is fueled by constantly growing users on social media - a billion on TikTok, 2 billion on Instagram, nearly 3 billion on Facebook/Meta.</p><p> </p><p>“It was once thought that social media was just a fad or a trend,” Barone states. “But now, Facebook/Meta is worth $245 billion, Instagram is worth $1.6 billion, TikTok is worth between $50-75 billion - these numbers don’t lie! Social media isn’t going anywhere. And content creation and influencing is here to stay as well.”</p><p> </p><p>Over the past 15 years, Barone has become one of the most sought-after hosts and emcees in the New York area. Her engaging content and sparkling personality infuse every project she’s involved in. She hosts award shows, emcees packed houses of 30,000 people, streams globally, and has the unique ability to connect with everyone under the sound of her voice. She’s a local personality and delivers hot content in a dynamic and upbeat way. Her engaging manner serves her well in her marketing company, Michelle Barone Media, as she forges personal relationships with clients and helps bring their products and services to the masses.</p><p> </p><p>The RED Podcast allows Michelle to truly be in her element. She’s interviewed celebrities and politicians, and turns her interviewing skills to content creators of all types and from all walks of life. She draws them in, helping them to feel comfortable enough to share their stories and entertain listeners. With over 8 years in radio and over 18 years in marketing, Michelle is an expert in her fields. She understands creatives, as well - her career began as a singer/songwriter, and she’s opened for notable artists across the US and Europe.</p><p> </p><p>“RED is a platform to feature influencers and content creators - to showcase their talents, agendas, and game changing work,” Barone says. “Michelle Barone RED is a place where you can experience your favorite influencer or content creator in a different light. We have exclusive content that you won’t find anywhere else.”</p><p> </p><p>Barone has just launched a brand new website with updated features, allowing fans and listeners to connect with social media stars and share feedback. She also invites new potential guests to connect with Michelle Barone Media for a chance to be featured on RED. “We’re always looking for emerging talent, to learn their stories and give them a chance to build their brand,” Barone says. “Learn about viral videos, the latest trends, and pop culture from all around the world. We always have a great time - and always learn something new!”</p><p> </p><p>Visit the current website:<a href="http://www.michellebaroneonline.com/"> www.michellebaroneonline.com</a></p><p>Or email: info@michellebaronemedia.com</p><p>Instagram: @MichelleBaroneOnline</p><p>TikTok: @Michellebarone</p><p> </p>
10 Mar, 2023
Michelle (Barone media)
<p><strong>Michelle Barone Media’s R.E.D. Podcast Announces New Website Launch</strong></p><p><i>New York, NY</i> - Michelle Barone Media (MBM), a full-service marketing agency, has just launched a newly designed and updated website highlighting its R.E.D. Podcast. The new website will showcase past episodes of the podcast, teasers for upcoming episodes, exclusive behind the scenes content, and resources that listeners can utilize to apply what they’ve learned to their own platforms. The new site features will allow potential guests to contact MBM, allow listeners to download the podcast, and provide updated content for fans. The updated website is set to target Los Angeles, New York City, and Miami.</p><p>“RED stands for Relevant, Entertaining, and Dynamic,” says founder and CEO Michelle Barone. “We feature content creators and influencers - how they got started, their secrets to success, and much more.” She says that content creators and influences are both the now and the future, and RED is a platform designed to feature them and show off their talents, agendas, and game-changing work.</p><p>The numbers agree with her assessment. The<a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-digital-content-creation-market-size-expected-to-reach-38-billion-by-2030-301381125.html"> global market size</a> of Digital Content Creation is projected to reach $38.2 billion USD by 2030, at a CAGR of 12% during 2020 and 2030 (InsightSLICE). TikTok's net worth is estimated to be between $50 and $75 billion; Instagram is valued at around $1.6 billion; and Meta/Facebook at $245 billion.</p><p>More and more brands are turning to influencers to promote their products across these and other social media platforms, which is why the team at MBM saw a need to feature content creators and influencers on the podcast. “Huge brands are now working with individual influencers,” says Barone. “Amazon, Coca Cola, Sperry, Banana Republic - some of the biggest brands in retail are partnering with content creators to show off their products. This is a growing industry and we’re excited to be part of it.”</p><p>Recently, Barone hosted the 2022 Think Duchess Business Excellence Awards at the Culinary Institute of America. She and representatives of her company routinely host a variety of events throughout the New York region, as well as online/virtual events.</p><p>Barone has been on the radio for over 8 years and has worked in the marketing field for over 18 years. She started off as a singer and songwriter, and has opened concerts for multiple notable artists across the US and Europe. When she pursued marketing, working for several large companies, she landed a position as Senior Vice President at the marketing department of a multinational bank. Here, Barone began hosting shows and eventually was able to start her own marketing firm and podcast.</p><p>“The RED Podcast is the type of thing we love to promote at MBM,” Barone says. “MBM partners with clients to elevate their brand and help them level up. Whether it's planning new projects, brainstorming business strategies, or consulting, MBM is a comprehensive marketing agency to handle all your digital marketing needs.” The company’s network team is able to create customized marketing campaigns from any kind of business, from startups to Fortune 500 companies. “We help small businesses succeed with marketing by providing resources for creating content, leveraging online platforms, optimizing websites, and creating marketing campaigns,” says Barone.</p><p>This is why the RED Podcast is such an integral part of MBM: it allows the company to lift up individual creators and influencers and help connect them with businesses to grow their personal brand. “Michelle Barone RED is a place where you can experience your favorite influencer or content creator in a different light,” Barone says. “We encourage people to follow their dreams. You have one life. Make it count.”</p><p>The new MBM website will be launched by the end of 2022.</p><p><i>Michelle Barone Media (MBM) is a full service marketing and advertising agency based in New York City, NY. The company offers consulting, customized marketing campaigns, strategic planning, and resources for creating digital content, leveraging online platforms, and optimizing websites.</i></p><p>Visit the current website:<a href="http://www.michellebaroneonline.com/"> www.michellebaroneonline.com</a></p><p>Or email: info@michellebaronemedia.com</p><p>Instagram: @MichelleBaroneOnline</p><p>TikTok: @Michellebarone</p><p> </p>
14 Mar, 2023
Kyle McDowell
<p><i>Begin With WE</i>: From Executive to Author - Inside Kyle McDowell’s Mission to Rid Corporate America of Its Toxic Ways</p><p>TAMPA, FL–With the release of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Begin-WE-Principles-Sustaining-Excellence/dp/1544529910"><i>Begin With We: 10 Principles for Building and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence</i></a><i>, </i>leadership expert <a href="http://kylemcdowellinc.com">Kyle McDowell</a> aims to redefine and inspire corporate America with his framework for authentic, effective leadership. McDowell, one of the foremost authorities on corporate culture transformation, has delivered keynotes to tens of thousands of people around the United States. The 10 WEs, his guiding leadership principles, have made his book a bestseller on <i>USA Today</i> and <i>Wall Street Journal </i>and in nine categories on Amazon. The root cause of corporate dysfunction, he says, cannot be addressed with technology or better processes alone. Instead, the solution is more fundamental: leaders must value empathy over fear and inspire members of the team to see the value in “WE,” not “me.”</p><p>For nearly thirty years, McDowell spent his corporate career leading teams in uber competitive and highly challenging environments, including the operational bailout of several states that were struggling to implement the Affordable Care Act. He also led thousands of employees at massive organizations like GDIT, Maximus, and CVS Health.</p><p>As successful as he was at the top of corporate America, McDowell found himself apathetic and unfulfilled. </p><p>“I had everything career-wise that I thought I should have. I had achieved more in my career than I imagined possible. But I drank the corporate kool-aid and lost my optimism, passion, and energy. As a result, I couldn’t be the kind of leader that everyone really needed,” McDowell recalls. “I was leading through fear, control, and every other tactic we’ve all been so unfortunate to witness first-hand. I was a good boss who delivered good results… but I wasn’t a good leader. More and more, I started to notice my teams were coming to work with fear in their hearts. But I always thought there had to be a better way, and it started with me choosing to become a better leader.” </p><p>He decided to leave behind the big paycheck and golden handcuffs, launching his passion project: Kyle McDowell Inc., a global speaking, leadership, and cultural transformation firm committed to developing authentic and courageous leaders who have a passion for cultivating a better, WE-oriented work life. </p><p>Creating the 10 WEs, McDowell reveals, ultimately came down to one question: what did he want his “leadership legacy” to be?</p><p>“I told myself that the next job opportunity that afforded me complete autonomy and ownership of an organization, I would do things very differently. I wanted to be conspicuous about what the team should expect from me and what types of behavior would be expected and rewarded inside our organization. It would be important to deemphasize ‘me’ and my role and to focus almost exclusively on the talent and impact the ‘WE’ could represent,” he says. “I wanted more collaboration and direct ownership than I’d seen in my past. I wanted the members of my team to know their value and feel appreciated.”</p><p>When the opportunity surfaced in 2016, McDowell recognized this as a pivotal moment in his career journey. The night before he was scheduled to deliver a speech to the top 50 leaders within his new, 15K person organization, with no pre-planning, thoughts of starting his own firm, and certainly no idea he would go on to write a bestseller, he crafted The 10 WEs, his guiding principles for life and leadership that include:</p><p>1. WE do the right thing. Always. </p><p>2. WE lead by example. </p><p>3. WE say what WE’re going to do. Then WE do it. </p><p>4. WE take action. </p><p>5. WE own our mistakes. </p><p>6. WE pick each other up. </p><p>7. WE measure ourselves by outcomes. Not activity. </p><p>8. WE challenge each other. </p><p>9. WE embrace challenge. </p><p>10. WE obsess over details. </p><p><i>Begin With WE</i> and McDowell’s message have been well-received by executives in industries as diverse as athletics, healthcare, tech, and even education. His down-to-earth, candid approach to long-lasting employee relationships along with the book’s vivid storytelling and real-life examples speak to leaders of companies of all sizes. With so many people grappling with apathy about their jobs, it is the right book for the times. </p><p>“One of the biggest mistakes today’s leaders make is subscribing to the old, outdated leadership playbook,” McDowell believes. “The workplace and how we even define work are changing every day. More than ever, people want to make an impact and do work that matters. And I think it’s the leader’s obligation to enable and unlock their potential. When you lead with integrity and authenticity, your team will rally behind you. When the team knows you care more about their growth and development, trust is secured and results speak for themselves. You end up building a legacy that lasts well beyond your tenure with any organization.”</p><p><i>Kyle McDowell is an author, speaker, and leadership expert with nearly three decades of experience leading tens of thousands of employees at some of the biggest companies in the United States. With an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, Kyle is widely known for his inspiring approaches to transforming bosses into leaders and reshaping corporate cultures.</i></p><p><i>Today, McDowell is regularly invited to speak at business, educational, and nonprofit institutions and events. He’s been featured in major national publications, such as the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Inc. Magazine. His bestselling book, Begin With We: 10 Principles for Building and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence, is available wherever books are sold, including </i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Begin-WE-Principles-Sustaining-Excellence/dp/1544529910"><i>Amazon</i></a><i>. </i></p><p><i>For more information about the services offered by Kyle McDowell Inc., please follow McDowell on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube using @KyleMcDowellInc or contact:</i></p><p><i>Kyle McDowell</i></p><p><a href="mailto:info@kylemcdowellinc.com"><i>info@kylemcdowellinc.com</i></a><i> </i></p><p> </p>
20 Mar, 2023
Mary Seats
<p><strong>Title:</strong> Ashley Ryckman, Building a million-dollar brand out of her basement in less than five years, </p><p>Ashley Ryckman, owner and founder of<i> Chic Lifestyle, Inc.,</i> is disrupting the way the beauty industry works by challenging women to <i>#BelieveYouDeserveIt.</i> </p><p>Instead of simply selling products that sit on the shelf, Ashley and her team invite her audience into their community - their tribe, as she calls it.</p><p>With followers on Facebook reaching over 120K, <i>Chic Lifestyle</i> is changing the way women all over the world see themselves. Most important to Ashley is the space her brand has created to allow her tribe to support each other. Her products help people feel more beautiful on the </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/iHq-1a7sdtovJ1pLhg7rqMduRkVIrjZVO3Ejx7B7_Zwu5BkzMWwwcmdBcDrlBm65Bkym2YRJTbPsSYaW_I377JKGyHm4Q-UB9c1KbOZWFbHt9MJByhTXfFYHtJN00CXCUNKELkn8fQrY9xtWkZIhsQ"></figure><p>outside, but the love and support of the community help them feel as gorgeous on the inside.</p><p>“I saw a need in helping women believe in themselves. We sell confidence, and the belief that it’s never too late to start taking care of you,” Ashley said. </p><p>Thousands tune in LIVE every day on Facebook to watch Ashley and her team host a unique, personalized shopping experience. Featuring high-quality clothes, accessories, beauty products, and jaw-dropping wig styles, customers receive 360-degree support they don’t get elsewhere. Tutorials on how to use products, virtual and in-person consultations, customer spotlights, and the chance to interact with Ashley and her team every day to share in the joy of the shopping experience.</p><p>In the private <i>Chic Lifestyle Testimonial </i>Facebook group women come to share personal stories, offer prayers and support during challenging times, and celebrate each other's accomplishments. One of Ashley’s customers recently won $25,000 with the help of the group members voting in <i>The 15 Day Challenge</i> to live healthier and feel better. </p><p>It’s about purpose. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/MLkW_PjmaKkqYF0ck_EUUuNZpzzyTXe1m3xRwOUp6dNB5wfc5TvMdXYKGCryh0yFRG9w83wMcUP1kZeAGl66lm5AhNIvP_Ut1W65RS0JenG-mQ2rVLuDO9FHxZla-B73BSr5Ww2qed3tMG52WwkUSw"></figure><p>Which is why Chic Lifestyle, Inc. has donated more than $100,000 to support victims of domestic violence and sex trafficking, homeless shelters and food banks, animal shelters, and a cause near to heart, women battling cancer. All made possible by the incredible success of her rapidly growing business that puts people before products. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2XhTTPThiTtz4fLvdRu7xdf27ZkqXlTeEtSMMDL1pbz4wgLF8WjPELn8G-RLjQfollxvGw-NfjFJ1sYsn-Ts6_TbD8kaz7E_ZGWojShcq9M8vddxnKb1YO6HTqFumijhYh5Z3IF4LHbwrEAC45I0TA"></figure><p>“We’re not meant to do life alone,” Ashley said, “My mission is to inspire women to have the courage to turn their dreams into their reality by teaching them to curate their own unique Chic Lifestyle.”</p><p>Consider this your official invite to the tribe! </p><p>Find us, follow us on Facebook - Chic Lifestyle, Inc.</p>
13 Mar, 2023
CEO of DYLOH Capital Discusses Company-Wide Growth and AI Advancements
<p> </p><p><i>Mountain View, California</i>–DYLOH Capital, an IT Services and IT Consulting company, is working closely with the development of AI driven technology. The company has recently announced that they are preparing to launch their latest financial algorithm derivatives trading platform, designed specifically for the United States market.</p><p>Diego Goulart is a 30 year old entrepreneur from Brazil who has taken the international business world by storm. He began his career as an IT Change Management in São Paulo, but quickly left for the world of business, launching his own start-up in 2017. In a few short years, he has quickly established himself as an innovator in the tech sector, becoming a go-to expert for introducing technologies to companies around the globe. </p><p>DYLOH Capital takes a unique and innovative approach to business, which has led Diego to break through barriers, quickly scaling his business to unexpected heights. His mission is to create a world-class company that solves global problems through innovative solutions, and to revolutionize how business is conducted in the digital age. He continues to push the boundaries as an innovator and entrepreneur, always striving to stay on the cutting edge of emerging technologies.</p><p>Artificial Intelligence is advancing rapidly and is being used in a variety of industries to improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety. AI can be used in robotics, medical diagnosis, customer service, finance, and many other sectors. DYLOH is working to integrate AI into their upcoming developments, as a financial algorithm derivatives trading platform.</p><p>This Artificial Intelligence is working to predict outcomes in complex situations, such as financial trading. AI-driven technology from DYLOH’s integration can help traders make more accurate predictions based on historical data, allowing them to make more informed decisions. Overall, AI will revolutionize the way financial trading platforms operate and allow traders to take advantage of the latest trends and insights.</p><p>When asked about the potential success of these newest developments, Diego says, “Success can be defined as achieving something through hard work and dedication which leaves you feeling proud and accomplished afterwards. I feel good, knowing that this innovation will lead to easier and more streamlined processes within my industry.”</p><p>For the next five years, DYLOH anticipates a 25–30% rise in revenue as they want to demonstrate their capacity for service maximization and market differentiation. The business expects to grow its roster by 15-20%, which will result in a more productive workplace and a team of specialists to support its rapidly expanding services. The company is also preparing for expansion in the form of personnel size increases.</p><p><i>DYLOH Capital is an IT Services and IT Consulting Company that is launching their newest AI driven financial algorithm derivatives trading platform. The system will operate and specialize in the US Market and is expected to be seen later in 2023. For more information visit their </i><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/dyloh/about/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Diego Goulart</i></p><p><i>diegosilvagoulart@hotmail.com</i></p>
20 Mar, 2023
DYLOH Capital Prepares to Launch Upcoming Feature–Algorithm to Trade Derivatives Using AI.
<p> </p><p> </p><p><i>Mountain View, California</i>–DYLOH Capital is an IT Services and IT Consulting company that is working to develop new advancements in the Artificial Intelligence sector of their industry. The brand has recently announced that they are preparing to launch their latest financial algorithm derivatives trading platform, designed specifically for the United States market.</p><p>This newest advancement is hoping to become a revolutionary solution in the forefront of the industry, as the feature will utilize advanced methods to enable users to maximize their profits. With an extensive case study and several test runs, the algorithm is launching with a proven 95% effectiveness in Trading derivatives. </p><p>CEO of DYLOH, Diego Goulart has been working on this technology for years, having operated within the IT Change Management field as well as the business sector for just shy of a decade. The addition of Artificial Intelligence has been integral to the growth and expansion of his industry. </p><p>“With this technology,” Goulart begins, “we are sure that our investment will be supported by the powerful capabilities of our AI-driven system.” AI is poised to have a huge impact on financial trading platforms, such as the one that DYLOH works within. The AI-driven algorithm that this company is launched will be able to identify trends and execute trades faster than humans can, eliminating the need for manual input. This will hopefully give traders an edge in the market as they can capitalize on market opportunities before they are gone. </p><p>DYLOH Capital is developing these AI-driven algorithms that can also help traders identify potential risks and make better decisions when it comes to trading. AI can also help traders make more accurate predictions based on historical data, allowing them to make more informed decisions. Overall, AI will revolutionize the way financial trading platforms operate and allow traders to take advantage of the latest trends and insights.</p><p>“In five years,” Diego Goulart goes on to say, “DYLOH hopes to continue providing derivatives and IT outsourcing services.” He expresses that, as a leader in the industry, he projects that, while the marketplace and competition is ever evolving and growing, his company will continue to be a competitive option as they maintain their exploration into AI driven systems and technologies.</p><p>DYLOH is projecting a 25-30% revenue increase within the next five years as they hope to showcase their ability to maximize their services and differentiate themselves in the market. The company is also anticipating expansion in the form of staff number increases, as they expect to see a growth in their roster by 15-20%, which in turn, will work to provide a more efficient environment and a team of professionals to facilitate their fast growing services. </p><p><i>DYLOH Capital is an IT Services and IT Consulting Company that is launching their newest AI driven financial algorithm derivatives trading platform. The system will operate and specialize in the US Market and is expected to be seen later in 2023. For more information visit their </i><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/dyloh/about/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Diego Goulart</i></p><p><i>diegosilvagoulart@hotmail.com</i></p><p> </p>
14 Mar, 2023
Unik Media Group – Pay Per Call and Lead Generation Focus on Success
<p>Unik Media Group is a digital performance marketing agency that serves advertisers and publishers. Its Founder and CMO, Carlos Corona Jr., has been in this industry for over ten years and is always looking for new and innovative ways to grow as a professional and as a business.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oudkCK3b1gFWLNI1s8ZBBCHoL89dhsHBBVfYHz2DtlYP08IeG-nTemzeWm8b-5WvZtwpeE3IlgE3YrzZUgPeWUrD69t6Ns4hv4IHWbQIMTG4TTcNDG6mLTWXdW_bFMo0EMBzyDnv3sYYw0sC5ZjQWbg"></figure><p>Performance marketing is an online marketing and advertising program where individuals pay only when a specific action occurs. These actions can include generating a lead, making a sale, or clicking on an ad, among others. Through his work at Unik Media Group, Carlos has built a team of performance marketing experts who specialize in Pay Per Call and Lead Generation.</p><p>“We make generating high-intent, inbound phone calls for your business as easy as ordering meals from your favorite food delivery app,” the company’s website explains. “Our leads have generated millions of dollars in new business.” UMG works directly with businesses to scale up client acquisition and retention. The partner company needs only to:</p><ul><li>Select the desired industry</li><li>Select the company’s target locations</li><li>Set an initial budget</li><li>Renew the budget as needed</li><li>Start receiving phone calls</li></ul><p>Unik Media Group are also experts in the following industries for small and large businesses:</p><ul><li>Legal</li><li>Home Services</li><li>Financial</li><li>Healthcare</li><li>Insurance</li></ul><p>Carlos Corona Jr., the founder, and CMO of Unik Media Group (UMG), has recently been honored with the prestigious "Super Affiliate of the Year" award at the annual Affy Awards. This recognition highlights Carlos's outstanding achievements in the affiliate marketing industry and is a testament to his innovative strategies and dedication to driving growth for his clients. The Affy Awards recognizing excellence in the affiliate marketing industry took place at the Affiliate Ball.</p><p>Unik Media Group (UMG) is a digital performance marketing agency that has been helping advertisers acquire new customers for more than 10 years. They aim to provide customized solutions to their clients and help them grow their business with a data-driven approach. To learn more about Carlos Corona Jr. and the work he does with Unik, visit his <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carloscoronajr/">LinkedIn</a> or the company’s <a href="https://unikmediagroup.com/">website</a>.</p>
14 Mar, 2023
Unik Media Group's Founder and CMO Discuss Success in Pay Per Call/Lead Generation
<p>Carlos Corona Jr, a performance marketer and digital media buyer based in South Florida, has established himself as a prominent industry thought leader, thanks to his extensive knowledge of the field. Carlos keeps himself ahead of the competition as a business partner by staying fully informed and using effective marketing techniques. He applies pragmatic strategies to yield excellent outcomes for his clients, and his knowledge and expertise have helped numerous businesses expand rapidly. Maintaining a high standard of ethics and openness, Carlos builds trust with his clients, establishing himself as a trustworthy expert.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/OBIfD_UdGZlprQqaTvDqE0N5wYLfTnOf0Omzer5NPeorAfMRs5_7ElIROSenJkDpRVxEHRGcReAPsDckYuTV5d1mehWvlHxngzCYPRr8PCCD25KjZQJkMoyC-TOZrY5NiGL_UZcU--hza8qkMxrF4VQ"></figure><p>At Unik Media Group, Carlos has built a team of performance marketing experts specializing in Pay Per Call and Lead Generation. Their services include affiliate marketing, media buying, social media marketing, SEO, and more. They aim to provide customized solutions to their clients and help them grow their business with a data-driven approach.</p><p>Carlos believes that building a reputable and sustainable business requires more than just generating leads or making sales. Success in Pay Per Call and Lead Generation is about understanding the needs and motivations of the target audience and providing solutions that meet those needs. Building trust, credibility, and lasting relationships with clients is essential for any business looking to create long-term success.</p><p>Building strong client relationships allows companies to better understand their customers and their needs, build trust and loyalty, and ultimately, create higher client retention. With strong client relationships, companies can also gain valuable feedback that can be used to improve their products or services.</p><p>According to Carlos, entrepreneurship in these industries is about being proactive, staying ahead of the curve, and constantly testing and refining strategies while adapting to new technologies and market trends. Carlos is a frequent speaker at industry events, sharing his expertise and insights with other professionals in the field. He is dedicated to helping others succeed in the affiliate marketing industry and is always looking for ways to innovate and improve his own strategies.</p>
14 Mar, 2023
Carlos Corona Jr. Named Super Affiliate of the Year
<p>Carlos Corona Jr., the Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Unik Media Group (UMG), has recently been honored with the prestigious "Super Affiliate of the Year" award at the annual Affy Awards. This recognition highlights Carlos's outstanding achievements in the affiliate marketing industry and is a testament to his innovative strategies and dedication to driving growth for his clients. The Affy Awards, which recognize excellence in the affiliate marketing industry, took place at the Affiliate Ball.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/nhwnzfGdFqb__xuwmGcPmZcJl7dzlJAsEcHSK8j5IA5s-ET12ohTvMovCsLdTYAgNO_JRs6uciUJ0ZU4fYXcQZlswEHrokEDrdRY9s61f7P66JfU234Hza-Pw5tAuB2hAjPkQnKsjaiVPhPB5foiVlM"></figure><p>As a Pay-Per-Call and Lead Generation expert with more than a decade of experience within the industry, Carlos has established himself as a thought leader in the digital performance marketing space. Through his leadership and vision, Unik Media Group has become a leading provider of customized, data-driven solutions for clients seeking to maximize their ROI through affiliate marketing.</p><p>Winning the "Super Affiliate of the Year" award is a significant achievement for Carlos and a clear indication of his ongoing commitment to excellence. With this recognition, Carlos and Unik Media Group are well-positioned to attract even more clients and expand their reach in the affiliate marketing industry in the years to come.</p><p>"Success in Pay-Per-Call and Lead Generation is about more than just generating leads or making sales," Carlos explains. "It's about understanding the needs and motivations of your target audience and providing them with solutions that meet those needs. It's about building trust, credibility, and lasting relationships."</p><p>His drive and continued passion are evident in the work that he accomplishes, bringing success not only for himself and UMG but also for the businesses and clients that he builds partnerships with. He has been paving the way as a leader in the Pay-Per-Call and Lead Generation industries, and his experience and expertise are nearly unparalleled.</p><p>"When it comes to entrepreneurship and thriving in the Pay-Per-Call and Lead Generation industries, it is about being proactive and staying ahead of the curve. It's about constantly testing and refining your strategies, adapting to new technologies and market trends, and being willing to take risks and make bold moves."</p><p>Carlos Corona also gets invited to be a frequent speaker at industry events, sharing his expertise and insights with other professionals in the field. He is dedicated to helping others succeed in the affiliate marketing industry and is always looking for ways to innovate and improve his own strategies. As an entrepreneur, Carlos has helped businesses of all sizes generate leads and increase revenue through innovative strategies and tactics. To learn more about Carlos and his upcoming speaking engagements, visit his <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carloscoronajr/">LinkedIn</a> profile.</p><p>To learn more about Unik Media Group, check out the UMG <a href="https://unikmediagroup.com/">website</a>.</p><p><a href="https://unikmediagroup.com/#howitwork">. </a></p>
14 Mar, 2023
Four Integral Services Provided by Unik Media Group
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/r-UXm5FLgItBjaGkt_32HOoMNHXYgqF3SnCStuZq00fdcOsgZbFFmz8714y6KOdx0cNDbtwqQPem21UC2P3HaYpCjOOaPomlto1UtcutziMyOsOSUYGEMcI7pXxnrQErpUIsmwlusSVsA4I-LnLOUTU"></figure><p>Unik Media group is a digital performing marketing agency that serves advertisers and publishers. The CMO of UMG, Carlos Corona Jr. has been serving within this industry for over ten years and is always looking for new and innovative ways to grow as a professional as well as a business. </p><p>Performance marketing is online marketing and advertising programs where you pay only when a specific action occurs. These actions can include a generated lead, a sale, a click, and more. Through his work at Unik Media Group, Carlos has built a team of performance marketing experts who specialize in Pay Per Call and Lead Generation. </p><p>The company offers several services to their clients and partners including the following: </p><ul><li>Affiliate marketing</li></ul><p>Affiliate marketing is a type of performance-based marketing in which a business rewards one or more affiliates for each visitor or customer brought by the affiliate's own marketing efforts. The industry has four core players: the merchant (also known as 'retailer' or 'brand'), the network (that contains offers for the affiliate to choose from and also takes care of the payments), the publisher (also known as 'the affiliate'), and the customer. The market has grown in complexity, resulting in the emergence of a secondary tier of players, including affiliate management agencies, super-affiliates and specialized third party vendors.</p><ul><li>Media buying</li></ul><p>Media buying is the process of purchasing advertising space or time in any type of media such as radio, television, print, outdoor, digital, etc. It involves researching, negotiating, and purchasing ad space or time in order to increase brand awareness and help achieve an organization’s marketing objectives. The goal is to purchase ad space or time at the best possible rate, while also ensuring that the ad will be seen by the right target audience. Media buying requires research, strategic planning, and careful negotiation to ensure that an organization gets the best possible value for its investment.</p><ul><li>Social media marketing</li></ul><p>Social media marketing is the process of using social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube to create content, build relationships and drive user engagement. It involves creating, publishing, and managing content that is tailored to specific audiences and objectives. It also involves developing strategies to engage, interact and build relationships with customers and potential customers. Social media marketing can help to increase brand awareness, build relationships, drive website traffic and generate leads.</p><ul><li>SEO</li></ul><p>SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the process of optimizing a website's content and structure to make it easier for search engines like Google and Bing to find and index its pages. This increases visibility and helps businesses attract more organic (unpaid) traffic from search engine results pages (SERPs). By making a website more visible to search engines, businesses can increase their chances of being seen by potential customers, leading to increased sales and revenue. SEO also helps businesses build their reputation, as search engine users are more likely to trust higher-ranking sites.</p><p>Unik Media Group aims to provide customized solutions to their clients and help them grow their business with a data-driven approach. To learn more information about Carlos Corona Jr, and the work he does with Unik, visit his </p><p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carloscoronajr/">LinkedIn</a></p><p>, or the company’s </p><p><a href="https://unikmediagroup.com/">website</a></p><p>. </p>
14 Mar, 2023
Carlos Corona Jr: One of South Florida's Biggest Digital Performance Marketing Experts
<p>Carlos Corona Jr. is an expert in Pay Per Call and Lead Generation, and the Founder and CMO of Unik Media Group, a digital performance marketing agency that serves advertisers and publishers. With over a decade of experience across several industry sectors, Carlos has helped businesses of all sizes generate leads and increase revenue through innovative strategies and tactics.</p><p>His expertise is well-known as he has become a standout industry thought leader, a performance marketer, and a digital media buyer in the South Florida market. As a business partner, Carlos Corona maintains fully up-to-date knowledge and puts himself ahead with his marketing strategies. His continued use of practical tactics delivers quality results for each of his clients. Carlos has helped several businesses grow exponentially by sharing his knowledge and expertise. He operates with high integrity and transparency, allowing his clients to truly understand the work that he does and making him a reliable expert.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_3CVtLfH2K34-xCObjyaMYktqpRsDy2RNm719kAYxiYGDr6Y1kdd5ZE46FP47vhrm4YjW_USEFGNc2sFciPv-ZuorQmfal9aRNVhZm8R2Nfw0S3ZESLu6164MT8SEB-Ik6rP1BAhqj_2HdhW6eT8278"></figure><p>Through his work at Unik Media Group, Carlos has built a team of performance marketing experts who specialize in Pay Per Call and Lead Generation. Their services include affiliate marketing, media buying, social media marketing, SEO, and more. They aim to provide customized solutions to their clients and help them grow their business with a data-driven approach.</p><p>While maintaining his business, Carlos is also a frequent speaker at industry events, sharing his expertise and insights with other professionals in the field. He is dedicated to helping others succeed in the affiliate marketing industry and is always looking for ways to innovate and improve his own strategies.</p><p>"Success in Pay Per Call and Lead Generation is about more than just generating leads or making sales," Carlos explains. "It's about understanding the needs and motivations of your target audience and providing them with solutions that meet those needs. It's about building trust, credibility, and lasting relationships."</p><p>As an industry leader, Carlos Corona works to identify problem areas in his industry and aims to solve them. His skill set and knowledge are evident throughout his multiple completed projects and partnerships. Carlos was also awarded the title of "Super Affiliate of the Year" at the annual Affy Awards for his significant contributions to the Pay Per Call and Lead Generation industry with his efforts in driving innovation, implementing new strategies, and mentoring other affiliates contributing to his success.</p><p>As the CMO he continues to drive innovation and success within the Lead Generating and Pay Per Call industries, he and the team he works with at Unik Media Group are excited about what the future holds for their company and the industry itself.</p><p>For more information about Carlos Corona Jr. and the work he does with Unik, visit his <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carloscoronajr/">LinkedIn</a> or the company's <a href="https://unikmediagroup.com/">website</a>.</p>
13 Mar, 2023
Unik Media Group CMO Presented "Super Affiliate of The Year" at Annual Affy Award Program
<p><i>Las Vegas, Nevada - </i>Unik Media Group is a digital performance marketing agency that serves advertisers and publishers. The Founder of UMG, Carlos Corona Jr., has recently been awarded "Super Affiliate of the Year" at the annual Affy Awards.</p><p>Carlos Corona Jr. is a Pay Per Call and Lead Generation expert with over a decade of experience in several industry sectors. He has worked to help businesses of all sizes generate leads and increase revenue through innovative strategies and tactics.</p><p>The Affiliate Ball hosted the Affy Awards ceremony in January 2023 to honor excellence in the affiliate marketing sector. One of the nominees distinguished himself from the others, gaining him and his business the desired distinction. The "Super Affiliate of the Year" award went to Carlos Corona Jr., the founder and CMO of Unik Media Group (UMG). This annual award honors remarkable accomplishments in the affiliate marketing sector. For everyone in the sector, it is a significant occasion that brings together influential people, business leaders, and top achievers to honor the best and brightest. The occasion offers a fantastic chance for networking, education, and inspiration from the finest professionals in the field.</p><p>Getting recognized at the Affy Awards, a prestigious event for affiliate marketers, and winning an award there is a thrilling accomplishment. With his initiatives to promote creativity, put new ideas into practice, and coach other affiliates who would go on to succeed, Carlos has had a tremendous impact on the Pay Per Call and Lead Generation businesses.</p><p>"It's an honor to be recognized among so many talented individuals in the industry," Carlos expressed upon accepting the award. The event was also a platform to feature a performance by a big name in the music industry, who entertained the crowd with hit songs and a captivating stage presence. The team at Unik Media Group and Carlos Corona Jr. are thrilled about this recent acquisition.</p><p>The Super Affiliate of the Year award will benefit UMG in a number of ways. First, it will recognize and reward UMG's top affiliates for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to the company. This will create a strong sense of loyalty and motivation among UMG's affiliates, encouraging them to continue to work alongside Unik Media Group. Additionally, the award will help to strengthen UMG and Carlos Corona's reputations as leaders in the affiliate marketing industry, drawing more affiliates to the company and increasing its overall reach. Finally, the award will serve as a great marketing tool, allowing UMG to showcase its successes and draw in new customers.</p><p>Unik Media Group hopes that this latest award will help them push forward and drive their company to further successes in the years to come. As a digital performance marketing agency, UMG aims to highlight more of Carlos Corona's influence as an award-winning Pay Per Call and Lead Generation expert.</p><p><i>Unik Media Group aims to provide customized solutions to its clients and help them grow their business with a data-driven approach. To learn more information about Carlos Corona Jr. and the work he does with Unik, please visit his </i><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carloscoronajr/"><i>LinkedIn</i></a><i> or the company's </i><a href="https://unikmediagroup.com/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p>Contact:</p><p>Carlos Corona Jr.</p><p><a href="mailto:info@unikmediagroup.com">info@unikmediagroup.com</a></p>
14 Mar, 2023
Unik Media Group CMO Presented "Super Affiliate of The Year" Award at Annual Affy Award Program
<p><i>Las Vegas, Nevada -</i> Unik Media Group (UMG) is a digital performance marketing agency that serves advertisers and publishers. The Founder of UMG, Carlos Corona Jr., was recently awarded "Super Affiliate of the Year" at the annual Affy Awards.</p><p>The Affy Awards recognize excellence in the affiliate marketing industry and took place at the Affiliate Ball in January 2023. Among the nominees, one stood out, earning him and his company the coveted title. Carlos Corona Jr., Founder and CMO of Unik Media Group (UMG), was honored with the "Super Affiliate of the Year" award.</p><p>The ceremony is an annual event that recognizes outstanding achievement in the affiliate marketing industry. It is a large-scale event that brings together industry leaders, influencers, and top performers to celebrate the best and brightest. The event provides a great opportunity for networking, learning, and being inspired by the industry's top performers.</p><p>Being nominated and awarded at the Affy Awards, a prestigious ceremony in the affiliate marketing sector, is an exciting accomplishment. Carlos has significantly impacted the Pay Per Call and Lead Generation industries through his efforts to foster creativity, implement fresh ideas, and mentor other affiliates who will go on to achieve success.</p><p>"It's an honor to be recognized among so many talented individuals in the industry," Carlos expressed upon accepting the award. The event also featured a performance by a big name in the music industry, who entertained the crowd with hit songs and a captivating stage presence. The team at Unik Media Group and Carlos Corona Jr. are thrilled about this recent achievement.</p><p>"Success in Pay Per Call and Lead Generation is about more than just generating leads or making sales," Carlos goes on to say. "It's about understanding the needs and motivations of your target audience and providing them with solutions that meet those needs. It's about building trust, credibility, and lasting relationships."</p><p>Unik Media Group hopes that this newest award will help them drive their company further towards success in the years to come. As a digital performance marketing agency, UMG aims to highlight more of Carlos Corona's influence as an award-winning Pay Per Call and Lead Generation expert.</p><p><i>Unik Media Group aims to provide customized solutions to their clients and help them grow their business with a data-driven approach. To learn more about Carlos Corona Jr. and the work he does with Unik, visit his </i><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carloscoronajr/"><i>LinkedIn</i></a><i> profile or the company's </i><a href="https://unikmediagroup.com/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p>Contact:</p><p>Carlos Corona Jr.</p><p>info@unikmediagroup.com</p>
07 Mar, 2023
Matthew Martinez
<p>Realtor Matthew Martinez, Transforming Luxury Real Estate Investments with AI</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/hR_ijePRkXuXCZwflChTePSpe86c2t_CJHUU6DWfGEXKT7YDJXH-1MrGvVd-v1zOFYwfwTxEoIE23MeHHJ_Z6RJpaylnBtfEXsbpAWgB0zGit3Yb41AH0UcoPTdHd44zm6EdYQgExYwdLmIyyIhBa0w"></figure><p>As AI is implemented in more industries across the United States, eliminating redundancies and improving productivity, one question concerns its potential impact on real estate. Investors are about to learn the answer, as luxury and investment real estate broker <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-diamondgroup/">Matthew Martinez</a> has launched his proprietary, AI-powered platform. Matthew is the CEO of <a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com/">Diamond Real Estate Group</a>, which he founded in 2021 and quickly grew into an industry leader in the Napa Valley and Bay Area through the power of his expertise and ability to connect with investors on social media. Matthew likes to give away his knowledge of premium real estate for free on his platforms, resulting in over 200,000 followers and being named one of the Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Agents on Social Media and the Top 100 Real Estate Agents on Instagram. Today, he is shaking up Northern California’s ultra-luxury real estate market with his proprietary, AI-powered platform, showing that there is a more efficient way to identify real estate investment opportunities, drive sales leads, and increase returns.</p><p>The man behind a fundamental shift in one of America’s most expensive real estate markets was brought up in Sonoma, California, where he says he learned the importance of financial stability and empathy.</p><p>“I grew up in a single-parent home,” <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thematthewmartinez/">Matthew</a> remembers. “I’m sure my mom had to struggle on some level, but she provided me with a wonderful childhood because she worked so hard. That really made an impression on me, how your own diligence and work ethic can take you so far.”</p><p>After college, Matthew followed his passion for real estate and design by becoming a part-time investor and flipper. He quickly developed a reputation for working tirelessly, prioritizing client service, and being an expert in the diverse neighborhoods of San Francisco.</p><p>“I eventually launched <a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com">Diamond Real Estate Group</a> because I was determined to help more people invest in properties around the Bay Area and Napa Valley,” Matthew says. He pauses for a moment, then laughs a little. “I probably could have chosen an easier market to break into, but I couldn’t resist the challenge!”</p><p>He says that the keys to his success have been three factors: his ability to explain a complex, ever-changing market to buyers, sellers, and other agents; the power of social media marketing, which has connected him to everyday investors around America; and artificial intelligence.</p><p>“I don’t believe in withholding valuable information that could transform other people’s lives,” Matthew reflects. “I want to teach everyone how to attain the same level of success that I have found and inspire them to believe that it is possible. That is why I concentrate so much on breaking down the complexities of real estate for anyone who is interested.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/zwqrzDddZhp7so-Aow6S6hP1qFoUXWALalUfCjJMgLrh6eACWBzwMBODqe7dzxGF1hdFosSqHZEH9K-spGA9B1fMpFusb_3ocueekwIWendd5wN1Xj7SP0gKtLP4301dz7Qd9oWkCr3KWGSvWMwKaXc"></figure><p>Matthew is a frequent guest on podcasts, blogs, and media outlets and works to create an online environment where anyone can come together to learn about real estate. He has been featured on <i>Yahoo Finance, Forbes, Fox, NBC, Time, Benzinga,</i> and other publications. He is also a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, a Certified Negotiation Expert, an Accredited Commercial Real Estate Professional, a Certified Distressed Property Expert, and an accredited Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource.</p><p>Now, with the launch of his AI-powered platform, Matthew is working to bring more precision to the real estate industry and to maximize the returns on each transaction. His team has spent the last few years developing the technology and celebrated when it was rolled out. </p><p>“We all crowded around the computer and watched as our AI platform began analyzing the best properties in Northern California,” Matthew recalls. “Then, after a few high fives, we got to work on the next stage of our growth: using it to expand our ability to identify the right houses, condos, multi-unit buildings, and income/investment properties for our clients.”</p><p>Diamond Real Estate Group is also launching its cutting-edge website, which will use AI to help visitors to find off-market investment opportunities and market their homes to the perfect buyer. The new website will also feature blog articles, white papers, case studies and other valuable content that educate visitors about real estate investment and transactions. Blog posts will provide analysis and insights into current real estate market trends, including data on home prices, rental rates, and inventory levels, and they will also spotlight local businesses, with the goal of increasing community and promoting a stronger economy.</p><p>Matthew says that while 2023 is already shaping up to be an exciting year for Diamond Real Estate Group, he remains focused on the long-term picture for luxury property investors.</p><p>“That’s really what our AI platform is about: simplifying how luxury real estate is invested in over the decades to come, not months or even a few years,” Matthew explains. “Every investor knows how crucial it is to play the long game, and with our AI platform, Diamond Real Estate Group’s ability just got even stronger.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/lrz5qRefdT0T03q8GQHi1tTWfrvXmp2jsMEF0L2i3xCdpgbSaXx8KjYAyZ21Bu2ZPlj1w28JWHIdeSYAwueJuji1r1N9Fz43WOye7K-rNpXdYfIbUh30XhRa8LxSxV8naGcwkzvaKgWHz79gHERBch4"></figure>
07 Mar, 2023
Matthew Martinez
<p>Luxury Realtor/Investor Matthew Martinez Uses AI to Lead San Francisco/Napa Valley in a New Direction</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/hPlrY19DsPjCDkmjgMJ0q1_ARZsLOOYbHuGVUAXP3injhfZzInpKCg0db3QTry0Ewu7H3fBdUBbaWU1KEHk-xarr1u-M-r2nvHFcGsPsiyVGbIp_PSqzBWtY7HEJhUDklyEcSal1MIJHTTpk4hAhhOg"></figure><p>As you drive to work or go about your errands, pause for a moment to look closely at the properties around you. While they may look the same, they are at the center of a radical shift in real estate: the industry is replacing outdated sales/investment strategies with cutting-edge technology. At the center of this revolution is <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-diamondgroup/">Matthew Martinez</a>, the founder and CEO of <a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com/">Diamond Real Estate Group</a>, a luxury and investment real estate brokerage. Matthew has already changed the premium real estate scene around San Francisco and in Napa Valley through his creative use of social media. He has gained over 200K followers because of his willingness to pass along expert tips for investing in luxury properties. Matthew was also named one of the Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Agents on Social Media and was included in the Top 100 Real Estate Agents on Instagram. Today, he is jumping to the front of Northern California’s ultra-competitive luxury real estate market with his company’s proprietary AI-driven platform, which is designed to identify the best real estate investment opportunities, generate sales leads, and maximize returns.</p><p>While <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thematthewmartinez/">Matthew</a> is an expert in multimillion-dollar properties and thrives on technology, he is more unassuming than you might think. He was grounded in the upbringing he received in Sonoma, California, where his mother, a single parent, taught him about the value of hard work, ethics, and goal setting.</p><p>“That, combined with my fascination with entrepreneurism, real estate, and design, meant that I had big plans for my future, and I couldn’t wait to get started on creating my own life as an adult,” he says.</p><p>After college, Matthew jumped into the real estate market as a part-time investor and flipper. He quickly developed a reputation for working tirelessly, prioritizing client service, and being an expert in the diverse neighborhoods of San Francisco.</p><p>“I eventually launched <a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com">Diamond Real Estate Group</a> because I was determined to help more people invest in properties around the Bay Area and Napa Valley,” Matthew says. He pauses for a moment, then laughs a little. “I probably could have chosen an easier market to break into, but I couldn’t resist the challenge!”</p><p>He says that the keys to his success have been three factors: his ability to explain a complex, ever-changing market to buyers, sellers, and other agents; the power of social media marketing, which has connected him to everyday investors around America; and artificial intelligence.</p><p>“I don’t believe in withholding valuable information that could transform other people’s lives,” Matthew reflects. “I want to teach everyone how to attain the same level of success that I have found and inspire them to believe that it is possible. That is why I concentrate so much on breaking down the complexities of real estate for anyone who is interested.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/u-zyg7S8Wnk3cHkjVMhaXNpk0VD8WQyTU7tjO0u0gWOipZCVMbmXW3r8PLA7-1SV2Go5-HufmXfTCAyFhn8VzeKEkPd9SJEl4QkgYqpD6X-NiLibcrZO3s5py9sLvfMen-3oFuWbZyAHKqtw7ZxI_Rs"></figure><p>Matthew is a frequent guest on podcasts, blogs, and media outlets and works to create an online environment where anyone can come together to learn about real estate. He has been featured on <i>Yahoo Finance, Forbes, Fox, NBC, Time, Benzinga,</i> and other publications. He is also a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, a Certified Negotiation Expert, an Accredited Commercial Real Estate Professional, a Certified Distressed Property Expert, and an accredited Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource.</p><p>Now, with the launch of his AI-powered platform, Matthew is working to bring more precision to the real estate industry and to maximize the returns on each transaction. His team has spent the last few years developing the technology and celebrated when it was rolled out. </p><p>“Can you imagine what our technology will mean for Northern California’s luxury real estate scene?” he asks. “It is eliminating redundant tasks and focusing on houses, condos, multi-unit buildings, and income/investment properties that match the parameters we are interested in. This means we save time and money, which translates to even better customer service for our clients.”</p><p>Diamond Real Estate Group is also launching its cutting-edge website, which will use AI to help visitors to find off-market investment opportunities and market their homes to the perfect buyer. The new website will also feature blog articles, white papers, case studies and other valuable content that educate visitors about real estate investment and transactions. Blog posts will provide analysis and insights into current real estate market trends, including data on home prices, rental rates, and inventory levels, and they will also spotlight local businesses, with the goal of increasing community and promoting a stronger economy.</p><p>While Matthew says that artificial intelligence will revolutionize how luxury properties are identified and invested in, he cautions new investors to look past any bells and whistles a realtor might have.</p><p>“Beyond a doubt, artificial intelligence in real estate is big,” he agrees. “We are only starting to see its potential. However, when you are choosing a realtor, wherever your market might be, look at the person first and foremost. Character matters now more than ever, even in the age of AI. At Diamond Real Estate Group, nothing will ever be more important than that.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Cq0482MGa3VV0iwZSTSpOWIjm9-ChLY3xfWpNfcPj3T_xj_Fol76rB17t_UiBrCnF6bBAcxq8R_KnmYeCOcrqkWHUAjgWqxNXa_5N-szWgJy3-tSSSpTWRVFoHBuGgAObQ3sD3eQ-0INRJ1zTpzkgBE"></figure>
09 Mar, 2023
Matthew Martinez
<p>Matthew Martinez Opens Up About AI and the Future of Luxury Real Estate</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/1XhdH8BASoU4t1fqsXu7juLL2vUzlge4oUUbh74npdrsH06B1e6-MICh8OYu-n4peUiD6b15lwg9j_RSXiFlhrepn-CUaZLyiH-5u_IAHmm_9gBwTqhwrfN2g8Yq2WEQTuDI_wEmtqokyknRqe8j7_8"></figure><p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-diamondgroup/">Matthew Martinez</a> is proving that while real estate may be one of the oldest industries in the United States, it can always be improved with original thinking and innovation. Since founding <a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com/">Diamond Real Estate Group</a>, a luxury and investment real estate brokerage, in 2021, Matthew has been reinventing how premium properties in the Bay Area and Napa Valley are identified and invested in. Until now, he has leveraged his extensive knowledge of one the United States’ toughest markets as well as his social media instincts, resulting in 200K+ followers across his channels and being named one of the Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Agents on Social Media and the Top 100 Real Estate Agents on Instagram. Now, he is shaking up the scene again with his proprietary AI-powered platform, which streamlines how real estate investment opportunities are identified, leading to more sales leads and higher returns.</p><p>Matthew is surprisingly down to earth, which he attributes to his Sonoma, California, upbringing. He says when he was younger, he developed an empathy for people who were struggling financially.</p><p>“I grew up in a single-parent home,” <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thematthewmartinez/">Matthew</a> remembers. “While my mom provided an excellent life for me, there is no denying that she worked very hard to do it. That was true for some of my friends’ families, too. I had a bit of an entrepreneurial bug and dreamed of being able to provide a good life for myself when I got older. I was always fascinated by design and real estate, even when I was younger.”</p><p>After college, Matthew jumped into the real estate market as a part-time investor and flipper. He quickly developed a reputation for working tirelessly, prioritizing client service, and being an expert in the diverse neighborhoods of San Francisco.</p><p>“I eventually launched Diamond Real Estate Group because I was determined to help more people invest in properties around the Bay Area and Napa Valley,” Matthew says. He pauses for a moment, then laughs a little. “I probably could have chosen an easier market to break into, but I couldn’t resist the challenge!”</p><p>He says that the keys to his success have been three factors: his ability to explain a complex, ever-changing market to buyers, sellers, and other agents; the power of social media marketing, which has connected him to everyday investors around America; and artificial intelligence.</p><p>“I don’t believe in withholding valuable information that could transform other people’s lives,” Matthew reflects. “I want to teach everyone how to attain the same level of success that I have found and inspire them to believe that it is possible. That is why I concentrate so much on breaking down the complexities of real estate for anyone who is interested.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/msT0-8A5ZesKI2Fw7jN7Fdu3gMK6vCNZhFIdnsOkUKlvREyvrXdqEkI44Ir3989mFjAd6gczFVpgRBn7Djzlz-yjk6H-cAyRlGvT2UpGsR3K7G0fJ7mpfxj5jgZ-4O6bj2vjObZDcJnt3T_fMlW4C6Q"></figure><p>Matthew is a frequent guest on podcasts, blogs, and media outlets and works to create an online environment where anyone can come together to learn about real estate. He has been featured on <i>Yahoo Finance, Forbes, Fox, NBC, Time, Benzinga,</i> and other publications. He is also a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, a Certified Negotiation Expert, an Accredited Commercial Real Estate Professional, a Certified Distressed Property Expert, and an accredited Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource.</p><p>Now, with the launch of his AI-powered platform, Matthew is working to bring more precision to the real estate industry and to maximize the returns on each transaction. His team has spent the last few years developing the technology and celebrated when it was rolled out. </p><p>“Seeing it go live was a major milestone for Diamond Real Estate Group,” Matthew says. “Now we are focused on using it to reinvent how condos, houses, multi-unit buildings, and income/investment properties are identified, bought, and sold in Northern California. It is truly exciting to have our productivity be supercharged because of artificial intelligence.”</p><p><a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com">Diamond Real Estate Group</a> is also launching its cutting-edge website, which will use AI to help visitors to find off-market investment opportunities and market their homes to the perfect buyer. The new website will also feature blog articles, white papers, case studies and other valuable content that educate visitors about real estate investment and transactions. Blog posts will provide analysis and insights into current real estate market trends, including data on home prices, rental rates, and inventory levels, and they will also spotlight local businesses, with the goal of increasing community and promoting a stronger economy.</p><p>Matthew says that as promising as artificial intelligence is for the real estate industry, an AI platform - including the one created by Diamond Real Estate Group - will only be as good as the person using it.</p><p>“We cannot exchange our own judgment for artificial intelligence,” Matthew believes. “That’s why at our firm, we will always stay up to date with the real estate scene in Napa Valley and the Bay Area. We are luxury property experts, not computers. Instead, AI strengthens our ability to use our knowledge and experience for the benefit of our clients.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Z0eaglrc7kfmbTXbo_QhR4BIruth89qNOYCtEyWzhDQqj_2PiHh5uSRNeCo9MY0ARoq55hWAQMQbFdYS6NpYdPfurKu5phQmwI_kN6LOL9TNsZFG4PSSjPu_KQjGulIIb5bPCy38EvpcmdSmPwoE-sA"></figure>
07 Mar, 2023
Matthew Martinez
<p>Matthew Martinez Disrupts the Napa Valley/Bay Area Real Estate Market with AI</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_F2lnMTzFy_Dkrc6X5XMEX7-i-9Owe_ScbETDoyTxsz6VZLYGkWUve9Txd3PmeFX7q0ispzKGS6xHYyyvubNmWU4QMueyGdZ6nE3av6oBXmWOyjYdRqqhMYChW3UC9QZZKUgNDHlU485N3KyveDbyGs"></figure><p>With thousands of real estate agents in San Francisco, where the average home price can go well over $1MM, it is safe to say it is a competitive market. Then, when you remember that luxury properties are even more expensive, that competition becomes fierce. How do you rise to the top? <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-diamondgroup/">Matthew Martinez</a>, the founder of the luxury and investment real estate brokerage <a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com/">Diamond Real Estate Group</a>, knows that it takes a combination of innovation, out-of-the-box thinking, talent, and a commitment to customer service. Named one of the Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Agents on Social Media and the Top 100 Real Estate Agents on Instagram, Matthew has used social media to quickly emerge as an in-demand luxury realtor. Now, with over 200K+ social media followers, he is shaking up how premium real estate is identified and invested in with Diamond Real Estate Group’s proprietary AI-powered platform. It has the potential to transform how sales leads are generated and returns are maximized in an industry long-accustomed to 20th-century technology and results. </p><p>Matthew’s road to reinventing real estate in San Francisco and Napa Valley began in Sonoma, California, where he grew up in a single-parent home. Looking back, he respects the sacrifices and hard work of his mother, who provided him with a wonderful childhood. </p><p>“As I got a little older, my entrepreneurial instincts emerged, and I dreamed of being able to provide a good life for myself as an adult,” <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thematthewmartinez/">Matthew</a> says. “I was always fascinated by design and real estate, even when I was younger.”</p><p>After college, Matthew jumped into the real estate market as a part-time investor and flipper. He quickly developed a reputation for working tirelessly, prioritizing client service, and being an expert in the diverse neighborhoods of San Francisco.</p><p>“I eventually launched Diamond Real Estate Group because I was determined to help more people invest in properties around the Bay Area and Napa Valley,” Matthew says. He pauses for a moment, then laughs a little. “I probably could have chosen an easier market to break into, but I couldn’t resist the challenge!”</p><p>He says that the keys to his success have been three factors: his ability to explain a complex, ever-changing market to buyers, sellers, and other agents; the power of social media marketing, which has connected him to everyday investors around America; and artificial intelligence.</p><p>“I don’t believe in withholding valuable information that could transform other people’s lives,” Matthew reflects. “I want to teach everyone how to attain the same level of success that I have found and inspire them to believe that it is possible. That is why I concentrate so much on breaking down the complexities of real estate for anyone who is interested.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/9QPXI8NBp7yyPxXKq_VzYEEY7hoxQmWvfP1w7JZDgvCGZFvpyApTyNaqmFKrgHyPlFnqFR3jqIunR6tIu9z_skzf8F_ELxAFYrWST4i0Ko60nJcjRdoOsXplPpfFWBUB4_zv2W51JwHSxjrXL_5EJ5Q"></figure><p>Matthew is a frequent guest on podcasts, blogs, and media outlets and works to create an online environment where anyone can come together to learn about real estate. He has been featured on <i>Yahoo Finance, Forbes, Fox, NBC, Time, Benzinga,</i> and other publications. He is also a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, a Certified Negotiation Expert, an Accredited Commercial Real Estate Professional, a Certified Distressed Property Expert, and an accredited Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource.</p><p>Now, with the launch of his AI-powered platform, Matthew is working to bring more precision to the real estate industry and to maximize the returns on each transaction. His team has spent the last few years developing the technology and celebrated when it was rolled out. </p><p>“It was incredible to watch our platform go live and to begin getting streamlined, targeted data on houses, condos, multi-unit buildings and income/investment properties in the Bay Area and Napa Valley,” Matthew remembers. “We have been able to see our entire business kick it up many notches in terms of productivity, allowing us to serve our clients even more.”</p><p>Diamond Real Estate Group is also launching its cutting-edge website, which will use AI to help visitors to find off-market investment opportunities and market their homes to the perfect buyer. The new website will also feature blog articles, white papers, case studies and other valuable content that educate visitors about real estate investment and transactions. Blog posts will provide analysis and insights into current real estate market trends, including data on home prices, rental rates, and inventory levels, and they will also spotlight local businesses, with the goal of increasing community and promoting a stronger economy.</p><p>Matthew thinks, however, that while AI offers exciting possibilities for the real estate industry, it will never be able to replace what matters most: service and integrity.</p><p>“AI is exciting, no doubt, and we are only beginning to see what it can do in luxury real estate,” he says. “But, it will be meaningless if we don’t hold on to our core values. At <a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com">Diamond Real Estate Group</a>, we believe that no matter how technologically advanced we become, nothing will ever be more important than being worthy of our clients’ trust.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/bRiZ-hSOr_qXzgZCb0hRp8_xx86oJ9TyPgcbN6E0O_9pAxsB9dVctcgggP8sFEUpWtWSQYXj_7jAf7mHZ9o2SL0bKx31BbncNaLWxTQEB47g11bLE2VaR1X6jMz8AQD7a2iyzuO17xpYuOKHmA4EhZc"></figure>
07 Mar, 2023
Matthew Martinez
<p>Meet Matthew Martinez, the Broker Introducing AI to the Bay Area/Napa Valley Real Estate Scene</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/7ahx791kV3-BhIwY6SWLLRUSFH0AZ5m9xd8jLSGiqG_YkgrELzcaCisJ2aHm_e53Ut5h_HRZJZVuZp_lUoQe3cm3JY5Top5bSxY3JiLczV5hsEetgMgc5PYZz0QGPSfqIId-f1bGQLhkv9XQ7Ie5k4U"></figure><p>The real estate scene in the San Francisco Bay area and Napa Valley has always been hot, to say the least. With the prices of luxury homes soaring into the tens of millions of dollars, veteran brokers face intense competition to make sales. That is why <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-diamondgroup/">Matthew Martinez</a> is generating buzz these days: while he founded <a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com/">Diamond Real Estate Group</a>, a luxury and investment real estate brokerage, in 2021, he has already been named as one of the Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Agents on Social Media and the Top 100 Real Estate Agents on Instagram. With 200K+ followers on social media, Matthew does something rare in real estate - he gives away useful information for free. Now, he is bringing Northern California another first: his company’s proprietary AI-powered platform designed to identify real estate investment opportunities, generate sales leads, and maximize returns.</p><p>In talking with Matthew, you get the sense that he cares about helping people to improve their financial standings through real estate investments. He says that this is due in part to his upbringing in Sonoma, California.</p><p>“I grew up in a single-parent home,” <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thematthewmartinez/">Matthew</a> remembers. “My mom worked very hard to provide me with a great childhood. I also had a bit of an entrepreneurial bug and dreamed of being able to provide a good life for myself when I got older. I was always fascinated by design and real estate, even when I was younger.”</p><p>After college, Matthew jumped into the real estate market as a part-time investor and flipper. He quickly developed a reputation for working tirelessly, prioritizing client service, and being an expert in the diverse neighborhoods of San Francisco.</p><p>“I eventually launched Diamond Real Estate Group because I was determined to help more people invest in properties around the Bay Area and Napa Valley,” Matthew says. He pauses for a moment, then laughs a little. “I probably could have chosen an easier market to break into, but I couldn’t resist the challenge!”</p><p>He says that the keys to his success have been three factors: his ability to explain a complex, ever-changing market to buyers, sellers, and other agents; the power of social media marketing, which has connected him to everyday investors around America; and artificial intelligence.</p><p>“I don’t believe in withholding valuable information that could transform other people’s lives,” Matthew reflects. “I want to teach everyone how to attain the same level of success that I have found and inspire them to believe that it is possible. That is why I concentrate so much on breaking down the complexities of real estate for anyone who is interested.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/d82Ujm3dn3DO8dAIp2gJ7Nc3j2cxXkSqkjz0j8abrWmmJxQ8PVxvOD9ZxLkmxowotUH21SHpUbPASAW_aOHdFF7ClPwI23qQKiL95O3mnTR6Z2ZZO1w4QhdB8zzk-IJC_lzElPuMro-vL_jPhlbSGFU"></figure><p>Matthew is a frequent guest on podcasts, blogs, and media outlets and works to create an online environment where anyone can come together to learn about real estate. He has been featured on <i>Yahoo Finance, Forbes, Fox, NBC, Time, Benzinga,</i> and other publications. He is also a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, a Certified Negotiation Expert, an Accredited Commercial Real Estate Professional, a Certified Distressed Property Expert, and an accredited Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource.</p><p>Now, with the launch of his AI-powered platform, Matthew is working to bring more precision to the real estate industry and to maximize the returns on each transaction. His team has spent the last few years developing the technology and celebrated when it was rolled out. </p><p>“This will be a game changer for luxury real estate in Northern California,” he believes. “By streamlining how we identify, buy, and sell houses, condos, multi-unit buildings, and income/investment properties, we are leading the market in a completely new direction. We are saving valuable time and money all while ensuring that our clients have the best possible experience.”</p><p>Diamond Real Estate Group is also launching its cutting-edge website, which will use AI to help visitors to find off-market investment opportunities and market their homes to the perfect buyer. The new website will also feature blog articles, white papers, case studies and other valuable content that educate visitors about real estate investment and transactions. Blog posts will provide analysis and insights into current real estate market trends, including data on home prices, rental rates, and inventory levels, and they will also spotlight local businesses, with the goal of increasing community and promoting a stronger economy.</p><p>While Diamond Real Estate Group is now leveraging AI for its real estate transactions, the core values of the company will remain the same: service, transparency, and integrity.</p><p>“We will always focus on being authentic and establishing long-term relationships with our clients,” Matthew says. “We want to be there for them throughout their life journeys, provide value, and be their trusted go-to source of information about real estate.” </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gd1QeAwx3X_kVEegcXtKGT-lw31azns8hnsEREmIh1ZHDCK8_MVe_djSYFRnlnibDdzMvc0SvlpllCFqtWDYiCQnitUBube_WUrz9Drj6vx_lL6jEN8gJJPBL1t-bEHrOz6z8JX2Il0BlTbfdCIh-nc"></figure>
02 Mar, 2023
Matthew Martinez
<p>Diamond Real Estate Group Launches High-Tech Website, Invites Investors to Try Out Its AI Platform</p><p>SAN FRANCISCO, CA–<a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com/">Diamond Real Estate Group</a>, whose proprietary, AI-powered software streamlines how luxury properties are identified and invested in, is launching its high-tech website. Visitors will be able to utilize the company’s AI platform to find off-market investment opportunities and market their homes to potential buyers. The new website also contains blog articles, white papers, case studies, and other educational content on real estate investments and transactions for companies and individuals.</p><p>“The rollout of our new website is a major milestone for us, and we hope it becomes a valuable resource for anyone interested in real estate and business,” says <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-diamondgroup/">Matthew Martinez</a>, Diamond Real Estate Group’s Founder/CEO. “After launching our AI platform and enjoying our own increase in productivity, we wanted to share that capability with visitors to our website so that their own real estate transactions could be potentially streamlined.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/TXFomckzKgfJ3vmRIHse6eVg4qooUES-n2CIpIW5Q-0QOXHW-W5WtoZlghbFvbXN5NpYYcgE8rgOlg1CuARi8wKCkyxJT9sGrqEXsP2DESqsoffl65B_swH3_9B431qfK_83xmB9OgxoQtiy7FEf7go"></figure><p><i>Using AI to impact how luxury real estate properties are identified and invested in</i></p><p>Diamond Real Estate Group’s AI software utilizes advanced algorithms and data analysis to identify potential investment properties or buyers based on specific criteria, including location, price, and other factors. It is one of the new features on the company’s website, which was redesigned with a user’s experience in mind and focuses primarily on navigation, functionality, and usefulness. To that end, advanced search capabilities, personalized recommendations, and integrated tools and resources are included.</p><p>Also new is the company’s blog, which Martinez explains is meant to build a sense of community among local business owners and customers, foster a positive business environment, and contribute to the local economy. </p><p>“We will be featuring other local businesses on the Diamond Real Estate Group blog, with the aim of increasing their exposure to the public,” he says. “Readers will be able to learn about the products or services that a company offers, its background and founder, any notable milestones or accomplishments, and its unique selling points.”</p><p>Local companies will be selected based upon their reputation/reviews, uniqueness, involvement in the community, and support for other local businesses. Interested business owners should reach out to Diamond Real Estate Group either by email or on the website’s contact page and include their business’s location, their products and/or services, any notable selling points, and their community involvement initiatives. </p><p>“While we will do our best to get back to all inquiries in a timely manner, we receive a large volume of requests and may not be able to respond immediately,” says Martinez. “We recommend following up after a reasonable timeframe to demonstrate their continued interest in being featured on our blog. We hope to hear from you, as we believe deeply in supporting new businesses in the local area.”</p><p>The blog will also provide information and insights on a wide range of topics related to real estate, investing, and entrepreneurship, such as home prices, rental rates, inventory levels, strategies that include buy-and-holds and fix-and-flip, starting and managing a business, marketing, branding, and team building. </p><p>“One topic we look forward to exploring is real estate investment, which often requires significant financing,” Martinez says. “We plan to go into the finer details of traditional loans, private lending, and crowdfunding. We will also touch on lease agreements, tenant screening, and the use of AI to find investment opportunities and market properties.”</p><p>Anyone interested in experiencing how artificial intelligence is impacting the real estate process is invited to try out Diamond Real Estate Group’s AI platform on its website. They are also encouraged to access its free resources so that they can network, continue learning about real estate and business, and stay up-to-date with trends and developments.</p><p><i>Diamond Real Estate Group, an international, tech-powered brokerage that specializes in the sale and lease of premium real estate, was founded by Matthew Martinez, who was included in the list of Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Agents on Social Media and the Top 100 Real Estate Agents on Instagram. Diamond Real Estate Group makes the process of buying, selling, and investing in real estate as streamlined and stress-free as possible. The company also runs a special program to help investors find private, under-market investment opportunities. It has purchased and renovated 25+ properties and regularly shares on social media its suggestions for how to maximize resale value with all buyers and sellers.</i></p><p><i>For more information about Diamond Real Estate Group, please see the company’s </i><a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com/"><i>website</i></a><i> or contact:</i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/SPA1x0x3unKZgGQiFk8Kh-pUPiNepgxpwJ_jaqZ-IgwgJ2fcKMLTrB1nK7K05pcEzjvm3WOfa7pDrJA9mNDTlrakHhyKrGxwNWXbMucf9yqGmN4mAud2Bbt1eFTiUV2eamnmCHgJyMJcLpGy9D37IIw"></figure><p><i>Founder/CEO Matthew Martinez</i></p><p><i>Matthew Martinez, Diamond Real Estate Group</i><br><i>1-800-661-5080</i><br><a href="mailto:matthew@diamondgroupestates.com"><i>matthew@diamondgroupestates.com</i></a><i> </i></p>
28 Feb, 2023
Matthew Martinez
<p>Diamond Real Estate Group Debuts Its New AI Software for Identifying Potential Investments</p><p>SAN FRANCISCO, CA–<a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com/">Diamond Real Estate Group</a>, a luxury and investment real estate brokerage, has announced the launch of its proprietary, AI-powered platform that is designed to identify real estate investment opportunities and generate sales leads. Founder/CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-diamondgroup/">Matthew Martinez</a>, who was #30 on Property Sparks’ “Top Real Estate Agents on Social Media,” states that Diamond Real Estate Group will use its software to expand its ability to sell and lease premium residential and commercial properties, develop vacant land, and fix and flip investment properties in Northern California.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TAaKrIRG8dlD5eVwt12quP5N2AWa_4xcej_NRpSs70qZ6EA2-JtW8UkkYlHVRmri5rRu0t_mKpLiT9COEi-YdpQN6ueVjuMj4QUpnV24eIC2R_I7ZP250-3hTBrIc4x8XWhjiMBCrRj_QjM7t3NHVnk"></figure><p><i>Diamond Real Estate Group, a complete suite of real estate services</i></p><p>“We are excited to launch our AI-driven software that will help us to seamlessly buy, sell, and invest in luxury real estate across the San Francisco Bay area and Napa Valley,” says Martinez. “Our system leverages big data, social media, and artificial intelligence so that we can minimize our workload while maximizing our sales productivity.”</p><p>Diamond Real Estate Group’s platform will form the foundation of the company’s customer-first approach to real estate investing, which includes a listing coordinator, committed buyer specialists, transaction coordinator, marketing team, designers, web developers, client care coordinator, inside sales agent, and concierge. </p><p>“We are already seeing the benefits of our new platform when we purchase or sell houses, condominiums, multi-unit buildings and income/investment properties,” says Martinez. “We are able to save more time while still ensuring that our clients have the best possible experience during complex real estate transactions. With our platform, we are changing the face of modern real estate.”</p><p><i>Diamond Real Estate Group, an international, tech-powered brokerage that specializes in the sale and lease of premium real estate, was founded by Matthew Martinez, who was included in the list of Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Agents on Social Media and the Top 100 Real Estate Agents on Instagram. Diamond Real Estate Group makes the process of buying, selling, and investing in real estate as streamlined and stress-free as possible. The company also runs a special program to help investors find private, under-market investment opportunities. It has purchased and renovated 25+ properties and regularly shares on social media its suggestions for how to maximize resale value with all buyers and sellers.</i></p><p><i>For more information about Diamond Real Estate Group, please see the company’s </i><a href="https://www.diamondgroupestates.com/"><i>website</i></a><i> or contact:</i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/68v2vuz86oBciXryOBTZCM9cm8mO-dQPoRtSSBa_7od_2psllFoZ04zNHfBLBWmt14XOXNVldY9VO0wyNT239N0BZiKg-PIHYQHKjYDP_9AwDHT6SebZdhaM_VYTBI44-F0Gs2GVJbc_jCBXw8KyqfI"></figure><p><i>Founder/CEO Matthew Martinez</i></p><p><i>Matthew Martinez, Diamond Real Estate Group</i><br><i>1-800-661-5080</i><br><a href="mailto:matthew@diamondgroupestates.com"><i>matthew@diamondgroupestates.com</i></a><i> </i></p>
21 Mar, 2023
Keith Gebert
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/33sj8ByqoLMtDoQTWmTCT_uPb4J5TLdttVSuaoOPFO3JZKSZGcWFPyitajCMUA1aVX6UdLazdlR5lJ-gqoEtQDPJPpD6biOqgNjRefMadc2TxJcTeXxfh-KCenxKxO-_JVAIiSaBxb-pdRSVHWxMlgM"></figure><h2>Keith Gebert: Breaking Down Financial Planning</h2><p>As the founder of RightBridge Financial Group, a wealth management firm, Jason Gebert has heard it all - and he says that a huge number of clients come to him feeling utterly overwhelmed by the prospect of financial planning.</p><p>“Financial planning can be complex and confusing, particularly if you are not familiar with financial concepts, such as asset allocation, tax implications, and investment strategies,” Keith shares. “Also, it can be an emotional journey. Fear, anxiety, and stress can make financial planning overwhelming, particularly if you are dealing with financial issues, such as debt or job loss.”</p><p>He adds that good financial planning requires time and effort to research and implement the best strategies that fit your financial goals, and some people feel overwhelmed by the commitment. Also, the financial environment is constantly changing with new rules, regulations, and tax laws, making it difficult to keep up. And many people simply lack financial education and expertise, making it harder to make informed financial decisions.</p><p>“To overcome these challenges, it’s really important to get guidance from a financial advisor who can help you understand the complexities of financial planning,” Keith says. “At RightBridge, we work with clients to develop a plan that meets their unique needs and goals. We also help keep them informed about changes in the financial environment and provide ongoing support to help them stay on track.”</p><h3>Think about what you want</h3><p>Before you start investing your money, you need to consider your financial goals, your risk tolerance, and your investment horizon. Keith says that an individual’s financial goals will determine the type of investments they should make, as well as how much they should allocate to each investment.</p><p>“If you have a long-term goal, such as saving for retirement, you may want to invest in stocks or mutual funds that have the potential for higher returns over the long term, but also carry a higher level of risk,” he reveals. “On the other hand, if you have a short-term goal, such as saving for a down payment on a house, you may want to invest in lower-risk investments, such as certificates of deposit or high-yield savings accounts.”</p><p>Keith educates his clients that their particular risk tolerance is another important factor to consider when constructing a financial portfolio. Some people are comfortable taking on a higher level of risk in the hopes of achieving higher returns, while others prefer a more conservative approach.</p><p>“You also need to consider your investment horizon,” he says. “This is the length of time you plan to hold your investments. A longer investment horizon may allow you to take on more risk, while a shorter investment horizon may require a more conservative approach.”</p><h3>Start building your portfolio</h3><p>Once you have considered these factors, you can begin constructing your financial portfolio. This may involve diversifying your investments across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, to minimize risk and maximize returns - which is a strategy employed at RightBridge Financial Group.</p><p>“When I founded RightBridge, it was with the intention of utilizing creative solutions that meet individual needs and situations,” Keith affirms. “We help select individuals and families to protect and increase their assets and wealth. We handle tax exposure, insurance against risks, and we also help them create a legacy for their future.”</p><p>RightBridge Financial Group assists affluent families in creating a financial plan to safeguard and enhance their wealth, manage tax exposure, mitigate potential risks, and establish a legacy for their future. RightBridge employs a range of strategies such as alternative investments, endowment structuring, risk mitigation, and expert fund managers to construct a dynamic portfolio that meets the needs of its clients.</p><p>“As every client has unique needs and objectives, we provide personalized attention throughout the planning, execution, and follow-up phases,” Keith says.</p><p>Employing a proactive approach, RightBridge works with clients to develop a customized strategy that effectively addresses their financial goals using the most efficient methods available. Recognizing that unforeseen challenges can arise, the company strives to anticipate and address these situations as they occur, ensuring that clients stay on track toward a fulfilling and purpose-driven financial future.</p><h3>Consider your legacy</h3><p>“We place great importance on providing a stable retirement income as a key factor in achieving a fulfilling and enduring retirement,” Keith says. “Retirement should be something to look forward to - not worry about!”</p><p>By carefully assessing each client's financial situation, RightBridge seeks to develop a tailored retirement plan that helps generate an income that is sustainable throughout the client’s retirement years. The plan is designed to maximize the value of their assets and establish a legacy for their heirs or beneficiaries.</p><p>“Legacy planning can be a challenging and emotional process that involves making complex decisions about your assets and their distribution after your passing,” Keith says. “It’s a sensitive subject, but definitely one that should be addressed.”</p><p>Whether a client wishes to leave their assets to heirs, a charitable organization, or develop a business succession plan, Keith and his team are equipped to design a comprehensive strategy to achieve these goals. The RightBridge team understands that each client has unique needs and objectives, and takes a personalized approach to ensure that each legacy plan is customized to the client’s specific circumstances. </p><p>“We work closely with you to address any concerns, identify potential challenges, and develop a plan that reflects your values and wishes while maximizing the value of your assets,” Keith assures. “Our goal is to provide peace of mind and confidence that your legacy will be preserved for generations to come.”</p>
21 Mar, 2023
Keith Gebert
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/b14NaJdikBjfhBpgLt-n4zPKmU_2Fpqju4nfFYqhIOIS4scm2SyMCOKFLHTElT1s6Zg_6nNRBXS0yZi--aiedUmI4cWqSV2cHP7Bp48W3ZhqtObmvjxh-FavVE1CPAch_-Uw34o4Hs5FbAmY806i20U"></figure><h2>Keith Gebert: How to Build Your Fiscal House</h2><h3><i>RightBridge Financial Group pioneers the financial blueprint strategy</i></h3><p>Building a new house can be an exhilarating experience. The thought of designing your dream home from scratch, choosing every detail to suit your taste and needs, and seeing it all come to life can fill you with a sense of excitement and anticipation. From picking out the perfect plot of land to deciding on the layout, materials, and finishes, every step of the construction process presents a new opportunity to express your creativity and personality. The prospect of creating a space that is uniquely yours, tailored to your family's lifestyle and preferences, can be incredibly rewarding. As the project progresses and you see your vision taking shape, the excitement builds and the sense of accomplishment grows stronger. While building a new house may come with its challenges and obstacles, the thrill of seeing your dream home finally come to fruition makes it all worth it in the end.</p><p>Keith Gebert says that creating a financial plan is just like building a house.</p><p>As a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor CRPC® and a Forbes Finance Council Member with a Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) Certification from Wharton, Keith has the credentials and experience to know what he’s talking about.</p><p>“As with building a physical house, constructing a solid financial portfolio requires a well-thought-out plan that aligns with your long-term objectives,” he says. “We start off by establishing a timeline to achieve specific goals. For instance, stocks can offer a chance for greater returns, but they should be used over a longer period of time to counteract short-term losses. You’ll want to think about your retirement goals and factor in your present age, the age you wish to retire, and the income required at that point to fulfill your desired standard of living."</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CUnonDIJAYvkAp45v_jFAZMg9Skaw2IzgOApKhcmHWT8rZUcu0glQTbHfBMFKzkIKq9_y5KxN3Nay4ZY6mu7lW61xVOmnsh6zghqRsVYnYGUJwWT-6xozgsATBeWp0Uq9uYdfT_unimukLJiEFgnlC8"></figure><h3>Adding insulation to your home</h3><p>Risk management is similar to adding insulation to safeguard the walls, floors, and ceilings of your fiscal house against potential hazards such as market downturns or inflation. Risk management approaches and insurance products that can aid in these strategies include:</p><ul><li>Diversification: Spreading your investments across various assets, sectors, and geographies to reduce the risk of losses in one area.</li><li>Growth: Investing in assets that have the potential to appreciate in value over time and outpace inflation, such as stocks or real estate.</li><li>Liquidity: Holding a portion of your assets in liquid form, such as cash or short-term investments, to provide flexibility in case of unexpected expenses or emergencies.</li><li>Cash Flow: Ensuring that you have sufficient cash flow to meet your financial obligations and avoid relying too heavily on debt.</li></ul><h3>Remodeling your fiscal house</h3><p>“You can build a dream home, but still find yourself wanting to remodel from time to time,” Keith says. “Think about it - you loved that floral wallpaper ten years ago, but now you want something new and fresh. Your financial ‘house’ is the same. A great investment ten years ago might have changed. Your own goals and needs may have changed. You’ll want to review from time to time to make updates.”</p><p>Just as you undertake home remodeling projects to keep your living space up-to-date and functional, it's important to review your fiscal house strategies at least annually to ensure your portfolio remains aligned with your needs. An experienced advisor can assist you in determining what modifications are appropriate based on the objectives you seek to achieve. This may include evaluating your risk tolerance, adjusting your asset allocation, rebalancing your portfolio, and assessing the performance of your investments. Regular reviews and adjustments can help you stay on track toward achieving your financial goals.</p><h3>The future of your home</h3><p>“It’s important for us to educate our clients when it comes to planning what happens afterwards,” Keith stresses. “When you build a physical house, you think about what’s going to happen to it after your time living there is over. Your financial plan is similar. What’s going to happen to your wealth and assets after your life has ended? And in the meantime, how are you going to plan to use your retirement benefits wisely?”</p><p>The duration of maintaining your fiscal house depends on your life expectancy and the retirement income you require. Therefore, your fiscal strategy should incorporate sustainability elements to ensure that you don't exhaust your retirement assets too soon. Here are a few sustainability issues to consider:</p><ul><li>Coordinating your distribution plan with your Social Security benefits to maximize your retirement income.</li><li>Repositioning your wealth with an IRA rollover to minimize taxes and take advantage of investment opportunities.</li><li>Determining when to withdraw income from taxable or tax-deferred accounts to manage taxes and preserve your assets.</li><li>Deciding when to take a lump sum instead of defined benefit pension benefits to ensure sufficient income for retirement.</li><li>Minimizing tax implications associated with job income, required minimum distributions, and Roth IRA conversions.</li><li>Utilizing products that provide a steady and reliable stream of income to support your retirement lifestyle.</li><li>Ensuring that your surviving spouse receives lifetime income by incorporating strategies such as joint and survivor annuities.</li><li>Leaving a legacy for your loved ones or charitable organizations through estate planning.</li></ul><p>It is crucial to consult a team of professionals, including a financial advisor, insurance professional, tax professional, and attorney, as these issues can have significant tax and legal consequences. By understanding these issues and implementing appropriate strategies, you can achieve long-term financial stability and ensure that your retirement assets last throughout your lifetime.</p><p>“When constructing your fiscal house, you must begin with the foundation, because without a strong foundation, the house may crumble,” Keith states. “At RightBridge, we can help you create that strong foundation, so that your ‘house’ can last as long as you need it to.”</p>
21 Mar, 2023
Keith Gebert
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/CuCSvP5ICLTG3vwq9u3-sFkVX6JEzkRQKWZnTEDFVFUxQtXzMoxtBmcT3pxltoHv6kNvJz_78bjRPCckkMofUbhcXsCAJP31vhcRX4ihlH7jWoAwHSMAYrD-eTSnsp6EnXZoH-uLGxXSMGxWHNiSzQ"><figcaption>It's never too soon to start saving and planning.</figcaption></figure><h2>Connecting Life's Financial Journey with Keith Gebert</h2><p>On Halloween morning in 1992, Keith Gebert's father, who worked in construction, suffered a major accident. He was in a coma for three months, leaving his family terrified of losing their loved one - and terrified of how they were going to pay their bills.</p><p>“At any given moment, something unexpected can strike,” Keith says somberly. “Without the proper planning to protect your assets and your hard-earned money, you could be left in a very scary situation - as my family was.”</p><p>As the founder of <a href="https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/">RightBridge Financial Group</a>, Keith feels that the approach to wealth management is centered around the idea that each client - each life - is unique and requires an individualized plan. The experienced financial advisors at RightBridge work closely with clients to develop a customized strategy that meets their specific needs and financial goals through all of life’s journeys.</p><p>“Our focus is proactive wealth management,” Keith shares. “We’re constantly keeping a watchful eye on market trends, investment opportunities, and potential risks. Our aim is to assist clients in making informed decisions that align with their financial objectives, resulting in the creation of a well-diversified portfolio that can withstand market volatility. This is how to navigate the unforeseen storms that arise. You can’t tell the future, but you can plan for it.”</p><p>In addition to investment management, RightBridge also offers a comprehensive range of wealth management services, including tax planning, insurance analysis, and estate planning. The goal is to help clients protect and grow their wealth, reduce tax exposure, and ensure that their assets are passed onto future generations in a manner consistent with their values and goals.</p><p>At RightBridge Financial Group, the belief in the power of personalized wealth management drives their commitment to helping clients achieve their financial goals. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/dWiNf93DuuYeLB26FUAHZVukiCkaH39sWX1qg9AdBSRDEEACXzSTgr11URrPOLJCf_KDuVp-TTw3GwEvnXdZGPj0b2gr3JC7LPRWGKhOrz_M8qmhe2BousdZxYeRwNWQwQcP4fIDJWff3SQSyc7i5w"><figcaption>RightBridge Founder Keith Gebert</figcaption></figure><h2>Maximize retirement income & create a comprehensive retirement plan</h2><p>“We understand that retirement planning is a complex and ever-changing process,” Keith affirms. “That's why we take a personalized approach to help you achieve your unique retirement goals. Our team of experienced financial advisors will work with you to create a customized plan that takes into account your current financial situation, risk tolerance, investment goals, and future aspirations.”</p><p>From clients who are just starting to think about retirement to those who are already retired and looking to make the most of their savings, RightBridge can create an action plan to fit the situation.</p><h2>Diversify investments & manage risk</h2><p>At RightBridge Financial Group, the first step in the wealth management process is to align portfolio allocations with each client's individual risk tolerance, while keeping each client’s portfolio as diverse as possible. This helps ensure that clients are comfortable with the investment choices being made on their behalf.</p><p>“Diversifying helps spread out your investments across different asset classes, industries, and geographies, reducing the impact of potential losses in one area on your overall portfolio,” Keith reveals. “By having a diverse mix of investments, you can potentially lower your risk and increase your chances of weathering market fluctuations and achieving your long-term financial goals.”</p><p>Once the portfolio is established, the team at RightBridge continuously monitors and reviews the investments to ensure that they are performing as expected. If changes are necessary, the team will assess the situation and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the portfolio remains aligned with the client's goals and risk tolerance.</p><p>This proactive approach to wealth management is what sets RightBridge Financial Group apart. By keeping a close eye on the portfolio and making adjustments as needed, they are able to help clients achieve their financial goals and maintain a sense of comfort and confidence in their wealth management choices.</p><h2>Plan your financial future</h2><p>The RightBridge team will acquire a comprehensive understanding of your financial goals and current financial situation. With this information, these financial advisors can make personalized recommendations and help create a plan that is tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.</p><p>There are often multiple paths to achieving your financial goals, and the team at RightBridge is committed to helping you discover the pros and cons of each option. RightBridge can assist with growing your wealth, reducing your tax exposure, or ensuring a secure financial future for yourself and your loved ones. Keith Gebert and his team will work with you to develop a comprehensive wealth management plan that is designed to help you achieve your objectives.</p><p>By taking a personalized approach to wealth management, the team at RightBridge Financial Group is dedicated to helping you build a brighter financial future. The journey towards financial security and prosperity starts now - it’s never too late to start planning and making adjustments to your financial life.</p><h2>Envision your legacy</h2><p>Legacy planning is a critical component of overall wealth management and can often involve complex and emotional decisions. “If you're looking to leave your assets to your heirs, a charity, or are in the process of developing a business succession plan, we can help you design a strategy that aligns with your goals and values,” Keith promises. “We will take the time to understand your unique situation, listen to your concerns, and provide guidance and support as you navigate this process.”</p><p>The team at RightBridge is dedicated to helping you preserve and pass on your wealth in a manner that is consistent with your values and goals. They will work with you to develop a legacy plan that takes into account your estate planning needs, tax considerations, and wealth transfer strategies.</p><p>At RightBridge Financial Group, the goal is to help you leave a lasting legacy that reflects your values and supports your loved ones for generations to come.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/">https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/</a> </p>
21 Mar, 2023
Keith Gebert
<h2>Keith Gebert & RightBridge: Financial Education for a Fuller Life</h2><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://attachments.office.net/owa/tara%40imperium-pr.com/service.svc/s/GetAttachmentThumbnail?id=AAMkADAxY2ZkZDA0LTI1ZmItNDI2ZC05ZTNlLWQ1ODUxZjkwMGEwZQBGAAAAAADdPqcftJiGRJ56SUN84%2FaCBwBGSJQqADdHQokjAS03brutAAAAAAEMAABGSJQqADdHQokjAS03brutAAD4NWyfAAABEgAQABhZYhQjTsRLq2An6eKze2k%3D&thumbnailType=2&token=eyJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiIsImtpZCI6IkQ4OThGN0RDMjk2ODQ1MDk1RUUwREZGQ0MzODBBOTM5NjUwNDNFNjQiLCJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJ4NXQiOiIySmozM0Nsb1JRbGU0Tl84dzRDcE9XVUVQbVEifQ.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.aRxO_R1v41b1GJmfd2n20f7T4AgS38ZcXuRILekL5DFZqMBRN7yw-DotW8hoQkY94effgYvHdIuzNwtqViY9c6c1PHHMF0hLzvxT_pgQKDuitp4jL_bUJO8ITMBeJr08Imt_GLSLVBhZSwnEPs7HK4qC43GvVKsY0GHl6nVzwzafLAfuopfm7r1xaq1gdnCFlIWd5xz9-v0Ik762YKa8QG4hQLR_GElK19fCjYs-cruD3RgF6yyehzupujM_r5FNj6f-BJSCpQpQtLS3Zr7eEr1qr9meZ1zXtJcIVJq5sIfi2t-JfKhTwMiPBFflJVemLg89FQ1R8yAuMrNLCEjPow&X-OWA-CANARY=KhfNHV1_BEaseSmsCpxy0YBQaTQsJNsYuDDdc32dqIrCY1_G-4JcvbFX7gwxsnnMUpjx3Yq_bH0.&owa=outlook.office.com&scriptVer=20230303006.07&animation=true" alt="Image preview"><figcaption>RightBridge founder Keith Gebert</figcaption></figure><p>Keith Gebert founded his company based on a simple principle: never stop learning.</p><p>“We do more than just wealth management,” he shares. “We provide financial education to last your whole life. The more you know, the more wisely you can plan financially. We take the burden off our clients by providing expertise and experience, but we also offer full transparency by being passionate about educating them.”</p><p>RightBridge is a financial planning and wealth management company that assists affluent families in creating a plan to protect and grow their wealth, manage their tax exposure, insure potential risks, and create a legacy for their future. The company uses alternative investments, top-performing fund managers, endowment structuring, and risk mitigation strategies to build a diverse portfolio for clients. They offer personalized attention and a proactive approach to financial planning, tailoring their services to each client's specific goals and objectives using the most efficient methods available.</p><p>Keith Gebert is in the wealth management industry because he values the idea that giving leads to a greater sense of fulfillment in life. He aims to guide individuals towards a financially secure future with purpose and significance. For Gebert, wealth management is about more than just money; it's about providing peace of mind and allowing individuals to focus on what truly matters to them, such as family, personal goals, and dreams. Through wealth management, Gebert hopes to help individuals achieve financial stability and the freedom to pursue their passions.</p><p>Gebert is a seasoned financial professional with over 15 years of experience and a solid background in strategic planning. Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of consulting with some of the leading financial and retirement experts in the country. This exposure has given him a unique understanding of the industry and how other financial professionals approach retirement planning. This knowledge has inspired Keith to ensure that those he cares about and has the opportunity to work with have increased confidence in their retirement strategies. His goal is to help people plan for a secure and fulfilling retirement.</p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fEWeLppd7JOsnRBA_3FGAnECNi46TF4a5YbsKdlFSFWj7r2AbD0Btc1uonPJh04RjDWR34b6648TxvdfBM9eIs6bzR0x0131WgD_eNVmWuaHtqrSIYUb9VOaQnlJ10zn74e-w5ApAWVkpil90KQDft8"></figure><p>Keith Gebert holds several notable professional designations and qualifications in the financial industry. He is a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor℠, a designation that recognizes his expertise in retirement planning. In addition, he is a member of the Financial Planning Association, which supports the development and advancement of financial planning professionals. To further his knowledge and skills, Keith has completed the Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA) program at the prestigious Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. These qualifications demonstrate Keith's commitment to providing high-quality financial advice and services to his clients.</p><p>Keith Gebert has a history of achievement and service within the financial industry. He was a member of New York Life's Executive Council and was honored with one of the company's highest awards, the Life Foundation Award. In addition to his professional success, Keith is also dedicated to giving back to his community through charitable efforts. He has participated in various charity drives and is currently part of the Wish Society at the Make-A-Wish Foundation, where he has achieved the level of Wish Grantor. This recognition highlights Keith's commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others and his dedication to serving his community.</p><p>““Wake up and love the life you live - or change it until you are in love with it,” Gebert says. “There are two things we get every day when we wake up: a chance and a choice. The choices you make after you get your chance is on you.” </p><p>RightBridge understands that every client has unique financial needs and goals. That's why the team gives each client its undivided attention, from the planning stage to execution and follow-up. “We take a proactive approach to helping clients develop a personalized strategy that addresses their specific financial goals and objectives,” Gebert says. “By using the most efficient methods available, we work to ensure that our clients have the resources and support they need to achieve their financial objectives. Our goal is to provide each client with a comprehensive and tailored plan for financial success.”</p><p>Keith Gebert was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and later moved to New Jersey where he founded RightBridge Financial Group and RightBridge Private Capital. Gebert is a thought leader in the financial industry and has written a book, <a href="https://councils.forbes.com/executive-library/executive-library-stress-testing-your-savings-keith-gebert?fbclid=PAAaZlR_jaD8HI0cbdX56ipP3np967i29ThlmfUjRWrq3darJYQ8hOUzqxX7s">Stress-Testing Your Savings</a>, which has been featured in Forbes' "Executive Library'' series. The series highlights business books written by experts in the Forbes Councils community. This recognition showcases Gebert's expertise and contributions to the financial industry, and demonstrates his commitment to helping individuals achieve their financial goals.</p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/">https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/</a> </p>
21 Mar, 2023
Keith Gebert
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/rzOy2_WYGkn5pu8QgndSBq6UYC3huGUBfGzcTlOCv_DqawPVwM6iTjX31EB8ZMQ8zhhdM2S13cIZj4GxZ4Gf8EwlAyEXZfVmmMeH9_dPm2XwKuVeoz_XFRSmnkzSm76EC5NskItdnZ9RgGHDEGBw9pY"></figure><h2>Keith Gebert: Love the Life you Live - or Change It</h2><p>Keith Gebert is the founder of RightBridge Financial Group, and he’s got a message for kids and young adults: “You can’t wait until life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy.”</p><p>That might not be the first message you’d expect to hear from a financial professional, but Gebert is in the wealth management industry because he believes that the more you give, the more you get out of life. “We aim to guide you towards a financially secure future filled with purpose and significance,” he says. “Wealth management is about so much more than money. It’s about peace of mind. The ability to focus on what’s really important - your family and loved ones, your dreams, your goals.”</p><p>At RightBridge, affluent families are assisted in creating a plan to protect and grow their wealth, manage their tax exposure, insure potential risks, and create a legacy for their future. Alternative investments, top-performing fund managers, endowment structuring, and risk mitigation strategies are utilized to build a diverse portfolio for clients. Every client receives personalized attention and a proactive approach to financial planning, tailored to their specific goals and objectives using the most efficient methods available. No one strategy is a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why each client receives the full focus of the team from planning to execution to follow-up.</p><p>“Wake up and love the life you live - or change it until you are in love with it,” Gebert says. “There are two things we get every day when we wake up: a chance and a choice. The choices you make after you get your chance is on you.” He says that wisely managing one’s wealth can help ensure financial security and stability for both the individual and their family. Having a solid financial foundation can provide peace of mind and help individuals achieve their long-term financial goals, such as retirement or supporting their children's education. </p><p>“We can help individuals make informed decisions about their finances, such as when to invest in the stock market, when to make large purchases, and when to save money,” Gebert affirms. “We also help clients reduce their tax exposure, minimize financial risks, and create a lasting legacy for future generations. In addition, we can help people grow their wealth over time, providing a comfortable retirement and financial independence. Ultimately, wisely managing wealth is a crucial step towards achieving financial success and stability.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/2vzpFFq87O3mrBe-h9d_QKMyCvv1gMtllc0ozE-pw9lX1BiPrlvgaZrERCFmzBx_U21ELebYnMZju0QYWdPTSmAyAoId6Oa06IwqIErHTEQ91Tywde8XKs1Eumdr0TvSUnl_CIz8iXEsUd2fo-an9yA"></figure><p>Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Gebert moved to New Jersey and started his company, Rightbridge Financial Group, along with RightBridge Private Capital. Gebert’s book, <a href="https://councils.forbes.com/executive-library/executive-library-stress-testing-your-savings-keith-gebert?fbclid=PAAaZlR_jaD8HI0cbdX56ipP3np967i29ThlmfUjRWrq3darJYQ8hOUzqxX7s">Stress-Testing Your Savings</a>, is featured on Forbes’ "Executive Library", a series that highlights business books written by Forbes Councils experts.</p><p>Keith Gebert is an experienced financial professional who has been in the industry since 2006. He has a strong background in strategic planning and has had the opportunity to consult with some of the top financial and retirement professionals in the nation. Keith is a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor and a member of the Financial Planning Association, and has also completed the Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA) program at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business. He was a member of New York Life’s Executive Council and received the Life Foundation Award, one of the company's highest achievements. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Keith is committed to community service and has recently partnered with the Make A Wish foundation, where he is now part of the Wish Society and is at the Wish Grantor Level of their charitable distinction.</p><p>“I’ve always been interested in the growing convergence between individuals and their businesses,” Gebert reveals. “One trend in this growing intersection is a type of corporate personification in which companies now have visions and values, just like people, and people now have missions - just like companies. I know exactly what my personal mission is: to live my best, most extraordinary life by helping others live theirs.”</p><p>This mission is what led him to author his book and to donate all the resulting proceeds to the Make a Wish Foundation NJ. “Given my personal mission, it’s probably not surprising that I have a fascination with what exactly it is that allows some people, whom I’ll call extraordinary, to achieve their fullest potential and make uncommon contributions to the world,” Gebert says. “I feel my purpose and mission can be a unique value add to many individuals and organizations.”</p><p>“We go through an in-depth audit of their finances and focus on what I call ‘Lifestyle Planning’ - weighing their preferred lifestyle and then designed a customized financial team of CPAs, estate attorneys, whatever is needed,” he says. “With my direct relationship with some of the largest asset managers, I am now able to provide a family endowment plan that aligns them with their mission and values. Most of all, I strive to give them financial education at the very least.”</p><p>He says that a large part of his company’s success is due to the fact that he never stops learning. He seeks to provide value and expand his knowledge by learning from others, to collectively grow and bring love, life, and education to others around him. He is passionate about the financial planning services his firm offers to the individuals and families that it serves. </p><p> Website: <a href="https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/">https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/</a> </p>
16 Mar, 2023
Keith Gebert
<h2>RightBridge Financial Group Announces Restructuring and Expansion Plans</h2><p><i>Englewood, NJ</i> - RightBridge Financial Group, a New Jersey-based financial planning and wealth management company, has released details of its company-wide restructuring and expansion, including the hiring of new members of the leadership team, partnering with another investment advisory firm located in New Jersey, and the implementation of a charitable foundation.</p><p>RightBridge provides wealth management services for a select group of families and individuals, offering financial planning, tax planning, income planning, and real estate opportunities. The firm is in the process of hiring new investment officers, who will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the investment portfolio, conducting research and analysis of financial markets and investment opportunities, making recommendations for investments and monitoring their performance, and ensuring compliance with investment policies and regulations. </p><p>The new team members will play a critical role in ensuring that the organization's investments are managed in a way that maximizes returns while minimizing risk, and RightBridge’s new staff members will develop and implement investment strategies that align with the organization's overall financial goals and objectives.</p><p>RightBridge is also rolling out several new investment strategies for clients and will continue to focus on utilizing alternative investments, best-of fund managers, endowment structuring, and risk mitigation strategies to build diverse portfolios. Each strategy, whether time-tested or new for 2023, will take a proactive approach to helping each client to develop a plan to address their financial goals and objectives, using the most efficient methods available, and striving to anticipate and address challenges along the way.</p><p>The current leadership team at RightBridge is optimistic about joining forces with another local Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firm. Partnering with another firm will allow RightBridge to combine resources and capabilities with its partnering firm, such as technology, research, and analytical tools. This can lead to a more comprehensive and efficient service offering for clients.</p><p>In addition, the partnership has the potential to bring together two different investment approaches to offer a more diverse range of investment options and strategies to clients. The hope is that the partnership will increase the overall reputation and credibility of both partners, attracting new clients and business opportunities; and will expand the reach of both firms, as well as offer a wider range of expertise and experience, providing clients with more comprehensive advice and support.</p><p>RightBridge founder Keith Gebert says that these changes are indicative of the increased growth of the firm, and he’s pleased about his company’s success. “Truthfully, so much of what we do is done so that we can pursue our true mission, which is community outreach,” Gebert says. “Of all the exciting new things happening at RightBridge, I personally am most affected by the creation of a foundation in memory of my mother, Sandra Gebert.”</p><p>RightBridge has a history of charitable work; the firm supports the Make-A-Wish® Foundation, and as of 2023, is now also supporting the Tim Tebow Foundation. Gebert states that within the next few years, he intends to start a mentorship program designed to educate kids and young adults on how to break through adversity and achieve success in any industry.</p><p>“The more you give, the more you will get out of this life,” Gebert affirms. “One of the most important services we offer at RightBridge is end of life planning. When your time on earth is done, what kind of impact do you want to make? We ask our clients this - whether they want to provide for loved ones, give to a charitable organization, or some of both.”</p><p>He states that the restructuring and expansion at RightBridge will allow his team the opportunity to continue to give back to the community, to educate families and individuals on how to make their wealth work for them, and how to plan for the future. “There are two things we get every day when we wake up: a chance and a choice,” Gebert shares. “The choices you make after you get your chance are on you.”</p><p><i>RightBridge Financial Group is a financial advisory firm that provides financial planning and wealth management services to affluent families, helping clients protect and grow their wealth, manage their tax exposure, insure potential risks, and create a legacy for their future. RightBridge utilizes alternative investments, best-of fund managers, endowment structuring and risk mitigation strategies to build client portfolios.</i></p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/">https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/</a></p><p>Contact Keith Gebert: <a href="mailto:info@rightbridgefinancial.com">info@rightbridgefinancial.com</a> </p>
16 Mar, 2023
Keith Gebert
<h2>RightBridge Financial Group Creates Memorial Foundation</h2><p><i>Englewood, NJ</i> - RightBridge Financial Group, a financial planning and wealth management company, has announced the creation of a foundation in memory of Sandra Gebert, the mother of company founder Keith Gebert. The memorial will work with a variety of other foundations and causes, as community outreach is a significant part of RightBridge’s mission.</p><p>RightBridge has long supported the Make-A-Wish® Foundation, and for 2023, it has added support to the Tim Tebow Foundation. The firm’s team feels that supporting charitable organizations is central to the company’s business goals of helping people manage their finances in a way that allows them to make the most of their time, energy, and assets. Part of RightBridge’s financial planning services includes end of life decisions, which, for many clients, includes designating funds to be donated to charities.</p><p>RightBridge made the decision to add support to the Tim Tebow Foundation and create its own memorial to Sandra Gebert as a way to give back; but the leadership team realizes the potential for an increase in brand loyalty and positive public relations as a benefit of these actions. More importantly, this will provide a platform for RightBridge employees to get involved in volunteer work and community service, fostering a sense of purpose and creating a positive work culture.</p><p>While a charitable foundation can serve as a tax-efficient way for a business to give back, as well as provide opportunities for philanthropic giving and community involvement, RightBridge is more interested in making a significant impact on the lives of children and families in need.</p><p>RightBridge founder Keith Gebert has been personally dedicated to charitable work for years. He has donated 100% of the proceeds of his book, <a href="https://councils.forbes.com/executive-library/executive-library-stress-testing-your-savings-keith-gebert">Stress-Testing Your Savings</a>, which is featured by Forbes Councils, to the Make a Wish Foundation.</p><p>“When my mother passed, it was only natural for me to channel my grief into the conception of the Sandy’s Way Foundation,” he shares. “It’s a way to keep her memory alive while benefiting others who are in need of some support.”</p><p>He adds that RightBridge decided to begin supporting the Tim Tebow Foundation because it aligns the business with a well-known and reputable organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of children across the globe. “This foundation is dedicated to supporting orphans, kids with medical issues, and it also fights human trafficking,” Gebert says. “For us, it was an easy choice. We don’t make a secret of the fact that our bottom line is far less important than the fact that the success of the firm allows us to offer even more support to these organizations.”</p><p>He shares that the expansion of RightBridge’s charitable contributions is made possible by the recent significant growth of the company. RightBridge is in talks to partner with another New Jersey-based Registered Investment Advisory firm, and the firm is also in the process of hiring new chief investment officers.</p><p>“We are rolling out an entirely new investment strategy to clients this year,” Gebert says. “We’re so pleased at how the firm has grown, and we can further plans in place. I would really like to start a financial mentorship program aimed at kids and young adults, so they can get a head start in life with financial wisdom and education.”</p><p>RightBridge provides financial planning to select individuals and families, helping them protect and grow their wealth, manage potential risks, utilize smart tax planning, and create a legacy for their future. Keith Gebert is a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor CRPC®, and has a Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) Certification from Wharton; he is also a Forbes Finance Council Member.</p><p>“We are looking at modeling the Sandra Gebert Foundation after some of the well-known and respected charities we currently support,” Gebert reveals. Along with Make a Wish and the Tim Tebow Foundation, RightBridge also serves as a Veterans Affairs Advocate and is a member of Sons of Vets and the Knights of Columbus. Keith Gebert is a bone marrow donor at the Miami Children’s Hospital and was the youngest single Wish Grantor at Make a Wish New Jersey.</p><p>“My personal mission is to live my best, most extraordinary life by helping others to live theirs,” he says. “At RightBridge, we strive to collectively continue to grow and help bring love, life and education to others around us.”</p><p><i>RightBridge Financial Group is a financial advisory firm that provides financial planning and wealth management services to affluent families, helping clients protect and grow their wealth, manage their tax exposure, insure potential risks, and create a legacy for their future. RightBridge utilizes alternative investments, best-of fund managers, endowment structuring and risk mitigation strategies to build client portfolios.</i></p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/">https://www.rightbridgefinancial.com/</a></p><p>Contact Keith Gebert: <a href="mailto:info@rightbridgefinancial.com">info@rightbridgefinancial.com</a> </p>
24 Feb, 2023
Simone Grimes
<p>Simone Grimes Details How Boards Can Prepare for the 2023 Proxy Season</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vCgxlXC1QXvy0S79ONdxjtNPyYM2BdMuPfh2mvWCJs_quO6Bc6aSN6MylotAy9vQmVG7ayIQYCeapacKlphV6of9914zzSInI6BYqqixoawh7PwE-pQMMiGUfdUxfZ2jNO080gxGKG7XHEXs0OTwxkg" alt="Chief Financial Officer at Acadia Insurance"></figure><p>The past two years have demonstrated that investor activism is on the rise, and publicly traded companies need to anticipate the opportunities and challenges that come with proxy season. The only certainty boards should expect in 2023 is change. Proxy advisory leaders Glass Lewis and Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) announced their 2023 priorities, which include a continued focus on ESG issues, an increased focus on board diversity and related disclosures, support for racial equity audits, and a continued focus on “say on pay.” Chairs of the nominating, compensation, and audit committees can expect less support for their re-nominations if they are not proactive about the significant issues at play in 2023. <a href="https://profiles.forbes.com/members/finance/profile/Simone-Grimes-Chief-Financial-Officer-Acadia-Insurance-WR-Berkley-Company-NYSE-WRB/3aa87b6d-565d-4250-8682-57c3ce374376">Simone Grimes</a>, an experienced Chief Financial Officer and corporate board member serving on audit and governance committees, gives some useful suggestions for how directors can prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the 2023 proxy season.</p><h2>Step 1: Understand the ESG issues that contribute to your organization’s risks and opportunities </h2><p><a href="https://theleadershipfoundry.org/candidates/simone-grimes/">Simone Grimes</a> explains that even billion-dollar companies can be out of touch with shareholders’ expectations regarding ESG.</p><p>“A board that is narrowly focused on compliance and risk management will fall short of institutional investor’s expectations that boards be fluent and proactive in ESG matters,” she says. For 2023, ISS will generally recommend votes against the incumbent chair of the responsible committee and other directors on a case-by-case basis and at companies that have not taken minimum steps needed to assess and mitigate the company’s climate-related risks. This is especially true for companies that are significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters, directly or indirectly, through their value chain. “This is why board members should invest time in educating themselves on ESG issues,” Simone Grimes explains.</p><p>To prepare,<a href="https://alumnispotlight.com/2022/01/31/the-top-100-chief-financial-officers-of-2021/"> Simone Grimes</a> recommends that boards dedicate time on the agenda to understanding the business’ ESG goals, differing approaches, and proxy advisor expectations. It is also beneficial for board members to meet regularly with senior sustainability leaders and external experts so that they can be educated on ESG issues and determine the adequacy of climate-related disclosures.</p><h2>Step 2: Diversity, Diversity, Diversity</h2><p>With the absence of state or federal laws or fixed stock exchange requirements, ISS and Glass Lewis are strengthening the power of their vote recommendations to influence greater board diversity. Glass Lewis will move from a fixed number approach to gender diversity to a 30% gender diversity expectation. It intends to vote against the chair of nominating committees that fail to meet the gender requirement or have a director from an underrepresented community. Boards should prepare to disclose their plans and timelines to appoint diverse directors generally no later than the next annual meeting. </p><p>“This is the time for nominating committee chairs to get proactive in ensuring that their succession plans include a pipeline of qualified and diverse candidates as well as committee rotations and that they revisit tenure-limiting mechanisms,” <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/simone-grimes-cpa/">Simone Grimes</a> adds. </p><p>ISS will expand its gender diversity requirements in 2023 to apply to all companies, not just Russell 3000 and S&P 1500 companies. Nominating committee chairs on boards with no gender diversity should be concerned and be prepared to address votes against their re-nomination. ISS would further like to see greater transparency in quantitative assessments of workforce diversity and inclusion metrics and goals to assess whether the company is making sufficient progress in the areas of racial equity and civil rights.</p><h2>Step 3: Understand the new issues</h2><p>Several new topics are being addressed in 2023 that seek to have greater transparency in the alignment between a company’s stated values and its financial commitments.</p><p>Directors should understand requests for Racial Equity Audits. For 2023, ISS added racial equity and civil rights audits as a new factor it will consider when evaluating on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals requests to assess whether a company adequately discloses workforce diversity and inclusion metrics and goals, which ISS believes will allow for quantitative assessments of progress.</p><p>Boards should prepare for increased scrutiny on Political Spending. Under a new policy for 2023, ISS will evaluate on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals requesting greater disclosure from companies about the alignment between their political contributions and lobbying efforts and their publicly stated values and policies. ISS will consider the company’s policies, management, board oversight, governance processes, and level of disclosure related to political expenditures and lobbying activities. Further, proxy advisors will look for the company’s disclosure regarding the reasons for its support of candidates, trade associations, and other political activities and any incongruencies between a company’s political expenditures and its publicly stated values and priorities.</p><h2>Step 4: Compensation committees should anticipate say-on-pay proposals</h2><p>Investors' lack of tolerance for adjustments, discretion, and special grants in executive compensation is expected to result in lower levels of support for company say-on-pay proposals. Compensation committee chairs can be vulnerable to votes against their re-nomination if they are not proactive.</p><p>ISS will target Problematic Pay Practices. ISS maintains a list of examples of problematic pay practices that carry significant weight in its consideration of a company’s overall pay program and may result in negative vote recommendations. For 2023, ISS added as a new example severance payment made to an executive when the executive’s termination is not clearly disclosed as involuntary (e.g., a termination without cause or resignation for good reason).</p><p>Boards should expect an increase in shareholder proposals to strengthen ESG metrics in executive compensation. For 2023, ISS will continue to evaluate on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals seeking increased disclosure on a company’s approach toward incorporating environmental and social (E&S) criteria into its executive compensation strategy, considering specified factors. ISS revised the policy to reflect its view that a company’s board or compensation committee is generally in the best position to determine performance metrics while also acknowledging that shareholders would benefit from improved disclosure about the rationale and considerations behind pay metrics. </p><h2>Step 5: Encourage board-shareholder engagement all year, not just during the proxy season</h2><p>Boards should ideally engage with major investors throughout the year and avoid reaching out to them only in times of a crisis or challenging annual shareholder meetings. </p><p>The benefits,<a href="https://thekerplunk.com/2022/06/02/simone-grimes-details-cybersecurity-for-board-members-what-you-need-to-know/"> Simone Grimes</a> states, include the board demonstrating it is fluent in ESG and in investor policies. By engaging with investors more often, directors can hear the opinions of investors on the company’s ESG performance and on ESG issues themselves.</p><p>“Board governance is always evolving, and by keeping in touch with shareholders all year long, they will be leaders in their industry,” states Simone Grimes. “Try to keep the door open and create a way for major shareholders to engage with board members on ESG matters.”</p><h2>Step 6: Redefine what makes a proxy season successful</h2><p>A successful company is one whose board and shareholders have great relationships. While it is tempting to define a successful annual meeting through the support its shareholder proposals receive, this is too narrow.</p><p>“What is even more important is how engaged the shareholders are,” Simone Grimes believes. “Remember: you may be able to do little about the withdrawal of a shareholder proposal, and shareholders may just not support your position. While frustrating, keep the long term in mind - if you had good dialogue with your major investors despite things not going according to plan, you had an excellent proxy season.”</p><h2>Step 7: Consider your options when endorsing, implementing, or withdrawing from a shareholder proposal</h2><p>Simone Grimes adds that boards can benefit from selectively endorsing or implementing shareholder proposals. One major advantage is that it shows that the board is both listening to its shareholders and prioritizing strategic opportunities in pursuing E&S goals. </p><p>“Remember, too, that the company may have more flexibility in implementing the proposal because it is endorsing it instead of negotiating its withdrawal,” she says. “Another strategy is for the company to implement the proposal ahead of the vote but on its own terms and utilizing its own strategy. This helps shareholders to see that the board is receptive to their concerns.”</p><p>She cautions that shareholders may be less willing to support a proposal if it has already been implemented. To decide whether to endorse, negotiate the withdrawal of, or preemptively implement a proposal, the board will have to consider the proposal, its proponent, and the precedent it will be setting by endorsing some of the proposals. </p><p>ESG issues and multi-stakeholder capitalism are increasingly prioritized by institutional investors. With these steps, board members can be prepared for the 2023 proxy season and also for the future, one in which ESG will be critical to a corporation’s success.</p><p><i>Simone Grimes is an independent board member, audit committee financial expert, Chief Financial officer (CFO), and entrepreneur who has a BSC in Accounting, MS in Finance, and MBA from Cornell University. She has held financial leadership roles across various industries, including financial services, big-four (PwC) public accounting, tech, and consumer products. Simone Grimes serves on the audit committee of for-profit and nonprofit boards. </i></p><p><i>The views represented are those of Simone Grimes and do not represent the position of Acadia Insurance or W.R. Berkley.</i></p>
21 Feb, 2023
Simone Grimes
<p>Simone Grimes Digs Into the Pros and Cons of SASB Standards for ESG</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/kwqkB_NK0AGUp0hbYybnULvexoTIRrrKOunGLAw45LtMJlF9edYLKOauxV-Bs7YztrTPz6revZRK6gUOpEolK_mDTlSvqJ_9flm_C0cGbe8j8UFF_dqFYlAAaeagksNAeUadYpo2_aa4FHf9YM4D4k4"></figure><p><a href="https://profiles.forbes.com/members/finance/profile/Simone-Grimes-Chief-Financial-Officer-Acadia-Insurance-WR-Berkley-Company-NYSE-WRB/3aa87b6d-565d-4250-8682-57c3ce374376">Simone Grimes</a>, the Chief Financial Officer at Acadia Insurance, says there is quite a bit to love about the SASB Standards on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), which are now part of the International Sustainability Standards Board’s purview. The potential effects of SASB will vary depending on their implementation across 77 industries, but the end result is largely the same: more financial transparency about a company so that investors can make informed decisions.</p><p>“That said, SASB isn’t perfect,” says <a href="https://theleadershipfoundry.org/candidates/simone-grimes/">Simone Grimes</a>. “There are some significant holes in how its standards have been put together. It’s a matter of weighing those potential drawbacks against the undeniable benefits to see their impact on investors and industries.”</p><h2>Simone Grimes on the Benefits of SASB Standards</h2><h3>Broad Evidence-Based Research</h3><p><a href="https://alumnispotlight.com/2022/01/31/the-top-100-chief-financial-officers-of-2021/">Simone Grimes</a> states that the foundation of SASB is qualitative research that draws upon broad and balanced input from companies, investors, and subject matter experts. “It is incredibly helpful that in putting together the standards, they went right to the source of information by conducting interviews, making first-hand observations, etc.” she says. “This gave them a solid starting point when creating the standards. They also operate under the oversight of an independent standards board, which builds credibility.”</p><h3>Emphasis on Materiality</h3><p>Relevance, <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/potmsearch/detail/submission/6495351/Simone_Grimes_MBACPA_CIA">Simone Grimes</a> continues, is part of the guidelines created by SASB. After years spent examining the sector and subsector levels, SASB determined what should be disclosed to assist investors and regulators in making a determination about a company. It also factored in what would, and would not, affect the company’s bottom line.</p><h3>Subsector Differentiation</h3><p><a href="https://www.influencive.com/simone-grimes-on-why-the-board-of-directors-has-a-responsibility-to-consider-esg/">Simone Grimes</a> believes that the depth of detail in SASB is impressive. “Very few can compare to its guidance on ESG issues vs. financial performance for 77 different subsectors,” she explains. “This thoroughness means that companies are better able to supply investors with financially-material sustainability information. Investors, in turn, are better equipped to understand the ESG issues that are relevant to the bottom line of companies.”</p><h3>Valuing Intangible Assets</h3><p>With the SASB’s focus on qualitative data, investors are better able to determine the non-financial aspects of a business’ ESG value proposition. “A company is more than just its building or inventory,” says <a href="https://thekerplunk.com/2022/06/02/simone-grimes-details-cybersecurity-for-board-members-what-you-need-to-know/">Simone Grimes</a>. “Its brand, human capital, and the social value it creates for communities and economies are all important. SASB helps investors to analyze these intangibles when making a determination.”</p><h3>Completeness, Reliability, and Objectivity</h3><p>The SASB is generally highly regarded for its verifiable, objective, and reliable standards. It is true, Simone Grimes believes, that because of its standards, investors are empowered to make better decisions about investing and voting.</p><p>“SASB also allows for the reality that no two industries are the same,” Simone Grimes states. “For the sake of example, let’s say that an investor or regulator is looking at mortgage finance and beverages, two very different subsectors.”</p><p>SASB bases its standards on the material risks for each one. The risks for a mortgage company will include its lending practices, the historic discrimination in lending, and any environmental risks associated with mortgaged properties.</p><p>“Compare this to a beverage company, whose greatest risks are likely to be its energy management, water management, packaging and lifecycle management, ingredient disclosures, the environmental and social impacts of the ingredients’ supply chains, and the sourcing of ingredients,” says Simone Grimes. “Taking all of this into account is crucial and is one of SASB’s biggest advantages.”</p><p>SASB also offers companies guidelines for assessing and mitigating these risks through sector-appropriate governance actions. The mortgage company, for example, might provide transparency into its lending practices through its FICO score or metrics on foreclosure rates by mortgage type.</p><p>“The beverage company, on the other hand, would provide investors with information on how many of their ingredients are sourced from water-distressed areas,” says Simone Grimes. “Investors would also learn about any risks associated with main ingredients and their suppliers. SASB, therefore, helps investors understand what they can expect to receive from a company.”</p><h2>Simone Grimes on the Shortcomings of SASB Standards</h2><p>Simone Grimes says that as useful as SASB Standards have been, their inherent weakness is that they do not take into account a business world that is constantly evolving. “It is excellent that they draw upon decades of experience, of course. However, as leaders, we all know that what was true or worked yesterday is not necessarily applicable today,” she says. “ESG issues are always emerging and can impact a company’s future earnings. Yet, SASB does not account for this.”</p><h3>Geographic Differentiation</h3><p>Simone Grimes concedes that one of SASB’s biggest advantages is its ability to identify relevant issues across 77 sub-sectors. The problem, however, is that it does not factor in geography, which can have a significant impact on a company’s performance.</p><p>“Consider a utility company that is in the United States vs. one that is in China,” she says. “Because of political and regulatory differences, the two markets could not be more different and have their own risks, which is crucial for investors to be aware of. SASB does not consider this in its standards.”</p><h3>Cross Industry Comparability</h3><p>SASB has established itself as the go-to toolbox for comparing companies within an industry. That said, when an investor wants to compare companies in different industries, it falls short.</p><p>This is due primarily to its emphasis on ESG risks by sub-sectors, Simone Grimes explains. For that reason, she thinks the <a href="https://shared.outlook.inky.com/link?domain=www.globalreporting.org&t=h.eJxFzEkSwiAURdGtWIyVJgk_zShbIfKDKF0BqQws966MnL5T777JkR1ZLuRRayoLY-d5UuPiplzGFHO1wdCYDStVBa2yLoxcL-TVLgHrT_Y6SNnBINgTVQg24Gp9wmwPf0uZ3qNnqlN874CjmHbYRj0DAIdpw1kIjSNnAkD2EsZ-omPf-tj6rlgfA5rVeGVdKzXSjf7L5ws3bjzE.MEUCIAOrffIfk_LknPHjviRyyt1qbKGxYb8oZvDwk3d_JBvkAiEAz_4xXxreUKAkg2OKJDDlVo4chbEGlhpv39Le2uuMCNk">Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)</a> and <a href="https://shared.outlook.inky.com/link?domain=www.integratedreporting.org&t=h.eJxFzEkSgjAQBdCrWFkLIQzNsPIqEZrYSjqpJhQLy7trVm7_8N7qkE1NF_VIKe6T1ud5lsQJndiEi2AMkohdGcRpwT0cMqPOA2GbKLDdCpJiFevxDPLS6npRrwwypt9nTW3X1dAa_UTLTIw38hGFDl9EKefgta1ttdZQoRlWuPfLCAAVDHccjVmwr7QB6JoO-mYo-yb7mP1tJx8Y3c15S1uWcrXk6p98vuZpSMg.MEUCIQCCyHZN9APXqDVKHhydjrmB6GnJdnAporOI4pdXxv-8KwIgaFlLxDUyvw0cm4NMT3fSHk40GTKJXlI-6OgGeWYuxBE">Integrated Reporting Framework</a> (IR) frameworks are more useful.</p><h3>Lack of Data for Forward-Looking Models</h3><p>Another weakness of SASB is its assumption that an economy is healthy and that any known material risks are reflected by a company’s stock price. “It does not account for factors ‘not yet priced’ in valuation,” Simone Grimes states. “Hypothetically, if a sector is expected to see higher risks of emissions within the next 2-3 years, what is a reasonable GHG discount to use in a forward-looking scenario analysis? While this is a crucial data element for anyone making ESG-related investment decisions, SASB does not offer relevant data for this scenario.”</p><h3>Lack of Guidance on Regulation of ESG Issues</h3><p>Simone Grimes adds that while the Securities and Exchange Commission <a href="https://iclg.com/practice-areas/environmental-social-and-governance-law/usa#:~:text=In%20the%20United%20States%2C%20there,diversity%20is%20considered%20a%20factor">mandates</a> that all public companies reveal material information to investors, including any possible ESG-related risks, SASB offers no opinion on how to regulate ESG issues. </p><p>Overall, Simone Grimes recognizes the usefulness of SASB and its ESG standards but believes they have a long way to go. There are still too many holes, and the burden is on investors and analysts to do the research and analysis to account for them. As ESG evolves, Simone Grimes expects more robust and reliable data to become more widely available from rating agencies and standard setters, which will ultimately help regulators, investors, and companies across all 77 sub-sectors.</p><p> </p><p><i>Simone Grimes is an independent board member, audit committee financial expert, Chief Financial officer (CFO), and entrepreneur who has a BSC in Accounting, MS in Finance, and MBA from Cornell University. She has held financial leadership roles across various industries, including financial services, big-four (PwC) public accounting, tech, and consumer products. Simone Grimes serves on the audit committee of for-profit and nonprofit boards. </i></p><p><i>The views represented are those of Simone Grimes and do not represent the position of Acadia Insurance or W.R. Berkley.</i></p>
21 Feb, 2023
Simone Grimes
<p>Simone Grimes Details Best Practices for CFOs Leading Through Mergers and Acquisitions</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/lPH0fqqe8cLZJmW9hkXPyfSbkkaw4jx4J5TuNiOgL6HL2PSmtEGDFp4uZQjqpx9PdvlSjoqIWAzjQdIj4mOSAvRRjHQtE_xXE4Ak-dgLsR-OwD6qs4KW8Xsa_DrXPtS-6Fa_TRTHfeqgXMlw38Lxc4I"></figure><p>Merger and acquisition (M&A) deals can be some of the most crucial events companies encounter. Handled well, they have the potential to strengthen businesses, including their future growth prospects. However, there are multiple opportunities for strategies to fail and negatively impact valuations and capital structure. While everyone will have a role to play in a successful M&A, a CFO will be especially important, says <a href="https://profiles.forbes.com/members/finance/profile/Simone-Grimes-Chief-Financial-Officer-Acadia-Insurance-WR-Berkley-Company-NYSE-WRB/3aa87b6d-565d-4250-8682-57c3ce374376">Simone Grimes</a>. Below, Simone Grimes uses her experience spent serving on board audit and finance committees to help CFOs understand how they can lead their companies past potential pitfalls during M&As.</p><h2>What are the different types of M&A transactions?</h2><p>“First, let’s back up just a little and remember that M&A transactions take many forms and sizes and have different scopes,” says <a href="https://theleadershipfoundry.org/candidates/simone-grimes/">Simone Grimes</a>. “You can typically think of transactions as being horizontal or vertical. Horizontal transactions involve two companies that operate in similar industries and who may or may not be direct competitors. Think Frontier and Spirit airlines as an example.”</p><p>Vertical transactions, on the other hand, are when a company acquires a supplier, customer, or key stakeholder along its value chain. “These are much more common these days and include when Tesla has bought battery companies, solar energy suppliers and automated manufacturing technologies.”</p><p><a href="https://alumnispotlight.com/2022/01/31/the-top-100-chief-financial-officers-of-2021/">Simone Grimes</a> explains that by contrast, conglomerates are established when a company buys another company in an unrelated industry to diversify its revenues or enter new segments, as did Amazon when it purchased Whole Foods in 2017.</p><p>“Additionally, in terms of parties to the transactions and reasons for the M&A, those vary quite a bit, too,” states <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/potmsearch/detail/submission/6495351/Simone_Grimes_MBACPA_CIA">Simone Grimes</a>. “There are the standard M&As between companies, which could be the acquisition of the entire company or just a piece of it, such as the sale of a division or segment of the company.” </p><p> </p><p>The other very common type of M&A transaction, <a href="https://www.influencive.com/simone-grimes-on-why-the-board-of-directors-has-a-responsibility-to-consider-esg/">Simone Grimes</a> continues, is private equity led. In it, a fund aggregates an otherwise fragmented market with the intention of increasing the value of the sum of the parts sufficiently to command significant returns at a future exit (usually in the 5-10 year horizon) in the form of either a public offering or by attracting a larger buyer. In any of these scenarios, the CFO may represent the buy side or the sell side.</p><p> </p><p>“So, with all of those variables understood, let’s put them to the side and assume we are talking about a simple M&A, whereby a larger company will acquire the assets of a smaller company,” says <a href="https://thekerplunk.com/2022/06/02/simone-grimes-details-cybersecurity-for-board-members-what-you-need-to-know/">Simone Grimes</a>.</p><h2>What is the CFO’s strategic role in M&As?</h2><p> </p><p>In this type of deal, Simone Grimes states that she would expect the CFO to be involved in all phases of the transaction, from planning and strategy building, to evaluating targets, all the way through execution. Equally important would be post-deal integration.</p><p> </p><p>“On the early side of a transaction for the CFO on the buy side, I would expect them to be heavily involved in developing the strategy to include vetting whether an M&A is, indeed, the right strategy,” Simone Grimes reveals. “Once that has been established, securing the capital (deal funds), evaluating target companies, evaluating risks, forming an early tax strategy, and formalizing the communication plan with stakeholders would all be the duties of the CFO.” </p><p> </p><p>On the buy side, she believes many of the same steps would remain the same minus the capital raise. She would add in an extra step of pre-deal marketing due diligence, which is really bringing in an outside party to basically do everything a buyer should do in the due diligence process to find any red flags and give the company time to correct them.</p><p>Embedded in every step, the CFO should take a step back and re-assess if the deal is still worth making. In any M&A transaction, the CFO should engage in robust tax planning. </p><p> </p><h2>What are the pitfalls to avoid in an M&A transaction?</h2><p> </p><p>The potential tax consequences of a merger or acquisition to a business entity and its owners and the complexity of the tax principles involved dictate that managing tax risks is one of the most critical aspects of an M&A transaction. The CFO should provide the strategic analysis that informs and guides M&A decisions and structuring. Additionally, the CFO should stay current on changing tax regulations to ensure the tax strategy remains viable.</p><p> </p><p>Simone Grimes believes that an often overlooked but critically important component of M&A transactions is the communication strategy. </p><p> </p><p>“Remember: it’s not great to arrive at what you think is the midpoint of a transaction and learn that there are stakeholders who have objections that should have been addressed earlier,” Simone Grimes says. “Developing and implementing a clear communication strategy from the get-go, one that includes checking periodically for hurdles like these, can save everyone a lot of time and money.”</p><p> </p><p>She advises that CFOs expand their definition of an “overlooked party.” “We always think of the big ones, which is certainly helpful, but remember that if small or local regulators are overlooked, deals can be stalled.”</p><p> </p><p>Simone Grimes concedes that customer due diligence of the acquisition target is a topic that can be a little sensitive. “They will generally only offer up customers with whom they have strong relationships, but you need to dig a little deeper and ask the right questions to really stress-test the customer revenue streams,” she recommends.</p><p> </p><p>The other area to really consider is how much “heft” CFOs are bringing to the deal vs. the other party. In the example of a private-equity firm or larger company buying a smaller company, she thinks that CFOs should be mindful of how much muscle power they are deploying because they don’t want to overwhelm the target and derail them from focusing on running the business. </p><p> </p><p>“Lastly, from a structured perspective, I would say that to the extent you can use ‘hold back’ provisions in the contract that extend through the life of the rep and warranties, that is obviously preferred. This really de-risks the notion of overpaying based on future forecasts,” Simone Grimes states.</p><h2>What is some advice for CFOs who are facing an M&A situation?</h2><p>First, plan early. Whether CFOs are on the deal side or the buy side, they should give themselves enough time to develop a well-thought out plan. Remember to really focus on the tax strategy and to stay abreast of any legislative changes that are on the horizon that may impact a tax position or strategy. </p><p>“Next, get your deal partners lined up,” advises Simone Grimes. “They will be key to you being able to successfully navigate the M&A. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of your communications plan and post-deal integration. These areas can mean the difference between sailing past issues and stumbling over them at the most inconvenient of times.”</p><h2>Some wisdom on post-acquisition planning and execution</h2><p>Two of the most common reasons why a deal fails to generate the expected ROI come down to an inability to bridge the cultural differences between the two organizations and poor post-close execution. </p><p>“In either situation, a CFO can - and should - play a crucial role in planning for and mitigating such issues,” says Simone Grimes. “Steps they can take include outlining acquisition goals and the company’s future desired state, aligning leadership with the plan, and emphasizing the importance of human capital on either side of the deal.”</p><p>She also suggests documenting business-critical processes and systems as well as taking steps to orient the two businesses' cultures.</p><h2>The takeaway for CFOs approaching an M&A</h2><p> </p><p>“The ability of a CFO to prepare and lead their company through an M&A will help to maximize the impact of the deal,” says Simone Grimes. “A successful M&A all begins with preparation and a commitment to following through on every detail, no matter how small.”</p><p> </p><p><i>Simone Grimes is an independent board member, audit committee financial expert, Chief Financial officer (CFO), and entrepreneur who has a BSC in Accounting, MS in Finance, and MBA from Cornell University. She has held financial leadership roles across various industries, including financial services, big-four (PwC) public accounting, tech, and consumer products. Simone Grimes serves on the audit committee of for-profit and nonprofit boards. </i></p>
21 Feb, 2023
Simone Grimes
<p>Simone Grimes: Boards Can Be Agents of Much Needed Social Change</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/j1Htr1XWuv46TlpHCp2kqiv5bH5WdYxWEb-th8VAIyJ-C2hqVT8PbG_V431_gIRw3_G0nnHXWqWbXElRnO9uyYZoqlyIfMdgf6wLxA7m7geLr4hh-mRfB5JocLM_HH9s_FDT1OlQW3q0W4YPU4_kkg"></figure><p>The United States stands at a pivotal moment in history; public awareness of the inequalities still faced by marginalized people in America, including people of color, women and the LGBTQIA+ community, is growing, and as a country, we are grappling with how to affect change. As we debate around dinner tables, at work, and in social settings how best to strengthen our society and leave bias and prejudice behind us all, one area could be key: the boardroom. <a href="https://profiles.forbes.com/members/finance/profile/Simone-Grimes-Chief-Financial-Officer-Acadia-Insurance-WR-Berkley-Company-NYSE-WRB/3aa87b6d-565d-4250-8682-57c3ce374376">Simone Grimes</a>, who sits on the board of directors for Green Growth Group Inc., Junior Achievement, Big Brother Big Sister and Whistle Blower Aid, believes that boards of directors for publicly traded, privately held and non-profit organizations play a critical role in creating a truly inclusive society that respects all genders, ethnicities, and viewpoints.</p><p>“First, the involvement of board members is incredibly important for the health of any organization,” <a href="https://theleadershipfoundry.org/candidates/simone-grimes/">Simone Grimes</a> says. “As fiduciaries, we are responsible for ensuring that our organizations stay on the road to a sustainable future. We are a key part of the governance structure of companies and nonprofits that provide jobs, contribute to the economy, and create needed social change. Every board member must commit themselves to making ethical decisions so that the organization and key stakeholders can thrive.”</p><p><a href="https://alumnispotlight.com/2022/01/31/the-top-100-chief-financial-officers-of-2021/">Simone Grimes</a> believes, however, that these are just the basic duties of a board. “They are essential, of course, but what I have seen through my own board service is that there is a larger picture that boards must keep in mind: the impact that they have both on the employees or volunteers within the organization and on the community itself.”</p><p>Diversity on the board, <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/potmsearch/detail/submission/6495351/Simone_Grimes_MBACPA_CIA">Simone Grimes</a> continues, has been lacking for decades. “A 2021 study found that between 2016 and 2020, of directors who were new to Fortune 100 boards, 79.9% of board seats were filled by non-minority directors,” she says. “No doubt these people were talented and qualified to do their jobs. However, what would happen to the board, its organization, the community, and our society if a more diverse slate of directors was asked to serve? What kind of ripple effect might that create in America over time?”</p><p>The benefits of a board that embraces DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion), Simone Grimes explains, are multifaceted. “When you foster a board that represents the demographics of America, i.e. your customer base, you make better informed decisions and deliver better outcomes to shareholders and stakeholders. On a purely corporate level, this gives you better insights into why certain demographics make purchasing decisions, which can help steer the company in a more profitable direction.”</p><p>Studies have demonstrated that a diversified board results in more innovations, broader insights and strong quality earnings. Simone Grimes says that while any board, regardless of its composition, can think creatively, when women and minorities are recruited, they bring unique experiences and viewpoints that can increase a board’s productivity. “Diversity can invigorate the boardroom and make it into the center of originality and vision that it is meant to be.”</p><p>“Let’s be clear: I am not suggesting that a board that is composed solely of one gender or ethnicity cannot lead effectively,” Simone Grimes says. “What I am saying, however, is that the board will be limited by the perspectives of its board members.” The most poignant recent example of a lack of diversity in key decision points was the 2019 Georgia Tech report that found that of the eight autonomous car models it tested, <strong>all eight </strong>did not recognize pedestrians with dark pigmented skin or pedestrians with varying disabilities.” Many people found this study to be shocking. Simone states “It's just indicative of what happens when you eliminate the perspectives of the fuller population from being represented in key decisions.” </p><p>DEI on boards will have a ripple effect which will continue in the community. “When the board is diverse, they become more aware of what is happening in their community, which can lead to better relations between the company and the public. This can allow the organization to be proactive in affecting social change.”</p><p>Creating a board that reflects the rich diversity of the United States takes time, of course. “Nothing changes overnight,” Simone Grimes concedes. “Remember, though, that every time you recruit a female or minority board member, you are strengthening your organization and helping to close the book on America’s difficult past. That is heroic, and I hope that more boards will take up the challenge.”</p><p><i>Simone Grimes is an independent board member, audit committee financial expert, Chief Financial officer (CFO), and entrepreneur who has a BSC in Accounting, MS in Finance, and MBA from Cornell University. She has held financial leadership roles across various industries, including financial services, big-four (PwC) public accounting, tech, and consumer products. Simone Grimes serves on the audit committee of for-profit and nonprofit boards. </i></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>
21 Feb, 2023
Simone Grimes
<p>Making ESG Profitable</p><p>A conversation with Green Growth’s board members on leveraging technology to solve big challenges for the industrial complex<br> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Kp5xDhkAO5cAlF4_2ymW7BHyzRikkAlbBPM5OA-PFBV2Ghb97h1Yk5P5z0Gx88MhYaWWP_kcDOWNd-rOHrQ_vsDRAyv7rtIQ_bWGCDnURa38RIO7o01uHpnqRyOsVQdjetOsnRfXXK_O0uGPx-nZLA"></figure><p> </p><p>With the increased regulatory pressure and investor demands for companies to demonstrate their commitment to environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) standards the challenge for most corporate boards is how to balance ESG requirements with delivering profits to shareholders. Green Growth sought to solve this very problem and in so doing delivered hefty returns to investors. Their secret? Investing in Agricultural technologies (<a href="https://bitwiseindustries.com/blogs/category-blog-agtech/">AgTech</a>) that could improve the consumption of finite resources utilized in traditional industrial farming and food manufacturing processes. After closing their final<a href="https://ir.marimedinc.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/179/marimed-closes-acquisition-of-illinois-craft-cannabis"> deal</a> in a series of M&A transactions, Green Growth’s board members,<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/simone-grimes-cpa/"> Simone Grimes</a> and Gary Oliver<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-oliver-6782374/"> Gary Oliver</a>, say they are bullish on the future of green startups that can redefine standard industrial practices in a way that is good for the planet, which in turn is good for investors and consumers. </p><p> AgTech is a highly nuanced industry that leverages technology, machine learning, and predictive analytics to solve big challenges for the industrial complex. The rise in AgTech solutions has coincided with changing ESG regulations and the increase in investor proxy proposals that challenge companies to shift their corporate strategies to emphasize having a positive impact on the planet and society. <a href="https://www.influencive.com/simone-grimes-on-why-the-board-of-directors-has-a-responsibility-to-consider-esg/"> Simone Grimes</a> understood that larger agriculture and manufacturing companies would be looking for opportunities to make their processes more sustainable. Green Growth poised itself to develop assets as acquisition targets for the industrial complex by leveraging technology to refine traditional industrial processes to achieve similar results while reducing negative environmental impacts. </p><p><a href="https://alumnispotlight.com/2022/01/31/the-top-100-chief-financial-officers-of-2021/">Simone Grimes</a>, Green Growth’s Founder and Board Chair, and Gary Oliver, Green Growth’s Chief Risk Officer, focused on acquiring and developing sustainable agriculture and food production assets across Illinois, Ohio, and Canada and leveraging a series of M&A strategies to deliver healthy returns to investors. Now Green Growth is influencing how corporate boards see the opportunity to make ESG value accretive versus a costly regulatory burden. </p><p>Simone Grimes recommends that emerging growth companies align the fiduciary duty of the board of directors with the contractual provisions of its fund or portfolio. “Without this, no company can realistically reach its full potential,” she believes. “Gary and I wanted to do something that would honor the sentiment of our investors, which was to use their capital to create a social good while prioritizing ROI (returns on investment).” </p><p> Thinking back on their journey with Green Growth, Simone Grimes emphasized “we understood that while it's crucial that businesses become more sustainable, it’s equally important to deliver real value to shareholders. So, we focused on AgTech because by making ESG profitable, we could affect changes in investor behaviors, demonstrate to corporate boards that ESG can be profitable, and influence positive social and environmental outcomes.” </p><p> Acquiring and developing assets was the first goal. Gary Oliver states that as they grew their portfolio, they encountered challenges. “COVID-19 was a major obstacle, as it created regulatory uncertainties and corresponding delays in regulatory approvals,” he recalls. “However, we did our part to ensure regulators, investors, and community partners understood the sincerity of our goal, which was to reduce GHGs in the manufacturing process, have a positive social impact in the communities we operated in, and enable existing companies to scale their ESG programs.” </p><p>In 2020, while the economy was in a period of uncertainty, Simone Grimes took on the position of board chair to lead the company through a period of rapid growth. “We became hyper focused on refining our assets and proving that our technology investments resulted in reduced GHG emissions. Simultaneously we identified target buyers and aligned our strategies accordingly.” Simone Grimes states “The goal of our fund was to deliver ROI to investors over a seven-year investment horizon; COVID 19 allowed us to speed up that process and deliver returns in less than four years. It’s a great feeling to surpass commitments to investors.”</p><p>As 2021 progressed, Simone Grimes says, they were able to successfully dispose of most of these agricultural assets with quantifiable ESG components. “We focused on delivering value to the acquiring entity, their investors, and the people and communities in which the assets operate. Our last asset was successfully disposed of in May 2022.” </p><p>Simone Grimes Simone Grimes details how she and Gary Oliver were able to make AgTech profitable for investors. “We focused on using M&A strategies to make ESG assets generate hefty ROIs,” she says. “What we invested in was key, as we also wanted to make a difference for society. We chose AgTech because the assets we invested in could be leveraged in industrial agriculture to make farming more sustainable.” Simone Grimes believed that like the trends in the beauty industry, where large companies like Estée Lauder and L’Oréal relied heavily on M&A to outsource their innovation efforts, companies will also seek to acquire sustainable assets to meet their ESG goals. </p><p>Gary Oliver knew they would need capital to successfully compete for some of the assets they wanted to acquire. They turned to the same investment groups that they had served on to evaluate investments, leveraging everything they knew about investment models.</p><p>“We stood up several special purpose entities, all with the end game of disposition,” Simone Grimes says. “We also assembled a team of SMEs (subject matter experts) in sustainable agriculture, engineering (MEP design), and manufacturing techniques as well as green building designs. In short, we created the perfect team to achieve our goals for AgTech and farming.” </p><p>Their experience in bringing more profitability to AgTech has led to insights into board governance that Simone Grimes frequently shares with her industry peers. “First, directors of corporations owe a fiduciary duty to act in the ‘best interests’ of the shareholders of a corporation,” she states. “In heavily regulated industries, such as agriculture, the interests of the regulator must be incorporated into every decision.” </p><p>Second, good corporate governance always starts at the top. “You may have good intentions for your industry, but you won’t get anywhere if your board isn’t solid,” Simone Grimes states. “On our board, we make sure everyone understands their fiduciary duty to our investors, regulators, and the communities who have invested in us. Each of our dispositions included a firm commitment to the social commitments we made, including hiring and training employees from within the community, paying livable wages, and incorporating a DEI strategy.” </p><p> </p><p>Simone Grimes states that in a company that is positioned as a social good and that has support from regulators who in turn rely on the company for public reporting, the board must equally consider the priorities of investors and of regulators. “Fiduciaries should always act with due care, skill, and diligence,” she says. “They must invest just as an ‘ordinary, prudent person’ would do.” </p><p>Gary Oliver believes that risk oversight at the board level is just as important. “Risk oversight is a primary board responsibility as part of their corporate governance,” he explains, “and in the evolving business and risk landscape, who could have predicted the impact of COVID-19? As such, directors need to develop and continuously improve practices to establish a well-defined and effective oversight function.”</p><p>Today’s boards play a critical role in influencing management’s processes for monitoring risks, Gary Oliver says. “As such, they should clearly define which risks the full board should discuss regularly versus risks that can generally be delegated to a board committee. While many boards have a defined risk governance structure, it is important to continually assess the structure as companies will most certainly continue to face new risks.”</p><p>All of these board practices can position a company to make vital contributions in any industry and to create social good, especially in AgTech. Simone Grimes recommends that boards keep them in mind as they look for ways to positively impact the planet. Agriculture, she believes, holds enormous potential for investors and entrepreneurs. </p><p>“I have seen over the last few years that agriculture is implicated in multiple aspects of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing,” says Simone Grimes. “Also, data and technology are making sustainability easier to measure, which will be needed as the pressure for more reporting at deeper levels of granularity on ESG metrics continues. Corporations will ultimately have to rely on green startups to outsource their ESG innovation.” </p><p>Gary Oliver states “I believe strongly that as ESG reporting gets more precise and quantification gets more granular, large companies will have to outsource their innovation through acquisition - much the same as we’ve seen in the beauty industry.” </p><p> </p><p>“We are only getting started on realizing the potential of AgTech to make farming sustainable and, in turn, have a positive impact on the Earth,” says Simone Grimes. “Now is the time for more companies to invest in it so that future generations can benefit.” </p><p><i>Gary Oliver, an international security specialist, is the owner of</i><a href="https://www.bsg-llc.us/"><i> BSG, LLC</i></a><i>,and a former member of the British Armed Forces. He has worked in conjunction with specialized agencies that include MI5, Special Branch, and the Special Air Service. Gary Oliver has over 35 years of operational experience gained from his corporate and military knowledge of risk management. Gary Oliver spent 10 years as a member of the Saudi Ambassador to the US Armed Close Protection team, where he worked with the State Department Dignitary Protection, Secret Service, FBI Hostage Rescue Team, Joint Terrorism Task Force, and other international government security services.</i> </p><p> </p><p><i>Simone Grimes, CPA is a corporate board member, Chief Financial officer (CFO), and entrepreneur who has a BSC in Accounting, MS in Finance, and MBA from Cornell University. She has held financial leadership roles across various industries, including financial services, big-four public accounting, tech, and consumer products. Simone Grimes has worked with Fortune 100 public company boards of directors to implement robust Cybersecurity Governance programs. Simone Grimes sits on three non-profit boards and is the independent chairman for a corporate board. She is committed to ensuring that the role of corporate board members is value accretive, including their critical role in cybersecurity corporate governance.</i> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>
21 Feb, 2023
Simone Grimes
<p>Simone Grimes on Why the Board of Directors Has a Responsibility to Consider ESG</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wdAxbPSwLr7jCAFfLytpnn4fYufxeumEayKAMy-R0uHnKZGTJ1Djb7zsqEZKkexfoYciZBZLrZ86s_DgT7HRU3ld8RhY5Il5hxdjgKE0G-tvrM6iCrqLLqGzdkBcc-Eu4-YTkM1iva_1iiqCG8j4lQ"></figure><p>WASHINGTON, DC - As more and more companies consider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in their decision-making, many believe that the board of directors has a responsibility to ensure that these factors are taken into account. <a href="https://alumnispotlight.com/2022/01/31/the-top-100-chief-financial-officers-of-2021/">Simone Grimes</a>, an independent board member and Chief Financial Officer at Acadia Insurance, says that ESG considerations can significantly impact a company's bottom line. </p><p>“Ignoring them could put the company at a competitive disadvantage,” <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/potmsearch/detail/submission/6495351/Simone_Grimes_MBACPA_CIA">Simone Grimes</a> explains. “Investors are increasingly interested in knowing whether companies take into account ESG factors in their decision-making.” Accordingly, the board of directors has a fiduciary duty to shareholders to consider all factors that could impact the company's value. Failure to do so, she emphasizes, could result in legal liability.</p><p>Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors are becoming increasingly important to investors and regulators.Institutional investors are integrating ESG considerations into their investment analysis and decision-making process and regulators are enhancing disclosure requirements.</p><p>"The board of directors has a responsibility to consider the implications of ESG factors for the company's long-term success," <a href="https://alumnispotlight.com/2022/01/31/the-top-100-chief-financial-officers-of-2021/">Simone Grimes</a> notes. "The board should assess how ESG issues could impact the business and ensure that management addresses these issues."</p><p><a href="https://profiles.forbes.com/members/finance/profile/Simone-Grimes-Chief-Financial-Officer-Acadia-Insurance-WR-Berkley-Company-NYSE-WRB/3aa87b6d-565d-4250-8682-57c3ce374376">Simone Grimes</a> believes that ESG factors can significantly impact a company's financial performance. "The costs of environmental regulation can be sizeable, especially for ongoing cleanups, but in most cases, it can be a good long-term investment." She understands that businesses will often lobby to reduce regulations they see as unfair but believes some regulation is necessary to protect the public from environmental and social risks.</p><p>"ESG, or environment, social, and governance, refers to the role of the company in mitigating climate change and making progress on social goals" Simone Grimes explains. “The environmental factors relate to how the company treats the environment, from the extent of GHG emissions that arise from producing its products to its handling of waste, consumption of energy, and investments in sustainable technologies. Social factors refer to human capital management; specifically how a company treats its workforce, its customers and the community in which it operates. Corporate governance refers to the boards effectiveness (including DEI and shareholder rights), transparency in governance, the comapny’s audit controls and the extent to which the company adheres to best practices and abides by the law.”</p><p>Simone Grimes points out that there are many ways a company can improve its ESG performance. “The greatest resource available to boards of directors is benchmark data, which evaluate where the company stands relative to its peers across all metrics. This allows boards to make data-informed-decisions about where to make critical investments.” Simone Grimes states that each company's approach to ESG performance will be different, but there are some general best practices. She says that all companies should have an ESG strategy and policy that defines who in the company is responsible for the execution of the strategy and how ESG metrics will be quantified, measured and reported"</p><p>"It is important to communicate a company's ESG strategy to shareholders, institutional investors and regulators" Simone Grimes says. "Transparency is an important part of a successful ESG strategy." </p><p>Simone Grimes reveals that there are ways to be transparent with your ESG strategy. "First, you must engage with your shareholders ahead of the proxy proposal and voting process to understand shareholder expectations. Use this as an opportunity to be open with your stakeholders about your approach to ESG, share quantifiable goals, as well as the constraints the organization faces in balancing ESG goals with financial performance. Next, ensure stakeholders understand the time it takes to implement the organization’s ESG strategy, and report on progress regularly to manage expectations about progress. Lastly, organizations need to engage in the regulatory process and be prepared to adopt ESG regulations as they evolve.”</p><p>Simone Grimes also emphasizes that stakeholders must trust that you will be committed to your ESG strategy and remain transparent. The SEC’s recent pronouncement on greenwashing clarifies that misleading claims about ESG metrics and sustainable practices will not be tolerated.</p><p><i>Simone Grimes, CPA is a CFO, independent board member, and entrepreneur who has a BSC in Accounting, MS in Finance, and MBA from Cornell University. She has held financial reporting roles across various industries, including financial services, public accounting, tech and consumer products. Simone Grimes recently led a portfolio of sustainable agricultural tech (AgTech) companies through rapid growth, complex M&A strategies, and an eventual exit that yielded substantial returns to investors. Simone Grimes is committed to strengthening a company’s value through board level engagement in ESG strategies.</i></p>
21 Feb, 2023
Simone Grimes
<p>Simone Grimes Details Cybersecurity for Board Members: What You Need to Know</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/g3JVUWyJujAs2yCWlAhzW__5HGtSrFNw-5d7k_NhVTr2cVjDBenMTuZs70WYfHjUPkiwjoQRZZt3PimnKr2t3ieYG6to1HuvCMoa6OEzGk9Wxp9-zN68XZHwVKCyNtF0tq_8sVYGWIIxyvXvmXqzwA"></figure><p> </p><p>WASHINGTON, DC - The modern workplace is in a state of flux. With so many changes occurring, it can be challenging to keep up, especially when navigating the complex world of regulatory reporting requirements. In March 2022, the SEC proposed new cybersecurity disclosure rules on incident reporting, risk management, strategy, and governance. <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/potmsearch/detail/submission/6495351/Simone_Grimes_MBACPA_CIA">Simone Grimes</a> independent board member and Chief Financial Officer at Acadia Insurance, states that If passed, these rules will require enhanced governance disclosures on how the board and management take responsibility for cyber security risks. </p><p> </p><p>“As cybersecurity risks evolve, so does the need for enhanced cybersecurity disclosures,” <a href="https://argyleforum.com/events/cfo-summit-cfo-2-0-strategizing-for-success/">Simone Grimes</a> says. “It is becoming imperative that corporate directors and officers of publicly traded companies ensure their companies have an effective cybersecurity risk management program. Directors must be aware of critical cybersecurity issues, including how they can prepare for enhanced public disclosures.”</p><p> </p><p><a href="https://alumnispotlight.com/2022/01/31/the-top-100-chief-financial-officers-of-2021/">Simone Grimes</a> explains that the board of directors is responsible for the oversight of the company's cybersecurity program, which includes understanding the cyber risk program, monitoring cyber resilience, allocating sufficient time in each board meeting to review management reporting, and regularly evaluating the adequacy of the cyber risk program.</p><p> </p><p><a href="https://theleadershipfoundry.org/candidates/simone-grimes/">Simone Grimes</a> says, "The SEC’s proposed rule would require additional governance disclosures, including the board’s oversight of cybersecurity risk, whether oversight of cybersecurity risks is the duty of the entire board, a committee, or specific board members, and a description of the organization's processes for informing the board about cybersecurity risks.” </p><p> </p><p>Furthermore, <a href="https://profiles.forbes.com/members/finance/profile/Simone-Grimes-Chief-Financial-Officer-Acadia-Insurance-WR-Berkley-Company-NYSE-WRB/3aa87b6d-565d-4250-8682-57c3ce374376">Simone Grimes</a> states, “The proposed rule would require a public disclosure about a material cyber event within four business days from the determination that the event was material. In this regard, the board needs to be prepared to make a materiality determination as soon as is reasonably practicable after an incident is discovered.”</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>According to Simone Grimes, in order to prepare for the possibility of implementation of the proposed rule, the board will need to re-assess how it evaluates cyber risks as part of its overall strategy, the extent to which cybersecurity is embedded in the corporate culture, the allocation of time dedicated to cyber security in each board session, and its ability to react quickly to identified cyber events.</p><p> </p><p>The proposed rule increases the potential <a href="https://www.metacompliance.com/blog/5-damaging-consequences-of-a-data-breach/">financial and reputational consequences</a> of a data breach. As such, Simone Grimes suggests that the board of directors ensure that the company has a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that addresses risk management, incident response planning, and employee training.</p><p> </p><p>Among the biggest cyber threats facing organizations right now is the expansion in attack surface following the increase in remote workers. “An organization's attack surface is the sum of the different access points that an unauthorized user can exploit to enter their system or extract data," Simone Grimes states. "Organizations should be prepared to adapt their cyber risk management program as quickly as changes in the business environment and workforce occur.”</p><p> </p><p>The concept of data protection is not new. However, the widespread use of personal devices, cloud-based applications, and social media is increasingly vital to organizations. </p><p> </p><p>"The easiest way to safeguard company data is to require the use of layered security credentials" Simone Grimes believes. "The use of multifactor authentication creates roadblocks to make it harder for fraudsters to hack the organizations systems, impersonate employees, and access or leak sensitive data." According to Simone Grimes, it is the board's responsibility to ensure that cybersecurity is embedded in the organizations corporate culture. </p><p> </p><p>Cyber threats are constantly changing, and cyber security is a moving target. "Cybersecurity is a chess game with an ever-changing board," remarks Simone Grimes. "It is a high-wire act with a thousand potential missteps and catastrophes. A board of directors and management must both be prepared to protect the company's assets and quickly disclose any material breach. </p><p> </p><p>On June 28th, 2022, Simone Grimes will lead a panel discussion with fellow CFOs and CISOs on Implementing Cyber Security Frameworks to Protect Finance. For more information on the CFO Summit, please visit its <a href="https://argyleforum.com/events/cfo-summit-cfo-2-0-strategizing-for-success/">website</a>. </p><p> </p><p><i>Simone Grimes is an independent board member, Chief Financial officer (CFO), and entrepreneur who has a BSC in Accounting, MS in Finance, and MBA from Cornell University. She has held financial leadership roles across various industries, including financial services, big-four public accounting, tech, and consumer products. Simone Grimes has worked with fortune 100 public company boards of directors to implement robust Cybersecurity Governance programs. Simone Grimes sits on three non-profit boards and is the independent chairman for a corporate board. She is committed to ensuring that the role of corporate board members is value accretive, including their critical role in cybersecurity corporate governance.</i></p><p> </p>
06 Mar, 2023
Chris Salerno
<h2>QC Capital Releases Educational Book to Hedge the Stock Market and Expand Into Real Estate</h2><p><i>Charlotte, NC</i> - Private equity investment firm QC Capital Group is pleased to have released an informational booklet, “<a href="https://www.qccapitalgroup.com/lp/book">The Multi-family Real Estate Investing Booklet Part 1</a>”, the first in a series written by the firm’s CEO and founder Chris Salerno.</p><p>The team at QC Capital is excited about the release of this booklet, which will allow the firm to share key information to potential clients interested in multifamily real estate investment. This industry offers a unique opportunity in today’s housing market, based on several factors that prompted Salerno to write the booklet.</p><h3>High demand for rental housing</h3><p>The demand for rental housing continues to grow, especially in urban areas where there is a growing population and limited space for new construction. This high demand for rental housing can translate into stable and consistent rental income for investors. </p><p>“Our team is skilled in identifying and acquiring top-performing assets, as well as identifying operational efficiencies to drive strong returns for our investors,” says Salerno. “In the current market with such strong demand for rental properties, we feel that offering our clients - and potential clients - the information provided in our new booklet is a huge educational opportunity.”</p><h3>Potential for economies of scale</h3><p>Multifamily properties typically have multiple units, which can offer economies of scale that can reduce operating costs and increase profitability. QC Capital is just now closing on a 224 unit apartment complex in the medical district of Houston, Texas, which is a prime example of this potential.</p><h3>Diversification</h3><p>Multifamily real estate investment provides an opportunity to diversify an investment portfolio and reduce the risk associated with a single-asset investment. QC Capital specializes in the acquisition of institutional-quality multifamily assets, recognizing the potential for diversification.</p><h3>Potential for long-term appreciation</h3><p>Multifamily properties are often considered a long-term investment and have the potential to appreciate in value over time, especially if they are well-maintained and located in desirable areas. “Since we started in 2019, we’ve acquired over $200 million in commercial real estate assets,” says Salerno. “Our team is experienced in knowing which properties to acquire and where. We’re so pleased to share this accumulated knowledge in our new free booklet.”</p><h3>Potential for passive income</h3><p>Multifamily real estate investment can provide passive income, as the property is managed by a professional property management company and the investor does not have to be involved in day-to-day operations. “Our information booklet contains more details,” says Salerno. “It’s designed to be read alongside our new weekly webinar series, where we’re going to discuss topics and insights pertaining to multifamily investing.”</p><p>The virtual webinars will take place on Thursdays at 3:00 pm EST, starting on February 16th, 2023. “We’re offering our new booklet along with this webinar series, as well as newsletters and updates, to provide as much education as possible about our industry,” Salerno says. “It does take commitment to learn about this industry, but I believe that success doesn’t come to those who dream about it - it comes to those who work for it.”</p><p><i>QC Capital Group is a private equity investment firm that specializes in the acquisition of institutional-quality multifamily assets in the southeast United States. The company was founded by Chris Salerno, a real estate entrepreneur and investment manager. The firm's goal is to identify and acquire top-performing assets and unlock additional value through focused asset management.</i></p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.qccapitalgroup.com/">https://www.qccapitalgroup.com/</a> </p><p>Contact: Chris Salerno at <a href="mailto:info@qccapitalgroup.com">info@qccapitalgroup.com</a> </p><p>Facebook :<a href="https://www.facebook.com/qccapitalgroup/">https://www.facebook.com/qccapitalgroup/</a> </p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/qc_capital/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/qc_capital/?hl=en</a> </p>
24 Mar, 2023
Tariq Alinur, CEO of BrainCX–Gearing up to Speak at Call & Contact Center Expo on April 26th.
<p><i>Las Vegas, Nevada</i>–With technology and communications advancing so widely on a global level, <a href="https://www.braincx.com/">BrainCX</a>, a digital outsourcer and customer operations company is excited to announce its presence at the upcoming Call & Contact Center Expo on April 26th, where the company’s CEO, Tariq Alinur will speak on the importance of personalizing and simplifying CX through video chat.</p><p>With over 30 years of experience in CX and digital transformation, Alinur is optimistic about sharing the launch of his company’s newest platform <a href="https://vovicx.com/">VoviCX</a>, which will aim to transform customer engagement and improve customer satisfaction. VOVI will allow companies the ability to "kill the Toll Free Number '' by offering Voice, Chat, and Video Chat support from their website and mobile application.</p><p>A Brit by birth, American by choice, and an Expat that has lived across the globe, Tariq Alinur has been working in the CX field long enough to know the necessity for a good customer operations platform. He is on a mission to help the CEOs and CMOs of the world’s most impactful brands, understand the value of an excellent customer experience that will drive bottom-line growth, customer acquisitions, brand loyalty, and staff retention through the application of more innovative and often more cost-effective customer experience solutions.</p><p>The audience of attendees present at this upcoming expo are in for a treat as Tariq will share his expertise and knowledge regarding the use of video chat for the customer experience industry. As CEO of BrainCX, the speaker is looking forward to discussing new ways to help other businesses maintain a high quality of customer service. </p><p>“As we look to the future,” Tariq Alinur says, “Braincx is poised for significant growth in the customer experience industry. Our projections show a 25% annual growth rate over the next five years, driven by our focus on leveraging AI and digital engagement platforms for routine transactions, and personalized live human support for complex interactions.” </p><p>The potential on the market for VoviCX is expected to be high, as the customer experience industry is projected to reach $23.6 billion by 2025. As the company continues to expand their services and build stronger connections with their clients, BrainCX projects a 40% increase in their client base over the next five years, utilizing the VoviCX platform. </p><p><i>BrainCX is a digital outsourcer and customer operations company that has been in the industry for over 75 years. With a team of BPO experts, AI engineers, and Customer Experience operatives, the business is excited for the launch of their newest communications platform, VoviCX at the upcoming Call & Contact Center Expo on April 26th.</i></p><p><i>Tariq Alinur</i></p><p><i>tariq.alinur@braincx.com</i></p>
22 Feb, 2023
Gil Novaes
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/im1cHvK_u565DJdz-YgSkK2O4lA0Q2NQRm8V70q_ryZZS7TObzGa5F-Osg7QG7e3UXlYDLdbKsrVEXFdnNGmj6MWRgWdU-RdfaQJQO0Kt0PEqe8ipb9D4chlG7Xt5TURhRSBoZLbGfSI8eQkMfVdOto"></figure><h2><strong>Paws For The Forest: the Future of the Rainforest is in Our Hands (and Paws)</strong></h2><p>The Amazonian rainforest is one of the most important ecosystems in the world, providing habitat for millions of species of plants and animals. The rainforest also serves as a crucial carbon sink, absorbing massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to regulate the planet's climate. The Amazon is also a vital source of medicine, with thousands of plant species used to treat a wide range of illnesses and diseases. The rainforest is also an important economic resource, providing jobs and income for millions of people through activities such as agriculture, forestry, and ecotourism. Additionally, the Amazon rainforest is a unique and irreplaceable cultural and historical treasure, home to many indigenous communities with their own unique languages, traditions, and ways of life.</p><p>Unfortunately, this rich and biodiverse region is being destroyed, one tree at a time. In fact, according to recent estimates, on average, the Amazon rainforest is losing around 73,000 hectares (180,000 acres) of trees every day, which equates to approximately 27 million trees. However, this number can vary depending on different factors such as the time of year and the region within the Amazon. Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest has been occurring at an alarming rate due to a combination of factors, including land development for agriculture and ranching, illegal logging, and the construction of dams, roads, and other infrastructure.</p><p>The destruction of the rainforest has far-reaching consequences for both local communities and the global ecosystem. Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest is primarily driven by human activities such as logging, agriculture, and cattle ranching. The loss of the Amazon rainforest not only destroys critical habitats for numerous plant and animal species, but it also contributes to global climate change. Deforestation releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, and reduces the amount of carbon dioxide that the forest absorbs, exacerbating the effects of climate change. The destruction of the Amazon rainforest also has cultural and economic implications, as it disrupts the lives of indigenous communities and reduces the availability of resources such as water, timber, and medicinal plants.</p><p>One non-profit is determined to fight back. Florida-based natural pet product company Native Paw launched its social media campaign <a href="https://pawsfortheforest.com/">Paws for the Forest</a> on a simple premise: encourage pet owners to post a picture of themselves with their canine companion on the company’s social media pages (primarily Instagram). For every picture, the company would use its own resources to plant a tree in the Amazon rainforest to combat deforestation.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xFedL_NWthVUtq5uS9Da_XyeNiUaZXQ2tt_0nFd5CS3co4B5hyHKRdsB2uMGcTeielYRTcKN6nQnMQMP05f0QkPl9l8-KBiAazatkBScjeoiLuGrI7gsWZQdMNPrs4y7EUad7k21jPsDCiKdrG-jvuI"></figure><p>In 2022, Paws for the Forest created the world’s largest online reforestation pet community - and planted 500 trees in the Amazon rainforest. But CEO and founder of Native Paw Gilberto Novaes says this is just the beginning.</p><p>“We’d like to see this number doubled in 2023,” he shares. “We have created this vast global community, uniting over 40 different countries. That was our goal for 2022. Now we already have this community and we have the resources to push forward with our conservation efforts.”</p><p>Individuals passionate about both their dogs and Amazonian reforestation were invited to post a picture of themselves with their furry friend on the non-profit's social media page - and not only did participants receive a sample of Native Paw's environmentally conscious pet care products, which use ingredients sourced from the rainforest, but they also became a part of the world's largest online community dedicated to reforestation through pet ownership. According to Novaes, founder of both Native Paw and Paws for the Forest, within the first two months of the campaign, they were able to establish this unique community and were thrilled with the positive impact seen both in the reforestation efforts and the response to their pet care products</p><p>“We’re planning to ramp up our efforts in 2023,” he shares, “We are so excited about the global interest shown through our campaign. Now we have this interactive community where humans, animals, and nature can all unite to promote a culture of sustainability. At Native Paw, by establishing Paws for the Forest, we want to encourage other businesses to pursue environmental preservation.”</p><p>He adds that sustainability is essential to preserving not only the precious Amazonian rainforest, but the environmental health of the entire planet. “We are launching our e-commerce site soon and wish to show that a business can be successful while still making a positive impact on the environment,” Novaes says.</p><p>Native Paw’s upcoming e-commerce platform will offer natural pet care products with ingredients that are ethically sourced, including many from the Amazon rainforest. According to Novaes, the diversity and wealth of the Amazonian biome was a source of inspiration when developing the products. The new line of products will feature ingredients such as Maracuja for relaxation, Pracaxi for hydration, Andiroba to prevent fur loss, Copaiba oil as a disinfectant, Camu Camu for its antioxidants and vitamin C content, and more.</p><p><i>Paws for the Forest, created by Native Paw, is a non-profit organization that works to protect and conserve wildlife habitats, particularly in the Amazon rainforest. The organization aims to protect endangered species and their habitats through scientific research, education, and community engagement.</i></p><p>Website:<a href="https://pawsfortheforest.com/"> https://pawsfortheforest.com/</a></p><p>Contact Gilberto Novaes at contact@trynativepaw.com</p>
30 Mar, 2023
Better Sleep Comes From Owning A SONU
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Xo8tXkTU8sowPbWbiTa5HSNuV4V_7wA6k5LUwzMMv2K1hH5AKcIp0qXnyAqyA6P-zzsxw14h0iroqM3bD-19zVFF13W8f-1OS2R5fcg5YioLNW5qooA5RlVtxTLpm1d9f_OLS9fZwF4EA4QOr5Qrpps"></figure><p>After just a short year on the online market, the revolutionary<a href="https://sonusleep.com/"> SONU Sleep System</a> is coming to retailers in 2023. With its patented system incorporating the Comfort Channel and Support Pillows, SONU offers its users a groundbreaking sleeping experience, which has been proven to relieve muscle and joint pain. </p><p>Developers of the SONU, Stason Strong and Bradley Hall , created this system to be able to mold to the user’s unique body shape and sleeping position, providing maximum comfort and support. The SONU is the first ever mattress designed for side sleepers, and addresses all of the problems that these users would face while sleeping on a traditional mattress. </p><p>This innovation allows sleepers to immerse their arms and shoulders within the Comfort Channel, which helps to keep the spine aligned correctly while sleeping. The unique design helps relieve tension and pain that is often unavoidable with traditional mattresses. It also works to improve breathing, while reducing snoring and fatigue by enabling its users to sleep through the night on their sides, helping to keep otherwise restricted airways open.</p><p>As the year continues, SONU reports they will be launching their products in retailers across the United States. For more information about The SONU Sleep System, visit their</p><p><a href="https://sonusleep.com/"> website</a>, SonuSleep.com. </p>
20 Feb, 2023
Brian Jahanbin
<p>Maxim Lending, Corp Begins Offering FHA Loans with Down Payment Assistance Program</p><p>LAGUNA HILLS, CA–With the launch of its Down Payment Assistance Program, <a href="http://www.maximlending.net">Maxim Lending, Corp</a> is providing up to 100% financing for Federal Housing Administration loan applicants who have a minimum credit score of 620. Potential homeowners who would like to obtain an FHA loan but who do not have a down payment now have a new option. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FihzgjZJrbO2jkuhzv5KF1y7jDVytQ0WDuQVCwBrU62AmiVwX_7u-JyAts43qgiQCIj7XtmSWFocO208kRQsLg2TqHWjpOcryECrzlp50LhUbGiGOwf91eBY2F0mM7ij3730j-kq-nghh1dsqUsC4-c"></figure><p><i>Maxim Lending, Corp - logo</i></p><p>Maxim Lending, Corp is a full-service, nationwide brokerage firm that strives to treat customers as individuals, not numbers. Founder Brian Jahanbin explains that in beginning the company’s Down Payment Assistance Program, the goal is to come alongside mortgage applicants who might not otherwise have considered an FHA loan for their new home.</p><p>“It can be frustrating to feel unable to purchase a home for lack of a down payment, which can be sizable,” says Brian Jahanbin. “After listening to our clients, my team and I decided to step into the problem and create a program that would offer FHA loans in conjunction with down payment assistance. We hope that by providing up to 100% financing, we can speed up the loan application process for more applicants.”</p><p>Senior Loan Officer Touraj Nezafati states that throughout 2023, Maxim Lending, Corp will be assessing the impact of the program on the FHA loans it processes. “We are unveiling our Down Payment Assistance Program at our offices across the United States,” he confirms. “Our hope is that as the year progresses, we will see more and more people obtain mortgages and move into their dream homes.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Jip0_YRmgdbsNrPy5ZkegdceEFHu2iVwBVQhy5ppfezezQFPYQ5siEVjq4niEw_hj47W1Q8amFrMslRkPzTkDhccBsavWPjygvetMDc6nIixrRTTDqzFfse3Up5jeHMU9z5YwGxcrZVXlxfhWY6jSJ8"></figure><p><i>Maxim Lending, Corp is a full-service brokerage firm founded by Brian Jahanbin. It assists loan applicants nationwide, is licensed in multiple states, and offers conventional, FHA, VA, jumbo, hard money, and NQM loans. </i></p><p><i>For more information about Maxim Lending, Corp and its loans for investment properties and for borrowers with credit scores as low as 500, please visit </i><a href="https://shared.outlook.inky.com/link?domain=www.maximlending.net&t=h.eJxtjcEOwiAQBX-l4axgCbuFnvorILSiZUsITU2M_66c9faSeZl5sb2sbOzYrdY8CnEcB0_2GdMayEdaOIXKTh17tM93b2WZqwKQqHpxD5YoUphiyqHEPZ1z4dctCaNxdtI7a82AGsDhbMBYcCZofwElekQJg9RKc2z60PSuREvTv7pv-Ae8P2QoO5w.MEUCIHYpwQtCJivuWO3RL-V84bQjT4y4y6vAdyl1Z94i-UAjAiEA9mDR7xgCmkMVIbMdmdM5nnPB6aRM1mhMdb3cfn9mXe0"><i>www.maximlending.net</i></a><i> or contact:</i></p><p><i>Brian Jahanbin</i><br><i>Maxim Lending, Corp</i></p><p><i>1-888-345-9333</i></p><p><a href="mailto:brian@Maximlending.net"><i>brian@Maximlending.net</i></a></p>
15 Mar, 2023
Endorphin Global Looking to Partner With Companies Throughout US and Africa
<p> </p><p><i>Johannesburg, South Africa–</i> Endorphin Global is a management consulting firm based in Johannesburg, South Africa, that is helping leading companies expand their businesses into the United States market. The firm has been instrumental in building connections between companies based in the United States and Africa, and their expertise in everything from data analytics to retail channel management and distribution strategy has been invaluable in helping companies achieve success in their expansion efforts. With the way that the world is shifting and the lines between nations has been shrinking, this is becoming more and more plausible. </p><p>“The global economy has become more interconnected than ever before,” Akash Maharaj, CEO and Founder of Endorphin Global starts, “and international businesses are expanding into new markets at a rapid pace. With advancements in technology and the ease of communication, companies can easily connect with customers and partners from all around the world. This has opened up a world of opportunity for companies looking to expand their reach and tap into new markets.”</p><p>South Africa has become a hub for global corporations to find their footing on an international platform and Endorphin Global is working to build connections between companies based in both the United States and Africa. </p><p>With teams that deal with everything from Data Analytics, A.I. and Machine Learning, to Retail Channel Management and Distribution Strategy, Legal due diligence, Risk and Compliance and overall Management Strategy and global expansion strategy, Endorphin Global has recently opened offices in Northern Virginia, across the river from Washington DC, to help better serve the US and global markets.</p><p>With this new office now in Northern Virginia (USA), Endorphin Global is even more well positioned to serve the needs of companies looking to expand into the US market. Akash Maharaj started the company during his corporate career in banking, insurance and finance after taking steps towards consulting and business problem solving. He maintains years of business experience in over 23 countries in Africa, South America, India, China and the Middle-East. Akash is working to build Endorphin Global into a multifaceted platform for companies wanting to gain a competitive advantage in their respective industries. </p><p>Endorphin Global is also focused on making a positive impact in the world, and they continue to assist clients operating in increasingly complex legal, regulatory and digital environments through a multidisciplinary approach, combining integrated financial, legal and commercial expertise. Thus far, this approach has proven to minimize risk and optimize the returns for clients over the medium-to-long term, by reducing the number of platforms and providers that usually need to be consulted with in order to successfully set up compliance with a multitude of federal and state regulations and become successful in the US market especially.</p><p>The CEO is also working on the Endorphin Foundation, which will work to raise funds to help and train entrepreneurs and unemployed individuals, (specifically those who were victims of lay-off throughout the pandemic) to identify their unique skills and expertise and develop ways to earn a living from them. Through the foundation, the company will help many entrepreneurs to network and become sustainable, continuing to focus on sustainable farming and the eradication of hunger through subsistence farming projects and hydroponics.</p><p><i>Endorphin Global is a Johannesburg based, South African management consulting firm that primarily deals with international businesses wanting to expand their reach and set up and grow their companies between the United States and Africa. For more information about the company, visit their website.</i></p><p><i>Akash Maharaj</i></p><p><i>info@endorphinglobal.com</i></p>
16 Mar, 2023
Endorphin Global to Launch New Cleaning/Healthcare Divisions
<p> </p><p><i>Johannesburg, South Africa–</i> <a href="https://endorphinglobal.com/">Endorphin Global</a> is a Johannesburg based, South African management consulting firm that primarily deals with international businesses wanting to expand their reach and set up and grow their companies between the United States and Africa. The company has announced the most recent launch of their new cleaning and healthcare division focusing on eco-friendly products and services in the residential, commercial and industrial cleaning sector.</p><p>With teams that deal with everything from Data Analytics, A.I. and Machine Learning, to Retail Channel Management and Distribution Strategy, Legal due diligence, Risk and Compliance and overall Management Strategy and global expansion strategy, Endorphin Global has recently opened offices in Northern Virginia, across the river from Washington DC, to help better serve the US and global markets.</p><p>Akash Maharaj, CEO and Founder of Endorphin Global started the company during his corporate career in banking, insurance and finance after taking steps towards consulting and business problem solving. Akash has a medical background, having worked for many years in a cardiothoracic unit in South Africa, giving him a unique perspective when it comes to the company’s movement into the world of healthcare. </p><p>With business experience in over 23 countries in Africa, South America, India, China and the Middle-East, Akash has made Endorphin Global into a multifaceted platform for companies wanting to gain a competitive advantage in their respective industries. </p><p>Endorphin Global is also excited to announce the launch of the Endorphin Foundation, which will work to raise funds to help and train entrepreneurs and unemployed individuals, (specifically those who were victims of lay-off throughout the pandemic) to identify their unique skills and expertise and develop ways to earn a living from them. Through the foundation, the company hopes to be able to help many entrepreneurs to network and become sustainable, continuing to focus on sustainable farming and the eradication of hunger through subsistence farming projects and hydroponics.</p><p>As they gear up for the launch of their newest cleaning and healthcare divisions, Endorphin Global will also be helping with disinfection and sanitizing of local spaces and using this entity to help train and develop the mass of displaced and homeless veterans and reintegrate them back into the economy, aiming to help them run their own businesses.</p><p>“We look forward to attracting and raising brand awareness with global companies and organizations that are looking to break into the US market, as well as US companies that are looking to grow and expand internationally into Africa,” Akash explains. </p><p><i>Endorphin Global is a Johannesburg based, South African management consulting firm that primarily deals with international businesses wanting to expand their reach and set up and grow their companies between the United States and Africa. For more information about the company, visit their </i><a href="https://endorphinglobal.com/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Akash Maharaj</i></p><p><a href="mailto:info@endorphinglobal.com"><i>info@endorphinglobal.com</i></a></p>
23 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>With Fund 2, Techvestor Seeks to Redefine Short-Term Rental Investments in 2023</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/aZgrNK_UZOgcC1bTg1D3VG-EhWyn3XyqW8qd_LntYAgDPggpKQvV9aRMGKCoLDRF70SHRDXGrkZ1l-9B5hqQkqOoD9UiI84tUBgelbYy9DkvI1pRPv7NjdMYmVPOHXLmvHs6svfjfaWQ_nehDpcd3j0"></figure><p>With so many companies offering passive investment opportunities, it can be difficult to spot those with real potential. While no investment is a sure thing, the numbers behind a company can give insights into its legitimacy. Consider <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, whose 16-point strategy and proprietary, institutional-grade platform allow it to source short-term rental properties across the United States and then redesign, manage, cash flow and eventually, exit them. Co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, Techvestor is creating a new asset class, allowing individuals to passively invest in “Airbnbs.” Guler and Khafagi have the numbers to back up their claims of success: their platform analyzes over 18MM data points each month, and Techvestor has raised over $36MM, has 75+ properties in its portfolio, and underwrites 100K properties monthly. It’s all the result of Techvestor’s ability to identify what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur.</p><h2>How Techvestor began reinventing passive investments in STRs</h2><p>A busy professional’s ability to passively invest in short-term rentals begins with Guler and Khafagi. Before Techvestor, they were both independently investing in real estate as they pursued tech careers with Apple and Facebook.</p><p>As an Engineering Project Manager at Apple, Guler excelled at growing the company’s AirPods line into a multibillion-dollar revenue stream.</p><p>“I found Apple to be very fulfilling, and it definitely made me into the business leader I am today,” says Guler. “When I went home each day, however, I pursued my hobby: investing in single-family homes and then remaking them into popular Airbnb rental properties.”</p><p>Guler found STR investments to be lucrative, and in talking about it with her friends and peers, she found a lot of interest.</p><p>“People knew that STRs had potential for revenue, but they weren’t sure how to get started. They couldn’t invest the time to identify properties, redesign them, furnish them, market them, and make them generate revenue. That was lost income for them,” Guler says.</p><p>To democratize the journey of investing in short-term rentals, Guler envisioned a company that would use technology to simplify this process. She teamed up with Khafagi, who helped build the second-largest engineering organization at Facebook/Meta from 89 people to over 1,100. He also was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member, who leads Techvestor’s talent, financial, and portfolio management infrastructure. </p><p>“Our research showed that Techvestor was the right company NOW because 34% of people preferred short-term rentals, up from 10% in 2011,” says Khafagi. “That interest was only increasing because of COVID and remote work. Also, the number of short-term rentals worldwide is greater than the leading hotel chains combined. We are early to this asset class, and that meant Techvestor could define it for investors.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GyJUgKGJw2Uf9sakbf8Q5UcXf5BnXqNfERdP31012RNT1w7cE0WJ0P0Y6lwXsD1IF17HeVy6PvAkPTyUgfGcFfc2NolSLcloCin0AWb2_hHa8AQZaVwop7k5nusH-98UqMtJwleXsro4Zok3ZToJSxU"></figure><h2>How Guler and Khafagi created the strategies and technology that are the secret to Techvestor’s success</h2><p>Guler says that the key to Techvestor’s success lies in two factors: its people and its software platform. The process of acquiring a home, designing and furnishing it is hard to do at scale, so she sat down with Khafagi and created a plan for how short-term rental properties are identified, managed, and can exit.</p><p>“We got really specific and designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Khafagi states. “We included uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors. All in all, we look at millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><p>Guler and Khafagi also made Techvestor vertically integrated, with acquisition, interior design, property and revenue management, operations and more handled under the same roof. </p><p>Techvestor’s software was designed to pinpoint the right properties to be added to the company’s portfolio. Khafagi explains that its algorithms mean they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>“All that remained was setting up our terms and policies for passive investors,” he says. “They receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and enjoy instant diversification with over 70+ properties. During the first five years that we hold a property, they receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and we target a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, we look to sell the portfolio. We sell properties based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.”</p><p>Guler adds that Techvestor also offers a little perk for investors: Owner Stays. “If you are an owner, we believe that you should stay like one,” she says. “As an investor, you can stay at any property, at any time, for 10-30% off normal rates. We appreciate our investors and want them to have fun at our properties around the United States.”</p><h2>What the results of Techvestor’s software and strategies have been</h2><p>With over $37MM from 75+ properties across 10+ markets, Techvestor is accomplishing the goals that Guler and Khafagi have set for it. The company has successfully exited eight times, with an average IRR of 42%. </p><p>“We are beating our revenue projections 96% of the time, and we have 52% more revenue than our competitors across our portfolio,” Khafagi states. “We also have a 38% higher occupancy rate for our properties, so we are very optimistic about where Techvestor is taking the short-term rental industry.”</p><p>Their goal is for Techvestor to become the largest institutional STR operator in the world: a $1B aggregate fund with over 1500 properties for passive investors. </p><h2>Where Techvestor is poised to lead STR investments</h2><p>2022’s Fund 1 was a success and resulted in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs for Techvestor’s portfolio. Now the company is gearing up for Fund 2 in 2023, and Guler says the company will be aggressive - but strategic - about growing its portfolio in Florida and other prime markets.</p><p>“It is an exciting time for Techvestor and passive investors,” Guler believes. “Feel free to reach out to us if you would like to learn more about the long-term investment potential of STRs for your own portfolio.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Sm9IRB0RVIFX3ZfUOVGTnikCVGvkSrhkXZ3NQS7DMj5cbbfIeUq0TffG66ACbFurQZ9eZQ34pZoezZ4Epv2H8QxDbVIPjIulYidQR307ljN3bYph371DIYWRAlaQQIz9d-M4fungnkrkyPhxroILPP4"></figure>
23 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor Aims for STR Market Dominance in 2023 with Fund 2</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/pvJCtRcON7lEn8W4fScIm5nLwkbvIPK6ER0ug1nuXZKtKDFjGF0eQ4OHjYXxisC7ZTSDx6thWZunTXuxcJQrFXjfjXjys01qdaicPYwHxgDIopKa-Xf8uF-jDLGzZdRa_TZoyembwG75Rs8U7CAWTso"></figure><p>As 2022 winds down, investors wonder what 2023 will bring, especially in real estate, whose ups and downs have been nothing short of dramatic for several years. While most people are watching the personal housing market, they would do well to pay attention to one of the country’s newest asset classes: short-term rentals, a passive investment opportunity being defined by <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>. Co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, Techvestor is capitalizing on 21st-century technology to eliminate the uncertainty from STR investments. Its institutional grade, proprietary rental platform analyzes over 18MM data points each month, ultimately allowing the Techvestor team to identify what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur. The result is a streamlined operation that underwrites 100k+ properties monthly, has raised more than $37MM, and has 75+ properties in its portfolio.</p><h2>The story of Techvestor begins with two techies at Apple and Facebook. </h2><p>Techvestor’s road to leading the STR market begins with two professionals who were independently investing in STRs and other real estate for their portfolio. Guler was a driven career professional at Apple, where as an Engineering Project Manager, she grew the company’s AirPods product line into a multibillion-dollar revenue stream. </p><p>“I was fortunate to work for an exciting company like Apple and to have a job I cared about,” Guler remembers. “I also had a strong entrepreneurial streak, so my hobby was investing in single-family homes and redesigning them into Airbnb rental properties.”</p><p>Guler found STRs to be lucrative as well as satisfying, but there was a steep learning curve. “I learned so much by simply doing, and I quickly realized two things: there were significant opportunities for revenue, and most people either didn’t realize this or didn’t understand how to get into it.”</p><p>Guler decided to create a platform that would make it easier to locate the right property to buy and then take it from “nothing special” to “incredible.” She teamed up with Khafagi, who helped build the second-largest engineering organization at Facebook/Meta from 89 people to over 1,100. He also was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member, who leads Techvestor’s talent, financial, and portfolio management infrastructure. </p><p>“Our research showed that Techvestor was the right company for the times because 34% of people preferred short-term rentals, up from 10% in 2011,” says Khafagi. “That interest was only increasing because of COVID and remote work. Also, the number of short-term rental rooms worldwide is greater than the leading hotel chains combined. We are early to this asset class, and that meant Techvestor could define it for investors.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qNIG0K_PBklWyRXLP083UelUm7jcAFtmVdzfLTiJhlTgYbikpidy_9VZxvrRrYiK9mDDVk1PTS-ktlB_74pqKvknlaugr6n5RBWRzazr_8aLc_iWC-J04Nlu9wmjIGNQp-KPZIxJHU7fUausjOfA9tY"></figure><h2>The strategies and technology behind Techvestor were designed to create passive investment opportunities.</h2><p>Guler says that the key to Techvestor’s success lies in two factors: its people and its software platform. The process of acquiring a home, designing and furnishing it is hard to do at scale, so she sat down with Khafagi and created a plan for how short-term rental properties are identified, managed, and can exit.</p><p>“We got really specific and designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Khafagi states. “We included uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors. All in all, we look at millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><p>Guler and Khafagi also made Techvestor vertically integrated, with acquisition, interior design, property and revenue management, operations and more handled under the same roof. </p><p>Techvestor’s software was designed to pinpoint the right properties to be added to the company’s portfolio. Khafagi explains that its algorithms mean they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>“All that remained was setting up our terms and policies for passive investors,” he says. “They receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and enjoy instant diversification with over 70+ properties. During the first five years that we hold a property, they receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and we target a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, we look to sell the portfolio. We sell properties based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.”</p><p>Guler adds that Techvestor also offers a little perk for investors: Owner Stays. “If you are an owner, we believe that you should stay like one,” she says. “As an investor, you can stay at any property, at any time, for 10-30% off normal rates. We appreciate our investors and want them to have fun at our properties around the United States.”</p><h2>The results of Techvestor’s software and strategies have been impressive.</h2><p>With over $37MM from and 75+ properties across 10+ markets, Techvestor is accomplishing the goals that Guler and Khafagi have set for it. The company has successfully exited eight times, with an average IRR of 42%. </p><p>“We are beating our revenue projections 96% of the time, and we have 52% more revenue than our competitors across our portfolio,” Khafagi states. “We also have a 38% higher occupancy rate for our properties, so we are very optimistic about where Techvestor is taking the short-term rental industry.”</p><p>Their goal is for Techvestor to become the largest institutional STR operator in the world: a $1B aggregate fund with over 1500 properties for passive investors. </p><h2>Passive investors interested in real estate have a new asset class.</h2><p>“Investments in short-term rentals are shaking up the real estate market and showing that there are still plenty of exciting opportunities for the wise investor,” says Guler. “If you are skeptical, then consider this: Techvestor is enjoying seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs for its portfolio. The word is out, and as we have all seen time and again, people who are early to an asset class are the ones who normally benefit the most in the long term.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/V7IAznJkoEKNvmwY3kLx6m-2QpGB5DsMRQk9ORPhgAlkP9t6g4pfVZN7GBmu6a1I0ZQ3RHPxT9mZf5fhHinFJmhX4KyDAPNWAT1hYHgwKCLqfPWSxa79iCSWeFhmQM1Pmb-vek5Nfb6jmgU15vThslM"></figure>
17 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor Launches Its 2nd Fund after a $37MM+ Successful Fund 1</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/BmTtrPm0d4Tpau9lwmYjul2rh94I123CFp0AETKaTIAeiJYBUC8_Be1p4pH4m2cEGNcTA-lbWRCciL624XOc9sfU467YWrYF2wF0G-vW3uy8SGM5D5s5C7fLNHuVSvopvsPqPVsTDUG5gi3K1clokW0"></figure><p>Over the past few years, the institutional spotlight in real estate has been on single family homes in a very tight market. At the same time, however, another trend has been emerging: short-term rentals. Most people are well-acquainted with Airbnbs, or homes that are rented to travelers for a few weeks or perhaps longer. “What has been lesser known is that STRs have become a prime investment opportunity for investors,” says <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a>, the COO and co-founder of <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>. “It’s especially exciting because we have created an institutional grade, proprietary rental platform that is taking the uncertainty out of STR investment, and that led to incredible success for us in 2022.”</p><p>Co-founder and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a> explains that Techvestor’s platform analyzes over 18MM data points each month. “With such a data-driven approach, we are able to identify what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur,” he explains. “That ability means we have access to insights that others don’t. And our performance proves it.”</p><p>Techvestor is vertically integrated and owns the entire stack, from finding and designing a property to operating it. Now, in 2023, Guler and Khafagi are focused on expanding Techvestor’s portfolio of STRs in Florida, Arizona, and elsewhere.</p><p>“We are ready to provide STR investors with more exciting opportunities for passive income and wonderful memories,” says Khafagi.</p><h2>How Techvestor became the leader of STR investments</h2><p>To understand how Techvestor grew so quickly to become the leader of passive investments in short-term rentals, you have to go to Apple and Facebook, where Guler and Khafagi were both investing in real estate on their own. </p><p>At Apple, Guler was finding fulfillment as an Engineering Project Manager, and she reached a career milestone when she grew its AirPods product line into a multibillion-dollar revenue stream. </p><p>“For fun, I started investing in single-family homes and transformed them into Airbnb rental properties,” Guler recalls. “I could see that it could be extremely lucrative, but so many people were afraid by the complexity of finding that perfect property, redesigning it, furnishing it, and making it profitable. They were locked out of a significant investment opportunity.”</p><p>To democratize the journey of investing in short-term rentals, Guler teamed up with Khafagi, who helped scale the second-largest engineering organization at Facebook.</p><p>“Our research showed that Techvestor is a perfect example of the right time, right place because of the post pandemic changes in behavior, which in our opinion, is the leading indicator in investing in the future,” says Khafagi. “That interest was increasing because of COVID and remote work. This asset class is still incredibly early, and that allows us to define it.” </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/zRCncq3OLLinkLo74zYadEsQwTGWazHhdYBU1lwxZv3GxjEvM1vhnp3w8F6O93h5cMDyaKcDfloHBM010-QxAQ4DiOH-AqFB5MBiI63AfDRqsVBWuj-G1sbKHG1J3H5M-ai3BBgfpKv-5sICHJGssds"></figure><h2>Why Techvestor is able to successfully identify, manage, and exit STRs</h2><p>Guler says that the key to Techvestor’s success lies in two factors: its team and its software platform. The process of acquiring a home, designing it, and operating it is hard to do at scale, so she sat down with Khafagi and created a plan for how short-term rental properties are identified, managed, and can exit for its investors. </p><p>“We got really specific and designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Khafagi states. “We included uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors. All in all, we look at millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><p>Guler and Khafagi also made Techvestor vertically integrated, with acquisition, design, property and revenue management, operations and more handled under the same roof. “Our team is the single biggest asset we have. While we’re both ex-Facebook and Apple, our team comes from companies like Vacasa and Dr. Horton, allowing us to scale faster than ever before,” says Khafagi. </p><p>Techvestor’s software was designed to pinpoint the right properties to be added to the company’s portfolio. Khafagi explains that its algorithms mean they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>“Our <a href="https://techvestor.com/request-invite/">investor partners</a> are the lifeblood of our business, and everything we do is to serve them,” he says. “They receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and enjoy instant diversification with over 75+ properties. Investors get quarterly distributions and reporting and we target an above average cash on cash annually in the range of 8-12%. After the projected hold period, we look to sell the portfolio. We sell properties based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.”</p><p>Guler adds that Techvestor also offers a little perk for investors: Owner Stays. “If you are an owner, we believe that you should stay like one,” she says. “As an investor, you can stay at any property, at any time, for 10-30% off normal rates. We appreciate our investors and want them to have fun at these properties.”</p><h2>What Techvestor has accomplished with its strategies and rental platform </h2><p>With over $37MM from hundreds of investors and 75+ properties across 10+ markets, Techvestor is accomplishing the goals that Guler and Khafagi have set for it. The company has successfully exited eight times, with an average IRR of 42%. </p><p>“We are beating our revenue projections 96% of the time, and we have 52% more revenue than our competitors across our portfolio,” Khafagi states. “We also have a 38% higher occupancy rate for our properties, so we are very optimistic about the performance of our funds for our investors. We’re beating our own expectations.”</p><p>Their goal is for Techvestor to become the largest institutional STR operator in the world: a $1B aggregate fund with over 1500 properties.</p><h2>Why STR investments should be considered in today’s market</h2><p>Guler recommends that anyone interested in STRs do their homework before jumping in. “It is always wise to make sure you understand an asset class before you invest in it, so if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us,” she says. “That said, don’t sit on the sidelines too long. We already have seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs for Techvestor’s portfolio, so the word is out that short-term rentals are on the radar for large institutional players.” </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/sfoIFVuRLdzwvO3tYHk03XQixUA9fszkf2mHqBW3q1ffTwzVBJUyXeuCOaWNInXMHCNia-5HQz--u6bZtUCP9Ta46pBHiP2wJ9TjicRB69vBhThiHfkxPnp3T4uBmC2ZhCRovE101woGj_J1hABeOpA"></figure>
17 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>After raising $37MM for Fund 1, Techvestor launches Fund 2 to do it all over again </p><p>Is success in real estate as mysterious as it seems? To the outsider, it can certainly appear that way. Markets rise and fall, and areas that were red hot one day can see investors fleeing in droves the next. “We wanted to find a way to take the uncertainty out of where to invest in short-term rentals, and today’s technology gave us that ability,” says <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, the CEO and co-founder of <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>. “We created an institutional grade rental platform that assesses 18MM data points each month, and that data allows us to decide who, what, where, when, how, and if an investment should occur after. With that ability, Techvestor has grown one of the largest portfolios of STRs across the United States, and in 2023, we plan to expand even further with Fund 2.”</p><p>At Techvestor, Khafagi works with co-founder/COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> to create a new asset class for passive investors: short-term rentals. Since its inception, Techvestor has raised over $37MM, has more than 75 properties in its portfolio, and its platform underwrites 100K properties each month. </p><p>“We have created Techvestor to handle everything an STR investment needs: we source properties, design them, manage them, and sell them when it makes sense, ultimately helping busy professionals to make passive income and some great memories along the way,” says Khafagi.</p><h2>What is Techvestor’s background?</h2><p>The Techvestor story begins at Apple and Facebook, where Guler and Khafagi were independently working and scaling other tech products. </p><p>As an Engineering Project Manager, Guler worked hard to advance Apple’s Airpods product line into a multibillion-dollar revenue stream. She was known for her work ethic and drive, but what was not known was that she had a profitable hobby: she was building her own STR portfolio. </p><p>“I became good at identifying and investing in single-family homes and then transforming them into Airbnb rental properties,” she says. “I realized that it could be a great passive investment for people who were too busy to manage their own STRs.”</p><p>Guler and Khafagi envisioned a company that would utilize technology to simplify and democratize investing in short-term rentals. “Our research showed that Techvestor was the right company for the times because 34% of people preferred short-term rentals, up from 10% in 2011,” says Khafagi. “That interest increased with COVID and remote work for sure. But it was still hard to invest in this space. We wanted to solve that.” </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Duj9zCJ0qOFi39XXhChUJ8Vxnx-fWMMkZ4GVEIJm96EAzCDCvlAd-Sv_UsRZtPSrAoYWBokNrHqAj7UcuQDvHfoS-8yTTzQXUYjuWPn_M26Tyr7nloc7QVyNcyBVxz-ZwDYAsLV3jEzjafTfay5Mxg8"></figure><h2>Why is Techvestor set up for success in STRs?</h2><p>Guler says Techvestor owes its success to its people and its software platform. The procedure of acquiring a property, designing it, and operating it is hard to do at scale, so she and Khafagi created a plan for how short-term rental properties are identified, managed, and can exit.</p><p>“We made a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Khafagi states. “It includes uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states, as well as other crucial factors. We look at millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><p>Guler and Khafagi vertically integrated Techvestor, controlling the acquisition, design, property, revenue management, and operations.</p><p>The Techvestor software was designed to identify which properties would be added to the company’s portfolio. Khafagi explains that its algorithms help them know what to buy, where to buy it, how to finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>Guler adds that Techvestor also offers a perk for investors. “As an investor, you can stay at any property, at any time, for 10-30% off normal rates. We appreciate our investors and want them to have fun at our properties around the United States.”</p><h2>What have been the results of Techvestor’s data-driven approach to STRs?</h2><p>The company has successfully exited eight times, with an average IRR of 42%. With over $37MM from hundreds of investors and 75+ properties across 10+ markets, Techvestor is meeting the milestones that Guler and Khafagi have set for it.</p><p>“We are beating our revenue projections 96% of the time and have 52% more revenue than our competitors across our portfolio,” the both claim. “With a 38% higher occupancy rate for our properties, we are optimistic about Techvestor’s impact on the short-term rental industry.”</p><p>The two founders want Techvestor to become the largest institutional STR operator in the world: a $1B aggregate fund.</p><h2>Why should passive investors consider STRs and Techvestor?</h2><p>The founders state that STRs represent an intriguing passive investment opportunity. “There are never any guarantees, of course, but when you look at the market and our society, you can see the potential of STRs. The pandemic fundamentally changed our culture, with more people now working at home and seeking longer vacation stays. We are at the beginning of an exciting new asset class, one that has already given Techvestor seven and eight figures in LOIs and commitments. Now is the right time for people to learn about passively investing in STRs and to decide if it is right for their portfolios.”</p><p><i>Techvestor is a real estate investment company that helps busy professionals invest short-term rentals. The company decides how to invest by analyzing over 18MM data points each month. You can learn more about Techvestor by visiting </i><a href="http://techvestor.com"><i>http://techvestor.com</i></a><i>.</i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Kb0S1ZlfjYgkYRjMaHqoxFOaTDeKE2qxtxGaeMcs_Eq-YHUd-d0vToqFxXuLFuLB5u6jiPAfwYzvmMv2EUa6kkaUqu1FsqqetHFlvXOzCHCXeMlVBCRhqJqaG1x7BlD2tWS8W-yFLw9KuBS7zF5NFyk"></figure>
17 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor Enters Fund 2, Expanding Its Large STR Portfolio Across America </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/VEH053uYAD-ZQYkiKaAYtG2Bs6JOaw3R9IveSF97aopV6RyU97jnEVmDsNUXKkyZ1N1-FuKDZ-24qd_LFb1xI0OjzuZXC3vA2S9I-tVRHoAmOnAiuPPEJDa_R621mdc1eiTwEceIyVkFpM_jqEla7m0"></figure><p>Real estate investments have been around since the early 1800s, so it is hard for anything to happen that gets the attention of investors. However, with the announcement that <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a> has raised over $37MM, added 75+ STR properties to its portfolio, and is now preparing to expand in 2023, they now have something intriguing to consider: a new form of passive investments in short-term real estate.</p><p>Co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, Techvestor is proving that there is always a new take on an old story, one that improves upon it. The company is succeeding because its leaders have created a proprietary rental platform that analyzes over 18MM data points each month. The goal is to eliminate as much uncertainty as possible about STR investments by deciding who, what, where, when, how, and if an investment should occur. This use of data has resulted in 100K properties underwritten monthly and the ability of Techvestor to be more than just a company - it is a one-stop shop for investing and sourcing, designing, and managing properties. </p><h2>The story of Techvestor and its founders </h2><p>Before designing a company that allows busy professionals to passively invest in “Airbnbs,” Guler and Khafagi worked at Apple and Facebook, respectively, where they had promising careers. </p><p>Guler loved her job as Apple’s Engineering Project Manager for the Airpods product line and dedicated herself to growing it into a multibillion-dollar revenue stream.</p><p>“At night and on the weekends, however, I had a great hobby: I was teaching myself to invest in single-family homes,” Guler says. “I then redesigned them into Airbnb rental properties and made an excellent profit.”</p><p>Guler knew many who were interested in STR investments but were wary of getting started. The process of identifying the right property, designing it, and operating it so that it would generate revenue was overwhelming for them. These obstacles meant that people were locked out of potential income for themselves.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/j6YZWlKobY16xNhBT6pC0pa7lez_7GXBdKyp1S8QQ3QrwAmmCFsbnu9nP41ZzVvMX8tZGnZPnapSWSz0YlYEweiOTLTHQa-AsS-cQ2-7jWNFkbCAUAH4O_HmJEweqN5MZSwPb8971Xar97rlzU5KxX4"></figure><h2>The 16-point strategy, business structure, and software behind Techvestor</h2><p>“Our people and our team are one of our biggest competitive advantages. Our team was purposely built, recruited and assembled and is one of the top reasons we’re able to outperform day in and day out for our investors,” says Khafagi. Guler and Khafagi also built a vertically integrated operating structure with acquisition, design, property management, revenue management, and operations all under the same roof.</p><p>Techvestor’s software was designed to identify the right properties to be added to the company’s portfolio. Khafagi explains that its algorithms mean they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>Guler adds that Techvestor also provides a little perk for investors: Owner Stays. “If you are an owner, we believe that you should stay like one,” she says. “As an investor, you can stay at any property, at any time, for 10-30% off normal rates. We appreciate our investors and want them to have fun at our properties around the United States.”</p><h2>The success that Techvestor has experienced since its launch</h2><p>With over $36MM from 250+ investors and 75+ properties across 10+ markets, Techvestor is accomplishing the goals that Guler and Khafagi set for it. </p><p>“We are beating our revenue projections 96% of the time, and we have 52% more revenue than our competitors across our portfolio,” Khafagi maintains. “With a 38% higher occupancy rate for our properties, we are very optimistic about where Techvestor is taking the short-term rental industry.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GTX_FvADWJVaS8v5CKZ4YtmPEYSBBF9tAVeWRNY6eTKrmQ6hgiWf10eeSzjB0RkEqMcQQUiCqNq-iRki7zK39W_IrA2PQLojRhDns9vAjNSSwbKFQHzkCP4jJycBMV6CGTL_cvS-Yca5XSj1UfMXKuc"></figure><p>Their larger mission is for Techvestor to become one of the largest institutional STR operators in the world, with a focus on hospitality and ensuring that they’re contributing to communities. </p><h2>The future of Techvestor and STR investments</h2><p>“2023 will offer more opportunities to be in short-term rentals,” Guler believes. “STRs are a new market that is emerging right when more people want the freedom to work from anywhere and with greater privacy. This is translating into a lot of interest in Techvestor’s portfolio. We’re excited about where this is headed.” </p><p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/8IaWPvGU9l5c5wDHFMJCJw21_dxWhmYVNZsnMDbkOd4ZtasjSNqpEgeZOISFw8c_a5Pw-xrwllQdrmcYlYkcWBXS4Qjp8Y1JhWd7YAnehnPzLn6dBJPSZ9wXQrs0knwXw1liDWhbsMPi2uPpSK56SQg"></figure>
17 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor Announces Second Round of Funding as STR Market Skyrockets</p><p>Real estate investment has always been one of the top investment options when it comes to passive income - but the single family real estate market isn’t an easy one to scale. However, when it comes to short term rentals (STRs), the market is healthier than ever for one institutional operator.</p><p><a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a> is the first data driven short term rental fund for accredited investors. It provides an easy way to passively invest in this new asset class. Co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, Techvestor provides passive investment in short-term rentals, aka Airbnbs, and pioneers this asset class through an institutional grade proprietary rental platform. This allows savvy investors the opportunity to skip all the legwork - finding, renovating, and operating properties - and go straight to passive income.</p><p>“Our platform has the ability to analyze over 18 million data points every month,” says Guler. “Our team and our platform can identify prime investment properties. We’ve raised over $37 million and have the capability to underwrite over 100,000 properties monthly since the company’s inception, and we have over 75+ properties in our current portfolio.” She adds that Techvestor does it all, end to end. </p><h2>Techvestor’s Novel Concept</h2><p>Guler was investing in short-term rentals for her own personal portfolio while working as an Engineering Project Manager at Apple. While she experienced success with Apple - growing the AirPods product line into a multi-billion-dollar revenue stream - her “hobby” in real estate was growing more and more lucrative. She was individually investing in single family homes and turning them into Airbnb rental properties. The process from identifying a property to designing the home, furnishing the space, and then generating revenue was lucrative but extremely complicated and overwhelming.</p><p>The team today, which comes from the likes of Apple, Facebook, Vacasa and Dr. Horton, have created proprietary technology based on their combined experience. They have been investing in real estate since 2009, doing everything from private lending and flipping to long-term hold. “We built a better mousetrap,” says Khafagi. “One that was simple, passive, and partnership driven with aligned incentives from day one. Cash flow from day one. Transparency from day one. And a focus on a great experience for investors being the ultimate goal.”</p><p>Techvestor is focused on helping others accomplish what Guler and Khafagi have: break free from their 9-5, create generational wealth, experience financial freedom, and make lasting memories in what they think is the next great asset class. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9v_PjFtlpSMDEBzo8VvoDgyQpJpgOxo3NCykuoHoBVcEHnCcntmP3OL-2_IB2DZ2D4JUemCsxXwxZyhKEFuELSWI_NCigxg_1oKrW4LQP07B5USalIi34ZYpSOTo6HZcICPoOOn0Kx8lGQ5ESkfPXB4"></figure><h2>Using Algorithms AND Humans for the Perfect Mix</h2><p>Guler says that the key to Techvestor’s success lies in two factors: its people and its software platform. The process of acquiring a home, designing and operating it is hard to do at scale, so she sat down with Khafagi and created a plan for how short-term rental properties are identified, managed, and can profitably exit. “Do the things that others don’t, to scale,” says Khafagi.</p><p>“We got really specific and designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Khafagi states. “We think about uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors. All in all, we look at millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><p>Guler adds that Techvestor also offers a little perk for investors: Owner Stays. “If you are an owner, we believe that you should stay like one,” she says. “As an investor, you can stay at any property, at any time, for 10-30% off normal rates. We appreciate our investors and want them to have fun at our properties around the United States.”</p><h2>Techvestor Grows with the Market</h2><p>Techvestor has the capability to help investors snag parts of prime, cash flowing properties all over the world. Imagine owning a villa in Italy or a cottage in Wales, or a cabin in the woods, collecting passive revenue from starry-eyed tourists and having the ability to personally utilize the ever-growing portfolio of Techvestor properties.</p><p>Techvestor has successfully exited properties 8 times profitably and drives 52% more revenue than its competitors across its portfolio as well as a 38% higher occupancy rate for its properties. “We’re poised to become one the largest institutional STR operators in the world,” Khafagi shares. “We see reaching a $1 billion aggregate fund with over 1,500 properties for passive investors. This is such an exciting time for short-term rentals, and we’re growing along with the market.”</p><p><br>Starting at just $25,000, <a href="https://techvestor.com/request-invite/">investors can take advantage</a> of instant diversification and start utilizing Techvestor’s properties for once-in-a-lifetime personal vacations. “Success is not purely driven by the end result,” says Guler. “It’s driven by the <i>how</i>, the creativity, the resiliency, and the effort it took to get there. We’re writing a great story.”</p><p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/UjW7N_xq6p6zuYmc3L_5CeTQAGib-MoHW0bWNM9dGvdG8hpSiaxTVytUSMigD1T-PHvynxk3rupSEbAUjcF6WiD3bIScGbdHfTtn4lQuAGLtLUBPOFhGzxEmTXyTgqtM_Y1owtgbs4WLOcLTQfTmU-s"></figure>
17 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor Expands into Fund 2 as Demand for Airbnbs Continues to Grow</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/G74ZSt3l8mQD454XCOTmmP1p6QrxsQIU1KrZOKb0yk53oY7IditYEXumBDhVnD7zGG7tvodZflvHNGt6s-Xiuh_Tgy1YF5PVjEbr_ha9z8FHGZrpwDYqEKkzYA3UaUR2nTSjrMjPIAdsS7qENPM1TSM"></figure><p>Profitable and passive real estate, is it possible? Interesting, too? That’s what we think of the STR platform Techvestor making it easier than ever to invest in Airbnbs. As the company enters its second fund, the goal is to ensure more and more investors are able to tap into this asset class through Techvestor’s institutional grade, proprietary rental platform that allows busy professionals to passively invest in “Airbnbs.”</p><p><a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, offers some pretty exciting benefits for potential investors: cash flow every quarter, tax benefits, and instant diversification of a portfolio. “Real estate is one of the smartest ways to make your money work for you,” says Guler. “An STR is a vehicle that pays for daily expenses via cash flow and builds equity.”</p><p>Techvestor is able to underwrite over 100,000 properties every month and has already raised over $37 million from investors. With its ability to analyze over 18 million data points each month, this unique platform identifies the hottest properties and serves as an investment platform, property acquirer, designer, and property manager all in one, allowing investors to simply invest, sit back, and stay passive.</p><h2>Technology Meets STR Investment</h2><p>Techvestor’s story started when Guler and Khafagi were independently investing in assets like short-term rentals for their own portfolios, all while building their engineering and leadership careers at Apple and Facebook.</p><p>Prior to Techvestor, Guler developed her business and technology acumen as an Engineering Project Manager at Apple, where she grew its AirPods product line into a multibillion-dollar revenue stream. </p><p>“I liked my job at Apple, of course, but I had a lucrative hobby on the side: I invested in single-family homes and transformed them into Airbnb rental properties,” Guler explains. “Many of my friends were intrigued by the potential of these investments but hesitated to get started. It could be complicated and overwhelming to identify the right property, redesign it, furnish the space, and then make it generate revenue. These hurdles meant that people were locked out of potential income for themselves.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/UlEZSDK61e1W60SwGbNAOm2O10borQ39VZHK6Z6Ws9NvdeIYGdoVg1H4JKRALBydlObgO8d4zloAh-5SBu_f870zygKXe-HVYc4vGMQRF7eWZot3S1xys7z4fDXtWrHql1GWD_cZ4_yFqyJOj-YnBMc"></figure><h2>The Software, Strategy, and Know-How Behind Techvestor</h2><p>“Finding the right property to invest in, in the best market and operating it, is hard to do at scale,” says Guler. She and Khafagi knew that they needed two key components for the success of Techvestor: people and software. </p><p>“We examined the best way to identify, manage, and exit our short-term rental portfolios,” she states. “We designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location.” Guler adds that she and Khafagi took into account each property’s uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and whether it’s located in an STR-friendly state, along with other crucial factors. “All in all,” she says, “we look at millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><p>Techvestor is also vertically integrated, meaning that it takes direct ownership of each stage of property development and design, rather than outsourcing. “Keeping each aspect in-house streamlines the entire process,” says Guler. “We handle everything from acquisition and interior design to property management and revenue management.”</p><p>Then there’s the people aspect and the way this team was constructed. According to Khafagi, the people at Techvestor, the folks managing the assets and putting it together, are “one of its largest competitive advantages.”</p><p>Another big draw of STR investment with Techvestor is Owner Stays. Investors have the ability to stay at any Techvestor property at any time for up to 30% off normal rates at exclusive locations across the country.</p><h2>The Company’s Growth & Expansion</h2><p>With over $37MM from hundreds of investors and 75+ properties across 10+ markets, Techvestor is accomplishing the goals that Guler and Khafagi have set for it. The company has successfully exited eight times, with an average IRR of 42%. </p><p>Their goal is for Techvestor to become one of the largest institutional STR operators in the world. Since the pandemic, the rise of flexible, remote living and Airbnbs have skyrocketed. We are now focused on 2023 and on helping more individuals to discover passive investments in the world of short-term rentals. </p><p> </p><p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/JBmXXOwSv0WGCUR-pj1QIlTOQ9Jv9tgwCRIc9I9sFYMc2NxyR_nFNIeef-pMNt3zX-yCuSeWb8f3dpfoZg1_9drUNttpeUj_3YQCAblndVatw7QoeKjpc2Lmh5c27VDZ7Iv90hMSCf0xN6x3J9hfZs4"></figure>
17 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Fresh off $37MM, Techvestor Eyes a $100M STR Portfolio</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/mthPD1XDqVyuwgoApdUiikLRwu_Rd_y9aaWtIvCazE2p-7kX1Dbzht4o_9oEaYF1iLcVF9WRpbSBE0nokXoUrqq3CPWncff25McJ-waFyv9tXFGlZRe7LgqtCXVnQ-IPoB0cxZxQsUCqy13d6vd31xM"></figure><p>As the COVID-19 pandemic has mostly wound down, people are getting out into the world and traveling again, massively boosting the travel and hospitality industries. This is key when it comes to real estate investors, who are seeking alternate sources of revenue as the current real estate boom slows down.</p><p>Short-term rentals have been exploding in popularity on websites like Airbnb. The exciting <br>18-month-or-so old company <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, offers an institutional grade, proprietary rental platform, allowing investors to earn passive income in this exciting asset class. Techvestor has the capability of analyzing over 18MM data points monthly and is able to identify the best investments, with more than 100,000 properties underwritten every month and over 75+ properties in its growing portfolio.</p><h2>Identifying an Industry Gap</h2><p>Co-founders and ex-techies Guler and Khafagi were separately building their own real estate and short-term investment expertise as they worked at Apple and Facebook, respectively. As the Engineering Project Manager at Apple, Guler worked in both business and tech, growing the AirPods line into a multi-billion dollar revenue stream. Over at Facebook, Khafagi was scaling the company’s second-largest engineering organization and identifying top talent. </p><p>Guler shares that while she enjoyed her job at Apple, she had other aspirations as well. “I had started investing in single-family homes and transforming them into short-term rental properties for Airbnb,” she says. “It became such a lucrative hobby that I began looking into the implications to pursuing this full-time.”</p><p>She says that as she invested and began to see significant returns, she had friends and colleagues who were interested in investing but held back due to the many complexities of the process. “There is a lot involved,” she admits. “You need to find potentially successful properties in high-demand locations, and go through renovation, design and actually operate profitably. It’s not easy. There are many steps to overcome prior to enjoying a truly passive income.”</p><p>Guler and Khafagi came up with the concept of a company that would simplify the process and help people jump over those hurdles. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/RKd9rhjYYwfHx3hFFpfkqdAxw0n97iLbqj2_780GKOhEzCyLRy44eVjOdwUpQ8aX0ZzYUSQ6fmJk5u-e3lGLmGPe3IydAeOnsoQQHbc6kdBFx1pUFLkbP63TLEltjc7elI65lPLuuxSyfuHVvKmeYmM"></figure><h2>Applying Technology to Streamline the Real Estate Investment Process</h2><p>Guler says that the key to Techvestor’s success lies in two factors: its team and its software platform. “We got really specific and designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Khafagi states. “We included uniqueness, low seasonality, cost segregation, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors.”</p><p>Guler and Khafagi also gave Techvestor another advantage: it's 100% vertically integrated, handling everything from acquisition to design to management. </p><p>Techvestor’s software was designed to pinpoint the right properties to be added to the company’s portfolio. Khafagi explains that its technology means they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like. Of course, humans make the final decisions. </p><h2>Techvestor’s Success Story</h2><p>With over $37MM and 75+ properties across 10+ markets, Techvestor is accomplishing the goals that Guler and Khafagi have set for it. Next, they’re setting their targets on building a $100MM+ portfolio and eventually, a $1B portfolio. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/mOWFOblcREFYJPDJQNsS8-bBM4aRMEjYmiu9zxQSEqY09V_kCxkkuk3EOo_Vr9jkitdFUHUkZBidBCAXzjOnPInT4nrPRIZm2zlhhZtyQ9hJdVbU7f-KmrxiDni53uUtqWQhit4lWK0_hRpwyKZAQns"></figure><h2>The Short Term Rental Industry Offers Passive Income</h2><p>“2023 is going to be a big year for short-term rentals,” says Guler. “It’s an emerging investment opportunity that is consistently growing as we continue to recover from the pandemic - people are taking longer vacations and opting for the privacy of STRs as opposed to traditional hotels, not to mention the competition in this industry is 99% smaller operators without scale and technology.” </p><p>Investors are noticing the growing potential of the STR asset class, and this has helped Techvestor’s portfolio expand to 7 and 8 figures in commitments and LOIs. “Techvestor makes it easier than ever before, eliminating barriers to get into this asset class,” Khafagi says. </p><p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Y-wV-7Yxxp160Rz3-jpHPQ1q2ywHbKtwV7JWpSpS519Y8EJzMJcOVxCAoW4qAB2fG1LOcwtd-Cx1GGL8NQsyXYbC2FvgLxUU4b0pCc3nyv6nsZsVh3ngbE_ZJzCfaMyhfiRfa9RzmRwWOBHNA8dDBk8"></figure>
17 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor, the Leader in STRs, Will Kick Off 2023 with Its Second Round of Funding</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/XVh4uMYxwBsU7iBAFSa_oysRjxHtiizEIxC6v9QSr8oc5UbTu-lIJ6etY8QYnrKlLdwD2eXIg8EP_RivSq6mLINHT1t6OLDPAmLrfQBMoVTIIY1K1T8fXFT89okCzHRqfRsftpsvy7wl_Y9uUCX1ZDs"></figure><p>If you believe the pundits, your chances to invest in real estate are shrinking. There is, after all, only so much available property still left. While there may be some truth to this, it doesn’t account for creativity and vision. As COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, the co-founders of <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, are showing that when you have both, you can find new opportunities where none were assumed to exist. With their proprietary platform that analyzes over 18MM data points each month, Guler and Khafagi are able to identify what, where, how, when, and if an STR investment should occur. A successful first funding round led to over $37MM raised, 75+ properties in Techvestor’s portfolio, and the capability to underwrite more than 100k properties monthly. Now, with 2023 approaching along with Fund 2, Techvestor is preparing to acquire more STRs that will allow investors to earn passive income and some great memories along the way.</p><h2>History of Techvestor</h2><p>To understand how Techvestor became an investment platform, you must first start with Guler and Khafagi. </p><p>Guler worked as an Engineering Project Manager at Apple, developing extensive expertise in business and technology and growing the AirPods product line into a revenue stream worth multiple billions of dollars. While this career path was fulfilling, she had also developed a significantly profitable side business: investing in single-family homes and renovating them into AirBnB rental properties.</p><p>“I have a fascination with architecture and home design,” Guler shares. “This opportunity allowed me to flex myself creatively, which is the very aspect of the business that causes many to hesitate when it comes to investing.” She explains that as she began to see success with this investment sector, she had friends interested in participating; but they were reluctant, due to the complexities involved. </p><p>“There is a lot to be aware of,” Guler says. “You must choose the right property, choose efficient and attractive renovations, apply interior design and furnishings, and get the property to the point where it’s generating profit, not just revenue. It’s an exciting source of potential income, but many are overwhelmed by the details.”</p><p>Guler had a vision of creating a business that would apply the latest technology to streamline the process, making it more accessible. She partnered with Khafagi, who had experienced great success at Facebook, growing its second-largest engineering organization and expanding that team from hundreds to over thousands. They both knew that building the right team was going to be the most important thing they could do to ensure the success of Techvestor at scale. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BvmB4YDKRm0WMJ8GWrW7l7nIZkkCEykIhfJievYfNT5hp1-RP7w0-KrcvlwVYHvuaOvi6EB5JG5Gyv9b1yFHy7jyCebrgau7ze8e0X2MsLYcPPH10X42tNgwh5A072agk9jDh5ter58Wv8_tgQMiNPE"></figure><p>“People are the most important backbone of our business.” says Khafagi. “We realized early that in order to scale, it wasn’t money or product - it was people. This industry is incredibly early, and there isn’t a lot of definitive, experienced talent. We were incredibly selective in building our team today that includes key team members from places like Vacasa, Dr. Horton and even as the industry calls him, ‘the airbnb data guy’ as a part of our team.”</p><h2>The Strategy</h2><p>Guler says that the key to Techvestor’s success lies in two factors: its team and its software platform. The process of acquiring a home, designing and operating it is hard to do at scale, so she sat down with Khafagi and created a plan for how short-term rental properties are identified and managed, and they counted 4 key exit strategies.</p><p>“We got really specific and designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Khafagi states. “We think about seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors that drive the highest yield.”</p><p>Guler and Khafagi also ensured Techvestor was vertically integrated. From acquisition, design, property and revenue management, everything is in house, and it shows in the performance of the assets. In one market, the company holds 4 of the highest ranking homes. </p><p>Techvestor’s software was designed to pinpoint the right properties to be added to the company’s portfolio. Khafagi explains that its proprietary assumptions mean they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like. “It’s not rocket science, but you have to remember that 99% of other operators in this space aren’t thinking about it like this.” </p><h2>Techvestor’s Cutting-Edge Software and Strategies</h2><p>Techvestor is accomplishing the goals that Guler and Khafagi have set out for it. The company has successfully exited eight times and is beating its revenue projections 96% of the time. “Our homes are more than outperforming in some cases. Some as much as 2-3x the average property in the market,” Khafagi states. Their goal is for Techvestor to become one of the largest institutional STR operators in the world. </p><h2>Stress-free Passive Income for Investors</h2><p>Techvestor’s 16-point plan, ability to handle all aspects of running and exiting properties in-house, and innovative rental platform have led to 7 and 8 figures in commitments and LOIs for the company’s STR portfolio. </p><p>“We have a realistic, effective approach to identifying, renovating, operating, and exiting STRs (when needed), and it’s resulting in great results for our investors,” Khafagi says.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/MasfPmHziIwXabFEpPyFcx79VSPJ30ZKEz6ncpfoZehi9YLppK3rJTp2rJ20h90csAI6XuKJUtYmkRxmEtBk_cXJKJJXGMzVBUN3x48E9GrydUVaAyKhKHJP0Hso8NuPu-zVule5xBBmHznwwc61dts"></figure>
17 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Splashing onto the scene, Techvestor is the easiest way to invest in “Airbnbs”</p><p>Is the real estate investment boom over for investors? Not necessarily - if you are looking in the right direction. A new market is emerging that may hold significant potential for the everyday investor: short-term rentals. <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, is pioneering this asset class through its institutional grade, proprietary rental platform that allows busy professionals to passively invest in “Airbnbs.” Through its ability to analyze over 18MM data points each month, Techvestor identifies what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur. With over 100k properties underwritten every month, over $37MM raised, and 75+ properties in its portfolio, Techvestor serves as an investment platform, property sourcer, interior designer, and asset manager all in one. It’s an incredibly remarkable end-to-end solution. </p><h2>The background of Techvestor</h2><p>Techvestor’s story started when Guler and Khafagi were independently investing in assets like short-term rentals for their own portfolios, all while building their engineering and leadership careers at Apple and Facebook.</p><p>Prior to Techvestor, Guler developed her business and technology acumen as an Engineering Project Manager at Apple, where she grew its AirPods product line into a multibillion-dollar revenue stream. Khafagi was scaling teams and infrastructure at Facebook. Both had stayed in poorly operated short-term rentals in their past and noticed the opportunity for the business. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/mPQygqbXSEXImsloTcLrfbaR38AVf74UhkuLC5-UtbbfO-wwft5B54ETNwkHTBJZ8ZADgVD2xXa_B9guYLCmTaJGfRiLPR_X7pSXc83kCuJeID-Yx0zVOzAdYCaB8Ji6KZBQSoVBH1rRvCBvFlrLaC4"></figure><h2>The strategies and technology behind Techvestor’s new opportunities for real estate investors</h2><p>Guler says that the key to Techvestor’s success lies in two factors: its people and its infrastructure. The process of acquiring a home, designing and operating it is hard to do at scale, so she sat down with Khafagi and created a plan for how short-term rental properties can scale and do just that. </p><p>“We got really specific and designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Khafagi states. “We included uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors. All in all, we look at millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><p>“We really started with the end user in mind, our investor community,” he says. “They receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and enjoy instant diversification with over 75+ properties. During the first five years that we hold a property, they receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and we target an above average cash on cash. After the projected hold period, we look to sell the portfolio. We sell properties based on revenue or value, whichever is higher, resulting in some great equity growth”</p><p>Guler adds that Techvestor also offers a little perk for investors: Owner Stays. “If you are an owner, we believe that you should stay like one,” she says. “As an investor, you can stay at any property, at any time, for 10-30% off normal rates. We appreciate our investors and want them to have fun at our properties around the United States.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/eNXTIrJCkDrzN3FMN_aJBGOIevsmN8Tu6vrzxB-nlT_F7HSQlvG6fSQGk_s5JIfwRVnGROb2tSVKdcZnPn6Jmjtw_R264X_9mYWj0zBh5M9EPPOALyaNo8M1cv4nOc8QEL2BKlZjS8BZ-cRZNSRJcY4"></figure><h2>The takeaway for passive investors interested in real estate</h2><p>“Now is an exciting time to be in short-term rentals,” Guler believes. “People want to work from anywhere and have more privacy and longer stays are growing in popularity. That is manifesting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs for Techvestor’s portfolio. We are now focused on 2023 and on helping more individuals to discover passive investments in STRs.”</p><p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ubwTiBJ3jcaBC50e08E0OfHYb_90HMivm7GruTEMvBegUAIgPaG8CeYbJgiS7RM2op9zj5rS-nvhOWFs9gfmVFhuvDNmag5ttkjw6M6SKQpt7_yohqaR7BYLQpjgsDA8wi3iOvwffUNV5OYoXzcDnBE"></figure>
27 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>The STR Market Opens Up With Techvestor</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/2yFuz0ejESleDCECHT_ve_RaAett1_yQ-RtxOMNQkdNzhDEuTXzYclO95yk3LUWx1i-GyjtSGLBgLoT53Pl9aQ3Cfe2xKchUlVdfU-SPrheqsJCJlgkOdEMnofFSjMBRKZXXsVfzME1u8as0H_mCB8I"></figure><p>In 2008, Airbnb changed the vacation industry forever by creating a brand new asset class: short term rentals - or STRs. Now, the STR industry is booming in a market when single-family home prices are forecast to drop sharply. The STR global market was valued at $99.38 billion USD in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.1% from 2022 to 2030.</p><p>It’s the perfect time to invest in an STR property. But there’s a lot to know - how to find a property, how to determine which cities and neighborhoods are ideal for STRs, assessing crime rates and nearby amenities like restaurants and shopping, and much more. Once you find a property, you’re often faced with repairs and/or renovations and interior design; then, once it’s ready to rent, there’s maintenance and upkeep, property management, financing, determining if the property is even in a sustainable market …</p><p>There’s an answer for all these hurdles, and that is <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>. Co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, former Apple and Facebook employees, this platform utilizes proprietary software that analyzes over 18MM data points and 250 markets each month, taking the guesswork out of STR investment. Techvestor solves the problems of figuring out what to buy, where to buy it, how to finance it, how to operate it, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p><br>Guler and Khafagi are well-suited to handling this bold new asset class. At Apple, Guler served as an Engineering Project Manager at Apple, where she grew its AirPods product line into a multibillion-dollar revenue stream. And at Facebook, Khafagi - a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member - helped build the second-largest engineering organization at Facebook/Meta from 89 people to over 1,100.</p><p>Techvestor has over 100k properties underwritten every month, $37MM raised, and 75+ properties in its portfolio, and while investments are never a surefire guarantee, the company makes it as easy as possible to safely invest in a short term rental property and enjoy financial returns. Techvestor is swiftly accumulating a varied portfolio of STRs across the US and continues to grow along with the STR market.</p><p>Guler explains that when starting Techvestor, she and her partner firmly believed that technology could open up passive investments in STRs for a broader segment of society. “Our platform, while state of the art, is no replacement for human expertise,” she points out. “You can have the most incredible tech at your fingertips, but if you don’t know how to interpret its data or understand STRs, then its impact will be dramatically reduced.”</p><p>Khafagi agrees. “When we created it, we truly believed that Techvestor could eliminate so much of the guesswork from investments in real estate and STRs in particular. However, we knew that we could never let the platform get ahead of us. Instead, we had to stay in command of it and always analyze what it was telling us. There is no replacement for accurate interpretation.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/LoRA8dijdtecNUfGLnzCqYVURiVSBZKTQlNQ1f9D2L_bSEeMaIKXcadOaAq76ZdMJiy69qWlwMMqMsg6pXDBpPyGJm5MqwNyHcoelU9v9NufurB-tGxshymQ1PerRf-y1uI2M_gctHlLH36I4S9pr2M"></figure><p>Both Guler and Khafagi already had experience with STRs, as both were independent investors prior to founding Techvestor. Thus, they had already gained significant first-hand knowledge about how to identify profitable properties, renovate and style them, manage the properties, and successfully exit these properties. As tech engineers, they both also saw the value in applying cutting-edge technology to the analysis of STR investments.</p><p>They also believe in taking no chances, so the decision to invest in a property is backed by the company’s 16-point strategy, which includes uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors. Guler adds that simply acquiring the right property is just one step in the process. “Once we bring a property in our portfolio, we have an internal system to plan any repairs and renovations, provide for interior design, property and revenue management, operations, and, finally, an exit strategy.”</p><p>An investment property is useless without passive investors, so Techvestor’s leaders set up attractive terms: they receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and enjoy instant diversification with over 75+ properties. During the first five years that Techvestor holds a property, they receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and the company targets a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, Techvestor looks to sell the portfolio. It sells properties based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.</p><p>Investors also enjoy the Techvestor Owner Stays reward program. “Our investors are invited to stay at any property, at any time of year, for up to 30% off our normal rates,” says Khafagi. “It’s a way for us to thank our investors and give them the opportunity to see exactly what they’re investing in - while they make life-long memories.”</p><p>By allowing passive investors to participate in a hot-button market that is continuing to demonstrate measurable growth, Techvestor has truly opened up the STR market for anyone who’s interested in earning passive income. The proprietary software, and (more importantly) the dedicated team behind it, is backed by a solid infrastructure that optimizes every property.</p><p><i>About Techvestor</i></p><p><i>Techvestor is the leader in passive investments in STRs in the United States. It was co-founded by Sabrina Guler, a former Engineering Project Manager at Apple, and Sief Khafagi, who worked at Facebook/Meta and was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member. Guler and Khafagi have grown Techvestor’s portfolio to encompass STRs across the United States, resulting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs. In 2023, Techvestor will continue to expand, listing more properties in Southern Florida and other hot markets. For more information, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/C0ItLgALAsIlyomTQl1_yz3RFXQuzIrABrAfgCBAuR4SqVtSfMUPBMG63ALnVq1waHup8gnvDrQjoPv5CR3IOBilddUSMoxyKDkfg7o5DN35Jg5kgeNGQzNrfOJLTkcLy6wTPMX3hChwBZZ4XNCcls0"></figure><p> </p>
27 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Short Term Rentals Made Accessible by Techvesor</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/aZgrNK_UZOgcC1bTg1D3VG-EhWyn3XyqW8qd_LntYAgDPggpKQvV9aRMGKCoLDRF70SHRDXGrkZ1l-9B5hqQkqOoD9UiI84tUBgelbYy9DkvI1pRPv7NjdMYmVPOHXLmvHs6svfjfaWQ_nehDpcd3j0"></figure><p>Real estate is a complex and varied industry that can make or break an investor. It’s a massive field - the global market value is over $4 trillion USD for 2022 - and a thorough understanding of the market is nearly impossible without years of education and experience. Then you add in the current conditions - home prices, which have skyrocketed for several years, are anticipated to plummet in many US markets in 2023.</p><p>This leads to short term rentals, or STRs - a novel asset that has thus far proved to be exempt from the type of price drops forecast for residential housing. The STR market is booming. It started with Airbnb in 2008, which had a market cap of $54.40 billion as of December 2022. The STR global market was valued at $99.38 billion USD in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.1% from 2022 to 2030.</p><p>If a casual investor is looking to make a passive income from STRs, it can still be a monumental task. You have to determine what to buy, where and when to buy it, how to best finance it, how to run the property, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like. Then you have to think about renovations, home decor and interior design, and upkeep.</p><p>But what if a company existed that could make technology work for <i>you</i>? Imagine a digital platform that analyzes the market on your behalf - and is run by a team of dedicated experts who can interpret that data.</p><p>Meet <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>. The company’s proprietary software analyzes over 18MM data points and 250 markets each month, and the team behind it scrutinizes details about neighbor demographics, crime rates, the overall economic forecast, and many other crucial factors. On top of that, the company also handles renovations, style and design, and keeps things running smoothly. In addition, passive investors are invited to utilize the portfolio of properties at deeply discounted rates for their own memorable vacations.</p><p>While nothing is ever guaranteed in investments, it is hard to deny that with over 100k properties underwritten every month, 37MM raised, and 75+ properties in its portfolio, Techvestor is changing the way passive investors earn profits from STRs.</p><p>Techvestor was co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, who are pioneering a new asset class in STRs, or short-term rentals. Since leaving their burgeoning engineering careers with Apple and Facebook, respectively, the two have created a company that is quickly building a strong portfolio of STRs across North America. They explain that in starting Techvestor, they were convinced that technology could open up passive investments in STRs for a broader segment of society.</p><p>“Let’s first say that Techvestor’s platform, while state of the art, is not a replacement for human expertise,” says Guler. “You can have the most incredible tech at your fingertips, but if you don’t know how to interpret its data or understand STRs, then its impact will be dramatically reduced.”</p><p>Khafagi agrees. “When we created it, we truly believed that Techvestor could eliminate so much of the guesswork from investments in real estate and STRs in particular. However, we knew that we could never let the platform get ahead of us. Instead, we had to stay in command of it and always analyze what it was telling us. There is no replacement for accurate interpretation.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/t_fdE6ntNqIsXIvz-sLIkidyVdokomvVX4a_wnrI0GVTJnxbclhlOX6OOk_zNopHTnudROZqcSVMJFN8Km-RYgDWgIdDTTqlvWvyan90PFFkKvqpLI8sGM2qez7yfrkDgb_gzHPqThsxcBGu76tMRpQ"></figure><p>To that end, Guler and Khafagi stand at the intersection of experience and today’s innovation. Both executives were independent investors in STRs and in general, real estate, before founding Techvestors, and they credit that experience with giving them the practical knowledge to identify, redesign, run, and exit STRs in the U.S.’ hottest markets. At the same time, Guler and Khafagi are, of course, tech enthusiasts at heart, and they understand how to use it to finetune STR investments.</p><p>They also believe in taking no chances, so the decision to invest in a property is backed by the company’s 16-point strategy, which includes uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors. </p><p>Guler shares that this is just the first step. “Once Techvestor decides to acquire a property, our work is just getting started,” she says. “Almost every property can be significantly improved by renovations or at least a redesign. We handle interior decorating and any repairs or maintenance; then, once it’s ready to rent, we handle property management, revenue management, all operations - essentially, we take care of every detail on behalf of our investors.”</p><p>Techvestor is committed to the satisfaction of its investors, which is why the team is so passionate about allowing passive investors to be just that - meaning no headaches or complications. In addition, investors enjoy all the benefits of renters at 10-30% off </p><p>normal rates. “Our investors are invited to enjoy our properties with Our Stays,” says Khafagi. “The best marketing for our rentals is done by those who stay in them, including our own investors. They can stay at any property, any time - just our way of saying ‘thank you’.”</p><p>The company also offers attractive terms - investors receive 100% of tax benefits and have zero liability for loans and lending. Investors receive instant diversification through Techvestor’s large portfolio and enjoy full transparency from the Techvestor team. “During the first five years we hold a property,” Khafagi says, “investors receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and we target a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, we look to sell the portfolio, and we sell based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.”</p><p>She and Khafagi feel that as powerful as Techvestor’s platform is, on its own, it’s merely technology. It’s only once this technology is in the hands of an experienced team, backed by a solid infrastructure that strategically optimizes each STR, that passive investors really feel the difference.</p><p>“We’re here to take the guesswork out of STR investment,” Khafagi says. “It’s stress-free investment at its best in a constantly expanding market with no end in sight.”</p><p><i>About Techvestor</i></p><p><i>Techvestor is the leader in passive investments in STRs in the United States. It was co-founded by Sabrina Guler, a former Engineering Project Manager at Apple, and Sief Khafagi, who worked at Facebook/Meta and was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member. Guler and Khafagi have grown Techvestor’s portfolio to encompass STRs across the United States, resulting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs. In 2023, Techvestor will continue to expand, listing more properties in Southern Florida and other hot markets. For more information, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3Y6qkq0FF6p-mJI8a8XhTf4s_-6dpWvHQQBwRvYOCpil3M0rd46U8ustRYWYOBRWOUCtX2rgffygaUYq3cAhyFzkQV9pkeGnCIdil5-l7kGHwmL_7ttFsm0SjPQUQR6MWQBHbbvnJ24Mj2fX5RvkieQ"></figure><p> </p>
28 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor Lets Anyone Take Advantage of the STR Market</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DJUbkBKB1IIgYgFOrdaUgT56dpK6ZRz0MhPKWolnDFe5A2G1AwhI8FTjEd69bK_uNifFWBQ4NhmRFHaqUVu6vJSPZ07hh9TVnr5U0jlpvlzomy7LOQEsSJG-NpN4Nv81hpRAaTGfxw9m6qNk-sWNxk"></figure><p>With today’s uncertain market, it’s hard to determine the best place to invest. Traditionally, real estate has always been a safe bet; but with housing prices predicted to plummet over the next year, many are hesitating. However, there is one area where real estate is showing significant returns: the short term rental market. This is an area of great promise to those in the know. But if you’re unfamiliar with how to choose a property, renovate it, style it, and advertise it for rental, you may find yourself in over your head.</p><p>That’s where <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a> comes in. The minds behind this innovative platform asked the question: can technology create an algorithm that successfully determines what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like? With over 100k properties underwritten every month, $37MM raised, and 75+ properties in its portfolio, it seems that Techvestor is answering in the affirmative.</p><p>Techvestor’s proprietary software analyzes over 18MM data points and 250 markets each month, and this company is taking the guesswork out of short term rental (STR) investments. Techvestor serves as an investment platform, property sourcer, interior designer, and property manager all in one, allowing investors to make passive income - and also enjoy stays at the company’s huge portfolio of premium properties.</p><p>The company was co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>. Since leaving their engineering careers with Apple and Facebook, respectively, Guler and Khafagi have created a company that is quickly building a strong portfolio of STRs across North America. They explain that in starting Techvestor, they were convinced that technology could open up passive investments in STRs for a broader segment of society.</p><p>“Techvestor is a pioneer in this lucrative new asset class,” says Guler. “Since Airbnb was founded in 2008, the industry has exploded.” In fact, the global market value for STRs was estimated at $99.38 billion USD in 2021, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.1% from 2022 to 2030.</p><p>Guler adds that while the Techvestor platform is state of the art, it’s not a replacement for human expertise. “You can have the most incredible tech at your fingertips, but if you don’t know how to interpret its data or understand STRs, then its impact will be dramatically reduced,” Guler says.</p><p>Khafagi agrees. “When we created our platform, we truly believed that Techvestor could eliminate so much of the guesswork from investments in real estate and STRs in particular,” he says. “However, we knew that we could never let the platform get ahead of us. Instead, we had to stay in command of it and always analyze what it was telling us. There is no replacement for accurate interpretation.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/OnmwOsJFgW-ZgyfHb8XMzWwySQP0z5lm1CVzRh8Y-5407u6hRqE6T5dt69mhedyOneIgdbdYWSTxvhg4Hs_KL8yzFJLozHN4HFJLexPrgGp33nhEhsc5U-VSHI2a_sG3CPQW06Ye-2r7uybHLVLVkuQ"></figure><p>To that end, Guler and Khafagi stand at the intersection of experience and today’s innovation. Both executives were independent investors in STRs before founding Techvestors, and they credit that experience with giving them the practical knowledge to identify, redesign, run, and exit STRs in the U.S.’ hottest markets. At the same time, Guler and Khafagi are, of course, tech enthusiasts at heart, and they understand how to use it to finetune STR investments.</p><p>They also believe in taking no chances, so the decision to invest in a property is backed by the company’s 16-point strategy, which includes uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors. </p><p>“That leads us to the right short-term rental for Techvestor to invest in, but once we bring it into the portfolio, we have internal programs that allow us to plan its redesign, manage the property and its revenue, operate it, and more under the same roof,” Guler explains.</p><p>Investment properties depend upon passive investors, and the Techvestor team is sensitive to that, offering desirable terms. Investors receive 100% of all tax benefits and are not liable for any loans. Investors also take advantage of instant diversification with the company’s 75+ properties.</p><p>In addition, partners enjoy the fruits of their investment by enjoying their own vacations in Techvestor properties. “Some of our best marketing is done by our own investors who stay in our properties,” Khafagi says. “Owner Stays allow our investors to get away from it all at any property, at any time that it’s not otherwise occupied, for up to 30% off our normal rates. This is how we express our gratitude to our passive investors.”</p><p>A successful exit plan is also key to Techvestor’s strategy. During the first five years that Techvestor holds a property, they receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and the company targets a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, Techvestor looks to sell the portfolio. It sells properties based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.</p><p>With Techvestor, you don’t need insider expertise, as the company’s cutting-edge technology is redlining the way passive investors can earn from STRs. With the firm’s powerful platform, backed by its experienced team and solid infrastructure, Techvesor optimizes every STR for optimal earning potential.</p><p><i>About Techvestor</i></p><p><i>Techvestor is the leader in passive investments in STRs in the United States. It was co-founded by Sabrina Guler, a former Engineering Project Manager at Apple, and Sief Khafagi, who worked at Facebook/Meta and was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member. Guler and Khafagi have grown Techvestor’s portfolio to encompass STRs across the United States, resulting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs. In 2023, Techvestor will continue to expand, listing more properties in Southern Florida and other hot markets. For more information, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/F7eKZYdmpSPacgnP-XBtTKR2W4MG4cQaAv8OqWPNk0lSvoadiE5bEyvSBfu9KvzSpUj1BWXFTbAd6W6lk0YQQiAmLiLrl_auTyXlOAVbwY_YGnALMHmG6RGSztgxqd7lHrJar204jsPbnx0wp4nM-2Y"></figure>
27 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Can Techvestor’s Technology Take the Guesswork out of STR Investments? </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/J0DRIE2QD1-Y3y9kcrgaXGN2TdX6e37IrmtL7urhT2VRFLuw2GeBpB6xYj47ojOkBNtBel48XVnOIclOxxNYWlbBqiMUTchVlbbBCCoxjIkzHdBg_d4IbLh2XuJSSA_t0PG6QQQFQ8KzY62AyE_ey24"></figure><p>Those of us from older generations remember that when you invested in real estate, you put in a lot of effort to learn about a neighborhood’s demographics, crime rates, economic forecast, and dozens of other crucial factors. That was all before you actually stepped foot in the property and tried to envision its possibilities (or lack thereof), and even then, it was hard to make the right decision. The intriguing question about <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, whose proprietary software analyzes over 18MM data points and 250 markets each month, is whether technology really can identify what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like. While nothing is ever guaranteed in investments, it is hard to deny that with over 100k properties underwritten every month, $37MM raised, and 75+ properties in its portfolio, Techvestor may be giving us the answer: yes - but only when it’s backed by the full package.</p><p>Techvestor was co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, who are pioneering a new asset class in STRs, or short-term rentals. Since leaving their engineering careers with Apple and Facebook, respectively, the two have created a company that is quickly building a strong portfolio of STRs across North America. They explain that in starting Techvestor, they were convinced that technology could open up passive investments in STRs for a broader segment of society.</p><p>“Let’s first say that Techvestor’s platform, while state of the art, is not a replacement for human expertise,” says Guler. “You can have the most incredible tech at your fingertips, but if you don’t know how to interpret its data or understand STRs, then its impact will be dramatically reduced.”</p><p>Khafagi agrees. “When we created it, we truly believed that Techvestor could eliminate so much of the guesswork from investments in real estate and STRs in particular. However, we knew that we could never let the platform get ahead of us. Instead, we had to stay in command of it and always analyze what it was telling us. There is no replacement for accurate interpretation.”</p><p>To that end, Guler and Khafagi stand at the intersection of experience and today’s innovation. Both executives were independent investors in real estate before founding Techvestors, and they credit that experience with giving them the practical knowledge to identify, redesign, run, and exit STRs in the U.S.’ hottest markets. At the same time, Guler and Khafagi are, of course, tech enthusiasts at heart, and they understand how to use it to finetune STR investments.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/pefpiQjBD-Xmywua1qGDO1bdhUwjfwn9_spalFvWsBuQ6mxG7mZVl9reM2MhpM0cOtRs5C22E_b_CPtkqMBxE5FTvwtBVmtLq_TK87w-DmpjgspMZsYvQ59bNuWKJ08c5veWIQ62GEkMCzKAcezOF7M"></figure><p>They also believe in taking no chances, so the decision to invest in a property is backed by the company’s 16-point strategy, which includes uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors. </p><p>“That leads us to the right short-term rental for Techvestor to invest in, but once we bring it into the portfolio, we have internal programs that allow us to plan its redesign, manage the property and its revenue, operate it, and more under the same roof,” Guler explains. </p><p>An investment property is useless without passive investors, so Techvestor’s leaders set up attractive terms: they receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and enjoy instant diversification with over 70+ properties. During the first five years that Techvestor holds a property, they receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and the company targets a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, Techvestor looks to sell the portfolio. It sells properties based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.</p><p>“We believe that the best marketing of our STRs is done by people who stay in them, and that includes our investors,” says Khafagi. “With our Owner Stays, investors can stay at any property, at any time, for 10-30% off normal rates. It’s our way of expressing our appreciation for Techvestor’s passive investors.”</p><p>So, will Techvestor’s technology redefine how STRs are invested in?</p><p>“Techvestor’s platform is powerful, no doubt about it,” Guler states. “On its own, however, it is simply technology. But, in the hands of an experienced team and backed by a solid infrastructure that strategically optimizes each STR, it is magic.”</p><p><i>About Techvestor</i></p><p><i>Techvestor is the leader in passive investments in STRs in the United States. It was co-founded by Sabrina Guler, a former Engineering Project Manager at Apple, and Sief Khafagi, who worked at Facebook/Meta and was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member. Guler and Khafagi have grown Techvestor’s portfolio to encompass STRs across the United States, resulting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs. In 2023, Techvestor will continue to expand, listing more properties in Southern Florida and other hot markets. For more information, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>.</i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/75uNVGSK3_JmL85YEdQvpYEqEBMasOYHyVVv-B_62jIIXiReBF2VlXi5xYT7pPio33g4kPwdX8STvZS1hQc6kLhfDIJPc5rbBuG1midvpk2_vKrD_uttjsqZwPJeHaNhUzh1PBl3oW1_8n5Dje_sFMo"></figure>
27 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor Explains What to Look For When Passively Investing in STRs</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/S8OvBjLy8mapvv1-5EoblXxMfYFJAD0a1QsKCQneC5gXL-d2Q8RMKtJ6pBY0OmIWgbQkp2Ftu0BGoCP85sS4M0sTtcVRfP9x37DPr14twCaMdlnp2D2BHnlvgL-SiDbyLG632IGHaWO1qI3LzjT_DNo"></figure><p>While investors have always known the long-term potential of real estate, a new asset class is gaining their attention: passive investments in short-term rentals. The hurdle for some people, however, is that many of the STRs they might invest in are in other states (along with the company). This creates a potential problem: how do investors identify a legitimate passive investment opportunity? The answer may lie in <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, which owns the largest STR portfolio in the United States. Co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, Techvestor underwrites 100k properties every month, has raised over $37MM, and has 75+ properties in its portfolio. The secret to Techvestor’s success lies in its institutional grade, proprietary rental platform, which analyzes over 18MM data points each month, identifying what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur. In this article, Guler and Khafagi offer some suggestions for how to know when an STR passive investment opportunity is one to jump on - or walk away from.</p><p>“First, remember that any STR, no matter its potential, will inevitably underperform if not managed competently,” says Guler. “That’s the responsibility of the company’s leadership. Before starting Techvestor, Sief and I both gained invaluable experience investing independently in real estate while we worked at Facebook/Meta and Apple, respectively. When we founded Techvestor, we already understood how to manage STRs and were able to scale more quickly.”</p><p>When investing passively in a property, Khafagi believes the investor should have no responsibility at all for making it generate revenue. “That ability comes from the company having a strong program to identify and manage it,” he says. “Granted, every STR is different, but there still needs to be a repeatable process that folds it into the company’s portfolio.”</p><p>In designing Techvestor, Khafagi and Guler prioritized creating a comprehensive framework that would allow the company to handle everything independently of investors. They designed software that pinpoints the right properties for Techvestor’s portfolio, meaning they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>“We also designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Guler continues. “We look at everything: uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states, among other crucial factors. All in all, we analyze millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eQocjZbkfm1EQlR20yYde4-rB9FX29UrGXNdaUqn1FcMJMzLmyZt82e8n23fcYNnt-yM7EdpMPpFgIBm_pgHn5_IdZr4q3DisW-BLP3gGemdzMW5KFphzBWX2CsGeQQ1gSxlORnFPPksKn1JmVmMSsE"></figure><p>That’s at the office, of course. On site, Techvestor’s project managers draw upon a local network of contractors and professionals to transform homes from ordinary to spectacular. Khafagi adds that they are careful to add amenities that will give the property longevity in a saturated market, including hot tubs, fire pits, and other perks. </p><p>“So, yes, we have set Techvestor up for passive investors, but at the same time, we believe in transparency so that they can know how their investment is doing,” says Khafagi. “That’s why we are careful to explain all of the terms before onboarding an investor and to keep them up to date as time goes by.”</p><p>Passive investors in Techvestor receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and have instant diversification with over 70+ properties. During the first five years that Techvestor holds a property, investors receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and the company targets a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, Techvestor looks to sell the portfolio based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.</p><p>“As a passive investor, you want to make sure the company is healthy across the board,” says Khafagi. “Additionally, you want to be certain the market itself supports investments. 34% of people prefer short-term rentals, up from 10% in 2011. People are also interested in STRs because of the culture change to remote work. It has created a new asset class that Techvestor is defining.”</p><p>The most exciting time to jump on any passive investment opportunity is when it is first emerging, Guler believes. “We envision Techvestor becoming the go-to source of STRs around the world. Check us out sometime and learn more about the strong company we are building with the help of our wonderful investors. It’s a ride you don’t want to miss.”</p><p><i>About Techvestor</i></p><p><i>Techvestor is the leader in passive investments in STRs in the United States. It was co-founded by Sabrina Guler, a former Engineering Project Manager at Apple, and Sief Khafagi, who worked at Facebook/Meta and was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member. Guler and Khafagi have grown Techvestor’s portfolio to encompass STRs across the United States, resulting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs. In 2023, Techvestor will continue to expand, listing more properties in Southern Florida and other hot markets. For more information, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/g7hyip5Oo5SArNkgnfnQk1Du61pDXi4_93_fjschZFnV4hjLXx0jVlwtgYDlAaEYTZrfUQYUQ7toy7S-oFk50DkIaeb2RnLLEamrYQEBRqDuhko-V4pb9ILKfmLdqRv6clKNuLk0aO-7vuUvaY8qxe8"></figure>
27 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Passive Investors Turn to Techvestor for New Opportunities in STRs</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/aJK2vK5xTJyPQttWU4yVyhc_m250m1O-F7R0hi5vZcrEMRUXYoFi165_23gbj2q0YT2VeVmIu25zaXx3JoCc5vc63KD8sFAwsHP-ju7Vx50vAhU1_k3B-TVPrZWySoXbLJ37AxRtvZ1TsX-NStCB-zA"></figure><p>Any investor knows that putting all of your eggs in one basket is a bad idea. A diversified investment portfolio, then, can help you if the market goes off the rails a bit. Passive investments, or letting someone else do the heavy lifting while you enjoy the results, may be the opportunity you’re looking for. One of the newest asset classes for passive investors is STRs (short-term rentals). At the center of it is <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, whose institutional grade, proprietary rental platform analyzes over 18MM data points each month, identifying what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur. With 100k properties underwritten every month, over $37MM raised, and 75+ properties in its portfolio, Techvestor is defining passive investments in STRs. Below, COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, the co-founders of <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, explain more about passive investments, including what to look for in a legitimate opportunity, and why Techvestor is set up for success.</p><p>“Passive investments, particularly in STRs, only work if the company is solid all the way through, from its leadership to its operations,” says Guler. “If you are considering investing passively in anything, including short-term rentals, your first task should be to look at the people behind the business. Sief and I could never have taken Techvestor to the top of the industry if we hadn’t been independent investors first. That hands-on training gave us the ability to identify, refurbish, and manage STRs across the United States.”</p><p>From there, Khafagi recommends making sure that the company has a comprehensive, repeatable process for optimizing every property it identifies and brings into its portfolio. Before they even bought their first STR, he and Guler created a realistic framework for Techvestor so that everything could be handled independently of investors. They designed software that pinpoints the right properties for Techvestor’s portfolio, meaning they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>“We also designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Guler continues. “We look at everything: uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states, among other crucial factors. All in all, we analyze millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><p>That’s at the office, of course. On site, Techvestor’s project managers draw upon a local network of contractors and professionals to transform homes from ordinary to spectacular. Khafagi adds that they are careful to add amenities that will give the property longevity in a saturated market, including hot tubs, fire pits, and other perks. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Z-DA_NyZPfEAiTRQmXla1yJTK-u43lBVssymbJjTMDbCZvGeqPv-1JtkXXU3jrEFq7a_SHWX48hVtahVch9xPq_L4FjaumcJo9zioeWb_czZ-J9evVwMN50ajfm5dZutjIyS48vbfX-Ilnxu3idcOto"></figure><p>“So, yes, we have set Techvestor up for passive investors, but at the same time, we believe in transparency so that they can know how their investment is doing,” says Khafagi. “That’s why we are careful to explain all of the terms before onboarding an investor and to keep them up to date as time goes by.”</p><p>Passive investors in Techvestor receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and have instant diversification with over 75+ properties. During the first five years that Techvestor holds a property, investors receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and the company targets a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, Techvestor looks to sell the portfolio based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.</p><p>“As a passive investor, you want to make sure the company is healthy across the board,” says Khafagi. “Additionally, you want to be certain the market itself supports investments. 34% of people prefer short-term rentals, up from 10% in 2011. People are also interested in STRs because of the culture change to remote work. It has created a new asset class that Techvestor is defining.”</p><p>There is, of course, no guarantee of success no matter how well-prepared a company may be. “That’s true,” Guler allows. “However, at Techvestor, we believe that our meticulous preparation means that we know how to roll with the punches and come out on top. That’s why in 2023, we will be moving into Fund 2 and expanding our STR portfolio across the U.S. We know STRs, and our passive investors trust us to choose the right properties and develop them into winners.”</p><p><i>About Techvestor</i></p><p><i>Techvestor is the leader in passive investments in STRs in the United States. It was co-founded by Sabrina Guler, a former Engineering Project Manager at Apple, and Sief Khafagi, who worked at Facebook/Meta and was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member. Guler and Khafagi have grown Techvestor’s portfolio to encompass STRs across the United States, resulting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs. In 2023, Techvestor will continue to expand, listing more properties in Southern Florida and other hot markets. For more information, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/JAqBleh05afX7ZqYZr2rutX4pDzggujXOKRs6TYGAYvj1zMgLZhIojQz3_CSxkuPs6WK3oTvyLWd-oWEtGm36dEStJgU2A2psJaSLBd7pcKOsKy3KjEWvb8f_-kk8lKpImJc23kGSdnSQKbSuEVlvtA"></figure>
27 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>With Over 75+ STRs, Techvestor Creates a New Asset Class for Passive Investors</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fxFBzbGRoh1YQaNYVYyRvpLfnf_XwxBTYc-YnHlipBfrgmBzW-O63JbhDBbiAGHkjZariXWQ-iVC1VnZCVXaD28wVUY23c-3K7F5DnFF2d40uNOpQFjyOtSkLJGKGQ2Ax3B972Dg_iJzV29l2tpqpTI"></figure><p>For years, experts have touted the long-term benefits of investing in real estate, including STRs, but in truth, owning and managing a short-term rental is beyond most people for one simple reason: time. Being your own sourcer, renovator, and manager can make a busy work week untenable. Enter passive investments in STRs, a new asset class created by <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>. Co-founded by COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, Techvestor is basically an investment platform, property sourcer, interior designer, and property manager all in one. It uses its proprietary platform to analyze more than 18MM data points each month, determining what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur. With a portfolio that spans the United States, 100K properties underwritten each month, and $37MM raised, Techvestor is making passive investments in STRs 100% as simple as the name implies. </p><p>“We love to talk to people about passive investments, especially since many aren’t sure where to put their money,” says Guler. “It’s understandable because these days, everyone offers that great passive investment opportunity, right? However, looking deeper into the company, its leaders, and the market can give clues about whether or not to invest.”</p><p>She points to her own background and Khafagi’s as evidence that it is much easier to successfully manage a growing portfolio of STRs when you have experience. Before founding Techvestor, both leaders invested independently in STRs, which taught them the ins and outs of the industry. </p><p>“It definitely gave us a realistic foundation for founding Techvestor,” Khafagi believes. “It taught us to anticipate problems and to know how to guide an STR’s development into an Airbnb-worthy listing.”</p><p>Both Khafagi and Guler think that the key to Techvestor’s success lies in the comprehensive process that every STR passes through. Before buying their first STR, they created a realistic framework for Techvestor so that everything could be handled independently of investors. They designed software that pinpoints the right properties for Techvestor’s portfolio, meaning they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>“We also designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Guler continues. “We look at everything: uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states, among other crucial factors. All in all, we analyze millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/eSHL3uCHaSCk8xiuucOHi8TFChtJhXbA-qVUvmPm0b1sE9I79G5Dnf895_vKRAgOKSbIbqGo81Wxu_fqvc3JdZfVJSXRFa9DLzsvoNnr5nIWX47TdCtT8VFdqprgN-P7-iZOyg22j3tzvDGenkmoDpU"></figure><p>That’s at the office, of course. On site, Techvestor’s project managers draw upon a local network of contractors and professionals to transform homes from ordinary to spectacular. Khafagi adds that they are careful to add amenities that will give the property longevity in a saturated market, including hot tubs, fire pits, and other perks. </p><p>“So, yes, we have set Techvestor up for passive investors, but at the same time, we believe in transparency so that they can know how their investment is doing,” says Khafagi. “That’s why we are careful to explain all of the terms before onboarding an investor and to keep them up to date as time goes by.”</p><p>Passive investors in Techvestor receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and have instant diversification with over 75+ properties. During the first five years that Techvestor holds a property, investors receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and the company targets a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, Techvestor looks to sell the portfolio based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.</p><p>“As a passive investor, you want to make sure the company is healthy across the board,” says Khafagi. “Additionally, you want to be certain the market itself supports investments. 34% of people prefer short-term rentals, up from 10% in 2011. People are also interested in STRs because of the culture change to remote work. It has created a new asset class that Techvestor is defining.”</p><p>Finally, Guler suggests that individuals focus on the long-term potential of an STR. “The market will always go up and down, so remember to see the big picture,” she says. “We are right at the beginning of STRs, which means there is plenty of opportunity for growth. And if you have any questions, always feel free to reach out to us at Techvestor. We like discussing passive investments with people and will always have time to answer your questions.”</p><p><i>About Techvestor</i></p><p><i>Techvestor is the leader in passive investments in STRs in the United States. It was co-founded by Sabrina Guler, a former Engineering Project Manager at Apple, and Sief Khafagi, who worked at Facebook/Meta and was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member. Guler and Khafagi have grown Techvestor’s portfolio to encompass STRs across the United States, resulting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs. In 2023, Techvestor will continue to expand, listing more properties in Southern Florida and other hot markets. For more information, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/IvCOPvgqrUKOkFAyapiGjgwV581KOgMSayrAIuE7dU85B3YcBUtuYNT382TVth6_Jd8FUKmEHruBXUydL5eBsZD59ulgAbXWHCT5QWfKeU3jZEnDFemyHyYyb4wrtN2uR3Z5bR8QJotSTbtEDqh0oI0"></figure>
27 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor and STRs: A New Asset Class for Passive Investors</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/odSLniITQJSXMGa-f_f77oztdBWgXeQZwqPBxn2dDQPD06N3gvxbYXNcDwMJnOSuCXpDXZ6d8d5UNtbzUcdDqQ09ojiOqkUxndbVV5di9VCK8WrA5bmHVrd9kUFWbnFLir5aaEkfFL9DuNjc3kaL49Q"></figure><p>You may be interested in passively investing in STRs but a little hesitant about sinking your money into a company that likely operates in a different state. On top of that, you will likely never see the properties that the business manages unless you visit them. How, then, can you jump on the very real passive investment opportunities in STRs and feel confident about the company itself? The co-founders of <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, understand your concerns. Techvestor, for those new to STR investments, owns the largest portfolio of STRs in the United States. Its proprietary rental platform analyzes over 18MM data points each month to identify what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur. The results include 100k properties underwritten monthly, over $37MM raised, and 75+ properties in the Techvestor portfolio. Guler and Khafagi took time out from their busy schedules to talk about passive investing and the reasons why Techvestor has cornered the STR market.</p><p>“Passive investing is everywhere these days. In fact, it’s so prevalent that it can be hard for individuals to identify legitimate opportunities, including in STRs,” says Guler. “The first thing to do is to look at the people behind the company. They should have the right experience to handle your investment. Techvestor wouldn’t be as strong as it is today if Sief and I hadn’t been successful independent investors in STRs before starting our company. That taught us to identify great properties, renovate them, list them, and manage them.”</p><p>Khafagi recommends that before you passively invest in STRs, you make certain the company has a strong program from start to finish. “A passive investor should not have to lift a finger to make an asset generate consistent revenue,” he believes. “The company should be able to source the property, design it, and manage it all on its own. That includes competently handling every inevitable hurdle that comes along.”</p><p>Khafagi explains that before buying their first STR, he and Guler created a realistic framework for Techvestor so that everything could be handled independently of investors. They designed software that pinpoints the right properties for Techvestor’s portfolio, meaning they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>“We also designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Guler continues. “We look at everything: uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states, among other crucial factors. All in all, we analyze millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><p>That’s at the office, of course. On site, Techvestor’s project managers draw upon a local network of contractors and professionals to transform homes from ordinary to spectacular. Khafagi adds that they are careful to add amenities that will give the property longevity in a saturated market, including hot tubs, fire pits, and other perks. </p><p>“So, yes, we have set Techvestor up for passive investors, but at the same time, we believe in transparency so that they can know how their investment is doing,” says Khafagi. “That’s why we are careful to explain all of the terms before onboarding an investor and to keep them up to date as time goes by.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/8ruyyHnSj2x1Rk7l29nLY0Ke_3dn83K84EC7wsOxAVsquk_yZH777zJ39d-goyT2-XuF0SvtEkWRQCWbUWqaqnmiMtVW0U9majVczb4PpccmE2gkxoWEMfNJb7HmCennWl52zX8qydUiamXozwkQtQw"></figure><p>Passive investors in Techvestor receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and have instant diversification with over 75+ properties. During the first five years that Techvestor holds a property, investors receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and the company targets a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, Techvestor looks to sell the portfolio based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.</p><p>“As a passive investor, you want to make sure the company is healthy across the board,” says Khafagi. “Additionally, you want to be certain the market itself supports investments. 34% of people prefer short-term rentals, up from 10% in 2011. People are also interested in STRs because of the culture change to remote work. It has created a new asset class that Techvestor is defining.”</p><p>Guler and Khafagi both agree that passive investors should feel comfortable approaching a company’s leadership with all of their questions at any time. “At Techvestor, we prioritize transparency and open communication,” Guler says. “It is the clearest road to success for us and our investors and leads to long-lasting relationships for years to come.”</p><p><i>About Techvestor</i></p><p><i>Techvestor is the leader in passive investments in STRs in the United States. It was co-founded by Sabrina Guler, a former Engineering Project Manager at Apple, and Sief Khafagi, who worked at Facebook/Meta and was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member. Guler and Khafagi have grown Techvestor’s portfolio to encompass STRs across the United States, resulting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs. In 2023, Techvestor will continue to expand, listing more properties in Southern Florida and other hot markets. For more information, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/VL8YOW12U36qOx4aikxz1L9innjoONcT1pHkDZN0AjBngbh5N18fSTDknD1U0ri5K1YxL5gyeai3d9WOvcqgx2Fj4LXK1BZRuQ2IpOsSLXbJdPZf0AiuC9PfzRbs8aFNAhc4XVh6ASDyxtLg3xKUDbU"></figure>
27 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>What Is Passive Investing, Anyways? Techvestor, the Owner of the Largest STR Portfolio, Explains</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uVpx8ds3mHr8ObjZox--WcSsT-junMNK9WkxByeekpnP8Ltp16diFldBZ7MnVoGFqs8gcI0a1C2O_DwoZDtf1p3ABWbJH7WZ2kNU3eCJtrvG-V0BZnRQFv6XmNc8jKr78Hp3mxpO9PpiEXKPFksvfvY"></figure><p>Passive investing: two words that have seemingly burst out of nowhere onto the financial scene. It seems like only a few years ago, hardly anyone was talking about how to make money by letting other people do the hard work of investing. Now, passive investing is in, but what is it, exactly? Is it really as simple as “doing nothing” and money ends up in your bank account? For answers, we turned to COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, the co-founders of <a href="http://techvestor.com">Techvestor</a>, which underwrites 100k properties every month, has raised over $37MM, and has 75+ properties in its portfolio. Through its institutional grade, proprietary rental platform, Techvestor analyzes over 18MM data points each month, identifying what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur. Below, Guler and Khafagi explain passive investing, including why they believe it’s wise for anyone to remain aware of where they are putting their money.</p><p>“Passive investing is a legitimate opportunity, one that allows you to diversify your income streams while someone else does the hard work for you,” Guler explains. “In real estate, particularly short-term rentals, this is lucrative, as I learned in my days at Apple, when refurbishing STRs was my hobby. It is time consuming, of course, to identify the right property, renovate it, list it, and manage it. Allowing someone like Techvestor to be the investment platform, property sourcer, interior designer, and property manager can save you a lot of effort and also pay off.”</p><p>Khafagi believes that the best passive investment opportunities, especially in STRs, really do allow you to sit back and relax. “There’s a reason they call it passive,” he says. “But, to find them, you need a company that has its ducks in a row. Everything about it should be rock solid so that any problem that comes along can be handled quickly and efficiently.”</p><p>Khafagi explains that before buying their first STR, he and Guler created a realistic framework for Techvestor so that everything could be handled independently of investors. They designed software that pinpoints the right properties for Techvestor’s portfolio, meaning they know what to buy, where to buy it, how to best finance it, how to operate it, if the property is in a sustainable market, and what realistic growth looks like.</p><p>“We also designed a 16-point strategy for analyzing the potential of both a property and its location,” Guler continues. “We look at everything: uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states, among other crucial factors. All in all, we analyze millions of data points and 250+ markets monthly.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BgWjDG3wdwGZKLz8ItfQapIa2mIj012yP4sfERxZOm_6naUSD0EIYLoi-BXfBCj5iIRx-OwwDq5sgazFFTxxtB4MkDl-sXiQ6eDlPfgTymoXmyWUBDYvPpf5bEH1dPYCB_LSCBBGVMrrPOjx13RyKt0"></figure><p>That’s at the office, of course. On site, Techvestor’s project managers draw upon a local network of contractors and professionals to transform homes from ordinary to spectacular. Khafagi adds that they are careful to add amenities that will give the property longevity in a saturated market, including hot tubs, fire pits, and other perks. </p><p>“So, yes, we have set Techvestor up for passive investors, but at the same time, we believe in transparency so that they can know how their investment is doing,” says Khafagi. “That’s why we are careful to explain all of the terms before onboarding an investor and to keep them up to date as time goes by.”</p><p>Passive investors in Techvestor receive 100% of tax benefits, have zero liability for loans and lending, and have instant diversification with over 75+ properties. During the first five years that Techvestor holds a property, investors receive quarterly reporting and dividends, and the company targets a 7-12% cash on cash annually. After the projected hold period, Techvestor looks to sell the portfolio based on revenue or value, whichever is higher.</p><p>“As a passive investor, you want to make sure the company is healthy across the board,” says Khafagi. “Additionally, you want to be certain the market itself supports investments. 34% of people prefer short-term rentals, up from 10% in 2011. People are also interested in STRs because of the culture change to remote work. It has created a new asset class that Techvestor is defining.”</p><p>The most important advice for passive investors is this: run from anything that doesn’t feel right.</p><p>“Nothing happens overnight, so be careful with anyone who promises instant money,” Guler suggests. “At Techvestor, we love the potential of STRs for passive investors, but we never oversell it. If you do your homework, trust your gut, and ask questions, you will be able to diversify your portfolio and scale up your life.”</p><p><i>About Techvestor</i></p><p><i>Techvestor is the leader in passive investments in STRs in the United States. It was co-founded by Sabrina Guler, a former Engineering Project Manager at Apple, and Sief Khafagi, who worked at Facebook/Meta and was a Forbes Business and Young Entrepreneur Council Member. Guler and Khafagi have grown Techvestor’s portfolio to encompass STRs across the United States, resulting in seven and eight figures in commitments and LOIs. In 2023, Techvestor will continue to expand, listing more properties in Southern Florida and other hot markets. For more information, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/vTKy5YUYJJDjK3n-g6fGiGmyoTOaIIi2jUHUFub-S8vIgYGflPtb_QwEAGQfbHmFB7W5tqNjVGUnaQFpQabobhE-VaSgs3E8XllHBfO8xoYdI6Lz2kw57sH6437kzsG2WYOT4fQHknARS17CUsqrLOA"></figure>
27 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>From Ordinary to Amazing: A Sit Down with Techvestor, STRs at Scale</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wYv3YpAqOPW8AOglwOLyMEaQMUwee2YVWQk83LKoZcZNgIVViONxtcPyT80OeUfl_qr9MERdYnmYibSSumfFo37XrU3935lMHjKC8gB9_8nYc8wBS3PeJn-woQlh_ds7Kugaa5wUEEPbFx0ZMQNc9cY"></figure><p>Many of us find shows like <i>Fixer Upper</i> or <i>Farmhouse Fixer</i> to be inspirational. After all, we may love our homes, but we know there is a big difference between them and our dream houses, which are always impeccably designed. DIY shows get us thinking about what could be, but what does it take to really transform a house? For answers, we hung out with COO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaguler/">Sabrina Guler</a> and CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siefkhafagi/">Sief Khafagi</a>, the leaders of <a href="https://techvestor.com/">Techvestor</a>. The company has flipped, designed, and launched 75+ Airbnb homes across the U.S. in only one year, relying on its 16-point strategy and proprietary platform that analyzes over 18MM data points each month to identify what, where, how, when, and if an investment should occur. What we would find is that managing a $37MM portfolio of STR properties for passive investors takes vision, relentless organization, and a lot of persistence.</p><p>“First, neither one of us could lead Techvestor if we didn’t already have experience managing and investing in STRs and people,” says Sabrina. “Before Techvestor, Sief and I were working at Facebook and Apple, respectively, and on the side, we were successful independent investors in short-term rentals and leaders of organizations. The experience was invaluable, as it taught us how to identify the right property, design its renovations, manage the transformation, rent it out, and eventually exit.”</p><p>Techvestor is equal parts cutting-edge technology, strategy, and repeatable process, all of which results in its ability to manage everything from acquisition to revenue management under one roof. Each STR is first identified by Techvestor’s platform, which looks at over 250 markets and millions of data points each month. </p><p>“We evaluate everything: location, uniqueness, seasonality, tax benefits, diversification, and STR-friendly states as well as other crucial factors,” he says. “If it passes the test - and it’s not easy to impress us, by the way - we add it to our portfolio.”</p><p>Then the Techvestor team gets started on the real work: assessing what exactly must be done to transform the STR from average to incredible. The team goes through every inch of the property, inspecting walls, fixtures, floorboards, plumbing - absolutely everything to decide what must be renovated.</p><p>“We never get started until we have a concrete plan, and we collaborate a lot with local contractors and designers,” says Sabrina. “We have built a strong network of professionals so that when we start renovations, we can hit the ground running and meet deadlines.”</p><p>Part of the renovation plan includes opportunities for what Sief and Sabrina call the “wow factor”: those extra touches that might cost a few thousand dollars more at the time of renovation but that pay off when the property is offered online for rental. It might be a hot tub, fire pit, or some other unique amenity that makes the STR even more attractive to tenants.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/22-paUMk7acQTDJZmojXpfRJ8O8UfSAMBq0f9FhK1LAwAwxMkjVNty_gKr5zJ5E3trHh0myRHZm47ELyDCvtJoHleDGMdf5SiPELWBUPuGghA47WC_iFVy7GbL3ZxLG0uCo19Hm50Gngm2wEWlhYgD8"></figure><p>Once renovations begin, Techvestor’s project managers keep careful watch over the progress, handling the inevitable bumps and avoiding others so that the house continues to evolve.</p><p>The most fun, Sabrina and Sief both say, is when an STR is finished and furnished with beds, appliances, couches, and the myriad of other things that make it a home. “The STR takes on a real personality, and we’re almost at the finish line, when we can list it on Airbnb,” Sabrina reveals. “It’s an affirmation of how hard we have worked and how close we are to success.”</p><p>When the STR is completed, Techvestor’s internal project managers like to compare before-and-after photos. They are always gratified by how their efforts have resulted in a property that matches their original vision for it.</p><p>“And then we list it and move into the STR’s new life, so to speak: hosting guests,” Sief states. “We do this for every property, whether it’s in the Poconos or Southern Florida. Rinse, repeat!”</p><p>As Techvestor has grown, busy professionals interested in passive investments have come on board, attracted to having zero liability for loans and lending and 7-12% cash on cash annually. Benefits like instant diversification over 75+ properties, quarterly reporting and dividends over the first five years that Techvestor holds a property, and discounted rates through the company’s Owner Stay program have also increased investor demand.</p><p>Both co-founders agree that if anyone wants to renovate their own home themselves and make it sensational, they can do it. “Be ready for the challenge, however,” Sief cautions. “Once you get started, persevere to the end. Few things are more satisfying than seeing your vision come alive in a house that is everything you want it to be.”</p><p><i>Techvestor is the one of the largest operators of STRs and is redefining passive investments for a new asset class. With more than seven and eight figures in LOIs and commitments, Techvestor is gearing up for Fund 2 in 2023, when it plans to expand further across the United States to more prime STR locations. For more information about Techvestor and passive investments in STRs, please see </i><a href="http://www.techvestor.com"><i>www.techvestor.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ibberGB2ya-pQqivlUfaijlw1yMPXRkqN6UNiwHblLbIplj6c2HeT0l-dKDE1tWdc68PIj2Mehk3ESPkcGOUA5r67uQuhscf8l-EzqBhvxxIfjAHDjzgtKwaE6dZaoCa-xwV-fF7BL_OHMAxxgdJ0yw"></figure>
03 Mar, 2023
Cire B brings brings a new angle to the modern masterpiece
<p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5xLmEd4V27hKxf_9mJ8Kqec4MgdEPTVQVFeueZ11Q3-WY8XWmMaAU6lRA5BvDd9qonH8zkFz-5IWkdZps3TLpVi-0TIc1KNshxLc_zc1n5UqLLypzaZobyBZkSpPTdl2UIS1kFZEM0KgXoTU5fR0M2A"></figure><p>New Jersey–</p><p>Cire B paints from a different angle. The artist and US Army Drill Sergeant take an unorthodox approach to his artwork, which has sold out for tens of thousands of dollars at some of the largest art shows and exhibits in the world. As someone with experience in many different realms of life, Cire B is able to paint backed by a fresh perspective and a great deal of experience.</p><p>“Being immersed in intense environments for much of my career has led me to create artwork as an outlet of expression. Whatever I’m feeling, I let it out onto the canvas with no filter in hopes that someone else can relate to that feeling,” notes Cire B. The pieces, filled with vivid colors and hidden messages, are direct reflections of Cire B’s thoughts, emotions, and whatever energy he feels at that moment in time. “I like for the paintings to act as a portal to my soul for viewers, building up the minds and spirits of as many people as I possibly can through art,” states the artist.</p><p>To do so, he enjoys collaborating with his environment and audience, creating them interactive experiences from financial art lead workshops, to personal development inspired paint and sip classes, to live painting different performers. “Through art works, exhibitions, and performances,” he notes, “I encourage guests to open their minds, experience epiphanies and a sense of euphoria, and invoke emotions that were once buried.” To achieve this effect, Cire B uses a combination of acrylics, pastels, and fire to make his already bold artwork stand out more. </p><p>The artist’s unique style has caught the attention of some of the largest art collectors in the world, allowed him to participate in various auctions for private and public collectors, sell out his art shows, and speak as a guest on prominent art figure Gary Vee’s podcast. Cire B ran a solo two month art exhibition at port authority in New York City, which garnered the attention of thousands and granted him the opportunity to display his artwork at Art Hearts Fashion during New York Fashion Week. He ended the year at art basel for another solo exhibition where his sought-after works of art sold for thousands. </p><p>Now, Cire B runs his own studio called Cire B Studios. “It serves as a platform for visual artists to connect with art lovers across the world,” he states. One of the company’s products, the Art Box, has become a bestseller in the art world and provided interactive art experiences for purchasers worldwide. “The Art Box is a premium paint and sip kit that provides a guided experience of fun, with themes, games, and paint tutorials led by various artists,” says Cire B. “The kits are shipped directly to doorsteps and contain everything needed to create a masterpiece, including a step-by-step tutorial video and custom playlist.”</p><p>“I find immense joy in allowing others to experience art, whether it be showcasing my own art for the public or helping out aspiring artists,” notes Cire B. The artist is excited as he plans his next venture, opening his own art gallery, which will launch in 2024. “I’ve managed to stay independent as an artist. I want to help others do this too while growing my brand through more Cire B art galleries around the world.” </p>
07 Mar, 2023
Cire B Studios Announces Grand Opening of its 2024 Art Gallery
<p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/tC5wGaxSmHy6YMLxvPuwlNCQ447YOueMpFBllM2Hh9pPPUGXxy8ToQh38Cy8ThQZQjFBtmFAoNnWNQHqcIEBlSRuI8MOe2-8gfdZfn6gyxDgjCbLx_BI7y0l3OIRrf49quVwhQFovbF41ba-HlfG2SQ"></figure><p>New Jersey –</p><p>Cire B Studios, a New Jersey based art studio, is pleased to announce the grand opening of its first art gallery, which is set to open to the public in 2024. The company, with world-renowned artist Cire B at its helm, was set forth in efforts to bring the world live painting entertainment, original art pieces, art prints, art inspired apparel, as well as a platform for visual artists to connect with worldwide art lovers. The company hopes that its drawn up plan to open an art gallery in its name will inspire more artists around the world and showcase the company’s unique art taste.</p><p>“We have a very unique artistic style,” claims the company’s founder, Cire B. The CEO and artist also works as a Drill Sergeant in the US Army. He took his name to the big art game when he decided to use art as an emotional outlet. “Creating allowed me to process shocking work-related events,” he states. He started to display his thoughts and feelings on a canvas and soon started Cire B Studios.</p><p>Cire B’s unusual style has attracted some of the world's greatest art collectors, enabled him to participate in auctions for private and public collectors, sell out his art displays, and appear on the podcast of a world-renowned artist. Cire B also ran a two-month solo art exhibition at Port Authority in New York City that attracted thousands and allowed him to exhibit at Art Loves Fashion at New York Fashion Week. At art basel, his sought-after pieces sold for thousands.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ay3ah-ZBG1vTv1mDJJL42kfhtympOT7JJ9T2i9dTDbtw8mzxKgHgE2HcsFF-D77C0WVYJAmUvXP02J5vfeQVSSl2kZ_t-3GO-UdXUNzYr2rJVzLiQqZv-vAk4EBvrUP26D10n_IB19S3_nyFcd--lrs"></figure><p>Cire B now owns and operates Cire B Studios. “I started the studio to really give artists a chance to interact with art lovers everywhere. Globalizing art is a strong passion of mine, as well as helping others. This company connects the two passions.” The Art Box, one of the company's products, has gained popularity and given customers interactive art experiences. According to Cire B, "The Art Box is a paint and drink kit that offers a guided experience of enjoyment, with themes, games, and paint tutorials led by various artists. The kits come with a bespoke playlist and a step-by-step instructional video and are delivered right to customers' doorsteps.”</p><p>As Cire B Studios does, its new art gallery will emanate Cire B’s personal style. “I paint with a mixture of materials, often utilizing unorthodox materials like acrylics, pastels, and fire to create pieces filled with vivid colors and hidden messages. These pieces are direct reflections of my thoughts, emotions, and whatever energy I feel at that moment in time.” Through his work, Cire B hopes to bring viewers epiphanies and a sense of euphoria, invoking emotions in them that were once buried. “The gallery will aspire to do the same,” he notes. “It will feature artwork that creates an emotional reaction in viewers, a window into the soul of its artist.”</p><p>“We are very excited for the art gallery,” says Cire B. “Along with this, I hope to start helping out aspiring artists share their work.” The studio is excited to connect more artists with connoisseurs around the world and inspire the world with its personal taste.</p><p><i>Cire B Studios is a New Jersey-based art studio begun by Cire B, a notable contemporary artist. The studio works to connect artists with art lovers and bring accessible, interactive, and fun art opportunities to the doorsteps of its supporters. To learn more, contact Cire B at CIREBSTUDIOS@gmail.com and visit the studio website at Www.Cire studios.com. </i></p>
23 Feb, 2023
Sief Khafagi
<p>Techvestor Expands Multimillion-Dollar STR Portfolio with Florida Acquisitions</p><p>WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA–Individuals who would like to invest passively in Florida’s growing short-term rental market may be interested in the latest news from <a href="http://techvestor.com/">Techvestor</a>. After growing its STR portfolio in the Poconos, Scottsdale, and Blue Ridge, Georgia, the company is now operating in Florida vacation destinations that include Tampa, Clearwater, Panama City Beach, and West Palm Beach.</p><p>In only a few short years, Techvestor has quickly risen to the top of the STR industry because of its proprietary software that analyzes over 100k properties, 18MM data points, and 250 short-term rental markets every month. Techvestor uses its technology to conduct extensive research and development, which CEO/Co-Founder Sief Khafagi states led to the company’s decision to move into Florida.</p><p>“We already knew that Florida was a leader in the vacation scene in the United States - remember that in 2022, it received 1MM visitors to its gorgeous beaches,” he says. “That alone attracted us to the state. Then, when we looked at the data from our platform on specific markets like Tampa and Clearwater, we saw the long-term potential for our $37MM STR portfolio. We decided to jump so that we could be early to this asset class in Florida.”</p><p>COO/Co-Founder Sabrina Guler explains that each STR is in the process of a thorough renovation that will take it up to the standards of the Techvestor brand. “It is a true team effort that leverages the expertise of our team as well as the relationships we make with local contractors and vendors,” she says. “When an STR is acquired, we create a detailed plan and schedule for its transformation, including any repairs, maintenance, painting, and other needs it may have. Then we work together each day to make the STR into a beautiful property that is ready to be listed on Airbnb.”</p><p>The renovation of all properties is proceeding on schedule, and many of them are in the final stage, which includes putting in furniture, fire pits, hot tubs, and other crowning touches. Yes, even things like movie theaters, golf simulators, and more. </p><p>“This is the most exciting part because we get to personalize each STR and make it into a unique destination,” says General Partner and Head of Capital Markets Sam Silverman. “After months of hard work and commitment, we are at the finish line, when the paint has dried, pictures have been hung, pillows have been fluffed, and we have gone through the final checklist. The first guest may walk in only a few days later and enjoy the fun and relaxation of the experience that’s been created.”</p><p>Khafagi states that the Techvestor team is studying other Florida markets, looking for destinations that are right for its multimillion-dollar portfolio.</p><p>“We are excited about the future of Techvestor and passive investors in Florida,” he says. “We are making STRs more accessible for the everyday investor and helping them discover a historically difficult-to-access asset class.”</p><p><i>Techvestor is a technology development company and real estate firm that offers a proprietary platform for investment in short-term rental properties. Using its 16-point strategy and software, Techvestor locates, acquires, prepares, and manages properties on behalf of passive investors, including maintenance, design, management, renovations, and more.</i></p><p><i>For more information, please visit Techvestor’s </i><a href="https://techvestor.com/"><i>website</i></a><i> or contact:</i></p><p><i>Sief Khafagi, Techvestor</i></p><p><a href="mailto:hello@techvestor.com"><i>hello@techvestor.com</i></a><i> </i></p>
27 Feb, 2023
Empire Auto Protect plans to go public on the New York Stock Exchange
<p>Dover (Delaware) –</p><p> </p><p>Empire Auto Protect, a luxury automotive warranty company founded by CEO Robin Kassin, is excited to announce intentions to list on the New York Stock Exchange. This is a significant step forward for the firm, and Kassin hopes it will help the company connect and inspire more devoted clients in need of high-quality coverage.</p><p> </p><p>"This is a watershed moment for us because we will now be able to develop, expand, and boost our exposure," Kassin adds. "We envision that going public on the NYSE will allow investors to buy and sell shares of our stock."</p><p> </p><p>A large participant in the vehicle warranty sector, Empire Auto Protect offers customers specialist advice and 24-hour support, as well as engine-related services like oil changes and filter replacements. </p><p> </p><p>“Regarding safeguarding their vehicles, automobile owners have varying priorities,” Kassin asserts, "We provide several strategies tailored to meet their demands.” Some of the services help with transmission, cooling, ABS brakes, front and back-end suspension, steering, air conditioning/heating, fuel, and electrical systems.</p><p> </p><p>To help prevent trip interruptions, Empire Auto Protect also offers fuel refill and roadside assistance, rental cars, and lock-out support. "We help owners of turbo/supercharged and high-tech vehicles," Kassin explains. "These services are intended to keep cars in good operating order and to get customers back on the road as soon as possible, if they experience a breakdown."</p><p> </p><p>"We are excited to go public on the NYSE," Kassin says. "We are a company determined to provide our customers with the highest service and coverage possible, along with the best protection for their individual needs. Our major goal is to give peace of mind." </p><p> </p><p><i>Empire Auto Protect is a car warranty company servicing nationwide focused on offering tailored and numerous protection plans and auto services for customers. The company provides tailored advice and 24/7 support. To learn more, contact Empire Auto Protect at 888-345-0084 and visit the company website at </i></p><p><a href="http://empireautoprotect.com"><i>empireautoprotect.com</i></a></p><p><i>.</i></p>
23 Feb, 2023
Empire Auto Protect to be First Auto Warranty Firm to Go Public on New York Stock Exchange
<p>Dover, Delaware -</p><p>Empire Auto Protect, a Forbes top-rated luxury automobile warranty company created by CEO Robin Kassin, is pleased to report plans to go public on New York Stock Exchange. This is a large step forward for the company, and CEO and founder Kassin is confident that it will help the company reach and inspire more loyal customers in need of high-quality coverage. </p><p>“This is a milestone for us, as we will now be able to grow, expand, and increase our visibility,” says Kassin, “We hope going public on the NYSE will also provide investors the opportunity to buy and sell shares of our stock.”</p><p>Already a major player in the automobile warranty industry, Empire Auto Protect has consistently earned five-star Google customer service evaluations since its inception. The company reviews demonstrate a commitment to providing clients with the finest service and coverage available.</p><p>The firm offers specialized guidance and 24-hour assistance, as well as engine-related services such as oil changes and filter replacements. It also assists clients by offering guidance and service repair on gearbox, cooling, ABS brakes, front and rear end suspension, steering, air conditioning/heating, gasoline, and electrical systems.</p><p>Empire Car Protect also provides petrol refill and roadside assistance, rental automobiles, and lock-out help to avoid irritating journey interruptions. "We deal with turbo/supercharge and hi-tech car owners," Kassin says. "These services are meant to keep vehicles working at their best and to get customers back on the road fast if they have a breakdown."</p><p>"We are overjoyed to have gotten this far by exceeding the competition and are excited to go public on NYSE," Kassin says. "We are devoted to providing our customers with the greatest service and coverage available, along with the best protection for their unique needs. Our primary objective is to provide peace of mind, and we are pleased to see that this is reflected in the reviews.” Now, Empire Auto is excited to list its shares on the New York Stock Exchange and expand its customer base with car warranty services.</p><p><i>Empire Auto Protect is a car warranty company servicing nationwide focused on offering tailored and numerous protection plans and auto services for customers. The company provides tailored advice and 24/7 support. To learn more, contact Empire Auto Protect at 888-345-0084 and visit the company website at </i><a href="http://empireautoprotect.com"><i>empireautoprotect.com</i></a><i>.</i></p>
24 Feb, 2023
David Phillips
<p>Fondo Receives $3MM in Pre-Seed Funding to Assist Startups with Taxes</p><p>SAN FRANCISCO, CA–<a href="https://www.tryfondo.com/">Fondo</a>, an all-in-one accounting platform for startups, has raised <a href="https://www.axios.com/pro/fintech-deals/2023/02/13/fondo-raises-3m">$3MM</a> in pre-seed funding. The San Francisco company, founded by CEO David J. Phillips, received $1.8MM in non-dilutive (non-equity) financing from Capchase as well as <a href="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-pro-rata-467e8133-c922-4da6-8850-623b57ffb3da.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axiosprorata&stream=top">$1.2MM</a> in equity from Y Combinator, GMO Venture Partners, Liquid2 Ventures, and Transmedia Capital. Phillips states that with the funding, Fondo will invest in its long-term success, including product development and the expansion of its team.</p><p>“The $3MM in pre-seed funding is helpful for us because now we will be able to significantly invest in hiring, developing our product, and bringing Fondo to more founders,” he says. “We are excited to be able to help more early-stage founders use our intuitive dashboard to navigate tax compliance and credits with clarity and speed.”</p><p>Fondo will continue to help early-stage startups without an in-house finance team to streamline their bookkeeping, taxes, and tax credits. Startups are eligible for up to $500,000/year in cash-back tax credits, and Fondo assists them with compiling accurate financial statements and filing taxes on time, which are required when claiming these lucrative tax credits. Tax credits offer a complementary path to potential fund growth and are not dependent on VCs and the funding market. </p><p>With the pre-seed funding, Fondo will work to enable its clients to extend their runway and invest in growth during a time when it’s very difficult to bridge any round. “In 2023 Fondo is excited to level the playing field for new startup founders with a tech-enabled platform that can make their accounting and taxes easy, accurate, and fast,” says Phillips. </p><p><a href="https://www.tryfondo.com/"><i>Fondo</i></a><i> is a San Francisco-based startup that was founded in 2020 by CEO </i><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/davjphillips/"><i>David J. Phillips</i></a><i> and serves as an all-in-one accounting platform. Fondo specializes in helping early-stage companies get their taxes filed, books closed, and cash back from the IRS (the average startup gets back $21,000 per year). Fondo was ranked number one in the fintech category on Product Hunt for August 2022 and secured over $3.5MM in cash back from the IRS in Q4 2022 for its customers. In 2022, Fondo experienced top decile growth, including doubling its team to 54 people and nearly tripling its annual recurring revenue to $3MM. Today, more than 500 startups use Fondo. </i></p><p><i>For more information about Fondo, please see its </i><a href="https://www.tryfondo.com/"><i>website</i></a><i> or contact:</i></p><p><i>Dylan S. Phillips, Fondo</i></p><p><a href="mailto:dylan@tryfondo.com"><i>dylan@tryfondo.com</i></a><i> </i></p>
23 Feb, 2023
David Phillips
<p>With $3MM in Pre-Seed Funding, Fondo Scales Up to Help Startups with Accounting and Taxes</p><p>SAN FRANCISCO, CA– San Francisco-based startup <a href="https://www.tryfondo.com/">Fondo</a> has raised <a href="https://www.axios.com/pro/fintech-deals/2023/02/13/fondo-raises-3m">$3MM</a> in pre-seed funding. Fondo, whose accounting platform streamlines tax compliance and bookkeeping for early-stage startups, received an impressive $1.8MM in non-dilutive financing from Capchase and another <a href="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-pro-rata-467e8133-c922-4da6-8850-623b57ffb3da.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axiosprorata&stream=top">$1.2MM</a> in equity from Y Combinator, GMO Venture Partners, Liquid2 Ventures, and Transmedia Capital. CEO & Founder David Phillips states that with the financing, Fondo will implement its expansion program, with the ultimate goal of providing an all-in-one accounting platform for startup founders across the United States.</p><p>Phillips is passionate about helping early-stage founders have the tools they need to easily get their taxes filed, remain compliant, and capitalize on any tax credits they may be eligible for. </p><p>“We started <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/fondohq/mycompany/">Fondo</a> because we wanted to make it a lot easier for founders to do their taxes right the first time and even get cash back from the IRS,” he explains. “We decided to raise funding so that we could optimize our ability to help more startups with their taxes and bookkeeping.”</p><p>Fondo’s easy-to-use dashboard allows any founder, regardless of their accounting background, to stay tax compliant. It plugs into a company’s banking and bookkeeping system and enables owners to get their financial statements, taxes filed, and maximize cash-back tax credits. </p><p>“Tech startups are eligible for up to $500,000/year in cash-back tax credits,” says Phillips, “so we want to do everything we can to reduce how much money is left on the table. With Fondo, the average startup gets back $21,000 per year.”</p><p>In 2023, Fondo will focus on empowering startup founders to extend their runways and push forward in a challenging business climate.</p><p><a href="https://www.tryfondo.com/"><i>Fondo</i></a><i> is a San Francisco-based startup that was founded in 2020 by CEO </i><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/davjphillips/"><i>David J. Phillips</i></a><i> and serves as an all-in-one accounting platform. Fondo specializes in helping early-stage companies get their taxes filed, books closed, and cash back from the IRS. Fondo was ranked number one in the fintech category on Product Hunt for August 2022 and secured over $3.5MM in cash back from the IRS in Q4 2022 for its customers. In 2022, Fondo experienced top decile growth, including doubling its team to 54 people and nearly tripling its annual recurring revenue to $3MM. Today, more than 500 startups use Fondo. </i></p><p><i>For more information about Fondo, please see its </i><a href="https://www.tryfondo.com/"><i>website</i></a><i> or contact:</i></p><p><i>Dylan S. Phillips, Fondo</i></p><p><i>dylan@tryfondo.com</i></p><p><i>415-732-9687</i></p>
23 Feb, 2023
EdTech Startup King of the Curve Helps 10,000 Students Get Into Med School
<h2>EdTech Startup King of the Curve Helps 10,000 Students Get Into Med School</h2><p><i>St. Louis, MO</i> - Educational technology company<a href="https://kingofthecurve.org/"> King of the Curve</a> (KOTC) has announced that as of the first quarter of 2023, it has helped 10,000 students get into medical school by assisting them with exam preparation and study materials provided through its family of apps.</p><p>KOTC is an educational technology company designed to help students score top marks on rigorous standardized exams. The app, created to service the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), is a unique mobile application designed with the intention of making studying both fun and accessible. With over 100,000 downloads in the last two years, as well as the number one rank for MCAT test prep apps in the Apple App Store, King of the Curve is growing significantly as a top-rated educational application.</p><p>Co-founded by Florida Southern College alumni Heath Rutledge-Jukes, William Kelly, and AndrewPaul McIntosh, King of the Curve has grown from an idea to a successful business that is consistently growing. “We feel that we’ve seen this exciting number of students get into med school based on KOTC’s truly unique concept,” states Rutledge-Jukes, pointing toward the app’s goal of marrying technology with the same finely honed trivia-based study technique that allowed Rutledge-Jukes to achieve the highest MCAT score in the school’s history.</p><p>“With much hard work, I scored in the 99th percentile on the MCAT,” reveals Rutledge-Jukes. “Despite this, I wasn’t satisfied with the existing study materials for this notoriously hard and important exam. I was frustrated by my studying experience.” He reached out to fellow classmate and friend, William Kelly, a triple major, and Cornell University graduate. </p><p>“Early on we felt that KOTC could only experience success if we had the right minds for the right tasks,” says Rutledge-Jukes. “The goal was always to help our fellow classmates improve their study skills and get into med school. With 10,000 success stories, we feel that we’re well on our way.”</p><p>Lead executive William Kelly adds that KOTC offers students a more affordable option than similar competitors. “No student should have to pay thousands of dollars to do well on their exam,” he says. “We want to transform the test prep industry from its repetitive, expensive, and isolating state into a fun, engaging, and affordable experience while simultaneously building a supportive community of like-minded individuals along the way. Our company is a personality that provides value to our users. We are an energy source that is the heartbeat of students going through a difficult time studying for high-stakes exams.”</p><p>He adds that <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/sustainability/doctor-shortages-are-here-and-they-ll-get-worse-if-we-don-t-act">according to a report</a> released by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the US is facing a doctor shortage that is only getting worse. The forecast predicts a shortage of between 37,800 and 124,000 providers in primary care, surgery, psychiatry, family medicine, and other fields within the next twelve years.</p><p>“The US desperately needs these 10,000 med students that KOTC has been able to help,” McIntosh states. “And it needs 10,000 more. Essentially, the US population is growing and aging, and simply put, the increased healthcare demand is being insufficiently met. Young people are flooded with rising educational costs, disabling them from becoming America’s much-needed professionals of tomorrow.”</p><p>The team behind KOTC is excited by the success of the app and the lives it has changed. Lead developer Rutledge-Jukes says, “Our aim is to help pre-medical students by sharing the tools and strategies which helped us succeed through a fun and engaging app.”</p><p>Since the company launched the app, KOTC has been featured in TEDx and on Apple’s top 50 educational apps leaderboard. While the app’s creators are working toward expanding into the 150 other standardized examinations held worldwide, their most recent additions as stand-alone mobile apps are DAT King of the Curve for the Dental Admissions Test, NCLEX King of the Curve for the Nursing exam, and PA-CAT King of the Curve for the Physician Associate College Admissions Test.</p><p>With over 100,000 followers on social media, more than 100,000 downloads, and over 10,000 students successfully accepted into medical school using King of the Curve, the leadership team behind the app is dedicated to changing the way students study.</p><p><i>King of the Curve is an educational technology company that has created a series of apps designed to help students pass exams. KOTC apps are currently available for students looking to pass the MCAT, NCLEX, PA-CAT, and DAT exams.</i></p><p>Website:<a href="https://kingofthecurve.org/">https://mcat.kingofthecurve.org/</a> </p><p>Contact: contact@kingofthecurve.org</p><p>Download: <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mcat-king-of-the-curve/id1534662918">https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mcat-king-of-the-curve/id1534662918</a> </p><p>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@kingofthecurve?lang=en">https://www.tiktok.com/@kingofthecurve</a></p><p>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/king-of-the-curve/">https://www.linkedin.com/company/king-of-the-curve/</a></p>
15 Feb, 2023
StrideCharge’s Wireless Charging Phone Mount Allows Cyclists to Ride As Long As They Want
<p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/PLZXfw0l41CrtWxRcEBQnxu4IwJZLvpblGXvkLH54trA2dY1VKrDRAzXg-4oQrh_FgZRRR_NckmWUq-Pu1oqJzzvAe9FBewGW7g3JrJZqgrCIsYe9R582g2YTMgIjhpEv5SEbvZ8UtcftNKBBrUnWDI"></figure><p>Picture this: it is early Saturday morning, and the sun is barely up. You have been looking forward to getting on your bike all week, and now that you are on the road, miles of adventure stretch before you. Your wheels are humming underneath you, your legs are pumping rhythmically, and you feel like a Tour de France winner. Then, out in the middle of nowhere, you look down at your phone to check your location and see that it’s dead. As you coast to a stop, your heart sinks because the nearest convenience store is miles back, and it might not even be open yet. Yes, it really would have been nice to have <a href="https://stridecharge.com">StrideCharge’s</a> first patent-pending wireless Charging Phone Case and Mount for bicycles.</p><p>It is a common problem for cyclists: how to keep their iPhones charged as they explore backroads, cities, and woods. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stridecharge/">StrideCharge</a>, whose team members are cyclists themselves, has innovated the solution: an iPhone Charge Case, built-in battery, and Mount. Their number-one goal was to create a product that would be simple for cyclists to use and that would keep their phones charged for as long as they wanted to ride.</p><p>It starts with simplicity. StrideCharge knows that cyclists simply want to get on their bikes and ride, so they focused on making the Mount ultra-easy to install. No tools are needed - instead, it just locks in place on handlebars that are 25-40mm in diameter. Once on, the Mount stays on. You do not have to grip it to prevent it from slipping as you ride. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/CtpFR-sFvW54FAQ3QhWYlE-9KPTQilm8UYT4xxGHIyQFM6xzmV26lU_0RQ6L8kZaXlRItla7KibCaonSjYpr2b1tqLEJw2N97m82lCFRAU1IYzX_tjZdiUlhDdFY0oWSevnsfnxQjr1t1Yx40Ljce-E"></figure><p>There is no point, of course, in taking along your iPhone if it is going to be damaged by the shock of going over tree branches, rocks, and other rough terrain. That is why after extensive research and testing, StrideCharge chose to use two very tough materials in its products: ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) and TPU (thermoplastic polyurethanes). Your Apple iPhone will be insulated from the jolts and vibrations that accompany every ride no matter how smooth the pavement might look.</p><p>As a bonus, StrideCharge also allows you to use your phone even if it is still charging. What that means is that no matter where you are in your ride, you will be able to check trail maps, send a quick text, call a family member, or just relax, knowing that if you do need your phone, it will be there for you. </p><p>While StrideCharge’s wireless Charging Phone Case and Mount was originally designed for the cycling community, it has quickly expanded into new markets, including for golfers, hikers, campers, mothers with strollers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. </p><p>It isn’t hard to understand why. We all have two basic needs: to get out of the house so that we can explore the world on our own terms and to stay connected on some level with other people. Until StrideCharge innovated a way for iPhones to stay charged wherever we are, we had to choose between one or the other. That often resulted in lost opportunities and discontentment.</p><p>Now, however, we don’t have to choose. Because of StrideCharge, we can have the best of both worlds - we can get on our bikes (or hit the golf course) and go off the grid as much as we like while still maintaining contact with the “real world.” Best of all, we determine when we return to it, not our phones, and that is giving us exactly what we have been wanting all along: freedom.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GfwS2u3AnI_ZWA1M6LyWuGFyxEDwFLHbA1nfyYI5wAbdtoXjgl9dX_58mTgRCKyOHvZkiVHf2RQsqA3lVpjAsEGx8gPFA_qmkEUMlCDRmm93zwaWH0aETl7zrSeAc66eoDmQKrqLNfHYmCZQ526BvSc"></figure>
16 Mar, 2023
Jason
<h2>Truss Financial Group To Offer Free Refinancing</h2><p><i>Ladera Ranch, CA</i> - Truss Financial Group (TFG), a mortgage company that specializes in non-qualified mortgage programs, is working on a new program designed specifically for business owners, entrepreneurs, and real estate investors. </p><p>The TFG Rate Guarantee Program allows these unique home buyers, who may not meet the traditional underwriting standards set by banks and other conventional lenders, to participate in a free refinance opportunity in 2024. Potential homeowners and investors can purchase real estate now and take advantage of lower rates in the future. The TFG Rate Guarantee Program is designed to help clients take advantage of declining home prices and secure financing even if they don't meet the specific standards set by banks and other conventional lenders.</p><p>Offering the TFG Rate Guarantee program is integral to the growth of Truss Financial Group as it provides a unique solution for buyers who are hesitant to make a purchase due to the current trend of rising interest rates. This free refinancing opportunity gives TFG a competitive advantage in a challenging market, and allows the firm a chance to demonstrate its commitment to using creative solutions to provide clients with customized financing options. This, in turn, helps the company establish itself as a trusted partner for these borrowers and can drive growth and expand its customer base.</p><p>CEO and founder Jeff Miller shares that the TFG Rate Guarantee Program was conceived due to the fact that many of TFG’s clients shared a growing reluctance to purchase real estate, giving recent rate increases. “The TFG Rate Guarantee Program is a unique opportunity for buyers to feel confident about making a purchase during a time of uncertainty in the housing market,” Miller says. “This new program is part of our portfolio of creative loan solutions designed to meet the often complex needs of self-employed real estate buyers.”</p><p>He refers to the fact that TFG specializes in “non-qualified mortgages” (NonQM), such as stated income mortgages, bank statement mortgages, <a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/dscr/debt-service-coverage-ratio-mortgage">Debt Service Coverage Ratio/DSCR</a> mortgages, <a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/no-doc-mortgages">no doc mortgages</a>, hard money mortgages, and fix & flip mortgages. “The mortgage industry has been subject to stricter underwriting standards since the 2008 financial crisis,” Miller states. “As a result, most conventional mortgage lenders and banks are no longer offering stated income mortgages, as they are not classified as ‘qualified mortgages’.”</p><p>To overcome this challenge, Truss Financial Group has established partnerships with smaller lenders to provide financing options for the self-employed. The company utilizes a unique approach to help self-employed borrowers get approved for a mortgage, such as using their last 12 months of bank statement deposits as their income. In addition, TFG has established relationships with multiple well-capitalized banks, including Fortune 500 level financial services firms, which provide the funding necessary to focus on meeting the needs of self-employed real estate buyers.</p><p>“Due to this financial backing, we’ve been able to offer our clients a range of mortgage options to meet their specific needs,” Miller says. “We’ve been able to help thousands of business owners and real estate investors purchase real estate, even with unpredictable income. It’s due to this backing that we’re able to offer our new free refinancing program, with the hopes that it will encourage entrepreneurs and investors to make those real estate purchases with confidence.”</p><p>Truss Financial Group employs an experienced team of mortgage brokers with personal experience as real estate investors, and this has given the firm a unique perspective on the struggles faced by self-employed borrowers in need of mortgage financing. With over 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry, TFG was founded to serve small business owners and real estate investors.</p><p><i>Truss Financial Group is a mortgage company that specializes in providing financing solutions for self-employed individuals and real estate investors who may not meet the traditional underwriting standards set by banks and other conventional lenders. The company offers various types of non-qualified mortgage programs, such as stated income mortgages, bank statement mortgages, Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) mortgages, hard money mortgages, and fix & flip mortgages, which are designed specifically for self-employed and real estate investors. Truss Financial Group was founded in 2006 and is based in Ladera Ranch, California.</i></p><p>Website: <a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/">https://trussfinancialgroup.com/</a> </p><p>Contact: Jason Nichols at <a href="mailto:hello@trussfinancialgroup.com">hello@trussfinancialgroup.com</a> </p>
23 Mar, 2023
Jason
<h2>Truss Financial Group Announces TFG Rate Guarantee Program</h2><p><i>Ladera Ranch, CA</i> - California-based mortgage company <a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/">Truss Financial Group</a> has released details about its exclusive TFG Rate Guarantee Program, which will launch in 2024. </p><p>Due to the current trend of rising interest rates, many potential buyers are hesitant to make a purchase and are waiting for rates to go down, leading to a decrease in demand and a drop in home prices. To assist clients in this situation, Truss Financial Group (TFG) has introduced the TFG Rate Guarantee program. This program allows potential buyers to take advantage of current declining prices by offering a free refinance opportunity in 2024. This way, potential homeowners can purchase now and take advantage of lower rates in the future. The program is targeted at self-employed individuals and real estate investors seeking <a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/bank-statement-mortgages">bank statement loans</a>.</p><p>TFG specializes in "non-qualified mortgages'' (NonQM), aka <a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/self-employed-mortgages">self-employed mortgages</a>, which offer flexibility in terms of income and credit requirements, allowing self-employed and real estate investors to secure financing even if they don't meet the specific underwriting standards set by banks and conventional lenders. The refinancing offer for 2024 was designed by the TFG team as parts of its desire to utilize innovative solutions to help clients, and will be available to individuals who do not meet the traditional requirements set by banks.</p><p>CEO Jeff Miller says that he and his team created the TFG Rate Guarantee program with self-employed individuals in mind. “For traditional mortgages, these potential buyers must provide tax returns and financial statements to prove their income and stability,” Miller says. “This can be challenging for those who have a fluctuating income or have a lot of write-offs, as it may not accurately reflect their ability to repay the loan.”</p><p>He adds that it can be harder for an entrepreneur to obtain a mortgage compared to someone who has a traditional W2 job because they may not have a consistent or verifiable income. “Banks and traditional mortgage lenders use tax returns and financial statements to verify a borrower's income and stability, which can be a challenge for self-employed individuals who have a fluctuating income or have a lot of write-offs,” Miller says. “As we have received more self-employed clients at TFG, we realized that rising interest rates were deterring more and more of our clients from real estate purchases, and we sought to create a program to combat that.”</p><p>He says that the TFG Rate Guarantee program takes into account the fact that the firm’s self-employed clients often have a higher debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. “Since DTI is used by traditional lenders to determine a borrower's ability to repay the loan based on their monthly income and monthly debt obligations, a self-employed borrower with a high DTI may struggle to qualify for a mortgage,” Miller says. “On paper, a higher DTI makes it look like they have too much debt relative to their income. This isn’t always the case.”</p><p>Miller shares that the firm’s new program will allow for the fact that many of its clients who are self-employed have complex financial situations with multiple sources of income and expenses, which can make it difficult for lenders to accurately assess their financial stability and ability to repay the loan. “Our program will be open to these individuals,” Miller affirms. “We get many clients whose complex income situations have made it harder for them to get approved for mortgages than those with traditional W2 jobs.”</p><p>He adds that qualifying individuals are welcome to contact the firm to initiate the application process now.</p><p><i>Truss Financial Group is a mortgage company that specializes in providing financing solutions for self-employed individuals and real estate investors who may not meet the traditional underwriting standards set by banks and other conventional lenders. The company offers various types of non-qualified mortgage programs, such as stated income mortgages, bank statement mortgages, Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) mortgages, hard money mortgages, and fix & flip mortgages, which are designed specifically for self-employed and real estate investors. Truss Financial Group was founded in 2006 and is based in Ladera Ranch, California.</i></p><p>Website: <a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/">https://trussfinancialgroup.com/</a> </p><p>Contact: Jason Nichols at <a href="mailto:hello@trussfinancialgroup.com">hello@trussfinancialgroup.com</a> </p>
30 Mar, 2023
Jason
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/e_5X7jyFD7Ii-CbDknNWzqsTi6HmXdZCPShIjH6Iz_psgNyMqm0mIqTCTrMojZ2OdPEzaWeSPUWSx6tmxatwfYAxiX5QYnNdCiGXlTxsBH4kfPAeUD62MsHRtWM-NW7Fy_tjokHB--jJsJ41D-133og"></figure><h2>Truss Financial Group Reveals Unique Mortgage Solution for 2024</h2><p><i>Ladera Ranch, CA</i> - Truss Financial Group (TFG), a mortgage company, has revealed details about its free financing offer for buyers in 2024. With the current trend of rising interest rates, the team at TFG has reported an increase in buyers who are hesitant to make a purchase and are waiting for rates to go down. This has led to a decrease in demand and a drop in home prices. </p><p>To help clients in this situation, Truss Financial Group is introducing the TFG Rate Guarantee program, which allows potential buyers to take advantage of current declining prices by offering a free refinance opportunity in 2024. This way, potential homeowners can buy now and take advantage of lower rates in the future.</p><p>The mortgage company states that this opportunity is targeted at self-employed individuals and real estate investors who may not meet the traditional underwriting standards set by banks, as Truss Financial Group specializes in "non-qualified mortgages" (NonQM). Not every borrower meets the traditional underwriting standards set by banks and other conventional lenders. These standards are based on the qualified mortgage (QM) rule established by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) after the 2008 financial crisis. The QM rule requires that borrowers have a steady income, a good credit score, and a manageable level of debt.</p><p>TFG’s leadership team states that its 2024 free financing offer is available for individuals who do not meet these requirements, particularly self-employed individuals and real estate investors who may have too many write-offs or an inconsistent income. For these borrowers, NonQM mortgages provide a valuable alternative to conventional financing options.</p><p>CEO Jeff Miller, an entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in the mortgage industry, says that NonQM mortgages offer flexibility in terms of income and credit requirements, allowing self-employed and real estate investors to secure financing even if they don't meet the specific standards set by banks and other conventional lenders. </p><p>“NonQM mortgages allow these borrowers to purchase or refinance their homes and invest in real estate, which can help drive economic growth and stimulate local communities,” says Miller. “At Truss Financial Group, we offer various types of non-qualified mortgage programs, such as <a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/stated-income-home-loans">stated income</a> mortgages, bank statement mortgages, Debt Service Coverage Ratio (<a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/dscr/debt-service-coverage-ratio-mortgage">DSCR</a>) mortgages, hard money mortgages, and fix & flip mortgages, which are designed specifically for self-employed and real estate investors.”</p><p>He adds that the firm’s refinancing offer for 2024 is a sign of the company’s commitment to using innovative solutions to help clients. “We thrive on being creative,” Miller says. “For example, we can use the last 12 months of a client's bank statement deposits as their income to help them get qualified for a mortgage. This approach allows us to provide financing solutions to clients who may not have a traditional W2 income.”</p><p>Miller feels that TFG possesses a unique perspective and intuitive understanding of the needs and challenges faced by self-employed individuals and real estate investors, since he has been providing mortgage services to clients since the late 1990s. “My focus has been on helping self-employed individuals secure mortgage loans since 2006,” Miller shares. “I’m passionate about assisting entrepreneurs in obtaining real estate financing that is not offered by traditional banks.”</p><p>He says that his team is optimistic about the TFG Rate Guarantee program, and hopes that this unique opportunity will allow hesitant homebuyers to feel confidence about making a purchase.</p><p>“A good entrepreneur has the ability to identify and capitalize on opportunities and has a deep understanding of the customer's needs,” Miller says. “This is who our clients are and who Truss Financial Group is. No two people are the same - so a one size fits all mortgage is simply unrealistic in this market. Our goal is to offer a unique solution to every individual situation.”</p><p><i>Truss Financial Group is a mortgage company that specializes in providing financing solutions for self-employed individuals and real estate investors who may not meet the traditional underwriting standards set by banks and other conventional lenders. The company offers various types of non-qualified mortgage programs, such as stated income mortgages, bank statement mortgages, Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) mortgages, hard money mortgages, and fix & flip mortgages, which are designed specifically for self-employed and real estate investors. Truss Financial Group was founded in 2006 and is based in Ladera Ranch, California.</i></p><p>Website: <a href="https://trussfinancialgroup.com/">https://trussfinancialgroup.com/</a> </p><p>Contact: Jason Nichols at <a href="mailto:hello@trussfinancialgroup.com">hello@trussfinancialgroup.com</a> </p>
02 Mar, 2023
Smart Retail and Data Analysis–Sandeep Shekhawat
<p>With the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices monitoring thousands of sensors on retail machinery such as freezers, coolers, refrigerated trucks that provide temperature information on the food being stored or shipped, there is an incredible need for human interaction as a way to extract and gather this data. Collecting, analyzing and acting upon this volume of data requires a wide range of technology as well as expertise.</p><p>As one of the largest retail chains in the world, based on their revenue, Walmart has been working with these data gathering technologies and finding issues within the sheer amount of information that needed to be processed. Almost one terabyte of data is analyzed and about 1.5 billion messages are received by Walmart each day. The largest problem has been established as connecting so many different devices from various suppliers, generations, and languages.</p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/f1SCaSoCKOMbXRXMA-4yJJPhBJocDWuyISuzOWzt26iEgUbHRy5Ihm9cnpvIPY-_QOMoAEl6XbwcLn-yj-IMCdLoBG34rTsXDejudrlEBWYwh_WqLDjTjdh3SKLhz3CX9t4k8nn3uE8el8vLtuJYDto"></figure><p>As a Director of Engineering at Walmart Labs USA, Sandeep Shekhawat has been furthering the IoT solutions and their applications at Walmart stores to help enable efficient store operations by collecting data from devices and machinery in the stores.</p><p>Sandeep takes on a valuable role by normalizing the data and taking control of the wide scope of information. This can be achieved by leveraging the cloud which has proven to be an advantage, enabling Sandeep to not only centralize the information Walmart devices are collecting in real time, but to also control it.</p><p>This direct use of Smart Retail works to communicate everything on a faster level, such as:</p><ul><li>Stock depletion on shelves</li><li>Maintenance deadlines for machines</li><li>Regular sensor notifications</li></ul><p>Utilizing his mastery of the Smart Retail technology and advancements, Sandeep has worked with Walmart to build its own software, designed to connect, compile and analyze the data efficiently and quickly. With a total of 15 years of industry experience and expertise, Sandeep completed his Masters in Computer Science from Cornell University and has a substantial knowledge of IoT platforms. This has enabled him to maintain a steady foothold in the industry. </p><p>Sandeep Shekhawat has also been a regular speaker and panelist at international conferences, IEEE conferences and also presented his past work in local IoT chapters, furthering an audience of like-minded tech experts to show off his skills and know-how.</p>
02 Mar, 2023
How Sandeep Shekhawat has Maintained his Tech Expertise
<p>With a completed Masters in Computer Science from Cornell University, Sandeep Shekhawat has been working with reputable and high-value companies such as Apple, WhatsApp and other tech chains to develop substantial advancements in their technology. </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/xmXFWqqqs79Xpi-UwrW4qNG5AkKAQVeIHgtJel0-45HJv8kH9_xrAdyAlG4Gcrei2g-ZfeqLhXNpH_acnvaqzJI57ZZtKux7IcEYESOYAtNXWpkZkvkS6JgM1riWnpbHCJ-jpV8ZWRvZc7slSkwiQJ0"></figure><p>With a wide array of substantial expertise in areas of the enterprise Internet of Things, which is the interconnection via the internet of computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data, he also maintains a deep well of knowledge in the area of Smart Retail. </p><p>While working for Apple, he applied one of the biggest applications of IoT, giving him a lead when it comes to structured tech applications. He was able to build and scale IoT applications for millions of devices for Apple Retail Stores world wide.</p><p>“At Apple, I deployed a solution where devices in stores and small businesses around the world would be able to fetch critical pricing data,” Sandeep explains. This development worked wonders and helped save Apple millions of dollars, while improving store productivity, especially during holiday time when there is significant increase in foot traffic. </p><p>Most recently, Sandeep Shekhawat has been furthering the IoT solutions and their applications at Walmart stores to help enable efficient store operations. This process works by collecting data from devices and machinery within the stores, and utilizing this information to create a more streamline operations process.</p><p>His work, across multiple industries and platforms has been integral to the companies that he works within. Maintaining a foothold in the tech industry, Sandeep has been noted as a reputable expert in all things IoT, and Smart Retail. Through his extensive work, one of the biggest chat application companies, WhatsApp, he was able to roll out a P2M solution for emerging markets like India and Brazil through a deep collaboration with FinTech partners in local regions. </p><p>Sandeep Shekhawat has also been a regular speaker at international conferences, IEEE conferences and also presented his past work in local IoT chapters, furthering an audience of like-minded tech experts to show off his skills and know-how. Boasting a total of 15 years of industry experience and expertise, Sandeep is optimistic about the future of IoT and other technological advances in areas of Smart Retail and communications.</p>
02 Mar, 2023
Sandeep Shekhawat Discusses How Smart Retail is Working to Stave Off Recession
<p>The potential economic recession is expected to have a major impact on businesses across the country. With consumer spending reduced and increased costs, businesses are finding it difficult to stay afloat. Companies are struggling to maintain their profits and keep their employees and customers safe during this time. This is causing businesses to make drastic changes to their operations, including reducing staff, cutting costs, and changing the way they operate. These changes can have a devastating impact on businesses, as they are forced to make difficult decisions that could ultimately have lasting effects. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/loI6YxFjOzQWqjXn3J-bx6P5iLHtrzSjBL44jfvQ4x3NVojClwFSF8z2riXrVotb_eFp0_lGYw1mX6B_upWfcJVZ9EFbmFlwK-kdqk4e2uUIF-j7S_4C0LDQXhYGe_YVaf27BvP0gII2rMepaM0J3B0"></figure><p>Sandeep Shekhawat is a director of engineering for a highly successful, global retail chain and has been working on solutions to this problem. By working to help disrupt Supply Chain and keep prices low during the recession, Sandeep is taking on a major role in the economic systems within America, as well as on an international level. </p><p>After completing his Masters in Computer Science from Cornell University, Sandeep has been working with highly trafficked companies including Apple, WhatsApp and other tech chains. He has substantial expertise in areas of the enterprise Internet of Things, which is the interconnection via the internet of computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data. He also maintains a deep well of knowledge in the area of Smart Retail. </p><p>More recently, Sandeep Shekhawat has been implementing smart solutions like deploying mobile applications for associate’s productivity, converting hardware based features into Software based features through the use of AI and deploying IoT solutions to help enable efficient store operations. This process works by collecting data from devices, sensors and machinery within the stores, and utilizing this information to create a more streamline operations process.</p><p>Although no one can fully comprehend and guess how the market will rise and fall with 100% accuracy, Sandeep has been working diligently to create and develop systems that give the right information to the right people, in an effort to keep retail prices low enough to stave off the potential of a recession. </p><p>Economics professionals will insist that the American market is not in a recession at the moment, though the market trends may show that we could very well be headed for one soon. With the use of Smart Retail and the understanding of Global Supply Chains, the technology and expertise that Sandeep is bringing to the industry is giving US retail stores, more specifically, Walmart chains, a way to slow, or even reverse these falling market trends. </p>
17 Feb, 2023
Jason Peteler
<p>Meet Ori Ayonmike, Founder of Wilshire Partners</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vvlPYkzxzEdldIBIX_kbJ0qgn7GOhJ6aGBy8exlAnUdKvVebQdgGCFa3TMiCZSv9xMgF4vB5gMCHF5RhQXLb0HPZ_5lazJSiNx6Wm1I8Br_2lUfRB69WtutVvCf2wlDFAqi_c3uD0BLm10Im7pVGXBI"></figure><p><i>Ori Ayonmike</i></p><p>Ori Ayonmike, the founder of Wilshire Partners, has always had a passion for bringing a new creative outlook to real estate in Los Angeles. Upon moving to the United States from Nigeria in 2002, Ori attended UCLA as a Political Science major, following in the footsteps of his father, who also studied Political Science at the London School of Economics; however, his father’s interest turned to hospitality and commercial development with restaurants and what would be the first 5-star hotel in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HJLwGB8BQMHjn52VAEJ9PXg9XkDaRmSXS9fpcG3f_pFHWKlp61FOoiu_nFzPTXWPwR7x-O2k-A5AbzQMbzVkDeTYzZ6XW1eRwkngvf7tdY5U8g4_4BKax-VIiVeavjaPUXdTvzmqFcrQBIRk9N_SCg"></figure><p><i>342 N Windsor</i></p><p>The inspiration for his first project, located at 342 N Windsor Blvd, named “LE RENOUVEAU” (French for The Revival), was a bold, reimagined interpretation of a 100-year-old European country house in Hancock Park that sold at a record price for a property that size. There were multiple offers in the first few days.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/0r5IM25muGTJP9StGrUEbMuzSyjtMcOnRPPM9U8yJ5mN53K83dx5wTcBPIN4dX2CgW605VUQ7VYYKQlHuxTGyhCccORenM2mmBBinkeHn_Zcj6708ivUfS0ulk2iEYHvhYExawmMgwvCmhMngf4ItQ"></figure><p><i>944 S Longwood</i></p><p>Ori’s second property, “ARC BLANC” (French for White Arches), located at 944 S Longwood, was in deplorable condition when he first purchased it but has since been brought back to life in a timeless way. Bringing together its original 1920s Spanish-style arches, he made them the key point, connecting all the common spaces in the home; each space was appointed with up-lighting to accentuate the curves of the architecture, thereby creating a tunnel of warmth and tranquility (reminiscent of old European chateau architecture). </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qhtRNgEcK7AR89HONTeC0yXYoLb_OIPeGENSlvJZ8aHSFsJfuFz9jXPQIH-BDWpD6GMXWwfVYW90OEdkSgY9MlA43hyTSaX5NKHg0hptz-UYuC2w8pq1HxBV8MXbBoglRBi58OdDno6xHq_GDXRECwU"></figure><p><i>1169 Angelo - Pool and yard</i></p><p>Currently on the market is “BEVEL,” which is Ori’s third property on Angelo Dr in Beverly Hills and is listed by Jason Peteler of Revel Real Estate and Matthew Yim of Coldwell Banker. It is a modern and dynamic project curated with some of the finest finishes and fixtures from around the world, along with a similarly intense focus on balance and function. Ori looks forward to taking clients on tours of this beautiful 5-bedroom, 7-bathroom home so that they can see its modern features, including a personal gym with floor-to-ceiling steel windows; a 45-foot, zero-edge infinity pool; calacatta viola marble stairs; leathered stone-clad fireplaces; a 264-bottle wine cellar; and wide-plank floors that are made of French oak.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Yreq_-HQSV3Mh0HZmfDC8ByR5q8ePL_MTisf2-BpWRgjEFE1Vr7IpZrHxcWsBHiuZuf7xby7mFNaL5Fhugwus8cvX0Gz3D_P9vK9-nbiUifnOwaTVOr2YCPVb9Qfop5BRxqzLfKdEe5iS1c_5IS6Fg"></figure><p><i>The Reserve in Mandeville Canyon</i></p><p>Ori currently has a fourth project in the works on Mandeville Canyon called “THE RESERVE,” which is a reimagining of a 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom, 4,000+ ft.2 property with a 19,000 ft.2 lot. </p><p>To Ori, a home needs to have a feeling of comfort, serenity, and security. He goes on to say that the most important elements of a home should include an expression of family, enduring love, modern romanticism, high style, undying beauty, and timeless sophistication. </p><p>“Living well can include simplicity and serenity,” Ori says. “We will always focus on using symmetry and attention to detail to create residential properties that allow the owner to experience warmth and tranquility in its purest form.” </p>
15 Mar, 2023
Chris Salerno
<figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/P5QbJznxf_GJG-UgPJh2SLb20tlxphIJQYyaS9_fJp8b7IlHJQJOb7P_hAEOqtdGalUtPN6AJt7y5o2AdabWm3fz0xY2lv6AP0F3K13hVXkptXtzIOYt6SoOdcgmZbzUwZfmjHdsvS0LZFDHKaBOz4Y"><figcaption>QC Capital Group</figcaption></figure><h2>QC Capital Group Prepares to Close on New Multifamily Real Estate Complex in Houston's Medical District</h2><p><i>Charlotte, NC </i>- <a href="https://www.qccapitalgroup.com/">QC Capital Group</a>, a private equity investment firm based in the southeast United States, has announced its upcoming acquisition of a new 224-unit apartment complex in Houston’s medical district. The firm has a history of targeted acquisitions of multifamily real estate properties and offers its clients the opportunity to partake in these ventures.</p><p>The purchase of this particular property is key to QC Capital’s current growth pattern, as this region of Houston offers multiple attractive benefits. The medical district is home to multiple renowned medical institutions, such as the Texas Medical Center, Memorial Hermann Hospital, and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Residents of this district have convenient access to medical care.</p><p>“One of the reasons we were interested in this property is that people are moving to this area to take advantage of these medical institutions,” says QC Capital’s CEO and founder, Chris Salerno. “In addition, the area has a growing job market, as the concentration of medical facilities offers numerous job opportunities for medical professionals, researchers, and support staff. And of course, they all need housing.”</p><p>He adds that the team at QC Capital was interested in the area in the heart of Houston and had been looking for a viable property there. “We feel that this is a vibrant and diverse community with not just medical, but also educational facilities that will be attractive to clients,” Salerno shares. “We are pleased to be making this opportunity available to interested clients and will be sharing more information via our website, newsletter, and our new upcoming weekly webinar series.”</p><p>QC Capital will be offering these educational webinars every Thursday at 3:00 pm EST starting February 16, 2023. “We’ll be discussing topics and insights pertaining to multifamily investing,” says Salerno. “In preparation for these, we have also released an informational booklet, ‘<a href="https://www.qccapitalgroup.com/lp/book">The Multi-family Real Estate Investing Booklet Part 1</a>’. As the title implies, it’s the first in a series that we’re working on.”</p><p>The new webinar and the informational booklet will go in depth about the various benefits, potential pitfalls, and key strategies for interested parties to be aware of when considering the purchase of multifamily real estate. “We will be offering information regarding the new complex in Houston,” Salerno says. “The spots for this opportunity are limited but we are pleased about the purchase.”</p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://attachments.office.net/owa/tara%40imperium-pr.com/service.svc/s/GetAttachmentThumbnail?id=AAMkADAxY2ZkZDA0LTI1ZmItNDI2ZC05ZTNlLWQ1ODUxZjkwMGEwZQBGAAAAAADdPqcftJiGRJ56SUN84%2FaCBwBGSJQqADdHQokjAS03brutAAAAAAEMAABGSJQqADdHQokjAS03brutAADyODq9AAABEgAQAGxYVfakCbtFqPrwoIbi8fo%3D&thumbnailType=2&token=eyJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiIsImtpZCI6IkQ4OThGN0RDMjk2ODQ1MDk1RUUwREZGQ0MzODBBOTM5NjUwNDNFNjQiLCJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJ4NXQiOiIySmozM0Nsb1JRbGU0Tl84dzRDcE9XVUVQbVEifQ.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.fLTj_HRNYax_YqbXwcgQNV4W_JgKHS27vVcciuUD303uOMuz7G0xu4wXyeH2Bw9mHNgBiEpnqV6Szw8Ce0il8pGfRJEKxyES164y3EypqJmQNKf3D4i6bANcrHcGzfsAb0Ao40Hq5BAegokjY_TOfmqQpsKeuwvOIbLkn_t2Rb17-TsrBgNjpoeskGrdAeh38pKWw7j1B1UDKS6HZfXTZKfhd2AsPdnPI7OIMLf3O9wlQnp13EWO7Y9M6RfruWi4Qith_Gy3-Wdkmse0xvR763wuVwLcmKdLEXAAOzlbXQFH15CpSL1sIMZO25xV1ejkJwUu5f4FHnes2f6ACQ6Byg&X-OWA-CANARY=3c9GTTu9AE6Y7LwPwJ3lYlDncJYnHNsYyxz2Xpc9YsjGkfNKcWHRdQFAvIKvoaMkdxddlx20jVc.&owa=outlook.office.com&scriptVer=20230224007.05&animation=true" alt="Image preview"><figcaption>CEO Chris Salerno</figcaption></figure><p>The new property is part of the over $200 million in commercial real estate assets that QC Capital has acquired since its inception in 2019. The firm specializes in the acquisition of institutional-quality multifamily assets, primarily in the southeastern part of the US. The team applied its experience and expertise in risk and return analysis to identifying and acquiring this asset.</p><p>“We put in a lot of time and effort to select this property, as we do with all properties we acquire,” Salerno shares. “We have a two-fold strategy that prioritizes stability.” He points to the firm’s Core+ strategy, which focuses on acquiring newer and well-positioned stabilized assets, characterized by moderate leverage and a longer investment horizon; and its Value Add strategy, which targets undervalued assets in strategic locations that are often mis-managed. By using moderate levels of leverage, QC Capital aims to improve the efficiency of these properties through a combination of interior and exterior renovations and management restructuring.</p><p><i>QC Capital Group is a private equity investment firm that specializes in the acquisition of institutional-quality multifamily assets in the southeast United States. The company was founded by Chris Salerno, a real estate entrepreneur and investment manager. The firm's goal is to identify and acquire top-performing assets and unlock additional value through focused asset management.</i></p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.qccapitalgroup.com/">https://www.qccapitalgroup.com/</a> </p><p>Contact: Chris Salerno at <a href="mailto:info@qccapitalgroup.com">info@qccapitalgroup.com</a> </p><p>Facebook :<a href="https://www.facebook.com/qccapitalgroup/">https://www.facebook.com/qccapitalgroup/</a> </p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/qc_capital/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/qc_capital/?hl=en</a> </p>
08 Mar, 2023
Chris Salerno
<h2>QC Capital Group Expands into Houston's Vibrant Medical District</h2><p><i>Charlotte, NC</i> - QC Capital Group, a privately held commercial real estate firm, has released details about its latest expansion into the medical district of Houston, Texas. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, QC Capital focuses on the acquisition of multifamily real estate assets, and in 2022, expanded into San Antonio, Texas.</p><p>Based upon its success in that region, QC Capital is now preparing to finalize on the acquisition of a 224-unit apartment complex in Houston. The team at QC Capital felt that Houston was an optimal location for the company’s continued growth, for a number of reasons.</p><p>Strong Economy: Houston has a strong and diverse economy, with a thriving oil and gas industry, as well as a growing technology sector. The city also has a large number of multinational corporations, making it an ideal location for businesses looking to tap into the global market.</p><ul><li>Growing Population: Houston is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, with a population that is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. This growth provides a large pool of potential customers for businesses looking to expand into the area.<br> </li><li>Diverse Market: Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, with a large and growing Hispanic population. This diversity provides a rich market for businesses looking to tap into a variety of cultural and ethnic groups.<br> </li><li>Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to other major cities in the United States, Houston has a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive location for businesses looking to expand while keeping costs low.<br> </li><li>Strong Workforce: Houston has a highly skilled and motivated workforce, making it an ideal location for businesses looking to tap into a talented pool of employees. The city is also home to several top-ranked universities, providing a steady stream of highly educated workers for businesses to draw from.<br> </li><li>Strategic Location: Houston is strategically located near the Gulf of Mexico, providing easy access to international markets and ports. This makes it an ideal location for businesses looking to export goods and services globally.</li></ul><p>QC Capital Group CEO and founder Chris Salerno shares that the decision to expand into the Houston area was based upon extensive research and propelled by the company’s recent growth in this sector. “We are looking at properties in quite a few new regions for us, including Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas,” he shares. “We have successfully exited multiple times and continue to investigate and assess potential new assets to present to our investors.”</p><p>Chris Salerno is a seasoned entrepreneur and investment manager with a proven track record of success in revitalizing businesses and increasing profitability. He launched his career in the residential brokerage sector, where he successfully brokered over $40 million in sales and played a key role in leading the top-performing real estate team in the Carolinas to generate over $140 million in yearly volume.</p><p>In 2019, Mr. Salerno established QC Capital and has since acquired more than $250 million worth of commercial real estate properties across the United States. As the CEO, he manages all aspects of the business and is responsible for determining the company's overall strategy and direction.</p><p>With numerous accolades to his name, including recognition as one of Charlotte's 30 under 30, Elite 50, and Elite 50 entrepreneurs, as well as being a nominee for Forbes 30 under 30, Mr. Salerno has earned a reputation for his tireless work ethic and unwavering dedication.</p><p><i>QC Capital Group is a private equity investment firm that specializes in the acquisition of institutional-quality multifamily assets in the southeast United States. The company was founded by Chris Salerno, a real estate entrepreneur and investment manager. The firm's goal is to identify and acquire top-performing assets and unlock additional value through focused asset management.</i></p><p>Website:<a href="https://www.qccapitalgroup.com/"> https://www.qccapitalgroup.com/</a> </p><p>Contact: Chris Salerno at info@qccapitalgroup.com </p><p>Facebook :<a href="https://www.facebook.com/qccapitalgroup/">https://www.facebook.com/qccapitalgroup/</a> </p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/qc_capital/?hl=en"> https://www.instagram.com/qc_capital/?hl=en</a> </p>
30 Mar, 2023
Jermaine Williamson is Lifting Bottom Lines with Talent War: The Unintended Consequences of a Broken Hiring Process
<p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5J924pkbF4rfdsfjVSEZTzCJcHPwRGYMRBCAUBsoJTbtCIgsi1kOowblod5Vb6I2kcTTFj6Hj4Gu2s7Gl8bet-Gle0dVSnNhZickdnmWK8Q0a-D7qF_ZitFXuVej0Y4Z8NtKXOb-3rqHCK6ok_UAiOs"></figure><p>Businesses that struggle with several issues, such as stalled revenue or company culture, often turn to Jermaine Williamson. A subject matter on all things talent acquisition, TA operations management, and recruiting process design and implementation, Williamson has constructed a business around these topics called JLW Consulting LLC.</p><p>Attending to businesses stressed about bottom lines falling due to bugs in their hiring systems is what JLW Consulting does. The management consulting firm provides Speaking Services, Executive Coaching, Talent Acquisition, Strategic Business Advisory, Human Resources, Talent Retention and Talent Development services, and TA-360.</p><p>"Our TA-360 Assessment audit measures how well our clients companies are doing when it comes to hiring new employees," notes Williamson, "We look at things like how quickly they're able to fill open positions, how well the organization is able to attract and retain top talent, and how well the organization is able to onboard new employees. The TA-360, by examining these aspects, can assist a company in identifying areas where it can enhance its hiring process."</p><p>Often, JLW Consulting clients will be facing certain types of problems – they feel as though their creativity or revenue has stalled, that they can’t seem to find the right job candidates, or that their company culture isn’t where it should be. “If your hiring process is broken,” he notes, “it is definitely impacting your company's bottom line. We all know that attracting and onboarding exceptional talent is critical to growth. The first step to turning things around is identifying the problems.”</p><p>JLW Consulting not only tailors its services to fit the needs of every type of business but now offers a unique and unusually obtainable service: Diversity Recruiting Services. “We are very excited about the Diversity Recruiting Services. We see a diverse workforce as the lifeblood of the most creative, unique, and profitable enterprises,” states Williamson. In fact, the CEO notes, companies that are diverse perform 35% better than ones that are not.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/IyZRpploWXr5pMv5t8hgw27IYewsbzeTGGPDk2VhROjRX0Qk3pRCNY1Hs3WMj9JQZnSxRx5w7P41SQ2frfq_vxAyL9L376tXmb6gGh95oqPWOAgu4JZ8viMAd_WLAVCTUlfi-OALfMO6LTIunK6FXDM"></figure><p>“These are topics I address in my book,” says Williamson. <i>Talent War: The Unintended Consequences of a Broken Hiring Process </i>was written when Williamson felt the need to share his experience and knowledge with the world. “And to address common problems I see in place at businesses who have broken hiring processes,” says Williamson. With nearly 30 years of experience in providing senior and executive level leadership support to Fortune 100, 500, mid-size and start up organizations, Williamson has picked up a tip or two.</p><p>Many of the book topics are in-depth thought pieces on how to streamline a hiring process, get the most out of it, avoid devastating and expensive mistakes that hiring teams often make, and tips about when to hire and when to not. The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Talent-War-Unintended-Consequences-Process-ebook/dp/B08HR784KX/ref=sr_1_2">book</a> is an Amazon Bestseller and can already be found in the hands of many in the hiring industry.</p><p>“I’m excited to share more ideas with the world around the fascinating and important subject,” claims Williamson. “And grateful to be able to help businesses diversify and maximize their teams.”</p><p><i>JLW Consulting is a consulting and recruitment services company that helps businesses with their hiring processes. The company is pleased to add Diversity Recruiting Services to its toolbelt to help businesses diversify and expand with a new pool of talent. To learn more, contact Jermaine Williamson at jermaine@jlwconsultingllc.com and visit the company website at </i><a href="https://www.jlwconsultingllc.com/"><i>https://www.jlwconsultingllc.com/</i></a><i>.</i></p>
07 Mar, 2023
JLW Consulting LLC Announces Diversity Hiring Services
<p>Fairfax, VA–</p><p>JLW Consulting LLC, a company based in Fairfax, is pleased to offer companies its Diversity Recruitment Services. With nearly 30 years of recruiting leadership experience, CEO Jermaine Williamson founded JLW Consulting to better assist companies in their recruiting matters. This is a task that JLW Consulting believes is central to a business’s success. As the company offers recruiting services that focus on diversity, it hopes to further help emerging businesses enhance and generate a workplace that works for everyone.</p><p>“We’re excited about the Diversity Recruiting Services,” mentions Williamson, “We believe diversity is an essential part of the hiring process.” JLW Consulting notes that companies in the top 25% for ethnic and cultural diversity were 36% more profitable than those in the bottom 25%. “A diverse workforce is ultimately better for businesses,” notes the CEO, “It opens up their options to bring in more perspectives, talents, and experiences.”</p><p>“We help every type of business achieve what we know they’re capable of,” says Williamson. JLW Consulting focuses on helping companies that feel as though their creativity or revenue has stalled, that they can’t seem to find the right job candidates, or that their company culture isn’t where it should be. </p><p>“We walk them through the diversity hiring process, step by step, and slowly integrate inclusion into the company culture, making it a part of their values,” says Williamson. JLW Consulting shows clients exactly how to expand so that they’re leveraging the broad pool of valuable skills and ideas that are out there and not limiting themselves. “Diverse teams outperform non-diverse ones by 35%,” says Williamson, “This is what we teach clients.”</p><p>In addition to its Diversity Recruiting Services, JLW Consulting is also known in its sector for providing Speaking Services, Executive Coaching, Technical Recruiting, Executive Recruiting, Talent Development, Recruiting Process Compliance, lowering cost per hire, increasing employee referrals, Talent Acquisition Services, and the company’s TA-360. </p><p>Williamson explains that, "our TA-360 Assessment services measure how well our clients' businesses are doing when it comes to hiring new employees. We look at things like how quickly they're able to fill open positions, how well the organization is able to attract and retain top talent, and how well the organization is able to onboard new employees. The TA-360 may assist also in identifying areas where hiring procedures can be strengthened by taking a look at these aspects.”</p><p>“When we work with companies,” says Williamson, “we begin with this audit.” Often, Williamson notes, businesses want to grow and expand but don’t know where they’re going wrong in the hiring process. JLW Consulting recognizes that business hiring processes are often not aligned with their needs and teams don’t have a clear understanding of how to find the right team member. </p><p>“Our hiring services are designed to pinpoint and target these problems, teaching teams how to find the right people,” Williamson adds. The company’s Talent Acquisition Service includes competitive intelligence and raw data, a customized report with all collected data, actionable strategies to become best in class, a priority roadmap with recommendations, a list of potential project improvements, and a full team debriefing in person or by conference.”</p><p>A company devoted to its clients, JLW Consulting is pleased to expand further into Diversity Recruiting Services and help more businesses smoothly integrate diversity and inclusion into their workspaces.</p><p><i>JLW Consulting is a consulting and recruitment services company that helps businesses with their hiring processes. The company is pleased to add Diversity Recruiting Services to its toolbelt to help businesses diversify and expand with a new pool of talent. To learn more, contact Jermaine Williamson at jermaine@jlwconsultingllc.com and visit the company website at </i><a href="https://www.jlwconsultingllc.com/"><i>https://www.jlwconsultingllc.com/</i></a><i>.</i></p>
13 Mar, 2023
Lascelles Gonsalves
<p><strong>How the Music Industry is Changing, and How LJ Smooth Adapts</strong></p><p>The music industry is always changing, and it's important to stay on top of the latest trends and technologies to stay ahead of the game. With the advent of streaming services, digital downloads, and social media, the way we consume music has changed drastically in the past decade, and the industry is constantly adapting to the changing landscape. Artists and labels are finding new ways to market their music, while technology companies are creating more efficient ways to distribute and monetize it. It's an exciting time to be in the music industry, and the possibilities are endless.</p><p>One artist who has been working within the industry and learning firsthand how to adapt has been LJ Smooth, an artist based out of Miami, Florida. Smooth came to the United States from the Virgin Islands, having found a home for himself in the bustling and exciting city. Falling in love with the music scene there, Smooth began recording and releasing his music to the audience on a local level, as well as on streaming platforms such as Youtube, Spotify, and Tiktok. His popularity grew steadily with each year that passed and now, after several years in Miami, Smooth is excited to release a new song. </p><p>This new song “All In” has been influenced by popular musicians in the R&B and pop scene, as it hopes to bring a new, fun feel to popular streaming platforms. Based out of Miami, Florida, Smooth is bringing his own unique twist on the Urban Latin vibes and Caribbean feel. </p><p>This song, like many of LJ’s Smooth other songs, is written from a personal experience. It tells the story of romance, in a time where neither party is initially looking for anything serious, though feelings develop on one side.</p><p>“She started asking, ‘are you all in?’” Smooth explains. “She started talking about what this relationship could be and how magical it could feel. I wrote this song from her perspective because at the time I didn’t feel I was ready to be a boyfriend but she didn’t care– she felt we had something special and wanted to explore it.” The story is one that is not often explored in upbeat love songs and dancey tunes, giving itself a unique place in the genre in which it finds itself representing. </p><p>As an artist and entertainer born outside of the US, Smooth has needed to assimilate to the new environment he now operates in. As the music industry shifts and changes, so too does he, as he works to keep up with the latest trends, while still maintaining true to his roots. </p><p>Smooth doesn’t expect to be taking a break anytime soon. His passion for music and for performing is keeping him motivated, as he doesn’t plan on slowing down. The album is expected to drop in March of 2023. </p><p>“This is a new venture and I'm excited for this new music to reach many ears across the world,” Smooth says. Being able to play his songs for a wide audience is a dream come true. This artist is optimistic about seeing his fanbase and listeners grow in exponential numbers.</p><p>For more information about LJ Smooth and his music, you can find him on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlAKUzdHmzUTzLOysJP8eA">youtube</a>, as well his several <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lj_smoothmusic/">social media</a> accounts.</p>
13 Mar, 2023
Lascelles Gonsalves
<p><strong>Virgin Island Influences Brought to Miami by LJ Smooth</strong></p><p>Miami's dance music scene is one of the most vibrant and exciting music scenes in the world. With its unique blend of Latin American, Caribbean, and American music influences, Miami has become a global epicenter of dance music. From sizzling salsa and fierce reggaeton to upbeat EDM and house music, Miami's dance music scene offers a wide variety of sounds that can be enjoyed by all. The city's many nightclubs, bars, and beachfront venues also provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable night out. Whether you are looking for an upbeat party or a more relaxed evening, Miami's dance music scene has been bringing people together for decades.</p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kWDSBQ2P8RiP0nX8e0-Jw_u-IH85RLjgrlcgCZ8im4d-CgCbGCe1aBc-1yefbAOwloPIVxe8icwzKvZii16JI_dJHViWpU-6HPiOJvoi1P5vwzPbP2OzVHEBcNX1pMeEIEQ2KwPiMdANcclYX0tO3QA"></figure><p>Similarly, music from the Virgin Islands is an eclectic mix of traditional African beats, Caribbean rhythms, and contemporary styles of music. It is a unique blend of reggae, calypso, soca, merengue, and salsa, creating an upbeat and energetic sound that one may also hear on the streets of downtown Miami. The music of the Virgin Islands is celebrated during festivals and events throughout the year, which draw visitors from all around the world who come to experience the vibrant and diverse culture of the islands. Additionally, many popular local musicians have showcased their talents on a global stage, gaining recognition for their unique sound and inspiring a new generation of Virgin Islands musicians. LJ Smooth has made a name for himself as one of those musicians.</p><p>Having crossed into the Miami territory during his college years, Smooth had found the city exciting and also familiar enough to want to settle down there. Miami has been his homebase ever since, proving to be a great spot to release his own original music, which brings influences from his life back on the islands. As the two cultures share similar aspects, especially when it boils down to music, Smooth didn’t feel the need to water down his sound or assimilate too much to Miami. </p><p>Smooth’s songs are an extension of him, as he aims to provide upbeat, dancey songs for any audience to enjoy. He draws inspiration from popular musicians such as Michael Jackson, Maxwell, Prince, Trey Songz, Neo and Alicia Keys as well as Vybez Cartel, Beenie Man, WizKid and Burna Boy. </p><p>His sound is a combination of R&B, pop, and afrobeat, which creates an incredibly unique and infectious sound. This genre blend has been popularized in recent years by the likes of Beyonce and Drake, and has been embraced by music fans around the world. The upbeat rhythms of afrobeat add an extra layer of energy to the smooth, soulful sounds of R&B, while the pop elements of the music bring catchiness and accessibility. Together these genres create a sound that is captivating and timeless, and is sure to keep LJ Smooth’s listeners dancing for years to come.</p><p>With his newest song “All In,” Smooth is excited for where his musical journey will bring him. For more information about LJ Smooth and his music, you can find him on youtube, as well his several social media accounts.</p>
03 Mar, 2023
“All In” The Newest Track from LJ Smooth
<p>LJ Smooth, a rising star in Miami’s music scene is releasing a new song on Friday, March 3rd. Smooth is signed with a record label located in the UK and is also planning to drop a series of singles following the first track “All In” sometime in the near future. Smooth draws his inspiration from artists and musicians such as Michael Jackson, Maxwell, Prince, Trey Songz, Neo and Alicia Keys as well as Vybez Cartel, Beenie Man, WizKid and Burna Boy.</p><p>As an entertainer, Smooth has been traveling the world and playing in different capacities throughout his entire life. While growing up in a musical family in the Virgin Islands, LJ started in piano classes and also played drums in church. His father would play Bob Marley and Peter Tosh records at home, which instilled a love for the art at an early age. As a child LJ toured the region in a Steel Pan Band, and developed his skills within different music groups that performed in local events throughout the country. </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/M1H99u1g-hGBXgY5hVnmyT-tri-9_vMiwKjeqRxpzQ9REwoqm1qM4x9cm6iPUQfyHIK_9_R7MX2hbJetXXQ-Y7ZUk8d8nUngCPEIP1CB7JskDMlbUizahQOoMdzwBIB2ugMtSkPyrsfTLB5_g797Ew"></figure><p>This new song “All In” has been influenced by popular musicians in the R&B and pop scene, as it hopes to bring a new, fun feel to popular streaming platforms. Based out of Miami, Florida, Smooth is bringing his own unique twist on the Urban Latin vibes and Caribbean feel. </p><p>This song, like many of LJ’s Smooth other songs, is written from a personal experience. It tells the story of romance, in a time where neither party is initially looking for anything serious, though feelings develop on one side.</p><p>“She started asking, ‘are you all in?’” Smooth explains. “She started talking about what this relationship could be and how magical it could feel. I wrote this song from her perspective because at the time I didn’t feel I was ready to be a boyfriend but she didn’t care– she felt we had something special and wanted to explore it.” The story is one that is not often explored in upbeat love songs and dancey tunes, giving itself a unique place in the genre in which it finds itself representing. </p><p>As LJ Smooth brings his own flavor to the Miami music scene, he is excited for the growth of his career and any potential collaborations that may come after “All In” launches. Miami has a vibrant music scene that spans a wide range of genres, so Smooth has expressed that it may be time to cross into other areas, bringing new influences to his songs. From the lively Latin influence of reggaeton and salsa to the hip-hop beats of Miami bass, the city's music scene is always evolving. There are also many popular music festivals that take place in the city each year that LJ Smooth hopes to break into, such as the Ultra Music Festival, Rolling Loud, and III Points. This eclectic music scene has helped to put Miami on the map as a destination for music lovers around the world.</p><p> </p><p>For more information about LJ Smooth and his music, you can find him on </p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlAKUzdHmzUTzLOysJP8eA">youtube</a></p><p>, as well his several </p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lj_smoothmusic/">social media</a></p><p> accounts.</p>
13 Mar, 2023
New Music From Miami-Based Artist, LJ Smooth
<p>As one of the hottest up and coming names in the music community of Miami, Florida, LJ Smooth is planning to release new music this March, 2023. As an artist who dabbles in the music genres of Pop, R&B, Dancehall, and Afrobeat, Smooth is redefining the Carnival sound that is familiarized within the downtown Miami community. Miami has a vibrant music scene that spans a wide range of genres. From the lively Latin influence of reggaeton and salsa to the hip-hop beats of Miami bass, the city's music scene is ever-evolving. There are also many popular music festivals that take place in the city each year, which have helped to put Miami on the map as a destination for music lovers around the world. Smooth is excited to have set up shop in this vibrant and exciting city. </p><p>As a Virgin Island’s native, integrating his style and energy into the Miami’s music subculture has been a thrilling move. After traveling to the US to complete his Bachelor's Degree in technology and business, he found it easy to assimilate, as he brought his own roots and flavor to the vibrant music scene of Southern Florida. Smooth writes music that is an extension of himself, as he aims to provide upbeat, dancey songs for any audience to enjoy. He draws inspiration from popular musicians such as Michael Jackson, Maxwell, Prince, Trey Songz, Neo and Alicia Keys as well as Vybez Cartel, Beenie Man, WizKid and Burna Boy. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/y98OYPKgmtx8xMj5OlYP5fZ000cHNRIV8hp38onJqnNLYgv2cbGRON-iuKC5TCyvYX5Yk_Be4B12O1bG5k8qxyGN0Br1uf66lTSEpH2ubnK1hgG28e78NqfUv-cpwG-ZQRfaQPWrY6iwsBU2W6BzgWY"></figure><p>Smooth maintains a wide background in the world of music, extending back to his childhood. The artist began taking piano lessons as a child and later participated in a church drumming team. His family also had a rich musical background, as his father would play Bob Marley and Peter Tosh records at home and so Smooth was able to foster his love for a variety of different styles of music genres. This also helped him develop an early appreciation of the arts.</p><p>The latest album from LJ Smooth is expected to drop soon and Smooth is thrilled to see where his journey will continue to take him. At the moment, the musician is signed with a label in the UK and is preparing to release his first album. The excitement of this update does not mean that LJ Smooth will be taking a break anytime soon. His passion for music and for performing is keeping him motivated, as he doesn’t plan on slowing down</p><p>“This is a new venture and I'm excited for this new music to reach many ears across the world,” Smooth says. Being able to play his songs for a wide audience is a dream come true. This artist is optimistic about seeing his fanbase and listeners grow in exponential numbers.</p><p>For more information about LJ Smooth and his music, you can find him on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlAKUzdHmzUTzLOysJP8eA">youtube</a>, as well his several <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lj_smoothmusic/">social media</a> accounts.</p>
27 Feb, 2023
Three Ways in Which RiNo Apparel is Giving Back to Its Community
<p><br> </p><p><i>Denver, Colorado–</i> With community and sustainability as the focus of its business model,<a href="https://rinoapparelco.com/"> RiNo Apparel</a> is actively looking for new ways to give back. The athletic apparel brand is seeking new opportunities for partnerships and collaborations, either within the neighboring communities of Denver, or on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. The company already aims to help out in every way that it can, but with RiNo newly appearing on the market, there are areas of growth in which the brand hopes to fill as 2023 continues. </p><p>Here are a few ways in which the new and emerging company is already diving into the community service aspect of its mission.</p><p><strong>1.Sustainable materials</strong></p><p>This athletic apparel brand works with exclusively sustainable material, creating products that are, as their website states, “both fashionable and functional.” RiNo Apparel works with material that is natural and renewable, without the use of harmful chemicals or dyes. Using sustainable materials is a great way for clothing brands to be more eco-friendly, and this company is looking for a chance to spearhead this movement. The materials that RiNo uses are typically more durable than synthetic materials, which means that they can last longer in the garment. The use of these eco-friendly materials os one of the ways that RiNo is working to show their commitment to sustainability and demonstrate their values to their customers. </p><p><strong>2. Their Affiliate Program</strong></p><p>Recently, the company, which started in August 2022, has also announced that they offer an affiliate program, which customers can sign up for on their website. The program hopes to build a network of like-minded individuals as a way to give-back to their community. This program also offers rewards for members, which includes referral links for friends and family, commission percentages, and social media features once customers post their purchases.</p><p>This affiliate partnership is working to be the start of several brand collaborations within the company’s neighborhood, as well as with influencers across the nation on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. With the program now in full swing, interested parties can check their website's <a href="https://af.uppromote.com/rino-apparel-co/register">Affiliate Program</a> tab for more information on how to sign up. RiNo Apparel representatives explain that they are always working to do events and collaborations in the neighborhood to raise brand awareness, as well as to create a space for active people to get together and share ideas with one another. </p><p><strong>3. Community Outreach</strong></p><p>Similarly to their affiliate program, RiNo Apparel is always on the lookout for ways to positively impact their community. Owner and Founder of RiNo, Nicholas Baud explains that growing up, for him, sports played a major part in keeping him off the streets and introduced him to a lifestyle that he has found beneficial to his growth. As the business grows, Baud and his team with RiNo plan on donating a portion of their proceeds to larger organizations within Denver that aid the youth of their community. These programs will likely be centered around athletics, such as the support of community gyms and recreation centers that can keep children off of the streets, engaged in their community, and help provide an active lifestyle. </p><p>With a heavy emphasis on community engagement, RiNo Apparel is excited about their upcoming collaborations and partnerships in and around the Denver area. The brand hopes to eventually bring this engagement to a national level in the future.</p><p><i>RiNo Apparel is an athletic apparel brand located in Denver Colorado. The company was started in August 2022 by Nicholas Baud and is continuing its development in and throughout 2023. For more information about RiNo, visit their </i><a href="https://rinoapparelco.com/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Nicholas Baud</i></p><p><a href="mailto:info@rinoapparelco.com"><i>info@rinoapparelco.com</i></a></p>
28 Feb, 2023
RiNo Apparel Set to Launch 3 New Products in 2023
<p><i>Denver, Colorado–</i> <a href="https://rinoapparelco.com/">RiNo Apparel</a>, a relatively new athletic apparel brand, has announced that they plan to launch three new products in 2023, widening their inventory. The company is still emerging on the social media scene in a more prominent way and is working to grow their sales, email lists, and other digital platforms.</p><p>Started in August, 2022 by Nicholas Baud, an entrepreneur and travel/sports enthusiast, the brand lists itself as an athletic apparel brand that is both “fashionable and functional.” RiNo Apparel also puts a heavy focus on sustainability, keeping their products and packaging relatively waste free. </p><p>In addition to their new products that will be launching soon, the brand offers a wide variety of products already on their website and in their storefront, located in Denver, Colorado. Currently RiNo Apparel offers men’s and women’s tee shirts, hoodies, puff jackets, tank tops, cropped and sleeveless hoodies, and several other iterations of these staples. </p><p>With the news of their latest products soon to be hitting the market, this brand has also announced that they offer an affiliate program, which customers can sign up for on their website. The program hopes to build a network of like-minded individuals as a way to give-back to their community. This program also offers rewards for members, which includes referral links for friends and family, commission percentages, and social media features once customers post their purchases.</p><p>This affiliate partnership is working to be the start of several brand collaborations within the company’s neighborhood, as well as with influencers across the nation on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. With the program now in full swing, interested parties can check their website's <a href="https://af.uppromote.com/rino-apparel-co/register">Affiliate Program</a> tab for more information on how to sign up. RiNo Apparel representatives explain that they are always working to do events and collaborations in the neighborhood to raise brand awareness, as well as to create a space for active people to get together and share ideas with one another. </p><p>Part of the RiNo Apparel business model is set up to give back to the community where Baud had launched the company, and as the business grows, he and his team with RiNo plan on donating a portion of their proceeds to larger organizations within Denver that aid the youth of their community. These programs will likely be centered around athletics, such as the support of community gyms and recreation centers that can keep children off of the streets, engaged in their community, and help provide an active lifestyle. </p><p>“Sports have molded and given me so much,” explains Baud. “I have a strong desire to give back to this community and the children here so they can have and enjoy these opportunities as much as I did when I was a kid.”</p><p>With the upcoming launches of their latest products, RiNo is looking forward to 2023 as the year that will kick-start their drive toward community engagement.</p><p><i>RiNo Apparel is an athletic apparel brand located in Denver Colorado. The company was started in August 2022 by Nicholas Baud and is continuing its development in and throughout 2023. For more information about RiNo, visit their </i><a href="https://rinoapparelco.com/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Nicholas Baud</i></p><p><a href="mailto:info@rinoapparelco.com"><i>info@rinoapparelco.com</i></a></p>
02 Mar, 2023
Lower East Side’s DREN STARR Music, Prison & Life
<p><br> </p><p>The music industry can be cutthroat, especially in the world of hip-hop and digital marketing. It can be a highly competitive and often ruthless business to try and make a name for yourself within. With many artists vying for success and recognition, only the best of the best manage to make a lasting legacy. It's a constant battle to stay ahead of the competition and stand out from the rest. Hip hop music is an ever-evolving genre, and success often depends on an artist's ability to push the boundaries and innovate. Those who don't stay ahead of the curve will quickly fall behind. It's a risky and challenging business, but those who are successful reap significant rewards.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3W2TA2bjZpYCMs3z80p2vzHCXbIXdab6x864sZ4Matm6vKdF_XIERRvyvSoHHPuDD9J0RHdEKnzWlmgoqj_4QATov0Pe0GFjsuViuKY2YsEa-DDUUJ_QHnWD2Ew_TD_8K3uZOSs8MLLMp9FA8PW_RNI"></figure><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/drenstarr/?hl=en">Dren Starr </a>has been a part of that business for over 30 years, having adapted to a huge amount of change in the industry. Born in 1977 and raised in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York City, Starr has witnessed firsthand the changes that came to the music industry. He started in the business at just 14 years old, building up his career as a DJ and radio host. Now, in 2023, the things that mattered then when it comes to success are all but irrelevant. </p><p>“My biggest challenge was from converting to what I call the new digital era of the music industry,” Starr explains. “When I started in this industry, you had to really know people in real life. Now, in this era, people have profiles on social media and send messages and DM’s. No one really knows each other and it’s just crazy how you can send a message to someone in hopes of doing business. You can be nobody and literally become an overnight success. I’ve seen it happen more than once.” </p><p>This shift became particularly apparent after his life and career were temporarily put on hold after a 5 and a half year incarceration. The entrepreneur hasn’t let this prison time affect much of his professional and personal life, as he served his time and reemerged into the business. Upon his return, so much had changed in just 5 short years. With everything existing digitally, Starr was forced to adjust if he wanted to continue growing his brand.</p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/KYqXsaqYe0AbwYkMP7Ae5WHhlUNDEkOSzCLdpz-384NiWRRsnajpqk7gvFMoFHENA_tl278sswZUlpIJJGTXFVyqD3jD65W2yKqTqekRRsL-YjvPORO8uvlH8S64FCpwL8uSPW9875xAojjVv5I3jlc"></figure><p>“Do good business, never burn any bridges, stay true to yourself and be humble,” Starr explains when it comes to how he managed to get back into the industry after his time away. “As long as your grind is real and your heart is pure you will always have a good name in this industry. I was gone for a very long time and came right back like I never left because my name and business was always solid.”</p><p>With producing, marketing, and developing new music, Dren Starr is also working directly with his social media platforms to build a reputation as an executive and influencer. Partnering with the D'USSÉ cognac liquor brand, Starr is looking for unique ways to bring his music and producing name to new markets. </p><p>Starr wants to create a legacy for his family, when he is no longer here. He hopes that this journey into the cutthroat world of the music industry can make it easier for his two sons to carry out said legacy. “My dreams and aspirations are to make the Lower East Side a household name sort of like how Wu-Tang did for Staten Island,” Starr explains. As a music mogul on the rise, Dren Starr has been actively building the Lower East Side’s name and will continue to bring notoriety to his hometown as long as he spearheads this industry. While masterfully donning many hats, more than anything else, Starr has a lifelong love affair with the hip-hop industry. Staying true to his roots, Dren never fails to represent and hold the values of the LES in every major move.</p>
02 Mar, 2023
Lower East Side’s DREN STARR on the Rise.
<p> </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_PeP_Pof4FDdbhdGHN3tAm5tdj48gAN9nGl7iqTAimOPnn5ym2bRUFovQOnTdYGO7gU-iRuxE-TsBjIs0_MRwcZREI1xK0U2OhCbHnf1F8hkHSLkH8dWpI2fFmu-dQA9DpDn2xEmF-W9hxFPlhFlQvY"></figure><p><i>Miami, Florida–</i>With over 30 years in the music industry, music mogul <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drenstarr/?hl=en">Dren Starr</a> is changing the game when it comes to the arts. Before the platforms of YouTube and podcasting were big with the media, Starr was featured on his own radio station as a DJ and Host. Only 18 at the time, this risk-taking artist was the first and only musician to run his own hip-hop station in New York City. </p><p>Providing media coverage, even before the boom of social media, Dren Starr has been rocking just about every hat in the music business, from recording engineer to artist, and even as a tour manager. One could say that Starr is a multifaceted expert of music. Today, Starr is still going strong in his music career, though his journey hasn’t been without its fair share of challenges.</p><p>Like every good thing, <a href="http://drenstarr.com/">Dren Starr’s entrepreneurship </a>and success has had its ups and downs. Making a name for himself on the Lower East Side, Starr opened recording studios all throughout the city, where he worked in production and also engineering. Things were looking good, as the young music mogul was building connections within the Lower East Side hip-hop community. However, life was temporarily put on hold after a 5 and a half year incarceration kept Starr out of the business. </p><p>Upon his return, the world has shifted drastically. Radio was less relevant as the age of social media and digital music was ushered in. Having to adapt took some time.</p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/JaVoJEPGZBnhWV8zDJHmCQX2ooiGRk1T5nvYykvktyuEGBt6ljGnNJ1JkXhjRZaZgRq0UlhyuzOFBPlmQaprT1fPg0z4osu2isg2B77XkvMi9Y_BN5IS2UFaw0iZ6EEHXcIf8ccmPZNdYJrYCNONzxs"></figure><p>“My biggest challenge was from converting to what I call the new digital era of the music industry,” Starr explains. “When I started in this industry, you had to really know people in real life. Now, in this era, people have profiles on social media and send messages and DM’s. No one really knows each other and it’s just crazy how you can send a message to someone in hopes of doing business. You Can be nobody and literally become an overnight success. I’ve seen it happen more than once.” </p><p>In 2023, with digital marketing and promotions at the head of the industry Dren Starr created his own LES BRAND and has been working closely with Roc Nation, Rolling Loud, and several other hip-hop tours and festivals. Making a name for himself as a music exec has been the main focus since Starr’s return to the world of music and digital media. </p><p>When sharing wisdom and insight with the world, Dren Starr has this to say:</p><p>“Always keep it real–keep your circle small and stay in your lane. Timing and consistency is everything, so don't force or chase what is not meant for you.” He recognizes that his journey is his own, and that telling people to do exactly what he has done won’t work. “You have to find what matters and what works for you. Don't try to be anyone else. There’s only one Dren Starr, and there is only one you.”</p><p>Starr wants to create a legacy for his family, when he is no longer here. He hopes that this journey into the cutthroat world of the music industry can make it easier for his two sons to carry out said legacy. “My dreams and aspirations are to make the Lower East Side a household name sort of like how Wu-Tang did for Staten Island,” Starr explains. As a music mogul on the rise, Dren Starr has been actively building the Lower East Side’s name and will continue to bring notoriety to his hometown as long as he spearheads this industry. While masterfully donning many hats, more than anything else, Starr has a lifelong love affair with the hip-hop industry. Staying true to his roots, Dren never fails to represent and hold the values of the LES in every major move.</p><p><i>100% Records LLC is a music brand owned and operated by Dren Starr, music mogul and executive. The company is excited to be touring nationwide and appearing in several hip-hop and live music festivals. For more information about the brand and their appearance at Rolling Loud, visit the festival </i><a href="https://www.rollingloud.com/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Dren Starr</i></p><p><i>dren@drenstarr.com</i></p>
20 Feb, 2023
100% Records LLC to Appear at SOBEWFF February 23-26
<p><i>South Beach, Florida</i>– 100% Record and the artists that they represent will be making an appearance at South Beach Wine & Food Festival 2023. This festival is a national, four-day destination event that showcases some of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities. This festival will feature live music from prominent artists, including those represented by 100% Records LLC.</p><p>Owner and founder of 100% Records, Dren Starr has expressed his excitement for this upcoming event and the opportunity it presents for his label and his team. The South Beach Wine & Food Festival brings out crowds from all across the country for live music, culinary experiences, and doubles as a charity event.</p><p>Starr, who has over 30 years of music industry experience, has seen the way that the world has shifted over the decades when it comes to the way that music is produced and distributed. This festival hopes to be a platform in which 100% Records LLC can branch out into a new community of artists and musicians, while also giving the brand the exposure that it has been working toward. </p><p>With audiences of over 60,000 people, SOBEWFF also donates proceeds of its ticket sales to local high education facilities and other charitable organizations. 100% Records is aiming to be a part of this giveback effort by bringing in crowds from Lower East Side, New York, as that is where the company hails from. </p><p>The journey to South Beach is a thrilling chance for this brand to give the Lower East Side a foothold into different, more versatile communities nationwide, and is just the beginning of their cross-country ventures. </p><p>Later in the spring, 100% Records LLC has also announced that it will be making an appearance at the Rolling Loud LA hip-hop festival in Los Angeles, California, bringing the brand to yet another major city in the music business. As the brand and its artists continue to make appearances, Dren Starr is looking forward to the growth and other opportunities that these events will bring to his brand. </p><p>In 2023, with digital marketing and promotions at the head of the industry Dren Starr and his team with 100% Records LLC has also announced that the company will be branching out and collaborating with other big-name music brands. This exposure for the Lower East Side is one of the main goals for 100% Records LLC as they continue with several other hip-hop tours and festivals. </p><p><i>100% Records LLC is a music brand owned and operated by Dren Star, music mogul and executive. The company is excited to be touring nationwide and appearing in several hip-hop and live music festivals. For more information about the brand and their appearance at SOBEWFF, visit the festival </i><a href="https://sobewff.org/about-us/about-the-festival/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Dren Starr</i></p><p><i>dren@drenstarr.com</i></p>
27 Feb, 2023
WhatsAuto-Reply App– How it Works
<p> </p><p> </p><p>WhatsAuto is the world's largest chat app and has revolutionized the way people communicate. It has an intuitive user interface, allowing users to easily find, connect, and chat with their contacts. It also features a range of features such as group chats, file sharing, voice and video calls, and more. WhatsAuto is used by millions of people around the world and is quickly becoming the go-to chat app for many. With its wide range of features and user-friendly design, WhatsAuto is sure to remain the biggest chat app in the world for years to come.</p><p>“We made the integration process much simpler than you can imagine,” the company’s representative expresses. “This is the only chatbot app on the planet that is able to connect with all of your messaging apps with just a single click.”</p><p>The company’s mission is centered around helping small and medium businesses across the globe to be more productive by offering them an affordable chatbot that can be used without any prior technical knowledge. The app was founded by 28 year old Balachandar Karthikeyan, a techie from India. This successful tech entrepreneur has been partnered with teams on WhatsApp as well as Signal Messenger. </p><p><strong>What can WhatsAuto Do?</strong></p><ul><li>WhatsAuto uses the power of Artificial Intelligence and natural language understanding to make the conversation as coherent as a human conversation with the integration of DialogFlow.</li><li>Seamless integration with Google cloud, Amazon Web Service or your own cloud server. WhatAuto will act as a bridge between your cloud server and messaging app to communicate with your own logic and favorite programming language.</li><li>Google Sheets and WhatAuto are the perfect pairings to enrich the conversations with your customer or friend in your favorite messaging app by linking and syncing the data from your Google Sheets. Any changes to the data on your Google Sheets will automatically be synced with WhatAuto</li></ul><p>The application also boasts hundreds of positive reviews. One satisfied user says, “I love its simplicity and Focus! Finally a tool to manage my business. I have come across many chatbot products, WhatAuto is the best among others. Very easy, convenient to use & suitable for our business."</p><p>Another review reads "Our online orders have increased by 300% after implementing WhatAuto chatbot in our restaurant. All our customers are happy and we are now implementing it for our other restaurants."</p><p>For more information about WhatsAuto, visit the company’s <a href="https://whatsauto.app/#ten">website</a>.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1xg7OS3N2zsHYxMNRzrboe7u9L5BMUyJMN4p2KXZLnH21HrnoLuktSpvkH2rTHW19fZI6lospo8uws0IXcDA8dnqcIspNfokY856L80MjVAT3PsfIfGYUjBGIZ7F-L0KGo4JcEMcy1HtBRk4-k_PNVk"><figcaption>CEO of WhatsAuto --Balachandar Karthikeyan</figcaption></figure>
06 Mar, 2023
WhatsApp and Signal Messenger in India–Balachandar Karthikeyan Explains its Importance
<p>WhatsApp and Signal Messenger have become a way of life in India. With more than 400 million active users per platform, these are the most popular messaging applications in the country. The platforms are used for everything from staying connected with family and friends, to sharing news and updates, to conducting business. It is a vital tool for communication, as it can reach a large audience quickly, and is free to use. In addition, its end-to-end encryption ensures that conversations are secure. Many businesses have integrated WhatsApp and Signal into their customer service operations, using it as a platform to communicate with customers and respond to their queries. The widespread use of these applications in India has made it an indispensable part of daily life.</p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/A3Hmhqi5LbFoy82uHz2YKL4I8mBx_gaXfhrxezOXaMRPtYCuzl8fAjl_cU6HbIHBXP331Dcvkby_IyQod6SWynam6vGwcV-jxog8hy2jPpIk_dERXerax07lmUyeiYAb7xW3D3UeadqhqzLGPW1B1PQ"></figure><p>Balachandar Karthikeyan, a 28 year old techie from India had been one of the developers of the popular app, and prides himself on being one of the only Indian men to have had the opportunity to work on both WhatsApp, and Signal Messenger (Co-Founder of WhatsApp’s second startup). </p><p>If you live and work in America, you probably have seen WhatsApp or Signal and may have used them on occasion. However, across the world, millions of Indian men and women are running their businesses mainly through the use of these platforms. And it’s not just businesses: roughly 400 million people in India use WhatsApp or Signal to keep in touch with relatives overseas, send money, access critical medical information, and more.</p><p>When Balachandar began working with the WhatsApp/Signal teams he had no idea how widespread the scale of their use would be in his home country. WhatsApp’s streamline design and Signal’s easy to navigate user interface has helped make it a hit internationally, especially in countries where most people don’t have iPhones to use iMessage or affordable cell phone plans to send SMS messages. </p><p>Balachandar is one of the most successful tech founders who does not come from a prestigious education background. Having dropped out of college, this self-taught techie learned everything he needed to know by reading books and researching computer programming and other technical skills. As a developer of one of the most popular apps in the global market, Balachandar has gone on to achieve more success as CEO of his own company, Bringar Apps LLC in Dubai, where he developed his own communications platform–<a href="https://whatsauto.app/#ten">WhatsAuto</a> - Reply App. </p><p><i>This application has reached a staggering 25 million businesses worldwide, with a mission to help small and medium businesses around the world to be more productive by offering them an affordable chatbot that can be used without any technical knowledge. </i></p>
28 Feb, 2023
Founder of WhatsAuto - Reply App Balachandar Karthikeyan Discusses Company Success
<p>Balachandar Karthikeyan, a 28-year-old technologist from India has been working closely with the co-founder of WhatsApp for several years after the techie discovered a flaw in the application’s security system. The pair also worked on a new startup called Signal Messenger and have dominated the social media communications app vertical. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Woi57rYp7CDC1VMk0vLa0YFZXxWgrHwBvprS8upaQyqOKRp7mnvqgHV6bDxTcPEXI2Mg46g1eTw6KdYWpzaPzHPCiaLXdlWs_0CqGhtAgnZ1HVoiCh0IX1FhTePHooUMmkhMfkHoX-fKReLdJNzMOHE"></figure><p>Now, Balachandar is widely recognized in the industry for his passion for technology and his dedication to the industry. As one of the only Indian men in the tech space without a college degree, this self-taught expert is maintaining a steady foothold in the social media communications landscape. </p><p>As a developer in this industry, he is also the chief executive officer and founder of Bringar Research & Development Pvt. Ltd. in India and Bringar Apps LLC in Dubai, where he developed his own communications platform–WhatsAuto - Reply App. </p><p>“I created an app called <a href="https://whatsauto.app/#ten">WhatsAuto </a>- Reply App as a way to consolidate each different chat app into one, easy to use place,” Balachandar explains. This application has reached a staggering 25 million businesses worldwide, with a mission to help small and medium businesses around the world to be more productive by offering them an affordable chatbot that can be used without any technical knowledge. </p><p>“This was developed purely by my company and myself, without any funding from outside investors, " Balachandar goes on to say. WhatAuto works to help companies and individuals grow their network in every possible aspect with in-depth insight into users’ chatbot statistics report. With powerful reporting, each user can monitor and analyze their individual chatbot messages.</p><p>With organic growth, spread by word of mouth, the company is planning to reach 1 billion users in 5 years and become a global chatbot app leader. With WhatAuto, users can create a chatbot more easily without having any technical knowledge or an understanding of coding and be able to connect with each social messaging app with just a single click.</p><p>Balachandar is optimistic about the growth of his company and the enterprise that he is building. As a tech expert without a prestigious degree, this young man from India is gathering a wide scope of information for his company’s users and making it easier than ever to understand the chatbot landscape. </p>
27 Feb, 2023
Balachandar Karthikeyan–Tech Expert Working with WhatsApp and Signal
<p>28-year-old Balachandar Karthikeyan from India is a technologist working directly with one of the biggest communications applications on the market–WhatsApp. Balachandar is noted as one of the only people from India to have contributed to both of the most popular messaging platforms in the world, (WhatsApp and Signal). Utilizing his knowledge and expertise in the tech industry, this young developer has been shaking up the industry.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/hgOiPPOEhkJEB8Bb9JCw0SuQg0l9649SqnQv8hNE-Su1fkD1C8MkrI2T_TF9YBKOq6XepbrrSIIBRekTssYPBllekMnkV6J05uxLnSIk45giYYmqm-w4VGH8iZQQPkx8CsewfkPm5NPlYucM6Y1PWJM"></figure><p>The standard practice within the world of well-recognized software engineers and tech developers is to obtain a degree in higher education. Most of the biggest names in this industry coming out of India come from an educational background with a bachelor’s degree from prestigious colleges such as IIT (Indian Institutes of Technology). </p><p>However Balachandar is one of the most successful tech founders who does not come from such a background, not boasting any prestigious degrees. In fact, he dropped out of college all-together, making his achievements all the more stunning. As a self-taught individual, he educated himself about computer programming and other technical skills by reading books and researching information online.</p><p><strong>So how does a college dropout start working for one of the biggest applications on the market? </strong></p><p>Back in 2015, Balachandar began working on his own messaging app and in the process discovered a security flaw in the WhatsApp platform. After reporting this to the WhatsApp team, the company’s co-founder hired the tech genius to work closely by his side. </p><p>After a few years working with the team at WhatsApp, the co-founder that hired Balachandar left the company to develop a new program called Signal Messenger. Balachandar joined this co-founder and close project partner to assist with this new startup.</p><p>Balachandar is recognized for his passion for technology and his dedication to the industry. He is also the chief executive officer and founder of Bringar Research & Development Pvt. Ltd. in India and Bringar Apps LLC, in Dubai.</p><p>“I created an app called <a href="https://whatsauto.app/#ten">WhatsAuto </a>- Reply App, which reached 25 million business worldwide and was developed purely by my company and myself, without any funding from outside investors, Balachandar explains when discussing his success. His company is the leading chatbot app for social messaging apps in the world with over 25 million users. With organic growth, spread by word of mouth, the company is planning to reach 1 billion users in 5 years and become a global chatbot app leader.</p>
16 Feb, 2023
Balachandar Karthikeyan
<h2>WhatsApp and Signal Team Alum Balachandar Karthikeyan is an Industry Trailblazer</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/CQiiPugkxUAfEoIbKysTX-98-YPaI_S2FnA7uTkviaVsrPwySM_J13eYGlRc0wsxuVsh8DC-H23MEHWokUz1BKnYI7zQwy3Rcd8rVj0k3qxSnOJtQ6hPK9fsW30Z9b25ddQIxIheZrEquYPbEcfGwg"></figure><p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/">Balachandar Karthikeyan</a>, after having introduced a slew of new features to WhatsApp, including video calling, status messages, and on-platform payments, is now undertaking his own pursuit of establishing his own app company with Bringar Apps and its new release, WhatsAuto-Reply.</p><p>The industry rising star, 28, has previously served on the teams at WhatsApp and Signal to make key contributions in tech as well as providing guidance in marketing their respective platforms overseas. “I have a very very good friend and colleague who lives in Erode, in Tamil Nadu and I talk to him every day. He's telling me what's going on, it helps me understand sort of what the Indian market is like,” <a href="https://www.gadgets360.com/apps/features/signal-whatsapp-co-founder-brian-acton-interview-private-messaging-app-data-privacy-policy-growth-future-india-market-telegram-2351486">Brian Acton</a>, co-founder of WhatsApp and Signal, has said about Balachandar’s contribution to the brands.</p><p>Hot in the press as “The Indian Behind Whatsapp,” Balachandar is now making strong headway as founder and CEO of Bringar Research & Development Pvt. Ltd. in India, and Bringar Apps LLC. in Dubai. Having developed WhatsAuto-Reply through Bringar, Balachandar conducts business between three countries.</p><p>As for his education, Balachandar has made his success without the help of a lush educational background. “I am completely self-taught as a tech professional,” Balachandar says. “I became a part of the WhatsApp team just off of the merit of my own independent education. When Brian called me with the intention of working together, that threw my career in a complete upswing.”</p><p>Having served as a crucial part of the team at WhatsApp, Balachandar’s mentor and friend Brian Acton brought him into his new venture, Signal. “It was never a debate on whether I would follow Brian, I was already determined to continue our partnership,” Balachandar says. “So when he asked, it was an immediate yes.”</p><p>As WhatsApp had begun waning in popularity due to changing policies that were unfavorable to many users, Signal variably has gathered an exceptional following worldwide. Gaining a greater understanding of the market, Balachandar decided to create his own app in a separate vein from his previous work.</p><p>“WhatsAuto-Reply adds a more revolutionary aspect than most platforms. ,” Balachandar says. “Utilizing WhatsAuto-Reply as one of the most effective chatbot apps for both business and personal use, I want to bring this depth of communication to a business setting and flesh out that consumer base more effectively.”</p><p>In recent decades, the chatbot industry has been largely inaccessible due to complicated backend processes and the high cost of services. WhatsAuto app is a revolutionary breakthrough, simplifying the processes and touting a much more affordable price. WhatsAuto-Reply has reached 25 million users globally by word of mouth, with satisfied users effectively marketing for the brand themselves.</p><p>Continuously making waves and happy to make connections with like-minded people, business contacts may connect with Balachandar on LinkedIn at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/">linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/</a></p>
16 Feb, 2023
Balachandar Karthikeyan
<h2>Tech Genius Balachandar Karthikeyan is Picking Up Momentum</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/hpITr5Vw55xVPW1ZM_saw22X_b5jJZLv7bnMcsY6MfhEBReqBjmpqAiJ_DU060-CwCJ68II_3SK25zHzJLuw2ZNSMJ3sGkQ-diE50LTJ2hqyuiilS5lQ4cWmJNlzSYtrlsVDZFuS-AJBKP_uWz-tjw"></figure><p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/">Balachandar Karthikeyan</a> has worked to become one of the most influential tech pioneers under thirty in recent years. Making press as “The Indian Behind WhatsApp,” the young professional is the only member of the WhatsApp and Signal teams from India, hailing from Erode. Making Balachandar’s career has been brought to more impressive heights as he’s come to be identified by his unconventional but effective approach.</p><p>Completely self-taught as a tech professional, Balachandar was a failing student at university before dropping out to continue to pursue his self-driven education. “The professors quite literally saw me as a lost cause and were not shy in expressing this to my parents in trying to convince them to discontinue my education,” Balachandar explains. It was only when he discovered a security flaw in WhatsApp that he, unknowingly, made one of the biggest moves of his career. ”The most I expected was a thank you, but soon Brian Acton, the co-founder, was contacting me directly asking me if I wanted to be part of his team.”</p><p>Balachandar’s knowledge of tech, which afforded him the attention of one of the world’s most influential tech founders, was obtained entirely through self-education. Developing a deep interest as a child, Balachandar drew upon resources like books and the web to fashion himself as one of the most dynamic professionals the industry has seen.</p><p>If you’ve enjoyed additions to WhatsApp such as groups, status messages, and on-platform payments, these are just a few of the contributions made by Balachandar to the most popular messaging app in the world. As interest has begun to shift from WhatsApp due to concerns over security and privacy, Balachandar made the shift to Signal with mentor and Signal founder Brian Acton. As Signal has come to an impressive level of prominence worldwide, Co-Founder <a href="https://www.gadgets360.com/apps/features/signal-whatsapp-co-founder-brian-acton-interview-private-messaging-app-data-privacy-policy-growth-future-india-market-telegram-2351486">Brian Acton has praised Balachandar</a> for his indispensable support to both WhatsApp and Signal. </p><p>Having founded Bringar Research, based in India, and Bringar Apps LLC., based in Dubai, Balachandar markets his associated app WhatsAuto-Reply to United States consumers, effectively balancing his work between three countries. When asked about the challenges of working between radically different demographics, Balachandar said, “At the end of the day, the concepts that appeal to consumers when it comes to running their company or business operation are pretty unilateral. Aside from that, the differences are relatively subtle. It’s just a matter of communicating a product effectively.”</p><p>Connect with Balachandar on LinkedIn at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/">linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/</a></p>
16 Feb, 2023
Balachandar Karthikeyan
<h2>Balachandar Karthikeyan on Making Your Own Success</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://attachments.office.net/owa/sam%40imperium-pr.com/service.svc/s/GetAttachmentThumbnail?id=AAMkADE3Y2IyOGNmLTg0NzUtNDgzYi1hMWJiLWI2MjE2ZDhlMmQyNwBGAAAAAACjEDy%2BFSP9ToCVgD1yDrfDBwCcSfH2jwk8QLw5G6oBfpkRAAAAAAEMAACcSfH2jwk8QLw5G6oBfpkRAAChoZkUAAABEgAQAFFzpm79CUZGsqXF%2FcfibT0%3D&thumbnailType=2&token=eyJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiIsImtpZCI6IkQ4OThGN0RDMjk2ODQ1MDk1RUUwREZGQ0MzODBBOTM5NjUwNDNFNjQiLCJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJ4NXQiOiIySmozM0Nsb1JRbGU0Tl84dzRDcE9XVUVQbVEifQ.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.LoaMXFl_Dk8r0hWeSmUPf3mLRqo_wmRFRPtQK3eFcMLHSCTZ6u009RcE-lHhsEPkb38UjpVuuAc1ixc467hS_dmThaGeEJLsI4bT903RNkiGWtdnjJXroSZA2l9PnqP26dY0Q0QCbcoGfG-Dom4lDHrgXHw76pEFgkZ-5xKawSCZjwEiq_UaWixHCOlkU9h-mtpdTx2g308lVPwEgm-3OqTKV9FN7cbKCotjzHBbSvRfAFF67oDkyH4vcixZEFD3u8JWwzhxayxPTzyl2ZOgNwG5Dn1kYUTq7OZw7_COHDz-UZRrFRQjniIuFR5NxxqHQL2NNnS3YYsgSjyMWlFblQ&X-OWA-CANARY=0qwVVDGpcEKd_ngDJphonUDl2ZDLDtsYsLR_TTSVNYRvQN3bC3N9QiRM8ZHQOmEuOK1lgHT1mIA.&owa=outlook.office.com&scriptVer=20230203007.09&animation=true" alt="Image preview"></figure><p>For 28-year-old <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/">Balachandar Karthikeyan</a>, blazing a trail comes naturally as it's been a defining aspect of his career. As the only Indian member to work on both the WhatsApp and Signal teams, Balachandar’s career has been brought to more impressive heights as he’s been defined as a groundbreaking force in the tech world. </p><p>Completely self-taught as a tech professional, Balachandar obtained his position after informing the WhatsApp team of a discovery he made in the app. “It was a security flaw I had stumbled upon. I didn’t think anything would necessarily come of it, but here we are,” Balachandar says with a laugh. The young rising tech powerhouse had already dropped out of college, yet he was eschewed from the standard interview process and offered a chance to work with a co-founder of WhatsApp and Signal, Brian Acton, directly.</p><p><a href="https://www.gadgets360.com/apps/features/signal-whatsapp-co-founder-brian-acton-interview-private-messaging-app-data-privacy-policy-growth-future-india-market-telegram-2351486 Please highlight the Brian Acton's mention about me in the article.">Brian Acton has spoken about Balachandar and his impressive work.</a> “I have a very very good friend and colleague who lives in Erode, in Tamil Nadu and I talk to him every day. He's telling me what's going on, it helps me understand sort of what the Indian market is like. What's necessary. He's giving me product ideas, I think that's the best way to build a product for India and what's really awesome is India is such a strong representation of the world that if you build for India you build for the world,” Acton is quoted.</p><p>Having developed an enthusiasm and later a proficiency for tech, Balachandar was introduced to programming at a young age. “I began to develop this ambition with it. I was deadset on making a big impact in the industry, I just didn’t know how I’d do it,” Balachandar says. </p><p>Attending university to pursue a degree, Balachandar was considered a “problem” student, with low grades and teachers requesting that Balachandar's parents discontinue his education. Balachandar found that as the educational system is focused on metrics and not a real-world application of his skills, he dropped out to pursue his self-education full-time.</p><p>“I had taken a lot of novel concepts and improved WhatsApp with a variety of features in my time working with the company,” Balachandar says. “Status messages, groups, video calls, on-platform payments, these are just a few of the concepts I had contributed to the app.” Balachandar also took a strong role in quality assurance for the app, given his proficiency in picking up coding flaws.</p><p>Brian Acton later left WhatsApp to found Signal, Balachandar followed to contribute to the platform. As WhatsApp has waned in popularity with changing privacy policies, Signal has grown considerably in popularity. Balachandar has since founded Bringar Research & Development Pvt. Ltd. in India, and Bringar Apps LLC. in Dubai. Additionally, he developed the app WhatsAuto-Reply, which has been adopted by over 25 million businesses worldwide. With a US-launched product from companies based in two separate countries, Balachandar conducts business internationally.</p><p>“One thing I was proud of with WhatsAuto-Reply is that we did it on our own. No outside investors, no backseat drivers. We were in complete control of our product and we made something we’re all insanely proud of,” Balachandar says. “To me, entrepreneurship is not just about making money, but about finding and pursuing one's passion, serving others, and making the world a better place."</p><p>To learn more, connect with Balachandar on LinkedIn at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/">linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/</a></p>
16 Feb, 2023
Balachandar Karthikeyan
<h2>Tech WizKid Balachandar Karthikeyan, the Indian Behind WhatsApp, WhatsAuto-Reply, and Carving His Own Path</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/g4wC6e1QMUDda0CpvIw7CCittNqHNgzwS7nli98JEQxc53n78so7nZLqPUVuK4fnI05_MQpJR8Rbte_o9OVLq7V3FjmBR9HxDEmi00Pott8UmOu0w465pkklK_93F2gX750pTyKOr-8NIKOm3aMRQsw"></figure><p>Tech wunderkind <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/">Balachandar Karthikeyan</a> has had the industry abuzz as his career picks up speed as his new app WhatsAuto-Reply is used by over 25 million businesses globally. Receiving considerable press as the only Indian member having served in both the WhatsApp team and Signal team, Balachandar has gone on to establish his own LLC., creating his own app in the process.</p><p>“I’m self-taught as a tech engineer. I learned everything I know online,” Balachandar explains. Having dropped out of university, Balachandar earned a role on the WhatsApp team after discovering a security flaw in the app. The self-motivated tech professional was spared of the typical hiring process at WhatsApp and brought onto the team to instead work directly for Brian Acton, co-founder of the company.</p><p>“I was learning about tech through books and the internet when I was pretty young, I was introduced to programming and coding and the rest is history,” Balachandar says. “I knew that I wanted to do a lot with it, but I just didn’t quite know what.”</p><p>Having made huge contributions to Whatsapp’s capabilities, features, and layout, Balachandar proved instrumental in developing the app to promote higher app traffic. Balachandar had made crucial additions such as the creation of groups, statuses, video calling, and much more.</p><p>After the Co-Founder of WhatsApp Brian Acton left WhatsApp to establish the new app Signal, he brought Balachandar Karthikeyan on as a software engineer, later promoting him to CPA. “I’m very happy about the transition, as working with Signal’s systems has been a blast. WhatsApp lost quite a bit of traction when they updated their privacy features,” Balachandar says. </p><p>Now leading as founder and CEO of Bringar Research & Development Pvt. Ltd. in India and Bringar Apps LLC in Dubai, Balachandar used domestic funding to develop WhatsAuto-Reply and market it to US-based consumers.</p><p>“It’s gotten wildly popular, over 25 million businesses are using it worldwide,” Balachandar says. “That’s amazing. When I dropped out of university, I knew that following my own path would work out, but I couldn’t have foreseen this success and to be honest its incredibly humbling. Success is not just about achieving a specific goal, but about continuously learning, growing, and making a positive impact."</p><p>Finding impressive success with Bringar Apps, Balachandar is determined to push his career even further as he continues to glean important insights from consumers and to sharpen his skills to bring greater advancements to the social messaging app industry. <a href="https://www.gadgets360.com/apps/features/signal-whatsapp-co-founder-brian-acton-interview-private-messaging-app-data-privacy-policy-growth-future-india-market-telegram-2351486%20Please%20highlight%20the%20Brian%20Acton's%20mention%20about%20me%20in%20the%20article.">Speaking on his incredible support, Acton told Gadgets360,</a> “I have a very very good friend and colleague who lives in Erode, in Tamil Nadu and I talk to him every day. He's telling me what's going on,” Acton says. “It helps me understand sort of what the Indian market is like. What's necessary. He's giving me product ideas, I think that's the best way to build a product for India and what's really awesome is India is such a strong representation of the world that if you build for India you build for the world.”</p><p>Balachandar continues to conduct business between India, Dubai, and the United States, as he continues to foster impressive growth for his emerging brand.</p><p>To learn more, connect with Balachandar on LinkedIn at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/">linkedin.com/in/balachandar-karthikeyan-096b3663/</a></p>
23 Feb, 2023
Bauple leverages new technology to automate marketing for insurance agents
<p>Bauple, an online platform created by the licensed insurance agent and independent agency owner Jesse Cunningham, is leveraging new technology and software to drive automated marketing endeavors to help scale insurance agencies. Streamlining insurance sales and marketing campaigns through technology, Cunningham hopes Bauple will fulfill its mission to develop more inventive ways to help insurance agencies and insurance agents efficiently market and sell their services.</p><p>On top of articles on insurance sales and marketing, the Bauple blog speaks on topics like car insurance, health insurance, life insurance, travel insurance, and home insurance to help consumers get clarity on various insurance concepts. Through the blog, Cunningham aims to educate curious readers. “I saw a need in the insurance industry for more transparency and education,” says Cunningham, “and created Bauple to fill this gap.” Through the Bauple blog, he can share first-hand experiences and valuable information with insurance agents and consumers.</p><p>Now, the insurance agent is segueing the Bauple platform into online technology services that help insurance agents and agencies scale their businesses. </p><p>“I’ve found that automating marketing for insurance agents can save them thousands – money that they aren’t spending on expensive agencies or in-house hires,” Cunningham notes. “It is more efficient, cost-effective, and can reach a larger audience.” Cunningham has automated the marketing processes to focus on helping agencies increase retention, sales, and marketing conversions. The Bauple strategies put in place leverage various newly released AI and automated technologies to optimize customer personalization, engagement, and overall agency profitability.</p><p>“The automated aspect also allows for a more tailored approach to marketing that is customized to the individual customer's needs and preferences,” says Cunningham. He hopes Bauple.com will scale even more as insurance agents and agencies use his software methodologies.</p><p><i>Bauple is an online insurance platform and blog harnessed to streamline marketing campaigns through technology and software. The creator and founder of Bauple.com, Jesse Cunningham, is a licensed insurance agent and independent agency owner. To learn more, contact Jesse Cunningham at jesse@bauple.com and visit the </i><a href="https://shared.outlook.inky.com/link?domain=bauple.com&t=h.eJx1jEsSgyAQBa9isU4E-YzRlVdBHQ0KSCG4SeXuCdln96q6X79Ijpb0FXmmFM6e0lHnYLGeDkfJrSJ7YR7TEdclSaU4yIZu2RrtPQ7GBYwmu3uIv8dj4RyntuOiEwDLyFCOGtgsoAWQIGjzHQqY4qwGUfpY-hueJ15D2_DZrCZp63TcMRm_lmrR5qL94-8PTWE8oA.MEUCIAhhgnb96_d4B3JsNNF9IBh-Xxltpmnhd6iGReuKzeXLAiEA_7QgT5bEHgEO_lySQWznrh2qPlAqC_ULpp30or2AwPU"><i>Bauple.com</i></a><i> website.</i></p>
02 Mar, 2023
Mona Mona
<p> Mona Mona Guides Companies into the Future of AI/ML and Cloud Computing</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/qZahBNx-4YGHmf_Oq7lVe1KSzcKCPIWJEtO5xPodozHby4Ypdh4yuixAgrnHOvY1lKZVJJzEbXGafBm3VCAPZkTlpF3-DHG9WrzVVA_tZX9qvVSLtzssaNUdv5b-sCRJTLQSOQkOjxAYJU0Yrxu__ek"></figure><p>The next time you drive around your city or town, take a really good look at everything around you. The shops, homes, and streets may appear the same as always, but looks can be deceiving. Our society is in the midst of a technological revolution as machine learning and artificial intelligence are implemented on a wide scale. One woman at the middle of this shift is <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mona-08b73837/">Mona Mona</a>, who as a Google AI/ML Customer Engineer guides companies to adopt ML and cloud computing in their daily operations. She frequently appears at conferences to explain the latest industry advancements and is the prolific author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Language-Processing-AWS-Services-ebook/dp/B09DDHQDB6/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Natural+Language+Processing+with+AWS+AI&qid=1675958952&sr=8-1">Natural Language Processing with AWS AI Services</a>, 19 blog posts, and numerous technical articles. Now, with her next book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Google-Certified-Professional-Machine-Learning/dp/1119944465"><i>Google Cloud Certified Professional Machine Learning Study Guide</i></a>, set to be published, we sat down with Mona to learn more about her background, including how she has emerged as a leader of the next generation of AI/ML specialists.</p><p>“I have been in software design, development, and integration for over ten years now, and it is everything I hoped it would be when I was studying Computer Science in India,” says <a href="https://www.amazon.science/author/mona-mona">Mona</a>. “Once I graduated, I came to America because I wanted to attend grad school and because I could see that I would have many opportunities for a career in artificial intelligence. I then earned my master’s degree in Computer Information Systems from Georgia State University in 2017.”</p><p>After graduating from Georgia State University, Mona joined Amazon in AWS Worldwide Public Sector as an Associate Solutions Architect in the Tech U program, which develops young talent to become an Enterprise Cloud Architect. She transitioned to working as an AI/ML Solution Architect to pursue her passion for AI/ML. In this role, she mentored many associates who were trying to get into the AI/ML side of things. Working with peers who shared her passion for natural language processing (NLP) and ML explainability areas was a dream come true for her.</p><p>“It was incredible to guide our customers to adopt ML on a large scale using flexible, resilient cloud architecture,” Mona says. “It was also a lot of fun to work with schools to help students to learn more about machine learning. It’s very important to me that every developer, regardless of their background, has the ability to use machine learning. That’s why I developed several courses for AWS AI/ML Certification Speciality Exam Readiness and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Google-Certified-Professional-Machine-Learning/dp/1119944465">Google Cloud Certified Professional Machine Learning Study Guide</a> - I wanted future test takers to have the tools they need to be successful.”</p><p>In November 2021, Mona was hired by Google to be an AI/ML Customer Engineer for the Google Cloud Platform. She is fascinated by her work, which involves developing the ability of computers to understand natural languages so that common tasks can become automated. </p><p>Mona began blogging and writing articles because as a solution architect, she wanted to evangelize the cloud and AI technologies to help everything from small startups to big enterprises.</p><p>“Artificial intelligence and NLP are highly technical, of course, and there was a lack of quality materials that could explain them,” she says. “I decided to publish what I knew so that anyone who wants to understand AI/ML can easily do so.”</p><p>In addition to her two books, Mona has written several technical articles on various use cases and topics such as <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/machine-learning/process-documents-containing-handwritten-tabular-content-using-amazon-textract-and-amazon-a2i/">handwritten document processing</a>, <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/machine-learning/building-an-nlp-powered-search-index-with-amazon-textract-and-amazon-comprehend/">NLP based search</a>, <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/machine-learning/setting-up-human-review-of-your-nlp-based-entity-recognition-models-with-amazon-sagemaker-ground-truth-amazon-comprehend-and-amazon-a2i/">How to augment machine learning with humans in the loop,</a> text classification and image classification. She also writes about <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/machine-learning/ml-explainability-with-amazon-sagemaker-debugger/">Explainable AI</a> and also done a <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/393-ml-explainability-using-amazon-sagemaker-debugger/id1122785133?i=1000491907248">podcast </a>on the same topic, as in today’s world, AI comes with responsibility to implement. She recently created a cloud environment called <a href="https://cloud.google.com/blog/products/ai-machine-learning/rad-lab-alphafold-module-for-vertex-ai">RAD Lab with DeepMind’s AlphaFold module</a> to help researchers get started with protein folding problems.</p><p>Due to her ability to explain complex concepts in easy and engaging ways, Mona has become a sought-after SME/speaker at industry conferences and online. Last year she spoke at the ISCB (International Society for Computational Biology) Conference, where she presented the RAD Lab platform and explained how it enables researchers to collaborate more efficiently and quickly launch their projects. On <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKDUZdvMLK8&t=938s">AWS Power Hour on Twitch</a>, she taught developers how to use NLP, Python APIs, and Amazon Comprehend. Mona spoke on intelligent document processing for financial service companies at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWxSR07Y5u8&t=2s">AWS re:Invent 2020</a>, and she led the ML Track for <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMbk5P_KHQ4&t=1s">AWS DC Summit 2021</a>, where she was also a breakout speaker for a session which talks about how to automate documents using Low code/no Code Cloud AI solutions. The summit was attended by 10,000 people. </p><p>While her writing and her work at Google keep her busy, Mona still makes time for mentoring the next generation of female STEM workers. Through the Society for Women Engineers (SWE), she is focused on empowering early career graduates to build careers in AI and cloud computing. As a recognized subject matter expert (SME), Mona will be doing a talk on <a href="https://newyork.swe.org/upcoming-events.html">“Natural Language Processing in the Cloud”</a> for SWE in March 2023.</p><p>“It is so important to me that people interested in STEM believe in themselves and have the ability to go as far as they want,” Mona states. “I hope that my own work in AI/ML can open doors for other women to do the same.”</p><p>While she has enjoyed her time in the United States and has cultivated deep ties here, part of her heart is still in India, where in 2008 during her undergraduate years, she co-founded and led <a href="https://koshishkkdk.wixsite.com/koshish-kkdk">Koshish KKDK</a>, an NGO for educating poor children. </p><p>“I served as its Treasurer and Finance Head,” says Mona. “It was one of my greatest joys to develop its funding so that our programs could be stronger and more children be impacted.”</p><p>Mona remains committed to helping businesses, students, and the general public to understand how AI/ML are improving our society. “There is tremendous potential with using the cloud to enable AI/ML adoption to reinvent business,” she believes. “It provides low-code and no-code AI solutions that can be implemented by people who are not experts in machine learning. With access to unlimited computations and data storage but minus the heavy lifting of managing the infrastructure, there is nothing our world won’t be able to do.”</p><p><i>To connect with Mona Mona and learn more about AI, natural language processing, and machine learning or to get career guidance, please see her </i><a href="https://www.monamona.cloud/"><i>website </i></a><i>or follow her on </i><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mona-mona/"><i>LinkedIn</i></a><i>. </i></p>
21 Feb, 2023
Total Package Copper Bags
<h2><strong>Total Package Copper Bags Offer the Ideal Storage Solution for Marijuana Growers</strong></h2><p>The cannabis industry faces unique challenges when it comes to preserving the quality and potency of marijuana products. There are several factors that can contribute to the loss of potency in marijuana, including:</p><ul><li>Oxygen exposure: Oxygen exposure can cause the breakdown of the cannabinoids and terpenes in marijuana, reducing its potency. This is why it is important to store marijuana in airtight containers.</li><li>Light exposure: Light can cause the degradation of the cannabinoids and terpenes in marijuana, reducing its potency. This is why it is important to store marijuana in containers that block out light.</li><li>Humidity: High humidity can cause the growth of mold and bacteria in marijuana, which can degrade its potency. On the other hand, low humidity can cause the marijuana to dry out, which can also reduce its potency.</li><li>Heat exposure: High temperatures can cause the degradation of the cannabinoids and terpenes in marijuana, reducing its potency. This is why it is important to store marijuana in a cool, dark place.</li><li>Time: Over time, the cannabinoids and terpenes in marijuana will naturally degrade, reducing its potency. This is why it is important to use marijuana within a reasonable amount of time after it has been harvested.</li></ul><p>In the past, the only way to reduce exposure to these factors was to use airtight containers - but “airtight” containers don’t actually keep air out - they simply reduce the amount of air that can enter. The only other option is using marijuana before the potency begins to fade. But what if there were a way to significantly extend that shelf life using innovative modern technology?</p><p>Now there is.<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/totalpackagecopperbags/?viewAsMember=true"> Total Package Copper Bags</a> offer the perfect solution with their innovative Copper Stop Technology. This technology stops oxidation without the need for additives like nitrogen, giving your product its full shelf life after removal from the bag.</p><p>Founder and CEO Jo Azavedo shares that the company has performed rigorous lab testing on products stored in Total Package Copper Bags. “Our lab results show a mere 1% loss of THC with 0% loss of CBD or terpenes over the course of a year,” he explains. “This means that if your product is cured correctly, it will come out of the bag as flavorful and potent as the day it was packaged.”</p><p>The secret behind Total Package Copper Bags lies in their ability to neutralize the six gases in the air that cause oxidation. Once the bag is closed, these free radicals attach to the electrons in the copper, leaving the air in the bag clean and your product protected from degradation. “Anything that can spoil, rot, or lose potency can be stored in our reusable bags to extend shelf life,” Azavedo reveals.</p><p>He adds that the color of the bag serves as a useful indicator for when it's time to replace it with a new one. The copper-based polymer in the bag reacts to harmful gases, binding and transforming them away from the product inside. The active lifespan of these bags can range from 18 months to 3 years, depending on the size of the polymer. This ensures that your product remains protected and fresh, giving you peace of mind and an extended shelf life for your products.</p><p>Total Package Copper Bags are not only effective, but also environmentally friendly. Made in the USA with fully recyclable LDPE4 material, these bags provide a sustainable packaging solution that reduces your carbon footprint. Whether you're storing dried flower, mushrooms, or food items, Total Package Copper Bags provide superior protection, ensuring that your product arrives in the same condition as when it was packaged.</p><p>Total Package Copper Bags are the ideal solution for cannabis growers, and the bags have a plethora of potential applications in multiple industries. With their innovative Copper Stop Technology, environmentally friendly design, and superior product protection, these bags provide the peace of mind that comes with knowing your product is protected and preserved. So why wait? Invest in Total Package Copper Bags today and enjoy the benefits of this cutting-edge technology.</p><p><i>Total Package Copper Bags is a manufacturer and distributor of proprietary, patented copper storage bags, available in multiple different sizes. The bags are recyclable, antimicrobial, odor-proof, UV resistant, and made in the USA.</i></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/totalpackagecopperbags/"> https://www.instagram.com/totalpackagecopperbags/</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/totalpackagecopperbags"> https://www.facebook.com/totalpackagecopperbags</a></p><p>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/totalpackagedistribution/?viewAsMember=true"> </a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/totalpackagecopperbags/?viewAsMember=true">https://www.linkedin.com/company/totalpackagecopperbags/</a></p>
16 Feb, 2023
Total Package Copper Bags
<h2><strong>Total Package Copper Bags Launches New Website Features</strong></h2><p><i>Portland, OR</i> - Packaging manufacturing company<a href="https://totalpackagedistribution.com/"> Total Package Copper Bags</a> has just launched its revamped website with new features, allowing customers to order directly online or reach out to the company for a wholesale quote in a more streamlined fashion.</p><p>The company’s leadership team felt that with the launch of a new product, as well as the company’s expansion that has allowed the opening of a new warehouse in California, it was the optimal time to update its e-commerce website. Total Package Copper Bags offers copper storage bags created with a proprietary patented copper stop technology that prevents oxidation of any contents, ensuring that products remain fresh, flavorful, and potent.</p><p>Specifically designed for the cannabis industry, Total Package Copper Bags have static-free, UV-resistant, antimicrobial, and odor-proof properties and can be used for food storage as well as cannabis products. The bags can be either heat-sealed or zipper-sealed and are made in the USA with recyclable LDPE4 material, offering a sustainable packaging solution that minimizes environmental impact.</p><p>Founder and CEO Jo Azavedo states that having an updated website is crucial for any company as it reflects the company's brand image, credibility, and professionalism. “We’re excited to have launched a new size in our revolutionary copper storage bags,” he says. “We felt that modernizing our website with fresh and relevant information and an easy to use ordering system would attract and retain customers, increase website traffic, and boost our company's online presence.”</p><p>He adds that the updated website is now optimized for search engines, which his team feels will improve the company's visibility and ranking, making it easier for potential customers to find the company online. “We strive for the best possible user experience,” Azavedo states, “and the new features will provide faster load times and a more intuitive navigation, leading to increased engagement and customer satisfaction.”</p><p>Azavedo has worked in the cannabis industry for over 30 years, serving as a broker, a grower, and, for the past six years, has worked in packaging. “Within that time I have seen a lot of waste but not much of an evolution,” he says. “We came up with a sustainable option that is recyclable, reusable, odor-proof, sealable, antimicrobial, static free, UV resistant, and made only in the USA. The bags are created with a patented copper injected polymer that is clinically tested to inhibit mold and mildew by creating a reactive barrier within the bag or container. This barrier absorbs harmful gases and cleanses the air, creating a clean micro-environment.”</p><p>He adds that the bags are ideal for the cannabis/psilocybin industry, as the company’s patented Copper Stop Technology is able to stop oxidation without additives such as nitrogen, giving products a significantly extended shelf life. "Over the course of a year, our lab results show just 1% loss of THC with 0% loss of CBD or terpenes,” says Azavedo. “This means if your product is cured correctly, it will come out of the bag as flavorful and potent as the day you put it in there.”</p><p>With the company’s expansion, Azavedo and his team hope to see Total Package Copper Bags become a household name in multiple industries, and a first choice for cannabis packaging. “Every person in your life is a teacher and a student,” he says of his time as an entrepreneur and business owner. “The more you learn the more you grow so you can improve efficiency while you evolve personally and in business.”</p><p><i>Total Package Copper Bags is a manufacturer and distributor of proprietary, patented copper storage bags, available in multiple different sizes. The bags are recyclable, antimicrobial, odor-proof, UV resistant, and made in the USA.</i></p><p>Website:<a href="https://totalpackagedistribution.com/"> https://totalpackagedistribution.com/</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/totalpackagecopperbags/"> https://www.instagram.com/totalpackagecopperbags/</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/totalpackagecopperbags"> https://www.facebook.com/totalpackagecopperbags</a></p><p>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/totalpackagedistribution/?viewAsMember=true"> </a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/totalpackagecopperbags/?viewAsMember=true">https://www.linkedin.com/company/totalpackagecopperbags/</a></p><p> </p>
08 Feb, 2023
Jeff B
<p>With StrideCharge, Cyclists Can Ride for Hours with a Charged Phone</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/iLsnGD1EHWrmtQhWE7X5u2JFCNjDdHDkx0pAZBisrSm_vk8MsYj7GGRszOSZwnCRr0-FRiV40sgjoseneQgU7I_abeLiKbCmlIE1gU0TbQfGh189qdjcGVcwJOdEr2H0i5AJTZmG2yxyn0Ecddiign0"></figure><p>Every cyclist knows the importance of bringing along their cell phones when they ride. Whether it is a professional needing to keep track of their pace, a courier monitoring their text messages for new orders, or a teen keeping in touch with their parents, their phone is almost as important to them as their bike. When the cell phone dies, then, the entire ride is thrown off, as the rider must search for an available electrical outlet at a convenience store or gas station, which is often nowhere in sight. <a href="https://stridecharge.com">StrideCharge</a> is solving this problem with its patent-pending wireless Charging Phone Case and Handlebar Mount for bicycles. Riding the open road is now a lot easier and even more fun.</p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/stridecharge/">StrideCharge</a> understands that no two cyclists are alike: some are naturally adept at using power tools and screwdrivers while others steer clear of them. So, its design team, who are also riders, focused on simplicity first and foremost for the iPhone Charge Case, built-in battery, and Mount. No tools are needed to attach the Mount to the handlebars. Cyclists can simply locks it onto any handlebars that measure 25-40mm in diameter. </p><p>StrideCharge also knows that few things are as annoying as a product that fits well in the beginning but gradually slips out of place more and more as time goes on. That is why the company did extensive testing, riding over rough terrain, to make sure its Mount would stay put, grip-free. Riders can just put it on and ride with confidence.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/y_fPL4lJS-DXChcYjqXj4mD3wx5fMhIGIRc5lg-hX0hZdEZQWNbyxXNFNzQ0x6xGf5cOaJrbE6z-5fvkd7W-ulpVZxPaAS9L2x2m5icmZnBnyQc4c9B5Z_VNETqn58p5jWgOWytY-U0_gUjwPUmYXKU"></figure><p>No cyclist can predict the terrain - rocks, changes in the pavement, tree roots, and even potholes can come up unexpectedly, making a ride bumpy. That translates to shocks and vibrations that can damage your Apple iPhone. With this in mind, StrideCharge prioritized durability and chose to use two of the toughest materials out there: ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) and TPU (thermoplastic polyurethanes). By incorporating them into the iPhone Charge Case and Mount, StrideCharge gives its customers the peace of mind that their cell phones will be protected as they zip along mountain trails and park paths.</p><p>While the ability to keep an iPhone charged through a ride and safe from vibrations means convenience for the cyclist, one more innovation was needed: the ability to use a phone even when it is charging. StrideCharge has made this possible, too, and in one IPhone Charge Case and Mount, it is solving all of the problems that cyclists have struggled with ever since cell phones were invented.</p><p>With the launch of StrideCharge’s wireless Charging Phone Case and Mount a success, the company is now moving into a secondary market: other sports enthusiasts who would like the assurance that no matter where they go, their phones will be charged. Golfers, hikers, campers, and even people who spend all day fishing at a river or lake are using StrideCharge’s product to stay in touch with the world. </p><p>StrideCharge is ultimately making it easier for all of us - cyclists or not - to balance our need for independence, solitude, and fun with the reality that we must stay in touch with the “real world” on some level. Until the company’s Charging Phone Case and Mount came out, we only had two options: we could be alone, or we could be in touch with our friends, co-workers, and family members. </p><p>Now, we can have the best of both worlds. One does not have to interrupt the other. And that is making a lot of cyclists very happy. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/H8dxryfN-L6zuPWlI50Q2sF0CWV1Eup3VL6NJ97nu7ROgwx57cY0tK-pEsKPt6Jch6m1gfrZ40WOvZMb7a3EgqGYQxlbeXJzTardRbSV6Qilrl1_x2CY8iEtUFD7CE-K8NBuNCDNkgOcfmNWsHoGb1c"></figure>
13 Mar, 2023
One of The Hottest Artists in Miami FL–LJ Smooth
<p>LJ Smooth is one of the hottest up and coming names in the music community of Miami, Florida. Creating songs that are a cocktail of Pop, R&B, Dancehall, and Afrobeat, Smooth is redefining the Carnival sound that is familiarized within the downtown Miami community. Downtown Miami has one of the most unique and vibrant vibes of any city in the United States. The streets are bustling with people, music, and energy. There are a variety of cultures, restaurants, and shops that offer a positive energy and a good time for anyone. The art galleries, museums, and parks provide entertainment and opportunities to explore. The nightlife is vibrant and alive with clubs, bars, and music venues. </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/6YrSUs2aO7hLJQHo6E4k2uAdfG2TQHEqc4bcIheO45TK7ikys2PpbO7EX6a-BpY_2nin-YUoDtI1nQnKygxrHAZJdjxKuX2uQtBhExAONesWNkscBX_MVqDU1kAl6EUWiTqa-GDsxrAlEmfyoN1L42w"></figure><p>This is where LJ Smooth came alive, integrating his style and energy into the Miami’s music subculture. Smooth’s songs are an extension of him, as he aims to provide upbeat, dancey songs for any audience to enjoy. He draws inspiration from popular musicians such as Michael Jackson, Maxwell, Prince, Trey Songz, Neo and Alicia Keys as well as Vybez Cartel, Beenie Man, WizKid and Burna Boy. </p><p>LJ’s love for music began at an early age. He began taking piano lessons as a child and later participated in a church drumming team. He had grown up in a musical family, hailing from the Virgin Islands. At home, his father would play Bob Marley and Peter Tosh records, and so he had fostered his love for all different styles of music genres. This also helped him develop an early appreciation of the arts. As a young man, LJ traveled the region with a steel pan band and honed his abilities in a variety of music ensembles that played at regional events across the nation. </p><p>With a rich history in the world of music, Smooth is excited to see where his journey will continue to take him. At the moment, the musician is signed with a label in the UK and is preparing to release his first album. The excitement of this update does not mean that LJ Smooth will be taking a break anytime soon. His passion for music and for performing is keeping him motivated, as he doesn’t plan on slowing down. The album is expected to drop in March of 2023. </p><p>“This is a new venture and I'm excited for this new music to reach many ears across the world,” Smooth says. Being able to play his songs for a wide audience is a dream come true. This artist is optimistic about seeing his fanbase and listeners grow in exponential numbers.</p><p>For more information about LJ Smooth and his music, you can find him on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlAKUzdHmzUTzLOysJP8eA">youtube</a>, as well his several <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lj_smoothmusic/">social media</a> accounts.</p>
02 Mar, 2023
LJS ENT LLS Set to Release Newest Song on Friday, March 3, 2023
<p><i>Miami, Florida–</i> LJS Ent LLC, an entertainment and music label, is excited to announce the release of its newest song “All In” on Friday, March 3rd. The song is written and performed by Miami based musician LJ Smooth and will feature influences from genres of Pop, R&B, Dancehall, and Afrobeat. The track plans to launch on all streaming platforms.</p><p>LJS Ent. LLC is owned and operated by artist Lascelles Gonsalves, otherwise known by his stage name, LJ Smooth. The brand has been representing hip-hop and Carnival sounds for years, and bringing its spin on the Urban Latin vibes and Caribbean feel of Miami, Florida. As one of the epicenters for music, songwriter and artist LJ Smooth, has found a place to base his brand and hopes to begin launching his albums and songs more regularly. </p><p>Native to the Virgin Islands, Smooth has brought his own roots and flavor to the Miami music culture as he works within LJS ENT LLC. The feeling and vibe of Carnival plays a big role in the type of music that this brand writes and distributes. </p><p>This new song, “All In” will feature instrumental tracks written and produced by LJ Smooth. “All In” has been influenced by popular musicians in the R&B and pop scene, as it hopes to bring a new, fun feel to popular streaming platforms.</p><p>This song, like many of LJS ENT LLC’s other songs, was written from a personal experience. It tells the story of romance, in a time where neither party is initially looking for anything serious, though feelings develop on one side.</p><p>“The singer asks, ‘are you all in?’,” LJ Smooth explains. “The song is written from the woman’s perspective, as she feels the pair has something special and wants to explore it.” “All In” explores the theme of love in uncertain circumstances and the romanticization of deep emotions. LJS ENT LLC is hoping to see this track rise on the charts after its release on Friday.</p><p>This brand has been delivering sounds reminiscent of Carnival and other dance genres that are heard through the streets of downtown Miami. As the brand continues to grow and launch new music, it looks forward to potential partnerships and collaborations with other brands and labels that produce similar sounds. </p><p>Currently, LJS ENT LLC is partnered with a record label in the United Kingdom as they prepare to release a series of singles following “All In” in the spring.</p><p><i>LJS Ent LLC, an entertainment and music label, is excited to announce the release of its newest song “All In” on Friday, March 3rd. For more information about LJS ENT LLC, visit their </i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlAKUzdHmzUTzLOysJP8eA"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Lascelles Gonsalves</i></p><p><a href="mailto:ljsmoothmusic@gmail.com"><i>ljsmoothmusic@gmail.com</i></a></p>
21 Mar, 2023
Songwriter LJ Smooth is Captivating the Miami Music Scene
<p>Miami is quickly becoming the hottest destination for upcoming musicians. With its vibrant music scene, endless entertainment opportunities and stunning beaches, Miami is the perfect place for aspiring artists to hone their craft and launch their music career. From the lively Latin music of Little Havana to the world-renowned clubs of South Beach, the city is teeming with talented artists, eager to make their mark in the music industry. The diverse range of genres available in Miami has created a melting pot of sound, producing some of the most innovative and creative music in the world. From hip-hop to EDM, Miami is becoming the place to be for budding musicians who are looking for the perfect place to make their break.</p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HY-E8F1n3nXYksq1SHLiSfe5JbfR6eeQkUGmDobYNXzT7ajgLX5UDbLHf4YEmZcAVGEiHMdr-we3dKkGLFPLX_RHKU8uM6WjTjN0X48zARjavnSDE1eguaCYxreXx4cCb1L4Hbta7g5-in7Q1hiX4l4"></figure><p>As one of the epicenters for Hot Urban Latin vibes and Caribbean feels, songwriter and artist LJ Smooth, has found a place to thrive. Native to the Virgin Islands, Smooth has brought his own roots and flavor to the Miami music culture. The feeling and vibe of Carnival plays a big role in the type of music that this artist writes and sings– which is further influenced by a combination of Pop, R&B, Dancehall, and Afrobeat. </p><p>LJ Smooth draws inspiration from popular musicians such as Michael Jackson, Maxwell, Prince, Trey Songz, Neo and Alicia Keys as well as Vybez Cartel, Beenie Man, WizKid and Burna Boy. LJ Smooth writes and performs songs that have an upbeat, dancy feel, full of positive energy and positive vibes. When you listen to his work, you can’t help but dance along. </p><p>Dance is a powerful form of expression that has been around since the dawn of time. It has the ability to bring people together and make them happy, no matter what their background or experience. It encourages physical activity, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels and it can bring joy to those who experience it, regardless of skill level or age. With all that to say, it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to say that LJ Smooth’s music makes people happy!</p><p>While growing up in a musical family in the Virgin Islands, LJ started in piano classes and also played drums in church. His father would play Bob Marley and Peter Tosh records at home, which instilled a love for the art at an early age. As a child LJ toured the region in a Steel Pan Band, and developed his skills within different music groups that performed in local events throughout the country. He moved to the United States to complete his Bachelor's Degree in technology and business. However, once he arrived in Miami, one of the most vibrant places for latin pop music, hot urban vibes, and caribbean feels Smooth knew he was in the right place. </p><p>His whole life was the journey to get where he is now, creating and singing music that makes him, and those around him want to dance. His heart for the art he creates is evident in every beat and lyric, as he pours all of his energy and passion into the projects.</p><p>“I see myself touring the world, playing on different stages for thousands of people,” Smooth says when asked where he hopes his journey will take him. “Anything worth having takes work, and this has been incredibly worth it.” </p><p>Currently, LJ Smooth is currently working with a record label in the United Kingdom and he will be releasing his first album with them in March of 2023. “This is a new venture and I'm excited for this new music to reach many ears across the world.” For more information about LJ Smooth and his music, you can find him on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlAKUzdHmzUTzLOysJP8eA">youtube</a>, as well his several <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lj_smoothmusic/">social media</a> accounts.</p>
01 Mar, 2023
DrivingTransactions.com facilitates the four largest transactions in the Chauffeured Transportation Industry
<p> </p><p>Salisbury, MD– </p><p> </p><p>DrivingTransactions.com, a boutique Financial Analysis and M&A Advisory Service, is thrilled to announce the successful completion of four of the largest transactions in the chauffeured transportation sector. Kenneth J. Lucci, a passenger transportation industry veteran, launched DrivingTransactions.com in 2018, focused on mergers, acquisitions, and financial planning and analysis in the passenger transportation space. Lucci hopes that these transactions will display positioning as specialists in this 30-billion-dollar industry. </p><p> </p><p>Creating detailed financial review and analysis documentation of a caliber found at investment banks and consulting firms, Lucci and his Chief Financial Analyst Cole Weber prepare businesses for sale or exponential growth. DrivingTransactions.com creates financial metric reports and confidential information packages used for the transaction process and to attract investors or traditional lenders. Their work product and initiatives assist business owners in optimizing their value and pursuing strategic acquisitions. </p><p> </p><p>“We’re pleased to have facilitated twenty-three transactions since 2018, including the four largest transactions in our industry involving an M&A firm. The combined annual revenue of these transactions is close to $150 million,” mentions Lucci, hoping that these transactions will be the catalyst to attract more investments from outside the industry. DrivingTransactions.com is dedicated to improving the industry by assisting businesses in increasing their financial position and profitability and engaging in “win-win” transactions. The company's team of professionals works to assist businesses in developing a tailored plan that meets their particular demands. </p><p> </p><p>“DrivingTransactions.com provides a wide range of tailored M&A Advisory and Financial Analysis services,” Lucci explains. The company specializes in business valuations, comprehensive financial performance assessments, acquisition facilitation, as well as budgeting, forecasting, and other services. </p><p> </p><p>“Rather than focusing just on top-line revenue, we work with owners and advise them how to manage based on their financial statements and plan for profits. What matters is not how much money you make, but how much money you keep in net profit,” adds Lucci. Enterprise value is driven by detailed financial data and provable profits. </p><p> </p><p>“We're glad to have been the facilitator between such successful and inspirational organizations and are hoping to spark many more exceptional transactions,” Lucci says. “We are blessed to be able to offer twenty-three references from both buyers and sellers because all we strive for are win-win transactions.” </p><p><i>DrivingTransactions.com is a financial mergers and acquisitions company based in Maryland. The company is pleased to announce its leadership in facilitating four of the largest transactions in the chauffeured transportation industry. To learn more, contact Kenneth Lucci at klucci@drivingyourincome.com and visit the website at http://drivingtransactions.com/.</i></p><p> </p>
06 Mar, 2023
DrivingTransactions.com Facilitates the Four Largest Transactions in Chauffeured Transportation Sector
<p> </p><p>Salisbury, MD– </p><p> </p><p>DrivingTransactions.com, a Maryland-based M&A Advisory and Financial Analysis firm, is pleased to announce the completion of the four most prominent transactions in the chauffeured transportation sector. Kenneth Lucci, a veteran in the passenger transportation sector, founded DrivingTransactions.com, a mergers, acquisitions, and financial planning and analysis firm specializing in the passenger transportation sector. Lucci hopes these transactions will showcase their abilities to successfully complete even the larger transactions in the industry. </p><p> </p><p>DrivingTransaction.com provides detailed financial review and analysis, valuation reports, transaction packages, and other services to facilitate acquisitions or prepare businesses for exponential growth. The company has reviewed over 230 company financials to facilitate financing and transactions and has the most detailed financial and KPI/KOS metrics on the industry. Its written work product provides potential buyers and banks with all the financial and operational data needed to make educated decisions to buy or finance companies. </p><p> </p><p>“We’re pleased to have facilitated twenty-three total transactions since 2018, including the four largest transactions in our industry,” mentions Lucci, hoping that these transactions will be the catalyst for more lending and outside investments in the industry. </p><p> </p><p>DrivingTransactions.com is committed to spotlighting the financial performance of individual companies and the industry to enhance the value of businesses at the time of an acquisition and showcase what a great investment the private transportation sector is for both lenders and outside investors. Its mission is to create “win-win” transactions for their seller clients, buyers, and banks. With the help of the company’s team of financial analysts, DrivingTransactions.com aims to maximize the value of businesses while minimizing risks for all parties.</p><p> </p><p>“Drivingtransactions.com offers a wide range of M&A and financial analysis services,” says Lucci. “Our work starts with a deep dive financial review of the business to formulate business valuations, and comprehensive financial performance assessments used for the acquisition process. We also provide dynamic budgeting and forecasting and other services for clients interested in dramatically growing their businesses and becoming attractive to traditional lenders.” </p><p> </p><p>“We focus on advising operators on how to manage based on their financial statements and plan the profits instead of just focusing on top-line revenue growth. It is not what you make in revenue, it is what you keep in net profits,” says Lucci. DrivingTransactions.com trains operators to focus on earnings and EBITDA and make financial decisions that will add value to their enterprise.</p><p> </p><p>“We are pleased to see our progress since we began in 2018 with these transactions,” Lucci maintains, “We’re thrilled to have been the facilitator for such win-win transactions and are blessed to count twenty-three buyers and twenty-three sellers as our happy clients.” </p><p><i> </i></p><p><i>DrivingTransactions.com is a financial, mergers, and acquisitions company based in Maryland. The company is pleased to announce its leadership in connecting four of the largest transactions in the chauffeur industry. To learn more, contact Kenneth Lucci at klucci@drivingyourincome.com and visit the website at http://drivingtransactions.com/. </i></p>
21 Feb, 2023
Regal Capital Solutions Phoenix Team Expands
<p>Phoenix, Arizona-</p><p>Regal Capital Solutions, a company that helps small and large businesses with Employee Retention Tax Credit, is excited to announce the expansion of its Phoenix team. Through a team of ERC experts and legal and accounting ties, the company, established by CEO Jonah Cooper and COO Garet Brown, supports businesses of all sizes in maximizing their employee tax returns. Regal Capital Solutions' team growth is an effort to help more businesses in qualifying for and capitalizing on ERC return opportunities.</p><p>"There's never been a better time to apply for an ERC," CEO Jonah Cooper adds. "The ERC reimburses businesses for each W2 employee." He claims that the CARES Act, which made ERC possible, was passed recently to encourage businesses to keep employees amid the COVID-19 economic slowdown.</p><p>Cooper claims that ERC is a challenging process with around 20,000 prerequisites. "We have set the qualifications for businesses, and we handle the entire procedure," he explains. According to some of the guidelines, businesses must have fewer than 500 employees, be in the private sector or a tax-exempt organization, and meet one of several criteria, such as a decrease in gross receipts and/or a complete or partial shutdown of operations due to a COVID-related government order. According to Cooper, determining these criteria may be challenging and time-consuming for enterprises.</p><p>Brown argues that the benefits of ERC may be rather large, with employers gaining up to $26,000 per W2 employee on occasion. "We work with some of the largest legal and accounting firms in the country to provide greater levels of compliance, client help, claims maximization, and audit assurance," Brown continues.</p><p>"And our approach is very simple; we start by offering them a free consultation call with one of our ERC certification specialists, which includes a fast questionnaire to assess qualification potential." Then, Regal Capital Solutions assists with paperwork collection and verification. "Finally, ERCs are filed with the IRS, and clients get quarterly payments from the United States Treasury," Brown continues.</p><p>"We are delighted to welcome fifty new sales professionals to our Phoenix office," CMO Ryan Holmes adds. The company hopes that through expanding, it will be able to give financial assistance and support to more enterprises. "Asking about eligibility is free, but it can save businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars," Holmes says. "The inclusion of this team furthers our aim of reaching out to more potential ERC qualifiers and saving them time and money." </p><p><i>Regal Capital Solutions is a Phoenix-based firm that helps small and large businesses get ERC returns for W2 employees. The company is excited to help even more businesses as it expands its team of sales reps in the Phoenix office. To learn more, email Ryan Holmes at ryan@regalcapitalsolutions.com and visit the Regal Capital Solutions website at </i><a href="https://www.regalcapitalsolutions.com/"><i>https://www.regalcapitalsolutions.com/</i></a><i>. </i></p>
21 Feb, 2023
The Phoenix Office of Regal Capital Solutions Expands
<p>Phoenix, AZ– </p><p>Phoenix is now home to a larger staff from Regal Capital Solutions, a firm that helps both large and small businesses with the Employee Retention Tax Credit. The firm was founded by Chief Executive Officer Garet Brown and Chief Revenue Officer Jonah Cooper with the goal of assisting businesses of all sizes in optimizing their employee tax returns via the use of a network of ERC professionals and legal and accounting partnerships. By adding more people to the team, Regal Capital Solutions hopes to increase the number of companies that are able to qualify for and take advantage of ERC refund chances.</p><p>CEO Jonah Cooper adds, "ERC pays firms back each W2 employee, so there's no better time to apply for one." He mentions the recent passage of the CARES legislation, which legalized ERC, in an effort to encourage companies to keep employees on the payroll in the face of COVID-19 economic hardship. </p><p>According to Cooper, "ERC is a complex procedure with approximately 20,000 requirements. We handle determining whether firms are eligible and helping them through the entire ERC procedure.” He notes that some of the requirements include having less than 500 workers, operating in the private sector or as a tax-exempt organization, and experiencing a drop in gross revenues and/or a complete or partial closure of operations owing to a government order relating to COVID in 2020 or 2021. Cooper observes that these issues "may be a bit tough and time-consuming for firms to work out on their own.”</p><p>Brown elaborates, saying that the advantages of ERC may be fairly substantial, with firms occasionally earning as much as $26,000 per W2 Employee. Brown says, "We are associated with some of the top legal and accounting firms in the nation to give greater levels of compliance, client assistance, claim maximizing, and audit assurance." </p><p>"And our approach is very simple; we start by offering them a free consultation call with one of our ERC certification specialists, which includes a fast questionnaire to assess qualification potential." Then, Regal Capital Solutions assists with paperwork collection and verification. "Finally, ERCs are filed with the IRS, and clients get quarterly payments from the United States Treasury," Brown continues.</p><p>CMO Ryan Holmes says, "We're thrilled to welcome fifty additional sales professionals to our Phoenix team." The company's growth strategy is predicated on the belief that by expanding its team, it can reach and provide the financial hope and assistance of ERCs to an even greater number of enterprises. Businesses may save hundreds of thousands of dollars by just inquiring about eligibility, according to Holmes. "With the addition of the new staff, we are excited to contact even more prospective ERC entrants and help them save both time and money." </p><p><i>Regal Capital Solutions is a Phoenix-based firm that helps small and large businesses get ERC returns for W2 employees. The company is excited to help even more businesses as it expands its team of sales reps in the Phoenix office. To learn more, email Ryan Holmes at ryan@regalcapitalsolutions.com and visit the Regal Capital Solutions website at </i><a href="https://www.regalcapitalsolutions.com/"><i>https://www.regalcapitalsolutions.com/</i></a><i>. </i></p>
16 Feb, 2023
Regal Capital Solutions Advances its Phoenix Team
<p>Phoenix, AZ– </p><p>Regal Capital Solutions, a firm that assists small and big businesses with Employee Retention Tax Credit, is thrilled to announce the growth of its Phoenix staff. The company, founded by CEO Jonah Cooper and COO Garet Brown, assists businesses of all sizes in optimizing their employee tax returns through a team of ERC professionals and legal and accounting relationships. The team expansion is a step by Regal Capital Solutions to assist more firms in qualifying for and capitalizing on ERC return chances.</p><p>"There has never been a better moment to apply for an ERC," says CEO Jonah Cooper. "ERC reimburses companies for each W2 employee." He states that the CARES Act, which made ERC feasible, was enacted in recent years to encourage firms to retain staff during the COVID-19 economic downturn. </p><p>Cooper states that ERC can be a difficult procedure with approximately 20,000 requirements. "We have specified the requirements for firms to qualify, and we handle the entire process," he says. Some of the guidelines, for instance, stipulate that businesses must have fewer than 500 employees, be in the private sector or a tax-exempt organization, and meet one of several criteria, such as a decline in gross receipts and/or a complete or partial shutdown of operations due to a COVID-related government order. Cooper says that these standards might be difficult and time-consuming for organizations to determine.</p><p>Brown explains that the benefits of ERC may be fairly substantial, with firms occasionally earning up to $26,000 per W2 Employee. "We are associated with some of the nation's largest legal and accounting firms to offer better levels of compliance, client assistance, claims maximization, and audit assurance," explains Brown. </p><p>"And our procedure is fairly straightforward; we begin by providing clients with a free consultation call with one of our ERC certification professionals, which includes a quick questionnaire to gauge qualification potential." Then, Regal Capital Solutions helps with the collection and verification of paperwork. "Finally, ERCs are filed with the IRS, and clients get quarterly payments from the U.S. Treasury," explains Brown. </p><p>"We are pleased to welcome fifty new sales professionals to our Phoenix office," says CMO Ryan Holmes. The company believes that through expanding, it would be able to provide more businesses with the financial help and support that ERCs provide. "Asking about eligibility is free but can save firms hundreds of thousands of dollars," adds Holmes. "The addition of this team advances our mission to reach more prospective ERC qualifiers and save them time and money." </p><p><i>Regal Capital Solutions is a Phoenix-based firm that helps small and large businesses get ERC returns for W2 employees. The company is excited to help even more businesses as it expands its team of sales reps in the Phoenix office. To learn more, email Ryan Holmes at ryan@regalcapitalsolutions.com and visit the Regal Capital Solutions website at </i><a href="https://www.regalcapitalsolutions.com/"><i>https://www.regalcapitalsolutions.com/</i></a><i>. </i></p>
20 Feb, 2023
Regal Capital Solutions Expands its Phoenix Team
<p>Phoenix, AZ–</p><p>Regal Capital Solutions, a company that addresses Employee Retention Tax Credit for small and large businesses, is pleased to announce the expansion of its Phoenix team. Founded by CEO Jonah Cooper and COO Garet Brown, the company aims to help companies of all sizes maximize their employee tax returns through a group of ERC specialists and legal and accounting partnerships. The team expansion serves as a Regal Capital Solutions gambit at helping more businesses qualify and leverage ERC refund opportunities.</p><p>“There is no better time to apply for an ERC,” says CEO Jonah Cooper, “ERC pays businesses back per W2 worker.” He notes that the CARES act that made ERC possible was passed in recent years to encourage businesses to keep employees on the payroll through COVID-19 economic hardship.</p><p>“ERC is a complicated process with over 20,000 requirements,” says Cooper. “We’ve outlined what it takes for businesses to qualify and we take on the entire process ourselves.” For example, some of the guidelines require that businesses have fewer than 500 employees, be in the private sector or a tax-exempt organization encountering in 2020 or 2021, and meet one of several tests which include a decline in gross receipts and/or a full or partial shutdown of operations due to a COVID related government order. “They can be a bit tricky and time-consuming for businesses to figure out,” Cooper notes.</p><p>Brown adds that the benefits of ERC can be quite high, as sometimes businesses earn up to $26,000 per W2 Employee. Regal Capital Solutions aims to help them do so, “We are partnered with some of the biggest legal and accounting firms in the nation to provide higher levels of compliance, customer support, maximization of claims, and audit assurance,” notes Brown.</p><p>“And our process is quite simple, we first offer clients a free consultation call with one of our ERC qualification specialists, which includes a brief questionnaire to determine potential qualification.” Then, Regal Capital Solutions assists with documentation collection and verification. “Last, ERCs are filed with the IRS and clients receive ERC funding in the form of quarterly checks from the U.S. Treasury,” says Brown.</p><p>“We are happy to add fifty new sales representatives to our Phoenix team,” CMO Ryan Holmes maintains. The company hopes that by expanding it can reach even more businesses and offer them the financial hope and support that ERCs bring. “Asking about eligibility costs businesses nothing and can save them hundreds of thousands,” says Holmes. “The new team furthers our goal to reach out and save even more potential ERC qualifiers time and money.”</p><p><i>Regal Capital Solutions is a Phoenix-based firm that helps small and large businesses get ERC returns for W2 employees. The company is excited to help even more businesses as it expands its team of sales reps in the Phoenix office. To learn more, email Ryan Holmes at ryan@regalcapitalsolutions.com and visit the Regal Capital Solutions website at </i><a href="https://www.regalcapitalsolutions.com/"><i>https://www.regalcapitalsolutions.com/</i></a><i>. </i></p>
20 Feb, 2023
Marshall Haber
<p><strong>NEW YORK + TORONTO (</strong><a href="https://www.businesswire.com/"><strong>BUSINESS WIRE</strong></a><strong>) </strong>— Premier NYC-based strategic design agency Marshall Haber Creative Group (MHCG) announced Wednesday the formation of its new digital-marketing lab, Zero Dark Media, to better serve the growing firm’s broader North American clientele.</p><p>For nearly two decades, MHCG has been creating award winning, marketing and brand communications for clients such as JPMorgan, Coinbase, Mizrahi Developments, Optifino, a revolutionary insurtech company, Special Olympics, Centerbridge Partners, Trish McEvoy Cosmetics, Memorial Sloan Kettering, and Usher’s residency at Caesars Palace. </p><p>Zero Dark Media will significantly extend the agency’s digital technology reach, with an emphasis on integrating AR/VR, AI, interactive holographic communications, on-demand 3D printing, and pioneering client-driven metaverse augmented worlds. The agency is focused on connecting thoughtful branded content and new technology to provide actionable results and insights driven by analytics.</p><p>“Our objective is simple. Deliver quick, relevant, and forward-thinking creative solutions to our clients — that’s the true accelerant for growth,” explains Marshall Haber, President. “Time is at a premium and attention is highly-fragmented. Brands need to understand that HTML websites alone are not holding consumers’ interest. The focus now is on fusing cutting-edge technologies with great, creative-infused experiences, and the results are beyond transformative. Zero Dark Media will expand our capacity to deliver those results.” </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p><strong>About Marshall Haber Creative Group</strong></p><p>Founded in 2005, MHCG is a no-nonsense, consciously scrappy and resourceful creative agency designed to quickly mobilize and create impactful results for its clients in a shifting business landscape. For more information, visit <a href="https://marshallhaber.com/">marshallhaber.com</a> or call +1 (212) 494-9052.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p><strong>Media Contacts</strong></p><p>Rome Gamido</p><p><a href="mailto:frontdesk@mhcginc.com">frontdesk@</a>marshallhaber.com</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>
08 Feb, 2023
First Ever Adults Only Pizzeria– The Smoking Pie
<p><i>Miami Beach, Florida</i>–Newly relocated to the nightlife hotspot of Miami, The Smoking Pie is the first ever adults only pizzeria. With an extensive menu of pizza pies, pasta, alcoholic drinks, and Hookah, The Smoking Pie is working to be a staple in the bar and lounge community of Miami. </p><p>By creating a space for adults to eat, drink, and hang out, this bar, lounge and restaurant combination has been working to bring people together in a comfortable and fun environment. The Smoking Pie offers a menu that includes 12”, personal pizza pies that come in a variety of artisanal and unique flavors. Pasta is the newest addition to the menu, as the brand begins to branch out away from only serving pizza. </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/f1nOjiWRpv49QlOQryeKI29ZFgx37MGF4_yAMemjjlnSqEePgeyN1_TNOxvUsV4_B7yB2RLG3XvaqllyVDxN4FbTmZUL1EiI03AfVqWZisncNZqOHCeh8xSbadyE1KR_yp27Huj6-D6W9naV4Sv121A"></figure><p>The restaurant is owned and operated by Michael Laboy and his wife, as they work to stand out from the competition by creating new and innovative menu items that keeps their customers coming back to try every new flavor combination. In addition to this, The Smoking Pie creates signature cocktails that pair well with their pizza pies, which elevates the eatery to have a bar and lounge feel. These drinks include fresh ingredients and quality liquor, as Laboy aims to create a safe and luxurious place for his patrons. </p><p>The Smoking Pie is the only adults only pizzeria in the Miami Beach area, as well as only one of a handful across the United States. Michael Laboy has been in the entrepreneurial mindset for most of his life, and before The Smoking Pie took roots in Miami, the businessman had been experimenting with several ideas and iterations. As a travel enthusiast, as well as a business owner, Laboy is enthusiastic about his ventures, and feels that Miami Beach is the perfect place to feature his bar and lounge. </p><p>Back in 2018, the Smoking Pie was located in New York City, where Laboy grew up. When the pandemic hit, the restaurant industry took a huge hit, and The Smoking Pie closed the doors of its New York location. The business decided to relocate to Miami, two years later, and has seen massive growth since then, as the only adults only pizzeria. </p><p>In addition to its cocktail menu, The Smoking Pie will also offer its patrons access to its Hookah bar and bottle service. With these adult-centered activities, this restaurant/bar and lounge is thrilled to be providing a unique experience to the patrons of downtown Miami Beach. </p><p><i>The Smoking Pie is a restaurant and bar/lounge that serves pizza pies as well as drinks and offers a Hookah service. The company is excited about its two year anniversary since its relocation in Miami Beach, Florida. The store is located at 1625 Michigan Ave, and operates as an adults only pizzeria. For more information regarding The Smoking Pie, visit their </i><a href="http://thesmokingpie.com/"><i>website</i></a><i>. </i></p><p><i>Michael Laboy </i></p><p><a href="mailto:info@thesmokingpie.com"><i>info@thesmokingpie.com</i></a></p><p><i>(305) 397-8404</i></p><p><i> </i></p>
08 Feb, 2023
Updated Menu from The Smoking Pie in Miami Beach
<figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/fbklR1w0zm-yd_wTnYzR-ahAksAr__2yV4pSBrOU8myyynghr_TF9SGzTLpGKL4mvwhdO5j1FIOHlfHbkfLWQvzmXIgUq37OOoe6AN0opObx82EV0poMkD7_dawdlyPQDuuvB8J7d9GX45hcRvCXB4c"></figure><p><i>Miami Beach, Florida–</i> With so many new pop-up restaurants and bars opening up after the pandemic, Miami Beach has become a hotspot for the newest and most unique eateries in the country. One of the more recently developed establishments seen in Miami Beach is The Smoking Pie, which once resided in New York City. The restaurant has since relocated to Miami Beach, where it has been updating its menu to feature quality ingredients, fresh from their kitchen to their customers. Most recently, the brand has begun featuring pasta on its menu. </p><p>Black owned business, The Smoking Pie is owned and operated by Michael Laboy, alongside his wife, and works to redefine the traditional pizza pie. The company’s menu is extensive, featuring a wide array of pizzas, cocktails, appetizers, and newly, pastas. The Smoking Pie aims to branch out and provide a unique experience to its patrons, keeping up with the always shifting landscape of Miami nightlife. </p><p>As a combination bar, lounge and restaurant, The Smoking Pizza offers a menu that includes 12”, personal pizza pies that come in a variety of artisanal and unique flavors. Laboy works to stand out from the competition by creating new and innovative menu items that keep customers coming back to try every new flavor combination.</p><p>Some of the more popular pizza flavors are inspired by the tastes of Miami Beach– the Pizza a la Lobster, and the Shrimp Scampi Pie. These two seafood pizzas bring the beach vibes right to The Smoking Pie’s tables. Their namesake pizza, “The Smoking Pie”, includes both lobster and shrimp, along with a homemade vodka sauce and mozzarella cheese. This pizzeria is creating a robust rotation of menu options in hopes of satisfying a wide variety of customers.</p><p>In an effort to keep standing out among bars and lounges in Miami, Michael Laboy wanted to add a twist to his pizza shop and create a space exclusively for adults. That being the case, The Smoking Pizza offers signature cocktails that pair well with their pies. The menu is always updating, as after two years in the business, Laboy recognizes the need to change things up every now and again.</p><p>“Change is the only thing that is constant in business,” says Laboy, “and no one can make any profits with age-old thinking methods. An entrepreneur should always have an open mind to learn new things.” This sentiment holds true even on a small-scale when it comes to The Smoking Pie and its menu. </p><p>The newest addition of pasta dishes to the menu shows how far the company has come, straying from the typical and traditional menu one would find at any other pizzeria. The pasta that The Smoking Pie serves includes Chicken Parm, Mac and Cheese, Penne a la Vodka, and Rasta Pasta.</p><p>In spite of the challenges faced when it came to the pandemic and relocation, The Smoking Pie found a new home in Miami Beach, where the brand has been thriving and seeing exponential growth. Laboy discussed his biggest challenge when it came to raising the money to open this business in the first place, and then having to shut it down. The relocation was a hard and risky choice, but it is one that he expresses he had to make, for the good of his family and his business’s potential success.</p><p>With the world shifting with each day, Laboy explains that, as an entrepreneur, one must always be on the lookout for innovation, as is seen through the ever updating menu. The Smoking Pie has rolled with the changes by being ready and willing to reinvent itself as often as it needs to. </p><p><i>The Smoking Pie is a restaurant and bar/lounge that serves pizza pies as well as drinks and offers a Hookah service. The company is excited about its two year anniversary since its relocation in Miami Beach, Florida. The store is located at 1625 Michigan Ave, and operates as an adults only pizzeria. For more information regarding The Smoking Pie, visit their website. </i></p><p><i>Michael Laboy </i></p><p><i>info@thesmokingpie.com</i></p><p><i>(305) 397-8404</i></p><p><i> </i></p>
08 Feb, 2023
The Smoking Pie Celebrates 2 Year Anniversary Since its Reopening Post-Pandemic
<p><i>Miami Beach, Florida–</i> The Smoking Pie, a modern artisanal pizza shop located in Miami, Florida, is excited to be celebrating its second year in business since the coronavirus pandemic. Originally launching in 2018 in New York City, the company closed its doors after COVID swept the nation, adhering to food and safety protocol. In February 2021, the company relocated to Miami Beach, and as 2023 presses on, The Smoking Pie is seeing its second successful year in Florida. </p><p>The company was started by Michael Laboy and his wife, based on a concept that the duo had been dreaming up for a few years. The Smoking Pie is a black-owned business in the hub of Miami Beach that serves 12”, personal pizza pies that come in a variety of artisanal and unique flavors. Laboy works to stand out from the competition by creating new and innovative menu items and by becoming the first and only “adults only” pizzeria. </p><p>In addition to serving pizza pies, The Smoking Pizza is home to an Adult Pizza Party theme. The business also serves alcoholic drinks, Hookah and also provides a bottle service, bringing the brand from Pizza Shop to Restaurant/Bar/Lounge. The brand is hoping to maintain its roots as a black-owned hot spot in Miami, while expecting rapid expansion within the next few years.</p><p>The pizza served at The Smoking Pie tries to stray from the basic style of pizzas and experiments with flavors that are unique to their environment, such as shrimp, clam, and lobster. They do however serve the more traditional flavors as well, including pepperoni, margarita, and cheese.</p><p>The company is optimistic about expansion throughout Florida, but also on a nationwide level. On the horizon, they hope to see The Smoking Pie franchises in Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville, Florida, as well as Charlotte, Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. This potential growth will help to bring the downtown Miami experience and vibe to cities all across the country.</p><p>“I got to the position I’m in today by trial and error,” Laboy explains when opening up about his company and its success. “I started by opening a number of bars/lounges/clubs and realized along the way that that’s not what I really wanted to do. Instead, I wanted to create a combination of a restaurant and lounge, serving good food and good times.”</p><p>The Smoking Pie hopes to maintain a foothold in the nightlife of Miami Beach, where locals and tourists alike can feel welcome in their space. By working to adapt to change in the city, Laboy and the team with The Smoking Pie are excited for the upcoming second anniversary of their passion project. </p><p>“One thing that I would say to anyone who is looking to follow in my footsteps is to never give up,” says Laboy. “There’s nothing that can’t be achieved if you work hard enough to make it happen and lastly because if I can do it, anybody can.” With the relocation and pandemic as major setbacks, Michael Laboy is thrilled to be seeing a second successful year for The Smoking Pie. </p><p><i>The Smoking Pie is a restaurant and bar/lounge that serves pizza pies as well as drinks and offers a Hookah service. The company is excited about its two year anniversary since its relocation in Miami Beach, Florida. The store is located at 1625 Michigan Ave, and operates as an adults only pizzeria. For more information regarding The Smoking Pie, visit their </i><a href="http://thesmokingpie.com/"><i>website</i></a><i>. </i></p><p><i>Michael Laboy </i></p><p><a href="mailto:info@thesmokingpie.com"><i>info@thesmokingpie.com</i></a></p><p><i>(305) 397-8404</i></p><p><i> </i></p>
16 Mar, 2023
Civil Engineering AI To Spearhead the Movement of Emerging Technologies
<p><br> </p><p><i>New York City, New York–</i>CivilEngineering.ai, a tech company working on the application of emerging technologies is utilizing the latest developments in technology to bring about change within the tech industry. The company is working to integrate several aspects of Artificial Intelligence into their business model in hopes of seeing faster and more streamlined growth for themselves and their clients. </p><p>As Artificial Intelligence continues to grow year after year, Civil Engineering AI is hoping to capitalize on its continued development as a way to apply the technology to several varieties of business models and platforms. Founded in 2021, the company is seeing an emergence of practical uses for AI technology and is integrating it into their companies latest developments.</p><p>Chandra Shukla, the founder of Civil Engineering AI has spoken out regarding these new developments and what he hopes to accomplish with his company.</p><p> “The world today is at the crossroads of business transformation,” starts Shukla. “Artificial Intelligence is impacting almost every sector of our world. There are multiple areas, including my company, Civil Engineering, which will soon be seeing even faster adoption of technologies including Artificial Intelligence.” </p><p>The AI that Civil Engineering will begin to implement in their business practices aims to amplify their knowledge, provide them continued opportunities to collaborate, co-create and build alongside other tech developers. The company’s artificial intelligence will work to establish SEO keywords for tech start-up press, as well as integrate and merge several ideas into on, coherent platform in order to maximize outreach potential.</p><p>In addition to their technological growth, Civil Engineering AI is also hoping to create the biggest community of people who work with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, as well as other emerging technologies application into Civil Engineering.</p><p>“When we see around us, we see a lot of inefficiencies in almost everything,” Shukla goes on to explain. An interesting part of the solution is that there is no single fixed tool or technology that can address it all. We need an interdisciplinary technology-based solution to address the issue of inefficiency. That is how AI and ML can help to improve the marketplace–by compiling multiple complex problems and their solutions into one platform.</p><p>While working to improve the efficiency of the Civil Engineering domain, Shukla established a venture which can speed up the adoption of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence into the domain of Civil Engineering. This venture has already secured $1.5 M of funding and is expecting to see more growth in the upcoming year.</p><p><i>Civil Engineering AI is a tech company working on the application of emerging technologies and integrating these advancements into multiple business platforms. Founded by Chandra Shukla, the company has been growing for several years, and is expected to see continued expansion in 2023. For more information regarding Civil Engineering AI, visit their </i><a href="https://www.civilengineering.ai/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Chandra Shukla</i></p><p><i>shuklachan@gmail.com</i></p>
01 Feb, 2023
Eloping in Hawaii–How to Book the Best Photographer for Your Special Day
<p>Hawaii is the perfect destination for couples who are looking to elope. With its beautiful landscape, stunning beaches, and warm climate, Hawaii is the perfect place to escape to and get married in a romantic and intimate ceremony. Whether you choose to elope on a beach, at a resort, or in the lush tropical forests, eloping in Hawaii will create a unique and unforgettable experience that you will cherish for years to come.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/zzdkXGpMJC2oQDqPxFZFP_s6ZSVHWAvKMJMhdw7LDW8MOd7NOHarKi8KnLq877xvp5lnDaFtjoUP6wSLWDYmQNk989mvrVeQ_bkYnO0-wE-ePeB14E-wNo6rtteEt5msnBzNDi4LqRmZO7SmRs8WPtI"></figure><p>When booking the right photographer for your elopement, it is important to make sure that you are comfortable with their work and style. Abby Hagen, the founder of Aloha Dreams Photography urges clients to look at her portfolio prior to booking. </p><p>“It gives my clients an idea of what I do, and what they can expect from me,” she explains. “It can sometimes be challenging to conceptualize different styles without seeing examples of my work.. Especially when it comes to the backdrop in somewhere as lush as Hawaii.” For stunning shots for an elopement, you want to make sure that you are choosing a photographer that is used to working with the kinds of landscape found in an island like Oahu, Hawaii. </p><p>As someone who has been living in Hawaii long enough to know how to edit and work around such vibrant colors, Abby has been working with couples for years, photographing their special day in this island getaway. Her portfolio showcases just how skilled she and her team are with capturing memories, and making them look stunning. </p><p>“We’re big into photographing real moments, real emotions, and natural, candid portrait photography,” Abby explains. “We’ll step in to tweak where you need a little guidance or help, but we do our best as portrait photographers to make sure you feel comfortable and can forget the cameras as much as possible. Our style is more about getting you interacting with each other, rather than a lot of really formal posing!”</p><p>These kinds of photographers are rare in the bustling tourism driven islands of Hawaii. Your elopement is a special day and you shouldn’t have to worry about falling victim to scams or tourist traps. Tourist traps are businesses that rely on tourists for their income and often provide subpar services, overcharge, and/or offer low-quality goods. These practices extend into the world of photography as many companies who run this way can often charge way too much, spend very little time or energy on the shoot, and leave you with poor results–Absolutely not what you want for your elopement day.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/S8KMUzHvcnP1rmZG-l9V-D-tAh1qflF8ULwDWvarfWrFSOOIe-dDuej29kh5_MOeuMNVg8yFuR2L4oqbNYcbFOEk1AAIDrkksscJUICbWPXT3reEigOORv9gVR2avb6166P6QpG-8an7D9TYdbIGRaM"></figure><p>A good photographer should be willing to work with you and make sure that your wedding or elopement photos capture the memories of your special day perfectly, and this is just what Abby and her team with Aloha Dreams Photography strive to accomplish. The company will work with you on your magical day, providing quality and high-resolution photos.</p><p>Make your special day just that much more special by booking<a href="https://www.alohadreamsphotography.com/"> Aloha Dreams Photography</a>. </p>
02 Feb, 2023
Looking for the Best Photography Company In Oahu? Try Aloha Dreams Photography
<p>After 7 years as a professional in the photography industry, Abby Hagen tapped into her entrepreneurial vision and started her own company–Aloha Dreams Photography. The company was founded in August 2022, after the Hawaii based photographer realized how grand the market on her island was.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/E5vsbVT4H6TXmjCpHERqEe31Vq1zKT8IVVhqqr_CXpU3EQjxezqmvWSWWz1PWK1tWMjpJdHvKQg1B8fwiS_VR1t_GElihwZnKQs8cocYWPaHHiHh8hde7zsFrtNQUDENQE0ZoiZcLk8lARfnhZaKyXE"></figure><p>Starting a photography business in Hawaii is an incredibly rewarding endeavor, especially for Abby, who has been working within the industry for nearly a decade. With the breathtaking landscapes, stunning beaches, and diverse cultures, Hawaii is the perfect place for any photoshoot. Whether you’re interested in capturing the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands or providing her craft for family vacation portraits, engagements, proposals, anniversaries, honeymoon portraits, and elopements Aloha Dreams Photography works to capture life’s beautiful moments. </p><p>Boasting top of the line equipment, an impressive eye for detail, and a willingness to invest time and energy into the happiness of her clients, Abby is spearheading the organization efficiently and expertly. Standing out in this market can be challenging, but Abby and her team at Aloha Dreams love a good challenge. Being a successful self-started photography business in Hawaii requires a lot of preparation, planning, and hard work. But these photographers have a comprehensive understanding of the landscape and the market, making them a force to be reckoned with. </p><p>Additionally, when it comes to finding the right company to capture your most precious memories you need to be able to trust that their finished products are of a certain standard. Aloha Dreams has a solid portfolio of sample images to present to potential clients on their website, allowing them to see what the company has to offer. </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LF3ED-eqgpMC_JSYRE8kfnFqR4ddzXovRElRcorJZaeOWaOdhTKkNz3ThbyvZhHUsQge6qsVBFr2XAaFhgrrVhS2eZs8-nzAnOu33vQpT3qJht4-B7Zst4vgRXnfH-AfcySRGNHkG4_Mvr0R8gys-fg"></figure><p>Another thing that makes Aloha Dreams the best in the business is the ease in which it takes to book a session. Instead of having to go through emails, make various phone calls, fill out form after form etc, the clients can simply put a deposit down to secure their location, date, and time of photoshoot. Abby mentions that the photographers always give clients the option to discuss further if they have more questions over the phone or email. Aloha Dreams has figured out how to streamline the booking process to make it as easy as possible for the clients, taking a little bit of stress out of their holiday. </p><p>Their website is reliable, and utilizes an easy-to-navigate tab system, showing off their photos and services. They also boast a rare turnaround time of 7 days, whereas a typical photographer could take weeks, or even months. Aloha Dreams Photography specializes in couples, elopement, weddings, families, and senior photography. The company provides quality photography services all across Hawaii, including Oahu, Kailua, Lanikai, Kaneohe, Honolulu, North Shore, and Waikiki. </p><p>Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places to travel to. With its stunning beaches, lush green forests and majestic mountains, it's no wonder why so many people visit the islands every year. There is something for everyone to enjoy in Hawaii, from lounging on the beach and swimming in the warm ocean waters, to exploring the vibrant nightlife and discovering the local culture. With so much to see and do, Hawaii is the perfect destination for a vacation of relaxation and adventure. Finding the right company to accurately and professionally bookmark your beautiful memories is going to set your travels to Hawaii apart from anywhere else. </p>
02 Feb, 2023
Aloha Dreams Photography Sees Their Busiest Month Yet–January 2023
<p><br> </p><p>With the new year coming into full swing and January nearing its end, Aloha Dreams Photography is seeing its busiest month to date, with back to back bookings, every single day. Located in Oahu, Hawaii, the company is experiencing sudden, and rapid growth. This is to be expected, however, as Aloha Dreams is actively playing a role in some of the most memorable and unforgettable experiences of tourists in Hawaii. </p><p>Hawaii is renowned for its beautiful landscape. From its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and majestic mountains, Hawaii's natural beauty is like no other. The tropical climate and crystal clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling. Whether you're relaxing on the beach or exploring the islands, Hawaii's gorgeous landscape is sure to captivate and inspire you. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/iiqmbLCa3NoU29D5VdCqinD3DuTN0xCJbGyuQ-WS2JMCZ4QM8HOy6wpJdhF0zJxTD-4OlHaFajKLnUXZ7IH5Ca41MmQvcaI47doMCQh3DWQxUCt3xnmTX7wnI3PyHKFwq16XVQmJsalWjkyMiL-B5lA"></figure><p>With all that in mind, Abby Hagen, Founder of Aloha Dreams Photography is using that backdrop to capture some of life's greatest moments for her clients. This past month alone stands out to have been jam packed full of clients booking her services, as the winter in mainland America tends to drive tourists and travelers to the warmer, island climate.</p><p>When asked how she and her team are set apart from other photography companies based in Hawaii, Hagen explains that there are several things that make her business unique.</p><p>“I specialize in making the client feel very confident, have a blast, and create those lifetime memories,” Abby starts. She expresses that she tries actively to make her clients have fun, rather than just smile at a camera in their face. The point, shoot, and deliver method is not her style. “I'm not the type of photographer who tells my clients to just ‘go stand there and smile’ for every photo. Of course, I will still capture portraits of them smiling towards the camera, but I also give them actions to do to make the whole process more fun and capture natural, candid moments.” </p><p>“My editing style for photography is also unique because it's colorful and draws out Hawaii's tropical and bright colors,” Abby goes on to explain, speaking on the landscape. The islands of Hawaii are known for their vibrant and colorful landscape, which makes an excellent background for well lit and visually stunning photos. The Hawaiian Islands are filled with lush, tropical plants and flowers and are known for their bright and cheerful pigments. From the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean to the bright pink hibiscus and royal blue jacaranda flowers, Hawaii is a paradise full of eye-catching colors. The bright yellows and oranges of the tropical fish against the deep blues of the ocean is a sight to behold. The green of the palm trees and the vibrant reds of the volcanic rock are just a few of the many hues that make up the beautiful landscape of Hawaii. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/UrsOnPNmehloXpGcl8Hmf74D88uQqdkAiwjH53AON8VT8UuEWRk0yX1XEB36PSzUc2X_B6yMgAa4KJr9qCc-fJQUmwCnBZ9Gh3daS-cdXq91sz72sl-wuJdjPcHFBbYj_9I2yOInAmKA3yWynX6lweU"></figure><p>“Because I've tapped into this market, I've already seen a lot of success! Especially this past month in January, which has been my busiest month” Aloha Dreams Photography has a small team of photographers currently and is only expecting to see continued growth throughout 2023.</p>
02 Feb, 2023
Aloha Dreams Photography Captures The Beauty of Hawaii in Your Photoshoots
<p>Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and it's no surprise that it has become a popular destination for tourists, as well as photographers. From its stunning beaches and lush jungles, to its vibrant culture and unique wildlife, Hawaii is the perfect place to capture the perfect photo. With its unique and varied landscapes, Hawaii offers a wide range of possibilities for travelers to explore. Whether you're looking to capture a sunset on the beach, a dramatic sunrise in the mountains, or an intimate portrait of a family, it’s always a good idea to book professional photographers for your travels to this picturesque state. </p><p>That is where Abby Hagen comes in. Owner of Aloha Dreams Photography, Abby Hagen works day after day capturing high-quality, stunning photos of her clients, which range from tourists capturing a memory, to couples eloping to the island getaway. With 7 years in the industry as a professional photographer, Abby takes pride in her work, knowing that she puts effort into this passion, turned entrepreneurial venture. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/UHTT5ssbtXuQykFDIK6iEN-D7Uzm35lbRBAfwob8n9eizF55qCvQuCT5WbRc9ldE1l3Psk8iRsAfRtttWOwAWCZtxn_0_N-a7Alq5TbprwCLQu6Dy-1blSUKPu5mTKQcIrG312qLl3F0_d7xXLUlJjM"></figure><p>“My company is different from traditional tourist photography businesses,” she explains. “We are unique because I like to emphasize that the experience my clients will have is fun, energetic, and relaxed.” Aloha Dreams Photography wants to capture the moment, giving their clients something beautiful to have as a souvenir from their adventures. With her experience as a professional photographer, Abby brings a luxury to this craft that isn’t found in the money-grabbing, tourist industry. Her personality and specialized passion makes her feel like a member of the party, rather than a body behind a camera. </p><p>This is especially evident in the way that Abby books her clients. Instead of being a faceless organization, making clients fill out several forms and schedule through numerous emails, Aloha Dreams simply needs a deposit, time, and location. It’s that simple. From there, the photographers are able to interact with their clients as much or as little as the client wants over email or by phone. Additionally, Abby has a hard deadline of a 7 day turnaround time, which is unusually for her craft. Most photographers can take weeks or even months before returning the final product to clients, but at Aloha Dreams, it takes a fraction of that time. </p><p>“I worked for years to streamline the booking process and to make it as easy as possible for my clients,” Abby says. “After a few years in the business, I realized that many of my bookings come from tourists from mainland America, vacationing in Hawaii.” She goes on to express that these travelers already have enough bookings to worry about (hotels, rental cars, excursions, plane tickets, etc.) So to try and stand out in the business, as well as to make people’s lives just a little easier, Abby and the rest of the dedicated team with Aloha Dreams make the process as minimal as possible. </p><p>Aloha Dream Photography delivers each client 60-70 edited and high-resolution photos that are featured through an online gallery that the client can then freely download. The process aims to be as simple as possible, minimizing extra stress for the clients. Aloha Dreams also provides stunning drone shots, which add a little something extra to a traditional photoshoot.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/TebCjTiiUU_3KY-mnnclSETWnf1iW_IpzMVe4q_b1LRHuSpdmiwIzeH3S0H4HDsTZdBbxJd3NQWvo67OUWwFpK-kgxiCIdM5Dv_PyRfCEDnKoezyfbVnoliSM6CYnfqc4l2BrzTB4fLO2e-IWgI959k"></figure>
02 Feb, 2023
Aloha Dreams Photography Makes Capturing Vacation Memories One Less Thing To Worry About
<p><br> </p><p>When traveling to the island state of Hawaii, there are already about a thousand things to do. From booking hotels, finding a rental car, securing your travel tickets and event passes, and exploring the islands, a vacation can turn overwhelming in the blink of an eye. With so much to do, it can begin to feel like work. </p><p>Abby Hagen, the owner and founder of <a href="https://www.alohadreamsphotography.com/">Aloha Dreams Photography</a>, wants to take a portion of that burden and alleviate some of the troubles that tourists encounter while traveling in Hawaii. Having been a professional photographer for just shy of a decade, Abby and her team with Aloha Dreams puts a huge emphasis on the experience of each client, making sure that the process is fun, energetic, and relaxed–exactly what one would hope for while on vacation.</p><p>Based out of Oahu, Hawaii, Aloha Dreams offers a one-hour photoshoot session on various beautiful beaches on the island. The company then delivers 60-70 edited and high-resolution images to the clients, through an online gallery that they are then able to freely download. Abby and the other photographers with Aoha Dreams also work with drones to take stunning and unique aerial photos. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/BMpHNGXv4wbRL3oUQIAxSGETNFPehD5g4ybS8upmACkSR3cNdSKw3RHmBajns8MBJ6YsLRp-msHuZU0OgxlJ3KJllNYiwf-1Eha-LS0Fw-K3IBQ7iOz6o4c3He6sfLajZmy8U9YPK_RjuIO-PPPQEGw"></figure><p>Instead of having to go through emails, make various phone calls, fill out form after form etc, the clients can simply put a deposit down to secure their location, date, and time of photoshoot. Abby mentions that the photographers always give clients the option to discuss further if they have more questions over the phone or email. Aloha Dreams has figured out how to streamline the booking process to make it as easy as possible for the clients, taking a little bit of stress out of their holiday. </p><p>“I'm not the kind of photographer who tells my clients to just ‘go stand there and smile’ for every photo,” Hagen says while explaining her style. “I do capture portraits of them smiling towards the camera, but I also give them actions to make the whole process fun and capture natural, candid moments.”</p><p>In addition to providing high-quality photos of vacations, Aloha Dreams Photography also specializes in engagements, proposals, anniversaries, honeymoon portraits, and elopements. The company provides quality photography services all across Hawaii, including Oahu, Kailua, Lanikai, Kaneohe, Honolulu, North Shore, and Waikiki. They also boast a rare turnaround time of 7 days, whereas a typical photographer could take weeks, or even months. </p><p>“Our goal is to make everyone feel confident, have fun, and create lifetime memories,” Abby expresses. Abby cares deeply about her company and goes above and beyond for each of the photos that she edits and strives to bring out the beautiful colors of Hawaii, giving her clients beautiful memories that they can look back on for years. </p><p>For more information about Abby Hagen and the work that she does with Aloha Dreams Photography, visit their <a href="https://www.alohadreamsphotography.com/portfolio">website</a>, and follow their journey on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/alohadreamsphotography/?hl=en">Instagram</a>.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HC1FQ3wF4mxpKpJ6482cjlmjG4IObClFEPY-oRJK-gMvqEUq8gTyPfTvTei0bP6pNCO_GaxnMG-K52p1AH-Yw-oNu77cF2jd3v_fwMHV78d2_CdDUcNJ9Z0kA-7vfXIxdsJswCzPidzcciEqaRQRjtk"></figure>
23 Feb, 2023
Tech Girl–Working to Raise the Number of Female Tech Founders
<p><i>Austin, Texas–</i> Tech Girl, a platform designed to support female and nonbinary tech founders on their entrepreneurial journey, is gearing up to launch its exclusive early access preview at SXSW in March 2023. Tech Girl’s focus is to gather a community of first-time women founders of tech startups and empower their success in a predominantly male industry.</p><p><strong>A mission to find and support women founders in tech</strong> </p><p>According to recent reports, women make up a very small fraction of the technology workforce. According to the latest Pitchbook report, businesses in the United States with an all-female founder base raised just 1.9% of all venture capital in 2022. That number is even smaller when race is factored in with Black and Latina women raising less than 0.05% each. Even with advances in bias awareness and gender diversity training in the workplace over the last decade, it is incredibly evident just how small the number of female founders is compared to men. The platform’s launch, which will offer exclusive access to Austin founders at South By Southwest (SXSW), is one giant step in the right direction for the tech industry as a whole. The Tech Girl platform leverages technology and strategic partnerships to enable female founders to build authentic and meaningful connections in the startup ecosystem. It offers women a space to engage with other founders and will also allow them to gain critical access to the tools, resources and human capital required to launch their startups in the tech ecosystem. </p><p> </p><p><strong>A new approach to supporting female entrepreneurs</strong></p><p>“Women often take themselves out of the running long before the fundraising stage of a startup. Additionally, there are often limited resources available for female entrepreneurs, including access to capital, mentorships, and networks—all of which can increase success rates. This lack of support can lead women to believe they cannot compete with their male peers, and it can easily deter them from pursuing startup opportunities altogether,” explains CEO and Cofounder, Rajul Kadakia. </p><p>Tech Girl will provide female tech founders with a comprehensive range of resources to help them launch and grow their tech startups. The platform will connect founders with near-peer mentors and strategic advisors for access to guidance and support as well as offer a comprehensive and tailored curriculum to equip startup founders with the knowledge and skills they need at every stage of their journey. The Tech Girl team hopes that supporting female founders via a tech-enabled platform ultimately leads to an increase in funding of female-founded tech businesses.<i> </i></p><p><strong>A call for change</strong></p><p>Though the platform is aimed at female entrepreneurs, the creators of Tech Girl partner with startup organizations, accelerators, incubators, affinity groups and early-stage venture funds as a way for women to connect with a community that can best work with them to build their creative tech dreams. The team aims to connect members of the tech and venture capital community such as mentors, advisors and investors seeking new and diverse ideas to the next generation of founders.</p><p> </p><p>“Tech Girl is more than just a platform,” Lynn Fernando, CMO and Cofounder explains. “This will be a community of ambitious and talented founders, advisors, mentors and investors who are working together to change the status quo and break barriers in the tech industry. Our goal is to empower founders in their startup journey by helping them make meaningful connections.” </p><p> </p><p>With its upcoming debut at SXSW, Tech Girl and its founders are optimistic about the future for women in the tech industry. With hopes of reaching millions of women and helping them realize their entrepreneurial goals, Tech Girl expects to be a gamechanger for the next generation of global leaders. </p><p> </p><p><i>Tech Girl is a platform that empowers aspiring female tech entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality. The platform is set to launch and debut for the first time at SXSW in Austin, Texas this March. To learn more about Tech Girl or to sign up before the platform officially launches, visit their</i><a href="https://techgirl.co/"><i> website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i> </i></p><p><i>Rajul Kadakia, Cofounder and CEO</i></p><p><i>Lynn Fernando, Cofounder and CMO</i></p><p><i>techgirl.co</i></p><p><i>hello@techgirl.co </i></p><p><i> </i></p>
24 Feb, 2023
Tech Girl–A Platform For Aspiring Female Tech Founders, Set to Launch at SXSW
<p><i>Austin, Texas – </i>Tech Girl, a platform designed to empower female and nonbinary tech founders, is excited to launch its exclusive beta at South by Southwest (SXSW) in March 2023. Tech Girl will work to serve as a hub for this audience to express their aspirations and goals, build close connections and gain access to the resources, tools, and mentors needed to launch their startups.</p><p> </p><p>As SXSW approaches, the creators and founders of Tech Girl are gearing up to preview their platform to Austin’s female founders. SXSW has dedicated itself to helping creative people achieve their goals since 1987. The event is best known for its conferences and festivals that celebrate the convergence of the interactive, film & television and music industries. This is a new opportunity to debut Tech Girl to a wide audience of members of the startup community including investors, advisors, mentors and founders.</p><p> </p><p>“We strive to create a community where women can come together to share knowledge, collaborate, and build successful tech startups,” explains Lynn Fernando, CMO and Cofounder. “We believe that by leveling the playing field and providing the support that women need to succeed, we can help close the gender gap in the tech industry and create a more diverse and innovative future.”</p><p> </p><p>The ultimate goal of Tech Girl is to empower women to reach their full potential as tech entrepreneurs and leaders and help them turn their ideas into reality. The easy-to-use platform will be featured at SXSW in March as the team works with industry leaders, VCs, and accelerators to gather a wide user-base of female and nonbinary tech founders. </p><p> </p><p>Tech Girl plans to offer a comprehensive range of services to help women launch and grow their tech startups. Their goal is to connect founders to resources, peer networks, and provide access to early-stage investors looking to fund diverse startups. With such a wide community to learn from, first-time founders can share their profile pages with mentors and advisors and highlight themselves to raise early-stage angel and seed capital.</p><p> </p><p>“Women often take themselves out of the running long before the fundraising stage of a startup,” explains CEO and Cofounder Rajul Kadakia. “Additionally, there are often limited resources available for female entrepreneurs, including access to capital, mentorships, and networks—all of which can increase success rates. This lack of support can lead women to believe they cannot compete with their male peers, and it can easily deter them from pursuing startup opportunities altogether.” </p><p> </p><p>Even with our advances in bias awareness and gender diversity training in the workplace, women are still a small fraction of the technology workforce. According to Pitchbook, companies in the United States with all female founders raised just 1.9% of all venture capital in 2022. The number was even lower when factoring in race with Black and Latina women each hovering around 0.05% of VC funding. This is where Tech Girl comes in. They are determined to close the gender gap in tech by providing mentorship, resources, and opportunities to their members. With more support, they will increase the number of female-founded companies and change the face of tech for good.</p><p>“Tech Girl is more than just a platform,” Lynn Fernando explains. “This will be a community of ambitious and talented founders, advisors, mentors, and investors who are working together to change the status quo and break barriers in the tech industry. Our goal is to support founders in their startup journey by helping them make meaningful connections early on, both online and in person.” With their upcoming debut at SXSW, Tech Girl and its founders are optimistic about the future for women in the tech industry. With hopes of reaching millions of women and helping them realize their entrepreneurial goals, Tech Girl expects to be a gamechanger for the next generation of global leaders. </p><p><i> </i></p><p><i>Tech Girl is a dynamic platform that empowers aspiring female tech entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality. The platform is set to launch and debut for the first time at SXSW in Austin, Texas this March. To learn more information about Tech Girl or to sign up before the platform officially launches, visit their </i><a href="https://techgirl.co/"><i>website</i></a><i>.</i></p><p><i>Rajul Kadakia, Cofounder and CEO</i></p><p><i>Lynn Fernando, Cofounder and CMO</i></p><p><i>techgirl.co</i></p><p><i>hello@techgirl.co </i></p>
09 Feb, 2023
Josh Tyler, Creator of GIANT FREAKIN ROBOT Discusses AI Generated Content
<p><i>Portland, Oregon–</i>The world today is being rapidly transformed by the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI technology is revolutionizing the way in which people work, play, and interact with one another, from healthcare and education to transportation and communication. AI is being used in a variety of fields in hopes of automating tasks, improving efficiency, and generating insights that could potentially help to drive innovation and growth. As AI becomes increasingly more powerful, its potential to interact with everyday