Direct Final Rule for Play Yards Issued by US CPSC
Fri, Feb 14, 2025 05:36 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 023.25, reporting on the US Consumer Products Safety Commission's (CPSC) publication of a direct final rule to adopt, with modifications, the latest version of ASTM F406, the safety standard for play yards. The direct final rule, published on January 29, 2025, updates 16 CFR 1221 and incorporates ASTM F406-24 (Standard Consumer Specification for Non-Full-Size Baby Cribs/Play Yards) with modifications. These changes exclude some sections applying specifically to non-full-size cribs. Play yards, also known as playpens, are defined in the standard as a: "framed enclosure that includes a floor and has mesh or fabric-sided panels primarily intended to provide a play or sleeping environment for children; it may fold for storage or travel." Barring significant adverse comments to the CPSC by February 28, 2025, the rule will become effective on April 5, 2025. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 023.25 includes information on the changes to 16 CFR 1221, including updated definitions, revisions and non-substantive changes regarding marking, labeling and instructional literature. A link to a read-only copy of the standard is also provided. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 023.25 for more details. SGS toy and juvenile product services SGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and children's equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. After all, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's toy and juvenile product services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full US CPSC Issues Direct Final Rule for Play Yards SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information contact: Piyush Shah Technical Director, Hardlines Tel: +1 (973) 461-7953 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Proposed Ban on PTFE Cookware in New York State
Fri, Feb 14, 2025 05:25 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 022.25, reporting on a bill to ban polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in cookware in the US state of New York. PTFE is a substance used widely for its non-stick properties. Research has now linked it to several health conditions, including thyroid disorders, chronic kidney and liver disease and cancer. New York State's SB 1767 bill, introduced on January 13, 2025, proposes a ban on the use of PTFE in cookware and the addition of a new Title 12 to Article 37 of the state's environmental law. If approved, the ban will become effective in January 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 022.25 includes a useful table that summarizes the highlights of SB 1767. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 022.25 for more details. SGS food contact material services SGS's technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's food contact material services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full New York State Proposes Ban on PTFE in Cookware SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information contact: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Melanie Tamayo Senior Technical Manager, North America Tel: +1 (312) 414-9394 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
St. Petersburg College online bachelor's programs ranked best in Tampa Bay by U.S. News & World Report
Thu, Feb 13, 2025 16:14 EST
St. Petersburg College (SPC) continues to excel in U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges rankings, earning the No. 1 spot for online bachelor's degree programs in the Tampa Bay area. The College also joined Florida's list of public colleges and universities in the top 100 in the nation for best online bachelor's programs. U.S. News & World Report released the results on Jan. 21, 2025, listing SPC first in the Tampa Bay region in two categories: Best Online Bachelor's Program and Best Online Bachelor's Programs for Veterans. This is the fifth year that SPC received top rankings among all participating institutions in the study. This year, the College ranked 78 th in the nation for best online bachelor's programs and among the top 50 for online bachelor's programs for veterans among public institutions. SPC is also the highest-ranked college in the Tampa Bay Area in the Best Online Bachelor's in Business Programs category. SPC's Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Matthew Liao-Troth said the consistency in the College's ranking is due to its dedicated faculty and staff. SPC also continues to deliver excellence in learning by offering degrees and training that are relevant and timely. "Our faculty and staff are proud to support our students so well, especially online. We have been delivering online bachelor's degree programs for more than 20 years so that residents of the Tampa Bay region can complete their degrees even while juggling work and family obligations," said Liao-Troth. "We continuously invest in professional development for our faculty and staff and online support tools for our students to ensure they are successful with a better job and a better life." U.S. News & World Report consistently names Florida the No. 1 state in the country for higher education. Since the inception of the rankings in 2017, Florida has swept the rankings. The state continues to remain at the top of graduating students on time, providing students with the lowest cost for in-state tuition and fees, and offering higher education with little to no debt for students.
SPC Introduces Facilities Plan to Shape a Stronger Future for Students, Community
Thu, Feb 13, 2025 15:39 EST
St. Petersburg College (SPC) continues its mission to be a beacon for the community and stand in the gap by bringing forward opportunities for the betterment of the community as it introduces multiple initiatives in its multiyear Facilities Master Plan. This plan is highlighted by a new manufacturing lab that will be constructed at the Midtown Center in South St. Petersburg. The work at Midtown aligns with SPC's commitment to Pinellas County to provide the public with better jobs, better lives and a better community. The College's Facilities Master Plan is a comprehensive blueprint representing SPC's community reinvestment. The changes in the plan are aimed at strengthening program synergy on all SPC campuses and allowing the College to enhance efficiencies, critical programs and initiatives that will enhance campus infrastructure. Midtown Manufacturing Lab In August, SPC's Board of Trustees approved the addition of a manufacturing training lab at the Midtown Center to address regional and state industry needs. The state-of-the-art Industry 4.0 Lab at the Midtown location aims to enhance and expand short-term training programs in semiconductors, mechatronics, automation and robotics. Supported by two state grants totaling $7.2 million, the new manufacturing lab fuels the state's manufacturing workforce. This investment in workforce development and infrastructure improvements allows SPC to focus on bolstering workforce programs in the Midtown area of South St. Petersburg and demonstrates the state's support for our mission to uplift the community. SPC also received $1 million in the general appropriation for the project. Florida is a global hub for advanced manufacturing and semiconductor industries, with Pinellas County being at the forefront. Home to global manufacturing leaders including Jabil, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, and Plasma-Therm, Pinellas County ranks second in the state for the most manufacturing businesses and third in the state for the most manufacturing employees. Through the lab and purchase of high-tech equipment, SPC will provide hands-on, real-world experience to prepare students for today's advanced manufacturing workforce. With its location in Midtown St. Pete, the lab will offer opportunities for the area's unemployed, underemployed and/or veterans to earn credentials and gain high-wage technician jobs, providing residents with increased opportunities for professional development, education, and training. Facility Vision for the Future The College's Facilities Master Plan also calls for expanding SPC's nursing program at the Clearwater Campus and Midtown Center. This expansion strengthens health care education in the community and paves the way for new partnerships with SPC to enhance program offerings. "At St. Petersburg College, we are striving to provide students with an education that leads to better jobs so they can live better lives, and together we can build better communities," said SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams. "These investments bring us closer to that goal. We are excited to see the opportunities it brings to this St. Peterburg community."
CWA celebrates staff long service
Thu, Feb 13, 2025 14:35 EST
College of West Anglia celebrates staff long service A long service awards breakfast was held at College of West Anglia (CWA), hosted by Principal, David Pomfret, recognising staff who have completed long service of 10, 20, 25 and 3 who reached the 40 year milestone. Staff who reached these milestones during 2024 were invited to a breakfast event at the college's Novus Restaurant in King's Lynn, to celebrate their loyalty and commitment. Each was awarded a certificate and gift voucher. 40 colleagues with 5 years' continuous service will also receive a gift voucher and certificate. David Pomfret said, "Many of our staff have worked for CWA for long periods of time and I would like to thank every staff member for their dedication to supporting our students to change their lives through learning during their time with us. The combined service of those collecting awards is a quite staggering 395 years. CWA and our students have been able to celebrate multiple achievements and successes over the years, and none of these would have been possible without the continuing commitment of our staff." The full list of staff achieving awards are as follows: 10 years' service: Dawn Powell Eleanor Evans-Lake Jessica Woods Anne Hamilton Gemma Chapman Beata Babula Rebecca Gathercole Rowena Smith Selina Lennon Linda Stonehouse Ieva Fretwell 20 years' service: Stuart Spiteri-Nobbs Matthew Moore Alexandra Evetts Ronald Barber Michele Clare Lisa Gallacher David Marrien Michelle Cobb Anita Clark Guy Rogers 25 years' service: Tracey Palmer Zair Middup Debbie Henriques 40 years' service: Jeanette Nowrung Paul Setchell Paul Smith
Klar redefine el acceso financiero en México: Más clientes, más oportunidades, más inclusión
Thu, Feb 13, 2025 13:27 EST
La plataforma financiera líder en México sigue ampliando el acceso al crédito, permitiendo que más usuarios mejoren sus condiciones financieras. En la primera semana, el 90% de los clientes elegibles acepta la oferta para acceder a una línea de crédito mayor, lo que les brinda más flexibilidad y poder de compra. Ciudad de México, 12 de febrero de 2025 - Klar, la plataforma financiera digital líder en México, ha publicado nuevos datos sobre las tendencias de graduación, el proceso en el que los usuarios pasan de crédito garantizado a crédito sin garantía, destacando un crecimiento récord para cierre de año y una fuerte participación de los usuarios. El panorama financiero en México ha estado marcado históricamente por el acceso limitado al crédito formal. A pesar del crecimiento de la economía digital, millones de consumidores siguen excluidos de los servicios bancarios tradicionales, lo que genera una gran oportunidad para soluciones financieras innovadoras como Klar. Una gran parte de la población mexicana opera fuera del sistema crediticio formal. Aproximadamente el 85% de los adultos no tiene acceso a crédito formal, y casi el 50% no cuenta con una cuenta bancaria. Los bancos tradicionales han priorizado a los clientes de altos ingresos, dejando sin acceso a herramientas financieras esenciales a grandes segmentos de la población, especialmente jóvenes, trabajadores informales y pequeños empresarios. Para muchos mexicanos, construir un historial crediticio es un desafío. Las instituciones financieras tradicionales suelen requerir extensa documentación, comprobantes de ingresos estables y relaciones bancarias prolongadas, lo que impide que millones de personas accedan a líneas de crédito, incluso pequeñas, que podrían ayudarles a cubrir gastos diarios, afrontar emergencias o invertir en su crecimiento personal. Klar nació para cambiar esta realidad ofreciendo productos financieros justos, transparentes y accesibles, diseñados específicamente para las necesidades de los consumidores no bancarizados y sub atendidos en México. Gracias a su enfoque basado en datos e Inteligencia Artificial, Klar puede evaluar la solvencia de los usuarios más allá de los criterios tradicionales, como "el buró de crédito", lo que le permite atender a clientes que han sido ignorados por la banca tradicional. Klar está redefiniendo la inclusión financiera al permitir que los usuarios accedan a su primera línea de crédito, a menudo con una porción sin garantía, ayudándolos a construir un historial crediticio responsable. Gracias a su uso de fuentes de datos alternativas, Klar ha logrado expandir el acceso al crédito en un 50% entre los usuarios con poca o ninguna historia crediticia, permitiendo que más personas, especialmente jóvenes, ingresen al sistema financiero. Este cambio es particularmente relevante para los estudiantes sin historial de crédito, cuyo índice de aprobación con Klar se ha duplicado. Además, el 85% de estos usuarios no tenía ninguna línea de crédito abierta registrada en los burós de crédito, lo que resalta el papel de la compañía en la inclusión financiera de poblaciones verdaderamente desatendidas. El modelo de graduación de Klar permite a los usuarios mejorar su historial crediticio con pasos estructurados que conducen a límites más altos y mejores oportunidades financieras. Una vez elegibles, los usuarios actúan rápidamente: el 90% acepta su oferta de graduación en la primera semana. Solamente en los últimos tres meses, Klar ha graduado exitosamente a más del 10% de su base activa de usuarios de productos garantizados, demostrando su capacidad para escalar la inclusión financiera a un ritmo sin precedentes. Los datos de Klar muestran que, tras la graduación a crédito sin garantía, los usuarios incrementan su monto promedio de compra en casi 2 veces, lo que indica una mayor confianza en Klar como socio financiero. Aunque la cantidad de transacciones se mantiene estable, el mayor gasto por compra refleja una evolución en su comportamiento financiero y poder adquisitivo. Para fortalecer aún más la autonomía de sus usuarios, Klar ofrece un programa de cashback con dinero real, recompensando el gasto responsable y permitiendo a los usuarios maximizar el valor de cada transacción. Klar también brinda opciones de Meses Sin Intereses (MSI), proporcionando flexibilidad para manejar compras más grandes de manera responsable. Este beneficio es clave para los usuarios graduados, que están accediendo a mejores condiciones de crédito y herramientas financieras que apoyan sus necesidades diarias. La compañía sigue refinando sus modelos de datos alternativos y su enfoque centrado en el usuario, desbloqueando crédito para miles de nuevos prestatarios y dando forma a un sistema financiero más inclusivo en México. Actualmente, casi el 70% de los usuarios graduados recibe una oferta de aumento de límite de crédito, con una impresionante tasa de aceptación de más del 87%, lo que refuerza el compromiso de Klar con el crecimiento financiero responsable y el empoderamiento a largo plazo. "Estos datos refuerzan el papel de Klar en la expansión de la inclusión financiera y en ayudar a los usuarios a construir su futuro financiero con acceso responsable al crédito", dijo Stefan Möller, CEO y Fundador de Klar. "Los productos de crédito garantizados son una alternativa obvia para un mercado tan desatendido como el de México. Ante la complacencia de los incumbentes, somos los digitales quienes nuevamente llenamos ese vacío para ayudar a nuestros usuarios a construir o reconstruir su historial crediticio." Adicionalmente, Klar garantiza que sus usuarios ganen dinero mientras ahorran, ofreciendo hasta un 11% de rendimiento en depósitos garantizados. Esto es especialmente relevante, ya que el 90% de los usuarios de Klar nunca antes había recibido rendimientos solo por mantener dinero en una cuenta tradicional. " Con Klar, ahora tienen la oportunidad de hacer crecer sus ahorros mientras disfrutan del acceso al crédito, reafirmando el compromiso de Klar con el bienestar financiero y la autonomía económica de sus usuarios", concluyó Möller. Sobre Klar Klar está revolucionando el panorama financiero en México al ofrecer soluciones innovadoras y 100% digitales en crédito, débito, inversión y préstamos personales. Comprometida con la transparencia, seguridad y accesibilidad, Klar proporciona una alternativa moderna al crédito tradicional, permitiendo a los usuarios gestionar sus finanzas de manera eficiente y sin costo alguno. Para obtener más información, visita www.klar.mx FB: Klar | IG: @klar.mx | LinkedIn: Klar | X: Klar_mx | YT: Klar_mx
US Legislative Developments on PFAS in Consumer Products
Thu, Feb 13, 2025 10:10 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 021.25, detailing developments in the regulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in several US states. Substances from the PFAS family of chemicals (which includes perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS)) are commonly found in industry and consumer goods because of their water/oil/dirt/grease-resistant properties. Many have now been found to be toxic to human and environmental health. A host of jurisdictions in the US, including but not limited to California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, San Francisco, Santa Rosa, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington have implemented measures to regulate PFAS chemicals in consumer goods. However, there is no standardization in approach and variations in scope and requirements can be found in each jurisdiction. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that may impact their business. SafeGuardS 021.25 features a comprehensive table highlighting key regulations across major jurisdictions since early 2025, including their scope and proposed effective dates. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 021.25 for more details. SGS Chemical Testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS Chemical Testing Services . SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full US Legislative Developments: PFAS in Consumer Products SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information contact: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Melanie Tamayo Senior Technical Manager, North America Tel: +1 (312) 414-9394 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Flame Retardants in Certain Products to be Regulated in US State of Georgia
Thu, Feb 13, 2025 10:01 EST
Geneva (February 13, 2025) - SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 020.25, reporting Georgia's proposals to regulate flame retardants in certain consumer goods. HB 9, the 'Safer States Act', was introduced on January 13, 2025. If approved, it would revise Chapter 15 of Title 25 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to other safety inspections and regulations. It will take effect once it becomes law. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 020.25 includes a table with helpful highlights of HB 9, including a list of impacted flame retardants, requirements and proposed effective dates. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 020.25 for more details. SGS Chemical Testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS Chemical Testing Services . SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Georgia, USA, Intends to Regulate Flame Retardants in Certain Products SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information contact: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Melanie Tamayo Senior Technical Manager, North America Tel: +1 (312) 414-9394 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Be Ready for Surges in Outdoor and Gardening Demand, warns Pallet Trucks UK
Thu, Feb 13, 2025 05:11 EST
As winter draws to a close, businesses should be preparing for the annual surge in demand for gardening and outdoor activity products. Pallet Trucks UK, a leading provider of high-quality manual handling equipment, is urging warehouses and retailers to ensure they have the right tools in place to cope with the seasonal spike in stock movements. Spring marks a boom period for products such as sacks of soil, seeds, gardening tools, tents, and hiking equipment, as consumers embrace the outdoors. The UK has a well-documented love of gardening, with an estimated 27 million people - 42% of the population - participating in the hobby. This enthusiasm extends across generations, with 54% of millennials now preferring a trip to a garden centre over a nightclub. Spending on gardening has also grown, rising from £6.2 billion in 2020 to £7.6 billion in 2021, and the trend shows no signs of slowing in more recent years. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, "The surge in interest in gardening and outdoor activities means businesses must be ready to handle large, often heavy shipments efficiently. As demand spikes, warehouses and retailers will need reliable manual handling equipment to ensure smooth operations and protect workers from unnecessary strain." The seasonal nature of gardening and outdoor activity markets means that supply chains can become stretched if businesses are unprepared. Bulk deliveries of compost, gravel, and large gardening tools require efficient handling to keep stock moving quickly and safely. Likewise, the increasing popularity of camping and hiking has driven up demand for tents, rucksacks, and other outdoor essentials. Failing to anticipate this rush can lead to bottlenecks in warehouses, overworked staff, and missed sales opportunities. Investing in dependable equipment such as manual pallet trucks, electric pallet trucks and weighing-scale pallet trucks, businesses can move stock quickly, protecting both productivity and worker wellbeing. "With the right preparation, businesses can turn the seasonal surge into a real opportunity," added Chesworth. "Those who have the right equipment in place will be able to keep up with demand and deliver excellent service to customers eager to enjoy the great outdoors." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
ScribeEMR AI Solutions Offering Virtually 100% Accuracy to be Exhibited at the 2025 HIMSS Global Conference (Booth #819, Facing the AI Pavillion)
Wed, Feb 12, 2025 14:44 EST
ScribeEMR , a leading provider of AI-powered healthcare documentation solutions, virtual scribing, coding and medical office services, will exhibit for the first time at the 2025 HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition in Booth #819, facing the AI Pavillion, at the Venetian Convention & Expo Center, Las Vegas, March 3-6. ScribeRyte AI delivers close to 100% accurate clinical notes generated instantly during a patient visit. Some providers are reporting the ability to see up to 70 patients a day with this AI medical charting support, which easily integrates into just about any EMR, including many specialty platforms. "We are excited to be demoing ScribeRyte AI capabilities at HIMSS," says ScribeEMR Senior Vice President Terry Cielsa. "Practitioners are no doubt confused by the number of healthcare documentation options. Our system's neural network, based on extensive input from our sizeable scribing workforce, delivers incredibly quick, highly accurate clinical notes that will exceed expectations. That's why, for the second year in a row, ScribeEMR will be awarded the 'Best in KLAS for virtual scribing services' award at HIMSS." With minimal training, the ScribeRyte AI system intuitively monitors a physician's charting habits and the details of a patient's medical history, and predicts what should be included in each note, saving hours of valuable time. ScribeEMR's technology team spent nearly two years perfecting the system to the level of accuracy, reliability and privacy healthcare providers require. ScribeRyte AI also generates codes that serve as a reference guide to correctly capture billable aspects of a patient encounter. ScribeEMR's remote medical scribes continue to provide live, personalized support by communicating virtually with physicians via a laptop, a smartphone, a tablet, or other communication device during a patient visit. Virtual scribes enter notes in the EMR, update charts, clarify information, and make suggestions to comply with Uniformed Data System (UDS) reporting requirements and Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) quality measures. CodeEMR, ScribeEMR's medical coding subsidiary, provides the specialty medical coding services needed to address the challenges and requirements of each healthcare setting. "What you don't know about the latest medical coding compliance requirements for your particular practice or health center can hurt you and cost you revenue," says Vice President of Coding Business Development Paul Ferrazza. "CodeEMR has the deep expertise in medical coding and auditing necessary to optimize reimbursements, increase profits, and foster growth in any medical environment." Best in KLAS Award Ceremony For the second year in a row, ScribeEMR will be awarded the "Best in KLAS for virtual scribing services" award during the Best in KLAS Show 2025, which will be held at HIMSS on March 3 at 7:30 pm PST. ScribeEMR's top performing virtual scribing services are ranked #1 in the released 2025 Best in KLAS: Software & Services report. About HIMSS25 HIMSS25, run by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, is the peak of health IT educational programming. More than 30,000 people including C-level executives, dedicated healthcare providers, tech-savvy health IT professionals, visionary government officials and vendors ─ will converge to meet and make connections that will transform into actionable insights that drive healthcare practices forward. About ScribeEMR ScribeEMR is a leading provider of AI-powered healthcare documentation solutions and live, real-time virtual medical coding, scribing, and medical office services for medical practices, hospitals, and health systems. For two consecutive years, ScribeEMR has been ranked "Best in KLAS for virtual scribing services" in the 2025 and 2024 Best in KLAS: Software & Services Reports. ScribeEMR is also the highest rated company in KLAS Research's Virtual Scribing Services 2024 report. Highly trained U.S. and overseas teams partner with healthcare providers and health systems to improve practice efficiency, maximize revenue, and reduce provider burnout. ScribeRyte AI delivers physician-guided, AI-driven medical charting with unprecedented speed, close to 100% accuracy, and many personalized capabilities. For more information visit www.scribeemr.com . Follow us on: LinkedIn
British Jews Unite in Global Humanitarian Effort
Wed, Feb 12, 2025 12:57 EST
Last night, leading members of Britain's Jewish community gathered at the Roundhouse in London to raise vital funds for the work of World Jewish Relief. The charity, which last year worked in 21 countries, provides essential support to vulnerable people and those suffering the consequences of conflict, disaster and climate change. The evening was hosted by Suzy Klein , Head of Arts and Classical Music at the BBC. Klein shared her personal connection to World Jewish Relief, recounting how her grandfather fled Nazi-occupied Hungary in 1939. She revealed that she discovered his registration slip in the charity's archives; a document that had remained unseen by her family for 85 years. "Knowing that World Jewish Relief was there, on the ground, ready to help people like my grandpa, who had lost everything, is deeply moving," Klein remarked. Maurice Helfgott , Chair of World Jewish Relief, spoke about the vital support offered by His Majesty the King, the charity's royal patron, during these challenging times. He reflected on his father Sir Ben Helfgott's experience of German concentration camps, emphasising that the lessons from that time must never be forgotten. Helfgott also passionately underscored the duty of Jews to not only support one another but also extend their assistance beyond the community, highlighting the charity's ongoing commitment to aiding vulnerable individuals worldwide, from Ukraine to Israel and Gaza. Helfgott said: "Our Jewish traditions and values demand that we proudly use our expertise to support many thousands of individuals beyond the Jewish community." Lady Valerie Mirvis , wife of Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, addressed the audience, emphasising a message of hope amidst adversity. She reflected on the inherent hopefullness of a room full of people determined to contribute to a better world. With its three-year anniversary looming, the war in Ukraine was high on the agenda for the evening. Through the generosity of supporters, World Jewish Relief has assisted over 330,000 people inside Ukraine across 388 towns and cities. The charity has also delivered the UK's largest employment programme for Ukrainians fleeing war (STEP Ukraine), empowering more than 13,000 refugees with essential English language training and employment support. The attendees experienced a beautiful performance by Daria Golovchenko , a classically trained pianist from Ukraine who fled war with her one-year-old daughter. Upon arriving in the UK, she featured on Channel 4's hit series The Piano, making it to the final. Taking the stage at London's iconic Roundhouse venue last night, Daria spoke of her harrowing journey from Kherson, Ukraine, where music became her lifeline. She shared her passion for using art to inspire and unite people: "Today, I stand before you to say: the power of art lies in its ability to transform lives. I believe that through music, we can not only tell stories but also inspire action." In recent years, the dinner, held annually, has raised millions of pounds from the UK's Jewish community to fund critical humanitarian work across the world. While the Israel-Hamas war and a global spike in antisemitism have put immense strain on British Jews over the past 16 months, World Jewish Relief and its supporters are determined to overcome these challenges without forgetting their sacred duty to support those outside their community.
Investment Strategies for Americans Abroad: Levitt Capital Management Announces Upcoming Events
Wed, Feb 12, 2025 11:02 EST
Firm to participate in two seminars to inform Americans on investing internationally and specifically in France Levitt Capital Management (LCM) is pleased to announce two upcoming events aimed at providing valuable insights into investment strategies for Americans residing in Europe. Both of these events are designed to address the unique financial challenges faced by U.S. citizens/dual citizens living overseas, and both will feature Robert Levitt , founder of Levitt Capital Management. His expertise will provide those who attend with practical strategies to better manage their investments while also navigating the complexities of international financial regulations. "Most Americans have no idea what they are supposed to do with their finances when they move overseas," said Levitt. "For instance, failure to report foreign bank accounts and correspondingly submitting FATCA Form 8938 can result in severe penalties. Residency calculation is complex - and miscalculation can come back to bite you. In addition, France imposes a wealth tax on real estate holdings which may surprise some residents, and Americans who fail to severe ties with their last U.S. state of residence may still owe state taxes despite living abroad. After living in Nice, France, for a while, I started to realize that Americans living in Europe face a lot of challenges because of laws in the U.S. that were created to catch people who might be hiding money. We're here to help them avoid these pitfalls and many more." EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR AMERICANS ABROAD AND DUAL CITIZENS IN 2025 1. Investment Strategies for Americans in France Date: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 Time: 6:30-7:30 PM CET Location: Omid & Gisel Kordestani Rooftop Conference Center - 6 Rue du Colonel Combes, 75007 Paris, France This seminar will be hosted by The American University of Paris (AUP) and led by Robert Levitt. This event focuses on investment options available to U.S. citizens living in France, and will cover topics such as: French savings programs available to US citizens Action to take on U.S. investments U.S. investment products you can have while resident in France Avoiding tax penalties on the U.S. or French side General Admission: The event is open to all members of the AUP community. While the online registration process is now closed, interested parties - including members of the press - may contact Yana Kossinskay at ykossinskaya@levittcapital.fr to inquire about available spots at the conference. 2. How To Invest For Americans Abroad & Dual Citizens 2025 Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM EST (8:00 PM - 9:30 PM CET) Format: Online Webinar In partnership with Democrats Abroad , this webinar will feature Robert Levitt discussing the complexities of investing as an American abroad. Key discussion points include: What you can and cannot do with investments in Europe Challenges in opening brokerage accounts What are the concerns with investment in European packaged products (PFIC) Understanding double taxation and how to avoid it General Admission: Tickets are priced at $15 for general admission and $7.50 for retirees, students, or unemployed individuals. To register and for more information, please visit: https://www.democratsabroad.org/investingabroad2025 Press Passes: Journalists are welcome to attend the webinar. Email Yana Kossinskay at ykossinskaya@levittcapital.fr for a press pass. LEVITT ATTENDING THE T3 TECHNOLOGY TOOLS FOR TODAY CONFERENCE Levitt will be attending the upcoming T3 Technology Tools for Today Conference March 3 rd - 6 th in Dallas, TX . He is available for interviews and welcomes the opportunity to speak with members of the press about how LCM uses technology and AI to better serve clients and run a more efficient financial advisory firm. Please contact DoriThomas@ImpactCommunications.org to schedule an in-person meeting with Robert Levitt. ABOUT LEVITT CAPITAL MANAGEMENT Founded by Robert Levitt and based in Nice, France, Levitt Capital Management is a wealth management firm specializing in providing tailored financial solutions for Americans residing in Europe, especially those living in France. With a focus on personalized service and in-depth knowledge of international financial landscapes, Levitt Capital Management assists clients in achieving their financial goals while ensuring compliance with both U.S. and local regulations. Mr. Levitt has been profiled in Forbes, RIABiz, InvestmentNews, Financial Planning, International Adviser, Leaderonomics, Democrats Abroad, The American in Paris, and more. For more information about Levitt Capital Management and their services, please visit https://levittcapital.fr/
Advyzon Partners with StoneX Group Inc.'s Global Clearing and Custody Services to Provide Comprehensive Wealth Management Platform
Wed, Feb 12, 2025 10:59 EST
Partnership with a publicly traded global financial services network signals to the market that Advyzon can support any level of firm in any segment Advyzon , a comprehensive technology platform and portfolio management solution for financial advisors and investment managers, today announced a partnership with the Correspondent Clearing division of StoneX Financial Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of StoneX Group Inc. ("StoneX"; NASDAQ: SNEX). StoneX is an institutional-grade financial services firm that provides global market access, clearing and execution, trading platforms, and more, serving more than 54,000 commercial, institutional, and global payments clients and over 400,000 retail accounts from more than 80 offices across five continents. StoneX's Correspondent Clearing division, which provides comprehensive custody and clearing solutions for broker-dealers, investment advisers, and foreign financial institutions, is partnering with Advyzon Enterprise Solutions to bring Advyzon's full, all-in-one wealthtech platform to StoneX's introducing broker-dealers and financial advisors. The comprehensive solution, which will be configured to StoneX's specifications, will include all of Advyzon's capabilities, including portfolio management, customizable performance reporting, trading and rebalancing, web portals, mobile apps, CRM, billing, and secure document storage, with the option to add on services from Advyzon Investment Management (AIM), which provides investment solutions and access to a robust model marketplace called Nucleus . "We are continuously working to improve our custody and clearing offering for our client base of US and international financial institutions," said Roger Shaffer , Managing Director of Correspondent Clearing for StoneX Financial Inc. "As we surveyed the landscape for wealth management platforms, it quickly became evident that Advyzon has the right technical architecture and overall feature set to serve the financial institutions that use our custody and clearing platform. We are very excited to launch our version of Advyzon and to underscore our commitment to deliver what we believe is best-in-class technology and support in order to help our clients succeed." "As we continue to accelerate our larger enterprise client base, we are thrilled to be partnering with StoneX Correspondent Clearing to provide their introducing broker dealers and financial advisors with our award-winning platform," said Dave Goes , President of Enterprise Solutions at Advyzon. "It's been a terrific collaboration with the StoneX team and we're eager to grow this solution together. StoneX is a leading global financial services firm, and we couldn't be more excited to be working with them and their clients." This partnership announcement coincides with the one year anniversary of the launch of Advyzon Enterprise . Goes joined the Advyzon team in February 2024, launching the new business unit to expand Advyzon's presence in aggregators, independent broker-dealers, regional broker-dealers, regional banks, insurance broker-dealers, and other enterprise firms. "This partnership is our first with a publicly traded company and expands our international market access, and it should be a signal to the industry that we're capable of supporting any level of firm in any segment," added Goes. "We've been quietly building since the launch of Advyzon Enterprise about a year ago, and we're incredibly excited for what we have in store for 2025 and beyond!" To learn more about Advyzon, please click here . To learn more about StoneX, please click here . ABOUT STONEX GROUP INC. StoneX Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SNEX), through its subsidiaries, operates a global financial services network that connects companies, organizations, traders, and investors to the global market ecosystem through a unique blend of digital platforms, end-to-end clearing and execution services, high-touch service, and deep expertise. A Fortune 500 company headquartered in New York City, StoneX Group Inc. serves more than 54,000 commercial, institutional, and global payments clients, and over 400,000 retail accounts, from more than 80 offices across five continents. To learn more about StoneX, visit www.StoneX.com . ABOUT ADVYZON Advyzon provides comprehensive wealth management technology, as well as investment solutions through Advyzon Investment Management, LLC (AIM), for independent financial advisors, financial professionals, and financial institutions. The Advyzon platform combines portfolio management, customizable performance reporting, trading and rebalancing, web portals, mobile apps, CRM, billing, and secure document storage, along with investment solutions and a model marketplace offered by AIM. Advyzon also provides networking and practice management experience via the annual Advyzon Conference. A team of entrepreneurs led by CEO Hailin Li, Ph.D., CFA ®, Advyzon strives to innovate in strategic and meaningful ways - developing innovations and integrations fueled by the practical needs of financial advisors. Advyzon's exceptional technology and service are designed to transform the advisor experience through a single platform. To learn more about Advyzon, visit www.Advyzon.com . To learn more about Advyzon Investment Management (AIM), visit www.AdvyzonIM.com . yHLsoft Inc., doing business as Advyzon ("Advyzon") offers an integrated technology platform for financial advisors that includes customizable performance reporting, flexible billing, client relationship management (CRM), configurable client web portals, document storage, and business intelligence. Advyzon Investment Management LLC ("AIM") is a registered investment adviser registered with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Advyzon. All references to investment advisory services mentioned are provided by AIM, while some technology and administrative support services are provided by Advyzon. AIM's advisory services are available to financial advisers for use in managing assets for their clients. AIM does not provide advisory services directly to retail investors.
Building Infrastructure for Just Transition
Wed, Feb 12, 2025 08:17 EST
Ethex, the UK's leading positive impact investment platform, has secured £0.5m in funding from an impact investment consortium ('the Consortium') to expand Ethex's mission of enabling people to align their money with their values, while driving meaningful change across UK communities, the economy, and the environment. The Consortium comprises forward-thinking organisations united by a shared vision of democratising finance and supporting the UK's transition to a more regenerative and inclusive economy. Members include CO2Sense and the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), alongside reinvestment from long-standing Ethex backer Friends Provident Foundation . Ethex also benefits from the continued endorsement of its founding investors, including Barrow Cadbury Trust, Better Society Capital, and Esmée Fairbairn Foundation. Building Infrastructure for Just Transition The funding will enable Ethex to scale its platform's reach and impact, enabling more people to invest in projects ranging from renewable community energy to financial inclusion initiatives. By mobilising individual investors and community stakeholders, Ethex is driving the transition to a more equitable and sustainable economy. Lisa Ashford, CEO of Ethex, explains: "Ethex exists to give individuals the power to align their money with their values and contribute to building a fairer, more sustainable world. With the support of our backers, we can take the next step in mobilising wealth towards projects that address the pressing challenges of our time, from climate change to financial inclusion and have all UK investors to join us in this. "This funding reinforces our commitment to democratising finance, fostering community ownership, and creating the infrastructure needed to accelerate the UK's transition to a low-carbon and equitable economy. Together, we can build a future where people and planet truly flourish." Empowering Change Through Community and Climate Action Ethex's proven ability to connect impactful projects with mission-aligned investors has already led to £120 million being raised through the platform to date, with over £86.7 million supporting community renewable energy projects. With the backing of the Consortium, Ethex is poised to broaden its scope, enabling more people to participate in the movement toward social and environmental change. Denise Holle, Head of Social Investment at Joseph Rowntree Foundation highlights: "Ethex's platform exemplifies how we can reimagine finance as a tool for positive transformation. By enabling everyday people to invest in projects they believe in, we are not only supporting segments such as community energy and affordable finance but also promoting a shift toward more democratic and equitable ownership models. This aligns with our vision of building the infrastructure for transition and advancing climate justice." Hugh Goulbourne, Director at CO2Sense adds: "Community-led investment plays a critical role in empowering people to take control of their future, whether through lowering energy bills, creating local jobs, or addressing financial exclusion. Ethex is a proven leader in mobilising the power of the crowd, and we are proud to support their work in reshaping how resources flow to communities." James Anthony, Social Investment Portfolio Manager at Friends Provident Foundation says: "We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with Ethex by increasing our investment in the platform, building on over a decade of collaboration. Ethex continues to play a crucial role in democratising ethical investment, empowering individuals to align their financial decisions with their values. The Ethex platform's community-led investments help to address some of the UK's most pressing social and environmental challenges, fostering a fairer, more sustainable economy." Transforming Finance to Transform Lives The Consortium's vision encompasses: Democratising access to impact investing through Ethex's platform, enabling individuals to invest in line with their values. Advancing financial inclusion by supporting organisations like credit unions and CDFIs, helping address the needs of financially excluded individuals and SMEs. Accelerating climate justice through community energy initiatives that build local resilience and contribute to the UK's clean energy transition. Fostering community ownership of assets, promoting more democratic and equitable ownership models, like community owned affordable housing or farms. Ethex calls on individuals, organisations, and policymakers to join the movement for a greener, fairer, and more inclusive economy. To learn more about Ethex and its role in empowering positive change, visit www.ethex.org.uk Note to Editors: Images, interviews, and additional information on the campaign are available upon request.
Cavendish Introductions: Exclusivity meets Excellence in Matchmaking for Discerning Gentlemen
Wed, Feb 12, 2025 07:15 EST
Cavendish Introductions, an elite matchmaking agency, is set to transform the landscape of high-end dating with its highly tailored approach, catering exclusively to distinguished gentlemen. With a bespoke and discreet service, Cavendish Introductions specialises in connecting discerning gentlemen with meaningful companionship and lifelong partners. The agency offers an experience that prioritises quality connections, with a guarantee of efficiency, meticulous attention to detail and complete confidentiality for its clientele. Unlike traditional matchmaking agencies, which enrol both men and women as fee-paying clients, Cavendish Introductions operates with a revolutionary business model: men are the sole clients, and the agency actively headhunts potential partners to meet their specific preferences. While the agency maintains an exclusive database of accomplished women, they are not considered clients, which allows matchmakers to focus on finding the perfect match. As part of the service's commitment to excellence, a highly personalised approach ensures that Cavendish Introductions meets both individuals in person before any introduction is made. This personalised approach ensures all introductions are thoughtfully curated and handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Co-founder Emma Martin said, "Modern dating is often a frustrating and time-consuming experience for successful men. Many of our clients have expressed dissatisfaction with conventional dating apps, where messages frequently go unnoticed, or with agencies that fail to provide a truly personalised service." Another key factor of Cavendish Introductions is its unwavering commitment to discretion. Many high-profile professionals hesitate to engage with traditional dating platforms due to concerns about exposure. "There are many reasons why men seeking companionship may need discretion that mainstream dating services simply cannot offer," adds co-founder Joanne Quelch. "One of our clients has a high profile job with over a thousand people working below him, all of whom know him by face and name - but he doesn't know them. He said discretion is paramount to him and, for professional reasons, he didn't want to be seen on a dating app." "Our mission is to offer a discreet, tailored, and hands-on matchmaking experience designed exclusively for men who know what they want." Through in-depth consultations, Cavendish Introductions seeks to understand each client's relationship goals, lifestyle, aspirations, values, and preferences. The agency then conducts a search to identify potential matches, ensuring that every introduction is meaningful and in tune with the client. This level of personalisation boosts the chances of forming genuine, long-lasting connections. The agency's network comprises intelligent, accomplished, and attractive women who are equally passionate about building meaningful relationships. The ladies signing up to the agency will have an in-person interview, so Cavendish Introductions also know them on a personal level, ensuring the highest standards of care for both parties. With a focus on discretion, quality, and personalised service, the company is poised to become the go-to choice for gentlemen who seek meaningful connections without the frustrations and pitfalls of conventional dating. For more information, visit https://cavendishintroductions.co.uk .
Well by Vertis' Valentine Message: Self-Love Is Everything in Weight Loss
Wed, Feb 12, 2025 06:49 EST
As Valentine's Day approaches Well by Vertis has underscored the key role that self-love plays for anyone embarking on a weight loss journey with medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy. Self-love may seem at odds with weight loss, but the simple truth is that the goal of reaching and maintaining a healthy weight should be an act of love rather than a form of self-punishment. Sadly, that is often not the case. Physical appearance holds great value in today's society, with 89% of Britons acknowledging its importance. Studies have shown that 80% of individuals feel that their body image negatively affects their mental wellbeing. This often leads to pressure to attain an ideal body image, sometimes resorting to unhealthy weight loss methods - with looks in mind rather than health. Well by Vertis rejects this approach and argues that sustainable weight management is rooted in health-focused strategies, led by medical professionals, rather than superficial and possibly harmful measures. Stephanie Smith, Lead Nurse at Well by Vertis, said, "We've seen a number of unscrupulous providers crop up over the last year selling cut-price black market injections without any clinical oversight. This is especially common on social media, where these providers tap into people's insecurities about their bodies, and put them at risk of serious harm. We believe weight loss medications can make a positive difference to the way people feel in their bodies-but only if they're prescribed safely and used in the right way." Well by Vertis offers a pioneering healthcare service, providing GLP-1 injections for weight loss, complemented by telehealth appointments with UK-registered GPs and specialist nurses. This integrated approach ensures clients receive expert medical support alongside helpful, non-pressurised guidance on nutrition, exercise, and mental wellbeing, for a holistic path to overall health and wellbeing. Well by Vertis is committed to delivering personalised care and doesn't rely on video consultations for prescribing medication alone. Ongoing, regular video check ins give a safe, supportive space for clients to discuss progress, address any concerns, and receive tailored advice from experienced healthcare professionals. This continuous support is crucial for safe and effective weight management. As Valentine's Day serves as a reminder to express love and appreciation, Well by Vertis encourages individuals to extend that sentiment inward. Embracing self-love involves making health-conscious decisions and seeking support from qualified professionals - so that health is never sacrificed for the sake of looks alone. For more information, visit https://www.wearewell.org.uk .
ADDY Gala Celebrates the Best Advertising in the Inland Empire
Tue, Feb 11, 2025 17:20 EST
"This year's competition has seen a remarkable resurgence in professional entries, reaching pre-pandemic levels and the highest numbers since 2019", said Mark Landon, IEAAF Addy Chair Riverside, CA - Tickets are now available for the much-anticipated 2025 ADDY Awards Gala presented by The Inland Empire American Advertising Federation (AAF). This event celebrates the best of all advertising produced in the Inland Empire over the past year, recognizing both professional and student winners. The Gala is on March 21 at the Life Arts Center in Riverside. The evening will begin with a reception at 7:00 pm, followed by a sit-down plated dinner and the awards presentation. "This year's competition has seen a remarkable resurgence in professional entries, reaching pre-pandemic levels and the highest numbers since 2019. The student competition is also thriving, tying a six-year record for the most participating schools", said Mark Landon, IEAAF Addy Chair. "The ADDY Gala offers a fantastic opportunity for agencies, advertising professionals, and students to network, celebrate creativity, and recognize the best work in the region. Whether you entered the competition or want to support the industry, this is an event you won't want to miss," said IEAAF President John McCarty. ADDY Awards Gala Details: Date: March 21, 2024 Time: Reception at 7:00 pm, followed by dinner and awards presentation Location: Life Arts Center, Riverside Tickets: Available for purchase at InlandEmpireAAF.com For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit InlandEmpireAAF.com. For questions, contact Mark Landon or call (909) 986-7502. About the Inland Empire AAF: The Inland Empire AAF is a community of advertising and graphic design professionals representing national and regional companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. The organization provides educational opportunities through guest speakers and hosts the local American Advertising Awards, the industry's largest and most representative competition in the United States. Founded in the late 1980s, the Inland Empire AAF is dedicated to promoting excellence in advertising and fostering connections within the industry. Learn more at InlandEmpireAAF.com. -30-
Shaping AI's Future: Knowledge Networks Champions GenAI & Data Ethics at AI & Big Data Expo 2025
Tue, Feb 11, 2025 11:25 EST
As AI continues to evolve at a rapid pace, responsible governance has never been more essential. Knowledge Networks (KN) was the Summit Partner at AI & Big Data Expo Global 2025 , held on February 5-6 at Olympia, London . From leading Panel Discussions to hosting Live Podcasts , KN brought together some of the brightest minds in AI to discuss pressing issues in Generative AI and Data Ethics . Sanjay Puri, Founder & Chairman, Knowledge Networks, was a panelist in the discussion, " Ethical Considerations in Gen AI and Data Science - Navigating Complex Terrain." As a recognized expert in AI governance, Sanjay shared his insights on ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in data-driven decision-making processes-critical aspects of deploying AI responsibly. Knowledge Networks was instrumental in curating insightful discussions by providing distinguished speakers for two significant sessions. The panel on " Navigating AI Regulation Worldwide: Lessons from the EU, U.S., UK, and China" was moderated by Dr. Richard Benjamins, Co-Founder & CEO of RAIght.ai, and featured panelists , including Giles Crown, Partner at Taylor Wessing, Jo Joyce, Head of Tech, IP, and Information at Taylor Wessing Ireland, and Abhishek Das, Director of Technology & Digital Risk Consulting at EY UK & Ireland. KN also contributed to the Women in AI Closing Keynote , delivered by Dr. Cristina Vanberghen, Professor and Senior Expert at the European Commission, reinforcing its commitment to fostering diverse and impactful conversations in AI. Sanjay Puri stated , "As we advance into the future of AI, it's vital that we do so with responsibility. AI's ability to transform industries comes with the need for transparent and fair governance, and I was excited to be part of a conversation at the AI & Big Data Expo that emphasized these crucial considerations." Michael Hughes, Head of Conference at TechEx , added, "The conversations at this year's event demonstrated just how critical ethical AI adoption has become. Having Knowledge Networks at the forefront of these discussions enriched the dialogue and provided actionable insights for businesses looking to navigate AI responsibly." The AI & Big Data Expo featured a series of keynote addresses and panel discussions, providing a platform for leaders from diverse sectors to explore the most impactful AI trends and innovations shaping tomorrow's world. About Knowledge Networks (KN) : Knowledge Networks, headquartered in the US, is committed to making AI accessible, and impactful for all. KN supports organizations in their AI transformation journeys, empowering communities worldwide. With a mission to advocate for AI governance and promote responsible use, KN connects the global community to drive innovation while addressing the of emerging technologies.
ClientWise Appoints Tim Whiting as Chief Growth Officer to Lead Strategic Account Growth Strategy
Tue, Feb 11, 2025 10:15 EST
Whiting to bridge sales and marketing for strategic business growth ClientWise - a premier business and executive coaching and consulting firm working exclusively with financial professionals and wealth managers - today announced that financial services veteran executive Tim Whiting has, as of January 13, 2025 joined the firm to serve as Chief Growth Officer. In this role, Whiting will be responsible for the continued growth of ClientWise's professional coaching and consulting services - functioning as a vital strategic bridge between sales and marketing. He will also oversee key account management, business development, relationship management, and further enterprise adoption of the ClientWise Business Builders Academy TM and the new ClientWise Valuation service offering. Whiting brings with him over 20 years of experience in the financial services and advisory profession, having served most recently as the Chief Revenue Officer for the Investments & Wealth Institute (formerly IMCA). Prior to the Institute, he oversaw all aspects of sales and marketing for SourceMedia's Investment Advisor Group (now Arizent), including their flagship publication brand Financial Planning. Prior to SourceMedia, he was the Corporate Relations Manager for the Financial Planning Association (FPA). Whiting earned a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Richmond. He will be based in Ridgewood, New Jersey and travel frequently to the firm's headquarters in Dallas, Texas. "ClientWise has a proven track record of helping advisors drive sustainable, intentional growth and maximize the long-term value of their practices," Whiting said. "As our industry increasingly moves towards a team-based structure, ClientWise is uniquely positioned to help individual advisors, teams, and ensembles expand their leadership, get clarity about their future, and ultimately build successful and enduring businesses to better serve their clients for generations. I'm thrilled to be joining ClientWise at this dynamic time."
Cogo and Carbon Literacy Project join forces to help SMEs become Carbon Literate
Tue, Feb 11, 2025 08:49 EST
Partnership encourages SMEs to become an accredited Carbon Literate Organisation Carbon Literacy linked to more effective climate action Green fintech, Cogo , has joined forces with The Carbon Literacy Project to help SMEs deliver climate action and secure a Carbon Literate Organisation accreditation. By adding a new Carbon Literacy action within its Carbon Manager tool, Cogo aims to encourage SMEs to initiate a Carbon Literacy training programme for staff to take more effective climate action and secure accreditation for the organisation. Emma Kisby, Cogo CEO, comments: "SMEs contribute to 13% of global carbon emissions, and consume 50% of commercial and industrial energy*, so they have the potential to have significant climate impact. However, we know from our work with SMEs that many of them face challenges when taking climate action. Most don't have a background in sustainability, so they're unsure where to start." Limited time and budget, as well as lack of knowledge around climate change and measuring their carbon footprint, are all cited as reasons why SMEs show resistance to prioritising climate action. Despite resistance, SMEs are under increasing pressure to measure and report on their carbon emissions. While there aren't any regulations affecting the majority of SMEs directly, regulatory requirements for larger corporations increasingly include reporting on Scope 3 emissions. This covers reporting the footprint of purchased goods and services, which is often from SME suppliers. Kisby adds: "Carbon Literacy and reporting is not just a nice to have, it is fundamental to the continued financial viability of many SMEs." The Carbon Literacy training is a day's worth of climate learning and action , providing the knowledge, motivation and skills for staff and businesses to take meaningful climate action. SMEs will be awarded a Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum accreditation on completing the course and implementing any business changes. Dave Coleman, Managing Director at The Carbon Literacy Project, adds: "Carbon Literacy is not just a desirable skill - it's a necessity for every business, particularly SMEs navigating barriers to climate action. Achieving Carbon Literate Organisation accreditation demonstrates organisational commitment, embedding Carbon Literacy into the fabric of an organisation's culture and operations while providing a tangible 'badge' of achievement. We are delighted Cogo is recognising the significance of this accreditation by incorporating it into its Carbon Manager tool, and we are confident that our partnership will help empower SMEs to deliver decisive climate action and secure their future in the low-carbon economy." ENDS * Where Next for SMEs and Net Zero? | UKERC | The UK Energy Research Centre Captioning your images is a recommended approach to improve accessibility. Contact Cogo ania@cogo.co Carbon Literacy Project media@carbonliteracy.com About Cogo Cogo delivers carbon management solutions that help individuals and businesses to measure, understand and reduce their impact on the climate. Cogo does this through partnerships with some of the world's largest banks to integrate leading carbon-tracking functionality into their banking apps. Cogo uses best-in-class models to provide accurate ways to measure carbon emissions specific to local markets and cutting-edge behavioural science techniques to nudge customers to make more sustainable choices. Cogo currently works with 20 banks. Founded in 2016, Cogo operates in 12 countries across Europe, Australasia and North America (including the UK, Netherlands, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Singapore and Canada). Cogo has raised over US$14 million in funding since launch. To find out more information about Cogo, please visit cogo.co . About The Carbon Literacy Project and Carbon Literacy ® The Carbon Literacy Project is a UN-recognised, multi-award-winning low-carbon culture change initiative, enabling everyone who lives, works or studies access to relevant and impactful Carbon Literacy training. Carbon Literacy® is "an awareness of the carbon costs and impacts of everyday activities, and the ability and motivation to reduce emissions, on an individual, community and organisational basis." It is delivered by testing and certifying successful individuals as Carbon Literate after they have participated in a day's worth of learning and devised actions that optimise their contribution to reducing emissions. With rapidly expanding take-up across the UK and globally, more than 120,000 citizens have now been certified as Carbon Literate. Established in 2013, The Carbon Literacy Trust (registered charity number: 1156722) oversees the Carbon Literacy Project and the dissemination of Carbon Literacy® across the UK and beyond, for the public good. 'Carbon Literacy' and the 'Carbon Literacy Project' logo (including the use of text, the speech bubble and the style of imagery including people) are registered trademarks®. In general usage and specifically within copy, the term Carbon Literacy is correctly capitalised as a noun: It is therefore "Carbon Literacy" not "carbon literacy". The Project's Brand Guidelines covering usage of Carbon Literacy terminology and imagery are available at https://carbonliteracy.com/our-brand-guidelines/ https://carbonliteracy.com/