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Unlocking The Power Of Digital Democracy: FiscalNote's Guide To Engagement (NYSE: NOTE)

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga The landscape of public affairs and politics has dramatically changed since the turn of the 21st century, largely due to digitalization. Before the widespread acceptance and usage of the internet and now social media, how people engaged in political affairs was relatively streamlined. Unless you were involved in activism, citizen engagement was largely restricted to watching the evening news, reading the newspaper and voting in elections. While people still watch the evening news and read newspapers, digital technologies have increased connectivity outside of geographic limitations. Additionally, it has increased the amount of information citizens can access and changed the way we consume information. Even if people are relying on an evening broadcast and newspapers, there are far more providers of these services than ever before – just think about how many print or digital newspapers are available worldwide. While digitalization has resulted in heightened transparency and provided the public with the tools necessary to hold governing bodies more accountable, without effective media literacy, it can also be easy to get lost in the information available at our fingertips. Digitalization has the potential to be both wonderful and dangerous. Understanding this duality is what inspired Timothy Hwang, Gerald Yao and Jonathan Chen to found FiscalNote (NYSE: NOTE) in 2013. The company is a premier information services company focused on global policy and market intelligence. Combining AI-driven intelligence and peer insight, the company has a suite of products that helps lawmakers, companies and other organizations alike tackle the world of digitalization. The company prides itself on providing its customers with a full, unbiased story and it does not source its information from vendors. FiscalNote data and AI extract value and insights from accessing billions of datasets; its technology can even go as far as to transcribe and analyze every word spoken by public figures to help find trends, correlations, patterns and outliers in information. Users can automate policy and track issues at federal, state and local levels to help make more informed decisions. This is instrumental as Americans gear up for the 2024 election cycle. The past few elections have made it clear that Americans are increasingly relying on digital outlets and social media to become more informed citizens. According to Pew, over 40% of Americans aged 18-19 say that their primary source of news comes from social media. While the number decreases for Americans aged 30-49, 22% still rely on social media. As such, while social media can be a powerful tool for transparency and accountability, it can also create echo chambers. Companies like FiscalNote are providing the electorate with the tools necessary to engage with the digital world. The company provides essential tools for advocacy and stakeholder engagement while giving users the ability to effectively sift through news from a more neutral lens. Its solution VoterVoice is a platform for organizations looking to make a meaningful grassroots-driven political impact. The platform allows users to easily launch campaigns, engage advocates and effectively monitor outcomes with real-time reports. Furthermore, the platform’s AI-driven features connect campaigns to the right audience to drive policy change, and the platform allows users to connect directly with lawmakers. Some of the tools that the platform offers to hep organizations spread their message include AI-enhanced emails, petitions, surveys and pre-filled lawmaker contact forms. While data shows that Americans may not be as ideologically polarized as they may think, Americans are increasingly emotionally polarized (known as “affective polarization”). Part of this is due to the breakdown in how people consume media. For example, Americans over 65 rely on television and talk radio far more than younger generations. By the end of this decade, Millennials and Gen Z will become the majority of the American electorate; these generations engage in the digital world differently than older generations. Companies like FiscalNote are enabling all citizens to better understand and engage with public affairs, complementing their preferred method of news, whether that be talk radio or TikTok. Featured photo by Phil Scroggs on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

March 14, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Coro Renewables MD discusses second Philippines wind farm; provides updates on portfolio

Coro Energy PLC

Coro Renewables, part of Coro Energy PLC (AIM:CORO),, is expanding its renewable energy portfolio in the Philippines with the application for a second 100 megawatt wind farm project. Managing director Michael Carrington told Proactive's Stephen Gunnion the company plans to develop three wind farms in Oslob, leveraging efficiencies such as shared technical studies and reduced mobilisation costs. Additionally, Coro Renewables is advancing its solar project in the Philippines, involving land acquisition prior to application submission. In Vietnam, the company has finalized a power purchase agreement (PPA) with the Mobile World Group, enabling the commencement of a pilot project involving 10 locations around Ho Chi Minh City. This pilot involves structural surveys, regulatory compliance checks, demand profiling, and rapid construction of small systems. Following a short review phase, a 50 megawatt rollout program is anticipated. Contact Details Proactive UK Proactive UK +44 20 7989 0813 UKEditorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 14, 2024 08:27 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Technology Minerals' Recyclus joins UK-India ITES scheme for battery recycling innovation

Technology Minerals PLC

Technology Minerals PLC (LSE:TM1) chairman Robin Brundle joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with details of the company's 48.35% owned battery recycling business, Recyclus Group, joining the UK and Indian government-backed Innovating for Transport and Energy Systems (ITES) scheme. Brundle explained that Recyclus' involvement stems from a visit by an Indian delegation to its Wolverhampton site, showcasing a full-scale lithium-ion battery processing plant and a mobile solution concept, which previously won a £1.96 million Innovate UK grant. The ITES scheme aims to address India's vast need for lithium-ion battery recycling, given its population of approximately 1.5 billion people and the prevalence of devices containing these batteries. Recyclus' technologies, including a mobile solution, aim to enhance recycling capabilities, thereby supporting India's net zero targets. Upcoming steps involve workshops with Indian companies to explore commercial opportunities, emphasizing the importance of understanding local business nuances. This partnership is viewed as a vote of confidence in the Recyclus technology by both governments, highlighting Technology Minerals' British innovation in the recycling sector. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

March 14, 2024 08:24 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Ethernity Networks says US government's BEAD programme presents big opportunities

Ethernity Networks Ltd

Ethernity Networks Ltd (AIM:ENET, OTCQB:ENETF) Vice President of Marketing and Business Development Ilan Tevet joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with more details of the US government's Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program under President Biden, aimed at enhancing broadband accessibility in rural areas with insufficient internet connectivity. Tevet said initiatives like the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund and its subsequent expansion to a $42 billion program reflect a concerted effort to improve digital inclusion, economic participation, and educational opportunities through enhanced broadband infrastructure. Following Ethernity's participation in WISPA America, Tevet also discussed the evolution of the wireless ISP market in America, particularly in rural regions, transitioning from reliance on fixed wireless technologies to a hybrid approach incorporating wireline solutions. This shift, driven by the recognition of GPON networks' ability to deliver high-bandwidth, cost-effective, and future-proofed connectivity, presents both challenges and learning opportunities for wireless ISPs and vendors. The adoption of new skills, such as fibre optic deployment, is essential for these entities to capitalize on the substantial federal funding available for broadband expansion. For Ethernity Networks, Tevet said these developments signal significant growth opportunities. The company's extensive experience in Carrier Ethernet and GPON, alongside its integrated system-on-chip components, positions it to offer innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs of both fixed wireless vendors and ISPs. This strategic alignment with market transitions and funding incentives allows Ethernity Networks to anticipate further expansion and influence in the broadband infrastructure sector. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

March 14, 2024 08:22 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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How Theriva Biologics Is Using An Adenovirus To Develop A Novel Treatment For Pancreatic Cancer, As Well As Other Cancers With An Unmet Need

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga Pancreatic cancer has, unfortunately, been in the news lately due to the rising rates of early-onset cancer, especially in young people. The gastrointestinal cancer, which has a 12% five-year survival rate, is expected to become the second-highest cause of cancer-associated deaths in 2030 in the U.S. In 2024, it is projected that 64,440 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The global market size for pancreatic cancer was valued at $2.22 billion in 2022, and it is expected to be worth around $7.91 billion by 2032. Despite the multi-billion dollar market size, the industry is expected to grow at 13.6% through 2032, and pancreatic cancer still needs more therapeutic options – especially for advanced cases or when existing treatments don’t yield the desired results. Theriva Biologics (AMEX: TOVX) is a biotech company that is looking to use adenoviruses to help treat pancreatic cancer. Adenoviruses are a class of viruses with an established safety profile. They are highly prevalent in the environment, making them ideal candidates for therapeutic use in the cancer field. Theriva Biologics' lead product candidate, VCN-01, is a uniquely modified human adenovirus designed for systemic delivery to treat different types of cancer. Theriva Biologics reports that phase 1 clinical trials of VCN-01 have shown promising results for the treatment of several additional indications apart from pancreatic cancer, such as retinoblastoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) in combination with chemotherapy and immunotherapies. Currently, the company is conducting a phase 2b clinical trial of VCN-01 in combination with standard-of-care chemotherapy for first-line metastatic pancreatic cancer. It is on track to complete enrollment into the VIRAGE Study by the first half of 2024. In the first quarter of 2024, a Drug Monitoring Committee (DMC) conducted a thorough safety review of VCN-01, and found that the VCN-01 safety profile permitted the VIRAGE study to continue without modification. By the second half of 2024, Theriva Biologics aims to perform an interim analysis of the data obtained from the VIRAGE Study. Pancreatic cancer presents several unique challenges that contribute to its high mortality rate and the difficulty in managing the disease. One major challenge is the aggressive nature of pancreatic cancer, which often spreads to other organs before being diagnosed. Approximately 50% of patients are diagnosed when the cancer has already metastasized, resulting in advanced-stage disease. Pancreatic cancer is also known for causing nonspecific symptoms, making it challenging to detect in its early stages. VCN-01 has a systemic delivery approach, which means it can target both the main tumor and distant metastases, which makes it a promising therapeutic option for advanced and difficult-to-treat cancers like pancreatic cancer. If the company can successfully harness the benefits of adenoviruses, it will present suffering patients around the globe with a novel solution to extend their lives. Featured photo by Olga Kononenko on Unsplash Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

March 14, 2024 08:20 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Tirupati Graphite advances graphite exploration in Madagascar amid global demand surge

Tirupati Graphite PLC

Tirupati Graphite PLC (LSE:TGR, OTCQX:TGRHF) joint managing director Puruvi Poddar joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with details of an exploration programme at the company's flake graphite projects in Madagascar. The programme, differing from prior approaches, involved over 5,000 diamond core drill cores and more than 25,000 auger drills. SRK Consulting has visited the site to compile data for an updated Competent Persons Report (CPR), marking continuous exploration efforts over the last three years. Poddar also touched on the global graphite market, highlighting the restrictions on graphite exports from China. These restrictions have intensified demand for graphite worldwide, underscoring its importance as a critical material. She said Tirupati Graphite is uniquely positioned as one of the few significant graphite producers outside China, with operations in Mozambique and Madagascar. This strategic position is poised to benefit from the growing demand for graphite, especially from the battery sector, with anticipated increases in graphite prices and demand. Despite challenges, including a working capital gap partly due to delayed funds from the Madagascan government, the company remains optimistic about its ability to meet future demand and achieve its immediate goal of becoming EBITDA positive. Poddar said Tirupati Graphite's capacity to produce 1,500 to 1,600 tonnes of graphite per month and established market presence underscore its potential in the rapidly evolving graphite market. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

March 14, 2024 08:19 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Great Southern Copper reveals promising drilling results at Teresita and Abundante prospects

Great Southern Copper PLC

Great Southern Copper PLC (LSE:GSCU) chief executive Sam Garrett discusses early results from the company's RC drilling programmes at the Teresita and Abundante prospects, highlighting their significance and the confirmation of the geological model being pursued. In an interview with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion, Garrett noted the drilling results at Teresita have revealed large quartz sulphide carbonate veins with cumulative strike lengths of approximately five kilometres, carrying high-grade gold and copper. A particular drill hole, hole 10, uncovered a 20-metre-wide vein at shallow depths, showing significantly higher grades than surface outcrops. Garrett said the results also give the company confidence in the way forward and how to approach the ongoing exploration at Teresita and Abundante. Future exploration will utilise detailed soil sampling and geophysical techniques to better target drill holes. Garrett said the success at Teresita, along with similar findings at the Victoria prospect, suggests the presence of large-scale, high-grade copper and gold systems, bolstering confidence in the project's potential. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

March 14, 2024 08:18 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Atrato Capital highlights strong performance and growth opportunities for Supermarket Income REIT

Supermarket Income REIT PLC

Atrato Capital managing director, Robert Abraham and finance director Michael Perkins visit the Proactive studio to discuss the interim results of Supermarket Income REIT PLC (LSE:SUPR, OTC:SUPIF), emphasising the sector's strong performance. Abraham said key tenants, Tesco and Sainsbury's, have reported robust sales growth and market share, particularly in omni-channel stores, which have seen the most significant sales increases. The investment market presents an attractive pipeline of accretive assets for SUPR, with current leverage allowing capacity for targeting these opportunities, he added. Perkins noted that SUPR reported a 15% increase in net rental income for the six months ending December 2023, driven by acquisitions and rent review income, maintaining stable adjusted earnings of 2.9 pence. Despite operating at lower leverage, the company is on track to meet its full-year dividend target of 6.06 pence. Since SUPR's IPO in 2017, Abraham said the grocery sector has seen a 35% sales growth, reaching a market size of £250 billion, with this increase largely attributable to like-for-like sales growth in omni-channel spaces, indicating a maturation phase for discounters. The grocery sector's strength has enhanced the property market, with store turnovers growing ahead of rents, demonstrating the affordability of rents for key tenants. The investment market has witnessed record volumes of £2.1 billion, highlighting the attractiveness of supermarkets as an investment. With a robust balance sheet, low leverage (LTV of 33%), and significant headroom across banking covenants, Perkins said is well-positioned to pursue earnings-accretive acquisitions. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

March 14, 2024 08:16 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Meet Atlas Obscura, The Travel Platform That Combines The Wonder Of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not With The Breadth Of National Geographic’s Content

OurCrowd

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga Combining the wonderment and obscurity of “Ripley’s Believe It or Not” with the high-quality production of National Geographic, Atlas Obscura is changing the way we travel and consume travel-related content. The U.S.-based travel media company, which counts millions of consumers as customers, is making a name for itself in the travel industry, creating and curating unique travel experiences whether in person, online or in print. You may not find a run-of-the-mill cruise to Mexico when you peruse this startup’s offerings, but you will find a tasting trip to Oaxaca where you can sample the culinary delights and soak up the culture of this bustling city. Don’t feel like leaving your home for a unique experience? With a click of the mouse, you can be part of a virtual tour of the Bone Museum in Brooklyn or hear a three-part lecture on the history of space exploration. Curating Content And Experiences For Travelers The company holds appeal for travel enthusiasts looking for unique experiences online and in person and for once-in-a-lifetime trips. It leverages the Atlas, its community-driven platform to provide travelers with access to over 25,000 wondrous places around the world. Unlike other leading travel media companies, Atlas is a collaborative project that depends on its community of explorers to help discover amazing places and share them with the world. In addition to offering over 137 unique international destinations and boasting a global community of 10 million explorers, Atlas Obscura reports that it operates the no. 1 travel podcast on Apple charts, published three consecutive New York Times bestsellers with more in the works and recently became one of six exclusive partners for Delta Airlines Inc.’s (NYSE: DAL) billion-dollar inflight entertainment hub Delta Sync Exclusives, sharing the deal with such heavy-hitters as T-Mobile US Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS), Paramount+, American Express Co. (NYSE: AXP), Resy and the New York Times Games. Through the deal Atlas Obscura will reach millions of flyers annually, providing them insider tips and destination information. The company already counts BrandUSA, Puerto Rico, Florida, Texas and Los Angeles as partners and creates content for some of the world’s largest brands including Land Rover, Nissan Motor Co. (OTCMKTS: NSANY), Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ: NFLX) and JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM). Out-Of-The-Box Travel In Demand What started more than a decade ago as a two-person passion project of Joshua Foer and Dylan Thuras to map the hidden wonders of the world has morphed into a media powerhouse with 6.5 million monthly active users, 3 million social media followers, 1.6 million monthly podcast downloads and 1.5 million email subscribers. To help Atlas Obscura grow even more in the travel industry click here. Investors Taking Notice That growth hasn’t been lost on investors either. John Backus, founder and managing director of PROOF.VC – an expansion-stage venture capital firm that invests in rapid-growth, breakout companies across the venture ecosystem – is an early backer of Atlas Obscura and is taking part in the company’s most recent Series A round on OurCrowd in which it's seeking to raise $10 million. “We love this company. It’s at scale. It’s about $20 million in revenue, and it’s been profitable for the last year,” Backus, who sits on the board, recently said. “This is a company that is profitable, that is growing, that is looking to invest in its media business and create content that can last in perpetuity.” Since the second quarter of 2023, the company has been profitable. Atlas Obscura’s popularity is driven by the fact that it's solving a common problem in the travel industry: a lack of cool places to visit. The world is vast and interesting with more and more travelers across all ages and demographics looking for unique vacations, yet finding them on traditional travel websites and apps can be difficult and time-consuming. When planning a trip, individuals on average search 40 travel websites. Meanwhile, visitor bureaus tasked with promoting tourism for their city, state or country are looking for ways to build their brands and provide better experiences for visitors. All of that plays to Atlas Obscura’s strengths. Nor is the company sitting back and enjoying its success. It plans to leverage its database of unique destinations by developing an AI tool that will create personalized travel itineraries in minutes. It’s betting that will not only accelerate growth but improve the user travel planning experience. Interested in investing in a company transforming the way we travel? Click here to learn how. Featured photo by Ian Schneider on Unsplash. OurCrowd was started in 2013, driven by the idea that the business of building startups grows bigger and better when the global ‘crowd’ gains access to VC-level investment opportunities.Today, OurCrowd is a global venture and alternative investing platform that empowers institutions and individuals to invest and engage in emerging companies. OurCrowd vets and selects companies, invests its capital, and provides its global network with unparalleled access to co-invest and contribute connections, talent and deal flow. OurCrowd builds value for its portfolio companies throughout their lifecycles, providing mentorship, recruiting industry advisors, navigating follow-on rounds and creating growth opportunities through its network of multinational partnerships. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Lisa Graston lisa.graston@ourcrowd.com Company Website http://www.ourcrowd.com

March 14, 2024 08:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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