Australia markets open in 7 hours 53 minutes

  • ALL ORDS

    7,111.40
    +32.50 (+0.46%)
     

  • AUD/USD

    0.7751
    +0.0038 (+0.49%)
     

  • ASX 200

    6,824.70
    +24.30 (+0.36%)
     

  • OIL

    52.74
    -0.03 (-0.06%)
     

  • GOLD

    1,856.00
    +0.80 (+0.04%)
     

  • BTC-AUD

    40,571.27
    -1,385.12 (-3.30%)
     

  • CMC Crypto 200

    631.42
    -15.90 (-2.46%)
     
Sign up NOW ✉️:

Want to master your money in 2021?

Join Yahoo Finance's 6-week bootcamp challenge!

Lumiata raises $14 million for its service to predict healthcare outcomes

Jonathan Shieber
·1-min read
Image via Getty Images / Ja_inter

Healthcare systems are always looking for ways to save money, and a startup called Lumiata has just raised $14 million to continue building out its service that aims to help them do it.

The company, already backed by Khosla Ventures and Blue Venture Fund, raised its latest round from Defy.vc and AllegisNL Capital.

The company's software cleans up healthcare data sets and then analyzes them to look for underwriting risks and cost savings for healthcare payors and providers.

The company said it would use the money to accelerate investment in new products and services, along with sales and marketing. It expects to open new offices in Guadalajara, Mexico in 2021.

“Lumiata excels at building trusted relationships with its customers,” said Dalbir Bains, FGC Health’s chairman, president and CEO, a Lumiata customer. “They have delivered results that help us manage consumer risks for co-morbidities. Our long partnership means that we can depend on them long-term to help us manage our pharmacy business.”

Products help businesses manage underwriting and clinical costs and risks for decision support.

PicnicHealth raises $25 million for its patient health record management service

Latest stories

  • Fast raises $102M as the online checkout wars continue to attract huge investment

    This morning Fast, a startup that provides online checkout and identity products, announced that it has closed a $102 million Series B. The new funding event was led by Stripe, a previous investor in Fast. Stripe, an online payments giant, also led Fast's Series A last year, a deal worth $20 million. TechCrunch reached out to Fast for comment regarding its growth pace.

  • IEA launches global group to tackle fallout from energy transition

    The International Energy Agency (IEA) is launching a global commission to address the impact on employment and society from the transition to renewable energy from fossil fuels, it said on Tuesday. It will also include U.S energy officials, as Washington shifts course under President Joe Biden, who has pledged to tackle climate change. "We believe the real success of this transition is critically hinging on whether or not citizens will benefit from the opportunities and how we navigate the disruptions of clean energy transitions," IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said.

  • Too close for comfort? Grazing cows lead to squabble on Lebanese-Israeli border

    Lebanese cattle herders from a village close to the border with Israel said several of their cows, which have grazed freely in the area for decades, were taken by Israeli soldiers, in what could become a new dispute between the two countries. The herders from the border village of Wazzani say Israeli patrols crossed into a grey zone on Sunday between a technical fence that separates the two countries and the 'Blue Line' that constitutes the internationally recognised border, and started rounding up livestock, taking seven cows. Lebanon and Israel are still in a formal state of war and have long contested their land and maritime borders.

  • 3 Reasons You Could Seriously Regret Not Having an Emergency Fund

    Do you have an emergency fund that covers three to six months' worth of living expenses? Sadly, emergencies are a fact of life that can happen to anyone at any time. If you've put three to six months of living expenses in a high-yield savings account that you can access when needed, you'll be financially ready for whatever life throws your way.

  • Talent Hack raises $4.7M for its B2C fitness platform, Spaces

    From Lululemon’s massive Mirror acquisition to companies like Apple and Samsung launching their own solutions, exercise technology has thrived amid the pandemic. Talent Hack is one of a large (and growing) number of companies looking to make fitness more accessible in a world where the gym just isn’t an option for many. This week, the company announced that it has raised a $4.7 million seed round, led by Global Founders Capital.

  • Former CEO of Continental and Opel, Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Joins Oculii Board of Directors

    Automotive industry veteran to provide strategic guidance to startup whose AI improves radar resolution for autonomous vehicles DAYTON, Ohio, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Oculii, the leading provider of AI software solutions for high-resolution imaging radar, today announced that Dr. Karl-Thomas (KT) Neumann, former CEO of Continental AG and Opel Automobile GmBH, has joined its Board of Directors, bringing more than 30 years of executive automotive industry experience to Oculii’s Board. “We are very excited to welcome Dr. Neumann to the Oculii team,” said Steven Hong, CEO and Co-Founder of Oculii. “KT’s perspective on how software will shape the future of the automotive and mobility industries is informed by his decades leading the world’s most prominent automotive companies. We are excited to have Dr. Neumann on our board to help guide us through our next growth phase as we bring our radar solutions into series production for OEMs and Tier-1s around the world.” Neumann brings over 30 years of automotive industry knowledge and experience to Oculii. He was CEO of the German automobile manufacturer Opel from 2013 to 2017, shortly after it was acquired by Groupe PSA from General Motors, making it Europe’s second largest automobile manufacturer after Volkswagen. Prior to Opel, Neumann held multiple positions with Volkswagen AG, including Head of Research, Director of Electronics Strategy, and CEO and Vice President of Volkswagen Group China. From 2004 to 2009, Neumann was CEO of the German auto supplier Continental AG, where he was responsible for the Automotive Systems Division and took company-wide responsibility for electric propulsion. Neumann’s addition to Oculii’s board is further validation of the company’s software-based vision for the future of radar, using AI to significantly enhance advanced driver-assisted systems today and enable fully autonomous driving in the future. “I’m proud to be working with Oculii to shape the future of autonomy,” said Neumann. “Oculii is a software solution to a longtime hardware problem. Without increasing sensor size or power, Oculii makes low cost, reliable commodity radar sensors autonomy-ready, with a 100x boost in resolution in any driving conditions.” Oculii’s software-driven approach has garnered the interest and excitement of automotive OEMs, autonomous vehicle companies, and robotic companies from all over the world. Oculii is partnering with leading chip suppliers to provide solutions for a breadth of customers and collaborating closely with Tier-1s to commercialize Oculii’s technology in radar modules today. “Tier-1 suppliers and OEMs can leverage Oculii technology today, and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of commercializing this technology,” Neumann added. Oculii has already won several design contracts with the leading automotive OEM and AV/robotaxi companies for series production, and will launch a new generation of high resolution imaging radar products at the end of Q1. For more information, visit: www.oculii.com About Oculii Oculii is a high-resolution radar technology company enabling the next generation of autonomous systems. Powered by AI, Oculii software increases the resolution of any radar hardware by up to 100x, providing the automotive, robotics and drone industries a high resolution and low-cost autonomous perception solution that works in any environment. The company has raised more than $30M from leading investors and strategic partners, and is headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, with offices in Silicon Valley and Beijing. Media Contact: Jillian Smith, jillian@propllr.com

  • CAMPUS ADVANTAGE ANNOUNCES NEW VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND CLIENT RELATIONS

    Student Housing Industry Veteran, Theresa Sopata, to Manage Driving New Revenue for Third-Party Management and Consulting Platforms Theresa Sopata, Vice President of Business Development and Client Relations at Campus Advantage Austin, Texas, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Campus Advantage®, an industry leader in student housing property management, consulting, and investment management, today announced the hiring of student housing veteran, Theresa Sopata, as Vice President of Business Development and Client Relations. In her role, Sopata will be responsible for driving new revenue for Campus Advantage’s third-party management and consulting platforms, which account for nearly 50% of the company’s annual revenue. Sopata will also lead the sourcing and development of new client relationships with investors, owners, developers, and universities to provide student housing management and consulting services while also nurturing existing client relationships. Sopata brings 15 years of real estate industry experience to Campus Advantage which includes student, multi-family, new development, and industrial. She most recently served as Director of Client Services at Greystar, where she was responsible for facilitating key communication, initiatives and deliverables to drive portfolio growth and ensure client satisfaction as well as consulting services to execute clients’ various business strategies. Prior to her tenure at Greystar, Sopata served in business development and marketing roles at both Cardinal Group and Peak Campus. Her other experience includes identifying and developing new, nationwide partnership opportunities, researching and analyzing current multi-family and student regional market conditions and trends, and working with senior leadership to implement company goals and visions. “I am beyond thrilled and honored to be welcomed to the Campus Advantage team and help lead and contribute to the company’s overall business development and client relationships strategy,” said Sopata. “Campus Advantage’s platform, culture and people are truly special. This team is laser focused on thoughtful execution, nurturing relationships and treating each other with kindness. I look forward to working with this amazing team of industry experts and utilizing my extensive student housing industry experience to help contribute to the company’s, and our investors’, bottom line.” “Theresa’s seasoned industry experience combined with her exceptional leadership skills and strong drive to succeed are key qualities that will help her lead our company’s business development strategy,” said Mike Peter, President and CEO at Campus Advantage. “Theresa will play an integral role, both internally and externally, as we continue to grow our national portfolio of communities and adapt to the ever-changing student housing industry.”About Campus AdvantageCampus Advantage® is a student housing management company that specializes in fostering financially prosperous communities through its property management, investments, and consulting services. Since its founding in 2003, Campus Advantage has been creating successful communities that provide rewarding living, learning, and career experiences, and as a result has become one of the fastest-growing private student housing companies in the nation. The company’s asset acquisition and management strategies combined with its dedication to residence life and student development has made Campus Advantage one of the largest student housing and property management companies in the United States. Learn more at www.campusadv.com. Attachment Theresa Sopata_Headshot CONTACT: Lisa Koetz Bloom Communications 503.805.6538 lisa@bloomcommunications.com

  • Opus One signs flexibility market deal with SP Energy Networks in the UK to accelerate Energy Transition

    TORONTO, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Opus One Solutions, a Global 100 clean technology company, has been awarded a project with SP Energy Networks (SPEN) to demonstrate how the introduction of local demand-side flexibility can help the Distribution System Operator (DSO) better manage their network. The energy landscape is quickly changing as the number of customers seeking to connect distributed generation to the network is increasing. As a result, there is a strong need for smarter and cost-effective ways to manage the network. The use of smarter distribution network assets will render tremendous environmental benefits facilitating the adoption of low carbon technologies moving the United Kingdom one step closer to cut greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050¹. “Today’s power grid is facing new demands and challenges. A reliable and resilient power grid is the cornerstone of a sustainable society. We are thrilled to lead a project with SPEN to help build and track a more resilient power grid,” noted Hari Suthan, Chief of Strategic Growth & Sales, Opus One Solutions. “This project offers a one-of-a-kind solution that is imperative to move energy networks to an electric future to help the UK achieve its net zero goals.” “This project with Opus One is an exciting milestone in Project FUSION as we trial innovative flexibility solutions that speeds up our response time and helps add value to our customers by accelerating connections and deferring costly reinforcements,” said Michael Green, Senior Innovation Engineer at SP Energy Networks. Opus One will develop and deploy a system that focuses on engaging customers to provide system flexibility through the Universal Smart Energy Framework that focuses on transparency and standardization. By demonstrating how local flexibility markets can provide a fast and cost-effective tool this will assist the DSO to actively manage its network and deliver a better future for its customers. SPEN is aiming to make the transition from Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to DSO and project FUSION will be a key element in facilitating this transition. The solution will be used as part of a market trial programme over the next three years and will first be tested in St. Andrews and East Fife to demonstrate how the introduction of a local demand-side flexibility market can help DSO better manage their network. Opus One has established its European offices based in Glasgow, UK, and is actively expanding to better serve the UK and European Union. About Opus One SolutionsOpus One Solutions is a software engineering and solutions company with the vision of a digitalized, decentralized, and decarbonized planet. Its intelligent energy networking platform, GridOS®, optimizes complex power flows so that it can deliver real-time energy management and integrated planning to distribution utilities and other managers of distributed energy assets. GridOS is modular, scalable, and integrates seamlessly with existing data systems to unlock greater potential for distributed energy resources, including renewable generation, energy storage, and responsive demand. GridOS also facilitates the management of microgrids — from homes to businesses to communities — for unparalleled grid resiliency and value to the electricity customer. About Scottish Power Electricity Networks As a distribution and transmission network operator SP Energy Networks (SPEN) keeps electricity flowing to over 6m customers across 3.5m homes and businesses throughout Central & Southern Scotland and Merseyside, Cheshire, North & Mid-Wales and North Shropshire. We do this through our network of over 110,000km of power cables and 30,000 substations across our licence areas and we are investing approximately £7 billion into the electricity network to create a better future, quicker for our customers and communities. Media ContactSimona Hiutin, MBATitle: Marketing ManagerOpus One SolutionsEmail: shiutin@opusonesolutions.com ________________________________ ¹ https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-becomes-first-major-economy-to-pass-net-zero-emissions-law

  • Does the Pandemic Make American Outdoor Brands a Buy?

    Although the decision to spin off American Outdoor Brands (NASDAQ: AOUT) from former parent Smith & Wesson Brands (NASDAQ: SWBI) was made before the COVID-19 pandemic, the outdoor gear and accessories maker was able to capitalize on the opportunity of more people looking for outside activities. The outdoor gear company has a nice tailwind behind it, but prior to the coronavirus outbreak it was struggling to gain traction. Investors need to ask: If widespread distribution of vaccines allows for a return to a semblance of normalcy in our daily lives, does that mean American Outdoor Brands will also revert to its prior slow-growth state?

  • ServisFirst Bank Announces Leadership Transition

    Executive Vice President of Correspondent Banking, Rodney Rushing Named Chief Operating Officer BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Board of Directors of ServisFirst Bank and ServisFirst Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ:SFBS), recently announced that Rodney Rushing is assuming the role of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for ServisFirst Bank. As a member of the Bank’s executive team, he will collaborate with the President/CEO and CFO in the overall administration of the Bank and in executing its broader objectives and goals. Rushing’s problem-solving ability, bank leadership experience and business acumen bring an unmatched value to the ServisFirst Bank executive team. Rodney Rushing, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rodney Rushing will be assuming the role of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at ServisFirst Bank in Birmingham, Alabama. Rushing transitions to the role of COO from his position as Executive Vice President, Correspondent Banking. As the EVP, Correspondent Banking at ServisFirst Bank, Rushing managed the Bank’s Correspondent Banking Division. He joined ServisFirst Bank in 2010 to start the Correspondent Banking Division, which has grown to service over 300 bank relationships in 26 states. The division has over $1.9 billion in deposits. Under Rushing’s leadership, the Correspondent Banking Division’s Agent Credit Card Program has been named as an Endorsed Solution by the American Banking Association. During his 38-year banking career, Rushing managed correspondent and audit divisions and was previously an executive vice president at Compass Bank. While at Compass, he held securities licenses, managing Investment Division Sales and the Correspondent Division. Rushing is a Past Chairman and 2008 President of the Alabama Bankers Association. In addition, he is CFIA and CBA accredited. Rodney Rushing attended Auburn University. He received his bachelor’s degree in 1982 in finance and began his banking career. For more information regarding Rodney Rushing as Chief Operating Officer for ServisFirst Bank, please contact Krista Conlin, Krista@KCProjects.net. To learn more about ServisFirst Bank, please visit www.servisfirstbank.com. ABOUT SERVISFIRST BANK ServisFirst Bank is a full-service commercial bank focused on commercial banking, correspondent banking, cash management, private banking and the professional consumer market, emphasizing competitive products, state of the art technology and a focus on quality service. Recently, the Bank announced its assets exceed $11 billion. The Bank offers sophisticated cash management products, Internet banking, home mortgage lending, remote deposit express banking, and highly competitive rates. ServisFirst Bank was formed in May 2005, and has offices in Atlanta, Birmingham, Charleston, Dothan, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, Nashville, Pensacola, Sarasota, and Tampa Bay. In April 2015, and annually thereafter, ServisFirst Bank has earned investment-grade ratings and a stable outlook from Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA), which measures companies’ financial fundamentals. ServisFirst Bancshares, Inc. files periodic reports with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Copies of its filings may be obtained at www.servisfirstbancshares.com. FOR INFORMATION CONTACTKrista Conlin, Krista@KCProjects.net

  • Crohn’s and Colitis Canada Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the AbbVie IBD Scholarship Program

    The national program doubles the number of $5,000 scholarships available to support the academic ambitions of community-minded post-secondary students from across CanadaTORONTO, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Crohn’s and Colitis Canada is thrilled to announce that 20 students enrolled at a Canadian post-secondary institution for the upcoming fall semester will receive the one-time scholarship in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the AbbVie IBD Scholarship Program. Since 2012, Crohn’s and Colitis Canada and AbbVie Canada have annually awarded scholarships valued at $5,000 to 10 inspirational students diligently working to bring their academic goals to fruition and giving back to the community while navigating the challenges that come with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Affecting 270,000 Canadians, the typical age of onset for the chronic autoimmune diseases is adolescence or early adulthood – the critical years for schooling and career growth. When someone develops one of these autoimmune diseases, their body begins to attack healthy tissue in their bowels, resulting in inflammation of all or part of the gastrointestinal tract. While each individual case is unique, severe abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, internal bleeding, and the unpredictable and urgent need to use the washroom are the most common symptoms. “The disruptive and debilitating nature of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can affect a student’s ability to attend class, participate in extracurricular activities with peers, or work to support tuition and other educational expenses. We are thrilled to have partnered with AbbVie Canada over the past nine years to support a remarkable group of students by alleviating any financial stress through the scholarship program,” says Susan Cowan, CEO of Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. “We are excited to mark this milestone year by awarding an additional ten scholarships. The resiliency, passion and dedication students with these diseases demonstrate as they pursue their academic and career goals while giving back to the community is inspiring. It’s an honour to help students turn their dreams into reality.” Since the launch of the program, Crohn’s and Colitis Canada and AbbVie Canada have supported the academic journeys of 89 students with each individual allocating funds provided through scholarship towards their tuition, student fees, required educational materials, or on-campus housing. “We’re proud of our longstanding partnership with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, and we are so pleased that to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this important program, we will double the number of scholarship recipients this year,” said Tracey Ramsay, Vice President and General Manager of AbbVie Canada. “Pursuing a post-secondary degree is challenging enough, and when you have a chronic illness, it can be overwhelming. We hope these scholarships can ease some of the financial hardship, allowing students to concentrate on their studies and pursue their dreams.” The AbbVie IBD Scholarship Program requires students to complete an online application, provide two letters of personal recommendation, and submit a one-page essay that highlights how they strive towards their academic and career goals while sustaining an optimal level of wellness and inspire others to do the same. An independent selection committee comprised of gastroenterologists, community partners and patient representatives from across the country will select the twenty scholarship recipients after reviewing submitted applications. “A tip for students applying for the AbbVie IBD Scholarship – make yourself stand out by describing your passions and motivators that make you want to get out of bed despite all the challenges thrown your way. Share what it means to thrive rather than just survive, and how you make an impact on others,” says Leslie Hernandez, recipient of the 2017 AbbVie IBD Scholarship. Crohn’s and Colitis Canada is accepting applications for the 2021 AbbVie IBD Scholarship Program. The deadline for students to apply is 11:59 pm EDT on June 1, 2021. To learn more about eligibility and the application process, please visit ibdscholarship.ca. About Crohn’s and Colitis CanadaCrohn’s and Colitis Canada is on a relentless journey to find the cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and improve the lives of children and adults affected by these chronic diseases. We are the country’s largest volunteer-based organization with this mission and are one of the top two health charity funders of Crohn’s and colitis research in the world, investing over $130 million in research to date. We are transforming the lives of people affected by Crohn’s and colitis through research, patient programs, advocacy, and awareness. For more information, visit crohnsandcolitis.ca and follow us @getgutsycanada on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. About AbbVieWe’re a company that takes on the toughest health challenges. AbbVie’s mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people’s lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women’s health and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across its Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.ca and www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbviecanada on Twitter or find us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. For media inquiries, please contact:Stacey SheehanMarketing and Communications CoordinatorCrohn’s and Colitis Canadassheehan@crohnsandcolitis.ca416-920-5035 ext. 243

  • Medical Device Connectivity Market Size to Reach USD 6.36 Billion by 2027 | Rising Demand for Data Analytics Solutions in the Healthcare Industry will be the Key Factor Driving the Industry Growth, States Emergen Research

    The global medical device connectivity market size was USD 1.21 Billion in 2019 and it is expected to reach USD 6.36 Billion by 2027, at a CAGR of 24.3% during the forecast period.Vancouver, British Columbia, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global medical device connectivity market is projected to reach value of USD 6.36 Billion by 2027, at a rapid and steady CAGR of 24.3% according to a current analysis by Emergen Research. Due to the rising demand for data analytics solutions in the healthcare industry, the global medical device connectivity market is expected to expand substantially during the forecast period. Besides, the rising emphasis on patient safety and quality of care is expected to further drive the global medical device connectivity market during the forecast period. Moreover, the rising demand for telemedicine and telehealth applications in the healthcare industry is expected to fuel the global medical device connectivity market during the forecast period. Claim Your FREE Sample Copy with Table of content@ https://www.emergenresearch.com/request-sample-form/474 Inability of end-users to adopt digital Information technology systems is expected to restrain the global medical device connectivity market during the forecast period. Key Highlights of Report In February 2020, Digital Surgery Ltd was acquired by Medtronic plc. The deal would stimulate the strategic plan of Medtronic to offer laparoscopic and robotic surgeries with the help of Artificial Intelligence.Due to advantages of interface devices, such as easy access to medical files and quicker patient check-ins, the interface devices segment is likely to witness substantial growth, at a CAGR of 24.5% during the forecast period.Due to growing concerns among healthcare organizations about productive operating practices and about providing improved patient care and better diagnosis, the support & maintenance segment is expected to witness substantial growth during the forecast period.Due to the increasing need for healthcare solutions for use in network performance enhancement and usability, rising need for integrations, and growing adoption of integrated smart devices in the healthcare industry, the hybrid segment is projected to witness considerable growth during the forecast periodDue to the increasing demand for better patient data entry management throughout diagnosis, the diagnostic & imaging center segment is projected to expand substantially during the forecast period. In addition, the increasing requirement for an efficient solution for exchanging medical information is expected to act as a driver of the segment during the forecast period.During the forecast period, the Asia Pacific market is anticipated to expand significantly. Developing countries in the Asia Pacific region, such as China, India, and Japan, are swiftly adopting medical device connectivity solutions for enhanced healthcare systems, which is expected to fuel the market in the region during the forecast period.Key market participants include Infosys Limited, Cisco Systems, Inc., Medtronic plc, Cerner Corporation, Digi International Inc., Lantronix, Inc., Masimo Corporation, Stryker Corporation, Qualcomm Inc., and Baxter International Inc. Check Our Prices@ https://www.emergenresearch.com/select-license/474Emergen Research has segmented the global medical device connectivity market on the basis of solution, service, technology, end-use, and region. Solution Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2017–2027) Interface DevicesTelemetry SystemsConnectivity HubsMedical Device Integration Service Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2017–2027) TrainingSupport & MaintenanceConsultingImplementation & Integration Technology Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2017–2027) Wireless Wired Hybrid End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2017–2027) Ambulatory Care CentersHospitalsDiagnostic & Imaging CentersHome Healthcare CentersOthers Click to access the Report Study, Read key highlights of the Report and Look at Projected Trends: http://www.emergenresearch.com/industry-report/medical-device-connectivity-market Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; 2017–2027) North America U.S.CanadaMexico Europe GermanyU.K.FranceBENELUXRest of Europe Asia Pacific China JapanSouth KoreaIndiaRest of APAC Latin America BrazilRest of LATAM Middle East & Africa Saudi ArabiaUAERest of MEA Take a Look at our Related Reports: AI-Enabled Medical Imaging Solutions Market By Product (Software, Hardware), By Workflow (Image Acquisition, Image Analysis, Reporting, and Communication), By Therapeutic Application (General Imaging, Specialty Imaging), By Deployment Mode, By Modality, and By Region, Forecasts to 2027 Patient Registry Software Market By Delivery, By Database, By Registry Type, By Function, By Software Type (Integrated, Standalone), By End-use (Government & Third-Party Administrators, Pharmaceutical Companies, Hospitals, Research Centers, Others), and By Region, Forecast to 2027 Operating Room Management Solutions Market By Solution Type (Data management and communication solutions, Operating room supply management solutions, Anesthesia information management solutions, Operating room scheduling solutions, Performance management solutions), By Mode of Deployment (Ob-premises, Cloud-based), By End-Use (Hospitals, Ambulatory surgical centers), and By Region About Emergen Research Emergen Research is a market research and consulting company that provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. Our solutions purely focus on your purpose to locate, target, and analyze consumer behavior shifts across demographics, across industries, and help clients make smarter business decisions. We offer market intelligence studies ensuring relevant and fact-based research across multiple industries, including Healthcare, Touch Points, Chemicals, Types, and Energy. We consistently update our research offerings to ensure our clients are aware of the latest trends existent in the market. Emergen Research has a strong base of experienced analysts from varied areas of expertise. Our industry experience and ability to develop a concrete solution to any research problems provides our clients with the ability to secure an edge over their respective competitors. Contact Us: Eric Lee Corporate Sales Specialist Emergen Research | Web: www.emergenresearch.com Direct Line: +1 (604) 757-9756 E-mail: sales@emergenresearch.com Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Blogs Read Full Press Release@ http://www.emergenresearch.com/press-release/global-medical-device-connectivity-market

  • JFU Investor Alert: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC Notifies 9F Inc. Investors of Class Action and Encourages Shareholders to Contact the Firm

    NEW YORK, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Attorney Advertising -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against 9F Inc. ("9F" or "the Company") (NASDAQ: JFU) and certain of its officers, on behalf of shareholders who purchased or otherwise acquired 9F securities (i) pursuant and/or traceable to the registration statement and related prospectus issued in connection with 9F’s August 14, 2019 initial public offering (the "IPO" or "Offering"); and/or (ii) between August 14, 2019 and September 29, 2020, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm’s site: www.bgandg.com/jfu. This class action seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws under the Securities Exchange Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The complaint alleges that the materials supporting the Offering, and defendants throughout the Class Period, made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) the purported value and benefits of the Company’s financial institution partners and its tri-party cooperation business model did not in fact exist and/or were materially overstated, given that 9F and Property and Casualty Company Limited ("PICC") had been engaged in an ongoing contractual dispute regarding payment of service fees under the Cooperation Agreement; (2) the collectability of service fees owed to 9F by PICC under the Cooperation Agreement was in doubt and at serious risk of non-payment; (3) there was a significant risk that PICC would no longer provide credit insurance and guarantee protection to investors and institutional funding partners; (4) as a result of the foregoing, the Company’s platform, business model, reputation and financial results had been materially impaired; and (5) as a result, defendants’ statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint you can visit the firm’s site: www.bgandg.com/jfu or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Investor Relations Analyst, Yael Hurwitz of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 212-697-6484. If you suffered a loss in 9F you have until March 22, 2021 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff. Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a corporate litigation boutique. Our primary expertise is the aggressive pursuit of litigation claims on behalf of our clients. In addition to representing institutions and other investor plaintiffs in class action security litigation, the firm’s expertise includes general corporate and commercial litigation, as well as securities arbitration. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Yael Hurwitz 212-697-6484 | info@bgandg.com

  • LIZI Investor Alert: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC Notifies Lizhi Inc. Investors of Class Action and Encourages Shareholders to Contact the Firm

    NEW YORK, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Attorney Advertising -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Lizhi Inc. ("Lizhi" or "the Company") (NASDAQ: LIZI) and certain of its officers, on behalf of shareholders who purchased or otherwise acquired Lizhi securities pursuant and/or traceable to Lizhi’s January 17, 2020 initial public offering (the "IPO" or the "Offering"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm’s site: www.bgandg.com/lizi. This class action seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws under the Securities Exchange Act of 1933. The complaint alleges that the Registration Statement contained false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) at the time of the IPO, the coronavirus was already ravaging China, the home base, principal market, and significant hub for Lizhi, its employees, and its customers; (2) the complications associated with the coronavirus were already negatively affecting Lizhi’s business, as employees and customers contracted the virus, lost employment, or otherwise experienced difficulty in generating, publishing, and monetizing the content critical to Lizhi’s platform; (3) even prior to the IPO, Lizhi employees and customers complained of, and to, Lizhi, which harmed the Company’s reputation and financial condition and prospects; and (4) as a result, Defendants’ public statements were materially false and/or misleading at all relevant times. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint you can visit the firm’s site: www.bgandg.com/lizi or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Investor Relations Analyst, Yael Hurwitz of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 212-697-6484. If you suffered a loss in Walmart you have until March 22, 2021 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff. Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a corporate litigation boutique. Our primary expertise is the aggressive pursuit of litigation claims on behalf of our clients. In addition to representing institutions and other investor plaintiffs in class action security litigation, the firm’s expertise includes general corporate and commercial litigation, as well as securities arbitration. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Yael Hurwitz 212-697-6484 | info@bgandg.com

  • Top Neuroradiology Thought Leader Edmond Knopp, M.D. Joins Hyperfine as Senior Medical Director

    Internationally-respected neuroradiologist Edmond “Eddie” Knopp, M.D. has joined Hyperfine Research, Inc. as the company’s Senior Medical Director. Dr. Knopp has nearly three decades of clinical care and research experience in radiology, neuroradiology and MR imaging and is widely recognized as a pioneer in the field for his numerous accomplishments and thought leadership. Guilford, CT, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Internationally-respected neuroradiologist Edmond “Eddie” Knopp, M.D. has joined Hyperfine Research, Inc. as the company’s Senior Medical Director. Dr. Knopp has nearly three decades of clinical care and research experience in radiology, neuroradiology and MR imaging and is widely recognized as a pioneer in the field for his numerous accomplishments and thought leadership. In this management role, Dr. Knopp will work with Hyperfine to establish a Clinical Center of Excellence, develop the company’s overarching clinical and medical strategies and will serve as Hyperfine’s representative to the clinical community, fostering relationships with key opinion leaders on a global basis. His experience and expertise will support Hyperfine’s ongoing commitment to understanding the clinical issues facing the healthcare delivery community, and to continue to influence products that are on the cutting edge of innovation and superior patient care. Dr. Knopp is a senior member of the American Society of Neuroradiology and an American Board of Radiology examiner, and sits on the editorial boards of many of the industry’s leading peer-reviewed publications. He was awarded the American Board of Radiology’s Lifetime Service Award in 2015. Dr. Knopp also serves as an advisor to the International Diagnostic Course Davos, which is the largest medical imaging training course in the world. He is the author of over 80 publications and has given hundreds of international and national presentations. “Dr. Knopp is an internationally renowned neuroradiologist and we are thrilled that he is joining Hyperfine as our Senior Medical Director,” said Hyperfine’s Chief Medical Officer and Chief Technology Officer Khan Siddiqui. “His expertise regarding the clinical issues facing the global healthcare delivery community is a tremendous addition to the already deep bench of talent on the Hyperfine team.” “I am delighted to be joining such an innovative team,” said Dr. Knopp. “Hyperfine is on the cutting edge of MRI and is on the cusp of transforming healthcare. I very much look forward to working with clinicians, societies, and, of course, my new Hyperfine teammates to accelerate Hyperfine’s mission of democratizing medical imaging.” Dr. Knopp has over 26 years’ experience in academia and private practice, including serving on the faculty at the New York University School of Medicine for more than 20 years. While at NYU, Dr. Knopp held multiple roles, including Director of Neuroradiology, Director of MRI Education and most recently, Associate Chairman for Quality, Technology and Safety. Dr. Knopp is a graduate of Emory University and received his medical doctorate from the State University of New York Health Sciences University College of Medicine. He was a surgical resident for two years followed by a radiology residency and two-year neuroradiology Fellowship. About Hyperfine Research Hyperfine lives to make MR imaging available to everyone. The Swoop™ Portable MR Imaging System is the result of a total rethink of MR’s potential in the healthcare landscape. What if MR imaging didn’t require a dedicated suite, extensive training or expensive upkeep? Let’s use the wonders of high-field MRI for the appropriate patients, and deploy Swoop™ at the point-of-care for everyone else. Hyperfine received market-ready FDA clearance for its portable MR imaging for the brain and head of patients of all ages in August 2020. Since its launch in the fall of 2020, Swoop has been honored repeatedly, as one of two finalists for the Best New Radiology Vendor of 2020 by Aunt Minnie, the winner of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) 2020 incubatED Medical Device Innovation Challenge, with a Best Practices Product Innovation Award from Frost & Sullivan, and most recently as a 2021 Innovation Awards Honoree from CES. Hyperfine is part of 4Catalyzer, a health technology incubator with facilities in CT, NY, CA and Taiwan. www.hyperfine.io. ### Attachment Eddie Knopp-squared CONTACT: Chris Ward Hyperfine 1-866-SWOOP-MR cward@hyperfine.io

  • Sammons Financial Group Member Companies Bring New Index Offering to IUL Products

    New index is designed to stabilize investment performance in a fluctuating marketWEST DES MOINES, Iowa, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Midland National® Life Insurance Company and North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, member companies of Sammons Financial Group®, are offering a new financial index designed by Fidelity Investments that helps address consumer concerns of market volatility and stable retirement savings. The Fidelity Multifactor Yield IndexSM 5% ER leverages Fidelity’s established legacy of asset management capabilities. The index will be added into Midland National’s and North American’s portfolio of indexed universal life, or IUL, insurance products. It’s currently available on Midland National and North American’s portfolio of fixed indexed annuities. The Fidelity Multifactor Yield IndexSM 5% ER includes a blend of six equity factor indices. A factor is a characteristic of a security that helps explain its risk and return behaviors. Each factor and weighting was chosen based on its potential ability to enhance returns, manage risk, and target specific outcomes. This index performs by combining key factors in such a way to help lower overall risk, while providing the potential to consistently outperform the broader market. The factors within the new index include: Dividend Yield – securities paying higher dividendsValue – securities that are less expensive relative to othersMomentum – positive-trending securitiesQuality – financially healthy companiesLow Volatility – lower-risk securitiesSize – smaller, potentially more agile companies “It was important for us to bring a solution to market that helps address the balance for both yield and protection,” said Jerry Blair, Vice President and Chief Distribution Officer of Life Division at Sammons Financial Group member companies. “We’re confident this enhancement will continue to bring value to our customers.” In addition to these investment factors, this index uses a 5% volatility control target aimed to maintain consistency through various market conditions. To manage volatility control, a fixed-income overlay is applied and allocates between 10-year Treasuries and cash to account for potential changes in interest rates. The overlay then adjusts allocation of the equity index on a daily basis to meet that 5% volatility target. “We are excited to continue to work with Sammons Financial Group to help develop differentiated asset management solutions that aim to meet the evolving needs of their customers” said Matt Aurelia, senior vice president, Fidelity Institutional. The new Fidelity Multifactor Yield IndexSM 5% ER will be available through Midland National and North American as of January 25, 2021. About Sammons® Financial Group, Inc.The companies of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. help families and businesses protect their future to enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., Sammons Financial Group is privately owned with member companies that are among the most enduring and stable in the financial services industry. Our companies include Midland National® Life Insurance Company (including Sammons® Corporate Markets); North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®; and Sammons Institutional Group® (including Midland Retirement Distributors® and Sammons Retirement Solutions®). Together, we offer today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every Moment®. About Midland National Life Insurance For more than 110 years, Midland National® Life Insurance Company (Midland National) has been an industry leader, crediting the company’s strength to its commitment to stability, innovation and dedicated customer service. Midland National is accredited by the Better Business Bureau, and has earned an A+ (Superior) rating from A.M. Best, a large third-party independent reporting and rating company that rates an insurance company on the basis of the company's financial strength, operating performance and ability to meet its ongoing obligations to policyowners. This rating is the second highest out of 15 categories and was affirmed by A.M. Best for Midland National as part of Sammons FinancialSM on Aug. 18, 2020. Founded as Dakota Mutual Life Insurance Company in 1906, Midland National has protected families and preserved legacies for generations. Midland National is one of the leading insurance companies in the United States. Midland National is a member of Sammons® Financial, a subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc. With its Annuity Division in West Des Moines, Iowa, and its Life Operations in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Midland National operates in 49 states and the District of Columbia through its 12,000 licensed sales professionals. For more information, click here. About North American Company for Life and Health Insurance North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is a member company of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2018). For more information, please visit here. The Fidelity Multifactor Yield Index 5% ER (the “Index”) is a multi-asset index, offering exposure to companies with attractive valuations, high quality profiles, positive momentum signals, lower volatility and higher dividend yield than the broader market, as well as U.S. treasuries, which may reduce volatility over time. Fidelity and its related marks are service marks of FMR LLC. Fidelity Product Services LLC (“FPS”) has licensed this index for use for certain purposes to Midland National® Life Insurance Company (the “Company”) on behalf of the Product. The Index is the exclusive property of FPS and is made and compiled without regard to the needs, including, but not limited to, the suitability needs, of the Company, the Product, or owners of the Product. The Product is not sold, sponsored, endorsed or promoted by FPS or any other party involved in, or related to, making or compiling the Index. The Company exercises sole discretion in determining whether and how the Product will be linked to the value of the Index. FPS does not provide investment advice to owners of the Product, nor to any other person or entity with respect to the Index and in no event shall any Product contract owner be deemed to be a client of FPS. Neither FPS nor any other party involved in, or related to, making or compiling the Index has any obligation to continue to provide the Index to the Company with respect to the Product. Neither FPS nor any other party involved in, or related to, making or compiling the Index makes any representation regarding the Index, Index information, performance, annuities generally or the Product particularly. Fidelity Product Services LLC disclaims all warranties, express or implied, including all warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose or use. Fidelity Product Services LLC shall have no responsibility or liability whatsoever with respect to the Product. Indexed Universal Life Insurance products are not an investment in the “market” or in the applicable index and are subject to all policy fees and charges normally associated with most universal life insurance. Sammons Financial is the marketing name of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. and its member companies. Annuities are issued by, and product guarantees are solely the responsibility of, the issuing life insurance company. Life insurance products are issued by Midland National Life Insurance Company, Administrative Office, One Sammons Plaza, Sioux Falls, SD 57193. Product, features, endorsements, riders or issue ages may not be available in all jurisdictions. Limitations or restrictions may apply. 962984.1.0 Media Contact: Hillary CarlsonManager, External CommunicationsSammons Financial Grouphcarlson@sfgmembers.com(515) 221-7426

  • Former EnerNOC Chairman and CEO, Tim Healy, Among New Members of Packetized Energy’s Board of Advisors

    Company’s expanding advisory board will support business development and strategic partnerships to enable rapid new growth Tim Healy Tim Healy, Packetized Energy Advisory Board member BURLINGTON, Vt., Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Packetized Energy announced that Tim Healy, former Chairman and CEO of energy intelligence and demand response leader EnerNOC, and Allison Bates Wannop, Founder of 44 North PLC, have joined its Board of Advisors. “I’m thrilled to welcome Tim and Allison to our advisory board. Tim’s deep expertise in the energy industry and track record of growing companies in the electricity sector will be invaluable as we advance as a leader in energy flexibility,” said Paul Hines, CEO and Co-founder of Packetized Energy. “Allison’s background in energy regulation and policy will help amplify our voice in the important regulatory discussions shaping the future of clean energy.” Tim Healy brings a career of senior executive experience in energy, utilities and demand response solutions. He served for over 16 years as Chairman and CEO of EnerNOC, providing energy intelligence and demand response solutions to utilities, grid operators and enterprises. Under his leadership, EnerNOC grew from a startup to an international leader in energy management, with nearly $500 million in annual revenues, before being acquired by Enel Green Power North America in 2017. In addition to his executive experience, Healy has been a board member or executive advisor to various companies including Veregy, P3 Energy, and Genability. He has recently served as an executive advisor to Blackstone’s Energy group and to Kepler Energy, and is a strategic advisor to inBalance. “The team at Packetized Energy has a deep understanding of the need for grid flexibility and a firm grasp on how innovative technology such as theirs can achieve this,” said Healy. “I’m excited to bring my experience and industry knowledge on board to help utility customers advance the transition toward a cleaner and more responsive energy network.” Allison Bates Wannop has directed her own consulting and legal practice, focusing on energy law and regulation. With a J.D. degree from Northwestern Law and a B.A. from Harvard, she previously served as Special Counsel to the Vermont Department of Public Service. Having previously enforced compliance with state renewable energy standards and reviewed numerous regulatory filings, Wannop advises Packetized on providing regulators the data and insights needed to develop an effective regulatory environment for a clean energy future. “Understanding the legal framework at a statewide regulatory level is critical to supporting the innovation needed to move toward a clean energy grid,” says Wannop. “The team at Packetized Energy really understands today’s rapidly evolving energy system and what we need to do to transition to the future. I’m looking forward to helping Packetized Energy bring those insights directly to regulators and decision-makers.” Healy and Wannop will join seven other advisory board members including: Robert Zulkoski, CEO of Conduit Capital Partners and former Chairman of Greenlots, a global electric vehicle charging infrastructure company purchased by Shell; and Scott Johnstone, who previously led Vermont Energy Investment Company, a $100 million energy project management and consulting firm. About Packetized EnergyPacketized Energy makes electricity flexible with software systems and smart devices for the electric power industry, enabling distributed energy to be clean, affordable, and easy to use. Packetized Energy provides utilities in the U.S. and Canada with energy flexibility software and IoT solutions and is headquartered in Burlington, Vermont. For more information, visit www.packetizedenergy.com. Contact:Eugene HuntTrevi Communications, Inc.978.750.0333 x.101gene@trevicomm.com

  • IFIC Releases 2020 Investment Funds Report

    Annual report analyzes mutual fund and ETF assets and salesTORONTO, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Investment Funds Institute of Canada (IFIC) today released its 2020 Investment Funds Report. Since 2018, the year-end report has provided summary data on annual mutual fund and exchange-traded fund (ETF) sales and assets under management. The 2020 report includes additional data and analysis related to the global pandemic, as well as historical comparisons to previous periods of market turmoil. “IFIC’s role in data collection and analysis enables us to gain important insights into how changes in the regulatory and economic environment affect the investment funds industry and the investors it serves,” said Paul Bourque, president and CEO, IFIC. “During an unprecedented year that saw significant market volatility, we were pleased to see positive overall sales and historically high asset levels across both mutual funds and ETFs.” Key highlights: At the end of 2020, Canadian mutual fund assets totalled $1.78 trillion and ETF assets totalled $257 billion.Total mutual funds net sales were $31 billion and total ETF net sales were $41.5 billion in 2020.At the end of 2020, responsible investment mutual fund assets totalled $17.3 billion and ETF assets totalled $2.8 billion.Alternative mutual fund assets totalled $12.2 billion and alternative ETF assets totalled $2.9 billion. About IFIC The Investment Funds Institute of Canada is the voice of Canada’s investment funds industry. IFIC brings together 150 organizations, including fund managers, distributors and industry service organizations, to foster a strong, stable investment sector where investors can realize their financial goals. By connecting Canada’s savers to Canada’s economy, our industry contributes significantly to Canadian economic growth and job creation. For more information, please contact: Pira KumarasamySenior Manager, Communications and Public Affairspkumarasamy@ific.ca416-309-2317

  • The International Chili Society Now Accepting Applications for 2021 Sanctioning

    DALLAS, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- After almost a year of postponing chili events and delaying certification of new ones, the International Chili Society (ICS) announced today that it is once again accepting applications for chili events seeking professional sanctioning for the 2021 season and beyond. ICS, which typically sanctions more than 100 events a year, was forced to cancel its World Championship Chili Cookoff (WCCC) in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As a result, many qualifier events that lead up to the championship were also canceled. Typically, more than 200 chili teams gather in the fall to celebrate their local victories by trying to win major prizes and money at the WCCC. “Last year was a tough year for chili events all across the nation,” commented Mike McCloud, President of ICS. “But now that we can see light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, we are excited to announce that Chili Nation will be firing up the stoves again as we head into our 54th Annual Championship season.” That event will occur September 17-19 in Myrtle Beach, S.C. ICS decided to relocate from Des Moines, Iowa to Myrtle Beach for the 2020 season because of the better weather and numerous recreational activities located at the beach-front community. Becoming an officially sanctioned ICS event gives cook-offs an extra level of judging credibility, while also securing a spot for the event’s winner(s) at the WCCC. Additionally, it gives contest organizers structure and guidance by allowing contests to follow ICS’s well-established rules and regulations. All types of events, from church groups to civic groups to professional chef challenges, can be sanctioned by ICS. The organization was started in 1967 by legendary car designer Carroll Shelby and friends, and it has raised over $100 million for local charities while also delighting chili fans everywhere with its popular people’s choice voting. The ICS cooking season follows a calendar year. Therefore, newly sanctioned events taking place in 2021 will be qualifiers for the 2022 WCCC. The four key categories for the 2021 cooking season are Traditional Red, Chili Verde, Salsa and Homestyle (which is open to any type of chili). To learn more about the ICS and its chili categories, visit icschili.com. To download the application, click here. Organizers of events should submit their completed applications to vmarnick@icschili.com via email. To learn how to enter the competition or judge the entries, simply follow the International Chili Society on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@ICSChili). To learn more about the event itself, follow World Championship Chili Cook Off on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. About the International Chili Society Since 1967, the International Chili Society (ICS) has been bringing people together over one of America's greatest culinary creations. ICS sanctions more than 100 events a year nationwide with one mission – to continuously improve chili while raising money for charities and nonprofits. More than $100 million has been raised for charities by the chili arena since ICS was started. To celebrate each year’s pro-chili season, ICS holds a World Chili Championship Cookoff (WCCC) and crowns World Champions. To see previous winners, click here. CONTACT: Alli Sparks International Chili Society alli@mmacreative.com

  • Axcient Direct-to-Cloud Now Enabling Private Cloud Deployment

    Empowering MSPs to Choose Preferred IT Infrastructure, including Private Cloud DENVER, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axcient, a leader in business availability software for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), today announced Bring Your Own (BYO) data center through its Direct-to-Cloud offering, including private cloud infrastructure. BYO empowers the MSP to choose what IT infrastructure they want to deploy when securely backing up their clients’ data. “MSPs who have built their own data centers can now easily store, replicate, and deploy data with Axcient’s Direct-to-Cloud offering,” said Ben Nowacky, SVP of Product at Axcient. “We believe in giving our partners the power to choose where they want to store their data, and Direct-to-Cloud provides the flexible deployments and unlimited software SOC-compliant Axcient Cloud to BYO private cloud infrastructure.” Partners with clients in all verticals can now leverage Direct-to-Cloud, including those dealing with government clients and classified data. Direct-to-Cloud adds incredible value to the MSP’s technology stack in the following ways: Flexibility: With Direct-to-Cloud, partners can use Axcient’s software to backup directly from their preferred data center and store in the Axcient Cloud.Easy to Install: An Axcient Direct-to-Cloud vault can be easily installed and setup on any Ubuntu certified server or on any Axcient x360Recover turn-key Business Continuity and Disaster Recover (BCDR) Appliance. Additionally, the configuration is simplified for private cloud vault destination for data that is offsite.Cost Savings: MSPs who have built up their own data center infrastructure can leverage this investment by replicating Axcient x360Recover Direct-to-Cloud backups directly to their data center. This offers a lower cost option because partners will just need to add the license. To learn more about Axcient’s BCDR and Direct-to-Cloud, please visit https://axcient.com/solutions/direct-to-cloud-bcdr/. About AxcientAxcient is an award-winning leader in business availability software for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Axcient x360 empowers MSPs to Protect Everything™ by combining SaaS Backup, BCDR, and secure File Sync & Share into one platform and experience. Trusted by MSPs worldwide, Axcient protects business data and continuity from events such as security breaches, human error, and natural disasters. For more information, visit www.axcient.com. Media ContactAmanda LeeARL Strategic Communications for Axcient