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New Digital Insurance research reveals how firms are deploying AI, what they’re getting in ROI and how strategies are evolving

Arizent

Digital Insurance, a leading information resource for executives and innovators in the insurance sector, releases its latest research report, The Cost of AI: The AI Revolution Gathers Steam. Sponsored by Salesforce, the findings reveal adoption of artificial intelligence is rising in the insurance industry, with more than half expecting to implement it within 12 to 18 months — and many already seeing returns. AI is moving from pilot project to enterprise strategy for some organizations, with a growing number of companies already seeing returns on their investments. But as AI deployments scale, so do the price tags — and industry professionals may face tough choices about how to modernize, budget and prioritize. The research offers fresh insight into how industry organizations are implementing AI, what they’re prioritizing and what’s standing in the way of broader success. Based on proprietary research with professionals across the insurance industry, the report reveals how different types of organizations are navigating this next phase of transformation. Key takeaways include: Where companies are finding the most value from their AI investments — and where results are falling short What’s driving organizations to move faster and what’s holding others back How generative AI is reshaping the conversation around customer experience What companies are spending now and how that’s expected to shift in the year ahead “AI investments are already paying off, particularly for firms that have implemented them aggressively to improve efficiency,” says Janet King, SVP, Content Strategy, Research at Arizent, parent company of Digital Insurance. “At this point in the adoption curve, the most advanced companies appear to see more opportunities to reap positive returns, suggesting those at the leading edge could remain in that position for some time.” The data indicates nearly all organizations expect their AI spending to increase to some extent over the next 12 months. Only a few companies expect their spending to remain level or decrease. Organizations that trail their peers will need to accelerate their strategies as much as possible or risk falling further behind as early adopters continue to expand their capabilities. To explore the full findings and see where your organization stands, download the full report: https://www.americanbanker.com/payments/news/embedded-payments-demand-comes-from-health-care-travel About Digital Insurance Digital Insurance is the essential resource for senior executives leading the digital transformation of the insurance industry. Across events and member forums, original research reports and editorial news and analysis, Digital Insurance examines business-critical topics in technology innovation, data advancements, insurtech market trends and transformation strategies. The brand convenes the community around these ideas and insights so they can understand the real-world impact on their firms and the customers they serve. About Arizent Arizent is a business information company that advances professional communities by providing insights and analysis and convening industry leaders. The company uses deep industry expertise and a data-driven platform to deliver its services, which include subscriptions, marketing services, live events and access to Leaders Forum, a digital content platform featuring livestream and on-demand formats. Arizent also connects business communities through leading financial services brands like American Banker, The Bond Buyer, Financial Planning and National Mortgage News, as well as professional services brands like Accounting Today, Employee Benefit News and Digital Insurance. About Salesforce Salesforce is the #1 AI CRM, helping companies connect with customers in a whole new way since 1999. Our product portfolio, Agentforce, brings #1 CRM apps together with trusted AI and data on one integrated platform so companies can grow relationships, productivity, and their bottom line. Salesforce helps insurance firms lower operational costs, grow efficiently, innovate at scale, and personalize customer experiences. With Salesforce, insurance carriers, agencies, and brokerages can connect and empower their entire organization, spanning Marketing, Sales, Service, Data, IT, and Analytics. Our AI-driven, connected platform empowers insurers and their distribution partners to manage all core operations from one system — including product development, quoting, claims, and more. Contact Details Arizent Janet King +1 207-807-4806 janet.king@arizent.com Company Website https://www.arizent.com/

July 01, 2025 11:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Kraken Elected as Super Representative on the TRON Network

TRON DAO

Geneva, Switzerland, July 1, 2025 – TRON DAO, the community-governed DAO dedicated to accelerating the decentralization of the internet through blockchain technology and decentralized applications (dApps), today announced that Kraken, one of the world’s longest-standing and most secure crypto platforms, has been elected as a Super Representative (SR) on the TRON blockchain network. Kraken’s institutional-grade protocol staking infrastructure will bring security and reliability to TRON's decentralized governance by validating transactions and producing blocks. As a Super Representative, Kraken will help enhance the network's security and efficiency while enabling broader institutional participation in TRON’s incentive model. Kraken operates secure, performant, and cost-effective block production nodes for decentralized PoS protocols on behalf of institutional investors. Their multi-tier signing and listening node architecture delivers stakeholders the ideal combination of security, scalability and decentralization. Kraken’s non-custodial staking infrastructure enables institutions to compound crypto assets through staking, offering automated payouts, detailed reporting, and a service-level agreement (SLA) designed to meet enterprise-grade reliability standards. “Kraken being elected as a Super Representative is a strong signal of growing institutional confidence in TRON’s network and governance model,” said Sam Elfarra, Community Spokesperson for TRON DAO. “Their participation helps strengthen the decentralized foundation of the TRON blockchain while also expanding access to secure, reliable staking infrastructure. As adoption of TRON continues to grow, institutional stakeholders are playing an increasingly important role in supporting a network designed for real-world utility, scale, and sustainable incentives.” “We’re proud to have been elected as a Super Representative on the TRON network,” said Jonathan Marcus, Head of Staked at Kraken. “As institutions continue to explore secure and efficient ways to participate in blockchain ecosystems, TRON stands out for its scale, reliability, and growing global adoption. We look forward to supporting TRON’s decentralized governance and providing the infrastructure that helps institutional stakeholders access meaningful rewards for contributing to the long-term strength of the network.” The TRON network is secured and governed by a decentralized group of SRs, including globally recognized institutions such as Google Cloud, Binance, OKX, P2P.org, Nansen, Luganodes, Kiln, and Abra. Their active participation reflects increasing institutional confidence in TRON’s infrastructure and its role in supporting scalable, secure, and transparent blockchain systems. Kraken’s election as a Super Representative highlights the growing institutional utility of the TRON network. With deep expertise in secure and reliable onchain staking, Kraken brings added confidence to institutions seeking to engage with decentralized systems. Their involvement reinforces TRON’s ability to support secure, scalable, and incentive-aligned blockchain activity across global markets. As institutional engagement with blockchain continues to evolve, TRON remains focused on building the infrastructure needed to support long-term adoption and real-world financial use cases. Read more about the Super Representatives, including Kraken, on TRONSCAN. About TRON DAO TRON DAO is a community-governed DAO dedicated to accelerating the decentralization of the internet via blockchain technology and dApps. Founded in September 2017 by H.E. Justin Sun, the TRON blockchain has experienced significant growth since its MainNet launch in May 2018. TRON hosts the largest circulating supply of USD Tether (USDT) stablecoin, exceeding $80 billion. As of May 2025, the TRON blockchain has recorded over 316 million in total user accounts, more than 10 billion in total transactions, and over $22 billion in total value locked (TVL), based on TRONSCAN. TRONNetwork | TRONDAO | X | YouTube | Telegram | Discord | Reddit | GitHub | Medium | Forum Media Contact Yeweon Park press@tron.network About Kraken Kraken is one of the world’s longest-standing and most secure crypto platforms. Our mission is to accelerate the global adoption of crypto, so that everyone can achieve financial freedom and inclusion. Globally, Kraken clients trade more than 300 digital assets and 6 different national currencies, including GBP, EUR, USD, CAD, CHF, and AUD. Founded in 2011, Kraken was among the first to offer spot trading with margin, parachain auctions, staking, regulated derivatives and index services under one roof. With millions of individuals, traders and institutions around the world, Kraken offers professional 24/7/365 client support along with one of the fastest, most performant trading platforms available. Kraken has set the industry standard for transparency and client trust, and was the first crypto platform to conduct Proof of Reserves. Kraken markets can be monitored and traded via the web or through the Kraken and Kraken Pro iOS and Android apps. For more information about Kraken, please visit kraken.com. Media Contact Lauren Post press@kraken.com Contact Details Yeweon Park press@tron.network Company Website https://trondao.org/

July 01, 2025 10:24 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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New research from Employee Benefit News explores the state of healthcare from the perspectives of both employees and employers

Arizent

Employee Benefit News, a leading resource for the HR and benefits community, releases its State of Healthcare Survey 2025. Sponsored by Quantum Health, the new research offers a rare side-by-side look at how employers and employees make decisions about healthcare benefits — and who they trust to guide those decisions. The report reveals a potential disconnect in the employer-employee perspective when it comes to health and wellness offerings. As the cost of benefits continues to climb, employers are under pressure to deliver value, but many are questioning whether employees know how to use what’s offered, or even want the benefits in the first place. Among the findings: Employers are scaling back on benefits in response to rising costs and shifting employee expectations Data and trust gaps are complicating efforts to fine-tune benefits strategies Longstanding assumptions about who employers and employees trust in the decision-making process are being challenged Satisfaction with healthcare benefits isn't always tied to how well those benefits are used Communication remains a critical (and often overlooked) factor in employee engagement with healthcare options “In a market where cost pressures and expectations are both high, trust is emerging as a make-or-break factor,” says Janet King, SVP, Content Strategy at Arizent, parent company of Employee Benefit News. “Employers who want to improve satisfaction and outcomes must take a harder look at how they communicate benefits — and who employees trust to help them make smart choices.” The data makes two things clear: Healthcare benefits remain an important factor for employees as they consider their current or future position, and employee satisfaction remains a key part of the value these offerings provide for employers. This report is designed to help employers tailor their support for employees in ways that optimize the value of benefits. For other key insights — including where employers and employees diverge on trust, how to better align benefits communication with employee preferences and why cutting back on offerings could backfire — download the full report here. About Employee Benefit News (EBN) Employee Benefit News (EBN) is the primary media resource for decision makers in the worlds of employee benefits, human resources and workplace culture. As the dynamics of these spaces continue to shift and become increasingly complex, EBN delivers expert insights to allow business leaders to navigate their industries with agility. From helping benefits managers meet the challenges of reducing care costs and improving retirement plans to providing HR leaders with guidance on building a talented and diverse workforce, EBN drives the conversation and delivers the research and analysis to help readers support their companies’ objectives. About Arizent Arizent is a business information company that advances professional communities by providing insights and analysis and convening industry leaders. The company uses deep industry expertise and a data-driven platform to deliver its services, which include subscriptions, marketing services, live events and access to Leaders Forum, a digital content platform featuring livestream and on-demand formats. Arizent also connects business communities through leading financial services brands like American Banker, The Bond Buyer, Financial Planning and National Mortgage News, as well as professional services brands like Accounting Today, Employee Benefit News and Digital Insurance. About Quantum Health Celebrating 25 years of innovation, Quantum Health is a leading consumer healthcare navigation and care coordination company. Its Real-Time Intercept® platform identifies early intervention opportunities to improve engagement, outcomes, and cost efficiency. Based in Dublin, Ohio, Quantum Health has earned national recognition for growth and workplace culture, including honors from FORTUNE, Inc. 5000, and the Women Presidents' Organization.To learn more, visit www.Quantum-Health.com and connect on LinkedIn. Contact Details Arizent Janet King +1 207-807-4806 janet.king@arizent.com Company Website https://www.arizent.com/

July 01, 2025 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Should More Pensions Adopt Tampa Police and Fire’s Pure Stock-Picking Approach? MPI Analysis Finds its Results Could Easily be Replicated through a More Diversified Approach Instead

Markov Processes Inc.

Markov Processes International, Inc. (“MPI”), a leading provider of investment technology, analytics, research and indices for the global investment management industry, today released significant institutional research analyzing the $3.2 billion City of Tampa Fire and Police Pension Fund that shows that the fund, long known for returns through a stock-picking approach uncommon in pensions and endowments, actually is a validation of the less risky principles of broader diversification and index investing. Tampa Fire and Police has been an outlier among pensions and endowments, using a single manager in Bowen, Hanes & Co., and employing an investment approach that relies heavily on selecting single stocks. Traditionally, pensions and endowments take a more diversified approach, and their investments follow Modern Portfolio Theory, which stresses the importance of diversification in managing risk. MPI’s study represents the first rigorous, data-driven examination of Bowen’s performance, offering quantitative clarity after decades of unchallenged praise and lingering doubts about its authenticity. MPI’s proprietary analysis, calculated using MPI’s Stylus Pro software, performed a returns-based analysis of performance of Tampa Fire and Police – which has notably outperformed or matched its benchmarks in nine of the last 10 years – and found that it could be replicated with a more diversified approach. Indeed, MPI’s Stylus Pro created a long-only portfolio of market indices which credibly (and predictively) mimics the fund’s return. “While the eye-popping stock-picking has made the managers at Bowen seem like modern-day Warren Buffetts, the truth is much more mundane and instructive for other institutional money managers,” said Michael Markov, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MPI. “We know that once a portfolio reaches a certain size, individual stock picks blend into thematic exposures, like the "Magnificent Seven" tech stocks. Active managers spending their days on bottom-up research might rather want to concentrate on whether similar results could be obtained in less risky ways, such as through a basket of ETFs.” The analysis did show that Bowen’s approach did present moderately higher risk than other pensions and endowments, but it was only moderately higher than other equity-heavy public pensions. And, in terms of efficiency, the fund’s Sharpe ratio was better than its benchmark. Still, the findings of MPI’s analysis indicate that managers who base their diversified strategies on the Nobel-prize winning Modern Portfolio Theory have the potential to achieve similar returns, without having to hustle to pick the right stocks. “Diversification works,” Markov said. “Whether or not one believes in volatility or correlation matrices, our analysis validates what Modern Portfolio Theory suggested. There’s little true alpha left in managing a $3 billion liquid portfolio through stock-picking alone.” The full report can be found here. For additional information on MPI’s research or to get a demo of its Stylus Pro software, please contact MPI at +1 (908) 608-1558 or info@markovprocesses.com. About MPI Markov Processes International Inc. (MPI) is a leading provider of solutions for investment research, analysis and reporting to the global wealth and investment management industry. MPI works with more than 200 client organizations, including pensions and endowments, sovereign wealth funds, global wealth management firms, institutional consultants, regulators, investment advisors and asset managers. Rooted in the principles of transparency, objectivity, and efficiency, MPI takes an innovative approach to problem solving in the areas of fund analysis, risk management, asset allocation, and reporting to ensure that its clients have the tools to succeed in ever-more-crowded markets. Follow us on Twitter @MarkovMPI and connect with us on LinkedIn. Contact Details For MPI Ray Hennessey, Vocatus rh@vocatusllc.com Company Website https://www.markovprocesses.com/

July 01, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

More than 5,700 Hispanics Killed by Guns in the United States in 2023, VPC Study Reveals

Violence Policy Center

More than 5,700 Hispanics died by gunfire in the United States in 2023 according to the latest edition of Hispanic Victims of Lethal Firearms Violence in the United States, an annual study from the Violence Policy Center (VPC), a national educational organization working to stop gun death and injury. That year (the most recent for which national data is available) guns claimed 5,747 Hispanic lives. Of these, 3,284 (57 percent) were gun homicides. An additional 2,198 Hispanic lives were lost in gun suicides that year. Over the 22-year period from 2002 to 2023, more than 83,000 Hispanics were killed with guns in the United States: 51,780 in gun homicides; 27,160 in gun suicides; 1,220 from unintentional gun deaths; and 2,847 from other firearm deaths. The study also details how America’s firearms industry and gun lobby, as the result of the saturation of the traditional white male market for guns in the U.S., have targeted Hispanics as a new untapped market for gun sales and hoped-for political power. The VPC study is available in both English and Spanish and utilizes data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). VPC Executive Director Josh Sugarmann states, “Hispanic men, women, boys, and girls are increasingly the victims of lethal gun violence in the U.S. Recognizing the vast gaps in data-gathering regarding Hispanic ethnicity in our nation, the actual numbers are certainly higher. At the same time, the gun industry is openly targeting Hispanics as an untapped market, which can only increase gun death and injury in this community.” Key findings of the study include: In 2023, more than 5,700 Hispanics were killed by guns. That year, 3,284 Hispanics died in gun homicides, 2,198 died in gun suicides, 63 died in unintentional shootings, and 202 died in other circumstances (including legal intervention and undetermined intent) More than 83,000 Hispanics were killed by guns between 2002 and 2023. During this period, 51,780 Hispanics died in gun homicides, 27,160 died in gun suicides, and 1,220 died in unintentional shootings. Most Hispanic murder victims are killed with guns. In 2023, 77 percent of Hispanic homicide victims were killed with firearms. The percentage of Hispanic homicide victims killed with a firearm steadily increased during this period, from 69 percent in 2002 to 77 percent in 2023. The latest data show that for homicides where the victim was Hispanic and a gun was used, 53 percent of these shootings involved a handgun Of the 2,198 Hispanic firearm suicide victims in 2023, 1,949 (89 percent) were male and 249 (11 percent) were female From 2002 to 2023, the female Hispanic firearm suicide rate doubled (from 0.4 per 100,000 to 0.8 per 100,000) In 2015, the firearms industry and gun lobby launched a coordinated campaign targeting Hispanics and other communities of color in the U.S. to increase gun sales and hopefully increase the political power of the pro-gun movement. As a result of the limitations in current data collection, the total number of Hispanic victims is almost certainly higher than the reported numbers suggest. Government agencies often report data on race but not on ethnic origin. Recognizing the changing demographic landscape in the United States, it is clear that fully documenting such victimization is a crucial step in preventing it Recommendations of the study include: Governmental agencies that collect data on death and injury should obtain complete information on the ethnic origin of individuals in addition to their race. This will ensure complete and accurate data collection on Hispanic victims of lethal violence. Additional efforts should be undertaken to support current violence reduction programs and activities, as well as identify new violence reduction strategies, improve access to resources for victims and survivors of domestic violence, and identify anti-trafficking measures to help interrupt the flow of illegal firearms to impacted communities. At the same time, relevant organizations and advocates should be made aware of the firearms industry’s marketing efforts targeting the Hispanic community. The age-adjusted Hispanic homicide and suicide rates published in the report were calculated by the CDC. The rates are calculated by dividing the number of relevant deaths in an age group by the population of that age group and multiplying the result by 100,000. This result is then weighted according to the U.S. Hispanic population. This study does not include Puerto Rico or other U.S. territories. The complete report in English can be found at http://vpc.org/studies/hispanic25.pdf. The complete report in Spanish can be found at http://vpc.org/studies/hispanicesp25.pdf. Prior editions of the report in both English and Spanish, as well as VPC research focusing on lethal Hispanic victimization in California, can be found at www.vpc.org/hispanic.htm. For more information on how the firearms industry, looking to expand beyond its shrinking base of white male gun owners, has launched an organized marketing campaign focusing on Hispanic and Black Americans, please see the January 2021 Violence Policy Center study How the Firearms Industry and NRA Market Guns to Communities of Color. The Violence Policy Center is a national educational organization working to stop gun death and injury. Follow the VPC on X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. Contact Details Georgia Seltzer Violence Policy Center +1 202-987-9077 gseltzer@vpc.org Company Website https://vpc.org/

July 01, 2025 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Esteemed Public Relations Professional Cindy Schutt Announces Retirement After a Storied Career

Van Horn Law Group, P.A.

After a distinguished career spanning nearly four decades in public relations, Cindy Schutt is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of impactful storytelling, strategic communications, and dedicated community leadership. For nearly a decade, Schutt has been the driving force behind the public relations and media strategy for Van Horn Law Group, P.A., in addition to her nonprofit work for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County and Lighthouse of Broward. During her tenure as public relations consultant for Van Horn Law Group, her expertise has been instrumental in elevating the profile of both Van Horn Law Group and its founder, Chad Van Horn. Her unwavering support and mentorship have been foundational to the firm’s growth, public visibility, and national recognition. “None of this happens without Cindy,” said Van Horn. “She has been more than a PR consultant – she’s been a trusted advisor, a mentor, and the architect of our firm’s public voice. Every story told about me, every award, even my appearance as Player 286 on Squid Game: The Challenge – Cindy played a role. She believed in me before the rest of the world noticed.” Cindy said it was easy to believe in Chad. "Chad is one of the most innovative people I’ve ever met,” she said. “Not only does his mind bubble with ideas, but he goes out on a limb to put them into action. Squid Game is a perfect example, as well as his run for Fort Lauderdale City Commission and his upcoming appointment as adjunct professor at University of Florida’s Levin College of Law. He does all this with heart, commitment and dedication, which is exactly how he serves his clients. It has been an honor to work with Chad and Van Horn Law Group.” Van Horn noted that Schutt’s strategic guidance helped secure him numerous professional honors and awards, while also shaping the Van Horn Law Group’s brand as a compassionate and effective legal resource. Her behind-the-scenes work not only built media relationships but also helped position Chad as a national legal thought leader and advocate for consumer debt relief. Throughout her career, Schutt has made an indelible mark in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors, generating hundreds of news stories in top-tier media outlets and establishing herself as a go-to resource for journalists. Cindy, who owned and operated her own firm for the last 20+ years, started in the public relations industry at Bitner Laurenti & Pierson, under the tutelage of Gary Bitner, Lynn Laurenti and Maria Pierson. Both Bitner and Pierson continue to run successful South Florida public relations firms. A proud University of Florida Gator with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, Cindy has long been a pillar of the South Florida civic community. Her extensive service with the Leadership Broward Foundation, including a term as Board Chair, exemplifies her passion for community development, mentorship, and public service. As she begins her well-deserved retirement, Cindy’s presence will be deeply missed by colleagues, clients, and journalists who have relied on her insight and professionalism. “Cindy’s legacy isn’t just written in headlines – it’s felt in the lives she’s touched,” said Van Horn. “She made us better communicators, better professionals, and better people. Working with her has been one of the great privileges of my career.” Van Horn Law Group provides compassionate and affordable legal services in personal and corporate bankruptcy, student loan litigation, foreclosure defense, and debt negotiations. Ranked among the top bankruptcy firms in the country by number of cases filed, Van Horn Law Group is led by founding partner Chad Van Horn, a recognized authority on bankruptcy and the author of Everything You Need to Know About Bankruptcy and The Debt Life. Attorney Van Horn is certified in both consumer and business bankruptcy. The firm has achieved significant recent success in securing student loan discharges for clients under evolving federal guidelines. Contact Details Van Horn Law Group, P.A. Chad Van Horn +1 954-495-9960 Chad@CVHLawGroup.com Company Website https://www.vanhornlawgroup.com/

July 01, 2025 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

News Release

Rising Concerns Over Systemic Risks in the US Leveraged Loan Market

AM Europe

A new study from the University of Bath has issued a stark warning: systemic risks in the US leveraged loan market are growing, potentially setting the stage for another financial crisis. This concern is amplified by several factors, including an increase in underpriced loans, the prominent role of less-regulated non-bank lenders, and deteriorating loan standards. Leveraged loans are typically extended to companies with significant existing debt or less robust credit histories, making them inherently riskier. While lenders are compensated with higher interest rates for this elevated risk, recent trends suggest a dangerous imbalance. The University of Bath study, published on June 25, 2025, highlights that highly leveraged loans are increasingly being underpriced, particularly by non-bank lenders who operate with less regulatory oversight than traditional banks. Default rates on US leveraged loans have already surged, reaching a four-year high of 7.2% in December 2024, according to the Financial Times. Many borrowers are resorting to "distressed exchanges" to avoid outright bankruptcy, a move that reduces investor recoveries and underscores the fragility of the market. Key contributing factors to the escalating risks include: Weakening Pricing of Leverage Risk: The study points out a dramatic weakening in how leverage risk is priced since 2014, with the risk premium declining most for the riskiest borrowers. This distortion reflects fundamental structural weaknesses in the post-2014 leveraged lending landscape. Rise of Non-Bank Lenders: The shift towards non-bank originators for credit has been a significant development. These "shadow lenders" are not subject to the same stringent regulations as traditional banks, leading to concerns about unchecked risk-taking and a lack of transparency. While some states have commercial lending licensing requirements for non-bank lenders, a comprehensive federal framework is absent. Surge in Securitization (CLOs): The rapid growth in Collateralized Loan Obligation (CLO) issuance plays a crucial role. CLOs package these leveraged loans into securities, which are then sold to investors. While this transfers risk away from the original lenders, it also creates complex, opaque structures where the ultimate investors may lack clear information about the underlying assets. Approximately 70% of the US leveraged loan market is now accounted for by CLOs. Declining Loan Standards ("Covenant-Lite" Loans): A widespread adoption of "covenant-lite" loans further exacerbates the risk. These loans come with fewer protective clauses for lenders, giving borrowers more flexibility even when their financial health deteriorates. This erosion of loan standards can make it harder for lenders to intervene and mitigate losses in the event of distress. Regulators have begun to express heightened concern over the rapid growth and increasing interconnections within the private credit market, which largely comprises non-bank lenders and their leveraged loan activities. The sheer size of this market means that any significant disruption could pose a systemic threat to financial stability. While some past assessments, such as a 2020 GAO report, suggested that leveraged lending did not significantly threaten stability during the COVID-19 pandemic, the current environment with increased underpricing and diminished oversight presents a renewed challenge. The confluence of underpriced risk, unregulated shadow banking, and relaxed lending standards paints a concerning picture for the US leveraged loan market. The Parallel World of Personal Loans for Bad Credit While the leveraged loan market deals with corporate debt, a distinct but equally dynamic segment exists for individual consumers with less-than-perfect credit scores: personal loans for bad credit. This market has seen consistent growth, often driven by demand for debt consolidation. As of Q1 2025, nearly half of all personal loan borrowers utilize these funds to consolidate or refinance existing debt, particularly high-interest credit card balances. However, access to these loans comes at a significant cost; while average personal loan rates in June 2025 hover around 12.65%, borrowers with low credit scores face considerably higher Annual Percentage Rates (APRs), often reaching into the triple digits for very low scores. This segment is heavily serviced by online lenders and fintech companies, many of whom employ alternative data and underwriting models to assess risk beyond traditional credit scores, sometimes even offering "no credit check" loans. While these options provide crucial access to credit for those otherwise excluded, they often carry short repayment terms and exceptionally high fees, raising concerns about potential debt traps. Contact Details Josh J. Bradley +1 515-323-4161

July 01, 2025 04:21 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Peru: The Rhythm of the Heart — Cultural Event Featuring Inti Raymi and Fiesta de San Juan Held at Peru Pavilion

Promperu

On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, the Peru Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai held a special cultural event celebrating two of Peru’s most iconic traditional festivals —Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) and the Fiesta de San Juan. The event featured live performances and screenings both outside and inside the Pavilion, allowing many guests and members of the press to experience the cultural diversity and richness of Peru. Opening the event, Fernando Albareda, Deputy Commissioner General of Peru, delivered a welcome address, “Inti Raymi is an Andean festival that celebrates the sun god and the harvest season, while Fiesta de San Juan is a joyful celebration of life held across the Amazon region. Both festivals take place on June 24 and are important cultural expressions of Peru. We are honored to share these vibrant traditions with visitors in Japan today.” The program began with a lively drum and zampoña performance, followed by the grand appearance of the Inca and La Coya (Queen). Traditional dances were performed, including the Valicha from the Andes and the Shipibo Dance from the Amazon. Each dance expressed the unique heritage, identity, and pride of its respective region, receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience. Inside the Pavilion, accredited media and invited guests were treated to a guided tour and cocktail reception featuring a screening of videos introducing the festivals, a retablo-inspired photo booth, and a performance of the Lamas Carnival Dance. A tasting menu highlighted iconic dishes such as Juane, a signature dish of the Amazon, as well as Peruvian cocktails and finger foods inspired by the Andes and Amazon regions. In addition, in Peru's Virtual Pavilion (Metaverse), a recreation of the Inti Raymi has been made where the Inca and La Coya (Queen) can be seen in the Peru-Japan link zone. Anyone from around the world can connect and view it, as well as access audiovisual content about the Inti Raymi and the Fiesta de San Juan, with descriptions about their history and influence. To download the application, they can enter here. Cusco, the place where Inti Raymi is held, also boasts many natural and architectural wonders such as Sacsayhuaman, Ollantaytambo, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, the Qhapaq Ñan, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, and the Rainbow Mountains of Palccoyo, among others. Against this backdrop, the Pavilion’s performance served not only as a celebration of Peru’s cultural diversity but also as a strategic moment of cultural diplomacy to promote its heritage and tourism potential. The Peru Pavilion will continue to offer events that highlight the country’s cultural, culinary, and regional diversity throughout the duration of the Expo. Peru Export and Tourism Promotion Board (PROMPERÚ). We are the government agency in charge of the development and implementation of global strategies to position Peru via the promotion of its image, touristic destinations, added value exports and investments. Contact Details José Carlos Collazos jcollazos@promperu.gob.pe Company Website http://www.promperu.gob.pe

June 30, 2025 01:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Avenue Z Wins AI Breakthrough Award for AI Search Optimization Solution for Brands

Avenue Z

Avenue Z, a tech-driven marketing and communications agency leading AI Optimization, today announced it has been named “Cognitive Communications Solution of the Year” by the AI Breakthrough Awards, honoring its first-to-market AI Optimization (AIO) Solution. The prestigious award - selected from more than 5,000 global nominations - recognizes Avenue Z’s AIO Solution, and its ability to place brands at the top of AI Search. With this award, Avenue Z joins a powerhouse cohort of 2025 winners including NVIDIA, Microsoft, Meta, HPE, EY, Databricks, Honeywell, Arcade, Juniper Networks, and other global innovators. “We launched AIO to solve one of the most important shifts in the history of digital communications: the move from keywords to questions, from links to answers,” said Jeffrey Herzog, Founder and CEO of Avenue Z. “Influence today is more powerful when it’s invisible—architected with strategy, technology, and precision to ensure brands speak the language of generative AI and show up as trusted authorities in the conversations that drive modern decision-making. It’s simple - consumers have shifted to AI search, and we’re helping brands get there.” AIO is the first solution purpose-built for generative search - not a bolt-on to legacy SEO. As platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity shift from listing links to delivering synthesized answers, AI-powered search is surging. By 2027, over 90 million American adults are expected to use generative AI as their primary search tool, with Gen Z and Millennials leading in AI trust. While AI is reportedly set to complement - not fully replace - traditional search, it’s already driving a sharp decline in organic traffic, forcing publishers and marketers to rethink how visibility is earned. Avenue Z’s AI Optimization (AIO) solution solves this challenge for brands with a three-pronged approach: High-authority media placement to establish brand trust in sources large language models (LLMs) cite; Conversational content creation aligned with AI-first query formats and voice; Technical LLM optimization using semantic schema, metadata, and structure designed for machine interpretation. What makes this AI Optimization Solution unique is its cognitive model - a communications framework that ensures clients are not just searchable, but selected, when AI platforms synthesize responses for consumers. “This is not SEO retrofitted for AI,” added Johnny Hughes, Chief Marketing Officer and AI Council Chair at Avenue Z. “This is a new language for influence, blending technical precision with strategic storytelling so our clients own the questions that matter most.” Led by Herzog, who previously revolutionized SEO through iCrossing, Avenue Z is building the new blueprint for how brands succeed in the AI era. “We’re proud to be doing for AI what we once did for Google search: building the map before the rest of the industry knows they need it,” said Herzog. “With AIO, we’re not gaming algorithms, we’re guiding conversations and content at the intersection of influence and machine logic.” The AI Breakthrough Awards, produced by Tech Breakthrough, recognize the world’s most innovative companies, products, and technologies in artificial intelligence. This year’s program included standout entries from startups and tech titans alike, across categories such as machine learning, NLP, computer vision, and cognitive computing. “This award is more than recognition - it’s validation that our commitment to strategic communication in the AI era is working,” said Whitney Hart, Chief Strategy Officer at Avenue Z. “AIO empowers brands to shape narrative and trust in a world where machines mediate influence. We’re proud to lead that transformation.” As part of its broader commitment to market leadership, Avenue Z also recently launched its AI Visibility Index Reports, which help brands assess and improve their presence in generative AI platforms. The reports are publicly available at: https://avenuez.com/ai-visibility-index/ With this award, Avenue Z continues to lead the evolution of strategic communications, helping companies not only keep up with change, but shape it. For more information, visit AvenueZ.com or their media outlet, DrivingInfluence.com. About Avenue Z Avenue Z is a tech-driven marketing and communications agency leading AI optimization, driving influence across all channels - from ChatGPT to The Wall Street Journal to TikTok. With 30 years of leadership in search and digital marketing, we apply strategic communications, high-impact PR, performance media, and AI optimization to help companies build reputation and grow revenue through our proprietary, technology-driven approach. We are the agency for influence. AvenueZ.com About AI Breakthrough Part of Tech Breakthrough, a leading market intelligence and recognition platform, the AI Breakthrough Awards honor the industry’s most innovative companies, technologies, and products in the field of artificial intelligence. The program draws entries from companies and research labs across the globe, showcasing AI's most impactful breakthroughs each year. Contact Details Avenue Z +1 407-637-2833 press@avenuez.com Company Website https://avenuez.com/

June 30, 2025 08:04 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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