Category: Business

Categories
Business

Affinity Federal Credit Union names Kevin Brauer as its new CEO

Brauer succeeds current CEO John Fenton and will continue to advance Affinity’s financial wellbeing initiatives and member-centric mission

 

BASKING RIDGE, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Affinity Federal Credit Union (Affinity), a member-based, federally insured, full-service financial institution, has appointed Kevin Brauer as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/President. Brauer is the current Chief Administrative and Financial Officer at Affinity and will succeed the current CEO/President, John Fenton. Fenton has served as Affinity’s CEO for over 27 years and led the organization’s growth as the largest credit union headquartered in the state of New Jersey.1

“Kevin is a long-tenured, well-respected and highly regarded member of the Affinity leadership team,” said Richard Meene, Chairman of Affinity’s Board of Directors. “He is committed to Affinity’s mission of supporting the financial wellbeing of its members and has been instrumental in developing the philosophy, services and impact that will continue to fuel our organization, as well as better support the communities we serve. We are confident in his vision for Affinity’s future and are thrilled to appoint him to this role.”

 

Affinity seeks to improve the financial wellbeing of its members and the communities it serves. Fenton provided the vision and execution for this philosophy, working to position Affinity as an industry-leader and a trusted partner for its members and community. Affinity supports this mission through its suite of products and services for the individuals and businesses it serves, including various lending options, credit counseling and debt support, competitive credit card offerings, investing, and insurance solutions.

 

Brauer has over three decades of financial services industry experience, and more than seven years with Affinity. He has played a significant role in leading Affinity’s value proposition to its members and designing Affinity’s financial wellbeing initiatives. Within Affinity, Brauer has led the Administration, Human Resources, Finance, Payment Solutions, Data, Digital Technology, Consumer and Commercial Lending, Enterprise Risk Management and Operational Risk groups. Prior to joining Affinity, he held executive level positions with VSoft Corporation, Alloya Corporate Federal Credit Union and Empire Corporate Federal Credit Union, as well as roles in public accounting for a Fortune 500 company.

 

Brauer commented: “I am honored to lead Affinity into the next phase of its history, building on the foundation John laid for promoting financial wellbeing for our members and communities. Our goal is to advance our members’ overall financial wellbeing and it is exciting to partner with our team members across the organization to achieve this in a new capacity.”

 

 

Brauer will assume the role of CEO/President effective Jan. 1, 2023. He will report to the Board of Directors and assume leadership of Affinity’s 500-person team in its Basking Ridge, New Jersey headquarters and across its over 20 branch locations. Fenton will remain in a transitional role for a few months; he will also retain responsibilities with the Affinity Foundation.

 

Brauer is a Certified Public Accountant who holds a Master of Business Administration from Marist College and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Niagara University.

 

1 Source: NCUA.gov. Using the “Credit Union and Corporate Call Report Data” found here: https://www.ncua.gov/analysis/credit-union-corporate-call-report-data

 

About Affinity Federal Credit Union

Affinity Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution, member-owned, and community-focused, with a mission to nurture your financial wellbeing. With more than 20 branches across the tri-state area, Affinity is the largest credit union headquartered in the state of New Jersey, proudly ranking in the top 2% of all credit unions in terms of asset size.1 The Affinity difference is about people helping people on a deeper level and understanding what YOU need to make your unique dreams a reality. For more information, please visit www.affinityfcu.com.

Contacts

Media Contact
Marissa Comerford

Gregory FCA for Affinity Federal Credit Union

affinity@gregoryfca.com
610-228-2104

Categories
Business

Best’s Review: Leading U.S. auto insurers and more

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — October’s Best’s Review looks at the U.S. auto insurance industry with Best’s Rankings for:

The issue also includes:

 

Best’s Review is AM Best’s monthly insurance magazine, covering emerging issues and trends and evaluating their impact on the marketplace. Access to the complete content of Best’s Review is available here.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2022 by A.M. Best Company, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Patricia Vowinkel

Executive Editor, Best’s Review®
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5540

patricia.vowinkel@ambest.com

Categories
Art & Life Business Culture

Win daily prizes at PlayStar.com this Halloween with trick or treat game

Spend $50 playing slots at PlayStar.com for a shot at the hidden game and a chance to win free spins and Prizeout gift cards.

 

NEWARK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Get into the spirit of Halloween with a frightfully fun way to win prizes every day you play slots. From now until October 31, New Jersey online casino PlayStar is giving players the chance to play their exclusive, spook-tacular TRICK OR TREAT game to customers who spend $50 or more playing any slot in a 24-hour period.

The game is not available in the PlayStar lobby but will magically appear on the promotions page of your account once the promo’s conditions are met. Creepy, huh?

 

Then you’ll get to play on the game for a chance to win free spins or gift cards, will it be trick or treat?

 

We’re deadly serious when we say it’s shockingly easy to win free spins or $10 Prizeout gift cards each and every day.

 

This includes up to 100 free spins on our scarily popular Double Stacks slot from NetEnt.

 

PlayStar launched in New Jersey earlier this year with a mission to deliver an online gambling experience like no other for players across the USA. With a big focus on personalization, engagement and customer experience, the team plans to launch in Pennsylvania before the end of 2022.

 

Jon Bowden at PlayStar said: “Halloween is our favorite time of year at PlayStar.com, which is why we’ve got a few freaky surprises in store for our players this October. We have a host of Halloween-themed games in our lobby, like Raven’s Reveal, Halloween Jack, Lightning Horseman, but fans of the genre will be dying to check out our hidden TRICK OR TREAT game for a chance to win some spine-tingling prizes.”

ENDS

 

Editor’s notes:

ABOUT PLAYSTAR

PlayStar is a challenger online casino brand that promises to deliver a player experience like no other. We make the player feel like they are the star of the show through personalization, unique promotions, unrivalled loyalty rewards and superior customer service. PlayStar has recently launched in New Jersey, with Pennsylvania and additional states to follow next year.

 

Contacts

For Media Enquiries
Sarah Blackburn

GameOn

T: 0034628499459

Categories
Business Lifestyle Technology

 KKR to acquire Ness Digital Engineering

NEW YORK — (BUSINESS WIRE) — KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced the signing of definitive agreements under which KKR will acquire 100% of Ness Digital Engineering (“Ness” or the “Company”), a global full-lifecycle digital services transformation company, from The Rohatyn Group (“TRG”).

Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Teaneck, New Jersey, Ness is a leading provider of end-to-end digital transformation services that specializes in building digital software products and platforms. Ness helps organizations envision, build, and continually evolve their digital platforms to enter new markets, capture new revenue, and gain operational efficiencies. The Company offers a wide range of digital practices that include cloud engineering, data and analytics, experience design, intelligence engineering, and salesforce for businesses across sectors. Today, Ness has a presence in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, with a globally diversified talent pool across India, Eastern Europe, and the United States.

 

Gaurav Trehan, Partner and CEO of KKR India, said, “Digital transformation and adoption is a critical strategy for businesses of all sizes worldwide. Against this backdrop, KKR believes that Ness is well-positioned for growth, supported by its exceptional, experience-led product engineering heritage. KKR is pleased to invest in Ness’ capabilities and looks forward to working alongside its talented team to further scale Ness’ digital-first platform, achieve its global ambitions, and better enable its customers to compete in the digital economy.”

 

Ranjit Tinaikar, CEO of Ness, said, “We are thrilled to welcome an investor of KKR’s caliber in Ness. We believe this transaction will help us turbocharge our growth plans and further strengthen our competitive market position. We look forward to leveraging KKR’s global platform and strong investment and operational expertise to deliver more innovative solutions to help our customers keep up with the pace of digitalization required by the accelerated online economy. I want to thank TRG for their consistent stewardship throughout the years. They have been great strategic partners to the management team and helped us to execute our growth strategy.”

 

Nicolas Rohatyn, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of The Rohatyn Group, said, “We are proud to have tapped into TRG’s technology services expertise and extensive global experience to help Ness become a unique, global leader in the digital space. We wish the Company the best in its next chapter.” Tom Kucera, Managing Director at TRG, added “I am grateful to Ranjit, the management team and Ness’ more than 4,000 employees for their partnership, dedication and support over the years. It has been a privilege working closely with them to build Ness into a premier digital transformation platform and I wish them continued success.”

 

Ness adds to KKR’s global portfolio of technology investments, which includes, but is not limited to, Cloudera, a leading provider of enterprise-grade, hybrid data management software in the United States; Yayoi, a software developer, distributor, and support service provider for small-and-medium-sized enterprises in Japan; Probe CX, a provider of outsourced customer experience and business process outsourcing solutions in Australia; MYOB, a leading Australian online business management company; and Jio, a next-generation technology platform that provides digital services across India.

 

KKR makes its investment from its Asian Fund IV. Additional terms of the transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, were not disclosed.

 

About Ness Digital Engineering

Ness is a full lifecycle digital engineering firm offering digital advisory through scaled engineering services. Combining our core competence in engineering with the latest in digital strategy and technology, we seamlessly manage Digital Transformation journeys from strategy through execution to help businesses thrive in the digital economy. As your tech partner, we help engineer your company’s future with cloud and data. For more information, visit ness.com.

 

About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life, and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com and on Twitter @KKR_Co.

 

About TRG

Founded in 2002, The Rohatyn Group is an asset management firm focused on emerging markets and real assets, headquartered in New York, with a global presence in 16 cities across the US, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, India and Southeast Asia. For more information, please visit www.rohatyngroup.com.

Contacts

Media

For KKR:

KKR Asia Pacific

Wei Jun Ong

+65 6922 5813

WeiJun.Ong@kkr.com

For Ness:

Vivek Kangath

+91 97425 65583

Vivek.Kangath@ness.com

For TRG:

Julia-Ambra Verlaine

+1 212 984 3539

Julia.Verlaine@rohatyngroup.com

KKR Americas

Julia Kosygina and Miles Radcliffe-Trenner

+1 212 750 8300

Media@kkr.com

AdFactors (for KKR India)

George Smith Alexander

+91 98213 56867

George.Smith@adfactorspr.com

Categories
Business Lifestyle Technology

Comcast boosting speeds across Tennessee

New Speeds Rolling Out This Week as Xfinity Continues to Deliver a Fast, Reliable and Secure Connectivity Experience that Others Can’t Match

Network Innovation Continues as Xfinity Evolves to a 10G Future

 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — More than 20 million Xfinity households across the country, including Tennessee will soon be waking up to faster Internet, thanks to Xfinity. The country’s largest gigabit network is boosting speeds on its most popular plans beginning this week, providing customers with an even better connectivity experience as they stream the latest 4K blockbuster, game online, videoconference, and more, all at the same time. With this latest round of speed increases, Xfinity continues to provide unparalleled value compared to other providers – including significantly faster speeds and better reliability than mobile and 5G Home Internet.


The announcement comes on the heels of Comcast’s launch of the nation’s largest- and fastest-ever multi-gig deployment that will reach more than 50 million homes and businesses with 2 Gbps speeds before the end of 2025.

 

“Households in Tennessee and across the country continue to see a sharp increase in their connected devices, so faster internet speeds and a more reliable connection have never been more critical,” said Jason Gumbs, Comcast Regional SVP.

 

Faster Speeds Rolling Out Nationwide

Beginning this week, new and existing customers will be able to take advantage of the following upgraded speeds*:

  • Performance Starter/Connect from 50 Mbps to 75 Mbps
  • Performance/Connect More from 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps
  • Performance Pro/Fast from 300 Mbps to 400 Mbps
  • Blast/Superfast from 600 Mbps to 800 Mbps
  • Extreme Pro/Gigabit (formerly Ultrafast) from 900 Mbps to 1 Gbps

 

Benefits Beyond Speed – Reliability and Security

The benefits of Xfinity go beyond faster speeds. Xfinity’s comprehensive connectivity experience combines a powerful network built to deliver Internet in the home, reliably and securely, with cutting-edge hardware and software.

 

  • Reliable – Next-generation Xfinity gateways deliver the most advanced WiFi technology, WiFi 6E, with 3x more bandwidth to power hundreds of devices, gigabit speeds over WiFi, and ultra-low latency for those moments when response times matter most like playing video games or using virtual reality. xFi Pods extend that coverage to hard-to-reach areas of the home, when needed.
  • Secure – xFi Advanced Security – included free for customers who lease an Xfinity gateway – protects connected devices from malware and other threats at the gateway before they reach devices and the household members who are using them. Xfinity has stopped billions of cyber security threats since introducing the service a few years ago.

 

A Network Built for the Future

Comcast’s Xfinity Internet service is delivered using Comcast’s existing network architecture and the connections that are already in most customers’ homes – no digging up yards required. Faster speeds will be just one of the consumer benefits made possible through Comcast’s continued efforts to evolve its entire network to 10G.

 

10G is a next-generation technology platform supported by a global collaboration of companies in the Internet industry focused on building networks that stay ahead of consumer demand for connectivity. Recently, Comcast successfully tested the final component needed to deliver multi-gigabit symmetrical speeds – powered by 10G and DOCSIS 4.0 technology – throughout its entire network. In addition to fast speeds, 10G efforts will provide even greater network reliability, lower latency, faster troubleshooting, and increased energy efficiency.

 

Comcast continues to expand its technologies across Tennessee. The company recently added new gigabit and high-speed internet service tiers to more areas in Tennessee, and continues to expand its network to underserved areas across the state. Comcast has invested over $700 million in infrastructure across the state over the past three years to bridge the digital divide.

 

To learn more about Xfinity’s Internet and connectivity solutions for customers, click here.

 

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on connectivity, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

 

*Performance Starter, Performance, Performance Pro, Blast and Extreme Pro speed tiers are for customers in Comcast’s Northeast Division markets: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia

 

Connect, Connect More, Fast, Superfast, and Gigabit speed tiers are for customers in Comcast’s Central and West Division markets: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin

Contacts

Sara Jo Walker
Senior Director of Public Relations

sarajo_walker@cable.comcast.com
615.417.4899

Categories
Business Culture

ExtensisHR wins multiple Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Awards

HR provider earns recognition for DEI practices, employee well-being, and professional development

 

WOODBRIDGE, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #HR—ExtensisHR, a nationally recognized Professional Employer Organization (PEO) and HR Outsourcing (HRO) services provider, proudly announces it has earned three 2022 Top Workplaces Culture Excellence awards. Issued by research company Energage, these awards celebrate organizations that excel in specific areas of workplace culture.

ExtensisHR has received highest honors in the following categories:

  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Celebrates organizations that are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive place to work, no matter one’s background.
  • Employee Well-Being: Celebrates organizations that put the health and wellness of their employees at the center of their company culture.
  • Professional Development: Celebrates organizations that focus on developing their employees’ careers and enable them to grow professionally.

 

“It’s always a privilege to be acknowledged by our team members for prioritizing their workplace well-being and professional growth,” said David Pearson, Senior Vice President of People and Culture at ExtensisHR. “Our people work tirelessly to help our customers create the best possible work environment for their employees, and we demonstrate that commitment to our workforce as well by creating a safe, inclusive, collaborative culture where everyone is empowered to do their best work. Knowing this award is once again based on employee feedback makes it that much more meaningful.”

 

This is the third culture-focused award ExtensisHR has received this year, first being named a Top Workplace in New Jersey by NJ.com, followed by earning a Great Place to Work® Certification™. For over 25 years, ExtensisHR has adopted a people-first mentality, offering employees ample paid time-off, affordable and comprehensive health benefits, competitive wages, access to a 401(k) savings and investment plan with employer match, student loan reimbursement, professional development resources, and many other work-life balance perks. ExtensisHR also continues to set the standard on creating initiatives that enhance social connection and team building through complimentary drinks and snacks, company sponsored lunches, community give back programs, and other thoughtful events.

 

The company strongly champions diversity in its team culture, launching a DEI Committee as part of its longstanding commitment to creating an environment where all employees are included, treated with dignity and respect, and equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to grow their careers. ExtensisHR actively uses insights from this committee to increase the diversity of its leadership team and staff, create greater consistency and equity across the organization, and recruit, train, mentor, and offer career opportunities to people of all backgrounds and demographics.

 

“Top Workplaces is a beacon of light for organizations as well as a sign of resiliency and impressive performance,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “When you give your employees a voice, you come together to navigate challenges and shape your path forward. Top Workplaces draw on real-time insights into what works best for their organization, so they can make informed decisions that have a positive impact on their people and their business.”

 

About ExtensisHR

Founded in 1997, ExtensisHR is a leading national Certified Professional Employer Organization (PEO) and HR Outsourcing (HRO) solution provider, focused on delivering exceptional customer service. We specialize in tailored HR solutions for small- and medium-sized businesses, with a comprehensive portfolio including human resources, benefits, payroll, Work Anywhere™ technology, risk and compliance, employee management, recruiting, and more. To learn more or to become a broker or business partner, visit: www.extensishr.com, or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.

Contacts

Media:
Stephanie Clark

ExtensisHR

sclark@extensishr.com
732-236-5224

Categories
Business Local News

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. declares 487th regular quarterly dividend

EWING, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) today reported that its Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of twenty six and one quarter ($0.2625) cents per share.

This quarterly dividend will be payable December 1, 2022 to stockholders of record at the close of business on November 15, 2022. It is the Company’s 487th regular consecutive quarterly dividend.

 

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. manufactures and markets a wide range of personal care, household and specialty products, under the Arm & Hammer brand name and other well-known trademarks.

Contacts

Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

Rick Dierker, 609-806-1200

Categories
Business

AM Best upgrades credit ratings for Guaranty Income Life Insurance Company; affirms credit ratings of United Life Insurance Company and Lincoln Benefit Life Company

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — AM Best has upgraded the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) to A- (Excellent) from B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) to “a-” (Excellent) from “bbb+” (Good) of Guaranty Income Life Insurance Company (GILIC) (headquartered in Baton Rouge, LA). In addition, AM Best has affirmed the FSR of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term ICR of “a-” (Excellent) of United Life Insurance Company (ULIC) (Cedar Rapids, IA). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed the FSR of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term ICR of “a-” (Excellent) of Lincoln Benefit Life Company (LBL) (headquartered in Rosemont, IL). The outlook of these ratings is negative.

The ratings of GILIC reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).

 

The ratings of ULIC reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate ERM.

 

The ratings of LBL reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate ERM.

 

GILIC’s rating upgrades reflect the increased synergies with sister company, ULIC, including common management and business strategies as the retail insurance operations for Kuvare US Holdings, Inc. (Kuvare).

 

This includes recent initiatives currently in motion to realign the organization to remove the institutional markets business out from under the retail business. Also noted are the company’s strong operating improvements over the past several years, including premium growth in its key annuity products, significant distribution expansion and stable operating profile with favorable operating returns.

 

Offsetting rating factors include the impact of new business strain on operating results and capital. Additionally, GILIC’s reserve book is weighted heavily in interest-sensitive reserves with a concentrated product profile. In AM Best’s view, GILIC’s risk-adjusted capitalization is diminished qualitatively due to a high percentage of surplus notes, and increased leverage at Kuvare, which is expected to be managed down in the short to medium term. Kuvare continues to seek ways to increase financial flexibility for implicit and explicit support of the retail and institutional businesses.

 

The negative outlooks for LBL reflect the continued capital support needs at the company when viewed together with its captive reinsurer, Lancaster Re Captive Insurance Company. This is due to deterioration in the company’s capital trends as a result of underperformance in its runoff universal life with secondary guaranty business beyond initial projections. Mitigating factors include the strategic vision for the company, with a plan that includes supporting the liabilities and a suspension of dividends from the organization to improve its capital position.

 

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2022 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Edward Kohlberg
Director
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5664
edward.kohlberg@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Manager, Public Relations
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5159
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Michael Porcelli
Senior Director
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5548
michael.porcelli@ambest.com

Al Slavin
Communications Specialist
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5098
al.slavin@ambest.com

Categories
Business Lifestyle Technology

Comcast boosting speeds for more than 20 million Xfinity Internet customers across the country

New Speeds Rolling Out This Week as Xfinity Continues to Deliver a Fast, Reliable and Secure Connectivity Experience that Others Can’t Match

Network Innovation Continues as Xfinity Evolves to a 10G Future

 

PHILADELPHIA — (BUSINESS WIRE) — More than 20 million Xfinity households across the country will soon be waking up to faster Internet, thanks to Xfinity. The country’s largest gigabit network is boosting speeds on its most popular plans beginning this week, providing customers with an even better connectivity experience as they stream the latest 4K blockbuster, game online, videoconference, and more, all at the same time. With this latest round of speed increases, Xfinity continues to provide unparalleled value compared to other providers – including significantly faster speeds and better reliability than mobile and 5G Home Internet.


The announcement comes on the heels of Comcast’s launch of the nation’s largest- and fastest-ever multi-gig deployment that will reach more than 50 million homes and businesses with 2 Gbps speeds before the end of 2025.

 

“The number of devices connected in Xfinity households has skyrocketed 12X since 2018, and the need for fast, reliable, and secure Internet will continue to grow,” said Bill Connors, President of Xfinity, Comcast Cable. “That’s why today, Xfinity is increasing speeds for most of our customers across the country.”

 

Faster Speeds Rolling Out Nationwide

Beginning this week, new and existing customers will be able to take advantage of the following upgraded speeds*:

  • Performance Starter/Connect from 50 Mbps to 75 Mbps
  • Performance/Connect More from 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps
  • Performance Pro/Fast from 300 Mbps to 400 Mbps
  • Blast/Superfast from 600 Mbps to 800 Mbps
  • Extreme Pro/Gigabit (formerly Ultrafast) from 900 Mbps to 1 Gbps

 

Benefits Beyond Speed – Reliability and Security

The benefits of Xfinity go beyond faster speeds. Xfinity’s comprehensive connectivity experience combines a powerful network built to deliver Internet in the home, reliably and securely, with cutting-edge hardware and software.

  • Reliable – Next-generation Xfinity gateways deliver the most advanced WiFi technology, WiFi 6E, with 3x more bandwidth to power hundreds of devices, gigabit speeds over WiFi, and ultra-low latency for those moments when response times matter most like playing video games or using virtual reality. xFi Pods extend that coverage to hard-to-reach areas of the home, when needed.
  • Secure – xFi Advanced Security – included free for customers who lease an Xfinity gateway – protects connected devices from malware and other threats at the gateway before they reach devices and the household members who are using them. Xfinity has stopped billions of cyber security threats since introducing the service a few years ago.

 

A Network Built for the Future

Comcast’s Xfinity Internet service is delivered using Comcast’s existing network architecture and the connections that are already in most customers’ homes – no digging up yards required. Faster speeds will be just one of the consumer benefits made possible through Comcast’s continued efforts to evolve its entire network to 10G.

 

10G is a next-generation technology platform supported by a global collaboration of companies in the Internet industry focused on building networks that stay ahead of consumer demand for connectivity. Recently, Comcast successfully tested the final component needed to deliver multi-gigabit symmetrical speeds – powered by 10G and DOCSIS 4.0 technology – throughout its entire network. In addition to fast speeds, 10G efforts will provide even greater network reliability, lower latency, faster troubleshooting, and increased energy efficiency.

 

To learn more about Xfinity’s Internet and connectivity solutions for customers, click here.

 

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on connectivity, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

 

*Performance Starter, Performance, Performance Pro, Blast and Extreme Pro speed tiers are for customers in Comcast’s Northeast Division markets: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia

 

Connect, Connect More, Fast, Superfast, and Gigabit speed tiers are for customers in Comcast’s Central and West Division markets: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin

Contacts

Joel Shadle

Comcast Corporate Communications

Joel_Shadle@comcast.com
703-906-2645

Categories
Business Healthcare Science

Merck and the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute announce licensing agreement for novel tuberculosis antibiotic candidates

RAHWAY, N.J. & CAMBRIDGE Mass. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — $MRK #MRK–Merck, (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute (Gates MRI) today announced a licensing agreement for two preclinical antibacterial candidates for evaluation as potential components of combination regimens for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). These candidates were discovered by Merck scientists as part of the TB Drug Accelerator (TBDA). The TBDA is a collaboration established among biopharmaceutical companies, research organizations and universities to accelerate the discovery and development of novel therapeutic candidates against TB. The initiative was established with support and leadership from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

“Tuberculosis is one of the world’s most significant infectious causes of human disease and death,” said Dr. Emilio Emini, chief executive officer, the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute. “The development of novel therapies to simplify and more effectively treat TB has been a long-standing goal of scientific and medical research. The two novel compounds discovered by Merck scientists, and now licensed to the Gates MRI for further development and distribution, may represent potentially important constituents of future TB therapeutic regimens.”

 

Under the agreement, Merck has granted the Gates MRI an exclusive global license for MK-7762 and MK-3854. In furtherance of its charitable purpose, Gates MRI will conduct non-clinical and clinical studies of these candidates to determine their potential for inclusion in new affordable combination treatment regimens for TB with the aim of shortening the duration of treatment irrespective of resistance to the currently available TB drugs.

 

“At Merck we have a proud legacy of addressing some of the world’s most challenging infectious diseases,” said Dr. Dean Y. Li, president, Merck Research Laboratories. “With the expertise and capabilities of the Gates MRI, MK-7762 and MK-3854 are positioned for rigorous evaluation of their potential as components of novel TB treatment regimens.”

 

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of MK-7762 and MK-3854 have shown that both candidates have potent antibacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the organism that causes tuberculosis, including some strains known to be resistant to current therapies

 

About Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a major global cause of illness, disability, and is one of the leading causes of death from an infectious disease worldwide, responsible for an estimated 1.5 million deaths per year.

 

The most commonly used drug regimen for the treatment of drug-sensitive TB requires patients to take multiple drugs for up to six months with routine clinical monitoring. Patients with drug-resistant forms of the infection can face longer and more complex treatment journeys, often with significant side effects that require increased monitoring. The need for drug-resistance testing prior to treatment initiation is an added challenge. A substantially shorter drug regimen for the treatment of both drug-susceptible and drug-resistant forms of TB could provide a significant benefit to both patients and health systems and may overcome the need for accompanying drug-resistance testing.

 

About the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute

The Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute is a non-profit medical research organization dedicated to the development and effective use of novel biomedical interventions addressing substantial global health concerns, for which investment incentives are limited, including malaria, tuberculosis, enteric and diarrheal diseases, and diseases that impact maternal, newborn, and child health. For further information please visit www.gatesmri.org.

 

About Merck

At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

 

Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA

This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees with respect to pipeline candidates that the candidates will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

 

Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of the global outbreak of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19); the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.

 

The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).

Contacts

Media Contacts:

Merck

Julie Cunningham

(617) 519-6264

Ian McConnell

(973) 901 5722

Investor Contacts:

Peter Dannenbaum

(908) 740-1037

Steve Graziano

(908) 740-6582

Gates MRI

Lee Bansil

(857) 284 8767