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Pharos Closes $8 Million Seed Round Led By Lightspeed Faction and Hack VC

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The funding round is announced alongside a partnership with ZAN to jointly explore hardware acceleration, infrastructure technologies, and more

ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, Nov. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Pharos , a full-stack, parallel layer-1 blockchain network, today announced the completion of an $8 million seed round investment co-led by Lightspeed Faction (“Faction”) and Hack VC, with additional participation from strategic anchor investor SNZ Capital and other investors including Reforge, Dispersion Capital, Hash Global, Generative Ventures, Legend Star, MH Ventures, Zion, and Chorus One Ventures.

The company plans to utilize the funding to accelerate the development of the Pharos protocol and drive the growth of the ecosystem and community. The company will maintain its vision of driving mass adoption through efficient blockchain technology implementation into the verticals of decentralized finance, real world assets, and more.

In tandem with the funding round, Pharos has announced a strategic partnership with ZAN, the Web3 brand of Ant Digital Technologies, to jointly explore and develop web3 infrastructure, focusing on node service, security and hardware acceleration.

“We are incredibly grateful for the trust and support from our investors,” said Alex Zhang, CEO of Pharos. “This is just the beginning of an exciting journey. At Pharos, we are driven by our belief to bridge existing FinTech services with trustless Web3 innovations to onboard billions of new users and real-world assets into the Web3 ecosystem. This seed round propels us closer to realizing that vision.”

With hyper-parallelism across consensus, execution, storage, and heterogeneous hardware, Pharos delivers unparalleled scalability and performance, enabling a decentralized real-time payment network for global access. Pharos envisions a real-time payment network that not only delivers unparalleled scalability and performance but also connects existing FinTech services with trustless Web3 innovations to onboard billions of new users and real-world assets into the Web3 ecosystem.

Investor Quotes:

Clara Boh, Deal Partner at Faction : “Pharos’ unique approach to parallelism and high-performance architecture positions it as a game-changer for bringing real-world assets and decentralized finance together. We are thrilled to be a part of Pharos’ seed funding round as it advances its vision of a truly interconnected, scalable blockchain network.”

Alex Pack, Managing Partner at Hack VC : For blockchains to go mainstream and get true mass adoption they must become orders-of-magnitude more scalable and performant. The Pharos team has been working on this problem for years, at the highest level, and we’re excited to support them now in solving these problems with the Pharos protocol.

About Pharos:

Pharos is a full-stack parallel blockchain, pushing the boundaries of decentralized innovation. With hyper-parallelism across consensus, execution, storage, and heterogeneous hardware, Pharos delivers unparalleled scalability and performance, enabling a decentralized real-time payment network for global access.

Pharos is committed to bridging existing FinTech services with trustless Web3 innovations, to onboard billions of new users and real-world assets into the Web3 ecosystem.

About Lightspeed Faction:

Lightspeed Faction (“Faction”) is the leading blockchain-native venture capital firm that merges Silicon Valley VC experience with deep blockchain expertise. Faction typically invests in early-stage startups across the blockchain ecosystem that are in their Seed or Series A funding rounds. Faction is firmly committed to the growth of the crypto space, investing in projects with the potential to meaningfully contribute to and advance the industry and society at large.

For more information, please visit: https://www.faction.vc 

About Faction’s Relationship with Lightspeed

Faction Ventures, LLC (“Faction”) and Lightspeed Management Company, L.L.C. (“Lightspeed”) are separate businesses that operate independently of each other. Faction is a registered investment adviser under the United States Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Faction advises its own fund(s) and does not advise any Lightspeed clients, and Lightspeed does not advise Faction or any of its clients.

About Hack VC:

Hack VC is a Web3 venture capital firm that partners on- and off-chain with hackers building the future of the Internet at the earliest stages. The firm invests in infrastructure, such as AI, blockchain protocols, and financial technology, with investments across 100+ companies and protocols. Hack VC runs hack.labs(), an in-house tech platform for institutional grade network participation, through which its team of blockchain engineers and quant researchers provide liquidity, stake, make open-source contributions, and more. In addition, Hack VC created and hosts hack.summit(), a global developer community and one of the world’s largest blockchain programmer events, with 130K+ attendees from 150+ countries across events to date.

About SNZ Capital:

SNZ is a crypto-native, research-driven investment company based in HK, Singapore and US, with 200+ portfolios. Active since 2014, beyond investment, the SNZ team has been dedicated to community building and incubation, notably as one of the earliest backers of Ethereum in Asia, and the strategic partner for western projects to expand in Asia. SNZ is an engaging and proactive investor that grows with portfolios. In addition, SNZ has deep industry know-how and great network with Web 2.0 and trafi ecosystems, committed to connecting different stakeholders to empower the development of Web 3.0.

About ZAN:

ZAN is the technology brand of Ant Digital Technologies for Web3 products and services. Powered by AntChain Open Labs’ TrustBase open-source technical stack, ZAN provides rich and reliable services for business innovations and a development platform for Web3 endeavors. The ZAN product family includes ZAN eKYC, ZAN KYT, ZAN Smart Contract Review, ZAN Node Service, with more products being on the way.

Media Contact: faction@mgroupsc.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pharos-closes-8-million-seed-round-led-by-lightspeed-faction-and-hack-vc-302300329.html

SOURCE Pharos

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TÜV Rheinland Joins SEIA and Reinforces Commitment to the U.S. Solar and Renewable Energy Market

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35 mins ago

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November 12, 2024

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BOXBOROUGH, Mass., Nov. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — TÜV Rheinland of North America is pleased to announce that it has joined the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), underscoring its commitment to advancing the solar and renewable energy industry in the United States. This step reflects TÜV Rheinland’s dedication to supporting the growth of clean energy and providing world-class services that enhance the bankability and reliability of solar projects across the nation.

“We are excited to join SEIA and contribute to the ongoing transformation of the U.S. energy landscape,” said May Wang, US Segment Manager for Solar & Sustainability at TÜV Rheinland of North America. “Our extensive experience in solar and renewable energy, combined with our global network of state-of-the-art laboratories, dedicated expert teams, and comprehensive solutions, enables us to provide cutting-edge services that drive sustainable growth and ensure long-term success in the U.S. market.”

To further support the growth of U.S. Solar manufacturing and renewable energy stations, TÜV Rheinland offers an extended bankability service, meticulously designed by top experts in the solar industry. This service is specifically tailored to help EPCs, investors, and power plant owners accurately assess the return on investment for their solar projects.

“SEIA is glad to have TÜV Rheinland join our organization as the solar and storage industry continues to scale to meet growing demand for electricity,” said Roderick Lewis, senior vice president of sales and business development at SEIA. “We look forward to collaborating with them to further advance the adoption of solar energy across the United States.”

In addition to these specialized services, TÜV Rheinland provides a comprehensive one-stop solution for renewable energy projects, encompassing supply chain and sustainability services. These offerings ensure that every aspect of a project, from inception to operation, meets the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.

As the United States aims to revitalize its solar manufacturing industry and increase the share of renewable energy, TÜV Rheinland stands ready to assist in this transformation. With over 150 years of experience in the independent testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) industry, and 42 years specifically in the solar and renewable energy sector, TÜV Rheinland has established itself as a global leader, providing services that ensure quality, safety, and performance across various industries.

TÜV Rheinland’s dedicated team of experts spans Europe, India, the Middle East, Asia, Mexico, and Americas, as well as company’s solar laboratories in Cologne, Shanghai, and Bangalore are at the forefront of innovation, serving top-tier solar panel and PV cell manufacturers worldwide offering unparalleled support to Solar & Energy Storage System power plants.

For more information regarding the solar business, please visit www.tuv.com/solar or contact solar@us.tuv.com.

About TÜV Rheinland
Safety and quality in almost all areas of business and life: That’s what TÜV Rheinland stands for. The company has been active for more than 150 years and is one of the world’s leading testing service providers. TÜV Rheinland has more than 22,000 employees in over 50 countries and generates annual sales of more than 2.4 billion euros. TÜV Rheinland’s highly qualified experts test technical systems and products around the globe, accompany innovations in technology and business, train people in numerous professions and certify management systems according to international standards. In this way, the independent experts ensure trust along global flows of goods and value chains. Since 2006, TÜV Rheinland has been a member of the United Nations Global Compact for more sustainability and against corruption.
Website: www.tuv.com

About SEIA
The Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA) is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy, creating the framework for solar to achieve 30% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies and other strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power. Founded in 1974, SEIA is the national trade association for the solar and solar + storage industries, building a comprehensive vision for the Solar+ Decade through research, education and advocacy. Website: www.seia.org

CONTACT:
Michael García Carbajal
Phone: +52 55 3488 2108
Email: Michael.Garcia@mex.tuv.com

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SOURCE TUV Rheinland

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Equity 1031 Exchange Introduces Cash Incentive Program for 1031 Exchange Referrals

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35 mins ago

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November 12, 2024

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New program rewards real estate professionals with $225 for qualified referrals

FORT MYERS, Fla., Nov. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Equity 1031 Exchange is thrilled to announce the launch of a new referral program that offers cash incentives to real estate professionals. The program, which provides a $225 reward for each successful referral, creates new opportunities for real estate agents and brokers to grow their business while connecting their clients with experienced 1031 exchange services.

As investors increasingly seek tax-efficient investment strategies through 1031 exchanges, which require a Qualified Intermediary (QI), this program helps connect real estate professionals with an experienced QI.

“We’re introducing this program to recognize and reward the real estate professionals who trust us with their clients’ 1031 exchange needs,” said Theresa Knower, President of Equity 1031 Exchange. “This program demonstrates our commitment to working with real estate professionals while providing tangible value for their referrals.”

Program highlights:

$225 reward upon completion of first property sale in exchangeStreamlined digital onboarding processAdvanced dashboard for tracking referrals and earningsAccess to expert 1031 exchange advisorsNo cap on earning potential

The program’s launch builds upon Equity 1031 Exchange’s 25-year legacy of excellence, formerly as Midland 1031, and introduces a modern approach to professional referrals. Real estate professionals can now benefit from their network while ensuring their clients receive personalized service through complex 1031 exchange transactions.

Simple three-step process:

Complete and submit referral agreementAccess personalized tracking dashboardEarn rewards upon qualifying transactions

“Our goal is to build strong professional relationships,” added Knower. “We’re offering this incentive because we’re confident that once real estate professionals experience our service quality, they’ll see the value in recommending us to their clients.”

Interested real estate professionals can get more details on the program and sign up here.

About Equity 1031 Exchange

Equity 1031 Exchange is a Qualified Intermediary (QI) under IRS Section 1031, specializing in facilitating seamless, tax-deferred real estate exchanges. With decades of industry experience, Equity 1031 Exchange is dedicated to helping investors preserve and grow their wealth by navigating the complexities of 1031 exchanges. Our team of experienced professionals ensures that each transaction is handled with precision to help you ensure compliance with IRS regulations. Learn more at https://getequity1031.com/.

For more information contact:
Lori Hartigan
Senior Marketing Manager
Equity 1031 Exchange
Email: l.hartigan@trustetc.com

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SOURCE Equity Trust Company

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Pye-Barker Fire & Safety Acquires Sonitrol New England, Enters New Markets and Marks First Rhode Island Location

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35 mins ago

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November 12, 2024

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ATLANTA, Nov. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Pye-Barker Fire & Safety – the largest fully integrated and full-service fire protection, life safety and security services provider in the United States – has acquired Sonitrol New England, a regional leader in security and fire alarm services, from the Sonitrol Security Systems network. From this acquisition, Pye-Barker gains two new branches in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, and Riverside, Rhode Island. This marks Pye-Barker’s first location in the state of Rhode Island, helping Pye-Barker expand its full fire code compliance services in the Northeast.

This marks Pye-Barker’s first location in Rhode Island, helping Pye-Barker expand its services in the Northeast.

Sonitrol New England works with thousands of New England customers to protect their businesses, schools, government buildings, healthcare facilities and other commercial entities. The team designs and services fire detection, intrusion detection, video surveillance, panic buttons, access control, and emergency communication systems.

Since its founding in 1972 by Doug Curtiss, Sonitrol New England has remained at the forefront of the latest security technology and team training, efficiently transmitting alarm information to emergency dispatch and first responders.

“For over 50 years, Sonitrol New England has been committed to protecting our neighbors and building highly skilled local teams,” said Doug Curtiss, Sonitrol New England Founder and President. “Joining Pye-Barker is a unique opportunity to add more fire protection services to our offerings and expand career development for our team, while maintaining the localized service that our customers trust.”

“At the heart of Pye-Barker are the local teams who are out protecting their communities every day,” said Bart Proctor, Pye-Barker CEO. “As we continue expanding our geographic footprint, we are proud to bring aboard hardworking teams like those at Sonitrol New England and support their continued service in the neighborhoods where they live and work.”

Sonitrol New England was represented by Mark Sandler, Managing Director at SPP Advisors, in this transaction. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP represented Pye-Barker.

About Pye-Barker Fire & Safety

The U.S. leader in fully integrated life safety systems, Pye-Barker Fire & Safety provides complete fire protection and security systems nationwide. With over 230 locations and 7,000 team members nationwide, Pye-Barker ranks No. 849 on the Inc. 5000 and No. 8 on the SDM 100.

Pye-Barker continues to explore strategic acquisition opportunities. Visit pyebarkerfs.com/acquisitions to see why we’re the industry’s acquirer of choice.

Contact:

Eric Garner
Chief Business Development Officer
801.395.8738
eric.garner@pyebarkerfs.com

Media:

Alycia Volpe
media@pyebarkerfs.com

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SOURCE Pye-Barker Fire & Safety

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