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Ascent Strategy Group Recognized by Modern Healthcare’s Best in Business, Affirms Health Equity Mission Amid Alarming Disparities

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Agency Founder nominated Outstanding Agency Professional, Innovator of the Year

First public relations agency built for digital health cites lack of primary care access, heart health deserts and maternal care shortage as urgent disparities to address

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ascent Strategy Group, the first public relations agency dedicated to powering healthcare’s digital transformation, is recognized by Modern Healthcare’s Best in Business for setting a standard of excellence in healthcare marketing and public relations. The trailblazing Chicago-based agency celebrated its first anniversary today at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) by affirming its mission to advance health equity amid increasing disparities. The agency launched last year at the world’s largest innovation showcase which unites tech luminaries to pioneer the future and solve the world’s biggest challenges.

Agency Founder Nominated Outstanding Agency Professional, Innovator of the Year

“Our healthcare system is stretched amid crisis levels in health disparities, and we are resolved to help bridge these gaps,” said Ascent Strategy Group Founder and CEO John Digles. “Nearly a third of Americans – 100 million people – don’t have access to primary care1. Half of U.S. counties do not have a single cardiologist2 and have become heart health deserts. One in every three U.S. counties do not have a single obstetric clinician3 – that’s a maternal care shortage.”

“Ascent Strategy Group is working with forward-thinking clients and breakthrough new medical technologies that can help bridge these health gaps. We’re dedicated to effective outreach and expansive engagement with medical professionals and patient communities so those who need these solutions most urgently can gain access and have the option,” said Digles.

In its first year in business, Ascent Strategy Group reinvented the agency model to serve the next era of healthcare, created a path to redefine healthcare storytelling, and launched the first marketing and communications tools ever offered in the public relations industry for healthcare transformation.

The agency collaborated with physician creators to raise awareness of under-discussed chronic conditions, expanded healthcare information engagement across media and social ecosystems, and worked with brands to conduct outreach in areas impacted by health disparities.

Modern Healthcare‘s Best in Business Award cited the agency’s return-on-investment approach and focus on addressing health disparities as a core differentiator. “Ascent Strategy Group’s commitment to measurable success and meaningful impact sets it apart.”

“We are honored to recognize the inaugural recipients of Modern Healthcare’s Best in Business Award,” said Dan Peres, president of Modern Healthcare. “Their unwavering commitment to innovation, exceptional outcomes, and delivering real impact in the healthcare industry exemplifies the very essence of excellence. This achievement underscores their dedication to advancing healthcare solutions and setting new standards for quality and efficiency. Congratulations to these outstanding organizations for their remarkable contributions and well-deserved recognition.”

In addition to Modern Healthcare’s Best in Business Awards4, Ascent Strategy Group earned several accolades in its inaugural year. Mr. Digles was named an Outstanding Agency Professional finalist for the 2025 PR Week Healthcare Awards5 and was nominated by his peers as the public relations industry’s Innovator of the Year in the Innovation SABRE Awards6.

“It’s an honor to work with clients who are healthcare leaders and innovators dedicated to meaningful change and better outcomes,” said Digles. “The portfolio of innovation, research and development throughout our client roster represents a tremendous opportunity to transform healthcare and bridge health disparities.”

Follow Ascent Strategy Group news on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook.

About Ascent Strategy Group
Ascent Strategy Group is the first public relations agency founded to power the digital transformation of healthcare. The agency, named to Modern Healthcare’s Best in Business, is home to accomplished practitioners and the public relations industry’s first tools for healthcare transformation, next-level storytelling, and marketing of clinical research. Ascent Strategy Group offers a full suite of services, including reinvention, reputation management, thought leadership, storytelling, marketing communications, social media, and influencer marketing. The trailblazing Chicago-based agency is a member of the Coalition for Health AI (CHAIÔ) and the Society for Health Communication. To explore the future of health and wellness communications, visit www.ascentstrategygroup.com.

1 NACHC Report, March 2023 https://www.nachc.org/usa-today-a-third-of-americans-dont-have-a-primary-care-provider-according-to-nachc-report/
2 ACC Report, July 2024 https://www.acc.org/About-ACC/Press-Releases/2024/07/08/18/25/Almost-Half-of-US-Counties-Have-No-Cardiologists-Despite-Higher-Prevalence-of-CV-Risk-Factors-Mortality
3 March of Dimes Report 2024 https://www.marchofdimes.org/maternity-care-deserts-report
4 Modern Healthcare’s Best in Business Class of 2024 https://www.modernhealthcare.com/awards/best-business-2024
5 PR Week Healthcare Awards 2025 Shortlist https://www.prweek.com/article/1895806/prweek-healthcare-awards-2025-shortlist-revealed
6 2025 Innovation SABRE Awards North America shortlist https://www.provokemedia.com/events-awards/sabre-awards/in2-sabre-awards/2025-in2-sabre-finalists

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SOURCE Ascent Strategy Group

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Bank Alfalah Acquires Strategic Stake in UAE Fintech Jingle Pay

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DUBAI, UAE, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bank Alfalah, a leading commercial bank in Pakistan with a network of over 1,000 branches, has announced its acquisition of a 9.9% equity stake in Jingle Pay, one of the fastest growing fintechs in the MENAP region. The Bank’s fintech investment underscores its commitment to driving digital transformation and fostering financial inclusion across key markets.

Jingle Pay has redefined the fintech space with its proprietary AI-powered tech stack already processing over 2 million transactions and facilitating over $1 billion in international money transfers in 2024, saving customers over $6 million in fees. Jingle Pay was recently awarded the top global fintech for remittances into Pakistan.

Jingle Pay has solidified its position as a high-growth fintech leader in the MENAP region, supported by prestigious investors, including MoneyGram, G42-backed Applied AI, and prominent U.S. venture capital firms known for backing global fintech giants like N26 and PayPal, Jingle Pay continues to disrupt the industry. Bank Alfalah’s equity investment and appointment to Jingle Pay’s Board signal a robust partnership aimed at driving growth and innovation. This collaboration leverages Bank Alfalah’s extensive infrastructure to amplify Jingle Pay’s impact on cross-border payments and digital banking, advancing its ambitious vision for the MENAP region.

Jingle Pay provides innovative services, including multi-currency accounts, instant money transfers via the world’s first remittance marketplace, card payments, and last-mile payouts across 150+ corridors in 99+ currencies. Additionally, its Remittance-as-a-Service solution enables banks, FinTech’s, and non-financial institutions to facilitate seamless international money transfers.

Jingle Pay plans to launch its digital banking services in Pakistan in Q1 2025 as a branchless banking mobile app targeting to bring seamless and inclusive financial services to the country’s largely unbanked population. Jingle Pay will leverage Bank Alfalah’s infrastructure to bring seamless banking solutions to millions of customers. The partnership will create synergies in cross-border payments strengthened by shareholder MoneyGram.

As Pakistan’s 5th largest remittance partner, Jingle Pay plays a crucial role in driving global financial flows that contribute significantly to the country’s GDP. Establishing local presence in Pakistan will strengthen its partnership and cross-border capabilities, further cementing Jingle Pay’s position as a leader in the remittance ecosystem.

Leadership Remarks

Farooq A. Khan, Group Head – Corporate, Investment Banking and International Business of Bank Alfalah, emphasized: “This acquisition is a milestone in our journey to lead the digital banking revolution. By combining Jingle Pay’s innovative platform with Bank Alfalah’s resources, we aim to redefine cross-border financial services and deliver exceptional value to millions of users.”

Amir Fardghassemi, Founder and CEO of Jingle Pay, said: “Partnering with Bank Alfalah empowers us to scale our vision of inclusive finance. Together, we aim to enrich the digital economy and create transformative cross-border financial solutions.”

The collaboration also enhances Bank Alfalah’s role in the global Payments ecosystem, strengthening its position as a leader in cross-border financial flows and delivering unparalleled value to customers in the MENAP and beyond.

About Bank Alfalah

Bank Alfalah is a leading commercial bank in Pakistan, with over 1,000 branches across 200 cities and an international presence in the UAE, Bahrain, and Afghanistan. Its heritage and prominence extend over 25 successful years, highlighted by achievements that reflect exponential growth in the country’s financial sector.

The Bank offers various products and services to private-sector institutions and governments, including corporate and investment banking, consumer banking, securities brokerage, commercial, small and medium enterprises, agricultural, Islamic, and asset financing.

The Bank has established itself as a premier digital bank by introducing various features on its banking app, such as Alfamall, Buy Now Pay Later, and Term Deposit Receipts. It has also launched Pakistan’s first digital lifestyle branch. 

About Jingle Pay

Jingle Pay, a UAE born fintech, is the MENAP region’s leading and fastest-growing fintech, specializing in cross-border money transfers licensed by Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). Jingle Pay operates in the UAE, Bahrain, and Pakistan, offering cutting-edge financial services. Backed by global financial institutions like MoneyGram, Bank Alfalah, top-tier U.S. and international venture capital firms that have backed PayPal and N26, as well as G42 backed, Applied AI.

The company provides a wide array of solutions, including Remittance-as-a-Service for financial institutions, enabling seamless global payouts across 150+ corridors and 99+ currencies. Additionally, Jingle Pay operates a B2C app for retail customers, facilitating card payments and international money transfers focused on driving financial inclusion and leveraging AI to redefine cross border payments.

CONTACT: Jingle Pay, Media@jinglepay.com, +971 4 547 7778

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2594862/Jingle_Pay.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bank-alfalah-acquires-strategic-stake-in-uae-fintech-jingle-pay-302347236.html

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Better Business Bureau Serving the Tri-Counties Warns Homeowners About Donation Scams Following Southern California Fires

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BBB Offers Recommendations for Donating to Southern California Wildfire Requests, Warning to Beware of Click-Bait and Phishing Scams, Bogus Crowdfunding Requests

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Better Business Bureau Serving the Tri-Counties issues warning to businesses and consumers tied to donation scams following Southern California Fires. As reported, strong winds fueling a fast-moving fire in Southern California has caused more than 100,000 people to evacuate their homes. For those seeking to help those in need, BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers the following tips to give thoughtfully.

For those seeking to help those in need, BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers the following tips to give thoughtfully.

Tips for Donating to Southern California Wildfire Relief Efforts

Make Sure the Charity Is Trustworthy: Before giving, search for the charity’s report on Give.org to find out if the charity meets the BBB Standards for Charity Accountability (i.e., a BBB Accredited Charity). While disaster fundraising has not yet fully emerged for this tragedy, donors might check with the following BBB Accredited Charities to help start their selection of organizations offering help: American Red Cross, Direct Relief, GlobalGiving and Salvation Army.

Look for Specific Fire Relief Activities in Appeals: Be wary of relief appeals that have vague program descriptions and do not explain what activities your support will assist.

Watch Out for Click-Bait and Phishing Scams: Online giving scams tend to pop up after a disaster to take advantage of public sympathy. Don’t click on email, text, or social media links promising to connect you to a familiar charity. Instead, go directly to the charity’s website on your own.

Review Crowdfunding Requests: Some crowdfunding sites take precautions in carefully screening, vetting, and managing postings after a disaster or tragedy. Others might not. If unsure, review the procedures described on the site and also find out about transaction fees and other specifics.

Verify Charity Registration: About 40 of the 50 states require charities to annually register. Check with your state’s office of the attorney general or secretary of state’s office.

Understand the Phases of Disaster Relief: Most disasters go through three periods of activity: rescue, relief, and recovery. Each phase involves different activities and support. You can familiarize yourself with each phase on our Supporting Disaster Relief and Preparedness page.

Better Business Bureau Serving the Tri-Counties intends for this advice to help donors to give with confidence while avoiding questionable efforts.

For more information
To report a scam, go to BBB Scam Tracker.
To learn how to protect yourself, go to “10 Steps to Avoid Scams.”

Media Contact

Frank Tortorici, Marketing Maven, (908) 875-8908, frank@marketingmaven.com, https://marketingmaven.com/ 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/better-business-bureau-serving-the-tri-counties-warns-homeowners-about-donation-scams-following-southern-california-fires-302347662.html

SOURCE Better Business Bureau

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Pollo AI Launches Consistent Character Video to Maintain Consistency of Characters, Objects, or Scenes in Generated Videos

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SINGAPORE, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pollo AI  continues to raise the bar in AI video generation with the addition of its latest feature: Consistent Character Video, which can transform still images into high quality AI videos, while maintaining consistency of characters, objects, or scenes throughout every frame.

Users can upload one or up to three images of a subject to the tool – it could be a person’s face, for example, or image(s) of an inanimate object, like an appliance or piece of clothing, or image(s) of specific scenes. The AI video generator will then use the image(s) as the reference point(s) when generating its video content, ensuring that the original visuals are accurately and consistently portrayed.

This way, users can make multiple videos while keeping the same consistent subjects. They can make themselves the star of numerous clips, for example, or incorporate real-life items into their video creations. While other elements of the videos may change, the core subjects you choose will always remain consistent.

The uses for this are numerous. Brands, for example, could upload images of their latest products and then make various AI-generated videos featuring those products in a range of settings and scenarios. Or creators could make entire feature-length films by generating multiple short-form AI videos with the same consistent subjects in different scenes.

You could even upload an image of a famous landmark or monument, and instruct the tool to use that throughout your video creations. This makes it so much easier to create sequences or series of videos with the same consistent background, environment, or setting – a feat that many AI video generators have historically struggled with.

It’s a huge leap forward for AI video technology. Before the Consistent Character Video Generator, many users had expressed frustration when it came to trying to keep the same characters and subjects in multiple AI-generated videos. But with this new tool, that challenge has been solved.

What’s more, the Consistent Character Video Generator is backed up by Pollo AI’s advanced algorithms and powerful technology. Thanks to that, it’s able to make some of the most visually impressive AI videos, with cinematic levels of quality, fluid motion, realistic physics, and other desirable characteristics.

Plus, just like other AI videos generated with Pollo AI, the user has total control over various aspects, such as the aspect ratio, the length of the video, the resolution, and the camera movement. With this bold new addition, Pollo AI continues to assert itself as one of the leading and most innovative names in the AI video sphere.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pollo-ai-launches-consistent-character-video-to-maintain-consistency-of-characters-objects-or-scenes-in-generated-videos-302347735.html

SOURCE Pollo AI

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