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Phoenix Management, a Part of J.S. Held Lending Survey Results Reveal Concern About the Impact of Upcoming Policy Changes

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The “Lending Climate in America” survey reveals lender expectations for the U.S. economy’s performance in the longer term are decreasing sharply.

JERICHO, N.Y., March 20, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Global consulting firm J.S. Held, reveals the “Lending Climate in America” survey results from Phoenix Management, a part of J.S. Held. The first quarter survey results highlight lender views on policy decisions and their national/global impacts.

Everyone is waiting with bated breath to see how the various policy changes shake out.

Phoenix’s Q1 2025 “Lending Climate in America” survey asked lenders which factors could have the strongest potential to impact the economy in the upcoming six months. Sixty-seven percent of lenders are paying the most attention to policy changes following the 2024 election, while 33% believe the interest rate risk and stock market stability have the strongest potential to impact the economy. Lenders also expressed light concern regarding the possibility of a U.S. recession. To see the full results of Phoenix’s “Lending Climate in America” Survey, please visit https://www.phoenixmanagement.com/lending-survey/.

Lenders revealed what actions their customers were planning to take in the next six months. Almost two-thirds of the lenders surveyed believe their customers will make capital improvements while hiring new employees, followed closely by a little over half of the lenders surveyed expressing those plans for their customers. Both bode well for an expanding economy.

41.5% of respondents identified the real estate industry as the most likely to experience volatility in the next six months, followed by the retail trade, healthcare, and cannabis industries, all at 31% of respondents.

Additionally, Phoenix’s “Lending Climate in America” survey asked lenders if their respective institutions plan to tighten, maintain, or relax their loan structures for various-sized loans. For larger loan structures (greater than $25M), the plan to maintain loan structures remained relatively constant from Q3 to Q4. At smaller loan sizes, lenders indicated a shift towards tightening loan structures.

Lender optimism in the U.S. economy remained steady for the near term, moving from 2.40 in Q4 2024 to 2.33, although the variability in responses was much greater. In this current quarter, there is equal expectation of C and D-level performances (22%), with the remainder skewed toward greater performance at a B-level. More telling, lender expectations for the U.S. economy’s performance in the longer term decreased sharply from 2.93 to 2.11. Of the lenders surveyed, 66% believe the U.S. economy will perform at a split between a C and D level during the next twelve months, both increases from the prior quarter. In this quarter, there was a substantial decrease in a prediction of a “B” level performance.

“Lenders remain very concerned about the economic impact from policy changes with the new administration,” says Michael Jacoby, Senior Managing Director of Phoenix Management, a part of J.S. Held and Practice Lead of J.S. Held’s Strategic Advisory Group. This concern was evident in the dramatic reduction in the long-term GPA of economic performance from 2.93 in Q4 2024 to 2.11 in Q1 2025. The variability of responses to both the short-term and long-term GPAs indicate a lack of consensus on the part of lenders.

Despite this concern, lenders reported that the majority of their customers expect to increase spending on capital expenditures and expand hiring, both of which should bode well for continued economic expansion. Jacoby adds, “Everyone is waiting with bated breath to see how the various policy changes shake out. Stay tuned!”

About Phoenix Management, a part of J.S. Held

For over 35 years, Phoenix has provided smarter, operationally focused solutions for middle market companies in transition.

Phoenix Management Services® provides turnaround, crisis and interim management, and specialized advisory for both distressed and growth-oriented companies. Phoenix Investor Services® provides quality of earnings, operational diligence, Quality of Enterprise®, business integration, sell-side business preparation, and other transaction related support. Phoenix IB® provides seamless investment banking solutions including M&A advisory, complex restructurings, and capital placements.

As a part of J.S. Held, Phoenix works alongside more than 1,500 professionals globally and assists clients – corporations, insurers, law firms, governments, and institutional investors.

J.S. Held is a global consulting firm that combines technical, scientific, financial, and strategic expertise to advise clients seeking to realize value and mitigate risk. Our professionals serve as trusted advisors to organizations facing high stakes matters demanding urgent attention, staunch integrity, proven experience, clear-cut analysis, and an understanding of both tangible and intangible assets. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services, products, and data that enable clients to navigate complex, contentious, and often catastrophic situations.

More than 1,500 professionals serve organizations across six continents, including 81% of the Global 200 Law Firms, 70% of the Forbes Top 20 Insurance Companies (85% of the NAIC Top 50 Property & Casualty Insurers), and 65% of the Fortune 100 Companies.

J.S. Held, its affiliates and subsidiaries are not certified public accounting firm(s) and do not provide audit, attest, or any other public accounting services. J.S. Held, its affiliates and subsidiaries are not law firms and do not provide legal advice. Securities offered through PM Securities, LLC, d/b/a Phoenix IB, a part of J.S. Held, member FINRA/ SIPC or Ocean Tomo Investment Group, LLC, a part of J.S. Held, member FINRA/ SIPC. All rights reserved.

Media Contact

Kristi L Stathis, J.S. Held, +1 786 833 4864, Kristi.Stathis@jsheld.com, JSHeld.com 

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SOURCE J.S. Held

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QuickStart Expands Access to Software Development Careers Through New Partnership With Sierra College Community Education

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QuickStart Learning and Sierra College Community Education have joined forces to provide learners in Northern California with flexible, mentor-led Front End and Back End Software Development bootcamps. These 18-week online programs prepare individuals for tech careers through hands-on projects, one-on-one support, and career readiness services.

AUSTIN, Texas, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — QuickStart, a leading provider of online IT training and certification programs, is excited to announce a new partnership with Sierra College Community Education, bringing career-driven technology bootcamps to aspiring developers in Northern California. This collaboration will deliver QuickStart’s Front End and Back End Software Development bootcamps to Sierra College learners, creating new opportunities for individuals seeking careers in software development.

As demand for skilled software developers continues to grow, QuickStart’s immersive bootcamps offer a flexible, mentor-led training model that equips learners with the practical skills needed to thrive in the tech industry. These 18-week online programs are designed for beginners and career changers, requiring no prior coding experience.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Sierra College Community Education to increase access to life-changing tech education,” said Nick Suwyn, VP of Partner Growth at QuickStart. “The demand for tech talent continues to grow, and we’re excited to work with Sierra College Community Education to address the expanding skills gap.”

The Front-End Software Development Bootcamp teaches learners how to build responsive, user-friendly websites and applications using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, and more. Meanwhile, the Back-End Software Development Bootcamp covers essential server-side technologies including Java, MySQL, Spring Boot, and RESTful APIs, which provides the foundation for building scalable web applications.

Both programs follow a flipped classroom model, where students review coursework in advance and engage in mentor-led discussions and projects to reinforce learning. This approach, combined with career coaching and portfolio-building, prepares students for roles such as software developer, web developer, and application engineer in industries such as tech, finance, healthcare, and more.

These bootcamps allow the opportunity for learners to transition and accelerate their career path in tech via:

Access to career services and employer networkHands-on, project-based curriculumFlexibility to learn online in a cohortOne-on-one mentorship from industry experts

Enrollment for the bootcamp is now open, with cohort dates offered multiple times a year. Alumni, current students, and community members interested in launching or advancing their careers in software development are encouraged to enroll.

QuickStart offers various payment methods, including a discounted pre pay option, monthly installment plans, and is approved to receive workforce development grant funding and military education benefits.

For more information, or to enroll, visit the QuickStart and Sierra College partnered page here: https://sierra.quickstart.com/

About QuickStart

QuickStart is a global leader in cybersecurity and AI skills training, IT workforce readiness, and career development. For over 35 years, we’ve helped individuals build high-demand tech careers through online bootcamps and certification programs aligned with real-world industry needs. Our expert-led training covers technologies such as AWS, Cisco, CompTIA, EC-Council, Microsoft Azure, and more.

QuickStart also partners with organizations to develop and retain top tech talent, drive performance, and strengthen cyber resilience. With personalized learning paths, career coaching, and outcome-focused support, we equip learners and employers alike with the tools to thrive in today’s fast-paced digital economy. Follow QuickStart on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X.

About Sierra College Community Education

Sierra College Community Education provides a diverse range of non-credit courses, workshops, and training programs designed to help individuals develop new skills, explore interests, and advance their careers. Through innovative partnerships and industry-aligned curriculum, Sierra College Community Education is committed to supporting workforce development and lifelong learning.

Media Contact

Imelda Wistey, QuickStart Learning, 1 (855) 800-8240, quickstart@quickstart.com, https://www.quickstart.com

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/quickstart-expands-access-to-software-development-careers-through-new-partnership-with-sierra-college-community-education-302462654.html

SOURCE QuickStart Learning

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BREAKWATER MANAGEMENT LEADS MAJORITY INVESTMENT IN MARKETING SERVICES FIRM CHEMISTRY COMMUNICATIONS

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LOS ANGELES, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Breakwater Management, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm, announced today a majority investment in Chemistry, a full-service, award-winning, independent marketing and digital agency. Specific terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Genesis Park and Tecum Capital partnered with Breakwater in the investment, providing both debt and equity capital. This investment will enable Chemistry to accelerate its strong organic growth and pursue strategic acquisitions in new service areas and geographies.

Chemistry serves as a strategic partner to a diverse and growing client base by delivering actionable, seamlessly integrated marketing solutions. Clients include iconic brands such as Coca-Cola, Five Guys, Frontdoor, Netflix, and the NFL. Chemistry provides research, strategy, branding, design, creative, video production, media planning, and analytics. Through its digital arm, React Digital, Chemistry delivers robust technology solutions including website and mobile app development, UI/UX design, analytics, and performance optimization. Chemistry Cultura, its multicultural division, brings deep expertise in marketing to the U.S. Hispanic community.

Chemistry has received widespread industry recognition, including being named an Ad Age A-List Agency, Chief Marketer Agency of the Year, Adweek Midsize Agency of the Year, and an Adweek Fastest Growing Agency. The agency is also a two-time finalist for the Campaign U.S. Independent Agency of the Year.

“From the start of this process, we’ve been steadfast in our commitment to finding the right investor, and we couldn’t have found a better partner than Breakwater,” said Ned Show, Chief Executive Officer of Chemistry. “Breakwater saw what makes Chemistry different — our bold approach to solving complex challenges and delivering measurable impact to our customers. We built Chemistry by integrating successful, entrepreneurial firms into a unified culture, making us one of the fastest-growing independent agencies in the country. This partnership further strengthens our ability to compete — and win — in the marketplace.”

“Chemistry was the clear choice in our search for a best-in-class marketing services firm. The company’s exceptional talent, commitment to excellence, and collaborative culture have led to its impressive growth and provide a solid foundation for continued expansion. By consistently delivering transformative results, Chemistry has built an impressive and loyal client base, and is well positioned to take advantage of the current opportunity for independents,” said Eric Beckman, Managing Partner at Breakwater. Jeff Goldstein, Partner at Breakwater, added: “Chemistry stands out for its ability to blend creativity with data and technology. That powerful combination positions them at the forefront of the industry. We’re proud to back their vision and support the team as Chemistry enters this next phase of success.”

About Chemistry Communications
Chemistry builds culturally relevant brands through creative ideas that can’t be ignored. With offices in Atlanta, Pittsburgh, New York, and Miami, the agency offers fully integrated advertising and marketing services for leading clients including Coca-Cola, Comcast, Five Guys, Frontdoor, Netflix, the NFL, CG Insurance, The Ad Council, and the NBA. The shop has been named an Ad Age A-List Agency, Chief Marketer Agency of the Year, Adweek Midsize Agency of the Year, and an Adweek Fastest Growing Agency. The agency is also a two-time finalist for the Campaign U.S. Independent Agency of the Year. Learn more at www.ChemistryAgency.com.

About Breakwater Management
Headquartered in Los Angeles, Breakwater is a private investment firm focused on control equity investments in the Media & Entertainment, Marketing, and Tech-Enabled Services sectors. To date, Breakwater has originated approximately $550 million across seven funds and investment vehicles on behalf of institutional and high-net-worth investors. The firm partners with founder-led and management-owned businesses, helping accelerate growth through a combination of organic expansion and strategic acquisitions. Breakwater’s team brings deep operational and investment experience from prior C-suite roles and leadership positions in global asset management platforms. This hands-on experience enables Breakwater to deliver strategic insight, operational support, and financial guidance to its portfolio companies to create long-term value. For more information, visit www.breakwatermgmt.com.

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SOURCE Chemistry Communications

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Kennametal Announces Strategic Investment in CAM AI Software Leader Toolpath Labs to Advance Intelligent Machining

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PITTSBURGH, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kennametal Inc. (NYSE: KMT) today announced that it has made a strategic investment in Toolpath Labs, an emerging leader in AI-powered computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. The new partnership supports Kennametal’s strategic growth initiatives to expand its suite of digital capabilities and offerings to better serve manufacturing customers worldwide.

The new partnership supports Kennametal’s strategic growth initiatives to expand its suite of digital capabilities.

“This partnership represents another bold step in our digital transformation journey,” said Dr. Carlonda Reilly, VP & Chief Technology Officer. “Toolpath’s platform amplifies our industry-leading application engineering expertise through its intuitive, intelligent software. It’s a smart, scalable solution that brings the power of AI right to the shop floor in a practical and impactful way.”

Toolpath’s software integrates AI into the CAM process, optimizing tool selection and toolpath strategies. This technology unlocks efficiency for customers and empowers them to overcome industry skill gaps by making advanced toolpath strategies and application engineering more accessible. The partnership will create new opportunities to co-develop and commercialize solutions that combine Toolpath’s AI-first approach with Kennametal’s deep tooling and application engineering expertise.

“Toolpath represents a compelling opportunity for us to extend what we do best—application expertise and advanced tooling—to a broader audience of customers,” said Dave Bersaglini, President of Metal Cutting. “Together, we’re building a bridge between human expertise and digital intelligence to deliver measurable performance improvements on the shop floor.”

“Kennametal, a company with deep roots in American manufacturing, is an ideal partner for us not only because of its tooling expertise, but because of our deeply personal shared vision of empowering machinists and transforming the manufacturing world with practical AI,” said Al Whatmough, CEO of Toolpath. “This is more than business for both of us. It’s personal. Together, we’re combining advanced software with real-world application and machining knowledge, creating scalable solutions that address workforce challenges, and drive meaningful performance gains that will redefine our industry.”

The two companies will collaborate closely on go-to-market strategies, product development and demand generation initiatives as they work together to scale Toolpath’s platform globally.

About Kennametal
With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Every day approximately 8,400 employees help customers in nearly 100 countries stay competitive. Kennametal generated $2 billion in revenues in fiscal 2024. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

About Toolpath
Toolpath is an AI-focused start-up focused on new solutions for the manufacturing industry. Our mission is to help manufacturers achieve greater efficiency and profitability through the practical application of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and decades of real-world experience.

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SOURCE Kennametal Inc.

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