Quant Strats USA 2025, held on March 11 at Quorum by Convene in New York, brought together over 380 professionals in quantitative finance, with 70% of attendees representing the Buy-Side, including hedge funds, asset managers, and investment banks. The event reaffirmed its role as a premier forum for exploring advancements in artificial intelligence (“AI”), machine learning (“ML”), and large language models (“LLMs”) within finance, offering attendees unparalleled access to industry-leading insights and networking opportunities.

The conference featured over 50 expert speakers who examined how AI and ML are no longer just theoretical innovations but essential tools shaping investment strategies, risk management, and trade execution. AI & ML in Asset Management addressed how firms are integrating advanced algorithms into portfolio construction, risk assessment, and trade execution to drive efficiency and improve returns. The Future of Large Language Models (“LLMs”) in Quant Finance explored how LLMs are being leveraged for predictive modeling, sentiment analysis, and automating complex financial decision-making. The discussion underscored the increasing reliance on AI-driven insights to navigate evolving market conditions and improve performance.

A central theme throughout the event was the growing synergy between quantitative and fundamental investment strategies. Blending Quant & Fundamental Strategies featured leading portfolio managers and quant strategists who discussed the complexities of combining data-driven models with traditional financial analysis, highlighting the benefits and challenges of hybrid approaches. Meanwhile, Alternative Data & Alpha Generation explored how non-traditional data sources, ranging from satellite imagery to consumer transaction data, are unlocking new opportunities for alpha generation, providing firms with an edge in systematic trading.

With the rapid evolution of electronic trading, High-Frequency Trading & Execution Algorithms took a deep dive into the latest advancements in trade execution, latency reduction, and market-making strategies. The session provided a comprehensive look at how firms are optimizing execution in an increasingly automated environment. Meanwhile, Risk Management in a Volatile Market tackled the challenges of adapting quant strategies to turbulent market conditions, emphasizing the importance of robust risk frameworks in mitigating potential losses and ensuring long-term portfolio stability.

Beyond the content-rich sessions, Quant Strats USA 2025 offered extensive networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with top-tier data scientists, quantitative analysts, institutional investors, and technology providers. The event’s focus on practitioner-led discussions ensured that participants left with actionable takeaways, equipping them with cutting-edge tools and strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of quantitative finance.

The discussions and insights from Quant Strats USA 2025 will continue later this year at Quant Strats Europe, offering another opportunity for professionals to engage with global leaders in the field. As AI and ML continue to drive transformation in quantitative finance, staying ahead of these developments is crucial. Attendees of Quant Strats Europe can expect in-depth discussions on the latest trends, hands-on workshops, and expanded networking opportunities designed to help firms remain competitive in an increasingly data-driven industry. For more details and to secure participation, visit Quant Strats Europe.

• The company will present at the Jones Las Vegas Technology and Innovation Conference on April 8-9, to update investors on its lead drug candidate.
• The conference will provide one-on-one meetings and networking opportunities for institutional investors and executives.
• Clene recently received FDA guidance on a potential accelerated approval pathway for CNM-Au8 in ALS treatment.
• New analyses suggest CNM-Au8 improves survival for ALS patients, with a 4.1-month increase in restricted mean survival time.
• Clene plans to begin enrollment for a Phase 3 confirmatory trial (RESTORE-ALS) in mid-2025.

Clene (NASDAQ: CLNN) and its wholly owned subsidiary, Clene Nanomedicine Inc., a late clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on improving mitochondrial health and protecting neuronal function to treat neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (“ALS”) and multiple sclerosis (“MS”), will participate in the upcoming Jones Las Vegas Technology and Innovation Conference at The Venetian Resort. The April 8-9 event, organized by JonesTrading and supported by B2i Digital, provides a platform for direct engagement between innovative companies and institutional investors (https://ibn.fm/fIKDc).

“We look forward to participating in the Jones Conference, which provides an opportunity to share our progress and connect directly with investors in a setting that fosters productive conversations,” said Rob Etherington, CEO and President of Clene.

The conference will feature keynote addresses from Dr. Charity Dean, CEO of PHC Global, and Eric F. Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organization, along with a Jones-hosted Golf Event and Cocktail Reception.

Commenting on the event, Alan Hill, CEO of JonesTrading, underlined that his firm and the conference are focused on creating a forum where public companies can communicate directly with the investment community, while B2i Digital, Inc. CEO David Shapiro underlined his company’s commitment to ensuring that companies participating in the Jones Conference have a platform to reach investors who are actively seeking new ideas and opportunities.

Clene’s presence at the Jones Conference offers investors a chance to engage with the company at a pivotal moment in its regulatory journey. At the event, the company will provide key updates about its lead drug candidate CNM-Au8 and its path to regulatory approval. CNM-Au8 is an oral suspension of gold nanocrystals designed to improve cellular energy production and utilization, which is critical for maintaining neuronal health. In several clinical trials, the drug candidate has been shown to improve survival rates in ALS patients, a finding supported by preclinical evidence that the drug works by improving central nervous system cells’ survival and function. The company recently received FDA guidance on using biomarker data to support an accelerated approval pathway for the drug.

Following a November 2024 meeting with the FDA’s Division of Neurology 1 (“DN1”), Clene was advised to analyze additional data from ongoing Expanded Access Programs (“EAPs”) to evaluate CNM-Au8’s impact on neurofilament light chain (“NfL”), a potential surrogate endpoint for ALS treatment. No significant safety concerns have emerged in over 800 patient years of CNM-Au8 use, and no serious adverse events (“SAEs”) have been linked to the treatment.

Clene expects to finalize a statistical analysis plan with the FDA in Q2 2025 before collecting and analyzing NfL biomarker data in Q3 2025, supporting a potential NDA submission in the second half of 2025.

New survival analyses compared CNM-Au8 (30 mg, Regimen C) against a concurrent control group (Regimen A) in the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial. Findings include:

• A 4.1-month improvement in restricted mean survival time (“RMST”) (p=0.045).
• Enhanced survival in severe ALS cases, with median survival extended by 11.9 months.
• A 44% decrease in mortality risk for patients with high baseline NfL levels (p=0.006).

To further evaluate CNM-Au8’s efficacy, Clene will launch the Phase 3 RESTORE-ALS trial in mid-2025. The study will assess overall survival as a primary endpoint and delayed ALS clinical worsening events as a secondary endpoint.

“We expect further regulatory guidance in 2025 on the critical next steps required to advance our CNM-Au8 NDA submission for the treatment of ALS under the accelerated approval pathway,” said Etherington. The company also continues to evaluate CNM-Au8’s impact on vision and cognition in multiple sclerosis patients, he added. “As always, we are incredibly motivated by our mission to help people suffering from ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases prolong their lifespan and improve their quality of life.”

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.Clene.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to CLNN are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/CLNN

The ZJ Alternative Products Expo will be held from April 3-5, 2025, at the Mana Wynwood Convention Center in Miami. The expo showcases the latest trends and the finest products and services of the counterculture community, tapping a worldwide audience. With Miami emerging as the epicenter of flavors, cultures, and smoke shops, the event aims to blend the local flavor of Florida with the rest of America.

ZJ Events organizes networking events by compiling valuable data on alternative products and presenting to leading brands, manufacturers, and dealers. They provide the counterculture community with a robust platform for exciting learning and business experiences in a safe and conducive environment. For the first time, the expo will offer B2B experience at the Alternative Products Expo.

The Alternative Products Expo offers unique experiences where local and global traders can network, strike deals, and learn about new innovations. Veterans and newcomers showcase exciting trends and products on the exhibition floor. The eclectic vibe, top-tier smoke shops, culinary adventures, vibrant nightlife, and confluence of cultures offer attendees an unforgettable experience.

Investors and enthusiasts can discover new avenues of business and opportunities, with immense new talent from the counterculture spectrum making a foray at the expo. The Alternative Products Expo in Miami offers business opportunities for newbies as well as veterans of the local smoke-shop community to expand their reach to global frontiers. Businesses and traders can network and connect on the event floor, fostering long-term relationships.

The attendees list consists of consumers, businesses, and enthusiasts from the local and international counterculture community. They not only come to discover new industry trends and products; they also enjoy the buzz and vibe of the Alternative Products market.

To learn more, please visit https://ibn.fm/TbO4J.

• SolarBank announced the sale of a 3.26 MW Camillus Solar Project to Solar Advocate Development LLC.
• The project will be built on a closed landfill and provide renewable energy to local subscribers.
• The project was awarded $1.06M in state incentives awarded under the NY-Sun Program.
• This marks the eighth project SolarBank has developed for Solar Advocate since 2018, and is the latest in a series of recent solar projects and battery storage systems the company has been developing.

Disseminated on behalf of SolarBank Corporation

SolarBank (NASDAQ: SUUN) (Cboe CA: SUNN) (FSE: GY2), a premier developer and owner of renewable and clean energy projects, specializing in distributed and community solar initiatives throughout Canada and the U.S., has announced the sale and related construction contract for the 3.26 MW Camillus Solar Project for Solar Advocate Development LLC in a deal valued at $7.3 million USD (https://ibn.fm/qFjN7).

The project, located on a closed landfill site in Camillus, Onondaga County, New York, will operate as a community solar installation, allowing local residents and businesses to subscribe and receive credits on their utility bills for using renewable energy.

SolarBank has begun engineering and initial construction of the project and is working under an engineering, procurement, and construction (“EPC”) agreement dated March 18, 2025. The company has secured solar panels, inverters, racking, and transformers through partnerships with Tier 1 suppliers, ensuring the project stays on track.

Commenting on the deal, Dr. Richard Lu, CEO of SolarBank, explained that this was the eighth community solar project that will be constructed and operated for Solar Advocate as part of a relationship that originated in 2018. “The fact that they are a repeat customer is a testament to SolarBank’s ability to deliver projects and create long term sustainable value for its partners,” Dr. Lu added. “We continue to execute on our strategy of growth in the EPC segment of the business and the Independent Power Producer segment of the business.”

The company also announced that the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (“NYSERDA”) has approved a $1,058,616 USD incentive for the project under the NY-Sun Program, which supports the expansion of solar energy in the state (https://ibn.fm/6qct4).

The incentive is contingent on the project’s completion within 30 months of approval. However, it does not increase the financial terms of the transaction with Solar Advocate. SolarBank has secured the necessary interconnection agreements with the local utility and obtained the required permits from regulatory authorities.

“SolarBank has a long-standing successful track record in working with government agencies in the United States and Canada to obtain government support and incentives for its clean and renewable energy projects,” Dr. Lu added. “While the Camillus Project has been sold to Solar Advocate, the receipt of these incentives further demonstrates SolarBank’s ability to execute and provide sustainable projects with robust financial returns.”

As construction moves forward, SolarBank continues to expand its presence in the EPC and independent power production markets, reinforcing its position in the growing community solar sector. With a development pipeline exceeding one gigawatt, the company aims to accelerate its growth in the renewable energy sector by continuously bringing new solar projects online.

The company recently announced a partnership with Viridi, an industry leader in fail-safe battery energy storage systems, to develop a combined 3.06 megawatt (“MW”) direct current ground-mounted solar power project and a 1.2 megawatt-hour (“MWh”) BESS in Buffalo, New York. Additionally, SolarBank is building three large-scale battery energy storage systems – two in Ontario and one in New York. As demand for renewable energy grows, SolarBank’s expansion into community solar projects positions the company as a key player in the transition to clean energy.

For more information, visit the company’s website at SolarBankCorp.com.

This report contains forward looking information. Please refer to the press releases entitled “$7.3 million USD Transaction Entered into with Solar Advocate Development LLC for the Sale and Construction of the Camillus Solar Project” and “SolarBank Partners with Viridi on Combined 3.06 MW Solar and 1.2 MWH Battery Energy Storage Project Located in Buffalo, New York” for additional details on the statements and related assumptions and risks.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to SUUN are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/SUUN

The MoneyShow Masters Symposium will be held in Dallas from April 4 to 5, 2025, and it will be an exclusive event that brings together high-net-worth investors and top experts in the field of finance. This two-day symposium will provide a robust platform for investors to learn from world-renowned fundamental and technical analysts, professional traders, and global market strategists.

MoneyShow has been working with traders and investors for the last 44 years, guiding and providing them with optimal resources to maximize their profits. MoneyShow hosts networking events where financial wizards help traders and investors to safeguard and strengthen their portfolios.

The Symposium will feature several sessions, including discussions on market trends, investment strategies, and opportunities in various asset classes. Attendees can evaluate their requirements based on the points discussed by the experts and learn fresh approaches to building optimal portfolios.

Industry leaders will share experiences and insights, providing investors with valuable information to enhance their investment portfolios. This event is a must-attend for investors concerned about the potential of a new bear market.

The MoneyShow Masters Symposium is not just a learning opportunity, but also a networking one. Attendees can connect with experts and other investors to share their ideas and gain new perspectives. The conference offers a great avenue for investors seeking to strengthen their investment portfolios and learn ways to add dynamic asset classes into a portfolio for a successful outcome.

To learn more, please visit https://ibn.fm/XTsOD.

The 5th PRC Performance Optimization Summit by DGE will be held in Philadelphia on April 29-30, 2025. DGE invites industry professionals to discuss compliance and the expertise needed to get the best regulatory results for advertising/promotional material.

The summit is hosted by Dynamic Global Events (“DGE”), a pioneer in organizing B2B events for life science companies. DGE offers the biopharma, healthcare, and medical device industries a robust forum for discussion, education, and collaboration.

Promotional review committees must be well-equipped in a rapidly evolving regulatory environment to stay abreast of the best practices for new technologies and platforms. Teams must listen to all voices and adapt to making necessary changes during the lifecycle of the drug.

The agenda of the PRC Performance Optimization Summit is to identify the biggest challenges and find winning execution strategies. Some of the topics include compliance with new CCN Dual Modality rules, managing review escalations, working with the Better Business Bureau, and grasping how AI impacts promotional review, to name a few. Experts will also conduct panel discussions about the tools to help reduce conflicts among team members.

Over two dozen speakers will share their invaluable insights that attendees can learn and understand to achieve the desired regulatory results. Industry veterans will also interact with the audience and solve their queries.

This important DGE event will focus on analyzing the best technical expertise to achieve regulatory compliance and meet deadlines across all media platforms. Participants looking to expand their network can leverage their reach by engaging with experts across the industry.

To learn more, please visit https://ibn.fm/3cdhG.

• The private credit sector is seeing remarkable growth with projections indicating that the market could surpass $1.5 trillion this year
• FAVO Capital has carved a niche for itself by recognizing the immense potential of alternative lending markets and private credit solutions
• The company’s approach to balancing risk and reward is built on a foundation of diversification and innovation

The financial landscape is rapidly evolving, with private credit and alternative lending markets emerging as key drivers of growth and innovation. As traditional banking institutions tighten their lending criteria and businesses seek more flexible financing solutions, the demand for alternative lending options, such as FAVO Capital (OTC: FAVO), continues to soar.

This shift is fueling remarkable growth in the private credit sector, with projections indicating that the market could surpass $1.5 trillion this year (https://ibn.fm/wTPRv). Alternative lending platforms, peer-to-peer financing and direct lending solutions are becoming increasingly attractive to both borrowers and investors, offering a unique blend of higher returns and diversification. FAVO Capital is at the forefront of this transformation, employing a strategic approach that balances risk and reward while capitalizing on high-growth opportunities in the alternative lending and fintech sectors.

FAVO Capital has carved a niche for itself by recognizing the immense potential of alternative lending markets and private credit solutions. With traditional lenders often unable to meet the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (“SMEs”), alternative lending platforms have stepped in to bridge the gap, offering innovative financing options that cater to the diverse needs of businesses.

FAVO has strategically positioned itself to leverage these opportunities by investing in fintech platforms and alternative lending solutions that provide faster, more accessible, and technology-driven funding options (https://ibn.fm/B2XEd). Through a combination of rigorous due diligence, data-driven analysis and adaptive investment models, FAVO Capital constructs diversified portfolios that minimize exposure to risk while maximizing potential returns.

The alternative lending market is expected to continue its upward trajectory in 2025, driven by advances in fintech technology, growing demand for customized financing solutions and an increased appetite for nontraditional investments. As businesses seek capital outside of traditional banking channels, peer-to-peer lending, revenue-based financing and merchant cash advances have emerged as viable alternatives, each offering unique benefits to both lenders and borrowers. FAVO Capital’s investment strategy focuses on identifying and capitalizing on these opportunities, ensuring that its portfolio remains resilient in the face of market volatility.

FAVO Capital’s approach to balancing risk and reward is built on a foundation of diversification and innovation. By spreading investments across multiple sectors and industries, the company mitigates the impact of potential downturns in any single market segment. This diversified approach not only safeguards capital but also positions FAVO Capital to capitalize on emerging trends in high-growth sectors. Moreover, FAVO Capital leverages cutting-edge data analytics and intelligence models to continuously monitor market conditions and adjust its portfolios as needed. This adaptive strategy allows the company to respond swiftly to changing market dynamics, ensuring that its investments remain aligned with evolving opportunities and risks.

In the alternative lending space, fintech innovations are driving unprecedented efficiency and accessibility. Digital platforms are streamlining the loan application and approval processes, enabling faster decision-making and reducing administrative overhead. FAVO Capital recognizes the transformative potential of these technologies and has made strategic investments in fintech companies that are disrupting the traditional lending landscape. By supporting companies that harness the power of big data, machine learning and AI, FAVO Capital not only enhances the performance of its portfolio but also contributes to the growth and democratization of financial services.

Looking ahead, the outlook for private credit and alternative lending markets remains positive. As global economic uncertainties persist, investors are increasingly turning to private credit as a means of achieving higher yields and diversifying their portfolios. Alternative lending platforms, meanwhile, continue to fill the financing gap left by traditional banks, providing businesses with the capital they need to grow and thrive. FAVO Capital’s forward-thinking strategy positions it well to take advantage of these market trends, ensuring that its investors benefit from the growth of this dynamic sector.

For more information, visit the company’s website at FavoCapital.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to FAVO are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/FAVO

As venture debt enters a pivotal phase in 2025, investors are faced with a more complex and volatile lending environment. The shifting dynamics, influenced by rising interest rates and the unprecedented collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, demand a much more sophisticated approach to risk management. While venture debt continues to serve as an essential source of capital for startups, understanding the intricate challenges of the current landscape is crucial for navigating this evolving market.

Evolving Risk Landscape: Mitigating Uncertainty

The key to navigating venture debt in this era lies in rigorous due diligence. Investors must go beyond surface-level assessments of a company’s financials and consider a broader spectrum of factors that could influence its solvency. One of the most pressing concerns for lenders today is the stability of a startup’s revenue streams, particularly in light of a challenging macroeconomic environment. Companies with fluctuating or unproven revenue models are seen as higher risk, especially those that have yet to establish a robust customer base or sustainable cash flow.

In addition to revenue stability, investors must carefully evaluate a company’s burn rate, particularly its ability to manage cash flow over the medium to long term. Startups with high burn rates and a lack of clarity on future fundraising rounds are at a heightened risk of default. This makes it critical to assess the company’s runway, track record with past debt, and access to follow-on equity financing. Without secure access to additional funding, even healthy companies can face liquidity crunches.

Lenders are increasingly turning to co-investment strategies to share risk, partnering with other venture debt investors or equity investors to reduce exposure. This collaborative approach is especially crucial when dealing with startups in high-risk sectors or those without established financial histories. By pooling resources and sharing the risk, investors are better positioned to protect themselves in uncertain times.

Structuring Deals for Resilience: Advanced Debt Strategies

To safeguard investments, venture debt investors are structuring more sophisticated deals with a focus on financial discipline. Protective covenants have become a standard part of loan agreements, providing investors with greater oversight over the borrower’s operations. These covenants may include restrictions on further borrowing, limitations on the sale of assets, and requirements for regular financial reporting. In addition, collateralization strategies are gaining prominence, particularly for higher-risk loans. By securing debt with tangible assets or equity, investors can better insulate themselves from potential defaults.

The optimal debt-to-equity ratio remains a critical consideration in deal structuring. For early-stage startups, a higher ratio of debt to equity may be acceptable in certain cases, but for more established companies, maintaining a more balanced structure is preferred to avoid overleveraging. In some cases, structuring deals with equity kickers or warrant coverage is becoming increasingly popular. These features offer the lender additional upside if the company performs well, allowing them to benefit from future equity appreciation if the business succeeds. Convertible debt structures also remain a flexible option for investors, allowing them to convert debt into equity in the event of refinancing or acquisition.

Sector-Specific Risks: Tailoring Due Diligence

Venture debt investors must take into account the specific risk profiles of various sectors when making investment decisions. For example, the high-growth potential of industries like AI and fintech comes with a unique set of challenges. In AI, evolving regulations, such as data privacy laws and government oversight, can present significant risks to companies in the space. While the potential for breakthrough technologies is high, the regulatory environment remains in flux, making it essential for investors to closely monitor legislative developments and factor these uncertainties into their risk models.

In fintech, regulatory changes have already begun reshaping lending and transaction models, as seen in recent changes to banking regulations and digital asset regulations. Fintech startups must navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape, where changes can directly impact profitability and business models. Investors must consider the scalability of these companies and their ability to adapt to regulatory shifts.

Conversely, sectors like biotech and medtech require a longer investment horizon due to the extended timeframes required for clinical trials, FDA approval processes, and product development. While these industries can offer attractive returns, the uncertainty around approval timelines and the inherent risks of clinical trials can make due diligence particularly difficult. Investors must pay close attention to clinical pipelines and evaluate the probability of regulatory approval, as well as the financial stability of these companies, which often rely heavily on external funding.

On the other hand, e-commerce and SaaS (Software as a Service) businesses remain prime candidates for venture debt, particularly those with recurring revenue models that ensure more predictable cash flow. These models offer stability and are less affected by broader economic shifts compared to one-time purchase models. However, the competitive landscape is fierce, and investors must ensure that the companies they back have a clear and defensible market position, strong customer retention, and operational scalability.

Navigating Interest Rate Volatility: Hedging and Flexibility

With the backdrop of rising interest rates, venture debt investors must be strategic about managing the risks associated with rate hikes. Fixed-rate loans have become a favored option, as they offer protection against future rate increases. However, for borrowers who opt for floating-rate debt, interest rate swaps or hedging instruments can help mitigate exposure to rate volatility. These instruments enable borrowers to lock in a fixed rate for a portion of their debt, reducing the impact of rate hikes on their overall repayment structure.

Beyond traditional term loans, alternative financing structures are gaining traction. Revenue-based financing (RBF) offers a flexible repayment model, where payments are tied to a company’s revenue performance. This structure can help reduce risk by ensuring that debt repayment is more closely aligned with the company’s cash flow. Additionally, asset-backed lending, where loans are secured by tangible assets, provides further protection against defaults. Hybrid models, which combine elements of equity and debt, are also emerging, allowing investors to adjust their level of exposure based on a company’s performance.

Legal and Regulatory Changes: Adapting to New Standards

The regulatory landscape is also undergoing significant changes, reshaping venture debt agreements and lending practices. Stronger bankruptcy protections are being implemented to prioritize repayment in the event of liquidation, which provides investors with greater confidence in their ability to recover capital. Additionally, revised loan documentation standards have improved clarity around default scenarios, ensuring that all parties involved have a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities.

Fintech lending, in particular, has seen heightened regulatory oversight, with new rules around lending platforms, interest rate caps, and borrower protection laws. As these regulations evolve, venture debt investors will need to adapt their strategies to remain compliant and ensure the long-term viability of their investments.

The Venture Debt Conference: A Crucial Event for Investors

The Venture Debt Conference in April promises to be an invaluable opportunity for investors to deepen their understanding of these trends and refine their strategies. Attendees will have the chance to engage with industry experts and explore how lenders are adjusting their underwriting models, structuring deals, and identifying the most promising sectors for investment in the face of changing economic conditions. With a focus on collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the conference will provide insights into emerging trends and innovative strategies for mitigating risk.

As the venture debt market continues to evolve, investors who approach this new era with a deep understanding of the risks and opportunities will be best positioned to capitalize on new prospects and navigate the uncertainties of 2025 and beyond.

More information about the event, including registration details, can be found at: Venture Debt Conference 2025.

The Alternative Products Expo successfully wrapped up its 2025 event in Medellín, Colombia, on March 1-2, reinforcing its position as a premier gathering for the counterculture industry. This year’s event brought together thousands of attendees, including leading manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, entrepreneurs, and industry pioneers, to explore innovations, foster connections, and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.

Originally launched as the USA CBD Expo, the event rebranded in 2017 to reflect the expanding landscape of alternative products, including cannabis derivatives, CBD, vape products, smokeables, functional mushrooms, herbal supplements, and other cutting-edge innovations. Since then, it has become a must-attend event for businesses looking to scale internationally, leveraging its strategic location in Medellín to bridge North and South American markets while attracting buyers from Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Organized by ZJ Events, the expo provides a powerful launchpad for startups while also serving as an expansion vehicle for established businesses looking to strengthen their presence across new regions. With a well-structured B2B environment, attendees benefited from exclusive networking sessions, business matchmaking, and insights from top-tier speakers discussing the future of the counterculture industry.

The event featured six key pillars designed to support international growth: market entry guidance, distributor introductions and logistics support, regulatory and legal compliance assistance, monetary exchange and direct B2B introductions, live translation services, and import-export consultation. These elements provided attendees with a comprehensive roadmap to navigate global markets and expand their brand reach beyond domestic borders.

In addition to its strong business focus, the expo embraced Medellín’s vibrant culture and energy, offering attendees a dynamic and immersive experience. With exclusive B2B priority hours, professionals had dedicated time to forge meaningful partnerships before the expo opened to a broader audience. Meanwhile, attendees enjoyed interactive exhibitor booths, product tastings, live demonstrations, and exciting lifestyle elements, all set against a backdrop of live music and entertainment.

As the alternative products industry continues to evolve, Medellín remains a key location in shaping its future, fostering new trends, and strengthening international collaborations. The success of the 2025 edition further solidifies the expo’s role as an essential business hub for those looking to tap into new markets and expand their global footprint.

With the Medellín event now concluded, the Alternative Products Expo is gearing up for its next major stop in Miami, Florida, on April 3-5, 2025. The Miami expo will build on the momentum from Medellín, offering an even larger platform for businesses to connect, expand, and gain industry insights in one of the most dynamic markets in North America. Attendees can expect global networking opportunities with top manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers, exclusive B2B hours for meaningful business interactions, expert-led speaker sessions covering market trends, regulations, and innovation, unparalleled brand exposure with thousands of attendees and media coverage, and an immersive experience featuring live entertainment, interactive exhibits, and product showcases.

Join Us in Miami!

• Get your tickets: https://altproexpo.com/tickets/
• Become an exhibitor or sponsor: https://altproexpo.com/become-an-exhibitor/

For more details on upcoming events, visit https://altproexpo.com

• SMBs face severe funding challenges, with over 75% of owners worried about securing credit amid rising interest rates and stricter lending practices
• FAVO Capital’s platform in development will enable businesses to apply for funding, track progress, and manage repayments, complemented by a mobile app for real-time insights and personalized recommendations
• FAVO Capital’s tailored financial products provide essential support for SMBs, enabling them to scale operations and contribute to economic stability

Access to capital has long been the lifeline of small and medium-sized businesses (“SMBs”), but today, that lifeline is fraying. Rising interest rates, stricter lending practices, and ongoing banking instability have turned what was once an accessible stream of funding into a nearly insurmountable challenge. The landscape has changed dramatically from just a few years ago when government stimulus programs and looser lending standards made capital readily available. Now, small business owners are facing one of the toughest financial climates in recent history, with significant implications for employment, salaries, and overall economic stability.

The Capital Crunch Facing SMBs

According to a 2023 survey conducted by Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses Voices initiative, more than 75% of small business owners are worried about their ability to secure credit. This marks a stark reversal from 2022, when 77% of respondents expressed confidence in their access to funding. In today’s economic environment, banks—particularly regional institutions—are tightening credit lines, leaving small businesses scrambling for alternative financing solutions.

The consequences are severe. Small businesses, which employ over 61 million Americans and make up nearly half of the private-sector workforce, are facing rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and labor shortages. Many are forced to rely on personal assets or high-interest credit cards to sustain operations. The failure of key banks, including Silicon Valley Bank two years ago, has further exacerbated the issue, cutting off a major funding pipeline that many SMBs relied upon. Traditional funding options, such as Small Business Administration (“SBA”) loans, are also proving to be inefficient, with approval processes stretching up to 60 days and approval rates below 50%.

FAVO Capital: A New Path to Funding

Amid these challenges, FAVO Capital (OTC: FAVO) is emerging as a powerful solution provider for SMBs struggling with capital access. The company is leveraging innovative financial products and data-driven technology to provide businesses with much-needed funding alternatives. Unlike traditional banks that rely on stringent credit checks and collateral-based lending, FAVO Capital’s model offers flexible, revenue-based financing options tailored to the unique cash flow dynamics of small businesses.

One of FAVO’s key differentiators is the development of its alternative lending platform, which bypasses the bureaucratic red tape of conventional financial institutions. By utilizing proprietary underwriting models and leveraging financial data analytics, FAVO plans to assess risk more accurately and offer financing options that are both competitive and accessible to a broader range of business owners. This model significantly reduces approval times, ensuring that SMBs receive the funding they need when they need it.

The comprehensive platform will ultimately enable businesses to apply for funding products, monitor their progress, and efficiently manage repayments. Additionally, a complementary mobile app is in development to offer real-time insights and personalized recommendations, setting the stage for enhanced borrowing experiences.

FAVO Capital also specializes in revenue-based financing, an approach that provides businesses with capital based on their earnings potential rather than requiring personal assets as collateral. This method aligns well with the needs of SMBs, particularly those in retail, hospitality, and service-based industries, where revenues fluctuate but remain steady over time. By offering this type of financing, FAVO enables business owners to scale operations, invest in growth, and maintain liquidity without taking on burdensome debt obligations.

A Timely Solution for a Shifting Market

FAVO’s approach comes at a crucial time. With traditional credit drying up and interest rates making conventional loans unaffordable, businesses are in dire need of new capital sources. Similar to fintech firms that are disrupting financial services through embedded finance and Capital-as-a-Service models, FAVO Capital is positioned to be a game-changer in the SMB lending space. The company’s agility, innovative financing solutions, and seasoned management team give it the opportunity to play an important role in stabilizing and revitalizing this critical sector of the economy.

For entrepreneurs navigating today’s challenging financial landscape, the emergence of companies like FAVO Capital offers a much-needed lifeline. As small businesses continue to drive job creation and economic growth, ensuring their access to capital will be essential for maintaining a resilient and thriving economy. With FAVO Capital stepping in as a problem-solver, SMBs can find the support they need to weather the storm and emerge stronger than ever.

For more information, visit the company’s website at FavoCapital.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to FAVO are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/FAVO