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femto ces awards
Business

Top 5 Global Picks for CES 2025

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Femto Launches Sensera CES 2025 was a showcase of technology, where innovators across industries presented products that promise to shape the future. From AI-driven wellness devices to advanced medical diagnostics, the event highlighted the transformative power of technology in enhancing daily life. Among the numerous remarkable innovations, five products stood out for their ability to address real-world needs and offer smarter, more personalized experiences. Here’s a closer look at the top five global products that stole the spotlight at CES 2025.  Sensera At CES 2025, Femto Technologies Inc. introduced Sensera, an AI-driven feminine wellness device that bridges the gap between pleasure and wellness. Sensera utilizes proprietary Smart Release System (SRS) technology, along with biofeedback sensors, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, to personalize the user experience by supplementing the body’s natural lubrication as needed. The device also collects data to enhance future experiences through a corresponding app, allowing users to create personal programs for improved wellness and pleasure performance. The Sensera app adds another layer of customization, allowing users to set preferences, store session data, and refine future experiences. Privacy is prioritized with three modes: app-free, non-AI, and a group feedback system for collective insights under strict privacy guidelines. Even without the app, the Smart Release System remains functional. Sensera’s holistic approach challenges traditional notions of feminine self-care, empowering women to prioritize their wellness and embrace their desires through a safe, innovative, and customizable product. In recognition of its innovative design and engineering, Sensera was honored as a CES Innovation Awards 2025 Honoree in the Artificial Intelligence category. This accolade highlights Sensera’s unique personalization capabilities and underscores FemtoTechnologies’ position as a leader in the Femtech industry. Booxtory  Booxtory, an AI-powered platform created by South Korea’s Woongjin ThinkBig, transforms how people engage with books by combining advanced technology with a passion for education. The platform uses state-of-the-art artificial intelligence to make reading more interactive, personalized, and accessible for children, adults, and individuals with reading difficulties. Booxtory digitizes books in real-time, converting text into audio or plain reading formats. Users simply place a book under its sensor, and the AI scans the pages, processes the content, and delivers an enhanced reading experience. What sets Booxtory apart are its innovative AI-driven features. Song Mode transforms stories into melodies, making books more entertaining and engaging. Theatre Mode takes this a step further by incorporating music and graphics to create immersive storytelling experiences. For language learners, Booxtory’s real-time translation enhances accessibility, fostering greater interest in books across diverse audiences. The Easy Reading Mode also makes books available to everyone by offering personalized features such as familiar voices, sound effects, and visual aids through mobile devices or tablets. The use of AI in Booxtory goes beyond functionality, it redefines the reading experience. These advancements have not gone unnoticed, as Booxtory was honored with the CES 2025 Best of Innovation Award in Artificial Intelligence. Booxtory’s mission is clear: to popularize books and science among people of all ages while making reading an enjoyable, multi-sensory activity.  Nearthlab As satellites have transformed the view of the Earth from above, Nearthlab is doing the same for data gathering and business functioning several miles below. Equipped with intelligent drones, Nearthlab offers innovative solutions that are always sophisticated but easy to use. The company specializes in innovative, user-friendly solutions powered by advanced computer vision and AI algorithms, enabling drones to handle challenging terrains seamlessly. Equipped with sophisticated sensors and payloads, Nearthlab’s drones provide detailed data for applications such as wind turbine inspections and emergency response, replacing traditional, labor-intensive methods with safer and more efficient alternatives. A core part of Nearthlab’s innovation is its Station for DFR (Drones for First Response), a system designed for autonomous emergency operations. Featuring a battery-swap mechanism, it overcomes typical drone battery limitations, ensuring continuous readiness and extended flight capabilities. Built for resilience, the station incorporates cooling systems and weatherproof designs, enabling high performance in diverse conditions. This breakthrough earned Nearthlab the Best of Innovation Award for its Station for Drone First Responder (DFR), highlighting its role in advancing drone technology. AI DOC MTS Company CO., LTD., based in Seoul, South Korea, is advancing medical diagnostics through innovative AI platforms. Their flagship product, AI Doc, focuses on early detection and treatment of female cancers such as breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer. This product provides diagnostic support and predictive analytics enhances outcomes for healthcare professionals and patients alike. This mobile app for cervical cancer, enabling real-time AI diagnosis from cervix images. The app links to gynecologists in advanced countries for secondary analysis, ensuring women in underserved areas receive high-quality medical services. With AR technology, the app also pinpoints disease locations, facilitating accurate biopsies and treatments. MTS also offers a PC app for remote diagnosis and prediction of female cancers. It leverages AI to analyze pathological indicators and predict outcomes such as lymphatic metastasis in breast cancer or HRD gene testing for ovarian cancer. Together, these solutions establish MTS as a leader in AI-driven healthcare, addressing global medical challenges with cutting-edge technology. Its impact earned the platform recognition as a CES Innovation Awards Honoree in the Artificial Intelligence category at CES 2025. XT20-PS Kit MAXHUB earned the Microsoft AI Innovation Award at CES 2025 for its XT20-PS Kit, a Teams Rooms solution designed for medium to large meeting rooms. The kit integrates cutting-edge video, audio, and control features, providing an AI-driven platform that enhances communication and productivity. At the heart of the XT20-PS Kit is its AI-powered functionality, offering high-definition video for crystal-clear visuals and advanced audio capabilities to eliminate background noise. The system’s intelligent controls include participant tracking, dynamic audio adjustments, and automated settings, ensuring a seamless user experience tailored to modern meeting environments. MAXHUB’s solution meets the increasing demand for smarter collaboration tools in a hybrid work era. The XT20-PS Kit stands out as a transformative tool, enabling businesses to connect and innovate more effectively. The products unveiled at CES 2025 demonstrate the significant progress being made in technology across various sectors. From improving personal wellness with AI-powered

people brainstorming at the office
Business, Editor's Picks, Experts, Financial

Closing the Employment Gap – How Local Companies Are Missing Out on Disability Inclusion

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Miami is known for its booming economy, vibrant culture, and diverse workforce, but there’s a silent issue plaguing many of its businesses: the failure to embrace disability inclusion. Professionals with disabilities represent an untapped talent pool that local companies continue to overlook, leaving these businesses at a competitive disadvantage. This oversight not only highlights a lack of inclusivity but also signifies an economic missed opportunity. However, Miami could lead the way in disability inclusion in the future. In Miami-Dade County, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities stands at 15.6%, affecting nearly 9,775 individuals ​(Florida Chamber of Commerce). Compare that with the general population, where employment rates are far higher, and a stark disparity emerges. What this means for Miami, a city known for breaking boundaries, is that we are missing out on a large pool of untapped talent—professionals whose skills could drive innovation and diversity in our economy. The Untapped Potential of Blind Professionals Blind, visually impaired as well as other professionals with disabilities offer unique perspectives that can lead to breakthrough solutions in the workplace. Studies have shown that diverse teams, including those with individuals who have disabilities, tend to outperform their peers. A report by Accenture in partnership with Disability-In and The American Foundation for the Blind found that companies with inclusive hiring practices experienced a 28% increase in revenue and doubled their net income compared to their competitors. Yet, despite this compelling business case, blind professionals remain underrepresented. Nationally, while 70% of the general population is employed, only 44% of working-age blind adults have jobs​. Miami, in particular, lags in this area, and addressing this gap is not only a matter of equity but also of economic strategy. Why Miami Is Poised to Lead As the Magic City continues to grow as a hub for tech, finance, and tourism, now is the time for local businesses to step up and embrace the talents of people with disabilities. Miami’s commitment to diversity positions the city to become a leader in disability inclusion, setting an example for other metropolitan areas. But what will it take to bridge this employment gap? First, we must challenge outdated misconceptions about the productivity and capabilities of blind professionals. One persistent myth is that hiring people with disabilities is costly. However, research from the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) reveals that the average one-time cost of accommodations is just $500 ​as per the study. In many cases, no accommodations are required at all, and when they are, they often lead to higher productivity and retention, benefiting the entire workforce. Real-World Success Stories Several global companies have already paved the way, proving that hiring blind professionals is not only feasible but advantageous. Microsoft, for example, has developed accessibility tools that allow blind employees to work more efficiently, contributing to the company’s broader innovation goals​ (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Amazon has also been a leader in this space, partnering with the American Foundation for the Blind to implement features like screen readers and voice-activated shopping assistants that benefit both employees and customers​. The Miami Business Community: A Call to Action For Miami to fully capitalize on the talent of blind professionals, local businesses must take proactive steps. Dr. Kirk Adams, a leading advocate for the inclusion of professionals with disabilities and former CEO of the American Foundation for the Blind, has emphasized that businesses have much to gain from employing individuals with disabilities. His research highlights the tangible benefits, including enhanced innovation and problem-solving capabilities, that blind professionals bring to the table​. “The integration of professionals with disabilities into the workforce is not just a matter of social good—it’s a business imperative. These individuals bring diverse perspectives that can catalyze innovation and drive significant organizational change”. So, how can Miami’s businesses make these changes? The first step is education. Dr. Kirk Adams suggests that leaders need to invest in training programs for management and human resources teams to reduce bias and improve understanding of disability inclusion. Miami, with its thriving business community, can benefit from forming partnerships with organizations like the National Federation of the Blind and local advocacy groups. These collaborations will provide invaluable resources and expertise on accessible hiring practices​. Building an Inclusive Workforce in Miami Creating an inclusive workforce requires more than just compliance with legal mandates. It involves fostering a corporate culture where diversity is celebrated, and all employees feel valued for their contributions. Local businesses can lead this movement by offering accessible technology and flexible working arrangements. Not only does this create a more inclusive environment for blind professionals, but it also improves the overall workplace culture, enhancing job satisfaction for everyone. In a city as dynamic as Miami, where creativity and diversity fuel our economic engine, there is no reason why individuals with disabilities should remain on the sidelines. The data is clear: inclusive workplaces are more innovative, productive, and financially successful. It’s time for Miami’s business leaders to harness the potential of blind professionals and make our city a national leader in disability inclusion. A Roadmap for the Future Miami stands at a crossroads. We can either continue to allow outdated perceptions to hold us back, or we can embrace the future by recognizing the value that blind and visually impaired professionals bring to the workforce. The path to inclusion may require some initial investment, but the rewards—both economic and social—are undeniable. Miami can lead the way, showing the world that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but the keys to our continued success.

Apple Intelligence
Business, Experts, Tech

Apple and OpenAI: Why Embracing AI is No Longer Optional

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The recent partnership between Apple and OpenAI has already made headlines, signaling a significant leap forward in the integration of artificial intelligence into our daily lives. However, the real story isn’t just about the technological advancements. It’s about why this partnership underscores the imperative for everyone—individuals, businesses, and entire industries—to fully embrace AI now. The era of artificial intelligence is here, and it’s as integral to our future as the air we breathe. AI: The New Essential Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s a present reality that’s reshaping every aspect of our world. The Apple-OpenAI partnership is a clear indication that AI is now a fundamental component of modern technology. It’s embedded in the devices we use, the services we rely on, and the infrastructure that supports our lives. Ignoring its potential is no longer an option. Why You Need to Embrace AI Now The Role of Organizations Like the Global AI Council In this rapidly evolving landscape, organizations like the Global AI Council play a crucial role. They are not just observers; they are active participants shaping the ethical, responsible, and inclusive development of AI. “The Apple-OpenAI partnership signifies a monumental step forward in the integration of AI into our daily lives,” said Diana Lammerts, Global Director of Communications for the Global AI Council. “By combining their strengths, Apple and OpenAI are not only driving technological progress but also setting new standards for ethical AI deployment and user privacy. Organizations like the Global AI Council are essential in this journey, ensuring that AI development benefits all of humanity while adhering to the highest ethical standards.” Why AI Educational Organizations are Important and How We Benefit Today’s Announcement: Apple Intelligence and OpenAI In their latest announcement, Apple introduced Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI-driven features integrated across their product line. This initiative exemplifies how AI can enhance user experience and device functionality. By leveraging OpenAI’s technologies, Apple is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, making their devices smarter and more intuitive. What’s next? The message is clear: AI is here to stay, and its integration into our lives is inevitable. The time to start working with AI is now. Whether you’re an individual looking to improve your daily life, a business aiming to stay competitive, or an industry leader driving innovation, embracing AI is crucial. As we move forward, it’s essential to engage with AI thoughtfully and responsibly. The Global AI Council and other organizations are committed to guiding this journey, ensuring that the development and deployment of AI are aligned with ethical standards and benefit all of humanity. The future is AI-powered.

Business, LIFESTYLE, Living, MSM Online

When Danger Knocks: Embracing New Norms of Protection in Everyday Life

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When Danger Knocks: Embracing New Norms of Protection in Everyday Life By Diana Lammerts – Journalist, TV Host, and International Business Strategist  When the jet first set our wheels back on the ground, pulling up at Miami International Airport, the light was dazzling, the sounds dancing and sinuous as salsa. Sun-warmed air poured open the pine-scented windows of the plane, a watery light reflected from the sea as the jet backed out toward the gleaming skyline across Biscayne Bay. It was early morning, teetering on the nubile fringe of a rhetorical inquiry, but the question was palpably there in the air of my hometown: what happened to Daytona, Coconut Grove, Joe’s Stone Crab, and the party? What’s going on? In this city where sunrise ignites an azure chorus cacophony on the east coast, culminating in nighttime, the numbers tell another story. In the dazzling sun-splashed megaplex where the landscape swings from beach bottle tops to skyscrapers out to sea, crime is picking up – albeit a little too brazenly.   Miami is not alone: the United States is turning the counterclockwise to a certain, fomenting trouble. In New York City, in 2021, crime rates spiked by 30 per cent and counting. In Chicago, it’s a game of chicken, a contributive carjacking tale, with the streets turning into battlegrounds: 56 per cent increase in carjackings and 34 per cent murder. Here in Miami, our mosaic of cultures and parties, the odds have turned chilling – 1 in 34 of becoming a victim of violent or property crime, according to FBI data. Miami defies other parts of the Sunshine State; crime meters at 30 per cent higher than 86 percent of Florida’s incorporated municipalities.  The frontline of this battle is ushering in a wave of personal, bespoke defense, and at the vanguard is Viking Executive Protection Solutions, of which Roy Smith is the CEO. ‘The industry is stuck in the ’90s while other businesses have evolved,’ he says. ‘The time has come for a renewal, and for a more personal approach, disruptive to the market and a redefinition of executive protection and what should be expected and demanded of high-end personal protection in an increasingly volatile world. It should not be about the mindset of the bouncer of old, fighting and toughening up for Hollywood: this is all about providing a highly personalized, concierge type executive protection service, that fits itself to the client’s individual rhythms and requirements.’  Another internal guard is posted there to keep people from passing through. Roy Smith explains the philosophy behind modern executive protection: ‘What we’re talking about here is thinking outside the box. Modern Executive Protection combines sophisticated security protocols with the highest level of customer service. It seamlessly integrates emerging security threats with the comforts of a seamless, successful, and enjoyable client experience.’ These days, the stolid and uncommunicative bodyguard is passé, and the modern executive protection agent is just as comfortable operating from the shadows of a corporate boardroom as he is managing a thousand elements of risk at an A-List black-tie gala.  This story of escalating threat is not just emanating from boardrooms and penthouse suites. Everything around us – including where we live, the roads we drive on, and the public spaces we hold dear – is transforming into a threat space. Recent headline-grabbing incidents, such as the brutal assault of Lady Gaga’s dog walker, illustrates that visibility, wealth or standing do not make one immune to attack; they are likely inversely correlated with immunity.  In response, companies and individuals are increasingly seeing protective services not as a luxury but as vital insurance – a protection of personal freedom and peace of mind without which the executive may be mentally occupied by potential threats and preoccupied with safety rather than achieving success. The logic is straightforward: you get back more than you put in with executive protection not only by dealing effectively with the threats as they come but also via resilience in peace of mind, productivity and perhaps even the financial bottom line.   The story extends as far as the cars we ride in. Armormax, a pioneer in the auto bulletproofing business, reflects this same turn toward preemptive security. From bulletproof glass to armored vehicles, the technology and know-how are about getting in front of threats. Armormax’s founder and CEO Mark Burton has remarked upon the diversification of his client base, a diversification climbing across the socio-economic spectrum to include both political elites and ordinary civilians looking to level the playing field.  Founded originally to offer security for the world’s super-rich, the company subsequently started to offer services to a wider range, including private individuals looking for ways to protect themselves and their families. The cost of bulletproofing a vehicle can be anywhere from tens of thousands of dollars to hundreds of thousands. To bulletproof the entirety of a vehicle could be as much as $90,000; to bulletproof only the windows can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 depending on a host of technical factors and the mediums deployed.  Essentially, the message is clear: the paradigm of personal, family, community and corporate security is changing. Crime increases are alarming but they also spawn innovation in the protection services, which quickly moves many of those companies, like Viking and Armormax, forward. With new, innovative companies like these and others, the security industry is redefining itself and all of us. In short, when we are called upon to invest in our physical selves, it’s an investment in continued freedom and in the viability of our lives. Here in Miami, we’re at a crossroads, but we envision a future intending to lead the way, with determined preparation and the everyday actualization of the credo: when one spends money on security, we all do … together, more vigilant, harder headed and stronger than we’ve ever been. Social media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vikingeps Instagram: @viking_eps Facebook: @vikingeps Website Viking: http://www.vikingeps.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/armormax-industrial-services Facebook: @armormax Instagram: @armormax Website Armormax: https://armormax.com/

Business, MSM Online

THE MIAMI BUSINESS SHOW 2024

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6th & 7th of March 2024 – Miami Beach Convention Center The world’s largest business show is back for 2024, expanding into the US and arriving at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The 2024 edition takes place on the 6th & 7th of March and is set to be an unmissable event with 300 exhibitors, live panel debates, speed networking and over 150 seminars and interactive masterclasses covering everything you need to know to start or grow your business! Hear from experts from some of the biggest companies in the world who will be offering you the best tips, tricks, and advice to get yourself off the ground and running a profitable business. The Business Show hosts keynotes from thriving entrepreneurs and industry giants; you won’t get this experience anywhere else. This year, Netflix’s star of Selling Sunset and Realtor, Maya Vander, keynotes and shares her success story. You can also expect to attend sessions hosted by experts at Google, IBM, and PepsiCo. Make the most of this incredible opportunity to find out first-hand how to drive your organisation’s growth. The insightful seminars also cover a range of topics and industries so you will no doubt find something of relevance to your career goals and needs. Spanning two days, The Business Show is a buzzing hub with an electric and entrepreneurial atmosphere. The event provides you with a wealth of information, contacts, and resources. You won’t find the same opportunities for your business anywhere else, so make sure you get involved, meet the exhibitors, listen to the speakers, build relationships with fellow entrepreneurs, and revolutionise the way you do business! There is also a series of interactive masterclasses taking place at the Miami event from such organisations as The Leadership & Growth Hub, DREAMS Business Resources, Circle Strategies, and Kevin Anderson & Associates. You can access all of them for free with your ticket, you just need to ensure that you sign up for your spot on the website. This will provide participants with an incredible opportunity to hear from experts about industry insights in a close-quarters environment. At The Leadership & Growth Hub masterclass, you will find a sanctuary for visionaries committed to innovation and accelerating their business growth. The DREAMS Business Resources masterclass will help you with your business finances, saving you time and money while also eliminating risks. The Circle Strategies sessions will help you become a balanced leader and manage your relationships, health, hobbies, and business growth. Finally, the Kevin Anderson & Associates masterclass will help you learn insider secrets and powerful strategies to boost visibility, authority, and brand recognition. You won’t want to miss out on these incredibly insightful sessions. Sign up today to avoid disappointment! One of the most popular show features across the globe is the speed networking area. This is a corporate take on speed dating where you can have one-minute mini-meetings with a partner. This is a chance to practice and perfect your elevator pitch. After one minute, your time is up and you move on to the next partner. Offering you a great opportunity to form lucrative new business connections and grow your contact list, you can sign up for masterclasses via the event website. When you visit The Business Show, your free ticket also gives you access to co-located shows The B2B Marketing Expo, The Sales Innovation Expo, and Going Global Live. The B2B Marketing Expo is the leading event for marketing solutions and innovation, providing business, sales, and marketing professionals with everything they need to thrive.Going Global Live helps you to expand your business, set up overseas operations, and make your brand a world-renowned name. So what are you waiting for? You will have unlimited access to The Business Show and co-located events with your completely FREE ticket. To register and guarantee your place, simply head over to The Business Show now. Follow us on social media! Twitter: @TBS_US Instagram: @thebusinessshowus Facebook: The Business Show US LinkedIn: @The Business Show US Marketing & Press Enquiries: Marketing@thebusinessshow.co.uk 

Business, MSM Online, Real Estate

2024 Real Estate Legislative Changes in Florida’s Real Estate Landscape

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By Julio GuzmanAs the real estate market in Florida, particularly in Miami Dade County, continues to evolve, several key legislative items are making a significant impact. Florida Realtors play a critical role in these legislative developments, particularly through their annual participation in the Greater American Realtor Days (GARD) in Tallahassee, FL during the Florida legislative session. Their advocacy ensures that real estate policies are aligned with industry needs, influencing positive changes in the legislative landscape. This article delves into four major topics that are reshaping the industry, addressing both the challenges and opportunities they present. 1. Rising Property Insurance Costs The surge in property insurance premiums in Florida is a multifaceted issue, significantly impacted by several key factors. The state is facing this challenge head-on, with a series of reforms aimed at stabilizing insurance costs and providing relief to homeowners and businesses. – Impact of Natural Disasters: Florida’s vulnerability to hurricanes and tropical storms is a primary driver of the increased insurance claims, leading to higher premiums. – Litigation and Fraud: The state has seen a rise in insurance-related litigation and instances of fraud, such as inflated claims, which contribute to escalating costs. – High Reinsurance Costs: The frequent severe weather events have also led to increased reinsurance costs for insurers, a burden that often gets passed down to policyholders. – Market Challenges: Due to these factors, the property insurance market in Florida has become less profitable, leading some insurers to exit the market or reduce coverage, further reducing competition and increasing rates for consumers. – State Interventions: In response, the state is taking several measures. These include encouraging new insurers to enter the market, supporting the ‘depopulation’ of Citizens Property Insurance to foster a more competitive insurance market, and leveraging global reinsurance support. Additionally, in Governor Desantis 2024 proposed budget he earmarks a $409 Million allocation to help reduce insurance premiums potentially by 5%- 6% through tax relief, particularly targeting properties valued under $750,000. These measures aim not only to lower premiums but also to ensure the long-term sustainability of the property insurance market in Florida. Through these comprehensive efforts, Florida aims to address the root causes of the property insurance crisis and create a more stable and affordable insurance landscape for its residents. 2. Hometown Heroes Housing Program To support essential community workers, the Hometown Heroes Housing Program provides affordable housing options to healthcare professionals, teachers, law enforcement officers, and firefighters. This program, part of the Live Local Act, offers zero-interest loans and incentives, recognizing the pivotal roles of these individuals and addressing the state’s affordable housing needs. 3. Business Rent Tax Reduction Aimed at promoting a business-friendly environment, the reduction in the business rent tax from 4.5% to 2% in 2024 is a significant legislative step. This reduction is expected to stimulate business growth and economic competitiveness in Florida’s commercial real estate sector. 4. Condominium Reform Florida is also focusing on condominium reform to enhance governance, maintenance, and financial transparency. These reforms are designed to protect consumers, improve management standards, and boost confidence in condominium investments, a crucial segment of Florida’s real estate market. The Role of Florida Realtors in Legislative Advocacy Florida Realtors play a critical role in these legislative developments, particularly through their annual participation in the Greater American Realtor Days (GARD). Their advocacy ensures that real estate policies are aligned with industry needs, influencing positive changes in the legislative landscape. The intersection of legislative initiatives and real estate in Florida presents a dynamic landscape of challenges and opportunities, particularly in Miami. As stakeholders – including homeowners, investors, developers, and industry professionals – engage with these legislative items, their involvement is crucial in shaping a resilient and thriving real estate market in the Sunshine State.

Business, MSM Online, News & Entertainment

Floridians Turn To Solar Energy As A New Investment Strategy

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By MSM Staff Florida is known for its exceptional climate with abundant natural resources spread across the state. This makes the Sunshine State one of the global leaders in Renewable Energy, both in research, development and alternative fuel sources. However, after Hurricane Irma, it was clear that the issue of access to solar power was a massive problem in the State. With the power outage and the delay in restoring power supply, residents were forced to figure out how to power their households. This motivated most residents to consider switching to renewable energy by getting solar panels for their homes.   Although there was an initial restriction to this, the Sunshine State has decided to take a new turn with regards to solar power by approving the lease of Solar to Floridian households. With solar power being a more sustainable alternative for long-term electricity production, a significant number of residents are already making the switch. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, Florida has the third greatest rooftop solar potential in the country. However, it ranks 14th in installed solar capacity. This new change in policy will boost the growth of both rooftops and utility solar installations in Florida.  But what is even more worth noting about the solar energy concept is that it presents an intriguing new investment concept. In the US companies like Commtrade Solar Group attract clients with a Solar Tax Equity  strategy which can be used (and this is just one of several positive aspects) to significantly lower or even totally eliminate your Federal income tax.   Other Floridians are turning to European sources for their solar investment strategy. “ It’s remarkable how many inquiries we keep getting from American investors. They see the profitable energy market and want to use the state guarantees of the largest European economy here in Germany” said Andreas Becker, representative, Lightcore Energy. What companies like Lightcore do is to propose a very easy and transparent concept for private investors to become a solar power plant owner with sizable, predictable returns. At the same time, investors find the idea appealing that they are part of an environmentally friendly production that benefits not just them but our future generations.   Having one of the highest irradiation levels and fast-growing demand, investors are beginning to see companies like this as more than a bet on energy prices. One’s investment guarantees at least 7% annual growth for 20 years – independent of price fluctuations in the energy market . As a result no one is surprised that  investors are excited about solar power plants and, of course,  Brickell is all over this.

Business, Financial, MSM Online

Armando Soto on How To Make It In Miami & Live the American Dream

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By Nadja Atwal / Photography by Alessandra Fiorini Sometimes we just need an inspirational story that reassures us that the American dream is still alive. We would rather work smart than too hard, since in the end we work in order to live and – especially in a place like Miami that needs to be enjoyed all year around. Armando Soto shows us that is no problem at all and we do not have to wait until we qualify for a senior pass to get there. The 32 year old investment banker and start-up-company genius left his home country of Guatemala at age 15 to live with his American mother. He struggled with learning English and getting into college he became a plumber by trade. After refusing to let go of his dream of working in the business world he would read the Wall Street Journal out loud in front of a camera and play back the tape to improve his pronunciations; signed up for college at age 24 at The City University of New York and  jumped into the finance industry. Today he handles billionaire clients and has transacted over 500 million in Leveraged Buy Outs. He currently finances and restructures client investments while building new companies like kids build sandcastles in Miami beach. A frequent guest commentator on national business TV shows, he recently started to make waves across the country as a motivational speaker in front of large audiences especially young people turning up in great numbers to hear his speeches in search of smart guidance with both IQ and EQ. NA: Your story is fascinating and unique and attracts thousands of people to events when you appear as a motivational speaker. Tell us about your early years when you arrived in the US? AS: The early years were very difficult, simply because I was starting my sophomore year in a suburban high school in the middle of nowhere New Jersey. Between the language barrier and the culture shock, school was difficult and making friends in a new country was not simple either. I was bullied by many people including my mother’s brother in law. I remember an instance where I was helping him take out a bag full of garbage and he said to me “practice your new profession”. I could not believe my ears but in hindsight I believe many people discriminate or are racist because they feel threatened in one way or another. I was fortunate enough to have my neighbor Louie who had moved into town from Brooklyn; he was new in school as well so we became good friends and his size deterred many people from bullying me in my junior year. I learned a lot from him in regards to becoming more confident and not taking any abuse from people. Academically with English as a second language it was very tough for me. I was able to learn to speak English fluently by the time I graduated High School and my prospects looked a bit dim for college. I didn’t get accepted into any Universities so I turned to the plumbing trade and went through a four year program. By the time I graduated from Plumbing school I realized it was not my passion at least I learned trigonometry in-depth. NA: Did you have anything like a big American dream? AS: As a child I would watch the movie Trading Places with Eddie Murphy. I asked my father what the World Trade Center was and why the buildings in New York City were so tall. He would tell me all the big business in the world happened there. As a child I would day dream about walking in the streets of New York and working in the trading pits, there was something about the motion creating emotion.  When I moved to the United States I mentioned my dreams to friends and they would laugh at me. NA: How did the switch happen from plumbing business to the finance world? AS: When I was 22 years old I realized being an engineer by trade was not my passion and I felt that I had an untapped potential. The construction markets were starting to show signs of distress right before the great recession. I asked Phillip, a family friend who is a very successful investment banker for a dinner meeting and after eight months of coordinating with his assistant he had some time to meet with me. I had three hours to absorb as much information about investment banking as possible and I told him my plan of going back to school to break into finance. After looking back and thinking about our meeting, I really got key parts of “the recipe” that night. I started commuting to CUNY from New Jersey. It was a rough start but mentally, there was nothing that would stop me and this was just the start of climbing a mountain that would only get steeper with time. NA: Why did you decide not to finish university? AS: I began to look at everything from a finance perspective and I did not have enough money to finish school without falling very deep into debt. I was offered a great job opportunity in finance and asked my Economics professor for advice on whether to take the offer or continue school. He said to me “opportunity knocks…” I answered “once” and he said “well there you go, I wish you the best of luck. Although it seems like you don’t need it”.  I base my decisions based on facts but that day it was based on intuition. NA: Tell us how exactly how you managed to lose your Spanish accent and what motivated you to do this? AS: I used a camera to record myself reading the Wall Street Journal and played the tape back to focus on my mispronunciation. Practice certainly helps. In business being clear and concise when you speak is one of the most important qualities you need to have. The motivator was to fit into America, I came to this country and from day one I

Business, MSM Online

Miami Is Keeping Business Hot – But What About The Risks?

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By Nadja Atwal/Photos by Aubrey Chandler Entrepreneurs are tastemakers of lifestyle and Tastemakers are entrepreneurs of lifestyle. Successful entrepreneurs typically influence quality, quantity, choice, and what is generally considered acceptable. Likewise tastemakers of lifestyle recreate the experiences of the rich and famous influence dictating quality, quantity, choice, and what is acceptable, in fashion, style, and popular trend behavior. There are great similarities between entrepreneurs and tastemakers. One could easily say that entrepreneurs are tastemakers of lifestyle and tastemakers are entrepreneurs of lifestyle. Each spends a lot of time on how to influence behavior. Some succeed. Some fail. So what drives success? What causes failure? What are the major differences between the entrepreneur and the tastemaker that dictate success or failure? In the investment community, the best risk management strategy usually wins. Risk is a good indicator for success vs. failure, because risk is a possibility that will have an effect on every outcome. Some stakeholders take risk it into account when measuring success. Most do not. Risk is the potential of losing or gaining. In today’s volatile marketplaces like entertainment, tech, oil, or crypto, having a risk management strategy will certainly gain an edge over the competition. The journey to success relies upon the plan set forth to achieve success as well as how one effectively measures the planned journey along the way. “Entrepreneurial success can be and should be a measurable calculation for the most part,” says Hasaan Austin from BSEP+, one of the nations top risk managers who sees an increased demand especially in Miami. “Yes. There are some intangibles. Very often a successful entrepreneur’s primary objective is to attract capital. Even if not to accept capital but to operate in a best practices fashion to meet capital requirements. This is measurable. Meeting basic capital requirements says to the marketplace that one is navigating and decision-making effectively. The business systems puts in place to affect margin, debt service, and risk will guide decision-making on a path to meeting requirements.” Entrepreneurs like tastemakers also draw upon inherent traits for decision-making like talent, feelings, experience, and intuition. However investor demands for risk management often limit how much unquantifiable decision-making takes place. Investors require more calculated result driven decisions. Yet a healthy combination of both type of decision-making can serve well if one can demonstrate high performance over time. Nevertheless quality risk management will help you keep score on your journey to success and help you triumph. Tastemakers generally apply more inherent decision-making traits as influencers, like celebrity, vibe, buzz, gut feelings, and social sentiment. These traits are often unquantifiable but have great inherent business value that can influence outcomes. When you combine these traits with risk management measurables, this can create a great tastemaker lifestyle venture, which will yield better results. Tastemakers should be more vested in their influence, why not? Tastemakers are often unknowingly stimulating business ecosystems. Tastemakers dictate the movement of capital, resources, and job creation simply by creating a demand. Tastemakers shift consumer-spending behavior, influencing choice, price points and more. What makes Miami special in this context? Hasaan Austin sees the evidence speaking for itself: “Miami is a top tastemaker destination. People come from all around the world to experience the tastemaker lifestyles of the rich and famous in Miami. When Rene Ruiz, Miami Fashion Designer extraordinaire, fits Deborah Norville for The Oscars Red Carpet, all the sentiments of Miami being the next big fashion city starts to reign true. Or when Thirstin Howl the 3rd talks about being “Fresh Dressed,” it becomes a LoLife movement in Miami and around the world. Or when DJ Irie, DJ of the Miami Heat says, “Some of my favorites include Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami,” people’s choices change. These influencer choices can shift economies. As tastemakers become more vested stakeholders and incorporate more corporate structures and risk management strategies into their ventures, they become more entrepreneur-like, right? The line between entrepreneur and tastemaker is blurring more everyday as best practices are put into place. As stakeholders, downside risk should be a primary focus in measuring outcomes. Whether you’re using the Balance Sheet Enhancement Platform to protect your principal and hedge against downside risk in your investment portfolio or enhance your entrepreneur undertaking with a credit enhancement to attract capital, you should have an effective risk management strategy in place”. Sound advice. Entrepreneurs and tastemakers are stakeholders that operate in the same box seeking maximum return on investment from their efforts. What separates one from the other is generally who applies more measurable business fundamentals to quantify success. Success can be measured many ways. Most rely on the X’s and O’s written on the chalkboard. Some rely upon talent, instinct, or a combination of each. Nonetheless the measurement will always be how close was your “planned” strategy to your “actual” outcome?

Business, MSM Online

My Miami – with Jamie Colby of Fox Business Network’s primetime reality series Strange Inheritance

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By Nadja Atwal Popular Fox News anchor Jamie Colby may be one of the smartest ladies on TV. The stunning blonde with the infectious smile was a practicing attorney before she entered the world of TV and is currently licensed in California, New York, Florida AND the District of Columbia. If that was not enough she is also an accountant, a mortgage broker, and a real estate broker. Her smarts showed early on when she got admitted to the University of Miami International School of Business at age 14! Currently the diverse media pro who has an extensive journalistic background with networks like CNN, CBS and FOX (among others) is hosting Fox Business Network’s primetime reality series Strange Inheritance. But her busy business schedule never keeps her from enjoying one of her favorite places: MIAMI. We were curious about all the details…. 1.) When in Miami you may catch me at….the Palm Court in the Design District, listening to the Miami Symphony or enjoying irresistible food and live music at Estefan Kitchen!    2.) The biggest misconception about Miami is…that it lacks culture and is just a retirement locale or party town. I always make time to check out the art scene in Wynwood, the Bass museum, Faena Art and try to score tickets to the now famed Art Basel. I’ve watched the art scene take off in my hometown since before Basel started in Miami. You can literally attend something incredible every night!   3.) The last restaurant I enjoyed in Miami was….that’s an easy one. Joe’s!!! Steve Sawitz is the world’s greatest host and I can never go enough for stone crabs and all the sides! You are making me hungry!   4.) What surprised me about Miami was…that I ended up living there! My folks were both native New Yorkers but when they uprooted my brother retired Dade County Circuit Judge Jonathan Colby and I to move to Miami, they did us the greatest favor!   5.) Best reason to return to Miami aside from the weather? The people! I have a ton of childhood, college (Go Canes!) and law school friends in town but wherever you go in town, there’s a colorful crowd that’s ethnically diverse and I think that’s what makes Miami so special. I wish more people would check out how far Miami has come in its beauty, entertainment, art and hospitality. Growing up one of my funniest memories was my best friend Stephanie Koretzsky who was a hotel operator at the National Hotel owned at the time by her dad Murray. These were the days when you had wires you plugged into the switchboard to connect calls (think Lily Tomlin and one ringy dingy). Every time I drive down Ocean Drive which looks nothing like it did then, I think about how funny Stephanie sounded – just a kid playing a hilarious hotel operator. The shopping keeps me coming back too. I love the Webster, En Avance and a trip to Bal Harbor with lunch at Carpaccio of course!   6.) First time I became really curious about Miami was …right now! I just can’t even imagine what it will be like in 10 years. Construction is booming, people are investing and the art scene that I am so passionate about is literally on fire! How exciting for all of us who love Miami so much.   7. ) What happens in Miami stays  in Miami…and  our magazine. Any  secret or funny moment you ‘d like to share about you and this city? I am such a big fan of Steve Sawitz and Joe’s Stone Crab’s, after all he is a childhood friend, that after I went into labor with my son and was warned no meals before delivery, I made a stop at Joe’s take out on the way to Mount Sinai Hospital down the street and had a feast of claws, coleslaw and hash browns! My delivery room nurse was clearly not pleased so after my son Gregory arrived, I sent the whole labor and delivery staff a take away Joe’s meal they’d never forget.

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