Funding was Led by Index Ventures with Participation from Kleiner Perkins, Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital, Adobe Ventures, HubSpot Ventures, and Jared Leto

Captions, a pioneering platform in generative video creation and editing, has announced a successful Series C funding round, raising $60 million led by Index Ventures. This round brings Captions' total capital raised to $100 million, with a valuation now reaching $500 million. The funding will be instrumental in advancing their AI capabilities and expanding their technical infrastructure to further innovate in video technology.

Key Points:

• Series C Funding Details:

  • Captions has raised $60 million in Series C funding, led by Index Ventures. Existing investors Kleiner Perkins, Andreessen Horowitz, and Sequoia Capital have also participated, along with new investors Adobe Ventures, HubSpot Ventures, and Jared Leto.
  • This funding round marks a significant milestone for Captions, positioning them strongly in the competitive landscape of video technology.

• Investment Focus:

  • Gaurav Misra, co-founder and CEO of Captions, highlighted their plan to invest $100 million into advancing generative video research, with a focus on growing their machine learning team and expanding in-house research efforts.
  • The company aims to solidify New York City as a hub for AI innovation, leveraging the city's burgeoning tech ecosystem to drive their mission of democratizing video creation.

• Technological Innovations:

  • Recent innovations by Captions include AI Creator, a groundbreaking 3D avatar designed for content creation, AI Edit for one-tap video editing, and Lipdub, which generates natural lip movement and body language.
  • These technologies have driven Captions' growth, resulting in over 10 million downloads for their mobile app alone and positioning them as a leader in AI-enabled video creation tools.

• Market Impact and Vision:

  • Damir Becirovic from Index Ventures emphasized Captions' role in enhancing storytelling through AI-enabled video creation, enabling users to share compelling stories in unprecedented ways.
  • Everett Randle of Kleiner Perkins highlighted Captions' agility in delivering innovative products, underscoring their potential to reshape how videos are created and shared globally.

• Business Applications:

  • Brandon Greer of HubSpot Ventures highlighted Captions' potential in transforming how businesses engage with customers through high-quality video content, catering to the dominance of short-form video formats in digital marketing.

Captions' Series C funding marks a pivotal moment as they accelerate their mission to revolutionize video creation with AI-driven innovations. With robust financial backing and strategic partnerships, Captions is poised to further expand its market presence and redefine the landscape of digital storytelling.

FluentStream enables thousands of organizations to adopt long-term hybrid and remote work environments

FluentStream, a leader in Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS), has announced that its solutions are essential for the hybrid and remote work environments that have become the norm for many small- and medium-sized organizations. Today, over 90% of FluentStream’s customers rely on its self-service web portal and mobile app to support seamless communication from any location or device.

Key Points:

• UCaaS Solutions for Hybrid and Remote Work:

  • FluentStream’s UCaaS platform offers a comprehensive range of features designed to support remote and hybrid work environments. Key features include cloud-based calling, advanced call center capabilities, and integrations with popular tools like Salesforce and Microsoft Teams.
  • The platform’s user-friendly self-service web portal and mobile app enable administrators and employees to customize their communication services, manage settings, and maintain productivity from anywhere with an internet connection.

• Impact of COVID-19:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid shift to remote work for many organizations, highlighting the importance of FluentStream’s UCaaS solutions. FluentStream's services have proven vital for businesses adapting to these new work environments.
  • According to a recent EY study, 75% of companies envision a future with flexible or decentralized workspaces, underscoring the long-term relevance of UCaaS solutions.

• Successful Partnership with BroadAspect:

  • FluentStream's strategic partnership with BroadAspect, signed in March 2020, was instrumental in transitioning customers to FluentStream’s platform during the early days of the pandemic. BroadAspect, an on-premises services provider, collaborated with FluentStream to ensure a smooth transition for their customers.
  • Chris Chamberlain, CEO of BroadAspect, praised FluentStream’s reliable and flexible communication services, emphasizing continued customer satisfaction and effective support over the past four years.

• Future of Hybrid and Remote Work:

  • Cass Gilmore, CEO of FluentStream, highlighted the significance of their partnership with BroadAspect and the role of FluentStream’s services in helping organizations navigate the shift to long-term hybrid and remote work models.
  • FluentStream’s commitment to supporting remote work is reflected in their own use of the platform, which has enabled their team to operate effectively in a fully remote work environment since 2020.

• Customer Testimonials:

  • BroadAspect’s Chris Chamberlain commended FluentStream’s services for their reliability and flexibility, noting that these qualities have been crucial for customers transitioning to remote work and achieving greater productivity and satisfaction.

• Company's Own Remote Work Success:

  • FluentStream has successfully implemented a fully remote work environment for its own team, demonstrating the effectiveness of its UCaaS solutions and providing a model for other organizations to follow.

FluentStream’s UCaaS solutions have proven to be indispensable for small- and medium-sized organizations navigating the shift to long-term hybrid and remote work. With a robust platform featuring cloud-based calling, call center capabilities, and strategic integrations, FluentStream is well-positioned to support businesses as they adapt to evolving work environments and strive for greater productivity and employee satisfaction.

New platform enables the video commerce retailer to directly engage with creators and influencers, provide insights into engagement, and better connect with today’s modern buyer

HSN, a leader in livestream shopping and video storytelling, has officially launched HSNfluencer, a new creator platform developed in partnership with impact.com, the world’s leading partnership management platform. This advanced platform is designed to streamline the way HSN connects with creators and influencers, providing a comprehensive solution for managing partnerships, analyzing performance, and scaling influencer marketing efforts.

Key Features of HSNfluencer:

• Streamlined Creator Engagement:

  • HSNfluencer allows HSN to build and manage direct relationships with influencers and creators. The platform offers a centralized space where creators can access resources, tools, and support to generate content and promote HSN’s products.
  • Creators from diverse backgrounds can collaborate with HSN, using carefully curated product collections to inspire their content and generate affiliate product links for their posts.

• Enhanced Shopping Experience:

  • The platform enables influencers and HSN’s on-air personalities to curate their own storefronts, providing customers with a unique opportunity to interact with their favorite HSN personalities and shop their curated product collections.
  • This approach leverages the power of personal recommendations, a trusted source for consumers, to enhance customer engagement and drive sales.

• Data-Driven Insights and Performance Metrics:

  • HSNfluencer integrates impact.com’s technology to offer detailed performance metrics, actionable insights, and powerful reporting tools. This functionality helps HSN and its creators track campaign performance, optimize strategies, and scale their efforts effectively.
  • The platform supports an “always-on” creator performance structure, enabling continuous engagement and allowing creators to view and participate in ongoing campaigns.

• Growing the Creator Economy:

  • With the creator economy expected to reach $480 billion by 2027, HSNfluencer positions HSN to take advantage of this growth. By fostering authentic and transparent creator partnerships, HSN aims to meet consumers where they seek trusted reviews and recommendations.

Industry Insights:

• Influencer Marketing Trends:

  • According to recent data, 88% of consumers trust personal recommendations over other channels, and 64% are influenced to make purchases based on influencer recommendations.
  • David A. Yovanno, CEO of impact.com, emphasizes that leveraging trusted creators is crucial for engaging modern consumers and driving conversions in the growing creator economy.

• HSN’s Vision for the Future:

  • Rebecca Kerper, VP Chief Digital Officer at HSN, highlights the importance of HSNfluencer in growing HSN’s ambassador program and showcasing the impact of creator relationships on customer engagement.
  • The platform’s design focuses on creating a mutually beneficial environment for creators and customers, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

HSNfluencer’s Impact:

• Empowering Creators:

  • HSNfluencer empowers creators by providing a platform where they can discover products, create content, and engage with their audiences while earning commissions.
  • The platform also facilitates a community-driven approach, allowing creators to participate in campaigns, share their content, and connect with like-minded individuals.

• Expanding HSN’s Reach:

  • By utilizing impact.com’s advanced technology, HSN expands its reach and effectiveness in influencer marketing. The platform’s capabilities enable HSN to manage and optimize creator partnerships, drive brand awareness, and increase sales.

HSN’s launch of HSNfluencer, powered by impact.com’s cutting-edge technology, marks a significant advancement in creator partnership management and livestream shopping. The platform offers a streamlined solution for engaging with creators, enhancing the customer shopping experience, and driving growth in the creator economy. HSNfluencer represents a new era in influencer marketing, providing the tools and insights needed to succeed in a competitive market.

Seasoned consumer finance executive succeeds Co-Founder Krishna Gopinathan, who will remain on ADF’s Board

Applied Data Finance (ADF), a leading technology-enabled consumer lending services platform, has announced the appointment of Joseph Toms as its new Chief Executive Officer. Toms succeeds Co-Founder Krishna Gopinathan, who will transition to a board role and advisory position. Toms brings extensive experience in consumer finance and asset management, having previously served as the Head of Consumer Lending at Axar Capital and a member of ADF’s Board since November 2023.

1. Joseph Toms’ Background and Experience

• Over 35 years of experience in consumer finance and asset management.
• Former Head of Consumer Lending at Axar Capital.
• Launched Freedom Financial’s (later Achieve.com) successful lending division.
• Grew Freedom Financial’s lending division into a $2 billion consumer credit fund with AAA ratings from two rating agencies.

2. Vision and Leadership at ADF

• Toms' commitment to building on the foundation established by Krishna Gopinathan.
• Emphasis on ADF’s sophisticated risk pricing abilities and advanced data-science capabilities.
• Focus on innovative and responsible credit solutions for customers.

3. Company's Recent Developments

• Successful refinancing and growth equity capital infusion in late 2023.
• Continued growth and exploration of new opportunities for innovation and expansion.

4. Statements from Key Figures

• Joseph Toms on his new role and vision for ADF.
  • Praises ADF’s talented team and customer-centric approach.
• Krishna Gopinathan on Toms’ appointment.
  • Confidence in Toms’ ability to drive ADF’s success.

Joseph Toms’ appointment as CEO marks a significant step for ADF as the company continues to grow and innovate in the consumer lending industry. With Toms’ extensive background and strategic vision, ADF is poised for continued success and leadership in the market. Krishna Gopinathan's transition to a board role ensures ongoing support and guidance for the company's future endeavors.

Also announces appointment of Niklas Savander as Chairman of the Board

Outpost24, a leading provider of cyber risk management and threat intelligence solutions backed by Vitruvian Partners, has announced the appointment of Ido Erlichman as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Erlichman brings over 20 years of experience in cyber security, technology, and finance, having previously transformed Kape Technologies into a leader in digital privacy and security.

1. Ido Erlichman’s Background and Experience

• Over 20 years in cyber security, technology, and finance.
• Former CEO of Kape Technologies.
  • Led the company to serve 7.5 million customers worldwide.
  • Oversaw its sale for $1.75 billion in 2023.
• Transformed Kape Technologies into a category leader in digital privacy and security.

2. Vision and Leadership at Outpost24

• Erlichman’s commitment to building on Outpost24’s strong foundation.
• Focus on expanding and combining product lines.
• Emphasis on innovation and customer success.
• Simplifying cyber exposure management for modern-day attack surfaces.

3. Niklas Savander’s Appointment as Chairman of the Board

• Niklas Savander's extensive experience as an executive and CEO in the technology industry.
• Previous roles include Chair and Board member at Klarna, Easypark, Cint, and Silverfin.
• Current Chairman Jussi Wuoristo will remain a director on the Board.

4. Statements from Key Figures

• Ido Erlichman on his new role and vision for Outpost24.
  • Excited about expanding and enhancing product offerings.
• Niklas Savander on welcoming Erlichman as CEO.
  • Confidence in Erlichman’s ability to advance Outpost24’s strategic goals.
• Appreciation for outgoing CEO Karl Thedeen’s contributions.

5. Recent Developments at Outpost24

• Launch of The Outpost24 Exposure Management Platform in June.
  • Provides continuous monitoring of attack surfaces and proactive threat remediation.
  • Aligns with Gartner’s top trend for 2024: Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM).
  • Facilitates all steps of Gartner's CTEM definition: scoping, discovery, prioritization, validation, and mobilization.

The appointment of Ido Erlichman as CEO marks a new chapter for Outpost24 as the company continues to innovate and lead in cyber risk management and threat intelligence. With Erlichman’s extensive background and strategic vision, supported by new Chairman Niklas Savander, Outpost24 is poised for continued success and global growth.

Newest Executive Addition at Fast Growing Clear Street Led CBOE Through Decades of Transformation

Clear Street, a cloud-native financial technology firm focused on modernizing the brokerage ecosystem, proudly announces the appointment of Edward Tilly as its new President. Tilly brings over a decade of successful leadership as CEO of CBOE Global Markets, where he significantly grew the company's market capitalization and spearheaded transformative initiatives.

1. Edward Tilly’s Background and Achievements

• Former CEO of CBOE Global Markets.
  • Grew market capitalization from $2 billion to over $18 billion.
  • Led the acquisition of BATS Global Markets in 2017.
  • Introduced innovative products like zero-days-to-expiration (0DTE) options.
• Proven track record in running a public company and driving growth.

2. Role and Vision at Clear Street

• Tilly to work closely with CEO Chris Pento.
• Focus on leading Clear Street through its next growth phase.
• Tilly will report to the Board of Directors.
• Emphasis on super-charging growth plans and expanding the company's reach.

3. Statements from Key Figures

• Chris Pento on Tilly’s Appointment:
  • Clear Street's rapid growth since 2018.
  • Company’s valuation at $2.1 billion.
  • Platform’s growth accelerating with a CAGR of over 50%.
  • Importance of Tilly joining the executive team for future growth.
• Edward Tilly on Joining Clear Street:
  • Excitement about the customer-centric vision and unique technology platform.
  • Commitment to innovation and accessibility in financial markets.
• Uri Cohen on Tilly’s Strategic Fit:
  • Tilly's experience as a capital markets entrepreneur.
  • Strategic vision and ability to drive sustainable growth.
  • His role in Clear Street’s mission to modernize the brokerage ecosystem.

4. Recent Executive Team Additions

• Atul Pawar, former Goldman Sachs head of U.S. Prime, Clearing, FCM and Counterparty Risk.
• Jon Daplyn, former technology leader at Morgan Stanley.

Edward Tilly’s appointment as President marks a significant milestone for Clear Street as the company continues to innovate and expand in the financial technology sector. Tilly’s extensive experience and leadership capabilities are set to propel Clear Street towards achieving its mission of modernizing the brokerage ecosystem with world-class technology and customer experiences.

New Feature Provides Robust Defense Against Double-Extortion Ransomware Tactics

Align, the premier global provider of technology infrastructure solutions and Managed IT Services, has announced the addition of a new exfiltration prevention feature to its Align Guardian Managed Detection and Response (MDR) offering. Powered by Adlumin, this innovative feature is designed to detect and halt attackers from exfiltrating data, providing a robust defense against modern ransomware tactics that employ double-extortion techniques.

1. Overview of the New Feature

• Introduction of exfiltration prevention to Guardian MDR.
• Complements existing ransomware prevention capabilities.
  • Stops ransomware encryption quickly enough to save 99% of files.
• Provides comprehensive protection against both data encryption and theft.

2. Importance of the New Feature

• Addresses modern ransomware tactics, including double-extortion techniques.
• Ensures organizations are protected from evolving cyber threats.
• Critical for maintaining the security of sensitive data, particularly for clients in the alternative investment industry.

3. Statements from Align Leadership

• Vinod Paul, President of Align Managed Services:
  • Highlights the commitment to innovation and client support.
  • Emphasizes the enhanced protection's importance for clients.

4. How the Exfiltration Prevention Feature Works

• Utilizes decoy files to attract malicious actors.
• Monitors these files for signs of encryption or data exfiltration.
• Terminates suspicious processes at the earliest stages.
• Proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of successful ransomware attacks and data breaches.

5. Benefits to Align’s Managed Services Clients

• Automatic inclusion of the new feature at no additional cost.
• Enhanced security measures without extra financial burden.

The addition of exfiltration prevention to Align’s Guardian MDR offering marks a significant advancement in the fight against modern ransomware tactics. This innovative feature not only complements the existing ransomware prevention capabilities but also provides a comprehensive defense against data encryption and theft. With this enhancement, Align continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation and protecting its clients from evolving cyber threats.

Treasure Global Inc, a leading technology solutions provider, has announced its plan to acquire 100% shareholding of Who Knows Wins Ltd (WKW), a UK-based interactive social sports platform operator. This acquisition aligns with Treasure Global’s strategic vision to leverage innovative technologies for revenue growth and expansion into the US market.

1. Overview of Who Knows Wins (WKW)

• Innovative online platform for social sports engagement.
• Proprietary 'Game Engine' utilizing game logic and APIs.
• Features include real-time sports data, social platform integration, AML measures, and third-party payment integration.

2. Strategic Goals of the Acquisition

• Leverage WKW’s platform to penetrate the US market.
• Align with major gaming brands for growth.
• Enhance Treasure Global's offerings in the gaming technology space.

3. Benefits of WKW’s Platform

• Fully customizable sports engagement platform for media, brands, and teams.
• Over 65,000 registered users engaging in custom leagues and competitions.
• Effective tool for first-party data collection and audience insights.
• Converts passive fans into active users, driving multiple revenue streams.

4. Partnership with GolfNow LLC

• Collaboration with GolfNow, a subsidiary of NBC.
• Development of a white-label site service within the GolfNow Compete App.
• Introduction of GolfNow Sponsored Leagues accessible via WKW and GolfNow Compete App.

5. Market Potential and Industry Growth

• Rapid evolution of the sports technology industry.
• Global sports technology market projected to grow at a CAGR of 20.8% from 2023 to 2030.
• Increasing demand for interactive and personalized fan experiences.

6. Statements from Treasure Global Leadership

• CEO Carlson Thow on the acquisition’s potential to complement the company’s roadmap.
• Emphasis on leveraging WKW’s platform for user engagement and revenue growth.
• Commitment to delivering exceptional value to stakeholders and clients.

The acquisition of Who Knows Wins Ltd by Treasure Global Inc represents a strategic move to enhance the company’s position in the gaming technology space and expand into the US market. By integrating WKW’s innovative platform, Treasure Global aims to drive user engagement, gather valuable audience insights, and create new revenue streams. This acquisition underscores Treasure Global’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to provide exceptional value and maintain a leadership position in the evolving sports technology industry.