Category Archives: Finance

SimpleNexus attributes record 2019 growth to lender demand for integrated digital mortgage technology

LEHI, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- SimpleNexus (https://simplenexus.com/), developer of the leading digital mortgage platform for loan officers, borrowers and real estate agents, today announced that it credits its accelerated 2019 growth to demand for digital mortgage tools capable of easy integration with lenders' full tech stacks.

"Increasingly, our customers are telling us that they are only willing to invest in software platforms and products that are able to work symbiotically with their existing tech stack," said Founder and CEO of SimpleNexus Matt Hansen. "Lenders are seeking to avoid shelling out tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars on custom integrations that may no longer be useful five years down the line. Lenders are drawn to SimpleNexus because our platform is flexible, cost-effective and capable of retaining relevance over time."

Last year SimpleNexus added 59 enterprise clients to its roster, bringing the total number of enterprise lenders SimpleNexus empowers to "do more" to more than 216, including 15 of the top 25 retail lenders in the United States. To date, the company has connected its more than 22,000 active loan originators with 1.3 million borrowers and 89,000 real estate partners to produce loans totaling over $200 billion in volume.

In 2019, SimpleNexus significantly bolstered features designed to enhance lender productivity, facilitate referral partnership development and drive cross-platform functionality. In March, SimpleNexus announced an enhanced disclosures toolset that expedites the disclosure process by days. July marked the release of an API that enables real-time data transfers with other systems. In August SimpleNexus debuted new tools for building real estate partner relationships.

SimpleNexus reinvested in serving its mortgage lender clients by expanding its team. Notable hires in 2019 include:
* Chuck Staib, Chief Sales Officer
* Kent Besaw, VP of Customer Success
* Kevin McKenzie, VP of Finance
* Shane Westra, VP of Product
* John Aslanian, VP of Sales
* Anna Ratanawan, VP of People Operations
* Pam Faulkner, Director, Mortgage Solutions
* Sol Klein, Director of Implementation

SimpleNexus garnered significant recognition for its accelerated company growth, in-house talent and veracity as a leading digital mortgage technology. SimpleNexus made its debut on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500, and for the second consecutive year was named to the Inc. 500 list of fastest growing technology companies. Additionally, the company was a recipient of the HousingWire (HW) Tech100 and the Silver Telly Award for its "Do More" video campaign.

SimpleNexus Founder and CEO Matt Hansen was awarded as a HousingWire (HW) Tech Trendsetter and a Lending Luminary by PROGRESS in Lending; COO Ben Miller was honored by HousingWire's (HW) Vanguard and Rising Stars awards programs; and Senior Vice President of Sales Paul Drobot was named a HW Insider.

About SimpleNexus, LLC:

SimpleNexus is the digital mortgage platform that enables lenders to originate and process loans from anywhere. The company's best-in-class, easy-to-use app connects loan officers to their borrowers and real estate agents to easily communicate and exchange data in a single location throughout the entire loan life cycle. Loan officers can manage their loan pipelines, order credit, run pricing, send pre-approvals and sign disclosures - all on the go.

SimpleNexus, developer of the leading digital mortgage platform for loan officers, borrowers and real estate agents, today announced that it credits its accelerated 2019 growth to demand for digital mortgage tools capable of easy integration with lenders' full tech stacks.

Related link: https://simplenexus.com/

OptifiNow Leverages ReverseVision API to Streamline Reverse Loan Origination at Open Mortgage

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- ReverseVision, the leading provider of Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) and private reverse mortgage sales and origination technology, today announced their recently released Loan Import API has been leveraged by OptifiNow for mutual lender client Open Mortgage. The integration links OptifiNow's cloud-based SaaS sales and management platform with ReverseVision's RV Exchange (RVX) loan origination platform, enabling Open Mortgage to expedite loan production, drive performance and better nurture customer relationships for its reverse lending channel.

The OptifiNow platform offers a central command station from which lenders can manage sales and performance functions via customer relationship management (CRM), intelligent sales automation, sales enablement, business intelligence (BI) and application programming interface (API) modules. When connected with lenders' core origination technology, OptifiNow can deliver closed-loop marketing that equips lenders with revenue-driving insights into lead sources, loan originator (LO) performance, closed loan revenues and ROI opportunities.

ReverseVision and OptifiNow's partnership has streamlined origination at Open Mortgage by building a "generate loan" button directly into the OptifiNow dashboard that enables LOs to create and prepopulate a loan application directly within RVX. Instead of switching systems and manually rekeying applicant data, reverse LOs can generate loans with the push of a button, benefitting from the simplicity and strengthened data integrity inherent to process automation.

Once a loan record is generated in either system, OptifiNow will synchronize its data with RVX so that current borrower data and loan status are reflected in both systems. Hybrid LOs that originate both forward and reverse mortgages will benefit from the integration by simply toggling between their forward and reverse workflow within OptifiNow.

"Our Loan Import API was developed out of ReverseVision's commitment to enable platform implementations that match lenders' business models," said ReverseVision Vice President of Sales and Marketing Wendy Peel. "As mortgage technology and the lending market evolve, our cloud-based, API-enabled platform will be able to flex to lenders' needs so that they can meet borrowers where they are in life."

"API is a foundational pillar of our platform because we believe that digital mortgage technologies should integrate for the benefit of the customer," said OptifiNow President and CEO John McGee. "If we don't have an integration with a client's vendor, then we aggressively work to develop that partnership. It's a win for everybody when we can perform integrations that simplify technology workflows for our clients."

"ReverseVision has been a strong partner in supporting OptifiNow's integration with RVX via the Loan Import API," continued McGee. "We see ourselves as working on the same team to help Open Mortgage be more successful in their reverse origination business. Our end goal is to generate common happy customers by helping lenders grow their business."

About OptifiNow

OptifiNow offers a full cloud-based Sales & Management Platform that acts as a personal assistant to each sales person to help them convert every opportunity. Management controls the sales process and gets the insights to drive continuous improvement. For more information, visit https://www.optifinow.com or call (888) 746-6743.

About ReverseVision

ReverseVision, Inc. is the leading Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) and private reverse mortgage sales and origination technology platform, supporting more reverse mortgage transactions than all other systems combined. The company's comprehensive product suite flexes to lenders' unique business and operational models, connecting all lending participants across the entire reverse mortgage lifecycle to meet borrowers where they are in life. A four-time HousingWire TECH100(TM) company, ReverseVision continues to build on its technology's pioneering capabilities with frequent enhancements.

For more information, visit https://www.reversevision.com/.

ReverseVision, the leading provider of Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) and private reverse mortgage sales and origination technology, today announced their recently released Loan Import API has been leveraged by OptifiNow for mutual lender client Open Mortgage.

Related link: https://www.reversevision.com/

Travel Insurance Companies vs. Cruise Lines: Why Shopping Around Is The Better Choice

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- With the kick off of the Cruise Wave Season this month, the time when cruise companies offer the best deals on cruises, TravelInsurance.com urges travelers to purchase travel insurance early to protect their investments and ensure they're covered in the event of travel mishaps. Travel insurance can cover issues that occur both prior to embarkation or during a cruise, wreaking havoc on what is meant to be a dream adventure.

What many cruise travelers may not know is that they have options when it comes to travel insurance, and that by comparing plans, they can secure the best protection for their situation, at the best price.

"Cruises can be a great option for travelers, however they can present unique issues when it comes to travel mishaps, as a missed connection or delayed flight can put an entire trip into peril," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com. "Travel insurance is an affordable way to protect yourself if something unexpected does arise. Taking the time to find the right options, specific to your circumstances, is important. We highly recommend travelers shop around for the right coverage for their needs."

By taking advantage of captive customers in the booking process, cruise lines generally offer a single or limited selection of options at the time of purchase which may not be cost-effective compared to the options provided from multiple providers through comparison sites like TravelInsurance.com.

Cruisers should be prepared for the following common travel concerns:

Cancellations: Unforeseen circumstances can result in the need to cancel a trip at the last minute -- from work emergencies to illness. Travel insurance companies offer trip cancellation protection which provides refunds for the prepaid, non-refundable cruise costs as well as flights and accommodations booked, if the trip is canceled due to a covered reason. Travel insurance purchased directly through the cruise line may only provide a voucher or credit for a covered cancellation and may cover fewer reasons for cancellations, depending on the plan purchased. And travel insurance purchase directly from the cruise lines may not cover your flights, excursions or accommodations if they weren't purchased with the cruise line or the cruise agency.

Missed Port of Call: Some travel insurance plans are designed specifically for the cruise market. For example, the APRIL Travel Protection Cruise plan, available on TravelInsurance.com, offers coverage in the event a cruise misses a scheduled port of call on the cruise itinerary. The plan will pay an inconvenience fee of $200 per missed port up to $600 if the cruise skips the port.

Missed Connections: The leading causes of missing a cruise ship include delayed flights or adverse weather conditions. Cruise ships run on tight schedules, and they will not cover any missed departure time. Travel insurance (via Missed Connection coverage) can reimburse the traveler for a set dollar amount to re-book travel to catch up with their cruise at the next port.

"It's important to remember that the best time to purchase travel insurance is immediately after buying the cruise ticket," continued Sandberg. "Check multiple providers and compare plans to find the right fit for you and your trip."

By buying right away, coverage will include pre-departure benefits (such as trip cancellation coverage) for the longest period possible. Purchasing early also allows buyers to take advantage of certain available upgrades such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage.

For more information, visit https://www.travelinsurance.com/.

About TravelInsurance.com:
TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings, LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes.

With the kick off of the Cruise Wave Season this month, the time when cruise companies offer the best deals on cruises, TravelInsurance.com urges travelers to purchase travel insurance early to protect their investments and ensure they're covered in the event of travel mishaps.

Related link: https://www.travelinsurance.com/

FormFree Generates Record Number of Combined Verification Reports in 2019

ATHENS, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- FormFree(R) rounded out 2019 with a 65 percent increase in total orders for its AccountChek(R) Asset Report and three-in-one Passport(TM) Report over the previous year. The surge in adoption of the company's market-leading products, which allow lenders to verify borrower asset, income and employment information, caps a long list of product milestones.

"Last year the number of borrower verification reports generated by FormFree ballooned to 1.9 million," said FormFree Founder and CEO Brent Chandler. "That figure accounts for nearly half of the 3.7 million reports generated over the lifetime of the FormFree. As the only company already offering combined asset, income and employment reporting, we expect the number of verification reports generated by our system to rise sharply in 2020."

FormFree's borrower verification products, already the most advanced in the industry, were bolstered in 2019 through partnerships and product updates that enhance lender speed, pull-through rates and security. In July, FormFree announced a partnership with FundingShield that provides added protection to Passport customers' closing fund transfers. In October, FormFree partnered with LexisNexis Risk Solutions to help lenders intelligently pre-fill the Universal Residential Loan Application (Form 65/1003) for applicants and made paystub collection and verification available through Passport.

Earlier in the year, FormFree joined the Financial Data Exchange (FDX) to support information sharing and security standards for the financial sector and filed a patent application describing the company's proprietary method for verifying loan applicants' employment and income history.

In 2019, FormFree received recognition from industry publications for its in-house talent, workplace culture and technological impact on the mortgage industry. Founder and CEO Brent Chandler was named to HousingWire's (HW) inaugural list of Tech Trendsetters. Brian Francis, chief technology officer, received the HW Insider Award. Both FormFree and board member Faith Schwartz were finalists for Mortgage Professional America (MPA) Power Originator Awards. And as an organization, FormFree was recognized for the fourth consecutive year as a HW Tech100 company and by MPA as a Top Mortgage Workplace.

About FormFree(R)

FormFree(R) is a market-leading fintech company whose revolutionary products AccountChek(R) and Passport(TM) are changing the credit decisioning landscape and encouraging lenders nationwide to incorporate a more holistic view of each borrower's financial DNA. To date, thousands of U.S. lenders and brokers have ordered millions of FormFree's patented verification reports representing over a trillion dollars in loan verifications.

FormFree delights borrowers and lenders with a paperless experience, reduces origination timelines by up to 20 days and offers automated analysis and standardized delivery to lenders and investors using a secure ReIssueKey(TM). A HousingWire TECH100(TM) company for four consecutive years, FormFree is based in Athens, Georgia.

For more information, visit https://www.formfree.com/ or follow FormFree on LinkedIn.

Twitter: @RealFormFree #digitalmortgage

FormFree rounded out 2019 with a 65 percent increase in total orders for its AccountChek Asset Report and three-in-one Passport Report over the previous year. The surge in adoption of the company's market-leading products, which allow lenders to verify borrower asset, income and employment information, caps a long list of product milestones.

Related link: https://www.formfree.com/

FormFree Becomes First Anchor Sponsor of NEXT Mortgage Events

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- NEXT Mortgage Events and Housing Finance Strategies today announced that FormFree, a leading provider of automated verification services for the lending industry, has become the first anchor sponsor of NEXT.

Anchor sponsorships are year-long partnerships that include support of all three NEXT events. NEXT's winter and summer events focus on executive business topics related to technology, operations and production. Its NEXTDC series is produced in partnership with Housing Finance Strategies and focuses on housing policy and tech intel for women executives.

"Smart companies like FormFree value the ROI that results from visibility and presence among the current and future drivers of the mortgage industry," said Jeri Yoshida, co-founder of NEXT. "Between 89 and 90 percent of our lender attendees hold a title of VP or higher. FormFree has made a strategic step forward in solidifying its relationship with its customers of today as well as tomorrow. We are thrilled to welcome FormFree as our first anchor sponsor."

"FormFree spearheaded an anchor partnership with NEXT because we are aligned in our belief that we must bring mortgage women executives to the table with key decision makers to address the industry's most pressing challenges," said Brent Chandler, president and CEO of FormFree. "Our participation in past NEXT events has revealed opportunities for us to improve the way lenders do business. We are excited to exchange ideas, form new partnerships and contribute to the advancement of our industry at NEXT events in 2020."

"We are so pleased to have FormFree supporting NEXT as our first anchor sponsor. Leading, promoting and encouraging women executives through the NEXT model offers unsurpassed value for a full calendar year," said Faith Schwartz, founder of Housing Finance Strategies and co-founder of the NEXTDC event. "I invite others in leadership roles to consider the anchor sponsorship and all that it entails - I'll certainly be speaking about it at #NEXTWINTER20 in Dallas."

Persons interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities can email info@nextmortgageevents.com for more information.

About NEXT Mortgage Events LLC

In January 2018, NEXT Mortgage Events broke the mortgage industry's unspoken barriers that limit women's access to competitive intel and information exchange by introducing NEXT, the mortgage technology summit for women. NEXT is a two-day, tech-focused symposium for senior lending executives to gather and exchange competitive intel with their high-ranking professional peers. A boutique gathering, each NEXT event hosts roughly 200 attendees. Roughly 85-90% of lender attendees hold a title of VP or higher and approximately 85% of attendees are women. NEXT hosts its flagship events twice a year, in winter and summer, and partners with Housing Finance Strategies on a policy and fintech summit in Washington D.C. each fall. For more information visit https://nextmortgagenews.com/, follow @NEXTmtgEvents or email info@NEXTmortgageEvents.com.

About Housing Finance Strategies

Housing Finance Strategies is a small woman-owned business founded in 2016 to provide Strategic Advisory Services, Government and Industry Relations, Public Policy Expertise, Roundtable and Event Management and Professional Speaking Services. The firm brings 25+ years of expertise to the forefront of mortgage, including leading fintech change, advising on GSE reform and ensuring non-bank readiness for regulatory oversight. For more information, visit http://www.housingfinancestrategies.com/, follow @HousingFinanceStrategies or email admin@housingfinancestrategies.com.

About FormFree(R)

FormFree(R) is a market-leading fintech company whose revolutionary products AccountChek(R) and Passport(tm) are changing the credit decisioning landscape and encouraging lenders nationwide to incorporate a more holistic view of each borrower's financial DNA. To date, thousands of U.S. lenders and brokers have ordered millions of FormFree's patented verification reports representing over a trillion dollars in loan verifications. FormFree delights borrowers and lenders with a paperless experience, reduces origination timelines by up to 20 days and offers automated analysis and standardized delivery to lenders and investors using a secure ReIssueKey(tm). A HousingWire TECH100(tm) company for four consecutive years, FormFree is based in Athens, Georgia. For more information, visit https://www.formfree.com/or follow FormFree on LinkedIn.

NEXT Mortgage Events and Housing Finance Strategies today announced that FormFree, a leading provider of automated verification services for the lending industry, has become the first anchor sponsor of NEXT.

Related link: https://www.nextmortgageconference.com/

SimpleNexus Invests in Client Success with the Addition of Five Senior Leadership Positions

LEHI, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- SimpleNexus (https://simplenexus.com/), developer of the leading digital mortgage platform for loan officers, borrowers and real estate agents, today announced it has filled roles in five senior leadership positions to support customer success and scale the company's internal and external growth.

"An organization's hires tell a story. SimpleNexus has created five new positions to reinvest in our customers and ensure we are exceeding their expectations," said SimpleNexus President and COO Ben Miller. "We are delighted to expand our senior leadership team with talented professionals who share our love for the customer."

The newly appointed executives are:

* Chuck Staib, Chief Sales Officer
Staib has 28 years' experience helping organizations accelerate growth, obtain investor capital and optimize business models as a consultant. In his role at SimpleNexus, Staib will mentor and guide the sales department in their positioning of the SimpleNexus platform. Prior to joining SimpleNexus, Staib advised international government agencies, Fortune 500 companies and marquis financial services firms including Goldman Sachs, the Pacific Stock Exchange and JPMorgan Chase. Staib is a founder of Park City Partners, a Utah-based business accelerator dedicated to helping businesses gain access to mentorship, markets and capital.

* John Aslanian, Senior Vice President of Sales
Aslanian has 22 years' of sales experience in the mortgage and software industries. A consummate sales professional, as senior VP of sales Aslanian will work closely with the enterprise sales and account management teams to effectively communicate SimpleNexus' value to prospects and achieve revenue goals. Previously, Aslanian held the position of VP of sales at Ellie Mae and Del Mar Data Trac.

* Anna Ratanawan, Vice President of People Operations
SimpleNexus has promoted Ratanawan from head of people operations to VP of people operations. Ratanawan brings a decade of human resources (HR) experience to her elevated role, where she will oversee talent acquisition, career development and company culture initiatives. Before joining SimpleNexus, Ratanawan held senior HR positions at Inc. 5000 company Jane.com and enterprise business management platform Workfront. Ratanawan holds an MBA in human resources management from Northcentral University and Bachelor of Science in accounting from Utah Valley University.

* Pam Faulkner, Director, Mortgage Solutions
Faulker brings a 35-year background as a business analyst and project manager for lenders and mortgage technology companies to her position as director, mortgage services. At SimpleNexus, Faulkner will bring to bear her wealth of experience and mortgage industry expertise in advising lenders on how they can maximize their implementation of SimpleNexus. Before joining SimpleNexus, Faulkner held roles at Ellie Mae, RCM Technologies and MortgageFlex Systems. Faulkner serves on the board of directors at Farm Credit of Western Arkansas.

* Sol Klein, Director of Implementation
A mortgage industry veteran fulfilling lender technology needs since 2002, Sol Klein is uniquely qualified to accommodate SimpleNexus client platform deployments in his position as director of implementation. Immediately before joining SimpleNexus, Klein held senior advisory consultant roles at Ellie Mae.

About SimpleNexus, LLC:

SimpleNexus is the digital mortgage platform that enables lenders to originate and process loans from anywhere. The company's best-in-class, easy-to-use app connects loan officers to their borrowers and real estate agents to easily communicate and exchange data in a single location throughout the entire loan life cycle. Loan officers can manage their loan pipelines, order credit, run pricing, send pre-approvals and sign disclosures - all on the go.

Twitter: @SimpleNexus #digitalmortgage

SimpleNexus, developer of the leading digital mortgage platform for loan officers, borrowers and real estate agents, today announced it has filled roles in five senior leadership positions to support customer success and scale the company's internal and external growth.

Related link: https://simplenexus.com/

The Mortgage Collaborative Announces Partnership with Mortgage Insurance Provider MGIC

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the mortgage industry's only independent cooperative, is pleased to announce it has signed an agreement with Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Company (MGIC) to be the newest addition to join its Preferred Partner Network.

"We're privileged to have MGIC become part of the collaborative's partner network to kick off 2020. Their industry reputation and company values align with our guiding principles of offering best-in-class products and solutions to our lender member network," said TMC Chief Executive Officer Jim Park.

As the founder of modern private mortgage insurance, MGIC makes homeownership possible for more borrowers through low-down-payment mortgages. MGIC provides lenders with competitive MI rates backed by outstanding customer service and makes originating high-LTV loans safer for financial institutions and mortgage investors.

"We are honored to join TMC's network of top tier lenders and strategic partners. TMC's platform affords us an ideal opportunity to work directly with their growing lending community to help deploy solutions, services and experience that make homeownership attainable and continue to advance the mortgage industry," said MGIC Executive Vice President of Sales and Business Development Jay Hughes.

TMC enters 2020 on the heels of record-breaking growth in 2019, adding 53 new Lender Members, 15 Preferred Partner companies and record attendance at both 2019 winter and summer conference events. MGIC will be an active participant in TMC's 2020 Winter Conference at the historic Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans, LA from February 16-18, 2020. For more information, visit https://www.mortgagecollaborative.com/tmc-conferences.html.

About The Mortgage Collaborative

Based in San Diego, California, The Mortgage Collaborative was founded in 2013 to empower mortgage lenders across the country with better financial execution, reduced costs, enhanced expertise and improved compliance and to help its members access the dynamic and changing consumer base in America. The association is managed by its founding members: John Robbins, CMB; David Kittle, CMB; Gary Acosta, CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP); and Jim Park, former chair of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA). Robbins and Kittle are former chairmen of the Mortgage Bankers Association of America (MBA). For more information, visit www.mortgagecollaborative.com.

About Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation

Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation or "MGIC" (www.mgic.com), the principal subsidiary of MGIC Investment Corporation, serves lenders throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and other locations helping families achieve homeownership sooner by making affordable low-down-payment mortgages a reality. At November 30, 2019, MGIC had $220.7 billion of primary insurance in force covering over one million mortgages.

From time to time MGIC Investment Corporation releases important information via postings on its corporate website, and via postings on MGIC's website for information related to underwriting and pricing, and intends to continue to do so in the future. Such postings include corrections of previous disclosures, and may be made without any other disclosure. Investors and other interested parties are encouraged to enroll to receive automatic email alerts and Really Simple Syndication (RSS) feeds regarding new postings.

Enrollment information for MGIC Investment Corporation alerts can be found at https://mtg.mgic.com/shareholder-services/email-alerts. For information about our underwriting and rate changes, see https://www.mgic.com/underwriting.

The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the mortgage industry's only independent cooperative, is pleased to announce it has signed an agreement with Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Company (MGIC) to be the newest addition to join its Preferred Partner Network.

Related link: https://www.mortgagecollaborative.com

NotaryCam Praises Florida for Continuing Remote Online Notarization Legalization and Advancement

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- NotaryCam® Founder and CEO Rick Triola today applauded the Florida legislature for passing HB 409, which went into effect on January 1, 2020. The bill authorizes online notarizations and specifies requirements and standards for performance of such online notarizations.

Florida represents a great use case for remote online notarization (RON) due to its high vacation, retirement-age and transient populations, as well as the prevalence of international home buyers and investors. Under Florida HB 409, notaries physically located in Florida will be able to perform RONs, regardless of whether the principal or any witnesses are physically located in Florida at the time of the online notarization.

"Florida consistently ranks in the top five nationwide in terms of mortgage origination volume, making it quite a milestone to have a state of this size and importance to the mortgage industry legalize RON," said Triola. "Not only does this change enable out-of-state buyers and sellers to close a real estate transaction without needing to be physically located in the state of Florida, but it also eliminates all the associated and unnecessary friction with mail-away closings, such as transaction delays, overnight delivery charges and missing signatures, initials and/or pages from the final closing package. With 56 of the 66 counties in Florida allowing eRecording, it's now easier than ever to complete a real estate transaction in Florida."

The bill also addresses electronic wills (eWills) and clarifies that eWills can be signed with an electronic signature. NotaryCam completed its first remote electronic will in April 2019 in Nevada with a Nevada attorney, testator, notary and witnesses attending online from different locations and is preparing to roll out similar functionality in Florida.

"By expanding the capabilities of eWills and legalizing RON, Florida has provided its 21 million residents with the capability to efficiently execute two of life's biggest events," Triola continued. "NotaryCam is thrilled to be working closely with Florida trust and estate planning attorneys and real estate professionals to deliver RON and eWill capabilities to their respective clients, and we are equally as enthusiastic to help Florida notaries make the transition to RON."

To date, NotaryCam has paid out more than $3 million in commissions to notaries throughout the U.S. and is seeking hard-working notarial professionals to expand its growing national network. For more information on becoming an eNotary with NotaryCam, visit https://www.notarycam.com/notarycam-application/.

About NotaryCam

After pioneering the world's first multi-party/multi-state remote online notarization (RON), career real estate executive Rick Triola founded NotaryCam and completed the first mortgage remote online closing (ROC) in 2014. Today, NotaryCam is the leader in online notarization and mortgage eClosing solutions, having notarized documents worldwide for hundreds of thousands of customers in all 50 states and more than 146 countries. The company's patented eClose360® platform delivers the "perfect" online mortgage closing in every jurisdiction and supports all eClosing scenarios - RON, IPEN or Hybrids - with a flexible workflow for document recording and unparalleled identity verification, security and customer convenience. NotaryCam also proudly maintains an industry-leading 99.8 percent customer satisfaction rating.

Visit https://www.notarycam.com for additional information or to get a document notarized today.

NotaryCam Founder and CEO Rick Triola today applauded the Florida legislature for passing HB 409, which went into effect on January 1, 2020. The bill authorizes online notarizations and specifies requirements and standards for performance of such online notarizations.

Related link: https://www.notarycam.com/

Frenkel and Company Completes Transition to EPIC Brand

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Edgewood Partners Insurance Center, which operates as EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants (EPIC), announced today that Frenkel & Company, acquired by EPIC in November 2017, has completed their adoption of the EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants name and brand.

The Frenkel & Company and Frenkel Benefits names will be retired for all Frenkel operations with the exception of Frenkel International which will operate as a specialty division of EPIC. Since joining with EPIC in 2017, Frenkel's associates and practice areas have become integrated into the EPIC business and significantly expanded EPIC's Northeast footprint in risk management, property and casualty insurance, international client services, employee benefits consulting, program solutions and private client services.

Said John Kelly, formerly CEO of Frenkel & Company and now EPIC New York's CEO, "Frenkel's decision to join EPIC has helped us deliver an expansive new set of capabilities to our clients, with the same commitment to service delivery that has been a hallmark of our firm."

Steve Denton, President of EPIC Holdings Inc. noted, "Throughout the past two years we have had the opportunity to integrate our teams, culture and businesses and are proud to now be able to present this unification across the risk management and employee benefits community together as one EPIC. The Frenkel team and capabilities rapidly became ingrained in the EPIC organization and we are excited to kick off 2020 with their full transition to EPIC."

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

Edgewood Partners Insurance Center, which operates as EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants (EPIC), announced today that Frenkel & Company, acquired by EPIC in November 2017, has completed their adoption of the EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants name and brand.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

HexGn Study: Startup Investors Shun Asia in 2019 and Flock to Americas and Europe

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- HexGn released a study of the funding trends in the global startup ecosystem in 2019; the team analyzed over 60,000 deals and one million data points for the report. Globally, the total funding for technology Startups this year dipped by 22 percent to $293 billion from $375 billion in 2018, with a 27 percent drop in deals. Health & Medtech clocked the highest number of transactions, while Fintech scored in terms of numbers in 2019.

In North America, funding came down to $154 billion from $165 billion in 2018, with a 31 percent drop in deals. However, If there ever was a time in recent years that the US moved far ahead of others, it is 2019. The US attracted more startup funding than the next 30 countries combined, combing $100 billion more Startup funding than second-placed China. San Francisco Bay Area, on its own, drew 18 percent of the global Startup funding.

Asia bore the brunt with investments shrinking 47 percent to $83 billion from $157 billion last year, and the deals went down by 27 percent, primarily due to China Startup funding crashing from $117 billion to just $51 billion in 2019, a drop of 56 percent. However, India bucked the Asian mayhem, with investments surging to $14 billion, up 18 percent in 2019.

Despite being in the news for 'Brexit,' declining auto sales and banking sector woes, Europe Startup funding held steady. Investments went up by eight percent from $43 billion to $47 billion in 2019, with the number of deals dropping by 20 percent, due to the continued focus of European governments on startups.

In Africa, investments grew from $1.7 billion to $1.85 in 2019; deals fell by 16 percent. South America got $3.95 in 2019 over $3.45 billion last year, and the deals dipped by 15 percent. The investments in the Oceania region went down by six percent from $2.8 billion to $2.7 billion in 2019.

In the 2019 annual Startup report, HexGn announced the Top Ten Startup Cities for 2020. In the order of global ranking, they are, San Francisco Bay Area, New York, Beijing, London, Shanghai, Delhi NCR, Singapore, Los Angeles County, Hangzhou and Bengaluru. These top ten cities from five countries, the United States, the United Kingdom, China, India and Singapore, account for 58 percent of global funding, signifying its standing.

Big things start small, Bahrain, Croatia, and Romania find a mention in the HexGn 2019 Global startup report for growing their Startup funding by over twenty times in 2019, despite the slowdown.

About HexGn

HexGn through its global research, industry events, and programs, equips students, entrepreneurs and businesses to tap into new opportunities and Future Proof themselves.

Website: https://hexgn.com/

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1227s2p-hexgn-chart-300dpi.jpg

HexGn released a study of the funding trends in the global startup ecosystem in 2019; the team analyzed over 60,000 deals and one million data points for the report.

Related link: https://hexgn.com/

NotaryCam Approved to Provide eNotary, RON Services for Michigan Notaries

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- NotaryCam®, the pioneering leader in online notarization and original provider of mortgage eClosing solutions, today announced that it has been approved by the Michigan Department of State to provide both eNotary and remote online notarization (RON) services to the more than 113,000 notaries public registered in the state.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson noted in a joint announcement regarding the availability of eNotary/RON and online voter registration, "Both programs represent steps forward for Michigan in using technology to provide modern and convenient services to residents."

As an approved vendor, NotaryCam had to meet certain state requirements, including providing a demonstration of their notarial platforms to department staff that covered specific security features like tamper-evident documents and an audit trail. To date, 13 states, including Michigan, have enacted RON laws, and another nine states are set to do so in 2020.

"The availability of RON nationwide is inevitable, but it is still a cause for celebration when individual states join the movement to modernize the notarial act by legalizing RON," NotaryCam Founder and CEO Rick Triola said. "NotaryCam is proud to be among the first vendors approved by the state to provide RON services, and we look forward to helping Michigan notaries continue to deliver the invaluable services they always have, albeit in a more modern and streamlined fashion."

"As an early adopter of RON closings, CSS has been working with Rick Triola and his NotaryCam technology and team for years," said Jerome Jelinek, CEO and General Counsel of Traverse City, Mich.-based Corporate Settlement Solutions (CSS). "NotaryCam closings greatly enhance the customer experience of real estate closings. Its team of notaries are knowledgeable, experienced, professional and always willing to accommodate the needs of customers and CSS team members. To truly serve our customers, industry members need to use NotaryCam remote online closings for all possible closings."

About NotaryCam:

After pioneering the world's first multi-party/multi-state remote online notarization (RON), career real estate executive Rick Triola founded NotaryCam and completed the first mortgage remote online closing (ROC) in 2014. Today, NotaryCam is the leader in online notarization and mortgage eClosing solutions, having notarized documents worldwide for hundreds of thousands of customers in all 50 states and more than 146 countries.

The company's patented eClose360® platform delivers the "perfect" online mortgage closing in every jurisdiction with a flexible workflow for document recording and unparalleled identity verification, security and customer convenience. NotaryCam also proudly maintains an industry-leading 99.8 percent customer satisfaction rating.

Visit https://www.notarycam.com for additional information or to get a document notarized today.

Michigan.gov announcement link: https://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,4670,7-127--513568--,00.html

Twitter: @NotaryCam #ROC #RON #digitalmortgage #emortgage #eclosing #enotary

NotaryCam the pioneering leader in online notarization and original provider of mortgage eClosing solutions, today announced that it has been approved by the Michigan Department of State to provide both eNotary and remote online notarization (RON) services to the more than 113,000 notaries public registered in the state.

Related link: https://www.notarycam.com/

Latest ARMCO QC Trends Report Draws Correlation Between Lenders’ Profitability and Adaptability to Market

DENVER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- ACES Risk Management (ARMCO), the leading provider of enterprise financial risk management solutions, announced the release of the quarterly ARMCO Mortgage QC Trends Report. The latest report covers second quarter (Q2) 2019 and provides loan quality findings for mortgages reviewed by ACES Audit Technology™.

In Q2 2019, the overall critical defect rate declined for two consecutive quarters for the first time since Q3 2016, falling 5.5% to 1.72%. The industry's two-quarter decline in critical defects coincides with two consecutive quarters of strong but steady loan volume and a three-year high in lender profitability, according to the most recent Quarterly Performance Report issued by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). In October 2019, the MBA Economic Forecast predicted 2019 origination volume to reach $2.06 trillion, its highest level since 2007.

The report's noteworthy findings include:
* Loan quality trends are positive: the overall critical defect rate in Q2 2019 fell 5.5% from the preceding quarter, with a 9.0% decline from the 2018 peak rate of 1.93% (Q4 2018)
* In Q2 2019, defects in Income/Employment and Credit, both core underwriting functions, declined 32.0% and 22.0% respectively, from the preceding quarter
* Interest rates in Q2 2019 were roughly a full point lower than Q2 2018 (3.3% vs 4.2%), which fueled a high refi-to-purchase ratio
* In Q2 2019, refinances comprised a higher percentage of all loans reviewed when compared to previous quarters, and were a driver in the quarter's lower critical defect rates
* In Q2 2019, critical defects on FHA loans underperformed conventional loans by a greater percentage than previous quarters

According to Nick Volpe, chief strategy officer at ARMCO, volume fluctuations like those seen in the quarters prior to Q1 2019 and Q2 2019 cause challenges for lenders, which often respond to sudden spikes and dips by adjusting their labor forces through layoffs, downsizing, re-allocating staff and hiring.

"These changes upset the status quo and usually result in more defects, because staff instability increases errors and oversights," he said. "When lenders adapt, usually when the market steadies, defects decrease. It is therefore safe to say that when lenders use technology that improves their scalability, they increase profitability faster than those who rely on manual processes."

"The positive benefits of technology like ACES go way beyond the immediate boost to speed and accuracy," said Phil McCall, president of ARMCO. "As the data reveals, they have a real impact on the speed to which lenders can return to heightened profitability. It's extremely satisfying to know that we're enabling our customers to not just reduce costs, but also to proactively increase profits."

ARMCO's Mortgage QC Industry Trends Reports are based on nationwide post-closing quality control loan data from over 90,000 unique loans selected for random full-file reviews, as was captured by the company's ACES Analytics benchmarking software. Defects listed in the report are categorized using the Fannie Mae loan defect taxonomy.

ARMCO Mortgage QC Industry Trends Reports are available for download, free of charge, at https://www.armco.us/learn/reports.

About ARMCO
Over half of the top 20 mortgage lenders in the U.S. choose ARMCO as their provider of risk management software. ARMCO's product line includes loan quality enterprise software, services, data and analytics. Its flagship product, ACES Audit Technology™, has set the bar for user definability in its category. It is used at virtually every point in the mortgage lifecycle, as well as for a wide range of risk-prone business operations outside traditional mortgage origination and servicing. ARMCO's consultative approach to customer relationships leverages 25 years of mortgage risk intel, assuring that its clients are using the most effective risk mitigation strategies, and are using the fastest, most reliable, most efficient means for preventing risk-related loss. ARMCO distributes the ARMCO Mortgage QC Industry Trends Report, a free quarterly analysis of industry-wide mortgage loan quality. For more information, visit http://www.armco.us/ or call 1-800-858-1598.

ACES Risk Management (ARMCO), the leading provider of enterprise financial risk management solutions, announced the release of the quarterly ARMCO Mortgage QC Trends Report. The latest report covers second quarter (Q2) 2019 and provides loan quality findings for mortgages reviewed by ACES Audit Technology.

Related link: https://www.armco.us/

SimpleNexus User Group (SNUG) 2020 Agenda Announced

LEHI, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- SimpleNexus (https://simplenexus.com/), developer of the leading digital mortgage platform for loan officers, borrowers and real estate agents, today announced the agenda for SimpleNexus User Group (SNUG) 2020 conference being held February 9-12 at the Snowbird Ski Resort in Snowbird, Utah.

Now in its second year, SNUG offers three days of content designed to help lenders optimally leverage their tech stack in order to deliver a first-class borrower experience and maximize revenue. The programming will feature panels, breakout sessions and hands-on training led by industry thought leaders, technology integration partners and SimpleNexus' team of engaging subject-matter experts.

Highlights from the SNUG 2020 agenda include:

* Highly successful lenders sharing how they have come to lead the industry in sales and productivity
* Best practices for developing high-touch borrower relationships with digital mortgage technology
* Compliance dos and don'ts with an emphasis on 2020's regulatory hot topics such as URLA readiness
* How to effectively cultivate real estate professional partnerships to generate early-stage homebuyer referrals
* Breakout training for SimpleNexus administrators on topics including user management, notification configuration and app sharing
* A bonus day of networking with colleagues, vendors, customers and partners on the slopes of the Snowbird alpine resort

"SimpleNexus is excited to reward SNUG attendees with impactful strategies, guided training and strong networking opportunities that will invigorate their 2020 business strategies," said SimpleNexus Vice President of Sales Sid Ewing. "We look forward to helping lenders tap the full potential of their organizations in the year to come."

To date, SimpleNexus has connected its more than 22,000 active loan originators with 1.3 million borrowers and 89,000 real estate partners to produce loans totaling over $200 billion in volume. Last year the company added 60 clients to its roster, bringing the total number of enterprise lenders SimpleNexus empowers to "do more" to more than 260, including 15 of the top 25 retail lenders in the United States.

SNUG 2020 tickets and full conference details can be obtained at https://simplenexus.com/sn/snug2020/.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Stephanie Loffer at sloffer@simplenexus.com.

About SimpleNexus, LLC:

SimpleNexus is the digital mortgage platform that enables lenders to originate and process loans from anywhere. The company's best-in-class, easy-to-use app connects loan officers to their borrowers and real estate agents to easily communicate and exchange data in a single location throughout the entire loan life cycle. Loan officers can manage their loan pipelines, order credit, run pricing, send pre-approvals and sign disclosures - all on the go. Learn more: https://simplenexus.com/.

SimpleNexus, developer of the leading digital mortgage platform for loan officers, borrowers and real estate agents, today announced the agenda for SimpleNexus User Group (SNUG) 2020 conference being held February 9-12 at the Snowbird Ski Resort in Snowbird, Utah.

Related link: https://simplenexus.com/

TravelInsurance.com, A Leading Travel Insurance Comparison Site, Offers Travel Tips to Reduce Stress Over the Holidays

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- This year, more Americans are expected to travel between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1 than ever before, according to the American Automobile Association, making travel mishaps even more likely this holiday season. Whether traveling to be with loved ones or for that end-of-year dream escape, there is a high potential for stress. Crowds can be overwhelming, and weather can quickly throw your plans into disarray. TravelInsurance.com, a leading travel insurance comparison website, offers tips to get you through the holiday travel season smoothly.

"Spending time with friends and family is really what this holiday season is all about; however, making this happen is often easier said than done," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com. "Whether road-tripping or taking to the skies, travel setbacks have become an inevitable part of travel during the busy season and can range from delays or cancellations to lost luggage. There are, however, some key ways to help alleviate the stress of the season, including purchasing travel insurance, that we encourage all travelers to consider."

Below are some tips from TravelInsurance.com to help reduce stress while traveling during the holidays:

Make a checklist. Holiday travel can involve a lot of things that travel at other times of the year does not. There's packing for different climates, the potential for bad weather, navigating crowds and making sure your holiday presents make it to your final destination. One of the best ways to organize is to make a detailed checklist of everything that needs to be done - from packing to reconfirming reservations to checking weather conditions. Experienced travelers will also create a contact list with all of the important phone numbers for the trip - your hotel, your car rental agency, your airline, your travel insurance provider, and friends or family you are meeting at your destination. Depending on your destination, consider keeping an electronic vault with your credit card numbers, photos of your passport or other identification to easily access if your belongings get lost or are stolen.

Purchase travel insurance. There are many problems that can arise during any trip; flights can get canceled or delayed, baggage can get lost, stolen or damaged, medical emergencies can occur, or work obligations can come between you and your vacation. "A good travel insurance policy covers all of these possible scenarios and more," continued Sandberg. "Instead of stressing out over these risks, you can travel with peace of mind by purchasing a quality travel protection plan that will ease the financial burden of the most common travel setbacks."

Get a head start. Ensuring that your plans are set and in place can be a major stress reliever. Pack a few days early to avoid the chaos of packing the night before your departure. Make arrangements with a sitter for your pets or enlist a friend or neighbor to watch your house. If you can, secure seating arrangements on your flights ahead of time to make sure your traveling party gets seated together. Make sure your mobile phones are fully charged, and download your airline's app so you'll get alerts if your flight is delayed or your gate changes.

Have gifts shipped to your destination. Checking items on a flight can be difficult, and there are limits to how many items can be checked with one passenger. Bringing gifts along for the trip only adds more luggage and stress. Chances are also good that the price of shipping the gifts to the destination is much cheaper than having the gifts checked on the plane. Just don't forget to purchase gift bags or wrapping paper as well to have when you arrive at your destination.

Leave early. Give yourself extra time to get to the airport, especially if you are planning to check baggage or if you are traveling with a large group. Busy travel days can mean traffic jams, long security lines and short staffing at the airport. Missing your flights may result in having to pay hefty change fees or having to purchase new tickets altogether.

Travel insurance comparison sites, like TravelInsurance.com, offer consumers a way to search, compare and purchase from among the most recognizable insurance provider names in the industry and afford a consumer a better chance of finding the right travel insurance plan at the right price. Consumers can buy directly and securely through the website and receive a policy via email within minutes.

For more information and travel tips, visit https://www.travelinsurance.com/.

About TravelInsurance.com:

TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, TravelInsurance.com is owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes.

This year, more Americans are expected to travel between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1 than ever before, according to the American Automobile Association, making travel mishaps even more likely this holiday season. Whether traveling to be with loved ones or for that end-of-year dream escape, there is a high potential for stress. TravelInsurance.com, a leading travel insurance comparison website, offers tips to get you through the holiday travel season smoothly.

Related link: https://www.travelinsurance.com/

Lisa Huscher joins EPIC as a Sales Executive, as Part of its LEAP Program

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Lisa Huscher has joined the firm as a sales executive through their LEAP sales development program.

Huscher will be based in Southern California and report to Bill Ferree, Principal and Pleasant Hill Team Lead. In her new position, Huscher is responsible for risk management consulting and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs. She will primarily focus on the healthcare industry as part of Edgewood Healthcare Advisors, a division of EPIC.

Huscher brings over 20 years of experience in risk management and business consulting. She is very adept at bringing unique solutions to her clients across a number of industries. Prior to joining EPIC, Huscher held the position of Business Development Manager with OpenPlacement. She has also held positions with Care Partners at Home, My Virtual HomeCare & myvirtualcarevisit.com and Seniors Helping Seniors. Huscher earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University.

"We are excited to have Lisa join our team and bring her healthcare expertise to the Edgewood Healthcare Advisors practice," said William Ferree, Principal, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, Pleasant Hill, California.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Healthcare team to bring an even greater level of expertise to our clients," added Curt Perata, Regional President, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants.

Lisa Huscher can be reached at lisa.huscher@epicbrokers.com or (714) 369-2133.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Lisa Huscher has joined the firm as a sales executive through their LEAP sales development program.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

PROGRESS in Lending Association Honors OpenClose CEO/CTO Jason Regalbuto with 2019 Lending Luminary Award

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- OpenClose®, an industry-leading multi-channel loan origination system (LOS) and digital mortgage fintech provider, announced that Jason Regalbuto, the company's long-time CEO/CTO, was selected as a 2019 'Lending Luminary' by PROGRESS in Lending Association for his concerted work in leading the mortgage industry and his company to major success over the past 12 months.

PROGRESS in Lending defines a luminary as "a person who inspires or influences others." The association says that the mortgage market is currently filled with uncertainty and will remain in flux for some time to come, and a true Lending Luminary effectively handles and navigates constantly changing market conditions.

The Lending Luminaries list is comprised of business and technology leaders ranging from multiple areas in the industry including mortgage bankers, a wide array of lending entities, servicers, technology executives, consultants and more. They have been identified as leaders who are ensuring the future success for their companies and the industry as a whole.

Specifically, Regalbuto was cited by PROGRESS in Lending for helping spearhead a technology undertaking that offers OpenClose's own POS digital mortgage technology, consolidating it with their enterprise consumer direct solution, ConsumerAssist™. The offering enables OpenClose to provide a robust digital mortgage solution starting at the POS with key functions like 1003 capture, VOE, VOI, VOA, and tax returns - with instant validation from first party data sources. Credit is then pulled and the loan seamlessly and swiftly moves to underwriting for automated decisioning within OpenClose's fully browser-based LenderAssist™ LOS.

Furthermore, the offering provides real-time interaction with the borrower throughout the loan fulfillment process. Regalbuto was instrumental in this major technology and business breakthrough to penetrate the digital space, which has disrupted the existing modularized POS technology models.

"I am pleased to be honored by PROGRESS in Lending Association to receive its inaugural Lending Luminary award," said Regalbuto. "We have made great strides developing OpenClose into one of the mortgage industry's leading LOS platforms. To date, we are the only technology vendor proven to offer a comprehensive, purely browser-based LOS with multi-channel capability, along with both front-end digital POS and back-office LOS functionality via a single provider that is successful taking lender customers live. Our competitors are merely copying our marketplace positioning, messaging and value proposition. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, as they say. It's a very exciting time to be a part of OpenClose's wildly successful and rapid growth."

Serving as both CEO and CTO for OpenClose, Regalbuto helps shape the company's vision and marketplace positioning, strategic design of its core technology platform, development and enhancements of additional software modules, as well as the on-going development of new products, integrations, and innovative technology initiatives.

Moving forward, Regalbuto says he plans on focusing on incorporating the latest technologies into the existing OpenClose technology stack in order to satisfy multiple types of lender, borrower, and marketplace needs. Sophisticated technologies such as Business Intelligence (BI), Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Auto-tasking, Mobile App integrations, and more are all on his radar.

About OpenClose:
Founded in 1999 and headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, OpenClose® is a leading enterprise-class, multi-channel loan origination system (LOS), POS digital mortgage and fintech provider that cost effectively delivers its digital platform on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis. The company provides a variety of innovative, 100 percent web-based solutions for lenders, banks, credit unions, and conduit aggregators. OpenClose's core solution, LenderAssist™, is comprehensive loan origination software that is completely engineered by OpenClose using the same code base from the ground up. The company offers a RESTful API suite that standardizes system-to-system integrations, making them easier to develop, quicker to implement and more cost effective. OpenClose provides lending organizations with full control of their data and creates a truly seamless workflow for complete automation and compliance adherence. For more information, visit https://www.openclose.com/ or call (561) 655-6418.

Media Contact:
Joe Bowerbank
Profundity Communications, Inc.
949-378-9685
jbowerbank@profunditymarketing.com

OpenClose, an industry-leading multi-channel loan origination system (LOS) and digital mortgage fintech provider, announced that Jason Regalbuto, the company's long-time CEO/CTO, was selected as a 2019 'Lending Luminary' by PROGRESS in Lending Association for his concerted work in leading the mortgage industry and his company to major success over the past 12 months.

Related link: https://www.openclose.com/

LBA Ware Launches CompenSafe University to Help Lenders Achieve Their Compensation Plan Management Objectives

MACON, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- LBA Ware™, a leading provider of incentive compensation management (ICM) and business intelligence software solutions for the mortgage industry, today announced the launch of CompenSafe University (CSU), a two-day training program designed to help lenders derive additional value from their investment in CompenSafe™.

CompenSafe is the mortgage industry's go-to platform for automated incentive compensation management. With the introduction of CSU, LBA Ware extends its core CompenSafe training with a specialized curriculum that puts compensation plans into perspective for managers and executive decision-makers:

* Day one covers the essentials of CompenSafe configuration and administration. After learning how CompenSafe integrates with their own operating environment, attendees master key features such as creating branch and originator accounts, setting up compensation agreements and automating compensation plans. Attendees gain an understanding of how non-administrators can use CompenSafe to review their production and verify pay.

* Day two addresses advanced CompenSafe administration topics such as compensation rules for terminated employees, manual adjustments, recoverable and non-recoverable draws and minimum guarantees.

Those who complete both days of the CSU curriculum may elect to become CompenSafe Certified by passing a multiple-choice examination.

"CSU creates CompenSafe power users and prepares them to become subject matter experts within their organizations," explained LBA Ware Director of Client Success Mari Denton. "The goal of the course is to help participants move beyond the automation of existing plans. The exploration of different options within the platform will equip participants to offer strategic solutions and make informed business recommendations regarding compensation."

About LBA Ware™:

LBA Ware is a leading provider of cloud-based software for mortgage lenders. Since 2008, LBA Ware has been on a mission to help mortgage companies reach new heights with software that integrates data, incentivizes performance and inspires results. Today, lenders of all sizes, including some of the nation's top producing mortgage companies, use LBA Ware's award-winning technology to enhance lender experiences and maximize the human potential within their organizations. A 2019 Inc. 5000 fastest-growing private company, LBA Ware is headquartered in Macon, Georgia.

For more information, visit https://lbaware.com.

LBA Ware, a leading provider of incentive compensation management (ICM) and business intelligence software solutions for the mortgage industry, today announced the launch of CompenSafe University (CSU), a two-day training program designed to help lenders derive additional value from their investment in CompenSafe.

Related link: https://lbaware.com/

Lifting People with Disabilities Out of Poverty: JLA Pooled Trust Hits $5 million in Beneficiary Assets

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In recognition of the highly impactful, life-changing work provided to people with disabilities in the region, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles (The Foundation) has awarded Jewish Los Angeles Special Needs Trust & Services (JLA Trust) with a three-year, $250,000 Next Stage Grant.

"We're very proud that our Next Stage Grant will enable the long-term sustainability of JLA Trust and help it serve more individuals with disabilities and their families," said Marvin I. Schotland, president and CEO of The Foundation. "The Foundation provided seed-funding to JLA Trust in 2015 because we believe in its mission. JLA Trust provides guidance and resources to families as they navigate the daunting process of planning for the financial security of their loved ones with disabilities and secure the support they need to thrive. This much-needed service strengthens Jewish families across Los Angeles and our community as a whole."

The pooled trusts administered by JLA Trust help children and adults with a range of physical, mental, developmental and intellectual disabilities obtain a higher quality of life through affordable and professionally managed special needs trusts, which are a legal way to supplement means-tested government benefits. In less than 4 years of operations, JLA Trust recently crossed the $5 million mark in total beneficiary assets, and has already distributed $1.5 million for clients' expenses.

Background

In order to receive essential government benefits such as SSI, Medi-Cal and In-Home Supported Services (IHSS), single persons with disabilities are limited to only $2,000 in assets at any one time. To legally supplement those benefits with their own funds, or with money from family members, the only choices are the new CalABLE accounts (limited to $15,000 in a calendar year) and special needs trusts, which are traditionally very expensive to create and manage.

For those with less assets, an excellent solution is a Pooled Special Needs Trust, created by Congress in 1993. Using a Master trust document written by an expert attorney, JLA Trust acts as an "umbrella" over individual trust accounts, which are carefully managed in order to support persons with disabilities for as long as possible. Each client has a sub-account, and funds are only pooled for investment and cash management purposes.

All accounts receive professional trustee oversight and wealth management, along with a restricted-use VISA card from True Link Financial Services that is customized to meet the complicated rules of government benefit programs as well as the unique needs of each beneficiary.

Under the leadership of founding board Chair Sandor Samuels, a former CEO of Bet Tzedek Legal Services, JLA Trust enrolled its first client in August 2016, and has grown to 85 enrolled clients, with combined assets of more than $5 million. "Our community-based, personalized services are a game-changer for persons with disabilities in Los Angeles County and the region. We are thankful to the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles for awarding us with a Next Stage Grant, which gives us the ability to hire a dedicated marketing and outreach professional who can help JLA Trust expand our services to help more people with disabilities."

Seed funding for the new nonprofit was provided by a 2015 three-year Cutting Edge Grant from The Foundation, along with planning and program grants from the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. Funding has also been provided by the Diane P. and Guilford Glazer Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles.

JLA Trust & Services has strong roots in the Jewish community and is open to all persons of all faiths, types of disabilities, and gender/sexual identification. For more information, go to https://www.jlatrust.org/.

About the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles

Established in 1954, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles manages charitable assets of more than $1 billion entrusted to it by over 1,300 families. The Foundation partners with donors to shape meaningful philanthropic strategies, magnify the impact of giving, and build enduring charitable legacies. Over the past 15 years, it has distributed more than $1 billion to thousands of nonprofits across a diverse spectrum. http://www.jewishfoundationla.org/.

Client Stories:

Adam, 26 - A stroke left him with lifelong physical and intellectual disabilities. His family set up a Go Fund Me campaign to cover out of pocket medical costs and raised over $20,000. If the funds stayed in Adam's checking account, he would lose his vital Medi-Cal housing. His trust preserves his Medi-Cal benefits, plus the family uses trust funds for an aide and trips outside of the residential facility. "I am so grateful you exist," said his mother.

Janet, 48 - She has a genetic medical condition that causes great pain and seizures. Her father set up a 3rd party special needs trust for her with JLA Trust, and after his recent death, money from his life insurance policies are going directly into the trust, without jeopardizing her Medi-Cal. She said, "I am so grateful my Dad found JLA Trust and took care of everything ahead of time."

In recognition of the highly impactful, life-changing work provided to people with disabilities in the region, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles (The Foundation) has awarded Jewish Los Angeles Special Needs Trust & Services (JLA Trust) with a three-year, $250,000 Next Stage Grant.

Related link: https://www.jlatrust.org/

Bank of Southern California, N.A. Completes Capital Offering and Plans to Form Holding Company

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Bank of Southern California, N.A. (OTC Pink: BCAL / OTCMKTS: BCAL), a community business bank headquartered in San Diego, announced today the successful completion of a capital raise of approximately $12 million through the issuance of common stock in a private placement to institutional and accredited individual investors at a price of $12.00 per share. The Bank also announced its plans to reorganize into a holding company, Southern California Bancorp, subject to shareholder and regulatory approval.

The new capital was raised in connection with the Bank's pending acquisition of CalWest Bancorp (OTCBB: CALW / OTCMKTS: CALW), the holding company for CalWest Bank, previously announced in October. Bank of Southern California entered into a definitive agreement with CalWest Bancorp on October 21, 2019, which is expected to close in the first half of 2020, subject to customary closing conditions. The Bank is forming a holding company, Southern California Bancorp, to facilitate the CalWest transaction and to support the Bank's future growth. In addition to helping facilitate the new holding company's funding of the all-cash acquisition, the capital raise will further support the Bank's successful strategy of driving both organic growth and increasing its geographic footprint throughout Southern California.

Nathan Rogge, President and CEO of Bank of Southern California stated that proceeds from the offering will be used to strengthen the Bank's balance sheet and further support its expansion in the Southern California market. "We are pleased with the capital raise effort and will begin 2020 with additional capital to execute our growth strategies," Rogge added. "The strong interest that we received from individual and institutional investors demonstrates the investment community's endorsement and confidence in Bank of Southern California's performance and future value."

The Bank was represented by MJC Partners, LLC, who served as the sole placement agent for the offering.

About Bank of Southern California

A growing community bank, established in 2001, Bank of Southern California, N.A., with headquarters in San Diego, CA, is locally owned and managed, and offers a range of financial products to individuals, professionals and small-to-medium sized businesses. The Bank's solution-driven, relationship-based approach to banking provides accessibility to decision makers and enhances value through strong partnerships with its clients. The Bank currently operates eleven branches in San Diego County, Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the Coachella Valley in Riverside County, as well as a production office in West Los Angeles. For more information, please visit https://www.banksocal.com or call (858) 847-4780.

About MJC Partners, LLC

MJC Partners, LLC is a leading Los Angeles-based boutique investment banking and advisory firm providing a full range of strategic, transactional, and valuation-related services to our clients across multiple industry groups. For more information about MJC Partners, visit http://www.mjcpartners.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain comments or information that constitute forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995), and Bank of Southern California intends for such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of that Act. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often include the words "believe," "expect," "anticipate, "intend," "plan," "estimate," or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs, such as "will," "would," "should," "could," or "may." Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, nor should they be relied upon as representing management's views as of any subsequent date. Future events are difficult to predict. Forward-looking statement involve significant risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those presented, either expressed or implied, in this news release. Factors that might cause such differences include but are not limited to: the ability of the Bank to successfully execute its business plan; changes in interest rates and interest rate relationships; changes in demand for products and services; the degree of competition by traditional and non-traditional competitors; changes in banking legislation or regulation; changes in tax laws; changes in prices, levies, and assessments; the impact of technological advances; the outcomes of contingencies; trends in customer behavior as well as their ability to repay loans; and changes in the national and local economy. Bank of Southern California undertakes no obligation to update or clarify forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-0118s2p-bank-so-cal-300dpi.jpg

Tickers: OTC Pink:BCAL / OTC:BCAL / OTCMKTS:BCAL / OP: BCAL / OTC:CALW

Bank of Southern California, N.A. (OTC Pink: BCAL / OTCMKTS: BCAL), a community business bank headquartered in San Diego, announced today the successful completion of a capital raise of approximately $12 million through the issuance of common stock in a private placement to institutional and accredited individual investors at a price of $12.00 per share.

Related link: https://www.banksocal.com/

NEXT and Housing Finance Strategies Announce #NEXTDC20

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Capitalizing on the success of their recent executive summit in Washington D.C., NEXT Mortgage Events and Housing Finance Strategies announced #NEXTDC20, their second annual event to be held shortly after the November 2020 election in Washington, D.C.

The #NEXTDC event series consists of annual executive summits that focus on delivering housing, policy and tech intel to women executives. Each event brings together the most influential housing policy leaders, mortgage lenders and fintech firms in an intimate, boutique setting to share intel, exchange ideas, and build and strengthen alliances with top executives from each of these overlapping segments. #NEXTDC events are produced in partnership by NEXT Mortgage Events and Housing Finance Strategies.

The inaugural #NEXTDC event was held on November 18-19, 2019 at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Washington, D.C.

"Executives in all three segments-policy, mortgage lending and fintech-raved about the value they got from meeting both peers and constituents at our inaugural event," said Faith Schwartz, founder of Housing Finance Strategies. "They were urging us to host an event in 2020 because in addition to quality intel, they got access to a cross-segment mix of high caliber influencers they can't find anywhere else."

"The numbers speak for themselves," said Jeri Yoshida, co-founder of NEXT. "#NEXTDC19 exceeded our goals and expectations in feedback, quality and reach. We're looking forward to making #NEXTDC20 even better than our wildly successful 2019 event."

"With our post-election timing for #NEXTDC20, we anticipate an even better turnout than we saw for our first #NEXTDC event," said Molly Dowdy, co-founder of NEXT. "We're already planning ways to maximize the exchange of ideas, solutions and partnerships."

Persons interested in keeping apprised of #NEXTDC20 sessions, speakers and other information can follow NEXT Mortgage Events on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

About NEXT Mortgage Events LLC

In January 2018, NEXT Mortgage Events broke the mortgage industry's unspoken barriers that limit women's access to competitive intel and information exchange by introducing NEXT, the mortgage technology summit for women. NEXT is a two-day, tech-focused symposium for senior lending executives to gather and exchange competitive intel with their high-ranking professional peers. A boutique gathering, each NEXT event hosts roughly 200 attendees. Roughly 85-90% of lender attendees hold a title of VP or higher and approximately 85% of attendees are women. NEXT hosts its flagship events twice a year, in winter and summer, and partners with Housing Finance Strategies on a policy and fintech summit in Washington DC each fall.

For more information visit NEXTMortgageNews.com, follow @NEXTmtgEvents or email info@NEXTmortgageEvents.com.

About Housing Finance Strategies

Housing Finance Strategies is a small woman-owned business founded in 2016 to provide Strategic Advisory Services, Government and Industry Relations, Public Policy Expertise, Roundtable and Event Management and Professional Speaking Services. The firm brings 25+ years of expertise to the forefront of mortgage, including leading fintech change, advising on GSE reform and ensuring non-bank readiness for regulatory oversight.

For more information, visit http://www.housingfinancestrategies.com/, follow @HousingFinanceStrategies or email admin@housingfinancestrategies.com.

Capitalizing on the success of their recent executive summit in Washington D.C., NEXT Mortgage Events and Housing Finance Strategies announced #NEXTDC20, their second annual event to be held shortly after the November 2020 election in Washington, D.C.

Related link: https://www.nextmortgageconference.com/

EPIC Adds Matthew Presutti as Managing Principal in their New York operations

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Matthew Presutti has joined their EPIC New York operations as managing principal on the employee benefits team.

Presutti will be based in New York City as part of Frenkel Benefits, an EPIC Company and report to Adam Okun, co-president and Larry Kirshner, co-president EPIC New York. In his new position, he will responsible for the strategic oversight, new business development and the design, placement and management of employee benefits insurance programs and solutions.

Presutti brings nearly 30 years of experience to his role within the overall EPIC organization. He has a strong background in leading teams and developing creative employee benefits programs for clients to help increase the overall success of their business. Presutti joins the firm from HM Insurance Group.

He has also held positions with: MagnaCare, Brown & Brown Metro, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and Prudential. Presutti has served as Board President with the Tewksbury Township Board of Education as well.

"We are excited to have Matthew join our team and bring his level of expertise to EPIC and our employee benefits clients," said Adam Okun, co-president, EPIC New York, Larry Kirshner, co-president, EPIC New York, "Matt brings industry knowledge and employee benefits experience that will add to our already robust team. We are thrilled to have him onboard."

Matthew Presutti can be reached at matthew.presutti@frenkel.com or (212) 488-0214.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Matthew Presutti has joined their EPIC New York operations as managing principal on the employee benefits team.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Cosmetic Insurance Services (CIS) Now Offering Insurance to Cosmetic and Personal Care Products Containing CBDs

JERSEY CITY, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cosmetic Insurance Services (CIS), a national multi-line Specialty Program Administrator and the nation's leading insurance provider to the Cosmetics and Personal Care industry, announced their ability to now offer insurance to those companies whose cosmetic and beauty products include CBDs (Cannabidiol) within their formulations.

"We are excited about this enhancement to our current underwriting guidelines. With the ability to provide insurance on this specific product class, we continue to offer cutting-edge insurance products and solutions tailored to fit the many diverse exposures that the ever-growing cosmetic industry is faced with," said Kenneth C. Hegel Jr; Managing Principal of Cosmetic Insurance Services - a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants.

"This new enhancement to our current underwriting guidelines demonstrates our commitment - to not only the cosmetics industry as a whole - but reinforces our dedication to the many clients we serve nationwide. We believe the capability to successfully underwrite this exposure and provide insurance on these specific products will allow us to continue to provide a superior insurance product to both our direct customers as well as our valued retail broker partners."

This development elevates the exclusive MGA Program and creates a path of continued and responsible premium growth alongside the valued insurance carriers that CIS partners with, securing CIS as the largest MGA of its kind.

About CIS:

Cosmetic Insurance Services is a Managing General Agent/retail insurance broker specializing in insuring the cosmetic, beauty and personal care industries. CIS works with companies that range from smaller start-ups to some of the largest, most established independent beauty brands. CIS is a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants.

For more information about CIS, a division of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, visit: https://epicbrokers.com/programs/cosmetics/

Cosmetic Insurance Services (CIS), a national multi-line Specialty Program Administrator and the nation's leading insurance provider to the Cosmetics and Personal Care industry, announced their ability to now offer insurance to those companies whose cosmetic and beauty products include CBDs (Cannabidiol) within their formulations

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

After, Inc. launches QuickReg 2.0 with additional benefits for Manufacturers and their Customers

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Marketing and Analytics Solutions since 2005, just announced the launch of QuickReg(TM) 2.0, the next iteration of its smart registration solution. QuickReg(TM), launched in March 2019, helps manufacturers drive higher registration rates by making product registration quick, easy and convenient for consumers through their preferred channel of choice.

"Our research has shown that there are four reasons for low product registration rates," says Nate Baldwin, CEO of After, Inc. "First, current registration processes are not convenient for consumers. Consumers won't do it if it's manual, time-consuming and requires multiple steps. Second, registration must happen right away, when consumers first get their products, or it won't happen at all. Third, with CCPA and the additional consumer data protection legislation happening across the country, registration solutions must give consumers control over their data and how it is used. And finally, although consumers are more willing than ever to share their data, they must feel they are getting value in return. QuickReg incorporates all of these requirements."

QuickReg(TM) initially offered two ways for customers to register their products. They could send the model number via text to a specified phone number, or take a picture of the model number and send it via text or email. This would launch an automated process where QuickReg(TM) would engage the customer in a two-way discussion, verify their personal information, and complete the registration process in a few simple steps.

QuickReg(TM) 2.0 gives consumers an additional option. They can scan a QR code or RFID tag on the manufacturer's product box, with the model number embedded.

"A majority of manufacturers are moving towards using QR codes and RFID tags for product identification, so we have enhanced QuickReg to accept it," says Baldwin. "We are excited about QuickReg's added functionality and the convenience it provides to manufacturers and their customers."

To learn more about QuickReg(TM) and demo the solution for your organization, you can visit: http://afterinc.com/home/quickreg-smart-product-registration/.

About After, Inc.

After, Inc. (www.afterinc.com) is a global leader in the Warranty Services industry. Its predictive analytics, data-driven marketing strategies, reporting and program administration are second to none. After, Inc. has partnered with some of the world's top brands to help transform their warranty businesses, driving customer satisfaction post-purchase, higher product reliability, deeper brand equity and additional revenue / profit opportunities. Headquartered in Norwalk, Conn. and with offices in New York City, After, Inc. is part of EPIC Insurance Group, a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm with 1,300 employees across the United States.

After, Inc., the global leader in Warranty Marketing and Analytics Solutions since 2005, just announced the launch of QuickReg(TM) 2.0, the next iteration of its smart registration solution. QuickReg, launched in March 2019, helps manufacturers drive higher registration rates by making product registration quick, easy and convenient for consumers through their preferred channel of choice

Related link: http://afterinc.com/

OpenClose CRO Vince Furey Wins 2019 HousingWire Vanguard Award

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- OpenClose®, an industry-leading multi-channel loan origination system (LOS) and digital mortgage fintech provider, announced that its chief revenue officer (CRO), Vince Furey, has been selected by HousingWire as one of its 2019 Vanguard Award winners. This marks the fifth year that HousingWire has recognized executives in the housing finance industry for their outstanding leadership in the space.

"Our Vanguard Award is reserved for the true trailblazers in the housing industry, the visionaries that are leading the charge into the future. This year's winners are the embodiment of that vision. In each corner of the housing industry, they are forging the path, setting the pace, and guiding housing into the next generation. And we couldn't be prouder to honor them as Vanguards," said HousingWire Managing Editor Ben Lane.

Furey was instrumental in helping boost OpenClose's year-over-year revenue by more than 100 percent. Further, he played a key role in spearheading the OpenClose business strategy to offer its own digital POS solution, incorporating it with the company's LenderAssist(TM) LOS platform and borrower direct portal, ConsumerAssist(TM). As a result, OpenClose is able to offer a comprehensive digital mortgage solution that is more efficient and cost effective than disparate offerings available on the market.

In addition, Furey helped develop a strategy to implement a RESTful API suite branded IntegrationAssist(TM), which provides seamless interaction with the OpenClose digital ecosystem. Ultimately, Furey's efforts helped OpenClose's LOS platform, POS system and PPE receive some of the highest Overall Satisfaction and Lender Loyalty Scores in the STRATMOR Group's last two Technology Insight Study reports.

"I am honored to be recognized by HousingWire and extend congratulations to my fellow Vanguard Award winners," stated Furey. "I am grateful for our amazing, innovative OpenClose team who make providing our lender partners modern technology exciting every single day."

HousingWire's 2019 Vanguards have led their respective companies to spectacular success, as evidenced by expanding products, services, and profits. These 50 winners were carefully selected by HousingWire's editorial board, chosen for their vital contributions to their companies and the dynamic way they are changing the industry. The majority of winners are leading from the C-suite, and many are also founders or co-founders of their businesses. Others are making invaluable contributions in business development, strategy, risk management and more.

"HousingWire's Vanguards represent the most inspirational leaders, builders, and shapers of the housing industry," HousingWire Associate Editor Kelsey Ramírez said. "It is one of the most distinguished awards in housing, and personifies the executives that are raising the bar for this industry and taking it to new heights."

About OpenClose:

Founded in 1999 and headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, OpenClose® is a leading enterprise-class, multi-channel loan origination system (LOS), POS digital mortgage and fintech provider that cost effectively delivers its digital platform on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis. The company provides a variety of innovative, 100 percent web-based solutions for lenders, banks, credit unions, and conduit aggregators. OpenClose's core solution, LenderAssist(TM), is comprehensive loan origination software that is completely engineered by OpenClose using the same code base from the ground up. The company offers a RESTful API suite that standardizes system-to-system integrations, making them easier to develop, quicker to implement and more cost effective. OpenClose provides lending organizations with full control of their data and creates a truly seamless workflow for complete automation and compliance adherence. For more information, visit https://www.openclose.com/ or call (561) 655-6418.

About HousingWire

HousingWire is the most influential source of news and information for the U.S. mortgage and housing markets. Built on a foundation of independent and original journalism, HousingWire reaches over 40,000 newsletter subscribers daily and over 4 million unique visitors each year. Our audience of mortgage, real estate, financial services and fintech professionals rely on us to Move Markets Forward. Visit www.HousingWire.com or www.solutions.housingwire.com to learn more.

Media Contact:
Joe Bowerbank
Profundity Communications, Inc.
949-378-9685
jbowerbank@profunditymarketing.com

Social Media: @OpenCloseCocial #HW2019VanguardAward #VinceFurey #FinTechLeader

OpenClose, an industry-leading multi-channel loan origination system (LOS) and digital mortgage fintech provider, announced that its chief revenue officer (CRO), Vince Furey, has been selected by HousingWire as one of its 2019 Vanguard Award winners.

Related link: https://www.openclose.com/

By Prioritizing Customer Experience, Leading Travel Insurance Comparison Site TravelInsurance.com Reaches 50,000 5-Star Reviews on Shopper Approved

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- TravelInsurance.com today announced they have surpassed 50,000 5-star reviews through the Shopper Approved platform, one of the fastest-growing customer review companies in the United States. Verified customers on TravelInsurance.com have rated the travel insurance comparison site a 4.8 out of 5.0, with 97% noting they would recommend it to others.

"TravelInsurance.com puts the customer experience above all else, and it's incredible to see these efforts pay off," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com. "Our mission from the start has been to simplify the travel insurance shopping experience and provide the highest quality service to our loyal customers. Our current star rating is a nice reminder that we're achieving that goal."

The reviews for TravelInsurance.com come directly from active paying customers with recent verified purchases. This process gives every customer an equal opportunity to leave a review based on their own personal experience. Since only active paying customers can leave a review, new visitors can trust the results and have confidence in the authenticity of the review.

While today's online consumer uses comparison shopping sites for almost every e-commerce purchase, shoppers using online travel sites aren't given the same opportunity when it comes to travel insurance. The largest online travel sites and airline sites typically only give consumers a "take-it-or-leave-it" "yes" or "no" checkbox from a single travel insurance provider. While it may seem like a simplification of the process, it can limit a consumer's options.

Travel insurance comparison sites, like TravelInsurance.com, offer consumers a way to search, compare and purchase from among the most recognizable insurance provider names in the industry and afford a consumer a better chance of finding the right travel insurance plan at the right price. Consumers can buy directly and securely through the website and receive a policy via email within minutes.

Today's announcement furthers the argument that when travelers can shop around, their experience is positive in ensuring not only the process is smooth, but also that they get the best plan for their specific needs.

To view TravelInsurance.com's reviews on Shopper Approved, please visit https://www.shopperapproved.com/reviews/travelinsurance.com.

For more information and travel tips, visit https://www.travelinsurance.com/.

About TravelInsurance.com:
TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, TravelInsurance.com is owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings, LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes.

TravelInsurance.com today announced they have surpassed 50,000 5-star reviews through the Shopper Approved platform, one of the fastest-growing customer review companies in the United States. Verified customers on TravelInsurance.com have rated the travel insurance comparison site a 4.8 out of 5.0, with 97% noting they would recommend it to others.

Related link: https://www.travelinsurance.com/

EPIC Adds Aaron Zetterower in Dallas, Texas

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Aaron Zetterower has joined the firm as Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Zetterower will be based in Dallas, Texas and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In his new position, Zetterower is responsible for new business development and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients.

Zetterower joins EPIC from AssuredPartners, where he served as Vice President. Prior to that, he was the National Director for Charter School Programs at Crystal & Company.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Property & Casualty operation in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "Aaron's extensive background supporting Charter Schools brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team. I could not be more excited to have Aaron join us," said Joffrey Clark, EPIC's Charter School Practice Leader.

Aaron Zetterower can be reached at aaron.zetterower@epicbrokers.com or 214-923-7867.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Aaron Zetterower has joined the firm as Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Aaron Schwen joins EPIC in Dallas

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Aaron Schwen has joined the firm as Client Advocate of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Schwen will be based in Dallas, Texas and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In his new position, Schwen is responsible for new business development and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients.

Schwen joins EPIC from AssuredPartners, where he served as the Charter School Practice Leader. Prior to that, he was a Director at Crystal & Company.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Property & Casualty operation in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "Aaron's extensive background supporting Charter Schools brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team. I could not be more excited to have Aaron join us," said Joffrey Clark, EPIC's National Charter School Practice Leader.

Aaron Schwen can be reached at aaron.schwen@epicbrokers.com or 817-727-2490.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Aaron Schwen has joined the firm as Client Advocate of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Commercial Insurtech Juniper Labs Announces Open Data Launch at Plug and Play Winter Summit

SUNNYVALE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Automated underwriting insurtech Juniper Labs today announced that it is launching the first ever open-sourced data set purpose built for commercial insurance. Juniper Labs plans to release over 40 million business records it acquired to train its underwriting models for anyone to use.

"We are open-sourcing our data because we believe data is not a product. Data is a platform. We are setting out to dramatically change the way the industry views data - we believe the future of insurance is open," said Lance Poole, Juniper Labs CEO. "The thing that excites us about the philosophy of open-source, is that it allows for solutions to emerge that we couldn't have never created on our own."

Juniper Labs will give the carrier partners of Plug and Play the first opportunity to use the open dataset. "As we've had the privilege of being a part of Plug and Play, we've been in a position to see how forward-thinking the partners of Plug and Play are. Because of that, we want to invite the Plug and Play partners to be the anchor members of this open data community" said John Stevenson, Juniper Labs CTO.

By moving to an open source platform, Juniper Labs follows in the footsteps of other tech companies like Databricks, GitLab, MongoDB and Docker. Mr. Poole went further to state, "We believe that data in insurance has to be open. We want to establish a data protocol and if everyone is building their own walled gardens, that will never happen. We take a lot of inspiration from the world wide web. Tim Berners-Lee knew that the web would have never gotten critical mass if it wouldn't have been open. We can't own the data. We can only work with the community to be stewards of the data."

Carriers and executives interested in Juniper Lab's open data project are invited to sign up at openjuniper.com

About Juniper Labs:
Founded in 2019, Juniper Labs builds automated underwriting solutions for commercial insurance carriers. They have a suite of APIs that automate the application process and the challenge of properly classifying businesses. They are stewards of OpenJuniper, the first ever open dataset purpose built for commercial insurance.

Connect with Juniper Labs:
- https://www.juniperlabs.io
- https://twitter.com/labsjuniper

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1209s2p-lance-poole-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Lance Poole, CEO of Juniper Labs.

Automated underwriting insurtech Juniper Labs today announced that it is launching the first ever open-sourced data set purpose built for commercial insurance. Juniper Labs plans to release over 40 million business records it acquired to train its underwriting models for anyone to use.

Related link: https://www.juniperlabs.io

Raylene Chiarizzio joins EPIC in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Raylene Chiarizzio has joined the firm as Senior Vice President of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Chiarizzio will be based in Los Angeles, California and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In her new position, Chiarizzio is responsible for complex program design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients. Chiarizzio joins EPIC from Willis Towers Watson.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Risk Management operations in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "Raylene's extensive risk management experience brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team. I could not be more excited to have Raylene join us."

Raylene Chiarizzio can be reached at Raylene.chiarizzio@epicbrokers.com or 213-628-5525.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants ("EPIC"), a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Raylene Chiarizzio has joined the firm as Senior Vice President of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

BobbiJo DeNofa joins EPIC in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that BobbiJo DeNofa has joined the firm as Managing Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

DeNofa will be based in Los Angeles, California and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In her new position, DeNofa is responsible for growing our Risk Management Practice in the Southwest, leading new business development and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients.

DeNofa joins EPIC from Willis Towers Watson, where she spent the last 15 years of her career. At Willis, she was serving as the head of its Southern California offices leading property and casualty operations for its Southwest Region, which included Phoenix, Los Angeles, Irvine, and San Diego markets.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Risk Management operations in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "BobbiJo is a well-respected, highly strategic, and consultative risk management professional and a proven leader who will deliver great value to our clients and to other EPIC team members. I could not be more excited to have BobbiJo join our team."

"EPIC's operations in the Southwest continue to grow by welcoming power houses like BobbiJo," said Jim Gillette, Regional President, Pacific South. "This is exciting for all of us, and I look forward to officially welcoming her expertise and watching our clients benefit from our ongoing growth and collaboration across the organization."

BobbiJo DeNofa can be reached at bobbijo.denofa@epicbrokers.com or 213-705-9654.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that BobbiJo DeNofa has joined the firm as Managing Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

David Thoke joins EPIC in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that David Thoke has joined the firm as Managing Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Thoke will be based in Los Angeles, California and report to KJ Wagner, President of EPIC's Southwest Region. In his new position, Thoke is responsible for new business development and the design, placement and management of property and casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients.

Thoke joins EPIC from Willis Towers Watson, where he spent the last 15 years of his career. At Willis, he was serving as Executive Vice President of Willis North America, and prior to that, he spent 25 years with Marsh.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Risk Management operations in the Southwest Region," said EPIC's KJ Wagner. "David's extensive background brings a wealth of knowledge and rich industry experience to the team. I could not be more excited to have David join us."

"EPIC's operations in the Southwest continue to grow by welcoming power houses like David," said Jim Gillette, Regional President, Pacific South. "This is exciting for all of us, and I look forward to officially welcoming his expertise and watching our clients benefit from our ongoing growth and collaboration across the organization."

David Thoke can be reached at david.thoke@epicbrokers.com or 626-297-5551.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that David Thoke has joined the firm as Managing Principal of the firm's Southwest Risk Management Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Florida Blue and Papa Partner to Address Social Isolation, Improve Health Outcomes

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Florida Blue, the leading health insurer in Florida, announced today that it is partnering with Papa, a nationwide provider of senior services, to offer Florida Blue members in select Medicare Advantage plans assistance with transportation, house chores, companionship and other senior support services.

Social isolation is a significant issue for aging adults and can have a major impact on overall health. Papa, which connects college students to seniors, removes some of the burden and stress on family caregivers and provides a level of assistance and companionship for older adults. The program bridges the gap between two generations and offers seniors a unique at-home experience that can enrich their lives and help combat feelings of loneliness.

"Driven by our mission to help people and communities achieve better health, we take a holistic approach to health by offering solutions to fit our members' needs and address social determinants of health like social isolation," said Kathy Feeny, president of Florida Blue Medicare. "There is no one-size-fits-all solution for seniors, which is why we 're working with companies like Papa that specialize in senior services and understand how to meet the unique needs of aging adults."

Starting Jan. 1, 2020, Florida Blue members in select Medicare Advantage plans, who have certain chronic conditions, can qualify for up to 120 hours of assistance a year (30 hours per quarter) by completing an annual wellness visit and a health risk assessment.

Once a member qualifies, Papa will provide a consultation to learn about the individual's needs and discuss ways in which a Papa Pal can help. Papa carefully selects their "grandkids on demand" or college students, many of whom have a specific health-related focus of study. The senior, or their family member, can request a Papa Pal on demand through a phone call, a mobile app or an online platform.

According to the 2017 National Population Projections by the U.S. Census Bureau1 there will be 78 million people 65 and older by year 2035 compared to 76.7 million under the age of 18. As the senior population continues to grow, the need for reliable companionship and transportation will, too.

"Expanding our reach and partnership with Florida Blue will give more support to members who need extra assistance," said Papa Founder and CEO Andrew Parker. "Papa is a company that genuinely cares about all seniors and we believe everyone should be able to experience what a difference a Papa Pal brings to the home. We are much more than a service; we become family. That is what support looks like and what aging adults need when someone comes into their homes. We are happy to provide that service."

About Florida Blue
Florida Blue, Florida's Blue Cross and Blue Shield company, has been providing health insurance to residents of Florida for nearly 75 years. Driven by its mission of helping people and communities achieve better health, the company serves more than 5 million health care members across the state. In total, Florida Blue and its affiliated companies serve 16 million people in 29 states. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., it is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

About Papa
Papa is a Miami startup that has Grandkids On-Demand who provide assistance and companionship to senior citizens throughout Florida, California, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, South Carolina, Illinois, and Kansas. Papa launched their service in January of 2018. For more information, visit https://www.joinpapa.com/

Florida Blue, the leading health insurer in Florida, announced today that it is partnering with Papa, a nationwide provider of senior services, to offer Florida Blue members in select Medicare Advantage plans assistance with transportation, house chores, companionship and other senior support services.

Related link: https://www.joinpapa.com/

EPIC Adds Todd Randolph in Atlanta, GA

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Todd Randolph has joined the firm as a Principal of its Southeast Employee Benefits Practice.

Randolph will be based in Atlanta and report to Ed Oravetz, Managing Principal. In his new position, Randolph is responsible for new business development and the design, placement, and management of employee benefit programs, providing critical attraction and retention strategies for mid-market and large clients.

Randolph joins EPIC from USI Insurance Services, where he spent the last eight years of his career. As a VP and Employee Benefits Consultant at USI, he was known for implementing value-based benefit programs and specializing in advanced design and funding approaches for group medical (all ancillary lines) - including the appropriate uses of captives, self-funding, HRA/HSAs, private exchanges, and traditional, fully-insured programs.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Employee Benefit operations," said EPIC's Ed Oravetz. "Todd is a well-respected, highly strategic, and consultative employee benefits professional who will deliver great value to our clients and to other EPIC team members. I could not be more excited to have Todd join our team."

"EPIC's operations in the Southeast continue to grow by welcoming power houses like Todd," said Steve Needle, Managing Principal of EPIC's Southeast Region. "This is exciting for all of us, and I look forward to officially welcoming his expertise and watching our clients benefit from our ongoing growth and collaboration."

Todd Randolph can be reached at todd.randolph@epicbrokers.com or 713-705-1485.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC Holdings, Inc. is the corporate parent overseeing investments across the entire EPIC platform. The firm's core retail insurance brokerage business, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, now has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0808s2p-epic-logo-300dpi.jpg

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Todd Randolph has joined the firm as a Principal of its Southeast Employee Benefits Practice.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Black Knight Joins The Mortgage Collaborative’s Preferred Partner Network

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the mortgage industry's only independent cooperative, today announced that Black Knight, Inc. (NYSE:BKI), a leading provider of mortgage software, data and analytics solutions, has been added to its Preferred Partner network.

"Black Knight is renowned in the industry for its innovative and transformative technology," said Jim Park, chief executive officer of The Mortgage Collaborative. "We're thrilled to have the company join our Preferred Partner network and offer such best-in-class products to help our member lenders manage their operations more effectively."

Black Knight's solutions help mid-market lenders significantly reduce origination costs while driving greater efficiencies in the loan production process. The suite of solutions offered to members of The Collaborative Mortgage include:
* A best-in-class, scalable loan origination system that is quick to deploy, with the configurability lenders need to support compliance and reduce turn times
* Machine-learning capabilities to read and index documents to help process more loans at scale
* Client-configurable compliance testing available within the workflow
* Advanced business intelligence for actionable insight into their operations
* Comprehensive fee service used to minimize costly fee cures related to the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure
* Product pricing and eligibility software to help lenders deliver competitive products at the best price
* eClosing and eSign solutions that help lenders systematically determine the best way to close each loan.

"Both The Mortgage Collaborative and Black Knight are focused on helping lenders reduce their costs to originate and sharpen their competitive edge," said Tyler Sherman, chief revenue officer for the Black Knight Origination Technologies division. "Black Knight becoming a part of The Mortgage Collaborative's network reinforces our mutual commitment to transforming the industry with innovative solutions and powerful insights to help drive efficiencies and improve ROI."

As 2020 approaches, The Mortgage Collaborative looks forward to a year of new opportunities and out-of-the-box solutions for its member lenders while finishing off 2019 on a high note. Record-breaking attendance is anticipated for the organization's 2020 conferences, including its winter conference in New Orleans (February 16-18) and summer conference in Denver (August 9-11).

About The Mortgage Collaborative

Based in San Diego, Calif., The Mortgage Collaborative was founded in 2013 to empower mortgage lenders across the country with better financial execution, reduced costs, enhanced expertise and improved compliance and to help its members access the dynamic and changing consumer base in America. The association is managed by its founding members: John Robbins, CMB; David Kittle, CMB; Gary Acosta, CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP); and Jim Park, former chair of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA). Robbins and Kittle are former chairmen of the Mortgage Bankers Association of America (MBA). For more information, visit www.mortgagecollaborative.com.

About Black Knight

Black Knight (NYSE:BKI) is a leading provider of integrated software, data and analytics solutions that facilitate and automate many of the business processes across the homeownership life cycle.

As a leading fintech, Black Knight is committed to being a premier business partner that clients rely on to achieve their strategic goals, realize greater success and better serve their customers by delivering best-in-class software, services and insights with a relentless commitment to excellence, innovation, integrity and leadership. For more information on Black Knight, please visit www.blackknightinc.com.

The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the mortgage industry's only independent cooperative, today announced that Black Knight, Inc. (NYSE:BKI), a leading provider of mortgage software, data and analytics solutions, has been added to its Preferred Partner network.

Related link: https://www.mortgagecollaborative.com

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