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Kripton selects TRON and Tether to Drive Cryptocurrency Adoption and Financial Inclusion in Argentina

Kripton

Buenos Aires, Argentina – April 15, 2025 – Kripton, a leading e-commerce platform in Argentina, announced today a comprehensive strategic alliance with TRON DAO, the community-governed DAO dedicated to accelerating the decentralization of the internet through blockchain technology and decentralized applications (dApps). Together, they will launch initiatives aimed at revolutionizing digital payments and expanding financial inclusion in the Argentine market. In this multi-faceted collaboration, more than 2,000 merchants working with Kripton will adopt USDT (Tether USD) as their premier digital dollar, enabling secure, efficient, and subsidized payments on the TRON network. TRON will subsidize all transaction fees between Kripton and its users, significantly reducing costs and improving efficiency for consumers and merchants. Additionally, the strategic alliance will offer interest-free microloans to central market workers for the purchase of carts and work apparel, promoting economic growth and financial inclusion. The microloan initiative is projected to generate approximately 110,000 transactions and $2 million in volume over an 18-month period. Funding of the microloans will be derived from transactions conducted by market workers using USDT balances on the TRON network at Kripton-integrated businesses. "We are excited to have TRON join this initiative we've been working on," said Juan Pablo Moreno, CEO of Kripton. "Given that TRON is the network with the highest number of USDT transactions and has been actively working with the community for the longest time, we are confident that this integration will benefit our users and contribute to the growth of the crypto ecosystem in Argentina." This strategic alliance connects ongoing collaborative efforts between Kripton, TRON, Tether, and civil organizations that promote the use of Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies in Argentina. "TRON is committed to promoting the use of blockchain and cryptocurrencies in the region," said Sam Elfarra, Community Spokesperson at the TRON DAO. "This collaboration with Kripton and Tether is an important step toward the mass adoption of blockchain technologies in Argentina and the region." About TRON DAO TRON DAO is a community-governed DAO dedicated to accelerating the decentralization of the internet via blockchain technology and dApps. Founded in September 2017 by H.E. Justin Sun, the TRON blockchain has experienced significant growth since its MainNet launch in May 2018. Until recently, TRON hosted the largest circulating supply of USD Tether (USDT) stablecoin, exceeding $60 billion. As of April 2025, the TRON blockchain has recorded over 299 million in total user accounts, more than 10 billion in total transactions, and over $18 billion in total value locked (TVL), based on TRONSCAN. TRONNetwork | TRONDAO | X | YouTube | Telegram | Discord | Reddit | GitHub | Medium | Forum Media Contact Yeweon Park press@tron.network About Kripton Kripton.la is the leading provider of payment processors for merchants in Latin America and a retail service provider for cryptocurrency users. Since 2019, they have been developing a community seeking to apply the Bitcoin philosophy to the retail industry and decentralize it. Media Contact Melisa Diaz Faverin melifaverin@kriptonmarket.com Contact Details Melisa Diaz Faverin melifaverin@kriptonmarket.com

April 15, 2025 02:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Consolidated Credit Addresses Common Credit Myths During Financial Literacy Month

Consolidated Credit

As Americans face challenges such as increasing interest rates, inflation, and record-high credit card debt, Consolidated Credit, a leading national nonprofit credit counseling organization, is using Financial Literacy Month this April to confront one of the most significant barriers to financial wellness: misinformation. “Credit cards and credit scores play a crucial role in almost every financial decision, yet many people hold onto misconceptions that can negatively affect their financial health,” said Sandra Tobon, Director of Housing Counseling and Community Outreach at Consolidated Credit. Consolidated Credit highlights that some of the most harmful financial myths continue to circulate, often leading individuals to avoid using credit responsibly or overlook their existing debt. “Many people feel embarrassed or confused when it comes to their credit. We want to remove the stigma and replace it with support and education,” says April Lewis-Parks, Consolidated Credit’s Director of Financial Education. “ Good credit is possible — you just need the right tools and information.” Top Credit Myths: MYTH #1: A high credit score equals just paying bills on time. Truth: While payment history is critical, it’s not the only factor. Credit utilization ratio is important, too. TIP: Aim to use less than 30% of available credit across all accounts. If the credit limit is $5,000, try to keep your balance under $1,500. MYTH #2: Only worry about credit scores when applying for a loan. Truth: Credit scores can affect job opportunities, apartment rentals, insurance premiums, and even utilities. Lenders use credit score ranges to assess risk level and determine rates and terms: 720+ Excellent: May qualify for the best rates and rewards 660–719 Good: Generally approved for credit, but may have higher rates 580–659 Fair: Limited access to credit; higher costs Below 580 Poor: Often denied traditional credit or subject to very high rates MYTH #3: APR doesn’t matter if you plan to pay your balance off. Truth: While that’s true, more than 60% of Americans carry a balance, according to Debt.com’s latest research. The average credit card APR in the U.S. is currently over 20%, but many consumers don’t even know what theirs is. TIP: Anything under 15% APR is generally considered favorable, but even then, carrying a balance adds up quickly. MYTH #4: Credit card rewards are always a win. Truth: Rewards can be useful, but only when paying off the balance in full each month. Otherwise, interest charges often cancel out any cashback or points earned. TIP: Rewards should be a bonus — not a reason to spend more. Focus on responsible usage first, then optimize rewards. MYTH #5: You’ll know when your debt is getting out of hand. Truth: Many people don’t realize their debt is unmanageable until they’re overwhelmed. Warning signs include: Only making minimum payments Skipping other bills to pay credit cards Using one card to pay another Feeling anxiety or shame about credit card or loan balances TIP: A healthy debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is below 36%. If more than a third of your income is going toward debt payments, it’s time to reassess your budget or seek help. Empowering Consumers with Facts, Not Fear To celebrate Financial Literacy Month, Consolidated Credit is offering free resources, webinars, and one-on-one counseling sessions to help people replace myths with actionable strategies. Resources include: Free downloadableand budgeting worksheets Bilingualand workshops for families, students, and first-time homebuyers Expertavailable to answer questions and develop custom plans “People are doing their best in a complex financial world,” says Lewis-Parks. “This April, we want to give people a chance to reset with real, clear, and empowering financial education.” Visit www.ConsolidatedCredit.org to access resources and learn more. About: Consolidated Credit Consolidated Credit is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families and individuals overcome debt and achieve financial stability through education, counseling, and personalized financial strategies. Since 1993, Consolidated Credit has helped over 10 million people find solutions to their debt challenges and build a brighter financial future. Contact Details Jill Randolph jrandolph@mediamgmtgroup.com Company Website https://www.consolidatedcredit.org/

April 15, 2025 01:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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News Release

Clicks Talent Invests $250K to Redefine the Future of Influencer Marketing

Rev Up Marketers

Clicks Talent, the world’s first TikTok-focused influencer agency, has announced a strategic $250,000 investment to revolutionize influencer marketing and reshape the way brands connect with creators. This bold move aligns with the rapidly growing influencer marketing industry, projected to surpass $25 billion by 2025, as brands prioritize real impact over vanity metrics. With a reputation for driving successful TikTok campaigns and building high-performing influencer partnerships, Clicks Talent is expanding its tech capabilities to streamline the influencer sourcing process, measure campaign performance, and deliver more meaningful engagement for its clients. This latest initiative includes advanced features such as: Casting Call Listings - Brands can post open calls and receive influencer submissions from multiple agencies in one place, eliminating outdated email and PDF-based coordination. Live Performance Metrics - Real-time data on influencer profiles, including audience demographics, average views, and engagement rates. Performance-Based Filtering - Brands can filter talent by country, niche, engagement rate, and pricing to find the perfect match for every campaign. Transparent Pricing - Influencer rates per deliverable are listed upfront, with average market pricing available for better budgeting decisions. “This investment represents our commitment to innovation in the influencer marketing space,” said Ab Lieberman, CEO of Clicks Talent. “We’re not just helping brands connect with influencers—we’re transforming how those connections happen. We’re making it faster, smarter, and more results-driven.” By enhancing monetization tools and expanding creator opportunities, Clicks Talent continues to empower influencers and brands alike with smarter solutions and unmatched access to talent. About Clicks Talent Clicks Talent is the first-ever influencer agency built for TikTok, specializing in creator partnerships, campaign execution, and influencer growth. With a global network of top-performing creators, the agency helps brands drive authentic engagement and measurable results through strategic influencer collaborations. Contact Details Clicks Talent Ice Somani info@clickstalent.com Company Website https://www.clickstalent.com/

April 15, 2025 09:05 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Ballast Rock Names Max Jackson Managing Director and Private Credit Portfolio Manager

Ballast Rock

Ballast Rock, the diversified investment management firm, announced that it has named Max Jackson as Managing Director, Private Credit Portfolio Manager, at Ballast Rock Asset Management. In this newly created role, Jackson, who is based in San Francisco, will identify, diligence, and source private credit and development capital opportunities as well as lead merger and acquisition advisory. “Private credit has been among the fastest-growing segments of financial services, and we believe we have identified an attractive niche to explore these opportunities on behalf of our investors,” said Simon O’Shea, Chief Investment Officer of Ballast Rock. “Max has the right experience to help us increase our footprint in this important segment.” Prior to joining Ballast Rock, Jackson was a Vice President at KeyBanc in their Utilities, Power & Renewable Energy Capital Markets team. Offering a wide range of investment banking services and strategies to individuals, businesses, and institutional investors, he has advised on more than $1 billion in transactions and more than 500 assets transacted. “Ballast Rock’s experience in real estate gives it an edge in evaluating private credit across multiple industries,” Jackson said. “I look forward to helping the Ballast Rock team explore new ways and vehicles to capitalize on private credit for its investor base.” Prior to KeyBanc, Jackson worked at MVP Capital and Fifth Third Securities. Before his career as an investment banker, Jackson was senior auditor in Deloitte’s audit practice for four years, where he provided assurance services to both private and public companies with over $1 billion in revenue in the Retail, Green Tech and Financial Services industries. Jackson holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, where he majored in Business-Economics and minored in both Environmental Systems in Society and Accounting. About Ballast Rock Group Ballast Rock is an integrated investment management company specializing in delivering risk-adjusted returns, accurate, and timely advice, high quality frequent reporting, and direct access to management. Ballast Rock operates Ballast Rock Asset Management, Ballast Rock Private Wealth, and Ballast Rock Capital. Ballast Rock Asset Management comprises Ballast Rock Real Estate, which includes the firm’s Sunbelt multifamily real estate funds, and Ballast Rock Ventures, comprising venture capital and private equity teams. Ballast Rock Private Wealth is a full-service registered investment advisor, with a focus on allocating into private asset classes. Ballast Rock Capital (member FINRA/SIPC) is an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Ballast Rock is committed to being a driver of positive change. The diversity of our team members brings valuable new perspectives to our industry for the benefit of our stakeholders and the broader community. Investment Disclosure The information contained in this press release has been prepared by Ballast Rock Holdings LLC (“Ballast Rock”) without reference to any particular reader’s investment requirements or financial situation. Potential investors are encouraged to consult with professional tax, legal, and financial advisors before making any investment into a private offering of securities. An investment in private securities would be speculative and would involve a high degree of risk. Investors must be prepared to bear the economic risk of such an investment for an indefinite period of time and be able to withstand a total loss of their investment. Please carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, transaction costs, and other expenses related to an investment prior to deciding to invest. Ballast Rock Capital LLC (“BRC”), MEMBER: FINRA / SIPC. BRC’s registered head office is 460 King Street, Suite 200, Charleston, SC, 29403. Tel: 800-204-2513. To check background information about BRC and its representatives, visit FINRA’s BrokerCheck. Please see important disclosure information in our Form CRS. Contact Details For Ballast Rock Lisa Aldape, Vocatus laldape@vocatusllc.com Company Website https://www.ballastrock.com/

April 15, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

FINTECH.TV and South Korea’s 3PRO TV Announce Strategic Partnership

Fintech.TV

FINTECH.TV, a global media platform focused on finance and innovation, today announced a strategic partnership with 3PRO TV, South Korea’s leading financial and investment content platform. The signing ceremony took place at the New York Stock Exchange. The collaboration brings together FINTECH.TV ’s global distribution network and editorial expertise in blockchain and financial markets with 3PRO TV’s strong presence in Asia. The two companies will co-produce original programming and work together to expand into key international markets, including Abu Dhabi and Japan. “This partnership reflects our shared mission to elevate financial literacy and innovation across borders,” said Vince Molinari, Founder and CEO of FINTECH.TV. “By combining FINTECH.TV ’s global reach with 3PRO’s deep connection to Asian audiences, we are building a new bridge for cross-cultural dialogue in the financial world.” Founded in 2018, 3PRO TV has become a premier South Korean financial content platform, with 4.5 million YouTube subscribers. The company operates four affiliates spanning media and publishing. In 2023, it launched “Global Money Talk” to enter the U.S. market, where it has seen rapid audience growth. Looking ahead, 3PRO TV plans further expansion into Japan, ASEAN countries, India, the Middle East, Europe, and South America—targeting 50 million global subscribers by 2028. “This partnership with FINTECH.TV marks a pivotal step in our global expansion strategy,” said Donghwan Kim, CEO of 3PROTV. “We’re excited to collaborate on creating impactful content that empowers a new generation of investors around the world.” The agreement also opens the door to potential mutual investment and deeper resource integration between the two companies. About FINTECH.TV FINTECH.TV is a global media platform delivering cutting-edge news and insights across finance, digital assets, sustainability, and innovation. FINTECH.TV broadcasts from its marquee studio on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, with coverage from Abu Dhabi Global Market and other financial hubs around the world. The platform connects global audiences with thought leaders shaping the future of finance and investing. About 3PRO TV 3PRO TV is South Korea’s leading financial and investment content platform, known for delivering in-depth market analysis and expert interviews. With over 4.5 million YouTube subscribers and a growing international presence, 3PRO TV is committed to financial education and market transparency worldwide. Contact Details Fintech.TV Troy McGuire +1 407-883-9989 troy@fintech.tv Company Website https://fintech.tv/

April 15, 2025 08:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Comcast RISE to Award $3 Million in Grants to 100 Local Small Businesses in the Wasatch Front

Comcast Utah

Today, Comcast announced that it will award comprehensive grant packages to 100 small business owners in the Wasatch Front. These grants are part of a program to support the growth of small businesses and entrepreneurs committed to uplifting their local communities. Each grant package includes a robust array of support, including a technology makeover, creative production, a media schedule, educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, and business consultation services. Between May 1 and May 31, eligible small businesses in Bluffdale, City of Draper, Herriman City, Riverton, Sandy City, South Jordan, City of West Jordan, and White City can apply for the Comcast RISE program at www.ComcastRISE.com. Grant packages will include: TECHNOLOGY MAKEOVER - Computer equipment and Internet, Voice, and Cybersecurity services for 12 months. (Taxes and other fees may apply for tech makeover services.) CREATIVE PRODUCTION & MEDIA - Professionally produced 30-second TV commercial, plus a media strategy consultation and a 180-day linear media schedule. (Taxes and other fees may apply for production and media services.) EDUCATION RESOURCES - 12-month access to online entrepreneurship courses, learning modules and resources for small business owners. MONETARY GRANT - $5,000 monetary grant. COACHING SESSIONS - Business assessment and coaching that provides business owners with recommendations on how to help grow their businesses. Wasatch Front, Utah is one of five regions where 100 local businesses will receive Comcast RISE grants, including Boston, Grand Rapids, Mich., Nashville, Tenn., and Seattle. The 500 total recipients will join the 14,000 entrepreneurs nationwide who have been supported through Comcast RISE since the program launched in 2020. “Among the many things we all love about Utah is our vibrant small businesses and Comcast’s commitment to supporting them,” said J.D. Keller, senior vice president of Comcast’s Mountain West Region. “The Comcast RISE program will deliver innovative and impactful resources that will make a lasting impact on small businesses in Utah. Supporting small businesses is crucial for economic development and ensuring that the backbone of our communities can thrive.” “The Comcast RISE program was everything I needed during a time of uncertainty and loss," said Tenisha Hicks, owner of Isha Recovery and Sculpt and former Comcast RISE recipient. “Having a way to help boost my business and ensure that patients can find me was a blessing, one that keeps giving to this day. I am so grateful for the Comcast RISE program and hope that it can help other businesses in the future because it certainly helped mine." Comcast RISE is part of Project UP, the company’s comprehensive initiative to create digital opportunity and help build a future of unlimited possibilities. More information on eligibility requirements and details on how to apply are available at www.ComcastRISE.com. Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Deneiva Knight +1 520-345-9792 deneiva_knight@comcast.com Company Website https://utah.comcast.com/

April 14, 2025 02:00 PM Mountain Daylight Time

G6 Hospitality Adds Over 150 Corporate Clients in 2025

G6 Hospitality LLC

G6 Hospitality, the parent company of Motel 6 and Studio 6, today shared that it has added over 150 corporate clients in 2025. With more than 500 meetings conducted with potential and existing corporate accounts across the country, the company has successfully secured several major accounts across industries, including Construction, Transportation, Agriculture, Retail and Transitional Housing. These new corporate clients are primarily from Texas, California and Florida. The company has seen significant growth in its corporate segment, with a ~26% increase in revenue in Q1 2025 vs same period last year. G6 Hospitality has been adding approximately 50 new corporate accounts every month since January 2025. The company is focusing its efforts on construction, transportation, and agriculture industries, while also pursuing small to medium-sized businesses that generate annual bookings ranging from $15,000 to over $1 million. Natson Hotel Group, one of G6 Hospitality's key franchises, saw over 2X growth in corporate revenue in Q1 2025 vs Q1 2024. "By cultivating relationships with businesses across various industries, we're not only diversifying our client base but also creating consistent occupancy that benefit our network across locations. The collaborative approach with our franchise partners has been instrumental in identifying and securing these valuable corporate relationships," said Sonal Sinha, CEO - G6 Hospitality. Corporate clients benefit from several advantages including better rates with discounts averaging 10-12%, 30-day credit facilities through corporate direct billing, dedicated customer service, and easy issue resolution. The company creates corporate profile codes that apply discounts automatically when used on My6 app and website. Corporate clients can book via the website, app, call center, or email support. The company is actively pursuing additional corporate opportunities, including winning back former clients and extending contracts with existing 2024 accounts. Corporate account inquiries can be directed to Rohit Goel at Rohit.Goel@g6hospitality.com. About G6 Hospitality LLC G6 Hospitality LLC is the leading economy lodging franchisor, with nearly 1,500 economy lodging locations under the iconic Motel 6 brand and the Studio 6 Extended Stay brand in the United States and Canada. G6 Hospitality is committed to making hospitality accessible to all through responsible business practices and unparalleled opportunity for franchisees to build a legacy through ownership. Both Motel 6 and Studio 6 were recognized in the 2024 Entrepreneur Franchise 500® report, with Motel 6 ranking in the top 50 of all franchises. The Carrollton, Texas, based company was named a 2024 Leader in Diversity by Dallas Business Journal. For more information, please visit www.g6hospitality.com. Contact Details G6 Hospitality LLC Anupriya Malik +91 97911 63065 anupriya.d@oyorooms.com

April 14, 2025 11:00 AM Central Daylight Time

City of Seattle Partners with Comcast to Announce $3 Million in Grants to Local Small Business Owners

Comcast Pacific Northwest

Today, Comcast announced that it will award 100 small businesses in King County with over $3 million in monetary, marketing, and technology grants through the Comcast RISE program. Expanding upon Mayor Bruce Harrell’s recent announcement to help local businesses grow and succeed, Comcast RISE is supporting the growth of small businesses and entrepreneurs committed to uplifting their local communities with comprehensive grant packages that include a technology makeover, creative production, a media schedule, educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, and business consultation services. "Seattle wouldn’t be Seattle without our small businesses—they create jobs, build community, and add to the vibrancy of our neighborhoods,” said Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell. “From inflation to public safety concerns, I hear directly from business owners about the challenges they face and their desire to succeed here. That’s why we’re excited to welcome the Comcast Rise grant program back to not just Seattle, but all of King County — which offers more than just financial support, but critical investments in technology, marketing and operations to help businesses stabilize, grow and succeed. Our local economy depends on all of us —public and private sectors — working together and leveraging our resources to build a stronger and more resilient economy.” According to a U.S. Chamber of Commerce report last month, revenue concerns are surging as inflation remains a dominant challenge for small businesses. The concern for inflation reached a new high with 58% of small business owners reporting inflation as a top concern. Further, more than 1 in 3 small business owners are concerned about revenue, the highest share since 2021. “Small business owners are facing significant financial concerns and economic uncertainty, and we want to help,” said Rodrigo Lopez, Region Senior Vice President for Comcast in the Pacific Northwest. “Among the many things we all love about the greater Seattle area is our vibrant small businesses community and we strongly encourage small business owners to apply to Comcast RISE. This program is designed to give you the resources to help your business thrive and contribute to the economic growth and resilience of our community.” From May 1-31, eligible small businesses in King County can apply for the Comcast RISE program at www.ComcastRISE.com. Winners will be notified in August. Starting in April and throughout May, local small businesses can learn more about the Comcast RISE program, eligibility requirements, and how to apply by attending free information sessions being held by Comcast RISE community partner organizations, including the Bellevue Chamber, Greater Seattle Business Association (GSBA ), Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce, and Tabor 100. “When it comes to small businesses, we all know the challenges: we’ve seen the news, the closure notices, the boarded-up storefronts,” said Rachel Smith, president and CEO of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. “But there is good news on the horizon with another round of Comcast RISE grants and services to support Puget Sound region small businesses. Too many of our small businesses are on the bubble, and Comcast is serious about being part of the solution by offering financial support and technology services that help local businesses get a leg up. These businesses are the social fabric of our neighborhoods, and that’s why the Chamber is thrilled to be partnering with Comcast to help our members connect to this opportunity.” King County is one of five regions selected by Comcast in which 100 local businesses will be awarded the grant package. Other regions where small businesses will be awarded grant packages include Boston (MA), Grand Rapids (MI), Nashville (TN), and South Valley (UT). These recipients join the 14,000 entrepreneurs nationwide who have been selected as Comcast RISE recipients since the program launched in late 2020. Visit the Comcast RISE destination on the X1 platform for news, tips, insights, and more. Xfinity customers can say “Comcast RISE” into the X1 voice remote. Comcast RISE is part of Project UP, the company’s comprehensive initiative to create digital opportunity and help build a future of unlimited possibilities. More information on eligibility requirements and details on how to apply are available at www.ComcastRISE.com Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Andy Colley andy_colley@comcast.com Company Website https://washington.comcast.com/

April 14, 2025 08:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Frequency Forward Files FCC Petition to Block Sinclair Broadcast License Transfers for Five Stations

Frequency Forward

Today, Frequency Forward filed a Petition to Deny, urging the Federal Communications Commission to block the proposed transfer of broadcast licenses currently held by Sinclair, Inc. to Rincon Broadcasting Group. The complaint alleges that Sinclair has systematically used shell corporations to evade the Commission’s multiple ownership rules and has repeatedly misled regulators about the extent of its control over local television stations. Frequency Forward contends that Sinclair’s repeated misrepresentations and ongoing deception are disqualifying and that the FCC should hold a hearing into whether Sinclair and its shell companies are qualified to remain broadcast licensees. The filing argues that Sinclair’s long-standing use of sidecar companies, including Cunningham Broadcasting and Deerfield Media, amounts to de facto control of stations it cannot legally own under FCC rules. The petition further details how Sinclair concealed key financial and operational relationships, failed to disclose its consolidation of these entities as Variable Interest Entities (VIEs), shared legal counsel across all three companies, and made material misrepresentations in previous FCC proceedings. “Sinclair has spent decades building a shadow network of fake licensees to skirt federal ownership limits,” said Arthur Belendiuk, attorney for Frequency Forward. “These companies are not independent broadcasters; they’re fronts for Sinclair. Chairman Brendan Carr has said he’s committed to treating all broadcast licensing matters fairly and balanced, and we hope he approaches this case with the same urgency and determination he’s shown in his first months as Chair.” The petition is critical of the FCC’s 2020 $48 million consent decree with Sinclair, outlining in detail why the consent decree was an inappropriate substitute for a full investigation into misconduct that strikes at the heart of the public interest standard. This includes new evidence obtained via Freedom of Information Act request, which shows Sinclair continued to misrepresent material facts to the Commission while under investigation by the Media Bureau. The Media Bureau entered the 2020 consent decree relying on Sinclair’s misrepresentations, which the petition claims “adds another layer of deceit to its growing list of false statements, concealments and misrepresentations.” The license transfers being challenged include five Sinclair stations: KHQA in Quincy, Illinois, KTVO in Kirksville, Missouri, WICS in Springfield, Illinois, WICD in Danville, Illinois, and WVTV in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The FCC must review and rule on the Frequency Forward petition before the sale of these stations can proceed. “The FCC’s job is to ensure that the public airwaves are used by companies that operate with honesty and integrity,” said Belendiuk. “Sinclair has shown a consistent pattern of deception—concealing ownership structures, misleading regulators, sharing lawyers, and evading accountability. These are not minor infractions. They go to the core of whether Sinclair deserves the privilege of holding broadcast licenses. The Commission must not look the other way.” A copy of the Frequency Forward’s Petition to Deny is available here. Frequency Forward: Frequency Forward is a public-interest organization and consumer advocacy watchdog dedicated to promoting greater transparency and accountability at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Our mission is to ensure the agency serves all Americans and is not beholden to entrenched corporate power. Additional information is available at frequencyfwd.com. Contact Details Raynor Ave. Aaron Alberico +1 202-744-0786 aalberico@raynoravenue.com Company Website https://frequencyfwd.com/

April 14, 2025 10:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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