Many Feel “Nervous” and “Overwhelmed” as SAVE Repayments Resume in April

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — As President Donald Trump starts his second term, millions of student loan borrowers are bracing for what’s next. A new Debt.com survey of over 500 student loan borrowers reveals deep concerns about the future of student loan forgiveness and repayment policies.

Key Findings: A Nation on Edge Over Student Debt

When asked, “Are you concerned about what Trump’s second term means to your student loan balance?” a staggering 66% said “yes.”

Here’s how borrowers feel:

• 39% say they are nervous—barely making ends meet even while payments have been paused.
• 33% describe themselves as overwhelmed, struggling to move money around to afford repayments.
• 8% are optimistic, thinking Trump will create policies to help struggling borrowers.

Howard Dvorkin, CPA and chairman of Debt.com, urges borrowers to focus on what they can control rather than waiting for political solutions.

“Borrowers need to prepare now. Waiting for Washington to solve their financial problems is risky,” says Dvorkin. “Cut spending where you can, explore repayment plans, and seek expert advice. The sooner you take control of your student loans, the better your financial future will be—no matter who’s in office.”

Reality Check: Few Have Taken Proactive Steps

While many borrowers fear upcoming policy shifts, few have taken steps to prepare:

• 25% have cut back on spending to afford their full monthly payments.
• 12% have taken on side gigs to help cover student loan costs.
• 7% have consulted a student loan solutions company for expert guidance.

More Than Half Have Applied for Student Loan Forgiveness

While the future of federal forgiveness programs remains uncertain under Trump’s presidency, 55% of borrowers have already applied for some form of student loan relief, including:

• Income-driven repayment forgiveness (61%)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (41%)
• SAVE program (25%)
• Teacher Loan Forgiveness (13%)
• Student Loan Forgiveness for Nurses (12%)

Debt.com is helping borrowers navigate student loan repayment by providing expert insights, budgeting tools, and debt solutions. Borrowers can find resources and expert guidance at Debt.com.

About Debt.com: A leading provider of financial education and debt relief solutions, helping Americans find the path to financial stability. Through expert guidance, education, and personalized counseling, Debt.com empowers people to tackle debt challenges and build a brighter future.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2627628/Debt_dot_COM_2025_Student_Loan_Survey_Charts.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1576979/Debt_com_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Debt.com

PANAMA CITY, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama is preparing to receive more than 15,000 visitors at its five specialized fairs. From March 25 to 27, 2025, the Panama Convention Center will be the scene of EXPOCOMER, EXPO LOGÍSTICA PANAMA, EXPO TURISMO INTERNACIONAL, EXPO ELÉCTRICA INTERNACIONAL-PANAMÁ and EXPO TECH, events that will attract trade missions, national and international buyers and 800 exhibiting companies from 30 countries.

Manuel José Paredes, president of the Organizing Commission of Exhibitions and Events, said that preparations are progressing satisfactorily and that the fairs will offer an ideal space for companies to exhibit their products and services, increase their visibility, and generate new business opportunities.

The impact of these exposures has been remarkable. In 2024, 20,000 visitors, 6,000 business appointments and 16,500 business contacts were reached, with transactions valued at USD 148.2 million and an economic spill of USD 45 million. In addition, in the last three years, cumulative commercial transactions have totaled USD 410.3 million.

On the one hand, EXPOCOMER is the most important trade fair in Latin America. In its 41st edition, it will have 800 companies from America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia, promoting commercial exchange in sectors such as food, health, technology, fashion and manufacturing. In addition, delegations from more than 16 countries will participate in its International Business Roundtable.

While Expo Logística Panama, organized together with the National Secretariat of Science and Technology, highlights the importance of Panama as a logistics hub, bringing together 100 companies in the transport sector, logistics operators and infrastructure. In addition, it will feature specialized conferences on innovation and technology in the supply chain.

Along with these fairs, Expo Turismo Internacional is also held, which brings together Panamanian tourism companies focused on the mice sector and experiences of adventure, beach, health and shopping, including post-tours for international buyers.

Added to the INTERNATIONAL ELECTRIC EXPO that arrives for the first time in Panama, with 120 exhibition modules on sustainable energy. And, EXPO TECH will address issues of digital transformation, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

In addition, parallel events will be held such as the Tenth Expocomer International Business Roundtable, the Economic Forum of Public Private Partnerships and the Delivery of the National Award for Business Innovation 2024, to highlight a few.

The hours of the fairs will be from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2627362/250225_Fotos_Expo.jpg

SOURCE Cámara de Comercio de Panamá

ATLANTA, Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Home Depot^®, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, today reported fourth quarter and fiscal 2024 results.

Fourth Quarter 2024

Sales for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 were $39.7 billion, an increase of $4.9 billion, or 14.1% from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023. Comparable sales for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 increased 0.8%, and comparable sales in the U.S. increased 1.3%.

The fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 consisted of 14 weeks compared with 13 weeks for the prior year. The 14th week added approximately $2.5 billion in sales for the quarter and the year. The additional week is not included in comparable sales results for the quarter or the year.

Net earnings for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 were $3.0 billion, or $3.02 per diluted share, compared with net earnings of $2.8 billion, or $2.82 per diluted share, in the same period of fiscal 2023. The 14th week added approximately $0.30 to diluted earnings per share for the quarter and the year.

Adjusted⁽¹⁾ diluted earnings per share for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 were $3.13, compared with adjusted diluted earnings per share of $2.86 in the same period of fiscal 2023. The 14th week added approximately $0.30 to adjusted diluted earnings per share for the quarter and the year.

Fiscal 2024

Sales for fiscal 2024 were $159.5 billion, an increase of $6.8 billion, or 4.5% from fiscal 2023. Comparable sales for fiscal 2024 decreased 1.8%, and comparable sales in the U.S. decreased 1.8%.

Net earnings for fiscal 2024 were $14.8 billion, or $14.91 per diluted share, compared with net earnings of $15.1 billion, or $15.11 per diluted share in fiscal 2023.

Adjusted⁽¹⁾ diluted earnings per share for fiscal 2024 were $15.24, compared with adjusted diluted earnings per share of $15.25 in fiscal 2023.

“Our fourth quarter results exceeded our expectations as we saw greater engagement in home improvement spend, despite ongoing pressure on large remodeling projects,” said Ted Decker, chair, president and CEO.  “Throughout the year, we remained steadfast in our investments across our strategic initiatives to position ourselves for continued success, despite uncertain macroeconomic conditions and a higher interest rate environment that impacted home improvement demand. I would like to thank our associates for all that they do to serve our customers and communities.”

Dividend Declaration

The company today announced that its board of directors approved a 2.2% increase in its quarterly dividend to $2.30 per share, which equates to an annual dividend of $9.20 per share.

The dividend is payable on March 27, 2025, to shareholders of record on the close of business on March 13, 2025. This is the 152^nd consecutive quarter the company has paid a cash dividend.

Fiscal 2025 Guidance
The company provides the following guidance for fiscal 2025, a 52-week year compared to fiscal 2024, a 53-week year:

• Total sales growth of approximately 2.8%
• Comparable sales growth of approximately 1.0% for the comparable 52-week period
• Approximately 13 new stores
• Gross margin of approximately 33.4%
• Operating margin of approximately 13.0%
• Adjusted⁽¹⁾ operating margin of approximately 13.4%
• Tax rate of approximately 24.5%
• Net interest expense of approximately $2.2 billion
• Diluted earnings-per-share to decline approximately 3% from $14.91 in fiscal 2024
• Adjusted⁽¹⁾ diluted earnings-per-share to decline approximately 2% from $15.24 in fiscal 2024
• Capital expenditures of approximately 2.5% of total sales

The Home Depot will conduct a conference call today at 9 a.m. ET to discuss information included in this news release and related matters. The conference call will be available in its entirety through a webcast and replay at ir.homedepot.com/events-and-presentations.

At the end of the fourth quarter, the company operated a total of 2,347 retail stores and over 780 branches across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. The Company employs over 470,000 associates. The Home Depot’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor’s 500 index.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained herein constitute “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on currently available information and our current assumptions, expectations and projections about future events, and use words such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “project,” “plan,” “believe,” “expect,” “target,” “prospects,” “potential,” “commit” and “forecast,” or words of similar import or meaning or refer to future time periods. Forward-looking statements may relate to, among other things, the demand for our products and services, including as a result of macroeconomic conditions and changing customer preferences and expectations; net sales growth; comparable sales; the effects of competition; our brand and reputation; implementation of interconnected retail, store, supply chain, technology innovation and other strategic initiatives, including with respect to real estate; inventory and in-stock positions; the state of the economy; the state of the housing and home improvement markets; the state of the credit markets, including mortgages, home equity loans, and consumer and trade credit; the impact of tariffs; issues related to the payment methods we accept; demand for credit offerings including trade credit; management of relationships with our associates, jobseekers, suppliers and service providers; cost and availability of labor; costs of fuel and other energy sources; events that could disrupt our business, supply chain, technology infrastructure, or demand for our products and services, such as international trade disputes, natural disasters, climate change, public health issues, cybersecurity events, labor disputes, geopolitical conflicts, military conflicts, or acts of war; our ability to maintain a safe and secure store environment; our ability to address expectations regarding sustainability and human capital management matters and meet related goals; continuation or suspension of share repurchases; net earnings performance; earnings per share; future dividends; capital allocation and expenditures; liquidity; return on invested capital; expense leverage; changes in interest rates; changes in foreign currency exchange rates; commodity or other price inflation and deflation; our ability to issue debt on terms and at rates acceptable to us; the impact and expected outcome of investigations, inquiries, claims, and litigation, including compliance with related settlements; the challenges of operating in international markets; the adequacy of insurance coverage; the effect of accounting charges; the effect of adopting certain accounting standards; the impact of legal and regulatory changes, including executive orders and other administrative or legislative actions, such as changes to tax laws and regulations; store openings and closures; guidance for fiscal 2025 and beyond; financial outlook; and the impact of acquired companies, including SRS, on our organization and the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of any acquisitions.

These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to future events, risks and uncertainties – many of which are beyond our control, dependent on the actions of third parties, or currently unknown to us – as well as potentially inaccurate assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our expectations and projections. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those described in Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors,” and elsewhere in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal year ended January 28, 2024 and also as described from time to time in reports subsequently filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. There also may be other factors that we cannot anticipate or that are not described herein, generally because we do not currently perceive them to be material. Such factors could cause results to differ materially from our expectations. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we do not undertake to update these statements other than as required by law. You are advised, however, to review any further disclosures we make on related subjects in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and in our other public statements.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures
These statements are also supplemented with certain non-GAAP financial measures. When used in conjunction with our GAAP financial measures, we believe these supplemental non-GAAP financial measures will help management and investors to better understand and analyze our performance. However, this supplemental information should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the related GAAP measures. Refer to the end of this release for an explanation and definitions of these non-GAAP financial measures and reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP measures.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

Adjusted operating income, adjusted operating margin (calculated as adjusted operating income divided by total net sales), and adjusted diluted earnings per share are presented as supplemental financial measures in the evaluation of our business that are not required by or presented in accordance with GAAP. The Company excludes the impact of amortization expense from acquired intangible assets from adjusted operating income and adjusted operating margin, and the impact of amortization expense from acquired intangible assets, including the related tax effects, from adjusted diluted earnings per share. We do not adjust for the revenue that is generated in part from the use of our acquired intangible assets. Amortization expense, unlike the related revenue, is not affected by operations in any particular period unless an intangible asset becomes impaired, or the useful life of an intangible asset is revised.

When used in conjunction with our GAAP results, we believe these non-GAAP measures provide investors with meaningful supplemental measures of our performance period to period, make it easier for investors to compare our underlying business performance to peers, and align to how management analyzes trends and evaluates performance internally. The Company provides non-GAAP financial information on this basis to facilitate comparability when we report earnings results. These non-GAAP measures should not be a substitute for their comparable GAAP financial measures. Investors should rely primarily on our GAAP results and use non-GAAP financial measures only supplementally in making investment decisions. Our calculation of non-GAAP measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies and other companies may not define these non-GAAP financial measures in the same way, which may limit their usefulness as comparative measures.

Our adjusted operating margin guidance for fiscal 2025 excludes an expected approximately 40 basis point impact from acquired intangible asset amortization.

Our adjusted diluted earnings per share guidance for fiscal 2025 excludes an expected after-tax impact of approximately $0.40 from acquired intangible asset amortization.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/118058/THE_HOME_DEPOT_LOGO_v1.jpg

SOURCE The Home Depot

MEXICO CITY, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — FIBRA Prologis (BMV:FIBRAPL 14), a leading owner and operator of Class-A industrial real estate in Mexico, today reported results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE YEAR:

• Acquired nearly 90 percent of FIBRA Terrafina outstanding shares
• Net effective rents on rollover were 55.4 percent.
• Period-end and average occupancy were 98.3 and 98.1 percent, respectively.
• Customer retention was 71.6 percent.
• Same store cash NOI was 8.4 percent.
• Acquired US$284 million of Class-A properties.
• Installed 18 MW of solar capacity.

Net earnings per CBFI was Ps. 3.8692 (US$0.1816) for the quarter compared with Ps. 3.1136 (US$0.1770) for the same period in 2023. For the full year 2024, net earnings per CBFI was Ps. 17.1978 (US$0.9136) compared with Ps. 13.6338 (US$0.7761) for the same period in 2023.

Funds from operations (FFO), as modified by FIBRA Prologis per CBFI, was Ps. 0.9740 (US$0.0488) for the quarter compared with Ps. 0.8249 (US$0.0469) for the same period in 2023. For the full year 2024, FFO per CBFI was Ps.3.4507 (US$0.1943) compared with Ps. was Ps.3.3502 (US$0.1881) for the same period in 2023.

SOLID OPERATING RESULTS 

“2024 was a game-changer for the company—we nearly doubled our size with the successful tender offer for FIBRA Terrafina. In addition, we delivered solid financial results and outstanding operational metrics,” said Héctor Ibarzábal, CEO of FIBRA Prologis. “We enter 2025 on strong footing and the company is well-positioned to navigate both market fluctuations and geopolitical uncertainty”.

As a reminder, FIBRA Terrafina was managed by a third party through November 30, 2024. As such, some metrics only include FIBRA Terrafina activity after December 1, 2024.

STRONG FINANCIAL POSITION

As of December 31, 2024, FIBRA Prologis’ leverage stand alone was 18.1 percent and liquidity was approximately Ps. 9.4 billion (US$457 million), which included Ps. 8.3 billion (US$405 million) of available capacity on its unsecured credit facility and Ps. 1.1 billion (US$52 million) of unrestricted cash.

GUIDANCE ESTABLISHED FOR 2025

WEBCAST & CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION

FIBRA Prologis will host a live webcast/conference call to discuss quarterly results, current market conditions and future outlook. Here are the event details:

• Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 9 a.m. Mexico Time.
• Access the live webcast at www.fibraprologis.com, in the Investor Relations section, by clicking Events.
• Dial in: +1 888 596 4144 or +1 646 968 2525 and enter Passcode 4603995.

A telephonic replay will be available February 25 – March 3 at +1 800 770 2030 from the U. S. and Canada or at +1 647 362 9199 from all other countries using conference code 4603995. The replay will be posted in the Investor Relations section of the FIBRA Prologis website.

ABOUT FIBRA PROLOGIS

FIBRA Prologis is a leading owner and operator of Class-A industrial real estate in Mexico. As of December 31, 2024, the company’s portfolio comprised 509 Investment Properties, totaling 87.1 million square feet (8.1 million square meters). This includes 345 logistics and manufacturing facilities across 6 industrial core markets in Mexico, comprising 65.5 million square feet (6.1 million square meters) of Gross Leasing Area (GLA) and 159 buildings with 21.0 million square feet (1.9 million square meters) of non-strategic assets in other markets.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The statements in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the industry and markets in which FIBRA Prologis operates, management’s beliefs and assumptions made by management.  Such statements involve uncertainties that could significantly impact FIBRA Prologis financial results. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements, which generally are not historical in nature.  All statements that address operating performance, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future — including statements relating to rent and occupancy growth, acquisition activity, development activity, disposition activity, general conditions in the geographic areas where we operate, expected distributions, and our debt and financial position, are forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Although we believe the expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be attained and therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that may affect outcomes and results include, but are not limited to: (i) national, international, regional and local economic climates, (ii) changes in financial markets, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates, (iii) increased or unanticipated competition for our properties, (iv) risks associated with acquisitions, dispositions and development of properties, (v) maintenance of real estate investment trust (“FIBRA”) status and tax structuring, (vi) availability of financing and capital, the levels of debt that we maintain and our credit ratings, (vii) risks related to our investments (viii) environmental uncertainties, including risks of natural disasters, (ix) risks related to global pandemics, and (x) those additional factors discussed in reports filed with the “Comisión Nacional Bancaria y de Valores” and  the Mexican Stock Exchange by FIBRA Prologis under the heading “Risk Factors.” FIBRA Prologis undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements appearing in this release.

Non-Solicitation – Any securities discussed herein or in the accompanying presentations, if any, have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 or the securities laws of any state and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements under the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws. Any such announcement does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities discussed herein or in the presentations, if and as applicable.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/528012/FIBRA_Prologis_R1_Logo.jpg

SOURCE FIBRA Prologis

REALTOR^® of the Year Cindi Bulla honored at 2025 Winter Meeting

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Cindi Bulla of the Amarillo Association of REALTORS^® was named the 2024 Texas REALTOR^® of the Year at the Texas REALTORS^® Winter Meeting. Bulla began her real estate career in 1996 and has made lasting positive impacts to the REALTOR^® association, the real estate industry at both state and national levels, and the Amarillo community.

“Every year, the Texas REALTOR^® of the Year award is presented to a dedicated individual who demonstrates incredible service to our profession and the public,” said Christy Gessler, chairman of Texas REALTORS^®. “This year, we’re excited to present this award to Cindi, as her contributions to the real estate profession and her community are innumerable. Her willingness to step up and her determination to get things done benefits REALTORS^® across the state.”

After starting her professional journey in the mortgage industry, Bulla managed projects along I-20 and oversaw large-scale developments. Bulla’s expertise in real estate deepened after becoming the CEO of an Amarillo construction firm, and she launched her own brokerage, Realty Central Services, along with TYD Mortgage Services in 2006.

Bulla’s experience and leadership has been instrumental. In addition to leading the Texas REALTORS^® as Chairman in 2020, Bulla served as Chairman of the Amarillo Association of REALTORS^® in 2012. Bulla also served the Amarillo Association of REALTORS^® on the Governmental Affairs, MLS, and Strategic Planning committees. At the state level, Bulla has served as the chairman for committees dedicated to Issues Mobilization, MLS/Technology, and Budget/Finance.

With this award, Bulla has added to an already impressive list of accomplishments and accolades. She was named the Amarillo REALTOR^® of the Year in 2013, won the Women of Leadership Award in 2014, inducted into the RPAC Hall of Fame in 2015 and has been a member of the RPAC Presidents Circle since 2013.

“The REALTOR^® profession has been a transformational force throughout my life,” said Bulla. “I have met life-long friends through becoming involved in the Amarillo community and have also been honored to advise so many clients in their homeownership journey from start to finish.”

Bulla has served on Amarillo’s Planning and Zoning Commission, Downtown Design Standards of Amarillo, and is an appointee for the City of Amarillo’s Partnership for Development Progress. She has four decades of volunteer experience with the Amarillo Little Theater and is Chairman of the Board for the Plainview Civic Center. Cindi is the proud wife of Chuck Bulla and mom to Cristine White, Angi Williamson, and Jonathon Bulla. She resides in Amarillo and enjoys spending time with her five grandchildren. Texas REALTORS^® looks forward to Bulla’s continued leadership and involvement in her community.

About Texas REALTORS^®
With more than 150,000 members, Texas REALTORS^® is a professional membership organization that represents all aspects of real estate in Texas. We are the advocate for REALTORS^® and private property rights in Texas.

Media Contact: 
David Gibbs 
[email protected] 

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1317682/Texas_Realtors_Logo.jpg 

SOURCE Texas Realtors

• The BMO LAFC Debit Mastercard^® and BMO Angel City FC Debit Mastercard^® let fans tap into the game with exclusive gameday offers and experiences.

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — BMO, Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) and Angel City Football Club (ACFC) today announced the launch of the two teams’ dedicated fan cards: BMO LAFC Debit Mastercard^® and BMO Angel City FC Debit Mastercard^®.

Just in time to kick off the new season for Major League Soccer (MLS) and the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the new BMO LAFC and Angel City FC fan cards – which are available with any BMO personal checking account – offer fans unprecedented access to their team, discounts on apparel and gear, and exclusive perks throughout the season. BMO is proud to partner with LAFC’s Denis Bouanga and Angel City FC’s Madison Hammond to help tell the story of the fan cards with a new series of lighthearted commercials that showcase the skills of “the beautiful game.”

“Soccer brings joy and connection for fans, whether playing, cheering from the stands, or rooting on your favorite club from afar. As the Bank of Soccer, BMO is committed to growing the game and our partnerships with LAFC and Angel City FC reflect our deep commitment to our Los Angeles community,” said Sandy Dunleavy, Regional President, Southern California, BMO. “We are excited to expand our partnerships with both teams with the fan cards, which are another way BMO is helping supporters in L.A. connect with their favorite teams and enjoy an enhanced fan experience, all while making real financial progress.”

“LAFC is built around community and culture,” said Larry Freedman, LAFC Co-President & CBO. “We are grateful for our continued partnership with BMO, as well as for their generous support of numerous community initiatives in and around Los Angeles. We look forward to welcoming our fans and supporters back to BMO Stadium for the 2025 season, with the opportunity to use BMO’s fan card to enjoy special benefits and be even more connected to LAFC.”

“Since joining the Angel City family as a Founding Partner in 2023, BMO has demonstrated remarkable commitment to growing soccer in Los Angeles and across the United States,” said Julie Uhrman, Co-Founder and President of Angel City Football Club. “BMO’s fan cards have helped to connect NBA and NHL fans to their teams, and we are thrilled they are creating more opportunities to celebrate Angel City fandom and bring greater visibility to the game.”

The BMO LAFC Debit Mastercard^® and BMO Angel City FC Debit Mastercard^® provide soccer fans in Los Angeles with exclusive benefits, including:

• Save 10% on team gear: Cardholders get 10% off team gear at LAFC HQ and Angel City FC HQ* when they use their BMO fan card.
• Attend BMO Customer Appreciation Nights: Throughout the season, fans attending an LAFC or Angel City FC game on any BMO Customer Appreciation Night can visit the BMO Entrance to enjoy perks and giveaways – exclusive to BMO cardholders.
• Additional perks throughout the year: LAFC and Angel City FC will announce more exclusive events and in-stadium benefits for BMO cardholders during the MLS and NWSL seasons.

Cardholders can experience these perks at BMO Stadium for the first time at LAFC’s MLS season opener on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 1:30 p.m. PT.

For more card details and to open an account, visit bmo.com/lafc, bmo.com/acfc or a local BMO branch.  

For more information on tickets to LAFC or Angel City FC games or other events at BMO Stadium, visit BMOStadium.com.

*Some exclusions may apply, discounts cannot be combined, discounts only apply to full priced merchandise, and cannot be used on memorabilia or gift cards. Not valid on collaboration or sale merchandise. No cash value.

About BMO Financial Group

 BMO Financial Group is the eighth largest bank in North America by assets, with total assets of $1.41 trillion as of October 31, 2024. Serving customers for 200 years and counting, BMO is a diverse team of highly engaged employees providing a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management, global markets and investment banking products and services to 13 million customers across Canada, the United States, and in select markets globally. Driven by a single purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, BMO is committed to driving positive change in the world, and making progress for a thriving economy, sustainable future, and inclusive society.

About Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC)

The 2022 MLS Cup Champion Los Angeles Football Club has represented the greater Los Angeles area in Major League Soccer since 2018. The two-time Supporters’ Shield Champions (2019, 2022) and 2024 U.S. Open Cup Champions, LAFC is dedicated to building a world-class soccer Club that represents the diversity of Los Angeles and is committed to delivering an unrivaled experience for fans. LAFC’s ownership group is comprised of local leaders and innovators of industry with intellectual capital, financial prowess, operations expertise and success in the fields of entertainment, sports, technology and media. LAFC is invested in the world’s game and Los Angeles, constructing and developing the 22,000 seat BMO Stadium and a top-flight training center on the campus of Cal State Los Angeles.

About Angel City Football Club

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) of Los Angeles, in the National Women’s Soccer League, is entering its fourth season in 2025 at BMO Stadium in downtown Los Angeles. ACFC is led by controlling owners Willow Bay and Bob Iger and was co-founded by tech entrepreneur Julie Uhrman, actor and activist Natalie Portman, and venture capitalist Kara Nortman. The club has been named the world’s most valuable women’s sports team, with a valuation of $250 million. Mark Parsons serves as the team’s Sporting Director.

2025 Season Tickets are now on sale and start at $50 per month. They come with year-round benefits, including tickets to all regular season home games plus an international friendly. For more information, please contact [email protected] or visit angelcity.com/tickets/seasontickets.

Learn more about ACFC at www.angelcity.com and follow the team on social media @weareangelcity.    

Media Contact: Shawn Malayter, [email protected]

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2624509/BMO_US_BMO__LAFC_and_Angel_City_FC_Unveil_Co_Branded_Fan_Cards.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2624510/BMO_US_BMO__LAFC_and_Angel_City_FC_Unveil_Co_Branded_Fan_Cards.jpg 

SOURCE BMO US

REALTORS^® and local associations honored at 2025 Winter Meeting

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/– Texas REALTORS^® celebrated members and local REALTOR^® associations at this year’s annual Texas REALTORS^® Winter Meeting February 10 in Austin. The Texas REALTORS^® Awards spotlight individuals and organizations that have demonstrated remarkable dedication and excellence in the real estate profession. 

“Every year, we’re honored to showcase some of the state’s hardest working professionals and associations in real estate through the Texas REALTORS^® Awards,” said Christy Gessler, 2025 Chairman of Texas REALTORS^®. “The esteemed 2024 group of winners exemplifies the commitment to excellence that makes the real estate profession such a force for local communities and the Texas economy.”

The 2024 Texas REALTOR^® of the Year was awarded to Cindi Bulla of the Amarillo Association of REALTORS^®. Bulla has more than 25 years of experience in real estate and has made invaluable contributions to the profession and to the greater Amarillo community. She has been a driving force in real estate, serving on various advisory groups and committees at the national, state, and local level, including serving as the Chairman for Texas REALTORS^® and Chairman of the Amarillo Association of REALTORS^®.

The Distinguished Service Award was presented to Robert Wright of Austin, recognizing 45 years of commitment to the REALTOR^® organization and his community. Wright, who has volunteered in some capacity within the REALTOR^® association every single year since 1992, was also a founding board member of the Austin chapter of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers.

Kent Redding, recipient of the 2024 Texas REALTORS^® Good Neighbor Award, was honored for his volunteer work with the Mobile Loaves and Fishes organization, connecting the chronically homeless with life-changing resources. His contributions to the Austin community include volunteering for organizations like Community First! Village and Hungry Souls.

Shelyna Tinglin, recipient of the 2024 Educator of the Year Award, was lauded for her exceptional work, including her service on the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Education Standards Advisory Committee and the Collin County Area REALTORS^® (CCAR) Board of Directors. Tinglin’s role as the 2024 Chair of the CCAR Professional Development Committee has showcased her leadership and influence in shaping the future of real estate education.

Adrian Arriaga, recipient of the inaugural Richard Miranda Global Achievement Award, was recognized for being a leader in global real estate for more than 40 years, representing high net worth Spanish-speaking investors and helping U.S. companies establish manufacturing facilities in Mexico.

Three local associations were recognized for their exemplary educational programs:

• San Antonio Board of REALTORS^® in the innovation category
• Houston Association of REALTORS^® in the marketing category
• Austin Board of REALTORS^® in the legal category

Additionally, Danielle Tucker Shepard of the Fort Hood Area Association of REALTORS^® was recognized for the Series or Short Program of the Year for an educational program.

Gilbert Gonzalez of the San Antonio Board of REALTORS^® was honored with the 2024 Tom D. Morton Award for his outstanding leadership and dedication as an association executive. Gonzalez has led his association to achieve remarkable success through innovative initiatives by spearheading impactful community projects, prioritizing professional development, and championing diversity and inclusion workshops.

Collin County Area REALTORS^® was honored with the Mark Lehman Governmental Affairs Achievement Award for its outstanding performance in fundraising, grassroots efforts, and other governmental affairs initiatives.

Jeff Varnell, a member of MetroTex Association of REALTORS^®, was recognized as Grassroots Advocate of the Year, highlighting his dedication to engaging with elected officials on policies affecting real estate and promoting political involvement. Additional individuals receiving recognition for grassroots efforts include: 

• Diana Barnett, Fort Hood Association of REALTORS^®
• Sandra Breedlove, Collin County Area REALTORS^®
• Amy Hanson, Collin County Area REALTORS^®
• Chad Hovde, Bryan-College Station Regional Association of REALTORS^®
• Brenda Job, Jasper Area Board of REALTORS^®
• Ken Kiel, Four Rivers Association of REALTORS^®
• Olivia Kiritsy, Lufkin Association of REALTORS^®
• Carie McNeil, Permian Basin Board of REALTORS^®
• Kelly Rudiger, Collin County Area REALTORS^®
• Taylor Walcik, MetroTex Association of REALTORS^®
• Sharon Williamson, Longview Area Association of REALTORS^®

Local associations that received the Diversity Recognition Program Award promoting diversity and inclusivity in the real estate profession were:

• Austin Board of REALTORS^®
• Greater Fort Worth Association of REALTORS^®
• Greater McAllen Association of REALTORS^®
• MetroTex Association of REALTORS^®
• San Antonio Board of REALTORS^®

The Young Professionals Network (YPN) honored six members under 40 with the REALTORS^® to Watch Award for stand-out leadership, community involvement, and professional success:

• Naquay Dunbar, Houston
• Kayla Sorrell, Houston
• Preston Davis, Sherman
• Miriam Valencia, Houston
• Randi Houston, Katy
• Rick Ramirez, MetroTex
• Jose Nieto, Houston
• Katherine Nebel, Spring

Recipients of the Texas Accredited Commercial Specialist Scholarship were:

• Porsha Burns, Plano
• Lorena Decanini, Frisco
• Audrey Munoz, San Antonio
• Hanayya Shah, McKinney
• Aaron Sowemimo, Houston
• Shonda Strives, Irving
• Narcippa Teague, Rockwall

About Texas REALTORS®
With more than 150,000 members, Texas REALTORS® is a professional membership organization that represents all aspects of real estate in Texas. We are the advocate for REALTORS® and private property rights in Texas.

CONTACT: David Gibbs, Hahn Agency, [email protected]

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SOURCE Texas Realtors