Latest news with #RobertWilson
The Guardian
20-05-2025
- Health
- The Guardian
Delay in improving NHS maternity care costing lives of hundreds of babies a year
A delay in improving NHS maternity care is costing the lives of hundreds of babies a year, analysis shows. At least 2,500 fewer babies would have died since 2018 if hospitals had managed to reduce the number of of stillbirths and neonatal and maternal deaths in England, as the government falls behind on its commitment to halve the rate of those three events. That is according to a joint report being published on Wednesday by the baby charities Tommy's and Sands, which assesses NHS progress on meeting targets that were set in 2015. 'Hundreds of fewer babies a year would have died since 2018 if the government had met its ambition to halve the rates of stillbirths and neonatal deaths in England by 2025', said Dr Robert Wilson, head of the Sands and Tommy's joint policy unit. The 2,500 deaths are 'the equivalent of around 100 primary school classrooms', Wilson added. The stubbornly high rates of stillbirth and neonatal death, despite efforts to tackle them, show that ministers are doing too little to reduce the incidence of baby loss, Wilson claimed. 'The response from government and policymakers to the ongoing crisis in maternity and neonatal care and the scale of pregnancy and baby loss in the UK is simply not good enough. 'Too many people continue to suffer the heartbreak of losing a baby', he said. In 2015 Jeremy Hunt, the then health secretary, promised to halve the number of stillbirths and neonatal and maternal deaths that occurred in 2010 by 2030. These became known as the government's maternity safety ambitions. The deadline for delivery was later brought forward to 2025, amid acute concern about the poor and sometimes unsafe care many women receive from NHS maternity services. While the NHS has made significant progress since 2015, it looks likely to fail to deliver the much lower rates promised on time. For example, there were 5.1 stillbirths for every 1,000 births in 2010. But in 2023, the most recent year for which figures are available, that had fallen to 3.9 – still well above the 2.6 target – according to Office for National Statistics data cited by Tommy's and Sands. That meant that about 565 more stillbirths occurred in 2023 than would have done if hospitals had succeeded in getting the rate down as promised, the charities said. Similarly, there were two neonatal deaths per 1,000 births in 2010. But the rate was still 1.4 per 1,000 in 2023, again raising doubt that the target of one per 1,000 by 2025 would be achieved. 'Despite a decline in the rates of stillbirth and neonatal death since 2010, progress has stagnated more recently and is not on track to meet the ambitions', the report says. Clea Harmer, the chief executive of Sands, said: 'These are not simply numbers; these are babies who are loved and will never be forgotten by their parents and families.' The drive to reduce premature births is also failing, it adds. Although the target is to reduce the number of pre-term births to 6% by this year, 'there has been little progress to reduce the preterm birth rate, which has remained between 7.3% and 8.1% between 2010 and 2023'. The charities want ministers to bring in new targets, of two stillbirths and 0.5 neonatal deaths per 1,000 births by 2035, and ensure hospitals properly implement changes recommended in reports into lapses in maternity care. The Department of Health and Social Care has been approached for comment.
Time Business News
13-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Agents and Brokers Reclaim Lost Deals: Credit-Challenged Clients Get Approved in 2025
TORONTO — For real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and vehicle finance professionals, nothing is more frustrating than watching a promising deal fall apart due to a client's poor credit. But now, many professionals across North America are partnering with GTFS to turn rejected leads into funded and approved clients, thanks to the firm's cutting-edge Credit Optimization Partnership Program (COPP). GTFS is helping brokers and agents bridge the gap between aspiration and approval by offering strategic tools, coaching, and client-centred services designed to restore credit, build trust, and close transactions. The Credit Challenge Brokers Know All Too Well In today's high-interest lending environment, clients with scores below 660 often find themselves sidelined, despite substantial income or assets. Even minor credit blemishes can derail home purchases, auto financing, or commercial leases. 'Agents and brokers come to us daily saying, 'This client was ready—except for their credit score,'' said Robert Wilson, Head of Sales and Marketing. 'That's where we step in to help both the client and the professional.' What GTFS Offers to Brokers and Agents The GTFS Credit Optimization Partnership Program (COPP) includes a range of tools designed to help professionals retain leads and increase approvals: White-label onboarding portals that brokers can offer to clients as part of their service portals that brokers can offer to clients as part of their service Branded credit progress dashboards with real-time updates with real-time updates Custom letters of explanation and financial rationale documents for underwriting reviews and financial rationale documents for underwriting reviews Client education and coaching services tailored to homebuying, auto, or business lending goals and coaching services tailored to homebuying, auto, or business lending goals Direct access to GTFS credit advisors for professional guidance and client-specific planning 'We're not just providing credit repair,' explained Emily Johnson, Senior Credit Analyst. 'We're giving brokers and agents a way to say, 'Not today, but maybe in 90 days—with a plan.' That's powerful.' Real Results, Real Closings ✅ Case Study – Los Angeles : A mortgage broker submitted a couple with a 585 and 612 score for a $400,000 home. GTFS enrolled them in a 100-day improvement plan. Their scores were 678 and 693 in three months—just enough to secure preapproval. The deal closed two weeks later. ✅ Case Study – Toronto : A vehicle financing specialist referred a self-employed Uber driver who was denied a loan due to inconsistent income and a 609 score. GTFS guided the client in adding a tradeline, restructuring debt, and submitting a letter of explanation. The dealer issued financing 45 days later at a fair interest rate. Compliance, Transparency, and Speed Unlike credit 'fixers' that promise overnight results or operate in regulatory grey zones, GTFS follows a fully compliant and transparent model. Each referral is documented, each result is measurable, and each plan is built within the legal frameworks of Canadian and U.S. credit reporting systems. All broker-partner activity is protected by: Non-circumvention agreements Agent-broker referral codes Data privacy compliance (PIPEDA and FCRA) Zero cross-sell guarantees (GTFS never markets competing products to your clients) 'We respect the broker-client relationship,' said Willard Dunne, Head of Operations. 'Our role is to support that relationship, not compete with it.' Built for Real Estate, Auto, Business, and More GTFS's platform is customizable for industry-specific needs. Whether you're a mortgage agent, car dealership finance manager, business credit consultant, or rent-to-own housing specialist, the tools and support adapt to your vertical. COPP Customization Options: Real estate agents can set milestone timelines synced with financing deadlines Auto lenders can pre-screen financing partners with score forecasts Business credit advisors can bundle COPP with entity structuring and funding prep Commercial leasing agents can offer repair timelines aligned to lease start dates Tech-Driven, Human-Centred The GTFS system is built on a secure digital platform but delivered with human connection. Each client is assigned a dedicated credit advisor, and each agent or broker receives personal support from a GTFS partner manager. 'Automation is great,' said David Clark, IT Director, 'but credit recovery is personal. That's why our platform tracks progress—but our people make it work.' From Lead Recovery to Long-Term Loyalty When a broker tells a client, 'Let's fix this and come back stronger,' it builds loyalty that lasts. GTFS partners report up to 40% lead recovery, and higher client retention compared to brokers who simply walk away from bad-credit prospects. ✅ Broker Testimonial – Florida : 'Before GTFS, I was throwing away 1 in 5 leads. Now I send them to GTFS, and half of them come back ready to close. My pipeline is healthier than ever.' – J. Nelson, Licensed Mortgage Broker Get Started as a GTFS Partner Today GTFS is currently onboarding real estate agents, commercial brokers, credit advisors, and auto finance professionals across North America. There is no cost to become a partner, and all partners receive: Digital marketing toolkits A custom referral portal Access to client success data Revenue-sharing opportunities on completed improvements Co-branded webinars and educational sessions About GTFS GTFS is a Toronto-based financial services firm offering personalized credit solutions, alternative financing, and commercial financial instruments. With over 115 years of combined leadership experience, GTFS empowers individuals and businesses with compliant, practical financial tools to meet today's challenges. For broker inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact:📧 Email: info@ 🌐 Website: 🔗 Social Media: LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Facebook | Instagram
Time Business News
02-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
GTFS Empowers Brokers and Agents with World-Class Financial Instruments and White-Label Support to Help Clients Secure High-Value Deals
TORONTO, ON – In an increasingly competitive financial landscape, brokers and agents worldwide are turning to GTF Solutions (GTFS) as their trusted partner for securing and structuring high-value financial instruments. GTFS's innovative Broker and Agent Partnership Program is revolutionizing how brokers support their clients. It offers access to global financial solutions, including Standby Letters of Credit (SBLCS), Bank Guarantees, Certificates of Deposit, and Trade Finance, paired with dedicated white-label support and commission-based revenue models. With a client-first model and global partnerships across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, GTFS equips brokers with the resources, expertise, and customized tools needed to win, close, and retain elite clientele. 🔹 The GTFS Advantage: A Strategic Ally for Brokers 'Brokers are the critical bridge between opportunity and execution,' said Robert Wilson, Head of Sales and Marketing at GTFS. 'We empower them with financial instruments, training, and dedicated support so they can help their clients secure capital, mitigate risk, and grow.' The GTFS broker model provides: Access to exclusive financial instruments Custom-tailored solutions to meet diverse client needs to meet diverse client needs Training webinars , pitch decks, and co-branded marketing materials , pitch decks, and co-branded marketing materials Ongoing deal structuring and consulting assistance and consulting assistance Dedicated relationship managers for every broker partner GTFS ensures its brokers remain competitive and successful by delivering white-glove service and premium tools. 🏦 Financial Services Brokers Can Offer Through GTFS GTFS's robust financial catalogue allows brokers to present world-class, bank-issued instruments and consulting services, helping them close larger deals and enhance client satisfaction. 1. Standby Letters of Credit (SBLCS) SBLCS serve as a guarantee of payment and are essential in trade finance and considerable project funding. What GTFS Offers: Issuance of fresh-cut and seasoned SBLCS via top-tier banks SBLC structuring for credit enhancement , real estate , and infrastructure finance , , and Monetization support for clients needing liquidity Case Study: A broker representing a client with a $20 million real estate project secured an SBLC through GTFS from a European bank. Within 45 days, the client obtained the necessary funding. The broker earned a substantial commission and gained three new clients through referral. 2. Certificates of Deposit (CDS) Ideal for conservative investors, GTFS provides brokers access to high-yield, secure fixed-term CDS. Key Offerings: Short-, medium-, and long-term CDs with above-market returns Access to international banking partners for diversified placements for diversified placements Strategies for wealth preservation and income generation Case Study: A broker introduced a retiree with $5M to GTFS. The funds were placed into 12-, 24-, and 36-month CDS, maximizing returns and stability. The result? Long-term loyalty and client satisfaction for the broker. 3. Trade Finance Instruments GTFS simplifies international transactions by offering: Letters of Credit (LCS) Bank Guarantees (BGS) Supply Chain Financing Invoice Factoring Case Study: A broker in the crude oil market used GTFS's trade finance solutions to secure a $10 million deal with a tailored Letter of Credit, closing the deal efficiently and strengthening the broker's industry reputation. 4. Asset Management and Wealth Advisory Brokers serving ultra-high-net-worth individuals can partner with GTFS for: Custom investment portfolios across real estate , sovereign bonds , and private equity , , and Global diversification Tax-efficient structuring and succession planning Case Study: A GTFS broker helped a family office allocate assets globally, achieving a 14% return in the first year and solidifying a long-term partnership. 5. White-Label Financial Consulting Sometimes clients don't need a product—they need a plan. GTFS offers brokers access to white-label consulting, including: Business expansion and M&A advisory Wealth transition and legacy planning Financial restructuring Strategic credit enhancement solutions Case Study: A broker whose client was exploring a $50 million acquisition turned to GTFS for M&A structuring. The strategic advice helped secure funding while saving the client millions, resulting in repeat business and referrals for the broker. 🚀 Specialized Offerings for Elite Brokers Brokers working with GTFS can access unique offerings rarely found elsewhere: Demand Guarantees for construction, infrastructure, and energy projects for construction, infrastructure, and energy projects Monetization pathways for SBLCS and BGS for SBLCS and BGS Private banking introductions for UHNWIS for UHNWIS International project funding and pre-advice for fund verification and pre-advice for fund verification Proof of Funds (POF) services for deal readiness 🌐 Why Brokers Worldwide Are Choosing GTFS ✔ Tailored, Not Templated Every client has a unique need. GTFS helps brokers deliver personalized solutions instead of off-the-shelf options. ✔ Global Partnerships Work with issuing banks and partners across Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East. ✔ Speed-to-Market Fast approvals and underwriting help brokers beat tight deal deadlines and exceed client expectations. ✔ Education & Marketing Support Pre-made pitch decks, webinars, brochures, and branded material help brokers present like pros. ✔ Dedicated Broker Managers Every broker receives a personal relationship manager for continuous support and fast resolution. 📚 Broker Case Study: From Pitch to $500,000 Commission in 27 Days Client: A Canadian broker specializing in energy approached GTFS for a client needing $45M in acquisition collateral. Challenge: The client had 30 days to secure financing for an energy acquisition but lacked capital. Solution: GTFS structured a $50M SBLC through a European bank as acquisition collateral. Outcome: The acquisition closed in 27 days The broker received a $500,000 commission The broker gained three new clients through referrals 📥 How to Join the GTFS Broker Network Becoming a GTFS partner is a straightforward process: Apply via the secure online broker portal Get approved within days through a simplified onboarding process Start offering bank-issued financial instruments and advisory services GTFS welcomes: Financial Advisors Trade Consultants Project Finance Specialists Private Bankers Investment Brokers The program features competitive commission models, confidentiality, and complete white-label support. 🔔 Conclusion: Your Growth Is Our Mission At GTFS, brokers aren't just clients—they are strategic partners. From facilitating multimillion-dollar acquisitions to preserving retiree wealth, GTFS helps brokers close deals, elevate their brand, and grow their business. If you're ready to offer premium financial solutions with the backing of a global partner, join the GTFS Broker Network today. 📞 Contact Information Phone: 1-888-305-9992 Email: info@ Website: Follow Us: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 Twitter/X 🔗 Facebook 🔗 Instagram TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
02-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
GTFSolutions Empowers Brokers with Expert Financial Instrument Guidance and Access to High-Level Funding Resources
TORONTO, CANADA – GTFSolutions, a global financial services leader specializing in structured instruments and project finance, today announced the formal expansion of its Broker Partnership Program, offering unparalleled support to brokers seeking to use advanced financial instruments in commercial lending, project development, and capital acquisition. With today's economy increasing strain on traditional lending sources, many brokers have turned toward complex financing instruments to secure the capital their clients require. However, without the proper expertise, these brokers often face critical knowledge gaps that stall deals, delay funding, or result in disqualification. GTFSolutions has spent years developing a professional broker network that is trained explicitly in applying financial instruments. This network brings unmatched experience and credibility to every deal. 'A financial instrument is only as strong as the person presenting it,' said Robert Wilson, Head of Sales and Marketing at GTFSolutions. 'That's why we work closely with brokers who understand not just lending, but how to position instruments like Standby Letters of Credit, Bank Guarantees, and Certificates of Deposit in ways that lenders and institutions accept. It's a specialized field—and we bring that specialization to every transaction.' Bridging the Gap Between Brokers and Institutional-Grade Financing While many brokers come from residential real estate, consumer credit, or commercial lending backgrounds, they often find themselves unequipped when applying financial instruments such as Demand Guarantees, Proof of Funds, or Monetized Assets for project-level transactions. GTFS bridges this gap by offering brokers: Access to seasoned financiers and former senior banking professionals Hands-on guidance in structuring and presenting financial documents Legal and compliance review of all documents and supporting material Full back-end support for client interaction, negotiations, and funding steps Assistance with complex multi-jurisdictional projects and cross-border financing 'We're not just offering products—we're offering solutions backed by professionals who have spent decades in private banking, institutional lending, and sovereign-level deals,' added Wilson. Industries and Sectors Served GTFSolutions supports a wide range of project types through its broker-enhanced financial offerings. These include: Commercial Real Estate Development Oil and Gas Exploration Construction and Infrastructure Media and Film Financing International Public-Private Partnerships Business Expansion and M&A Green Energy Projects Healthcare and Hospitality Ventures Whether the project involves raising $1 million or $500 million, GTFS's experts and affiliated brokers can assess, package, and present funding proposals that can withstand institutional scrutiny. Case Example: Turning Broker Potential into Client Success A broker from Florida approached GTFS last year with a client needing $42 million to fund a cross-border construction initiative. The broker had experience in SBA lending but had never handled international project finance. GTFS's broker support program restructured the deal using an SBLC-backed monetization package, vetted by a senior GTFS consultant with prior experience in World Bank frameworks. The result: The client secured funding within 45 days, and the broker earned a commission five times higher than the average domestic deal. The GTFS Broker Difference What makes GTFSolutions' Broker Program distinct is the level of professionalism and industry pedigree behind its partner network. GTFS does not simply enroll brokers—it vets and trains them. Many of the brokers in its circle are: Former senior executives at tier-1 banks Private equity advisors International project financiers Legal and compliance professionals These individuals bring product knowledge, credibility, and networks needed to make deals happen. 'A broker with access to our platform is never alone,' said Wilson. 'They are backed by experts who've been in boardrooms, not just showrooms.' Why GTFS is the Right Partner for Brokers Expertise in Financial Instruments : Guidance on presenting instruments such as SBLCs, Proof of Funds, Demand Guarantees, and more. : Guidance on presenting instruments such as SBLCs, Proof of Funds, Demand Guarantees, and more. Institutional Credibility : Backing from investor groups and private banks that allow brokers to bring real value to their clients. : Backing from investor groups and private banks that allow brokers to bring real value to their clients. Custom Deal Structuring : Not cookie-cutter financing—GTFS creates tailor-made solutions for each project. : Not cookie-cutter financing—GTFS creates tailor-made solutions for each project. Client Resources Included : Brokers don't pay extra to use GTFS' team. These experts are part of the full-service offering. : Brokers don't pay extra to use GTFS' team. These experts are part of the full-service offering. Compliance Ready: Full KYC/AML protocols and regulatory documentation included in every deal. Open Invitation to Brokers Worldwide GTFSolutions is actively seeking new brokers and financial intermediaries who want to level up their ability to close major deals using financial instruments. If you've had success in consumer lending, real estate finance, or commercial banking—but want to enter the world of high-ticket global finance—GTFS can provide the training, tools, and team you need. Whether your client is developing a luxury hotel, building a refinery, launching a media empire, or expanding overseas—GTFS wants to help you get them funded. Contact GTFSolutions 📞 Phone: 1-888-305-9992 📧 Email: info@ 🌐 Website: 🔗 LinkedIn: GTFSolutions 🐦 Twitter/X: @GTFSolutions 📘 Facebook: GTFS Financial Solutions 📸 Instagram: @gtfsolutions For broker-specific inquiries, contact: Robert WilsonHead of Sales and Marketing 📧 info@
Reuters
04-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Reuters
Maria Grazia Chiuri shows ruffled looks for Dior's Fashion Week outing
PARIS, March 4 (Reuters) - Christian Dior creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri presented a lineup of ruffled styles for the French fashion house's fall-winter runway show on Tuesday, set to a dramatic backdrop of fiery meteorites, smoking icebergs and a giant, prehistoric bird. The set was orchestrated by American director Robert Wilson, who sent models marching through changing scenery -- under hovering rocks, pointy mountains of ice and across a striped runway. They wore sharp-tipped boots, tailcoats and bustiers worn like shields, with knee-high socks, hair pulled into ponytails tucked into the clothing. Ruffled collars, lace and sheer fabrics added softness to the designs, which included references to past creative directors, including a t-shirt marked "J'adore Dior" in a nod to John Galliano. Held in a temporary structure set up in the Tuileries Gardens of the Louvre Museum, the show drew crowds and screaming fans angling for a view of celebrities, who included K-pop group Blackpink's Jisoo. At the end of the show, the models returned to the stage in pairs, and paused, facing the audience as feathers floated from the ceiling. When the models left, the spotlight lit one of the entrances, and Chiuri emerged for her bow, prompting cheers from the audience. Paris Fashion Week runs through March 11 and features a mix of some of the world's biggest brands including Chanel, Hermes ( opens new tab, Louis Vuitton ( opens new tab, and Saint Laurent ( opens new tab as well as smaller labels like Weinsanto.
