World’s Best Companies to Work for 2024

1. Vol. 02 | Issue 06 | February 2024 www.worldsleaders.com A Visionary Financial Professional with a Passion for Client Service A Revolutionary Leader in the Insurance Industry PG. 40 World’s PG. 32 Best Companies to Work for 2024

4. World’s Best Companies to Work for 2024 Creating a People Centric Work Environment Establishing a "people-culture" is one of the most important aspects of developing a long-lasting company. Workers are more likely to stick with an organization that values their welfare. In a similar vein, companies that embrace an employee-centric culture stand to gain a lower attrition rate. Consequently, both benefit. soil enhancers, and health care products. The group is committed to innovation in both product development and manufacturing processes, aligning with principles of the bio-circular-green economy and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. Their motto, "We Build the Future," reflects its dedication to leaving a positive impact on the world. The group's history dates back to 1978 when it started producing plastic polymers and later became the first company to establish a fully- integrated petrochemical plant in Southeast Asia. Today, the Group holds the distinction of being the largest single-location producer of high-value added (HVA) EVA polymer in Southeast Asia, a versatile material used in various industries, including manufacturing, hotmelts/adhesives, and photovoltaic (PV) applications. Employers who take a proactive approach to employee well-being will see their company catalyze unprecedented growth and creativity. A great workplace is one that is prepared to make investments in its workers' growth and training. These businesses set aside time to develop the skills and competencies of their employees. They encourage staff members to take part in numerous skill- and career-development initiatives. Companies might invest in employee development programs for a variety of reasons, but in the end, these initiatives guarantee that their workforces are the best available. Employees that are competent and well-trained are better equipped to serve the company's clients. World's Leaders latest edition “World's Best Companies to Work for 2024” has featured leading companies which are changing workplace environment and encouraging others to do the same. The cover features TPI Polene Group, a diverse industrial conglomerate consisting of over 20 subsidiaries engaged in various sectors, including petrochemicals and chemicals, construction materials, renewable energy, and bio-green agricultural products like fertilizers, growth hormones, In this special edition, let us share similar, interviews with many such dedicated organizations in order to raise awareness about their contributions to making the world a better place. Have a lovely read!

5. CREDIT PAGE Editor-in-Chief Steve Sanchez Managing Editor Jagdish Chincholikar Executive Editor Nicole Williams Assistant Editor Gayatri Bhujbal Art & Design Director Jack Anderson Business Development Manager Mary Jane Business Development Executive Natalie, Shivangi Associate Designer Kevin Rust Digital Marketing Manager Victor Clarke Sales Manager Casey Simpson, Irfan Shekh Marketing Manager Tom Swann Technical Specialist Barry Jones Circulation Manager Danny Parker February 2024 3296 Westerville Rd #250, Columbus, OH 43224, USA Copyright 2024 WORLD’S LEADERS Media Tech LLC, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from WORLD’S LEADERS Reprint rights remain solely with WORLD’S LEADERS. Follow us on :

6. COVER STORY 08 TPI TPI TPI Polene Polene Polene PLC PLC PLC Industrial Materials Leading the Way in Sustainable

7. 18 ActionCOACH 22 Age Wave 26 Exlnt Communications FORVIS 32 MSU Federal Credit Union 36 40 One80 Intermediaries Platform Transition 44 SouthState Bank 50 Weild & Co., Inc. 54

8. TPI TPI TPI Polene Polene Polene PLC PLC PLC Leading the Way in Sustainable Industrial Materials 08 | February 2024

9. Mr. PRACHAI LEOPHAIRATANA Chief Executive Officer Mr. PRATEEP LEOPAIRUT President worldsleaders.com | 09

10. Dr. PRAMUAN LEOPHAIRATANA President Mr. PAKORN LEOPAIRUT President, TPI Polene Power 10 | February 2024

11. TPI Polene Group is a diverse industrial conglomerate consisting of over 20 subsidiaries engaged in various sectors, including petrochemicals and chemicals, construction materials, renewable energy, and bio-green agricultural products like fertilizers, growth hormones, soil enhancers, and health care products. The group is committed to innovation in both product development and manufacturing processes, aligning with principles of the bio-circular- green economy and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. Their motto, "We Build the Future," reflects its dedication to leaving a positive impact on the world. The group's history dates back to 1978 when it started producing plastic polymers and later became the first company to establish a fully- integrated petrochemical plant in Southeast Asia. Today, the Group holds the distinction of being the largest single-location producer of high-value added (HVA) EVA polymer in Southeast Asia, a versatile material used in various industries, including manufacturing, hotmelts/adhesives, and photovoltaic (PV) applications. energy (WTE) processes, primarily using municipal solid waste (MSW) as a resource. Additionally, the company has delved into the creation of bio-organic products for agricultural applications, contributing to sustainable agriculture practices in Thailand. The group's vision is firmly grounded in sustainable growth, guided by the principles of a bio-circular green (BCG) economy. To achieve this, TPI Polene Group places a strong emphasis on research and development, harnessing the expertise of more than 500 scientists and engineers. The company continually refines its processes to enhance efficiency, reducing its Over the years, TPI Polene Group has diversified its portfolio from petrochemical industry to cement production and building materials. It has also ventured into renewable power generation through waste-to- worldsleaders.com | 11

12. Certifying Commitment At the close of 2022, TPI Polene Group's power plants, operated by its subsidiary TPI Polene Power (TPIPP), achieved an impressive milestone by accumulating 5.8 million tons of CO2 equivalent credits. These credits have been calculated internally and represent a substantial environmental achievement. The company is actively working on having these credits certified by the government- sponsored accreditation body known as T-VER. As of now, they have obtained 1.22 million T-VER credits. In parallel with these efforts, TPI Polene Group is focused on certifying its renewable energy capacity. By the end of 2022, they had amassed a total of 1.45 million I- REC (International Renewable Energy Certificate) credits. While these credits do not currently have monetary value, they serve as a tangible representation of the company's ongoing commitment to sustainability and the bio-circular green (BCG) economy. These credits can potentially become a valuable asset once the carbon market becomes active in Thailand. In April 2023, the company completed the retrofitting of its 70MW hybrid municipal solid waste (MSW)-coal power plant, transitioning it to run solely on 100% MSW. Furthermore, they embarked on the challenging task of converting their 150MW coal-fired power plant into one that operates on 100% waste-to-energy (WTE) MSW. This conversion project is divided into carbon and environmental footprint, and expanding its product offerings, which now encompass a diverse range of 5,000 SKUs to meet the needs of its customers. world-class products in construction materials, adhesive and PV polymers, and bio-organic agricultural products. Simultaneously, the company is actively building power capacities that utilize MSW as fuel, contributing to addressing Thailand's sustainable “Zero Carbon” policy, following COP28 agreement. TPI Polene Group's tagline, "we build the future," encapsulates its commitment to delivering top-tier, 12 | February 2024

13. DR. PORAKRIT LEOPHAIRATANA Executive Vice President MR. PAKKAPOL LEOPAIRUT Executive Vice President worldsleaders.com | 13

14. three phases and is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025. The ambitious goal is for TPIPP to become fossil-free by 2026, with the capacity to process waste equivalent to 12 million tons of CO2 according to their internal calculations. With 250MW of WTE-MSW power capacity, TPIPP currently stands as the largest privately-owned operator of MSW-fired power plants in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Powering Progress The diversification into renewable power production marked a significant step forward for TPI Polene Group and was a natural extension of its innovative approach to waste heat recovery from the clinker/cement manufacturing process. The company has made substantial progress in this area, boasting a 40 MW capacity for waste heat power generation. Furthermore, with ongoing expansion efforts, it has added 250 MW waste-to-energy municipal solid waste (WTE-MSW) fired power plants as of April 2023. Recognizing the environmental impact of cement production, TPI Polene Group is actively pursuing measures to "green" its cement and building products. While this transformation is expected to take time and involve multiple technological components, the company has initiated significant efforts: This move into renewable energy production has brought about multiple tangible benefits for the group: Substituting Coal with MSW: The company is reducing the carbon footprint associated with clinker production by substituting coal with waste-to-energy municipal solid waste (WTE-MSW). By the end of 2022, it completed a three-year project allowing for the 25% substitution of coal with MSW. Impressive EBITDA Margins: The group's business has consistently maintained a strong EBITDA margin over the last eight quarters, with a range of 45-55%. For more detailed financial data, one can refer to the SET (Stock Exchange of Thailand) filings of TPI Polene Power (TPIPP). Ÿ Renewable Energy: TPI Polene Group is actively investing in renewable energy sources to power its cement plants. The Group is constructing three solar projects and a wind turbine power plant adjacent to its cement plant facilities. By 2025, nearly 100% of the power used by its cement plants will be sourced from renewable capacity. Resilience Against Rising Coal Prices: Despite the historically high coal prices experienced in 2021- 2022, the group was able to sustain a high EBITDA margin, thanks in part to the substitution of coal with WTE-MSW. Ÿ Green Cement & Building Products: By partially replacing coal with MSW in the clinker production process, the group achieved cost savings and the ability to produce Green Cement & Building Products. These products align with government initiatives promoting sustainable construction materials and contribute to the country's climate goals. The launch of Green Cement & Building Products took place on June 1, 2023. Ÿ Efficiency and Waste Reduction: To further mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and enhance efficiency, the company has implemented several projects. These include the installation of a conveyor belt from the quarry to the cement production facility to reduce dust and save diesel costs, the conversion of quarry trucks into electric vehicles (EVs), and the installation of a plant to process quarry by-products, resulting in zero waste industrial complex. Garbage Management and Community Benefits: TPI Polene Group's garbage processing efforts have helped local communities address the growing issue of cleaning up landfills and Thailand to achieve national 'zero carbon emission” commitment to the world. Ÿ Through these initiatives, TPI Polene Group is actively contributing to reducing its environmental impact and advancing sustainability in the cement and building materials sector. 14 | February 2024

16. These tangible benefits underscore the strategic importance of diversifying into renewable energy and waste-to-energy solutions, which not only enhance the company's sustainability but also contribute positively to its financial performance and the well-being of the communities it serves, and the world overall. Sustainability Ecosystem for its production facilities. Continued R&D to move even to a higher HVA level for the group's specialty polymer More R&D to expand the range of applications of the group's bio- organic compounds in agriculture and healthcare Leveraging on our IP in waste processing, seek-out investment opportunities in the Asian region in technical collaboration(s) but preferably as an investor(s) Ÿ In the medium term, the group has outlined several key objectives: Ÿ Increase production of Green Cement & Building Products and introduce more environmentally- friendly, innovative building materials Complete the plant modification program and power capacity expansion projects on time and on budget as well as complete the switch to EV not only the quarry dump trucks but for the trucks used logistics as well as other renewable power supply Ÿ Ÿ Towards a Greener Future Ÿ Drive for Plant Efficiency and Cost Reduction TPI Polene Group has set ambitious sustainability goals, with a commitment to achieving net-zero status by 2030. To realize these objectives, the company has established a comprehensive The rate growth in the demand for construction materials in Thailand has reached maturation and with it 16 | February 2024

17. comes the intensifying competitive landscape. TPI Polene Group's main coping mechanism is by continuously improving plant efficiency and reducing per unit production cost. Strong in- house R&D capability is very crucial to the sustainability of its strong cashflow generation as well as market position not only by offering competitive but by introducing new products as well. Vision for Business and Society TPI Polene Group's philosophy centers on optimization of business growth and societal progress for the benefits of all stakeholders as well as the world communities. This commitment is evident through various initiatives and funds aimed at public health, occupational safety, and environmental conservation. The company's ESG activities extend beyond financial contributions and include projects like installing community drinking water machines and supporting local communities by adding value to municipal solid waste (MSW), particularly in Thailand's central region. During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, TPI Polene Power (TPIPP) leveraged its advanced waste handling capabilities and became the first private company granted a license to process COVID-19 waste, contributing to public health efforts. worldsleaders.com | 17

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19. BRAD SUGARS Most Influential Entrepreneur, a Bestselling Author, and a Keynote Speaker worldsleaders.com | 19

20. Brad came from modest beginnings in Brisbane, Australia. While he was a university student, Sugars managed a number of small businesses. As his talents became more widely recognized, many business owners and executives began requesting that he share his knowledge on topics such as team development, marketing, and sales by speaking to their organizations. Coaching as Business Leaders The key driving force to join this sector for Brad was realizing the missing component between knowledge and implementation was to coach business owners rather than just give them the information and let them figure out what to do with it. He wanted business owners to put what they learned to practice. Not being able to meet the high demands he concluded that coaching was the way to go for business owners who wanted to take the next step in their businesses. Jim Rohn has had the greatest professional impact on Brad Sugars' life, as nobody else has. When Brad was a teenager, he managed to save up his allowance in order to attend one of Rohn's seminars, where he was the youngest member of the audience. What he learned from Rohn during that seminar has influenced his business practices and beliefs throughout his life. Taking Reach to Globally Brad Sugars' mission in business coaching is to empower business owners with the tools and strategies they need to transform their lives and positively impact their communities, while also affording the lifestyles they have always desired. His vision for ActionCOACH is to expand its reach globally and operate in over 120 nations in the upcoming years. Sugars is committed to sharing the knowledge he has acquired over the years, believing that it can guide and support entrepreneurs worldwide in achieving their goals with his help and lessons. Executive coaching is a valuable investment for any business leader who wants to enhance their performance, improve their leadership skills, and achieve their goals. Executive coaching can help leaders develop a wide range of skills, including strategic thinking, effective communication, conflict resolution, and decision- making. By honing these skills, leaders can better guide their teams and organizations to success. Brad Sugars, Founder, Chairman, and President of ActionCOACH, boasts more than 30 years of business experience and strongly advocates for the notion that a company should be able to operate successfully without the constant involvement of its owners, allowing them to spend time with their families or pursue their desired lifestyles. His multi-million-dollar franchise, ActionCOACH, operates in over 70 countries and employs more than 1,000 coaches who work with more than 15,000 businesses each week. Sugars is deeply committed to supporting entrepreneurs and enabling them to learn and grow from both his triumphs and setbacks. 20 | February 2024

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22. A Thought Leader with a Focus on the Business Opportunities and Social Effects of Global Aging and Rising Longevity KEN DYCHTWALD, PhD 22 | February 2024

23. Founder & CEO Age Wave worldsleaders.com | 23

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26. Elevating Brand Messages in the MENA Region 26 | February 2024

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28. Exlnt Communications, formerly Excellent Communications D&N, was founded in 2003 by the dynamic duo Dina Abdel Fattah and Nermine Abdel Fattah. The two sisters, leveraging their combined resources, networks, and expertise acquired over two decades, embarked on a mission to provide comprehensive communication services. Their vision was clear: To merge exceptional expertise with 360-degree communication services, fostering enduring partnerships that deliver significant value to their clients. A Comprehensive Suite of Services Exlnt Communications stands as the communication partner of choice for numerous brands covering a wide array of industries. With a rich portfolio that includes banking, real estate, FMCGs, information technology, telecommunications, retail, e-commerce, consumer electronics, industrial processes and manufacturing, energy, medical technology, automotive, tourism, and travel, Exlnt has become a pivotal force in orchestrating PR strategies for over 20 years. Dina and Nermine emphasise that Exlnt Communication's 360-degree product offerings cater to diverse business models and sectors. The agency provides a comprehensive suite of services, including Public and Government Relations, Advertising and BTL (Below the Line), Branding, Reporting, Digital Marketing, and Media Buying. This holistic approach forms a 360-degree marketing strategy for each campaign, ensuring that clients' brands stand out and leave a lasting impact on their target audience. The inspiration behind Exlnt Communications emerged from Nermine and Dina's admiration for the incredible talents she observed in her homeland. After witnessing remarkable achievements despite modest PR strategies to build a public image, they felt compelled to contribute. They aimed to establish a PR agency that offered strategic communication counsel, elevated brand awareness and managed public photos to spotlight the journeys and accomplishments of these inspiring brands. This vision propelled Exlnt Communications to become a leading PR company dedicated to crafting brand messages that effectively reach their intended audience. Over the past decade, Exlnt has been a catalyst for transforming corporate communications and successfully handling over 100 projects spanning diverse business sectors. In 2020, Exlnt Communications achieved a significant milestone by becoming part of United Media Services (UMS), the largest media conglomerate in the MENA region. This strategic move further solidified its position in the industry, opening new avenues for growth and collaboration. 28 | February 2024

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32. National Healthcare Leader At FORVIS 32 | February 2024

33. A Visionary Financial Professional with a Passion for Client Service worldsleaders.com | 33

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35. A FORVIS Beginning June 1, BKD CPAs & Advisors and Dixon Hughes Goodman (DHG) merged as equals to create a Top 10 national firm now called FORVIS. The name FORVIS—a combination of the words FORward and VISion—reflects the firm’s unique focus on what is next. Daniellesays, “Our combined vision builds on BKD’s and DHG’s strong foundations and legacies.” Business today is moving faster and with greater complexity than ever before. The past two years have certainly shown the world that it can change instantly, and you can never be too prepared for tomorrow. According to Danielle, FORVIS is driven by its forward vision because they do not see tomorrow as something to deal with later; we see it as something to prepare for today. After graduating with an accounting degree from the University of Illinois and passing the CPA exam, Danielle Solomon accepted a job at an international accounting firm. She was intrigued by healthcare and wondered how her efforts in public accounting might benefit society. After 15 years in public accounting, she took an opportunity to work for a health system where she gained essential knowledge and extended her horizons beyond accounting and finance to the trends, strategies, and innovations that will drive the industry forward. Her experience in that job led her to FORVIS (previously BKD), where she now has the privilege to lead FORVIS’ healthcare industry team across the country. As one firm, FORVIS is even stronger, with greater resources, enhanced capabilities, and an expanded national platform—and its commitment to exceeding client expectations and providing exceptional value remains the same. According to Danielle,FORVIS’ combined practices complement each other well. It will truly be a healthcare provider powerhouse. The core services of audit and regulatory reimbursement consulting are what both legacy firms do very well and are known in the space. Both legacy firms also have a strong commitment to the power of leveraging data analytics and technology tools. Danielle has been very impressed with the digital solutions DHG (now FORVIS) developed, and clients and users of these digital solutions have expressed that they are extremely valuable for decision making. And then there are the advisory and consulting services that each of FORVIS’ firms provided that really round out the service offerings to its clients. All of this will come together to be more than the sum of its parts as FORVIS. When Danielle first met her colleagues at DHG (now FORVIS), she was struck by how well the business’s healthcare practices complemented one another and the opportunities as a combined firm. She commented everyone she has met from legacy DHG has been great, and she sees a genuine passion for healthcare and a drive to provide exceptional service to the firm’s clients throughout the merged workforce. Danielle asserts, “The growth potential is exponential and that excites me—both for our clients and for our teams and professionals. The number of opportunities that have already surfaced as well as increased inquiries for new engagements and activity both firms are seeing is exciting. “She sees her work as the leader of the new firm’s merged industry as a tremendous opportunity for her, and she is humbled and honored to lead this bright and committed team of 950 professionals strong. FORVIS comprises more than 5,400 team members and more than 530 partners and principals with offices in 69 markets in 27 states, as well as in the United Kingdom and Cayman Islands. Danielle shares, “This merger of equals allows us to better serve our healthcare clients as well as other healthcare providers across the care continuum by broadening our expertise, deepening our resource pool, and offering more specialized solutions.” worldsleaders.com | 35

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41. A Revolutionary Leader in the Insurance Industry Matthew F. Power worldsleaders.com | 41

42. Becoming a Dominant Specialty Insurance Provider Core Values of Integrity and Innovation to the evolving needs of the market by providing creative and forward-thinking solutions. Expansion: The company's growth strategy includes expansion efforts that span geographical regions. This expansion may involve strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and collaborations with other industry players. Exceptional Service: Central to this vision is a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional service. The company aims to maintain strong relationships with its broker and carrier partners, not only in the United States and Canada but also in Europe and Asia. In September 2023, One80 Intermediaries achieved significant recognition by ranking as the third largest Managing General Agent and Underwriting Manager in the United States, according to Business Insurance. However, the company's founder, Mr. Power, has a grander vision for One80 Intermediaries that extends well beyond its current achievements. Mr. Power envisions One80 Intermediaries becoming the preeminent specialty insurance provider in both the United States and Canada. This ambitious vision involves a multifaceted approach: Ÿ Deepening Expertise: The company intends to strengthen its offerings in key areas of expertise. This involves honing its specialization and developing a deeper understanding of specific industry niches. Ÿ Innovative Solutions: One80 Intermediaries aims to be at the forefront of innovation in the insurance industry. It seeks to respond swiftly and effectively At One80 Intermediaries, two core values, integrity and innovation, serve as the bedrock of the company's culture and operations. These values are deeply embedded in every aspect of the organization and guide its decisions and actions. Ÿ Integrity is upheld through a commitment to transparency and ethical conduct in all business dealings. The company places great emphasis on open and honest communication with clients, partners, and employees. One80 Intermediaries maintains high ethical standards to ensure trust and credibility in the industry. Ÿ Ÿ By pursuing these strategies, One80 Intermediaries aims to position itself as the go-to specialty insurance provider and realize its vision of becoming a dominant force in the industry across multiple regions. Innovation is another fundamental value that drives the company forward. One80 Intermediaries actively fosters a culture of innovation that encourages the generation of fresh ideas and the exploration of new approaches. The company invests in cutting-edge technology and data analytics to stay ahead of industry trends. 42 | February 2024

43. Achieving Excellence in Specialty Insurance In his role as the President of One80 Intermediaries, Mr. Power holds significant responsibilities. These include establishing the company's strategic direction, managing its daily operations, and ensuring its ongoing growth and success. Additionally, Mr. Power plays a pivotal role in cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with clients and industry partners. His leadership is instrumental in guiding the company towards its goals and solidifying its position in the insurance industry. worldsleaders.com | 43

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46. Root of the Foundation Platform Transition used to be known as The Financial CoPilot and provided operational accounting services to expanding businesses before committing to the accounting data transfer industry. Before Platform Transition, its leadership team built businesses in sectors such as insurance consultancy, real estate, construction, and retail financial services. An associated closely held business required data transfer services but could not locate a solution that satisfied their needs or the necessary budget and time constraints. As the first clients of the solution, they began their journey in this business. As a result, they are aware of the clients' challenges, opportunities, and frustrations. They know that empathy is a primary ingredient in the migration process, followed by effective and competent execution of the actual migration. streamlined the client engagement process so that they are only accountable for four main tasks. At the same time, it completes the migration on their behalf, and the Platform Transition team has developed innovations and migration methodologies that allow clients to "go live" on the new system on time, regardless of the status of the migration. grasp of the expenses of their data migration, including any data abnormalities and further scoping requests, shortly after signing the contract. Customers can now use Platform Transition's services and support without hesitation because they have successfully eliminated the worry that comes with a service provider that charges by the hour. They have every incentive to do the task effectively the first time because the incentivization for that outcome is aligned. TM Make the Services More Affordable Platform Transition charges fixed project fees for most of the scopes in their statements of work. This indicates that the customer will have a precise Business Ethics Every quarter, Hugh has the privilege of approving initiatives that the company's team suggests be taken to carry out particular actions based on the disclosed plans. Regarding the company's beliefs, Hugh is happy to report that they genuinely uphold them. Differ Markedly from Others in Data Migration Platform Transition offers named unique processes with outlined workflows and purpose-built results that clients can customize to meet their needs and specifications. Each procedure entails cooperation, teaching, counseling, and consulting, with the option to improve the client's experience to include up to 25 more in-migration requests at standard pricing. It has We speak with one voice. We quickly get it done right the first time. We are a space where chaos fades away. We are responsible for the customer’s experience. We create solutions for the customer challenges that matter. 46 | February 2024

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