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Welcome to The Phoenix Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Scottsdale payments software company Transact Campus to be acquired in $1.5B deal.

• Upcoming Phoenix Mercury match

• A deep-dive into the life of Stevie Woods

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.” 

–Pele

Sponsored

Investors have trusted this platform with +$1bn - here’s why

Through COVID, soaring inflation, and today’s crushing interest rates, a group of enterprising investors have collectively entrusted one billion dollars from their portfolios to Masterworks’ art investing platform.

Why? Because the contemporary art Masterworks offers—from legends like Picasso and Banksy—has demonstrated a low correlation to the stock market, inflation resistance, and exceptional appreciation potential. Not to mention Masterworks has completed 23 successful exits to date, distributing over $60+ million in net proceeds to investors in those offerings.

These investors didn’t need art expertise to diversify with blue-chip art, because Masterworks does all the heavy lifting, finding artists with appreciation potential (buying <3% of works offered) and then breaking an art offering into shares for you. If Masterworks sells a piece again for a profit, investors get a return. With 3 illustrative sales, Masterworks investors have realized net annualized returns of +17.6%, +17.8%, and +21.5%.

With 65,000+ investors, offerings can sell out quickly. Luckily, you can get priority access here.

Past performance is not indicative of future returns. Investment involves risk.

Disclosures:

The content is not intended to provide legal, tax, or investment advice.

No money is being solicited or will be accepted until the offering statement for a particular offering has been qualified by the SEC. Offers may be revoked at any time. Contacting Masterworks involves no commitment or obligation.

Contemporary art data based on repeat-sales index of historical Post-War & Contemporary Art market prices from 1995 to 2023, developed by Masterworks. There are significant limitations to comparative asset class data. Indices are unmanaged and a Masterworks investor cannot invest directly in an index. 

Net proceeds distributed back represents the total liquidation proceeds distributed back to investors, net of all fees, expenses and proceeds reinvested in Masterworks offerings, of all works Masterworks has exited to date.

See important Reg A disclosures at masterworks.com/cd.

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the name of the historic Phoenix district known for its early 20th-century bungalows?

A) Willo Historic District

B) Coronado Historic District

C) Roosevelt Historic District

D) Encanto-Palmcroft Historic District

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Phoenix park known for its public art installations and urban lake is B) Margaret T. Hance Park.

News

💼Business

Expanded College Football Playoff poses challenges for Fiesta Bowl. (Link)

These Valley cities offer renters the most space for $1,500. (Link)

🏒Sports

Arizona Rattlers dominate Pirates for IFL title, franchise's 7th overall crown. (Link)

Fiesta Bowl CEO Erik Moses addresses future of bowl game as CFP expands to 12 teams. (Link)

🏦Finance

Scottsdale payments software company Transact Campus to be acquired in $1.5B deal. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 New York Liberty at Phoenix Mercury
Footprint Center, Phoenix
Monday, Aug 26th | (More info)

⚾ Los Angeles Dodgers at Arizona Diamondbacks
Chase Field, Phoenix
Fri, Aug 30th - Sun, Sept 1st | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Howard Jones and ABC
Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix, AZ
Thursday, Aug 22nd | (More info)

🎵 Def Leppard
Chase Field, Phoenix, AZ
Friday, Aug 23rd | (More info)

Family

🎬 Family and Friends Movie Night
5437 South Central Avenue, Phoenix
Friday, Aug 23rd | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Phoenix where architecture is inspired by different musical genres” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Phoenix Historical Events

Formation of Phoenix Library Association (1899) - Further advancement in public literacy.

In 1899, the Phoenix Library Association was established with the noble goal of advancing public literacy in the burgeoning city of Phoenix. This pivotal moment marked the formation of an organization dedicated to providing access to knowledge and education for all members of the community. The association's founding members, driven by a passion for learning and enlightenment, sought to create a space where individuals could explore the world of literature and expand their intellectual horizons. With the establishment of the Phoenix Library Association, the city took a significant step towards fostering a culture of literacy and learning that would benefit generations to come.

The formation of the Phoenix Library Association in 1899 marked a turning point in the city's commitment to public literacy. The association's mission was to promote reading, learning, and intellectual growth among the residents of Phoenix, regardless of their background or social status. Through the provision of books, resources, and educational programs, the association aimed to empower individuals with the tools they needed to become well-informed and engaged members of society. This dedication to furthering public literacy laid the foundation for a more knowledgeable and enlightened community.

The establishment of the Phoenix Library Association in 1899 not only symbolized a commitment to public literacy, but also represented a significant milestone in the city's cultural and intellectual development. By providing a space for individuals to access books, literature, and educational materials, the association played a crucial role in shaping the intellectual landscape of Phoenix. The legacy of the association's formation continues to inspire a culture of reading, learning, and intellectual curiosity in the city, contributing to the ongoing advancement of public literacy in Phoenix.

Famous People From Phoenix

Stevie Woods - (1951-2014)

Stevie Woods, an American R&B musician and singer, left a lasting impact on the music industry with his soulful voice and captivating performances. From his early career in the United States to his successful re-launch in Germany, Woods' journey is a testament to his passion for music and his resilience in the face of challenges.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Stevie Woods was born in Chatham, Virginia, to jazz great Rusty Bryant. His early exposure to music and his natural talent set the stage for his future success as a musician. Woods' passion for music was evident from a young age, and he honed his skills as a singer and performer.

Rise to Fame in the United States

In the late 1970s, Woods became a member of the funk band Crowd Pleasers, marking the beginning of his professional music career. His soulful voice and stage presence quickly garnered attention, leading to the release of his two hit singles, Steal the Night and Just Can't Win 'Em All, both of which reached the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Transition to Germany and Career Revival

After experiencing brief fame in the U.S., Woods made the bold decision to relocate to Germany. Despite the challenges of starting anew in a different country, he successfully re-launched his music career, captivating audiences with his soulful performances and earning recognition for his musical talents.

Personal Life and Legacy

Woods, a former Marine, also pursued higher education, graduating from Austin Community College. His dedication to music and his resilience in the face of adversity continue to inspire aspiring musicians and fans around the world. Stevie Woods passed away in Berlin, Germany, in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of soulful music and unwavering passion for his craft.

Key Achievements of Stevie Woods:

• Chart-topping singles Steal the Night and Just Can't Win 'Em All in the U.S.

• Successful re-launch of music career in Germany, earning recognition for his soulful performances.

• Legacy as a soulful R&B musician and singer, inspiring future generations of musicians.

Stevie Woods' story is one of musical passion, resilience, and international success, leaving an indelible mark on the R&B music scene. His soulful voice and dedication to his craft continue to resonate with music enthusiasts worldwide.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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