REFINITIV US LLC

Refinitiv Unveils Innovative Plate Block Sets for Collectors & Enthusiasts

NEW YORK – Refinitiv US LLC, a leading provider of financial markets data and infrastructure, today announced the launch of its new line of plate block sets, catering to the growing community of stamp collectors and philatelic enthusiasts. While best known for its robust data solutions serving the financial world, Refinitiv is expanding its reach, leveraging its precision and organizational expertise into a surprisingly delightful new collectible – beautifully curated plate block sets. “People might be wondering, ‘Refinitiv and stamps? Really?’” says a company spokesperson. “And the answer is absolutely! We’ve always been about organizing vast amounts of information, ensuring accuracy, and delivering it in a clear, usable format. Turns out, those skills translate really well to building fantastic plate block sets. It’s a different market, for sure, but we’re applying the same dedication to detail and quality.” What are Plate Block Sets, anyway? For those new to the world of stamp collecting, plate blocks are a special type of stamp. They aren't just single stamps; they're a group of stamps printed from the same area of the printing plate. Think of it like a snapshot from a larger sheet. These blocks show unique imperfections and plate variations that single stamps just don't have. They’re highly sought after by collectors because they offer a glimpse into the printing process and can be incredibly rare. "A single stamp tells a story, but a plate block shows how that story was made," explains veteran stamp collector, Arthur Penhaligon, who consulted on the Refinitiv project. “You can see the nuances, the little imperfections, and actually see the texture of the printing plate itself. It’s like looking at a fingerprint of the printing process.” Refinitiv's Approach: Data-Driven Collectibles Refinitiv isn’t just slapping some stamps together. They’ve approached plate block set creation with a distinctly data-driven mindset. “We treat these sets like we treat our financial data – thorough research, careful verification, and meticulous organization," says the spokesperson. “Each block is carefully inspected, authenticated, and then categorized based on key characteristics like printing flaw types, plate number, and paper type. We’re using our internal expertise to provide collectors with a truly superior product.” What’s in the Refinitiv Plate Block Sets? Refinitiv is launching three initial sets, each catering to a different level of collector: The “Foundation” Set: This set is perfect for beginners. It features a curated selection of common, yet visually appealing, plate blocks from the 20th century. It’s an affordable way to learn about plate blocks and start a collection. “We’ve hand-picked blocks that show clear plate markings and are in good condition, making them ideal for learning,” explains a Refinitiv product specialist. The “Explorer” Set: This set delves a bit deeper, featuring blocks from different eras and countries, showcasing a wider range of printing techniques and styles. It includes blocks with minor plate flaws, offering a glimpse into the challenges of early printing. "This set is for those who want to expand their knowledge and start to appreciate the subtle differences between plate blocks," says Penhaligon. The “Connoisseur” Set: This is the flagship set, aimed at serious collectors. It features rare and highly sought-after blocks, often with significant plate flaws or unique characteristics. Each block comes with a detailed certificate of authenticity and a comprehensive history of its printing process. “We've spent months sourcing these blocks, verifying their authenticity, and ensuring they meet our rigorous standards," says the spokesperson. "This set is for the discerning collector who appreciates the finest quality." Beyond the Blocks: The Refinitiv Collector Portal Refinitiv is also launching a dedicated online portal for collectors. This portal will feature: Detailed Block Information: Each block in the sets is cataloged with high-resolution images, detailed descriptions, and information about its printing process. Authentication Certificates: Collectors can access and download digital certificates of authenticity for each block. Community Forum: A forum for collectors to connect, share information, and discuss their collections. Marketplace: A platform for buying and selling plate blocks, both from Refinitiv and from other collectors. “We’re building a complete ecosystem for plate block collectors,” says the spokesperson. “We want to make it easy for people to learn, collect, and enjoy this fascinating hobby.” Why Refinitiv? A Surprising Pivot. It’s a legitimate question: why is a financial data company entering the stamp collecting market? The answer, according to Refinitiv, lies in the shared principles of meticulous organization, data analysis, and a commitment to quality. “We’re experts at managing complex information,” explains the spokesperson. “We apply those skills to financial data, and we can apply them to plate blocks. It's about precision, accuracy, and delivering a product that our customers can trust. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s a fun project!” Availability & Pricing The Refinitiv Plate Block Sets are available for purchase starting November 15th on the company’s website (www.refinitiv.com/plateblocks – fictional website address) and through select stamp dealers. The “Foundation” Set: $99 The “Explorer” Set: $249 The “Connoisseur” Set: $999 (limited edition) Refinitiv US LLC is located at 28 Liberty St Fl 58, New York, NY 10005-1457. Customer service can be reached at 770-964-6545.

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