Fintech PR
Renowned Founders Kevin O’Leary and Dave Portnoy Join Stellar Line-up at Consensus Toronto

TORONTO, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Consensus, the world’s longest-running and most influential crypto and blockchain gathering, today announces the addition of two of the biggest names in the business world for its Toronto 2025 event. Kevin O’Leary, Chairman of O’Leary Ventures and Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, are set to join a wealth of prominent figures at Consensus Toronto (hosted by CoinDesk). The conference, which is coming to Canada for the first time, amasses the world’s most influential leaders across finance, crypto, blockchain, and Web3.
Speaking about his involvement in Consensus Toronto, investor and entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary said: “Consensus has long been the go-to gathering for the digital asset industry — a place where serious conversations happen and real decisions are made. I’m excited to join its world-class lineup of speakers in Toronto, a city with a vibrant tech ecosystem and a fast-growing community of crypto, AI, and Web3 innovators. It’s the perfect setting to push the digital asset conversation forward and help shape what’s next for this rapidly evolving sector.”
Consensus is set to welcome 20,000+ attendees from over 100 countries across the digital assets space, 400+ startups, 200+ sponsors, and 6,800+ companies. O’Leary and Portnoy join a distinguished roster of 500+ speakers across crypto, Web3 and blockchain. This year’s flagship event will also feature six dynamic stages, CoinDesk PitchFest (a live competition showcasing the most promising early-stage Web3 startups) and North America’s largest in-person blockchain hackathon, along with hundreds of curated side events and unrivaled networking opportunities.
Other speakers announced for Toronto 2025 include:
- Robert Hines – Executive Director of the President’s Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, The White House
- Adrienne Harris – Superintendent, New York Department of Financial Services
- Sergey Nazarov – Co-Founder, Chainlink
- Anthony Scaramucci – Founder, SkyBridge Capital
- Charles Hoskinson – CEO & Founder, Input Output
- Matt Hougan, Chief Investment Officer, Bitwise Asset Management
- Dan Morehead – Founder & CEO, Pantera Capital
- Lindsey Einhaus – Crypto Strategy and Operations, Stripe
- Ryan Rugg – Global Head of Digital Assets, Treasury and Trade Solutions, Citi
- Smokey Bera – Co-Founder, Berachain
- Keone Hon – Co-Founder, Monad
For the full list of speakers so far, please see here.
Toronto was pinpointed as host country for the world-leading conference due to its position as North America’s third-largest tech ecosystem and second-largest financial hub. Adding to its appeal is its rich crypto heritage. Toronto is the birthplace of Ethereum and home to the world’s first Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs.
“Consensus has long been the definitive stage for the most influential voices in digital assets, and Toronto will be no exception. We’re thrilled to welcome Kevin O’Leary and Dave Portnoy to this year’s lineup, bringing fresh perspectives at a time when mainstream adoption is accelerating like never before,” said Michael Lau, Chairman of Consensus. “With an unmatched roster of speakers, leading sponsors, and a global audience of decision-makers, Consensus continues to be one of the most important events for those shaping the future of this industry.”
Executives from leading Canadian firms, including Dean Skurka, President & CEO of WonderFi, Danish Ajmeri, Director of Product for Crypto at Wealthsimple and Lucas Matheson, CEO of Coinbase Canada, will be joining the conversation at Consensus to explore Canada’s expanding role in the industry.
Early bird registration is now open with limited-time discounted rates available at consensus2025.coindesk.com.
Members of the media are invited to apply for press credentials at https://consensus2025.coindesk.com/press/-id/0.
Media Contact:
Jamie Sly
jamie.sly@coindesk.com
About Consensus:
Consensus 2025 by CoinDesk is a flagship event for the blockchain, cryptocurrency, and Web3 community. Bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, it offers discussions on key topics such as digital assets, DeFi, Web3, and the evolving regulatory landscape.
With a mix of panels, keynotes, and networking opportunities, Consensus 2025 provides a platform to explore the latest trends and developments shaping the digital economy. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just entering the space, this event offers valuable insights and connections in a rapidly evolving field.
About CoinDesk:
CoinDesk is the most trusted media, events, indices, and data company for the global crypto economy. Since 2013, CoinDesk Media has led the story of the future of money and investing, illuminating the transformation in society and culture that comes with it. Our award-winning team of journalists delivers news and unparalleled insights that bring transparency, comprehension, and context.
CoinDesk gathers the global crypto, blockchain, and Web3 communities at annual events such as Consensus, the world’s largest and longest-running crypto festival. CoinDesk Indices offers expertise in digital asset indices, data, and research to educate and empower investors. In November 2023, CoinDesk was acquired by Bullish Group. CoinDesk operates as an independent subsidiary and abides by a strict set of editorial policies. For more information on CoinDesk media and events, please visit CoinDesk.com
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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/renowned-founders-kevin-oleary-and-dave-portnoy-join-stellar-line-up-at-consensus-toronto-302419720.html
Fintech PR
Bybit’s CEO Meets with Vietnam’s Minister of Finance to Support Regulatory Sandbox and Strengthen Crypto Compliance

DUBAI, UAE, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ben Zhou, Co-founder and CEO of Bybit, one of the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchanges by trading volume, met with H.E. Nguyen Van Thang, Minister of Finance of Vietnam, to express Bybit’s strong support for the country’s regulatory sandbox initiative and its vision to build a safe, transparent, and innovation-friendly digital asset ecosystem.
Hosted at the Ministry of Finance headquarters, the meeting centered on Vietnam’s efforts to establish a comprehensive legal framework for crypto assets. Minister Nguyen Van Thang outlined the Government’s plan to launch a pilot sandbox mechanism that will allow regulators to test the issuance and trading of crypto assets in a controlled environment. This initiative is designed to mitigate risks, strengthen investor protection, and ensure regulatory readiness before introducing official legislation.
A key part of the discussion focused on safeguarding the market against illicit activities. The Minister emphasized the importance of robust compliance frameworks, including Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, to prevent the misuse of digital assets and support the country’s financial security.
In response, Ben Zhou welcomed Vietnam’s measured and responsible approach to digital asset regulation and reiterated Bybit’s long-standing commitment to compliance:
“Vietnam’s forward-thinking regulatory sandbox is a critical step toward unlocking the full potential of blockchain technology. At Bybit, we are fully aligned with the Government’s focus on investor protection and financial integrity,” said Ben Zhou, Co-founder and CEO of Bybit. “We are proud to share our expertise in KYC, AML, and global compliance standards, and we look forward to supporting Vietnam in building a resilient, secure, and dynamic crypto economy.”
Bybit expressed its readiness to collaborate with Vietnamese authorities on several fronts, including system architecture design, transaction oversight, and the implementation of international best practices in AML/KYC. The exchange also proposed support in capacity building, such as training financial regulators and sharing experiences from other jurisdictions.
Minister Nguyen Van Thang welcomed Bybit’s proactive approach and assigned the State Securities Commission to coordinate with Bybit on concrete proposals. He also commended Bybit’s reputation for strong financial capabilities, technological resilience, and its adherence to legal and regulatory requirements in the markets where it operates.
This meeting underscores Bybit’s growing role as a trusted international partner for regulatory dialogue and innovation. It also highlights Vietnam’s readiness to embrace blockchain technology while ensuring financial safety and public confidence in the digital asset space.
About Bybit
Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.
For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press.
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media
Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bybits-ceo-meets-with-vietnams-minister-of-finance-to-support-regulatory-sandbox-and-strengthen-crypto-compliance-302432942.html
Fintech PR
Breaking Borders, Building Bridges: How “Shanghai Summer” Is Redefining Global Consumption

SHANGHAI, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Summer consumer campaigns have long been a key engine for economic growth. Now, Shanghai is stepping into the global spotlight with a bold “urban consumption experiment.” On 18 April, the 2025 “Shanghai Summer” International Consumption Season was officially launched at Xujiahui Centre, unveiling innovative concepts such as “240-Hour Products” and City Customised Events, aiming to redefine the summer experience across retail, travel, and lifestyle.
According to China UnionPay, foreign card spending surged by 68.2% during the 2024 campaign period. Key commercial areas stood out significantly: Huaihai Road saw a 208.6% increase in overseas card spending (with an average spend of RMB 1,597), while the Lujiazui-Zhangyang Road area rose by 119.9% (average spend: RMB 1,998). Total offline consumption in Shanghai reached RMB 815.9 billion, marking an 8.2% year-on-year increase, with dining consumption up by 26.9%.
The “240-Hour Products” initiative will bring together top-tier city resources to provide overseas visitors with an immersive “starter kit” experience. China Eastern Airlines will offer direct discounts on group flight packages across 30 international routes, supported by smart mobility tools such as the English-language versions of Air Travel Assistant and AutoNavi Map.
In payment, China UnionPay enables foreign card acceptance at 65,000 merchants across Shanghai. Visa is co-developing “Payment-Friendly Zones” to enhance QR code payments and tax refund experiences for international travelers. A “Shanghai Summer” themed card and spending promotions further support this multi-channel payment ecosystem.
Visitors can unlock transport and retail perks with the “Shanghai Pass” one-day ticket, valid for metro, ferry, and sightseeing tunnel rides. Travel platform Trip.com has launched a dedicated “Discover Shanghai” page, featuring integrated “Shanghai Express” free city tours to offer a seamless digital experience. The city’s dining scene has also been elevated with multilingual menus and themed culinary campaigns from Marriott and Jin Jiang, available in Chinese, English, and Korean.
Culture takes center stage in this year’s campaign.The 2025 edition of “Shanghai Summer” will spotlight global lifestyle IPs through immersive activations — including experiences from Shanghai Disney Resort, the LEGO China-hosted “World Play Festival,” and POP MART’s “Summer Trend Play” campaign. By blending global trends with food, music, and local creativity, the city will be transformed into a vibrant, multi-sensory celebration of summer, bursting with international flair and dynamic urban energy.
The multilingual official website www.shanghaisummer.com is now live, featuring an AI-powered travel assistant and virtual avatar, “Shanghai Xiaoxia,” to help visitors plan itineraries and explore the city interactively. Global KOLs will take part in the campaign across platforms including Instagram, Xiaohongshu, and TikTok — bringing the essence of Shanghai’s summer to audiences around the world. From the first weekend of July to the second weekend of October, Shanghai offers a renewed invitation to the world — a thoughtfully curated urban journey that highlights the city’s global charm as a destination to shop, enjoy, and explore.
Media Contact: Lu media@shanghaisummer.com
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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/breaking-borders-building-bridges-how-shanghai-summer-is-redefining-global-consumption-302432937.html
Fintech PR
Shanghai Summer: A One-of-a-Kind Seasonal Experience

SHANGHAI, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 “Shanghai Summer” International Consumption Season officially launched on 18 April at Xujiahui Centre. With innovative offerings like the “240-Hour Products” and “City Customised Events,” this year’s programme presents a city-level consumer experience that blends international lifestyle with summer vitality. The first stop of the global roadshow will arrive in Osaka, Japan this May, continuing to share Shanghai’s summer story with international audiences.
A new wave of flagship events is set to unfold. Three globally popular IPs—LEGO China, POP MART, and Shanghai Disney Resort—will join forces in Shanghai. The LEGO China Discovery Resort will enter trial operations, with the ” World Play Festival” making its global debut. POP MART will bring its “Summer Trend Play” series to life, featuring IP exhibitions, new product launches, and interactive pop-ups. Shanghai Disney Resort will also unveil various summer-themed activations, creating immersive entertainment experiences for all ages.
To enhance inbound tourism, “Shanghai Summer” integrates transportation, attractions, and retail districts into a “starter kit” experience tailored for international travellers. China Eastern Airlines will offer discounted group packages across global routes. In terms of payment, Visa is co-developing “Payment-Friendly Zones” to enhance QR code transactions and tax refund scenarios for international travelers. China UnionPay is expanding foreign card acceptance to 65,000 merchants citywide and has launched the “Shanghai Summer” themed card along with a variety of promotional offers—creating a diversified payment ecosystem that integrates credit cards, mobile payments, and digital RMB.
In 2024, offline spending in Shanghai reached RMB 815.9 billion, an 8.2% increase year-on-year. Dining consumption rose to RMB 96.4 billion, up 26.9%. Foreign card spending surged by 68.2%, with Huaihai Road seeing a 208.6% increase and the Lujiazui-Zhangyang Road area growing by 119.9%—demonstrating the city’s growing international appeal.
The official website www.shanghaisummer.com is now available in five languages. AI assistant “Shanghai Xiaoxia” is also online, with many offerings equipped with Japanese-language support—welcoming global travellers to join this vibrant summer celebration in Shanghai.
Media Contact: Lulu media@shanghaisummer.com
Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2667335/Shanghai_Design_Week.jpg
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/shanghai-summer-a-one-of-a-kind-seasonal-experience-302432728.html
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