Fintech PR

Apollo Currency Releases Sharding, Solving Blockchain Sustainability

Published

5 years ago

June 25, 2019

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Apollo Currency is making history by becoming the first project to utilize sharding on an active blockchain and one of the first cryptocurrency ventures to implement a solution to blockchain bloat. Apollo sharding was activated on April 1, 2019 and the first shard segments on the blockchain at block 2,250,000. This first shard signals a monumental accomplishment toward blockchain advancement and a revolutionary moment in cryptocurrency history.

“With the release of sharding, Apollo has officially become the fastest, most feature-rich and most sustainable cryptocurrency available,” says Stephen McCullah, director of business development.

Solving Blockchain Bloat

Blockchain bloat prevents DLT systems (distributed ledger technologies) from scaling. Although each block adds only a small amount of data, this information accumulated over time leads to an astronomically large database. The accumulation of data from blocks will inevitably result in slower speeds, reduced functionality, and difficulty downloading its database.

“Sharding allows a user to download the blockchain much faster, and it reduces the cycle-time of operations as well as lowers the needed disk space,” says Sergey Rokhvarg, chief technology officer. “Apollo sharding is a trailblazing innovation that was only theory until recently.”

How Sharding Works

“An increasing number of transactions leads to a constant increase in the Apollo database. This process goes faster with shorter block time,” says Sergey Rokhvarg, CTO. “Blockchain requires full access to the ledger from beginning to end to verify each transaction, but this task does not run every time. Most operations require smaller parts of an entire database.”

According to Mr. Rokhvarg, that creates an opportunity to be more efficient. As the first shard executes, the following takes place:

The Apollo ledger database will split into time-based (or blockchain height-based) segments, and the split will be made on each node in the consensus with each node knowing when that split occurred.
Each shard will complete every 750,000 blocks after 1,400 blocks of acknowledgment.
Information will be added to each shard/segment that allows blockchain operations to occur without queries to the full ledger database. This will optimize the blockchain processing code to use the last segment for most operations.
Each segment will be trusted as nodes sign its summary tables. Downloading of the full blockchain will be optional/delayed. Rather, nodes will download the latest segment and start processing from there.
Downloading of previous blockchain segments will occur on-demand.

The results are remarkable speed, as well as scalability of the Apollo blockchain, according to the foundation’s development team. [website: apollocurrency.com]

Anticipating Future Network Challenges

Distributed ledger technologies (DLT) are undergoing 80% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and they are expected to become a $23 billion industry worldwide by 2023 according to Reportlinker. The $300 billioncryptocurrency market is estimated to have 32% CAGR by 2025 according to Market Insights Reports.

But more use could also lead to unstable networks.

“When we developed sharding, the team had to significantly renovate the data-exchange mechanism, which allows using other types of sharding and optimization in the future,” says Sergey Rokhvarg, CTO. “In the near future, we’ll release a core code for sharding. The new protocol will initiate on block 2,250,000 and more shards will form every 750,000 blocks.”

Apollo as the Ultimate Currency

“Sharding and adaptive forging make Apollo the most sustainable blockchain on Earth,” says Steve McCullah, director of business development. “Our goal is to realize sub-one-second transaction speeds and TPS capabilities in the multi-millions before the end of 2020.”

Apollo is among the fastest cryptos on Earth with two-second settlement speed.

Adaptive forging (launched in Q4 2018) synergizes with sharding to eliminate wasteful, non-stop block creation. Thanks to this breakthrough technology, blocks are only created and forged when a transaction takes place. This approach simplifies the blockchain and lowers the required disk space for storing a database. This further improves speed, eliminates bloat issues, and makes the blockchain hyper-efficient.

Other mainstream crypto projects have been unsuccessful at creating similar sustainability solutions.

Mr. McCullah concludes by saying “it’s crucial for developers to stay ahead of the curve, and to consider upcoming trends in their organization’s strategic planning. The Web 3.0 economy is evolving fast and it’s important to match developer competence with vision and prudence. Blockchain use-cases are leading to tectonic shifts in how people and merchants do business, and we want to prevent future issues that are avoidable. Sharding makes blockchain technology scalable and sustainable.”

SOURCE Apollo Foundation

Fintech PR

Launch of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding

Published

1 day ago

November 16, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

A strategic partnership between two of the largest Qatari companies to add value to the local and regional market, enhancing food security and innovation in several key sectors.

DOHA, Qatar, Nov. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Senyar Trading & Distribution Company and Al Baladi Holding have announced the launch of their strategic partnership under the name of ‘Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding’. The launch ceremony was attended by Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Faisal Holding, and Mr. Mohammed Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairman of Al Baladi Holding. This partnership aims to provide added value to the Qatari and regional markets, and to enhance the role of Qatari companies in supporting and developing the local economy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

Within this partnership, a strong economic icon was established under the name ‘Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding Group’, capable of implementing huge projects across the MENA region in a number of different vital sectors, especially livestock and agricultural production projects, which contributes to supporting food security and enhancing livestock in a sustainable manner. In addition, the retail sector constitutes a significant part of the Company’s activities.

Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding Group Holding includes Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding LLC, based in Qatar, Al Faisal Al Baladi Group for Malls Management and Operations, based in Egypt, and Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, based in the Sultanate of Oman. As well as livestock and agricultural production, these companies will operate in several diverse sectors including distribution and wholesale, manufacturing, hospitality and hotels, restaurants, food and beverages, with the retail sector also constituting a significant area of focus. Through these activities, they will seek to meet the growing demand for innovative products and solutions, while supporting sustainable economic development in Qatar and the region.

Commenting on this announcement, Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Faisal Holding, stated: “I am pleased to witness the formation of this strategic partnership that represents the development of the private sector in Qatar and enhances its ability to compete through cooperations built on solid foundations. This partnership is a realization of Qatar Vision 2030 of empowering the private sector and enhancing its contribution to the local economy. I wish both parties success in this promising partnership.”

Mr Mohammed Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairman of Al Baladi Holding and Chairman of Al Faisal Al Baladi, said: “We are delighted with this cooperation which opens new horizons for growth and expansion. Al Baladi Holding has achieved remarkable successes in recent years, and this partnership comes to underpin our position in the market and expand the scope of our activities. We hope that Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding will contribute to the development of successful and innovative projects that will be a source of pride for everyone.”

Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal Al Thani, Vice Chairman of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, added: “We share common goals, integrated resources, and expertise with Al Baladi Holding. Through this partnership, we will achieve integration and synergy in diverse businesses to maximize value for all parties, including consumers and investors, which will benefit all stakeholders and contribute to achieving a positive impact across every level.”

Mr. Abdullah Mohammed Al Attiyah, Vice Chairman of Al Baladi Holding, said: “Undoubtedly, the stability of the Qatari economy, the diversity of investment opportunities, and the positive business environment, have all contributed to Al Baladi Holding’s market leading position. We look forward to this partnership with confidence in its promise to help build a bright future”

Mr. Tarek Mahmoud Al Sayed, Board Member of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, added: “Food security projects hold special importance, especially in their comprehensive and sustainable concept, which constitute an essential part of our future strategy. We seek to play a pivotal role in the region through livestock and agricultural production projects, as we currently own a number of livestock and agricultural production companies in Qatar and Oman, and we plan to expand and launch new projects in a number of countries in the region and North Africa. This will support Al Faisal Al Baladi in becoming a leading company in achieving food security at the regional level.”

Mr Hany Al Sayyadi, CEO and Board Member of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, concluded by saying: “This partnership strengthens our diversified investment portfolio and facilitates the expansions of our presence in regional and global markets. Our vision is to achieve a strong presence in the Middle East region, by focusing on innovation and quality in all our sectors. This partnership is a natural extension of the vision of both companies to enhance economic integration and contribute to driving development in Qatar and the region.”

Al Faisal Al Baladi plans to expand its business activities in regional and global markets, by utilizing the diverse investment opportunities represented by the manufacturing, hospitality and retail sectors. The Group’s current portfolio includes more than 30 leading companies in their fields, including Al Baladi and Al Baladi Express Markets, Al Wajba Dairy and Juice Factory, City Limousine Company, in addition to a number of restaurants and companies in the food sector, and many others.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2558072/Al_Baladi_Holding_Group.jpg
Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2558073/Al_Baladi_Holding_Group_1.jpg

Chairman of Al Faisal Holding Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, and Chairman of Al Baladi Holding Mohammed Abdullah Al Attiyah along with other officials during the launch of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/launch-of-al-faisal-al-baladi-holding-302305819.html

Fintech PR

Sustainable Infrastructure Holding Company (“SISCO”) Q3FY24 revenue (excluding accounting construction revenue) increases by 23.8% to 341.8 million

Published

2 days ago

November 16, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

Revenue grew by 23.8% compared to previous year
Gross profit of SAR 179.8 million, a 21.7% increase compared to Q3FY23
Adjusted EBITDA rose 29.5% to SAR 210.2 million

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, Nov. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sustainable Infrastructure Holding Company (“SISCO”, “TADAWUL: 2190”), Saudi Arabia’s leading strategic investor in Ports & Logistics and Water Solutions has announced its financial results for the quarter ended 30 September 2024.

Revenues for the third quarter of 2024, excluding accounting construction revenue, grew by 23.8% compared to Q3FY23 to reach SAR 341.8 million. On a quarter-to-quarter basis, revenues grew by 13.0% compared to Q2FY24.

The third-quarter gross profit of SAR 179.8 million represents 14.7% quarter-on-quarter growth and 21.7% growth compared to Q3FY23. The gross profit margin for Q3FY24 was down 0.9% year-on-year, due to increased depreciation and direct costs, but was up 0.8% quarter-on-quarter, in line with expectations. Year-to-date saw gross profits increase by 13.8% to SAR 469.5 million.

Adjusted EBITDA growth rose 29.5% to SAR 210.2 million compared to Q3FY23, aligning SISCO with strategic goals. Quarter-on-quarter growth was 20.8%, with a year-to-date increase of 17.7% to SAR 543.8 million.

SISCO reports a strong recovery in the Red Sea Gateway Terminal from subdued Q3FY23 Port segment results due to the Red Sea situation. Port volume reached 828,868 TEUs in Q3FY24, returning to levels similar to Q4FY23.

Commenting on the results: Eng. Khalid Suleimani, Group CEO, SISCO said:

“I am pleased to report that SISCO has continued to demonstrate strong growth and operational performance in Q3FY24, with revenues improving by 23.8% compared to Q3FY23. Our Ports segment, which remains a key growth driver, saw a significant increase, leading to robust results despite the Red Sea challenges.

Net income remains strong, despite the one-off payment of SAR 25 million to Zakat. Another highlight of the quarter is the impressive recovery in the Red Sea Gateway Terminal, highlighting it’s resilience.

We are also excited to announce the Multi-Purpose Terminals (MPT) concession, which will allow us to expand operations across all non-containerised port facilities in the Red Sea Gateway Terminal. This strategic initiative positions SISCO to capture further growth opportunities domestically and internationally.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to executing our five-year strategy to double revenues by 2026 and continue delivering long-term value to our shareholders.”

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sustainable-infrastructure-holding-company-sisco-q3fy24-revenue-excluding-accounting-construction-revenue-increases-by-23-8-to-341-8-million-302307352.html

Fintech PR

Bybit Crypto Titans: November Arena Boasts 55,000 USDT in Rewards

Published

2 days ago

November 15, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

bybit-crypto-titans:-november-arena-boasts-55,000-usdt-in-rewards

DUBAI, UAE, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, opens up the November arena for the Bybit Crypto Titans trading competition. Available for users in select regions, a prize pool of 55,000 USDT will be available for a limited time only.

From now to Nov. 30, eligible traders can level up their trading strategies and amplify their winning chances by inviting friends to share two prize pools in two simple steps: register for the event at the Grand Arena, and invite friends and trade.

Battlefields: Once in the Arena, users can pick their battlefields. Up to 30,000 USDT are up for grabs in the Team Battlefield ranked by total trading volume, while another 15,000 USDT is reserved for traders in the Solo Battlefield competing by PnL(%).

More perks: Additionally, top traders and leaders will receive extra perks. Participants will receive a bonus 5 USDT for every new qualified referee, and the first 50 Team Leaders whose team exceeds a threshold amount in trading volume will be entitled to a 100 USDT bonus.

“As trading volumes overall are climbing, we are seeing so many talented traders in our community with a knack for navigating fast-moving markets. This event gives some of them an incentive to share their passion with their friends, and there is room for rewards for the solo trading pros to shine as well,” said Joan Han, Sales and Marketing Director of Bybit.

Market sentiment and activities have been trending up in recent weeks globally, and the enthusiasm is shared among users in niche markets. While traders rush to capture opportunities in a heated market, the Crypto Titans competition encourages users to bring out the best trading game and hone their trading skills for healthier returns.

Find out more about Bybit’s Crypto Titans: November Showdown, terms and conditions apply.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving over 50 million users. Established in 2018, Bybit provides a professional platform where crypto investors and traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, 24/7 customer service, and multilingual community support. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One’s reigning Constructors’ and Drivers’ champions: the Oracle Red Bull Racing team.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press

For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected]

For more information, please visit: https://www.bybit.com

For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media