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Apolo III And Ruckify Enter into Binding Letter of Intent to Complete Qualifying Transaction

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Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – November 11, 2020) – Apolo III Acquisition Corp. (TSXV: AIII.P) (“Apolo“) and Ruckify Inc. (“Ruckify“) are pleased to announce that they have entered into a binding letter of intent dated November 10, 2020 (the “LOI“), which outlines the terms and conditions pursuant to which Apolo and Ruckify will complete a transaction that will result in a reverse take-over of Apolo by Ruckify (the “Proposed Transaction“). The Proposed Transaction will be an arm’s length transaction, and, if completed, will constitute Apolo’s “Qualifying Transaction” (as such term is defined in Policy 2.4 of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV“)).

In addition, Ruckify is pleased to announce that it has commenced a financing pursuant to which Ruckify proposes to issue and sell, on a private placement basis, common shares (the “Ruckify Shares“) at a price of $4.00 per Ruckify Share (the “Issue Price“) for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $5,000,000 (the “Offering“). The Offering is expected to close on or about November 30, 2020. The proceeds of the Offering will be released to Ruckify immediately on closing.

Ruckify

Founded in Ottawa, Canada, in 2017 Ruckify’s peer-to-peer rent anything marketplace provides a platform enabling Ruckify users to monetize their assets while at the same time leverage the sharing economy to rent items and minimize what they own, avoiding investment in depreciating assets. With its industry-changing technology Ruckify is poised to expand from test markets to lead the way for peer-to-peer sharing in communities around the world. Ruckify provides its users with the freedom to do what they want when they want without the restrictions of time, storage, price or availability. In doing so, Ruckify supports sustainability by providing people the means to optimize the use of thousands of items within their communities.

Proposed Transaction Summary

The Proposed Transaction is expected to be structured as a three-cornered amalgamation, whereby a wholly-owned subsidiary of Apolo will amalgamate with Ruckify (the “Amalgamation“) to form a newly amalgamated company (“Amalco“). Pursuant to the Amalgamation, holders of Ruckify Shares will receive one common share in the capital of Apolo (each, an “Apolo Share“) for each Ruckify Share held. In addition, pursuant to the Amalgamation, each Ruckify stock option and each Ruckify warrant will be exchanged for an Apolo stock option or Apolo warrant, as applicable, on substantially the same terms and conditions, except that such securities will thereafter be exercisable to receive one Apolo Share.

In order to align the value of the Apolo Shares with the value per Ruckify Share at which the Proposed Transaction will be completed, it is anticipated that Apolo will consolidate its common shares on the basis of one post-consolidation Apolo Share for every 36.3636 existing Apolo Shares (the “Consolidation“). Pursuant to the terms of the Proposed Transaction, Apolo Shares are being valued at $0.11 per Apolo Share and the Ruckify Shares shall have an implied value equal to the terms of the Ruckify Shares issued pursuant to the Offering.

Upon completion of the Proposed Transaction, Apolo will be the parent and sole shareholder of Amalco and thus will indirectly carry on the business of Ruckify. As a result, Apolo intends to change its name to “Ruckify Corporation” or such other name as is acceptable to the regulators (the “Name Change“). Further, it is proposed that the officers and directors of Ruckify will replace the existing officers and directors of Apolo. Biographical information regarding these individuals is provided below under the heading “Officers and Directors“.

The Proposed Transaction is subject to the parties successfully entering into a definitive agreement in respect of the Proposed Transaction on or before January 31, 2021, or such other date as Ruckify and Apolo may mutually agree. Completion of the Proposed Transaction is also subject to a number of other conditions, including obtaining all necessary board, shareholder and regulatory approvals, including TSXV approval.

In connection with the Proposed Transaction, Apolo will convene a meeting of its shareholders for the purpose of approving, among other matters, the Consolidation, the Name Change and the election of the directors to replace the current directors of Apolo immediately following the completion of the Proposed Transaction. Ruckify will convene a meeting of its shareholders for the purpose of approving the Amalgamation and the Proposed Transaction. The Proposed Transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of Ruckify and Apolo and both boards of directors recommend that their respective shareholders vote IN FAVOR OF the Proposed Transaction and related matters.

As at the date of this news release, Apolo has 8,600,000 common shares and 860,000 stock options, each exercisable to acquire one Apolo Share (on a pre-Consolidation basis). As at the date hereof, Ruckify has the following securities issued and outstanding: 12,342,577 Ruckify Shares, options to acquire 1,041,900 Ruckify Shares and warrants to acquire 109,867 Ruckify Shares.

On completion of the Proposed Transaction (including the maximum number of Ruckify Shares to be issued in the Offering) and assuming completion of the Consolidation, it is anticipated that there will be an aggregate of approximately 13,829,077 Apolo Shares issued and outstanding and additional securities convertible into or exercisable to acquire 1,175,417 Apolo Shares. On completion of the Proposed Transaction (including the maximum number of Ruckify Shares to be issued in the Offering) and assuming completion of the Consolidation, former shareholders of Apolo will hold 236,500 Apolo Shares, representing 1.70% of the outstanding Apolo Shares and former shareholders of Ruckify will hold 13,592,577 Apolo Shares, representing 98.30% of the outstanding Apolo Shares (on a non-diluted basis).

A filing statement or joint management information circular of Ruckify and Apolo will be prepared and filed in accordance with the policies of the TSXV.

Officers and Directors

Subject to applicable shareholder and TSXV approval, it is anticipated that the officers and directors of the combined company will be:

Steve Cody – Chief Executive Officer and Director

With over 30 years of experience in the rental industry, Steve Cody has a wealth of knowledge and truly understands the value of connecting customers and communities. Having built and sold 6 different rental companies and most recently founding a successful franchise software company has prepared Steve for his recent venture. Ruckify is a combination of Steve’s matchless experience and passion for the sharing economy. Ruckify allows everyone to experience the financial and ecological rewards of sharing their items.

Dean Cosman – Chief Financial Officer

Dean Cosman joined Ruckify in August 2020 after spending 25 years in the financial services sector where he held executive level roles at both Export Development Canada (EDC) and Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC). Most recently Mr. Cosman served as Executive Vice-President and Chief Risk Officer at Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation. Prior to that he led CDIC as Interim Chief Executive Officer. He also held the roles of Senior Vice-President, Insurance and Risk Assessment and Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. Dean holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree from Carleton University and is a Chartered Professional Accountant, Chartered Accountant.

Graham Brown Chief Technology Officer

Graham has served as Ruckify’s CTO since March 2019, bringing with him two decades of serving as a technology executive, principally in publicly traded companies, including the Chief Technology Officer at Corel / WordPerfect and VP of Product Development at Halogen (now Saba Software). Graham was an early proponent of user-centered design and has been a proponent of developing software for its users ever since, producing both desktop and cloud-based Consumer and B2B products in the time since. As well as a passion for building great products, Graham enjoys developing great teams and making the total greater than the sum of its parts.

Bruce Linton – Chairman and Director

Mr. Linton was the founder and former Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Canopy Growth Corporation (“Canopy“), formerly Tweed Marijuana Incorporated, a cannabis company based in Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada. Bruce founded Tweed in 2013 and renamed it Canopy Growth Corporation in 2015. Canopy was the first cannabis company in North America to be listed on a major stock exchange (TSXV in April 2014 and TSX in July 2016) and to be included on a major stock index (S&P/TSX Composite Index in March 2017). Bruce co-founded Canopy Rivers in 2017 and Canopy Health Innovations in 2018. Bruce’s founding idea grew to a TSXV listed start-up with an $80 million market cap to a NYSE/TSX listed company (S&P/TSX60) including more than 30 M&A activities, ranking number one of the TSX30 with a market cap of over $20 billion by the summer of 2019. Bruce’s experience as a founder, CEO, and board member across a diversity of sectors was a huge influence for the success of Canopy. Earning market support for 16 rounds of financing of over $6 billion in public capital markets and private placements, the company funded capacity growth and opened new markets, including a $5 billion CAD investment by Fortune 500 beverage company, Constellation Brands (NYSE:STZ).

Notably, throughout his career, Bruce has been responsible for the acquisition and/or disposition of nearly $4 billion in business assets and has established regular engagement with the World Bank and Asia Development Bank as well as companies listing with NYSE, NASDAQ, TSX and TSXV. Bruce has overseen over 35 acquisitions in 6 countries.

Currently, he also holds the positions of: Executive Chairman for Gage Cannabis Co., Co-Chairman for Martello Technologies Group. He is also Chairman of the Advisory Board for Red Light Holland Corp., Non-Executive Chairman of Oskare Capital, Director with Mindmed and the Canadian Olympic Foundation, and an active investor with SLANG Worldwide Inc., and OG DNA Genetics Inc. Beginning his journey at Newbridge Networks Corporation, Bruce went on to be part of the establishing team at Crosskeys Systems Corporation, of which he was a key member for the NASDAQ/TSX IPO. He was GM and Re-Founder of Computerland.CA, and Co-Founder of Webenhancer Corp. Bruce has acted as CEO and Director at Clearfield Water Systems, Inc., past Chairman of the Ottawa Community Loan Foundation, past board member and Treasurer of Canada World Youth, and past member of the Board of Governors for Carleton University.

Joseph Mimran – Director

Mr. Mimran is among Canada’s leading fashion and retail pioneers and entrepreneurs. Throughout his career, he has founded or co-founded and built brands that have helped define the fashion industry landscape, including Joe Fresh™, Club Monaco, Alfred Sung, Caban and, with his wife Kimberley Newport-Mimran, Pink Tartan. In addition, Mr. Mimran is the Chairman of Gibraltar & Company, Inc., a private investment management company, and was formerly the Co-CEO of Gibraltar Opportunity, Inc., a provider of advisory and revenue acceleration services, and Gibraltar Growth Corporation, a special acquisition corporation. Mr. Mimran was the founder and former Creative Director of the Joe Fresh™ brand for Loblaws, where he led the entire creative process for the women’s, men’s and children’s apparel line, from product design to marketing and advertising to store selection and design for the merchandising of the line. Mr. Mimran founded the consulting firm Joseph Mimran & Associates Inc. (“JMA“) in 2001. In 2003, Loblaws engaged JMA to design home products under its President’s Choice brand, followed by all general merchandise categories by 2009. Mr. Mimran co-founded The Monaco Group (which included Alfred Sung, a high-end fashion women’s wear line, and Club Monaco, a fashion-forward, high-end casual clothing retailer) in 1980 and took the company public in 1986. The company was purchased by Dylex in 1989. In 1991, Mr. Mimran repurchased Club Monaco from Dylex, founded and launched Caban (a design-oriented home furnishings retailer) and took the business public in 1997. In 1999, he sold Club Monaco (and Caban) to Ralph Lauren for an equity value of $77,500,000. Mr. Mimran has been the recipient of many industry awards, including the Canadian Style Award and the lifetime achievement award by the Design Exchange, and in 2015 he was inducted into Canada’s Marketing Hall of Legends. Mr. Mimran began his career at Coopers & Lybrand (now PricewaterhouseCoopers) after receiving his Chartered Accountant designation.

Sponsorship

The Proposed Transaction is subject to the sponsorship requirements of the TSXV, unless a waiver or exemption from this requirement can be obtained in accordance with the policies of the TSXV. Apolo intends to apply for a waiver of the sponsorship requirement, however there is no assurance that a waiver from this requirement can or will be obtained.

Trading in Apolo Common Shares

Trading in Apolo Shares has been halted since April 9, 2020 for failing to complete a Qualifying Transaction within 24 months of its listing on the TSXV. Trading in the Apolo Shares will remain halted pending the review of the Proposed Transaction by the TSXV and satisfaction of the conditions of the TSXV for resumption of trading. It is likely that trading in the Apolo Shares will not resume prior to the closing of the Proposed Transaction.

This news release does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities being offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and such securities may not be offered or sold within the United States absent U.S. registration or an applicable exemption from U.S. registration requirements.

Ruckify is represented by Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP. Wildeboer Dellelce LLP acts as legal counsel to Apolo.

A subsequent news release with respect to the closing of the Offering and including a summary of certain significant financial information with respect to Ruckify will follow in due course.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains statements which constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of Apolo and Ruckify with respect to future business activities and operating performance. Forward-looking information is often identified by the words “may”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “will”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” or similar expressions and includes information regarding: (i) expectations regarding whether the Proposed Transaction will be consummated, including whether conditions to the consummation of the Proposed Transaction will be satisfied, or the timing for completing the Proposed Transaction, (ii) the timing for closing and the pricing and size of the Offering, and (iii) expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors.

Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflect Apolo and Ruckify’ respective management’s expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Although Apolo and Ruckify believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, such information involves risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements of the combined company. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information are the following: the ability to consummate the Proposed Transaction; the ability to obtain requisite regulatory and shareholder approvals and the satisfaction of other conditions to the consummation of the Proposed Transaction on the proposed terms and schedule; the potential impact of the announcement or consummation of the Proposed Transaction on relationships, including with regulatory bodies, employees, suppliers, customers and competitors; the re-rating potential following the consummation of the Proposed Transaction; changes in general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; and the diversion of management time on the Proposed Transaction. This forward-looking information may be affected by risks and uncertainties in the business of Apolo and Ruckify and market conditions.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although Apolo and Ruckify have attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Apolo and Ruckify do not intend, and do not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law.

For further information, please contact:

Apolo III Acquisition Corp.
Jeff Hergott
Corporate Secretary
[email protected]

Ruckify Inc.
Dean Cosman
Chief Financial Officer
E-mail: [email protected]

Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to TSXV acceptance and, if applicable pursuant to TSXV requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Proposed Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the filing statement or joint management information circular of Apolo and Ruckify to be prepared in connection with the Proposed Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Proposed Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Apolo should be considered highly speculative.

The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and has not approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR
DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/67967

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Copper State Credit Union Takes One Platform Approach with Jack Henry

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Jack Henry™ (Nasdaq: JHKY) announced today that Copper State Credit Union will leverage the company’s single technology platform to boost internal efficiencies and improve experiences.

Copper State Credit Union formed in 2020 from the merger of Canyon State Credit Union and Deer Valley Credit Union. Following the merger, the credit union managed multiple products across several different technology providers. This prompted the team to reevaluate their strategy and select Jack Henry as their enterprise technology provider. Jack Henry’s open infrastructure will automate and streamline operations, as well as integrate and optimize offerings.

“Jack Henry’s single platform approach allows us to consolidate our existing relationships into one organization with the option to tap into a vast ecosystem of fintech services,” said Robb Scott, President/CEO of Copper State Credit Union. “This enables us to continue to be innovative in our markets while remaining committed to delivering an exceptional member experience.”

Copper State Credit Union understands the importance of providing a convenient and simple digital experience for members. Their new digital banking platform will give members a complete view of all their finances in a single place. Part of this experience will include the ability to open new accounts and debit cards, manage credit scores, and receive instant payments. And, modern fraud and financial crimes prevention and detection solutions will protect members’ data and monitor transactional behavior.

“Our all-in strategy with Jack Henry ensures our members receive the connected services and resources they need to achieve financial prosperity and empowerment,” Scott continued. “The relationship frees up our internal resources to focus on finding ways to improve the financial lives of member-families within our community.”

Shanon McLachlan, president of Credit Union Solutions at Jack Henry, commented, “The beauty of our technology is the optionality and flexibility. Credit unions can choose to be in all-in with us like Copper State Credit Union or start by investing in their technology future one step at a time. Regardless, we continue to provide the support and services they need to help their members succeed.”

The post Copper State Credit Union Takes One Platform Approach with Jack Henry appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.

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Moomoo Wins “Best Stock Trading App” Award in 2024 FinTech Breakthrough Awards Program

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Moomoo Technologies Inc. today announced that FinTech Breakthrough recognized the company with its 2024 annual award of “Best Stock Trading App.”  Founded in 2018, moomoo is an investment and trading platform that empowers global investors with pro-grade, easy-to-use tools, data, and insights. With its sister brand, moomoo has over 21 million users globally and it provides users with the necessary information and technology to make more informed investment decisions.

As the FinTech sector becomes more crowded and companies struggle to stand out from the crowd with their products and services, the FinTech Breakthrough Awards help recognize and showcase FinTech innovators based on creativity, hard work, and technologies centered around their products, solutions, and services. Its committee selected winners based on their innovative performance, their impact on solving user needs and problems, and whether their ease of use management can scale at growth.

“We are thrilled to be recognized as the best stock trading app by FinTech Breakthrough as it supports our mission to provide all levels of investors with an intuitive and robust platform,” said Justin Zacks, Vice President of Strategies, Moomoo Technologies Inc.  “Backed by independent research, advanced technological development capabilities, and our unique digital-first business model, we want to level the playing field for retail investors. From powerful stock and option analysis tools to fully extended trading hours, moomoo serves both new and experienced traders.”

“Moomoos’ robust technologies help investors spot potential investment opportunities and make informed decisions. Investors at all levels are looking for in-depth data, market news and global insights,” said Steve Johansson, Managing Director, FinTech Breakthrough. “We want to recognize moomoo as ‘Best Stock Trading App!’ By striving to provide investors with the best online trading experiences possible, investors at any stage can make confident investment decisions backed by readily available data and insights.”

The post Moomoo Wins “Best Stock Trading App” Award in 2024 FinTech Breakthrough Awards Program appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.

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Insights from Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2024 Speakers (pre-event)

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As we approach the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit, we’ve connected with some of the event’s distinguished speakers to delve into the future of the gaming and tech industries. Their insights shed light on the shifting dynamics, underscoring the significance of adaptability, innovation, and strategic foresight.

We posed the following questions to our speakers:

  • What has been the most surprising or valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career within the gaming/tech sector?
  • Can you share a project or achievement in your career that you’re particularly proud of?
  • In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing the gaming and tech industries today?

Below, you’ll find a brief overview of their responses. For more in-depth insights, scroll down to read each speaker’s full reply.

#### Viktoria Soltesz: Mastering the Financial Game

Viktoria Soltesz, a pivotal figure in the payment solutions space, shared a crucial lesson from her career: the significance of a well-crafted payment plan. Through her work, Soltesz has observed the downfall of companies due to inadequate financial strategies, emphasizing that such pitfalls are easily avoidable with proper planning. Her recent book, “Moving Money – How Banks Think,” aims to demystify banking and payment processes for businesses, advocating for informed financial decision-making within the gaming and tech sectors.

#### Aleksandra Andrishak: The Power of Continuous Learning

Representing Slotsjudge, Editor in Chief Aleksandra Andrishak looks forward to delving into topics like iGaming and blockchain at the summit. Andrishak highlights the transformative work undertaken at Slotsjudge in 2023 and stresses the importance of perpetual learning in the fast-paced gaming industry. Her advice to newcomers is to embrace innovation and remain adaptable to stay ahead.

#### Jakub Tesar: Blockchain’s Expanding Horizon

Jakub Tesar predicts a promising future for blockchain technology, especially within the Ethereum ecosystem, and the rise of Web3. He envisions a world where gamers have greater control over virtual collectibles and in-game items, thanks to blockchain. Tesar anticipates GenAI revolutionizing game interactions and narratives, urging industry professionals to experiment with blockchain’s burgeoning use cases.

#### Kaspar Szymanski: Navigating SEO in the Gaming and Tech World

Kaspar Szymanski, with his rich background in Google Search, identifies the challenge of distinguishing brands in a saturated market. He argues for a focus on unique selling propositions and long-term growth strategies. At the summit, Szymanski aims to dispel SEO myths and offer actionable advice, emphasizing that SEO setbacks can lead to significant growth opportunities.

#### Jasmina Poglavc: Data-Driven Innovation in iGaming

Jazz underscores the impact of advanced data analytics and AI in enhancing the iGaming experience through personalized player engagement. She points out the challenges of data privacy and navigating the regulatory landscape, advocating for a shift towards more player-centric and responsible gaming practices.

These insights from our speakers highlight a common theme: the gaming and tech industries are at a critical juncture, facing challenges that span financial planning, regulatory navigation, and technological innovation. The Prague Gaming & TECH Summit stands as a pivotal platform for addressing these challenges, fostering dialogue, and paving the way for future advancements.

As we anticipate the rich discussions and networking opportunities at the summit, it’s clear that adaptability, continuous learning, and strategic planning are key to navigating the future of gaming and tech. Join us in Prague to explore these themes and more, shaping the trajectory of these dynamic industries.


Viktoria Soltesz – Founder at PSP Angels

What has been the most surprising or valuable lesson in your career within the gaming/tech sector?

In my career within the gaming/tech sector, one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of having a payment plan. While analyzing the financial and banking information of various companies, I noticed a recurring pattern: many companies that failed did so due to poor payment and banking practices. They often miscalculated risks, under-budgeted costs, or neglected to set up a proper payment plan. These errors in financial planning were common culprits behind their downfall. What surprised me the most was how easily these businesses could have avoided such failures with proper payment planning. It became evident that many businesses fail for avoidable reasons, and simply taking the time to understand and establish a payment plan can make a significant difference. By paying close attention to the flow of money and investing just a few hours in crafting a solid plan, a business can set itself on a path to success, outperforming much of its competition.

Can you tell us about a project or achievement in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

One of the achievements I’m particularly proud of in my career is the recent launch of my book, “Moving Money – How Banks Think,” which is now available on Amazon. This book is a valuable resource for businesses, emphasizing the often-overlooked importance of banking and payments in today’s competitive landscape. It provides insights into the intricacies of banking decisions, the history of payment systems, and practical guidance on managing funds more safely and cost-effectively. I’m excited to share this knowledge and help businesses make informed decisions in the realm of payments, especially those that are high-risk or startups.

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the gaming and tech industries today?

In the gaming and tech industries today, one of the most significant challenges is undoubtedly related to payments. While these industries focus heavily on product development, market competition, and marketing strategies, the crucial aspect of payment planning often gets overlooked. This oversight can lead to businesses incurring unnecessary banking fees and facing unexpected operational risks. Understanding the complexities of banking and payment systems is crucial, yet it remains an area with limited knowledge for many in these sectors. Lack of knowledge in this domain can result in poor financial decision-making. As a payment expert, I have observed that addressing these payment-related challenges is essential for the long-term success and sustainability of businesses in the gaming and tech industries. By gaining a better understanding of how payments work and the reasoning behind banking decisions, these industries can navigate financial challenges more effectively and make informed choices, ultimately ensuring smoother operations and cost savings.

What are you most looking forward to at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit?

I am greatly anticipating the upcoming Prague Gaming & TECH Summit for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, I’m excited about the high-quality content that will be presented during the event. It’s an excellent opportunity to gain valuable insights and knowledge about the gaming and tech industries.

Additionally, I’m looking forward to reconnecting with old acquaintances and making new connections. Networking is a fundamental aspect of such gatherings, allowing us to exchange ideas, share experiences, and forge new professional relationships.

Lastly, I’m eager to hear about the latest industry developments and gossip. Staying informed about the current trends and happenings within the gaming and tech sectors is essential for keeping a competitive edge in these dynamic industries.

Overall, the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit promises to be an enriching and engaging experience, offering valuable content, networking opportunities, and industry insights.


Aleksandra Andrishak – Editor in Chief at Slotsjudge

What are you most looking forward to at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit?

The vegan catering! Jokes aside, Hipther events are renowned for their best-in-class networking, and I’m eagerly anticipating the opportunity to delve into topics such as iGaming, eSports, and Blockchain with top experts in the industry. This will mark my second collaboration on stage with Zoltan and the team, and I’m very much looking forward to it.

Can you tell us about a project or achievement in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

I’m honored to represent Slotsjudge at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2024. I’m particularly proud of all the work we’ve accomplished with the team in 2023. This year, you can expect even more from us, including new features, a completely revamped website, and even more ways to have fun together with us if you’re a gaming enthusiast!

What advice would you give to someone starting their career in the gaming or tech industry?

Never stop learning. The gaming industry is one of those sectors where innovation occurs almost daily. To stay ahead of the curve, you cannot afford to become complacent. Continuously strive to expand your knowledge and skills. Good luck!


Jakub Tesar – Innovation, Digital & Emerging Tech Lead at EY

What are your top three predictions for the future of gaming and tech industries in the next five years?

  1. The Ethereum ecosystem will evolve into a hub for practical applications, driving large-scale enterprise adoption of blockchain technology.
  2. The growth of Web3 will empower users to have self-custody over virtual collectibles and in-game items, enabling the purchase of ‘phygital’ items that merge the physical and online worlds. This evolution will facilitate free trade on blockchain-powered marketplaces and allow brands to explore new monetization strategies for digital assets.
  3. Generative AI (GenAI) will revolutionize gaming experiences, enabling players to interact with non-player characters (NPCs) in more natural and dynamic ways, and experience storylines that adapt and evolve in real-time.

Can you share a recent innovation in the gaming/tech industry that excites you? What challenges do you think the industry needs to address? The integration of GenAI within gaming environments excites me the most. It offers unprecedented, natural-like interactions with GenAI-based NPCs and allows for fluid, dynamic storylines. However, the industry must navigate the ethical implications of AI, ensuring that these technologies are developed and used responsibly.

What has been the most surprising or valuable lesson in your career within the gaming/tech sector? In my career, the most valuable lesson has been the constant need for innovation and adaptability. The rapid pace at which technology evolves requires a perpetual learning mindset and the willingness to embrace change.

How do you see the role of AI and emerging technologies shaping the gaming and tech industries? AI and emerging technologies are set to fundamentally reshape the gaming and tech industries by introducing more immersive, interactive, and personalized experiences. These technologies will not only enhance gameplay but also offer new avenues for creativity and innovation within the sector.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career in the gaming or tech industry? Never stop learning. The gaming industry, in particular, is characterized by its rapid evolution and innovation. Staying informed and continually enhancing your skills is crucial to staying ahead in this competitive field.

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the gaming and tech industries today? Addressing the ethical and societal implications of rapid technological advancement, including privacy concerns, data security, and the potential for misuse, remains a significant challenge.

How do you see regulations impacting the gaming and tech industries, and what changes would you like to see? Regulations need to strike a balance between fostering innovation and protecting consumers. I hope to see regulations evolve in a way that supports the ethical development of new technologies while ensuring they are accessible and beneficial to all.

What are you most looking forward to at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit? I’m eagerly anticipating the opportunity to delve into the latest industry trends, connect with fellow professionals, and share insights on the evolving landscape of gaming and technology.

Is there a specific message or insight you hope attendees will take away from your session? I hope attendees recognize the enduring significance of blockchain technologies and are inspired to explore and experiment with their vast potential for innovative use cases.


Kaspar Szymanski – Founder of SearchBrothers

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the gaming and tech industries today?

One of the primary challenges in an industry saturated with numerous market players offering similar web platforms and services is effectively defining and communicating a compelling unique selling proposition (USP). While brand building, prioritizing user experience, and optimizing website performance are essential, they are merely steps towards the ultimate goal of offering a service or product that isn’t readily available elsewhere. Moreover, developing a long-term strategy presents a significant challenge in an industry that tends to favor short-term success. The pressure of organizational and market demands often hinders decision-makers from adopting strategies focused on sustainable, gradual growth. This challenge is particularly evident in search engine optimization (SEO), where the goals of long-term growth and meeting immediate organizational needs must be aligned, as search engine algorithms prioritize actual ranking signals over organizational constraints.

What are you most looking forward to at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit?

I am eager to share the unique insights into Google Search that I gained during my time working for Google, as well as my experiences as a consultant helping clients in competitive niches outperform their competitors. My presentation will include exciting real-life case studies, debunk several myths within the SEO industry, and provide attendees with actionable advice they can immediately apply. I am also looking forward to listening and learning from others, and eagerly anticipate addressing audience questions during the Q&A session following my presentation.

Is there a specific message or insight you hope attendees will take away from your session?

I want my audience to understand that Google penalties are not the end of the world and can be resolved. SEO setbacks, while initially unwelcome, can actually offer an opportunity for significant growth, potentially surpassing any previous rankings on Google Search. These moments can be a hidden blessing, revealing new paths to success. I invite anyone curious about the inner workings of Google Search, how it can benefit your website, and seeking genuine answers to their Google and SEO questions to join my session.


Jasmina Poglavc – Senior Product Manager at Gamanza Group AG & Freelance iGaming Consultant

Can you share a recent innovation in the gaming/tech industry that excites you, and what challenges do you think the industry needs to address?

My background in iGaming platforms and online operations has given me a unique perspective on the transformative potential of advanced data analytics and AI. These technologies promise significant changes, especially in real-time player engagement for iGaming platforms and operators. By analyzing player behavior, preferences, and patterns in real time, we can offer personalized promotions, customized gaming experiences, and targeted loyalty programs. This not only boosts player satisfaction but also optimizes revenue streams.

However, the full realization of these benefits faces challenges, primarily concerning data privacy and security. Protecting sensitive player information is paramount, and navigating the evolving regulatory landscape to align data-driven practices with compliance standards is equally crucial.

What has been the most surprising or valuable lesson in your career within the gaming/tech sector?

Adaptability has been the most valuable lesson in my career. The gaming and tech sectors are incredibly dynamic, with constant evolutions and innovations. Embracing change, remaining agile, and continuously seeking learning opportunities have been essential for navigating challenges and achieving success. Anticipating industry trends and staying informed about technological and regulatory developments are key to staying ahead.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career in the gaming or tech industry?

Stay curious and proactive. Embrace challenges as growth opportunities, keep up with industry trends, and cultivate a strong professional network. Innovation drives the gaming and tech industries, so developing a mindset that embraces change and fosters creativity is crucial.

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the gaming and tech industries today?

The primary challenges include cybersecurity threats, talent acquisition and retention, and adapting to an evolving regulatory landscape. Balancing innovation with compliance is challenging, as regulations often lag behind technological advancements. A strategic, adaptive approach is essential for navigating these challenges, necessitating proactive engagement with regulators and an awareness of legal frameworks.

How do you see regulations impacting the gaming and tech industries, and what changes would you like to see?

The gaming industry, exemplified by the situation in Germany, faces challenges from overregulation, which can drive players toward unregulated, black-market operators. While regulations are crucial for ensuring fairness and consumer protection, too restrictive an environment can hinder the industry’s growth and inadvertently compromise player safety.

I advocate for regulations that evolve with technological advancements, are harmonized globally, and are developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders. This approach aims to balance consumer protection with innovation, ensuring a thriving, responsible gaming ecosystem.


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The post Insights from Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2024 Speakers (pre-event) appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.

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