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Platform 9 Capital and Sol Cuisine Enter into Definitive Business Combination Agreement and Will Close Subscription Receipt Financing

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Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – April 14, 2021) – Platform 9 Capital Corp. (TSXV: PN.P) (the “Company” or “Platform 9“) is pleased to announce that, further to its news release dated March 8, 2021, (i) Platform 9 and 12835151 Canada Inc. (“Subco“), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Platform 9, and Sol Cuisine Inc. (“Sol Cuisine“) have entered into a definitive business combination agreement (the “Business Combination Agreement“) which outlines the terms and conditions in which Sol Cuisine will complete a going-public transaction in Canada (the “Proposed Transaction“); and (ii) Sol Cuisine will be completing a brokered private placement of subscription receipts (“Subscription Receipts“) on or about April 15, 2021, which together with an investment by certain existing shareholders of Sol Cuisine to be completed prior to completion of the Proposed Transaction on similar terms, will raise gross proceeds of approximately $15 million (the “Funding Amount“). The Proposed Transaction will result in an arm’s-length reverse take-over of Platform 9 by Sol Cuisine and will constitute Platform 9’s “Qualifying Transaction” on the TSX Venture Exchange.

About Sol Cuisine

Sol Cuisine is a fast-growing producer of branded, consumer-preferred plant-based protein offerings across key center-of-plate and appetizer categories. Sol Cuisine’s products are offered through an established omni-channel distribution platform in Canada and the U.S. and are available in over 11,000 stores and more than 41,000 unique points of distribution. Over a history of 20+ years, Sol Cuisine has consistently demonstrated an ability to innovate and delight customers in Canada and the U.S., while remaining true to its commitment to producing great tasting products that are nutritionally superior both to meat-based offerings and to competitive plant-based products. Sol Cuisine’s taste and nutritional superiority has also resulted in private label contracts with some of the most recognized grocery retailers in North America. These products are all produced at a state of the art, 35,000 square foot facility in Mississauga, Ontario, capable of supporting up to 10 million kilograms of volume per annum. Sol Cuisine is incorporated under the laws of Canada.

Business Combination Agreement

On April 14, 2021, Platform 9, Subco and Sol Cuisine entered into the Business Combination Agreement where the parties agreed to effect the Proposed Transaction by way of a three corner amalgamation between Sol Cuisine and Subco. Immediately prior to the completion of the Proposed Transaction, Platform 9 will consolidate its issued and outstanding shares on a 16.2076:1 basis (the “Consolidation“) and change its name to “Sol Cuisine Ltd.” (the “Name Change“). Immediately following completion of the Consolidation, Subco and Sol Cuisine will amalgamate to form a new company with the name “Sol Cuisine Inc.”, and upon such amalgamation, holders of securities of Sol Cuisine will receive comparable securities of Platform 9 (on a post-Consolidation basis) (the “Resulting Issuer“) for every such security of Sol Cuisine then held including the common shares and warrants issuable upon the exercise of Subscription Receipts. Platform 9 has called an annual and special meeting of shareholders to be held on April 23, 2021 for purposes of receiving shareholder approval for, among other things, the Consolidation, the Name Change, an amendment of Platform 9’s stock option plan from a “10% rolling plan” to a “15% fixed plan” and the election of certain nominees of Sol Cuisine to the board of directors of the Resulting Issuer (see “Resulting Issuer – Proposed Directors, Officers and Insiders” below).

The business of the Resulting Issuer (together with the required financial statements and related management’s discussion and analysis) will be fully described in a filing statement to be filed on SEDAR and with the TSXV in connection with and prior to completion of the Proposed Transaction. Upon completion of the Proposed Transaction, it is expected that the common shares of the Resulting Issuer will trade on the TSXV under the trading symbol “VEG”.

Subscription Receipt Financing

On or about April 15, 2021, Sol Cuisine will complete a brokered private placement offering of Subscription Receipts at a price of C$2.15 per Subscription Receipt, led by Canaccord Genuity Corp. and together with CIBC World Markets Inc. and National Bank Financial Inc. (the “Agents“), which together with an investment by certain existing shareholders of Sol Cuisine to be completed prior to completion of the Proposed Transaction on similar terms, will raise gross proceeds of approximately $15 million. Each Subscription Receipt will entitle the holder to receive, without payment of additional consideration, one unit (“Unit“) of Sol Cuisine upon satisfaction or waiver of the Escrow Release Conditions (as defined herein). Each Unit shall consist of one common share of Sol Cuisine (a “Sol Share“) and one-half of one Sol Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Sol Warrant“). Each Unit shall be exchanged, without further consideration or action on the part of the holder for one unit (a “Resulting Issuer Unit“) of the Resulting Issuer, upon completion of the Proposed Transaction. Each Resulting Issuer Unit will consist of one common share of the Resulting Issuer (a “Resulting Issuer Share“) and one-half of one Resulting Issuer Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Resulting Issuer Warrant“). Each Resulting Issuer Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to acquire one Resulting Issuer Share at a price of C$2.60 for a period of 24 months following the completion of the Proposed Transaction, subject to the right of the Resulting Issuer to accelerate the expiry date of the Resulting Issuer Warrants in the event that the closing price of the Resulting Issuer Shares on the TSXV remains equal to or higher than C$3.90 for 20 consecutive trading days (the “Acceleration Trigger Date“).

The Agents will receive a commission of 6% of gross proceeds in respect of Subscription Receipts sold (reduced to 3% for Subscription Receipts sold to purchasers on the president’s list) as well as compensation options exercisable for Units equal to 6% of the number of Subscription Receipts sold (reduced to 3% for Subscription Receipts sold to purchasers on the president’s list).

The gross proceeds from the sale of the Subscription Receipts (less customary deductions) will be held in escrow (the “Escrowed Proceeds“) by TSX Trust Company (the “Escrow Agent“) (the Escrowed Proceeds, together with any interest and other income earned pending satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions, are referred to as the “Escrowed Funds“). The Escrowed Funds will be released from escrow to Sol Cuisine upon the satisfaction of the following conditions, among others, (the “Escrow Release Conditions“) on or prior to the day that is 120 days from the closing of the offering (the “Escrow Deadline“): (a) the receipt of all required shareholder, regulatory, and other approvals, including without limitation, the conditional approval of the TSXV for the listing of the Resulting Issuer Shares and the Proposed Transaction; (b) the Funding Amount being achieved; and (c) Sol Cuisine and Platform 9 having delivered a direction to the Escrow Agent confirming that the conditions of release have been met or waived. If the Escrow Release Conditions are not satisfied on or before the Escrow Deadline, the Escrowed Funds shall be returned to the holders of the Subscription Receipts on a pro rata basis and the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled without any further action on the part of the holders. To the extent that the Escrowed Funds are not sufficient to refund the aggregate issue price paid by the holders of the Subscription Receipts, Sol Cuisine will be responsible and liable to contribute such amounts as are necessary to satisfy any shortfall. Following the satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions and the completion of the Proposed Transaction, the net proceeds from the Offering are anticipated to be used, principally, for sales, marketing and growth initiatives, working capital and general corporate purposes, repayment of debt and for capital expenditures. While the Resulting Issuer intends to spend the funds available to it as stated above, there may be circumstances where for sound business reasons a reallocation of funds may be necessary.

Resulting Issuer – Proposed Directors, Officers and Insiders

The Business Combination Agreement provides that, subject to the approval of the TSXV, the directors and senior officers of the Resulting Issuer shall consist of the following:

Name Title
John Flanagan Chief Executive Officer
David McLaren Chief Financial Officer
Dror Balshine President and Director
Jason Saltzman Corporate Secretary
Ken Cross Chief Marketing Officer
Sarah Cline Vice President of Sales
Michael Presley Vice-President Finance
Prashin Chaturverdi Vice-President Supply Chain
Mike Fata* Chairman and Director
Mary Dalimonte* Director
John Travaglini** Director
Rajamohan Natarajan*,** Director

 

* Proposed Members of the audit committee of the Resulting Issuer

**Current directors of Platform 9

Dror Balshine – President and Director

Dror founded Sol Cuisine in 1997 and led the organization to a market leadership position. From 1997 to 2019, Dror oversaw the business as both President and CEO. In 2018, Dror was successful in attracting significant financial investment from leading Canadian venture firms to grow Sol and specifically invest in plant optimization and building out the leadership team. As founder and President Dror is actively involved in business development, operations and innovation. Dror is a strong advocate for the plant-based sector and is currently the Vice-Chair of Plant Based Foods of Canada, the leading voice for the plant-based industry in Canada. Prior to starting Sol Cuisine, Dror worked for Hilti Corporation in Canada, Lichtenstein and the United Kingdom in strategy and sales. He holds a Masters of Business Administration (University of British Columbia), an International Business Certificate (Erasmus University Rotterdam) and a Bachelors in Economics (University of Western Ontario).

Mike Fata – Chairman and Director

Mike co-founded Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods in 1998. From 1998 to 2016, he ran all aspects of the company as Chairman of the Board and CEO. In February 2019, Mike helped guide the strategic sale of Manitoba Harvest to Tilray for $419 million. Mike has dedicated over 25 years studying and practicing natural health, starting in 1995 when he made the life changing decision to lose over 100lbs, and go from 300lbs to his current 180lbs. He has gained an excellent knowledge of human anatomy, diet, nutrition and natural health lifestyle. Mike is a keynote speaker, has been featured on television, radio and quoted in newspapers and magazines countless times regarding natural health, nutrition, hemp foods, organic agriculture and sustainable business. Mike is currently Chief Executive Officer of Fata & Associates, Chairman of the Board of Sol, Director (Past Chairman) of the Canadian Health Food Association and investor/advisor to several natural and organic product companies. Previously, Mike served as Chairman of the Board of YPO Manitoba, Board Member and Treasurer of Canadian Organic Trade Association, Chairman of the Board of the Canadian Hemp Trade Association, Board Member of the Manitoba Food Processors Association and Chairman of the Board of Om Organic Mushrooms.

Mary Dalimonte – Director

Mary Dalimonte is the former Senior Vice President of Merchandising and Commercial Programs for Sobeys Inc., where she joined as the General Manager in 2008. Prior to joining Sobeys Inc., she held a variety of progressively senior retail management roles at Loblaw Supermarkets Ltd., including Senior Director of Store Operations, General Manager of Retail Operations, and Vice-President of Store Operations. With over 40 years of achievement in the retail grocery industry and recognized as the ‘Go-To’ trusted industry executive, Mary is known as a change agent and the quintessential foodie. Mary has been awarded and recognized for her many accomplishments including the ‘2017 Star Women Award’ from Canadian Grocer, the ‘Top Women in Grocery’ award for North America in 2014 and was the first female and grocery retail executive to win the ‘Food Service Excellence Award’ from the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Ontario. Of particular note, awarded in 2018, Mary received the ‘Golden Pencil Award’, which is the highest honor awarded by the Food Industry Association of Canada. Mary serves as a Board Director for Giant Tiger Stores Ltd., Board of Director for the Italian Chamber of Commerce, Board Advisor to Grocery Business, Board Advisor to Inspired Organization for MBA future leaders, Academy Mentor to Women in Food Industry Management, and Mentor Leader to the Network of Executive Women. Ms. Dalimonte is passionate about giving back to community and serves on the food raising committee for the Fred Victor Charity. Ms. Dalimonte holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from York University.

John Flanagan – Chief Executive Officer

John Flanagan is CEO of Sol Cuisine and has more than 25 years experience in the consumer-packaged goods industry and has worked at senior levels at companies such as Nabisco, Coca-Cola, Unico and Sun Rich. Prior to joining Sol Cuisine, John was CEO of NuStef, a Canadian commercial baking company where he built the business and led the sale process to a USA private equity firm. John joined Sol Cuisine in July of 2019 and has been instrumental in professionalizing the organization, building the senior team, securing further equity financing and growing the economics and performance of the business.

David McLaren – Chief Financial Officer

David has over 28 years of experience in CPG companies working for seven Tier 1 North American CPG companies. David has been a CFO for the past 15 years. Prior to joining Sol Cuisine, over the past three years, David has completed $1.1 billion in public M&A and financing deals over 16 transactions. David is a Chartered Professional Accountant, honored with a Fellowship from the Chartered Professional Accountants Association in 2012. David holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree from McMaster University.

Ken Cross – Chief Marketing Officer

Ken joined Sol Cuisine in 2020 with the mandate of accelerating revenue growth through adoption of CPG best practices in Marketing and Product Development. Priorities include entrenching the brand amongst a rapidly growing community of Sol Cuisine consumers, accelerating pace and scale of new product innovation, defining and validating value-optimizing in-store condition strategies, and developing and executing U.S. and international expansion plans. Ken’s 30+ year career experience includes executive roles in marketing, sales, mergers and acquisitions, and general management, and uniquely prepares him for success in this role at Sol Cuisine. He brings a combination of successes at large CPG companies like P&G, Kellogg’s, Mars, and Maple Leaf Foods along with extensive experience in the private equity space. Ken holds a Master of Business Administration (Queen’s University) and a Bachelor of Economics (University of Western Ontario).

Sarah Cline – Vice President of Sales

Sarah started at Sol Cuisine in 2019 as part of the management team expansion established to extend the reach of Sol Cuisine into other channels and the U.S. market. Since Sarah has joined, Sol Cuisine has increased sales from $15.7 million to a current trailing 12-month sales trend of $24 million, a growth of over 52%. In addition, she has expanded distribution into retailers such as Costco, Whole Foods U.S., Target, and Albertsons. Prior to joining Sol Cuisine, Sarah worked for Nature’s Path and the Hain Celestial Group in varying sales management roles leading teams up to 19 people crossing multiple channels, 28 brands, and over 13 categories. Sarah holds a Master of Business Administration from Yale University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Denver.

Prashin Chaturvedi – Vice President Supply Chain and CI

Prashin is a supply chain and operations executive with a proven track record of leading high-performance teams in supply chain, logistics, planning, continuous improvement, procurement, and operations. Prashin started his supply chain career in mass food retail, with Loblaws and Target, before transitioning to food CPG and co-manufacturing, leading teams in supply chain and operations functions at Canada Bread (Grupo Bimbo), Griffith Foods, and most recently was the Vice President of Operations at a hypergrowth food startup – Love Good Fats. Prashin is currently the Vice-Chair of Warehouse Education and Research Council (WERC), an organization of seasoned professionals that establish and promote industry best practices in supply chain. Prashin holds a Master of Business Administration (Schulich School of Business) and a Bachelor of Engineering (York University), in addition to various professional certifications, including but not limited to Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) from American Society of Quality (ASQ) and Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from APICS.

Michael Presley – Vice President Finance

Michael has 25+ years of experience in CPG and private equity. He has CFO-level experience in multiple industries and held senior roles in companies ranging from start-ups to $3 billion in sales. Michael is classically trained with multinational organizations such as The Coca-Cola Company, Kraft Foods, and Nabisco Ltd. Michael is a Chartered Professional Accountant.

Jason A. Saltzman – Corporate Secretary

Jason is a partner in Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP’s Toronto office practicing corporate finance and securities law, with an emphasis on securities offerings, mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture capital transactions, corporate governance and securities registration and compliance matters. He has taken numerous companies public on the TSX, TSX Venture Exchange and the Canadian Securities Exchange by IPO, reverse takeover, capital pool transactions and direct listings. Jason is a member of the Board and Audit Committee of Adcore Inc. (ADCO – TSX) and is a member of the Board of Cross Border Capital I Inc., a capital pool corporation that has not yet completed its qualifying transaction. Jason holds an LLB from Osgoode Hall Law School and a BA in Political Science from Western University.

Insiders

The following persons are expected to be insiders of the Resulting Issuer: (a) Planted Power Inc., a company owned and controlled by Dror Balshine, a proposed director and officer of the Resulting Issuer; (b) New Acres Capital Ag and Food Limited Partnership and New Acres Capital Ag and Food Parallel Limited Partnership (collectively, the “New Acres Funds“) (Kirchner Asset Management (A) GP Inc. is the general partner of the New Acres Funds (the “New Acres GP“) and Timothy Lee is President and a director of the New Acres GP); (c) BDC Capital Inc., a federal crown corporation; and (d) Export Development Canada, a federal crown corporation.

Significant Conditions to Closing and Other Matters

Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions including, but not limited to: (a) receipt of regulatory approvals; (b) acceptance of the Proposed Transaction as Platform 9’s Qualifying Transaction by the TSXV; (c) receipt of approval for the listing of the common shares of the Resulting Issuer by the TSXV; (d) shareholders of Platform 9 approving certain matters ancillary to the Proposed Transaction, including the Consolidation, the Name Change, the Resulting Issuer Stock Option Plan and the appointment of new director nominees of Sol Cuisine, all subject to the completion of the Proposed Transaction. There can, however, be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all. Sponsorship may be required by the TSXV unless exempt in accordance with TSXV policies.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the filing statement 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 securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative. Shares of Platform 9 are currently halted from trading on the TSXV, and trading is not expected to resume until closing of the Proposed Transaction.

This press release is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities described in this press release have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended) absent registration or an exemption from registration. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction where such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

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

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release includes forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws regarding Platform 9, Sol Cuisine and their respective businesses, which may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the completion of the Proposed Transaction, the terms on which the Proposed Transaction is intended to be completed, the ability to obtain regulatory and shareholder approvals and other factors. Often but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “expect”, “intends”, “anticipated”, “believes” or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Such statements are based on the current expectations and views of future events of the management of each entity, and are based on assumptions and subject to risks and uncertainties. Although the management of each entity believes that the assumptions underlying these statements are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this press release, including completion of the Proposed Transaction (and the proposed terms upon which the Proposed Transaction is proposed to be completed), may not occur and could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting the companies, including risks regarding the industry, market conditions, economic factors, management’s ability to manage and to operate the business of the Resulting Issuer and the equity markets generally. Although Platform 9 and Sol Cuisine have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements or information. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Except as required by applicable securities laws, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and neither Platform 9 and Sol Cuisine undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

About Platform 9 Capital Corp.

Platform 9 Capital Corp. is incorporated under the laws of the Province of Ontario and is a Capital Pool Company listed on the TSXV. It has not commenced commercial operations and has no assets other than cash. For further information, please see the final prospectus of the Company dated May 17, 2018 filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

For more information please contact:

John Travaglini, Chief Executive Officer
Platform 9 Capital Corp.

Telephone: (416) 861-1100

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/80509

Fintech

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.


Click here to register and unlock the door to endless possibilities at the Prague Gaming & TECH Summit. Your next big opportunity awaits!

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

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