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HIRE Technologies Reports Record Gross Profits, Growth and Margins in Q4-2020

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  • Revenue of $3.3 million in Q4-2020 is 13.3% higher than pre-pandemic levels in Q4-2019 with HIRE achieving industry leading Q4-2020 growth relative to its public North American and Global peer group1.
  • Gross Margin of $1.3 million in Q4-2020, a record quarter in the history of the Company.
  • The majority of HIRE’s revenue comes from recurring revenue sources, accounting for 77.8% of revenue in Q4-2020.
  • Two acquisitions closed in Q4-2020 expanding HIRE’s geographic reach and deepening HIRE’s sector expertise.
  • First SaaS Technology acquisition completed in March 2021 marking a foundational step in HIRE’s core digital offering for the future.

Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – April 29, 2021) – HIRE Technologies Inc. (TSXV: HIRE) (“HIRE” or the “Company”) is focused on modernizing and digitizing human resources solutions, the Company announces its financial results for year-end 2020 and the quarter ended December 31, 2020.

“Despite the fact that the human capital market faced unique challenges in 2020, HIRE was able to outperform our peer group in Q4-2020, achieving record quarterly gross profit. By leveraging our experienced management team, diversified and recurring revenue sources, and highly disciplined cost management, we have been able to achieve record profitability. The Headhunters, Kavin Group, and Taylor Ryan acquisitions expanded the company’s footprint across Canada, offering permanent placement, recurring revenue, and highly experienced management,” commented Simon Dealy, Chief Executive Officer of HIRE.

Mr. Dealy added, “We continue to expect very promising outcomes for the organization as we head into 2021. Following a 117% increase in job orders in Q4-2020 over the previous quarter, we saw a further 137% increase in Q1-2021. HIRE has seen a rise in the number of placements made and new clients signed, with recurring revenue sources accounting for more than 70% of revenue. Our EBITDA success is boosted even further by the inclusion of our high-margin SaaS technology solutions, such as our Pulsify acquisition. All of this adds to HIRE’s excellent 2020 performance and leads to a strong start to the new fiscal year.”

2020 Annual Financial Highlights

  • Overall Gross Margin improved to $3.4 million from $2.8 million a year earlier, a result of a rebalanced portfolio mix featuring more high-margin, on-occurrence permanent placements relative to recurring contract placements.
  • Adjusted EBITDA loss was $0.6 million, a significant improvement over the adjusted EBITDA loss of $2.0 million for 2019.
  • A $0.06 per share improvement in adjusted net loss of $0.8 million or $0.02 per share versus $2.3 million or $0.08 per share a year earlier. Reported net loss was $10.7 million ($0.22 per share), or $3.9 million, ($0.08 per share) excluding the $6.8 million in non-cash mark-to-market losses recognized. Reported net loss in 2019 was $7.2 million ($0.25 per share).
  • See notes 2, 3 & 4 below for additional details.

Q4 2020 Financial Highlights

  • Revenue was up an industry leading 13.3% with strong results from new geographies and industry sectors added via acquisition.
  • Record $1.3 million in gross margin for Q4-2020 was a result of our rebalanced portfolio mix which has directionally shifted to increased high margin on-occurrence placements, which now comprises 22% of our book relative to recurring contract placements.
  • Adjusted EBITDA loss of $0.3 million was an improvement over $0.8 million for 2019, attributable to the improved cost structure of the business post reorganization. Unadjusted, HIRE reported an EBITDA loss of $4.6 million, almost flat versus $4.4 million for 2019. Of note, Q4-2020 included a $3.8 million non-cash mark-to-market loss recognized on embedded derivatives related to HIRE’s convertible debentures while Q4-2019 included $3.1 million in go-public transaction costs.
  • Adjusted net loss was $0.4 million ($0.01 per share) for Q4-2020, a $0.02 per share or $0.4 million improvement over Q4-2019. Q4-2020 reported net loss was $4.8 million ($0.10 per share), however excluding the $3.8 million in non-cash mark-to-market losses, net loss was $1.0 million ($0.02 per share). Reported net loss in Q4-2019 was $4.4 million ($0.13 per share) or $1.3 million ($0.04 per share) excluding the impact of go-public transaction costs.

M&A Update & Subsequent Events

  • During the year HIRE completed three acquisitions:
    1. The Headhunters,
    2. The Kavin Group, and
    3. Taylor Ryan
  • The three acquisitions expanded operations to western Canada, adding health care, real-estate, construction, and waste management to its sector portfolio.
  • HIRE also invested in Atlas ID, an employee digital wallet and COVID-19 risk mitigation platform.
  • Subsequent to year-end, the Company acquired Pulsify, a market ready, people management platform designed with remote workforces in mind.
  • See notes 5, 6 & 7 below for additional details.

Outlook

  • HIRE is ready to add more staffing partners inspired to join the “Powered by HIRE Technologies” growth platform from our strong pipeline of acquisition opportunities.
  • HIRE looks to strategically add to its technology foundation and enhance organic growth opportunities for our partners and grow our recurring revenue streams.

Restated Q3-2020 Financial Statements

HIRE also announces it has completed the filing of its restated condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 (the “Restated Interim Financial Statements”) and corresponding amended Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”).

The Restated Interim Financial Statements were filed to correct an identified error in the calculation of the carrying value of convertible debentures and the warrants which were reduced by $1.8 million to $2.3 million from $4.1 million. On a gross basis, before the recognition of finder’s fees, this adjustment was $1.9 million to the convertible debenture carrying amount and a reduction in the unrealized loss on fair value on the statement of loss of $1.9 million. This adjustment had no impact on cash and no impact on total assets.

As a result of the above noted changes, net loss for the three months ended September 30, 2020 decreased to $4.1 million from $5.9 million. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020 net loss decreased to $5.9 million from $7.8 million. Furthermore, total liabilities decreased to $8.4 million from $10.2 million, and total shareholders’ equity increased to ($1.7 million) from ($3.5 million) as at September 30, 2020.

The Restated Interim Financial Statements and corresponding amended MD&A have been posted on SEDAR at www.sedar.com

Conference Call Details

As previously announced, HIRE will host a conference call to review its earnings results on April 29, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. ET. The conference call will be webcast at: http://meetingconnectsales.adobeconnect.com/hire/

The conference call will also be available by dialing 416-764-8658 or 888-886-7786. Please dial in 10 minutes before the start of the call.

Selected Financial Highlights

Period ended >> 3 months ended December 31, 2020 3 months ended December 31, 2019 12 months ended December 31, 2020 12 months ended December 31, 2019
$ $ $ $
Net Loss (4,788,474) (4,423,318) (10,716,222) (7,189,052)
Interest 70,657 28,373 132,637 219,005
Amortization 52,416 22,650 126,120 90,600
Depreciation 5,887 29,661 153,222 165,559
Tax 52,046 (31,865) 14,955 (44,984)
EBITDA (4,607,468) (4,374,499) (10,289,288) (6,758,872)
Add:
Restructuring & Other Non-operating Items 545,201 450,927 2,722,552 1,747,422
Unrealized loss on fair value of convertible debenture derivatives 3,748,544 6,784,682
Unrealized loss on fair value of Atlas ID 13,760 13,760
Share based compensation expense 38,472 296,172
Listing related share-based consideration 2,670,926 2,670,926
Legal and other listing expenses 428,937 428,937
Rent expense (26,548) (22,252) (106,192) (89,008)
Adjusted EBITDA (288,039) (845,961) (578,314) (2,000,595)

 

Period ended >> 3 months ended December 31, 2020 3 months ended December 31, 2019 12 months ended December 31, 2020 12 months ended December 31, 2019
$ $ $ $
Net Loss for the Period (4,788,474) (4,423,318) (10,716,222) (7,189,052)
Add:
Restructuring & other non-operating items 545,201 450,927 2,722,552 1,747,422
Unrealized loss on fair value of convertible debenture derivatives 3,748,544 6,784,682
Unrealized loss on fair value of Atlas ID 13,760 13,760
Share based compensation expense 38,472 296,172
Listing related share-based consideration 2,670,926 2,670,926
Legal and other listing expenses 428,937 428,937
Non-recurring rent 113,000
Adjusted net loss (442,497) (872,528) (786,056) (2,341,767)
Adjusted net loss per share (0.01) (0.03) (0.02) (0.08)

 
This earnings press release, which was approved by the Company’s Board of Directors on the Audit Committee’s recommendation should be read in conjunction with HIRE’s Annual Financial Statements and MD&A, which have been posted on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

All financial figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

Non-IFRS Measures and Footnotes

This news release refers to certain financial measures that are not defined by International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), including earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”), adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“adjusted EBITDA”), adjusted net earnings (loss), and gross margin.

  1. Randstad N.V., The Adecco Group, Robert Half International Inc., Upwork Inc., ManpowerGroup, Learning Technologies Group, Kforce Inc., TrueBlue, Resources Connection Inc., and The Caldwell Partners International Inc.
  2. Gross margin is a non-IFRS measure that does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. The Company defines Gross margin as revenue less cost of services. Gross margin should not be construed as an alternative for revenue or net earnings (loss) determined in accordance with IFRS. The Company believes that Gross margin is a meaningful metric in assessing the financial performance and operational efficiency of the Company and its subsidiaries (the “Group”).
  3. EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are non-IFRS financial measures that do not have standardized meanings prescribed by IFRS. EBITDA is defined as net income/loss adjusted to exclude interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. It provides management with insight into HIRE’s operating performance without the impact of significant accounting policies related to depreciation and amortization, financing, and taxes. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA, excluding restructuring and other non-operating items, unrealized gains and losses on derivative financial instruments recognized as part of financings, other unrealized fair value through profit or loss mark-to-market gains or losses, and share based compensation expenses. Adjusted EBITDA also includes rent payments, which are not accounted for in EBITDA following the adoption of IFRS 16 Leases. The Company believes that EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are useful measures in evaluating the performance of the Group.
  4. Adjusted net earnings (loss) is a non-IFRS measure that does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. The Company defines adjusted net earnings (loss) as net earnings (loss) excluding restructuring and other non-operating items, unrealized gains and losses on derivative financial instruments recognized as part of financings, other unrealized fair value through profit or loss mark-to-market gains or losses, and share based compensation expenses. The Company believes that adjusted net earnings (loss) is a meaningful metric in assessing the Group’s financial performance.
  5. 2449983 Ontario Inc. (“The Kavin Group”)
  6. The Headhunters Recruitment Inc. (“The Headhunters”)
  7. Taylor Ryan Inc. and TR Partners Inc (collectively “Taylor Ryan”)

HIRE Announces the Engagement of Sophic Capital for Capital Markets Advisory and IR Services

HIRE is pleased to announce that it has entered into a capital markets advisory agreement with Sophic Capital Inc., a comprehensive capital markets advisory firm focused on publicly traded growth companies. Sophic has been engaged to provide IR services including introducing the story to new institutions and analysts and to create a complete capital markets communications strategy to assist the Company with executing on its growth plans.

The agreement with Sophic is effective for a twelve-month term and Sophic is entitled to receive 400,000 stock options and a monthly fee of $8,000. The stock options vest quarterly in four equal installments over a period of twelve months and have an exercise price of CAD$0.45 per share for a period of three years from the date of grant. The agreement is subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval.

About HIRE Technologies Inc.

HIRE is investing in and shaping the future of human resource management with a technology-first focus, by consolidating and modernizing the staffing marketplace. The Company owns and operates staffing firms as well as platform technology that it uses to help those firms become more technologically advanced. The Company is a disciplined capital allocator due to its technology DNA and extensive experience in building and growing staffing companies of all types. HIRE has a large recurring revenue base and helps our clients manage change in the workplace in order to achieve success.

For further information, please contact:

HIRE Technologies Inc.
Simon Dealy, Chief Executive Officer
Phone: (647) 868-9611
Email: [email protected]
Web: hire.company

Neither the TSXV 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 press release.

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (collectively referred to hereafter as “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation.

All statements that address activities, events or developments that HIRE Technologies expects or anticipates will, or may, occur in the future, including statements about HIRE’s business prospects, future trends, plans, and strategies, including: future acquisitions, future technology product and service offerings, the future impact of COVID-19 on the Company’s business; other prospective acquisitions, investments and partnerships; organic growth in its established verticals; future efficiencies in its operating businesses, increased awareness of HIRE and its value proposition; and expected benefits from business activities are forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements are preceded by, followed by or include words such as “may”, “will”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “believes”, “estimates”, “projects”, “potential”, “expects”, “plans”, “intends”, “proposes”, “anticipates”, “targeted”, “continues”, “forecasts”, “designed”, “goal”, or the negative of those words or other similar or comparable words. Although the management of HIRE believes that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that a forward-looking statement herein will prove to be accurate.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of HIRE to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others: risks related to the recent outbreak of COVID-19, which may have material adverse effects on the global financial markets, and its business, financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; the impact on the business of broader economic factors; alignment of HIRE’s cost structure with revenue; HIRE’s limited operating history and needs for additional capital; uncertainty relating to liquidity and capital requirements; risks inherent in HIRE’s acquisition strategy; HIRE may not be able to obtain financing necessary to implement HIRE’s business plan; HIRE may not be able to obtain access to technology necessary to compete in the recruiting industry; HIRE operates in a highly competitive industry and may be unable to retain clients or market share; barriers to client portability are low; reliance on key management; and compliance with financial reporting and other requirements as a public company. Additional risks and uncertainties applicable to the Company, as well as trends identified by the Company affecting it and the staffing industry can be found in the Company’s continuous disclosure record available on SEDAR. Although HIRE has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended.

Such cautionary statements qualify all forward-looking statements made in this press release. HIRE undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82271

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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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