Connect with us
Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2024

Fintech

Capricorn Business Acquisitions Inc. Announces Qualifying Transaction with Bitcoin Mining Company, Canada Computational Unlimited Inc.

Published

on

Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – May 25, 2021) – Capricorn Business Acquisitions Inc. (TSXV: CAK.H) (the “Company” or “Capricorn“) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an arrangement agreement on this date (the “Agreement“) with Canada Computational Unlimited Inc. doing business as CCU.ai (“CCU.ai“), a bitcoin mining center located in the Province of Québec, Canada.

The Agreement outlines the principal terms and conditions which will result in a reverse takeover of Capricorn by CCU.ai (the “Transaction“). As a condition precedent to the Transaction, CCU.ai will carry out a non-brokered private placement by way of the issuance of subscription receipts (“Subscription Receipts“) for gross proceeds of at least $3,450,000 (the “Concurrent Financing“).

Capricorn is a Capital Pool Company currently trading on the NEX board of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV“) and intends for the Transaction to constitute its Qualifying Transaction, as defined in the policies of the TSXV (the “Policies“).

In connection with the announcement of the Agreement, which is deemed an Agreement in Principle (as defined in the Policies) for the Qualifying Transaction, it is anticipated that the trading in the common shares of Capricorn (“Capricorn Shares“) will be halted. Trading will remain halted until, at a minimum, Capricorn completes certain regulatory filings in connection with the Qualifying Transaction with the TSXV and the TSXV has completed certain matters it considers necessary or advisable. It is expected that trading in the Capricorn Shares will not resume prior to the closing of the Transaction.

About CCU.ai

CCU.ai was incorporated pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (Québec) on November 16, 2017.

Since its creation, CCU.ai operates a high-density computation center built for high-grade cryptocurrency mining, AI data processing and fintech infrastructure located in the city of Joliette in the Province of Québec. In 2018, CCU.ai contracted with Hydro-Joliette to purchase up to 20 MW of hydro-electrical power to be used for crypto mining. 2.5 MW are currently used by CCU.ai to produce 32 PH/s of Bitcoin mining power (hashrate) and 6 GH/s of Ethereum mining power. CCU.ai has mined 421 Bitcoin since its creation. CCU.ai has built the capacity to use an additional 5 MW of power and is ready to host new mining rigs for cryptocurrency. In May 2021, CCU.ai entered into an agreement to rent a portion of its mining space to a third party for a monthly fee of up to $130,000. The capacity to use the remaining 12.5 MW is set to be built in the coming months.

CCU.ai is led and managed by technology entrepreneurs, electricity and ventilation experts and network specialists. Since its inception, CCU.ai has pursued a vision of environmental stewardship and increased performance throughout the cryptocurrency mining process. The availability of energy from renewable sources in the province of Québec has made this endeavor feasible and a great base for future growth.

Selected Financial Information of CCU.ai

The following table sets out selected financial information with respect to CCU.ai as at the dates noted. The selected financial information is derived from CCU.ai’s audited financial statements for the periods described, which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

Balance Sheet Account As at Dec. 31, 2019 (C$) As at Dec. 31, 2020 (C$)
Current Assets 624,036 1,106,608
Digital assets (included in Current Assets) 251,332 653,882
Property, plant and equipment 2 385 762 1 596 015
Total Assets 3 363 333 3 021 872
Current Liabilities 210 927 1 929 958
Total Liabilities 2 504 478 2 935 141
Total Shareholder’s Equity 858 855 86 731
     
Income Statement Year Ending, Dec.31, 2019 (C$) Year Ending, Dec.31, 2020 (C$)
Digital assets mined 1,494,940 1,691,939
Hosting 26,805 143,439
Cost of revenue (1,671,999 ) (2,006,438 )
Gross profit (loss) (12,443 ) (135,060 )
Total Expenses (1,031,249 ) (577,523 )
Operating income (loss) (1,031,491 ) (254,317 )
Net income (loss) (1,655,444 ) (947,841 )
Total comprehensive income (loss) (1,655,444 ) (789,947 )

 

Summary of the Transaction

Pursuant to the Agreement, Capricorn will acquire CCU.ai by way of a three corner amalgamation carried out through a CCU.ai plan of arrangement, pursuant to which CCU.ai will be acquired by Capricorn. Upon completion of the Transaction, the resulting issuer (the “Resulting Issuer“) will carry out the business of CCU.ai.

The Transaction values CCU.ai at $27.4 million based on the Exchange Ratio.

Pursuant to the Transaction: (i) holders of issued and outstanding CCU.ai Shares will receive 10.60425 Capricorn Consolidated Shares (as defined below) for each CCU.ai Share (the “Exchange Ratio“) held by them; and (ii) all options and warrants convertible into CCU.ai Shares (including the warrants to be issued in connection with the Concurrent Financing) shall be exchanged, based on the Exchange Ratio, for similar securities to purchase Capricorn Consolidated Shares on substantially similar terms and conditions.

As a condition to closing the Transaction, concurrently with, or immediately prior to the closing of the Transaction, and subject to Capricorn shareholders’ approval, Capricorn will undertake a share consolidation (the “Consolidation“). The Consolidation will occur on the basis of one post- Consolidation common share of Capricorn (a “Capricorn Consolidated Share“) for every 2.7 currently existing Capricorn Shares. The 675,050 currently outstanding Capricorn options will be adjusted in accordance with the terms of the Capricorn option plan such that the holders will receive one new option (a “Capricorn Consolidated Option“) for every 2.7 existing options with the exercise price of such options also adjusted to reflect the Exchange Ratio. Upon completion of the Consolidation, approximately 2,500,075 Capricorn Consolidated Shares and 250,018 Capricorn Consolidated Options will be issued and outstanding. For the purposes of the Transaction, the deemed value of each outstanding Capricorn Consolidated Share will be $0.50.

It is expected that Capricorn shareholder approval will also be sought for an amendment of Capricorn’s articles to effect a name change to “Canada Computational Unlimited Inc.”, or such other name as the Capricorn board of directors determines appropriate with the consent of CCU.ai (the “Name Change“).

Closing of the Transaction will be subject to a number of conditions precedent, including, without limitation:

a) receipt of all regulatory approvals with respect to the Transaction and the listing of the shares of the Resulting Issuer on the TSXV;

b) approval of the Transaction by CCU.ai shareholders,

c) approval of the Consolidation, Name Change, the amendment to the share option plan of Capricorn and the approval of new directors by Capricorn shareholders;

d) completion of the Concurrent Financing; and

e) confirmation of no material adverse change by CCU.ai and Capricorn.

Following the closing of the Transaction and the completion of the Concurrent Financing, it is expected that, in each case on a non-diluted basis:

  • the former shareholders of CCU.ai will hold approximately 51,525,163 common shares of the Resulting Issuer (the “Resulting Issuer Shares“), representing 83.15% of all issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares;
  • that the former shareholders of Capricorn will hold approximately 2,500,075 Resulting Issuer Shares, representing 4.03% of all issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares;
  • the participants in the Concurrent Financing will hold approximately 6,900,000 Resulting Issuer Shares, representing 11.14% of all issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares; and
  • the recipients of finder’s fees (as described below) will hold approximately 1,041,200 Resulting Issuer Shares, representing 1.68% of all issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares.

Based on the information available at this stage, the shareholders holding more than 10% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares are expected to be Romain Nouzareth and Mathieu Nouzareth.

It is anticipated that the Resulting Issuer will qualify as a Tier 2 Technology issuer pursuant to the requirements of the TSXV.

The Transaction is not a Non-Arm’s Length Qualifying Transaction (as defined in the Policies) and consequently the Transaction itself will not be subject to approval by Capricorn’s shareholders. However, as noted above, Capricorn does plan to hold a special meeting of shareholders whereat, among other things, the shareholders of Capricorn will be asked to approve certain matters including but not limited to (i) the Consolidation, (ii) the Name Change, (iii) the appointment of a new slate of directors and (iv) the payment of the Capricorn Finder’s Fee (as defined below).

Approximately 1,041,200 Resulting Issuer Shares will be issued as finders’ fees in connection with the Transaction, of which approximately 822,000 Resulting Issuer Shares will be payable to Fecteau Côté Manocchio Inc. and Ansacha Capital Inc., who are third parties unrelated to CCU.ai or Capricorn, and approximately 219,200 Resulting Issuer Shares will be payable to Yvan Routhier, Gerald Goldberg and Alex Storcheus, collectively, who are Non-Arm’s Length Parties (as defined in the Policies) of Capricorn (the “Capricorn Finder’s Fee“). Payment of Capricorn Finder’s Fee shall be subject to regulatory approval including TSXV and Shareholder approval as required by the Policies. CCU.ai will pay a break fee to Capricorn equal to $100,000 if CCU.ai elects not to proceed with the Transaction. The Resulting Issuer will bear all costs and expenses incurred in connection with the Transaction, provided that if the Transaction does not close as a result of the breach by a party of its obligations under the Agreement, the breaching party will reimburse the transaction costs (including the reasonable fees and costs of professional advisors) of the other party, up to $250,000.

Concurrent Financing

Concurrent with the closing of the Transaction, CCU.ai intends to complete the Concurrent Financing for gross proceeds of at least $3,450,000, which proceeds will be placed into escrow pending the closing of the Transaction. Upon satisfaction of specified escrow release conditions, which will include, among other things, the completion or waiver of all conditions precedent to the Transaction, each Subscription Receipt issued at a price of $5.30 will automatically convert into one CCU.ai Share (which, upon the closing of the Transaction, will convert into Resulting Issuer Shares at the Exchange Ratio, at a deemed price per Resulting Issuer Share of $0.50) and one-half of one CCU.ai Share purchase warrant with each whole warrant entitling the holder thereof to acquire one CCU.ai Share for a period of thirty-six months from the date of issuance at an exercise price of $7.96 per CCU.ai Share (which is equal to $0.75 per Resulting Issuer Share following the completion of the Transaction). Closing of the Concurrent Financing remains subject to approval of the Exchange and other standard closing conditions.

The Resulting Issuer plans to use the proceeds of the Concurrent Financing to accelerate strategic growth initiatives and expand its computing resources.

Board of Directors and Management of the Resulting Issuer

Prior to completion of the Transaction, and subject to approval by the TSXV and the filing of all required materials, CCU.ai and Capricorn will reconstitute the board of the directors of Capricorn with five nominees from CCU.ai and one nominee from Capricorn. It is expected that the individuals listed below will be directors of the Resulting Issuer. It is also expected that a third independent director will be announced prior to the completion of the Transaction.

Dominique Payette, Director

Dominique LL.B. J.D., LL.M. is a lawyer and has been practicing technology law and privacy law at National Bank of Canada since 2017. She was called to the Québec Bar in 2014. She advises on the responsible and ethical deployment of finance technologies, such as artificial intelligence, including on their governance. She is also a proactive advocate for such matters in the finance industry and community at large. Namely, she has participated in several industry-wide publications and roundtables, and does pro bono legal work with start-ups, a civil rights association, and graduate students. Dominique received a Master of Law from University of Montréal in 2017 on the regulation of robo-advisers. She is a published author and public speaker on the topics of robo-advisers, fairness and governance of artificial intelligence, and virtual currency.

Frederick T. Pye, Director

Mr. Pye has been the President and Chief Executive Officer of 3iQ Corp., a leading Canadian digital asset fund manager, since July 2012. Fred has managed private client portfolios with Landry Investment Management and various other investment dealers. Previously, he was Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Argentum Management and Research Corporation, a company dedicated to managing and distributing quantitative investment portfolios, including the first long short mutual fund in Canada. He was also Senior Vice-President and National Sales Manager at Fidelity Investments Canada. Mr. Pye also held various positions with Guardian Trust Company, which listed the first gold, silver and platinum certificates on the Montreal Exchange. He holds a Master Degree in Business Administration from Concordia University.

Yvan Routhier, Director, Capricorn Nominee

Mr. Yvan Routhier is an entrepreneur working on start-ups in the technology and financial service industry. From November 2005 to April 2015, he was co-owner and manager of Deltapac Packaging Inc., a Montreal-based manufacturer. Prior to this, Mr. Routhier was Vice-President, Business Development at GE Capital from 2000 to 2003 and has held a number of Account Manager positions at National Bank of Canada, Banque Nationale de Paris, and Bank of Montreal. Mr. Routhier holds a Master in Business Administration from McGill University.

Romain Nouzareth: Co-Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer

Mr. Romain Nouzareth is a seasoned tech entrepreneur, Co-Founder, and Chief Executive Officer of CCU.ai. He co-founded with his brother Mathieu Web Concept, one of the first web agencies in France, which was sold to Icon Medialab in 1999. Romain subsequently co-founded Boonty, a digital distribution platform that went on to become a world leader with offices in Paris, Tokyo, Singapore, Beijing, and New York. Boonty later became IsCool Entertainment and was listed on the NYSE Euronext before being sold to Hachette of Lagardère Publishing in 2018. In 2009, Romain co-founded FreshPlanet Inc., a game studio that capitalized on the nascent mobile, social, and gaming market. In 2015, Romain founded eWRLD Corp., building products for messenger apps and for the Facebook Instant Games platform. Passionate about emerging technology, Romain’s interest in the blockchain started in 2013. In 2017, he co-founded CCU.ai.

Mathieu Nouzareth: Co-Founder, Director, and Advisor

Mr. Mathieu Nouzareth is a New York-based serial entrepreneur with extensive experience in startup creation, growth initiatives, user acquisition, sales, mobile and web development, and digital assets. For the last 25 years, he has co-founded five companies, three of which were sold, with one going public. Mathieu is the current Chief Executive Officer of FreshPlanet Inc., a game studio headquartered in New York. The company is behind the award-winning music trivia game known as SongPop, which has garnered over 100 million downloads. FreshPlanet was acquired by Gameloft Inc. (a Vivendi company) in 2018. Mathieu also serves on the board of The Sandbox ($SAND token), the first metaverse game built on the blockchain.

Sponsorship for Qualifying Transaction

Sponsorship of a Qualifying Transaction of a Capital Pool Company is required by the TSXV unless exempt in accordance with the Policies. Capricorn and CCU.ai are currently reviewing the requirements for and intends to apply for an exemption from the sponsorship requirements pursuant to the Policies. Capricorn and CCU.ai intend to include any additional information regarding sponsorship in a subsequent press release.

Filing Statement

In connection with the Transaction and pursuant to the requirements of the TSXV, Capricorn will file on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) a filing statement which will contain details regarding the Transaction, CCU.ai, Capricorn and the Resulting Issuer.

Further information

Capricorn intends to issue a subsequent press release in accordance with the Policies providing further details in respect of the Transaction, including information relating to the Transaction structure and descriptions of the final proposed director and certain other Insiders (as defined in the Policies) of the Resulting Issuer.

Completion of the 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 Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

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

The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press 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.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including statements relating to the Transaction and certain terms and conditions thereof, the ability of the parties to complete the Transaction, the Consolidation, the Exchange Ratio, the Name Change, the Concurrent Financing, the Resulting Issuer’s ability to qualify as a Tier 2 Technology issuer, the TSXV sponsorship requirements, the finding of a sponsor, if applicable, shareholder, director and regulatory approvals, future press releases and disclosure, and other statements that are not historical facts. Wherever possible, words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict” or “potential” or the negative or other variations of these words, or similar words or phrases, have been used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management as at the date hereof.

Forward-looking statements involve significant risk, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in the forward-looking statements. As a result, the Company cannot guarantee that the Transaction will be completed on the terms described herein or at all. These factors should be considered carefully and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.

For additional information, please connect to www.ccu.ai or contact: Romain Nouzareth, Chief Executive Officer of Canada Computational Unlimited Inc. at [email protected] or Yvan Routhier, Chief Executive Officer, President and Director of Capricorn Business Acquisitions Inc. at [email protected] or (514) 249-0714.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85133

Fintech

Copper State Credit Union Takes One Platform Approach with Jack Henry

Published

on

copper-state-credit-union-takes-one-platform-approach-with-jack-henry

 

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.

Continue Reading

Fintech

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

Published

on

moomoo-wins-“best-stock-trading-app”-award-in-2024-fintech-breakthrough-awards-program

 

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.

Continue Reading

Fintech

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

Published

on

insights-from-prague-gaming-&-tech-summit-2024-speakers-(pre-event)

 

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.

Continue Reading

Trending