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Aumento Capital VIII Corporation and Eddy Smart Home Solutions Inc. Announce Entering Into of Amalgamation Agreement and Brokered Private Placement of Subscription Receipts

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Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – September 13, 2021) – Further to the press release issued June 24, 2021 by Aumento Capital VIII Corporation (TSXV: AMU.P) (“Aumento“) and Eddy Smart Home Solutions Inc. (“Eddy“), Aumento and Eddy are pleased to announce that they, together with 2865357 Ontario Inc. (“Subco“), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aumento, have entered into an amalgamation agreement dated September 13, 2021 (the “Amalgamation Agreement“) pursuant to which Subco will amalgamate with Eddy (the “Amalgamation“) to complete an arm’s length qualifying transaction (the “Transaction“) in accordance with TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV“) Policy 2.4 Capital Pool Companies (the “CPC Policy“). The Amalgamation is structured as a three-cornered amalgamation and, as a result, the amalgamated corporation will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aumento at the time of the completion of the Amalgamation. In connection with the Transaction, Aumento will change its name to “Eddy Smart Home Solutions Inc.” (the “Resulting Issuer“). The Resulting Issuer will be a technology issuer and continue to carry on the business of Eddy. The Amalgamation Agreement will be made available on Aumento’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

About Eddy

Eddy was incorporated under the laws of the Province of Ontario and has been operating since 2015. Eddy is a Toronto-based award-winning innovative manufacturer of smart water metering products and related technologies, helping property owners protect, control, and conserve water usage by combining water sensing devices with behavioural learning software. Eddy provides substantial protection to single-family homes as well as commercial and residential buildings at every stage of the building cycle, including construction.

Select Financial Information for Eddy

The table below sets forth certain selected preliminary unaudited financial information prepared by management for Eddy as at December 31, 2020, the last day of the most recently completed financial year for Eddy:

Balance Sheet As at December 31, 2020
Current Assets $2,804,734
Property and Equipment $788,003
Total Assets $6,255,463
Current Liabilities $1,801,193
Total Liabilities $2,558,961
Shareholders’ Equity (Deficit) $3,696,502

 

The foregoing selective preliminary unaudited financial information was derived from Eddy’s preliminary unaudited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020, which are currently subject to audit and as such, the foregoing may be subject to material changes.

Eddy Financing

In connection with the Transaction, Eddy entered into an engagement letter dated June 23, 2021 (the “Engagement Letter“) with Canaccord Genuity Corp. (the “Lead Agent“), as lead agent and bookrunner in connection with a brokered private placement (the “Private Placement“) of a minimum of 16,666,667 and a maximum of 25,000,000 subscription receipts of Eddy (the “Subscription Receipts“) at a price of $0.60 per Subscription Receipt for aggregate gross proceeds of a minimum of $10,000,000 and a maximum of $15,000,000. Eddy, together with Aumento, propose to enter into an agency agreement with INFOR Financial Inc. (together with the Lead Agent, the “Agents“) and the Lead Agent (the “Agency Agreement“) to be dated on or about September 14, 2021 pursuant to which the Private Placement will be carried out.

Under the terms of the Agency Agreement, Eddy will grant the Agents an option to purchase up to an additional 3,750,000 Subscription Receipts, exercisable in whole or in part, at any time prior to the closing of the Private Placement, on the same terms as the Private Placement, for additional gross proceeds of up to $2,250,000 (the “Agents’ Option“).

Each Subscription Receipt will be automatically converted, without additional consideration or any further action on the part of the holder thereof, into two (2) common shares in the capital of Eddy (each, an “Eddy Common Share“) upon the satisfaction of certain conditions related to the Transaction (the “Escrow Release Conditions“). Pursuant to the terms of the Amalgamation Agreement each Eddy Common Share will be exchanged for common shares in the capital of the Resulting Issuer (the “Resulting Issuer Common Shares“) on the basis of 0.504867 Resulting Issuer Common Shares (the “Exchange Ratio“) for each Eddy Common Share held in accordance with the Amalgamation Agreement.

Pursuant to the terms of the Agency Agreement, Eddy will pay to the Agents: (i) a cash commission equal to 7.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds of the Private Placement, other than in respect of any Subscription Receipts sold to members of a president’s list provided by Eddy (the “President’s List Purchasers“), which commission shall be 3.5% of the gross proceeds from President’s List Purchasers (the “Agents’ Commission“); and (ii) such number of warrants (the “Agents’ Warrants“) as is equal to 7.0% of the number of Subscription Receipts sold pursuant to the Private Placement, other than any Subscription Receipts sold to President’s List Purchasers, which commission shall be 3.5% of the number of Subscription Receipts sold to the President’s List Purchasers. Each Agents’ Warrant shall be exercisable for two Eddy Common Shares at a price of $0.60 until the date that is 36 months from the date of satisfaction or waiver, as applicable, of the Escrow Release Conditions.

The net proceeds from Private Placement will be used for the purchase of hardware, sales and marketing and for general working capital.

About the Transaction

Under the terms of the Amalgamation Agreement, at the effective time of the Amalgamation (the “Effective Time“), among other things, each holder of Eddy Common Shares shall exchange their Eddy Common Shares for Resulting Issuer Common Shares on the basis of the Exchange Ratio, at a deemed price of $0.60 per Resulting Issuer Common Share. As of the date hereof, there are currently 61,169,428 Eddy Common Shares outstanding. Immediately prior to the completion of the Transaction, an aggregate of 12,594,569 Class B preferred shares in the capital of Eddy (the “Eddy Class B Shares“) will convert into Eddy Common Shares on a one for one basis. Further, convertible debt in the capital of Eddy in the aggregate amount of $2,500,000 (the “Eddy Convertible Debt“) will convert into an aggregate of 10,416,665 Eddy Common Shares. As a result of such conversions and the conversion of the Subscription Receipts described above (assuming the maximum gross proceeds are raised under the Private Placement, no exercise of the Agents’ Option, an all-cash Agents’ Commission and no President’s List Purchasers), Eddy is anticipated to have 134,180,662 Eddy Common Shares outstanding immediately prior to the completion of the Transaction.

In addition: (i) each option to purchase common shares in the capital of Eddy (an “Eddy Option“) outstanding at the Effective Time will be exchanged for a number of options to purchase common shares in the capital of the Resulting Issuer, calculated on the basis of the Exchange Ratio; (ii) each warrant of Eddy (an “Eddy Warrant“) outstanding at the Effective Time will be exchanged for a number of warrants of the Resulting Issuer, calculated on the basis of the Exchange Ratio; and (iii) each Agents’ Warrant outstanding at the Effective Time will be exchanged for a number of agents’ warrants of the Resulting Issuer calculated on the basis of the Exchange Ratio. In each case, corresponding changes to the applicable exercise price will also be made.

Immediately following the completion of the Transaction on a non-diluted basis, the current shareholders of Aumento will own 2,000,000 Resulting Issuer Common Shares (anticipated to be approximately 3%) and the holders of Eddy Common Shares existing immediately prior to the Transaction (including any Eddy Common Shares issued upon the conversion of the Subscription Receipts, the Eddy Class B Shares and the Eddy Convertible Debt) are anticipated to own approximately 67,743,388 Resulting Issuer Common Shares (anticipated to be approximately 97%), assuming the maximum gross proceeds are raised under the Private Placement, no exercise of the Agents’ Option, an all-cash Agents’ Commission and no President’s List Purchasers.

The completion of the Amalgamation is subject to the approval of shareholders of Eddy holding at least 66 2/3% of the issued and outstanding Eddy voting securities. Eddy intends to hold a special meeting of its shareholders (the “Eddy Meeting“) to approve the Amalgamation prior to year-end.

Although the Transaction is not subject to the approval of the shareholders of Aumento, Aumento will hold a special meeting of its shareholders (the “Aumento Meeting“) prior to year-end to approve certain matters related to the Transaction, including:

  • fixing the number of directors to be elected at six (6);

  • electing directors of Aumento for the ensuing year;

  • a change in the name of Aumento from “Aumento Capital VIII Corporation” to “Eddy Smart Home Solutions Inc.” (the “Name Change“);

  • the adoption of a stock option plan of the Resulting Issuer; and

  • the adoption of an advance notice bylaw.

The Amalgamation will be approved by the sole shareholder of Subco by way of a resolution.

Additional details regarding the Transaction, the Aumento Meeting and the Eddy Meeting will be available in a joint management information circular of Eddy and Aumento that will be delivered to shareholders of Aumento and shareholders of Eddy in advance of the Aumento Meeting and the Eddy Meeting.

The completion of the Amalgamation is conditional on obtaining all necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals in connection with the matters described above and other conditions customary for a transaction of this type, including but not limited to the approval of the TSXV, the completion of the Private Placement, the approval of the Amalgamation by the shareholders of Eddy and the approval of the Name Change by the shareholders of Aumento.

Note that all of the foregoing figures in this press release have been calculated based on the following assumptions in connection with the Private Placement: (i) the maximum gross proceeds of $15,000,000 are raised; (ii) the Agents’ Option is not exercised; and (iii) there are no President’s List Purchasers. If the terms of the Private Placement differ from the foregoing, the number of Resulting Issuer Common Shares held by former shareholders of Eddy will differ.

Arm’s Length Transaction

The Transaction was negotiated by parties who are dealing at arm’s length with each other and therefore, in accordance with the policies of the TSXV, is not a Non-Arm’s Length Qualifying Transaction, as that term is defined by the TSXV.

Proposed Management and Board of Directors of the Resulting Issuer

Upon completion of the Transaction, it is anticipated that the persons identified below will serve as directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer.

Travis Allan – Chief Executive Officer and Director

Travis Allan has over 25 years in investment, chief executive officer roles, resource management, project management, and professional services experience with delivery of a diverse variety of business and programs. Prior to Eddy, Travis built a privately held retail services outlet from idea inception, employing more than 400 employees. With his extensive experience and entrepreneurial spirit, Travis has cultivated a passionate and motivated team at Eddy. With the expertise and agility to scale up or down, Travis has transformed the company since day one of his arrival in late 2018.

Boris Baril – Chief Financial Officer

Boris Baril joined Eddy as Chief Financial Officer on June 14, 2021. Prior to Eddy Boris was the Chief Financial Officer at Firm Capital Mortgage Investment Corporation, Vice President, Finance at Crius Energy, where he supported Crius’ $100 million IPO., and Vice President, Finance at Universal Energy, where he supported the growth of the entity to annualized revenues of over $700 million, and Universal’s $143 million IPO. Boris graduated from York University and is a CPA, CA.

Sajid Khan – Chief Operating Officer

Sajid Khan helped launch Eddy and has been in the role of Chief Operating Officer since inception. With more than 20 years of leadership and operational experience in the home services sector, Sajid has held roles such as Chief Operating Officer of Eco Energy Service, Vice President of Operations at both National Home Services and Universal Energy, as well as management positions in Direct Energy. He has extensive experience building and leading installation networks and teams and other operational departments such as call centres, billing, processing, and change management.

Mark Silver – Executive Chairman and Director

Mark Silver has over 35 years of experience in business, real estate and building services. As a focused and successful entrepreneur, he previously cofounded Direct Energy and grew revenues to more than $1.3 Billion before selling in 2000 and has since launched Universal Energy and National Home Services, all with revenues in the billions. Mark launched Eddy in 2014 with the goal to extend smart home service offerings to water protection and expand into other markets – like building and commercial verticals.

Roger Daher – Director

Roger Daher has been a licensed pharmacist for over 30 years and he is currently a practicing owner/partner in seven Ontario Pharmasave pharmacies. From 2010 to 2020, Roger has been a member of the Pharmasave Ontario Board of Directors, as well as a member of the audit committee (current treasurer/secretary and also audit committee chair). Roger has also served and continues to serve on a number public company boards including CPC’s. Roger obtained his Bachelor Science, Pharmacy, from the University of Toronto in 1989.

Chris Gower – Director

Chris Gower started his career in construction on the tools – framing houses, where he grew a deep appreciation for the trades. Prior to his current role as Chief Operating Officer, Buildings at PCL Construction (“PCL“), Chris held positions including construction risk manager, senior project manager, district manager and regional vice president. Throughout his more than 25 years at PCL, he has delivered iconic construction projects across Canada, Australia and the United States. As a member of PCL’s Office of the CEO and board of directors, Chris leads a creative team of solution providers who innovatively address construction challenges. He is responsible for the performance of the organization’s Buildings operations across the globe. Chris initiated and led PCL’s entrance into the solar business, including the pursuit and award of our first project in Australia. He provides leadership over many in-house-developed technologies, including the groundbreaking Job Site Insights®, an IoT Smart construction platform that drives efficiency while increasing safety, productivity and quality.

Gary Goodman – Director

Gary Goodman is a Trustee and Chair of the Audit & Risk committee of Boardwalk Real Estate Investment Trust., a former Chairman of Huntingdon Capital Corp., trustee of Gazit America & Brightpath Early Learning, and is a member of the advisory boards of the Vision Funds. Gary was previously Executive Vice President of Reichmann International where he served as a senior financial executive and trusted advisor to Mr. Paul Reichmann and his affiliated companies & REIT’s for over 30 years. Gary was actively involved as a senior financial executive in Paul Reichmann’s Olympia & York Developments; the acquisition & development of Canary Wharf, the IPO’s of CPL REIT and IPC(US) REIT, where he served as President & CEO. He was a director of Campeau Corporation, Trilon Financial Corporation, Catellus Corporation and Brinco Mining. Gary is a Chartered Accountant (Gold Medalist) and has a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Toronto and is a graduate of the Rothman Directors Program.

George Krieser – Director

George Krieser founded Total Credit Recovery Limited (“TCR”) in 1980 and is the President and Chief Executive Officer. TCR is the largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated collection agency, solely collecting Canadian debt. With over 40 years of experience, George has developed a reputation as a well-respected industry leader and is considered an expert in the field of accounts receivables management and debt collections. In addition, George has gained significant experience in the real estate development and management industry, owning and operating commercial and industrial properties in both Canada and the United States. George previously served as a Director of Universal Energy. He also served as a member of the board of directors of Baycrest Foundation and as a member of the fundraising committee for UJA Federation of Greater Toronto. George is actively involved in many other philanthropic efforts for organizations throughout Canada including SickKids Foundation, CIBC Run for the Cure, and Beit Halochem Canada.

Nadine Evans, Corporate Secretary

With more than 20 years of leadership experience, Nadine Evans joined the Eddy team in April of 2017, and currently leads Marketing, Human Resources, and Investor Relations activities. Prior to joining Eddy, she held leadership positions in insurance, telecom, and energy organizations, and launched a not-for-profit association for marketing professionals in 2014 and served on the boards of the Moving Forward 2015 Foundation, as well as an advisor for Humber Colleges Advertising and Marketing Communications Program. Nadine’s strategic vision has created Eddy’s brand, and propelled the organization forward in the digital, IoT and smart city landscapes.

Sponsorship

Sponsorship of a qualifying transaction is required by the TSXV in accordance with the CPC Policy, unless exempt in accordance with applicable TSXV policies. Aumento intends to apply for an exemption from sponsorship requirements; however, there is no assurance that Aumento will obtain this exemption.

About Aumento

Aumento is a capital pool company as defined under the CPC Policy. Aumento was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) on November 20, 2020. The common shares of Aumento are listed for trading on the TSXV under the stock symbol “AUM.P”, which shares were halted for trading on June 21, 2021, pending the announcement of the letter of intent entered into in connection with the Transaction. Aumento has not commenced commercial operations other than to enter into discussions for the purpose of identifying potential acquisitions or interests.

Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance. 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 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.

In this press release, all references to “$” are to Canadian dollars.

* * *

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction.

THE SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN HAVE NOT BEEN AND WILL NOT BE REGISTERED UNDER THE UNITED STATES SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “U.S. SECURITIES ACT”), OR ANY STATE SECURITIES LAWS AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES (AS DEFINED IN REGULATION S UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT) UNLESS REGISTERED UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT AND APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS OR AN EXEMPTION FROM SUCH REGISTRATION IS AVAILABLE.

Notice regarding forward-looking statements:

This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding Aumento, Subco, Eddy, the Resulting Issuer and their respective businesses, which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the Eddy Meeting and the Aumento Meeting, the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer, the completion of the Transaction and the Private Placement, the terms on which the Transaction and the Private Placement are intended to be completed, the use of the net proceeds from the Private Placement, the anticipated share capital of the Resulting Issuer, the ability to obtain regulatory and shareholder approvals and other factors. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “is expected”, “expects”, “scheduled”, “intends”, “contemplates”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “proposes” or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Such statements are based on the current expectations of the management of each entity. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release, including completion of the Transaction and the Private Placement may not occur by certain specified dates or at all and could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting the companies, including risks regarding the technology industry, failure to obtain regulatory or shareholder approvals, economic factors, the equity markets generally and risks associated with growth and competition. Although Aumento and Eddy 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. 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 Aumento and Eddy undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, other than as required by law.

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

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States

For further information concerning Aumento Capital VIII Corporation, please contact:

Paul Pathak, Director
Tel: 416.644.9964

For further information concerning Eddy Smart Home Solutions Inc., please contact:

Travis Allan, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Tel: 416-560-0234

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/96441

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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.


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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