Connect with us
Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2024

Fintech

MJ Innovation Capital Corp. Receives Conditional Approval for and Provides Update on Qualifying Transaction with SPARQ Systems Inc.

Published

on

Sparq Systems Inc. Announces Details of Private Placement

Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – September 15, 2021) – MJ Innovation Capital Corp. (TSXV: MSMJ.P) (“MJ“) is pleased to announce that, further to its press release dated June 10, 2021, it has received conditional approval from the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV“) for its proposed qualifying transaction (the “QT“) with SPARQ Systems Inc. (“SPARQ“), whereby the parties intend to effect a reverse takeover of MJ by SPARQ. Trading in the common shares of MJ (the “MJ Shares“) has been halted in accordance with TSXV policies since the date of the initial announcement, and will remain halted until such time as all required documentation has been filed with and accepted by the TSXV in connection with the QT. There can be no assurances that the QT will be completed on the terms set out below or at all.

The completion of the QT is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals, including final TSXV acceptance, completion of the SPARQ Private Placement (as defined below), approval of the QT by shareholders of SPARQ, and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. Assuming all conditions are satisfied, closing of the QT is expected to occur by the end of October 2021.

Final acceptance of the QT will occur upon the issuance of the final exchange bulletin (the “Exchange Bulletin“) by the TSXV. Subject to final approval by the TSXV, MJ will no longer be a capital pool company and will be classified as a Tier 2 Technology Issuer, trading under the symbol “SPRQ” and renamed as “SPARQ Corp.” (the “Resulting Issuer“). MJ will issue a news release once the TSXV issues the Exchange Bulletin and will advise of the expected listing date when known.

A filing statement (the “Filing Statement“) in respect of the QT has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the TSXV and will be filed under MJ’s issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

SPARQ PRIVATE PLACEMENT

In connection with the QT, SPARQ intends to complete a brokered private placement financing (the “SPARQ Private Placement“) of up to 20,000,000 subscription receipts (the “Subscription Receipts“) at a price of $0.50 per Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of up to $10,000,000 (or $11,500,000 if the Agent (as defined herein) exercise their option in full to increase the size of the SPARQ Private Placement by 15%). Each Subscription Receipt shall entitle the holder thereof to receive, upon the satisfaction or waiver (to the extent such waiver is permitted) of certain escrow release conditions prior to the escrow release deadline, including all conditions precedent to the QT being satisfied, and without payment of additional consideration therefor, one unit of SPARQ (each, a “SPARQ Unit“). Each SPARQ Unit shall consist of one common share in the capital of SPARQ (each a “SPARQ Share“) and one common share purchase warrant (each, a “SPARQ Warrant“) with each such SPARQ Warrant entitling the holder thereof to acquire one additional SPARQ Share at a price of $0.75 per share for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance. Concurrent with the completion of the QT, each issued and outstanding SPARQ Share and SPARQ Warrant, including the SPARQ Shares and SPARQ Warrants underlying the Subscription Receipts will be exchanged for common shares of the Resulting Issuer (“Resulting Issuer Shares“) and warrants of the Resulting Issuer (“Resulting Issuer Warrants“) in accordance with the terms of the QT.

SPARQ has engaged Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. as lead agent and sole bookrunner ( the “Agent“) to offer the Subscription Receipts for sale on a “best efforts” agency basis.

The Agent will receive a cash fee equal to 7.0% of the gross proceeds of the Subscription Receipts sold in the SPARQ Private Placement (reduced to 3.5% in respect of sales to president’s list subscribers which president’s list shall not exceed a total of $3,000,000) and compensation warrants (the “Agent’s Warrants“) equal to 7.0% of the number of Subscription Receipts sold in the SPARQ Private Placement (reduced to 3.5% in respect of sales to the president’s list). Each Agent’s Warrant will be exercisable to acquire one SPARQ Unit at the issue price. In accordance with the terms of the QT, the Agent’s Warrants will be exchanged for Resulting Issuer Warrants at the agreed upon exchange ratio and on substantially the same commercial terms.

CAPITALIZATION

As of the date hereof, (i) MJ has 3,055,940 MJ Shares issued and outstanding, as well as options to acquire up to an aggregate of 305,000 MJ Shares; and (ii) SPARQ has 453,957,613 SPARQ Shares issued and outstanding.

Assuming the completion of the SPARQ Private Placement for gross proceeds of $10,000,000 and taking into effect a consolidation of the MJ Shares on a 1.25:1 basis (the “MJ Consolidation”) and a consolidation of the SPARQ Shares on a 10.8085146:1 basis (the “SPARQ Consolidation”), it is expected that the Resulting Issuer will have approximately 82,444,752 Resulting Issuer Shares issued and outstanding on a non-diluted basis, of which (i) the current shareholders of MJ will hold 2,444,752 Resulting Issuer Shares representing approximately 2.9% of the issued and outstanding share capital of the Resulting Issuer; (ii) the former shareholders of SPARQ will hold approximately 60,000,000 Resulting Issuer Shares, representing approximately 72.8% of the issued and outstanding share capital of the Resulting Issuer; and (iii) purchasers of Subscription Receipts under the SPARQ Private Placement will hold 20,000,000 Resulting Issuer Shares representing approximately 24.3% of the issued and outstanding share capital of the Resulting Issuer. In addition, Agent’s Warrants issued in connection with the SPARQ Private Placement exercisable into a maximum of 1,190,000 SPARQ Shares shall be outstanding.

DIRECTORS, OFFICERS AND OTHER INSIDERS OF THE RESULTING ISSUER

On completion of the QT, the current directors and officers of MJ will resign and it is currently expected that the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer will include:

Dr. Praveen Jain – Director and Chief Executive Officer – Dr. Jain is the Founder and the CEO of SPARQ. He is also a Professor and Canada Research Chair in Power Electronics at Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada. He has considerable industrial experience in power electronics, working and consulting at Canadian Aeronautics, Nortel Network, Astec, Intel, Freescale and GE. He founded CHiL Semiconductor, a digital power control chips company, which was acquired by International Rectifier (later merged with Infineon). Dr. Jain is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (“IEEE“), the Engineering Institute of Canada and the Canadian Academy of Engineering. He is the recipient of the 2021 IEEE Medal in Power Engineering, the 2017 IEEE Canada Electric Power Medal, the 2011 IEEE William E. Newell Power Electronics Award, and. 2004 Engineering Medal from the Ontario Professional Engineers. He holds over 100 patents. Dr. Jain obtained his PhD degree from the University of Toronto.

Kyle Appleby – Chief Financial Officer Mr. Appleby spent the first 10 years of his career working in public accounting where he worked in both audit and advisory practices working with private companies and investment funds. From 2007 to present, Mr. Appleby has provided management and accounting services to public companies across a variety of industries including crypto-currency, technology, junior mining, food production, agriculture, cannabis, and others. Mr. Appleby has been the Chief Financial Officer for numerous companies, listed in Canada, the US and London and has extensive experience in financial reporting, IPOs, fund raising, and corporate governance. Mr. Appleby is a member in good standing of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario.

Nishith Goel – Director -Dr. Goel is the CEO of Cistel Technology, an Information Technology company he founded in 1995 which has operations in Canada and the USA. A veteran technology executive and entrepreneur, he is also co-founder of CHiL Semiconductor, iPine Networks, Sanstream Technologies and Sparq Systems. Dr. Goel has served on the Board of Directors of Enablence and Excelocity. He has also served on the Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Ottawa, the Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation, the Indo-Canada Ottawa Business Chamber, and as well as the Chair of the Queensway-Carleton Hospital Foundation. Dr. Goel obtained his PhD degree from the University of Waterloo.

BaoJun (Robbie) Luo – Director Robbie Luo is the President of Ti-Lane Precision Electronic Company Limited and Ti-Lane Group, Shenzhen, China. Ti-Lane is the global leader in providing solution of connector and cable assembly products for communications, computer, medical, automotive and clean energy applications. He is a firm believer of renewable energy deployment and is a Deputy Director General of Shenzhen Solar Energy Society. He earned his MBA from Ursuline College at Tsinghua University, China.

Ravi Sood – Director – Mr. Sood is managing director of Signal 8 Limited based in Toronto, Canada. Mr. Sood has been a founder of and the principal investor in several businesses in emerging markets and currently serves as Chairman of Jade Power Trust (TSXV) and Galane Gold Ltd. (TSXV) and as a director of Eve & Co Incorporated (TSXV). He was the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Navina Asset Management Inc., a global asset management firm headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Mr. Sood led the investment activities of Navina and its predecessor company, Lawrence Asset Management Inc., from its founding in 2001 until he sold the firm in 2010. Mr. Sood was educated at the University of Waterloo (B.Mathematics) where he was a Descartes Fellow and the recipient of numerous national awards.

Nick Blitterswyk – DirectorNick Blitterswyk is the Chief Executive Officer and founder of UGE International Ltd., a solar developer listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. Nick is a graduate of the University of Calgary and winner of its 2012 Graduate of the Last Decade award. Nick is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and before founding UGE held positions at Towers Perrin, JPMorgan Chase & Co., and American International Group, Inc. Nick founded UGE in 2008 and has grown the company from inception to becoming a leader in distributed renewable energy, with over 500MW of solar experience spanning more than 100 countries.

Richard Kimel – Corporate Secretary – Mr. Kimel is a partner at the law firm of Aird & Berlis LLP. Mr. Kimel practices in the areas of corporate finance and corporate/commercial law with considerable experience in mergers and acquisitions (cross-border and domestic) of both public and private corporations, public offerings (both initial and secondary), private placement financings (including debt and equity offerings), hedge fund formations and financings, corporate governance matters, and the formation and completion of qualifying transactions for companies established under the TSXV CPC program. Mr. Kimel acts as corporate counsel for numerous companies listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange, the TSXV and the NEO Exchange. Mr. Kimel also acts as a director or officer for a number of his publicly listed clients. Mr. Kimel received his LL.B. from the University of Toronto and an Honours degree in Business Administration from the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University in London, Ontario.

As at the date hereof, the above individuals and entities, own in the aggregate, directly or indirectly, 145,958,763 (32.2%) of the issued and outstanding SPARQ Shares and 50,000 (1.6%) of the outstanding MJ Shares. Based on the current shareholdings, present knowledge of each of MJ and SPARQ, and assuming completion of a $10,000,000 SPARQ Private Placement and after taking into effect the MJ Consolidation and the SPARQ Consolidation, it is anticipated that following the closing of the QT, no person or company will beneficially own, directly or indirectly, or control or direct more than 10% of the voting rights associated with the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares other than: (i) Highchart Investments Limited, which is expected to own, directly or indirectly, 12,105,007 Resulting Issuer Shares representing approximately 14.7% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares; (ii) Greg Steers who is expected to own, directly or indirectly, 8,394,292 Resulting Issuer Shares representing approximately 10.2% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares; and (iii) Dr. Praveen Jain, who is expected to own, directly or indirectly, 16,047,442 Resulting Issuer Shares representing approximately 19.6% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF SPARQ

The following tables set forth selected historical financial information for SPARQ for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 and the six months ended June 30, 2021, and selected balance sheet data for such fiscal years and period. The financial statements of SPARQ are denominated in Canadian dollars.

Balance Sheet Data As at June 30, 2021
($)
(unaudited)
As at December 31, 2020
($)
(audited)
As at December 31, 2019
($)
(audited)
Cash and cash equivalents 867,282 1,346,904 57,558
Total assets 1,522,322 1,946,051 1,048,906
Total liabilities 196,089 106,120 1,534,559
Shareholders’ equity 1,326,233 1,839,931 (485,653)

 

Income Statement Data Six month period ended
June 30, 2021
($)
(unaudited)
Year ended
December 31, 2020
($)
(audited)
Year ended December 31, 2019
($)
(audited)
Total revenue Nil 1,169 590,683
Total expenses 894,349 1,631,692 1,494,619
Net income (loss) 513,698 (1,091,988) (1,010,516)

 

ABOUT MJ INNOVATION CAPITAL CORP.

MJ is a capital pool company created pursuant to the policies of the TSXV. It does not own any assets, other than cash or cash equivalents and its rights under the definitive agreement dated June 10, 2021 with SPARQ. The principal business of MJ is to identify and evaluate opportunities for the acquisition of an interest in assets or businesses and, once identified and evaluated, to negotiate an acquisition or participation subject to acceptance by the TSXV so as to complete a qualifying transaction in accordance with the policies of the TSXV.

ABOUT SPARQ

SPARQ was incorporated on July 16, 2009 pursuant to the provisions of Business Corporations Act (Ontario). SPARQ’s head office is located at 945 Princess Street, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 0E9. SPARQ originated from the advanced research conducted at ePOWER, the Centre for Energy and Power Electronics Research at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. SPARQ was founded at Queen’s University in 2009 by Canada Research Chair in Power Electronics, Dr. Praveen Jain, Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the Royal Society of Canada.

SPARQ designs and manufactures next generation single-phase microinverters for residential and commercial solar electric applications. SPARQ has developed a proprietary photovoltaic (“PV“) solution called the Quad; the Quad inverter optimizes four PV modules with a single microinverter, simplifying design and installation, and lowering cost for solar power installations when compared to existing market offerings.

SPARQ has one wholly-owned subsidiary, Sparq Systems (USA), Inc. which was incorporated under the laws of Delaware on August 30, 2013.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause MJ’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

Forward-looking statements in this document include, among others, statements relating to expectations regarding the completion of the QT (including all required approvals), the SPARQ Private Placement, the proposed name of the Resulting Issuer, and other statements that are not historical facts. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, among others: (a) that there is no assurance that the parties hereto will obtain the requisite director, shareholder and regulatory approvals for the QT; (b) there is no assurance that the SPARQ Private Placement will be completed or as to the actual offering price or gross proceeds to be raised in connection with the SPARQ Private Placement; (c) following completion of the QT, the Resulting Issuer may require additional financing from time to time in order to continue its operations which may not be available when needed or on acceptable terms and conditions acceptable; (d) domestic and foreign laws and regulations could adversely affect the Resulting Issuer’s business and results of operations; (e) a drop in retail pricing of electricity from utilities providers or other renewable energy sources or improved distribution of electricity could negatively impact the Resulting Issuer’s business; (f) the stock markets have experienced volatility that often has been unrelated to the performance of companies and these fluctuations may adversely affect the price of the Resulting Issuer’s securities, regardless of its operating performance; and (g) the impacts of COVID-19.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of MJ as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. MJ undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management’s beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. MJ’s securities 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 within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

The MJ Shares will remain halted until such time as permission to resume trading has been obtained from the TSXV. MJ is a reporting issuer in Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia.

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

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the Filing Statement to be prepared in connection with the QT, any information released or received with respect to the QT 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 TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the QT and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWS WIRES

For more information, please contact:

MJ Innovation Capital Corp.
Bryan Van Engelen
Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Director
Telephone: 226.750.9914

SPARQ Systems Inc.
Dr. Praveen Jain
Chief Executive Officer
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 343.477.1158

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/96507

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