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Aardvark Capital Provides Update on Proposed Qualifying Transaction with Nevada-based Gold Explorer

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Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – October 12, 2021) – Aardvark Capital Corp. (TSXV: ACCA.P) (the “Company“) and 2766604 Ontario Ltd. (“GoldCo“, and together with the Company, the “Parties“) are pleased to provide an update on the Company’s previously announced arm’s length Qualifying Transaction (the “Qualifying Transaction“), as such term is defined in Policy 2.4 – Capital Pool Companies (the “Policy“) of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV“) Corporate Finance Manual (the “Manual“), and announce that the Parties have amended the non-binding letter of intent entered into by the Parties on July 15, 2021 (the “LOI“) to provide the Parties with additional time to enter into a definitive agreement (the “Proposed Definitive Agreement“) in respect of the Qualifying Transaction. The Parties are presently in advanced negotiations to finalize the Proposed Definitive Agreement, which will form the basis upon which the Parties will effect the Qualifying Transaction.

The Qualifying Transaction

Pursuant to the Proposed Definitive Agreement, the Company is expected to acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of GoldCo (the “GoldCo Shares“) pursuant to a three-cornered amalgamation to be completed under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) by the Company, GoldCo, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (“Subco“) to be incorporated for the purpose of completing the amalgamation (the “Amalgamation“). The Amalgamation is expected to result in the issuance, to each shareholder of GoldCo (each, a “GoldCo Shareholder“), of one (1) Post-Consolidation Common Share (as defined below) for each one (1) GoldCo Share held by such holder immediately prior to the closing of the Qualifying Transaction (the “Closing“). As part of the Amalgamation, all convertible securities of GoldCo outstanding immediately prior to the Closing are expected to be replaced with or exchanged for equivalent convertible securities of the Company entitling the holders thereof to acquire Post-Consolidation Common Shares in lieu of Goldco Shares.

The Amalgamation will result in the reverse takeover of the Company by the GoldCo Shareholders, and will constitute the Company’s Qualifying Transaction. Following the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, the Company, as the issuer resulting therefrom (the “Resulting Issuer“), is expected to carry on the current business of GoldCo under the name “Paycore Minerals Inc.” or such other name as may be determined by GoldCo and approved by the shareholders of the Company and be acceptable to the applicable regulatory authorities. The business of the Resulting Issuer will be primarily focused on mineral exploration and development of the Property (as defined below).

Upon completion of the Qualifying Transaction, it is anticipated that the Resulting Issuer will be listed as a Tier 2 Mining Issuer on the TSXV.

Consolidation and Name Change

As will be further set out in the Proposed Definitive Agreement, the Company is expected to, prior to the Closing, (i) effect a consolidation (the “Consolidation“) of its outstanding common shares (the “Common Shares“) on the basis of up to five (5) pre-consolidation Common Shares for every one (1) (the “Consolidation Ratio“) post-consolidation Common Share (each, a “Post-Consolidation Common Share“), and (ii) effect a change of its corporate name to “Paycore Minerals Inc.” or such other name as determined by GoldCo and approved by the shareholders of the Company and is acceptable to the applicable regulatory authorities (the “Name Change“).

As of the date hereof, there are 6,800,000 Common Shares issued and outstanding. Upon completion of the Consolidation (assuming the maximum Consolidation Ratio), an aggregate of 1,360,000 Post-Consolidation Common Shares are expected to be issued and outstanding. Further, all outstanding incentive stock options (“Company Options“) and broker warrants of the Company will automatically adjust in accordance with their terms to give effect to the Consolidation such that, following the Consolidation, the holders thereof will be entitled to acquire Post-Consolidation Common Shares in lieu of Common Shares (with adjustments to account for the Consolidation Ratio). As will be further set out in the Proposed Definitive Agreement, the post-Consolidation exercise price of the Company Options shall be further amended such that immediately following the Closing, each Company Option will have an exercise price of C$1.00 per Post-Consolidation Common Share.

Concurrent Financing

In connection with the Qualifying Transaction, GoldCo is expected to undertake a brokered private placement (the “Concurrent Financing“) of subscription receipts of GoldCo (the “Subscription Receipts“) at a price per Subscription Receipt to be determined in the context of the market, for aggregate gross proceeds of not less than C$12,000,000, which proceeds will be held in escrow pending closing of the Qualifying Transaction by a subscription receipt agent to be appointed by GoldCo.

Upon satisfaction and/or waiver (where permitted) of certain escrow release conditions, which will include, among others, events in connection with the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, each Subscription Receipt is expected to be automatically converted, without payment of any additional consideration and without any further action on the part of the holder thereof, for the securities of GoldCo underlying the Subscription Receipts (which securities will, upon the Closing, be exchanged for Post-Consolidation Common Shares and/or replacement convertible securities of the Resulting Issuer, as applicable).

GoldCo may pay customary finder’s fees and commissions to one or more eligible persons in connection with the Concurrent Financing payable in cash or securities, in accordance with the policies of the TSXV.

The proceeds of the Concurrent Financing are expected to be used to fund (i) the exploration and other expenses relating to the Property, (ii) the expenses of the Qualifying Transaction and the Concurrent Financing, and (iii) the working capital requirements of the Resulting Issuer.

Proposed Creation of New Control Person

Pursuant to the terms of a master transaction agreement dated as of March 31, 2021 (as amended on May 14, 2021 and September 27, 2021, the “FAD Agreement“) among GoldCo, Golden Hill Mining LLC (“Golden Hill“), a wholly-owned subsidiary of GoldCo, and Waterton Nevada Splitter, LLC, Waterton Nevada Splitter II, LLC, and FAD Mining Company LLC (collectively, “Waterton“) (each of which are arm’s length to GoldCo and Golden Hill), Golden Hill has the option to acquire the Property (as defined herein), in connection with the Closing, for an aggregate purchase price comprised of: (a) a cash payment in the amount of US$5 million; (b) the issuance of such number of Post-Consolidation Common Shares (each, a “Payment Share“) as is equal to a minimum of 35% of the issued and outstanding Post-Consolidation Shares, on an undiluted basis, following the Closing; (c) the issuance of one Post-Consolidation Common Share purchase warrant for each two Payment Shares issued; and (d) certain contingent value rights, each as further described in the FAD Agreement. Subject to the approval of the TSXV and the Company’s shareholders, and the completion of the transactions contemplated by the FAD Agreement, it is expected that Waterton will be a Control Person (as defined in the Manual) of the Resulting Issuer.

Conditions Precedent

The completion of the Qualifying Transaction remains subject to a number of terms and conditions to be set forth in the Proposed Definitive Agreement, including, among other things (i) there being no material adverse change in respect of either of the Parties, (ii) the receipt of all necessary consents, orders and regulatory and shareholder approvals, including the conditional approval of the TSXV, subject only to customary conditions of closing, (iii) the completion of the Consolidation, Name Change, the Concurrent Financing, the amendment of the Master Transaction Agreement, and the implementation of the Management and Board Rollover (as defined below), and (iv) such other customary conditions of closing for a transaction in the nature of the Qualifying Transaction. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the Qualifying Transaction will be completed on the terms proposed and described herein, or at all.

Additional Information

Further updates in respect of the Qualifying Transaction will be provided in a subsequent press release. Also, additional information concerning the Qualifying Transaction, the Company, GoldCo, and the Resulting Issuer will be provided in the filing statement (the “Filing Statement“) to be filed by the Company and Goldco in connection with the Qualifying Transaction, which will be available in due course under the Company’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

Proposed Directors and Officers of the Resulting Issuer

Upon the completion of the Qualifying Transaction, it is expected that the board of directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer will be reconstituted to be comprised of the following individuals nominated by GoldCo, subject to compliance with the requirements of the TSXV and applicable securities and corporate laws (the “Board and Management Rollover“):

Jim Gowans (Chairman, Director)

Mr. Gowans has more than 30 years of experience in mineral exploration, mine feasibility studies, mine construction and commissioning and the development of best practices in mine safety, operations and economic performance improvement. He served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Arizona Mining Inc. which was acquired by South32 Limited in 2018 for over $1.65 billion. Prior to that, he was with Barrick Gold Corporation as Senior Advisor to the Chairman from August to December 2015, Co-President from July 2014 to August 2015, and Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer from January to July 2014. From 2011 to 2014, Mr. Gowans served as the Managing Director of Debswana Diamond Company (Pty) Ltd., and has also held positions at various companies including De Beers SA, De Beers Canada Inc., PT Inco Indonesia, Placer Dome Inc., and Cominco Ltd. (now Teck Resources).

Mr. Gowans previously served as the President of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum, the Chair of the Board of the Mining Association of Canada, and a director of the Conference Board of Canada. He currently holds multiple roles on boards of directors and/or advisory and technical committees for New Gold, Cameco Ltd., Trilogy Metals Inc. and Marathon Gold Corporation.

Mr. Gowans is a Professional Engineer, holds a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in mineral engineering from the University of British Columbia, and attended the Banff School of Advanced Management.

Steve Filipovic (Chief Financial Officer)

Mr. Filipovic is a Chartered Professional Accountant with more than 23 years’ financial management and oversight experience. Most recently, he was a member of Premier Gold Mines Limited’s executive team as its Chief Financial Officer (June 2012 – April 2021), Vice President, Finance (April 2008 – June 2012), and Controller (May 2006 – April 2008). Previously, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Zinifex Canada Inc. (May 2007 – May 2008), Vice President, Finance of Wolfden Resources Inc. (October 2004 – May 2007) and was a director and/or senior officer of Greenstone Gold Mines, Mega Precious Metals Inc., Source Exploration Corp., Kings Bay Gold Corporation and T.B. Mining Ventures Inc. and, prior to entering the mining sector, practiced as an Audit Manager with Ernst & Young LLP in their Calgary based Oil & Gas group.

Mr. Filipovic holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce Degree from Lakehead University, is a member in good standing with the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario, Chartered Professional Accountants of Alberta and is an ICD.D designated member of the Institute of Corporate Directors.

Christina McCarthy (Director)

Ms. McCarthy is a geologist with over 13 years of experience in the resource capital markets. Ms. McCarthy served as Director of Corporate Development for McEwen Mining Inc. from December 2014 to December 2019. Ms. McCarthy is currently Vice President of Corporate Development for New Oroperu Resources Inc which recently announced a business combination with First Light Capital to combine and create Anacortes Mining Corp. She spent the past 13 years in various roles including building an exempt market dealer focusing on resources, equity research at Euro Pacific and Institutional Sales at Haywood Securities. Prior to entering the resource capital markets, she worked in Scandinavia for a junior exploration company managing the exploration programs on multiple projects throughout Norway and Sweden. Christina was also influential in building and supporting New Found Gold Corp. to bring the company to the public markets in August of 2020.

Ms. McCarthy is a geologist and holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Earth Sciences/Geology from Brock University.

John Begeman (Director)

Mr. Begeman is a professional mining engineer with over 40 years of mining experience. He is currently a director of Yamana Gold Inc., i-80 Gold Corp. and African Gold Group, Inc. Previously, Mr. Begeman has served as Executive Chairman and a director of Premier (2015 – 2021), President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Avion Gold Corp. (2008 – 2012), and as Chief Operating Officer of Zinifex Canada Inc. (formerly Wolfden Resources Inc.), where he was responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the company. Mr. Begeman is a Leadership Fellow member of the National Association of Corporate Directors and has attained the Institute of Corporate Directors ICD.D designation.

Insiders

In the event that the transactions contemplated by the FAD Agreement are completed, as described above, it is expected that, in addition to the above-noted directors and senior officers of the Resulting Issuer, Waterton will be an Insider (as defined in the Manual) of the Resulting Issuer by virtue of holding not less than 35% of the Post-Consolidation Common Shares.

Shareholder Approval

The Qualifying Transaction is not a Non Arm’s Length Qualifying Transaction (as defined in the Policy) and, accordingly, the Company is not required to obtain the approval of its shareholders for the Qualifying Transaction. However, the Company intends to hold a special meeting of its shareholders on October 14, 2021 (together with any adjournment thereof, the “Special Meeting“) to approve certain matters ancillary to the Qualifying Transaction, including the Name Change, the Consolidation, proposed directors of the Resulting Issuer, the adoption of a new stock option plan for the Resulting Issuer, and the potential creation of the Proposed Control Person as a Control Person of the Resulting Issuer.

For more information about the Special Meeting, please see the Company’s management information circular dated September 15, 2021 (the “Circular“). The Company would also like to confirm that the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to receive notice of, and to vote at, the Special Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof is September 14, 2021 as set out in the Company’s notice of meeting and record date filed on SEDAR on September 1, 2021 as opposed to August 16, 2021 as was set out in the Circular.

Sponsorship

The TSXV requires sponsorship of a Qualifying Transaction of a capital pool company, unless exempt in accordance with the policies of the TSXV. The Parties are currently reviewing the requirements for sponsorship and may apply for an exemption from the sponsorship requirements pursuant to the policies of the TSXV. However, there can be no assurance that the Parties will ultimately obtain such exemption.

The Parties intend to provide any additional information regarding sponsorship at a later date, once determined by the Parties. In the event that the TSXV does not grant an exemption from the sponsorship requirements of the TSXV, the Parties would be required to engage a sponsor.

Trading Halt

In accordance with the policies of the TSXV, the Common Shares, which are currently listed on the TSXV under the symbol “ACCA.P”, are currently halted from trading and it is expected that the Common Shares will remain halted until completion of the Qualifying Transaction.

About GoldCo

GoldCo is a private company incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) which has the option to acquire a 100% interest in the “FAD Property” (the “Property“) located on the Eureka-Battle Mountain trend in Nevada, USA. The Property is host to the high-grade poly-metallic FAD Deposit that was partially delineated with surface and underground drilling in the 1940s and 1950s. There has been no modern-day exploration or drilling completed on the Property since the 1950s.

Nevada accounts for nearly 80% of annual gold production in the United States and was ranked as a tier one jurisdiction by the Fraser Institute. The Property is located less than 3 miles from Eureka, Nevada and has established infrastructure, including a shaft, roads and old buildings.

About Aardvark Capital Corp.

The Company is a capital pool company (within the meaning of the Policy) incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) on January 29, 2021. It is a reporting issuer in the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, with its registered and head office located in Toronto, Ontario. The Company has no commercial operations and no assets other than cash.

Cautionary Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking statements“) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as “may”, “should”, “anticipate”, “will”, “estimates”, “believes”, “intends” “expects” and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements concerning the Qualifying Transaction (including the Name Change, the Consolidation, the Board and Management Rollover, the potential creation of the Proposed Control Person as a Control Person of the Resulting Issuer and who the Proposed Control Person may be), the Concurrent Financing, the Special Meeting, the Proposed Definitive Agreement, and the proposed structure by which the Qualifying Transaction is to be completed. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and the actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of the Parties, including expectations and assumptions concerning (i) the Company, GoldCo, the Resulting Issuer, and the Qualifying Transaction, (ii) the ability of the Parties to negotiate and enter into the Proposed Definitive Agreement on satisfactory terms as proposed, (iii) the timely receipt of all required shareholder, court and regulatory approvals (as applicable), including the approval of the TSXV, and (iv) the satisfaction of other closing conditions in accordance with the terms of the Proposed Definitive Agreement. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Parties. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, as such information, although considered reasonable by the respective management of the Parties at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and are expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statement. Except as expressly required by securities law, neither Party undertakes any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Completion of the Qualifying Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance and if applicable pursuant to the requirements of the TSXV, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Qualifying Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Qualifying 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 Qualifying Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Qualifying 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 TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed Qualifying Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release.

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

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein in the United States or in any other jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act, or any state securities laws, and accordingly, may not be offered or sold in the United States except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities requirements or pursuant to exemptions therefrom.

Further Information

All information contained in this news release with respect to the Company and GoldCo was supplied by the respective Party for inclusion herein, and each Party and its directors and officers have relied on the other Party for any information concerning the other Party.

For further information please contact:

Aardvark Capital Corp.
Zachary Goldenberg
C.E.O, and Director
Telephone: 647-987-5083
Email: [email protected]

2766604 Ontario Ltd.
Christina McCarthy
President, CEO, Director
Telephone: 416-712-6151
Email: [email protected]

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for release, publication, distribution or dissemination, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, in or into the United States.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/99324

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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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