Fintech
Liquid Avatar Technologies and Aftermath Islands Launch Artificial Intelligence Powered Avatars in the Metaverse
AI enabled virtual brand ambassadors provide 24/7/365 service, education, information, and eCommerce subject matter expertise creating new engagement and revenue opportunities. Aftermath Islands also welcomes new senior team members.
Toronto, Ontario and Bridgetown, Barbados–(Newsfile Corp. – February 14, 2023) – Liquid Avatar Technologies Inc. (CSE: LQID) (OTCQB: LQAVF) (FSE: 4T5) (“Liquid Avatar” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that its controlled subsidiary, Aftermath Islands Metaverse Limited (“Aftermath Islands”) has been actively engaged in developing Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) powered Non-Player Characters (NPCs) avatars that are subject matter experts for the Metaverse. Having completed initial development, training and testing, AI avatars have begun to emerge in the Aftermath Islands Metaverse, with a fully interactive commercial rollout expected this quarter, which provides high fidelity graphics and a no download experience. The early-stage experience is available now at https://play.aftermathislands.com.
The Company’s new AI avatar technology, using OpenAI GPT3, with over 175 billion parameters, essentially the enhanced version of ChatGPT which only has 1.5 billion parameters, has been primarily developed to provide commercial opportunities for brands and organizations to create virtual brand ambassadors that are easily accessible in the Metaverse and leverages a brand’s existing web resources. Highly detailed, life-like and / or imaginative NPC avatars active in a natural looking virtual setting or in a branded location, will be deployed using the highly trainable, and interactive engagement capabilities of OpenAI GPT3 and Aftermath Islands’ continuous updating and management. These AI powered avatars can naturally converse, initially by text and later by voice interaction with a user, allowing them to have a fulsome conversation with the AI avatar and navigate through a discussion or query on a particular subject or brand program. The technology will also have the capabilities to recommend products and services and provide links to be able to launch an organization’s existing website, information, provide support and / or eCommerce initiatives directly from the Metaverse to a user’s web browser, creating both engagement and activation opportunities for the brand seamlessly and efficiently.
“Artificial Intelligence applications like OpenAI GPT3 provide cost effective opportunities for brands, retailers, educators, travel and tourism operators, governments, and other types of organizations to move from static based information push models to truly interactive capabilities in the Metaverse, creating new and innovative ways to create awareness, engagement, activation and conversion,” commented David Lucatch, CEO of Liquid Avatar Technologies Inc. and Managing Director of Aftermath Islands Metaverse Limited. “We are already seeing strong commercial interest, as AI powered avatars can naturally interact with users and can recommend solutions that can be “clicked” within Aftermath Islands to instantly launch access to a host of web activities including eCommerce sites to support revenue-based activities, and 24/7 automated and intelligent customer service and support.”
With over 10 years in developing systems that support the use of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing for online applications, the teams at Liquid Avatar and Aftermath Islands have embraced the recent developments and opportunities with OpenAI GPT3. Aftermath Islands believes that these recent leaps in the notoriety and curiosity of AI can support the creation and acceptance of trained, autonomous based avatars and applications that can support a variety of interactive use cases inside the Metaverse. This allows users to have a more robust, engaging, and intelligent conversation with in-platform guides, and virtual brand representatives.
Aftermath Islands was recently joined by Michael Gord, a serial entrepreneur and investor focused on the mainstream adoption of Web3 applications and digital assets. Michael is the co-founder of the GDA Group, which specialize in the digital asset capital markets, as well as the Metaverse Group. As Managing Partner and equity investor in Aftermath Islands Metaverse, Gord will focus on capital formation, partnerships, and growth opportunities within Aftermath Islands.
Nathan Paitchel has joined Aftermath Islands as our Business Development Manager for commercial programs. Nathan was formerly at Digital Currency Group where he led the company’s metaverse strategy and portfolio monetization. Spending nearly a decade in New York City real estate development, Nathan is keenly focused on creative deal structure, relationship building, and strategic partnerships.
Aftermath Islands supports the use of the Liquid Avatar Mobile App and Meta Park Pass™, providing Proof of Humanity, allowing users to remain anonymous, but still verify that they are a real person, through blockchain based verifiable credentials, working to eliminate fraudulent activities, duplicate and fake accounts and bots. Deploying the technology to its controlled subsidiary’s Aftermath Islands’ Play to Earn game, Lost Kingdom of T’Sara, the Meta Park Pass™ has been successfully utilized allowing users to sign in with their biometrics, eliminating username and passwords, proving that all users are genuine people, with only 1 account, and supporting the collection of almost 1.2 billion gaming resources, resulting in the creation of about 1.5 million Resource Pack NFTs for use in the Aftermath Islands Metaverse.
Users are engaging for upwards of 70 minutes per day on the platform and have collected a variety of in-game resources, that they have then converted to Resource Pack NFTs that will be used, crafted, traded, and consumed in the Aftermath Islands Metaverse as part of platform activities, allowing the NFTs and the underlying blockchain technology to support in-game inventory management. These also include the ability to work, play, learn, earn, entertain, create, and socialize within the Aftermath Islands Metaverse.
Aftermath Islands has generated over $2 million in retail sales since late 2021 and continue to generate sales on a monthly basis. As the Company works to launch its full Metaverse platform, these revenues are recorded, under IFRS guidelines, as deferred revenue, until such time that the Aftermath Islands meets further launch requirements. However, the Company has had access to the proceeds for working capital.
As one of the first of its kind, the Liquid Avatar Mobile App can also be used to create a host of other credentials that have been already tested for government level access for travel and age verification. The Company is also designing credentials with uses that include online access, validation and marketing in the Metaverse and throughout the Web3 ecosystem. While the Company is ready to deploy to convenience stores and other age restricted programs, current market and economic priorities have caused delays of the rollout of Ontario’s and other jurisdiction’s Digital Identity programs. Liquid Avatar is currently expanding its programs to other online and commercial opportunities that are eager to use verifiable credentials to ensure that their users are real, unique individuals and have only a single account.
To review a demo of the Liquid Avatar Mobile App and the Meta Park Pass™, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gQdt9IqA37o&ab_channel=LiquidAvatar.
For more information on Liquid Avatar Technologies Inc., please sign up for our newsletter and email list at: https://hello.liquidavatar.com/liquid-avatar-updates.
About Liquid Avatar Technologies Inc. – www.liquidavatartechnologies.com
Liquid Avatar Technologies Inc. focuses on the verification, management and monetization of Self Sovereign Identity, empowering users to control and benefit from the use of their online identity.
The Liquid Avatar Mobile App, available in the Apple App Store and Google Play, is a verified Self Sovereign Identity platform that empowers users to create high quality digital icons representing their online personas. These icons will allow users to manage and control their digital identity and Verifiable Access and Identity Credentials, and to use Liquid Avatars to share public and permission based private data when they want and with whom they want.
The Liquid Avatar Verifiable Credentials Ecosystem (LAVCE) has been developed to support all participants in a digital credential ecosystem, including the Holder, Issuer and Verifier, using state-of-the-art blockchain and open standards technologies initially as a node on the Indicio Network. The Company is a voting and steering committee member of the Trust over IP Foundation, founding and steering committee member of Cardea, a Linux Foundation Public Health project, member of the Good Health Pass collaborative, DIACC and the Covid Credentials Initiative (“CCI”).
The Meta Park Pass is a W3C verifiable credential designed for interoperability. The Meta Park Pass contains a verified phone number with country code and an AI reviewed self-attested age and can be expanded to include other unique credentials. Users will be able to login into multiple supported Metaverses with little friction and the platform knows they are a real and unique user. Additional credentials can grant access as each Metaverse matures and provides additional services and experiences.
The Company has a suite of early-stage programs that support the Liquid Avatar Mobile App program, including Liquid Shopz, a cash back and reward program that has over 600 leading online merchants, which is in the pre-launch phase, and is working to release its own branded network payment card in the United States, the LQID Card, with the world’s first Metaverse Rewards program which remains in development.
The Company’s subsidiary, Oasis Digital Studios, is a creative and development agency that is focused on providing digital goods and services expertise to its clients.
Liquid Avatar Technologies Inc. is publicly listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) under the symbol “LQID” (CSE: LQID).
The Company also trades in the United States, on the OTCQB under the symbol “LQAVF” and in Frankfurt under the symbol “4T5”.
If you have not already joined our mailing list and would like to receive updates on Liquid Avatar Technologies Inc., please visit https://hello.liquidavatar.com/liquid-avatar-updates.
For more information, please visit www.liquidavatartechnologies.com.
About Aftermath Islands Metaverse Limited – www.aftermathislands.com
Aftermath Islands Metaverse Limited is a Barbados corporation, which is 50% owned and is controlled by Oasis Digital Studios Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Liquid Avatar Technologies Inc (CSE: LQID) (OTCQB: LQAVF).
Aftermath Islands Metaverse is an open-world, realistic graphic virtual world where users can buy, develop, trade, and sell Virtual Land (VL), property and items, like buildings, crafted items, transport, and other items all through in-game collectible NFTs, a non-fungible token that represents the ownership of virtual and other items. Built on cutting-edge blockchain technologies and using GPU cloud servers, pixel streaming, and the high-fidelity graphics of Unreal Engine 5, Aftermath Islands delivers rich, no download, browser-based experiences for users on desktops, mobile devices and tablets.
From play-to-earn games, including the Lost Kingdom of T’Sara, to online experiences, collaboration, immersive entertainment, and more, Aftermath Islands brings live streaming, high-definition graphics, exemplary interactivity, real-world mechanics, and countless new services and experiences to players all around the world. The platform is built on the philosophy of decentralization and economic inclusivity and promises to provide captivating experiences that allow people around the world to earn their way into virtual land ownership.
For more information about Aftermath Islands, please visit www.aftermathislands.com.
Contact:
[email protected]
David Lucatch
Chief Executive Officer
Forward-Looking Information and Statements
This press release contains certain “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and may also contain statements that may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only the Company’s beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company’s control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “will continue”, “will occur” or “will be achieved”.
The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained herein include, but is not limited to, statements regarding the adoption of the metaverse, the Lost Kingdom of T’Sara and the extent of future reach of services across countries, statements regarding the timing of or the success of the launch of a full Metaverse platform, statements with respect to adding AI to the Aftermath Islands Metaverse, or if the Proof of Humanity will contribute any economic benefit for the Company The assumption made by the Company in making these statements is that the Metaverse will be a viable and growing opportunity that the Company can capitalize on through the deployment of its products to drive an economic benefit.
By identifying such information and statements in this manner, the Company is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements. In particular, if Liquid Avatar Technologies Inc. or Aftermath Islands fails to fund its operations or execute on its business plan, new credentials that are developed or the opportunities with the metaverse will not have any benefit for the Company.
Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)
As we close out 2024, the fintech industry continues to deliver headlines that underscore its dynamism and innovation. From IPO aspirations to groundbreaking regulatory milestones, today’s updates highlight the transformative power of fintech partnerships, regulatory evolution, and disruptive technologies. Here’s what you need to know.
Chime’s Quiet Step Toward Public Markets
Chime, the U.S.-based financial technology startup best known for its digital banking services, has taken a significant step by filing confidential paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO). As one of the most valuable private fintechs in the U.S., Chime’s move could potentially signal a renewed appetite for fintech IPOs in a market that has been cautious following fluctuating valuations across the tech sector.
With a valuation that reportedly exceeded $25 billion in its last funding round, Chime’s IPO could set a new benchmark for the industry. Observers note that its strong customer base and revenue growth may make it an appealing choice for investors seeking to capitalize on the digital banking boom. However, the timing and success of the IPO will depend on broader market conditions and the regulatory landscape.
Source: Bloomberg
ZBD’s Pioneering Achievement: EU MiCA License Approval
ZBD, a fintech company specializing in Bitcoin Lightning network solutions, has made history by becoming the first to secure an EU MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license. This landmark approval by the Dutch regulator positions ZBD at the forefront of compliant crypto-fintech operations in Europe.
MiCA, which aims to harmonize the regulatory framework for crypto-assets across the EU, has been a focal point for industry players aiming to establish legitimacy and expand their offerings. ZBD’s achievement not only validates its operational rigor but also sets a precedent for other fintech firms navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry insiders view this as a strategic advantage for ZBD as it broadens its footprint in Europe. By leveraging its regulatory approval, the company can accelerate its product deployment and establish trust with institutional and retail users alike.
Source: Coindesk, PR Newswire
The Fintech-Credit Union Synergy: A Blueprint for Innovation
The convergence of fintechs and credit unions continues to reshape the financial services ecosystem. Collaborative initiatives, such as the one highlighted in the recent partnership between fintech innovators and credit unions, are proving to be a potent force in delivering tailored financial solutions.
This “dream team” approach allows credit unions to leverage fintech’s technological expertise while maintaining their community-focused ethos. Key areas of collaboration include digital payments, personalized financial management tools, and enhanced loan processing capabilities. These partnerships not only enhance member engagement but also enable credit unions to remain competitive in an increasingly digital-first financial environment.
Industry analysts emphasize that such collaborations underscore a broader trend of traditional financial institutions embracing fintech-driven solutions to bridge service gaps and foster innovation.
Source: PYMNTS
Tackling Student Loan Debt: A Fintech’s Mission
Student loan debt remains a pressing issue for millions of Americans, and a Rochester-based fintech aims to offer relief through its cloud-based platform. This innovative solution is designed to simplify loan management and provide borrowers with actionable insights to reduce their debt burden.
The platform’s features include repayment optimization tools, personalized financial education, and seamless integration with loan servicers. By addressing the complexities of student loan management, this fintech is empowering borrowers to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability.
As the student loan crisis continues to evolve, solutions like this highlight the critical role fintech can play in addressing systemic financial challenges while fostering financial literacy and inclusion.
Source: RBJ
Industry Implications and Takeaways
Today’s updates underscore several key themes shaping the fintech landscape:
- Regulatory Milestones: ZBD’s MiCA license approval exemplifies the importance of regulatory compliance in unlocking growth opportunities.
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration between fintechs and credit unions demonstrates the value of combining technological innovation with traditional financial models to drive customer-centric solutions.
- Market Opportunities: Chime’s IPO move reflects a potential revival in fintech public offerings, signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects.
- Social Impact: Fintech’s ability to tackle systemic issues, such as student loan debt, showcases its role as a force for positive change.
The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025
Leading global payments platform SPAYZ.io has confirmed it will be attending iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 on 14 to 16 January. Exhibiting at Stand 64 at Trade Centre Dubai, SPAYZ.io’s team of professionals will be on hand providing live demonstrations of its renowned payment services for payment providers. Attendees will also receive exclusive insight into SPAYZ.io’s plans for 2025 alongside early early access to its upcoming plans for the new year.
SPAYZ.io delivers a host of payment solutions that leverage the latest technological innovations and open access to the fastest growing emerging markets across Africa, Europe and Asia. Over the past year, there has been huge demand for its Open Banking and local payment method services, alongside bank transfers, mass payouts, online banking and e-wallets.
Yana Thakurta, Head of Business Development at SPAYZ.io commented: “We look forward to once again participating at iFX Dubai to expand our network of partners and clients. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the year, connecting with thousands of industry leaders from FOREX platforms to trading companies, and everything in between.
“Our key goal for iFX Dubai EXPO 2025 is to expand our portfolio of solutions and geographies. We’re using this as an opportunity to partner with like-minded entities who share our ambition to provide payment solutions that are truly global.”
Come meet SPAYZ.io’s team at the Trade Centre Dubai at Stand 64. You can also book a meeting slot with a member of a team.
The post SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments
Airtm, the most connected digital dollar account in the world, is proud to announce the addition of two distinguished industry leaders to its Board of Directors: Rafael de la Vega, Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane, and Shivani Siroya, CEO & Founder of Tala. These appointments reflect Airtm’s commitment to innovation and financial inclusion as the company enters its next phase of growth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rafael and Shivani to Airtm’s Board of Directors,” said Ruben Galindo Steckel, Co-founder and CEO of Airtm. “Their unique perspectives and proven track records will be invaluable as we continue scaling our platform to empower individuals and businesses in emerging markets. Together, we’ll push the boundaries of financial inclusion and innovation to create a more connected and equitable global economy. Rafael and Shivani bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight that will strengthen Airtm’s mission to connect emerging economies with the global market.”
Rafael de la Vega, a seasoned leader in fintech global partnerships and technology innovation, is currently the Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane. With a proven track record of delivering scalable, impactful solutions at the intersection of fintech, innovation, and commerce, Rafael’s expertise will be pivotal as Airtm continues to grow. “Airtm has built a platform that breaks down barriers and opens up opportunities for people in emerging economies to connect to global markets. I am excited to contribute to its growth and help further its mission of fostering financial inclusion on a global scale,” said Rafael.
Shivani Siroya, CEO and Founder of Tala, is a pioneer in financial technology, renowned for empowering underserved communities through access to credit and essential financial tools. Her leadership in leveraging data-driven innovation aligns seamlessly with Airtm’s vision of creating more equitable financial opportunities. “Empowering underserved communities has always been at the core of my work, and Airtm’s mission resonates deeply with me. I’m thrilled to join the Board and work alongside such a dynamic team to expand access to financial tools that truly make a difference in people’s lives,” said Shivani.
The post Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
-
Fintech6 days ago
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Revolut, Bestow, Advyzon, Tyme Group, Nubank)
-
Fintech4 days ago
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)
-
Fintech7 days ago
Asian Financial Forum returns as region’s first major international financial assembly in 2025
-
Fintech PR3 days ago
According to Tickmill survey, 3 in 10 Britons in economic difficulty: Purchasing power down 41% since 2004
-
Fintech5 days ago
Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments
-
Fintech PR3 days ago
President Emmerson Mnangagwa met this week with Zambia’s former Vice President and Special Envoy Enoch Kavindele to discuss SADC’s candidate for the AfDB
-
Fintech5 days ago
SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025
-
Fintech PR3 days ago
Stay Cyber Safe This Holiday Season: Heimdal’s Checklist for Business Security