經濟學家曾警告加州不要將最低工資提高至每小時20美元,但與此同時,另一位經濟學家表示他們至今幾乎在所有觀點上都錯錯了

(SeaPRwire) -   在加州於2024年實施一項法律,將該州超過50萬名快餐業工人的最低工資提高到20美元後,研究公司Beacon Economics的創始合夥人克里斯托弗·索恩伯格就該州提高最低工資發出了警告。 他今年早些時候寫道:「加州透過工資底線來減少收入不平等的好意推動,正開始對我們一些最脆弱的工人——我們的年輕人,特別是那些來自低收入家庭的年輕人——產生顯著的負面影響。」 他的擔憂與快餐特許經營業主的擔憂相呼應,其中一位業主在2024年告訴媒體,對於利潤微薄的小型連鎖店來說,更高的工資將是不可持續的。 但在該法律通過近兩年後,經濟學家看到的結果與最初擔憂的情況大相逕庭。本月發布的一份來自加州大學柏克萊分校的工作論文發現,該政策使符合資格的工人的平均週薪增加了11%,並且沒有減少就業。價格溫和上漲,約1.5%,相當於一件4美元的商品上漲約6美分。 該研究作者、加州大學柏克萊分校工資與就業動態中心主任麥可·賴希告訴媒體:「結果遠沒有預測的那麼糟糕。」 該研究匯編了來自Glassdoor職位發布和Square的薪資數據,並使用匯總手機位置的公司Advan Research收集了特定日期進入快餐店的員工人數數據。它使用DoorDash追蹤了食品價格的變化。這項分析使用了一組截然不同的數據,得出了與先前關於加州最低工資研究相同的結論,該研究同樣發現該法律對就業、福利和工作時數影響甚微。 加州提高快餐業工人最低工資是該州正在進行的關於財富分配更廣泛討論的一部分,特別是考慮到美國低收入家庭的工資增長遠遜於高收入家庭。加州選民將在11月決定該州是否將對收入超過10億美元的居民徵收一次性財富稅。上個月與《洛杉磯時報》合作發布的一項調查發現,52%的加州人支持這項投票提案。 「最低工資無疑是當下最受關注的議題,」全國倡導組織One Fair Wage的主席薩魯·賈亞拉曼在三月告訴媒體,該組織正為爭取30美元的最低工資而進行活動。「但億萬富翁稅緊隨其後。」 儘管加州人的擔憂反映了全國對日益增長的K型或雙層經濟的焦慮,但這個黃金州幾乎本身就是一個經濟案例研究。加州的GDP達4兆美元,其經濟規模與英國大致相當。作為200多位億萬富翁的家園,該州也有全國最高比例的居民生活在貧困線以下,達18%,部分原因是其高昂的生活成本。 為何經濟學家認為對加州最低工資法的恐慌被誇大了 賴希表示,他研究中的證據表明,與提高最低工資相關的擔憂被誇大了。例如,研究中發現的11%的工資增長低於2024年法律實施前加州16美元工資大約25%的漲幅。這可能是因為許多連鎖店已經支付高於最低工資的薪水給員工。例如,In-N-Out在2023年為員工提供的起薪是17.50美元。像舊金山和洛杉磯這樣的加州城市在法律實施前,起薪已經高於州最低工資。 此外,根據賴希的說法,勞動力佔餐廳營運成本的30%,這意味著工資上漲11%僅會使企業的總體成本增加3%,其中一半會轉嫁給客戶,導致價格溫和上漲1.5%。 該研究甚至指出,提高最低工資甚至可能增加快餐店的收入。賴希指出,更高的工資與提高生產力和降低流動率有關。根據康乃爾大學酒店管理學院的數據,員工流動平均可能使一家快餐店為每位員工花費5,864美元,這激勵公司留住員工。小幅的價格上漲也可能對餐廳有益,因為對顧客來說,這點漲幅可能微不足道。 「當面對快餐價格的小幅上漲時,[消費者]減少的消費金額甚至更少,」賴希說。 其他研究與賴希的發現相矛盾。卡托研究所2025年11月的一份報告使用勞工統計局的數據發現,與勞動力市場的其他部分相比,快餐業減少了18,000個工作崗位。這項研究支持了經濟學家克里斯托弗·索恩伯格關於提高最低工資對更年輕、更低收入的工人影響過大的說法,這些特徵在快餐業中比例過高。索恩伯格沒有回應媒體的置評請求。 加州大學聖克魯茲分校2025年11月的一項研究發現,最低工資法與更高的菜單價格,以及餐廳工人更少的工作時數和福利有關。根據賴希的說法,那項基於對餐廳經理和業主訪談的研究缺乏量化證據。 然而,賴希表示,考慮到其他政策變化的混雜影響,未來關於最低工資對州經濟影響的數據可能難以計算。他補充說,例如,加州大學美熹德分校的一項研究使用美國人口普查數據發現,在川普政府推動增加移民和海關執法局在該州的突襲行動後,加州的私營部門就業下降了3.1%,未來關於州就業的研究將必須考慮到這一下降。 但加州推動最低工資的做法可能會引領趨勢。根據國家就業法項目的報告,近二十幾個州,以及66個城市和縣,將在2026年的某個時間點提高其最低工資。 「很多人都在關注加州發生的事情,」賴希說。「它可能成為全國其他地區的榜樣。」本文由第三方廠商內容提供者提供。SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/)對此不作任何保證或陳述。 分類: 頭條新聞,日常新聞 SeaPRwire為公司和機構提供全球新聞稿發佈,覆蓋超過6,500個媒體庫、86,000名編輯和記者,以及350萬以上終端桌面和手機App。SeaPRwire支持英、日、德、韓、法、俄、印尼、馬來、越南、中文等多種語言新聞稿發佈。

Arturs Korolkovs Leading Media 24 into Its Next Chapter

(AsiaGameHub) -   To grasp the narrative of Media 24, one must first appreciate Arturs' personal path. As the inaugural employee, he joined at the inception and was instrumental in laying the groundwork for the present-day company. Following a tenure as Head of Sales, he has now advanced to guide the entire organization into its subsequent phase. This discussion will explore his progression from the first hire to Chief Executive Officer. We will cover his strategy for transforming Media 24 from a conventional affiliate into a contemporary digital ecosystem, his approach to internal management and empowerment, and the company's preparations for a significant 2026. How does a background as Head of Sales influence your perspective on the CEO role versus someone from a product or technical background? A sales origin keeps your attention fixed on the end goal. An individual with a tech focus might become absorbed in perfecting details or incorporating features for their novelty. I don't have that option. My priority is on initiatives that genuinely drive progress. Years of dialogue with partners have shown me precisely what generates revenue and what does not. This has been the guiding principle at Media 24 since my start as employee number one. Move quickly, analyze the data, and refine successful tactics. A sales background also fosters greater ease with the interpersonal aspects of the business. The CEO's role extends beyond making choices; it also involves persuading the team to buy into a vision so they are motivated to follow. In sales, failure is certain if people lack belief in your message. I am simply transferring that same principle to this position. As the first employee at Media 24, you handled everything personally. Now as CEO, how do you manage to step back and allow your team to assume leadership? Initially, any task that required attention, I handled. However, a company cannot grow if one person controls every decision. My current responsibility is to provide my team with the tools and autonomy to lead. We have a long-standing commitment to developing internal talent. For instance, we recently appointed our new Head of Growth and Head of Website Operations from within the company. Both individuals have been with us for years, have witnessed the company's evolution, and have my full confidence. I am not seeking individuals who consistently concur with me. I want experts who comprehend this business as thoroughly as I do, or perhaps more so. By promoting internally, I am assembling a team that shares the Media 24 mindset while contributing their own specialized viewpoints. My function now is to remove obstacles for them, enabling them to develop the products that will shape our standing in the industry for the coming years. With constant core algorithm updates, how is Media 24 safeguarding itself against the instability of organic search? You can never be fully protected from a Google update if your core strategy relies on deceiving an algorithm. If your efforts are dedicated to finding loopholes, you will perpetually be trailing the leaders. Last year, we conducted a thorough review of our methodology and overhauled our product strategy. Currently, we are not constructing websites merely to achieve high rankings. Instead, we are developing platforms designed to be the definitive resource for their respective markets. This entails significant investment in elements that are truly important to people, not just web crawlers. We are overhauling our content to deliver genuine value, intensifying our focus on user experience, and continuously enhancing the product itself. By prioritizing the end-user, strong search rankings become a natural outcome of our quality, rather than a temporary advantage we struggle to maintain. Affiliates are typically viewed as "top of the funnel." How is Media 24 attempting to capture more of the user journey after the first click? It is accurate that many affiliates conclude their role at the click, but we perceive this as an overlooked chance. We recognize that attracting a new depositor is invariably far more costly than keeping a current one. We are progressing towards establishing genuine communities around our leading platforms. A user may visit us for a particular bonus, but they are probably open to other offers or new products in the future. To harness this potential, we are establishing points of contact beyond our website. We are developing a presence on social media and other channels where our users are genuinely active. If we can maintain visibility with the user in relevant spaces, then we are not merely directing traffic to operators. We are providing a far more loyal and valuable customer. There are instances where operators terminate affiliate programs or reduce commission rates. How do you future-proof a business that relies on these partnerships? Regrettably, this is occasionally an inherent part of the industry. One must acknowledge that these risks are present. For us, managing these changes is integral to forging lasting partnerships. You rapidly discover who your genuine partners are during challenging periods. This is precisely why we dedicate considerable time to maintaining a visible presence. We participate in numerous conferences and industry events annually to interact with our partners in person. By remaining closely connected to the market and our partners, we can identify warning signs early and concentrate on operators who truly appreciate a fair, long-term relationship. Is Media 24 considering diversifying its traffic sources away from pure SEO? Are PPC or social media traffic part of the 2026 plan? In 2026, our strategy is to concentrate on our core strengths and what operators value most. SEO traffic remains the benchmark for quality in this sector. Achieving those rankings demands immense effort and patience, but the caliber of that traffic justifies the investment. Concerning multi-channel expansion, it is a topic under discussion, and we are actively investigating how to extend our expertise into new niches. However, this will not occur within the current year. 2026 is a pivotal year for us due to the World Cup. All our focus, investment, and product development are currently directed towards ensuring our platforms are optimized for that event. We wish to avoid any diversions at this time. The distinctions between affiliate, media company, and data business are becoming less clear. Does Media 24 envision itself moving beyond pure affiliate marketing? I believe affiliate marketing is essentially a revenue model; it does not constitute an entire identity. Observing the most successful entities in our field today reveals that they have already transitioned into hybrid organizations. We share that self-perception. We are a media company due to our team of skilled content writers and active social media management. We are a data business because deep comprehension of user behavior is essential for maintaining competitiveness. The industry has changed substantially. The leading companies have adapted accordingly. At Media 24, we resist being categorized. We are a digital enterprise that utilizes an affiliate model for monetization. However, our true value is derived from our content, our product, our data, and our superior ability to connect with an audience. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

陶氏(Dow)的下一阶段发展,取决于新首席执行官凯伦·卡特(Karen Carter)是否有发挥领导才能的空间,以及吉姆·菲特林(Jim Fitterling)多快退居幕后

今日《CEO Daily》內容:Diane Brady 針對 Dow 的接班規劃進行評分。 重要高層動態新聞:AI 產業執行長正面臨人身安全風險。 市場動態:由於投資者關注美伊談判進展、消化初期財報數據,市場表現相對平穩。 其他內容:所有來自的新聞與辦公室閒聊話題。 (SeaPRwire) -   早安。前 Cisco 董事長兼執行長 John Chambers 曾告訴我,執行長有三大核心任務:制定公司的願景與戰略、聘用高階領導團隊落實戰略,以及創造條件順利完成自身的接班交接。對此我要補充第四點:知道何時、以及如何讓位。 Dow 昨日宣布,營運長 Karen Carter 將於7月1日接任執行長一職,Jim Fitterling 則留任執行董事長。我的同事 Ruth Umoh 指出,Carter 向來是該職位的熱門人選,此前剛入選最新的「Next to Lead」榜單。Fitterling 在 LinkedIn 貼文中提到,Carter 的任命「反映了我們與董事會合作、規劃多年的縝密接班流程,目的是在我們持續推進 Dow 戰略的過程中,維持穩定的執行效率。」我們相當肯定 Fitterling 認真看待接班事宜的態度,而現在他應該給 Carter 足夠空間開展工作。 在八年任期內,Fitterling 將 Dow 從一家大宗化學品企業,轉型為走創新路線的高成長材料科學公司。作為財星500強中少數公開出櫃的領導者,他也鼓舞了許多對該公司並不了解的族群。不過在先前面對產業產能過剩、關稅與其他挑戰導致營收重挫後,他現在才剛剛迎來股價的明顯回升,以及技術布局帶來的實質進展。 他也明確表示新任執行長不代表經營路線會轉變。他在貼文中寫道「我們的方向沒有改變」,並提到自己未來的計畫是「專注於長期戰略、治理以及關鍵外部關係,為 Karen 和領導團隊提供支援,確保營運的連續性與強勁執行力。」 局勢艱難時有前任執行長在旁協助,很容易讓人感到安心。但 Disney 的 Bob Iger 就透過慘痛教訓,明白了給接班人完整發揮空間的重要性。許多人猜測,Iger 當時繼續留任執行董事長的安排,是 Bob Chapek 任期短暫、Iger 又突然回鍋接任執行長的原因之一。(在 Disney 最新的高層改組中,Iger 僅會以執行長 Josh D’Amaro 資深顧問的身分留在董事會到今年年底。) Carter 將面臨和前任相同的經營逆風。正如 Fitterling 上個月告訴能源版編輯 Jordan Blum 的說法:「現在的市場波動性已經破表了。」她即將接管的是一間資本密集、對能源價格高度敏感的全球企業,當前正應對景氣循環下行、戰爭、監管政策變動,以及透過自動化與AI快速削減成本的全新「transform to outperform」計畫,因此她或許也會樂於接受 Fitterling 的指導。 話雖如此,Carter 擁有多年營運相關經驗,對相關業務相當熟悉。身為執行長,現在她的職責是為 Dow 制定願景與戰略,並組建屬於自己的團隊來落實目標。這或許代表經營路線的延續,也有可能她會在新的現實環境下,決定採取不同的發展方向。希望 Fitterling 知道何時應該退讓,給她足夠的空間做好這份工作。聯繫《CEO Daily》請透過 Diane Brady 的郵箱:diane.brady@.com本文由第三方廠商內容提供者提供。SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/)對此不作任何保證或陳述。 分類: 頭條新聞,日常新聞 SeaPRwire為公司和機構提供全球新聞稿發佈,覆蓋超過6,500個媒體庫、86,000名編輯和記者,以及350萬以上終端桌面和手機App。SeaPRwire支持英、日、德、韓、法、俄、印尼、馬來、越南、中文等多種語言新聞稿發佈。

Booming Games launches strategic partnership with Casino di Venezia to broaden the reach of its premium games

Booming Games has entered into a partnership with Casino di Venezia, placing its premium games onto the casino's digital platform The alliance underscores Booming Games' dedication to expanding in regulated markets (AsiaGameHub) -   Booming Games, a premier supplier of high-quality gaming content, has announced a strategic alliance with Casino di Venezia, the globe's oldest casino. Under the agreement, top-tier titles from Booming Games' collection are being integrated into Casino di Venezia's expanding digital platform, supporting the operator's aggressive expansion strategy. This collaboration represents a key achievement for Booming Games, highlighting its focus on extending the distribution of its game portfolio within regulated jurisdictions. An initial batch of 100 Booming Games titles, such as Cash Pig 2 15,000, 64 Gold Coins Hold and Win 20,000, and Buffalo Hold and Win Extreme, is now live on the platform. These contemporary, high-performance games feature polished visuals and engaging gameplay mechanics, while ensuring a smooth user experience on any device. The partnership merges heritage with cutting-edge technology, enriching Casino di Venezia's online services. Concurrently, it positions Booming Games to utilize its robust schedule of upcoming game launches to increase its market share and attract a wider audience. The company plans to intensify both the pace and caliber of its releases this year, which will include versions customized for local markets, to foster worldwide expansion. Alessandra Rosati, Country Manager (Italy) at Booming Games, said: “We are delighted to partner with Casino di Venezia, a brand with unmatched heritage and a stellar reputation for offering premium gaming experiences. This cooperation is the newest step in our mission to widen the availability of our premium games in Italy, a market full of promising growth potential. We believe this is the start of a prosperous, enduring partnership with Casino di Venezia and are eager to collaborate with their team.”  This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Hitachi Energy and Samsung C&T expand strategic collaboration to accelerate grid infrastructure and reinforce energy security

Zurich, Seoul, Apr 15, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi Energy, a global leader in electrification, and Samsung C&T Engineering & Construction Group, one of the world’s largest engineering and construction companies, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen their collaboration on high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) grid infrastructure worldwide. Building on a longstanding relationship, the companies are strengthening their collaboration to shape the evolving global energy landscape.Power grids are rapidly evolving as countries modernize infrastructure and integrate more clean energy to meet rising electrification demand from mobility, industry, and data centers. With variability increasing across the system, flexibility is now critical – placing AC solutions at the core of efficient transmission, distribution, and cross-border electricity flow.As part of this collaboration, Hitachi Energy and Samsung C&T will combine their complementary strengths to identify, assess, and pursue AC opportunities. Hitachi Energy brings world-leading expertise in grid technologies, advanced engineering and design, electrical systems, and integrated digital solutions, while Samsung C&T contributes its extensive engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) delivery capability.“The global energy landscape is entering a defining decade for its energy future, and resilient AC grid infrastructure is foundational to making the transition work. This expanded collaboration with Samsung C&T brings together leading technology and execution capabilities to accelerate grid modernization, strengthen resilience, and enable the large-scale integration of renewables – supporting a more connected and energy-secure system,” said Niklas Persson, CEO of Grid Integration Business Unit, Hitachi Energy.“Our proven collaboration model in the UAE and Australia will become a powerful competitive advantage in the global power infrastructure markets. We will continue to lead complex crossborder transmission projects with integrated solutions that span both direct and alternating current technologies,” said Byung-soo Lee, Executive Vice President, Samsung C&T.The MoU establishes a strategic framework for the two companies to align on AC prospects, developing a shared go-to-market roadmap and an opportunity pipeline. The agreement builds on the companies’ established track record of successful collaboration across multiple global projects—particularly in the fast-growing HVDC market - as they work together to deliver innovative, efficient power infrastructure solutions.About Hitachi EnergyHitachi Energy is a global technology leader in electrification, powering a sustainable energy future with innovative power grid technologies with digital at the core. Over three billion people depend on our technologies to power their daily lives. With over a century in pioneering mission-critical technologies like high-voltage, transformers, automation, and power electronics, we are addressing the most urgent energy challenge of our time – balancing soaring electricity demand, while decarbonizing the power system. With an unparalleled installed base in over 140 countries, we cocreate and build long-term partnerships across the utility, industry, transportation, data centers, and infrastructure sectors. Headquartered in Switzerland, we employ over 50,000 people in 60 countries and generate revenues of around $16 billion USD.https://www.hitachienergy.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hitachienergyhttps://x.com/HitachiEnergyAbout Hitachi, Ltd.Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.About Samsung C&T Engineering & Construction GroupSamsung C&T Engineering & Construction Group has 50 years of experience operating throughout the world. The group focuses on three key areas: commercial and residential buildings, civil infrastructure, and plant construction. Its landmark projects include the Burj Khalifa in the UAE, the Petronas Towers in Malaysia, the Riyadh Metro in Saudi Arabia, and the 5,600MW Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the UAE. http://www.samsungcnt.com. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Fincore merges TRI platform with Sportradar’s VAIX personalization AI

(AsiaGameHub) -   Fincore and Sportradar have revealed a strategic partnership to integrate Fincore's TRI platform with Sportradar's VAIX personalization AI suite. The collaboration is intended to enable betting and gaming operators to leverage AI-powered insights instantly within their current platforms. According to the companies, the TRI ecosystem is built to connect with existing player account management (PAM), gaming, and bonus systems without the need for a complete platform overhaul. It is also designed to meet the audit and access-control standards of regulated markets. Sportradar stated that its VAIX suite offers AI models that generate personalized recommendations and predictive player insights for both sports and casino verticals. These insights include forecasts for customer lifetime value, churn probability, likelihood to deposit, and ideal bonus offers. The company noted that VAIX functions in real time, analyzing player activity to deliver relevant recommendations and rewards during active gameplay. Mateja Popovic, CEO at Fincore, said: “The technology landscape in gaming is evolving and operators are increasingly seeking to embed best-of-breed innovation directly into their core operations. “Our partnership allows Sportradar customers to act on powerful AI-driven insights instantly, closing the gap between prediction and execution. By enabling personalised and automated recommendations and rewards without disrupting existing platforms, we are helping operators unlock greater engagement and more efficient promotional strategies that help them stand out.” Andreas Hartmann, VP Personalisation at Sportradar, said: “Our AI platform gives operators a decisive edge in player engagement and retention, delivering highly accurate predictions on player activity, lifetime value, churn risk, deposit behaviour and more per user, in real-time. “With Fincore’s TRI platform supporting real-time and deep personalisation, integration was a natural fit, allowing us to turn our industry-leading AI models into measurable commercial impact for the operator, across the user journey.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Mitsubishi Motors’ Outlander PHEV Ranks No. 1 in Japan’s PHEV Sales Category for the Second Consecutive Year

Outlander PHEVTOKYO, Apr 15, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) announced that the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) model of the Outlander crossover SUV (Outlander PHEV), achieved No. 1 in domestic sales in Japan’s PHEV category in fiscal year 2025(1), with sales totaling 7,794 units, marking its second consecutive year at the top(2).Since 1964, Mitsubishi Motors has contributed to the advancement of electrification through research and development of electrified vehicles. In 2009, Mitsubishi Motors launched the i-MiEV, the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle, followed by the introduction of the Outlander PHEV in 2013 as the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric SUV. The company further expanded its electrified vehicle lineup in 2020 with the addition of the Eclipse Cross PHEV, steadily advancing its electrification strategy.The Outlander PHEV has earned high acclaim in major markets including Japan, North America, Europe, and Australia, and has grown into a leading model in the electrified SUV segment. In March 2025, cumulative sales for the Outlander PHEV surpassed 100,000 units in the Japanese market. In Canada, the model ranked No. 1 in the PHEV category for three consecutive years, achieving a high market share across multiple key markets.Mitsubishi Motors has been promoting the deployment of electrified vehicles based on the view that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are well suited for kei-cars(3) and compact cars typically used within a relatively limited range of daily activity, while PHEVs are optimal for SUVs and mid-size and larger vehicles used for broader driving needs. Going forward, Mitsubishi Motors will continue to pursue a pragmatic approach to electrification tailored to regional characteristics and usage environments by offering a diverse lineup of electrified vehicles centered on PHEVs, combined with BEVs and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).Outlander PHEV(4)As Mitsubishi Motors’ flagship model, the Outlander PHEV is designed to serve as an EV for daily use and a hybrid for longer trips. The electrified SUV delivers quiet, smooth yet powerful acceleration unique to electrified vehicles, along with safe and secure rides in various weather and road conditions.The current, second-generation Outlander PHEV was fully redesigned in 2021, bringing together the best of the brand's electrification and all-wheel control technologies. Developed under the product concept “I-Fu-Do-Do,” a Japanese expression meaning authentic and majestic, the model evolved significantly in both performance and presence.In October 2024, Mitsubishi Motors launched an updated model featuring a newly enhanced drive battery that extended EV range and improved acceleration performance. The update also enhanced the quality of interior and exterior design, expanded advanced features, and adopted an audio system developed in collaboration with Yamaha Corporation as standard equipment on all grades, further strengthening the vehicle’s overall product appeal.Fiscal 2025 is from April 2025 to March 2025.According to Japan Automobile Dealers Association (JADA) ratingsKei-car is a vehicle category in Japan for microcars. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

OBI Pharma Announces Ten Poster Presentations at the AACR 2026 Annual Meeting for GlycOBI(R) Glycan-based Site-Specific Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs): Mono and Bi-Specific (inc. Dual payload) and Obrion(TM) ADC enabling technologies

TAIPEI, TW, Apr 15, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - OBI Pharma, Inc. (TPEx:4174.TWO) today announced its presence at AACR 2026, highlighted by ten poster presentations, showcasing the transformative potential of the GlycOBI® platform. Conventional ADCs often face limitations due to random conjugation, resulting in heterogeneous Drug-to-Antibody Ratios (DAR), suboptimal stability, and narrow therapeutic windows. In contrast, the OBI site-specific glycan-based technology enables a highly homogeneous DAR, translating into improved PK/PD profiles, and reduced off-target toxicity, as demonstrated by OBI's lead programs, OBI-902 and OBI-904.We are further advancing precision oncology through our next-generation bispecific (OBI-201) and bispecific, dual-payload (OBI-221) ADCs. These "biology - driven" molecules are designed to overcome tumor heterogeneity and multi-drug resistance-key challenges in current cancer treatment. By incorporating both the GlycOBI® and GlycOBI DUO® platforms, OBI is developing novel and differentiated therapeutics addressing the unmet medical need for patients with difficult-to-treat solid tumors. Additionally, OBI's robust ADC conjugation platform has proven to consistently deliver product quality and scalability, while enabling expansion into next-generation modalities, including degrader-antibody conjugates (DACs).These data will be presented at the American Association of Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting from April 17 to 22, 2026 in San Diego, CA. (USA)."At OBI, we make better ADCs," said Dr. Ya-Chi Chen, Chief Scientific Officer OBI Pharma. "Our goal is to deliver therapies that not only target tumors more effectively and precisely, but also reduce side effects, giving patients potentially life-changing treatment options."Monday, April 20, 2026 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)Title: Overcoming Resistance with OBI-902: Preclinical Evaluation of a Next-Generation TROP2 ADC1Authors: Ren-Yu Hsu, Chi-Huan Lu, Chi-Sheng Shia, Jing-Rong Huang, Hsin-Shan Wu, Lu-Tzu Chen, Jhih-Jie Yang, Tzu-Min Yen, Jyy-Shiuan Tu, Yu-Hsuan Tsao, Ya-Chi Chen. OBI Pharma, Inc, Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO. ET07.01 - Quantitative Pharmacology and Translational ModelingLocation: Poster Section 17Poster Board Number: 6Abstract Presentation Number: 1818Title: OBI-904, a Next-Generation Nectin-4-Targeting Exatecan ADC, Demonstrates Enhanced Cytotoxicity and Overcomes Enfortumab Vedotin Resistance2Authors :Yuan-Liang Wang, Chi-Huan Lu, Woan-Eng Chan, Shin-Jin Lin, Ting-Yu Chang, Hong-Syuan Lin, Wei-Jhen Huang, Ya-Chi Chen. OBI Pharma, Inc, Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO.ET02.02 - Antibody-Drug Conjugates and Linker Engineering 2Location: Poster Section 13Poster Board Number: 26Abstract Presentation Number: 1729Title: OBI-904, a Glycan-based Site specific Nectin-4-Targeted ADC, Demonstrates Potent and Durable Antitumor Activity with an Improved PK Profile and Overcoming EV-Resistance in Non-Clinical Studies3Authors: Chi-Huan Lu, Ren-Yu Hsu, Jing-Jie Ciou, Tzu Min Yen, Jyy-Shiuan Tu, Yu-Hsuan Tsao, Jing-Rong Huang, Ya-Chi Chen. OBI Pharma, Inc., Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO.ET07.01 - Quantitative Pharmacology and Translational ModelingLocation: Poster Section 17Poster Board Number: 7Abstract Presentation Number: 1819Title: The MET/HER3 Antibody-Drug Conjugate with Dual Payload: A Dual-Target Approach to Eliminate Tumor Escape Mechanisms5Authors: Yuan-Liang Wang, Chi-Huan Lu, Woan-Eng Chan, Ting-Yu Chang, Hong-Syuan Lin, Cheng-Yen Wei, Shin-Jin Lin, Lu-Tzu Lu, Meng-Hsin Liu, Wei-Jhen Huang, Ya-Chi Chen. OBI Pharma, Inc., Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO.CL.0705 - Targeted Antigen Therapies and ImmunityLocation: Poster Section 49Poster Board Number: 17Abstract Presentation Number: 2665Title: Guide-effector bsADCs: Driving co-endocytosis for enhanced payload delivery6Authors: Wei-Jhen Huang, Woan Eng Chan, Meng-Hsin Liu, Yueh Chin Wu, Ya-Chi Chen .OBI Pharma, Inc., Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO.ET02.02 - Antibody-Drug Conjugates and Linker Engineering 2Location: Poster Section 13Poster Board Number : 27Abstract Presentation Number: 1730Title: Hydrophilicity-Enhanced Linker Technology Enables Site-Specific Degrader-Antibody Conjugates with Improved Stability and Enhanced Activity7Authors: Yu-Hung Chen, Wei-Chien Tang, Chi-Dian Lu, Hung-Yi Lin, Wei-Jhen Huang, Nan-Hsuan Wang, Ya-Chi Chen, Teng-Yi Huang. OBI Pharma, Inc., Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO.ET02.02 - Antibody-Drug Conjugates and Linker Engineering 2Location: Poster Section 13Poster Board Number: 28Abstract Presentation Number: 1731Title: Cell-based payload release highlights design, site, and cell-dependent ratio shifts in dual-payload ADCs8Authors: Nan-Hsuan Wang, Wei-Han Lee, Evelyn He, Li Chuan Huang, Yu-Chao Huang, David Teng-Yi Huang, Ya-Chi Chen. OBI Pharma, Inc, Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO.CH01.06 - Antibodies, Antibody-Drug Conjugates, and Nucleic AcidsLocation: Poster Section 38Poster Board Number: 5Abstract Presentation Number: 2397Monday, April 20, 2026 (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)Title:TROP2 Upregulation and Interaction with HER2 Mediate Trastuzumab Resistance4Authors: Yuan-Liang Wang, Chi-Huan Lu, Cheng-Yen Wei, Jye-Yu Huang, Woan-Eng Chan, Lu-Tzu Chen, Ya-Chi Chen. OBI Pharma, Inc., Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO.ET03.06 Drug Resistance 1: Antibodies and ADCsLocation: Poster Section 12Poster Board Number: 18Abstract Presentation Number: 2972Tuesday, April 21, 2026 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)Title: Glycan-based site specific ADC Achieves Sustained Tumor Control through Improved Payload Delivery and Immune Activation9Authors: Liu Chih-Chun, Tsai Yi-Chien, Huang Jing-Rong, Lo Fei-Yun, Pei Yu, Hsu Ren-Yu, Tu Tzu-Hsuan, Chen Ya-Chi. OBI Pharma, Inc, Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO.IM02.04 - Adaptive Immunity in CancerLocation: Poster Section 6Poster Board Number: 2Abstract Presentation Number: 4234Title: Advancing ADC therapeutics with next-generation site-specific glycan conjugation and dual-payload flexibility10Authors: Wei-Chien Tang, Yu-Hung Chen, Chih-Kang Chang, Ting-Wei Liu, Hung-Yi Lin, Wei-Jhen Huang, Chi-Huan Lu, Ren-Yu Hsu, Nan-Hsuan Wang, Ya-Chi Chen,Teng-Yi Huang. OBI Pharma, Inc, Taipei, TaiwanSession Title: PO.ET02.03 - Antibody-Drug Conjugates and Linker Engineering 3Location: Poster Section 12Poster Board Number: 1Abstract Presentation Number: 4423The e-posters will be available for browsing at the AACR virtual meeting platform beginning at 12:00 PM PT on April 17, as well as on the OBI Pharma website (www.obipharma.com) beginning on April 18.1 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/45832 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/53853 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/45884 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/50305 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/40516 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/54007 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/54018 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/64749 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/131110 AACR Annual Meeting 2026 Abstracts online https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21436/presentation/5403About OBI PharmaOBI Pharma is a clinical-stage global oncology company established in 2002 and headquartered in Taiwan. Together with its subsidiary OBI Pharma USA, Inc., the company is dedicated to developing innovative cancer therapeutics to provide new treatment options for patients with urgent medical needs.OBI's research efforts center on novel antibody-drug conjugates (ADC). Through its patented next-generation conjugation technology platform, Obrion™, OBI has established diverse ADC design modalities. The platform integrates proprietary conjugation and linker technologies, including GlycOBI®, GlycOBI DUO®, EndoSymeOBI®, HYPrOBI®, and the novel irreversible cysteine-conjugation technology ThiOBI® , to advance next-generation ADC solutions. OBI has developed a next-generation suite of ADC programs. These include monospecific ADCs such as OBI-902 (TROP2), which is under Ph1 clinical evaluation, and OBI-904 (Nectin-4); a bispecific single-payload ADC, OBI-201 (HER2 x TROP2); and a bispecific dual-payload ADC, OBI-221 (cMET x HER3). To broaden the applicability of the HYPrOBI® linker technology, OBI has further developed the ThiOBI® technology to enable irreversible cysteine-based conjugation. In addition to its ADC programs, OBI's assets include OBI-3424, a first-in-class AKR1C3-targeted small-molecule prodrug that selectively releases a potent DNA-alkylating agent in the presence of the aldo-keto reductase 1C3 enzyme, which is highly expressed in certain tumors. Additional information can be found at www.obipharma.com.About OBI-902 and OBI-992OBI-902 is a TROP2-targeted antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) that carries a potent topoisomerase I inhibitor payload to kill tumor cells with a drug-antibody ratio (DAR) of 4. TROP2 is highly expressed in a variety of solid tumors such as breast, lung, biliary, bile duct (cholangiocarcinoma), ovarian, gastric, and many other cancer types, rendering it an ideal target for cancer therapy.OBI-902 is a novel site-specific glycan-conjugated ADC using OBI's proprietary GlycOBI® platform, which provides improved stability and enhanced hydrophilicity. OBI-902 demonstrated remarkable antitumor efficacy across multiple tumors, including NSCLC, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), and gastric cancer, improved pharmacokinetic characteristics, and a favorable safety profile in various animal models. The IND of OBI-902 was cleared by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) on April 30, 2025, received Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the US FDA for cholangiocarcinoma on Nov. 16, 2025, and gastric cancer (GC), including gastroesophageal junction cancer (GEJC) on December 5, 2025.The Phase 1/2 Study (NCT07124117) is ongoing, with completion of the Phase 1a portion targeted for 1H 2027.OBI-992 is a TROP2-targeted antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) that carries a potent topoisomerase I inhibitor payload with drug-to-antibody ratio of 4 (DAR 4) via a cysteine conjugated, hydrophilic and enzyme-cleavable linker. OBI-992 remains stable in circulation and delivers this cytotoxic payload to TROP2-expressing tumor cells, leading to tumor cell death while avoiding off-target toxicities.The US FDA cleared the IND application for OBI-992 in Jan 2024 and subsequently granted Orphan Drug Designation for the treatment of gastric cancer, including GEJC in Aug 2024. The Phase 1/2 Study (NCT06480240) has reached the putative Recommended Phase 2 Dose (pRP2D) and Phase I completion is targeted for 1H 2027.Since December 2021, OBI has been granted by Biosion, Inc. (www.biosion.com) an exclusive license to a TROP2 targeting antibody amino acid sequence in all jurisdictions except Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau. Biosion holds exclusive rights to that antibody sequence in Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau. OBI holds commercial rights to OBI-992 and OBI-902 in all jurisdictions except Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, while Biosion holds commercial rights to OBI-992 and OBI-902 in Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau.About OBI-904OBI-904 is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) comprised of a monoclonal antibody specifically targeting Nectin-4 (Nectin cell adhesion molecule 4), linked to a potent topoisomerase I inhibitor payload with Drug-to-Antibody Ratio of 8 (DAR8) through OBI's proprietary GlycOBI® ADC enabling technologies, powered by a dual-function enzyme, EndoSymeOBI®, and a novel linker, HYPrOBI®. It is a potentially first-in-class and best-in-class glycan-based ADC designed to target multiple cancer types that express Nectin-4. Antitumor activity has been shown across several animal disease models, including HNSCC, CRC, TNBC, cervical and sarcoma cancers; OBI-904 has demonstrated a favorable safety profile in a repeat dose toxicity study in monkeys, and is now in the pre-IND stage of development.About OBI-201OBI-201 is a TROP2 x HER2 bispecific ADC generated by OBI GlycOBI® ADC enabling technologies conjugated with a topoisomerase I inhibitor. Notably, OBI is the first to demonstrate that HER2 and TROP2 can interact and form a protein complex on the cell surface-a groundbreaking discovery facilitated through collaboration with a specialized AI drug discovery partner. OBI-201 offers several advantages over mono-specific TROP2 or HER2 ADCs. By targeting both antigens, it broadens tumor coverage, especially in cancers with heterogeneous or low expression of either target. Dual targeting can enhance tumor selectivity, binding avidity, and internalization, improving payload delivery to cancer cells while potentially reducing toxicity to normal cells. OBI-201 may overcome resistance associated with downregulation of targets after treatment by certain monospecific ADCs.Animal studies revealed that OBI-201 demonstrated significantly superior anti-tumor activity compared to single-target ADCs in drug-resistant breast cancer models with extremely low HER2 expression. OBI-201 was able to sustain tumor growth suppression, indicating its potential to overcome multiple drug-resistance mechanisms. OBI-201 is a next-generation bispecific ADC poised to break through the limitations of single-target ADCs, potentially offering patients a more comprehensive and durable treatment option.About OBI-221OBI-221 is a Bispecific-Dual Payload ADC (BsDpADC), generated by OBI GlycOBI DUO® technologies, targeting cMET and HER3, conjugated with dual payload of MMAE and topoisomerase I inhibitor.In clinical practice, EGFR-targeted therapies have become a key strategy for treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. However, tumors often rapidly develop resistance by upregulating cMET and HER3 that, in turn, sustain tumor growth. Moreover, high expressions of cMET and HER3 have been observed in gastric cancer, head and neck cancer, and various other solid tumors, further underscoring the unmet medical needs.To address this challenge, OBI Pharma leverages its proprietary GlycOBI DUO® platform and HYPrOBI® linker to develop a novel bispecific dual-payload antibody-drug conjugate (BsDpADC)-OBI-221. This therapeutic agent simultaneously targets cMET and HER3 while delivering synergistic cytotoxic agents, effectively combating tumor resistance and heterogeneity. This breakthrough design not only addresses an unmet medical need but also represents a forward-looking strategy for next-generation ADC development.OBI-221 holds meaningful potential to overcome resistance to existing EGFR-targeted therapies, potentially offering patients more targeted treatment options while delivering substantial clinical value.About GlycOBI®OBI has developed a unique glycan-based, site-specific ADC technology (GlycOBI®), designed in a Plug and Play format that is compatible with any antibodies, linkers, and payloads, and supports various drug-antibody ratios (DAR)(up to 16). Powered by OBI's proprietary dual-function enzymatic technology EndoSymeOBI® and its hydrophilic linker technology HYPrOBI®, GlycOBI®, a core component of OBI's Obrion™ ADC technology family, enables the generation of site-specific and homogeneous ADCs through an efficient, scalable and streamlined two-step, one-pot conjugation process under GMP conditions.During the conjugation process, GlycOBI® avoids disrupting the antibody structure and ensures that the resulting ADC retains biophysical characteristics comparable to the native antibody. In addition, OBI's linker technology improves payload conjugation efficiency and reduces the propensity for aggregation or degradation, further supporting a stable and well-controlled ADC manufacturing process. GlycOBI® has overcome limitations commonly associated with traditional ADC approaches and has demonstrated improved antitumor activity and stability in various in vivo studies. Notably, the platform supports the conjugation of both cytotoxic small-molecule inhibitors and highly hydrophobic degraders, expanding its applicability to next-generation modalities such as DACs.About GlycOBI DUO®GlycOBI DUO® is a next-generation dual-payload antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technology built on the GlycOBI® site-specific conjugation platform and its proprietary enzymatic conjugation strategy. It enables the precise and programmable attachment of two distinct payloads to a single antibody with tunable ratios and supports high DAR ratios, including up to DAR24. By combining complementary mechanisms of action, GlycOBI DUO® is designed to enhance antitumor efficacy, address tumor heterogeneity, and improve the overall therapeutic index, with the potential to overcome resistance mechanisms associated with conventional ADCs-representing a promising advancement in next-generation ADC development.About ThiOBI®OBI has developed a novel irreversible, cysteine conjugation ADC platform (ThiOBI®) with improved stability, which can apply to any antibodies, linkers, and payloads. OBI's proprietary ThiOBI® platform including linker technologies (HYPrOBI®) can generate ADCs in different biomolecular formats, including antibody fragments, nanobodies, peptides, and proteins. Furthermore, OBI's HYPrOBI® linker technology has improved conjugation efficiency of the payload and reduced aggregation propensity and also expanded the half-life of the ADC products. ThiOBI has overcome the limitations of traditional cysteine ADCs and achieved better antitumor activity and stability in various in vivo tests.GlycOBI®, EndoSymeOBI®, ThiOBI®, HYPrOBI®, and GlycOBI DUO® are registered trademarks of OBI. Obrion™ is a trademark under registration.Forward-Looking StatementsStatements included in this press release that are not a description of historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about future clinical trials, results and the timing of such trials and results. Such risk factors are identified and discussed from time to time in OBI Pharma's reports and presentations, including OBI Pharma's filings with the Taiwan Securities and Futures Bureau.COMPANY CONTACT:Jukka MuhonenExecutive Director, Business DevelopmentOBI Pharma USA, Inc.1.617.821.0292jukkamuhonen@obipharma.comSOURCE: OBI Pharma USA, Inc. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

LuckyCasino Starts Operations in Spain

(AsiaGameHub) -   LCKY Group announced that LuckyCasino has officially gone live in Spain. As a brand within the LCKY Group portfolio, this online casino marks the company's second venture in the Spanish market, following OneCasino. LCKY Group noted that LuckyCasino is expanding upon its existing experience in Sweden. According to LCKY Group, the Spanish launch will feature over 2,000 games, featuring numerous titles exclusive to LuckyCasino, as well as tailored promotions and payment solutions. Mark Schram, MD B2C Central & South Europe at LCKY Group, commented: “The entire team at LuckyCasino is eager to demonstrate the blend of variety and innovation that has made our platform a massive success in other regions. “Spain represents a crucial market for our future growth, and we are thrilled to expand upon the success LCKY Group has already achieved there with OneCasino. We anticipate that our extensive content library will be highly attractive to Spanish players.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

LuckyCasino Goes Live in Spain

(AsiaGameHub) -   LCKY Group has expanded its operations into Spain with the launch of LuckyCasino, marking the group's second active brand in the nation alongside OneCasino. This initiative strengthens the group's focus on regulated markets and establishes Spain as a focal point for its long-term growth strategy. Having established a foothold in Sweden, LuckyCasino is now live for customers in Spain. According to LCKY Group, the brand debuts with a portfolio of over 2,000 games, featuring exclusive LuckyCasino titles, as well as payment methods and promotional offers customized for the Spanish audience. The group already maintained a significant presence in Spain via OneCasino. With the arrival of LuckyCasino, LCKY Group has broadened its footprint, securing an additional avenue into a market it considers vital for future expansion. Mark Schram, Managing Director of B2C Central & South Europe at LCKY Group, commented: “The entire team LuckyCasino is eager to demonstrate the blend of variety and innovation that has made our platform a massive success in other regions.“As Spain remains a crucial market for our future, we are thrilled to expand upon the success LCKY Group has already achieved with OneCasino, and we anticipate that our extensive content library will be highly attractive to Spanish players.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Red Papaya Introduces Pirate-Themed Slot “Pirate’s Fight for Fortune” Featuring 20,000x Top Prize

(AsiaGameHub) -   Red Papaya has expanded its game collection with the launch of the new pirate-themed slot, Pirate’s Fight for Fortune. This title features a 5x4 grid, 40 fixed paylines, a medium volatility profile, and a maximum win potential of 20,000 times the stake. The game is set in the Golden Age of Piracy, transporting players to a wrecked ship laden with cursed treasure, ancient maps, and purloined keys. Its core design focuses on complex bonus layers, collection mechanics, and the pursuit of jackpots, moving beyond a straightforward base game. A three-tiered bonus system, linked to Bronze, Silver, and Gold results, forms the centerpiece of the gameplay. The feature rounds are powered by a Hold & Win mechanic, where Pirate Coins contribute to color-coded treasure chests positioned above the reels. This persistent collection system is always visible, serving as a progress meter for unlocking the bonus games. An additional Collect feature in the base game adds excitement to every spin. Pirate Coins can appear on reels one through four, and when a Collect symbol lands on the fifth reel, their values are immediately collected. This Collect symbol may also include a multiplier ranging from 1x to 5x, which boosts the total value gathered during that spin. A Boost option is also available for players. According to Red Papaya, this feature increases the total bet by 50% and enhances the appearance rate of Silver and Gold Pirate Coins, while also improving the odds of triggering the bonus rounds.During the bonus rounds, special symbols introduce additional modifiers. The Captain Multiplier elevates the total multiplier value, and the First Mate Extra Spin increases the number of respins. These components are intended to prolong the bonus sessions. The feature game contains three fixed jackpots. The Mini jackpot awards 10x the bet, the Major pays 50x, and the Grand jackpot offers the top prize of 20,000x the stake. The game is optimized for play on both desktop and mobile devices. Red Papaya has confirmed an RTP of 96.37%, a hit frequency of 27.19%, medium volatility, and a betting range that spans from 0.20 to 12.50. Madelein Ozok, Head of Studio at Red Papaya, said:“For Pirate’s Fight for Fortune, our goal was to merge a timeless pirate adventure with an intricate, multi-layered bonus system. The premium artwork and immersive sound design also contribute to a compelling narrative that resonates with players. “By implementing a persistent collection system that heightens anticipation with each spin, and providing three unique bonus levels coupled with a massive 20,000x Grand Jackpot, we have developed a highly engaging game that is distinctive in any operator's portfolio.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Red Papaya Sets Forth with Pirate’s Fight for Fortune

(AsiaGameHub) -   The studio, powered by Microgaming, hoists the sails for big wins with a nautical adventure that boasts a colossal 20,000x maximum payout. In its newest slot, Pirate’s Fight for Fortune, Red Papaya calls on players to board a formidable pirate vessel and embark on a journey over dangerous waters in pursuit of vast riches. Taking place during the Golden Age of Piracy, the game provides an exhilarating seafaring experience with intrepid pirate captains, shrewd navigators, and famous maritime scoundrels, all in a quest for wealth and fame. This medium-volatility game strikes a balance between regular action and enormous winning possibilities, capped by an astonishing Grand Jackpot worth 20,000 times the stake. While the adventure progresses on a ship scarred by battle, players will encounter cursed treasures, magical keys, and old maps seized from enemy vessels. To discover the most valuable rewards, players need to conquer the open ocean by mastering a set of innovative features built for optimal player retention: Multi-Tiered Bonus System: A distinctive triggering mechanism that provides three separate engagement tiers: Bronze, Silver, and Gold Bonuses. The Collect Mechanic: Pirate Coins that land on reels 1 through 4 are collected immediately if a Collect symbol appears on reel 5, generating moments of high excitement in the base game. Multiplier Potential: More than just an activator, the Collect symbol also bears a Multiplier from 1x to 5x, which is applied to the combined value of all Coins gathered in that spin. The Boost Feature: An extra strategic option for players, which raises the total bet by 50% to boost the appearance rate of Silver and Gold Pirate Coins and substantially raise the odds of activating bonus rounds. Here is a closer look at the bonus gameplay. The core of the experience is its ongoing collection system and "Hold & Win" type bonus rounds, which include: Persistent Collection – Any Pirate Coin that lands is added to color-coded treasure chests displayed above the reels, offering a visual indicator of progress and an opportunity to activate the corresponding bonus. Dynamic Bonus Symbols – Special symbols enhance the action during bonus rounds, like the Captain Multiplier (which increases the total Multiplier) and the First Mate Extra Spin (which adds to the spin reset count), fostering excitement for extended play sessions. Three-Tiered Jackpots – Within the bonus game, players can pursue three fixed jackpots: Mini: 10x Major: 50x Grand: 20,000x Created for a worldwide player base, Pirate’s Fight for Fortune is perfectly optimized for play on both mobile and desktop platforms and has an RTP of 96.37%. Madelein Ozok, Head of Studio at Red Papaya, stated: "For Pirate’s Fight for Fortune, our goal was to merge a timeless high-seas setting with an advanced, multi-layered bonus framework. The game's premium artwork and captivating sound design also contribute to a compelling narrative that we are aware players enjoy. “By implementing a persistent collection feature that increases anticipation with each spin, and providing three different tiers of bonus gameplay coupled with a huge 20,000x Grand Jackpot, we have developed a highly engaging product that distinguishes itself in any operator's portfolio." Technical Specifications: RTP: 96.37% Volatility: Medium Max Win: 20,000x Hit Frequency: 27.19% Layout: 5×4 Reels, 40 Fixed Paylines Bet Range: 0.20 – 12.50 This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

SpinsFriends Collaborates with NetRefer for Its Affiliate Marketing Platform

(AsiaGameHub) -   SpinsFriends, an online casino brand specializing in slots, has entered into a partnership with NetRefer, a leading data-driven, AI-powered affiliate marketing platform. This collaboration will be instrumental in powering and managing SpinsFriends' affiliate program as the brand expands its reach within regulated European markets. SpinsFriends is dedicated to providing a slots-centric gaming experience, emphasizing engaging gameplay and rewarding mechanics. Operated by BALTENT, the brand prioritizes free spins, continuous promotions, and a user-friendly journey, aiming to attract and retain players with a dynamic and accessible offering. The platform boasts a comprehensive selection of slot titles, complemented by classic table games and live casino options. Its two brands, Spins and Aladins, contribute to a varied and captivating gaming environment, ensuring SpinsFriends can cater to diverse player preferences while maintaining a consistent, entertainment-focused experience. Operating within regulated jurisdictions, SpinsFriends adheres to established standards for compliance, transparency, and responsible gaming. These principles are central to the operator's approach, underpinning the standards that guide its ongoing expansion. Affiliate marketing is a crucial component of SpinsFriends' growth strategy. By choosing NetRefer, the operator gains access to a platform designed for clear performance metrics, dependable tracking, and efficient partner management, empowering the team to monitor affiliate activities and optimize program performance. Through NetRefer’s Data Ingestion API, SpinsFriends benefits from a streamlined and structured data transfer process, enabling accurate tracking and real-time insights into affiliate activities. This integration facilitates efficient data management while retaining the flexibility needed to scale operations as the program grows. In addition to these integrations, NetRefer's comprehensive ecosystem offers further capabilities to support the scaling of affiliate program performance. Solutions like NetRefer’s BI Analytics solution and the Report Builder provide advanced, customizable reporting. NetRefer CoPilot AI enhances access to performance insights and operational knowledge through intelligent, data-driven assistance. Enhanced Tracking further improves visibility into traffic quality by combining Bot Detection and User Agent Details for deeper insights into user behavior. Artūrs Sarma, CEO and Founder at BALTENT, stated, “NetRefer already had an existing integration with our platform provider, which made the decision straightforward and allowed us to move quickly with the setup. As we scale, having clear reporting and flexible commission structures is important, and the platform gives us the tools to manage our affiliate programme in a structured and efficient way. The onboarding process was well supported, and the team guided us through each step, which made the overall experience smooth.” Yuliia Borshch, NetRefer’s dedicated Account Manager for SpinsFriends, commented, “SpinsFriends is a brand with a clear focus on building a structured and scalable affiliate programme, and we’re pleased to support that with technology designed to deliver both clarity and flexibility. Our platform provides the tools needed to manage performance with confidence, maintain transparency across its affiliate programme, and adapt as requirements evolve. We look forward to working closely with their team as they continue to grow.” As SpinsFriends continues to expand its presence in regulated markets, the partnership with NetRefer provides the necessary technology and operational foundation to support the growth of its affiliate program. With enhanced performance visibility, scalable infrastructure, and improved insight and reporting capabilities, the operator is well-positioned to strengthen its partner network and achieve sustainable growth. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

品創控股深化AI產業佈局 賽博幻境回聲生態戰略全球啟動

香港, 2026年4月15日 - (亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com) - 品創控股有限公司(「品創控股」或「公司」,連同其附屬公司統稱為「集團」;股份代號:8066)欣然宣佈,集團全資附屬公司賽博幻境(香港)有限公司(「賽博幻境」)於今日隆重舉行《語音 AI 之 Echo 生態戰略全球啟幕盛典》,正式啟動其全球語音 AI 回聲生態系統(Echo Ecosystem,「回聲生態」)戰略,構建從語音數據採集、處理到商業應用的全鏈路閉環。此舉標誌著集團在人工智能語音數據服務領域的戰略佈局邁入全新階段,為集團深化 AI 業務轉型、打造長效增長曲線奠定堅實基礎。針對語音數據採集規模、質量與多樣性的行業困境,賽博幻境創造性推出區塊鏈遊戲與語音數據採集相結合的全新模式。用戶參與遊戲時,完成指定文本的語音錄製任務,既可享受遊戲樂趣,亦可獲得代幣激勵。該「遊戲化採集」模式,可大規模、高效率獲取覆蓋不同年齡、地域、口音與情感表達的真人語音數據,為構建多元化聲音數據庫提供穩定持續的來源。採集完成後,回聲平台透過專業清洗、標註與分類處理,將原始語音轉化為可直接用於 AI 訓練的結構化聲音數據庫。相關數據庫於 AI 數據市場以回聲代幣交易,供全球開發者及企業採購使用,形成「用戶參與採集 — 獲取代幣激勵 — 數據加工處理 — 市場交易流通 — 產業應用賦能」的完整價值鏈閉環。該模式不僅大幅降低語音 AI 開發門檻,更讓數據貢獻者、開發者及終端用戶共享語音 AI 發展所帶來的裨益。「語音 AI 不僅是技術,更是未來數字世界的入口。」賽博幻境首席執行官郭曉鵬先生在盛典上表示,「回聲生態致力於構建語音 AI 時代的基礎設施,透過去中心化的數據採集網絡和開放的聲音數據庫市場,我們將為全球 AI 開發者提供最豐富、最優質的聲音數據資源,推動語音 AI 技術在各行各業的快速落地和應用創新。」當前,人工智能技術加速滲透各行各業,人機對話已成為 AI 應用場景的核心交互方式。語音 AI 技術作為 AI 智能體不可或缺的組成部分,正成為連接人類與數字世界的入口。高品質、多元化的聲音數據庫是 AI 智能體強化訓練的核心基礎,語音 AI 技術發展已進入「數據驅動」新階段,優質聲音數據庫不僅可顯著提升語音合成的情感表現力、語音識別的場景適應性與對話系統的個性化能力,更成為語音 AI 產業發展的核心競爭力與先發優勢所在。品創控股銳意推動業務多元化佈局,把握數字經濟與人工智能產業的蓬勃商機,並憑藉前瞻性轉型,成功構建「私域電商營運 + AI 技術服務」雙輪驅動的業務架構。本次回聲生態全球啟動,是集團深化 AI 業務佈局、推動主營業務向 AI 數據服務轉型的關鍵里程碑。展望未來,集團將以賽博幻境為核心載體,持續深耕語音 AI 技術研發,拓展生態合作網絡,推動技術在智能客服、數字人、元宇宙、智能汽車等前沿領域深度融合;同時深化兩大業務協同效應,強化核心競爭力,推動業務高質量發展,把握全球 AI 產業廣闊機遇,致力為股東創造可持續長期回報。圖片說明 賽博幻境首席執行官郭曉鵬先生講解去中心化語音網絡的價值實現,彰顯品創控股推動語音 AI 技術在各行各業的快速落地和應用創新的決心。關於品創控股有限公司品創控股有限公司的使命是妥善運用公司所獲得的資本與獨特投資機會,為股東提供穩定的優渥收入與獲利。品創控股由六個主要事業部門組成,包括智能卡製造服務、電子商務、人工智能、投資服務、資源回收投資與媒體與娛樂投資,主要業務為生產及銷售智能卡、提供定製智能卡應用系統、私域電子商務平台營運、人工智能語音技術數據服務、提供財務及管理諮詢服務、廢舊金屬銷售及貿易、以及媒體與娛樂行業之投資。公司的總部位於香港,旗下控股公司與投資則遍佈大中華地區。關於賽博幻境(香港)有限公司賽博幻境(香港)有限公司是品創控股有限公司的全資子公司,專注於語音人工智能技術的研發與應用。賽博幻境致力於通過創新的生態模式,打造從數據采集、處理到商業落地的全鏈條語音AI解決方案,助力全球智能語音產業的發展。 Copyright 2026 亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

營收1648.9億創新高 MSCI ESG評級AAA 賽力斯彰顯豪華新能源車企硬核實力

香港, 2026年4月15日 - (亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com) - 近日,中國領先的豪華新能源汽車企業賽力斯(9927.HK)正式發佈2025年度業績報告。報告期內,公司堅守技術創新戰略,持續完善高端產品矩陣佈局,扎實推進可持續發展實踐,深耕豪華新能源汽車賽道,為市場與投資者交出一份亮眼成績單,充分彰顯中國豪華新能源車企強勁的發展韌性與核心競爭優勢。數據顯示,2025年賽力斯實現營業收入約人民幣1648.9億元,同比增長13.63%;歸屬于上市公司股東的淨利潤約人民幣59.6億元,營收規模再創歷史新高,並連續兩年實現盈利,成功達成營收與利潤雙增長、規模與質量雙提升,標誌著公司正式邁入高質量穩健發展新階段,發展根基持續夯實。從營收規模看,賽力斯營收突破1600億元大關,同比保持兩位數增速,顯著領先行業平均水平,展現出強大的市場號召力與品牌影響力;從盈利表現看,公司連續兩年實現盈利,淨利潤穩步增長,盈利能力持續優化,盈利質量顯著提升。技術創新為核,核心競爭優勢持續凸顯雄厚的技術實力,是賽力斯實現穩健增長的核心引擎與立身之本。2025年,公司持續加大研發投入,全年研發費用達125.1億元,同比增長77.4%,研發投入強度與增速均位居行業前列。與此同時,賽力斯堅定推進「增程與純電雙線並行」戰略佈局,報告期內公司增程業務以37.5%的市占率位居中國市場首位;純電車型銷售占比亦持續提升,產品矩陣不斷豐富,全面覆蓋多元細分市場需求,進一步擴大市場領先份額。增程與純電協同發展,既有效破解用戶里程焦慮,精准契合當前新能源汽車消費核心需求,也推動公司技術研發全面升級,助力構建多元化產品優勢,形成差異化競爭格局,持續鞏固在豪華新能源賽道的領先地位,為營收與利潤增長提供堅實支撐。智能輔助駕駛是賽力斯技術創新的另一重要突破口,亦是品牌高端化與智能化實力的關鍵體現。2025年,問界系列累計新增智能輔助駕駛里程38億公里,智能輔助駕駛活躍用戶占比高達95.4%,用戶使用率與信賴度持續攀升;2026年春節期間,問界M9智能輔助駕駛里程占比達51.9%,精准解決長途擁堵疲勞、泊車困難等核心用車痛點。賽力斯在智能輔助駕駛領域的突破,不僅推動產品體驗迭代升級,讓智能科技切實服務於用戶出行,更強化了「軟件定義汽車」的技術標簽,彰顯中國豪華新能源車企在智能化領域的創新實力,為市場拓展與業績增長注入持續動力。ESG賦能高質量發展,堅守可持續發展初心完善的ESG管理體系,是賽力斯實現高質量發展的重要支撐,也是企業踐行社會責任、提升全球競爭力的核心底氣。2025年,賽力斯持續深化ESG治理,將可持續發展理念深度融入生產經營、研發創新、供應鏈管理全流程。與此同時,公司積極推進數字化能源管理系統落地與零碳智慧物流港建設,單車碳排放強度同比下降18.92%;同時聯合供應鏈夥伴發起綠色倡議,開展核心供應鏈碳足跡溯源工作。憑藉扎實的ESG實踐與突出的可持續發展成效,公司獲明晟(MSCI)ESG最高AAA評級,躋身全球新能源車企ESG領先陣營,進一步提升品牌美譽度與行業影響力,為企業長期穩健發展注入持久動能。以技術創新鑄核心競爭力,以ESG實踐賦能長期發展,以優質產品立足高端市場,賽力斯2025年交出一份兼具規模、效益與責任的優異答卷。未來,公司將堅定聚焦高端智能電動汽車主業,不斷加大研發投入,深化增程與純電雙輪驅動佈局,持續深耕豪華新能源賽道,書寫中國高端新能源汽車品牌高質量發展的嶄新篇章。 Copyright 2026 亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

克拉肯报告保密IPO申告,股价下跌至13.3亿元美元

重點摘要 Kraken在華盛頓舉辦的Semafor世界經濟論壇上確認已保密提交IPO申請。 4月的融資對Kraken的估值為133億美元,較2025年底200億美元的峰值有所下滑。 Deutsche Börse同意以2億美元收購Payward 1.5%的全稀釋股權。 Kraken表示,兩起涉及內部客服人員的事件影響了約2000個帳戶。 Kraken獲得了堪薩斯城聯邦儲備銀行的主帳戶,可透過Fedwire直接進行美元結算。 (SeaPRwire) -   Kraken確認已保密提交IPO申請,距離上市又近了一步。這一消息公佈之際,這家加密貨幣交易所4月融資輪的估值為133億美元,低於Kraken 2025年底公佈的200億美元峰值估值。 估值下滑之際Kraken確認提交IPO申請 聯合執行長Arjun Sethi周二於華盛頓特區舉辦的Semafor世界經濟論壇上確認了提交申請一事。他表示Kraken已「保密提交」首次公開發行申請,這份聲明證實了此前有關其重啟上市計劃的報導。 Semafor報導稱,4月融資輪對Kraken的估值為133億美元,較2025年底公佈的200億美元峰值有所下降。該輪融資獲得了Citadel Securities及其他投資者的支持。 KRAKEN估值為133億美元。 Deutsche Börse——歐洲最大的證券交易所運營商——剛剛收購了價值2億美元的股份。雙方合作涵蓋機構客戶的交易、託管、結算及代幣化資產業務。 正是這家Kraken成為首家比特幣與加密貨幣企業… pic.twitter.com/xJw2BZFNqh — Bitcoin Archive (@BitcoinArchive) 2026年4月14日 此前由於加密貨幣價格下跌、交易量萎縮,加上近期加密貨幣相關企業上市後股價表現疲軟,Kraken曾暫停IPO計劃,但該公司從未排除未來上市的可能性。 Sethi表示Kraken希望讓散戶用戶能夠更廣泛地使用高階交易產品,他將這一目標與Jane Street和JPMorgan Chase提供的服務相類比,這一說法將Kraken的散戶業務拓展與機構常用的工具關聯了起來。 Deutsche Börse擴大合作關係,Kraken拓寬市場接入渠道 Deutsche Börse表示將透過二級市場股份收購的方式向Kraken投資2億美元,該交易將使其獲得Payward 1.5%的全稀釋股權,預計將於2026年第二季度完成。 這筆投資擴大了雙方2025年12月宣佈的合作關係,兩家企業正在開發受監管的加密貨幣交易及衍生品業務,同時也提及了代幣化資產與機構流動性服務相關業務。 Kraken同時也獲得了堪薩斯城聯邦儲備銀行的主帳戶,該帳戶可直接接入包括Fedwire在內的美國支付體系,讓Kraken無需透過中介銀行即可完成美元結算。 該帳戶不具備儲備金計息或聯邦儲備貸款使用權限,儘管如此,它仍為Kraken提供了另一條美元結算通路,這是該交易所擴大其金融基礎設施佈局的一項進展。 內部人員事件引發勒索企圖 Kraken表示,兩起涉及內部人員的事件中,客服人員存取了有限的客戶數據,約2000個帳戶(佔比0.02%)受到影響,該公司稱沒有客戶資金或交易系統遭到入侵。 這些事件引發了一個犯罪團夥的勒索企圖,Kraken表示該團夥聲稱擁有內部視頻,該交易所稱其拒絕支付贖金。 Kraken已撤銷了相關人員的存取權限並確認了涉事人員身份,同時也通知了受影響用戶並聯繫了執法部門,該公司表示正在強化內部控管機制。 Galaxy Digital通報了另一起網絡事件,其開發環境遭到未授權存取,該公司稱沒有客戶數據或資金受到影響。這些案例顯示加密貨幣企業整體仍持續面臨安全壓力。本文由第三方廠商內容提供者提供。SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/)對此不作任何保證或陳述。 分類: 頭條新聞,日常新聞 SeaPRwire為公司和機構提供全球新聞稿發佈,覆蓋超過6,500個媒體庫、86,000名編輯和記者,以及350萬以上終端桌面和手機App。SeaPRwire支持英、日、德、韓、法、俄、印尼、馬來、越南、中文等多種語言新聞稿發佈。

ASEAN Enterprises Move from AI Experiments to Engineering-Driven Deployment

SINGAPORE, Apr 15, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - As artificial intelligence adoption accelerates across Southeast Asia, enterprises across the ASEAN region are increasingly establishing structured AI engineering practices to move from experimentation to production-scale deployment.According to Joseph Bosco, Partner Manager, APJ - Prof Services at Databricks, organisations across ASEAN are recognising that sustainable AI adoption depends not only on advanced models but also on robust engineering foundations that ensure reliability, governance and operational scalability.“The early phase of AI adoption focused heavily on experimentation and proofs of concept,” Bosco said. “Across Southeast Asia we are now seeing a shift towards AI engineering practices that prioritise data quality, governance and production readiness.”Markets such as Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand are witnessing strong momentum in enterprise AI adoption as organisations modernise their data infrastructure and invest in advanced analytics capabilities.Industry experts note that AI engineering is becoming a critical discipline that connects AI innovation with enterprise operations. This includes building scalable data pipelines, managing machine learning lifecycle processes and integrating AI systems into business workflows.“Building a model is only one part of the challenge,” Bosco said. “The real work lies in creating reliable data pipelines, managing model lifecycle and embedding AI into operational systems.”Across ASEAN, many enterprises continue to manage complex data environments spanning legacy systems, multiple cloud platforms and software-as-a-service applications. Consolidating these fragmented data sources into unified platforms is increasingly seen as a prerequisite for scaling AI initiatives.Technology partners and consulting firms across the region are responding by developing dedicated AI engineering practices that combine expertise in data engineering, machine learning, generative AI and governance frameworks.These capabilities are already being applied across key sectors including financial services, telecommunications, and manufacturing.Bosco noted that Southeast Asia’s rapidly expanding data economies are creating a particularly dynamic environment for AI engineering talent and innovation.“As organisations across ASEAN continue to invest in data transformation, AI engineering will become an essential capability that enables enterprises to operationalise AI safely and effectively,” he said. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Sorare Launches New Referral System for Stellar Nights

(AsiaGameHub) -   Sorare has introduced a new referral program for Stellar Nights, providing a novel growth mechanism for the free-to-play aspect of Sorare 26. Rather than incentivizing basic registrations, Sorare now links rewards to the actual advancement of invited players within the set. Good to Know Sorare now rewards players for bringing friends into Stellar Nights. Rewards grow as referred players level up inside the set. Stellar Nights remains part of the free to play football offering in Sorare 26. INVITE YOUR FRIENDS ON STELLAR SET & GET REWARDED The Stellar Set referral system is LIVE Bring your friends in, help them level up, and stack rewards: Gold Wheel spins Stellar Essence Stellar Cards Up to 150 GemsDon’t miss out! — Sorare (@Sorare) April 13, 2026 Sorare Ties Rewards to Real Activity The new system is designed around user engagement, moving beyond simple player acquisition. Those who invite friends to Stellar Nights can earn Gold Wheel spins, Stellar Essence, Stellar Cards, and up to 150 Gems, but these are unlocked progressively as their referrals continue to play and increase their levels.This structure distinguishes the feature from previous referral offers. By using player progression as the key trigger, it is better suited to free-to-play users who might not make any purchases. Stellar Nights debuted in late March 2026 as the current football set within Sorare's Set mode. It was established as an additional game layer, featuring up to eight card variations and scoring bonuses based on card editions. Prize pools can hit $1,000 per set, and Stellar Nights also marked the first Sorare Set to incorporate a signed card. Entry is free, with players receiving starter cards and advancing through six tiers by constructing lineups and moving up leaderboards. The inclusion of Premier League clubs helps maintain the format's prominence during the final phase of the European football season. Stellar Essence is the core resource in this economy. Players spend it to unlock cards and continue their progression within the set. Gems function as a premium currency throughout the broader Sorare platform. Gold Wheel spins grant access to the Sorare Wheel, where players can win cards, Essence, and other in-game items. A Golden Spin with improved odds is awarded after every 10 regular spins. While Sorare has employed referral systems in the past, earlier iterations were more focused on purchasing activity. During the wider Sorare 26 season, new users who signed up via a referral link and purchased five cards from new card auctions were eligible for market credits. Stellar Nights adopts a different approach by incentivizing ongoing gameplay within the set instead of a single purchase. Sorare continues to operate its blockchain-based fantasy sports platform for football, NBA, and MLB. Cards are issued as NFTs on the Ethereum blockchain and are available in four scarcity tiers: Limited, Rare, Super Rare, and Unique. Platform-wide, users assemble five-player lineups based on real-world athlete performances and compete for cards, Essence, or cash prizes, depending on the specific game mode. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Illinois casino earnings rise 7.1% in March, reaching $183.1 million

(AsiaGameHub) -   Illinois commercial casinos generated $183.1 million in March, marking another strong month for the state’s early 2026 performance. The latest data shows widespread growth, with newer casino properties continuing to boost overall revenue while top-performing venues maintained their leading positions. Good to Know Illinois casino revenue totaled $183.1 million in March, marking a 7.1% year-over-year increase. Slot machines brought in $140.7 million, while table games contributed $42.4 million in revenue. Hollywood Casino Joliet saw the largest revenue surge, climbing 56%. Newer Casino Properties Continue to Fuel Revenue Growth Slot machines once again accounted for the majority of revenue, generating $140.7 million, a 6.6% year-over-year rise. Table games saw an even faster climb, jumping 9.1% to reach $42.4 million. March typically boosts casino foot traffic regardless, as NCAA Tournament betting interest, leisure travel, and seasonal visitor trends all draw more people through casino doors. Leading the market, Rivers Casino Des Plaines stayed well ahead of peers with $44.6 million in total revenue, split into $28.6 million from slots and $16 million from table games. Wind Creek Chicago Southland followed with $22 million in revenue. Hard Rock Casino Rockford posted $13.4 million, while Grand Victoria Casino totaled $13.2 million. Hollywood Casino Joliet stood out most notably. After transitioning to a fully land-based facility in August 2025, the property generated $12.4 million in March, a 56% year-over-year increase. Wind Creek Southland also built on its April 2025 resort opening, seeing revenue rise 30.6%. Walkers Bluff posted a 10.4% gain as well. Not every casino saw growth, however. Harrah’s Metropolis fell 11.8% to $4.8 million. Harrah’s Joliet dropped 8%, and Par A Dice Hotel Casino slipped 3.7%. Older properties have faced heightened pressure as newer and expanded venues continue to draw customers in Illinois’s increasingly crowded casino market. Illinois has rapidly expanded its casino capacity since the 2019 gambling expansion law opened the door for new casinos and property upgrades. March’s figures show these investments are still paying off. Illinois Gaming Board data covers only commercial casinos, and does not include sports betting or video gaming terminal revenue. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Tether Introduces Direct Self-Custody Wallet: tether.wallet

(AsiaGameHub) -   Tether has introduced tether.wallet, a self-custodial solution that provides users with direct access to Bitcoin, stablecoins, and tokenized gold within a single platform. Key Highlights Tether has debuted a self-custodial wallet named tether.wallet. At launch, the application supports USD₮, USA₮, XAU₮, and Bitcoin. Transactions can be completed using simple handles instead of complex wallet addresses. Tether Expands Into Direct-to-Consumer Wallets Having established itself as the foundational infrastructure for the digital asset economy, Tether is now connecting directly with end users through tether.wallet. This new product is designed to simplify the storage, transfer, and payment of cryptocurrencies. The wallet allows for the management of USD₮, USA₮, XAU₮, and Bitcoin across multiple networks. Tether noted that users can cover transaction fees using the specific asset they are sending, resolving a major pain point in the crypto space. Furthermore, instead of utilizing long wallet strings, users can transfer funds via human-readable identifiers, such as name@tether.me. According to Tether, the application prioritizes user control. Private keys and recovery phrases remain with the owner, and transactions are signed locally on the device prior to being broadcast.Tether also emphasized its global impact during the launch. The firm stated that its technology is currently utilized by more than 570 million people worldwide, with tens of millions of new wallets being added every quarter. “Tether has achieved, without any doubts, the widest financial inclusion success story in the history of humanity,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. “With more than 570 million people already using Tether’s technology, the next step is making that digital infrastructure even more accessible and usable by the end users. The objective is to remove the complexity that has prevented broader adoption while preserving the properties that make the digital assets technology valuable. Users should be able to send value as easily as sending a message, without relying on intermediaries and without giving up control of their assets. tether.wallet is “the People’s Wallet” because it truly reflects the natural evolution of Tether’s role, from building the foundation of the digital asset economy to making it directly usable by anyone, ready for a future in which tens of billions of humans, machines, and trillions of AI agents will transact seamlessly at the speed of light.” tether.wallet is powered by Tether’s open-source Wallet Development Kit. At its release, it supports USD₮ and XAU₮ on Ethereum, Polygon, Plasma, and Arbitrum; USA₮ on Ethereum; and Bitcoin through both on-chain and Lightning Network options. Tether intends to integrate additional blockchains in the future. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.