ENJOY Gaming broadens its fiesta-themed franchise with 3 Super Mariachi: Hold and Win

(AsiaGameHub) -   Fresh mechanics, including stacked bonuses and a new Wheel feature, inject new life into the returning mariachi trio The dynamic iGaming content developer ENJOY has released 3 Super Mariachi: Hold and Win, a new sequel that introduces original features to the well-liked franchise. This follow-up retains the colourful symbols, energetic soundtrack, and smooth animations that players appreciate, all while adding a vibrant 5×3 grid with 25 paylines to improve each spin filled with fiesta fun. Central to the gameplay is the Wheel feature positioned above the reels. Landing a sufficient number of special symbols triggers the Wheel, which can grant an additional Hold and Win feature—such as Multi, Mystery, or Collect—one of the fixed Jackpots, or a Coin Boost that raises the value of Bonus symbols. A single spin can also instantly transition the gameplay into a high-energy bonus round. Within the Hold and Win Bonus Game, players can encounter seven different variations of the feature. A major enhancement over the original is that additional modes can trigger either before the bonus starts or mid-round, enabling multiple features to combine and transform modest coin wins into significantly larger payouts. There are five fixed Jackpots in the game: Mini, Minor, Major, Grand, and the highest-tier Royal Jackpot, which awards up to 10,000x the bet when the entire grid is covered with Bonus symbols. Bonus Buy options are available for players seeking instant excitement, providing direct access to either the Bonus or Super Bonus Game. 3 Super Mariachi adds greater variety, unexpected moments, and fiesta excitement to the series, reinforcing ENJOY's dedication to creating lively, feature-packed games that attract both players and operators. Svitlana Lytvinenko, Product Owner at ENJOY Gaming, said: “Our objective with 3 Super Mariachi was to preserve the celebratory atmosphere players adore while incorporating new elements of surprise via the Wheel feature and broader Hold & Win modes. “These layered features, together with multiple jackpots, produce a dynamic, fast-paced experience that maintains the festive feeling on every spin.” 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.

BC.GAME unveils BC Engine, bringing a perpetual rewards system fueled by $BC

(AsiaGameHub) -   New system allows players to earn ongoing rewards from gameplay, with no minimum thresholds or tier requirementsGlobal crypto gaming platform BC.GAME has introduced BC Engine, a novel rewards mechanism designed to provide players with continuous value from their platform activities.This update implements a model inspired by crypto staking, enabling players to accrue rewards after receiving the platform's native token, $BC.Within the new framework, players earn $BC through wagering as they normally would. However, instead of serving as a one-time incentive, the token is automatically directed into BC Engine, where it contributes to ongoing reward distributions.These rewards are disbursed hourly in BCD, BC.GAME's USD-pegged token, with the distribution amount for each player determined by their $BC balance at the time of payout.The objective of this change is to enhance reward consistency and transparency, more directly linking player engagement to returned value. The model also aligns reward funding more closely with actual gaming performance, rather than relying predominantly on promotional expenditures.Crucially, BC Engine is accessible to all players from the outset. There are no tier prerequisites or minimum wagering thresholds, meaning users can begin earning rewards from their very first bet.In addition to BC Engine, the platform has rolled out further enhancements to its rewards program, including a Welcome Shield protection feature for new users, alongside updated daily, weekly, and monthly rewards.This launch coincides with BC.GAME's ongoing expansion into regulated markets, where the company is increasing its focus on compliance, local collaborations, and sustainable long-term growth. Recent adjustments have seen the platform adapt its offerings to better align with jurisdictional mandates, aiming to solidify its standing in licensed environments while continuing to serve its global crypto user base.Kar Kheng Giam, Chief Executive Officer of BC.GAME, stated: “Our aim is for rewards to be simpler, more immediate, and more sustainable. Players should experience value from the moment they begin playing, without the need to achieve specific milestones first.”“Through BC Engine, $BC plays a continuous role in how players are rewarded on the platform.”The new features are now operational across various markets, with availability contingent on local regulations. 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.

BGaming’s Fishing Club 2 Offers Enhanced Fishing Experience with New Features

(AsiaGameHub) -   Popular iGaming content provider BGaming is aiming to secure significant wins once again with Fishing Club 2, the follow-up to one of the company’s most successful #Casual titles. Players will find themselves by the side of a picturesque lake, casting their lines into the water to see what lucrative catches they can make. The game is presented from a first-person perspective, fully immersing players in the action and replicating the tranquil ambiance of a real fishing excursion. BGaming has incorporated player feedback from the original game, offering enhanced flexibility in how players approach Fishing Club 2. Players can choose to fish at three distinct locations, set during dawn, dusk, and twilight. This variety ensures each gaming session feels unique and allows players to select the atmosphere that best suits their preferences. The new Fishing Club game features two bonus rounds. The Fishing Net bonus, which can be activated for a payout of ×60 the player’s stake, casts a wide net for potential winnings. Meanwhile, the TNT Bonus, offering a reward of ×100 the stake, triggers a powerful explosion in the water. Both of these bonuses can be purchased directly using the Buy Bonus button and guarantee a win. A skilled angler always keeps track of their achievements, and this game allows players to monitor their successes with the familiar Best Win and Best Catch features. These displays showcase the highest single-spin win value and the largest multipliers achieved. Vasili Pauliuchenko, Game Producer at BGaming, stated, “The original Fishing Club title is among BGaming’s most cherished #Casual games by our players. After carefully considering their feedback, we are inviting them back to the open waters in Fishing Club 2 with several key enhancements.  We are committed to giving our players greater agency over their gameplay, and this is fully evident in Fishing Club 2. They have the freedom to choose when and where they fish, as well as the tools they employ for the most successful angling. We are confident that this level of personalization will resonate strongly with both existing fans of the series and newcomers alike.” 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.

75%的Z世代將坐辦公室的工作與職業倦怠和不穩定畫上等號 —— 每4人中就有1人選擇從事技術工種

(SeaPRwire) -   辦公室工作曾是穩定薪資、工作保障和可建立一生的事業的黃金標準。但 Z 世代已不再確定。他們看著千禧世代做對了所有事,卻仍然身心俱疲、負債累累或被裁員。更糟的是,他們不斷被警告,AI 將在未來十年內取代所有辦公室工作。 現在,四分之三的 Z 世代實際上將辦公室工作與職業倦怠和不穩定聯繫在一起——而 SupplyHouse 的一項獨家研究顯示,他們已厭倦假裝下去。 近四分之一的人已經認真考慮或正在積極追求貿易行業的職業。 這可能是數十年來最大的世代職業轉變,由經濟焦慮、學生債務和 TikTok 驅動,Z 世代正將筆記型電腦換成工具箱——而且他們不會回頭。 TikTok 是新的職業顧問——它正將 Z 世代引向貿易行業 一半的 Z 世代表示,他們對成為焊工、電工、水管工等的興趣始於社交媒體。TikTok 是 Z 世代發現貿易職業的首要平台,其中三分之一的人在那裡觀看貿易相關內容——並被吸引。這並不難理解。 貿易行業的影響者們獲得了數百萬次的觀看,展示了技術勞動如何提供許多入門級辦公室職位無法比擬的自主性、財務安全和工作與生活的平衡。 以 Chase Gallagher 為例。12 歲時,他在 2013 年夏天開始為鄰居割草,每次收費 35 美元。到 16 歲時,Gallagher 的收入已超過 5 萬美元。現在,他的景觀美化業務年收入達數百萬美元——他正在網上分享他的成功。 同時,他們也看到 TikTok 上受過大學教育的千禧世代抱怨他們的辦公室工作薪水不足以讓他們搬出父母的房間。而 Z 世代畢業生則不斷發布關於將數千份工作申請發送進虛空的消息,因為 AI 正在抹去入門級工作。 一位有數學學位的 Z 世代人士感嘆道:「感覺就像你只是在徒勞無功。」 因此,78% 的 Z 世代認為技術貿易行業比白領職業更不容易受到 AI 干擾,這或許並不令人意外。 建築工地的草不一定更綠 儘管有熱議,但貿易工作的現實並不總是能達到 TikTok 的炒作水平。近三分之一的 Z 世代(30%)表示,他們的父母、老師或輔導員曾勸阻他們從事貿易職業。他們或許有他們的道理。 Yijin Hardware 分析了基於致命傷害率、預計職缺(2023 至 2033 年)、中位數工資和教育要求的職位——而排名第一的是辦公室行政和支援職位。研究人員還發現,對於非大學畢業生來說,貿易工作是最「危險」的工作之一——伐木、狩獵、捕魚和廢物處理的工傷死亡率最高,加上不可預測的工作條件和有限的機會。沒有一個入門級辦公室工作出現在他們列表的最低排名中。 這並非首個表明 Z 世代可能對體力勞動抱有過度樂觀看法的研究。 根據另一項新的 WalletHub 2025 年美國最佳和最差入門級工作排名研究,貿易職位佔據了列表的底部。焊工、汽車修理工、鍋爐工和製圖員都因就業機會有限、增長潛力薄弱以及潛在的危險工作,而成為最不被看好的職業開端。 WalletHub 的分析師 Chip Lupo 告訴我們:「雖然貿易工作不像某些辦公室工作那樣容易自動化,但預製和機器人等新技術已經開始接管部分工作量,這可能會降低需求。」他們也不會免於大規模裁員,並且受利率和需求的影響。 更糟糕的是,很多貿易工作可能並不會讓 Z 世代比辦公室工作更快樂。 另一項研究將電工列為所有職業中最不快樂的工人。根據研究,這份工作體力要求高且每週工作 40 小時以上,僅「尚可」的薪資無法彌補。令人震驚的是,沒有一個貿易工作出現在最快樂的工作列表中。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。

特朗普2027年预算冒险:依赖乐观假设——如果这些假设不成立,美国将面临由高额利息成本驱动的财政危机

(SeaPRwire) -   美國的長期預算前景變得更加嚴峻。如果債券市場的監管者已經開始圍繞,並且他們正在尋找更多理由拋售美國債券並將美國國債收益率推至危機水平,那麼他們只需閱讀新發布的《2027財政年度美國政府預算》(始於2026年10月1日)。該文件由白宮行政管理和預算局(OMB)編制,要求大幅增加支出,主要是國防開支,並承諾通過經濟增長率和虛幻的節省來增加收入,以資助額外的支出。該文件的要求使本已危險的前景變得更加危險。原因如下:如果支出失控,並且抵消新增支出的樂觀假設未能實現,美國將更接近於由毀滅性的利息支出增加所引發的財政災難。 幾乎所有這些年度報告都對重要的預算類別進行了全面審查。每個政府都會尋求新的資金,並提議在不同類別中節省開支,並做出經濟預測。但OMB還提供了關於強制性支出和可自由支配支出、利息成本、債務和赤字的趨勢的預測和觀點,並警告如果美國走向財政危險區將面臨的危險。然而,本版沒有提及醫療保險(Medicare)和醫療補助(Medicaid),在其92頁的篇幅中,從未提及聯邦債務或赤字。相反,它非常不尋常,採取了極其狹窄的焦點。該報告只針對兩個主要領域。第一個是可自由支配支出,特朗普要求大幅增加國防部(Department of War)的預算,同時主張削減非國防可自由支配(NDD)類別的支出。第二個是關鍵指標的預測,如國內生產總值(GDP)和利率,這些是收入和支出方面的關鍵驅動因素。 該報告未能評估令人擔憂的大局,受到了無黨派的負責任聯邦預算委員會(Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, CRFB)的差評。該委員會主席Maya MacGuineas寫道,總統的預算未能履行其職責,即“制定一個可行的計劃,使我國的財政走上可持續的道路”,並補充說該計劃“支出龐大,細節稀少,並依賴於整個十年樂觀的財務預測。” 新增支出將是巨大的且已定型;用於支付這些費用的額外收入和削減是虛幻的 數學聽起來很簡單,乍一看似乎也說得通。特朗普的提案要求在2027財政年度將國防預算從目前的9500億美元增加到1.5萬億美元,外加每年2510億美元的額外基本支出。總而言之,從2026財政年度到2036財政年度,該項支出將比國會預算辦公室(Congressional Budget Office, CBO)目前的基準線高出3.5萬億美元。再加上總統希望在較小的非國防項目清單上再花費9000億美元,預計總支出增加將超過未來十年的預算4.5萬億美元。該藍圖還通過倡導在其他NDD領域削減8050億美元來表達負責任的態度,使淨支出增加達到3.62萬億美元(4.5萬億美元的總支出增長減去8050億美元的節省)。 該報告建議,這是一個容易應對的難題。它預計,未來十年總收入將比CBO預測的高出驚人的7.8萬億美元。由於這種激增將縮小年度赤字,我們還將節省2.54萬億美元的利息支出,使盈餘部分增加到10.3萬億美元。因此,儘管美國將增加3.62萬億美元的支出,但從現在到2036年,我們的總赤字將減少6.7萬億美元(10.3萬億美元的額外收入和較低的利息減去3.62萬億美元的新支出)。儘管OMB沒有提供債務數字,但CRFB能夠從該文件附件中的其他數字中得知,在白宮看來,到2036年,美國債務將降至GDP的94%,遠好於CBO預測的120%。 聽起來不錯,直到你審查了這些假設。OMB如何獲得近8萬億美元的收入意外之財?方法如下:它預計GDP年增長率為3.0%。這遠高於CBO和美聯儲分別預測的長期增長率1.8%和2.0%。CRFB駁斥了OMB的數字為“幻想”。那麼8050億美元的NDD削減呢?CBO已經預計未來十年這一部分總體僅增長微不足道的10%。但特朗普政府預計將在緊縮方面取得前所未有的成就。它要求每年削減2%,到2036年將NDD總體削減20%。這個計劃有多大的可行性?不大。過去十年,這一類別的支出約增長了40%,大致與通貨膨脹同步。10年後,NASA、退伍軍人醫療保健、國土安全部、環保局以及其他各種機構的支出真的會比今天少嗎?謹慎的預測表明,過去十年發生的事情——換句話說,大幅增長——很可能會重演。 第二個假設的資金來源,利息節省,來自兩個方面:由於這些可疑的GDP數字導致赤字大幅降低,以及為我們的債務融資的美國國債的利率遠低於預期。2027財政年度的文件預計,10年期國債收益率將從目前的4.4%降至2029年的3.4%,然後穩定在略低於該水平。相比之下,CBO的預測在整個十年內高出100個基點,為4.3%至4.4%。OMB還假設,關稅收入將保持在最高法院裁定大多數關稅非法之前的水平。 公平地說,沒有人真正相信2027財政年度描繪的美好未來。布魯金斯學會(Brookings Institution)預算和稅收研究員Jessica Riedl表示:“現實的解讀是,這是一項歷史性的國防支出增加,伴隨著虛假的支出和收入抵消。” Riedl表示,如果國會通過國防部增支的法案,並且國防支出獲得所要求的永久性增長,而NDD支出像過去一樣增長,那麼目前的高風險前景將會顯著惡化。“這意味著到2036年,年度赤字將超過4萬億美元,”Riedl說,她引用的數字幾乎比CBO目前預測的3.1萬億美元高出近30%。Riedl認為,債務將達到國民收入的137%,比該機構表格中2036年的數字高出17個百分點。 “這個數字完全不可持續,”她說,並警告支持將國防開支推向高潮的國會共和黨人。“他們不能成為無休止減稅、歷史性國防支出增加,同時又不觸及社會保障和醫療保險的政黨。總有些東西必須讓步,”Riedl說。通過做出必要、艱難的選擇來實現“讓步”的可能性越來越小。相反,不作為將會招致債券掠奪者——並引發一場無人能預測結局的危機,只知道結局將是糟糕的。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。

華營控股承建香港最大單體規模智算中心落成 鑄就智算基建新名片

香港, 2026年4月9日 - (亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com) - 華營建築集團控股有限公司(「華營控股」)傾力承建的香港單體規模最大環球智算中心近日正式落成啟用。這一工程的落地不僅刷新了浙建集團境外工程單體合同額最高紀錄,更標志著其「數據中心」産品綫邁入全新發展階段。自 1967 年創立以來,華營控股深耕香港建築市場近 60 載,正以數字基建爲核心賽道實現戰略轉型,而數據中心已成爲企業面向創新科技時代的全新名片。值此企業即將迎來2027年成立60周年里程碑之際,華營憑藉頂尖承建實力築牢香港數字經濟發展根基,穩居香港數據中心建設領域主要承建商之列,為香港建設國際創新科技中心、深度融入國家數字經濟發展戰略提供堅實算力支撐,亦為企業六十年發展征程寫下嶄新的時代注腳。本次落成的環球智算中心坐落于香港沙田火炭,項目合同金額超 42 億港幣,施工總工期 756 日。面對工期緊、惡劣天氣頻發、技術標準高、協同要求嚴等多重挑戰,華營控股憑藉逾半世紀積累的專業建造能力、嚴謹的項目管理體系與堅定的品質承諾,實現項目高標準、高質量按期交付,充分展現了華營控股在高端數據中心建設領域的核心優勢與行業領導力。項目建成後可支撑千億級參數大模型訓練與推理,將大幅提升香港高性能智算資源供給能力,推動人工智能、金融科技、智慧城市、生物醫藥等前沿領域産學研用協同創新,成爲香港數字經濟與新質生産力發展的關鍵算力基礎設施。從傳統建築領域到數字基建新賽道,華營控股的戰略轉型,既是順應國家數字經濟發展戰略與香港特區政府科創産業布局的必然選擇,更是企業憑藉前瞻視野與自主轉型能力,把握時代機遇的主動布局。隨著國家「十五五」規劃以及“双碳”目标的全面推進,數字經濟與新型基礎設施已成爲高質量發展核心引擎,香港特區政府亦持續推動數據中心、人工智能、算力基礎設施等戰略産業發展,爲數字基建建設提供了堅實政策支持與廣闊發展空間。在此背景下,華營控股將數據中心打造爲核心産品綫,歷經十餘年深耕布局,已形成從設計到建設、從傳統數據中心到高端智算中心的全流程承建能力,構建起覆蓋香港、服務大灣區、對接國家戰略的數字基建能力體系。自 2013 年布局數據中心領域以來,華營控股在該賽道持續深耕、成果豐碩,形成了豐富的項目交付經驗與技術積澱。2013 年起,華營控股先後完成鴨脷洲數據中心改建項目,為香港早期數字基建補位;打造中國聯通(環球)數據中心項目,搭建起「一带一路」跨境數字互聯互通的重要節點;承建嘉民集團一期及二期數據中心發展項目,以BIM(建築信息模型)技術加持,實現規模化、標準化數據中心的高效建造;落地萬國葵涌數據中心發展項目,打造全港首座自建數據中心,亦是首個最先進的三級資料中心,同時躋身亞洲最高的專用數據中心之列。直至 2026 年環球智算中心落成,華營控股在 2013-2026 年間完成了多個不同類型、不同定位的數據中心項目建設,逐步實現從數據中心承建商到高端智算基礎設施建設引領者的升級,成爲香港數字基建領域的核心建設力量。深耕香港近 60 載,華營控股始終立足本土、服務發展,作爲香港本地領先的建築承建商,華營控股不僅在數據中心等新基建領域成果斐然,更在公營房屋、商業樓宇、院校建設、酒店翻新等多個領域打造了衆多標杆項目,承建項目屢獲殊榮,以專業匠心鑄就了香港城市建設的重要篇章。而「數據中心」産品綫的崛起,以及在人工智能、信息化管理建築項目等方面的不斷創新,更是爲這家老牌建築企業注入了全新發展活力,實現了傳統建築業務與新型數字基建業務的協同發展。以環球智算中心落成爲新起點,即將迎來 60 周年發展的華營控股,將持續强化「數據中心」核心産品綫的戰略地位,加大在數字基建領域的技術研發與資源投入,不斷提升數據中心、智算中心等高階算力基礎設施的建設技術與服務水平。華營控股將繼續深化新基建領域的戰略布局,以專業的建造能力、創新的發展思路,推動香港數字基建高質量發展,助力香港更好融入國家發展大局,爲大灣區數字經濟協同發展、建設國際創新科技中心持續貢獻力量。未來,華營控股將以「厚積底蘊、厚發實績、厚植未來」的發展態勢,持續以數字基建賦能科創發展,讓數據中心這張新名片更加閃亮,在企業六十年發展的新起點上,書寫傳統建築企業向數字基建領軍企業轉型的全新篇章。華營控股承建的環球智算中心再次刷新集團境外工程單體合同額的最高記錄。此項目是由華營控股承建的香港單體規模最大環球智算中心,充分彰顯華營控股在深耕數據中心這一新基建領域的階段性成果。華營承建的萬國葵涌數據中心是全港首座自建數據中心,亦是首個最先進的三級資料中心,同時是亞洲最高的專用數據中心之一。   華營承建的另一個環球數據中心以國際標準建造,堪稱   中國「一帶一路」資訊基礎設施互聯的樞紐工程。關於華營建築集團控股有限公司華營建築集團控股有限公司於 1967 年在香港創立,深耕本地建築市場近 60 載,屬本地領先的建築承建商之一。華營控股在香港主要承接公私營機構的樓宇建築工程及RMAA工程項目。作為總承建商,華營控股負責(i)項目的整體管理;(ii)制定工作計劃;(iii)聘用分包商並監督其工程;(iv)採購建築材料;(v)與客戶及其顧問團隊溝通和協調;及(vi)保障符合安全、環境及其他合約要求。華營控股對外承接多項具代表性之工程項目,當中包括白田村第十三期公營房屋重建項目、啟德1E區1號公營房屋發展項目、運用組裝合成建築法(MiC)的洪水橋及荃灣聯仁街過渡性房屋項目、觀塘市中心第二及第三區住宅綜合發展項目、灣仔軒尼詩道1號(One Hennessy)、麗晶酒店翻新工程、多座數據中心、各大專院校,包括香港中文大學、香港科技大學和香港理工大學在內的教學及科研樓、宿舍等,所承建之項目屢獲殊榮。媒體聯繫Wendy Zhu 電話:+852 3950 5756 郵箱:media@czcgl.com.hk Copyright 2026 亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

NEC’s Automated Negotiation AI recognized as a Use Case in Gartner(R) Research

TOKYO, Japan, Apr 9, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation’s automated negotiation AI initiative has been named as a use case in "Deploy AI Agents in Procurement: A Roadmap to Success" (*1), a research report published by Gartner."This note gives CIOs and other executive leaders a roadmap for deploying machine buyers" "— machine customers that buy on behalf of organizations are an agentic AI capability set to transform internal supply chains and procurement, reducing procurement cycles from months to seconds."Under NEC’s "Client Zero" approach, where it positions itself as the first user of its own solutions, NEC is driving internal digital transformation (DX). As part of these efforts, NEC conducted pilot tests of its automated negotiation AI on the procurement systems of NEC Group companies with the goal of automating delivery schedule adjustments in the procurement of parts from suppliers (*2). Going forward, NEC will continue contributing to business transformation and the creation of new value through advanced AI technologies.Link to Gartner researchhttps://www.gartner.com/reprints/nec---japan---a?id=1-2N10UJ72&ct=260319&st=sb*This research will be available on the website above until June 19, 2026.(*1) Meghna Joshi, Don Scheibenreif. (March 13, 2026). "Deploy AI Agents in Procurement: A Roadmap to Success".Gartner, Inc.GARTNER is a trademark of Gartner, Inc. and its affiliates.Gartner does not endorse any company, vendor, product or service depicted in its publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s business and technology insights organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this publication, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.(*2) Press release: NEC Launches AI Agent Service in Japan to Automate Procurement Negotiations Using AIhttps://www.nec.com/en/press/202512/global_20251202_01.htmlAbout NECThe NEC Group leverages technology to create social value and promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. NEC Corporation was established in 1899. Today, the NEC Group’s approximately 110,000 employees utilize world-leading AI, security, and communications technologies to solve the most pressing needs of customers and society.For more information, please visit https://www.nec.com, and follow us on LinkedIn and YouTube. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Entain Aims for Three New Zealand Online Casino Licences

(AsiaGameHub) -   Although New Zealand has not yet opened its online casino market, Entain is already setting ambitious goals. The group is reportedly seeking three licences and aims to capture as much as 50% of the future market, according to Gambling News. Good to Know New Zealand intends to issue up to 15 online casino licences, with a restriction of no more than three licences per operator. The licensing process is anticipated to commence in July 2026, beginning with expressions of interest. Entain's strategy, as reported by Gambling News, involves bidding for three licences and targeting up to 50% of the market share. Entain Makes An Early New Zealand Grab The significant figure is not the number of licences Entain seeks, but rather the market share it aims to secure. According to Gambling News, the company is targeting up to half of New Zealand's future iGaming market as the country develops its online casino operator licensing system. This ambition aligns with the emerging regulations. The Department of Internal Affairs has stated that up to 15 licences will be made available, with each licence associated with a single brand, and no single company will be permitted to hold more than three. The process is scheduled to begin in July 2026, followed by an auction in September and the submission of full licence applications in October. Entain is not entering this market without prior experience. The group currently operates TAB in New Zealand, which holds exclusive rights for both retail and online sports and racing betting. This existing presence provides Entain with an established customer base and a more direct route for cross-selling casino products once the market opens. Gambling News has indicated that integrating sports, racing, and casino offerings under one umbrella is a core component of their strategy.The regulator's objective with the new framework is to prioritize consumer safety, uphold operator standards, and steer players away from offshore gambling sites. The Department of Internal Affairs has specified that licensed operators will be required to adhere to regulations concerning system integrity, player protection, and responsible gambling practices. Entain is positioning itself for this expansion from a position of financial strength. In its 2025 results announcement, the group reported total revenue of approximately $6.6 billion, with online net gaming revenue projected to increase by 5% to 7% on a constant currency basis. Furthermore, Gambling News reported that Entain's New Zealand operations experienced a 28% year-on-year 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.

PopOK Gaming Releases New Crash Game Matatu Juu

(AsiaGameHub) -   PopOK Gaming has expanded its collection with the debut of Matatu Juu, a new crash game. This title features rapid gameplay, a critical cashout moment, and a high-volatility structure centered on increasing multipliers. Good to Know Matatu Juu represents the latest crash game release from PopOK Gaming. The game boasts a maximum multiplier potential of 10,000x. PopOK Gaming confirms that the title is ready for operator integration. PopOK Gaming Advances Crash Gaming With Matatu Juu The game's primary appeal lies in its central mechanic: players observe a rising multiplier and must choose when to cash out before the round concludes. Delaying too long results in a crash and lost bets, while exiting at the optimal time secures the winnings. This standard mechanic features a significantly higher limit in this instance. PopOK Gaming notes that Matatu Juu offers multipliers reaching as high as 10,000x, appealing to players seeking greater upside and higher stakes in instant-win formats. PopOK Gaming went beyond just mechanics, setting the game within a vibrant urban environment drawn from Matatu culture. The studio explains that the design aims to mirror the pace and intensity of a hectic commute, providing a unique visual style compared to more minimalist crash games.User accessibility is also a key aspect of the release. PopOK Gaming states that the interface remains intuitive for beginners while maintaining the suspense and timing challenges that engage seasoned crash game players. This equilibrium is crucial in a genre driven by brief sessions and repeated rounds. For operators, the proposition is clear. Matatu Juu is marketed as a highly engaging release designed for demographics that favor crash games, instant-win mechanics, and social-style gaming experiences. Luiza Melikyan, Head of Business Development at PopOK Gaming, commented: “With Matatu Juu, our goal was to embody the spirit of a high-energy commute and transform that ‘on-the-go’ thrill into a lucrative gaming experience. By merging the straightforward nature of crash mechanics with the substantial 10,000x win possibility, we have developed a game that maintains player suspense from the opening moment to the end.” 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.

FanDuel Casino Unveils NBA Super Slam 2

(AsiaGameHub) -   FanDuel Casino has expanded its roster of exclusive NBA-themed offerings with the launch of NBA Super Slam 2. This new title comes after the first installment, which debuted in December 2024, and drops right ahead of the tip-off of the NBA Playoffs. Key Details NBA Super Slam 2 can be accessed exclusively on FanDuel Casino. White Hat developed this follow-up title in collaboration with the NBA. The game is currently active for users in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, West Virginia, and Ontario. FanDuel Casino Revives the NBA Super Slam Franchise Timing is a core focus of this launch. FanDuel Casino has rolled out NBA Super Slam 2 right as interest in the playoffs begins to ramp up, providing the platform with a basketball-themed slot game closely aligned with the NBA's annual schedule. The game's design heavily draws on in-arena game night aesthetics. Players are treated to a stadium backdrop, organ sound effects, and the recognizable shot clock buzzer as they spin for basketball-themed symbols linked to cash rewards. Rather than just replicating the first title, the sequel introduces new symbols, collection mechanics, and multipliers. Exclusivity also forms a major part of the offering's selling point. NBA Super Slam 2 is only available on FanDuel Casino, which gives the operator another branded content asset built around a leading U.S. sports league. White Hat developed the game, and the title was produced in partnership with the NBA. This official association keeps the product closely tied to official league branding while providing FanDuel Casino another sports-focused release targeted at players who already engage with basketball-related content. The launch spans a wide cross-regional multi-market footprint. NBA Super Slam 2 is now available to play in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, West Virginia, and Ontario. 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.

Gods Unchained schedules Battle Pass Season 13 to begin on April 15

(AsiaGameHub) -   Gods Unchained is preparing to launch another Battle Pass cycle, but the main draw is not the launch date itself—it’s content access. All 18 new cards for Season 13 are locked exclusively behind the pass, so any player working to complete the full Spoils of War set will need to participate in the event. Good to Know Battle Pass Season 13 kicks off on April 15. The season’s set features 18 exclusive new cards only obtainable through the Battle Pass. Players can select between two options: a 300 $GODS Collector tier and a 750 $GODS Whale tier. Gods Unchained Makes All Season 13 Content Exclusive to the Battle Pass Tier pricing is clear from the start. The Collector tier costs 300 $GODS and pays out 250 $GODS in rewards, while the Whale tier costs 750 $GODS and comes with a much larger reward stack, including 25 Core Legendary packs and 5 Whale Battle Packs. Players can also start with a lower entry and upgrade to a higher tier at any point during the season. The most coveted reward this season is the Rendering Queen Variant, which can drop from both Spoils Packs and Whale Battle Packs, giving players in both tiers a chance to earn this standout card. Whale packs, however, carry better odds for shiny rare pulls, which gives the higher tier a clear edge. The season runs for a fixed 28 days, with 60 total levels available across the full pass. Daily progression is capped at 350 XP, so the design encourages consistent play instead of cramming all progress into a one-week sprint. Flux bundles are also included in both tiers, with larger bundles offered for the Whale tier.The Spoils of War card set is not meant to be a one-off release. Gods Unchained confirms the set will grow over time, giving Season 13 a longer lifespan than a typical Battle Pass update. Alongside cards and packs, both tiers also include extra cosmetics and items such as a God Portrait and a Mana Wheel. Gods Unchained frames the season as a gameplay upgrade, not just a new store offering. The team said: “This is about enhancing the play experience,” linking the new pass to broader plans around player engagement and deeper strategic gameplay 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.

Changpeng Zhao, the Founder of Binance, Releases ‘Freedom of Money’

(AsiaGameHub) -   Changpeng Zhao has documented his take on Binance’s journey in a book. Freedom of Money is currently available as a Kindle e-book, with paperback, hardcover, and Audible versions set to follow. Good to Know Freedom of Money launched on April 8, 2026 and can be accessed as a Kindle e-book. The book delves into Binance’s expansion, the FTX downfall, U.S. legal proceedings, and CZ’s prison sentence. Ray Dalio supported the book’s launch through a public endorsement. CZ Uses A Book To Reclaim The Narrative The legal section is a core part of the book’s focus, not an afterthought. Freedom of Money explores the U.S. case related to Binance’s early compliance shortcomings, the subsequent settlement, and the four-month prison term during which CZ states he penned most of the book. The memoir then takes a step back into CZ’s past. He recounts growing up in a rural Chinese area without running water, moving to Canada with his family, and later founding Binance in 2017 alongside a small group of colleagues. According to Binance, the platform went on to amass over 300 million users and became the quickest startup of its time to hit a $1 billion valuation. Beyond being a personal memoir, CZ uses the book to advocate for cryptocurrency. The press release notes he discusses hiring practices, company culture, transparency, customer service, and the belief that crypto can empower individuals to have greater control over their financial lives.He also clarifies his reason for writing the book now. CZ said: “Binance grew faster than almost anyone thought possible and along the way the story of crypto, and my role in it, was told by a lot of other people. Freedom of Money is my chance to tell that story in my own words and recount the rise of Binance, the challenges we faced – and that I personally faced – and why I still believe financial freedom is one of the most powerful ideas of our time.” The book’s launch also received support from figures outside the crypto space. Ray Dalio commented: “As a great admirer of CZ for his bold contributions to making alternative monies accessible to almost everyone in the world, I’m thrilled that he has so clearly laid out his life story. I recommend it for anyone who aspires to go from humble beginnings to a world shaper or is interested in a fascinating read of CZ building Binance into a pillar of the new monetary order.”Currently, the book is available only in digital form. The Kindle edition is live, with physical copies set to arrive in the next few days and an Audible version coming at a later date. CZ also shared that all proceeds from the book will go to charitable causes. 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.

X Implements Auto-Lock Rule for First-Time Crypto Posts

(AsiaGameHub) -   X is shifting its strategy to focus on prevention rather than reaction. The platform will no longer wait for a compromised account to publish a fraudulent token before taking action. Instead, it will automatically lock an account the first time it attempts to post cryptocurrency-related content, requiring verification before the post is allowed to appear. Good to Know X's Head of Product, Nikita Bier, confirmed the platform is rolling out automatic locking and verification for initial cryptocurrency posts. Bier linked the new policy to phishing emails that are used to seize accounts and promote counterfeit tokens. He also stated that if an account boasting over 10,000 followers suddenly promotes a meme coin with no previous crypto activity, “it is always a hack.” X Aims To Disrupt The Scam Pattern Sooner The concept originates from a recurring pattern used by fraudsters. A standard account is taken over, its content abruptly switches to cryptocurrency, and followers are bombarded with meme coin promotions, fake airdrops, or phishing replies before any intervention is possible. X's new goal is to interrupt this sequence at the point of publication. Bier explained the reasoning in direct language. An account with no prior crypto posts that suddenly begins promoting a token will be considered a significant warning sign by X. He noted that the platform is “in the process of implementing auto-locking + verification if a user posts about cryptocurrency for the first time in the history of their account,” claiming it “should kill 99% of the incentive.” The impetus for this update was based on a real incident. Bier's remarks came in response to a hacking victim who fell for a phishing email disguised as an official X copyright notice. After the victim input their login details on a fraudulent page, the account was hijacked and used to spread crypto scam material. Bier partially attributed the success of the phishing attempt to Gmail's filters not blocking the messages.This positions the new feature as a tool against account takeovers more than a measure targeting cryptocurrency itself. From Bier's perspective, the scam ecosystem is undermined if stolen accounts cannot immediately broadcast a token to a large follower base. He subsequently provided another definitive benchmark, indicating that an account with a follower count exceeding 10,000 that promotes a meme coin without any history of crypto involvement is almost definitely hacked. X is not building this system from scratch. The platform has previous experience combating fake token advertisements, mass mention spam, and has previously taken action against banned crypto scammers who reportedly attempted to pay their way back onto the service. This new rule introduces a proactive layer of defense instead of another reactive removal process. For authentic crypto initiatives, game developers, NFT teams, and token communities, the compromise is clear. Users posting about crypto for the first time may encounter additional hurdles. However, X is gambling that an extra verification step is a lesser issue than allowing compromised accounts to continue exploiting the trust of their audience. This aspect remains unproven, but the objective is straightforward: close the opportunity for a scam post before it can ever be published. 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.

Morgan Stanley Introduces a Low-Fee Bitcoin ETF

(AsiaGameHub) -   Morgan Stanley is directly engaging in the fee competition. Rather than introducing a spot Bitcoin ETF at a typical rate, the firm has debuted the Morgan Stanley Bitcoin Trust with a 0.14% sponsor fee, undercutting the 0.25% fee of the BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust. According to Morgan Stanley, this represents the lowest sponsor fee for a bitcoin ETP at its launch. Good to Know MSBT commenced trading on NYSE Arca on April 8. Morgan Stanley stated that MSBT has a 0.14% sponsor fee. Morgan Stanley reported holding $9.3 trillion in client assets within its Wealth and Investment Management divisions at the conclusion of 2025. Morgan Stanley Opens With Price Pressure The product's introduction highlights the current focal point of competition. Since Bitcoin access via exchange-traded products is now established on Wall Street, pricing and distribution have become more critical. Morgan Stanley now possesses both advantages: a more competitive fee and a vast wealth management platform supported by trillions in client assets. Allyson Wallace explained the demand succinctly, stating: “We really wanted to show our commitment by having that lower fee. The demand, especially from the high-net-worth investors, has been quite high. Viewed at the firm level, this is an asset class that is not going away.” Bloomberg published these comments as the product launched. Morgan Stanley characterized MSBT as an exchange-traded product designed to track bitcoin's performance and noted it is the first U.S. bank-affiliated asset manager to provide a cryptocurrency ETP. The product is listed on NYSE Arca under the ticker symbol MSBT.The fund's setup also indicates its target audience. Morgan Stanley is relying on established financial infrastructure in addition to a crypto-focused appeal. The firm announced that Coinbase and BNY will serve as custodians, with BNY also taking on administrative, transfer agency, accounting, recordkeeping, and cash management duties. While BlackRock maintains a larger market share, Morgan Stanley aims to erode that advantage through lower costs. IBIT has a 0.25% expense ratio listed on BlackRock's site, making MSBT 11 basis points less expensive. A significant tradeoff remains, however. Morgan Stanley clarifies that an investment in MSBT does not constitute a direct investment in bitcoin, and the fund is not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. The firm also cautions that digital assets are subject to high volatility and investors could lose all or a substantial portion of their investment. 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.

Terry Rozier Pushes for Case Dismissal Before Trial

(AsiaGameHub) -   Terry Rozier is attempting to have his federal betting case dismissed before it ever reaches a jury. A Brooklyn judge has now scheduled upcoming proceedings, offering the Miami Heat guard an immediate opportunity for dismissal as the Heat simultaneously address a separate roster issue. Good to Know Oral arguments regarding the dismissal motion are scheduled for April 27. A status conference is slated for May 15. Rozier has entered a not-guilty plea and is contesting federal charges of wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy. Terry Rozier Tries To End The Case Before Trial Rozier aims to have the case thrown out before trial discussions intensify. His attorney, James Trusty, contends that the facts presented by prosecutors are not appropriate for federal court. The defense asserts that the allegations pertain to a sportsbook rule or gaming regulation matter, rather than federal fraud. This differentiation is significant, as wire fraud and money laundering charges can each result in up to 20 years in prison. A central component of this defense relies on a recent Supreme Court decision that restricted prosecutors' application of federal fraud law in cases involving concealed information. Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall consented to hear oral arguments on the dismissal request, indicating that the court views the motion as substantial enough to warrant a full hearing rather than a decision based solely on written submissions. Conversely, prosecutors maintain that the case extends well beyond a mere house rule violation. They assert that the behavior detailed in the indictment constituted a coordinated scheme, thereby justifying federal jurisdiction. Following the April 27 argument, both parties are scheduled to return on May 15 for a status conference addressing the dismissal dispute, discovery, and potential plea negotiations.The case originates from March 23, 2023, when Rozier was a player for the Charlotte Hornets. He participated for just nine minutes against the New Orleans Pelicans before exiting due to a reported right foot injury. His statistics at that time—five points, four rebounds, and two assists—were below the sportsbook prop bets linked to his performance. Federal prosecutors allege that Rozier informed his childhood friend and co-defendant, De’Niro Laster, prior to the game that he intended to leave early due to an injury. The indictment states that Laster subsequently conveyed this information to gambling associates for $100,000, resulting in over $200,000 in prop bets placed on Rozier. Prosecutors further claim that Laster later drove overnight to Rozier's residence to tally the earnings. Well before his arrest, the NBA investigated suspicious betting patterns related to the game and exonerated Rozier. Federal investigators, however, continued their inquiry as part of a broader investigation that subsequently led to numerous arrests. Authorities ultimately apprehended Rozier at an Orlando hotel merely hours after Miami's season opener, and he was released on a property-backed bond. The Associated Press reported this bond to be $3 million. Outside of legal proceedings, the Heat face a clear basketball dilemma. Rozier has not played since his arrest, yet the team has retained him on the roster while considering whether to open up a 15th postseason position. The Miami Herald suggested that waiver action appeared probable. Despite not playing this season, Rozier still received his $26 million salary after the National Basketball Players Association successfully appealed the withholding of his pay during his leave.A favorable outcome for Rozier on April 27 could eliminate the federal case and support the defense's assertion that federal agents reopened an issue the NBA had already concluded. A defeat, conversely, would move the matter closer to trial, leaving both his legal and NBA futures uncertain for the upcoming phase. 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.

Oklahoma’s Sweepstakes Ban Bill Advances Another Step in the House

(AsiaGameHub) -   Oklahoma legislators have advanced SB 1589, securing another unanimous vote for legislation aimed at expanding gambling statutes and more explicitly placing online sweepstakes casinos under state regulatory control. Good to Know SB 1589 passed the House Criminal Judiciary Committee by a 6 to 0 vote on April 7. The bill already passed the Senate 48 to 0 earlier in March. If approved by the House and signed by Gov. Kevin Stitt, the measure would take effect on Nov. 1. Oklahoma Bill Widens The Net Around Sweepstakes Casinos The inclusion of a class C2 felony in the Oklahoma proposal underscores the seriousness of lawmakers' intent. Under SB 1589, delivering or marketing the online casino games it covers would result in fines ranging from $500 to $2,000. Simultaneously, the legislation provides an exemption for tribal operators to conduct online social casinos on tribal lands. This provision was incorporated following consultations during the drafting process, as lawmakers also cited millions in lost state revenue from offshore platforms. Following these details, the recent committee action becomes clear. The House Criminal Judiciary Committee moved SB 1589 forward with a 6 to 0 vote on April 7. The Senate had previously passed the identical bill 48 to 0 in March. Sponsored by Sen. Todd Gollihare and Rep. Scott Fetgatter, the bill now proceeds to the House Judiciary and Public Safety Oversight Committee.The statutory wording is designed to extend beyond a single label or product category. SB 1589 defines an online casino game as any internet-based gambling that simulates slot machines, lottery games, bingo, or other banned games when anything of value is at stake. Therefore, the emphasis is not solely on branding but also on the game's format and how rewards are structured. A further crucial element of the bill targets the concept of value. The proposal seeks to revise the definition of a representative of value to include virtual currency in a dual-currency system if that currency is convertible into cash, goods, or other assets. Simply put, legislators aim to address both the casino-style game and the token economy supporting it. This bill aligns with a wider trend among states, with six having enacted similar prohibitions since last year. Indiana and Maine are noted as the latest states to have introduced bills targeting sweepstakes casinos. Oklahoma's legislative session continues until May 29, providing additional time for the proposal to progress. 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.

Cambodia Closes Gang Dao Casino Following Scam Bust

(AsiaGameHub) -   Cambodia has expanded its crackdown on online scam networks, beginning with the closure of a casino in Preah Sihanouk followed by another operation in Phnom Penh. This move draws new focus to the close overlap between segments of the casino industry and online fraud incidents. Good to Know On April 5, authorities shut down and sealed Gang Dao Casino, detaining 108 individuals suspected of involvement in scams. Subsequently, police raided a condominium unit in Phnom Penh and apprehended eight additional foreign suspects. Cambodia is currently enforcing a newly passed anti-online scam law, which includes penalties up to life imprisonment. Casino Shutdown Triggers Broader Scam Crackdown in Cambodia While a license revocation was the initial visible action, the larger context is more extensive. Over the past two days, Cambodian authorities have targeted suspected scam operations across multiple locations, combining the shutdown of a Preah Sihanouk casino with a separate raid in Phnom Penh. Regarding Gang Dao Casino, the General Secretariat of Cambodia’s Commercial Gambling Management Commission stated that officials sealed and searched the premises on April 5. The operation resulted in 108 detentions: 105 Chinese citizens and three Burmese citizens. Authorities also confiscated around 500 computers and over 1,000 mobile phones suspected of being used in scam-related activities. Following the search, officials determined that the operator, Gang Dao International Entertainment, had violated the Law on Commercial Gambling Management. The commission subsequently revoked Casino License No. 325, which was issued on November 19, 2025. Officials characterized this step as part of an intensified enforcement effort to break up online scam networks that have harmed Cambodia’s social stability and international reputation.Beyond the casino, another raid highlighted the growing scope of the crackdown. On April 6, Phnom Penh authorities took down an alleged online scam operation located in a condominium unit at the JD Polman building in Sen Sok district. Investigators reported that the unit housed a replica of a Japanese police station. Eight foreign nationals were arrested at the site: five Japanese and three Chinese. Per the Commission for Combating Online Scams, the group is accused of impersonating Japanese police officers and using falsified legal documents to defraud victims in Japan. Seized items included 14 mobile phones, a CPU, a monitor, three iPads, five Japanese police uniforms, two police caps, and counterfeit documents such as complaints, contracts, and arrest warrants. While the two raids appeared distinct on the surface, they both signaled the same trend: Cambodia is demonstrating that casinos, condominiums, and any other locations used for online scams are all subject to enforcement actions. This tougher stance is supported by the newly implemented Law on Combating Online Scams. The legislation establishes five criminal offenses: online fraud, organizing or leading scam hubs, recruiting or training scam participants, illegal collection of personal data, and specific types of money laundering. Penalties may include life imprisonment, fines of up to one billion riel, and seizure of associated assets.Officials stated that enforcement will proceed “strictly and without exception” in collaboration with the Commission for Combating Online Scams and other relevant agencies. They also warned gambling operators that no location in Cambodia will be allowed to serve as a safe haven for online scam operations. Prime Minister Hun Manet has echoed this message in stronger terms. He emphasized that Cambodia “is not a place for cybercriminals to run scams or transnational crimes”, noting that those responsible for such activities will face the harshest penalties with no leniency or outside interference. The Gang Dao case also fits into a larger discussion about casino-associated scam facilities in Cambodia. Amnesty International recently claimed that some licensed casino properties have been linked to abusive scam operations, even as the government asserts it is dismantling the industry. This is why the recent raids will be closely monitored: officials view them as proof of stricter action, while critics see them as a test of whether enforcement will extend beyond a few high-profile cases. 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.

Proprietary IP Drives Growth, Overseas Business Accelerates Expansion – TOP TOY Vies for New Leadership in Pop Toy Industry

HONG KONG, Apr 9, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - In recent years, young consumers’ preferences have evolved rapidly, with demand for personalization and experiential consumption becoming increasingly prominent. Young consumers’ choices are profoundly rewriting the inherent logic of industry competition — what they seek is not only products, but emotional value and cultural resonance. This is particularly evident in the spiritual consumption space represented by pop toys. The market’s appetite for high quality products that combine design aesthetics, emotional depth, and social attributes continues to grow.Among the many emerging brands, TOP TOY targets Gen Z consumers, family customers, and loyal brand fans as its core audience. Backed by a diverse product portfolio, robust IP operation capabilities, and strong financial performance, it is widely recognized in the market as an industry benchmark in the pop toy sector with both high growth potential and significant brand influence. According to Frost & Sullivan, TOP TOY is the largest and fastest-growing pop toy multi-brand store chain in China, with GMV reaching RMB4.2 billion in mainland China in 2025.Financially, TOP TOY has achieved rapid revenue growth in recent years. Revenue rose from RMB1.461 billion in 2023 to RMB3.587 billion in 2025, representing a CAGR of 56.7%, marking a leap forward in scale. Gross margin improved steadily from 31.4% in 2023 to 32.1% in 2025, reflecting a gradual uplift in overall profitability. Affected by one-off non-cash items such as equity-settled share-based payment expenses and fair value changes on redemption liabilities liabilities, the Company posted a net profit of RMB101 million in 2025. Adjusted net profit reached RMB523 million, up 77.5% year-on-year, demonstrating strong growth momentum.Full Value Chain Layout: Building Competitive Moats in the Pop Toy IndustryThe core competitiveness of the pop toy industry lies not only in IP creation, but also in the ability to turn content into a sustainable business system that maximizes IP value. What makes TOP TOY unique is that it has built an integrated platform covering all key links of the industry value chain. TOP TOY is one of only two brands in the industry that have achieved full coverage of the pop toy full industry chain, from IP incubation and operation to direct consumer interaction, while holding a leading position across the entire chain. This allows the Company to build a distinctive competitive moat.In the IP incubation and product R&D stage, TOP TOY focuses on self-developed products and adopts a parallel strategy of “proprietary + licensed + third-party” IPs, forming a diverse IP resource pool. As of the end of March 2026, TOP TOY has built an IP matrix comprising 24 proprietary IPs, 42 licensed IPs, and over 660 third-party IPs. Among these, its self-developed products accounted for over 55% of revenue, establishing it as a highly competitive trendy toy brand in the industry.In terms of product R&D, TOP TOY focuses on three core categories — model figures, 3D building blocks, and vinyl plush toys. Among these, vinyl plush toys have emerged as the most prominent growth category, with its revenue share increasing significantly from 3.5% in 2024 to 31.6% in 2025, generating RMB1.102 billion for the full year. Meanwhile, through its “X-category” mechanism, it develops products across diverse categories to flexibly seize market opportunities.In the channel sales stage, TOP TOY has constructed an omni-channel network with both depth and breadth, enabling in-depth access to global trendy culture consumers. Offline, it adopts a hierarchical layout of “flagship + mainstream + pop-up”, with the number of stores reaching 334 as of December 31, 2025. By providing immersive interactive experiences, it achieves effective brand exposure and enables the Company to promptly collect first-hand user feedback, providing information for the Company’s product design and channel selection strategies. Online, it covers major e-commerce platforms and distributes products through large retailers such as Sam’s Club and Don Don Donki, as well as other diversified retail channels. This omni-channel layout not only expands the scope of consumer reach but also forms a consumption closed loop of “offline experience - online repurchase”. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had 12 million registered members, making it one of the companies with the largest member base in the trendy toy industry.Leveraging the integrated operation of full value chain, TOP TOY has achieved synergy across all links — the richness of its IP portfolio ensures product appeal, the extensiveness of its channels expands market coverage and establishes emotional connections with consumers, and the Company has also built strong ecosystem partnerships. The linkage of these three elements drives the maximization of IP value, forming a rare full-industry-chain competitiveness among domestic trendy play enterprises.Taking the Proprietary IP Matrix as the Core: Building a Core Engine for Long-term GrowthThrough its in-house original IP incubation team, TOP TOY has created many popular proprietary IP characters. The Company is dedicated to promoting these proprietary IPs to expand their reach across diverse markets, foster deeper audience engagement, and drive sustained growth. On the other hand, through the acquisition of multiple IP design studios such as Sure Fun and Sugar Pocket, TOP TOY has integrated IPs like “Nommi” and “Ninimo ” into its proprietary IP matrix, accelerating its IP layout process.As of the end of March 2026, TOP TOY had 24 proprietary IPs. Among them, the “Nommi” IP delivered an outstanding performance, with its 2025 GMV exceeding RMB200 million. Proprietary IPs not only attract consumers through unique designs and cultural connotations but also extend their life cycles and amplify their value through diversified operational strategies, such as the continuous release of new product series, the creation of offline experiential scenarios, and cross-over IP collaborations.Furthermore, TOP TOY continues to consolidate long-term, stable cooperative relationships with top global IPs such as Sanrio, Disney and Crayon Shin-chan. By creating hit products through IP reinvention, the Company not only rapidly broadens market awareness but also accumulates mature IP operation experience and consumer insights, laying a solid foundation for the development of its self-developed products.Leveraging the continuous expansion of its proprietary IP matrix and stable licensing cooperation with major IPs, the Company continues to intensify its layout of self-developed products. As the proportion of self-developed products steadily increases, its scale effect continues to be unleashed, driving a continuous improvement in the overall gross margin. Looking ahead, with an increasing revenue contribution from self-developed products and the impact of economies of scale, the Company’s gross margin is expected to rise further, unlocking greater profit elasticity.Accelerating Global Expansion to Open Up New Growth SpaceNotably, while consolidating its advantages in the Chinese market, TOP TOY is extending its business reach to overseas markets. To date, the Company has entered markets such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Japan, with the number of overseas stores reaching 39. In terms of revenue, the proportion of TOP TOY’s overseas business rapidly increased from 0.6% to 8.2%, fully demonstrating strong overseas growth momentum.In terms of market potential, the overseas global pop toy market still has significant growth space. Taking mature consumer markets such as North America and Europe as examples, local consumers have a relatively high per capita consumption amount on pop toy, and their willingness to pay for original IP and cultural recognition are also prominent. However, the layout of emerging pop toy categories in local markets is still relatively limited, and the overall market penetration rate is at a low level, with broad incremental space and potential for exploration in the future. The above market advantages and development opportunities together constitute the core logic and realistic basis for TOP TOY to focus on laying out the above developed country markets. In the future, relying on the advantages of the full value chain synergy and mature IP operation experience, the overseas market is expected to become an important incremental engine for the Company.The market’s attention to pop toy companies is essentially a consideration of their IP operation capabilities and sustainability. TOP TOY has demonstrated a clear development logic by virtue of its two core advantages: the fully integrated platform and a diversified IP matrix. Amid accelerating consolidation in the pop toy industry and rising consumer demand, if TOP TOY can continue to deepen the synergy effect of the full value chain, strengthen the influence of its proprietary IP, and superimpose the gradual growth of the overseas incremental market, it is expected to seize opportunities in the fragmented market pattern, further solidifying its industry leadership and unlocking long-term potential. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Seres delivers strong 2025 results, eyes path to become China’s answer to Mercedes-Benz and BMW

HONG KONG, Apr 9, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The luxury NEV maker has now been profitable for two consecutive years, signaling more stable footing in a competitive market.Caption: Image courtesy of Seres Group.Driven by policy support, shifting consumer demand, and advances in technology, China’s new energy vehicle (NEV) industry is entering a new phase of development, with Seres Group positioning itself at its center. On April 8, the Hong Kong-listed NEV maker (ticker code: 9927.HK) reported results that reflect its technology capabilities, product lineup, and international expansion strategy.In 2025, Seres recorded operating revenue of RMB 164.89 billion (USD 24 billion), up 13.63% year-on-year. Net profit attributable to shareholders reached RMB 5.96 billion (USD 867.3 million). Revenue hit a record high, and the company said it has now reported profitability for two consecutive years, achieving a notable milestone in an industry where many players remain loss-making.Aito builds position in luxury NEV segmentSeres attributed its latest performance to ongoing product development and brand positioning. It said it continues to align its strategy with user demand while refining its product mix and market focus.As an early entrant into China’s premium NEV segment, the company has sought to differentiate through what it describes as “technology luxury,” a term it uses to position its vehicles.Its premium brand, Aito, reported strong delivery figures for 2025. The Aito M9 exceeded 110,000 units in annual deliveries and was described by the company as the bestselling model in the RMB 500,000 (USD 72,757) segment for two consecutive years, 2024 and 2025. Meanwhile, the Aito M8 delivered more than 150,000 units during the year, maintaining its position as the top-selling model in the RMB 400,000 (USD 58,206) segment since launch. The Aito M7 also surpassed 110,000 units.Combined, these three models pushed Aito’s total annual deliveries above 420,000 units. Seres said this made Aito the leading high-end automotive brand in China by sales and set a new delivery pace in the segment.Beyond product performance, the figures point to the broader rise of Chinese brands in the premium global automotive market.In assisted driving, Seres said it increased R&D investment and made technical progress. In 2025, Aito vehicles accumulated 3.8 billion kilometers of assisted driving mileage. During the 2026 Lunar New Year holiday, 51.9% of mileage driven by Aito M9 vehicles was generated using assisted driving functions, according to the company. These figures indicate growing adoption and suggest increasing maturity of the company’s assisted driving system.Seres added that the data and expertise accumulated to date will support further development and iteration of its assisted driving systems.Strong cash flow and ESG positioningThe company’s financial position also strengthened. As of December 31, 2025, net cash flow from operating activities reached RMB 28.12 billion (USD 4.1 billion), nearly five times its net profit. Seres attributed this to its robust cash flow management and revenue generation, which it said provide resilience against industry cycles and support continued investment in R&D, product development, and international expansion.Seres also emphasized its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts. It said it has sought to integrate ESG principles across R&D and supply chain operations, with a focus on achieving long-term sustainability and alignment with broader societal and environmental goals.Its endeavors have earned it an AAA ESG rating from MSCI, its highest tier, according to the company. The rating reflects its governance framework and ESG management, and may influence its appeal to both retail and institutional investors.Looking ahead, Seres plans to focus on expanding production capacity, investing further in core technologies, and broadening its distribution network.Often compared with Western luxury automotive brands such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW, Seres has had to manage high expectations around product quality and brand positioning. Its latest results, if anything, suggest it is not only making progress toward meeting those expectations, but also hint at its potential to eventually surpass them. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

想更明智地投資?從這些簡單規則開始

重點摘要 更好的投資始於紀律,而非預測。 多元化投資可以減少錯誤判斷所造成的損害。 經濟衰退的擔憂正在上升,這使得風險控制變得更加重要。 分析師的觀點顯示,目前更關注防禦性、品質和現金流。 最優秀的投資者遵循一套流程,並避免情緒化的決定。 (SeaPRwire) -   成為更好的投資者並非在於猜測市場的下一步動向。而是要建立有助於隨著時間推移做出更明智決策的習慣,特別是在標題新聞轉向負面且市場變得難以解讀的時候。 這在當前環境下至關重要。隨著通膨風險、油價上漲和地緣政治緊張局勢增加了前景壓力,對經濟衰退的擔憂有所增加。Reuters 本週報導,Goldman Sachs 將其對美國經濟衰退風險的預測上調至 30%,而 Fed 副主席 Philip Jefferson 表示,經濟面臨就業和通膨的雙重風險。 專注於流程,而非市場預測 許多投資者認為成功來自於在完美的時機找到完美的股票。事實上,更好的投資者通常之所以成功,是因為他們遵循可重複的流程,並避免那些會損害長期回報的錯誤。 這意味著要了解你持有某項投資的原因、它在你的投資組合中扮演的角色,以及什麼因素可能導致該想法失敗。這也意味著要接受沒有人能每次都判斷正確。 Warren Buffett 曾明確寫道「性情也很重要」,他認為情緒穩定在投資成功中扮演著重要角色。這個觀點在今天依然重要,因為一些最大的投資錯誤往往發生在恐懼或興奮主導情緒的時候。 投資者可以建立的最佳習慣之一,就是寫下每筆買入的原因。如果你無法用幾句話清楚地解釋這項投資,那麼很有可能你對它的了解還不夠深入。 尊重風險並有目的地進行多元化投資 更好的投資者不僅考慮上行空間。他們還會仔細思考如果自己判斷錯誤會發生什麼。 當經濟衰退擔憂上升時,這個問題變得更加重要。Reuters 在 3 月底報導,隨著投資者轉向更具防禦性的配置,Morgan Stanley 下調了全球股票評級,並上調了現金和美國政府債券的評級。Reuters 還指出,許多美國財務顧問對進入第二季度的波動性、通膨和地緣政治風險感到更加擔憂。 多元化投資仍然是投資者擁有的最簡單且最有用的工具之一。它不會完全阻止損失,但可以防止單一錯誤、單一行業或單一宏觀主題造成過大的損害。 這意味著將風險敞口分散到不同的資產類別、行業和地區。一個更強大的投資組合通常會將成長型資產與更具防禦性的持倉相結合,而不是將所有資金投入單一熱門趨勢。 黃金也可以在這種組合中佔有一席之地。Reuters 最近引用了 UBS Global Wealth Management 的 Solita Marcelli 的話說:「在貨幣貶值和通膨時期,黃金繼續發揮其作為避險資產的歷史作用。」這並不代表黃金就是完整的投資組合計劃,但它確實支持了這樣一個觀點:當風險上升時,小規模的避險工具仍然是有用的。 當市場變得令人不安時保持紀律 投資最困難的部分通常不是選擇買什麼。而是在市場波動劇烈且情緒高漲時,堅持執行合理的計劃。 這項挑戰可能正變得越來越困難。Reuters 在 4 月 8 日報導,自 3 月初以來,與波動性掛鉤的基金賣出了約 1,080 億美元的股票,這在緊張時期加劇了市場波動。這種拋售會讓投資者覺得自己需要快速反應,即使反應往往是錯誤的舉動。 這就是為什麼紀律如此重要。Reuters 還在 3 月報導,BlackRock 執行長 Larry Fink 敦促客戶在市場波動期間保持投資,儘管他承認 AI 和更廣泛的市場走勢帶來的收益可能分佈不均。這個信息很有用,因為它在謹慎與耐心之間取得了平衡。 幾個簡單的習慣就能帶來真正的改變。按計劃投資,而不是等待完美的入場點。在設定的時間重新平衡投資組合,而不是對每個頭條新聞做出反應。保留一些可用現金,這樣回調感覺就像是機會而非緊急情況。如果頻繁查看會導致錯誤決策,請減少查看投資組合的頻率。 結語 最優秀的投資者通常不是聲音最大或最激進的人。他們是那些在市場變得不確定時保持冷靜、尊重風險、明智地進行多元化投資並遵循流程的人。隨著經濟衰退擔憂上升但前景依然不明朗,現在是減少預測、增加紀律的好時機。僅僅是這種轉變,就能隨著時間推移讓你成為更好的投資者。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。