Hokkaido Initiates Research Tender for a Potential Casino Resort

(AsiaGameHub) - Hokkaido has initiated a bidding process for research related to a potential integrated resort with a casino. This step keeps the prefecture involved as Japan’s second round of IR applications in 2027 draws near. Good to Know The research contract will remain in effect until January 29, 2027. Hokkaido intends to update its basic IR position by autumn and specify a recommended location. Tomakomai continues to be the only city in the prefecture to publicly support an IR. Hokkaido Launches Formal IR Research Activities The chosen provider will develop an overall development timeline and conduct surveys and analysis linked to a potential casino resort in Hokkaido. This work includes assessing if a large-scale IR is feasible in the prefecture, interviewing three IR operators, reviewing a business model tailored to Hokkaido, and taking part in expert panel meetings hosted by the prefectural government. The provider will also prepare reports based on these discussions. In February, Hokkaido allocated JPY9.98 million—roughly US$62,439—for IR research and review in its fiscal 2026 draft budget. Timing is key here. A national Cabinet Order confirmed on March 10 that local governments can submit second-round IR applications between May and November 2027. Any prefecture seeking to move forward must have a commercial partner for its IR District Development Plan before submitting it to central authorities.Hokkaido now wants more structure before making that decision. By autumn, prefectural officials plan to revise the basic IR stance and include a recommended site for any future casino complex. To date, Tomakomai has been the only city in Hokkaido to publicly express interest in hosting an IR. This keeps the port city in focus as the review progresses, though the prefecture has not finalized a decision. FAQ What did Hokkaido announce? Hokkaido launched a bidding process to select a service provider for research on a potential integrated resort with a casino. How long will the contract run? The contract period will span from signing until January 29, 2027.What will the research cover? The work includes feasibility analysis, interviews with three IR operators, business model review, and support for expert panel meetings. Has Hokkaido chosen a location yet? No. The prefecture plans to update its IR stance by autumn and name a recommended location then. Which city has shown public interest so far? Tomakomai is the only city in Hokkaido that has publicly supported hosting a casino resort. 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.
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Norway Introduces New Four-Year Strategy to Combat Problem Gambling

(AsiaGameHub) - Norway has rolled out a new four-year action plan centered on addressing problem gambling, with prevention and treatment as its core priorities. This initiative spans from 2026 to 2029 and emphasizes public health, youth safeguarding, and early intervention over introducing new gambling limitations. Good to Know The plan will not alter existing gambling legislation, age restrictions, or betting limits. Children and young individuals between the ages of 9 and 25 are the primary target demographic. Norway intends to broaden access to helplines, enhance treatment services, and expand national research efforts. Norway Prioritizes Prevention Over New Restrictions The Norwegian government stated that its primary objective is to lower the number of individuals who develop gambling issues. Officials also emphasized that protecting vulnerable groups should take precedence over commercial interests. Young people are at the core of this plan. Authorities cited research linking 12- to 17-year-olds with gambling-like mechanics in video games, including loot boxes and skins. As a result, schools, youth clubs, and sports clubs will be used to deliver education on gambling risks and digital game features that blur the distinction between gaming and betting. Several other groups are also targeted. The plan singles out athletes, individuals in custody, those with neurodevelopmental conditions, people not in education or employment, and those with a history of gambling problems.Key responsibilities will be divided among agencies including Lotteritilsynet, Medietilsynet, and Helsedirektoratet. The Norwegian Film Institute and voluntary groups will also assist with outreach tied to gaming culture and support services. Support services are also receiving increased focus. Hjelpelinjen, the national gambling helpline, will be expanded with improved access and chat options tailored for younger users. Norway will continue to offer free remote treatment programs, typically run over 12 weeks by phone and without a referral from a general practitioner. Expanded Public Health Focus The plan also seeks to enhance detection of early warning signs. Parents, teachers, coaches, healthcare workers, prison staff, probation staff, employers, and bank workers are all expected to receive tools or training. Within the prison system, authorities aim to raise greater awareness of gambling harm and provide better support for inmates—many of whom accumulate debt while in custody. At the same time, dialogue between Helsedirektoratet and regional competence centers known as KORUS is set to grow so local services can respond faster.Research efforts will also be expanded. Lotteritilsynet and Medietilsynet will continue surveys on gambling and gaming participation, while a new national survey will focus directly on gambling and gaming harm. The government also intends to collaborate more closely with licensed operators through an annual forum on responsible gambling. Banks and financial institutions are expected to play an expanded role as well, especially in efforts to limit payments to unlicensed foreign gambling sites and identify customers showing signs of gambling harm. 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.
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Cartamundi and APE Finalize Macau Production Agreement

(AsiaGameHub) - Cartamundi and Asia Pioneer Entertainment have entered into a strategic partnership in Macau centered on the implementation of sustainable manufacturing technologies. The agreement was formalized this past Friday at the Macao International Environmental Cooperation Forum & Exhibition. Key Highlights This partnership serves as the inaugural phase of the "Global Brand Made in Macau" initiative. Cartamundi intends to incorporate the production of its BEE brand into this new venture. Further information is anticipated to be released in the near future. Macau Agreement Paves the Way for BEE Manufacturing Rather than launching a full-scale factory operation immediately, the two firms have established a framework agreement. The objective is to implement eco-friendly production methods in Macau and establish a local hub dedicated to the international BEE playing card brand. Cartamundi Asia Pacific finalized the deal with Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Ltd (APE). Given that Cartamundi currently provides gaming supplies to casino resorts via an international network of design centers, sales offices, and manufacturing facilities, Macau serves as a strategic base for the company's broader Asian operations. “Macau’s distinct status as a gateway to the Asian market makes it the perfect location for our upcoming initiatives. This agreement marks the start of a process that will integrate global innovation into the Macau region,” stated Jason Pearce, managing director of Cartamundi Asia Pacific.APE also characterized the collaboration as more than a simple supply contract. Herman Ng Man Ho, CEO and executive director of Asia Pioneer Entertainment, noted that the company anticipates both local economic advantages and the establishment of higher standards for industrial sustainability. “The processes and technologies we are preparing to deploy will not only support the local economy but will also establish new industry standards for sustainable manufacturing,” said Ng. 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.
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Nevada Casino Revenue Totals $1.24 Billion in February

(AsiaGameHub) - Nevada's gaming establishments recorded approximately $1.24 billion in revenue during February, representing a 1.5% year-over-year increase. This milestone marks the 60th consecutive month the state has surpassed the $1 billion threshold, demonstrating the resilience of casino earnings despite a slowdown in tourism. Good to Know The Las Vegas Strip accounted for $696.3 million, representing 56% of the state's total gaming revenue. Growth was bolstered by Clark County properties catering to locals, with the remaining areas of Clark County rising 2.87% to roughly $148 million. To date this fiscal year, Nevada has gathered $775.8 million in gaming taxes, a 1.6% rise. Nevada Growth Sustained by Strip Baccarat and Local Markets The Las Vegas Strip once again contributed the largest portion, with casinos there reporting $696.3 million in revenue, a 0.86% increase from the previous year. Baccarat was a significant factor, as casinos earned nearly $120 million from the game, with player losses increasing by about $32 million compared to the prior year. The hold percentage reached 14.6%. Performance in off-Strip locations also provided support. Establishments serving local residents throughout Clark County had a strong month, with the balance of the county generating about $148 million, up 2.87%. These gains helped balance out softer figures in other regions of the state. Results across different regions were varied. Downtown Las Vegas saw a 4.18% decline to $69.8 million, while Laughlin fell 8.83% to $38.5 million. Conversely, Reno experienced a 7.73% increase to $60.6 million, and Mesquite rose 5.16% to $17.4 million.Representatives from the Nevada Gaming Control Board noted that casino earnings outperformed tourism trends. Although visitor numbers in Las Vegas began to soften in February of last year, gaming revenue has remained notably stable. Despite the monthly growth, the Las Vegas Strip is currently trailing its fiscal-year targets. On a statewide level, Nevada is up by approximately $83 million (0.79%) for the fiscal year starting July 1. However, the Strip is down by about $62 million (0.88%). Nevertheless, the overall outlook remains positive. Nevada continues to exceed pre-pandemic gaming figures, and February marked the fifth year in a row where every month exceeded the $1 billion mark. 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.
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Pixels Launches Stacked for External Game Studios

(AsiaGameHub) - Pixels is extending its Stacked rewards engine beyond its internal ecosystem, transforming an in-house utility into a commercial product for external studios. The company reports that this AI-powered platform previously facilitated over $25 million in revenue and 1 million daily active users across Pixels' titles prior to its public release. Key Highlights Prior to its external debut, Stacked was utilized internally by Pixels for approximately four years. Pixels reports that a specific reactivation campaign achieved a 178% increase in spend conversion and a 131% return on reward investment. Studios can integrate via an SDK and execute campaigns using natural-language queries. Pixels Transforms Internal Rewards Mechanism into Independent Platform Designed to monitor player behavior and deliver specific rewards rather than generic offers to all users, Stacked aims to refine engagement. Pixels notes that the platform has already bolstered engagement and monetization for titles like Pixel Dungeons and Chubkins, and now seeks to extend this system to other developers. An internal example illustrates the platform's effectiveness. By targeting players who had not made a purchase in over 30 days, Pixels states that Stacked generated a 178% boost in spending conversion, a 129% rise in active days, and a 131% return on reward expenditure. Pixels founder Luke Barwikowski stated: “The majority of reward systems treat all players identically and optimize for incorrect metrics. Stacked is designed to incentivize actions that hold real value—such as returning, advancing, spending, and supporting a robust economy.” The broader proposition is straightforward. Rather than requiring studios to manually combine disparate loyalty and engagement tools, Stacked provides an SDK-based layer capable of segmenting users and deploying personalized offers with reduced manual effort. Additionally, Pixels notes that natural-language queries can lessen the reliance on continuous data science assistance. While Pixels is initially focusing on the gaming industry, it identifies potential in other digital sectors where rewards can enhance retention, such as ecommerce, fitness applications, and educational products. Interested parties can apply via the Stacked website. 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.
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DigiPlus and Manny Pacquiao Team Up for Gaming and Payment Initiatives

(AsiaGameHub) - DigiPlus has launched a new partnership with Manny Pacquiao to incorporate branded content, payment integration, and marketing support across key segments of its digital gaming operations in the Philippines. Good to Know DigiPlus intends to release nine gaming titles featuring Manny Pacquiao themes. MannyPay will serve as DigiPlus's inaugural official gaming payment partner. Pacquiao will additionally act as brand ambassador for ArenaPlus and GameZone. DigiPlus Adds Pacquiao Across Content and Payments DigiPlus unveiled the agreement at a signing ceremony held at Shangri-La The Fort in BGC. Instead of confining the collaboration to a typical endorsement, the company is developing multiple products and services centered on the Pacquiao brand. Pacquiao boasts one of boxing's most impressive records. He captured world championships in eight weight divisions, concluded his professional career with 62 victories, 8 defeats, and 2 draws, and achieved 39 knockout wins. He also held major titles spanning four separate decades, which contributed to his status as one of the Philippines' most prominent sports personalities. Content constitutes a major component of the strategy. DigiPlus stated it will introduce nine gaming titles inspired by Manny Pacquiao, utilizing game mechanics that have already proven successful in the domestic market. The company indicated that the titles will be inspired by highlights from his career and what it characterized as his fighting spirit.“This collaboration allows us to combine the legendary story of our boxing hero with our robust technological infrastructure,” DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio H. Tanco said. The partnership also extends into payment services. DigiPlus designated MannyPay as its first official gaming payment partner for integration, emphasizing streamlined transactions and same-day settlements for users. “Whether it is through the games that tell my story, or handling payments with MannyPay, we are showing the world what Filipinos are capable of,” Pacquiao said. Pacquiao will additionally assume a wider public-facing role for the organization. He will function as official brand ambassador for ArenaPlus, DigiPlus's sportsbook platform, and for GameZone, which specializes in card and table game competitions.DigiPlus noted that the MannyPay integration will comply with PAGCOR regulations and direct player transactions through BSP-accredited channels, prioritizing security and compliance in the implementation. 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.
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Littleton Casino Project Approaches Construction

(AsiaGameHub) - The proposed Littleton casino is moving toward the construction phase following a $10 million land acquisition on Meadow Street. Granite State Gaming anticipates breaking ground between late June and early July, with a target opening date in early 2027. Key Details The facility is slated to feature between 150 and 200 Class III gaming machines, approximately 12 table games, and an on-site restaurant. Although state regulations permit entry at age 18, Granite State Gaming intends to enforce a 21-plus age restriction for the venue. In accordance with New Hampshire’s charitable gaming statutes, a portion of the casino's proceeds will be donated to local nonprofit organizations. Littleton Casino Plan Moves Ahead Greg Carlin has acquired the former Staples site along with an adjacent lot previously occupied by Tire Warehouse. Because the 23,000-square-foot building requires a four-month notice period for the current tenant to vacate, construction will commence once the property is cleared. The project will not involve significant foundation or exterior structural modifications. The new facility will be smaller in scale than the Lilac Club Casino in Rochester. Granite State Gaming projects the creation of 60 to 80 full-time positions spanning departments such as security, finance, food service, marketing, maintenance, and cash handling. “Working in a casino is like working in a small town,” Barbaro remarked. “We have every component that you’d find, just like at a resort.”The approach to gaming machines has also been adjusted. The Littleton location will exclusively feature Class III machines, which utilize random number generators, in response to a 2024 legislative decision by New Hampshire officials to implement a seven-year ban on historical horse racing (HHR) machines. “At the end of the day, we’re seeing great demand in both the HHR and Class III machines,” Barbaro stated. “We just started to transition our mix here in Lilac and at Hampton Beach, and the Class III machines seem to be getting more demand from our players. They enjoy the Class III games. We are planning on bringing to Littleton all Class III games.” Granite State Gaming also intends to implement an age policy that is more restrictive than state requirements. “We don’t see the value of having 18- to 20-year-olds,” Barbaro explained. “We were the first company to say 21-plus, even though 18 is allowed.”The neighboring parcel may be utilized to expand parking capacity from 115 to as many as 185 spaces. Surrounding businesses are expected to remain operational. Carlin has indicated that the casino could contribute up to $2 million annually to local nonprofits, potentially supporting as many as 104 different organizations. “At Lilac, it took us a good nine months to get through construction,” Eric Barbaro, CEO of Granite State Gaming and Hospitality, told Nashua Ink Link. 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.
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California Prohibits Insider Trading in Prediction Markets

(AsiaGameHub) - On Friday, California introduced a new ethical restriction as prediction markets face increased scrutiny in the United States. Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order prohibiting gubernatorial appointees from utilizing nonpublic information for profit on platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket. Key Details The directive also prohibits officials from assisting family members, business associates, or others in trading based on insider information. California stated that this regulation supplements existing conflict-of-interest laws. Kalshi indicated that its existing rules already forbid insider trading. California Enhances Prediction Market Regulations Governor Newsom linked the executive order to reports suggesting that individuals with inside knowledge may have profited from event contracts related to military and political developments. His office highlighted trading activity connected to events involving Venezuela, Iran, and drug cartels. “Public service should not be a get-rich-quick scheme,” Newsom stated in a press release from his office. “At a time when Trump’s Washington is riddled with ethical failures and insider profiteering, California is drawing a bright line: If you serve the public as a political appointee, you serve the public – period. We’re not going to tolerate this kind of corruption in California.” An example cited by the governor's office involved six individuals suspected of insider trading who allegedly purchased $1.2 million in contracts related to a U.S. strike against Iran after funding their accounts days earlier and placing trades shortly before settlement.For Kalshi and Polymarket, this development occurs amidst a broader regulatory debate concerning prediction markets, insider trading, and event contracts. Both platforms have already implemented rules designed to restrict insider participation. 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.
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Polymarket Finalizes $600 Million Under ICE Agreement

(AsiaGameHub) - Intercontinental Exchange has fulfilled its earlier $2 billion commitment to Polymarket following a final $600 million cash injection. The agreement connects a titan of traditional finance with one of the most rapidly growing prediction market platforms. Good to Know ICE stated the new $600 million cash infusion won't have a “material impact” on its financial results or projections. Polymarket also expects ICE to acquire up to $40 million in existing securities. Details regarding the final valuation from this funding round are anticipated after the current fundraising cycle ends. ICE Concludes Deal as Prediction Markets Gain Traction Friday marked the completion of a significant funding strategy. Intercontinental Exchange, Inc., the parent company of the New York Stock Exchange, funneled $600 million into Polymarket to finish its total $2 billion investment pledge. ICE had previously initiated this commitment with a $1 billion investment in October. With the final cash added, the firm has now finalized one of the largest traditional finance investments ever directed toward a prediction market ecosystem. Polymarket focuses on event contracts tied to politics, business, and other real-world outcomes. As users trade based on anticipated results, the platform generates a live stream of market-driven sentiment. ICE intends to utilize this real-time data to help guide investment outlooks across various industries.At the same time, the cryptocurrency aspect remains a major draw. Polymarket accepts bitcoin deposits, providing ICE with exposure to a platform operating closer to digital asset markets than traditional exchanges typically do. For ICE, this opens a new channel beyond its primary exchange operations. Industry experts have highlighted the scale of ICE's commitment as a sign that more financial institutions may view prediction market platforms as valuable data sources rather than just trading venues. According to Bitcoin Magazine, analysts see rising interest in these models as firms search for alternative market intelligence and faster signals of consumer sentiment. Polymarket has experienced a dynamic few years. After its 2020 launch, the platform was sidelined for three years starting in 2022 following a settlement with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission regarding unregulated binary markets. It made its return to the U.S. in late 2025 under the supervision of the CFTC. Since that return, both Polymarket and Kalshi have seen a significant increase in visibility. Recent reports suggest both firms are pursuing valuations near $20 billion, roughly double the figures seen late last year. This surge reflects the current high demand for event contracts, political wagering, and crypto-integrated trading platforms.ICE also clarified that the transaction does not constitute an offer for security holders to sell their holdings. 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.
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Boyd Gaming Launches Cadence Crossing Casino in Henderson

(AsiaGameHub) - Boyd Gaming has launched Cadence Crossing Casino in Henderson, providing the company with its first newly constructed property in 20 years. The initiative positions Boyd to engage with a rapidly expanding local customer base near the Cadence master-planned community and along Boulder Highway. Good to Know Cadence Crossing features a 10,000-square-foot gaming floor with 450 slot machines. The property opened ahead of its initial schedule and was funded as part of a broader $100 million capital expenditure plan. Boyd may introduce a hotel, additional casino space, and more dining options in the future. Boyd Gaming Replaces Jokers Wild With New Henderson Casino Cadence Crossing is tailored for local players rather than Strip tourists. Boyd aims to draw former Jokers Wild patrons while also serving new residents moving into the surrounding Henderson area. The property spans 50,000 square feet. Inside, guests will find 450 slot machines and electronic versions of blackjack, craps, and roulette instead of live table games. Dining options include Tacos Los Gauchos and Tin Lizard Bar and Grill. Boyd completed construction in under a year after breaking ground in April. Company executives linked the project to the area’s rapid transformation, where residential growth and infrastructure investment have accelerated.“What local residents seek is not only high quality but also excellent value. That’s what we’ll deliver here at Cadence Crossing,” said David Strow, Vice President of Corporate Communications. Strow also noted that the old model no longer suited the area. “We’re elevating our offering here, right? Joker’s Wild performed well for us over about 30 years, but this neighborhood has advanced,” Strow stated. Boyd intends to demolish the Jokers Wild site and convert the land into parking. Concurrently, the company is keeping future expansion options open if customer demand remains strong. “If this property succeeds—and we hope it does—we have the ability to add a hotel, expand casino space, and introduce more restaurants. That possibility could be on the table,” Strow said.Boyd Executive Vice President of Operations Steve Schutte characterized the opening as an initial phase rather than a final product. “While we’re thrilled to open our doors today, this marks just the first step toward our long-term vision for Cadence Crossing,” Schutte said. “We have ample land available here, and we plan to utilize it as the city and Cadence community continue to grow.” Early visitors included many long-time Jokers Wild customers. Boyd retained familiar staff, which helped maintain loyalty from the previous property. “All our Joker’s family can join us at Cadence Crossing,” said employee Liz McCrary. “It’s incredible because we were there for so long, and they kept all the employees.” Analysts have already highlighted Boulder Highway as a growth corridor for housing, retail, and casino demand. Applied Analysis principal Jeremy Aguero stated last year that the area is “one of the most vibrant corridors we’re observing in terms of development, investment, and the influx of families and individuals.” 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.
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Vantage Goldfields Corrects Misleading Announcement by Lions Bay Capital Inc. (LBI) ACN Newswire

Vantage Goldfields Corrects Misleading Announcement by Lions Bay Capital Inc. (LBI)

SYDNEY, AU, Mar 28, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Vantage Goldfields Limited (Vantage Goldfields) owns Vantage Goldfields Pty Ltd (VGL), Barbrook Mines Pty Ltd (Barbrook) and Makonjwaan Imperial Mining Company (Pty) Ltd (MIMCO) (collectively the Vantage Companies), which own the Lily and Barbrook mines in South Africa. The Vantage Companies are currently in business rescue in South Africa, which is the legal process that assists financially distressed companies restructure, or otherwise avoid liquidation.An announcement was made on 26 March 2026 by TSX-V listed Lions Bay Capital Inc. (Lions Bay), which the Vantage Companies believe is misleading to investors and fails to disclose material information (the Announcement). That Announcement referred to Lions Bay receiving approval from a business rescue practitioner (BRP) of the Vantage Companies and calling a meeting of creditors to approve business rescue plans for the Vantage Companies.The Announcement is misleading and fails to disclose relevant material information regarding the Vantage Companies and Lions Bay proposal, including:While the Announcement referred to a Business Rescue Practitioner (BRP) (being Mr Devereux) approving the Lions Bay proposal, it failed to disclose that the Vantage Companies have two appointed BRPs and the second BRP has not approved the Lions Bay's proposal. Both BRPs have to approve a proposal in order for it to be presented to creditors. The second BRP was appointed by the Boards of the Vantage Companies, and his appointment was confirmed by the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), the corporate regulator in South Africa.The second BRP was appointed to ensure that all viable proposals for the rescue of the Vantage Companies are properly considered and that a business rescue is then properly and lawfully implemented for the benefit of all stakeholders, including creditors, former employees and the local community, as soon as possible.Vantage Goldfields as the owner of the Vantage Companies and Lily and Barbrook mines, has received a number of viable proposals for the rescue of the Vantage Companies and the reopening of those mines, which should be properly considered by the BRPs. These proposals should result in a better outcome for creditors and other stakeholders of the Vantage Companies than the Lions Bay proposal.Mr. Devereux acted unilaterally and unlawfully in purporting to approve an offer from Lions Bay and convene a meeting of creditors of the Vantage Companies. Vantage Goldfields believes that Mr. Devereux misled such creditors by failing to disclose that Lions Bay does not have the necessary US$40 million in funds to be able to complete its proposal.The Announcement failed to disclose that for the Lions Bay proposal to be able to be implemented, an approval from a BRP is not legally sufficient to be able to implement that proposal, and that proposal would need to be approved by specified majorities of creditors of each of the Vantage Companies. Vantage Goldfields has been informed by the largest secured creditor of the Vantage Companies that it does not support and will not vote in favour of the Lions Bay proposal at the necessary meetings of creditors, on its current terms and given that Lions Bay does not have all the necessary funds to complete the proposal. That creditor also has not agreed to release its securities over the asset of the Vantage Companies.Therefore, the necessary approvals of creditors will not be obtained, and the Lions Bay proposal will not be able to be implemented as currently proposed.Vantage Goldfields intends to ensure that all viable proposals are properly considered for the business rescue of the Vantage Companies, and that the business rescue process is progressed and implemented properly in accordance with South African law. Vantage Goldfields remains fully committed to reopening the Lily and Barbrook mines for the benefit of all creditors, former employees, affected persons and other stakeholders of the Vantage Companies.Stephen TurnerChairman-Vantage Goldfieldsst@stephenturner.com.auThis press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements about our future operations, plans, objectives, expectations, estimates, forecasts, or projections. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed or implied.Under Australian law, statements about future matters must be based on reasonable grounds at the time they are made or they may be considered misleading. We believe the forward-looking statements in this release are based on reasonable grounds; however, events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ.These risks and uncertainties may include, among other things, changes in market conditions, economic factors, industry developments, operational challenges, regulatory changes, and other factors known or unknown to the company.Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release, and except as required by law, the company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events, or changed circumstances.Source: Vantage Goldfields Limited Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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The Outlaws Return in NetEnt’s Dead or Alive 3 Slot Game iGame

The Outlaws Return in NetEnt’s Dead or Alive 3 Slot Game

(AsiaGameHub) - NetEnt has announced some exciting news, as the studio releases the third entry in its hit Dead or Alive online casino slot series. The newest game is available now, and the infamous Bounty Hunter is back once more to claim his rewards. Dead or Alive 3: Wanted builds upon the foundation of its predecessors, boasting updated graphics, smoother animations, and improved gameplay packed with additional signature features. Dead or Alive 3 Online Slot Metrics Rows: 5 Reels: 5 Paylines: 21 Volatility: High Min/max bet: 0.10/14 Max win: 66,666x Gunning for Top Dollar in Dead or Alive 3 Slot Machine The new slot sticks to the familiar theme of a semi-outlaw mercenary who decides to hunt down other shady figures, taking on the role of the Bounty Hunter – the toughest character around. Dead or Alive 3: Wanted is OUT NOW! And this Bounty Hunter is comin' in hot to collect hashtag#NetEnt hashtag#DeadOrAlive3Wanted hashtag#WantedWilds hashtag#SuperFreeSpins 18+ | Please gamble responsibly | https://t.co/V7Sle07agQ pic.twitter.com/JKFDeicCsL— NetEnt (@NetEntOfficial) March 26, 2026 The game uses a five-by-five slot grid and has a 96.03% RTP rate, which is typical for a high-volatility slot game. As you might anticipate, the maximum payout is substantial too—66,666x the size of your maximum bet. However, the odds of hitting this top prize are roughly 1 in 4.9 million spins. The game also includes a buy-in feature, a bonus mode, and an impressive cinematic opening that shows a burning train stranded in the wilderness. Get Ready to Hit Some Big Wins with Wanted Wilds and Random Multipliers This slot is packed with fantastic boosters that enhance the gameplay experience. The Wanted Wilds symbols assign a random multiplier between 2x and 100x, while Bounty Wilds let you collect all multipliers from the symbols they land alongside. Landing 3 or more scatter symbols unlocks 10 free spins, and you can retrigger these spins for even more chances to win. There’s also the possibility of hitting a super scatter, which grants super free spins. Free spins activated by 4 and 5 scatters offer a 50x or 2,500x multiplier (respectively) based on your bet amount. Additionally, the Elevate feature lets you purchase extra in-game perks to boost your overall playing experience. 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.
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Shoucheng Holdings (0697.HK) Proposes HK$780 Million Dividend: HK$6 Billion in Cumulative Payouts Over Eight Years Solidifies Long-Term Value Logic ACN Newswire

Shoucheng Holdings (0697.HK) Proposes HK$780 Million Dividend: HK$6 Billion in Cumulative Payouts Over Eight Years Solidifies Long-Term Value Logic

HONG KONG, Mar 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - In the Hong Kong stock market, the key to consistently winning investor trust lies not just in periodic earnings growth, but in the ability to stably transform operating results into shareholder returns. According to the latest 2025 annual results report disclosed by Shoucheng Holdings (0697.HK), the company proposes a dividend of 780 million HKD, corresponding to an average annual market value dividend yield of approximately 5.6%. Looking at the long term, since its strategic transformation in 2018, the company has continuously advanced business transformation and structural optimization, leading to steady improvements in profitability and cash flow quality. It has maintained stable dividends for many consecutive years, with a cumulative dividend scale of approximately 6 billion HKD over eight years, shifting the investment logic from "growth expectations" toward "balancing both growth and returns".It is noteworthy that this dividend does not rely on high leverage or short-term overdrafts; rather, it is a proactive return built on improved balance sheets, enhanced operating quality, and optimized cash flow. As of December 31, 2025, the company's bank balances and cash stood at 3.671 billion HKD, with total borrowings of 979 million HKD. The cash-to-interest-bearing debt coverage ratio is approximately 3.75 times, demonstrating strong dividend sustainability and a significant financial safety margin.Over the past eight years, Shoucheng Holdings has gradually formed a smart infrastructure asset service system centered on parking asset management, industrial space management, REITs investment, and equity investment, constructing a composite model of "operational efficiency + asset management + capital circulation". Mature businesses such as parking and industrial parks continue to provide steady cash flow, serving as the practical foundation for the company's dividends. Meanwhile, REITs investments, the robotics ecosystem, and emerging industry funds further open up space for profit realization and valuation enhancement.Among these, the robotics business is becoming a significant incremental driver of Shoucheng Holdings' long-term value. In recent years, the company has continuously refined its robotics layout around "investment + operations + ecosystem," systematically investing in several leading robotics enterprises. Through scenario integration, channel construction, and industrial services, it has pushed projects from technical verification to commercial implementation. As relevant companies accelerate financing, see valuation increases, or move toward IPOs, the robotics segment is expected to continuously strengthen the company's mid-to-long-term profit release and shareholder return capabilities.Furthermore, in the latest Chairman's Statement, Chairman Zhao Tianyang explicitly expressed "gratitude" to investors and continued to emphasize "creating long-term value for investors". This statement is not merely a declaration of attitude but sends a clear signal: Shoucheng Holdings is placing shareholder returns and long-termism in a more prominent position. For the market, the significance of eight years of continuous dividends has long transcended a simple profit distribution; it serves as a more certain anchor of confidence for long-term capital amidst complex economic cycles. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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Missouri Casino Smoking Ban Stalls, Similar Kansas Effort Fails iGame

Missouri Casino Smoking Ban Stalls, Similar Kansas Effort Fails

(AsiaGameHub) - Smoking continues to be allowed on all 13 casino gaming floors in Missouri. Legislators have reintroduced House Bill 1618 in the state's General Assembly, which seeks to mandate smoke-free settings in casinos. The legislative cutoff is rapidly nearing, however, making it entirely possible the bill will lack the time to advance. Furthermore, a comparable proposal in Kansas has already been defeated, contrary to earlier expectations that it would become law. Missouri’s Smoke Ban in Casinos is Stuck in Endless Discussion Focusing on Missouri, the state presently permits indoor smoking in casinos due to a specific exemption in its 1993 Clean Indoor Air Law. House Bill 1618 (HB1618) seeks to change this by removing that exemption. The legislation still has a long journey ahead, particularly as the Jefferson City legislature nears its adjournment for 2026. Earlier this year, prospects for HB1618 looked considerably brighter, as it was launched with support from both parties. The bill, written by state Rep. Bruce Sassmann (R-Montgomery), is co-sponsored by two fellow Republicans and four Democrats. After receiving two readings on the House floor in January, the bill still awaits assignment to a committee for first review. With the Missouri General Assembly scheduled to adjourn on May 15, however, the likelihood of prohibiting casino smoking this year seems low as the clock winds down. Debate on HB 1618 appears to have been delayed partly due to other gambling matters legislators have addressed in recent weeks. For instance, a new bill to regulate slot machines just barely passed the House last week. This action is part of a wider state initiative to manage "gray market" slot games. Indeed, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has already begun pursuing illegal gambling machines, with a particular focus on video lottery terminals (VLTs) that have existed in a legal gray zone. Anti-Smoking Bills in Kansas Fail In the neighboring state of Kansas, Senate Bill 176 has already met its end. The bill aimed to modify the Kansas Clean Air Act of 2010 to eliminate secondhand smoke from the state's four casinos. Kansas Senate Bill 176 has seen no movement since February, when it was sent to the Senate Committee on Federal and State Affairs. The committee created the measure at the request of state Sen. Mike Thompson (R-Johnson). A related proposal in the Kansas House of Representatives, supported by Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects, has similarly stalled. House Bill 2252 has remained inactive for weeks in the House Committee on Health and Human Services. While the Kansas Legislature does not adjourn until April 10, both SB176 and HB2252 are currently defunct after missing the state's crossover deadline of February 19 to move to the opposite chamber. 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.
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Everest Medicines Enters into Asset Purchase Agreement for Etripamil Nasal Spray, Expanding Cardiovascular Footprint ACN Newswire

Everest Medicines Enters into Asset Purchase Agreement for Etripamil Nasal Spray, Expanding Cardiovascular Footprint

HONG KONG, March 23, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Everest Medicines today announced that it has entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement with Corxel Pharmaceuticals Hong Kong Limited ("CORXEL"). Under the agreement, the Company has acquired the rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize CARDAMYST™ (etripamil) nasal spray in Greater China, including Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan region.Under the terms of the agreement, Everest will pay CORXEL an upfront payment of US$30 million (equivalent to approximately RMB344,895,000), as well as potential development milestone payments of up to US$20 million (equivalent to approximately RMB137,958,000). As part of this agreement, Everest will be assigned and transferred rights, interests, claims, duties, obligations and liabilities (other than certain excluded liabilities) under the Milestone License Agreement entered into by CORXEL in May 2021 and certain related ancillary agreements.CARDAMYST™ (etripamil) nasal spray is a novel, rapid-acting calcium channel blocker as administered as needed via a convenient, portable nasal spray. It offers rapid onset of action, favorable tolerability, and the potential for at-home self-administration, enhancing patient accessibility. In December 2025, CARDAMYST was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), becoming the first and only self-administered nasal spray in more than 30 years capable of converting paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) to sinus rhythm in adults. As a rapid-acting treatment option, CARDAMYST can be self-administered outside the emergency department or other healthcare settings, enabling patients to actively manage episodes and gain greater control over their condition. In addition to its approved indication for PSVT, etripamil nasal spray is also under clinical development for atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response (AFib-RVR). Phase II trials have shown encouraging results, and Phase III trials are planned, with the potential to further extend its therapeutic impact to a broader patient population.In China, the New Drug Application (NDA) for etripamil nasal spray was accepted by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) on January 17, 2025 and is expected to receive approval in the third quarter of 2026.PSVT is characterized by abnormalities in the heart's electrical system that cause sudden unexpected and often severely symptomatic episodes of rapid heart rate. There are currently no approved self-administered, fast-acting, non-injectable therapies for acute PSVT, leaving patients with limited treatment options beyond emergency care. Approximately 2.3 to 4 per 1,000 individuals are affected by PSVT, representing an estimated 3 to 6 million patients in China.AFib-RVR is a type of irregular heart rhythm, characterized by an irregular and elevated heart rate. Its onset is typically gradual, episodes are less likely to terminate spontaneously, and the condition tends to recur, significantly increasing the risk of thromboembolism and serious complications such as stroke and heart failure. In China, atrial fibrillation affects an estimated 1.6% of the population, representing nearly 20 million patients, and is expected to increase with an aging population. Both PSVT and AFib-RVR are associated with a loss of control and a significant psychological burden for patients.Overall, the combined patient population for PSVT and AFib-RVR exceeds 25 million, representing a significantly unmet clinical need that urgently requires more convenient and more effective treatment options.In terms of clinical data, the NDA for etripamil nasal spray was accepted by the NMPA based on data from the pivotal global Phase 3 RAPID study and the China Phase 3 JX02002 study. Both trials met their primary endpoints. Overall, the treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were comparable between the etripamil and placebo groups. The FDA approval of CARDAMYST was supported by a robust clinical program that included safety data from more than 1,800 participants across more than 2,000 PSVT episodes. This included the Phase 3 RAPID trial, a global, randomized, double-blind comparison of etripamil versus placebo, published in The Lancet in 2023. The RAPID trial achieved its primary endpoint, with 64% of participants who self-administered etripamil (N=99) converting from supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) to sinus rhythm within 30 minutes compared with 31% on placebo (N=85) (HR = 2.62; p
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WSOP Poised to Return to ESPN Once Again iGame

WSOP Poised to Return to ESPN Once Again

(AsiaGameHub) - The World Series of Poker (WSOP), a poker powerhouse established by Benny Binion, and ESPN have announced a new streaming agreement on Thursday, confirming that the world's most prestigious and popular poker event will once again be broadcast on the network. ESPN to Bring Top-Tier Poker Action to Fans This multi-year streaming partnership will begin with the 2026 edition of the event, scheduled to start on July 2, 2026, and will continue through the final table, which is set to take place from August 3 to August 5, 2026. Details of the agreement have been released, indicating that coverage will feature three tables running concurrently for the Main Event, which is widely considered the most engaging and rewarding competition on the schedule. Commenting on this significant development, Ty Stewart, CEO of the World Series of Poker, expressed his enthusiasm, calling it an excellent opportunity to provide poker enthusiasts with a more dynamic viewing experience. “It’s with great pride that the WSOP is coming home to ESPN. The legacy of this partnership helped the game explode, and we can’t wait to deliver inspiration through world-class content to a new generation of viewers,” Stewart stated. The WSOP Main Event is anticipated to be one of the most significant in its history. Last year's event saw a total prize pool of $90.5 million, distributed among over 9,735 participants. This figure represented the third-largest Main Event in the series' history, but Stewart is optimistic that the event will surpass all previous records. However, travel restrictions imposed by the Trump administration may have negatively impacted the participation of international players. Despite these challenges, the WSOP continues to maintain its cultural relevance, with various developments surrounding the brand. For instance, Phil Hellmuth, who holds 17 WSOP bracelets, recently suggested that the number of bracelets awarded annually should be reduced, arguing that the proliferation of events diminishes the value of the original bracelets. 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.
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Xunce Technology’s Revenue Surges 449% Half-on-Half: Is a Structural Revaluation to a Hundred-Billion Market Cap Camp on the Horizon? ACN Newswire

Xunce Technology’s Revenue Surges 449% Half-on-Half: Is a Structural Revaluation to a Hundred-Billion Market Cap Camp on the Horizon?

HONG KONG, Mar 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - As AI accelerates into the inference era, enterprise-grade AI is achieving large-scale deployment, driving an exponential surge in Token consumption and ushering data demand into a new development stage. Against this backdrop, high-quality, structured and scenario-specific professional data has become critical for enterprises to forge core strategic competitiveness in the era of AI.As a leading provider of AI real-time data infrastructure and analysis services in China, Xunce Technology is rapidly solidifying its core position in AI data, driven by industry tailwinds, full-chain technological capabilities and diversified growth engines. Amid the unfolding landscape of the intelligent economy, this ten-year industry stalwart is entering a pivotal window for structural revaluation.Token Value Restructuring: Making Every Data Access Quantifiable and MonetizableFounded in 2016, Xunce Technology has built a full-chain technological system spanning data acquisition, cleansing, standardization, real-time computing and large- model optimization over a decade of development. With AI Data Agent at its core, the Company specializes in millisecond-level real-time data processing, serving a diversified portfolio of industries including finance, urban governance, high-end manufacturing, healthcare, robotics, satellite applications, low-altitude economy, electric power, power grids and energy.As the era of AI inference unfolds, Token is evolving from mere “fuel” to a form of “hard currency”. Maximizing the value of each individual Token has emerged as a central challenge in the large-model inference era. Today, general-purpose large models typically rely on a “computing power for precision” approach, where every inference run generates substantial wasteful Token consumption. Should inference fail, all Tokens expended in the process are lost entirely, which is a common pain-point plaguing general AI systems.By contrast, vertical AI solutions equip general large language models with an external industry “brain” powered by domain-specific data. At its core, such solutions optimize inference logic via business-aware models, enabling upfront task feasibility validation and eliminating Token waste at the source. With deep expertise in professional vertical domain data modeling, Xunce Technology leverages its extensive portfolio of high-quality, scenario-specific proprietary data to act as an “efficiency multiplier” for every Token invocation. This structure translates Token consumption into higher-precision outputs while securing maximal result certainty. Crucially, the Company is developing full-chain capabilities spanning data metering, pricing and settlement, enabling quantifiable and monetizable measurement for every data access. By elevating per-unit Token efficiency, it delivers enhanced business value to enterprise clients.Aligned with this strategy, Xunce’s platform features a “LEGO-inspired” modular architecture, enabling clients to flexibly compose modules tailored to their specific needs. This “assemble-on-demand, adapt-in-real-time” design fosters deep and long-term customer stickiness. The Company also employs a highly flexible pricing framework, with fees structured around module count, processing throughput and other key metrics. Supported by subscription, transaction-based and Token-based payment models, its pricing mechanism precisely aligns with diverse client demands.Currently, Xunce Technology is fully building a full-chain data measurement and settlement system. It is exploring pricing mechanisms tied to large model inference frequency and module usage count, allowing customers to pay for effective Tokens rather than raw computing power consumption.Inflection Point Reached, Profitability ConfirmedDriven by Token value restructuring and innovative business models, Xunce Technology has delivered robust performance and reached a historic inflection point. In H2 2025, the Company posted an adjusted net profit of RMB 50 million, achieving its first positive profitability. Meanwhile, revenue rose from RMB 197.85 million in H1 2025 to RMB 1,086.81 million in H2, representing a 449.32% quarter-on-quarter surge. Amid rapid business expansion, the Company has witnessed a substantial improvement in profitability.Explosive Revenue GrowthReturn to Profit in H2Doubled ARPU & Per Capita GrowthImproved Cash Flow & Operating Metrics+103% Y/YNarrowed by 33%+105% Y/YSignificant Improvement2025 full-year revenue YoY growth2025 full-year adjusted net loss2025 ARPU YoY growth2025 net operating cash flow+449% H/HRMB 50 million+135% Y/YAmple cash on hand in 20252025 H2 revenue HoH growth2025 H2 adjusted net profit2025 per capita revenue YoY growthAverage collection period decreased in 2025For the full year, the Company posted total operating revenue of RMB 1,284.66 million, representing a substantial year-on-year increase of 103.28% and successfully breaking the key milestone of RMB 1 billion in revenue. This signifies that the Company has evolved from an early-stage, technology-driven startup into a new era of platform-based development with scalable and replicable business models.Furthermore, the Company’s combined gross proceeds for 2025 amounted to approximately RMB 792.08 million, representing a substantial increase of 63.44% compared to approximately RMB 484.63 million in the previous year. In terms of adjusted net loss, after deducting one-off non-recurring gains and losses, the Company’s adjusted net loss for 2025 was RMB 54.84 million, representing a significant narrowing of 33% from RMB 82.37 million in 2024.Notably, the Company achieved combined gross margin of 62% in 2025, exceeding that of Cambricon (55%), a leading AI chip provider, and far outpacing general large- model developer Minimax (25.4%). This underscores its high-value strategic positioning and resilient business model in the AI data infrastructure sector.In terms of R&D investment, Xunce Technology has also maintained efficient growth conversion. In 2025, the Company’s R&D expenditure reached RMB 450.44 million, with R&D expenses accounting for 48% of revenue, driving a 105% year-on-year increase in operating revenue. For comparison, Minimax’s R&D expenditure accounted for as high as 219% of its revenue, with a revenue growth rate of 159%. Xunce achieved a comparable expansion pace with a lower R&D intensity.As revenue scale continues to expand and gross margin in new industries gradually stabilize, the Company’s short-term objective is to achieve an inflection point in adjusted net profit. Looking ahead, as the industries already deployed enter a period of margin stabilization and Token-based payment and revenue-sharing models gain accelerated traction, its net profit is poised to improve at an accelerated rate.Driven by Diversified Growth Engines, Business Structure Continuously OptimizedThe robust revenue growth is not accidental, but underpinned by Xunce Technology’s multi-dimensional, systematically structured growth framework.Accelerate cross-industry replication. The Company currently covers 9 major industries, benchmarking Palantir’s 17 industries and leaving ample room for horizontal expansion. Xunce Technology is rapidly deepening its presence in key national strategic sectors such as asset management, telecommunications, electric power, urban management, high-end manufacturing, healthcare, energy, robotics training platforms and commercial aerospace. For each new industry, the Company first completes industry-specific data accumulation over 3 to 5 years, enabling rapid replication and scaled deployment across peer customers thereafter.The business model fosters deep customer value enhancement. As customers evolve from single-module adoption to multi-module deployment, and from pilot trials to full integration into core business workflows, substantial upside potential in ARPU remains. By synergistically lifting Token invocation volume, module usage count and per-Token value, the Company will unlock a new dimension of growth.Steadily expand overseas business and establish a global layout. The Company targets raising its overseas revenue share to 10% to 15% in 2026, and will further escalate its globalization strategy during 2027 and 2028, unlocking new avenues for sustained long-term growth.Cultivate a strategic cooperative ecosystem to forge deep integration with upstream and downstream partners in computing power and algorithms. Xunce Technology is engaging in in-depth collaboration with leading domestic GPU providers and large language model enterprises to build a one-stop solution encompassing “infrastructure computing power, upper-layer applications and data governance,” further solidifying its core position in the AI data infrastructure sector. Pioneer cutting-edge applications to seize commanding heights in future industries. From robotics data platforms to commercial aerospace, low-altitude economy and power grid systems, Xunce Technology has taken the lead in extending AI infrastructure to emerging sectors with stringent demands for real-time performance and operational reliability. Such mission-critical scenarios with ultra-high requirements for data timeliness and stability serve as a rigorous validation of the Company’s technological advantages. The Company will continue to ramp up R&D investment in frontier fields, refine its technical capabilities through high-end application scenarios and unlock new high-growth, high-value growth tracks for long-term development.Evolving from Data Services to Core AI Economy Infrastructure: Building Sustainable Competitive BarriersFrom a macro perspective, the artificial intelligence data sector is witnessing a profound convergence of five defining trends: a surge in demand for real-time, secure, high-quality data in the era of AI Agent; the rise of domain-specific models elevating professional data as a critical enabler for industry-wide intelligent upgrading; standardization of data interfaces driven by next-generation AI operating systems including Open Claw, positioning Xunce Technology as a core data Token provider; Token-based payment emerging as a new paradigm for the data element market; and the implementation of data asset capitalization policies, spurring a sharp rise in enterprises’ mandatory investment in data governance.At the intersection of these five pivotal trends, Xunce Technology has established a robust fundamental logic for sustained long-term growth. The Company has evolved beyond a traditional data infrastructure provider to become a critical “connector” and “enabler” linking large models, computing power and cloud vendors. By integrating upstream models, downstream computing power and horizontal collaboration with cloud vendors, the Company delivers irreplaceable data-centric value to its enterprise clients.The Company stresses that it shares a natural upstream-downstream synergy with general large-model providers, rather than a competitive dynamic. Analogous to the deep collaboration between GPU manufacturers and model developers, the value of Xunce Technology lies in a mutually reinforcing cycle: the wider the adoption of models by its clients, the greater the opportunity for the Company to deliver services and generate incremental value for clients.Notably, in contrast to niche market players offering only isolated modules such as data cleansing or computing engines, Xunce Technology’s core differentiation lies in its full-process coverage and outcome-driven accountability. The Company provides an end-to-end solution spanning data acquisition, cleansing, standardization, modeling, real-time computing and model tuning, ensuring that final data delivered to clients is clean, accurate, real-time and accessible for model invocation at millisecond latency. Furthermore, through deep integration into clients’ private clouds or on-premises environments, the Company acts as a dedicated data steward, fostering exceptional customer stickiness and forging robust, sustainable competitive barriers.Currently, the Company’s product portfolio and solutions feature more than 300 functional modules, covering a full spectrum of scenarios from data infrastructure to upper-layer analytics applications. In 2025, its active paid clients base reached 230, with an outstanding customer retention rate of 90%. ARPU increased substantially from RMB 2.72 million in 2024 to RMB 5.59 million in 2025, representing a year-on-year growth of over 103%.As algorithms become increasingly open-source and computing power tends toward standardization, what truly sets companies apart lies in data — particularly industry data that has undergone sophisticated governance and can effectively empower large models. Backed by a decade of deep industry expertise, Xunce Technology has established a substantial and sustainable competitive barrier in this domain.ConclusionFrom an early-stage private equity tool provider to a cross-industry AI data infrastructure builder, and from a module supplier to a Token-priced core platform, Xunce Technology has remained committed to unlocking data as a scarce, strategic resource that is freely circulable, readily callable and empowered to drive high-quality decision-making.Amid the rapid emergence of new intelligent economic paradigms, the Company stands at the threshold of a fundamental structural revaluation, with the potential to enter the RMB 100-billion market cap camp. It is a competitor to none, but an indispensable partner to all. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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Analogue 2025 Annual Results Profit Attributable to Owners of the Company Increases 23.5% to HK$167.0 Million ACN Newswire

Analogue 2025 Annual Results Profit Attributable to Owners of the Company Increases 23.5% to HK$167.0 Million

HONG KONG, Mar 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Analogue Holdings Limited (“Analogue” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) (stock code: 1977), a leading provider of electrical and mechanical (“E&M”) engineering solutions, and information and communications technology services for smart cities, today announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2025 (“the Year” or “FY2025”) with net profit growth, contracts-in-hand achieving another record high and order intake more than doubled, providing a solid business foundation for the coming three years and beyond.Financial Highlights- Profit attributable to owners of the Company increased 23.5% to HK$167.0 million.- Contracts-in-hand surged 61.8% to HK$17,878.7 million, hitting another record-high, made possible by a 113.7% increase in order intake to HK$12,913.6 million during the Year.- The intake of new maintenance contracts for housing programmes, environmental projects and lifts and escalators increased 51.4% to HK$1,669 million, reinforcing the recurring revenue stream.- The Group maintained a strong cash position, with bank balances and cash of HK$1,020.8 million and gearing ratio reduced to 10.1% for FY2025 from 26.2%.- The Board has resolved to pay a second interim dividend of HK2.9 cents per share. Total dividend for the year amounted to HK5.5 cents per share with 25.6% increment year-on-year.Chairman Dr Mak Kin Wah said, “The Year 2025 saw profound changes around the world, with challenges and yet also opportunities. Our Group has continued to stride forward: upholding what we commit by delivering the fundamentals well, striving for continuous improvement to make transformation actionable, investing in technology advancement and productivity, and bringing Hong Kong’s engineering excellence to the world. We are pleased to report that the Group achieved profit growth, secured a record level of contracts-in-hand, and continued to build on our international market presence. These accomplishments highlight our distinctive comprehensive capability across diverse business segments, our commitment to excellence, and our leadership in advanced engineering techniques.”“Supported by strong cashflow, we are in a strong position to take on additional work where appropriate and to seize high-value opportunities as they arise. We will continue to stay agile and focused on capturing opportunities across our broad portfolio, build on our competitive strengths through continuous improvement, and reinforce the use of innovative solutions that enhance quality, safety and performance. We remain steadfast in our commitment to our customers, recognising that this is fundamental to earning their trust and cultivating enduring, strategic partnerships. Guided by our motto – ‘We Commit. We Perform. We Deliver’ – we will continue to maximise value for customers, shareholders, suppliers and stakeholders, while contributing to the communities we serve.”Business Review: Building Services- This segment remains the largest revenue contributor, with revenue reaching HK$3,279 million.- Contracts-in-hand reached a record-high level of HK$8,297 million with the total value of new contracts secured in FY2025 doubled to HK$6,470 million. The Group’s competitive edge in multidisciplinary packaged projects and its industry leadership in innovative MiMEP and other new engineering techniques helped it to secure major contracts.- With strategic investments to accelerate innovation and modern manufacturing facilities in Zhuhai and Hong Kong, the Group continues to lead in MiMEP and DfMA technologies.- Following the successful acquisition of a property management licence, the Group expanded its business to deliver integrated solutions across the entire building lifecycle. This new capability, spanning construction, maintenance, operations and long-term facility management, creates a potential revenue stream that complements core services.- Through continuous development of innovative technologies and operational optimisation, the segment is positioning itself to maintain the market competitiveness while exploring opportunities in other markets in Southeast Asia.Environmental Engineering- This segment achieved record-high contracts-in-hand and order intake, increasing 86.9% and 253.7% to HK$8,094 million and HK$5,355 million respectively. Segment revenue also increased by 18.0% year-on-year to HK$1,591 million.- The segment maintained active tendering throughout the period and was awarded significant contracts, including contracts of a record-breaking value to relocate sewage treatment works in Sha Tin to caverns, sewage pumping station at Ma On Shan and more.- Formed a joint venture company in Qingyang city to explore the operation and maintenance business in the Chinese Mainland.- Explored project opportunities in Asia and the Middle East and the expansion of its expert services into Europe.Information, Communications and Building Technologies (“ICBT”)- Segment revenue remained at HK$630 million. Contracts-in-hand totalled HK$852 million at the year end, and order intake was HK$523 million during the Year.- This segment continued to reinforce its leadership in green and intelligent building solutions under the DigiFusion brand, to enable the development of smarter, more sustainable urban environments.- Continued to leverage ATAL Tower as a platform for developing innovative technologies and broaden its technological capabilities through strategic collaborations with leading manufacturers in the Chinese Mainland and around the world, to strengthen its ability to deliver scalable, high-performance solutions across a wide range of sectors.Lifts and Escalators- Revenue and order intake increased 11.0% to HK$587 million and by 3.2% to HK$566 million respectively.- Transel Elevator & Electric Inc. (TEI), the associate company in the United States (US), secured a contract for the world-class vertical transportation system in the iconic 56-storey luxury hotel skyscraper on the border of Times Square in New York. TEI also further strengthened its market position by extending its footprint into the Southeastern part of US.- Actively built on its presence in the UK and broadened its network across other international markets, reinforcing its global ambitions in vertical transportation solutions.- Machine-Room-Less lift products continued to gain traction in key international markets- Streamlined the manufacturing processes of Nanjing factory, broadened its product portfolio and strengthened the overall product quality, aligning with the Group’s global vision and reaffirming its commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance vertical transportation solutions.For further details of the 2025 Annual Results, please refer to the announcement filed with The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited.About Analogue Holdings LimitedEstablished in 1977, Analogue Holdings Limited is a leading provider of electrical and mechanical (“E&M”) engineering solutions and information and communications technology (“ICT”) services for smart cities, with headquarters in Hong Kong and operations in the Chinese Mainland, Macau, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore and Malaysia. Serving a wide spectrum of customers from public and private sectors, the Group provides multidisciplinary and comprehensive E&M engineering and technology services in four major segments, including Building Services, Environmental Engineering, Information, Communications and Building Technologies (“ICBT”) and Lifts & Escalators.The Group also manufactures and sells lifts and escalators internationally and has entered into an alliance with Transel Elevator & Electric Inc. (“TEI”), one of the largest independent lifts and escalators companies in New York, the United States. The Group’s associate partner, Nanjing Canatal Data-Centre Environmental Tech Co., Ltd. (603912.SS), specialises in manufacturing of precision air conditioners. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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From Poker Winnings to 30 Locations: Fat Shack Founder Story iGame

From Poker Winnings to 30 Locations: Fat Shack Founder Story

(AsiaGameHub) - Tom Armenti, president and CEO of Fat Shack Inc., launched his venture after graduating from college, using $5,000 in winnings from online poker. His optimism was initially dampened by construction estimates that ranged from $150,000 to $200,000. “There’s No Way I Can Do This” “I recall thinking, ‘There’s no way I can do this,’” Armenti stated in an interview with Business Insider’s Katherine Tangalakis-Lippert. Instead of abandoning the idea, he devised a solution. Rather than constructing a new restaurant, he borrowed space using his poker winnings. In 2010, he introduced Fat Shack by operating out of a local bagel shop at night, after the business had closed for the day. The initial phase was challenging due to a lack of on-site storage; consequently, he stored ingredients in freezers in his garage and transported only the necessary inventory for each day. Although the setup was less than ideal, the unique arrangement proved successful, as students began placing orders, spreading the news, and keeping the phone lines busy. Soon after, he decided to relocate the business to Fort Collins, Colorado, attracted by the significantly larger student population, and in 2011, he opened the first full-fledged Fat Shack location. The Shark Tank Effect The business took off in the first week, with further growth following shortly, prompting him to open a second location in Boulder with a close friend. The experimental franchise was also a hit, convincing the two friends that the concept was scalable. By 2015, they had established the first official franchise locations, often managed by individuals who had previously worked within the company. A significant milestone occurred four years later when the company appeared on Shark Tank, securing the founder a deal with Mark Cuban for $250,000 in exchange for 15% equity. Thanks to the publicity, sales experienced another surge, inquiries flooded in, and the company expanded rapidly, reaching 30 locations and generating approximately $20 million in annual revenue. Despite this success, the restaurant industry has grown more competitive due to shifting consumer habits and rising competition, forcing Fat Shack to make a difficult choice: remain true to its identity or adapt by offering healthier options. They chose the former. “There’s no way we could reinvent ourselves as a health brand,” Armenti remarked. The chain continues to prioritize value, enlarge portion sizes, and maintain stable pricing. To this day, the founder remains hands-on, frequently working in the stores alongside his staff. 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.
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ARK Invest Team Up with Kalshi for New Forecasting iGame

ARK Invest Team Up with Kalshi for New Forecasting

(AsiaGameHub) - A new collaboration between Kalshi and ARK Invest is propelling prediction platforms into the mainstream of professional investing, as companies seek enhanced tools to forecast an increasingly uncertain future. This partnership will offer an alternative perspective to conventional forecasting techniques, harnessing the wisdom of the crowd to collect signals that traditional models often fail to capture. Prediction Markets Deliver Distinctive Insights ARK plans to test how these signals integrate into its research process. The firm, known for leveraging emerging technologies, will use prediction markets to gather an additional layer of information that complements its existing tools. Analysts aim to monitor contracts tied to economic indicators and industry trends to identify investment patterns that support their decision-making. Part of this work is already in progress. ARK has been observing Kalshi markets—such as those focused on productivity and the federal deficit—in initial studies. Researchers are looking to determine whether real-time probability pricing can detect turning points faster than traditional analysis. The continuous price fluctuations linked to these indicators may help investors precisely track current market expectations. “We believe these signals can enhance our research process and provide valuable context around key drivers across disruptive sectors, helping investors make more informed decisions.” Cathie Wood, ARK Invest founder, CEO, and CIO However, there are some ongoing concerns. Liquidity varies across contracts, and not every market attracts enough participation to generate reliable signals. Crowd behavior could also skew prices, especially in thinly traded areas. Even so, the trend is clear: firms like ARK are now using prediction markets as a valuable tool to supplement their existing earnings models and economic forecasts. Kalshi Targets Mainstream Acceptance This kind of institutional use could be a significant boost for Kalshi’s legitimacy as a mainstream financial platform. It transforms real-world uncertainty into tradable contracts, with pricing that reflects collective judgment. Rising interest from professional investors has validated Kalshi’s expansion efforts in how markets are created and distributed as the company aims to deliver a mature, established product. “As institutional adoption of prediction markets grows, Kalshi is seeing increased demand for a formal market request pipeline to help investors leverage the wisdom of the crowd.” Tarek Mansour, Kalshi CEO The ARK partnership follows a similar deal with Tradeweb Markets in February. The company is integrating Kalshi’s probability data into its trading ecosystem to complement more familiar indicators like rates and credit spreads. This addition should give portfolio managers another metric to gauge potential risk and make informed decisions. Together, these two deals show how institutions have adjusted their approach to information. The prediction market system is quickly becoming part of established workflows that handle real capital at scale. Such growing interest reflects rising confidence that probability-based markets can uncover nuances traditional analysis sometimes overlooks. 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.
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