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Botanicals for Better Health and Wellness (BBHW), a national trade organization focused on advancing science-based botanical policy, today commended Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Health and Family Services Secretary Dr. Steven Stack for their leadership in classifying synthetic and concentrated forms of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as Schedule I substances.

The organization praised the administration’s decision as a model for other states navigating how to balance consumer safety with access to natural plant-based products.

“Governor Beshear’s action reflects a nuanced and evidence-informed understanding of the issue,” said Dr. Paloma Lehfeldt, MD, Medical Director of BBHW. “Synthetic 7-OH is not the same as natural kratom. It is a highly concentrated, laboratory-modified compound that poses measurable risks for dependence and dangerous adverse effects. By drawing this distinction, Kentucky is helping define what responsible, science-driven botanical regulation should look like nationwide.”

7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, occurs naturally in Mitragyna speciosa (kratom) leaves at trace levels after the drying process, but some manufacturers have produced isolated or chemically enhanced versions. The result, according to BBHW, is a growing category of synthetic products marketed as “kratom” but pharmacologically distinct from the traditional plant.

“Conflating synthetic analogs with natural botanicals creates confusion and undermines both public health and legitimate research,” Dr. Lehfeldt said. “Kentucky’s decision draws a scientific line that other states would be wise to follow.”

BBHW has urged lawmakers to adopt a consistent national strategy that supports scientific research, establishes uniform labeling and purity standards, and ensures that enforcement targets only the high-risk synthetic products that endanger consumers.

“Kentucky’s leadership sends a message that public health policy should be informed by data, not stigma,” Dr. Lehfeldt said. “We applaud Governor Beshear and Dr. Stack for demonstrating that it is possible to protect communities from harm while maintaining a rational, evidence-based path forward for natural products that have been used meaningfully for centuries.”

About Botanicals For Better Health and Wellness (BBHW)

Botanicals for Better Health and Wellness (BBHW) is a national trade organization formed to support the development of robust regulatory frameworks governing botanical products in the United States. For more information, visit www.bbhw.org.

Media Contact

Press Team
paloma@bbhwco.com

Sezzle Inc. (NASDAQ:SEZL) ("Sezzle" or "Company"), a purpose-driven digital payment platform, is pleased to update the market on key financial metrics for the quarter ended September 30, 2025.

“Our products continue to resonate with consumers, as we’re seeing clear momentum in both engagement and scale,” noted Charlie Youakim, Sezzle Executive Chairman and CEO. “It’s exciting to cross $1 billion in quarterly GMV for the first time, which reflects a growing loyal consumer base. We’re sharpening our focus on proven results and long-term innovation, and we're looking forward to supporting shoppers with our tools this holiday season.”

Third Quarter 2025 Highlights

• GMV: $1.0B, up 58.7% YoY; driven by subscription/On-Demand usage, marketing-led acquisition/engagement/retention, and underwriting changes. Consumer purchase frequency rose to 6.5x from 5.4x.
• Total Revenue: $116.8M, up 67.0% YoY (11.2% of GMV).
• MODS: +36,000 in-quarter to ~784,000; growth led by Premium/Anywhere subscribers.
• Operating Expenses: $81.2M, up 65.4% YoY; 69.6% of revenue (-0.6 ppt YoY) and 7.8% of GMV (+0.4 ppt).
• Transaction Related Costs [1]: $53.5M (5.1% of GMV vs. 4.8% prior), reflecting higher credit loss provision; FY25 loss rate guidance updated to 2.5%–2.75% of GMV.
• Operating Income: $35.6M, up 70.6% YoY; 30.4% of revenue (+0.6 ppt) and 3.4% of GMV (+0.2 ppt).
• Total Revenue Less Transaction Related Costs [1]: $63.3M, up 64.5% YoY; 6.0% of GMV (+0.2 ppt) and 54.2% of revenue (-0.8 ppt).
• Non-Transaction Related Operating Expenses [1]: $31.6M, up 50.9% YoY; 27.1% of revenue (-2.9 ppt). Includes $1.3M Corporate Strategic Project Costs (capital markets, antitrust suit, bank charter exploration).
• Net Income: $26.7M, up 72.7% YoY; 22.8% margin; EPS (diluted): $0.75 (from $0.44).
• Adjusted Net Income [1]: $25.4M, up 52.6% YoY; 21.8% margin; Adjusted EPS (diluted) [2]: $0.71 (from $0.47).
• Adjusted EBITDA [3]: $39.6M, up 74.6% YoY; 33.9% margin (+1.5 ppt).

[1] See appendix for a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures.
[2] Per diluted share figures reflect 6-for-1 common stock split effective March 28, 2025.
[3] See appendix for reconciliation.

Balance Sheet and Liquidity (as of Sept. 30, 2025)

• Cash & Cash Equivalents: $134.7M (including $30.5M restricted).
• Credit Facility: $118.0M principal outstanding on $150.0M facility at quarter end.
• Post-quarter amendment (Oct. 30, 2025): Borrowing capacity increased to $225.0M via $75.0M accordion.

Guidance

FY2025 (November update vs. August):

• Total Revenue: 60%–65% YoY
• Total Revenue Less Transaction Related Costs [3] / Revenue: 60%–65%
• Effective Tax Rate: ~25% (excl. discrete)
• Adjusted Net Income [3]: $120.0M
• Adjusted EPS (diluted): $3.38 — raised from $3.25
• Net Income: $125.0M (note: differs from Adjusted Net Income; see reconciliation)
• EPS (diluted): $3.52
• Adjusted EBITDA [3]: $175.0–$180.0M — raised from $170.0–$175.0M
• Preliminary FY2026: Adjusted EPS (diluted): $4.35 (assumes ~25% tax).

Note: Non-GAAP guidance reflects add-backs for corporate strategic initiatives; November 2025 assumes 35.5M diluted weighted-average shares.

Initiatives Update

• Expanded app features across the shopper journey.
• Earn Tab: Sezzle Arcade, Coupons & Discounts, Gas & Grocery/Dining Discount, Money IQ, Sezzle Quest; tens of thousands of offers; receipt-based rewards launching soon.
• Browser Extension (iOS): Surfaces offers/coupons automatically.
• Usage Growth: MAUs [4] +38% YoY, Revenue-Generating Users [5] +120% YoY (monthly), Monthly Sessions [6] +78% YoY.
  Enterprise wins: D&B Supply; Dunham’s Sports.

[4] Monthly Active Users is defined as the number of unique users that transacted or engaged with the Sezzle app during the month.
[5] Revenue Generating Users are unique users that Sezzle monetized.
[6] Session for the month of September 2025. A Session occurs when a Sezzle Consumer opens the Sezzle app and ends after 30 minutes of inactivity.

Awards and Accolades

Named to TIME 100 America’s Growth Leaders (inaugural list).

Chief Financial Officer Transition

Nov. 1, 2025: Karen Hartje advised of intention to resign as CFO for personal reasons; will continue as CFO and principal financial officer under a Consulting Agreement reporting to CEO Charlie Youakim to ensure a smooth transition.

Upcoming Investor Events

• Nov 17, 2025: Oppenheimer Non-Deal Roadshow (NYC)
• Nov 18, 2025: Wells Fargo 9th Annual TMT Summit
• Dec 16, 2025: Northland Growth Conference
• Dec 17, 2025: Needham Non-Deal Roadshow (Boston) 

Quarterly Conference Call and Presentation

• Nov 5, 2025 | 5:00pm ET.
• Registration: dpregister.com/sreg/10204064/10031acd240
• Webcast: event.choruscall.com/mediaframe/webcast.html?webcastid=wINtbIvE
• Dial-in (alt): 1-866-777-2509 (US/CA) or 1-412-317-5413 (Intl)
  Replay through Nov 12, 2025: 1-855-669-9658 (US) or 1-412-317-0088 (Intl), access code 9729701.Investor deck to be posted on Sezzle IR before the call.

3Q25 GAAP Operating Results

• Total Revenue: $116,796k vs. $69,958k (+67.0%)Operating Expenses: $81,235k vs. $49,116k (+65.4%); 69.6% of revenue (vs. 70.2%); 7.8% of GMV (vs. 7.4%)Operating Income: $35,561k vs. $20,842k (+70.6%); 30.4% of revenue (vs. 29.8%); 3.4% of GMV (vs. 3.2%)
• Net Income: $26,671k vs. $15,446k (+72.7%); 22.8% of revenue (vs. 22.1%)
• EPS (diluted): $0.75 vs. $0.44 (+70.5%).

3Q25 Non-GAAP Operating Results

• Non-Transaction Related Opex: $31,623k vs. $20,953k (+50.9%); 27.1% of revenue (vs. 30.0%)
• Transaction Related Costs: $53,535k vs. $31,491k (+70.0%); 45.8% of revenue (vs. 45.0%); 5.1% of GMV (vs. 4.8%)
• Total Revenue Less Transaction Related Costs: $63,261k vs. $38,467k (+64.5%); 54.2% of revenue (vs. 55.0%); 6.0% of GMV (vs. 5.8%)
• Adjusted EBITDA: $39,623k vs. $22,694k (+74.6%); 33.9% margin (vs. 32.4%)
• Adjusted Net Income: $25,441k vs. $16,668k (+52.6%); 21.8% margin (vs. 23.8%); Adjusted EPS (diluted): $0.71 (vs. $0.47).

Appendix — Reconciliations 

Operating Expenses — Non-Transaction Related Opex (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Operating expenses: $81,235k / $49,116k
• Less: Transaction expense: $(17,435)k / $(12,761)k
• Less: Provision for credit losses: $(32,177)k / $(15,402)k
• Non-transaction related opex: $31,623k / $20,953k

Operating Expenses — Transaction Related Costs (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Operating expenses: $81,235k / $49,116k
• Less: Personnel $(14,320)k / $(13,423)k; Third-party tech & data $(3,705)k / $(2,387)k; Marketing/advertising/tradeshows $(8,775)k / $(2,726)k; G&A $(4,823)k / $(2,417)k
• Add: Net interest expense $3,923k / $3,328k
• Transaction Related Costs: $53,535k / $31,491k

Operating Income — Total Revenue Less Transaction Related Costs (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Operating income: $35,561k / $20,842k
• Add: Personnel $14,320k / $13,423k; Third-party tech & data $3,705k / $2,387k; Marketing/advertising/tradeshows $8,775k / $2,726k; G&A $4,823k / $2,417k
• Less: Net interest expense $(3,923)k / $(3,328)k
• Total revenue less transaction related costs: $63,261k / $38,467k

Net Income — Adjusted EBITDA (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Net income: $26,671k / $15,446k
• Depreciation & amortization: $369k / $233k
• Income tax expense: $4,961k / $2,163k
• Equity & incentive-based compensation: $2,409k / $1,456k
• Other (income) expense, net: $6k / $(95)k
• Corporate strategic projects: $1,284k / $163k
• Net interest expense: $3,923k / $3,328k
• Adjusted EBITDA: $39,623k / $22,694k

Net Income — Adjusted Net Income & Adjusted EPS (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Net income: $26,671k / $15,446k
• Discrete tax (benefit) expense [7]: $(2,520)k / $1,154k
• Corporate strategic projects: $1,284k / $163k
• Other (income) expense, net: $6k / $(95)k
• Adjusted net income: $25,441k / $16,668k
• Diluted weighted-avg shares [8]: 35,675 / 35,435
• Adjusted EPS (diluted): $0.71 / $0.47

[7] Prior periods adjusted for equity-based comp tax windfall/shortfall.
[8] 6-for-1 split effective Mar 28, 2025.

Investor Relations Contact

Lee Brading, CFA
+1 651-240-6001
InvestorRelations@sezzle.com

Media Contact

Erin Foran
+1 651-403-2184
erin.foran@sezzle.com

About Sezzle

Sezzle is a forward-thinking fintech company committed to financially empowering the next generation. Through its purpose-driven payment platform, Sezzle enhances consumers' purchasing power by offering access to point-of-sale financing options and digital payment services—connecting millions of customers with its global network of merchants. Centered on transparency, inclusivity, and ease of use, Sezzle empowers consumers to manage spending responsibly, take charge of their finances, and achieve lasting financial independence.

For more information, visit sezzle.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends affecting the financial condition of our business. Forward-looking statements include our expectations, whether stated or implied, regarding our financing plans and other future events.

Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "expect," "plan," "could," "may," "will," "believe," "estimate," "forecast," "goal," "project," other words or expressions of similar meaning (or the negative versions of such words or expressions). These forward-looking statements address various matters including statements regarding the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. Each forward-looking statement contained in this press release is subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statement. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, among others: impact of the “buy-now, pay-later” (“BNPL”) industry becoming subject to increased regulatory scrutiny; impact of operating in a highly competitive industry; impact of macro-economic conditions on consumer spending; our ability to increase our merchant network, our base of consumers and gross merchandise value (GMV); our ability to effectively manage growth, sustain our growth rate and maintain our market share; our ability to maintain adequate access to capital in order to meet the capital requirements of our business; impact of exposure to consumer bad debts and insolvency of merchants; impact of the integration, support and prominent presentation of our platform by our merchants; impact of any data security breaches, cyberattacks, employee or other internal misconduct, malware, phishing or ransomware, physical security breaches, natural disasters, or similar disruptions; impact of key vendors or merchants failing to comply with legal or regulatory requirements or to provide various services that are important to our operations; impact of the loss of key partners and merchant relationships; impact of exchange rate fluctuations in the international markets in which we operate; our ability to protect our intellectual property rights and third party allegations of the misappropriation of intellectual property rights; our ability to retain employees and recruit additional employees; impact of the costs of complying with various laws and regulations applicable to the BNPL industry in the United States and Canada; and our ability to achieve our public benefit purpose and our election to forego B Corporation recertification and other factors identified in the “Risk Factors” section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 (the “Annual Report”) and the Company’s subsequent filings filed with the SEC. You are encouraged to read the Company's Annual Report and other filings with the SEC, available at www.sec.gov, for a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The Company cautions investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. You are The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date of this document, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of these statements. The Company's business is subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, including those referenced above. Investors, potential investors, and others should give careful consideration to these risks and uncertainties.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement our operating results prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”), we present the following non-GAAP financial measures: Total revenue less transaction related costs; transaction related costs; non-transaction related operating expenses; adjusted net income; adjusted net income margin; adjusted net income per diluted share; adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“Adjusted EBITDA”); and Adjusted EBITDA margin. Definitions of these non-GAAP financial measures and summaries of the reasons why management believes that the presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to the Company and investors are as follows:

• Total revenue less transaction related costs is defined as GAAP total revenue less transaction related costs. Transaction related costs is the sum of GAAP transaction expense, provision for credit losses, and net interest expense less certain non-recurring charges as detailed in the reconciliation table of GAAP operating income to non-GAAP total revenue less transaction related costs above. We believe that total revenue less transaction related costs is a useful financial measure to both management and investors for evaluating the economic value of orders processed on the Sezzle Platform.
• Non-transaction related operating expenses is defined as the sum of GAAP personnel; third-party technology and data; marketing, advertising, and tradeshows; and general and administrative operating expenses. We believe that non-transaction related operating expenses is a useful financial measure to both management and investors for evaluating our management of operating expenses not directly attributable to orders processed on the Sezzle Platform.
• Adjusted EBITDA is defined as GAAP net income, adjusted for certain charges including depreciation, amortization, equity and incentive–based compensation, corporate strategic project costs, and merger-related costs, as well as net interest expense as detailed in the reconciliation table of GAAP net income to adjusted EBITDA. We believe that this financial measure is a useful measure for period-to-period comparison of our business by removing the effect of certain non-cash and non-recurring charges, as well as funding costs, that may not directly correlate to the underlying performance of our business.
• Adjusted EBITDA margin is defined as Adjusted EBITDA divided by GAAP total revenue. We believe that this financial measure is a useful measure for period-to-period comparison of our business’ unit economics by removing the effect of certain non-cash and non-recurring charges, as well as funding costs, that may not directly correlate to the underlying performance of our business.
• Adjusted net income is defined as GAAP net income, adjusted for certain charges including discrete tax items, fair value adjustments on warrants, losses on the extinguishment of our lines of credit, corporate strategic project costs, and other income and expense, as detailed in the reconciliation table of GAAP net income to adjusted net income. We believe that this financial measure is useful for period-to-period comparison of our business by removing the effect of certain charges that, in management's view, does not correlate to the underlying performance of our business during a given period.
• Adjusted net income margin is defined as Adjusted net income divided by GAAP total revenue. We believe that this financial measure is a useful measure for period-to-period comparison of our business by removing the effect of certain charges that, in management's view, does not correlate to the underlying performance of our business during a given period.
• Adjusted net income per diluted share is defined as non-GAAP adjusted net income divided by GAAP weighted-average diluted shares outstanding. We believe that this financial measure is a useful measure for period-to-period comparison of shareholder return by removing the effect of certain charges that, in management's view, does not correlate to the underlying performance of our business during a given period.

Additionally, we have included these non-GAAP measures because they are key measures used by our management to evaluate our operating performance, guide future operating plans, and make strategic decisions, including those relating to operating expenses and the allocation of resources. Therefore, we believe these measures provide useful information to investors and other users of this press release to understand and evaluate our operating results in the same manner as our management and board of directors. However, non-GAAP financial measures have limitations, should be considered supplemental in nature, and are not meant as a substitute for the related financial information prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These limitations include the following:

• Total revenue less transaction-related costs is not intended to be measures of operating profit or cash flow profitability as they exclude key operating expenses such as personnel, general and administrative, and third-party technology and data, which have been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, significant recurring GAAP expenses.
• Transaction related costs exclude significant expenses such as personnel, general and administrative, and third-party technology and data, which have been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, significant recurring GAAP expenses.
• Non-transaction related operating expenses exclude significant expenses, including transaction expense and provision for credit losses, which have been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, significant recurring GAAP expenses.
• Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA margin exclude certain charges such as depreciation, amortization, and equity and incentive–based compensation, which have been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, recurring GAAP expenses. Further, these non-GAAP financial measures exclude certain significant cash inflows and outflows, which have a significant impact on our working capital and cash.
• Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA margin excludes net interest expense, which has a significant impact on our GAAP net income, working capital, and cash.
• Adjusted net income, adjusted net income margin, and adjusted net income per diluted share excludes certain charges such as losses on the extinguishment of our lines of credit, fair value adjustments on our warrants, other income and expense, and discrete tax items which have been, and may be in the future, recurring GAAP expenses. Further, these non-GAAP financial measures exclude certain significant cash inflows and outflows, which have a significant impact on our working capital and cash.
• Long-lived assets being depreciated or amortized may need to be replaced in the future, and these non-GAAP financial measures do not reflect the capital expenditures needed for such replacements, or for any new capital expenditures or commitments.
• These non-GAAP financial measures do not reflect income taxes that may represent a reduction in cash available to us.
• Non-GAAP measures do not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, our working capital needs.
• Other companies, including companies in our industry, may calculate the non-GAAP financial measures differently or not at all, which reduces their usefulness as comparative measures.

Because of these limitations, you should not consider these non-GAAP financial measures in isolation or as substitutes for analysis of our financial results as reported under GAAP, and these non-GAAP financial measures should be considered alongside other financial performance measures, including net income and other financial results presented in accordance with GAAP. We encourage you to review the related GAAP financial measures and the reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures and not rely on any single financial measure to evaluate our business.

Echelon Digital Group, the Saudi technology holding company that delivers innovation to businesses across the Middle East announced, together with Elutions, Inc., a U.S.-based artificial intelligence software company, the signing of a strategic partnership to deploy Elutions’ Maestro AI platform across industrial and energy enterprises in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

Commenting on the signing of the agreement, His Highness Prince Khaled bin Badr Al Saud, chairman of Echelon Digital, said: “Echelon Digital’s partnership with Elutions represents an important step toward harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen competitiveness, and empower various sectors with the latest technological solutions.”

He added: “Through this agreement, we aspire to localize advanced technologies and develop national talent; efforts that will accelerate AI-driven digital transformation across vital sectors and reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a leader in digital transformation in the region.”

The collaboration aims to accelerate AI-driven digital transformation across mission-critical sectors, including energy, petrochemicals, utilities, mining, logistics, and higher education, enabling enterprises to enhance operational performance, boost energy efficiency, and advance sustainability goals.

In addition to technology deployment, the partnership will feature local investment, capability building, and workforce training, with a structured roadmap toward establishing a future joint venture that positions Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for industrial AI innovation.

Omar Saleh, chief executive officer of Echelon Digital Group, said: “Our partnership with Elutions aligns with our mission to localize advanced global technologies and empower enterprises across Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East. Through this collaboration, we aim to accelerate digital innovation and transformation across strategic sectors — with our work in Saudi Arabia directly supporting the ambitions of Vision 2030.” 

Paul Doucas, chief operating officer and principal owner of Elutions, said: “Elutions’ Maestro AI platform has a proven track record of delivering measurable outcomes; from 15 to 30 percent energy efficiency improvements to up to 25 percent productivity gains. By combining these capabilities with Echelon Digital’s local presence and deep market understanding, we aim to empower Saudi enterprises to realize the full potential of AI at scale.”

Echelon Digital Group is a leading technology company headquartered regionally in Saudi Arabia, focused on accelerating digital innovation and enabling organizations across the region to achieve sustainable transformation. Leveraging its deep regional expertise and diverse global partnerships, Echelon delivers integrated solutions that help businesses create tangible value, enhance operational efficiency, and accelerate the transition towards a knowledge-based digital economy.

Elutions, based in the United States, is a global leader in artificial intelligence. The company’s proprietary Maestro platform is an advanced neural network capable of analyzing complex enterprise systems, diagnosing operational anomalies, and recommending immediate corrective actions.

According to the Saudi Data & Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), AI is expected to contribute over $135 billion to the Saudi economy by 2030, representing about 12.4% of national GDP. With Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector accounting for nearly 40% of non-oil GDP, initiatives like this partnership will play a vital role in enhancing competitiveness and supporting national programs such as Vision 2030 and the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP).

Elutions’ Maestro AI platform has been successfully implemented by major global industrial clients, delivering 15-30% energy-efficiency improvements, up to 25% productivity gains, and 10-20% reductions in unplanned downtime. These proven results will help Saudi enterprises achieve tangible operational and sustainability outcomes as they adopt AI at scale.

For more information, visit echelondigital.com.

Media Contact

Ayman Hassan
ayman@jummar.co

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) today praised Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services for moving to classify concentrated or isolated, synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as a Schedule I narcotic, making it illegal to sell, possess, or distribute in the Commonwealth. The rule limits the allowable concentrations of 7-OH to 400 parts per million (0.04%) by dry weight, effectively removing concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products from the market while leaving natural kratom leaf unaffected. 

This decisive step follows the July 29th, 2025, actions taken by the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which recommended the scheduling of concentrated synthetic 7-OH to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Following this, on August 13th, 2025, James Uthmeier, Attorney General of Florida, issued an emergency rule that immediately classified concentrated synthetic 7‑hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as a Schedule I controlled substance. Both the FDA and Florida’s rule explicitly distinguish natural kratom leaf from synthetic 7-OH, confirming that natural kratom leaf products are not the focus of these scheduling actions

“This is a major step forward for consumer safety,” said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Global Kratom Coalition. “Governor Beshear and his administration are protecting Kentuckians from dangerous, concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products, while preserving access to natural kratom leaf, a botanical with safe consumption for more than 50 years in the U.S. by more than 23 million Americans. This is exactly the kind of leadership we need across the country.”

Unlike concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products, natural kratom leaf contains only trace amounts of natural 7-hydroxymitragynine. Millions of adults use natural kratom leaf products responsibly for its functional benefits. Conversely, concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products are potent by design, containing synthetic 7-OH at more than 100 times the level found in natural kratom leaf. The result is a novel opioid 13 times stronger than morphine -- this presents a high risk for addiction, respiratory depression and death.

The Global Kratom Coalition urges other states to follow Kentucky’s example -- protect public health by scheduling concentrated synthetic 7-OH, while protecting access to natural kratom leaf.

About Global Kratom Coalition (GKC)

The Global Kratom Coalition is an alliance of natural kratom consumers, experts, and industry leaders dedicated to protecting access to natural leaf kratom while advancing scientific research, driving consumer education, and developing robust regulations to protect consumers. For more information, visit globalkratomcoalition.org.

Media Contact

Patrick George
info@globalkratomcoalition.org

The Stop Gas Station Heroin coalition today praised Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear for taking emergency action to schedule concentrated synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as a Schedule I narcotic. The rule limits the allowable concentrations of 7-OH to 400 parts per million (0.04%) by dry weight, effectively removing concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products from the market while leaving natural kratom leaf unaffected. =

Governor Beshear’s move marks a critical step toward curbing the spread of "gas station heroin" — a category of often imported, lab-made street drugs that include semi-synthetic and synthetic alkaloid products, tianeptine and nitrous oxide.

While natural 7-OH occurs naturally in only trace amounts in the kratom leaf, the concentrated synthetic opioid products sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and convenience stores nationwide bear little resemblance to the kratom plant. Instead, illicit manufacturers are mass-producing highly concentrated, hyper-potent synthetic 7-OH isolates — sold as tablets and gummies — that are more than 13 times more potent than morphine.

“Kentucky’s enforcement actions send a strong message that concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products have no place in American communities,” said David Bregger, Executive Director of Stop Gas Station Heroin. “These synthetic drugs are misleadingly marketed as natural kratom, wellness supplements, or everyday snacks and beverages, however these lab-made opioid products function like hard narcotics — posing significant risks of addiction, respiratory suppression, and overdose.”

Kentucky’s actions follow the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recommendation in July for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to schedule concentrated synthetic 7-OH as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier also issued an emergency scheduling order in August for concentrated synthetic 7OH.

The FDA, Florida, and now Kentucky have made clear that these measures do not target the centuries-old kratom leaf, which has an established safety profile and is consumed safely by about 23 million Americans.

“Kentucky’s action is another step forward in protecting Americans from manufacturers peddling lab-made street drugs and fueling for-profit addiction,” said Bregger. “With Kentucky now joining Florida and the FDA in cracking down on concentrated synthetic 7-OH, states are uniting to stop the deceptive, dangerous practices fueling the Gas Station Heroin epidemic and harming our children.”

Stop Gas Station Heroin applauds these leaders on the state and federal levels for using their enforcement authority to hold illicit companies accountable. The coalition also urges other states to follow Kentucky’s lead and keep synthetic drugs off the market.

To learn more about Stop Gas Station Heroin and its mission, navigate to stopgasstationheroin.com.

About Stop Gas Station Heroin

Stop Gas Station Heroin is a national coalition that aims to educate consumers about harmful synthetic drugs and advocate for smart regulation that distinguishes between legitimate, natural botanicals and dangerous, synthetic drugs, combined with enforcement of current federal laws around unapproved drugs. To learn more, navigate to stopgasstationheroin.com.

Media Contact

Media Contact
info@stopgasstationheroin.com

Hills Machinery is pleased to announce it has partnered with Ammann America to add new capabilities to the Hills Machinery Construction Equipment Division serving South Carolina and North Carolina. Hills Machinery is now an authorized dealer for the company’s compaction equipment and will be supported by the Hills Machinery branches located throughout North and South Carolina.

Ammann America is a sixth generation, family-owned business that is known in the industry as a leading manufacturer of soil and asphalt compactors and asphalt pavers, as well as light equipment such as vibratory plates and walk-behind rollers.

“Ammann America shares our commitment to providing high-quality equipment and exceptional service and support. With this partnership, we can strengthen our offering of compaction solutions to meet our customers’ needs,” said Jim Hills, president at Hills Machinery. “We look forward to a long and prosperous relationship that will benefit our customers, the industry and our companies.”

Mike Conley, director of sales and distribution development at Ammann America, added, “Hills Machinery has built a strong reputation for customer service and industry expertise. Their deep regional presence and commitment to supporting contractors aligns perfectly with Ammann’s goal of delivering dependable, high-performance equipment and exceptional support across North and South Carolina.”

About Hills Machinery

Founded in 2007 by brothers Jim and Adam Hills, Hills Machinery is a full-service equipment partner with dedicated industry experts leading the construction, paving, and environmental equipment divisions. Hills Machinery offers complete end-to-end solutions including new and used equipment sales, financing support, equipment rental, 24/7 service and support and robust parts availability. The company also has a collaborative fleet management program — Uptime Operations, where a dedicated team of equipment experts monitor machine performance and health in real-time, manage preventive maintenance and aid in downtime prevention. Hills Machinery also operates a 24/7 paving, aggregate, and environmental group that specializes in the repair and uptime of heavy and support equipment. Hills Machinery serves customers across South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia with 13 locations. For more information, visit www.hillsmachinery.com.

About Ammann America

Ammann is a sixth generation, family-owned business that produces asphalt and concrete mixing plants, compactors and asphalt pavers at manufacturing sites around the world. Its core expertise is roadbuilding and transportation infrastructure. Ammann America, the company’s North American division, is headquartered in Orlando and recently opened a 160,000-square-foot asphalt plant factory in Florence, Kentucky. The North American machines division is headquartered in Columbia, South Carolina. Visit www.ammann.com for company-related information.

Media Contact

Tim Wirtz
tim@pkamar.com
+1 865-266-3930

21M Insurance, among the world’s first crypto-native insurance institutions, today announced a strategic partnership with Cobo, a leading provider of digital-asset custody and infrastructure. The collaboration delivers institutional-grade safeguards for 21M’s Bitcoin-denominated whole-life policies and operating infrastructure — including its AI-powered underwriting and risk management engine — marking a significant step forward for blockchain-native insurance infrastructure.

Following the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January 2024 — one of the most successful ETF launches on record—institutional demand for BTC exposure has accelerated. Yet traditional insurers, constrained by regulatory capital frameworks, balance-sheet limitations, and legacy technology, have been unable to serve this segment. Against this backdrop, 21M and Cobo are partnering to build a compliant, blockchain-native operating model with asset safety as the first principle for a trillion-dollar insurance market opportunity.

Under the agreement, Cobo will initially provide custody for the assets backing 21M’s BTC-denominated whole-life policies. As the business scales, the scope will expand to management of tokenized policy assets and to the custody and flow-of-funds controls supporting lending protocols. Cobo’s institutional-grade custody platform will furnish multi-layer security controls, flexible permissioning, and transparent asset tracking—delivering the highest level of protection for policyholders’ Bitcoin while aligning with stringent requirements across major jurisdictions. These capabilities mitigate single-point-of-failure risks in insurance asset management and create a highly secure, transparent, and efficient policyholder environment.

Mr. 21, chief executive officer of 21M Insurance, said:

“As one of the world’s first crypto-native insurance institutions, partnering with a top-tier custodian like Cobo — with a zero-incident track record — is the cornerstone of safeguarding policyholder assets. Technical and regulatory constraints have kept traditional insurers out of Bitcoin insurance, creating a unique structural moat for 21M. Through deep collaboration with Cobo, we are building a secure, transparent, and efficient blockchain-native insurance ecosystem — one that truly scales with Bitcoin adoption. This is not just product innovation; it is a paradigm shift in the industry’s core infrastructure.”

Discus Fish, Cobo’s co-founder and CEO said:

“In digital-asset insurance, institutions need more than technology — they need trust, security, and forward-looking infrastructure. Our partnership with 21M reflects Cobo’s ‘Beyond Custody’ vision. We aim to provide the durable foundation for BTC life insurance to scale with resilience and operational excellence, ushering in a blockchain-native era for the insurance industry.”

Backed by Cobo’s custody services, 21M expects to expand its global insurance footprint more confidently, reinforcing its first-mover advantage in digital-asset insurance. Cobo will continue to deliver secure, compliant, high-performance custody solutions for institutions worldwide, advancing innovation across insurance and digital-asset infrastructure.

About 21M Insurance

21M Insurance is committed to becoming one of the world’s first blockchain-native insurance institutions, backed by prominent family offices and high-net-worth individuals. The company plans to launch crypto-denominated insurance products. Leveraging its AI-powered underwriting and risk management engine, 21M is building next-generation insurance infrastructure spanning whole-life coverage, asset protection, and wealth management to unlock a trillion-dollar digital-asset insurance market. 21M Insurance is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pacific Digital Alliance. For more information, visit 21minsurance.com.

About Cobo

Cobo is a trusted leader in digital-asset custody and wallet infrastructure, providing an all-in-one platform for organizations and developers to build, automate, and securely scale their digital-asset businesses. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Singapore, Cobo is trusted by more than 500 leading digital-asset businesses globally, safeguarding billions of dollars in assets. Today, Cobo offers the industry’s only unified wallet platform that integrates four wallet technologies — custodial wallets, MPC wallets, smart-contract wallets, and exchange wallets. Committed to the highest security standards and regulatory compliance, Cobo maintains a zero-incident track record and holds ISO 27001 and SOC 2 (Type I and Type II) certifications, as well as licenses in multiple jurisdictions. Recognized for its industry-leading innovations, Cobo has received accolades fromHedgeweek and Global Custodian. For more information, www.cobo.com.

Media Contact

21M Insurance
investor.relations@pacificdigitalalliance.com

Cobo Media Relations
hello@cobo.com

In the age of social media — where every smile is scrutinized and every photo endlessly replayed — a confident smile is more than cosmetic; it’s part of your personal brand. Enter Vera Smile, one of the best dental clinics in Istanbul, where influencers, celebrities, and discerning patients trust their smiles to a team that blends artistry, precision, and personalized care.

Nix Adams: A Journey of Transformation

Among the notable figures who have chosen Vera Smile is Nix Adams, a prominent influencer celebrated for her candid approach to beauty and self-expression. For Nix, undergoing a smile makeover wasn’t merely about aesthetics; it was about embracing a transformation that aligned with her personality and public image.

At Vera Smile, Nix experienced a comprehensive dental plan that included veneers, and full-mouth restorations, all tailored to her facial features and individual style. Using Digital Smile Design (DSD) and 3D imaging, the dental team mapped her optimal smile proportions, ensuring a result that was both natural-looking and striking, enhancing her confidence without ever looking artificial.

“Through my visits, we became like a family. When my treatment was complete and I bit into an apple for the first time, I cried, and even the team cried with me, sharing in my happiness. It’s not just about the smile; it’s about the connections, the laughter, and the journey from hiding in the shadows to shining like a diamond,” said Nix Adams, a patient of Vera Smile.

See the story behind her new smile in her Vera Smile YouTube video.

The Vera Smile Experience: Expertise Meets Artistry

What distinguishes Vera Smile from other clinics is its multi-specialist, collaborative approach. Smile makeovers often require the combined expertise of:

• Cosmetic dentists: Focused on aesthetics, evaluating tooth shape, color, and alignment to harmonize with facial features.
• Prosthodontists: Selecting materials, crowns, and veneers to balance durability, function, and beauty.
• Implant specialists: Performing precise placement for full-mouth dental implants in Istanbul, including All-on-4 or All-on-6 systems.

This coordinated workflow ensures that whether a patient seeks a Hollywood Smile in Istanbul or a complex full-arch reconstruction, the result is seamless, functional, and visually stunning.

Advanced tools such as 3D digital planning, guided surgery, and CAD/CAM technology allow the team to simulate the final outcome before treatment begins, creating predictability and precision that patients notice immediately.

Why Celebrities and Influencers Choose Vera Smile

Public figures like Nix Adams choose Vera Smile because it offers more than a procedure, it provides a transformative experience that enhances both appearance and self-confidence. The clinic’s reputation for excellence, paired with a patient-centered approach, ensures that each smile makeover aligns with the individual’s identity, lifestyle, and public image.

Beyond aesthetics, Vera Smile emphasizes psychological impact. Patients frequently report enhanced self-esteem, improved social confidence, and a renewed sense of personal empowerment after their smile transformation.

Expanding the Impact: Full-Mouth Planning and Smile Makeovers

Smile makeovers are complex, particularly when combined with full-mouth restorations. Successful results require specialists working in harmony:

• The prosthodontist selects the ideal materials and shades.
• The cosmetic dentist focuses on appearance and facial harmony.
• The implant surgeon ensures proper placement and structural integrity.

Vera Smile seamlessly integrates these disciplines, ensuring that veneers, crowns, and implants combine to create a cohesive, durable, and visually pleasing smile.

Conclusion

In a world where your smile is both personal and public, the right dental clinic makes all the difference. Vera Smile, recognized as the best dental clinic in Istanbul, exemplifies how a collaborative, specialist-driven approach, combined with advanced technologies like Digital Smile Design and 3D imaging, can transform smiles and lives.

Influencers such as Nix Adams showcase how a thoughtfully designed smile does more than enhance beauty, it builds confidence, supports personal branding, and leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re pursuing a Hollywood Smile in Istanbul or a full-mouth dental implant restoration, Vera Smile delivers a seamless blend of artistry, precision, and personalized care that patients will remember every time they smile.

Media Contact

Mouheb Bouzgarrou
info@veraclinic.net
+90 542 743 54 08

Varadia SE will once again submit a motion for a special audit pursuant to Section 142 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Act (AktG) at the upcoming Annual General Meeting of Advanced Blockchain AG (ABAG). A corresponding motion had already been filed at the Annual General Meeting on October 20, 2025, which was adjourned without any resolutions being passed.

In Varadia SE’s view, there remains a substantial need for clarification concerning the actions of the Management Board and the Supervisory Board of ABAG in the preparation, audit, and approval of the annual financial statements as of December 31, 2024. According to Varadia SE, certain circumstances raise reasonable suspicion that irregularities or violations of statutory provisions may have occurred in this context. 

The company’s auditor issued only a qualified audit opinion on ABAG’s annual financial statements. No audit opinion was provided with respect to the balance sheet item “Receivables from affiliated companies,” amounting to approximately EUR 10 million, which is material to the company’s financial position. 

The requested special audit aims to examine and clarify the circumstances surrounding the qualified audit opinion and the conduct of the Management Board and Supervisory Board in connection with the financial statements, thereby promoting transparency and strengthening shareholder confidence in the company’s proper and diligent corporate governance. 

The special audit motion previously submitted, as well as Varadia SE’s counterproposals, are available in the newsroom at www.varadia.de/#news.

Disclaimer

This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy any securities. The statements contained herein reflect the current views and assessments of Varadia SE based on publicly available information as of the date of publication. While Varadia SE is a shareholder of Advanced Blockchain AG, it does not represent or speak on behalf of the company. All information is provided without warranty for completeness or accuracy.

Media Contact

Cedric Albeke
info@varadia.de

The Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust (HART) today released the following statement in response to misleading and incomplete media reports surrounding a 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH):

“The misinformation circulating about 7-OH misrepresents both the science and the safety record of this compound,” Jeff Smith, PhD, National Policy Director for HART. “The only clinical study cited by the FDA comes from a researcher funded by the Global Kratom Coalition, a group actively fighting 7-OH products that have cut into their market share. That unreviewed, unpublished study sought to demonstrate harm by injecting 7-OH directly into mice’s bloodstream, even though humans consume it orally. Anything can be harmful if injected, eat a chocolate bar and you’re fine; inject it and you’ll die. The study was biased and misleading.”

Smith emphasized that responsible regulation, not prohibition, is the key to consumer safety.

“We have long supported sensible safeguards for botanical and alternative recovery compounds,” Smith continued. “That includes strict age restrictions, child-resistant packaging, third-party lab verification, and clear dosing guidance. Consumers deserve access to accurate information and responsibly made products, not fear-based narratives driven by competitors.”

The organization urged policymakers, public health officials, and journalists to seek out peer-reviewed science and balanced perspectives before issuing public warnings.

“Science should lead, not special interests. Out of the 47 reports of exposures to kratom or 7-OH in the first nine months of 2025, the Missouri Department of Health and Human Services recorded only three cases involving 7-OH,” Smith added.

Myth: 7-OH is described as a psychoactive compound that’s a synthetic derivative of the kratom plant.

Fact: 7-OH products marketed by HART members comply with FDA’s adulteration standard for dietary supplements; further, 7-OH is not lab-made or fully synthetic, it is naturally-derived from kratom, the same plant that all other kratom products come from, and undergoes a simple, one-step oxidation process, similar to how vitamin C is stabilized for supplements.

Myth: Isolated 7-OH is far more potent — up to 13 times stronger than morphine at opioid receptors.

Fact: Potency does not equal danger. A compound can show strong activity in lab tests without causing strong effects in real life.

7-OH does bind strongly to the same receptors as conventional opioids, but it only partially activates them, which means 7-OH has a built-in “safety ceiling.” After a point, taking more does not create stronger opioid-like effects in the way traditional opioids do.

This is the key difference between 7-OH and drugs like morphine or fentanyl that fully activate those receptors and can cause dangerous respiratory depression and overdose. This is why there is no documented case of someone dying from 7-OH alone. If there were, it would be the first thing critics would point to, and they haven’t.

Myth: 7-OH, not kratom, is the problem.

Fact: According to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) own Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), there have been under 40 adverse events, and zero deaths linked exclusively to 7-OH, despite well over a billion doses consumed nationwide. 

Contrast that with raw kratom leaf, which the FDA itself has associated with nearly 200 confirmed deaths.

In the first nine months of 2025, the Missouri Department of Health and Human Services recorded 47 reports of exposures involving kratom or 7-OH, nearly double for the same time period in 2024. Three cases involved the synthetic isolation of 7-OH, with a patient requiring hospitalization in one case.

About Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust (HART)

The Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust (HART) is a national nonprofit dedicated to promoting evidence-based, transparent policy around natural recovery compounds. HART supports responsible regulation that protects consumers while encouraging innovation in safe, science-driven alternatives to traditional pharmaceuticals. Learn more at hartsupporter.com.

Media Contact

HART Media
media@hartsupporter.com

Sajuping (co-CEOs Yoonsup Lee and Hyunguk Sun), an AI-based future advice platform, operated an official booth at the KOOM Festival 2025 New York (also known as Dream Festival 2025 New York), to introduce its Korean AI fortune-telling service to Korean Americans and international visitors.

The festival, held Oct. 16–18 at Brooklyn’s Duggal Greenhouse, is organized by United Korean Founders (UKF) and serves as a cross-cultural platform blending performances, exhibitions, startups, and brand showcases.

This year’s edition gathered start-ups across K-content, beauty, AI, and lifestyle under the theme of “globalizing Korean creativity,” and Sajuping’s booth attracted over 3,000 visitors during the event.

“Turning Uncertain Futures into Actionable Choices” — Sajuping’s Global Debut

Sajuping operates under the philosophy of transforming an uncertain future into actionable choices by analyzing users’ birth dates to provide personalized guidance on relationships, marriage, and careers. During the festival, the company ran an interactive booth offering AI fortune consultations and tailored career, relationship, and compatibility insights.

One visitor remarked that the AI seemed to “understand my fortune and speak to my current self,” and many Korean women in their 20s and 30s praised the service as modern and trustworthy.

A Milestone for K-Fortune Tech

Co-CEO Hyunguk Sun commented, “Fortune-telling is an age-old data system that interprets human character and flow; AI is the tool that reimagines it for today. Our participation in KOOM Festival 2025 New York is the first time we have reinterpreted traditional fortune methodology through technology and showcased it to a global audience.”

He added, “Sajuping is a new form of AI adviser that helps people understand themselves and make decisions in uncertain times. We believe the service will resonate worldwide, and we plan to roll out updated versions and expand partnerships in the United States to set a new standard in K-fortune tech.”

About Sajuping

Sajuping leverages AI to analyze individual fortune data and visualize future directions, easing users’ anxieties. With the slogan “See Your Future, Anytime, Anywhere,” it targets women aged 25–35 who face pivotal life decisions. The service is currently available in South Korea and the United States, and its appearance at KOOM Festival 2025 New York marks the beginning of full-scale global expansion. For more information, visit linktr.ee/sajuping.

Media Contact

Yoonsup Lee
Sajuping
cs@sajuping.ai

Unusual Group, a global collective of specialist agencies focused on sustainable and human-led growth, today announced that its chief executive officer, Luke Tobin, has joined the board of Woya Digital as a non-executive director.

The appointment strengthens ties between the two organisations following Woya Digital’s inclusion within the Unusual Group collective earlier this year. It forms part of Unusual Group’s broader strategy to expand its "collaborative" of high-growth agencies across marketing, technology, and performance disciplines.

Expanding a Collective Built for Sustainable Agency Growth

Founded by Luke Tobin, Unusual Group launched in 2025 to support creative and digital agencies through investment, strategic guidance, and shared operational infrastructure. The group brings together independently run agencies that share a focus on measurable growth, sustainable scaling, and creative excellence.

Unusual Group’s model combines access to capital, leadership expertise, and group-wide operational support in areas including finance, legal, technology, and talent. This structure enables founders to retain their independence while benefitting from the stability and insight of a larger organisation.

Since launch, Unusual Group has continued to expand its collective of agencies across the UK, US and Europe, focusing on innovation in sectors such as digital marketing, brand strategy, sales enablement and data-driven performance. The group’s leadership team includes specialists in operations, finance, and legal governance, all aligned around the principle that unusual brands win by combining creativity with commercial clarity.

Online Search Leadership and Sector Expertise

Woya Digital, headquartered in Malta with operations across Europe, the UK and South Africa, is a digital growth and SEO agency recognised for its strong track record in improving visibility and online performance for clients across the Finance, Healthcare, and Sports industries.

Originally founded by Steve O’Brien and Natalie Karr, Woya Digital has established itself as one of Europe’s emerging specialists in organic search, digital PR, and performance marketing. Its approach combines deep sector knowledge with advanced data analytics, ensuring that each campaign is tailored to drive long-term authority, trust, and measurable growth.

“I am delighted to join the board at Woya Digital,” said Luke Tobin, CEO of Unusual Group. “Our mission at Unusual has always been to empower ambitious, founder-led agencies that think differently. Woya’s success is proof that human creativity, supported by technology and data, continues to outperform purely automated approaches. We believe in using AI and technology to enhance our teams and clients, not to replace them.”

“Luke’s appointment comes at an important time for Woya Digital,” said Steve O’Brien, CEO of Woya Digital. “Our focus on data-driven SEO and organic growth is evolving rapidly as AI and automation reshape digital marketing. With Unusual Group’s backing and Luke’s strategic insight, we are well positioned to strengthen our leadership in finance, healthcare, and sports while expanding our reach into new territories.”

Human-Led Innovation in an AI-Driven Era

Both organisations share a belief that while AI and automation can accelerate efficiency, sustainable growth still depends on human insight, creativity, and collaboration. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement, Unusual Group and Woya Digital are investing in technology to improve performance, streamline workflows, and deepen understanding of consumer behaviour.

This human-centric approach stands in contrast to much of the current marketing industry, where cost compression and automation are driving widespread restructuring. Unusual Group is taking a contrarian stance by building a portfolio of independent agencies that prioritise expertise, adaptability, and partnership.

“The next chapter of growth in our industry belongs to those who can harness technology without losing the human edge,” Tobin added. “That’s where we see the real opportunity, and that’s what Unusual Group and Woya Digital are building together.”

Read more about Woya Digital: "Woya Digital Strengthens Board with Unusual Group and Expands Global HQ to Malta"

About Woya Digital

Woya Digital is a digital growth agency headquartered in Malta. Originally founded by Steve O’Brien and Natalie Karr, the agency specialises in SEO and digital PR. Woya Digital specialises in regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, not for profit and legal, plus sports to enhance online visibility, authority, and conversion through data-driven, ethical SEO strategies and technology-supported optimisation. For more information, woya.co.uk.

About Unusual Group

Unusual Group is a collective of specialist agencies helping ambitious brands achieve extraordinary growth. The group brings together creative, strategic, and digital expertise under one ecosystem, providing investment, shared infrastructure, and strategic support to agency founders. Founded by Luke Tobin, Unusual Group continues to expand across the UK and Europe, building a network of high-growth agencies that challenge conventional models and champion human-led innovation. To learn more, visit www.unusualgroup.com.

Media Contact

Natalie Karr
hello@woya.co.uk

FG Nexus (Nasdaq: FGNX, FGNXP) (the “Company”) today announced that the Company’s common stock is now listed for trading on the Deutsche Börse in Germany under ticker symbol LU51. This international listing expands FG Nexus’s global accessibility, increases our access to capital and provides direct access to the Company’s securities for European investors.

The Deutsche Börse listing represents a significant milestone in FG Nexus’s international expansion strategy, offering European investors the opportunity to participate in the Company’s Ethereum treasury strategy and long-term growth initiatives. The listing is expected to enhance share liquidity and broaden the Company’s investor base across European markets.

“Our listing on Deutsche Börse marks another important step in our global expansion and demonstrates the international appeal of our Ethereum-focused strategy," said Kyle Cerminara, CEO of FG Nexus. “This listing provides European investors with direct access to our mission of becoming the dominant corporate stakeholder of Ethereum, and we look forward to building relationships with the European investment community as we continue to execute our long-term strategic ETH vision.”

About FG Nexus

FG Nexus Inc. (Nasdaq: FGNX, FGNXP), (the “Company”), is on the Ethereum Standard, and singularly focused on becoming the largest corporate holder of ETH in the world by an order of magnitude. In order to enhance our ETH YIELD, the Company will stake and intends to implement other yield strategies while serving as a strategic gateway into Ethereum-powered finance, including tokenized RWAs and stablecoin yield. For more information, visit fgnexus.io.

The FGNX® logo is a registered trademark.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). These statements are therefore entitled to the protection of the safe harbor provisions of these laws. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “budget,” “can,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “envision,” “estimate,” “expect,” “evaluate,” “forecast,” “goal,” “guidance,” “indicate,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “might,” “outlook,” “plan,” “possibly,” “potential,” “predict,” “probable,” “probably,” “pro-forma,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “view,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result” or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. In particular, discussions and statements regarding the Company’s future business plans and initiatives are forward-looking in nature. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations, assumptions, estimates, and projections. While we believe these to be reasonable, such forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control. These and other important factors may cause our actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements and may impact our ability to implement and execute on our future business plans and initiatives. Management cautions that the forward-looking statements in this press release are not guarantees of future performance, and we cannot assume that such statements will be realized or the forward-looking events and circumstances will occur. Factors that might cause such a difference include, without limitation, fluctuations in the market price of ETH and any associated impairment charges that the Company may incur as a result of a decrease in the market price of ETH below the value at which the Company’s ETH are carried on its balance sheet, changes in the accounting treatment relating to the Company’s ETH holdings, the Company’s ability to achieve profitable operations, government regulation of cryptocurrencies and online betting, changes in securities laws or regulations such as accounting rules as discussed below, customer acceptance of new products and services including the Company’s ETH treasury strategy, general conditions in the global economy; risks associated with operating in the merchant banking and managed services industries, including inadequately priced insured risks and credit risk; risks of not being able to execute on our asset management strategy and potential loss of value of our holdings; risk of becoming an investment company; fluctuations in our short-term results as we implement our business strategies; risks of not being able to attract and retain qualified management and personnel to implement and execute on our business and growth strategy; failure of our information technology systems, data breaches and cyber-attacks; our ability to establish and maintain an effective system of internal controls; the requirements of being a public company and losing our status as a smaller reporting company or becoming an accelerated filer; any potential conflicts of interest between us and our controlling stockholders and different interests of controlling stockholders; and potential conflicts of interest between us and our directors and executive officers.

Our expectations and future plans and initiatives may not be realized. If one of these risks or uncertainties materializes, or if our underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expected, estimated or projected. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, entities are required to measure certain crypto assets at fair value, with changes reflected in net income each reporting period. Changes in the fair value of crypto assets could result in significant fluctuations to the income statement results. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof and do not necessarily reflect our outlook at any other point in time. We do not undertake and specifically decline any obligation to update any such statements or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any such statements to reflect new information, future events or developments.

Investor Contact

invest@fgnexus.io

Media Contact

media@fgnexus.io

Humanity Protocol, an on-chain digital identity solution provider, today announced a new integration that brings together Mastercard's open finance connectivity with Humanity Protocol’s identity verification platform Human ID. Rolling out first in the United States, the enhanced platform will enable users to tap into open finance technology to access credit, loans, and real-world financial services through Humanity Protocol.

Human ID is designed from the ground up to support cross-platform verifications, allowing users to carry their verified identity and financial credentials portable across all extant blockchain and centralized ecosystems. Whether verifying eligibility for RWA on Ethereum, accessing embedded lending in a neobank, or unlocking personalized Defi products on Solana, the same Human ID can be reused privately, securely, and compliantly. For example, users can cryptographically demonstrate specific personal attributes like “I earn over $75,000,” “I own a qualifying asset,” or “I meet the collateral threshold,” safely and securely, with selective disclosure made possible through zero-knowledge cryptography.

Verifying personal financial information when opening an account can often be time-consuming and involve manual touchpoints. Powered by an integration to Mastercard’s open finance technology, Human ID holders will now be able to quickly verify their personal financial details, such as income level, cash flow, or asset ownership when opening a Human ID account. Data is validated and turned into cryptographic proofs that lenders and services can trust.

“We believe that identity is foundational to the future of finance,” said Terence Kwok, founder of Humanity Protocol. “Together with Mastercard, we’re enabling our Human ID holders to demonstrate they meet financial requirements, without spending valuable time on manual processes.”

One key use case is leveraging Open Finance to validate critical elements tied to their Human ID — verifying bank account ownership and validating identity attributes used to link the financial account. These reusable and privacy-preserving credentials facilitate efficient and trusted interactions across traditional and decentralized financial platforms and can simplify and accelerate participation in RWA markets.

“Data — securely permissioned by the consumer who owns it — can be a powerful asset, in many parts of our daily lives,” said Jess Turner, Global Head of Open Finance & Developer Experience at Mastercard. “We’re tapping into the power of open finance to fuel more convenient, secure financial experiences that people can depend on.”

To learn more about Human ID, please visit www.humanity.org.

About Humanity Protocol

Humanity Protocol is a decentralized identity platform that enables individuals to prove they are real, unique, and human without disclosing sensitive personal data. It combines palm-based biometrics with zero-knowledge proofs to create a secure, privacy-first identity layer for Web3 and beyond. For more information, visit www.humanity.org.

In a career spanning over two decades, I have performed more than 10,000 surgical procedures. In that time, I have witnessed one of the most anxious, hopeful, and critical moments in a patient's life: the moment they choose their rhinoplasty surgeon.

Most of my patients begin this journey just as you likely are now—by typing "best rhinoplasty surgeon" into a search engine.

In this digital age, that search quickly becomes more specific: "how to choose best rhinoplasty surgeon near me."

This is a logical first step. I understand the desire for comfort, convenience, and a local specialist. However, when it comes to rhinoplasty — a procedure on an organ so complex, so central to your appearance, and so vital to your function — I truly believe that "proximity" should not be at the top of your priority list.

Choosing a rhinoplasty surgeon isn't likegetting a bad haircut — you can't just 'let it grow out'. This is the art and science of millimeters. When searching for the best, you must prioritize expertise, experience, and philosophy over geography.

Here is the advice I give to my patients and would give to my own family.

1. Look for a specialist, not just someone near

Rhinoplasty is arguably the most complex of all plastic surgery procedures. You must ask if your surgeon is truly focused on the nose.

• Is the surgeon a general plastic surgeon, or are they, like me, an otorhinolaryngologist (ENT) who has dedicated their entire career almost exclusively to nasal surgery?
• How many rhinoplasties do they perform per week? Is it their sole focus, or is it a procedure they perform in between breast augmentations and tummy tucks?

Remember, the nose is not just an aesthetic feature; it is a vital respiratory organ. It is essential that your surgeon has mastered the functional components (like septal deviation) just as much as the aesthetic goals.

2. Scrutinize their revision skills

The true test of a surgeon's mastery is their ability to perform revision rhinoplasty — the complex art of correcting or improving noses that have already been operated on by other surgeons.

• Does the surgeon’s portfolio feature complex revision cases?
• Do they accept patients whom other doctors have told, "This cannot be fixed"?

A surgeon who can successfully navigate the challenges of a revision case is likely to be far more precise and preemptive in a primary (first-time) surgery.

3. Look at the philosophy, not just the portfolio

Looking at before-and-after photos is critical, but don't just look for pretty noses. Look for this:

• Consistency vs. cookie-cutter: Does the surgeon have a "signature nose" (giving everyone the same result), or do they create unique, natural-looking results that harmonize with the patient's ethnicity, facial structure, and individuality?
• Naturalness: When you look at the after photos, do you think, "What a beautiful nose," or do you think, "What a beautiful face"? The latter is the mark of a successful operation. The goal is to draw attention away from the nose and onto the harmony of the entire face.

4. Understand the technology and technique

The "best" surgeons are often those who master and adopt superior technology. Ask about their tools. Do they use traditional hammers and chisels, or do they, as I do, utilize ultrasonic (piezo) rhinoplasty? This technology allows for the precise sculpting of bone with ultrasonic waves, which means no breaking, less trauma, and significantly reduced swelling and bruising.

Final thought on the "near me" search

The search for the "best rhinoplasty surgeon near me" is based on a desire for safety and convenience. But in the 21st century, the world has become smaller, and patient priorities are clearly shifting.

We see definitive evidence of this in search data. The query "rhinoplasty Turkey" has become one of the most dominant and fastest-growing searches for this procedure globally. This tells us that patients are no longer limiting their options to their immediate vicinity. They are actively researching international hubs of excellence. This trend is not just about cost; it is a worldwide search for specialization — for surgeons who have dedicated their careers to mastering this single, complex operation.

My clinic in Istanbul, for example, is certified for international health tourism. The vast majority of my patients travel to me from Europe, the United States and Australia. They do not come to me because I am near. They come because they have done this extensive research and concluded that the most important factor is not the surgeon's location, but the surgeon's proven expertise.

Your face is for life. Your breathing is for life.

My advice? Expand your search. Be willing to travel. Do not choose the surgeon who is the most convenient; choose the surgeon whose results you trust, whose philosophy aligns with your own, and whose entire career has been dedicated to mastering the one procedure you need.

About Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Dilber

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Dilber is a board-certified otorhinolaryngologist (ENT, head and neck surgeon) based in Istanbul, Turkey. With a distinguished career spanning more than two decades and over 10,000 surgical procedures to his credit, he is internationally recognized as one of the world’s foremost specialists in rhinoplasty. His practice serves as a global destination for patients, focusing on complex primary, ethnic, and revision rhinoplasty. Dr. Dilber is a noted expert in advanced techniques, including ultrasonic (piezo) and preservation rhinoplasty, attracting a worldwide clientele seeking his specialized, functional, and natural-looking results. For more information, visit muhammetdilber.com or follow us on Instagram or TikTok.

Media Contact

Muhammet Dilber
drmuhammetdilber@gmail.com

Charleston-based Clutter Cleaner South Carolina is setting a new standard in relocation services for seniors and their families. Dedicated to making sure the emotional and logistical challenges of moving and estate management easier, Clutter Cleaner offers white-glove concierge service than manages every aspect of the process with empathy, compassion and care.

Founded by a team passionate about helping seniors and their families navigate one of life's most challenging events, Clutter Cleaner offers support, including home inventory, packing, moving, unpacking, space planning and the responsible sale or disposal of unwanted items. Each service is designed to reduce stress, preserve cherished memories and ensure families can focus on what matters most: their loved ones.

"Moving a lifelong home or managing your loved one's estate is a complicated and deeply emotional journey," said Andy Brusman, CEO of Silver Gen Holdings, the owner of Clutter Cleaner South Carolina. "Our goal is to make the process as smooth and supportive as possible."

With South Carolina's senior population growing rapidly, Clutter Cleaner fills an important community need — combining expertise in every aspect of move management with genuine compassion.

"Families often feel overwhelmed by the physical and emotional toll of downsizing or sorting through a loved one's treasured belongings," added Seth Gregg, the company's president. "Clutter Cleaner exists to lift that burden and simplify the process."

About Clutter Cleaner South Carolina

Clutter Cleaner is a Charleston-based franchise providing moving and transition management services specializing in compassionate, full-service relocation support. From packing and organizing to coordinating moves, selling or donating items, and setting up new homes, Clutter Cleaner helps seniors and their families navigate change with dignity, empathy and expert care. For more information, visit cluttercleaner.com/location/south-carolina.

Media Contact

Andy Brusman
andy.brusman@cluttercleaner.com

7-HOPE Alliance, ("7-HOPE"), a trailblazing nonprofit coalition dedicated to protecting legal access to 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), today released a statement following reports that several middle school students ingested kratom products, resulting in hospitalization.

“We are deeply saddened by reports of children ingesting kratom products in Georgia,” said Jackie Subeck, founder and executive director of 7-HOPE Alliance. “No parent should have to worry about their child getting access to products like these. They are meant for adults and the kratom industry and regulators should take every step to protect children wherever possible. This is exactly why we’ve been calling for stronger state and national regulations — to protect kids, support parents, and make sure these products are responsibly manufactured and sold only to adults.”

The 7-HOPE Alliance emphasized that while kratom and its alkaloids, including 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), have shown potential as harm-reduction tools for adults, they should never be accessible to minors. The group is renewing its call for federal and state legislation that:

• Establishes 21+ age restrictions nationwide for all kratom and 7-OH products.
• Prohibits child-focused marketing, packaging, and placement in stores.
• Requires verified ID checks, independent lab testing, and accurate labeling.
• Mandates clear dosage and warning information for all retail sales.

“Even in states like Georgia, which have 21+ kratom access laws, we’re still seeing gaps that let these products reach children,” Subeck added. “Those laws didn’t go far enough. They left out bans on youth-targeted marketing and didn’t establish strict enough retail controls. We need consistent, nationwide rules that work.”

The Alliance warned that banning individual compounds, like 7-OH alone, does not make communities safer. Instead, such bans push products into unregulated underground markets where quality and age restrictions disappear. According to 7-HOPE, the solution is strong regulation, not prohibition.

“This tragedy is a wake-up call,” Subeck said. “We can’t pretend that banning one compound will keep kids safe. Only comprehensive regulation, covering every kratom-derived product, will prevent this from happening again.”

The 7-HOPE Alliance continues to work with scientists, lawmakers, and public-health advocates to advance national standards that protect youth, support responsible adult access, and ensure ongoing safety research.

About 7-HOPE Alliance

7-HOPE Alliance (7-Hydroxy Outreach for Public Education) is a nonprofit organization (501(c)(3) pending) dedicated to advancing public education, user support, and policy advocacy around 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a naturally occurring alkaloid in the kratom plant. Through a foundation of science, storytelling, and community, 7-HOPE empowers individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers with accurate, balanced information on 7-OH and its role in harm reduction, natural wellness, and safe, legal access to alternatives. The organization’s mission centers on four pillars: science, education, advocacy, and user support. By confronting misinformation, promoting responsible use, and providing uplifting real-life testimonials, 7-HOPE aims to ensure 7-OH remains available to the many individuals who find it to be a safe and effective alternative to dangerous painkillers and illegal drugs. For more information or to get involved, visit 7hopealliance.org.

Media Contact

7-HOPE Alliance
media@7hopealliance.org

The style and setup of casino gambling has changed significantly over the past two decades. The 1960s brought on a huge number of brick-and-mortar casinos, especially in cities like Las Vegas and Monaco, with thousands cropping up over those early days. However, with the introduction of the Internet in 1983, things slowly started to change and then in the late 90s, things heated up with a more advanced Internet. This gave rise to a whole new area of content, namely online content, of which casino gambling became a big part.

The early 2000s were when online gaming overall became really big. Alright, move away from casino gambling for a second and think purely of gaming. The Tony Hawks Pro Skate video game sold millions of copies in its first year out. This was the early stages of gaming but it's these moments that set the precedent of what the world now knows as gaming, which turned into more advanced gambling, which has now turned into sharing the experience and calling it streaming. Do you see the evolution and how things became the other? Welcome slot streamers, the new face of online gambling.

From Quiet Reels to Global Phenomenon

Online casino gambling has risen generally, according to a May 2025 report from the American Gaming Association (AGA), the legal U.S. online gambling market generated $8.4 billion in revenue in 2024 in that month alone. This is a 28.7% increase from 2023, which shows just how big this market has become. Within these figures are slot games, poker games, baccarat and the list continues. However, slot gambling is one of the biggest sources of revenue within this pool. For the year, again, according to data from the AGA, U.S. commercial casinos generated $36.1 billion in slot machine revenue in 2024 — an increase of 1.6% over the previous year. This figure represented a significant portion of the total commercial gaming revenue, which hit a record $71.9 billion for the year. As you can see, slot gaming amounts for almost half the overall revenue generated. In comparison, table games brought in just over $10 billion for that period, making slot gambling three times as much.

These figures should not be surprising as this niche of slot gaming with online gambling has been showing a steady rise over the past few years. That's why platforms like Vegas Slots Online offer such robust, trustworthy, reliable and immersive online gaming experiences, as they know that this market is saturated and to stand out, they need to continue to be the best of the best. 

The information above of how massive this market has become should give you some foundation now to understand why slot streamers have risen as much as they have and why people are so keen on watching them — it's a big and booming market, who wouldn't want to watch it like entertainment? 

The Appeal of Watching Someone Else Spin the Reels

If you had to look back a decade or two ago, you'd be right in thinking that slot gaming was a little boring. There were minimal paylines, only fruit symbols and the themes were a bit bleak. However, thanks to advanced technology, slot gaming has become a lot more interesting and dynamic. As it's a game based on risk and chance, there are still people out there who prefer not to bet their own money but find it fascinating to watch how other people do. They're deeply rooted in the emotion and thrill of it all.

Viewers watch slot streams because they enjoy the shared excitement leading up to a big win, they feel a sense of community in the chat, they can feel a sense of risk without financial consequences and there is additional suspense and entertainment factor of bonuses. Plus, they make also just like the personality and humor of the streamer.

Slot streamers give viewers something to feel and that emotional payoff keeps audiences coming back. Just like sports, reality TV or gaming streams, the outcome is uncertain and that uncertainty is addictive to watch.

Why Viewers Keep Watching: The Power of the Streamer Community

Slot streaming is not about the reels on the screen. It is about the person sitting in front of them. Streamers have become entertainers who tell stories, hype up wins, get dramatic during losses and interact constantly with their audience. Without personality, a slot stream is just noise and spinning graphics. With personality, it becomes a show.

The most successful slot streamers typically react loudly and emotionally to build energy, engage the audience through chat and comments, develop catchphrases or memorable habits, keep the tempo fast to avoid viewer boredom and build ongoing narratives around wins, goals, or challenges. Some of the most popular streamers have over 400 000 hours of streaming per day from across the globe, with a peak viewership of over 45 000 at any given time and an average of 29 000 viewers. Some of them have an increase in followers of up to 200% per day, which is massive and should give you an indication of just how large the streaming world has become. 

Why is streaming so big and why do you want to watch it so badly? You tune in because you want to hang out with the streamers. This is the same model that made gaming streamers, food vloggers and lifestyle YouTubers explode in popularity. Personality drives the connection but the slot gaming is what gets you there. 

The Streaming Shift That Changed Everything

Online gambling existed long before streaming but livestreaming changed everything by making it visible, social and shareable. Twitch, YouTube Live and TikTok gave slot content a home where viewers could react in real time and that immediacy changed how people experience the thrill. Streaming made online slots more accessible, social, transparent, entertaining and easier to discover.

In a physical casino, you are alone in your moment. With a stream, a bonus round feels like a group event. Hundreds or even thousands of strangers cheer together, get frustrated together and beg the reels to drop a final scatter symbol. That collective emotional investment makes the experience bigger than gambling itself.

Streaming also made online gambling more mainstream. People who never stepped into a casino suddenly got curious about slot games because they watched them like any other digital entertainment.

The Psychology Behind Watching Risk

Slot streaming taps into several psychological triggers that make it ideal for modern attention spans:

• Short cycles of suspense and reward
• Constant unpredictability
• Emotional highs and lows
• Fantasies about life-changing wins
• Relief that you are not the one risking money

It is similar to why highlight reels, reaction videos and sports betting streams do so well. There is always something about to happen and your brain stays hooked waiting for the next moment. Even if most spins lose, the possibility of something huge keeps viewers engaged. The amygdala, the part that regulates your fight-or-flight response, is blazing during these moments.

The Power of the Streamer Community

The chat is often just as important as the streamer. Regular viewers show up daily, know each other by name and build a community around the channel. The stream becomes a digital hangout spot, not just a place to watch reels spin. Fans return because they want familiar usernames and inside jokes, shared reactions and group anticipation, a place to unwind and talk and a sense of belonging.

This community dynamic is one of the biggest reasons slot streams thrive. People are not just watching; they are participating. That creates loyalty and keeps viewers connected for the long term.

When Streamers Decide the Next Big Game

Slot streamers don’t just play games. They shape their popularity and if they say that these are the best slot games out there, others will listen. Developers now pay close attention to which slots get streamed because a viral moment can explode a title overnight.

Streamers can influence trends by:

• Hyping new slot releases
• Showing off unique mechanics or bonus features
• Turning games into memes or challenges
• Creating viral clips of big wins

Developers want their games to look exciting on stream, so many newer slots are built with:

• Bigger bonus animations
• Faster spins
• High volatility for dramatic moments
• Engaging sound effects and themes

Games are becoming more streamer-friendly because streaming is now part of the marketing ecosystem to be seen as some of the best slots available.

The Evolution of Production Quality

Early slot streams were simple webcam setups. Today, top streamers operate like full production studios. You will find professional lighting and cameras, custom overlays and graphics, branded intros and highlight reels, soundboards for reactions, editors and moderators supporting the channel and sponsorship deals and affiliate partnerships. The total affiliate marketing industry valuation is expected to surpass $31 billion by 2031. This is not only over gambling but as you can see, affiliate marketing is huge and streamers fall part of that category, making them massive.

The more polished the stream, the more it feels like a show rather than just screen-recorded gambling. This professional polish has pushed slot streams into mainstream entertainment territory.

The Shadow Side of the Slot Streaming Boom

Of course, slot streaming is not without criticism. Some viewers argue that streamers glamorize gambling or encourage risky behavior. Others raise concerns about sponsorship arrangements or whether some streamers play with funds that don’t reflect a typical player’s experience. These debates will likely continue as the industry evolves. There is also this idea that it's unhealthy for the viewer and the player alike. The viewer gets hooked and the player feels the need to spend more than neccessary, just to keep viewership up. Honestly, it's more complex than this. Responsible gambling is always advised to any player or viewer.

What Comes Next for the Streaming-Casino World

The trend still has plenty of room to grow. Expect to see more interactive viewer feature, streamer-branded slot games, VR slot streaming experiences, crossover events with other gaming creators and new platforms built specifically for casino entertainment.

As long as people crave excitement, personality-driven entertainment and shared experiences, the best slots on slot streaming channels will thrive.

The topic of loot boxes, microtransactions and other types of gambling mechanics in video games is one that is handled differently in different jurisdictions. Video gaming is a worldwide industry that rivals many other entertainment industries.

How does Australia regulate this hot-button issue?

The video game industry is one of the biggest entertainment industries globally, and it is not without its share of contentious issues. One of the contentious issues that has seen a lot of discussion in the last couple of decades is focused on microtransactions, loot boxes and other gambling-like mechanics. Different jurisdictions and markets have taken different approaches to the regulation of these things, and the Australian market is one that has taken regulatory steps somewhat recently.

The overall feeling amongst Australian regulators and policymakers is that loot boxes and similar chance-based mechanics in gaming should be treated as gambling, but Australia has a friendly relationship with gambling. Not all jurisdictions share the friendly attitude that Australia does toward gambling, as Erik King of Zamzsino can vouch; different markets can have wildly different legalities for online casino entertainment. This is why it's important to touch base with affiliate platforms or to otherwise stay on top of what the legalities might be before you engage with gambling. 

But we digress, let's take a closer look at how the actions of Australian legislators are reflecting the wider global feeling towards loot boxes and gambling-like mechanics in video games.

What's all the fuss? What even are loot boxes?

It's a box, you get loot out of it, what's the big deal? Well, while loot boxes might have originally been a design decision to prolong end-game content and keep revenue coming in for game developers, they've taken on a much more sinister aspect for many people. They are a very popular feature, at least in terms of their inclusion, in most mobile and online games.

The typical loot box isn't the sale of an item; it's the sale of the potential of an item. You might be beginning to see where the problem can arise. A player who buys a loot box will definitely get something, but they don't know what it will be. Loot boxes spin a random number generator (RNG) and spit out one of a number of different possible options, but they also often have rare drops, items that are considered more valuable than the rest of the potential pool.

If you have spent much time around slot machines, this all might be sounding somewhat familiar to you, and that's certainly what many other people have claimed. The types of rewards that loot boxes give vary from game to game. It can be anything from in-game currency to be used elsewhere, power-ups and other things that might affect gameplay, or simply new cosmetic items and skins for players to deck their favorite characters in. 

Microtransactions are slightly different, but similar in ways. They are also designed as a way for revenue to be generated after a game's launch, and are also very consistently used in modern online and mobile gaming. They can, similarly, also offer a range of different options to players. While not as maligned as loot boxes, microtransactions often enable access to loot boxes and are often considered in the same breath as being gambling-like content.

How is Australia approaching loot box regulation?

While Australia does have a uniquely friendly relationship with gambling, online gambling is still regulated. Those regulations are continuing to become more strict as time goes on, and in the eyes of many regulators, loot boxes in video games have been skirting those regulations.

As Australian regulators are deeming loot boxes to be, if not gambling, at least gambling-like, they have decided that they should be treated as such. Games that have loot boxes in Australia automatically receive an "M" (Mature) rating, meaning that they can only be purchased by consumers over 15 years of age. Games that go further and have actual simulated gambling activities are automatically rated "R18+", which, we hope, speaks for itself.

While Australia has a long history of, as some would tell you, over-reacting and over-protecting its citizens from the 'dangers' of content in video games, this is an interesting case. The legislative change made Australia one of the first countries to address the potential danger of loot boxes by using its classification and rating system, rather than by directly labelling them as gambling and using its existing gambling legislation.

The legislature is a nod to the idea that while these games don't contain gambling, per se, they do contain content that mimics or encourages gambling behavior.

How has the gaming industry reacted?

As far as it goes, most of the reaction to the changes has been cooperative. Video game developers know that the Australian video game market is a lucrative one to be a part of, with Australians having spent $3.8 billion in 2024 on gaming and gaming-related items.

Some industry heavyweights, such as Ubisoft and EA, who have previously received criticism for their predatory monetization techniques, have quietly accepted the change in the weather and are changing their models, not only for the Australian market but for a wider global attitude shift. These newer models often clearly show the odds tied to loot box purchases, or have done away with them altogether, providing other, more predictable items in their place.

Final Thoughts

The actions of the Australian legislators can be seen in the broader context of a worldwide shift towards greater consumer protections in relation to gambling-like content. In many regions, such as Australia, gambling content is a perfectly allowable entertainment choice for adults to make. But the fairness and transparency around those entertainment options need to be balanced and clear for consumers to understand what they are doing.

It's possible that other jurisdictions will follow in Australia's footsteps, while others may lump loot boxes in with other gambling activities, leaving them contending with exactly the same laws that slot machines must.

An increase in taxes on Dutch online casino platforms seems to have had the unintended consequence of reducing the revenue generated for the Dutch government from the industry.

The online gambling market in the Netherlands is one of the most regulatorily secure in Europe, but recent tax changes seem to be having unintended consequences. Changes have been made recently to both the tax expected from regulated platforms as well as to player protection expectations. The expectation of the tax changes was to see more revenue generated for the Dutch government from the highly lucrative online gambling market, but projections are showing instead that there could be as much as a €200 million shortfall.

The tax hike, combined with some other factors, seems to have been the catalyst to push a number of players away from the regulated online casino market in the Netherlands, and towards offshore operators. While offshore platforms that service the Netherlands, such as the ones highlighted on Zamsino Nederland, are typically safe for players, they do not contribute towards the national economy. Let's look a little closer at why good-intentioned regulatory decisions may have caused damage to a market they were trying to benefit.

Taxes Levied with the Best of Intentions

The newly levied tax increase for online gambling operations is a significant one, although only partly in effect as of the writing of this article. The tax increase is phased, with the first phase coming into effect at the beginning of 2025, raising the rate of tax from 30.5% to 34.2% of gross gaming revenue (GGR) throughout the year. The second phase is due to come into effect at the beginning of 2026, raising the tax further to 37.8%. 

The increased tax is due to high profit reporting from the regulated online gambling market in the Netherlands. The government had determined that a higher contribution towards problem gambling initiatives and other beneficial social programs would be a good use of that success.

At the outset, industry stakeholders for the Dutch online gambling industry were criticising and raising concerns about the tax increase. The Netherlands is already well known for having some of the strictest rules around advertising and compliance for its gambling sector. Many operators have claimed that the increase in taxes is walking the line of bringing the market to unprofitability, and could cause the sustainability of the healthy and regulated market to come under threat.

Pressure on Regulated Operators Leaves Offshore Platforms at an Advantage

The Netherlands regulated and legalized its online gambling market in 2021, with the Remote Gambling Act (KOA). As we mentioned earlier, it has a reputation for being one of the most rigorous and difficult gambling markets in Europe for operators to enter. This is by design and is to ensure that only financially sound operators who will act trustworthily and hold player protections to a high standard are able to operate legally within the Netherlands.

At its outset, this seemed a good strategy, and one that worked for a time. As time has passed, however, increasing regulatory strictures have come into place, including restrictions on advertising possibilities and a greater emphasis on monitoring for problem gambling players. As restrictions have tightened, some operators have found that they are less able to compete and offer the same levels of service.

With the introduction of a new tax burden, one that is set to increase before too long, it seems that the final straw may have been laid on the camel's back. Operators seeking to do the right thing and work within the regulated environment are facing increasingly high costs to do so, while other operators who exist offshore are able to undercut them. Bonuses, promotions and even jackpots are all shrinking on most regulated operators' platforms, while offshore platforms are able to offer better terms to players, enticing them away from the regulated, and theoretically safer, market.

The projected €200 million shortfall is a sign of the times. Players have already started venturing beyond the safety of the regulated Dutch online casino market, taking their money with them. Higher taxes have resulted in less tax revenue generated than expected.

Other Factors at Play

We mentioned earlier that the tax hike is not the only factor determining the shift in revenue generation. As well as the increase in gambling tax, there have been new rules introduced for the amount that players are able to deposit in a month. While this rule is unlikely to affect every player, it is yet another impediment in the way of regulated operators and another potential string to the bow of offshore platforms.

There have also been increasing pressures and bans on advertising and sponsorship for online gambling platforms. Since 2023, the advertising of online gambling services has been heavily restricted. While this has been signalled as an important step for responsible gambling, it has undeniably made it difficult for operators that exist within the regulated market to attract new customers. 

Offshore operators have no such restrictions. As the rate at which players use regulated platforms falls, it seems likely that players who want to be free to spend what they like, or simply who have seen advertising for offshore platforms more readily, are spending their time and money outside of the regulated market.

Final Thoughts

The future is impossible for anyone to predict, but it seems likely that if the Netherlands go ahead with the second phase of the tax increase, regulated operators will fall even further behind their offshore brethren.

The loss of a projected €200 million annually could speak the right sort of language to the government and encourage them to shepherd the regulated online casino market they have. So far, they have announced that they are not considering changing their plans.