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Today, Fly High Bungee Fitness Summerville, a cutting-edge bungee fitness studio, is excited to announce the grand opening of its first location in Summerville, South Carolina. Combining cardio, strength, and core training with harnessed aerial movement, the studio promises a unique and exhilarating workout experience for the community.

What Is Bungee Fitness?

Bungee fitness blends traditional exercise forms — like HIIT, strength drills, and plyometrics — with the added suspension and rebound of bungee cords. Participants wear a harness attached to the ceiling by elastic cords, allowing them to jump, hover, spin, and perform resistance moves with reduced impact on joints. It’s designed to be both fun and effective.

Why Summerville?

Summerville has steadily grown as a hub for health-conscious living in the Charleston area. Mary McKeown saw an opportunity to introduce a novel, high-energy fitness concept to the region.

“We wanted to bring a workout that feels more like play than punishment,” said Mckeown. “Bungee fitness delivers cardio, strength, and joy all at once — and we believe Summerville residents will love the energy and the results.”

Features & Offerings

• A diverse class schedule with beginner to advanced levels
• Certified instructors trained specifically in aerial/bungee fitness
• Fully outfitted harnesses, rigging, and safety systems
• Community events, workshops, and themed fitness “flight nights”
• Retail shop for activewear, grip socks, and branded merchandise

Health & Community Benefits
Bungee fitness is joint-friendly thanks to the suspension support, making it accessible for a broad range of fitness levels and body types. It can help improve cardiovascular fitness, core strength, agility, balance, and coordination — all in a fun, immersive environment.

About Fly High Bungee Fitness Summerville

Fly High Bungee Fitness is Summerville’s premier bungee fitness studio, offering a fun, innovative and gravity-defying approach to exercise. Classes combine high-cardio and high-resistance training with low-impact movement, allowing participants to tone muscles, build strength and burn an average of 350 to 800 calories per session.

As one of the fastest-growing fitness trends worldwide, bungee fitness is designed for all ages and fitness levels. Fly High Bungee Fitness offers classes for everyone, creating a welcoming environment to experience the joy of flight while getting fit.

Location: 608 W. 5th North St., Unit 101, Summerville, SC
Class schedule: www.flyhighbungee.com/summerville

Media Contact

Mary McKeown
Owner and Operator, Fly High Bungee Fitness Summerville
flyhighsummerville@gmail.com
+1 843-518-3511

Schauermann Thayer announced today that in May of this year a Clark County jury awarded $2 million to Nicolle Sheaves, a courageous sexual-assault survivor, in her case against Christopher Deege, and that the verdict is now final after the timeline for appeal has expired.

The lawsuit was filed after Ms. Sheaves connected decades-long struggles with trauma, communication issues, and family challenges to the abuse she suffered as a child.

In 1988, when Nicolle was only ten years old, her ex-stepfather, Christopher Deege, coerced her into undressing him, forced her to touch him, removed her clothing, and sexually assaulted her. Before she left the room, he told her, "Don’t tell Mom, this should just be between us."

Under Washington law, survivors of childhood sexual assault may bring claims within three years of discovering the link between the abuse and their harm. This law allowed Ms. Sheaves the opportunity to pursue justice more than thirty years after the assault.

During the trial, attorneys Scott Edwards and Sara Schirato of Schauermann Thayer presented evidence, including childhood photographs showing inappropriate contact, which contradicted Deege’s sworn denials. Deege was represented by Josephine Townsend and denied any wrongdoing. After less than two hours of deliberation, the jury returned a verdict, awarding Ms. Sheaves $2 million in damages.

Following the verdict, Ms. Sheaves stated, “This is the most freeing thing I could have ever imagined.”

The verdict represents more than a legal victory; it represents a turning point in Ms. Sheaves’s lifelong journey toward healing. For decades, she carried the weight of silence, believing her abuser would never face consequences. With this decision, the jury validated her truth in a public forum, affirming that her courage to come forward was not in vain. 

“This verdict represents not only justice for Nicolle but hope for survivors everywhere who may feel silenced by shame or fear,” said Scott Edwards, partner at Schauermann Thayer. “The jury’s decision shows that these cases can be brought forward, even decades later, and that truth can prevail.”

Survivors across Washington and beyond can see this outcome as evidence that the justice system is increasingly willing to hear their voices, even decades after the fact.

Schauermann Thayer is proud to have stood alongside Nicolle Sheaves in her pursuit of justice, providing her with a platform to share her truth and the legal support necessary to achieve accountability. The attorneys and staff at Schauermann Thayer commend her courage and resilience and reaffirm their commitment to advocating for survivors whose voices have too often, and for too long been silenced.

Case Information

Nicolle Sheaves v. Christopher Deege, Superior Court Cause No. 23-2-00978-06. The jury returned a special verdict May 30, 2025.

About Schauermann Thayer

Founded in 1986, Schauermann Thayer is a Pacific Northwest trial firm dedicated to representing injured individuals and survivors of abuse throughout Washington and Oregon. From its office in Vancouver, the firm has built a reputation for securing justice and fair compensation for those harmed by negligence and wrongdoing. For more information, visit stlaw.com.

Media Contact

Joe Marchelewski
joe@aijcommunications.com

Estonia’s regulated iGaming sector is on course for steady growth in 2025 despite tax changes and tightening responsible gambling measures, according to fresh research from Boonuspart, an independent comparison site for licensed casinos in Estonia.

Key Findings from the Boonuspart Report

The Boonuspart study, published this week, estimates that Estonia’s online gambling industry will generate more than €450 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR) in 2025, with online casino games accounting for nearly half of that total. The market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of close to 3% through 2029.

The report also confirms that there are currently 29 licensed online casino operators in Estonia, a mix of local brands such as OlyBet and TonyBet, alongside international operators like Betsafe.

“Estonia’s transparent regulatory framework and the strength of its EMTA license continue to attract both domestic and foreign operators,” said the Boonuspart research team. “Even with an increase in gaming taxes scheduled for 2026, we expect the online casino sector to remain resilient.”

Taxation and Regulation

In January 2024, Estonia increased the tax on remote gambling to 6% of gross revenue, with a further rise to 7% already approved for 2026. Lottery tax has also risen, from 18% to 22%.

Despite these changes, gambling taxes contributed €48.3 million to the state budget in 2023 — up slightly from the previous year. Remote gambling already accounts for the majority of tax receipts, underscoring the importance of online casinos to Estonia’s economy.

“The mix of strong domestic brands and international operators makes Estonia’s market unusually competitive for its size,” said Mikael Peränen, an independent expert on the Nordic and Baltic gambling sector. “That competition pushes innovation — particularly around bonuses — and that’s why growth is likely to remain steady, at least until Finland’s licensing market opens and some operators decide to shift from an Estonian to a Finnish license,” Peränen added.

Changing Consumer Behavior

Boonuspart’s report highlights a steady shift from land-based casinos to online platforms. Around 31% of Estonian adults have gambled online in the past two years, compared to 41% who played offline. Wager-free bonuses, mobile-first design, and gamification features are seen as key drivers of growth.

Responsible gambling remains a priority. More than 19,000 individuals have now registered self-exclusions in Estonia — a 36% increase in the last five years.

Outlook

The Boonuspart study concludes that while higher taxes and compliance costs pose challenges, Estonia’s digital infrastructure and regulatory stability make it one of the most attractive iGaming jurisdictions in Europe.

“Operators who emphasize responsible gaming and product innovation will continue to succeed in Estonia’s competitive landscape,” the report states.

About Boonuspart

Boonuspart is an Estonian comparison portal specializing in online casino bonuses, promotions, and industry insights. With a focus on transparency and responsible play, Boonuspart provides independent reviews of licensed operators and publishes research on market trends in the Baltic region. For more information, visit boonuspart.ee.

Media Contact

Boonuspart Media Team
info@boonuspart.ee

CA Water for All is excited to share that Governor Newsom has signed SB 72 into law, after the bill passed the legislature unanimously. This landmark legislation is a significant step in the right direction for a long-term and reliable water supply for the entire state, including residents, businesses, and the environment. 

“I am pleased that Governor Newsom understood the importance of SB 72 and chose to agree with the unanimous legislative support in his signing of the bill,” said Senator Anna Caballero, bill author. “California residents, businesses, and the environment statewide will reap the benefits of SB 72 as we finally have a modernized strategy signed into law that will further protect California's future generations and ensure a reliable and long-term water supply for all.” 

“We are thrilled with the Governor's support of SB 72, and want to extend our gratitude to our bill author, Senator Caballero, and all of the members of the legislature who unanimously agreed on the urgency of this legislation,” said Craig Miller, President of the California Municipal Utilities Association and General Manager at Western Water District. “SB 72 sets bold statewide water supply targets and ensures durable planning that carries beyond any single administration. This is the important next step in building a reliable, climate-resistant water future for communities, farms, the environment, and our economy.”

Backed by a broad coalition of water, environmental, business, public safety, and agricultural stakeholders, SB 72 was co-sponsored by the California Municipal Utilities Association (CMUA), the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), and the California Council for Environmental and Economic Balance (CCEEB), and will transform water management in California to:

• Establish necessary statewide water supply targets to capture and produce enough water for all uses. 
• Require the State, water community, and stakeholders to work together to develop comprehensive, long-term water supply solutions. 
• Enhance the California Water Plan to drought-proof the state. 
• Complement Governor Newsom’s Water Supply Strategy to ensure water supply planning targets and action extend beyond any single administration. 

“This legislative milestone is a watershed moment for California’s water future. SB 72 establishes an accountable framework for water planning across the state,” said Tim Carmichael, President of CCEEB and bill co-sponsor. “We’re proud to have been a co-sponsor of this important bill and excited to see its policy vision in action.”

“California can’t build its future without water, and SB 72 gives counties and communities the tools to do just that,” said Graham Knaus, CEO of CSAC and bill co-sponsor. “We thank Governor Newsom, Senator Caballero, and the Legislature for their leadership, and we look forward to working with local governments, water agencies, and stakeholders on its effective implementation.”

Learn more about SB 72 here. 

About CA Water For All

CA Water for All is a statewide effort seeking to educate policymakers about the urgent need for a legislative solution to address California’s ongoing water supply challenges. The effort is focused on bringing together the water community, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate on ensuring Californians have a sustainable and reliable water supply for all beneficial uses now and for future generations. To learn more or become a supporter, visit CAWaterForAll.com.

Media Contact

Meagan Luevano
mluevano@ka-pow.com
+1 916-603-1839

ASI Games has announced bold revenue expectations for the first half of 2026, forecasting net revenue in the range of €450,000 to €750,000. This statement highlights the company’s rapid growth and its mission to revolutionize indie game publishing.

Having already released over 20 titles and preparing more than 35 new launches, ASI Games is setting a new standard in the industry. The company’s unique platform enables developers to publish PlayStation Store pages in under an hour—dramatically faster than traditional publishers. This efficiency, combined with low commission rates, offers developers an unparalleled value proposition, making ASI Games the preferred partner on the market.

This milestone matters for both developers and gamers. ASI Games’ “Publish as a Service” model is the first of its kind: a cross-platform online publishing system that seamlessly integrates real-time statistics across all consoles. With more than 1.5 million wishlists and over 400,000 followers across its published games, the company is rapidly building trust among developers, further reinforced by its membership in UKIE, the UK’s leading games industry association.

“Our growth from 2024 to 2025, when we tripled our performance, proves the demand for online console publishing,” said Artem Kritinin, CEO of ASI Games. “We are committed to providing a convenient and accessible platform that empowers developers to bring their creative visions to life.”

Looking ahead, ASI Games is poised to continue its trajectory of growth by expanding its portfolio of indie games and enhancing its platform's capabilities. The company is committed to further automating the publishing process, making it even more efficient and developer-friendly.

For more information about ASI Games and their innovative services, please visit their website at asigames.online.

About ASI Games

ASI Games, centrally located in the bustling city of London, England, is a visionary game publisher specializing in bringing indie games to major consoles, including Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PS5. We pride ourselves on our innovative online console platform that empowers indie game studios to publish their games with ease and efficiency. Our mission is to transform the landscape of game publishing, making it more accessible and streamlined for developers of all sizes. For more information about ASI Games and our services, visit asigames.online.

Media Contact

Artem Kritinin
dev@asigames.online

Forbes Middle East has published an exclusive feature on Hadi Zaarour, founder and CEO of ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM) and executive head of ZXCM Group Holding, spotlighting his mission to challenge global trading norms and rebuild trust in an industry often overshadowed by “get-rich-quick” promises.

The article describes Zaarour as “swimming against the current,” establishing ZXCM in 2023 on a foundation of one uncompromising principle: “No deception, no exaggeration, just fair trading.” With nearly 20 years of leadership experience in financial services and operations, Zaarour launched ZXCM to provide traders with clarity, honesty, and access to a platform free from gimmicks.

“I spent years building visions and profits for others. It was time to create something that reflected my own values,” he told Forbes.

A Platform Rooted in Transparency

ZXCM operates as a fully integrated financial platform, offering Forex and CFD trading to a diverse client base — from individual retail traders to professional and institutional investors. Leveraging MetaTrader 5 technology, competitive liquidity from leading global providers, and robust infrastructure, ZXCM has built a trading environment where transparency is the true capital.

But as Zaarour emphasizes, it is not technology alone that defines ZXCM: “We don’t sell dreams, and we don’t claim trading is easy. The market is tough, and most who enter lose money. What we promise is a fair environment that respects the trader’s intelligence.”

A Turning Point: Partnership with Scope Prime

One of ZXCM’s defining milestones was its strategic partnership with Scope Prime, a global institutional arm of Rostro Group. Zaarour describes the collaboration as a turning point that gave ZXCM international reach without compromising independence: “The partnership with Scope didn’t just enhance our tools, it gave us global scale without sacrificing our autonomy. We gained access to world-class infrastructure while keeping full operational control internally.”

This step allowed ZXCM to strengthen its pricing competitiveness, expand its global client base, and focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region — where most of its team members originate. Zaarour believes that “understanding regional nuances is critical to the success of any financial company.”

Looking Ahead: Beyond Brokerage

Forbes highlights Zaarour’s forward-looking vision of ZXCM as more than just a broker. Plans include expanding into wealth management, funding for talented traders, and the development of independent, in-house infrastructure that reduces reliance on external providers.

“We don’t want to be just a trading company. We want to be a complete financial ecosystem — a true partner in our clients’ financial journey, not just an intermediary between them and the market,” Zaarour said.

Thought Leadership: "Illusions of Money"

The feature also highlights Zaarour’s upcoming book, "Illusions of Money," which critiques the structures of modern wealth creation and the concentration of power within financial systems.

By exploring how central banks and liquidity holders shape value and opportunity, Zaarour challenges conventional assumptions about money. “I’m not claiming to change the global system,” he explains. “But within it, I can create a more ethical and transparent space. If people hear my name and say: ‘This is someone honest, clear, who doesn’t sell dreams’ — that is enough.”

The full story is available on Forbes Middle East.

About ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM)

ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM) is a dynamic forex and CFD brokerage founded in 2023. With a strong presence in the MENA region and expanding global markets, ZXCM offers institutional-grade solutions for forex, commodities, indices, shares, and cryptocurrencies. Our mission is to revolutionize trading experiences, providing transparency, advanced infrastructure, and localized strategies. Our commitment to setting new industry standards of trust and professionalism is evident in our rapid growth and the accolades we have received. The firm was established by Hadi Zaarour, a seasoned industry leader with nearly two decades of experience, whose focus on clarity and innovation has positioned ZXCM as one of the region’s fastest-growing financial service providers. Learn more at www.zxcm.com.

Media Contact

Ethan Stone
media@zxcm.com

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet, today announced that the Graham Group of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty has joined the platform as a local resource for buyers and homeowners in Dallas, representing the 75071 and 75078 ZIP codes. The team joins the platform among a growing group of Briggs Freeman Sotheby's International Realty.

Unlisted’s technology is designed to open up possibilities for everyone in the real estate ecosystem: buyers, homeowners, and agents alike. Buyers gain new ways to discover homes they love beyond what’s listed on the MLS. Homeowners gain tools to better understand interest in their property and connect with potential buyers. Real estate professionals gain a program that elevates their expertise and brings more possibilities into view for their clients.

Unlisted uses publicly available data to create a digital property profile for every home in the country. These records can be quickly searched and organized into curated lists of homes that meet a buyer’s criteria. Though not for sale, buyers can join a Waitlist for their favorite homes, creating new possibilities for buyers and agents to connect and giving homeowners options they may not have considered.

Each vetted real estate professional that partners with Unlisted receives an agent profile linked to every home in their ZIP code. Only one agent or group is selected per ZIP, highlighting their expertise and credibility in that market. As Unlisted continues to expand this network nationwide, the goal remains the same: to provide buyers, homeowners, and agents with a platform built on connection, expertise, and meaningful insights.

The Graham Group, led by Tracy Graham, brings a collaborative and client-focused approach to real estate in Dallas–Fort Worth. With a blend of strategic insight, personalized service, and the global reach of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, the team delivers a seamless experience for buyers and sellers at every stage of the journey.

“Unlisted gives us another way to reach clients in Dallas–Fort Worth,” said Tracy Graham. “It allows us to extend our expertise beyond our current network and serve as a local resource to even more people.”

“The Graham Group is dedicated to serving both homeowners and buyers with exceptional care and expertise. As the Local Experts in their ZIPs, they are a trusted resource there to help users navigate every stage of the real estate journey,” said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. “We’re excited to partner with Tracy Graham and her team as they continue to create meaningful connections and new opportunities in their community.”

To learn more about Unlisted, visit UnlistedHomes.com. For Unlisted for Agents, visit UnlistedHomes.com/Agents.

To learn more about The Graham Group, visit their Unlisted Profile or thegrahamgrouprealestate.com 

About Unlisted

Unlisted focuses on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet. The company empowers home buyers to join the Waitlist for homes they love that aren’t for sale—in other words, unlisted. At the same time, homeowners collect a Waitlist of interested buyers for whenever the time comes to sell, giving everyone a head start. Unlisted also allows homeowners to control how their home is presented online; they can create a stunning up-to-date property profile that shows off the home’s best features and attracts more interest. With more time and more connection, Unlisted is a more human way to explore real estate that drives better outcomes for all. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

A new player survey conducted by Online Kasiinod, Estonia’s leading online casino comparison site, reveals that the country’s players overwhelmingly prefer mobile gaming, have a handful of favorite slot titles, and place strong emphasis on fast, transparent payment methods.

Mobile Dominates

The research shows that 72% of respondents primarily play on smartphones, compared to 19% who use desktop computers and 9% who use tablets. Mobile-first platforms and rapid payment integrations have made phones the go-to choice for most Estonian players.

Favourite Games

When asked about specific titles, the survey found that slot games remain dominant. The top picks were:

• Book of Dead — 6%
• Reactoonz — 5%
• Sugar Rush 1000 — 4%
• Sweet Bonanza — 3%
• Le Bandit — 2%
• Wanted Dead or a Wild — 2%
• Legacy of Dead — 2%
• Fire Joker — 2%
• Gates of Olympus 1000 — 2%
• Other games combined — 72%

Table and live casino games represent a smaller share, with 17% of respondents preferring blackjack, roulette, or poker. Live-dealer formats are particularly popular among younger demographics.

Payment Preferences

Payment speed and transparency were highlighted as decisive factors in casino choice. The breakdown is:

• 55% use bank links (Swedbank, SEB, LHV)
• 28% use e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller)
• 12% use cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, USDT)
• 5% use credit or debit cards

Fast withdrawals — often under five minutes — are becoming the standard expectation, and many players said withdrawal speed strongly influences which casino they choose.

Market Outlook

“Estonian players are clear: they want mobile-first experiences, hit slot games, and ultra-fast payouts,” said a spokesperson for Onlinekasiinod.ee. “These preferences are setting the bar for operators who want to succeed in the market.”

About Online Kasiinod

Online Kasiinod is Estonia’s trusted portal for online casino comparisons, bonuses and market insights. The site offers independent reviews, guides and data-driven analysis tailored to the Estonian iGaming market. For more information, visit onlinekasiinod.ee.

Media Contact

Online Kasiinod Media Team
info@onlinekasiinod.ee

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet, today announced that Adrienne DeGuere of Sotheby’s International Realty has joined the platform as a Local Expert for buyers and homeowners in Santa Fe, representing the 87501, 87505, 87506, 87507, and 87508 ZIP codes.

Unlisted’s technology is designed to open up possibilities for everyone in the real estate ecosystem: buyers, homeowners, and agents alike. Buyers gain new ways to discover homes they love beyond what’s listed on the MLS. Homeowners gain tools to better understand interest in their property and connect with potential buyers. Real estate professionals gain a program that elevates their expertise and brings more possibilities into view for their clients.

Unlisted uses publicly available data to create a digital property profile for every home in the country. These records can be quickly searched and organized into curated lists of homes that meet a buyer’s criteria. Though not for sale, buyers can join a Waitlist for their favorite homes, creating new possibilities for buyers and agents to connect and giving homeowners options they may not have considered.

Each vetted real estate professional that partners with Unlisted receives an agent profile linked to every home in their ZIP code. Only one agent is selected per ZIP, highlighting their expertise and credibility in that market. As Unlisted continues to expand this network nationwide, the goal remains the same: to provide buyers, homeowners, and agents with a platform built on connection, expertise, and meaningful insights.

With over two decades of real estate experience and more than 128 transactions to her name, Adrienne DeGuere is a top-producing Santa Fe REALTOR® whose deep local expertise and client-first approach have earned her a place among the region’s top 4% of agents by production. DeGuere pairs meticulous organizational skills with extensive knowledge of Santa Fe’s most sought-after neighborhoods—from Historic Eastside and Eldorado to Tesuque and Las Campanas—offering buyers and homeowners exceptional insight into one of the country’s most distinctive markets.

“Unlisted is a powerful tool that complements the personalized service I’ve built my business on,” said DeGuere.

“We’re excited to welcome Adrienne DeGuere as our Local Expert in her selected Santa Fe ZIP codes,” said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. “Adrienne’s unmatched local knowledge and dedication to a seamless client experience align perfectly with Unlisted’s mission to unlock opportunities and bring buyers and homeowners together in meaningful new ways.”

To learn more about Unlisted, visit UnlistedHomes.com. For Unlisted for Agents, visit UnlistedHomes.com/Agents.

To learn more about Adrienne DeGuere, visit her Unlisted Profile or her website.

About Unlisted

Unlisted focuses on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet. The company empowers home buyers to join the Waitlist for homes they love that aren’t for sale—in other words, unlisted. At the same time, homeowners collect a Waitlist of interested buyers for whenever the time comes to sell, giving everyone a head start. Unlisted also allows homeowners to control how their home is presented online; they can create a stunning up-to-date property profile that shows off the home’s best features and attracts more interest. With more time and more connection, Unlisted is a more human way to explore real estate that drives better outcomes for all. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

Finding a spacious and comfy home, especially for a growing family, is often a tough task. The current housing market adds to that challenge. Prices are rising, and choices are becoming increasingly limited. With issues like these, you might want to consider a barndominium.

Barndominiums are old barns converted into luxurious condominium-style homes. This combination gives the appeal of both structures with rustic charm and contemporary lifestyle improvement. But are they the dream homes for modern living?

If you're curious for the answers, keep reading. Here's how barndominium homes meet the demands of today's families.

Space Flexibility

Every family starts small, often with two people. But when that family grows, either with children or pets, a tiny apartment or one-bedroom home will begin feeling cramped. Barndominiums, with an open floor plan, can solve the lack of space many families need.

When naturally spacious bards are modified into homes, they become fully customizable. Do you need more private rooms? Divide the spaces by adding new interior walls or constructing a mezzanine floor or loft. You can also transform what each space or room is used for.

For example, your children's playroom can be converted into a study area when they're older. These changes help update every space, keeping it from feeling outdated after a while.

Flexibility is possible whether you have a fully converted structure available or are making one from scratch. You just need to understand the floor plan. Barndominium plans can help you visualize the final result more easily. Stock home plans or custom plans are necessary to maximize every space.

Less Exterior Maintenance

Owning a home isn't always easy. Things can go awry and, sometimes, you overlook issues until they get worse. That's why maintenance is a must, no matter the size of your home.

Traditional barns are designed and constructed to withstand the elements, making exterior maintenance needs less frequent. That's why barndominiums may be ideal for busy families. The metal siding and roof are often coated, so you're unlikely to repaint them after a long time. Termites also don't eat through steel and ruin the stability of your home.

That doesn't excuse it from regular maintenance, though. You still need to check your home's exterior seasonally just to ensure everything's in place and standing firm.

Safety for Long-Term Peace of Mind

Some places experience heavy rain or snowstorms. Meanwhile, others face tornadoes, especially with the U.S. seeing around 1,200 tornadoes every year. This makes safety an essential factor that makes a home great. [1]

Families don't have much to worry about when living in barndominium homes. The steel frames resist pests, mold, and rot, preventing infestations, health issues, and structural problems. Barndominiums can also be made resistant to fire, adding an extra layer of security that families will value.

A barndominium can last many years with proper and regular upkeep. That makes it fantastic for generational families. Even if some family members choose to leave the nest, they could still come back to a stable structure safe for annual reunions or holiday parties.

Comfort and Energy Efficiency

Barns originally served as shelters for farm animals, keeping them warm on cold nights and safe from predators. When converted into homes, you can expect the same comfort, just improved for humans.

Barndominium homes are built with spray foam insulation, proper ventilation, and high-quality windows. These features help them keep up or even outmatch conventional contemporary homes' energy performance. You and your family can live comfortably without worrying if you'll survive sweltering summers or freezing winters.

The large roofs that also typically come with barndominiums offer opportunities for renewable energy. You can install solar energy panels with minimal disruption and generate significant savings over time. You could even experiment with rainwater collection or geothermal energy, using the structure's efficiency for other sustainable systems.

Affordability and Value

Homes lately are becoming more expensive, turning away families seeking great places to live. Experts predict that housing costs will return to 'normal' by 2030. But only if price growth stabilizes and mortgage rates fall to 5.5%. [2]

This price hike is making barndominium homes more appealing. But why are they much cheaper than traditional homes? The open span construction keeps costs lower for larger square footage, allowing families to design spacious layouts at a price that would be difficult with conventional housing.

Long-term value is also essential for homes nowadays. The durability of steel means fewer expenses for repairs. Home maintenance is something else to consider. Maintenance costs for barndominiums tend to become lower over time, which helps families manage their budgets more easily.

Financing and Insurance Practicalities

Buying or building a barndominium can feel different once you begin the paperwork. Many lenders don't classify them the same way as traditional houses. Some treat them as agricultural buildings, which complicates mortgage approval. In most cases, families have better luck with lenders experienced in financing alternative home types.

Insurance presents similar challenges. Since barndominiums combine elements of metal buildings and residential features, some insurers hesitate to provide coverage without a thorough inspection.

Premiums may also vary depending on location, finishes, and how closely the home matches conventional building standards. The process is usually smoother if the property is fully converted to residential code.

Ease of Construction

If you're not into an existing converted barndominium, you can create your own custom home using building kits. Barndominium home kits are often easy to understand, simplifying the construction process.

Searching for homes is usually an urgent task for growing families. However, building a new home may take seven to 14 months on average to finish. For some, it could even take a few years. [3]

Prefabricated metal building kits allow for faster assembly and construction, so your family could move in much sooner than expected. This speed is attractive if you're rushing to live in a new, spacious, and comfortable home.

Final Thoughts

Barndominium homes are fantastic considerations for modern families. They offer flexible living spaces, excellent stability and safety, and affordable living structures for any family. With a bit of customization, they can become livable places for your partner, children, and even pets.

So, yes, a barndominium home can meet the big demands of modern family living. It also helps to tweak one to suit your needs best.

References

1. "Why tornadoes are more destructive than ever in the U.S.," Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/04/tornadoes-are-more-destructive-than-ever-in-the-us.html
2. "U.S. Housing Costs to Return to 'Normal' by 2030 With Stable Price Growth and Moderately Lower Rates," Source: https://www.redfin.com/news/return-to-normal-housing-2025/
3. "How Long Does It Take to Build a House From Start to Finish?" Source: https://www.angi.com/articles/how-long-does-it-take-build-house.htm

About Barndominium.org

Launched in 2019, Barndominium.org has grown steadily into a leading resource for barndominium buyers and builders across North America. The organization connects customers with a network of contractors and manufacturers specializing in both metal and wood post-frame structures, offering flexible options for custom builds.

Through its extensive industry partnerships, Barndominium.org provides wholesale pricing on kits and regularly updates vendors to help customers access quotes, floor plans and project starts as quickly as possible. In 2024, the company introduced custom floor plans and a comprehensive buyer’s guide, followed by the launch of BarndominiumsPlans.com as a dedicated site for design resources.

Headquartered near Research Triangle Park in Raleigh, N.C., Barndominium.org serves the entire North American market, helping families and builders bring modern barndominium living to life.

For more information, visit barndominium.org.

Media Contact

Ian Hart
ian@barndominium.org

The American gaming landscape has changed fast, with the gold rush moving from the casino floor to the smartphone screen. Pennsylvania has eclipsed long-time leaders like Nevada and New Jersey, recording billion-dollar revenues that underscore the dominance of iGaming. This article analyzes the financial data, explores how the state's strategic adoption of online casino games fueled its revenue crown and details the profound fiscal impact on public programs across the Commonwealth.

The state of Pennsylvania has cemented its position as the commercial gambling revenue leader in the United States, surpassing established rivals with a market characterized by high taxation and aggressive digital expansion. Bolstered by its robust performance in online gaming, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) reported a record-breaking financial year, illustrating a fundamental and irreversible pivot away from traditional casino floors toward mobile and digital platforms. The Keystone State’s comprehensive legalization of online gambling has successfully captured a massive digital market share. As operators continue to optimize their digital offerings (and draw in players seeking convenience and variety), the dominance of the real money online casino segment over traditional retail gaming is clear, setting the fiscal direction for the entire U.S. commercial gaming market. This pivotal shift in consumer behavior ensures that the growth trend is: fundamentally digital.

Pennsylvania’s gambling sector recorded a new lifetime benchmark, reaching approximately $6.4 billion in overall wagering receipts for the fiscal year ending in 2025. This record figure not only confirms Pennsylvania’s position as a national leader but also highlights its success in acclimating to modern consumer preferences by embracing a full suite of online verticals, so to speak.

The Digital Engine: iGaming Outpaces Traditional Sectors

The surge in Pennsylvania’s revenue is overwhelmingly credited to the rapid growth and financial volume of internet gaming, or iGaming (online slots, table games and poker). For the first time, iGaming officially surpassed retail slot machines to become the largest single revenue source for the state.

The core of the market transformation is evidenced in the direct contrast between online and land based performance on the gaming segment (fiscal year 2025 revenue, approx.):

• iGaming (online casino): $2.47 billion, up 27% — dominant growth driver
• Retail slot machines: $2.44 billion, up 0.1% — flat/stagnant
• Retail table games: under $1.0 billion, down 3.0% — declining
• Sports wagering (retail + mobile): under $0.5 billion — stable, mobile-dominant

The 27% year-over-year jump in iGaming revenue demonstrates the digital channel's efficiency and reach, especially compared to the minimal or negative growth seen in traditional land based segments. While retail slots remain a massive contributor, the growth ceiling appears to have been reached, making digital revenue essential for annual market expansion. Especially in today's modern landscape.

A State Tax Windfall for Public Finance

The economic impact of Pennsylvania’s thriving gambling sector extends far beyond the casino operators, providing a crucial and rapidly growing revenue stream for the Commonwealth’s public finances.

Pennsylvania generated a record $2.8 billion in gaming tax revenue during the 2024-2025 fiscal year, a figure that also ranks among the highest in the nation. This significant tax revenue pool is structurally allocated to various public needs, demonstrating clearly, the industry's role as a major fiscal engine for the state.

Key allocations of Pennsylvania gaming tax revenue include:

• Property tax relief: The largest portion of tax revenue is dedicated to funding school property tax credits for primary residences (directly benefiting taxpayers).
• Local and county government: Specific allocations are distributed to local municipalities and counties to support law enforcement, infrastructure and general municipal aid.
• Horse racing industry: A portion is designated to support the state’s horse racing industry through the Race Horse Development Fund.
• Responsible gaming and economic development: Funds are set aside for addiction treatment programs and various economic development grants.

This dependable, multi-billion dollar tax revenue stream provides the state government with stability, enabling it to fund crucial public programs without solely relying on traditional tax measures.

Competitive Dynamics and Future Outlook

Pennsylvania’s market dominance is particularly notable given its regulatory structure. The state imposes a high effective tax rate on its gaming operators, especially on slots and iGaming revenue, creating a unique dynamic compared to neighboring markets.

While New Jersey and Michigan also operate vast comprehensive digital gaming ecosystems, Pennsylvania has consistently demonstrated the highest single-state monthly revenue totals for online casinos. This robust performance suggests that the combination of a high population density, favorable regulatory framework for online expansion and aggressive market spending by major operators has created a highly effective revenue model. Worth noting that some financial analysts have noted that Pennsylvania operators spend significantly more on promotional credits compared to rivals, indicating a fierce competition for customer acquisition (but one that is clearly paying off in overall gross revenue).

The trend for the foreseeable future is clear: Pennsylvania’s overall commercial gambling revenue will continue to be dictated by the performance of its digital verticals. As land based revenue flattens, sustained growth will depend entirely on innovations within the mobile wagering and iGaming spaces, ensuring the state maintains its position as the "chart-topper" in the competitive U.S. gambling industry.

The California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP) today announced that it is extending the registration period for its Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) grant program to October 17, 2025, adding more than two weeks to the original October 1 deadline. The extension ensures that the program’s closing date now coincides with the California Great ShakeOut drill on October 16, when millions of Californians will be focused on earthquake preparedness.

The program, which first opened this registration period on August 20, offers critical funding support for seismic retrofits that bolt houses to their foundations and brace crawl space walls—proven methods to reduce the risk of earthquake damage. With eligibility covering more than 1,100 ZIP codes statewide, including 303 added earlier this year, the extension provides even more Californians with the opportunity to apply for up to $3,000 in grant funding. In fact, for the first time, CRMP has expanded EBB eligibility to include non-owner-occupied homes, allowing landlords to apply for this retrofit grant opportunity for their investment properties.

“Extending the deadline helps meet the high demand for earthquake retrofit assistance while drawing attention to the importance of preparedness as millions of Californians take part in the Great ShakeOut on October 16,” said Janiele Maffei, Chief Mitigation Officer of the California Earthquake Authority (CEA). “This extra time gives homeowners and rental property owners another chance to apply, choose a contractor, and begin strengthening their homes. Each retrofit improves safety not just for families but for entire communities.”

More than $20 million is available in this registration period to offset retrofit costs. Since the program’s launch in 2013, more than 33,500 California homeowners have received assistance through EBB.

Qualified income eligible households may also be eligible for supplemental grants of up to $7,000, which can cover as much as 100% of retrofit costs.

“Every retrofit makes California stronger and more resilient,” said Tom Welsh, CEO of the California Earthquake Authority. “By aligning with the Great ShakeOut, this extension ensures that more families are reminded of the simple but powerful steps they can take to protect their homes before the next big quake.”

The EBB grant program is administered by CRMP, a Joint Powers Authority between CEA and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES).

Interested property owners can learn more and register at EarthquakeBraceBolt.com. The updated registration period runs through October 17, 2025.

About Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB)

Established by the California Residential Mitigation Program, EBB offers up to $3,000 to help California homeowners retrofit their house to reduce potential damage from earthquakes. A residential seismic retrofit makes a house more resistant to earthquake activity, such as ground shaking and soil failure, by bolting the house to its foundation and adding bracing around the perimeter of the crawl space. For more information, please visit EarthquakeBraceBolt.com.

About California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP)

CRMP was established in 2011 to help Californians strengthen their homes against damage from earthquakes. CRMP is a joint powers authority created by the California Earthquake Authority and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. For more information, please visit CRMP.org.

Media Contact

Sheri Pierce
spierce@calquake.com
+1 279-203-1426

The Stop Gas Station Heroin coalition today commended the publishing of a new case report in Clinical Toxicology that underscores the dangerous and potentially lethal effects of concentrated synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) opioid products.

In a letter to the editor of the peer-reviewed medical journal, the authors reported the case of a 29-year-old man with a history of opioid use disorder, who consumed concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products as a form of alternative treatment due to financial constraints. 

The patient “presented to the emergency department following cardio-pulmonary arrest,” the authors wrote, and received roughly 10 minutes of CPR after being found unresponsive. According to the case report, “he was successfully revived with two doses of naloxone 4 mg intravenously.”

After being revived, the patient vomited and reported that he had ingested approximately four high-potency tablets (190 mg) of concentrated synthetic 7-OH “to get ‘high’ while intoxicated,” according to the case report.

Dr. Christopher McCurdy of the University of Florida, a co-author of the case report, said the patient “would likely not have survived” had he not been treated with naloxone. Sold under the brand name Narcan, the medicine is used to rapidly reverse overdoses from opioids such as heroin and fentanyl.

The patient’s case “offers clinical evidence of opioid-like respiratory depression and arrest” following an overdose from concentrated synthetic 7-OH, the authors wrote, and their findings “highlight the need for greater regulatory scrutiny and clinical awareness” of lab-made opioids.

“This alarming case report, compiled by medical professionals and subject matter experts, makes clear the harm that concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products pose to communities across the country,” said David Bregger, Executive Director of Stop Gas Station Heroin.

“The only way to prevent more emergency room visits and life-threatening overdoses is with a federal ban on these hyperpotent, lab-made products that are being illegally sold as a ‘safe alternative’ to prescription opioids,” Bregger said. “We urge the Drug Enforcement Administration to protect American consumers by making concentrated synthetic 7-OH a Schedule I substance.”

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

Allesin no-drill smart shades are the fast, easy, no-drill installation and home automation solution for blinds in the U.S. market. Crafted with the everyday user in mind, Allesin's shades are geared towards simplicity, safety, and smart living, while ending the struggles associated with installing traditional curtains and blinds.

"Our goal is to reduce the stress of installing and using shades," said Ethan, Allesin's product manager. "Smart technology should be convenient, safe and adaptable for a wide range of living spaces."

According to industry surveys, U.S. consumers are showing a growing preference for household products that simplify installation. A 2024 Statista report on smart home adoption revealed that over 50% of homeowners expressed interest in self-installable connected devices, primarily due to concerns about saving time and preventing damage.

The Problem with Traditional Shades

Many American households take a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach to save money whenever possible. Traditional curtains and shades often fall into this category; even when all instructions are carefully followed, these installations can lead to damaged walls, messy setups, added costs, and prolonged installation times. On the other hand, professionally installed shades can result in issues, including property damage, and the process is costly and inflexible. This situation leaves consumers locked into permanent fixtures that may not meet their needs.

A Smarter, Wall-Friendly Solution

"Allesin is on a mission to solve these problems and stressors," Jessie said. "Smart technology doesn't have to be difficult. Our blinds make achieving a consumer's personal light aesthetic attainable, sustainable, and convenient."

Allesin's motorized shades and no-drill installation systems allow for a clean mounting in just seconds. They can be easily removed and relocated without leaving any marks, making them a convenient choice for anyone who values ease and affordability.

Key Features of Allesin No-Drill Smart Shades

• No-Drill, Wall-Friendly Installation – Full installation takes just five seconds with no drilling or damage.
• Cordless Design – Eliminates risks of dangling cords, keeping children and pets safe.
• Multiple Control Options – Choose remote control, app control via Tuya/Smart Life, or hands-free voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant.
• Smart Scheduling – Users can schedule shades to open and close automatically, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency.
• Solar Charging Option – Harness natural sunlight to power the shades.
• Customizable Sizing – Available in a wide range of dimensions, fitting both inside and outside mounts to suit different home layouts.

Benefits That Go Beyond Convenience

According to Allesin, the product line is not only practical but also reflects a broader philosophy of thoughtful design.

• Save Time & Money – No professional installers needed or hidden costs.
• Protect Your Home – Shades install and remove without leaving a trace.
• Accessible for All – Quick and easy for anyone to set up.
• Family-Friendly Safety – Cordless design makes homes safer for children and pets.
• Flexible Lifestyle – Easily move or adjust shades to match changing needs.

"The impact of Allesin's no-drill blinds is more than functional; we're give customers control over lighting in their personal spaces," Ethan said.

Designed for Modern Living Spaces

Allesin's shades adapt seamlessly to homes, apartments, and even office spaces:

• Baby & Kids' Rooms – Cordless safety plus soft-filtering fabric for eye protection and privacy.
• Tall or Floor-to-Ceiling Windows – Hands-free control cuts the need to adjust hard-to-reach shades manually.
• Living Rooms & Bedrooms – Maintain comfort and privacy while enjoying natural light.
• Home Offices – Block glare on demand with automated schedules, without making the space too dark.

About Allesin

Allesin is a brand dedicated to smart shading solutions, primarily serving the U.S. market. Its core product line focuses on motorized and smart curtains with no-drill installation. The brand is committed to providing users with effortless control over light, and just as the slogan "Your light, your way" suggests, Allesin believes in encouraging people to take control not only of the light in their homes, but also of the direction/way of their lives.

For more information, visit allesin.com. Additional details and updates can be found on Instagram at @allesinofficial, Facebook at facebook.com/allesinofficial, and YouTube at youtube.com/@allesinOfficial.

Allesin's Product Information and Blind Reviews

• No-Drill Motorized Light Filtering Roller Shades
• No-Drill Motorized Zebra Shades
• Motorized Light Filtering Honeycomb Shades

Media Contact

Allesin Press Contact
marketing@allesin.com

Spread-Bet.co.uk analysis of the Bank for International Settlements’ 2025 Triennial Survey shows that London remains the world’s leading foreign exchange centre. The UK cleared 37.8% of all daily forex transactions in 2025, equivalent to USD 4.7 trillion per day.

While down from 43.1% in 2019, London’s share has been stable since 2022 and continues to dwarf other markets. The city retains its role as the anchor of global FX liquidity, attracting orders from every time zone and serving as the benchmark for pricing and risk transfer. This is why its the home to the most spread betting providers and some leading forex brokers.

US and Asia Continue to Grow

The US has increased its share to 19%, up from 16.5% in 2019 and 17.9% in 2022. New York remains essential for dollar liquidity, derivatives, and prime brokerage, even as trading flows diversify into Asia.

Singapore has seen the largest gains, rising to 11.8% in 2025 from 7.6% in 2019 and 9.0% in 2022. Hong Kong has held steady at 7.0%, while Japan accounts for 4.0%, slightly down from 4.5% in 2019.

Together, these five centres — the UK, US, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan — now account for 79% of global forex turnover, showing both the concentration and the geographic shifts in the market.

London Remains the Anchor

“London’s strength lies in its infrastructure, regulatory framework, and concentration of institutional players,” said Justin Grossbard, co-founder of Spread-Bet.co.uk. “Even with Asia’s rise and New York’s growth, London still clears more than a third of all global forex trades daily. That makes it unrivalled as the centre of global currency trading.”

Expanding Global Market

Global foreign exchange turnover continues to expand alongside these geographic changes. Daily trading reached USD 9.6 trillion in April 2025, up 28% from USD 7.5 trillion in 2022. Annualised, this equates to more than USD 3.5 quadrillion in forex transactions each year.

“Where trades are executed is evolving, but London remains the benchmark,” added Grossbard. “Even as the centre of gravity moves closer to Asia, London’s liquidity and institutional depth keep it at the core of the global system.”

About Spread-Bet.co.uk

Spread-Bet.co.uk is a leading comparison site for financial spread betting in the United Kingdom. All providers listed on the site are FCA-regulated, with fees, trading platforms and customer service levels reviewed. The site is co-owned by Justin Grossbard, who also runs the CFD comparison platform CompareForexBrokers. For more information, visit www.spread-bet.co.uk.

Media Contact

Justin Grossbard
Co-founder, Spread-Bet.co.uk
justin@compareforexbrokers.com

FG Nexus (Nasdaq: FGNX, FGNXP) (“FG Nexus” or the “Company”) and Securitize, a leading platform for tokenizing real-world assets, announced today that FG Nexus and Securitize have entered into an agreement to implement a program to allow shareholders to elect to natively tokenize the Company’s common and preferred stock on the Ethereum blockchain. FG Nexus is among the first NASDAQ-listed companies to offer shareholders the choice to tokenize its shares on Ethereum, with such tokenized shares conferring the same rights as traditional shares. Additionally, FG Nexus will be the first to tokenize a dividend-paying, exchange-listed perpetual preferred share (Nasdaq: FGNXP).

This news represents an emerging market trend taking shape; that, U.S. investors will be able can hold a public company’s equity natively on blockchain through tokenization.

The program is expected to commence with tokenizing the Company’s common stock (Nasdaq: FGNX). FG Nexus will then work with Securitize to tokenize its shares of Class A preferred stock (Nasdaq: FGNXP), with the expectation that it would bring recurring cash flows fully onchain for the first time.

"FG Nexus’ agreement with Securitize positions the Company at the forefront of financial innovation and demonstrates our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge solutions that benefit our investor community," said Kyle Cerminara, co-founder, chairman and CEO of FG Nexus.

The tokenization of FG Nexus shares will utilize Securitize’s fully-regulated stack and infrastructure. Securitize’s SEC-registered broker-dealer, Alternative Trading System (ATS), and transfer agent services will ensure tokenized shares represent true, legally recognized ownership and are capable to be traded onchain, subject to the same transfer restrictions as traditional shares, as applicable.

“Public markets are entering the programmable age. Our project with FG Nexus is expected to result in U.S. investors being able to hold real stock, not a synthetic wrapper, with instant settlement, automated compliance, and the ability to trade onchain through our regulated ATS,” said Carlos Domingo, co-founder and CEO of Securitize. “Securitize continues to pioneer securities tokenization, and we are very proud to further that vision by partnering with FG Nexus as they become one of the first Nasdaq-listed companies to have its equity be traded natively on Ethereum.”

"Tokenization is rapidly changing financial markets through increased efficiency and enhanced investor access,” said Maja Vujinovic, CEO of Digital Assets at FG Nexus. “By tokenizing our shares, we're embracing blockchain technology to further enhance the shareholder experience while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory compliance. We’re excited to lead this migration of equities onchain with Securitize.”

About FG Nexus

FG Nexus Inc. (Nasdaq: FGNX, FGNXP) 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, FG Nexus 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. To learn more, visit fgnexus.io.

The FGNX® logo is a registered trademark.

About Securitize

Securitize, a world leader in tokenizing real-world assets with over $4 billion AUM (as of May 2025), is bringing the world on-chain through tokenized funds in partnership with top-tier asset managers, such as Apollo, BlackRock, Hamilton Lane, KKR, VanEck and others. Securitize, through its subsidiaries, is a SEC-registered broker dealer, digital transfer agent, fund administrator and operator of a SEC-regulated Alternative Trading System (ATS). Securitize has also been recognized as a 2025 Forbes Top 50 Fintech company.

For more information, please visit securitize.io, or follow on X and LinkedIn.

Investor Contact

invest@fgnexus.io

Media Contacts

Melrose PR
FGNexus@melrosepr.com

Tom Murphy
tom.murphy@securitize.io

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

Securitize Disclosures

Securities are offered through Securitize Markets, LLC, (“Securitize Markets”) a registered broker-dealer and member FINRA/SIPC. Securitize Markets, LLC, and Securitize Capital, an Exempt Reporting Adviser, are not involved in Real-World Asset (RWA) tokenization, a service provided by Securitize. Assets such as digital assets or tokens using blockchain, are speculative, involve a high degree of risk, are generally illiquid, may have no value, have limited regulatory certainty, are subject to potential market manipulation risks and may expose investors to loss of principal. Securitize, Inc. (Securitize) is a Delaware corporation. Securitize is a technology provider which, together with its affiliates, maintains an end-to-end web-based platform used by issuers for issuing securities, specifically including digital asset securities. Securitize is not a registered broker-dealer. Securitize, LLC is a transfer agent registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Securitize Markets also operates Securitize Markets ATS, an alternative trading system. Securitize Capital, LLC is an exempt reporting adviser filed with the State of Florida.

CompareForexBrokers statistical forex analysis of the Bank for International Settlements’ 2025 BIS Triennial Survey shows the global foreign exchange market remains concentrated in five financial centres, being the UK, US, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan. Together, these major trading hubs account for 79% of all daily forex transactions worldwide.

The UK is still the largest centre, handling 38% of global FX turnover in 2025. That is down from 43.1% in 2019, but largely unchanged since 2022. London continues to clear more than a third of global trades, supported by its depth of liquidity and role in pricing and risk transfer for global institutions.

The US has grown its share to 19%, up from 16.5% in 2019 and 17.9% in 2022. Dollar liquidity, together with the US position in derivatives and prime brokerage, keeps New York central to execution, even as more flows shift into Asia.

Singapore has made the biggest gain, rising to 11.8% in 2025 from 7.6% in 2019 and 9.0% in 2022. “Singapore has clearly established itself as Asia’s forex trading hub,” said Justin Grossbard, co-founder of CompareForexBrokers. “Growth in North Asia and ASEAN trade, alongside hedging tied to electronics and commodities, has pulled more execution into Singapore, while some activity that previously ran through Hong Kong has also shifted there.”

Hong Kong held steady at 7%, slightly lower than its 7.6% share in 2019. Despite political and economic pressures, it remains a key channel for China-related financing and trade. Japan rounds out the top five at 4%, down from 4.5% in 2019. Tokyo is still important for yen liquidity, but more Asia risk is now being managed from Singapore.

These hub shifts come as overall market activity continues to expand. Global daily turnover reached $9.6 trillion in April 2025, up 28% from $7.5 trillion in 2022, which annualises to $3.5 quadrillion.

“Where trading is executed is changing alongside what is traded,” said Grossbard. “The rise of USD/CNY to 8.1% of global turnover has reinforced Asia’s growing role, and that is showing up directly in Singapore’s market share. London and New York remain the anchors, but the centre of gravity is moving closer to Asia.”

About CompareForexBrokers

CompareForexBrokers is a leading global forex broker comparison site, analyzing more than 70 CFD providers against a detailed set of criteria outlined in its independent methodology. Founded in 2014, the platform helps traders make informed decisions by offering transparent, side-by-side broker comparisons. The site is co-owned by Justin Grossbard, who has led the business since its inception. Grossbard has written for Forbes, Kiplinger and Entrepreneur, and holds a master’s degree. For more information, visit www.compareforexbrokers.com.

Media Contact

Justin Grossbard
Co-owner, CompareForexBrokers
justin@compareforexbrokers.com

The Sphere Gallery will present "Quantum Abstractions," a solo exhibition by American artist Stanley Casselman, opening with a VIP preview Saturday, Oct. 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. The exhibition will be on view Oct. 19 through Nov. 1, 2025, at The Sphere Gallery’s Laguna Beach, Calif., location.

Known for his innovative silkscreen techniques and painterly abstractions, Stanley Casselman’s work resonates at the intersection of science and art. In “Quantum Abstractions,” the artist draws inspiration from the paradoxical world of quantum physics, where uncertainty, duality and unseen forces reshape our understanding of reality. Through abstraction, fluidity and implied motion, Casselman visualizes the invisible — evoking the balance between chaos and order, matter and energy, the microscopic and the cosmic.

“I find inspiration in the invisible, the uncertain and the paradoxical — much like the world of quantum physics,” Casselman said. “Just as observation alters reality in quantum mechanics, I hope my work challenges the viewer’s perception, inviting them to contemplate not only what is visible, but also what lies beneath the surface.”

Philippe Hoerle-Guggenheim, founder of The Sphere Gallery, said: “Stanley Casselman’s exhibition ‘Quantum Abstractions’ is a powerful collection of works that feels new and fresh, elevating the artist’s visual expression to new heights. Beyond the works themselves, there is a historic resonance here — the deep local relevance of the Southern California ‘Light and Space’ movement. Casselman’s practice can be viewed in dialogue with seminal figures such as Helen Pashgian, Mary Corse and James Turrell.

“California has long been home to visionary artists who drew inspiration from their surroundings and pushed the boundaries of material and perception. Stanley Casselman represents a new generation within this lineage, bringing his perspective, distinctive use of light and color and innovative processes. What makes his work remarkable is not only what we see but also the medium and method he so masterfully applies.”

Hoerle-Guggenheim not only champions Casselman through curating this exhibition but is also a longtime friend and collector of his work — making the presentation especially meaningful.

Casselman’s practice reflects an intuitive exploration of interconnectedness, using layers of color, texture and light to create works that feel immersive and transcendent. His paintings are held in major museum and private collections, including the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Borusan Contemporary in Istanbul.

“Quantum Abstractions” invites audiences into a dialogue between art and science, offering an opportunity to engage with one of contemporary abstraction’s most compelling voices.

Exhibition Details – Stanley Casselman: “Quantum Abstractions”

• VIP Preview: Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 | 6 to 8 p.m.
• On View: Oct. 19 – Nov. 1, 2025
• Hours: Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Location: The Sphere Gallery, 278 Beach Street, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

About The Sphere Gallery

The Sphere Gallery, founded by Philippe Hoerle-Guggenheim, exhibits blue-chip artists while offering collectors, curators, connoisseurs and the public a space for meaningful engagement with contemporary art. Bridging the legacy of street art, the influence of the Light and Space movement and the depth of contemporary practice, the gallery creates an environment where perception, culture and imagination converge. Its modern architectural sensibility reflects the symbolism of its name — the sphere — as a representation of wholeness, universality and the continual evolution of the arts. Recognized for presenting groundbreaking artists whose works appear in major museums and international collections, The Sphere opened its Laguna Beach location in September 2025, extending its vision of a refined yet dynamic cultural destination.

For more information about the Sphere Gallery and its collection, visit www.spherehausgallery.com or follow @thespheregallery on social media.

Media Contact

Roxana Vosough
Creative Director, The Sphere Gallery
roxana@thespheregallery.com
+1 949-235-2459

If you’re planning a trip to Europe and need to apply for a Schengen visa, one thing you may have learned of by now is Schengen travel insurance. Not only is it a visa requirement for anyone applying, but it also gives important financial protection in the event of medical emergencies and potential accidents while you’re overseas.

It can be helpful to understand why this type of insurance is mandatory and how to select the right policy that can save you time, stress, and money.

Legal requirements for Schengen visa applicants

Schengen travel insurance isn’t optional for travelers applying for Type-C Short-Stay Schengen visas. Per Schengen visa rules, every single applicant (regardless of Nationality or age) has to provide proof of insurance that covers at least €30,000 in emergency medical costs, hospitalization, and repatriation. The insurance policy (companies like Insurte offer travel Schengen travel insurance) has to be valid for the entire duration of your journey and recognized by all member countries. There are currently 29 countries in the zone.

The main purpose of this requirement is to make sure that travelers don’t become a financial burden on the host country’s healthcare system. It is also to ensure that you can get the care you need without falling victim to debilitating bills.

Whether you visit France, Germany, or any of the other Schengen countries, your policy has to meet those minimum standards.

If you don’t get compliant Schengen travel insurance, your Schengen visa application will be denied.

How to get the most out of your insurance

Accidents really do happen when we least expect them. Imagine being in Barcelona, for example, and you take a misstep, which results in a broken ankle. Without the right travel insurance, your hospital bills could cost you hundreds to thousands. Proper coverage ensures that your policy handles those qualifying costs.

Now, there are minimum requirements for your Schengen visa insurance policy, but that doesn’t mean those are the only benefits you can have.

There are many different benefits and guarantees that you should consider, on top of the minimums. For example, some policies include guarantees for things like lost luggage or stolen passports. This type of coverage can be extremely helpful, especially when traveling to somewhere like Europe.

How to buy the right policy

1. Compare insurance providers: Look for companies that specialize in Schengen travel insurance and have a 100% online process. This ensures you can get what you need easily and quickly, without being on hold or emailing back and forth for days on end.
2. Check coverage limits: Make sure your policy meets or exceeds the minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation.
3. Duration: The insurance must cover your entire stay in the Schengen Area. Make sure the dates on your policy align with those on your visa application.
4. Read the exclusions: Read the fine print to avoid any surprises. It’s important that you know exactly what your coverage, well, covers. Read the exclusions ahead of time and pay special attention to the medical and sports sections (if applicable).
5. Timing: Purchase your policy before your Schengen visa appointment, as you will be required to show proof of insurance when you apply.

Schengen travel insurance really is more than a visa formality.

It’s protection for unforeseen events that could really put a damper on your trip. By understanding the legal requirements and following a few helpful tips when purchasing your policy, you can be sure you have the policy you need.

About Insurte

Insurte brings together two complementary areas of expertise: deep experience in the insurance industry and knowledge of emerging web technologies and evolving customer habits. From this fusion came a shared conviction — to challenge traditional ways of protecting travelers by providing the simplest, most accessible and up-to-date travel and health insurance abroad.

Covering all travelers and all destinations, Insurte is built to deliver peace of mind. Backed by a team of experts, the company offers customized travel and health insurance solutions for everyone, everywhere.

For more information, visit insurte.com.

Media Contact

Clément Goubon
cgoubon@insurte.com

The Republic of Türkiye’s Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, as the principal organizer of the initiative, together with the Zero Waste Foundation, launched the "BlueAware" global awareness campaign during Climate Week NYC 2025. Hosted under the honorary leadership of H.E. Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, First Lady of Türkiye and Honorary President of the Zero Waste Foundation, the campaign calls on the international community to protect the world’s seas and oceans from escalating pollution and environmental degradation. The Zero Waste Foundation was established in 2023 under the auspices of H.E. Mrs. Emine Erdoğan. The purpose of the foundation is to disseminate the Zero Waste Project and ensure its sustainability.

The BlueAware campaign launch event was unveiled at the “Drop by Drop” exhibition at historic Guastavino’s in New York City. The event reflects Türkiye’s ongoing environmental diplomacy, combining art, climate science, and policy to highlight the urgency of safeguarding marine ecosystems.

Speaking at the launch, H.E. Murat Kurum, Minister of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, underlined the urgency of protecting marine life and combating plastic pollution: “Our blue is fading, growing more polluted each day. Protecting our seas and oceans means protecting life itself. Every drop of water is a promise for our breath and our future.”

He added, “Through BlueAware, we aim to secure one million digital pledges and foster partnerships across more than 30 countries. This is a call for global unity, because pollution knows no borders. From the shores of Lake Van and Lake Salda to the depths of the Izmit Gulf, Türkiye’s Zero Waste Blue projects have proven that restoration is possible when determination meets collaboration."

He mentioned that the Zero Waste initiative, spearheaded by First Lady Emine Erdoğan, has been formally recognized by the United Nations and gained significant global momentum. The BlueAware campaign expands this vision with a marine-focused call to action: “Are You Blue Aware?” The program underscores that protecting the blue oceans, seas, and freshwater ecosystems is inseparable from ensuring a sustainable future for humanity.

H.E. Murat Kurum, Minister of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change emphasized in his opening remarks that the campaign represents not only Türkiye’s national responsibility but also a universal mission: “Every effort to protect the blue is a gift to future generations. This is not only about Türkiye’s waters but about humanity’s shared destiny.”

Following the Minister’s remarks, Samed Ağırbaş, President of the Zero Waste Foundation, highlighted Türkiye’s ongoing initiatives: “Our actions today shape the health of our oceans tomorrow. By embracing zero waste in our daily lives, each of us can make a difference.”He also emphasized Türkiye’s continued support for the Zero Waste Commitment, encouraging individuals and institutions worldwide to contribute to the pledge and integrate zero waste principles into their daily lives.

In addition, Samed Ağırbaş announced the upcoming Zero Waste Forum, which will take place in İstanbul during October 17 to 19, bringing together stakeholders to share experiences and advance the zero waste movement.

 Are You Blue Aware? Protect What Connects Us

The BlueAware campaign introduces a new global platform, blueaware.org, inviting individuals, institutions, and governments to sign the “Pledge to the Blue” declaration. Backed by UNEP and UN-Habitat, the campaign seeks to amplify awareness through youth engagement, digital outreach, and artistic interventions. Key campaign outcomes and targets include:

• Over 30 partner countries and institutional endorsements,
• Community-driven initiatives empowering youth and civil society,
• Enhanced visibility ahead of the 2026 UN Ocean Conference.

H.E. Murat Kurum, Minister of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, highlighted the campaign’s sobering facts: “Over 150 million tons of plastic already in oceans, 70% of sharks and rays lost in 50 years, and over one million seabirds and marine animals dying every year.”

The Zero Waste Blue Exhibition

The Zero Waste Blue Exhibition transformed Guastavino’s into a multi-dimensional space for environmental storytelling.

• Conservation achievements in Lake Van, Lake Salda, Lake Meke, and Lake Beyşehir, as well as the Izmit Gulf Clean-Up, were presented.
• The Turkish Environmental Agency (TÜÇA) showcased innovative mooring buoy projects and coastal protection initiatives.
• The Zero Waste Foundation introduced the “Drop by Drop” installation, inviting visitors to experience the fragility of marine ecosystems.

The exhibition also featured the announcement of the upcoming International Zero Waste Forum (17–19 October 2025, Istanbul), further extending Türkiye’s leadership in global sustainability dialogue.

The New York launch is poised to strengthen Türkiye’s global standing in environmental policy, elevate the Zero Waste Blue brand on the international stage, and act as a catalyst for new partnerships during Climate Week NYC 2025. With the participation of global thought leaders, academics, and representatives from civil society, the panel sessions transformed the exhibition into a genuine forum for dialogue on marine protection.

“Blue is life. Waste is not. Today, we renew our collective responsibility. Are you Blue Aware?” concluded Minister Murat Kurum. He emphasized the broader significance of the event: “Here in New York, we demonstrate that environmental diplomacy can be as powerful as treaties. BlueAware is a bridge from Türkiye to the world, uniting governments, organizations, artists, and young people in one mission: to protect the blue.”

Event Details

• Event: “Are You Blue Aware?” – Global Marine Awareness Campaign Launch
• Date & Venue: September 24, 2025, Guastavino’s, New York City
• Organizers: Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change & Zero Waste Foundation
• Honorary Attendance: H.E. Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, First Lady of Türkiye and Honorary President of the Zero Waste Foundation
• Website: blueaware.org
• Campaign Hashtags: #BlueAware #ZeroWasteBlue #ProtectTheBlue

One Planet. One Ocean. One Chance. For more information, visit blueaware.org and sifiratikvakfi.org/en.

About Zero Waste Foundation

The Zero Waste Foundation was established in 2023 under the auspices of Emine Erdoğan, the wife of the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The foundation operates with the aim of promoting the Zero Waste Project and ensuring its sustainability. It strives to foster an environmentally conscious society by encouraging individuals and institutions to embrace the zero-waste philosophy.

The foundation’s primary objectives include raising awareness about zero waste, encouraging the exchange of knowledge and experience, and developing and disseminating best practices in this field. To achieve these goals, the foundation conducts extensive activities in areas such as education, research, project development, and implementation.

To ensure the adoption of zero-waste practices in all areas, the foundation collaborates with public institutions, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations. Additionally, it aims to create a global impact by promoting zero-waste initiatives at the international level.

For more information, visit sifiratikvakfi.org/en.