Duiba’s Surprising 1H2021 Turnaround Supporting Bank SaaS Operations

HONG KONG, Sep 8, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Duiba Group (Hong Kong) Ltd, the well-known platform provider of management software, and interactive advertising platform operator founded by Xiao Liang Chen in 2014 and headquartered in Hong Kong, released its interim financial report on August 27, for the First Half 2021.

According to the report, Duiba (HKG:01753) recorded total revenues of RMB720 million, representing an increase of 53.82% from a year earlier, with profit attributable to owners of RMB62.804 million, representing a significant increase from a loss of RMB47.839 million in the First Half of 2020.

Significantly, Duiba recorded revenues on Software as a Service (SaaS) user management processes of RMB68.56 million, representing a sharp increase of 142%. We could guess from the report that Duiba achieved strong First Half 2021 financial results with its existing strategies. But what of Duiba's potential future development?

Getting through tough times to turn around poor profitability

Founded in May 2014, Duiba is a SaaS user management systems provider and interactive advertising platform operator committed to providing enterprise customers with user acquisition, user activation and retention: realization covering the entire user lifetime.

With consideration to the COVID-19 situation, advances in digital technology and the influence of geopolitics have expedited the development of service companies in China, and the rapid growth of high-quality SaaS user management operators such as Duiba, and talk of an emerging SaaS unicorn:

On the one hand, for Chinese SaaS companies, the biggest pain point is the long profit-making cycle. Duiba acquired lots of customers by launching the free-of-charge SaaS user management platform in the early days, and began to offer paid services in April 2018 which led to a significant increase in its business performance.

From 2017 to 2019, Duiba recorded revenue of RMB650 million, RMB1.14 billion and RMB 1.65 billion and an adjusted net profit of RMB120 million, RMB210 million and RMB340 million, respectively, and achieved a three-year profit compound growth rate up to 69.4%.

The above data could tell that Duiba has gone through its no-profit period, and the financial data in the first half of 2021 could also tell that Duiba has come to the performance growth period. On the other hand, what many Chinese companies need from the SaaS industry are integrated solutions, instead of services for any single segment.

The user management services provided by Duiba are full-cycle management services and integrated solutions which cover user acquisition, user activation and retention, realization and other several aspects. Besides, in 2015, Duiba took the lead in conducting the interactive advertising business to reach target customers in non-first-tier cities, and achieved a win-win situation for advertisers, media providers and users through ad realization.

Support for banks with breakthrough offline strategies

The SaaS field is a big market. For SaaS service providers, whether or not they can seize market opportunities has nothing to do with their own strength, but their ability to take the best advantage when opportunity knocks. We find in a careful analysis of Duiba's source of new customers that the increase in Duiba's unit price and customer base mostly comes from offline sources, such as typical banking institutions.

For Duiba, providing SaaS services to banks is a great choice with vast potential opportunities:

First of all, banks are driven by the current trend to move their businesses online. According to a McKinsey survey, 40% of Chinese respondents expressed their preference for mobile banking, and 20% of Chinese respondents expressed their intention to use offline banking outlets less. In the context of the 5G technology and the coming era of 5G, banks will face great difficulties in acquiring new customers in the future and even lose their existing customers if they do not move their businesses online as soon as possible.

Furthermore, banks face challenges in moving their businesses online. Being accustomed to the comfortable days in the past, banks have no idea of Internet, and are too weak to confront Internet giants and fintech companies. Therefore, from the perspective of input-output ratio, banks desperately need outsiders such as SaaS service providers to help them move their businesses online.

Moreover, more and more customers prefer digital banking channels to traditional banking outlets in the context of COVID-19. According to a BCG survey, after COVID-19, the utilization rate of mobile banking is expected to further increase by 19%, and that of traditional banking outlets is expected to further decrease by 26%.

Duiba's advantages in giving professional support to banks are described as below:

On the one hand, Duiba has run online since the beginning and has unique advantages online, and therefore, it can help banks to gradually convert customers who get banking services at offline banking outlets into online customers and include them in banks' systems and to retain existing customers in face of the fierce horizontal competition.

On the other hand, Duiba focuses on user management and is familiar with "Gen Z", and therefore can help banks acquire new customers including "Gen Z".

In Duiba's experience, Gen Z is more likely to participate in discussions on online social platforms and to focus on pan-entertainment information. In terms of daily consumption habits, Gen Z prefers to share membership to watch movies, place group orders for takeaways, search "price-cutting", "coupons" and other discount information before shopping online, and the joy of "bargain hunting" in sales and shopping festivals.

Therefore, in view of Gen Z's consumption habits, Duiba has helped banks to come up with many operation modes centring on user habits, such as IP pets, interactive games and mystery boxes.

According to the feedback from Duiba's partners, with the help of Duiba, one out of four active users of bank cards can be converted on average to apply for instalment credit, with an event participation rate of 72.74% and a sharing rate of 53.8%. It can be seen that the SaaS services provided by Duiba can efficiently support banks in conducting their businesses.

In return, Duiba's professional support to banks has also laid a foundation for its steady long-term business performance. On the one hand, key customers such as banks are very resilient to risks and are less likely to lose due to insolvency, and they are financially strong and have a strong willingness to renew.

On the other hand, key customers face high replacement costs. For banks, they will not change a SaaS service provider they have selected unless in unavoidable circumstances. This is because if they change, they will not only have to pay high costs of data transfer involving several divisions and businesses but also face the risk of data loss.

Generally speaking, key customers such as banks have a positive, long-term and sustainable impact on the growth of Duiba's business performance. But in addition, Duiba has expanded its business since April 2018 to include offline companies with strong latent demand for user management solutions, a nimble strategy that led exactly to Duiba's business outperformance.

Contact:
Jing Gao, Peanutmedia
E-mail: gaojing@czgmcn.com
Website: www.Peanutmedia.com

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

NextPlay Technologies Enters into Agreement to Acquire Crypto Technology from Token IQ to Enhance Fintech and ICO Portal Offerings

SUNRISE, FL, Aug 25, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – via NewMediaWire – NextPlay Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXTP), a digital business ecosystem for digital advertisers, consumers, video gamers and travelers, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of the assets of Token IQ, a leading innovator in digital asset management with its smart compliant token technology. Token IQ has many unique capabilities, but its greatest attributes are its ability to afford cryptocurrency owners a solution to replace their assets should they lose access to, or control of, their assets and its handling of "Know Your Customer" (KYC) issues — solving many key regulatory requirements. NextPlay will not only look to license the IP, but also plans to integrate the service into its wholly owned Bank — NextBank International to better serve its cryptocurrency customers.

Mark Vange, CTO of NextPlay and founder and CEO of Token IQ, stated, "Token IQ was built upon the early recognition that many digital assets may in the future be treated as securities. I'm excited that we can now make Token IQ part of NextPlay, given the many synergies that have developed around digital asset management across NextPlay's ecosystem."

One of the primary issues associated with crypto investing is the existential custody risk associated with the loss of passwords or wallet seeds, resulting in the inability to access assets. A critical function of Token IQ is the ability to allow issuers to manage this risk across public distributed ledgers — a key solution needed by any cryptocurrency owner, and a technology that we anticipate will become a cornerstone for all of our NextBank and Longroot coin offerings. This patent-pending technology also allows issuers to control the flow of tokens. The Token IQ technology can be invaluable in the enforcement of "Know Your Customer" (KYC) and other regulatory requirements which is a sensitive area that regulators around the world are increasingly focused on. The platform also supports vesting, lockups and asset freezing, which can enhance market making and liquidity while also reducing risks around custodianship, inheritance, and other legal circumstances related to proper asset disposition. We plan to pursue patents for this proprietary technology in key markets around the world.

The Token IQ foundational IP is designed to reconcile legal and regulatory requirements around digital assets, including KYC, Anti-money laundering (AML) and shareholder rights enforcement, all common pain points within the crypto markets today. It has been designed to do so across a distributed ledger, including Ethereum and Stellar.

According to NextPlay co-Chairman, J. Todd Bonner: "We see Token IQ technology becoming core to all our fintech-related activities, from Longroot's cryptocurrency portal and HotPlay's in-game tokens, to powering our NextBank fintech and planned NextTrip medical tourism offerings. We also expect the Token IQ acquisition to bring valuable technology and software development talent which is expected to support rapid integration with our platform and those of our partners, as well as further IP development."

To learn more about Token IQ, visit tokeniq.io.

The acquisition of Token IQ is subject to certain closing conditions, including the approval of NextPlay's shareholders. Future details of the acquisition can be found in NextPlay's Form 8-K filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, available at www.sec.gov or the investor relations section at NextPlayTechnologies.com.

About NextPlay Technologies

NextPlay Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXTP) is a technology solutions company offering games, in-game advertising, crypto-banking, connected TV and travel booking services to consumers and corporations within a growing worldwide digital ecosystem. NextPlay's engaging products and services utilize innovative AdTech, Artificial Intelligence and Fintech solutions to leverage the strengths and channels of our existing and acquired technologies. For more information about NextPlay Technologies, visit nextplaytechnologies.com and follow us on Twitter @NextPlayTech and LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of, and within the safe harbor provided by the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations, opinions, beliefs or forecasts of future events and performance. A statement identified by the use of forward-looking words including "will," "may," "expects," "projects," "anticipates," "plans," "believes," "estimate," "should," and certain of the other foregoing statements may be deemed forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual future activities and results to be materially different from those suggested or described in this news release. Factors that may cause such a difference include risks and uncertainties related to our need for additional capital which may not be available on commercially acceptable terms, if at all, which raises questions about our ability to continue as a going concern; the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had, and is expected to continue to have, a significant material adverse impact on the travel industry and our business, operating results and liquidity; amounts owed to us by third parties which may not be paid timely, if at all; certain amounts we owe under outstanding indebtedness which are secured by substantially all of our assets and penalties we may incur in connection therewith; the fact that we have significant indebtedness, which could adversely affect our business and financial condition; uncertainty and illiquidity in credit and capital markets which may impair our ability to obtain credit and financing on acceptable terms and may adversely affect the financial strength of our business partners; our ability to close, timely, or at all, the acquisitions of certain intellectual property assets from Fighter Base and Token IQ, as previously disclosed; that the officers and directors of the Company have the ability to exercise significant influence and voting control over the Company; stockholders may be diluted significantly through our efforts to obtain financing, satisfy obligations and complete acquisitions through the issuance of additional shares of our common or preferred stock; if we are unable to adapt to changes in technology, our business could be harmed; our travel business depends substantially on property owners and managers renewing their listings; if we do not adequately protect our intellectual property, our ability to compete could be impaired; our long-term success depends, in part, on our ability to expand our property owner, manager and traveler bases outside of the United States and, as a result, our business is susceptible to risks associated with international operations; unfavorable changes in, or interpretations of, government regulations or taxation of the evolving ALR, Internet and e-commerce industries which could harm our operating results; risks associated with the operations of, the business of, and the regulation of our recent acquisitions of Longroot Holding (Thailand) Company Limited (Longroot), HotPlay Enterprise Limited (HotPlay) and NextBank International (formerly IFEB); the market in which we participate being highly competitive, and because of that we may be unable to compete successfully with our current or future competitors; our potential inability to adapt to changes in technology, which could harm our business; the volatility of our stock price; risks associated with the integration of the operations of HotPlay, Longroot and IFEB, which acquisitions we recently competed; the fact that we may be subject to liability for the activities of our property owners and managers, which could harm our reputation and increase our operating costs; and that we have incurred significant losses to date and require additional capital which may not be available on commercially acceptable terms, if at all. More information about the risks and uncertainties faced by NextPlay are detailed from time to time in NextPlay's periodic reports filed with the SEC, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, under the headings "Risk Factors". These reports are available at www.sec.gov. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects on the Company's future results and/or could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. The Company takes no obligation to update or correct its own forward-looking statements, except as required by law, or those prepared by third parties that are not paid for by the Company. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: NextPlay Technologies, Inc

Company Contact:
NextPlay Technologies
Richard Marshall
Director of Corporate Development
Tel (954) 888-9779
Richard.Marshall@NextPlayTechnologies.com

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

NextPlay Technologies Enters into Agreement to Acquire AI-Powered Video Game Development Technology from Fighter Base Publishing, Inc.

SUNRISE, FL, Aug 23, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – via NewMediaWire – NextPlay Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXTP), a digital business ecosystem for digital advertisers, consumers, video gamers and travelers, today announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire from Fighter Base Publishing, Inc. (FBP), the assets and AI-powered video game development platform of FBP's wholly-owned division, Make It Games(TM).

Make It Games (MIG) enables developers to create video games powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Its technology supports the training of virtual characters to be more lifelike in appearance and behavior. Proprietary AI animation tools help program game or film characters to fully animate themselves, saving as much as 70 percent of the typical time and cost of animation.

Fighter Base Publishing was founded by Mark Vange, NextPlay's recently appointed chief technology officer. Formerly a chief technology officer at Electronic Arts, Vange has authored over 41 granted patents in the US for innovative technologies that have defined the industry. This acquisition by NextPlay will include pending patents that cover Make it Games' proprietary AI game development technology.

Tony Harman, Make It Games president, is also expected to join the NextPlay technology team. He had previously helped lead Nintendo America and has numerous game credits that include Donkey Kong Country and Grand Theft Auto.

"We see our AI technology enabling NextPlay to power everything from rapid game and ad creation to advertising optimization, travel recommendation and richer virtual experiences," said Mr. Harman, "This can mean faster product time-to-market along with higher-margin digital asset monetization and product sales across the NextPlay digital ecosystem. We also believe that licensing the technology to other game and film studios, ad agencies and other content creators could become a significant revenue driver for NextPlay."

NextPlay co-CEO Nithinan 'Jessie' Boonyawattanapisut, commented, "We believe that the addition of Make It Games technology and its leadership will help accelerate our global initiatives and transform NextPlay into a powerhouse in online advertising, interactive digital media, gaming, fintech and travel, and serve as a bridge for us to expand into the metaverse. They are expected to greatly augment our growing global technology group that is focused on developing and implementing innovative consumer-engaging assets across multiple media channels."

Additional details of the acquisition can be found in NextPlay's Current Report on Form 8-K filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which is available at sec.gov or the investor relations section at NextPlayTechnologies.com.

About NextPlay Technologies

NextPlay Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXTP) is a technology solutions company offering gaming, in-game advertising, crypto-banking, connected TV and travel booking services to consumers and corporations within a growing worldwide digital ecosystem. NextPlay's engaging products and services utilize innovative AdTech, Artificial Intelligence and Fintech solutions to leverage the strengths and channels of our existing and acquired technologies. For more information about NextPlay Technologies, visit NextPlayTechnologies.com. Follow us on Twitter @NextPlayTech and LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of, and within the safe harbor provided by the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations, opinions, beliefs or forecasts of future events and performance. A statement identified by the use of forward-looking words including "will," "may," "expects," "projects," "anticipates," "plans," "believes," "estimate," "should," and certain of the other foregoing statements may be deemed forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual future activities and results to be materially different from those suggested or described in this news release. Factors that may cause such a difference include risks and uncertainties related to our need for additional capital which may not be available on commercially acceptable terms, if at all, which raises questions about our ability to continue as a going concern; the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had, and is expected to continue to have, a significant material adverse impact on the travel industry and our business, operating results and liquidity; amounts owed to us by third parties which may not be paid timely, if at all; certain amounts we owe under outstanding indebtedness which are secured by substantially all of our assets and penalties we may incur in connection therewith; the fact that we have significant indebtedness, which could adversely affect our business and financial condition; uncertainty and illiquidity in credit and capital markets which may impair our ability to obtain credit and financing on acceptable terms and may adversely affect the financial strength of our business partners; the officers and directors of the Company have the ability to exercise significant influence and voting control over the Company; stockholders may be diluted significantly through our efforts to obtain financing, satisfy obligations and complete acquisitions through the issuance of additional shares of our common or preferred stock; if we are unable to adapt to changes in technology, our business could be harmed; our travel business depends substantially on property owners and managers renewing their listings; if we do not adequately protect our intellectual property, our ability to compete could be impaired; our long-term success depends, in part, on our ability to expand our property owner, manager and traveler bases outside of the United States and, as a result, our business is susceptible to risks associated with international operations; unfavorable changes in, or interpretations of, government regulations or taxation of the evolving ALR, Internet and e-commerce industries which could harm our operating results; risks associated with the operations of, the business of, and the regulation of our recent acquisitions of Longroot Holding (Thailand) Company Limited (Longroot), HotPlay Enterprise Limited (HotPlay) and NextBank International (formerly IFEB); the market in which we participate being highly competitive, and because of that we may be unable to compete successfully with our current or future competitors; our potential inability to adapt to changes in technology, which could harm our business; the volatility of our stock price; risks associated with the integration of the operations of HotPlay, Longroot and IFEB, which acquisitions we recently competed; the fact that we may be subject to liability for the activities of our property owners and managers, which could harm our reputation and increase our operating costs; and that we have incurred significant losses to date and require additional capital which may not be available on commercially acceptable terms, if at all. More information about the risks and uncertainties faced by NextPlay are detailed from time to time in NextPlay's periodic reports filed with the SEC, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, under the headings "Risk Factors". These reports are available at www.sec.gov. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects on the Company's future results and/or could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. The Company takes no obligation to update or correct its own forward-looking statements, except as required by law, or those prepared by third parties that are not paid for by the Company. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: NextPlay Technologies, Inc

Company Contact:
NextPlay Technologies, Inc.
Richard Marshall
Director of Corporate Development
Tel (954) 888-9779
richard.marshall@nextplaytechnologies.com

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

A new book, “How To Talk To Strangers” by Kerrie Phipps, launched to help people decrease anxiety, build confidence, and heal the pandemic affected world

Singapore, Aug 12, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – A new self-help book, How To Talk To Strangers by Kerrie Phipps, was launched globally along with the co-authors of the book, reaching over 1000 people through the event was aired live on Facebook and Youtube. The book is an invitation to think more deeply about how you connect with others, so you don't overlook essential connections or risk missing opportunities to impact people and the chance to change your own life in the process.



Kerrie Phipps, the Author and publisher, says, "Stories of the kindness of strangers are so moving, the impression they have on people, and the power of encouragement in our lives – strangers or friends, family, colleagues, and it was vital to share some in a book."

At the launch, Coen Tan, Director of Ministry of Influence, said, "I grew up as a socially awkward child who was often bullied in school. I was even referred to the Institute of Mental Health for treatment for depression. However, over time, I've developed my speaking and social skills and now, I train and coach leaders internationally to inspire through their stories. I hope that my stories in this book will inspire people, that like me; they too can find their voice and connect confidently with strangers."

Krescendo Communications, Founder, and Global Goodwill Ambassador for Singapore, Malaysia and India, Ganesh Somwanshi, one of the contributors, quips, "I am fascinated with connecting with people since I am in the business of communications. This book is the manifesto of connecting with strangers, a work of light amid dark times. Let us embrace the new normal; let us connect with the world with an open heart and mind. Together we can we shall."

Cathy Johnson, Authentic Leadership Coach, shares, "It's so beautiful to read (and hear) stories of how a stranger can build your confidence – and they often have no idea they're doing it! Let's keep coming together and building our relationships with each other."

Conor O'Malley, Executive Coach, Author of "Trust – Begins and Ends with Self", adds, "I feel I have talked to strangers all my life, however never really seen it that way. I see strangers as real people with a story to share. I hope my stories in this book serve you well when it comes to having a conversation with someone or trusting yourself to reach out to a stranger."

Anupama Singal, Fashion & Technology Entrepreneur, Speaker, Creator & Co-author of SYZYGYmoments, notes, "This book is all about how talking to strangers can sometimes be a life-changing experience and how you could find meaningful connections with strangers. It feels great to be a contributor and share some memorable experiences from my life."

Brandhood Media Founder and Thought Leadership Brand Specialist Nathan Shooter, "When you push beyond your fear, to enter the world of others, you'll discover those small conversations can create big change. People are looking to you for hope and connection, now more than ever."

The insightful Foreword by Masami Sato concludes with, "I invite you to ponder on the power of human connection with me and with us – no matter whether you think you are an extrovert or an introvert. Surprisingly, it starts with just one conversation, one smile, one interaction. That is all it takes – a look, a smile and a conversation. It's powerful. And it really can change our world."

Click https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0994157347/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i4 to buy the book in digital or print format. Kerrie's other books include DO Talk To Strangers – How To Connect With Anyone, Anywhere and the sequel, DO Talk To Strangers Travel Toolkit.

For media queries contact:
Ganesh Somwanshi
(+65) 9779 1286

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

NextPlay’s HotPlay In-Game Advertising Platform Teams with Mediakeys to Accelerate Global Expansion

SUNRISE, FL, Aug 10, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – via NewMediaWire – NextPlay Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXTP), a digital business ecosystem for digital advertisers, consumers, video gamers and travelers, announced today its in-game advertising unit, HotPlay, has formed a strategic partnership with Mediakeys, an international media and advertising agency.

Since its founding in 1993, Mediakeys has become a global leader in digital and out-of-home (OOH) advertising with offices spanning 16 countries, including New York, London, Zurich, Hong Kong and Singapore. Its omni-channel platform spans digital, outdoor, airport, broadcast and print across the global markets, including the Americas, Asia Pacific (APAC), and Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA).

HotPlay plans to leverage Mediakeys' expansive global presence and media relationships to further expand the global reach of its revolutionary in-game advertising (IGA) platform which enables advertisers to seamless insert brand messages and rewards into game content natively, interactively and in real time.

HotPlay also provides game developers with an additional revenue stream while still allowing them to maintain the integrity of their game. For game players, HotPlay creates a true online-to-offline experience, where players can interact with native ads in a meaningful way and claim rewards for both in-game and real-life use.

"The unparalleled capabilities of our respective platforms will help drive HotPlay's rapid expansion into numerous fast-growing international markets," stated Mediakeys CEO, Paul Cahierre. "The integration of HotPlay's powerful IGA technology will also enable international advertisers and agencies to take greater advantage of our one-stop solution for digital advertising and allow them to reach the valuable demographic of gamers in highly effective ways."

New and existing HotPlay advertisers will gain an integrated solution for hyper-targeted digital advertising campaigns. They will be able to launch programmatic mobile and desktop campaigns that can be designed and edited, and then set for distribution to a specific or localized broadcast area. Mediakeys' geofencing technology will support innovative ways for targeting specific audience behavior, and help advertisers to reach their target markets anytime, anywhere.

According to NextPlay co-CEO and CEO of Hotplay, Nithinan 'Jessie' Boonyawattanapisut: "The global games industry continues to grow at a rapid pace, with the game application market now the fastest growing business category around the world. Our new partnership with Mediakeys will greatly strengthen advertisers' access to the global market of 2.9 billion gamers. It will also vastly increase the revenue opportunities and customer retention of our game developers, and naturally HotPlay's by extension."

About Mediakeys

Mediakeys is an entrepreneurial international advertising exchange, offering 25+ years of experience creating and fulfilling global campaigns for local and international advertisers and agencies. Established in 1993 with a foundation in creative services and international media, it has grown into a global multi-media advertising specialist, with offices in 16 countries, including New York, London, Paris, Cologne, Zurich, Milan, Madrid, Istanbul, Mumbai, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Beijing, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. To learn more, visit mediakeys.com

About NextPlay Technologies

NextPlay Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXTP) is a technology solutions company offering games, in-game advertising, crypto-banking, connected TV and travel booking services to consumers and corporations within a growing worldwide digital ecosystem. NextPlay's engaging products and services utilize innovative AdTech, Artificial Intelligence and Fintech solutions to leverage the strengths and channels of our existing and acquired technologies. For more information about NextPlay Technologies, visit www.nextplaytechnologies.com and follow us on Twitter @NextPlayTech and LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of, and within the safe harbor provided by the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations, opinions, belief or forecasts of future events and performance. A statement identified by the use of forward-looking words including "will," "may," "expects," "projects," "anticipates," "plans," "believes," "estimate," "should," and certain of the other foregoing statements may be deemed forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual future activities and results to be materially different from those suggested or described in this news release. Factors that may cause such a difference include risks and uncertainties related to our need for additional capital which may not be available on commercially acceptable terms, if at all, which raises questions about our ability to continue as a going concern; the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had, and is expected to continue to have, a significant material adverse impact on the travel industry and our business, operating results and liquidity; amounts owed to us by third parties which may not be paid timely, if at all; certain amounts we owe under outstanding indebtedness which are secured by substantially all of our assets and penalties we may incur in connection therewith; the fact that we have significant indebtedness, which could adversely affect our business and financial condition; our revenues and results of operations being subject to the ability of our distributors and partners to integrate our alternative lodging rental (ALR) properties with their websites, and the timing of such integrations; uncertainty and illiquidity in credit and capital markets which may impair our ability to obtain credit and financing on acceptable terms and may adversely affect the financial strength of our business partners; the officers and directors of the Company have the ability to exercise significant influence over the Company; stockholders may be diluted significantly through our efforts to obtain financing, satisfy obligations and complete acquisitions through the issuance of additional shares of our common or preferred stock; if we are unable to adapt to changes in technology, our business could be harmed; our travel business depends substantially on property owners and managers renewing their listings; if we do not adequately protect our intellectual property, our ability to compete could be impaired; our long-term success depends, in part, on our ability to expand our property owner, manager and traveler bases outside of the United States and, as a result, our business is susceptible to risks associated with international operations; unfavorable changes in, or interpretations of, government regulations or taxation of the evolving ALR, Internet and e-commerce industries which could harm our operating results; risks associated with the operations of, the business of, and the regulation of, Longroot and NextBank International (formerly IFEB); the market in which we participate being highly competitive, and because of that we may be unable to compete successfully with our current or future competitors; our potential inability to adapt to changes in technology, which could harm our business; the volatility of our stock price; the fact that we may be subject to liability for the activities of our property owners and managers, which could harm our reputation and increase our operating costs; and that we have incurred significant losses to date and require additional capital which may not be available on commercially acceptable terms, if at all. More information about the risks and uncertainties faced by NextPlay are detailed from time to time in NextPlay's periodic reports filed with the SEC, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, under the headings "Risk Factors". These reports are available at www.sec.gov. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects on the Company's future results and/or could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. The Company takes no obligation to update or correct its own forward-looking statements, except as required by law, or those prepared by third parties that are not paid for by the Company. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: NextPlay Technologies

Company Contact:
Richard Marshall
Director of Corporate Development
NextPlay Technologies, Inc
Tel (954) 888-9779
richard.marshall@nextplaytechnologies.com

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

AppsFlyer Welcomes New Senior Marketing Director; Strengthening Its Commitment to APAC

SINGAPORE, Jul 21, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Today, AppsFlyer, the global attribution and marketing analytics leader, announces that strategic technology marketing veteran Sam Chiu will head AppsFlyer's marketing team as its new Senior Director of Marketing, Asia-Pacific (APAC). Sam will report to Ronen Mense, President and Managing Director, AppsFlyer APAC.


Sam Chiu, Senior Director of Marketing, APAC, AppsFlyer


This latest appointment follows the company's recent senior hire of ex-Oracle Sales Vice President Joen van Driel as AppsFlyer's VP of Sales for APAC earlier this year. With app install ad spend in the region poised to reach $61 billion in 2022, these key hires highlight AppsFlyer's strengthening commitment to the region, signaling its plan to cement its leadership position in APAC's marketing attribution and analytics space.

Sam Chiu, Senior Director of Marketing, APAC, AppsFlyer, said: "AppsFlyer is experiencing phenomenal growth, not only in APAC but globally, and I am honored to work alongside talented individuals in the team to further advance our marketing efforts and assert AppsFlyer's dominance in the region. AppsFlyer is well-positioned to help marketers transform their businesses, and the mobile marketing industry continues to expand with the use of mobile apps wildly increasing day by day. I am excited about what lies ahead."

In his new role, Sam will spearhead AppsFlyer's brand awareness, strategic marketing strategies, and demand generation for the company, driving engagement strategies, supporting the current customer base and working with high-performing teams across countries to strengthen AppsFlyer's presence. Currently based out of Hong Kong, Sam will relocate to AppsFlyer's SEAPAC hub in Bangkok, where he will play a critical role in driving AppsFlyer's go-to-market strategy for over 22 markets across ASEAN, South Asia (including India and Pakistan), Japan, Korea, and ANZ.

Ronen Mense, President and Managing Director, AppsFlyer APAC says, "Throughout the last twelve months we have continued to focus on growing AppsFlyer, not only in APAC, but globally. In a crucial time of AppsFlyer's expansion, Sam brings in a wide range of experience, having worked at an array of established players in the industry. His role will drive key business goals in the region."

Sam brings an extensive amount of experience with close to twenty years of digital transformation and omni-channel strategy implementation to AppsFlyer's Southeast Asia-Pacific (SEAPAC) team. His full stack marketing tech career spans Boston, New York City and Hong Kong across agencies (iProspect), publishers and ad networks (Microsoft, Yahoo), and B2C & B2B advertisers (DFS/LVMH, SAS), with deep experience driving campaign results for various Fortune 500 firms.

About AppsFlyer

AppsFlyer, the global attribution leader, empowers marketers to grow their business and innovate with a suite of comprehensive measurement and analytics solutions. Built around privacy by design, AppsFlyer takes a customer-centric approach to help 12,000+ brands and 8,000+ technology partners make better business decisions every day. To learn more, visit www.appsflyer.com

Media Contacts
PRecious Communications on behalf of AppsFlyer
appsflyer@preciouscomms.com

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Activation Group and Vision Entertainment Enters into a Strategic Cooperation

HONG KONG, Jul 8, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – A provider of integrated marketing solutions in Greater China, Activation Group Holdings Limited ("Activation" or the "Company", collectively, the "Group", stock code: 9919), has entered into a strategic cooperation with Vision Future (Shanghai) Media Technology Co., Ltd.* ("Vision Entertainment") to form a joint venture, in which Activation owns majority shares. The partners will together explore the huge potential of livestream e-commerce business at the forefront of the digital marketing realm in mainland China.

Pursuant to the strategic cooperation, the two parties will jointly operate DouYin key opinion leaders ("KOLs") livestream business and DouYin brand business to serve luxury and fashionable lifestyle brands. The joint venture will marry Activation's celebrity and brand resources with Vision Entertainment's rich experiences in the livestream e-commerce sector to help brands expand online marketing and their e-commerce business on the DouYin platform. It will draw on its professional marketing capabilities to bring in more live e-commerce celebrities, and nurture DouYin KOLs to build a DouYin KOLs matrix. Last year, Activation founded the MCN organization Avant Plus, which with its rich experiences and resources in the fashion industry, has forged long-term cooperation with a good number of trend-setting celebrities and KOLs, including the famous actress Charmaine Sheh, the fashion blogger Jiangnan BoyNam and "Di Bai Nai Nai", assisting them in setting up social media accounts thereby facilitate word-of-mouth marketing for fashion and luxury brands. After Avant Plus, the Group will, through such cooperation with Vision Entertainment, strive to realize commercial brand advertising by the DouYin KOLs matrix, taking and selling customers' products through livestreaming to form a closed-loop by generating business traffic with advertising + e-commerce. And leveraging the high user stickiness on DouYin platform, the Group will earn the dividend from celebrity livestream e-commerce and create a new ecological model of celebrity livestreaming and DouYin e-commerce.

Mr. Steve Lau Kam Yiu, Joint-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Activation, said, "As one of the first companies to tap the power of DouYin, Vision Entertainment has extensive experience in developing livestream e-commerce business and thorough understanding of the DouYin ecology and development pattern. It has been among those topping DouYin's integrated organization ranking for two consecutive years, and has contracts with more than 120,000 KOLs and celebrities including Zhu Zixiao, Yu Zhen and Yuan Chengjie. The company also has rich experience in operating DouYin star accounts and in livestream e-commerce cooperation, with more than 2,000 brands as long-term partners. Whereas Activation, with the luxury products and fashion industry as its focus, has built up a formidable relevant customer base. This partnership will strengthen the Group's capabilities in live e-commerce at the frontier of digital marketing to help brands build a closed-loop business from marketing to sales. In the future, the Group will continue to, through different partnerships, step up investment in enhancing the professionalism and competitiveness of its digital marketing and brand promotion endeavors."

In the past few years, the e-commerce agency operation services and e-commerce services markets in mainland China have continued to grow rapidly. In 2019, the total transaction of live e-commerce amounted to RMB451.29 billion, a 200% increase year-on-year, and the relatively strong growth momentum is expected to continue in the coming two years. With content platforms and e-commerce transactions become more and more integrated, the penetration rate of live broadcasts is expected to increase from 4.5% in 2019 to 20.3% in 2022. Alive to consumers' changing spending patterns, Activation is ready to make deployment in the area, so as to help luxury and fashion brands, previously rare players in the live broadcast arena, seize the mushrooming business opportunities therein.

About Activation Group Holdings Limited
Activation Group Holdings Limited is a leading and fast-growing integrated marketing solutions provider and brand/IP operator focusing on providing in Greater China experiential marketing, digital and brand communication, and public relations services. It is the largest integrated marketing company serving luxury and trendy brands in Greater China, claiming a 7% share of the market. Its shares were listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited on January 16, 2020. The Group also focuses in the IP activation and sports IP activation sectors. Sports IP activation business covers exclusive rights to organize authorized events with LaLiga Club brand and Le Tour de France brand in China. The Company has kept hastening comprehensive deployment of its digital marketing capability, including setting up the MCN organization, securing e-commerce sales of derivatives of LaLiga Club and Le Tour de France and providing effective marketing and live e-commerce services to brands, thereby build a closed loop – marketing to sales – system.

About Vision Future (Shanghai) Media Technology Co., Ltd.
As a leading multimedia display service organization in the PRC, Vision Future (Shanghai) Media Technology Co., Ltd. is committed to the star e-commerce business, with a number of branches in first-tier cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou. Since its establishment, it has been in a leading position in the field of star and KOL livestreaming and e-commerce businesses in the PRC. Its principal businesses include livestreaming, e-commerce, gaming, advertising, information flow, short video, etc. The company is professionally committed to the comprehensive training, packaging and publicity of signed livestreaming artists as well as the provision of first class talented hosts for its own platform and the industry through a "Star Host Training Program" in order to promote the healthy and orderly development of the livestreaming industry. With its professional operation team, it will also train up more amateur hosts and enable more stars to play an active role in livestreaming.

Media Enquiry:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Mandy Go +852 2864 4812 mandy.go@sprg.com.hk
Eddie Li +852 2114 4170 eddie.li@sprg.com.hk
Corinne Ho +852 2114 4911 corinne.ho@sprg.com.hk
Website: http://www.sprg.com.hk



Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

KGISL Completes Acquisition of AETINS, Expands Expertise in the Insurance Space

Singapore / Malaysia, Jun 29, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – KG Information Systems Private Limited (KGISL), a global IT services, consulting, and business solution provider, today announced the acquisition of AETINS Sdn. Bhd., (199801000924), through its wholly-owned subsidiary in Malaysia, KG Information Systems Sdn. Bhd. (201301013805). The acquisition is a part of KGISL's growth strategy in the InsurTech space.


Prassadh Shanmugam, Director and Chief Executive Officer, KGISL


AETINS brings aboard an exceptional range of insurance solutions for Life, General and Takaful bundled with an unmatched domain expertise. AETINS' Core Insurance Product and Solutions are well known in the market and are market leading. The company serves a vast clientele of insurance firms in the Asia Pacific, Middle East, and North Africa. The people, products, and solutions from AETINS would be leveraged in expanding KGISL's footprint in the InsurTech space.

KGISL has its market presence in the Malaysia InsurTech space since 2006 and has grown as a market leader with its Point of Sale (PoS) and Claims Management Solution for the Non-Life Insurance segment. The acquisition of AETINS will now bring in Core Insurance Product and Insurance Solution Framework (ISF) into KGISL's product offerings and opens doors to enter the wider Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa markets covering the Life, Non- Life and Takaful Insurance segments.

Mr. Prassadh Shanmugam, Director and Chief Executive Officer, KGISL commenting on the acquisition said, "I am super excited about this acquisition. AETINS' Core Insurance products, Takaful offerings and good presence in the Middle East market are the missing pieces in KGISL's Insurance offerings. It would have taken years for us to build this capability, so the acquisition is a perfect fit for KGISL. The employees of AETINS share the same integrity, culture and value systems of KGISL, so the integration will also be smooth and quick."

Commenting on the acquisition, Dr Ashok Bakthavathsalam, Managing Director, KGISL said, "The acquisition brings together two leading InsurTech players in pursuit of a common mission, centred on providing the best value for customers, organisation and employees. With able leadership and a go-getter team, KGISL has been on a fast growth trajectory, clocking a five-fold growth in the last four years. This acquisition adds momentum, and I am confident that our growth will be even faster in the next 3 years."

About KGISL: www.KGISL.com/gss

KG Information Systems Private Limited (KGISL) is a global IT Services, Consulting and Business Solutions provider in the BFSI space. KGISL offers Software Products, Solutions and Services in Intelligent Automation, ERP (SAP), CRM, Business Intelligence and Analytics, Quality Engineering, IT Infrastructure Management and Application Development. KGISL has offices in India, US, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and Thailand.

KGISL is part of the $750 million business conglomerate KG Group with interest in Textiles, Engineering, Healthcare, Education, Real Estate, Entertainment, Software and Business Support Services. The Group employs over 25000 people and is known for its philanthropic services to the community for over 8 decades.

About AETINS: www.aetins.com/

AETINS, established in 1998, is a single end-to-end Insurance and Takaful Solution provider that covers all lines of business: Individual Life, Group Life, Investment Linked and General. It spans across functions like illustration, quotation, new business, policy servicing, claims, agency management, commission and benefits, accounting and services. Our business is to help Insurance and Takaful Companies to strategize and operate by leveraging on Information Technology, a key enabler to achieve transformational growth through Operational Excellence and Innovation.

For further information, please contact:

KGISL: Sampathkumar S | sampathkumar.s@KGISL.com | +91 9940069884

Adfactors PR (India):
Bhargav TS | bhargav.ts@adfactorspr.com | 9884883350
Shamitha Hegde | shamitha.hegde@adfactorspr.com | 9003107361

Adfactors PR (Singapore):
Namrata Sharma | namrata.sharma@adfactorspr.com | +65 8138 3034

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

KGISL Completes Acquisition of AETINS, Expands Expertise in the Insurance Space

Singapore / Malaysia, Jun 29, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – KG Information Systems Private Limited (KGISL), a global IT services, consulting, and business solution provider, today announced the acquisition of AETINS Sdn. Bhd. through its wholly-owned subsidiary in Malaysia, KG Information Systems Sdn. Bhd. The acquisition is a part of KGISL's growth strategy in the InsurTech space.



Prassadh Shanmugam, Director and Chief Executive Officer, KGISL



AETINS brings aboard an exceptional range of insurance solutions for Life, General and Takaful bundled with an unmatched domain expertise. AETINS' Core Insurance Product and Solutions are well known in the market and are market-leading. The company serves a vast clientele of insurance firms in the Asia Pacific, Middle East, and North Africa. The people, products, and solutions from AETINS would be leveraged in expanding KGISL's footprint in the InsurTech space.

KGISL has market presence in the Malaysia InsurTech space since 2006 and has grown as a market leader with its Point of Sale (PoS) and Claims Management Solution for the Non-Life Insurance segment. The acquisition of AETINS will now bring in Core Insurance Product and Insurance Solution Framework (ISF) into KGISL's product offerings and opens doors to enter the wider Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa markets covering the Life, Non- Life and Takaful Insurance segments.

Mr. Prassadh Shanmugam, Director and Chief Executive Officer, KGISL commenting on the acquisition said, "I am super excited about this acquisition. AETINS' Core Insurance products, Takaful offerings and good presence in the Middle East market are the missing pieces in KGISL's Insurance offerings. It would have taken years for us to build this capability, so the acquisition is a perfect fit for KGISL. The employees of AETINS share the same integrity, culture and value systems of KGISL, so the integration will also be smooth and quick."

Commenting on the acquisition, Dr Ashok Bakthavathsalam, Managing Director, KGISL said, "The acquisition brings together two leading InsurTech players in pursuit of a common mission, centred on providing the best value for customers, organisation and employees. With able leadership and a go-getter team, KGISL has been on a fast growth trajectory, clocking a five-fold growth in the last four years. This acquisition adds momentum, and I am confident that our growth will be even faster in the next 3 years."

About KGISL – www.KGISL.com/gss

KG Information Systems Private Limited (KGISL) is a global IT Services, Consulting and Business Solutions provider in the BFSI space. KGISL offers Software Products, Solutions and Services in Intelligent Automation, ERP (SAP), CRM, Business Intelligence and Analytics, Quality Engineering, IT Infrastructure Management and Application Development. KGISL has offices in India, US, Malaysia (201301013805), Singapore, Australia and Thailand.

KGISL is part of the $750 million business conglomerate KG Group with interest in Textiles, Engineering, Healthcare, Education, Real Estate, Entertainment, Software and Business Support Services. The Group employs over 25000 people and is known for its philanthropic services to the community for over 8 decades.

About AETINS (199801000924) – www.aetins.com

AETINS, established in 1998, is a single end-to-end Insurance and Takaful Solution provider that covers all lines of business: Individual Life, Group Life, Investment Linked and General. It spans across functions like illustration, quotation, new business, policy servicing, claims, agency management, commission and benefits, accounting and services. Our business is to help Insurance and Takaful Companies to strategize and operate by leveraging on Information Technology, a key enabler to achieve transformational growth through Operational Excellence and Innovation. See www.aetins.com.

For further information, please contact:

KGISL: Sampathkumar S | sampathkumar.s@KGISL.com | +91 9940069884

Adfactors PR (India):
Bhargav TS | bhargav.ts@adfactorspr.com | 9884883350
Shamitha Hegde | shamitha.hegde@adfactorspr.com | 9003107361

Adfactors PR (Singapore):
Namrata Sharma | namrata.sharma@adfactorspr.com | +65 8138 3034

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Joy Spreader Matched E-Commerce Transaction with A GMV of Approximately $350 MM HKD During DouYin “618” Shopping Spree

HONG KONG, Jun 25, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – In the morning on June 25th, 2021, the Board of Joy Spreader (06988.HK), a Hong Kong publicly traded company, made voluntary announcement regarding its latest business performance and development that the Company has dedicated in serving the "618" e-commerce shopping spree on DouYin this year.

The announcement says that according to the Company's records and database, during the period of promotion event starting from June 1st to June 18th, Joy Spreader completed transaction matching with a total gross merchandise value ("GMV") of approximately $350 MM HKD on DouYin short video platform.

DouYin together with other short video e-commerce platforms delivered remarkable achievements on their debuts to participate the "618" Shopping Spree this year. As a significant pillar in performance-based marketing of e-commerce, Joy Spreader commits that it will continuously utilize its data-driven algorithm and interest recommendation technology to serve the escalating demand of consumption of mobile interest, while enhancing its marketing technology to maximize a better commerce value by matching clients' product portfolio and the fast-growing mobile new media content spectrum.

As the first mover in the short video e-commerce marketing technology, Joy Spreader enjoys and synchronizes a positive dynamic together with the exponential development in corresponding industry domestically, and considers it as an integral and crucial component of the Company's business perspectives. Based on the financials, the Company generated a net revenue of $119 MM HKD from performance-based marketing on short video e-commerce, representing a 353.86% year over year growth.


Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com