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News Media Group, Inc.

Contact Details News Media Group Jennifer Rivera +1 954-667-9647 jrivera@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/

May 30, 2024 03:07 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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This Mark-Cuban-Backed Company Is Creating Waves In The Creator Economy

Overplay

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga Ever since the pandemic, the creator economy has taken off in ways that few would have predicted. While the 21st century had already seen YouTube stars making seven-figure salaries, the pandemic made the creator economy far more accessible to a larger number of people. In 2023, the creator economy was worth $250 billion, and it is predicted that by 2027, it could reach more than $480 billion. According to a report by Goldman Sachs Research, it's expected that 50 million global creators will grow at a 10-20% compound annual growth rate during the next five years. This significant expansion in the creator economy has ample room for continued development. Individuals are finding new opportunities to monetize their skills and creativity across a number of platforms. This has led to an increase in the variety of content being produced, from vlogs and tutorials to artwork and music. The rise of subscription-based platforms and the implementation of creator monetization tools has further fueled this expansion, providing creators with the means to generate income directly from their fanbase. Of course, earning their share in ad revenue remains important for creators who are monetizing on platforms like YouTube, TikTok and Instagram. However, while user-generated content is becoming more and more valuable, this trend hasn’t yet fully emerged in the gaming format because games until now have been difficult, time-consuming and expensive to make. A New Creator Platform That Leverages Interest In Video Games In today's digital landscape, where, according to YouTube, 1 billion hours of video are watched on YouTube daily, and short-form videos are found to be highly engaging by almost 70% of consumers, Overplay has emerged as a revolutionary addition to the creator economy. Overplay empowers creators to effortlessly transform their videos into interactive games, requiring no coding skills. This game-changing solution addresses the demand for engaging and interactive content, enabling creators to tap into the world of gaming in just minutes. The platform also helps content creators do more with their existing content, making playable experiences for their fans without intensive labor. Overplay extends its value to brands as well, offering the opportunity to create playable game ads at a fraction of the cost and time required by traditional methods. Imagine the NBA creating playable highlight reels, movie studios releasing trailers that are games and car companies making commercials where you virtually test drive their cars! Moreover, playable ads yield a 7x higher conversion rate compared to other ad formats. The company's success is evident through impressive figures, including over hundreds of thousands of app downloads and millions of games played. When stacked against a regular YouTube video, a gamified version of that same video garners 23 times more engagement, proving the significant potential of Overplay as a new approach to content creation and consumption. When Overplay appeared on the latest season of Shark Tank, it was no surprise that the company managed to catch the attention and investment of Mark Cuban, who later said at SXSW, “I like to geek out with the good stuff, Overplay is the good stuff!” Overplay operates at the nexus of a $574 billion digital media landscape that encompasses social media, advertising and gaming and is revolutionizing content creation. It introduces fresh, lean-in interactive experiences that surpass the lean-back approach to video that we are all used to. Recognizing the need for faster and cost-effective game development, the founders of Overplay have harnessed the power of interactivity to create content that is highly replayable and, as a result, more valuable to both creators and players alike, especially as they strive to achieve high scores. With its innovative approach, Overplay is making its mark as a transformative force within the creator economy. Featured photo by Andre Hunter on Unsplash. Overplay is revolutionizing a $574 billion digital media landscape with the first frictionless platform for user-generated games.With Overplay, everyone can turn their videos into games and share them with the world — in minutes, for free, with no code. Overplay’s app can be used to quickly and easily make games from anything: funny moments with your friends, cat memes, cooking tutorials, extreme sports POVs, and more!Imagine the NBA creating playable highlights reels, movie studios releasing trailers that are games, and car companies making commercials where you virtually test drive their cars. Overplay’s app and licensable technology allows billions of creators, social media users, and brands to amplify audience engagement by making their content interactive.Overplay sits at the intersection of three massive markets: social media, video advertising, and casual gaming. We are merging everything that makes these markets successful into one revolutionary form of digital media that will be consumed and created by BILLIONs of potential Overplayers worldwideWith Overplay’s API, brands can apply a thin layer of gaming on top of videos already being streamed in advertisements. Because our technology is so simple and takes only a few minutes, Overplay cuts down on thousands of hours of production time and millions of dollars in costs for brands to leverage this highly engaging ad format. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Caroline Strzalka caroline@overplay.com Company Website https://overplay.com/

May 30, 2024 08:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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The Meme Stock Revival Saw GameStop (NYSE: GME) Shares Surge Above 120%: VantagePoint’s A.I.-Driven Forecasting Software Saw It Coming A Week Earlier

Benzinga

By James Blacker, Benzinga Meme stocks have once again rocked the financial markets, with GameStop Corp (NYSE: GME) and AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc (NYSE: AMC) seeing dramatic spikes in recent weeks. Shares of GameStop soared 74% on May 13 after social media influencer and investor Keith Gill, who was instrumental in the 2021 meme stock frenzy, made his first social media post in three years. Similarly, other meme stocks saw massive surges, such as AMC, which rose nearly 80%, and Koss Corporation (NASDAQ: KOSS), which more than doubled. While the share prices of GameStop and AMC seem to have now settled down, the resurgence of meme stocks has reignited the discussion about their volatility and unpredictability. While making money with meme socks is possible, it is considered by many to be risky and relies heavily on timing the market. GameStop shares opened at $26.34 on May 13. At the time of writing, however, the stock is trading at $22.12, which means that traders who entered long positions after Gill’s social media posts on May 11 and 12 would be in the red. A month ago, the stock was trading at around $10, which means those who got in early would be up some 120%. Staying Ahead Of The Curve While humans can be notoriously bad at timing the market, advanced predictive tools are invaluable for traders and investors looking to capitalize on events like the meme stock resurgence. Amid such a landscape, the right tools are essential, and VantagePoint’s A.I.-driven market forecasting software has proven its ability to predict the momentum and trends of stocks like GameStop and AMC before they take off, with up to 87.4% historical accuracy. Combined with its dual-patented intermarket analysis, which compiles and analyzes data about the interconnectedness of global markets, VantagePoint reports that its AI software saw the GameStop confirmed trend reversal as early as May 3rd, long before the broader market reacted to it. VantagePoint claims that its software gives traders precise forecasts of a trend’s direction from one to three days in advance, in addition to predictions of the next day’s high and low. It makes forecasts for over 2,300 stocks, ETFs, futures, forex pairs, commodities and cryptocurrencies every single day. The company has been using A.I. to forecast the markets for over three decades, which means three decades that its neural networks have been learning and getting more and more accurate. In line with the company’s vision to empower investors daily, VantagePoint was the first trading software developer in the world to introduce strategy back-testing capabilities in trading software for personal computers. In February 2020, long before the A.I. explosion, the company announced that its predictive accuracy had increased to 87.4%. Since introducing its first trading software in 1983, VantagePoint has grown into a multi-million dollar, Inc. 500, trading software company with over 40,000 customers in more than 160 countries. The company has also won multiple awards, including “Best Predictive A.I. Software For Trading” by A.I. World Finance in 2023. The company also partnered with Benzinga in 2022 for a four-part series to help traders. With the resurgence of social media-driven volatility, VantagePoint’s early insights could give traders and investors the edge they need to stay ahead of the curve. Find out more at www.vantagepointsoftware.com. Featured photo by Yorgos Ntrahas on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. The above (GME) chart is from past data and is atypical. Trading involves risk. Past results do not guarantee future performance. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

May 30, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Comcast Expands into Chanhassen with Major Fiber Network

Comcast Twin Cities

Comcast announced today it will continue to significantly expand its next-generation Xfinity network into Chanhassen, Minnesota. The media and technology company will invest millions to install new fiber-rich highways that will provide multi-gig speeds and unmatched reliability to more than 10,500 homes and businesses with a planned completion by the end of 2025. The Chanhassen expansion adds to Comcast’s more than $525 million technology and infrastructure investments across Minnesota over the last three years. Comcast’s planned expansion follows February’s announcement of expanding its smart, fast, reliable fiber-rich network to seven cities in Minnesota, including Cologne and Nowthen, and parts of Corcoran, Grant, Hugo, Rogers and Stillwater Township by the end of 2024. In June 2023, Comcast completed an expansion to more than 2,300 homes and businesses in the City of Wayzata, where area businesses now enjoy Comcast Business’s suite of products, including broadband speeds of up to 100 Gbps, and Xfinity products for residents with Internet speeds faster than a gig over standard connections in the home. “We are pleased to welcome Comcast to our community. Access to high-quality cable and internet services is essential for our residents and businesses, and having more options ensures that everyone can find a plan that best meets their needs. We look forward to the benefits that increased competition and improved infrastructure will bring," said Chanhassen Mayor Elise Ryan. Residential customers will be able to take advantage of Xfinity’s full suite of products, including Internet, video, mobile, voice and managed home solutions. For local businesses, Comcast Business will offer a suite of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions to help organizations of different sizes prepare for what’s next. Comcast Business has been consistently recognized by industry analysts and associations as a leader and innovator, and one of the fastest-growing providers of Ethernet services. “Reliable high-speed Internet is essential in today’s digital economy, which is why Comcast continues its commitment to connect more Twin Cities families and businesses to the moments that matter most,” said Kalyn Hove, Comcast Midwest Regional Senior Vice President. “We are expanding our fiber highways in Chanhassen, strategically investing in areas undergoing significant growth. By establishing the best broadband infrastructure today, we are securing the economic prosperity of these communities for tomorrow.” Comcast’s commitment to new communities goes beyond the build—addressing digital opportunities in communities through Project UP, the company’s $1 billion commitment to help tens of millions of people connect to the Internet and build futures of unlimited possibilities. Over the past three years, Comcast has invested more than $5 million in cash and in kind donations in the Twin Cities to help shrink the digital divide. The focus includes helping people build digital skills in the workforce, expanding WiFi connected Lift Zones and funding connectivity and internet adoption programs. The funding also supports ongoing efforts to build awareness about affordable connectivity services like Internet Essentials, which offers eligible households high-speed internet for $9.95/month or Internet Essentials Plus for $29.95/month. Affordable computers are also available through Internet Essentials. Since its inception in 2011, the program has connected more than 480,000 students, parents, veterans and seniors in Minnesota. For more construction details and updates, visit https://midwest.comcast.com/network-expansion/. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Jill Hornbacher +1 651-425-1695 Jill_Hornbacher@comcast.com Company Website https://midwest.comcast.com

May 30, 2024 07:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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Halving of BTFS Storage Rewards

BitTorrent

Singapore, May 28, 2024 – To sustain the growth and success of the BitTorrent ecosystem, BTFS is set to implement a halving on the next round of rewards for storage miners on the BTFS network. From 00:00 (UTC) June 25, 2024, the daily rewards for storage miners on the BTFS network will be halved from 15 billion BTT to 7.5 billion BTT. The BitTorrent File System (BTFS) is a decentralized file storage system that utilizes blockchain technology and peer-to-peer transmission. It allows users to store their files across multiple nodes in a distributed manner, enhancing file security and reliability. BTFS also offers rapid file transfer and access, giving users greater convenience in managing and sharing files. By integrating key features of the BitTorrent Chain (BTTC), such as cross-chain connectivity and multichannel payment options, BTFS significantly enhances user experience. Currently, the BTFS network is experiencing rapid growth with over 8 million nodes across the network, including more than 6 million super miners, according to BTFS SCAN. To support the efficient operations of these nodes, BTFS initiated a rewards program and has provided an aggregate of 25 trillion BTT since the launch of BTFS Mainnet in 2019. Every two years, the BTFS rewards halving will occur causing the rewards for all storage miners across the network to be cut in half. (Halving roadmap) Moreover, halving will also prompt miners to improve node performance by optimizing node operation and reducing waste. In addition, an upgrade of the official website for the BTFS technical community and the release of BTFS v3.0 Mainnet will be scheduled in sync with the halving. These developments are expected to improve the efficiency of the BTFS protocol, expand the user base, and enhance its overall functionality. Looking ahead, BTFS is committed to continuously refining its storage rewards strategies. The goal is to expand the network of nodes participating in file storage on BTFS, providing developers with an efficient, secure, and reliable storage solution boosting both the capacity and the transaction efficiency of the BTTC network. About BTFS The BitTorrent File System (BTFS) is both a protocol and a web application that provides a content-addressable peer-to-peer mechanism for storing and sharing digital content in a decentralized file system, as well as a base platform for decentralized applications (Dapp). The BTFS team has been working on the latest network operations and BTT market sentiment, etc., to make a series of dynamic adjustments such as upload prices and airdrop reward schemes. About BitTorrent Founded with a leading peer-to-peer sharing technology standard in 2004, BitTorrent, Inc. is a consumer software company based in San Francisco. Its protocol is the largest decentralized P2P network in the world, driving 22% of upstream and 3% of downstream traffic globally. Its flagship desktop and mobile products, BitTorrent and µTorrent, enable users to send large files over the internet, connecting legitimate third-party content providers with users. With over 100 million active users, BitTorrent products have been installed on over 1 billion devices in over 138 countries worldwide. Since November 2018, TRON (TRX), Binance (BNB), and Bitcoin (BTC) holders have the opportunity to purchase one-year subscriptions of BitTorrent or µTorrent products, including Ads Free and Pro for Windows. Pro includes anti-virus and anti-malware screening, file converting and playability in HD. Users can visit bittorrent.com or utorrent.com to learn more. Website | Telegram | Medium | X | Media Contact John Chen press@bittorrent.com Contact Details John Chen press@bittorrent.com

May 28, 2024 07:53 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Activate Games Inc. Announces Expansion with 30 New Stores in the UK and Ireland!

Activate

Activate Games Inc., the pioneering force behind the world's first active gaming experience, is thrilled to announce its expansive venture into the United Kingdom and Ireland markets with the opening of 30 new stores in partnership with We Do Play. Following the resounding success of Activate's innovative gaming concept across North America and the MENA region, the company is poised to revolutionize the entertainment landscape in the UK and Ireland. With a commitment to promoting physical activity while offering unparalleled gaming experiences, Activate is set to captivate audiences across these vibrant regions. "This expansion marks a significant milestone in Activate's journey," said Adam Schmidt, Founder and CEO of Activate Games Inc. "The UK and Ireland have long been on our radar as markets ripe for Activate's unique blend of interactive gaming and physical activity. We are excited to bring our adrenaline-pumping adventures to communities across these regions and provide an unforgettable entertainment experience for players of all ages." Each Activate location offers an immersive gaming environment where players can #EnterTheGame and compete in a variety of interactive challenges. Activate promises an experience like no other, where players can unleash their competitive spirit while staying active. "We are committed to diversifying leisure offerings and providing our guests with innovative entertainment experiences," said Richard Beese, Co-Owner of We Do Play. "With the launch of 30 new stores in the UK and Ireland, we are thrilled to introduce Activate to a new audience and create lasting memories for families, friends, and gaming enthusiasts alike." The expansion into the UK and Ireland marks a significant milestone in Activate's global growth strategy. Activate is poised to unveil more than 20 new stores across the United States and Canada in 2024, including an expansion into the MENA region this Fall. Furthermore, Activate has strategic plans for international growth, with aspirations to establish 70 stores in 10 countries over the next 5-10 years. With locations worldwide and a dedicated community of fans, Activate continues to push the boundaries of traditional entertainment and redefine the gaming experience for the modern era. For more information about Activate Games Inc. and to stay updated on the latest news and store openings, visit Activate or follow Activate on social media: Facebook: Activate Instagram: @activategames TikTok: @activategames ABOUT ACTIVATE Activate is the world’s first active gaming experience where players #EnterTheGame. Activate offers a unique blend of physical activity and gaming that promotes a healthy lifestyle. Each Activate location provides fun and interactive rooms for players to compete, earn stars and track achievements. With the global headquarters located in Winnipeg, Canada, Activate has grown to 30 locations across Canada, the U.S. and now the world! To join the active gaming movement, visit playactivate.com. ABOUT WE DO PLAY We Do Play specializes in creating unforgettable, immersive leisure and hospitality concepts. It started as a single brand, eventually incorporating Flip Out and Putt Putt Social. Boom Battle Bar was also previously co-owned by We Do Play. Flip Out is a global indoor adventure park business and is currently the largest in the UK. Since 2015, Flip Out has catered to 8 million customers a year. Putt Putt Social is the UK’s leading Asian-inspired adventure golf, drink and dining experience. We Do Play is continuing to expand its footprint in the leisure and entertainment space, with its partnership with Activate being the latest addition to its portfolio. www.wedoplay.co.uk Follow We Do Play on Linkedin: We Do Play Follow Flip Out on Instagram: @flipoutuk Follow Putt Putt Social on Instagram: @puttputtsocial Contact Details Jalila Singerff +1 613-614-6777 jalila@jiveprdigital.com Company Website https://playactivate.com

May 28, 2024 08:02 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Jonathan’s Baker 'Fate The Movie' Plays Homage To Quentin Tarantino’s Vista Movie Theater

Baker Entertainment Group

“Nothing happens by accident” - Jonathan Baker. Jonathan Baker is a visionary director who is celebrated for his unparalleled filmmaking techniques. He is known for his hands-on approach, a keen eye for details and crafting compelling narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. His ability to immerse himself in every aspect of production ensures that his creative vision is flawlessly translated from the script to the screen. One of Baker’s biggest inspirations is visionary filmmaker, Quentin Tarantino for his innovative filmmaking approach. In his second to last directorial venture “Fate”, Baker is paying homage to Tarantino’s Vista Theater through the film's main location, The Vista Hotel and the casting of Harvey Keitel. Keitel, an esteemed actor who brings a commanding presence and depth to his character, enriching the film’s atmosphere and working to elevate the performance of the entire cast. The Vista Hotel becomes more than a location, but a central character. "The Vista Hotel was born out of Quentin Tarantino's visionary movie theater," says Baker. "It serves as a creative through-line, connecting the past with the present and infusing our film with a sense of nostalgia just as Harvey Keitel did”. Keitel's connection to both Baker and Tarantino adds a layer of authenticity to "Fate The Movie”. Contact Details Jive PR + Digital Jenny Bloom +1 480-406-7021 jenny@jiveprdigital.com Company Website https://www.jonathanbaker.com

May 26, 2024 12:02 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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New Online Casino Site Instant Casino Partners with Italian Serie A Team Juventus

Finance News

Iconic Italian football club Juventus has announced top online gaming site Instant Casino will be its new regional partner in Europe. The agreement promises a wide range of entertainment opportunities and exclusive rewards for both Juventus fans and Instant Casino players. Alexandre Zodmi, Juventus Head of Partnerships Development and Academies, commented on the new partnership: “We are delighted to welcome Instant Casino to the Juventus family. Instant Casino shares our commitment to excellence and innovation, and we are confident that together, we will create unforgettable experiences for our fans.” Juventus & Instant Casino Sign Landmark Partnership The partnership between Juventus and Instant Casino aims to deliver an unforgettable chapter in sports entertainment. Despite being a relatively new brand, Instant Casino has quickly made a name for itself in the online gaming market, thanks to its instant payouts. The partnership aims to increase its brand visibility to a whole other level, making Instant Casino one of the most prominent new players into the iGaming industry. As per the agreement, Instant Casino will become an integral part of the Juventus ecosystem. For instance, the LED system at Allianz Stadium will feature the Instant Casino logo, accompanied by a range of exciting promotions. Moreover, the platform will offer opportunities for fans to win official jerseys and tickets to Juventus games. “We are honoured and excited to partner with the iconic Italian club Juventus”, said Greg Turner, the head of PR at Instant Casino. “We are looking forward to starting to work with Juventus, which has a rich history and has won countless trophies both domestically and in Europe. At Instant Casino, we will continue to disrupt the market with our simplified casino product, while also offering our players the fastest experience in the business” Website: Instant Casino X: https://twitter.com/_InstantCasino Telegram: https://t.me/Instant_Casino Contact Details PR News Group Alex Brown alex@prnewsgroup.com

May 24, 2024 08:37 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Uno Pizzeria and Grill offers BOGO Free deals for Memorial Day weekend

UNO Pizzeria & Grill

While Memorial Day itself honors Americas military members who lost their lives in service to our country, the weekend has become synonymous with travel, cookouts and time with family and friends. Uno Pizzeria and Grill is offering a series of BOGO free deals over the weekend to help bring family and friends together. The deals will run Friday, Saturday and Sunday and feature a different BOGO free deal each day. This BOGO deal encourages pairs or groups to come dine together and save. On Friday, May 24 th, Uno Pizzeria and Grill will offer a BOGO Free Pizza deal valid on all deep dish and thin crust pizzas. Buy one pizza and get a second of equal or lesser value for free. Valid for Dine-in and also take-out. Must use code BOGOFREE when ordering on-line. On Saturday, May 25 th, Uno Pizzeria and Grill will offer a BOGO Free Entree deal. Buy any Entrée and get a second Entrée of equal or lesser value for free. Valid for Dine-in only. On Sunday, May 26 th, Uno Pizzeria and Grill will offer a BOGO Free Pasta dish deal. Buy any Pasta dish and get a second Pasta dish of equal or lesser value for free. Valid for Dine-in only. The Memorial Day Holiday is on Monday May 27th. Uno Pizzeria and Grill honors those US Military members who have passed and thanks all service members for their service and commitment. All restaurants will be open on the Monday. Participation may vary by location. About UNO Pizzeria & Grill Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Uno Restaurant Holdings Corporation includes approximately 80 company-owned and franchised UNO Pizzeria & Grill restaurants located in 18 states, and the District of Columbia, India, and Saudi Arabia. UNO is all about connecting people over pizza – from its famous Chicago Deep Dish, which UNO invented in 1943, to its Chicago Thin Crust, to its gluten-free and vegan pizzas. The Company also operates Uno Foods, a consumer packaged-foods business which supplies supermarkets, airlines, movie theaters, hotels, airports, travel plazas, and schools, with both frozen and refrigerated UNO branded products. For more information, visit www.unos.com. Contact Details Chris Dellamarggio +1 339-613-7641 cdellamarggio@unos.com Company Website https://www.unos.com/

May 23, 2024 12:59 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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