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“Return & Connect” Service Initiated by INTO University Partnerships for Enhanced International Student Careers

Elliot
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“Return & Connect” Service Initiated by INTO University Partnerships for Enhanced International Student Careers

INTO University Partnerships is excited to announce the launch of “Return & Connect“, a novel service blending digital and physical elements designed to enhance the career prospects of international students by bridging the educational and professional employment divide globally.

The platform supports international students returning to their native countries after completing their studies abroad, by connecting them to employer and alumni networks that are essential for securing in-market work experience and post-study work placements during and after their academic careers.

This innovative service is the culmination of a collaboration between INTO and partnering universities in the UK, US, and Australia, effectively integrating academic institutions, students, alumni, and employers into one cohesive system.

John Sykes, CEO of INTO University Partnerships said: “The Return & Connect service represents a pivotal step in INTO’s commitment to supporting the professional development of international students. It revolutionizes the landscape of employment and post-study work placements.
“With concerns over long-term employability driving international student decision making, this initiative empowers universities to extend the reach and impact of both their careers and alumni services well beyond their home campus and into parts of the world, traditionally under-served by the majority of overseas universities hosting large populations of international students.”
The Return & Connect service will initially roll out in Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and mainland China in summer 2024 and will expand to other key international student markets in a phased approach.
Professor Sir Steve Smith, UK Government International Education Champion. said: “Return & Connect is a great idea that tackles a challenge that all universities face in providing accurate and timely employer connections to students that graduate and seek to return home, but it also simultaneously provides available in-market resource to strengthen all important institutional alumni activity. I wish them every success.”
As part of this groundbreaking initiative, INTO has forged an exclusive collaboration with mShare Tech, a leading Chinese firm renowned for its innovative internship and career services and tech solutions for students and graduates in the domestic market. This partnership will for the first time specifically streamline the journey for returning Chinese students as they enter the workforce post-study abroad.
mShare’s dynamic platform has served as a go-to resource for over 24 million students and graduates across Mainland China since establishing in 2016, offering a wealth of employment and work experience opportunities. Today, with an annual volume of new registered student users at over 4 million, it provides 330,000 employers registered on the platform with access to a vast talent pool for recruiting candidates for various roles.
As part of the partnership with mShare, INTO will leverage its global presence and profile in top study abroad destinations worldwide to work with universities to enroll international students on Return & Connect platform free of charge. Meanwhile, mShare will utilize its extensive local network of employers and expertise to seamlessly integrate its student registrations into the Return & Connect platform, establishing Return & Connect as the exclusive brand for international students in China.
John Sykes added: “We are thrilled to collaborate with mShare Tech to empower Chinese students who have completed their studies overseas with enhanced career opportunities. The launch of the ‘Return & Connect’ service underscores our commitment to unlock career opportunities for international students and facilitating meaningful connections between education and employment.”
Mr Rocky Zeng, CEO of mShare Tech, said: “The partnership demonstrates INTO and mShare’s shared vision of fostering global talent and advancing career pathways for international students. INTO’s unrivalled global reach and mShare’s extensive network in China will give returning Chinese students a distinctive advantage to thrive in the competitive job market.”
Under the agreement, mShare will develop new, specialized subscription propositions for employers on its platform, enabling them to access, engage, and service students in China who are studying abroad or have completed their studies overseas.
During launch phase, INTO is offering overseas universities free presence on the Return and Connect (China) platform. Universities can also enhance their presence and support for students through teaming up with market-based career experts, which INTO will facilitate. A wider variety of flexible subscription and revenue sharing models will be available as the initiative is rolled out.

Provider of Background Checks Secures its Second King’s Award for Enterprise

Claire James
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Provider of Background Checks Secures its Second King’s Award for Enterprise

On Monday, May 6th, 2024, Verifile, a human resources technology firm and prominent provider of global employee screening and background checks for HR and talent acquisition purposes, has been honored with the King’s Award for International Trade. This recognition comes as a result of achieving more than 100% growth in overseas sales over a span of three years.

This marks Verifile’s second King’s Award for Enterprise, acknowledging another period of exceptional growth. The company, specializing in HR technology, conducts hundreds of thousands of background checks annually for both the UK government and leading private sector organizations worldwide. This recent recognition adds to Verifile’s accolades, including their initial Queen’s Award for Enterprise received in 2019.

Verifile has demonstrated significant growth in exports of its industry leading background checks thanks to its ability to adapt to the ever changing needs of the global employee fraud and security landscape, and it’s this business success that has earned the company the prestigious King’s Award.

Eyal Ben-Cohen, Founder and CEO of Verifile, said: “Winning the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2019 was a huge honour for everyone at Verifile so to now win a King’s Award for Enterprise five years later and extend our royal seal of approval is testament to our commitment to combatting fraud and improving the safety and security of businesses all over the world.

“Our screening solutions are relied upon by companies to protect their business operations, employees, and potential candidates and this is at the heart of everything we do at Verifile. We have been able to grow the business and deliver sustained eight years of growth in an extremely challenging economic climate, including a global pandemic and Brexit, so to be recognised for this achievement means a great deal to everyone at Verifile.”

Nick Kier is Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Bedfordshire and organiser of the King’s Award for Enterprise for Bedfordshire, he said: “Winning a King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade for a second time is a considerable achievement and I would like to congratulate everyone at Verifile on yet again winning the highest business award available. In business terms it is the equivalent of winning an MBE.

“In order to even apply, yet alone win, Verifile needed to demonstrate three consecutive years of outstanding growth in international trade, no mean feat with today’s financial uncertainty. Yet, winning the King’s Award shows that Verifile has been able not only to weather the economic storms, but steer the ship across smooth waters to grow its business and achieve a total of eight years of significant growth.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise, previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed last year to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II’s by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The Award programme, now in its 58th year, is the most prestigious business award in the country, with successful businesses able to use the esteemed King’s Award emblem for the next five years.

For more information about Verifile visit https://www.verifile.co.uk/

For more information about The King’s Awards for Enterprise visit https://www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise

Storms Brewing: Is it Time to Take The Impact of Climate Change on Soft Commodities Seriously?

Claire James
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Storms Brewing: Is it Time to Take The Impact of Climate Change on Soft Commodities Seriously?

Historically high global inflation rates and supply chain disruptions have been an unwanted mainstay affecting many soft commodity markets, but could climate change pose the biggest danger yet for institutions looking to build exposure to commodities like coffee, soybean, sugar, and wheat? 

According to the European Environmental Agency, climate change is projected to impact the agricultural sector in a way that can alter regional crop growing conditions and pest incidence. 

While production isn’t forecasted to decline before 2050, the EEA reports that production zones will shift, annual yields will become more variable, and price volatility of agricultural commodities will grow–impacting cultivation patterns, trade, and regional markets. 

What does this mean for institutional interest in soft commodities like coffee, cotton, soybean, sugar, and wheat? More uncertainty. With more price volatility anticipated, access to a broad range of transparent spot indexes with live price streaming is essential. 

How individual spot indexes perform is another matter altogether. However, we can use existing data to take a more accurate look at what the future holds for a series of soft commodities and their respective market prospects:

Volatility as Demand for Coffee Increases

According to the International Coffee Organization, world coffee consumption is expected to grow by 2.2% in 2023/24 with estimates hinging on a global economic recovery taking place. 

With our appetite for coffee as strong as ever, can coffee production keep up with demand? While estimates suggest that there may be a surplus of coffee produced in 2023/24, this may not be the case for much longer. 

Climate change has posed fresh challenges to coffee production, and in Colombia, farmers have expressed their concerns about the vulnerability of plants to diseases like rust, brown eye spot, or borer insects. 

These mitigating factors have caused production in the area to shrink by 35% in the last five years, according to the Latin American and Caribbean Fairtrade Network (CLAC). 

Although shrinking production will present more problems for the soft commodity, many bullish factors can leverage rallies among Robusta and Arabica coffee futures. 

Notably, the global impact of inflation and higher production costs have resulted in tighter inventories which have paved the way for supply and demand factors that can favor higher prices. 

Whether climate change can continue to impact coffee supply and demand in a way that increases yields remains to be seen, but there may be some value amid the volatility for institutions to benefit from. 

Copper to Take Center Stage on Road to Net Zero

Because copper is central to many energy transformation plans due to its conductivity, the metal is likely to take center stage as more firms seek to become carbon neutral. 

This won’t be an easy process. After all, the copper industry accounts for around 0.2% of global greenhouse gas emissions itself, and demand is expected to double by 2050 to 50 million tonnes because of decarbonization initiatives in wind turbines, photovoltaic panels, heat pumps, electric vehicles, and other energy-efficient equipment. 

Because of its invaluable role in clean energy initiatives, the International Copper Association has introduced a pathway in which copper producers are actively bringing their carbon footprint to net zero throughout the mining, smelting, refining, and recycling process. 

Copper futures have already enjoyed a rally in 2024 as major smelters in China pledged to control their capacity, and the soft commodity’s invaluable role in the green energy transition is likely to thrust the metal further into the spotlight as sustainability initiatives grow. 

Cotton Faces Greater Exposure to Climate Challenge

Because most cotton farmers live in developing countries and grow materials on land spanning fewer than two hectares, this soft commodity is especially vulnerable to heat, drought, floods, and wildfires caused by climate change. 

Without a sufficient private sector finance barrier allowing farmers to switch to more resilient practices, the cotton industry is especially vulnerable to failing crops. 

According to Forum for the Future’s 2040 Climate Risk Analysis, in some regions, cotton growing will no longer be viable by the year 2040, so how will this affect the soft commodity? 

Because cotton can be grown in warm climates, global warming may see more regions become functional producers of the soft commodity in the future. This means that there may not be hikes in scarcity for the material on the same scale as other soft commodities, but more industry volatility could bring short-term opportunities for institutions moving forward. 

Challenges Ahead for Soybean Futures

According to a recent study, corn and soybean yields are projected to decline by 29% and 24% respectively from their normal upward trends by the year 2100. 

Crop failures and management challenges related to climate issues have seen 127 Brazilian soybean producers file for bankruptcy protection in 2023, an increase of 525% on the 20 filings over the year prior. 

“It’s not surprising to have some producers in need of [bankruptcy protection], a lot of producers will have to turn to that mechanism this year whether due to management problems or crop failures. The surprise is the volume, the speed and the timing of their appearance – even before the harvest is over,” explained André Pessôa, president of Agroconsult.

Favorable weather conditions in Brazil negatively impact the performance of soybean prices due to the abundance of production. This means that the outlook for soybean futures will be more volatile based on weather conditions, but speculative traders could see prices rise as climate change poses fresh challenges for farmers. 

Sugar Prices Soar on Climate Issues

With dry spells and drought in leading sugar producers like India and Thailand, the cost of sugar has already soared to its highest levels since 2011 this year, and a supply-to-demand mismatch could make the soft commodity more valuable than ever in the future. 

Record highs for sugar futures, as well as cocoa and coffee, were recorded in March 2024 following the collapse of a bridge in Baltimore blocking access to its port which houses the refinery of ASR Group, the largest sugar refinery in the United States. 

Although this is an example of a human catastrophe, it offers an insight into how disrupted trade can send the appetite for sugar futures higher as climate change continues to disrupt supply chains. 

With global sugar consumption consistently rising, this can be an example of a soft commodity that rallies amid supply chain disruptions. 

Wheat Faces Mounting Production Challenges

According to a study produced by the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, the coming years will see threats mount to the production of wheat stemming from climate change and extreme weather. 

The study anticipates that heatwaves will become more frequent globally and negatively impact crop yields, with China, the world’s top wheat producer, and the United States affected. 

“Climate change is causing unprecedented events globally, which could exceed critical thresholds and reduce yields, even if there is no historical precedent,” said the study authors.

“This means that we are likely underestimating climate risks to our food system. In the case of wheat, parts of the United States and China show little historical relationship between yields and temperature, but extreme temperatures are now possible that exceed critical physiological thresholds in wheat plants.”

While uneven wheat production can raise the value of the soft commodity, disruption could likely send stocks more volatile in the future, and wheat’s role as a safe haven investment option means that its price could be affected by macroeconomic or geopolitical pressures. 

Fundamental Analysis Essential as Volatility Reigns

One key consideration that institutions should take into account is that the climate emergency will carry widespread implications that are likely to bring more volatility to soft commodities.

Notably, climate change could bring an intensification of geopolitical mistrust and uncertainty which may see more investors move their liquidity away from global markets and into commodities as a safe haven option. 

With this in mind, long-term soft commodity futures should always be explored alongside a significant volume of fundamental analysis. Climate change will bring an age of heightened volatility to commodity markets, and only the most adaptable institutions will be capable of thriving amid the uncertainty.

Profitable Ventures: How To Transform Your Gaming Experience into the Ultimate Side Hustle

Claire James
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Profitable Ventures: How To Transform Your Gaming Experience into the Ultimate Side Hustle

With the current digital era, gone are the days when a console was necessary to play or share games with friends. Now, all you need is a computer and a good internet connection to hop onto a gaming server with your fellow players worldwide. Some software providers will even allow you to keep score using a leaderboard to add a more competitive edge to your gameplay.

Playing games with other players from the comfort of your home is good and all, but increasing your income by monetizing your hobby is better. With the explosion in paying streaming services, esports, and virtual item trading in the gaming industry, this process is fairly easy. The best part is you don’t have to be a veteran player to earn as even casual gamers can find ways to turn a profit.

1.   Become a Twitch Streamer

While there are several streaming platforms around, Twitch is among the most lucrative ones if you want to monetize your gaming skills. That’s because it offers many ways to channel some income, including subscriptions, donations, and sponsorships. All you need to meet Twitch’s eligibility requirements and you’ll be set to start earning.

The process of becoming eligible for Twitch earnings starts with setting up streaming equipment like a gaming PC, microphone, and webcam. You also need to have a stable internet connection to allow you to smoothly broadcast your streams during gameplay. Finally, you should create engaging content by playing trending games and interacting with viewers, to capture an audience and keep them coming.

2.   Participate in Esports Tournaments

Esports have been exploding in popularity over the recent years, with thousands participating in competitive gaming and earning millions. If you think you have the skills and passion required to compete with the world’s elite players, consider joining a pro team. There, you can participate in leagues and compete for recognition, brand deals, and cash prizes.

To become a pro esports player choose a game to focus on among the ones thriving in the competitive scene. After that, dedicate a portion of your time to practice and sharpen your skills in the game and develop a strategy. Once you’re done you can start partaking in local amateur tournaments to gain experience before moving on to competing with industry professionals.

3.   Start a YouTube Channel for Gaming

Like Twitch, YouTube is another social media platform that will help you earn big while participating in online gaming. The only difference between the two is that instead of streaming, you can create gameplay walkthroughs, tutorials, reviews, and even gaming vlogs on YouTube. It offers a generally wider range of content to pursue and the bigger your audience the more the ad revenue you can generate.

A successful gaming Youtuber begins their journey by choosing a niche within the gaming community. That helps identify a target audience, tailor your content to suit them, and be able to convert them to a dedicated fanbase. Upon building a loyal following, you can join the YouTube Partner Program and explore other ways of generating income like selling merchandise and affiliate marketing.

4.   Offer Coaching or Tutorials

Some games require players to hone their skills and be strategic, especially if there is real money at stake. These include online casino titles like poker, blackjack, and craps, where you require a lot more than mere luck to land favorable payouts. If you’re good at any of these games, you can start one-on-one sessions or group classes for less experienced players and earn extra income.

The good thing is when it comes to skill-based casino games, most real money casinos online offer demo versions for games that you can use when tutoring. That will give you and your clients a real-world perspective of the game, with the actual game mechanics, symbols, and Return To Player. Depending on your level of expertise, you can even join tournaments like poker competitions and play for a prize. As an expert, you can also consider setting up a website and publishing guides and reviews to help new players.

More Ways to Make Your Gaming Knowledge Lucrative

With the amount of revenue generated through online gaming, it’s no surprise that there are many more ways to make money in the industry. One of the more common ways is through working with software-providing companies to test their games and provide them with feedback. Your response could be about how simple and exciting a game is, and it helps developers identify any details that could detract from user experience.

If you like talking about gaming, you should also consider starting a gaming podcast as an income source. Your podcast can include numerous gaming-related content, including game reviews, gameplay commentary, and the industry’s trending news. The list of how you can convert your gaming hobby into a lucrative venture goes on and on, and all you need to do is pick one that works best for you.

Innovative Strategies for Attaining Financial Freedom: Creative Paths to a Debt-Free Life

Claire James
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Innovative Strategies for Attaining Financial Freedom: Creative Paths to a Debt-Free Life

Becoming free of debt is about more than just paying down balances. You quickly realize that this is a slow burn way of becoming debt free, and especially if you have a large debt like a mortgage, you might be lucky to be debt-free by the time you reach retirement age. Many of us want more for our lives than that! If you’re looking for some outside the box ideas for having a debt-free life, here are some ideas to help.

The latest research about debt doesn’t paint a pretty picture for Americans. The average American carries a significant amount of debt, split between credit cards, student loans, auto loans, and mortgages. So when it comes to actual numbers, what is the total amount of debt Americans tend to have? Well, on average, it’s $90,000 per person. The most debt is held by Gen X, who are people aged between 40 and 55. Get X-ers have an average of $135,841 of debt each. When people get to the age of 75 or over, the amount of debt they have drops to around $40,000 each. That’s still a lot! Most of us would have hoped to be debt free by this age, right?

Debt is clearly a challenge many of us face, as we try to balance life’s necessities and pleasures without tipping the scale too much towards financial strain. But if you want to get rid of your debts, it’s important to think of this as being attainable. It might just take a bit of a creative mindset. Here are seven ways you could help yourself become debt free.

1. Sell Your House

Selling your home might seem like a crazy thing to do. Where will you live? Why would you give up a home you’ve probably worked hard to secure, maintain and run? But given the fact a mortgage is the biggest source of debt for most people, this is a good way to become debt free. Perhaps you could find a smaller and cheaper home that still meets your needs, and you could buy it with the equity you’ve built up in your house. Or maybe you’re willing to be flexible on the location of your home, if it means cheaper living and no mortgage? If this sounds like an option for you, it’s even possible to sell my house fast for cash and get on with your life!

2. Pick Up A Side Hustle

The average American has a full-time job, but if you’re also able to do something on the side that brings in extra money, this could go towards paying off your debts without it feeling like such a struggle. A side hustle is basically any activity or job done outside of your main occupation, and there are plenty out there that you could try. Think about your skills, talents, hobbies and interests. Could you tutor kids after school? Teach online courses? Do some freelance work? Deliver food or groceries in the evenings or on weekends? The possibilities are endless. And you can probably find something that you quite like doing, or in the least, don’t mind doing.

3. Be Clever With Credit Card Balance Transfers

Many credit card companies offer balance transfers with low interest rates for a certain period of time. This is especially useful if you have a large balance on a high-interest rate card. By transferring this balance to a card with low interest rates, you can save yourself hundreds or even thousands of dollars in interest payments over time. Just make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully, as there may be fees associated with the transfer that could outweigh the benefits.

4. Budget Creatively

It’s no secret that budgeting is a key component of debt-free living. But instead of just cutting your expenses and sticking to a strict budget, consider getting creative with how you manage your money. For example, try using cash envelopes for certain spending categories instead of relying on credit or debit cards. Or, find ways to make extra money through selling items you no longer need or offering services to others. Think outside the box and you may be surprised by how much money you can save and earn.

5. Look For Alternative Forms of Income

In addition to a side hustle, there are other ways to generate alternative forms of income that can help pay off your debts faster. This could include investing in stocks or real estate, renting out a spare room on Airbnb, or even starting your own business. The key is to find something that matches your skills and interests, and can bring in a steady stream of income.

6. Downsize Your Lifestyle

Sometimes, the biggest challenge in becoming debt-free is letting go of our luxurious lifestyle habits. But if you’re serious about getting out of debt, downsizing your lifestyle can make a big difference. This could mean moving to a smaller home, giving up expensive subscriptions and memberships, cutting back on eating out or buying luxury items. High end gyms and health clubs are the downfall of many. If you have a gym membership, look at how often you go, and work out the cost per visit. And if you’re shocked by the answer, it’s time to cancel it! Remember, this is only temporary until you become debt-free, and then you can start to slowly add back in some of these luxuries.

7. Seek Professional Help

If you’re struggling with debt and feel like it’s an impossible task to become debt-free, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. A financial advisor or credit counselor can work with you to create a personalized plan for paying off your debts and improving your overall financial situation. They can also provide valuable advice on managing money and avoiding debt in the future.

Becoming debt-free is actually achievable! It just takes a bit of creative thinking and determination. By using some of these strategies, you can start taking steps towards living a debt-free life and achieving financial freedom. It’s never too late to start working towards a better financial future – if you think you’re in a debt trap, just start somewhere and see what progress you can make.

Yuri Milner’s Science Philanthropy: Strategic Initiatives Driven by His Giving Pledge Commitment

Josh Haines
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Yuri Milner’s Science Philanthropy: Strategic Initiatives Driven by His Giving Pledge Commitment

Tech investor Yuri Milner is one of many ultra-wealthy individuals who have joined Warren Buffett and Melinda and Bill Gates’ Giving Pledge. Milner started his career as a theoretical physicist. His passion for science has led him to launch several initiatives that celebrate scientists, spread scientific ideas, and advance fundamental research.

Here’s a closer look at the science philanthropy efforts Milner has undertaken to fulfil his Giving Pledge commitment.

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge: Inspiring the Next Generation

Milner opens his Giving Pledge letter with a story about one of his science heroes: Albert Einstein. As a young man, Einstein had to rely on his relatives to fund his final years of schooling after his father’s company folded.

In 2015, Milner launched the Breakthrough Junior Challenge to support the next generation of scientists. The annual, global competition for students inspires creative thinking about concepts in the life sciences, physics, or maths. Past winners have submitted engaging, original videos on tricky subjects like quantum entanglement and our sleep cycle.

Each year, the competition winner receives a $250,000 scholarship for post-secondary education. They also bag a $50,000 cash prize for their teacher and a brand-new science lab worth $100,000 for their school.

The 2023 Breakthrough Junior Challenge winner is Sia Godika from India. Her video used clever analogies and animation to explain a radical aspect of stem cell research: the Yamanaka factors.

The Breakthrough Prize: Investing in Scientists

Milner co-founded the Breakthrough Prize in 2012 with his wife Julia, Mark Zuckerberg, Priscilla Chan, Sergey Brin, and Anne Wojcicki. The set of awards recognises important advancements in three categories: Fundamental Physics, Life Sciences, and Mathematics.

In his Giving Pledge letter, Milner describes the Breakthrough Prize as a means of “investing in scientists.” The initiative rewards pioneering researchers with prizes of up to $3 million. The total amount conferred over 13 years of the Breakthrough Prize is now $308 million.

The Breakthrough Prize celebrates its winners at an annual star-studded ceremony. On 13 April 2024, luminaries from the entertainment, tech, business, and science communities gathered in LA to honour the latest batch of laureates. Presenters included Glenn Close, Alicia Keys, Michelle Yeoh, Edward Norton, Venus Williams, and Jessica Chastain.

The Breakthrough Initiatives: Exploring the Mysteries of the Universe

Milner launched the first Breakthrough Initiative in 2015 with Stephen Hawking. Breakthrough Listen has since reinvigorated the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The programme uses state-of-the-art telescopes to scan our galaxy for evidence of alien life.

In 2016, Milner, Hawking, and Zuckerberg launched Breakthrough Starshot. The $100 million research and engineering project hopes to develop a technology for interstellar travel.

Other Breakthrough Initiatives include Breakthrough Watch and Breakthrough Discuss. Watch is on the hunt for signs of primitive life on planets around Alpha Centauri and other nearby stars. Meanwhile, Discuss is a yearly academic conference dedicated to discussing life in the Universe and innovative ideas for space exploration.

In his Giving Pledge letter, Milner emphasises that wise non-profit investment into science can bring substantial rewards. He writes: “It’s not just that understanding the Universe and living organisms will profit us technologically; simply by fulfilling our human urge to know, these discoveries enrich us all.”

Read Yuri Milner’s Giving Pledge letter.

About Yuri Milner

Yuri Milner is the founder of DST Global, one of the world’s preeminent technology investors. DST Global’s portfolio has included internet heavyweights like Facebook, WhatsApp, Spotify, and Twitter.

A prolific philanthropist, Milner and his wife Julia have established several non-profit initiatives and support numerous charitable causes. In 2022, the couple founded Tech For Refugees. The global initiative helps partners like Airbnb.org and Flexport.org carry out their refugee relief programmes in global crisis zones.

Inspired by the possibility of intelligent life beyond Earth, Milner wrote Eureka Manifesto: The Mission for Our Civilisation in 2021. The short book proposes a shared mission for humanity and explores the risks and rewards of rejecting or pursuing this mission.

Milner studied business at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He also has an advanced degree in theoretical physics.

Play-To-Earn: A Genuine Income Opportunity or Risky Investment?

Claire James
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Play-To-Earn: A Genuine Income Opportunity or Risky Investment?

One of the newest ways to experience playing digital content online is with the P2E (Play-to-Earn) model, which some of you may already be familiar with by now.

In other words, players like me now can earn cryptocurrency and other digital assets as we play, either by purchasing them or by completing certain challenges and unlocking other in-game/on-site achievements, but is it legitimate?

I will be taking a closer look at the P2E model right here, so if you are keen to learn more about this new way to experience online digital content, keep reading.

What exactly is the P2E model?

The P2E model is one of the biggest online trends in 2024 and is an exciting new model now used on thousands of licensed and regulated websites offering computer-generated online fruit machines and other classics, such as blackjack, poker, baccarat, roulette, and craps.

This model is also used in today’s most notable metaverse open worlds such as Axie Infinity (AXS), Decentraland (MANA), The Sandbox (SAND), Gods Unchained (GODS), and Illuvium (ILV), to name a few.

It enhances the user experience and makes it more immersive but, more importantly, rewarding because we can now spend money, play, and earn rewards that have a monetary value in the real world. Any achievements that you unlock or challenges you complete can now be monetised.

Still confused? Don’t be. The easiest way to learn more about Play-To-Earn gaming is to visit the official AskGamblers review site. I found the way they explained things made it much easier for me to understand, and it made me want to discover more about the P2E model and how I could start earning.

Where is the P2E model used?

The P2E model is currently used in the digital realm of numerous metaverses but also at hundreds of legally permitted real money gambling websites that use blockchain technology and accept one or more cryptocurrencies for deposits and withdrawals.

By playing certain titles or completing certain challenges and unlocking achievements, we can now receive crypto token rewards as we play. It’s essentially a new and rewarding way to play your favourite digital content.

P2E relies on blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, and several other ground-breaking new digital technological concepts, such as decentralised finance, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), governance tokens, and smart contracts.

The P2E model enables you to purchase and, therefore, own native utility tokens, meaning players can now become crypto token holders and build up their crypto balance as they play.

This type of digital entertainment content can be accessed online across highly encrypted blockchain networks. However, it’s not just restricted to blockchain networks; it can also be accessed through dApps (decentralised apps).

Thanks to the Play-to-Earn model, you can also collect, trade, and sell your digital assets, which have a monetary value in the real world.

Today’s most trusted sites have a well-developed token economy, which upholds the true value of native tokens/coins, bolsters their strength, and helps balance player rewards.

The two most significant benefits I’ve noticed with this new model are a more immersive and rewarding experience.

Is the P2E model legitimate? More importantly, is it safe?

The tokens and digital assets I have earned over the past two years are 100% legitimate. I know this because I have exchanged them for fiat currency (in my case, I converted the crypto into my own local currency of US dollars) and then spent what I earned elsewhere, so I know it’s real.

The other reason I know this model is legitimate is because operators who offer this model must be licensed and regulated by globally renowned licensing authorities or governmental commissions overseeing this industry.

The legitimate P2E operations today are controlled companies that are transparent about their day-to-day operations and how their registered members can earn rewards with them.

The ones I have found are also open about explaining any fees or costs that are attached to earning crypto and other digital assets with them and the best/cheapest way to convert them to rewards, such as fiat currencies.

I can best describe this model as a form of investment. In other words, any investment you make comes with a certain amount of risk and is never guaranteed to return a profit.

The P2E concept is still in its relative infancy, but there are now more people than ever because people like me are turning to this new way of playing. It’s a more secure way to play online and is revolutionizing how we interact with our favourite digital content in exciting new ways.

There’s huge potential for the Play-to-Earn model, and I strongly feel that it could one day become more dominant than traditional gaming.

Before delving into this world, always ensure you conduct your own research into Play-to-Earn and the potential risks involved. You will need to set yourself up with a crypto wallet and register an account on a reputable site that currently uses this exciting new model where you can earn rewards with a monetary value as you play.

Unlocking Opportunity: Five Commercial Real Estate Tactics to Discover Hidden Deals

Claire James
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Unlocking Opportunity: Five Commercial Real Estate Tactics to Discover Hidden Deals

Discovering hidden deals in commercial real estate can turn an ordinary investment into an extraordinary opportunity. These elusive finds, often untouched by the wider market, offer the potential for significant returns and less competition.

This article unveils five strategic approaches for investors aiming to uncover these hidden gems. From tapping into local expertise to leveraging the power of direct outreach and focusing on niche markets, each strategy provides a pathway to identifying and securing these lucrative opportunities, setting the stage for a diversified and prosperous investment portfolio.

In the commercial real estate market, uncovering hidden opportunities can be the key to securing high-value investments with potentially lower competition and higher returns. These elusive deals require a strategic approach, an extensive network, and innovative thinking. Below are five effective real estate strategies for identifying and capitalizing on these hidden commercial real estate gems.

1. Tap into Local Expertise

Forging strong relationships with local real estate professionals can open the door to opportunities that are not widely advertised. Local brokers, property managers, and seasoned investors possess a deep understanding of their specific markets. They are often privy to information about properties that haven’t hit the mainstream market yet, making them invaluable resources for uncovering hidden deals.

  • Example: Consider the story of an investor who connected with a local property manager in Tel Aviv, Israel. This relationship led to the early tip-off about a commercial property in a transitioning neighborhood before it was listed. By moving quickly, the investor was able to secure the property at a competitive price, ahead of the market trend.

2. Network, Network, Network

Networking remains one of the most effective strategies in the real estate world. Attending industry events, seminars, and local real estate meetings can connect you with like-minded individuals who have insights into properties that are under the radar. Cultivating a broad network of contacts ensures you’re at the top of mind when someone comes across a deal that hasn’t been advertised.

  • Example: At a local real estate networking event, an investor met a contractor who mentioned a developer in urgent need of selling a partially completed commercial plaza. Through this connection, the investor was able to negotiate a deal to take over the project at a substantial discount, leveraging the situation to their advantage.

3. Direct Outreach

Sometimes, the direct approach can yield surprising results. This involves identifying potential properties through research or driving by and then reaching out directly to the owners. Many property owners might be considering selling but haven’t listed their properties yet. A direct inquiry can put you at the forefront of negotiations, ahead of the competition.

  • Example: By sending personalized letters to property owners in a targeted area, an investor received a positive response from an owner who had been considering selling his commercial building but hadn’t listed it yet. This direct communication led to an exclusive negotiation period and a favorable purchase agreement.

4. Focus on Niche Markets

Specializing in a particular type of commercial real estate or a specific geographic area can lead to more hidden deals. By becoming an expert in a niche market, you position yourself as the go-to person for deals in that sector. This specialization can lead to opportunities that others might overlook because they lack the in-depth knowledge required to see the potential.

  • Example: An investor focusing exclusively on warehouse properties in suburban areas identified an undervalued property through their deep market knowledge. This focus allowed them to recognize the property’s potential before it caught the attention of broader investors, leading to a lucrative deal.

5. Partnership and Collaboration

Collaborating with other investors or joining a real estate investment group can provide access to deals that you might not find on your own. Partnerships can offer additional resources, including financial backing and a combined network of contacts. This collaborative approach can open up new avenues for finding hidden commercial real estate deals.

  • Example: By partnering with a local investment group, an individual investor gained access to an off-market commercial property being sold as part of an estate liquidation. The partnership provided the necessary funds and expertise to quickly close the deal, which would have been difficult to manage alone.

The Importance of Due Diligence

While the allure of hidden deals is strong, it’s essential to conduct thorough due diligence. This includes evaluating the property’s condition, understanding the market dynamics of the area, and assessing the financials involved. Skipping this step can turn a seemingly great deal into a costly mistake.

Thorough due diligence involves a multi-faceted approach. Investors should not only focus on the physical condition of the property but also look into the legal and environmental histories. This might include zoning laws, potential land use restrictions, and environmental assessments to identify any issues that could affect the property’s value or usability. For instance, uncovering an unresolved legal dispute or an environmental hazard during the due diligence process can prevent future liabilities and financial losses.

Moreover, understanding the financial health of a property is paramount. This goes beyond the purchase price, encompassing an analysis of potential revenue streams, operating costs, and the local real estate market’s current and projected health. Engaging with financial analysts or utilizing financial modeling can uncover insights into the investment’s long-term viability.

Conclusion

Finding hidden deals in commercial real estate is both an art and a science. It requires a mix of strategic thinking, local insight, innovative use of technology, and, most importantly, the ability to foster meaningful relationships. By adopting these five strategies, investors can uncover valuable opportunities that others might miss, setting the stage for successful and profitable investments.

How Billionaire Michael Gastauer has Redefined Financial Accessibility

Claire James
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How Billionaire Michael Gastauer has Redefined Financial Accessibility

In an era where digital transformation is not just a trend but a necessity, the finance industry is witnessing a monumental shift, led by visionaries like Michael Gastauer. The German billionaire, with his digital banking company Black Banx, is revolutionizing the way we think about financial accessibility. It’s a narrative of how one man’s vision is altering the financial landscape, providing seamless, borderless banking solutions to millions around the globe. 

His and the company’s story is key within the rise of fintech, as the potential of embedded finance combined with Gastauer’s relentless pursuit of financial inclusion best ensures a future where banking is for everyone, everywhere. Last year alone, Black Banx made significant strides, such as expanding its customer base to 39 million and generating a whopping US$2.3 billion in revenue. These achievements underscore the company’s relentless pursuit of redefining financial accessibility on a global scale.

The Rise of Fintech and Financial Inclusion

The fintech revolution, fueled by innovative digital platforms, is dramatically changing how financial services are delivered and experienced. The internal think tanks of organizations like Forbes and the Asian Development Bank have highlighted the sector’s potential in accelerating financial inclusion. Fintech’s capacity to embed financial services into commonly used platforms makes essential financial tools accessible to a broader audience. 

This inclusivity is vital for integrating the unbanked and underbanked populations into the economic mainstream, offering them opportunities previously out of reach. Black Banx stands as a shining example of this revolution, with its user-friendly platform and services designed to meet the financial needs of a diverse global clientele.

Michael Gastauer: A Visionary in Fintech

Michael Gastauer, a figure synonymous with success in the fintech arena, has been a game-changer with his venture, Black Banx. His journey from a start-up incubator in Munich to establishing a global banking platform showcases his foresight and commitment to innovation. 

Gastauer’s approach combines deep industry knowledge with a keen eye for opportunities in digital finance, setting a foundation for a financial revolution that spans across continents. Under his leadership, Black Banx has not only expanded its footprint worldwide but also consistently introduced innovations that cater to the evolving needs of digital banking customers.

Black Banx: Redefining Banking

Black Banx, founded in 2014, has since established itself as a champion of financial accessibility and inclusion. With operations in over 180 countries and a customer base that soared to 39 million by the end of 2023, Black Banx’s trajectory is a testament to Gastauer’s vision. The platform’s key offerings include:

  • Instant account opening with just a photo ID
  • Accounts in 28 FIAT and 2 cryptocurrencies
  • Real-time global fund transfers
  • Multi-currency debit card options
  • Interest-bearing savings accounts
  • Comprehensive crypto trading and exchange services

This extensive range of services, coupled with a commitment to user-friendly access, places Black Banx at the forefront of financial accessibility. In the last year, Black Banx’s continued expansion and the introduction of new services have further solidified its role in making financial services more accessible, especially in underserved regions.

Revolutionizing Cross-Border Payments and Financial Inclusion

One of Black Banx’s notable achievements is transforming cross-border payments by leveraging local real-time settlement systems. This innovation ensures quick and cost-effective international money transfers, overcoming traditional banking hurdles. Furthermore, Gastauer’s dedication to financial inclusion is palpable through Black Banx’s efforts to bridge the gap between traditional banking and the unbanked population. 

By offering essential financial tools through fintech solutions, Black Banx is expanding economic prospects for many, especially in regions with limited banking access. The company’s initiatives last year, particularly in enhancing cross-border payments, have been pivotal in providing millions with access to swift and affordable financial transactions.

The Gastauer Strategy: Innovation, Expansion, and Customer Focus

Gastauer’s strategic approach to growing Black Banx revolves around three pillars: relentless innovation, geographic and service diversification, and a customer-centric mindset. This strategy not only facilitates Black Banx’s expansion but also ensures that it remains at the cutting edge of fintech, offering tailored, efficient financial solutions to its users. The past year has seen Black Banx doubling down on these strategic pillars, particularly through its expansion into new markets like China and Japan, and the launch of cutting-edge services that cater to the specific needs of its growing customer base.

The Future of Black Banx and Financial Accessibility

As Black Banx sets its sights on new markets, including a strategic push into the United States and a focus on the West African market, its commitment to redefining financial accessibility remains unwavering. Gastauer’s vision extends beyond traditional banking, aiming to create a comprehensive financial ecosystem that serves the needs of its diverse customer base. 

The integration of emerging technologies like blockchain and AI further solidifies Black Banx’s position as a pioneer in the fintech space. The company’s plans for the future, including its ambition to enter the US market through the acquisition of a federal bank in California, highlight its ongoing commitment to making financial services universally accessible and inclusive.

Michael Gastauer’s Black Banx is more than just a digital banking platform; it’s a movement towards a future where financial services are inclusive, accessible, and empowering. Through innovative solutions and a relentless pursuit of breaking down financial barriers, Gastauer and Black Banx are shaping a new era of banking. As we look towards this horizon, it’s clear that the impact of Black Banx’s work will resonate far and wide, making financial inclusion not just a goal but a reality for millions around the globe. In doing so, Gastauer isn’t just redefining banking; he’s expanding the very definition of financial accessibility, ensuring that the achievements of the past year are just the beginning of a long journey towards universal financial empowerment.

FXIFY Marks One Year of Exceptional Growth and Industry Leadership

Elliot
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FXIFY Marks One Year of Exceptional Growth and Industry Leadership

On the 1st of May, 2024, FXIFY™ celebrated its first anniversary, highlighting a year filled with significant growth and achievements. Throughout its inaugural year, FXIFY disbursed over $8,700,000 to its funded traders, facilitated more than $1.7 trillion in trading volume across its challenge and funded accounts, and welcomed over 80,000 new account signups. This remarkable growth underscores FXIFY’s unique approach to prop trading.

Bobby Winters, Co-Founder of FXIFY and CEO of FXPIG, remarked: “FXIFY has made a big impact in just a year. We attribute it to one thing: genuinely putting traders first. We listen to what our traders want. They demand the best prop trading experience — we offer instant payouts on demand, a wide range of evaluation programs, unique addons, and the best trading platforms and execution in the market. When a community of traders sees this, word spreads fast.”

Following its first anniversary, FXIFY has received global recognition and trust, bolstered by awards from International Business Magazine as the “Best Trading Tailored Account Provider UK 2023” and “Leading Prop Trading Firm 2023”. These accolades have helped cement its reputation as an industry leader. Committed to enhancing its services, FXIFY continues to expand its product offerings and platforms to provide the ultimate prop trading experience.

FXIFY offers trading capital up to $400,000 with a performance split of up to 90%, and features like instant payouts. This flexibility allows traders to request and receive payouts from day one of trading a live-funded account. The firm supports a variety of popular trading platforms and customizable programs, catering to diverse trading styles and needs, through its 1, 2, and 3 phase programs with tailored account types and add-ons.

Bobby Winters further explained: “It is our 20 years of experience in the forex brokerage industry that sets us apart from other prop firms. We know what it takes to give our clients the best experience, from trading platforms, execution, customer support, and evaluation programs. This gives our traders the confidence they need to navigate this rapidly changing and growing environment so they can focus on what’s important to them – trading and payouts.”

As part of a seasoned brokerage group, FXIFY leverages its extensive experience to continue its trajectory of strong growth. With a foundation built on reliable trade execution and outstanding customer support, FXIFY is globally recognized as a premier leader in the prop trading sector.

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