2023-taiwan-japan-smart-city-exchange-summit:-creating-a-new-paradigm-with-data-applications

2023 Taiwan-Japan Smart City Exchange Summit: creating a new paradigm with data applications

 

In a move to deepen exchanges between Taiwan and Japan and increase future business opportunities in smart cities, the 2023 Taiwan-Japan Smart City Exchange Summit co-organized by VponiKalaNextDrive and New Economy Ventures (NEV) will be held on the first floor of Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center on March 29. At the event, participants will share their knowledge and experience on how to use data technology to reimagine transportation, tourism, business and governance while building and managing smart cities in Taiwan. The Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau has been invited to share local successful cases, with the goal of facilitating future planning for the joint development of smart cities and opening up further collaborative opportunities between Taiwan and Japan.

The 2023 Japan Smart City Exchange Summit specially invited Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau chairman Hiroshi Mizohata to share case experiences in Japan. He welcomed the potential for tie-ups between companies in Taiwan and Japan that enhance cooperation in data applications. In addition, representatives from a host of Taiwan government agencies including the Taipei City Government’s Department of Information and Tourism, New Taipei City Government’s Tourism and Travel Department, Taoyuan City Government’s Taoyuan First Stop in Taiwan, Pingtung County Government’s Transportation and Tourism Division, Taipei City Government’s Department of Information and Tourism, and Taichung City Government’s Research, Development and Evaluation Commission will also participate in the summit during which they will share their cases involving the application of big data in the development of smart cities, as well as ideas for smart city sustainability, smart infrastructure construction and urban digital transformation.

The four co-organizers will also share their own opportunities on smart city development. Among them Vpon founder Victor Wu, who entitled his presentation “Impact of a big data ecosystem: the mission and task of gathering together multiple teams for cross-border development”, will talk about his firm’s experience in creating more complete solutions by collaborating with other Taiwanese companies to enter the Japanese market as the driver of data solutions within the context of TaiwanJapan exchanges. iKala co-founder and CEO Sega Cheng will elaborate on trend insights based on tracking the efforts undertaken by online celebrities involved in cross-border businesses and how their Key Opinion Leader Radar solution can be applied to cross-border market services. NextDrive founder and CEO Jeryuan Yan, NEV general partner Jeff Wen and National Chung Cheng University dean of Information Technology Pao-Ann Hsiung will explore the future of data governance sustainability, the resilience of data technologies as well as the use of energy and AI in the processing of data.

In addition to being co-organizers of the summit, Vpon and iKala will also set up joint booths (booth 329 & 331) at the Taipei Smart City Summit & Expo from March 28 to 31, where they plan to demonstrate their best application examples on helping the governments of Taiwan and Japan develop smart cities through big data and technology tools. By participating in the summit or visiting the booth, participants can gain insight into the latest technologies currently trending in the worlds of cross-border intelligence, data technology and smart cities, as well as learn about what the future portends for smart cities jointly developed by Taiwanese firms and members of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association as a result of advances being made in cross-border cooperation and innovation. (Registration at ACCUPASS )

SOURCE Vpon Big Data Group

betconstruct-obtains-a-new-licence-from-the-danish-gambling-authority

BetConstruct Obtains a New Licence from The Danish Gambling Authority

Reading Time: < 1 minute

 

BetConstruct, a leading online gaming and betting solutions provider, has received a new licence from the Danish Gambling Authority, extending its offerings to a new market.

Being one of the most reputable and strictly regulated gambling commissions around the globe, the Danish Gambling Authority opens new opportunities for entering the Denmark iGaming industry. This licence enables BetConstruct to offer the majority of its services and solutions to operators in the Danish market and expand its reach in Europe.

BetConstruct’s offerings for the Danish market now include online casino games, sports betting and live casino, as well as retail solutions for betting shops. The Danish Online Casino and Betting licence can benefit various stakeholders in the online gambling industry – from operators, software providers and payment processors to marketing affiliates.

Obtaining a licence from The Danish Gambling Authority is a sublime advantage for businesses to widen their game offerings, enter a new, less saturated market in Europe and provide safe and engaging services to players. Hence, BetConstruct is proud to become one of the first providers to receive this prestigious licence.

elbit-systems-reports-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-2022-results

ELBIT SYSTEMS REPORTS FOURTH QUARTER AND FULL YEAR 2022 RESULTS

 

Elbit Systems Ltd. (“Elbit Systems” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: ESLT) (TASE: ESLT), the international high technology company, reported today its consolidated results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2022.

In this release, the Company is providing US-GAAP results as well as additional non-GAAP financial data, which are intended to provide investors a more comprehensive view of the Company’s business results and trends. For a description of the Company’s non-GAAP definitions see page 6 below, “Non-GAAP financial data”. Unless otherwise stated, all financial data presented is US-GAAP financial data.

Management Comment:

Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, President and CEO of Elbit Systems, commented:

“A healthy business environment and growing demand for Elbit Systems’ portfolio of leading technological capabilities resulted in a record order backlog of $15.1 billion. We increased our business development efforts to realize the significant opportunities created by growing defense budgets around the world.

Our 2022 financial results also reflect global supply chain disruptions and labor cost inflation. We accelerated investment in a range of operational initiatives to improve performance.

Increasing customer interest and the growing scale of new contracts reflect Elbit Systems’ successful transformation in recent years from a systems supplier to a comprehensive solution provider and supports future growth prospects.”

Fourth quarter 2022 results:

Revenues in the fourth quarter of 2022 were $1,506.4 million, as compared to $1,494.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Non-GAAP(*) gross profit amounted to $387.8 million (25.7% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2022, as compared to $381.1 million (25.5% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2021. GAAP gross profit in the fourth quarter of 2022 was $380.6 million (25.3% of revenues), as compared to $374.3 million (25.1% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Research and development expenses, net were $125.4 million (8.3% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2022, as compared to $114.0 million (7.6% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Marketing and selling expenses, net were $87.7 million (5.8% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2022, as compared to $80.8 million (5.4% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2021.

General and administrative expenses, net were $75.8 million (5.0% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2022, as compared to $72.4 million (4.8% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Other operating income in the fourth quarter of 2022, which amounted to $28.6 million was a result of a grant received by a subsidiary in Israel, which is associated with the Company meeting a significant milestone in a facility relocation plan.

Non-GAAP(*) operating income was $103.1 million (6.8% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2022, as compared to $120.1 million (8.0% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2021. GAAP operating income in the fourth quarter of 2022 was $120.3 million (8.0% of revenues), as compared to $107.3 million (7.2% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Financial expenses, net were $26.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2022, as compared to $19.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2021. The increase in 2022 was mainly a result of higher interest rates.

Other expenses, net were $14.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2022, as compared to other income, net of $9.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2021. Other expenses in the fourth quarter of 2022 were mainly a result of revaluation of investments in affiliated companies held under the fair value method.

Taxes on income in the fourth quarter of 2022 were tax benefits of $4.5 million, as compared to tax expenses of $92.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2021. Tax expenses in the fourth quarter of 2021 included a one-time expense of approximately $80.0 million related to the amendment of legislation regarding exempt earnings from “Approved Enterprises” and “Privileged Enterprises” in Israel (“Exempt Earnings”).

Equity in net earnings of affiliated companies and partnerships was $1.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2022, as compared to $3.1 million the fourth quarter of 2021.

Non-GAAP(*) net income attributable to the Company’s shareholders in the fourth quarter of 2022 was $75.0 million (5.0% of revenues), as compared to $94.9 million (6.4% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2021. GAAP net income attributable to the Company’s shareholders in the fourth quarter of 2022 was $85.3 million (5.7% of revenues), as compared to $8.2 million (0.5% of revenues) in the fourth quarter of 2021. The lower level of net income in the fourth quarter of 2021 was mainly a result of the tax expense mentioned under “Taxes on income” above.

Non-GAAP(*) diluted net earnings per share attributable to the Company’s shareholders were $1.68 for the fourth quarter of 2022, as compared to $2.14 for the fourth quarter of 2021. GAAP diluted earnings per share attributable to the Company’s shareholders in the fourth quarter of 2022 were $1.91, as compared to $0.18 in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Full year 2022 results:

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $5,511.5 million, as compared to $5,278.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2021.

For distribution of revenues by areas of operation and by geographic regions see the tables on page 14.

The majority of the revenues in 2022 were in the Airborne systems and C4ISR systems areas of operation. The growth in revenues in the C4ISR systems area was mainly due to increased sales of UAS systems to customers in Europe and higher sales of Sparton’s products in the U.S.

On a geographic basis, the decrease in North America was mainly a result of lower sales of medical instrumentation. The increase in Europe was mainly a result of higher sales related to the flight school project in Greece and sales of UAS, as well as armored vehicles and artillery.

Cost of revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $4,138.3 million (75.1% of revenues), as compared to $3,920.5 million (74.3% of revenues) in the year ended December 31, 2021.

Non-GAAP(*) gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $1,405.0 million (25.5% of revenues), as compared to $1,384.7 million (26.2% of revenues) in the year ended December 31, 2021GAAP gross profit in 2022 was $1,373.3 million (24.9% of revenues), as compared to $1,358.0 million (25.7% of revenues) in 2021. The GAAP and Non-GAAP gross profit in 2022 includes expenses of approximately $35 million related to the effect of the significant increase in the Company’s share price on employees’ stock price linked compensation plans.

Research and development expenses, net for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $435.7 million (7.9% of revenues), as compared to $395.1 million (7.5% of revenues) in the year ended December 31, 2021.

Marketing and selling expenses, net for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $326.0 million (5.9% of revenues), as compared to $291.8 million (5.5% of revenues) in the year ended December 31, 2021.

General and administrative expenses, net for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $313.0 million (5.7% of revenues), as compared to $267.4 million (5.1% of revenues) in the year ended December 31, 2021. General and administrative expenses in 2022 include expenses of approximately $16 million related to the Company’s stock price linked compensation plans.

Other operating income, net for the year ended December 31, 2022 amounted to $68.9 million, as compared to $14.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. Other operating income in 2022 resulted mainly from capital gains related to the sale of buildings and investments by subsidiaries in Israel and in the United Kingdom and a grant received by a subsidiary in Israel. Other operating income in 2021 was a result of capital gain related to the sale of a building by a subsidiary in Israel.

Non-GAAP(*) operating income for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $356.6 million (6.5% of revenues), as compared to $450.8 million (8.5% of revenues) in the year ended December 31, 2021GAAP operating income in 2022 was $367.5 million (6.7% of revenues), as compared to $418.5 million (7.9% of revenues) in 2021. GAAP and Non-GAAP operating income in 2022 was reduced by expenses of approximately $62 million related to the Company’s stock price linked compensation plans.

Financial expenses, net for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $51.4 million, as compared to $40.4 million in the year ended December 31, 2021. Financial expenses, net in 2022 included gains from changes in fair value of financial assets of approximately $6.1 million as compared to a gain of $18.8 million in 2021. Financial expenses, net in 2022 were also higher as compared to 2021 as a result of the increase in interest rates in 2022.

Other expenses, net in 2022 were $23.6 million, as compared to other income, net of $5.3 million in 2021. The expenses in 2022, resulted mainly from revaluation of holdings in affiliated companies, and expenses related to non-service costs of pension plans.

Taxes on income for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $24.1 million (effective tax rate of 8.2%), as compared to $131.4 million (effective tax rate of 34.3%) in the year ended December 31, 2021. Taxes on income in 2021 included an expense of approximately $80.0 million related to the “release” of Exempt Earnings. Taxes on income in 2022 were reduced by a tax benefit related to adjustments for prior years following a tax settlement in some of the Company’s subsidiaries in Israel with the Israeli tax authorities.

Equity in net earnings of affiliated companies and partnerships for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $7.0 million, as compared to $22.6 million in the year ended December 31, 2021. Equity in net earnings in 2021 included a gain of approximately $10.9 million related to the sale of an affiliated company.

Non-GAAP(*) net income attributable to the Company’s shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $268.9 million (4.9% of revenues), as compared to $367.6 million (7.0% of revenues) in the year ended December 31, 2021GAAP net income attributable to the Company’s shareholders in the year ended December 31, 2022 was $275.4 million (5.0% of revenues), as compared to $274.4 million (5.2% of revenues) in the year ended December 31, 2021. Net income in 2022 was reduced by net expenses of approximately $56 million related to the Company’s stock price linked compensation plans.

Non-GAAP(*) diluted net earnings per share attributable to the Company’s shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $6.03, as compared to $8.30 for the year ended December 31, 2021GAAP diluted net earnings per share attributable to the Company’s shareholders in the year ended December 31, 2022 were $6.18, as compared to $6.20 in the year ended December 31, 2021. Diluted net earnings per share in 2022, were reduced by $1.26 as a result of the expenses related to the Company’s stock price linked compensation plans.

Backlog of orders for the year ended December 31, 2022 totaled $15.1 billion, as compared to $13.7 billion as of December 31, 2021. Approximately 75% of the current backlog is attributable to orders from outside Israel. Approximately 60% of the current backlog is scheduled to be performed during 2023 and 2024.

Net cash provided by operating activities in the year ended December 31, 2022 was $240.1 million, as compared to $416.9 million in the year ended December 31, 2021. Operating cashflow in 2022 includes higher collection of customers debts offset by higher payments to suppliers.

Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on the Company:

In recent years, the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had significant negative impacts on the worldwide economy, resulting in disruptions to supply chains and financial markets, significant travel restrictions, facility closures and shelter-in place orders in various locations. Such disruptions also led to global shortages of electronics and other components, increased costs and extended lead times. Elbit Systems continues to monitor the macro-economic implications of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In parallel to the measures we have taken to maintain business continuity and deliveries to our customers, we also continue to work on efficiency initiatives with a number of our suppliers.

During 2021 and 2022 our defense activities, which account for most of our business, were not materially impacted by the pandemic, although some of our businesses experienced certain disruptions due to government directed safety measures, travel restrictions and supply chain delays.

We believe that as of December 31, 2022, Elbit Systems had a healthy balance sheet, adequate levels of cash and access to credit facilities that provide liquidity when necessary. We have given high priority to cash management and adequate cash reserves to run the business.

The extent of the impact of COVID-19 on the Company’s performance depends on future developments including the duration and spread of the pandemic, the measures adopted by governments to limit the spread of the pandemic, including implementation of vaccinations, and resulting actions that may be taken by our customers and our supply chain, all of which contain uncertainties. As noted in our annual report on Form 20-F, the preparation of financial reports requires us to make judgments, assumptions and estimates that affect the amounts reported. For our financial results for the year ended December 31, 2022, we considered the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our critical and significant accounting estimates. The expected impact of the COVID-19 pandemic did not have a material effect on our judgments, assumptions and estimates reflected in the results. However, our future results may differ materially from our estimates. As events continue to evolve in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, the estimates we use in future periods may change materially.

* Non-GAAP financial data:

The following non-GAAP financial data, including Adjusted gross profit, Adjusted operating income, Adjusted net income, and Adjusted diluted earnings per share,is presented to enable investors to have additional information on our business performance as well as a further basis for periodical comparisons and trends relating to our financial results. We believe such data provides useful information to investors and analysts by facilitating more meaningful comparisons of our financial results over time. The non-GAAP adjustments exclude amortization expenses of intangible assets related to acquisitions that occurred mainly in prior periods, capital gains related primarily to the sale of investments, Covid-19 related expenses, revaluations of investments in affiliated companies, non-operating foreign exchange gains or losses, one-time tax expenses, and the effect of tax on each of these items. We present these non-GAAP financial measures because management believes they supplement and/or enhance management’s, analysts’ and investors’ overall understanding of the Company’s underlying financial performance and trends and facilitate comparisons among current, past, and future periods.

Specifically, management uses Adjusted gross profit, Adjusted operating income, and Adjusted net income attributable to the Company’s shareholders to measure the ongoing gross profit, operating profit and net income performance of the Company because the measure adjusts for more significant non-recurring items, amortization expenses of intangible assets relating to prior acquisitions, and non-cash expense which can fluctuate year to year.

We believe Adjusted gross profit, Adjusted operating income, and Adjusted net income attributable to the Company’s shareholders are useful to existing shareholders, potential shareholders and other users of our financial information because they provide measures of the Company’s ongoing performance that enable these users to perform trend analysis using comparable data.

Management uses Adjusted diluted earnings per share to evaluate further adjusted net income attributable to the Company’s shareholders while considering changes in the number of diluted shares over comparable periods.

We believe adjusted diluted earnings per share is useful to existing shareholders, potential shareholders and other users of our financial information because it also enables these users to evaluate adjusted net income attributable to Company’s shareholders on a per-share basis.

The non-GAAP measures used by the Company are not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles. We believe that non-GAAP measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all of the amounts associated with our results of operations, as determined in accordance with GAAP, and that these measures should only be used to evaluate our results of operations in conjunction with the corresponding GAAP measures.

Investors are cautioned that, unlike financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, non-GAAP measures may not be comparable with the calculation of similar measures for other companies. They should consider non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as replacements for or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP (Unaudited) Supplemental Financial Data:

(US Dollars in millions, except for per share amounts)

Three months ended 
December 31, 2022

Three months ended
December 31, 2021

Year ended
December 31, 2022

Year ended
December 31, 2021

GAAP gross profit

$        380.6

$        374.3

$     1,373.3

$     1,358.0

Adjustments:

Amortization of purchased intangible assets(*)

7.2

6.8

31.7

26.7

Non-GAAP  gross profit

$        387.8

$        381.1

$     1,405.0

$     1,384.7

Percent of revenues

25.7 %

25.5 %

25.5 %

26.2 %

GAAP operating income

$        120.3

$        107.3

$        367.5

$        418.5

Adjustments:

Amortization of  purchased intangible assets(*)

11.4

12.8

49.2

47.0

Capital gain

(31.5)

(14.7)

Non-recurring grant

(28.6)

(28.6)

Non-GAAP operating income

$        103.1

$        120.1

$        356.6

$        450.8

Percent of revenues

6.8 %

8.0 %

6.5 %

8.5 %

GAAP net income attributable to Elbit Systems’
shareholders

$          85.3

$             8.2

$        275.4

$        274.4

Adjustments:

Amortization of purchased  intangible assets(*)

11.4

12.8

49.2

47.0

Capital gain

(20.5)

(24.9)

Revaluation of investments measured under fair value method

14.8

(12.5)

10.2

(17.3)

Non-operating foreign exchange (gains) losses

(3.0)

7.2

(10.5)

10.6

Non-recurring grant

(28.6)

(28.6)

Tax effect and other tax items, net

(4.9)

79.2

(6.3)

77.8

Non-GAAP  net income attributable to Elbit
Systems’ shareholders

$          75.0

$          94.9

$        268.9

$        367.6

Percent of revenues

5.0 %

6.4 %

4.9 %

7.0 %

GAAP diluted net EPS

$          1.91

$          0.18

$          6.18

$          6.20

Adjustments, net

(0.23)

1.96

(0.15)

2.10

Non-GAAP diluted net EPS

$          1.68

$          2.14

$          6.03

$          8.30

(*) While amortization of acquired intangible assets is excluded from the measures, the revenue of the acquired companies is reflected in the measures
and the acquired assets contribute to revenue generation.

Recent Events:

On December 21, 2022the Company announced that it was awarded a framework contract with a maximum value of approximately $410 million (approximately 1.89 billion Lei) to supply up to seven “Watchkeeper X” tactical unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for the Romanian Ministry of National Defense, with a validity of five years. No specific purchase order under the contract was awarded at the time the framework contract was announced.

On December 22, 2022, the Company announced that it was awarded a contract valued at approximately $36 million to supply four F-16 Full Mission Simulators (FMS) to the Polish Air Force (PLAF). The contract will be performed over a 28-month period.

On January 3, 2023, the Company announced that it was awarded a contract valued at  approximately $107 million to provide, operate and maintain the new Main Battle Tank (MBT) simulation and training centers of the Israeli Defense Forces’ (IDF) Armored Corps. The new training centers will train commanders and soldiers of the Armored Corps and will maintain readiness of  both regular and reserve units. The centers will be delivered over a three-year period and the contract includes operation and maintenance services for an additional period of fifteen years.

On January 10, 2023, the Company announced that it was awarded a contract in an amount of approximately $180 million from the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD) to provide, operate and maintain the new Mission Training Center (MTC) for the Israeli Air Force’s (IAF) F-16 fleet. The contract will be delivered over a three-year period with an additional fifteen year period that will include operation and maintenance services.

On January 11, 2023, the Company announced that it was awarded a contract in an amount of approximately $70 million to supply rockets to the armed forces of a European country. The contract will be performed over a period of 3 years.

On January 17, 2023, the Company announced that it signed a contract in an amount of approximately $95 million with the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD) to supply and maintain advanced Electro-optical systems for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) infantry forces. The contract will be performed over a period of 10 years.

On January 24, 2023, the Company announced that its subsidiary Elbit Systems Sweden AB (“Elbit Systems Sweden”), was awarded a contract valued at approximately $48 million by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), to supply Technical High Mobility Shelters (THMS) to the Swedish Army. The contract will be performed over a period of 3 years and includes options for further extensions.

On March 2, 2023, the Company announced that it was awarded two contracts with an aggregate value of $252 million to supply artillery rocket systems to a European NATO member country. Under the first contract in an amount of $119 million, Elbit Systems will supply a battalion’s worth of ATMOS (Autonomous Truck Mounted Howitzer) 155mm/52 caliber truck-mounted howitzers systems. The contract will be performed over a period of two years. Under the second contract in an amount of $133 million, Elbit Systems will provide two batteries worth of PULSTM artillery rocket-launcher systems including a package of rockets and missiles. The contract will be performed over a period of three years.

On March 2, 2023, the Company announced that its Romanian subsidiary, Elmet International SRL., was awarded a follow-on contract valued at $120 million from General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) to supply unmanned turrets, Remote Controlled Weapon Stations (RCWS) and mortar systems for the ‘Piranha V’ Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) of the Romanian Armed Forces. The work will performed in Romania over a three-year period.

Dividend:

The Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.5 per share. The dividend’s record date is April 18, 2023. The dividend will be paid on May 1, 2023, after deduction of taxes at the source, at the rate of 16.8%.

Conference Call:

The Company will be hosting a conference call today, Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time. On the call, management will review and discuss the results and will be available to answer questions.

To participate, please call one of the teleconferencing numbers that follow. If you are unable to connect using the toll-free numbers, please try the international dial-in number.

US Dial-in Number: 1-866-744-5399 
Canada Dial-in Number: 1-866-485-2399 
Israel Dial-in Number: 03-918- 0644 
International Dial-in Number:  972-3- 918- 0644

at 9:00am Eastern Time6:00am Pacific Time4:00pm Israel Time

The conference call will also be broadcast live on Elbit Systems’ website at https://www.elbitsystems.com. An online replay will be available from 24 hours after the call ends.

Alternatively, for two days following the call, investors will be able to dial a replay number to listen to the call. The dial-in numbers are: 1-888-782-4291 (US and Canada) or +972-3-925-5900 (Israel and International).

Investor conference

Starting at 10:00am Israel time (4:00am Eastern TimeTuesday, March 28, 2023, Elbit Systems will host an investor conference in Israel. The event will be streamed live in Hebrew with a simultaneous English translation. A recording of the event will be available shortly after the event concludes. The live webcast and recording will be available in the Investor Relations section of Elbit Systems’ website at http://www.elbitsystems.com.

Investors and analysts that wish to ask questions related to topics discussed at the investor conference are welcome to present their questions during the Q&A part of the financial results conference call.

Annual Report

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F (including its financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022) will be filed in April, 2023.

corporate-overview-and-shareholder-update-for-powerbridge-technologies

Corporate Overview And Shareholder Update for Powerbridge Technologies

 

With 25 years of experience, Powerbridge Technologies Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: PBTS) (“Powerbridge” or the “Company”), is an established provider of a broad spectrum of digital solutions and technology services. The Company’s offerings range from SaaS to ePlatforms and to Smart Devices for global trade, education, travel and leisure, and digital assets. Powerbridge’s clients span a diverse range of global trade and cross-border participants to retail customers and educators. Since listed on Nasdaq, Powerbridge delved into the sectors of metaverse development, AI based education, and cryptocurrency.

Here is a brief overview of Powerbridges corporate history:

  • 2023: Announced plan to further enhance ChatGPT into education services
  • 2023: Acquired majority stake in several high growth technology companies
  • 2022: Engaged in M&A for AI and Blockchain technology companies
  • 2022: Developed metaverse and NFT solutions for several industries
  • 2021: Revealed plans to engage in digital assets for Bitcoin and Ethereum
  • 2020: Developed an IoT platform and smart fixtures and equipment
  • 2019: Listed on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “PBTS”
  • 2019: Began to provide digital solutions across multiple industries
  • 2018: Developed Powerbridge BaaS platform and offerings
  • 2016: Provided Powerbridge SaaS platform for cross-border eCommerce
  • 2014: Launched Logistics Cloud platform and supply chain solutions
  • 2010: Offered cross-border trade and eCommerce platforms
  • 2007: Began to provide technology solutions and services for global trade
  • 2000: Launched China’s first international trade ERP management software
  • 1997: The Company was founded as a software development company

Overall, Powerbridge has a history of innovation and has continued to evolve and adapt to changes in the newest technology and services across multiple industries.

Here is a summary of the Company’s revenues over the past five years:

  • 2021: $32.1 million
  • 2020: $26.6 million
  • 2019: $20.1 million
  • 2018: $23.1 million
  • 2017: $21.6 million

The Company primarily generates revenue through its digital solutions and ePlatforms. These services include:

  • Cross-border eCommerce Platform: Allowing businesses to import and export their products and providing services such as compliance and logistics
  • Logistics Cloud Platform: Providing supply chain management solutions that help streamline operations, optimize inventory, and improve delivery
  • SaaS Solutions: Offering various solutions for international trade and cross-border eCommerce, including data analysis and customer management

Powering New Business Lines

In 2022, the Company expanded its offerings to include metaverse and NFT solutions, demonstrating its continued commitment to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies. In addition, the Company began to explore M&A opportunities in the digital service, AI and Blockchain sectors, which led to the acquisition of majority stakes in several profitable technology companies in 2023.

Looking ahead, Powerbridge has announced plans to further enhance its presence in the education industry by leveraging AI and ChatGPT technologies. The Company also intends to continue its expansion into the digital assets market by engaging in cryptocurrency as part of its overall blockchain development strategy.

Powerbridge is committed to maintaining compliance and corporate governance standards. Stewart Lor, CEO of the Company, an American founder has increased his stake in the Company and assures stakeholders that the Company is unlike some other Chinese companies listed on U.S. exchanges for compliance and corporate governance practices.

With over 20 years of experience, Powerbridge has demonstrated a track record of doing business the right way and growing its business. As the Company looks into the future, Stewart Lor intends to lead and grow Powerbridge into a holding company that operates several leading-edge businesses. He expects the Company’s market capitalization to surpass $1 billion within the next two-to-three years.

With its continued dedication to innovation and emerging technologies, Powerbridge is poised for continued success to deliver long-term value to its shareholders.

popok-gaming-slots-are-now-certified-for-denmark

PopOK Gaming slots are now certified for Denmark

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PopOK Gaming’s high-quality products have received certification for the Danish market, allowing the company to offer its 18 video slots and the Progressive Jackpot to operators in the country.

This exciting news means that local players can now enjoy PopOK Gaming’s diverse games, including popular titles such as Yummy, Lost Treasure, Hot Bar, Lucky Jungle, Magic Treasures of Egypt, and Los Apaches.

Denmark is a highly competitive market for online gambling operators and providers, thanks to its progressive legislative system, top-notch telecommunications facilities, and established financial services industry. Therefore, being able to enter the Danish market is a significant milestone for PopOK Gaming and promises to be a huge success.

Tsovinar Elchyan, PopOK Gaming’s Product Manager, expressed the company’s appreciation for its presence in Denmark, stating: “At PopOK Gaming, we recognize the significance of entering the Danish market, and we are excited to bring our innovative products and solutions to local players. Our team has been dedicated to meeting all the requirements to ensure a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience for Danish players.”

space-company-isar-aerospace-secures-series-c-funding-round-of-usd-165m-to-meet-global-demand-for-access-to-space

Space company Isar Aerospace secures Series C Funding Round of USD 165m to meet global demand for access to space

 

Satellite launch service company Isar Aerospace today announced the closing of its USD 165m (EUR 155m) Series C round. To date in 2023, this is the largest SpaceTech financing round globally and one of the largest European DeepTech fundraises. The round is backed by 7-Industries Holding, Bayern Kapital via its Scale Up Fund Bavaria, Earlybird Venture Capital, HV Capital, Lakestar, Lombard Odier Investment Managers, Porsche Automobil Holding SE (Porsche SE), UVC Partners, and Vsquared Ventures. Investors Porsche SE and HV Capital will join Isar Aerospace’s Advisory Board together with 7-Industries Holding joining in an observer capacity. Part of the funds provided by the private investors is backed by the European Union and regional programs managed by the European Investment Fund, such as InvestEU and the German Future Fund.

The funding enables Isar Aerospace to continue its journey towards the inaugural flight and ramp-up the cadence of its Spectrum launch vehicle. It will also enable the scaling of its proven production capabilities to serve the company’s strong order book for launches of small and medium-sized satellites as global demand rises. At the same time, the Series C will allow the company to keep investing in developments for new initiatives and products, and to continue building on its vertical integration, especially its automated production capabilities that significantly lower the cost of building rockets.

Daniel Metzler, Co-Founder and CEO of Isar Aerospace explains: “The strong interest and commitment from our international investors signals their confidence in our vision and technological capabilities. Today, and even more so tomorrow, space technologies are key to enabling innovation, technology and security. Isar Aerospace offers the access to space that is urgently needed for commercial, institutional and government customers. This financing round marks another important step on our journey to orbit.”

David Kownator, Chief Financial Officer of Isar Aerospace, adds: “We are thrilled to have concluded this round of financing in a difficult global market environment, building on strong investor demand and the company’s steady progress, at an increased valuation compared to our Series B in July 2021.”

The record round underlines Isar Aerospace’s leading position in the commercial space industry. At the same time, it highlights the company’s role in strengthening Europe’s capabilities for consistent, flexible, and cost-efficient access to space for commercial and institutional customers worldwide. With a total financing amount raised of more than USD 330m (EUR 310m), Isar Aerospace is the most capitalized independent New Space company in the European Union.

Bulent Altan, Chairman of the Advisory Board and seed investor in Isar Aerospace, says: “The undeniably most common building block of any space application is reliable and affordable access to orbit. Isar Aerospace is a catalyst for the tremendous growth of the sector. With a crisp and fast execution, focus on quality, and establishing capabilities for future volume production, Isar Aerospace is emerging as a strong leader in the space economy. I am extremely pleased to have been a part of the journey from day one and look forward to the upcoming first launches.”

Full vertical integration, solid customer pipeline

Since its creation in 2018, Isar Aerospace has established itself as a technological leader, having developed proprietary know-how through full vertical integration, owning design, production, and testing operations entirely in-house. Its manufacturing facility, established in Munich, provides maximum reliability, cost-efficiency, and flexibility. The high degree of automation allows for future scalability to serve increasing market demand. Isar Aerospace has signed firm contracts with customers globally, including major commercial players, New Space companies, and government institutions. The company’s flight manifest is already fully booked for its first years of operations, demonstrating its strong positioning as a provider of cost-efficient access to specific orbits for the deployment of constellations and targeted use cases.

Targeting the inaugural flight in the second half of 2023

Isar Aerospace started the production of the maiden flight vehicle while entering the qualification stages for its vehicle systems. The entirely in-house developed and manufactured Aquila engine is undergoing engine testing and qualification. At the same time, the company is finalizing the build-up of its launch infrastructure at the launch site in Andøya, Norway, from where the inaugural flight of its launch vehicle Spectrum, which is planned for the second half of 2023, will take place.

Strengthening Europe’s capabilities to access orbit

Access to space is key to unlocking the innovation potential for technologies urgently needed to address climate change, ensure secure and efficient connectivity, and improve critical infrastructure globally. With 2022 serving as a wake-up call for Europe’s geopolitical role, decision-makers have prioritized the advancement of European sovereign access to space, as the continent aims to ensure its global competitiveness. Isar Aerospace will significantly contribute to materializing independent capabilities for accessing space. By developing and building launch vehicles that will transport small and medium-sized satellites and constellations into Earth’s orbit, companies, institutions, and governments globally will be empowered to improve their capabilities and services in Earth observation, telecommunications, agriculture, disaster management, transportation, environmental monitoring and protection, scientific research, and defense applications.

amway-applauded-by-frost-&-sullivan-for-capitalizing-on-innovative-competitive-strategies-to-drive-differentiation-in-its-home-water-treatment-solution-in-apac

Amway Applauded by Frost & Sullivan for Capitalizing on Innovative Competitive Strategies to Drive Differentiation in Its Home Water Treatment Solution in APAC

 

Frost & Sullivan recently analyzed the home water treatment (HWT) industry and, based on its assessment results, recognizes Amway with the 2022 Asia-Pacific (APAC) Competitive Strategy Leadership Award. Amway is a global entrepreneur-led health and wellness company committed to “helping people live better, healthier lives.” The company capitalizes on innovative competitive strategies to drive product differentiation while addressing changing customer needs in the APAC HWT space. Moreover, the product-based company continually explores new business models, such as leasing and service contracts, to maintain its edge in the market’s changing competitive landscape. Amway leverages its comprehensive product suite to address customers’ health and wellness needs uniquely and holistically.

Through its growth strategies, Amway enhances its distribution channels, offers premium aftersales services, and promotes a distinctive product and brand identity with continued innovation and sustained leadership. The company’s flagship eSpring™ water purifier solution positions it at the cutting edge of clean water technology by strategically focusing on ongoing innovation and customer-led product development. As the leading HWT system brand in APAC, the company successfully differentiates its HWT solution against competing solutions offered by the fragmented market’s new and emerging participants. Amway’s extensive scientific testing and third-party certification ensure its eSpring product satisfies the highest safety, performance, and structural integrity standards.

Sama Suwal, a Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Research Analyst, stated that “Amway’s eSpring solution is an on-demand, point-of-use water purification product that leverages the company’s innovative mix of state-of-the-art technologies to deliver clean, safe, and better-tasting water in a cost-effective, consistent, and eco-friendly manner.”

Amway continually adds unique capabilities in response to evolving customer needs to strengthen its advanced HWT solution’s competitive differentiation and to stay ahead of the technology and demand curve. As a result, Amway responds rapidly and proactively to new customer demands and its existing eSpring unit’s technical challenges in the field, thereby marinating old systems while developing new product iterations. Moreover, Amway’s extensive industry relationships with its partners and vendors protect it against supply chain volatility, evident by its success in securing its production and delivery operations against pandemic-related disruptions and pricing pressures.

“Overall, Amway develops and implements its strategies with its customers in mind, securing its position as a trusted partner and market leader. With its customer-centric corporate philosophy, Amway delivers optimal customer experiences and operates on the central tenet that its success depends on customer satisfaction,” explained Janice Wung, Program Manager, Energy & Environment at Frost & Sullivan. The company’s foundational approach establishes long-lasting relationships with customers throughout the product lifecycle. With its strong overall performance, Amway earns Frost & Sullivan’s 2022 APAC Competitive Strategy Leadership Award in the HWT industry.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has leveraged competitive intelligence to execute a strategy successfully that results in stronger market share, competitive brand positioning, and customer satisfaction.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

azentio-software-wins-gold-award-for-best-industry-cloud-erp-for-manufacturing

Azentio Software Wins Gold Award for Best Industry Cloud ERP for Manufacturing

 

Azentio Software is pleased to announce that it has been named Gold Winner of the ‘Best Industry Cloud ERP for Manufacturing’ category at the Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards, held on Saturday 18 March at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE. The prestigious award recognizes organisations’ purpose-led innovation and excellence throughout 18 nations in the Middle East and North Africa. This recognition is a testament to Azentio’s commitment to providing innovative and reliable cloud ERP solutions that meet the needs of world-class manufacturing enterprises in the MENA region.

Azentio ONEERP Manufacturing Cloud is IR 4.0 compliant and supports digitization for manufacturing businesses in various domains, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and rubber and plastics. It is one of the first ERP platforms in the manufacturing industry to offer a ground-breaking blockchain-enabled Halal industry cloud solution.

The platform provides a fully integrated and collaborative system that merges digital manufacturing and SCM components to address dynamic conditions in the industry value chain and meet changing customer demands. It optimizes business processes for manufacturing, distribution, and financial management through advanced technology, robust software security, and best-in-class scalability.

Suryanarayan Kasichainula, President and Global Head – ERP at Azentio Software, commented, “We are thrilled to be recognized as the ‘Best Industry Cloud ERP for Manufacturing’ at the Stevie® Awards. At Azentio, we strive to revolutionize how manufacturing enterprises operate in the modern era of cloud technology. Our cutting-edge ERP solutions empower our clients to undergo digital transformation and succeed in today’s challenging business landscape.”

Maggie Miller, President of the Stevie® Awards, stated, “We were impressed by the capabilities of Azentio ONEERP Manufacturing Cloud, which powers many of the world’s mid-market enterprises. This state-of-the-art cloud platform brings together the capabilities of financials, procurement, project management, HR and FP&A onto a unified cloud platform that shares real-time, and is designed with a powerful, people-centric approach. It supports rapid and continuous change while delivering individualized fit for clients at scale, delivering the right tools to unify processes across the organization.”

futu-records-us$2923-million-total-revenues-for-fourth-quarter-2022,-a-yoy-increase-of-42.3%

Futu Records US$292.3 Million Total Revenues for Fourth Quarter 2022, a YoY Increase of 42.3%

 

Moomoo’s parent company Futu Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: FUTU) (“Futu”, the “Company”), a leading tech-driven digital brokerage and wealth management platform, reported its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter of 2022. The Company recorded US$292.3 million (HK$2.28 billion) total revenues and US$130 million (HK$1.01 billion) non-GAAP adjusted net income, representing a year-over-year increase of 42.3% and 90.2% respectively.

The Company recorded US$976 million (HK$7.61 billion) total revenues and US$401.4 million (HK$3.13 billion) non-GAAP adjusted net income for full year ended December 31, 2022.

Strategic highlights of the fourth quarter:

  • As of quarter end, the total number of users of moomoo and its sister brand Futubull increased 12.7% year-over-year to 19.58 million.
  • Total number of registered clients increased 17.5% year-over-year to 3.23 million.
  • Total number of paying clients increased 19.5% year-over-year to 1.49 million.
  • By the end of the fourth quarter, the total client assets amounted to US$53.5 billion (HK$417.5 billion). In Singapore, the total client assets increased by 45.4% year-over-year.
  • The quarterly client retention rate remained high at 98%.
  • Corporate services maintained strong momentum with ESOP clients totaling 638, an increase of 59% sequentially.
  • According to a third-party data provider, Futu has participated in 41 IPO projects as their sponsor, bookrunner, underwriter, global coordinator or lead manager for Hong Kong listed companies, ranking first across the industry in 2022.
  • Total client assets in Futu’s wealth management business achieved US$4.05 billion (HK$31.58 billion) in the fourth quarter, representing a 68% growth from the previous year. The company has collaborated with 73 world-renowned global financial institutions in offering diverse fund products to clients, with five new partners onboarded this quarter.

“In the fourth quarter of 2022, we focused on long-term globalization plans and sharpened our product and service offerings to meet various demands from investors of all kinds. The financial results for the fourth quarter reflect stable business operation and momentum in our wealth management business and corporate services,” said Mr. Leaf Hua Li, Futu’s Founder, Chairman, CEO and Chairman of the Technology Committee.

In November, the Company was pleased to announce that it was ranked 2nd on Fortune’s “100 Fastest-Growing Companies” list of 2022, thanks to its outstanding operational performance. Futu is the top-ranked financial company on the list (View Disclosures at the end).

Futu Becomes the Go-To Trading Platform Across Generations with a 14% Surge in Senior Investor Activity

As a pioneering fintech brokerage in Hong Kong, Futu has further strengthened its leading position by garnering higher recognition from investors of all ages in the fourth quarter. Its number of users continued to grow, representing 43% of the HK adult population [1] in Q4. Additionally, investors aged 45 and above showed increased activity, with a 14% increase of trading frequency as compared to the previous quarter.

Futubull, Futu’s proprietary one-stop digital financial services platform in Hong Kong, has made investing in various asset classes more accessible. In 2022, investors were able to subscribe to the Hong Kong SAR government’s Green Bond and Silver Bond through this platform, further cementing Futu’s position as a preferred bond subscription platform in Hong Kong.

Futu also participated in the flagship event of the fintech industry, FinTech Week 2022, in Hong Kong, where it showcased its innovative solutions for business development, corporate services, and product extension. In addition, the company organized an investment forum in November that was attended by experts from renowned partnered fund houses and other institutions, which was well-received by participants.

Moomoo Captures 25% of Market Share in Singapore

During the fourth quarter, moomoo, Futu’s overseas one-stop investment super app, deepened its market penetration in the Singapore market with its user number surpassing 25% of the local population aged between 20 to 70 [2].

With financial literacy slated to play a greater role in advancing financial inclusion, the Company is cognizant of rolling out a school-focused program, giving students first-hand exposure to digitalized investing and personal finance. In the fourth quarter, moomoo partnered with tertiary institutions namely National University of SingaporeNanyang Technological UniversitySingapore Management University and Singapore University of Social Sciences to equip students with essential financial knowledge via seminars and workshops. Moomoo seeks to foster greater financial inclusion by imparting knowledge of personal finance, investing fundamentals and trading psychology, empowering the future pillars with a better financial and digital savviness for both personal and wealth growth.

To benefit the wider community, moomoo also engaged fund houses, asset management companies and other industry partners to conduct about 10 Lunch & Learn investing seminars and made all the course content available publicly.

Moomoo’s Pursuit of Technology Innovation Is Recognized by the Market

Moomoo continued to gain popularity in the US with its relentless efforts to drive technology innovation to transform investing experience. During the fourth quarter, the moomoo app launched new features, supporting bracket orders for Hong Kong and US listed stocks and Automated Customer Account Transfer Service (ACATS).

In December, moomoo received Benzinga’s 2022 Best Investment Research Tech Award (View Disclosures at the end). The award is in recognition of moomoo’s commitment to enabling smarter trading through its digital financial services platform with comprehensive data, strategic insights and advanced tools.

The brand kept its growth momentum with creative events. During the holiday season, moomoo launched the $60,000 Holiday Magic Sweepstakes campaign, which had attracted more than 12,000 US participants by December 14.

New Moomoo Features Continue to Help Diversify Australian Investors’ Portfolio

In the fourth quarter, moomoo Australia launched Hong Kong stock trading feature, enabling its clients to further diversify their portfolios. Investors can now trade AU, US and Hong Kong shares and ETFs on the one-stop platform, with full access to moomoo’s suite of professional-level analytics tools.

Moomoo Australia also introduced an Earnings Calendar feature in the fourth quarter. Investors can simply tap and follow to gain access to earnings information about US, Australia or Hong Kong SAR listed companies and A-share listed companies.

Wealth Management Business Reached a New Milestone with AUM Exceeding HK$30 Billion

Futu’s wealth management business AUM had reached $4.05 billion (HK$31.58 billion) by the end of the fourth quarter, an increase of 68% year-over-year. The AUM in mutual funds and alternative assets (incl. bonds) realized a year-over-year growth of 61% and 183% respectively.

In Singapore, the wealth management AUM increased by 64.2% from the previous quarter, with paying clients going up 75.1% sequentially. Moomoo added private investment funds and structured notes to its product offerings, further diversifying its product mix. The app also expanded its capability by enabling the rebalancing feature for model portfolios and a more comprehensive SmartSave feature, which helps investors to better manage their idle funds.

In Hong Kong, investors can trade US Treasuries via Futubull, with a minimum purchase amount of $1,000. Investors can also read weekly Market Outlook produced by Futu analysts to have a more in-depth understanding of the market.

Futu’s wealth management business continued to deepen its cooperation with more well-known global financial institutions. By the end of 2022, the business had partnered with 73 global financial institutions, including five new partners onboarded in the fourth quarter. In December, Futu’s wealth management platform Money Plus became the first distributor of a BlackRock fund in Hong Kong and successfully raised funds for a deal-by-deal private equity fund as its exclusive distributor.

Corporate Services Business Achieves Milestones in 2022

According to third-party financial data provider Wind, Futu has participated in 41 Hong Kong listed initial public offerings (IPOs) as their sponsor, bookrunner, underwriter, global coordinator or lead manager, ranking first across the industry in 2022. Meanwhile, Futu was entrusted by China Tourism Group Duty Free Corporation, Tianqi Lithium and CALB, the top three Hong Kong listed IPOs in terms of subscription amount in 2022, to be their corporate services provider.

Moomoo Financial Singapore Pte. Ltd (moomoo SG) took part in the IPO project of NoonTalk Media Limited as its sub placement agent, as well as acted as a participating dealer for the listing of UOBAM Ping An ChiNext ETF, and CSOP CSI STAR and CHINEXT 50 Index ETF.

Meanwhile, Futu’s employee stock ownership plan service debuted in Singapore, marking another milestone for the Company’s globalization strategy.

By the end of the fourth quarter, more than 1,500 investing institutions, financial media and listed companies had opened their Futu Page in Futu’s highly interactive community. More than 500 companies had joined the earnings season events offering over 900 live streams. Futu is also devoted to enhancing the communication between listed companies and investors by holding industry roundtables and reward-based discussions.

Building Social Accountability Through Engagements with Communities

Futu is committed to social responsibility. On its tenth anniversary, the Company partnered with Make-A-Wish International (MAW), the charity organization that helps fulfill the wishes of children diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. The Company, together with MAW, will bring joy and hope to eligible children from Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, the US and Australia.

In aid of the MAW Foundation, an additional fundraising virtual stock trading contest was held in Singapore, attracting over 15,000 participants. In Hong Kong, an offline charity fete was also organized by the Company to raise more funds, helping wish kids in need realize their dreams.

Futu encourages its employees to participate in their community through volunteer work. In Hong Kong SAR, around 100 people, including Futu staff and children, joined the beach clean-up volunteer activity in November.

Meanwhile, the Company continues pursuing the goal of empowering investors of all kinds with better financial literacy. By the end of the fourth quarter, the Company had rolled out more than 3,200 online courses in multiple languages, including 1,249 on moomoo. More than 480,000 users had taken investing courses on moomoo and Futu’s other platforms during the fourth quarter.

[1] HK adult population refers to the 2022 year-end number reported by the Census and Statistics Department of the HKSAR government.

[2] Adults include locals aged 20 to 70; the adult population is from the Singapore Department of Statistics’ population data by H1 2022

Disclosures

Accolades are not indicative of future performance. Futu is not affiliated with Fortune. For more information, please visit https://fortune.com/franchise-list-page/methodology-fastest-growing-companies-2022

Accolades are not indicative of future performance. Moomoo Technologies Inc. is not affiliated with Benzinga. For additional information, please visit: https://www.benzinga.com/events/fintech-awards/winners/

push-gaming’s-giga-jar-is-back-in-solo-slot-outing

Push Gaming’s Giga Jar is back in solo slot outing

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B2B gaming supplier Push Gaming, returns to the legendary Cluster Link mechanic and popular characters, in its latest wild release Giga Jar.

Played across 7×7 reels, familiar symbols from the studio’s hugely successful Jammin’ Jars series return in their own spin-off slot, highlighting the success of its proprietary games and the value of careful character development in its imaginative and engaging slot offering.

With a fresh cube and cold aesthetic, Giga Jar requires five or more adjacent fruit symbols or instant cash prizes to land to award a win. These winning symbols are removed from play, triggering a cascade of new icons to fall from the top of the matrix, providing the opportunity for additional clusters to be made.

Each cascade increases the player’s position on an incrementally increasing ladder with every three cascades awarding a Wild Jar. These substitute all symbols in-game, with each win the wild is part of increasing its multiplier by 1x, before moving to an adjacent cell on the gameboard.

In-game features aid the player in climbing this ladder. The Snowball mechanic can award multiple giant symbols up to 4×4 in size, revealing a matching symbol. Additionally, the Ice Breaker feature can remove up to three types of symbols from the game board, allowing for an additional cascade to be triggered.

Creating 12 cascades in total awards the bonus, unlocking the Giga Jar which occupies 2×2 spots on the grid, but acts like four 1×1 wilds. This guarantees three wins will be formed, at which point the Giga Jar will be frozen in place and three additional wins are needed to retrigger the Giga Jar and award an increasing multiplier that can climb as high as 50x.

This multifaceted, feature-focused release follows hot on the heels of other innovative titles such as Generous Jack, Retro Tapes and Mad Cars.

Commenting on the release, James Marshall, CEO at Push Gaming said: “Building upon the ground-breaking features seen in Jammin’ Jars and introducing revolutionary gameplay mechanics that consistently provide high-intensity action for players, underpins the entertainment found in Giga Jar.

“The slot empowers players through direct interaction and decision-based choices where they can increase their bet amount and start further up the incrementally increasing ladder. We are excited to see players’ reception to this Giga release.”