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Blockstream Mining Announces Strategic Focus on Proprietary Mining and Vertical Integration

Backed by $350 Million in Financing, Company Scales Infrastructure with Over 120,000 Miners Acquired Since Spinout

MONTREAL, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Blockstream Mining, now operating as an independent entity, today announced its sharpened strategic focus on proprietary mining and full vertical integration. The company, which has been a foundational player in the global Bitcoin mining ecosystem since its inception, will concentrate on expanding its self-mining footprint while building the energy infrastructure required to support long-term scalability and resilience.

Following its spinout from Blockstream earlier this year, Blockstream Mining has secured over $350 million in financing, including equity, debt, and tokenized asset sales. The capital raise has enabled rapid execution on key infrastructure initiatives, including the acquisition of over 120,000 miners to fuel the company’s next phase of growth.

“Bitcoin mining is no longer just about machines and megawatts—it’s about owning and optimizing the entire value chain,” said Chris Cook, CEO of Blockstream Mining. “As the industry matures, those who control their own energy and infrastructure will be best positioned to thrive. We’re doubling down on our mission to be one of the most efficient, vertically integrated mining operations in the world.”

Blockstream Mining is deploying capital toward the development of new energy generation assets—particularly renewable and hybrid power systems—to reduce dependence on third-party providers and shield operations from energy market volatility. This approach supports cost stability, improves environmental performance, and ensures maximum uptime across its expanding fleet.

The vertical integration roadmap includes:

  • Expansion of Proprietary Mining: Rapid growth in self-mining capacity across North America, anchored by cost-effective, high-uptime sites.
  • Infrastructure Ownership: Continued investment in power infrastructure and on-site energy generation to maintain control over critical operational inputs.
  • Operational Excellence: Leveraging Blockstream’s engineering legacy and technical depth to drive efficiency across deployment, cooling, and energy management.

Chris Cook, who launched Blockstream Mining and has led the business since its inception, serves as CEO of the newly independent company. Dr. Adam Back, Co-Founder and CEO of Blockstream, will continue to play a valued role in the company’s strategic direction as Chair of the Advisory Board. In this capacity, Dr. Back will provide high-level guidance on technology, infrastructure development, and capital strategy, helping to ensure that Blockstream Mining remains at the forefront of Bitcoin mining innovation.

As part of the spinout, the Blockstream Satellite program — which broadcasts Bitcoin’s blockchain globally via satellite to enhance network resilience and accessibility — will also transition under the new entity’s stewardship. Blockstream Satellite is already an integral part of Blockstream Mining’s operations, providing connectivity for mining sites in remote locations where traditional internet infrastructure is unreliable or unavailable, further strengthening the company’s commitment to security, uptime, and decentralization.

Blockstream Mining has always been about delivering secure, scalable Bitcoin infrastructure,” said Dr. Adam Back. “With this transition, Chris and the team are exceptionally well-placed to carry the vision forward—scaling with independence, deep technical expertise, and a steadfast commitment to Bitcoin’s long-term success. I look forward to collaborating in this next chapter to build something truly enduring.”

“We’re proud of our roots and even more excited about what comes next,” added Cook. “With strong capital backing, clear focus, and full control over our operations, we’re building the backbone of Bitcoin’s future—one megawatt at a time.”

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
press@mining.blockstream.com

Welcome to the 1V1 Trading Arena: Bybit Blends Gameplay With Real Crypto Wins for Pro and New Users

DUBAI, UAE, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is excited to unveil the 1V1 Trading Arena, gamifying trading experience for crypto pros and beginners in the first ever 1-on-1 trading battle on Bybit. The competition allows eligible Bybit users to battle another individual trader and share in $1,000,000 in airdrops.

Designed for both seasoned pros and newcomers, the event offers rewards for every trading style. From now until May 22, 10AM UTC, participants can engage in direct PnL (Profit and Loss)-based battles against fellow traders.

Highlights

  • Pro Trader Face-Offs: Users may race one another without having to join squads, allowing individual traders to demonstrate their tradecraft to the fullest.
  • Performance, Not Size: The trader with the higher Profit and Loss percentage will emerge victorious, no matter the invested amount.
  • Flash Rewards in Seconds: The winning trader will get to claim the rewards of each match immediately.
  • Race at Their Pace: Participants can choose their own battle mode from 1 to 4 hours–Blitz, Rush, or Endurance. Bybit’s powerful trading tools are at their disposal to help them set positions and automate entry and exit points.

In addition, newcomers will get a chance to join a lucky draw and win up to 100 USDT when they win the first match. Users may also receive referral bonuses of up to 20% of the referees’ points.

Tune in Live: The Ultimate KOL Trading Battle

The 1V1 Trading Arena reinvents traditional trading competitions and enables users to take full control of their portfolios and strategies, blending gameplay with rewards powered by Bybit’s suite of trading solutions.

The stakes are about to get higher on May 7 where two influential crypto traders will compete head to head on Bybit Live. The audience will get to witness the drama unfold in real time, hear tips on how to get the most out of the campaign from the trading pros, while taking part in interactive giveaways for a chance to win from a 1,000 USDT prize pool during the session.

Terms and conditions apply. To find out more about the unique trading competition, users may visit: 1V1 Trading Arena: Face-off for big rewards!

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press 

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com

For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

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Aker Horizons ASA: Invitation to presentation of first-quarter results 2025

FORNEBU, Norway, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Aker Horizons (OSE: AKH) will publish its financial results for the first quarter 2025 on Thursday 8 May 2025, at 07:00 CEST. An online presentation of the results will be held on the same day at 08:30 CEST.

Date: Thursday 8 May 2025
Time: 08:30 CEST
Language: English
Link: https://akerhorizons.com/investors

Questions can be submitted prior to and during the presentation to ir@akerhorizons.com

For further information, please contact:
Jonas Gamre, Investor Relations, Tel: +47 97 11 82 92
Email: jonas.gamre@akerhorizons.com
Mats Ektvedt, Media, Tel: +47 41 42 33 28
Email: mats.ektvedt@corpcom.no

About Aker Horizons

Aker Horizons develops green energy and green industry to accelerate the transition to Net Zero. The company is active in renewable energy, carbon capture and sustainable industrial assets. As part of the Aker group, Aker Horizons applies industrial, technological and capital markets expertise with a planet-positive purpose to drive decarbonization globally. Aker Horizons is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange and headquartered in Fornebu, Norway. Across its portfolio, the company is present on five continents.
www.akerhorizons.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com.

https://news.cision.com/aker-horizons/r/aker-horizons-asa–invitation-to-presentation-of-first-quarter-results-2025,c4143825

 

China Pavilion Wows Visitors at Osaka Expo

OSAKA, Japan, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Since its officially opening on April 13, the Osaka World Expo’s China Pavilion has become one of the most popular attractions at the Expo. By incorporating traditional Chinese cultural elements such as bamboo slips, Chinese characters, and scrolls and presenting exhibits that connect the past, present, and future, the China Pavilion boasts the theme of “Building a Community of Life for Man and Nature—Future Society of Green Development.” As of the end of April, it had received nearly 90,000 visitors, over 5,700 per day on average and 8,000 on weekends.

China Pavilion Wows Visitors at Osaka Expo
China Pavilion Wows Visitors at Osaka Expo

The China Pavilion consists of three segments: “Harmony between Humanity and Nature” “Green Mountains and Clear Waters” and “Endless Life.”

The “Harmony between Humanity and Nature” section highlights China’s ancient ecological wisdom, which emphasizes respect and reverence for nature. It features a large multimedia display themed around the 24 solar terms and a digital presentation of Pictures of Tilling and Weaving, the world’s earliest agricultural encyclopedia. By using modern technology, it showcases replicas of iconic artifacts such as the oracle bones unearthed in Xiaotun Village, the He Zun, and the copper plates of the imperial edict on unifying weights and measures of the Qin dynasty, as well as key archaeological sites like Sanxingdui, Liangzhu, and Yinxu.

The “Green Mountains and Clear Waters” section explains China’s ecological philosophy. Through multimedia installations, it features projects such as the Dujiangyan irrigation system, the world’s earliest water conservancy project, the 2,500-year-old mulberry-dike fishpond system and so on.

The “Endless Life” section focuses on China’s breakthroughs in deep space exploration, deep sea research and artificial intelligence. Highlights include the first-ever close-up comparison display of soil from the moon’s far side and near side, live video interaction between Chinese astronauts in the Tiangong Space Station and expo visitors, a simulated cabin of the Jiaolong deep-sea submersible showing rare footage from 7,062 meters below the sea, and an AI model that brings the beloved mythological figure Sun Wukong to life and discusses past and present topics with visitors, composing poems, and creating art.

The China Pavilion has hosted various events that promote Kunqu Opera and the 24 solar terms, as well as Chinese companies including iFLYTEK and COSCO. In the coming months, dozens of Chinese provinces, regions, and municipalities will bring their amazing exhibits and performances to make the pavilion even a bigger draw.

Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/china_pavilion_wows_visitors_osaka_expo.jpg

 

Gorilla Technology Releases Full Year Audited Financials for 2024


London, United Kingdom – Newsfile Corp. – April 30, 2025 – Gorilla Technology Group Inc. (NASDAQ: GRRR) (“Gorilla” or the “Company”), a global solution provider in Security Intelligence, Network Intelligence, Business Intelligence and IoT technology, today announced that the filing of its full-year audited financials for the year ended 31 December 2024 on Form 20-F with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission will be made today after market close.

Jay Chandan, Chairman and CEO, commented: “2024 was the year we moved from transformation to acceleration. We have cemented our position in the AI ecosystem, and we are building the digital infrastructure that will power governments and enterprises for the next decade. Over the last 18 months, we have rapidly expanded across the globe – from Southeast Asia to India to the Middle East. We are also building strong momentum in Europe, North America and Latin America. We have built a business development engine which is underpinned by model of efficient deployment and long-term partnership. Our sales pipeline is strong, our operations are streamlined, and we are confident as we look to the future, even in the midst of a challenging macroeconomic environment.”

Mr. Chandan continued, “The strength of our audited financials reflects the discipline, scale and ambition with which we are running the business. Our commitment to accuracy in financial reporting and disclosure reinforces that Gorilla stands on solid ground – operationally, financially and ethically.”

Gorilla’s 20-F will reflect the following updates to its financial controls and reporting:

  • Gorilla has fully remediated all previously reported material weaknesses. This includes upgrading its financial systems, hiring experienced talent and strengthening its internal governance.
  • Gorilla is fully Sarbanes-Oxley compliant, following extensive work with an external consultant, underscoring the depth and rigor of the Company’s internal controls and processes, as well as its maturity as a U.S.-listed company.

Bruce Bower, Interim CFO, added, “We are pleased to progress our financial imperatives. Looking ahead, Gorilla will continue to uphold the rigor, discipline and integrity that this filing has demonstrated and confirms. The foundation is in place, and we are well-positioned to scale for the long-term. With a clear strategy, exceptional leadership and relentless execution, we believe Gorilla represents front-footed leadership in this new AI-driven era.”

Further information and full financial statements can be found in the 20-F filed later today, after market close, on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

About Gorilla Technology Group Inc.

Headquartered in London U.K., Gorilla is a global solution provider in Security Intelligence, Network Intelligence, Business Intelligence and IoT technology. We provide a wide range of solutions, including Smart City, Network, Video, Security Convergence and IoT, across select verticals of Government & Public Services, Manufacturing, Telecom, Retail, Transportation & Logistics, Healthcare and Education, by using AI and Deep Learning Technologies.

Our expertise lies in revolutionizing urban operations, bolstering security and enhancing resilience. We deliver pioneering products that harness the power of AI in intelligent video surveillance, facial recognition, license plate recognition, edge computing, post-event analytics and advanced cybersecurity technologies. By integrating these AI-driven technologies, we empower Smart Cities to enhance efficiency, safety and cybersecurity measures, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents.

For more information, please visit our website: Gorilla-Technology.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Gorilla’s actual results may differ from its expectations, estimates and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “budget,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “believes,” “predicts,” “potential,” “might” and “continues,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding our beliefs about future revenues, our ability to attract the attention of customers and investors alike, Gorilla’s ability to win additional projects and execute definitive contracts related thereto, along with those other risks described under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Form 20-F Gorilla will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on April 30, 2025 and those that are included in any of Gorilla’s future filings with the SEC. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results. Most of these factors are outside of the control of Gorilla and are difficult to predict. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Gorilla undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made except as required by law or applicable regulation.

Investor Relations Contact:
Dave Gentry
RedChip Companies, Inc.
1-407-644-4256
GRRR@redchip.com

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hangzhou, China: Connecting International Youth to Museums Through Technology


HANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – From April 23 to 25, the Third UNESCO High-Level Forum for Museums was held in Hangzhou. Gathering over 190 museum directors, experts, and institutional representatives from more than 60 countries and regions around the world, the forum focused on in-depth discussions around key topics, including “The Evolution and Transformative Role of Museums”, “The Application of Digital Technology and Artificial Intelligence”, and “The Role of Museums as Educational Carriers and Lifelong Learning Platforms”. The outcomes of the forum will be presented at the World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development to be held in Spain in September 2025.

image-1.jpeg

This forum was not only a professional cultural gathering but also a vibrant cross-cultural dialogue among youth. During the forum’s activities, Aymene, a Generation Z student from Morocco studying in Hangzhou, visited sites such as Liangzhu Museum, personally experiencing how digital technology is reshaping museums – a vivid demonstration of international youth’s innovative approach to “unlocking museums”.

At Liangzhu Museum, Aymene engaged with the “Liangzhu Ancestors AI Face Swap Generator”, where artificial intelligence created a personal portrait infused with Liangzhu cultural elements. In front of the camera, he exclaimed, “It truly generated an AI image of me in the style of Liangzhu!” With the integration of AI, museums are no longer just places to observe history but have evolved into platforms to converse with history. Technology has rendered traditional culture tangible, approachable, and playful.

Moroccan youth Aymene engaged with the "Liangzhu Ancestors AI Face Swap Generator" at Liangzhu Museum, using artificial intelligence to create a personal portrait infused with Liangzhu cultural elements.
Moroccan youth Aymene engaged with the “Liangzhu Ancestors AI Face Swap Generator” at Liangzhu Museum, using artificial intelligence to create a personal portrait infused with Liangzhu cultural elements.

Another highlight was the AR headset tour. Aymene marveled at how it “broke the limits of perception”. With a simple gesture, pottery and jade cong artifacts from 5,000 years ago leapt vividly before his eyes, accompanied by clear explanations of their functions, craftsmanship, and historical backgrounds. Regarding these technological displays of cultural heritage, Aymene remarked, “They have turned 5,000-year-old cultural symbols into a universal language for the world. With cultural continuity enhanced by technological innovation, it’s no wonder that this homegrown AR headset from Hangzhou won the admiration of museum directors from around the globe.”

Through the lens of international youth, this forum raised an inspiring question: “How can Generation Z and museums achieve mutual engagement?” The answers are gradually emerging: telling artifact stories through short videos, and reviving ancient ruins with AI—these approaches not only dissolve the boundaries of space and perception but also reshape how people connect with cultural heritage.

To Gen Z, museums aren’t dusty relics—they’re a fleeting moment in history’s river, a high-five across the expanse of time. With the advance of digital technologies and the growing cultural consciousness among global youth, future museums may evolve from being mere repositories of the past into laboratories for the future.

From “understanding” to “participating,” from “passive reception” to “active engagement,” international youth are redefining the way to unlock museums. This vibrant dialogue across the world is breathing new life into museums, opening up infinite possibilities for the future.

Hashtag: #Hangzhou

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

LUX Mash-Up: Reframing Bollywood Soundtracks With Empowering Clap-Backs

LUX and VML Singapore Create Entertaining Playlists That Spark Reflection on Gender Representation in Popular Bollywood Songs


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Iconic beauty brand, LUX, has always stood against casual sexism. Through the years, LUX has launched numerous campaigns to fight sexism and empower women. This year, LUX is tackling sexism head-on through music.

Unstoppable female DJs: Dr Sangria, DJ Pearl and DJ Tashi rocking club-goers with electrifying LUX Mash-Ups.
Unstoppable female DJs: Dr Sangria, DJ Pearl and DJ Tashi rocking club-goers with electrifying LUX Mash-Ups.

Teaming up with Bhushan Kumar’s T-Series—India’s leading music powerhouse with an expansive catalogue that resonates with diverse audiences—this collaboration marks a bold and culturally resonant step in driving the conversation around equality and respect.

Rather than dismissing these cultural touchstones, LUX chose to spark a dialogue and offer a fresh perspective. Working with VML Singapore and on-ground partner EYP Creations, and collaborating with India’s leading female DJs – DJ Pearl, DJ Tashi, and Dr Sangria – the LUX Mash-Up was created to encourage reflection on the messages embedded within popular songs.

The Mash-Up playlists juxtapose popular Bollywood hits with empowering anthems, creating a dynamic interplay between familiar sounds and progressive perspectives. The project aims to offer a counterpoint to potentially limiting portrayals, fostering a more nuanced understanding.

LUX Mash-Ups remix and reframe familiar songs, inviting listeners to consider the underlying messages and encouraging a more empowering interpretation of these cultural staples.

See their posts here:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJEFplhKPr3/?igsh=d2kzdHNza2pzb2Ix
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJEKAcsJyPy/?igsh=MTFkZ2Q3dTBtb3MwMg==
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJETTKutQUC/?igsh=ZHJob3NtejNkaWt1

“Music is emotion. Music is memory. By evolving the narratives we dance and celebrate to, we can shape a more inclusive and empowering vision of women and their beauty and strength,” said Hinoti Joshi, Global Managing Partner at VML Singapore. “With the LUX Mash-Up, we wanted to fight sexism without preaching; to make people move – and make them think – without missing a beat,” said Marco Versolato, CCO of VML Singapore.

Live performances, curated playlists on digital platforms, and engaging online content allowed the campaign to organically integrate into India’s celebratory spaces, sparking both joy and reflection.

This entertaining campaign builds on LUX’s longstanding commitment to championing women and promoting positive cultural narratives.
Hashtag: #VMLSingapore

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About LUX

LUX has been celebrating beauty and femininity since 1925. We understand that beauty is a woman’s armour, her source of strength. It is hers to express, unapologetically. We will continue to help women everywhere to rise above judgements they face at home, in the workplace and in wider society.

BANILA CO Dominates the Global Cleansing Balm Market, Ranked No.1 Top Selling Cleansing Balm, by Euromonitor

From K-Beauty Icon to Global Favorite: A Cleansing Balm That Sets New Global Standards

Banila Co has been named the No. 1 global cleansing balm brand, according to the research by Euromonitor International.

  • Banila Co ranked as the world’s top-selling cleansing balm brand based on 2023 global retail sales
  • Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm surpasses 90 million units sold worldwide
  • Banila Co continues to expand its cleansing balm portfolio and launches special-edition collaborations

SEOUL, South Korea, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Makeup brand Banila Co announced that it has been named the world’s top-selling cleansing balm brand[1], based on retail sales data compiled, according to data analytics company Euromonitor International.

Banila Co Tops Global Cleansing Balm Market, according to Euromonitor International
Banila Co Tops Global Cleansing Balm Market, according to Euromonitor International

Widely recognized as the cleansing balm, Banila Co has solidified its position as a leading K-beauty brand through proprietary beauty expertise and innovative technology. According to Euromonitor, the global cleansing balm market was valued at approximately USD 1.04 billion in 2023. Banila Co accounted for 22% share of global retail value sales, reinforcing its standing as the No. 1 brand worldwide[2] in this category.

At the heart of this success is Banila Co’s flagship product, Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm, which has now sold more than 90 million units worldwide. Since its debut, Banila Co has consistently invested in research and development to enhance the product’s efficacy, with these efforts playing a significant role in strengthening the brand’s market position.

Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm is recognized for its ability to effectively remove makeup without leaving behind residue, while preserving key ingredients that nourish the skin. Its distinctive oil-balm formula melts seamlessly into the skin, delivering a gentle yet thorough deep-cleansing experience without causing irritation.

Banila Co has also expanded its product line to address a range of skin concerns. In addition to the existing Original, Pore Clarifying, Nourishing, and Calming variants, the brand recently introduced the Enriching Butter line, offering targeted cleansing solutions tailored to different skin types.

Furthermore, Banila Co has collaborated with popular characters such as Hello Kitty and My Melody to launch special-edition collections, transforming everyday cleansing into a joyful beauty ritual. Most recently, a playful partnership with The Powerpuff Girls has further strengthened Banila Co’s distinctive brand identity and signature appeal.

A Banila Co spokesperson said, “We are honored that the excellence of our long-standing bestseller, Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm, has been recognized worldwide. We will continue to strive to earn even greater trust in the global beauty market by delivering exceptional beauty products.”

[1] Source: Euromonitor International; Based on 2023 RSP Value Sales terms, Cleansing Balm sold via all retail channels (Research period: November 2024 ~ February 2025)

[2] Source Euromonitor International Limited; Based on Cleansing Balm product sold via retail in RSP value terms, 2023; Research conducted in November 2024 – February 2025.