Blockchain Press Releases
Cyrus Watches and Patoro Partner with MetaMinds for Immersive Augmented Reality Experience at Luxury Innovation Summit
Digital Twins of Cigar and Watch Brand Will Be Presented
on October 1-2 in Geneva, Switzerland
GENEVA, Switzerland, Sept. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — MetaMinds, a metaverse and spatialweb technology company an entity within Zilliqa Group, is excited to announce its partnership with Cyrus Watches Genève and Patoro Cigars to create a unique augmented reality (AR) experience at the Luxury Innovation Summit. The event is the 6th annual gathering by Luxury Venture Group that showcases the latest trends and technologies in the luxury industry, taking place on October 1-2 in Geneva, Switzerland. It attracts C-level executives and leadership of international brands including LVMH, Kering, Chalhoub Group, etc.
This collaboration positions MetaMinds as the technology partner and leader in creating engaging and interactive experiences that enhance brand visibility and unlocks new ways of customer acquisition, especially appealing to brands entering the ‘engagement economy’ and targeting Gen Z audiences.
In 2024, the revenue in the cigars market worldwide so far amounts to US $23.4 bn with a projected CAGR of 4.12% from 2024 to 2029. It generated the highest revenue of US $13,330 mln in the United States this year when compared globally. The total luxury goods market has declined by 1-3% according to a study by Bain and Company causing the transformation that prioritizes experiences, emotional connections, and personalization, aligning with the needs and desires of modern consumers.
“The luxury industry is facing a profound shift, and we are excited to work with Cyrus Watches and Patoro Cigars, pioneers in embracing the innovative approach required to address declining customer demand. Moreover, luxury continues to evolve and is transforming into a lifestyle, rather than a mere product. We at MetaMinds aim to close this gap for luxury brands and help them tap into the ‘experience economy’ through technological means such as bespoke virtual worlds and spatialweb XR pillars by creating the virtual user interface for a web3 integrated CX (customer experience) journey,” – mentioned Sandra Helou, CEO and Co-Founder of MetaMinds Group.
The AR experience designed aims to reflect the craftsmanship required for both the watch and cigar industries by creating new means of engagement for the growing markets and helping brands transition into experiences and the production of digital twins for education and phygital ROI purposes. This occurs through integrating gamification elements, creating crafted digital assets and facilitating user-generated content (UGC) to promote the luxury brands products through immersive experiences.
“Attendees will be able to explore exquisite digital representations of Cyrus Watches, featuring customizable colourways, and Patoro Cigars with the ability to understand more about the industry. Our vision is the “Conquest of innovation and this is the first step in embracing spatialweb technology addressing the market changes and requirements of consumer behavior,” – shared Cyrus Watches and Patoro Cigars Owner, Dr. Pablo Richard.
“We are thrilled to welcome Zilliqa Group, a web3 venture builder which MetaMinds is an entity of, for a consecutive year at our event along with LVMH, Richemont, Chalhoub Group, Kering and others. What makes the Luxury Innovation Summit unique this year is the collaboration between MetaMinds and Cyrus and Patoro that will create an immersive and unforgettable experience for our audience and a vision that we want to carry forward across our Luxury Venture Group portfolio and grow,” – said Deependra Pandey, CEO of Luxury Venture Group.
The wider public not in attendance will have a chance to experience the AR products post-event available on the MetaMinds platform. Specifically, Klepcys Dice and Klepcys GMT Retrograde collections of Cyrus Watches and Patoro Gran Añejo Reserva and Patoro Brasil Cigars.
About Metaminds Group:
Established in 2022 with headquarters in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai – MetaMinds is an award-winning ‘Metaverse as a Service’ and spatialweb (XR) technology company. Providing & developing the infrastructure required for immersive 3D experiences and bespoke virtual worlds (MaaS), spatialweb XR (AR/VR/MR), and ROI-generating engagement models helping brands tap into the ‘Experience Economy’. Their focus is on providing an end-to-end virtual world and spatialweb platform accessible through a web browser/mobile and VR and the necessary infrastructure and ecosystem toolsets.
MetaMinds is a member of Zilliqa Group, a web3 venture builder which owns and operates Zilliqa Technology a world-leading Layer 1 from Singapore known for its fast, scalable and secure network within the industry.
Connect with Metaminds Group:
Website | YouTube | LinkedIn | Email
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Blockchain Press Releases
ALL INDIVIDUALS WHO PURCHASED OR ACQUIRED IMPACT THEORY FOUNDER’S KEYS BETWEEN OCTOBER 13, 2021, AND DECEMBER 6, 2021
COSTA MESA, Calif., Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The following statement is being issued by Simpluris, Inc., Fund Administrator for the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, regarding the Impact Theory Fair Fund and Plan of Distribution.
NOTICE OF FAIR FUND DISTRIBUTION PLAN
In the Matter of Impact Theory, Inc.
Administrative Proceeding File No. 3-21585
For more information, visit www.ImpactTheoryFairFund.com
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) has settled administrative proceedings (the “Order”) against Impact Theory (the “Respondent”). In the Order, the SEC found that from October 13, 2021, to December 6, 2021, Impact Theory violated Sections 5(a) and 5(c) of the Securities Act by offering and selling crypto asset securities known as Founder’s Keys without having a registered statement filed or in effect with the SEC or qualifying for an exemption from registration.
The SEC ordered the Respondent to pay $5,120,718.27 in disgorgement, $483,195.90 in prejudgment interest, and a $500,000.00 civil money penalty, for a total of $6,103,914.17, to the SEC. The SEC also created a Fair Fund, pursuant to Section 308(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, so the penalty collected, along with the disgorgement and interest collected, could be distributed to harmed investors (the “Fair Fund”).
The Fair Fund will be paid out according to the Plan of Distribution (“Plan”).
A summary of the eligibility criteria and claims process is below. Full details are available at www.ImpactTheoryFairFund.com. You may also request a copy of the Plan from the Fund Administrator via email at [email protected] or by calling 833-285-3401.
Who is eligible to receive a payment from the Fair Fund? To receive a payment, you must have:
- purchased or acquired Founder’s Keys between October 13, 2021, and December 6, 2021;
- submitted a timely Claim Form;
- suffered a Recognized Loss as calculated under the Plan; and
- not been an Excluded Party under the Plan.
How do I submit a Claim? The easiest way to submit a claim is online at the Impact Theory Fair Fund website: www.ImpactTheoryFairFund.com. Claim Forms completed online must be submitted on or before 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on August 15, 2025.
If you are unable to submit a Claim Form online and/or you have lost relevant credentials associated with wallets and/or exchanges required as part of an online claim, you may request a copy of the paper Claim Form from the Fund Administrator via email at [email protected] or by calling 833-285-3401. You may also download a copy of the Claim Form to print at: www.ImpactTheoryFairFund.com. Claim Forms submitted via mail must be sent to the address provided on the Claim Form and postmarked (or if not sent by U.S. Mail, then received) by August 15, 2025.
The Fund Administrator will send a Determination Notice advising each claimant who timely submitted a Claim Form of their eligibility determination and will provide a calculation of Recognized Loss to those determined to be Eligible Claimants. The Fund Administrator may consider disputes of an Eligible Claimant’s Recognized Loss calculation if timely submitted in accordance with the Plan.
This notice is a summary. For more information, visit
www.ImpactTheoryFairFund.com
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/all-individuals-who-purchased-or-acquired-impact-theory-founders-keys-between-october-13-2021-and-december-6-2021-302382059.html
Blockchain Press Releases
Fully Backed Within 72 hours: Bybit Maintains 1:1 Customer Assets Ratio in Latest Proof of Reserves Audited Report by Hacken
DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has completed a fresh round of audit on Feb. 23, 2025 conducted by leading cybersecurity firm Hacken. The independent third-party report is published after Bybit restored reserves levels to a 1:1 ratio for in-scope digital assets within 72 hours following a major incident on Friday, Feb. 21.
A full audit of all relevant wallets containing 40 asset types, by way of proof of liabilities and ownership, verified that Bybit possesses sufficient reserves to cover user assets 1:1 across the board. Key assets including BTC, ETH, SOL, USDT and USDC exceed 100% collateral ratios on Bybit. Held to high standards of transparency and prudence, Bybit reaffirms its commitment to fiscal vigilance and customer protection under all circumstances.
“Bybit fully backs all customer assets entrusted to our platform, maintaining a dynamic ratio of over 1:1,” said Ben Zhou, Co-founder and CEO of Bybit. “We are fortunate to have all-weather friends in a cut-throat industry—our peers and even competitors stood with us during challenging times, and our customers deserve the same level of commitment,” he added.
Key Highlights of Bybit’s 19th PoR Audit:
- Comprehensive Audit Process: Hacken conducted an extensive audit of Bybit’s liabilities, utilizing the Merkle tree to verify the integrity of the assets reported.
- User Address Verification: Hacken obtained information from Bybit management regarding all public key addresses holding in-scope assets and verified expected blockchain transactions to confirm control and ownership.
- Rigorous Validation Procedures: The validation process included a thorough review using the official Merkle proof validation methods, ensuring the accuracy of the reported liabilities.
“Bybit’s focus on transparency through regular Proof of Reserves audits and independent assessments sets a strong standard within the industry. We appreciate being part of this important initiative during this critical period,” said Yevheniia Broshevan, Co-Founder & CBDO at Hacken.
As of Feb. 24, Bybit fully closed the ETH gap of client assets within 72 hours. This was achieved through strategic partnerships with firms like Galaxy Digital, FalconX, and Wintermute, along with support from Bitget, MEXC and DWF Labs, who helped Bybit replenish the reserves in record time. The rapid execution of these funding strategies underscores Bybit’s robust industry relationships and its capability to maintain platform stability during challenging times, reflecting the industry’s shared vision of a new era of reliable financial system.
By prioritizing independent verification and comprehensive audits, Bybit reinforces its commitment to user trust and transparency. The exchange regularly reviews best practices, emergency responses, and security infrastructure to meet the rising challenges and demands in the digital asset industry.
Bybit’s Proof of Reserves: https://www.bybit.com/app/user/audit-report
#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk / #ProofofReserves / #PoR
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: [email protected]
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media
Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube
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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/fully-backed-within-72-hours-bybit-maintains-11-customer-assets-ratio-in-latest-proof-of-reserves-audited-report-by-hacken-302383417.html
Blockchain Press Releases
Bybit Invests $1M in EthicHub Through Blockchain for Good Alliance to Drive Agricultural Finance for Global Farming Communities
DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, proudly announces a $1 million impact investment in EthicHub, facilitated through the Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA).
Since pioneering the Blockchain for Good Alliance in April 2024, Bybit has championed the use of blockchain innovations to solve real-world challenges. EthicHub, a key project supported by the BGA Incubation Programme and the Grand Social Impact Award winner at the BGA Web3 Oscar, exemplifies this vision by leveraging blockchain to drive financial inclusion and empower smallholder farmers. This investment aligns with Bybit’s commitment to leveraging blockchain technology for tangible social impact, driving financial inclusion for smallholder coffee farmers in emerging markets.
Empowering Sustainable Coffee Farming Through Ethical Finance
EthicHub is revolutionizing agricultural finance by integrating productive lending, blended finance, and market access. With this $1 million investment, Bybit will establish the “Bybit Pool”, a dedicated fund within the EthicHub ecosystem designed to provide ethical credit lines to small and medium-sized coffee farmers.
This initiative will empower farmers to break free from exploitative lending practices, improve productivity, and secure fair prices for their coffee. Additionally, it aligns with Bybit’s broader mission of bridging the gap between blockchain solutions and real-world economic transformation.
Key Highlights of the Investment Agreement:
- Exclusive Fund: Bybit’s investment will be managed exclusively within the EthicHub ecosystem, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Sustainable Social Impact: The fund provides direct financial access to coffee farmers, fostering economic resilience in rural communities.
- Fair Financial Returns: Bybit will receive an 8% annual return over a 15-month term, demonstrating the viability of impact investing.
- Transparency & Reporting: LendingDev, EthicHub’s operator, will provide quarterly performance updates and comprehensive end-of-term reporting.
A New Era of Blockchain-Powered Social Good
Bybit’s investment exemplifies how blockchain-powered finance can drive sustainable change. Through BGA’s role in fostering strategic collaborations, this initiative paves the way for blockchain adoption in real-world economic empowerment.
“Blockchain has the power to unlock new financial opportunities for those historically excluded from traditional banking systems. Our $1 million investment in EthicHub reinforces Bybit’s dedication to using innovation for real-world impact, proving that blockchain can be both profitable and transformative,” said Helen Liu, Chief Operating Officer at Bybit.
Gabriela Chang, CSO & Co-founder of EthicHub added: “Bybit’s commitment is a game-changer for our mission. This investment will directly support smallholder coffee farmers, enabling them to increase productivity, access fair financing, and secure better market opportunities. It is an example of how blockchain can create real-world solutions for pressing global challenges.”
Case Study: EthicHub’s Impact – How Neri Ortiz Transformed His Future
For generations, smallholder coffee farmers like Neri Ortiz in Motozintla, Mexico, faced relentless challenges: unstable coffee prices, predatory lenders, and limited market access. With no financial safety net, many were forced to abandon farming altogether.
The introduction of EthicHub changed everything. By offering fair, blockchain-powered financing, EthicHub provided Neri and his cooperative with the resources to improve production, invest in sustainable farming techniques, and eliminate exploitative middlemen. For the first time, they could sell directly to specialty coffee buyers at fair market prices.
This access to ethical lending transformed not just Neri’s farm but his entire outlook. He began experimenting with quality-enhancing techniques like controlled fermentation, which boosted the value of his coffee. With newfound financial stability, he reinvested in his farm, secured better futures for his family, and began mentoring other farmers to do the same.
Bybit’s investment in EthicHub ensures that more farmers like Neri can break free from financial hardship, build resilient livelihoods, and sustain the agricultural traditions that feed global coffee markets. This is the power of blockchain-driven impact investing—real solutions for real people, transforming entire communities.
Join the Movement
Bybit invites fellow blockchain innovators and socially responsible investors to explore the possibilities of blockchain-powered impact investments. By working together, the industry can drive sustainable economic solutions that benefit both investors and underserved communities.
For more details on EthicHub’s initiatives, visit EthicHub Website.
#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk /#BGA
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: [email protected]
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media
Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2625743/Bybit_Invests__1M_EthicHub_Through_Blockchain_Good_Alliance_Drive_Agricultural.jpg
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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bybit-invests-1m-in-ethichub-through-blockchain-for-good-alliance-to-drive-agricultural-finance-for-global-farming-communities-302382989.html
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