Author: Kathir J

CytoMed Therapeutics Limited (NASDAQ: GDTC) (“CytoMed” or the “Company”), a Singapore-based clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on harnessing its proprietary technologies to develop novel affordable donor-derived cell-based immunotherapies for the treatment of a broad range of cancers, including both blood and solid tumors, The company  announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary established in 2020,  Advance Cancer Centre Pte. Ltd., has changed its name to CytoMed International Pte. Ltd. (“CytoMed International”), effective May 6, 2026. 

The name change reflects the Company’s renewed focus on exploring opportunities to expand its international footprint, including setting up joint ventures overseas, development of international medical tourism initiatives, appointment of overseas representatives and enhancing its profile overseas. Initial geographical focus will be in Asia, especially China.

CytoMed International’s sole asset currently consists of a 19.0% equity interest in a licenced clinic in Malaysia, with an option to increase its shareholding in the future.

The name change does not affect the CytoMed International’s legal entity, ownership structure, or existing contractual obligations.

More details regarding the company’s international business plan will be provided as soon as possible. Meanwhile the Company will use its internal resources to support CytoMed International’s operations.

Recently, the on-chain entertainment and GambleFi tracks have experienced a phenomenal explosion! The exclusive $100,000 airdrop super carnival co-hosted by the leading fully on-chain fair entertainment platform AntNest and Planet Hares’ native token $HAC has successfully concluded. Leveraging an ultimate interactive experience and an ultra-high multiplier wealth effect, the event went viral across the network, pushing the platform’s average daily direct wallet connections and on-chain gaming volume to an all-time high.

Taking this benchmark collaboration as a starting point, $HAC has now officially become a permanent asset on the AntNest platform to empower the ecosystem long-term. Simultaneously, the global “Genesis Ambassador” program and B2B premium project collaboration channels are currently in their hottest open period with maximum bonus dividends. The platform sincerely invites network traffic influencers, community leaders, and major token ecosystems to join forces and share the long-term explosive dividends of the fully on-chain entertainment track.

Ecosystem Resonance: Permanent Listing of Native Token $HAC, $100k Carnival Concludes Perfectly to Unlock Long-Term Empowerment

While the multi-community airdrop frenzy continues to brew, the AntNest ecosystem asset landscape has added another powerhouse: fully integrating and permanently listing the native token $HAC.

Planet Hares is an AI-driven 3D metaverse ecosystem platform that has garnered widespread attention from the global community. Its native token $HAC serves as the core fuel and value carrier of the entire Hareverse ecosystem. The project is committed to breaking the boundaries of the traditional internet by creating an immersive, open, diverse, and self-sustaining Web3 metaverse world — Hareverse. It seamlessly integrates AI-powered intelligent NPCs, original narrative storytelling, MMORPG gameplay, virtual land trading, fashion IP, motion capture (MoCap), and MR mixed reality technology. This allows users to enter a vibrant, living, and continuously evolving virtual universe at any time through PC, mobile devices, and other platforms.

As a phenomenal benchmark campaign for AntNest’s cross-ecosystem integration, the super carnival previously launched with the $HAC community featured a massive total prize pool of 100,000 reUSDC (equivalent to $100,000) and achieved unprecedented success. Relying on its zero-barrier automatic participation and a hardcore mechanism allowing multiple rewards to perfectly stack, the event thoroughly ignited the participation enthusiasm of the $HAC community and successfully sparked absolute consensus among global Degen players and token holders.

During the event, stellar on-chain conversion data and strong community word-of-mouth formed a powerful positive flywheel:

• Core Data Surging Across the Board: The platform’s valid new direct wallet connections, HAC gaming interaction frequency, daily active gameplay volume, on-chain turnover rate, and capital retention data all demonstrated strong exponential growth. This not only injected extremely robust liquidity into the token but also perfectly validated AntNest’s immense ecological empowerment value as a premium asset “traffic connector” and “deflationary consumption engine.”
• Seamless Connection to Permanent Play-to-Earn: Although the $100k carnival has successfully concluded, $HAC’s ecological journey on AntNest has fully entered a stage of long-term empowerment. Token holders do not need to go through cumbersome cross-chain processes or advance Swaps; by simply connecting Web3 wallets like MetaMask or OKX with one click, they can directly use $HAC to frictionlessly access the platform’s highly explosive core game matrix. This includes Crash, featuring real-time multiplayer battles and up to 100x multipliers, as well as Mines, highly strategic gameplay supporting customizable risk, allowing users to enjoy highly elastic and entertaining long-term consumption scenarios.

Multi-Community Linkage for Entry Airdrops, Traffic Explosion Hits New Highs in On-Chain Data

To completely break through the acquisition and conversion barriers of the traditional Web3 application layer, AntNest relies on robust underlying technology and an abundant promotional budget to reach deep strategic partnerships with numerous premium communities and token ecosystems across the network, fully launching a zero-barrier universal carnival of “claim airdrops upon entry.”

New community users simply need to connect their Web3 wallets with one click to directly claim official airdrop chips, risk-freely accessing fast-paced, high-multiplier dopamine hit games such as Crash, Mines, Tower, and Keno. This extremely low participation threshold and the ultimate free-to-play earning experience have triggered deep resonance and organic viral growth across major partner communities. Recently, AntNest’s average daily direct wallet additions, daily gaming interaction frequency, and net ecological volume have shown strong exponential spikes. The highly active, high-converting real on-chain data perfectly proves AntNest’s outstanding ecological carrying capacity.

Technical Moat: Dead Set on Absolute On-Chain Fairness, Smart Contracts Deliver in Seconds

AntNest’s ability to rise rapidly in the highly competitive application layer track and achieve the sustained retention of high-net-worth real users relies on its uncompromising bottom line of “absolute fairness and decentralized self-custody.”

For a long time, traditional centralized entertainment platforms have been trapped in a mire of distrust characterized by “server black-box manipulation,” “targeted whale liquidation,” and “unreasonable withdrawal audits/deductions.” AntNest has thoroughly disrupted this outdated model from its underlying mechanics:

• Mathematical-Grade Absolute Fairness (Provably Fair): The final outcome of every game in the platform lobby is dynamically generated based on immutable on-chain Block Hashes combined with cryptographic VRF random seeds. Every match record includes a clear, independent Hash proof at the bottom; the code is open-source and publicly accessible across the network, allowing users to jump to the block explorer for traceability verification at any time, completely eliminating the possibility of human-manipulated odds.
• Pure Web3 Self-Custody Monetization (Instant Payouts): The platform implements the principle of zero-barrier direct connection—no email registration required, and absolutely zero KYC restrictions. Pure profits and dividends won by players during gameplay are entirely judged by underlying smart contracts and delivered to the original wallet in seconds, delivering an ultimate monetization experience free of delays or withdrawal friction.

Brand New Launch: Share 100,000 reUSDC! Antnest Genesis Season is LIVE!

To continue fueling on-chain interactions and ecosystem liquidity, Antnest officially launches the “Genesis Season” (May 12, 2026 – June 12, 2026). No manual registration is required—generating any trading volume automatically qualifies you to participate, and three hardcore rewards can be perfectly stacked:

• Welcome & Return Bonus (50,000 reUSDC Prize Pool): Both new and existing players whose accumulated trading volume reaches 10 USDC/reUSDC can directly claim a 3 reUSDC airdrop.
• Tiered Challenge · Trade to Mine (40,000 reUSDC Prize Pool): Reach specified accumulated trading volume thresholds to share the corresponding tier’s prize pool (≥100 share 2k; ≥500 share 3k; ≥5,000 share 5k; ≥10,000 share 10k; ≥50,000 share 20k reUSDC). Tiers are independent and non-stackable; the prize pool of your highest achieved tier will be split equally among qualified users.
• King’s Tournament (10,000 reUSDC Prize Pool): The top 200 users ranked in real-time by on-chain trading volume will secure lucrative tiered rewards, with the 1st place champion taking 1,000 reUSDC alone.
• Seamless Instant Payouts: Rewards will be directly distributed to your Base chain trading account within 3-5 working days after the event concludes, supporting seamless 1:1 exchange for real USDC withdrawal at any time.

Dividend Sharing: Heavily Recruiting Global Genesis Ambassadors, Dual-Track Drive for Infinite Lifetime Commissions

To push its traffic engine to the absolute limit and accelerate its global footprint, official AntNest channels recently reiterated: The onboarding channel for the global Genesis Ambassador program is fully open!

To ensure every peer participating in ecological co-creation enjoys industry-leading long-term returns, AntNest has completely abandoned cumbersome and rigid traditional constraints, tailoring a highly attractive, multi-dimensional, and compound wealth matrix for you. As long as you possess mature community resources, extensive player networks, or outstanding content promotion capabilities, you can easily unlock an uncapped monetization journey:

• Stable Base Salary and Rapid Commissions: Upon achieving basic community growth and valid conversion targets, you will receive a lucrative, fixed weekly USDT base salary on time every week (paid directly to your Base mainnet wallet); simultaneously, for every real, valid new user successfully invited, you will instantly earn a set amount of reUSDC cash rewards (withdrawable as real stablecoins at a 1:1 ratio lossless exchange anytime), ensuring every ounce of your promotional effort immediately captures premium real-money returns.
• Passive Pipeline Commissions for Lifetime Earnings: The ultimate form of traffic is a continuous stream of passive, long-tail income. By becoming a Genesis Ambassador, you will enjoy a permanent dividend commission of up to 20% on the net gaming fees generated by all your direct downline users for life. Commissions are accurately settled in real-time in the backend 24/7 and withdrawable anytime, truly achieving “bind once, benefit for life.”
• Advanced Leap—B2B Super Node Exclusive Dividends: If you not only possess retail traffic but can also expand mainstream video influencers (KOLs) at home and abroad, or successfully bridge external token communities, premium MEME coins, and GameFi projects to integrate with AntNest for HAC-level deep promotional campaigns, the official team will directly grant you the core “Super Node” status for that ecological channel! You will not only secure full basic rewards but also permanently share proportional long-tail commissions from the massive fees generated on the platform by the integrated token community or KOL matrix, achieving an extraordinary wealth breakout.

Relying on top-tier underlying asset rapid compatibility technology and an abundant joint promotional budget, AntNest sincerely invites major token teams, content creators, and community leaders across the network to negotiate onboarding. Let us build the Web3 fully on-chain entertainment macro-ecosystem together, empowering real liquidity with transparent, long-term mechanisms, and join hands to carve up the hundred-billion-dollar track dividends of the decentralized era! 

For More Details and to Participate in Events:

• Connect Your Wallet to Experience the On-Chain Lobby Instantly: https://app.antnest.io/
• Follow Official X (Twitter) for the Latest Updates: https://x.com/antnestglobal
• Ambassador Onboarding & B2B Project Collaboration: Please visit the exclusive page on the official website or contact the official team via Twitter Direct Message (DM) to initiate efficient docking. Official Telegram: https://t.me/c/AntNest_Official

As changes in the world not seen in a century accelerate, relations between major powers have long transcended the scope of bilateral ties and have become a key force shaping the international landscape and global order. A global survey jointly released by CGTN and Renmin University of China, conducted through the Institute of International Communication Studies in the New Era and covering 12,302 respondents from 39 countries, shows that 75% of global respondents believe that healthy and stable China-U.S. relations are crucial to the international community.

Nine years after his previous trip to China, US President Donald Trump is scheduled to pay a state visit to China, with issues such as trade, technology and global governance continuing to draw widespread attention. In the survey, 78.3% of respondents from developing countries believed that China-U.S. relations are vital to world peace, stability, and prosperity, and carry major significance for global trade, geopolitics, and even the international order. Meanwhile, 76.7% of American respondents shared this view.

As a “ballast stone” of China-U.S. relations, economic and trade cooperation is of great significance not only to the two countries, but also to global economic stability and recovery. Against the backdrop of mounting downward pressure on the world economy, stronger China-U.S. economic and trade cooperation serves the common interests and broad expectations of the international community. The survey shows that 74.6% of respondents worldwide believe that the essence of China-U.S. trade is mutual benefit and win-win cooperation. Among respondents from developing countries, the level of agreement reached 78.2%, while 75.3% of American respondents also shared this view, both higher than the global average.

Respondents generally believe that as long as both sides move toward each other with an attitude of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation, they can find ways to address each other’s concerns. Among them, 72.8% of American respondents believe that China and the United States can achieve mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, and that economic and trade frictions are not inherently irreconcilable. In addition, 77.9% of global respondents said that economic and trade relations should serve as a stabilizer in China-U.S. relations rather than a source of conflict. Agreement levels among respondents from developing countries and the United States reached 81.5% and 76.4%, respectively.

Facts have repeatedly demonstrated that “mutual achievement and shared prosperity” between China and the United States is a tangible and visible reality. In the survey, 78.6% of respondents called on the United States to return to a rational and pragmatic strategic perception, and to strengthen dialogue on the basis of mutual respect in order to reduce misunderstandings. Among respondents from developing countries, the level of agreement reached 81.8%.

The survey was conducted through an online panel sampling method. All respondents were members of the general public aged 18 and above, and the sample was designed to be broadly representative of each country’s census-based age and gender distribution.

New York – On May 10, COOFANDY joined NASCAR’s race weekend at Watkins Glen as the sponsor of Joe Gibbs Racing’s No. 20 car driven by Christopher Bell. With COOFANDY branding present across the race car and fire suit, the partnership brought to life the brand’s Dress the Journey, Dress the Win spirit on one of racing’s most competitive tracks.

Ahead of the race, COOFANDY invited creators, media guests, and fans to experience the weekend alongside the JGR team. Creators, including RawGator, Brett Maverick, Jamaal Lewis, and Josh Taubes, joined the event, along with media guests such as Fox 8’s Chris Weaver, On3’s Brian Jones, and Brobible’s Clay Sauertieg and Douglas Sheckler.

For COOFANDY, bringing together creators, media, and fans in this setting was about more than access — it was about allowing different audiences to experience the culture, energy, and human side behind motorsports.

During the driver meet-and-greet, guests spent time with the JGR team and experienced a tour of the team’s hauler, gaining a closer look at NASCAR operations behind the scenes.

As engines fired and the crowd rose for driver introductions and the national anthem, Watkins Glen shifted into race mode. Bell was strong the early portion of the race finishing Stage 1 in the seventh position.

The style of racing on a road course such as Watkins Glen often creates tense moments with competitors making contact creating frustrating moments. Bell would have to navigate several of those situations throughout the day before finishing in the 21^st position.

As COOFANDY CMO Sidney Sun noted, the brand’s philosophy of Dress the Journey and Dress the Win speaks to how men navigate pressure and setbacks along the way — maintaining composure, confidence, and the right mindset through every stage of the journey.

Race Weekend Style Picks

From trackside viewing to post-race gatherings, COOFANDY also offers effortless style inspiration for the race weekend:

• Short-Sleeve Textured Shirt– Breathable and comfortable, perfect for daytime track viewing.
• Solid-Color Hoodie– Minimalist and versatile, blending casual ease with athletic energy for multi-scenario wear.

As COOFANDY continues exploring the connection between motorsports and modern menswear, Watkins Glen became more than a race weekend — it became a reminder that composure, confidence, and resilience are part of the journey too.

For more information, please visit the COOFANDY website and Amazon storefront, or connect with COOFANDY on Facebook and Instagram.

COOFANDY

Charlotte Liu

pr@coofandy.com

New York, US

https://coofandy.com

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — South Africa’s online sports betting industry is entering a pivotal new phase. After years of rapid, mobile-driven growth, the sector is now facing increased regulatory scrutiny—most notably through the National Treasury’s proposed 20% national tax on gross gambling revenue (GGR).

The proposal, which closed for public comment in February 2026, is designed to both raise state revenue and address concerns around problem gambling. But its implications run far deeper. For operators, it introduces meaningful cost pressure. For punters, it could reshape the value of every bet placed online.

At its core, this is no longer just a tax debate—it’s about what the South African betting market will look like over the next decade.

A R75 Billion Industry at a Turning Point

South Africa’s gambling sector has expanded rapidly, with gross gambling revenue increasing from approximately R32 billion in 2019/20 to around R75 billion in 2024/25. Sports betting has been the primary driver of that growth, fuelled by:

• Widespread smartphone adoption
• Live and in-play betting markets
• Strong engagement with football, rugby, and cricket
• Aggressive acquisition strategies from bookmakers

The growth story extends beyond sports betting. Online casinos have emerged as a significant contributor to overall GGR, with players gravitating toward slots, live dealer tables, and instant-win games through the same mobile-first platforms that drove betting adoption. Operators like 10bet, ZarBet, Lucky Fish, PantherBet, and YesPlay have built out both verticals—offering sports betting and casino products under one roof—meaning the proposed tax, if enacted, would squeeze margins across the full spectrum of online gambling, not just the sportsbook.

Why the 20% GGR Tax Matters

The structure of the proposed tax is critical. Unlike a profit tax, it applies to gross gambling revenue—the portion bookmakers retain after paying out winnings, but before operational costs.

Given that sportsbook margins typically sit in the 5%–10% range, a 20% tax on GGR is not trivial. It effectively reduces operator margin at a structural level, forcing adjustments elsewhere in the business.

Those adjustments rarely happen in isolation.

How the Market Is Likely to Respond

Operators faced with higher costs tend to respond in predictable ways—not dramatically overnight, but gradually and consistently.

Punters are likely to notice changes in three key areas:

• Odds and pricing: Margins may tighten slightly, particularly on high-volume markets like football and horse racing
• Promotions: Welcome bonuses, free no deposit bonus, free spins no deposit and odds boosts may become less frequent or less generous
• Bonus conditions: Wagering requirements and terms may become stricter to manage risk

Individually, these shifts may seem minor. Collectively, they reduce long-term betting value—especially for regular bettors.

“We’re already seeing punters ask harder questions about value,” said Dennis Kumar, analyst at Betting.za.com. “When the promotional environment tightens, the bettors who understand margins and shop across bookmakers will have a real edge over those who don’t.”

The Risk of Unintended Consequences

The policy goal behind the tax is clear: curb harmful gambling behaviour while ensuring the state captures a fair share of industry revenue.

However, there is a well-documented risk in global markets: over-taxation can weaken the regulated ecosystem.

If licensed bookmakers become less competitive, some bettors may drift toward offshore platforms that:

• Do not pay local taxes
• Operate outside South African regulation
• Offer fewer consumer protections

This creates a paradox. A policy designed to strengthen oversight can, if miscalibrated, push activity into less controlled environments.

Regulation Needs More Than Taxation

A sustainable betting market is rarely built on taxation alone. Effective regulation typically combines multiple levers, including:

• Responsible gambling tools such as deposit limits and self-exclusion
• Enforcement against illegal and offshore operators
• Clear advertising and promotional standards
• Transparency around bonus terms and pricing

The challenge for South Africa is finding the balance between consumer protection and market competitiveness.

What This Means for Punters

For everyday bettors, the shift will be gradual but meaningful.

The era of aggressive promotions and high-value bonuses may begin to taper, replaced by a more measured, efficiency-driven market. Odds may become slightly sharper, and value harder to find.

According to analysis from Betting.za.com, this shift places greater emphasis on informed betting. Comparing bookmakers, understanding margins, and evaluating the real value behind offers will become more important than simply chasing bonuses.

In other words, the advantage may shift from promotions to knowledge.

Where the Market Goes From Here

The proposed 20% GGR tax represents more than a fiscal policy—it marks a transition point for the South African betting industry.

The market is likely to become:

• More regulated
• More consolidated
• Less promotion-driven
• More focused on long-term sustainability

Whether that transition ultimately benefits or harms punters will depend on how well policy is implemented—and how effectively the regulated market remains competitive.

One thing is clear: the future of online sports betting in South Africa will look very different from its past.

We Recommend the punter to try the following sports betting sites:

#	SportsBetting	Welcome Bonus Package	Bonus Code
1	10bet Casino	Free Spins & Free Bets Up To R5,000	N/A
2	ZARbet	50 Free Spins on Big Blue Fishing	50BBF
3	Hollywoodbets	R25 Free Bet + 50 Free Spins	On Sign-Up
4	Pantherbet	50 Free Spins Bonus + R22,000 High-Roller Bonuses Over 3 Deposits.	HIPANTHER
5	YesPlay	100% bonus up to R3,000	N/A (Automatic)
6	Jabulabets	30 Free Spins On Sign-Up + R35,000 Welcome Bonus	JABULA30
7	Lucky Fish Casino	R25 Free Bet On Sign Up	On Registration

 

About Betting.za.com

Betting.za.com is South Africa’s leading authority on legal online betting sites, covering bookmaker reviews, sports betting trends, regulatory developments, and market analysis. As the regulatory landscape evolves, the platform helps punters compare licensed operators, understand their rights, and make more informed decisions with confidence.

 

Johannesburg, South Africa — 6 May 2026 — SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za says South Africa’s online gambling market is moving into a new phase, as betting-led platforms expand beyond traditional sportsbook products and become broader digital entertainment destinations.

The trend is being driven by a market where sports betting now plays the leading role in gambling activity. The National Gambling Board’s audited statistics for the 2024/25 financial year show total gambling gross gambling revenue, or GGR, of R74.5 billion across casinos, betting, bingo and limited payout machines. Betting accounted for R52.0 billion, equal to 69.8% of total GGR, while casinos accounted for R16.6 billion, or 22.3%.

The same National Gambling Board data shows total gambling turnover of R1.5 trillion in 2024/25, with betting responsible for R1.13 trillion, or 75.0% of all turnover. The regulator defines turnover as the rand value of money wagered, including amounts that are staked more than once.

For SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za, these figures point to a clear industry shift. Many players are entering gambling platforms through sport, but the same accounts increasingly give them access to casino-style games, live games, lucky numbers, jackpots, promotions and mobile-first entertainment.

Betting Is Now the Main Driver of South Africa’s Gambling Market

The National Gambling Board is mandated under the National Gambling Act to monitor market conduct and market share, and it gathers national gambling statistics on turnover, GGR and taxes or levies. Its 2024/25 report covers legalised gambling modes including casinos, betting on horse racing and sport, bingo and limited payout machines.

The audited data shows how central betting has become to the sector. When betting is broken down further, the National Gambling Board records online betting GGR of R44.46 billion, equal to 59.7% of total gambling GGR. Retail betting generated R7.52 billion, or 10.1%. The report labels online betting across Western Cape, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, Eastern Cape and Northern Cape.

This explains why sportsbook-led platforms are becoming more important in the South African gambling experience. Sport remains a natural entry point, particularly through football, rugby, cricket, horse racing and live in-play betting. However, betting platforms are no longer only competing on odds and fixtures. They are also competing on the wider account experience.

A spokesperson for SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za said:

“The South African market is moving beyond the idea of a betting site as a place where players only place sports bets. The modern platform is becoming more varied, with sports betting, casino-style games, live entertainment, jackpots and promotions often sitting within the same player journey.”

This is also visible in public finance data. Stats SA reported that gambling and betting are included in the 2025 Consumer Price Index basket and account for 1.6% of total household spending, making it the 12th highest-weighted item in the basket, just behind beer. Stats SA also noted that GGR rose from R23.3 billion in 2020/21 to R59.3 billion in 2023/24, before the latest National Gambling Board figures took the market to R74.5 billion in 2024/25.

Betting-Led Platforms Are Broadening the Player Experience

SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za reviews and compares online casino and betting sites for South African players, including brands such as 10bet, Zarbet, YesPlay and Hollywoodbets. These operators show how the market is moving towards broader entertainment platforms where sports betting sits alongside additional game categories.

 

10bet’s public site lists sports, horse racing, lucky numbers, live betting, games, live dealer games, promotions and a loyalty club, while also referencing payment methods and responsible gambling information. Zarbet’s public site lists promotions, bet limits, responsible gaming information and licensing by the Western Cape Gambling & Racing Board. YesPlay’s public site lists lucky numbers, BetGames, casino-style games, live casino-style games and a National Responsible Gambling Programme reference. Hollywoodbets App Store listing describes sports betting, horse racing, live in-play betting, Spina Zonke games, Aviator, crash games, casino games, lucky numbers and responsible gambling information.

SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za says the table is not intended to rank the operators. Instead, it shows a broader market pattern: betting-led brands are increasingly becoming multi-product entertainment platforms.

For players, this makes comparison more useful. A platform may be known for sports betting, but players may also want to compare casino-style games, live products, jackpot features, mobile access, Rand payment methods, withdrawal information, bonus terms and responsible gambling controls before registering.

The growing economic contribution of betting also brings more scrutiny. The National Gambling Board reported total gambling taxes and levies of R5.81 billion in 2024/25, with betting contributing R3.42 billion, or 58.9% of the total. Casinos contributed R1.72 billion, or 29.5%.

A More Mature Market Needs Better Player Information

SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za says the next stage of online casino in South Africa will be shaped by clearer information, responsible play and more careful platform comparison.

As betting-led sites add more entertainment features, players need to understand the differences between product types. A sports bet, a live in-play bet, a slot-style game, a lucky numbers product, a live casino-style game and a jackpot promotion all have different rules, odds, terms and risks.

The National Responsible Gambling Programme is also central to this discussion. The National Gambling Board describes the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation as a public-private partnership between the NGB, Provincial Licensing Authorities and the gambling industry, funded by voluntary industry contributions from the casino, sports betting, bingo and limited payout machine sectors. The programme provides counselling and support, including a toll-free line on 0800 006 008.

The spokesperson added:

“A wider product range can improve choice, but only when players understand what they are choosing. The role of a comparison site is not only to list promotions. It is to explain the platform, the product categories, the terms and the safer gambling tools in a way that helps South African players make more informed decisions.”

SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za says players should treat gambling as paid entertainment, not as a way to make money. Adults aged 18 and over should read terms carefully, set limits before playing and only gamble with money they can afford to lose.

As the market continues to grow, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za will continue to track betting-led entertainment platforms and provide South African players with information on casino sites, sportsbook-linked entertainment, promotions, payment options, game categories and responsible gambling resources. Its list of south african online casinos and betting-led platforms is designed to help players find quality gambling options while comparing the details that matter before they sign up.

About SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za
SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za is an online casino comparison and information site focused on South African players. The site covers casino reviews, betting-led entertainment platforms, promotions, payment information, game categories and responsible gambling guidance for adults aged 18 and over.

 

EDDID Financial, a subsidiary of Hong Kong–based EDDID Group, has officially launched its AI-Powered Quantitative Arbitrage Platform for the Singapore Futures Fund, marking a major step in intelligent financial innovation and futures asset management. The platform integrates cutting-edge artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing and financial engineering to reshape investment paradigms and deliver stable, risk-controlled returns for global investors.

Built for professional institutional and high-net-worth clients, the platform leverages advanced machine learning, deep neural networks and big data analytics to identify hidden market patterns and short-term pricing inefficiencies that traditional models cannot capture. In partnership with ChatGPT and Deepseek, the system enhances pattern recognition, nonlinear fitting and real-time decision-making capabilities, supporting high-frequency arbitrage, algorithmic trading and intelligent risk management across global futures markets.

At its core, the platform adopts a quantitative arbitrage strategy system that focuses on statistical mispricing and mean-reversion opportunities rather than directional market bets. It runs four major strategies: trend following, calendar spread arbitrage, cross-commodity arbitrage and cash-futures arbitrage, enabling diversified and low-correlation returns. By executing hedging operations across related contracts, the strategy aims to capture stable profits from spread normalization caused by market frictions, liquidity gaps and information transmission delays.

The AI strategy architecture operates a closed-loop system: data input, feature engineering, AI modeling, signal generation, automated execution and real-time risk control. It ingests multi-source heterogeneous data including historical K-line, Level‑2 market data, industrial fundamentals and macroeconomic indicators. Through data cleaning, alignment, high-frequency feature extraction and dimensionality reduction via PCA, the platform ensures high-quality model input. The AI core uses ensemble learning and deep models to generate precise trading signals, with automated execution achieving millisecond-level response to seize fleeting arbitrage opportunities.

Risk management is embedded into every layer of the system. The platform monitors VaR, Delta, Gamma and other risk indicators in real time, controls position exposure, restricts trading in low-liquidity contracts, and triggers model confidence thresholds to avoid failures in structural market shifts. A circuit-breaker mechanism and mandatory stop-loss rules protect the portfolio during extreme volatility and black swan events.

Backtested from January 2018 to December 2025 across bull, bear and extreme market conditions, the core strategy portfolio achieved an annualized return of 18.7%, a Sharpe ratio of 2.15, and a maximum drawdown within 8%, with a 62% win rate and 1.8:1 profit-loss ratio. In live trading since 2023, the net value curve has grown steadily with high fitness to backtest results. The strategy capacity exceeds ¥1 billion for combined strategies, supporting medium-to-large fund management.

To maintain long-term effectiveness, the platform implements continuous model iteration: weekly retraining, concept drift detection, adaptive parameter adjustment and rigorous A/B testing. Going forward, EDDID will integrate alternative data, reinforcement learning, graph neural networks (GNN) and quantum computing to further enhance strategy depth and breadth.

With strong technological barriers, robust performance and strict risk controls, EDDID’s Singapore Futures Fund AI Quantitative Arbitrage Platform sets a new standard for intelligent futures investment. It provides global investors with stable, transparent and professional asset management services, leading the evolution of AI-driven quantitative finance in the global market.

The 139th Canton Fair concluded on May 5, setting a new record for overseas buyer attendance. Data from the China Foreign Trade Centre show that across 15 days and three phases, the fair welcomed a record 314,000 overseas buyers from 220 countries and regions who came to explore opportunities at “China’s No. 1 Fair.”

Inside the Canton Fair venue, the “PHYBOT C2” bipedal humanoid robot, capable of playing badminton, handles challenges from buyers with ease.

The event covered about 1.55 million square meters with 75,700 booths. More than 32,000 exhibitors participated, including about 3,900 first-time exhibitors. Over 4.65 million products were on display; new products, green products, and products with independent intellectual property rights accounted for 23%, 22%, and 25%, respectively — reflecting the “new, green and smart” direction of “Made in China” and “Made in Guangdong.”

During the fair, organizers held more than 600 new-product launch events. The number of new products introduced rose 27%, and events for emerging future industries increased 30%. The fair also showcased AI-enabled scenarios for the first time, including robotic patrol inspections and drone flight demonstrations.

Nine specialized exhibition zones were newly established for this session. Phase I featured zones for consumer drones, agricultural drones, smart wearables and display technology. Phase II debuted zones for bamboo and wood household products and tableware, integrated housing and outdoor facilities, and trendy accessories. Phase III added a zone for functional and technical fabrics. Nearly 670 enterprises took part in these specialized zones, erecting more than 1,300 booths and highlighting innovative developments across industries.

Guangdong province got off to a strong start in foreign trade this year. In the first quarter, its import and export volume, national share, incremental growth and contribution rate all ranked first in China. Exports reached 1.53 trillion yuan, up 14.3%, while imports reached 1.01 trillion yuan, up 27.8%. Import growth was broad-based, led by the “old three” — mobile phones, computers and home appliances — as well as garments and luggage. At the same time, the province advanced its “new three” products: exports of 3D printers, drones and digital cameras rose 136.9%, 51.2% and 60.2%, respectively. These products of new quality productive forces have received popularity worldwide. Exports of self-owned brands grew 38%, raising their share of Guangdong’s total export value in the first quarter to 26.6%.

As a vital window into China’s opening-up and a barometer of its foreign trade, the Canton Fair has evolved alongside the Chinese economy over its 70-year history. This session’s successful conclusion complemented Guangdong’s robust start in foreign trade. Many Guangdong enterprises used the Canton Fair platform to engage directly with global buyers and secure international orders, helping Guangdong maintain its top national ranking in foreign trade scale. In turn, Guangdong’s thriving development continuously injects vitality into the Canton Fair. The major foreign trade province’s strong industrial base, comprehensive supply chain and innovative products and technologies continue to sustain the fair’s global influence.

CGTN published an article examining how China’s young generation is turning emerging industries and new professions into fresh drivers of growth. From drone swarm flight planners and robot engineers to rural live-stream entrepreneurs, the article highlights how innovation, industrial upgrading and stronger policy support are opening broader development opportunities for young people as they inject their youthful dynamism into Chinese modernization.

At a recent concert in Nanning, 1,000 drones rose into the night sky, forming iconic symbols of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

While the audience sees romance and spectacle, 22-year-old Yang Dan sees code, timing and precision. She writes flight scripts, plans routes and even decides exactly where each drone should be placed before takeoff. Her team has completed more than 150 drone performances so far.

Last year, Yang’s profession, drone swarm flight planner, was included in the newly recognized professions. Since China rolled out its new occupational classification system in 2019, seven batches have been unveiled, bringing 110 new occupations in total. This gives young people like Yang a clearer career path in emerging industries.

Youth shining in emerging industries

Across China, more young people like Yang are building careers in new sectors and helping drive industrial upgrading.

In Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, a research team with an average age of under 30 has developed a second-generation wheeled humanoid robot.

The robot can perform Wing Chun movements, complete precise industrial tasks, and even take part in robot manufacturing.

The team works with clear division of roles. Pang Kai, 32, leads the lab and focuses on solving real industrial challenges. Li Lanxin, an algorithm engineer born in 1999, develops motion control systems to ensure safe human-machine interaction. Ding Yuxuan, a young researcher born after 2000, works on visual-language-action models, giving robots stronger perception and decision-making abilities.

Founded only two years ago, the team has already achieved key breakthroughs. For them, robots are not display pieces, but practical tools for factories, homes and businesses – designed to reduce repetitive labor and improve efficiency.

Far from industrial parks, youth innovation is also changing rural China.

In Hainan, Jiang Bizhen, a post-1985 generation agricultural live-stream host, has spent the past decade helping farmers sell local products online.

Her team has helped more than 3,000 farming households and created over 300 local jobs, allowing villagers to earn stable incomes close to home.

Thanks to the opportunities created by the Hainan Free Trade Port, local products now reach customers in Russia, Thailand and United Arab Emirates. Tropical fruits, coffee and specialty foods from the island are finding global markets.

Policy support behind youth growth

Behind these personal stories is a broader national effort to support youth development and employment.

Ahead of this year’s China’s Youth Day on May 4, President Xi Jinping encouraged young Chinese to integrate their personal aspirations into the bigger picture of national development, in a reply letter to the representatives of the awardees of the China Youth May Fourth Medal and New Era Youth Pioneer.

Stressing that 2026 marks the opening year of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), Xi said the present time presents a prime opportunity for young people to contribute to the country’s development.

In March, authorities introduced a package of measures to boost employment for college graduates and young workers, encouraging job creation in advanced manufacturing, modern services, and technology-driven industries.

The country is also providing lower-cost startup spaces, stronger support for young entrepreneurs, and more training for modern agriculture and new professions.

In April, 15 government departments jointly introduced 18 measures, designed to improve urban environments for young people. The measures seek to transform cities into hubs where young people can pursue high-quality development, enjoy better living standards, and actively participate in governance.

Against this backdrop, President Xi urged young Chinese to stay rooted in their posts, strive for new achievements and inject their youthful dynamism into advancing the nation’s new journey of development.

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-05-09/Young-dreamers-new-engines-How-China-s-youth-are-shaping-the-future-1N0CyM8yusg/p.html 

United Arab Emirates, May 5, 2026 — On March 30, 2026, Translux Limited successfully completed the placement of its debut $20 million bond issue with a 14% annual coupon, denominated in US dollars. Translux Limited is the oldest oil trading company in DIFC.

Translux Limited has been operating for more than 20 years and specializes in marine fuel bunkering at sea. The company purchases fuel in bulk from leading international suppliers, including BP and Vitol, and delivers it directly to vessels offshore. Over the years, Translux has served thousands of vessels and built long-term relationships with major global container shipping companies, including MSC, Maersk, and CMA CGM. The company generates approximately $120 million in annual turnover and around $7.5 million in net profit, with gross margins reaching approximately 50%. The company has had no defaults throughout its operating history.

The Translux bond issuance was structured by Velar Capitals, an international investment platform specializing in IPO, pre-IPO, and debt capital markets. Velar Capitals develops a long-term support model for companies on their path to the public capital markets, from structuring debt and establishing a transparent financial track record to preparing the equity journey, developing institutional demand, and ultimately supporting an IPO. Velar Capitals sees Kazakhstan as one of the key markets in Central Asia and views AIX as an international platform through which local investors gain access to global issuers.

The current Translux bond issue is not just a placement but part of a broader strategy. The company views public debt as a step toward an IPO in the coming years and as a tool for building a transparent track record in the capital markets. At the same time, Translux plans to issue a subsequent bond at a lower rate, further enhancing the attractiveness of the current issue.

Strong investor interest is driven not only by the terms of the issuance but also by the underlying business. The global bunkering market exceeds $150 billion annually. As global shipping routes shift, traffic is increasingly moving through the Atlantic along the west coast of Africa. This is driving demand for marine fuel supply in the region where Translux already operates. Dakar is emerging as a key hub. On the route between Lomé and Las Palmas, spanning approximately 2,000 nautical miles, it is the only location combining a deep-water port, developed infrastructure, and a stable jurisdiction. Translux holds an exclusive license in this corridor until 2032, effectively securing a key position on this route. The bunkering market in Dakar is growing at approximately 13% per year.

Another important signal for the market is that major international players are already increasing their presence in the region. Leading global companies, including Monjasa, Vitol, Peninsula, and Flex Commodities, are shifting their volumes toward West Africa. For investors, this means the company operates not in a hypothetical growth area but in a segment where the world’s largest industry players are already active.

Following the successful placement, Translux and Velar Capitals are also considering expanding their presence in Kazakhstan. This includes deeper engagement with the market, expansion of the investor base, and the potential opening of a joint office, reinforcing a long-term focus on the region.

The Translux placement on AIX represents a market deal, an infrastructure case, and a strong signal for investors. The oldest oil trading company in DIFC entered the capital markets at a time when global logistics is shifting in its favor, and demand for its services is growing alongside the rerouting of global shipping flows around Africa. Against this backdrop, the current issuance has already become a notable entry point into the company’s story, which, according to its plans, will continue moving toward an IPO in the coming years.

Contact Info:
Name: Dmitriy Vettori
Email: Send Email
Organization: Translux Limited
Website: https://translux.ae/