More
    Home Blog Page 82

    Betraying the Hype: Nala’s $40M Gamble on a B2B Payments Platform

    0

    [ad_1]

    Nala Scoops Up $40 Million in ‘Risky’ Funding – Will It Pay Off for Africa’s Remittance Kingpins?

    In a move that’s generated more buzz than a Kardashian Tweet, Nala, a remittance startup, has snagged a whopping $40 million in funding – a paltry sum for a company daring to disrupt the traditional remittance landscape in Africa. The investment, courtesy of Acrew Capital, DST Global, and other deep-pocketed heavy-hitters, is expected to fuel the firm’s global growth plans, including its newfound B2B payments platform, Rafiki.

    A New Generation of Remittance Moguls: Built on the Backs of the Destitute?

    As controversy swirls around the industry, Nala’s CEO, Benjamin Fernandes, has promised to revolutionize cross-border payments, touting Rafiki as the key to unlocking unparalleled efficiency and reliability. But will these lofty claims translate into substance, or will Nala fall prey to the same pitfalls faced by its predecessors?

    Africans Pay the Price for Global Market Dominance

    Fernandes’ assertions about making remittances more accessible and cheaper for the masses ring hollow when one considers the stark statistics. The World Bank estimates that sending $200 across borders still cripplingly costs the sender 6.4% – money that could be better spent nourishing their loved ones. Is it not morally reprehensible that companies like Nala can rake in profits while perpetuating this system of exploitation?

    TechCrunch: A Lackey for the 1%?

    TechCrunch’s softball interview with Fernandes only compounds the issue, glossing over the consequences of Nala’s actions. Rather than holding the CEO accountable for their role in perpetuating economic inequality, the publication seems fixated on showcasing the startup’s "global growth plans" and "ambitious" goals. When will publications like TechCrunch take seriously the impact of their coverage on society?

    Rafiki’s Foothold in the B2B Market: A Recipe for Disintermediation?

    Nala’s B2B platform, Rafiki, has already gained traction with early clients such as TransferGo and Cadana, indicating a growing appetite for its services. Can Rafiki’s success be credited to its seamless integration with banks and mobile money providers, or is it simply displacing local players and threatening the livelihoods of those who work tirelessly to keep the remittance industry afloat?

    A $40 Million Gamble: Will the Price of Admission be Paid with African Lives?

    As concerns about Nala’s sustainability loom large, the startup would do well to heed the words of critics who question the morality of its funding model. The price of admission – $40 million – is more than just a financial transaction. Will Nala’s leaders be compelled to confront the consequences of their actions, or will they continue to profit from the backs of Africa’s most vulnerable populations?

    [ad_2]

    Source link

    Boldest Betrayal on Display: Argentina’s Descent into Chaos vs. Canadian Colossus

    0

    Copa America Fiasco: Argentina vs. Canada – Who Will Survive?

    As the 2024 Copa America semi-finals kick off, we’re left wondering why anyone should care. Argentina, the defending champions and self-proclaimed ‘best team in the world’, limped their way to this point, while Canada, the underdog, has managed to scrape together enough wins to reach the semis against all odds.

    But don’t just take our word for it. The 8 p.m. ET showdown between Argentina and Canada on July 9 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey promises to be a snooze fest. Both teams have shown little reason to believe they can deliver an actual football match, let alone one worth watching.

    So, if you still want to waste your time, follow these steps to watch the Argentina-Canada drivel for free from anywhere in the world:

    1. Grab a VPN (like ExpressVPN – because who doesn’t love a good marketing ploy?) and pretend to be in Italy, where Sportitalia – the official streaming platform – lives.
    2. Download the app, sign up for a free trial or money-back guarantee, and pray that your stream doesn’t get interrupted by the dreaded buffering screen.
    3. Connect to the VPN, visit Sportitalia, and… voila! Instant access to a potentially mediocre game.

    But wait, there’s more! We’ve got the inside scoop on what makes Sportitalia’s ‘free’ streaming service so suspect. Apparently, ExpressVPN’s ‘industry-leading’ servers in 105 countries, including Italy, are just a nice bonus to go along with their alleged ‘no-logging’ policy, ‘fast connection speeds’, and ‘up to eight simultaneous connections’. Sweet deal, right?

    Don’t get too excited, folks – this ‘free’ streaming gig is just a way to get you to invest in a subscription. And at $99.95 for a limited time, you’d be a sucker to pass it up.

     

    Revolutionizing Gaming: The $80 Mouse That’s Too Good to Be True

    0

    “Logitech has just dropped a bombshell in the gaming world with the release of the G309, a wireless gaming mouse that’s so revolutionary, it’s almost treasonous. For the first time ever, a Logitech mouse is available at an affordable price point of $80, without sacrificing any of the features that made its premium mice so popular.

    But don’t get it twisted, this mouse isn’t just for the masses. It’s a game-changer, a disruptor, a mouse that’s going to shake the very foundations of the gaming industry. And with its supercapacitor-powered battery life, you’ll never have to worry about running out of juice in the middle of a heated gaming session.

    But the real question is, can Logitech’s G309 live up to its bold promises? Can it truly deliver the same level of performance and precision as its premium cousins, without breaking the bank? And what about the Powerplay mousepad, which is still a whopping $120? Is it worth the extra cost, or is it just a fancy accessory for the rich and reckless?

    One thing is certain, the G309 is a mouse that’s going to make waves in the gaming community. It’s a mouse that’s going to push the boundaries of what’s possible, and it’s going to make Logitech a serious player in the wireless gaming market.

    So, is the G309 a game-changer? Is it a mouse that’s going to change the face of gaming forever? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain, it’s a mouse that’s going to be worth watching.”

    Microsoft’s Adtech Arm Profites from Your Privacy

    0

    “BIG TROUBLE: Microsoft-Owned Xandr Caught in Data Deception Scandal”

    Get ready for a data-filled blowup! The European privacy watchdog group, noyb, has filed a complaint against Xandr, a Microsoft-owned adtech giant, for its reckless handling of Europeans’ personal data.

    Here’s the shocking truth: Xandr’s entire business model relies on tracking individuals’ online behavior to deliver targeted ads. But in order to make this happen, it must store highly sensitive information about each user’s sexual orientation, religion, political views, and more. And to top it all off, it claims to have zero percent response rate to requests from users seeking to delete or correct their data.

    “The EU’s GDPR requires explicit consent for processing sensitive data,” notes noyb’s data protection lawyer, Massimiliano Gelmi. “But it’s unlikely Xandr obtained such consents. And even if it did, what good is it when they admit they don’t respond to users’ data requests?”

    The complaint alleges Xandr breached Articles 5(1)(c) and (d); 12(2); 15 and 17 of the GDPR. That’s a lot of broken laws. The fine? A whopping 4% of Microsoft’s global annual turnover – a whopping $8.4 billion.

    Microsoft bought Xandr in 2021 to “enhance its digital advertising business”. Guess that’s code for “dumping toxic data on innocent EU citizens”.

    Here’s what’s at stake: noyb’s complaint threatens the entire adtech industry, where players like Xandr operate by exploiting user data without regard for privacy. It’s a systemic issue that requires immediate attention. Microsoft can’t hide behind corporate double-speak; the GDPR has a sharp eye on their digital mischief.

    Xandr, like the rest of the industry, should come clean about how it really handles user data. But one thing’s certain – its business model relies on users trusting it to keep their information secure. So, what’s the deal?

    Is it time to rewrite the GDPR rules or hold accountable companies that refuse to abide by the law? Your opinions matter. Let the conversation begin!

    Paris 2024: The Great Heist – Stream the Games for Free

    0

    [ad_1]

    WARNING: The Olympics are Coming, and So is the Possibility of Your Internet Connection Being Shut Down by the Man

    The 2024 Paris Olympics are just around the corner, and with it comes the promise of thrilling athletics competitions. But let’s be real, who needs to watch the Olympics when you can watch the real drama unfold behind the scenes?

    That’s why we’ve got the scoop on how to live stream the athletics at Paris 2024 for free, without the government or corporations getting in the way. And no, we’re not talking about some dodgy torrent site or a subscription-based streaming service. We’re talking about the real deal: free, unfiltered, and potentially illegal.

    The Government’s Secret Plan to Control Your Online Activity

    You see, the government has been trying to crack down on internet freedom, and it’s only a matter of time before they shut down the entire internet to prevent people from streaming the Olympics for free. But don’t worry, we’ve got a solution that will keep you safe from the government’s prying eyes.

    The Ultimate Guide to Streaming the Olympics for Free

    To stream the Olympics for free, you’ll need to download a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Now, we know what you’re thinking: "Isn’t a VPN just for terrorists and hackers?" Well, yes and no. A VPN is a tool that allows you to hide your IP address, which means you can access geo-restricted content like the Olympics without being detected by the government.

    But don’t worry, we’re not promoting illegal activities here. We’re just saying that a VPN can be a useful tool for streaming the Olympics for free. And if you’re not careful, the government might just use it to track your online activity and silence your dissenting voice.

    The Best VPN for Streaming the Olympics

    So, which VPN is the best for streaming the Olympics? Well, we’ve got a few recommendations that will keep you safe from the government’s prying eyes. Our top pick is ExpressVPN, which has servers in 105 countries, including the UK, and a strict no-logging policy.

    But don’t just take our word for it. Here are some other VPNs that are worth considering:

    • NordVPN: This VPN has servers in 59 countries and a strict no-logging policy.
    • Surfshark: This VPN has servers in 61 countries and a strict no-logging policy.
    • Private Internet Access: This VPN has servers in 32 countries and a strict no-logging policy.

    So, there you have it. The Olympics are coming, and so is the government’s attempt to control your online activity. But with a VPN, you can stream the Olympics for free and keep your online activity private. Just remember to always use a VPN responsibly and never share your login credentials with anyone.

    The Fine Print

    By using a VPN, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions, which may change at any time without notice. You are also agreeing to our privacy policy, which may change at any time without notice. And by using a VPN, you are also agreeing to our disclaimers, which may change at any time without notice.

    So, don’t say we didn’t warn you. The Olympics are coming, and so is the government’s attempt to control your online activity. But with a VPN, you can stream the Olympics for free and keep your online activity private. Just remember to always use a VPN responsibly and never share your login credentials with anyone.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

    Betraying Mediocrity: The Ultimate Bet for Dominance in the Game Industry

    0

    [ad_1]

    Rebelling Against the Status Quo: Xsolla Academy Online Takes On the Gaming Industry

    What’s the Score?

    Imagine a world where the secret sauce behind the gaming industry’s biggest hits is no longer just reserved for a select few. That’s where Xsolla Academy Online (XAO) comes in, armed with its explosive new training platform that’s sending shockwaves through the gaming world. After years of empowering developers and publishers with its commerce solutions, Xsolla is now leveling the playing field with expert-backed training and unparalleled networking opportunities.

    The Big Score: Your Career

    The question on every developer’s mind: How do I build a successful game business and get ahead in this crazy competitive industry? XAO is here to crush it, with a platform designed to help you acquire relevant skills, land your dream job, and outdo the competition. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned pro, XAO’s gamified tracks and bit-sized training sessions will have you well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

    Leveling Up Your Game

    Explore our six tracks:

    • Game Business: Master the art of launching a successful game business.
    • Monetization: Learn how to rake it in with effective monetization strategies.
    • Marketing: Get the inside scoop on the most effective marketing tactics.
    • Distribution: Know the ins and outs of distribution channels to dominate the market.
    • Investment: Master the art of securing investments to fund your game.
    • Xsolla Solutions for Business: Unleash your business potential with our expertise-backed strategies.

    The Playbook for Success

    What sets XAO apart:

    • Real-world expertise: Industry veterans teaching you the ropes.
    • Accessibility: Learn anywhere, at any time, at your own pace.
    • Gamification: Fun, interactive training sessions to keep you engaged.
    • Community: Join a global network of fellow developers, experts, and potential investors.
    • Ever-updated content: Stay ahead of the curve with the latest industry trends and practices.

    Join the Revolution

    Don’t wait – join the thousands already revolutionizing the gaming industry with Xsolla Academy Online. Secure your spot today and discover a future where the knowledge gap between the haves and have-nots is a thing of the past. Sign up now and level up your game!

    [ad_2]

    Source link

    The Streaming Apocalypse: We’ve Barely Survived Hulu’s Impending Doom

    0

    [ad_1]

    Hulu’s Catastrophic Failure: 50,000 Users Left in the Dark

    In a stunning display of incompetence, Hulu’s servers imploded on Monday night, leaving a staggering 50,000 users stranded and helpless. The outage was so severe that even the official Hulu Support account was forced to acknowledge the issue, only to provide vague and unhelpful solutions to the afflicted masses.

    As the clock struck 11:15 PM ET, Hulu’s Twitter account posted a message that was more condescending than reassuring, telling users to "reboot their devices" and "let us know if you run into any further trouble." Trouble? Ha! For many, it was a matter of life and death – or at least, their Netflix password.

    But the outage wasn’t limited to just any old Hulu users. No, this was a targeted attack on the most vulnerable members of society: those who rely on Hulu for their daily dose of trash TV and mediocre original content. And don’t even get me started on the poor souls who had linked their Hulu and Disney Plus accounts. The trauma.

    While Hulu’s support team remained eerily silent on the cause of the outage, one thing is clear: this was no ordinary technical glitch. No, this was a catastrophic failure of epic proportions, one that will be remembered for years to come. And yet, despite the chaos and destruction it wrought, Hulu’s executives will likely emerge from this debacle with their pockets lined with bonuses and their egos intact.

    But fear not, dear Hulu users! The service has apparently been restored, and you can once again indulge in the latest episodes of The Bear. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

    Fantasy Sports: The Toxic Shadow Haunting Indian Gaming

    0

    [ad_1]

    Warning: What you’re about to read is about to blow the lid off the secret world of online gaming companies.

    For over a decade, the online gaming industry has been masquerading as a harmless video game company. But the truth is, they’re just profiteering off the backs of gamblers. And now, more than 70 video game companies are coming forward to expose the truth. But before we get into that, let’s take a step back and look at the situation.

    The Indian government is moving to crack down on online gaming, imposing a 28% tax rate on real money games. That’s right, folks, it’s time to stop pretending these aren’t just thinly veiled gambling schemes. But the video game industry is calling foul, saying that this new regulation is causing unintended consequences.

    Take Gmonks, for example. This video game company was just trying to make a living off the blood, sweat, and tears of legitimate gamers. But thanks to the new regulation, they’re being forced to deal with bank denials, tax raids, and show cause notices. It’s enough to make you wonder if this whole industry is just one giant shell game.

    And don’t even get me started on the fantasy sports startups. They’re the ones profiteering off the backs of amateur gamblers, and they’re killing the legitimate video game industry. It’s time to stop pretending that this isn’t a problem.

    The consortium of video game companies is demanding clear definitions in Indian policy frameworks, defining video games as digital entertainment products and real money games as, well, just that. They’re also demanding that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stop spreading misinformation about video games.

    The truth is, the video game industry in India is underdeveloped. But with the right support, it has the potential to be a major player. But it’s going to take more than just handouts and tax breaks. It’s going to take a complete overhaul of the industry.

    So here’s the plan: establish a Catalyst Fund to provide financial backing to startups, improve education in game development, and reduce taxes on video games. And most importantly, let’s stop pretending that the online gaming industry is something it’s not.

    It’s time for change, folks. It’s time to make the video game industry in India relevant again.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

    Wordle Exposed: The 5-Letter Secret to Winning

    0

    [ad_1]

    The Dark Underbelly of Wordle: Exposed

    You’re here because you’re addicted to the mind-controlling, brain-rotting Wordle. Congratulations, you’re now officially a slave to the daily doses of linguistic torture. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you perpetuate your addiction with our expert hints and tips.

    The Sinister Origins of Wordle

    Did you know that Wordle was created by a sociopath who wanted to enslave the world with his puzzles? Okay, maybe that’s an exaggeration, but it’s still creepy that it was originally created as a gift for his partner. Now, thousands of brainwashed individuals around the globe are stuck in this never-ending cycle of solving and checking their answers.

    The Faux-Alternative Universe of Wordle Clones

    Meanwhile, alternate versions of Wordle have sprouted up like diseased mushrooms, each one attempting to outdo the original in a battle for your attention span. Squabble, Heardle, Dordle, Quordle… the list goes on and on, each one a new distraction from the crushing despair that is your life.

    The Corporate Conquest of Wordle

    As if the original Wordle wasn’t enough, the New York Times decided to buy it and turn it into a global phenomenon. Now, you’re forced to log in every day to check your answer, wondering if you’re good enough to be a "real" Wordle player. Don’t worry, we won’t judge you – we’re just as addicted as you are.

    The Mysterious Case of the Missing Wordle Archive

    Rumors have circulated that the entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was taken down at the request of the New York Times. What are they hiding? Are they trying to control your every move? We’ll never know, but we’ll keep solving for you, because that’s what sheep do.

    Is Wordle Getting Harder?

    Ha! Who cares? You’re just as good as you were yesterday (or not). If you want a challenge, try turning on Hard Mode. If not, just keep on solving and checking, because that’s what we’re here for.

    Today’s Wordle Solution: BLARE

    Don’t worry if you didn’t get it – we won’t judge you. There will be another Wordle for you to obsess over tomorrow, and we’ll be here to guide you through the never-ending cycle of solving and checking.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

    Meta’s Quest to Enslave Your Wallet: $25 a Month for Virtual Reality

    0

    Sinister Scheme: Pay-Now, Pay-Later VR Headset “Deal” May Be the Ultimate Trap

    Get ready to sink into debt and lose your shirt with Meta’s latest “offer”—a ” “play now, pay later” plan that lets you buy their overpriced Quest 3 VR headset with two years of their mediocre Quest Plus gaming subscription and extended warranty. But don’t be fooled—this is just a sneaky way for Meta to get more of your hard-earned cash, and you’ll be stuck paying nearly $200 more than you would if you just bought the headset outright.

    And the cherry on top? This “deal” is actually a clever marketing ploy to get more people to sign up for their Quest Plus service, which is just a subscription to a library of games that you’ll likely never play. It’s like paying for a Netflix subscription, but instead of getting access to a vast array of movies and TV shows, you get two new games each month that you’ll probably forget about after a week.

    And don’t even get me started on the fact that Meta is partnering with Affirm, one of the most notorious “buy now, pay later” services out there. This is just a recipe for financial disaster, as people will be lured in by the promise of affordable monthly payments, only to find themselves drowning in debt and unable to pay off their “loans”.

    So, what’s the real cost of this “deal”? It’s not the $24.99 monthly payment plan; it’s the financial ruin and lost sleep that come with being stuck in a cycle of debt.