Even those far from the gambling industry have definitely noticed the bright, attractive promotions that promise players to double their deposits or enjoy free spins at the casino’s expense. Such deals look tempting, right? Many users still think they are a deception, but this is far from the case. Providing rewards for members is one of the main casinos’ tools to attract new gamblers to their platforms. Considering the variety of operators in the industry, gaming clubs are forced to create new exclusive deals, and here you can learn more about the most popular options.
Welcome Offers to Attract Newcomers
This is the first and the juiciest promotion players usually meet on gaming websites. Casinos want to welcome their new clients with some attractive benefits and motivate them to register on the platform. The standard option implies a certain sum of money that allows users to try more games without extra deposits. For instance, MrBet 10 euro bonus can be a great boost right after registration. Moreover, gambling operators become more creative and make sign-up bonus packages, which include not only insane deposit multiplications but also dozens of free spins.
No Deposit Promotions for Trying Some Games for Free
In opposite to the sign-up offer available in almost every casino, free rewards are quite rare, and it may take a while for a gambler to find them. However, it’s definitely worth a try since a no-deposit promo is a great chance to try some games and slot machines without investing a penny. Moreover, it provides the opportunity of winning real cash. The most common types of free bonuses are the following:
Credits for playing games
Free spins for featured slots
Rewards on birthdays and holidays
As a rule, it’s enough to register on the platform to receive this offer. In such a way, operators try to attract players and allow them to try the gameplay before investing any cash. Remember that such promos often imply wagering requirements that should be met, so check everything in advance.
Cashback for Those Not Lucky Enough
Everybody knows gambling is risky, but losses are always painful for players. And some casinos have something to cheer you up in such an instance: they provide cashback, allowing members to return a part of lost cash back on their accounts. The percentage varies from one gaming club to another, as well as the conditions of claiming the reward. As a rule, gamblers can get a payout weekly or monthly depending on the sum they’ve deposited on the website. The cashback money can be used for playing more slots and games, which is a perfect way to minimize losses.
Reload Bonuses to Increase Players’ Interest
Some users think that casinos only provide bonuses for newcomers, but it’s a false opinion. Many reliable operators try to keep their members loyal to the platform and reload bonuses are their faithful assistants. These are the deposit offers that imply an immediate deposit multiplication. They can also involve some free spins to warm up the players’ excitement and provide them with the possibility of trying more slots.
Free Spins to Enjoy Top Slot Machines
This game type is traditionally the most popular among gamblers, so it’s not surprising that free spins are the most desired promotion. What can be better than spinning the reel at the casino’s expense and increasing the possibility of winning? Modern gaming clubs sometimes offer hundreds of free spins that definitely come in handy for many players. Keep in mind that such promos usually work only for some featured slot machines, so check the conditions in advance!
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
Amid a downturn in public stock prices and a rise in interest rates, VCs are more cautious about investing. Founders have had to adapt — with some choosing to abandon raising altogether until a more favourable economic climate returns.
When investors say 'raise less', don't listen: More often that not, investors put pressure on founders to raise less cash because their fund size doesn’t allow them to lead the round, or because they can’t get the chunk of ownership they want, among other things — which is why Vila advocates for sticking to your guns and doing what’s right for your company.
“We understand our business, we know what we want to build and we have a strategy to do it,” she says. “If you are certain of what you need, keep looking for the right investor.”
Do investor DD: Helery Pops, cofounder of Estonian VC firm Honey Badger Capital, says that founders should think about fundraising as building a long-term relationship with an investor — one who will help you with all aspects of running a business, and will be supportive when the going gets tough.
“Everyone can talk and say they are super helpful. But at the end of the day if the investor just gives you money and disappears, that is not what you want.”
Be weary of predatory terms: Things have changed pretty drastically in the last six months, with term sheets becoming decidedly more “predatory,” said Mike Labriola, a partner at law firm Wilson Sonsini. In other words, investors are looking for more protection from a downside scenario. And that means negotiating for deals that give founders less control and put more guardrails in place.
Michiel Kotting, partner at Northzone, advises founders to talk to people they trust to get a second opinion on a deal. He also says that a downround — or raising a round at a lower valuation than a previous round — is often the better option than another solution that involves keeping the valuation but handing a big chunk of control to a new investor.
Budget for your fundraise: June Angelides, investor at Samos Investors, says startups should be smart about setting money aside for fundraising fees — and definitiely not spend money on some things. “Check when negotiating deal terms with investors whether you are required to pay for the cost of their legal fees (as well as your own!),” she says. And ask the following questions before fundraising:
Who pays the investors’ legal fees?
When do fees have to be paid? Before or after the round is completed?
What is the maximum this could cost?
Do I need a law firm or can I use a legaltech platform
Another perspective
Here are a few pieces of advice for startups seeking venture capital in difficult bear markets:
Focus on your value proposition: In a bear market, investors are going to be more risk-averse, so it's important to clearly articulate the value that your company brings to the table. This includes the problem you are solving, your unique solution, and your target market.
Have a solid financial plan: Investors will want to see that you have a solid plan for how you will use their capital to grow the business. This should include detailed financial projections, a clear understanding of your burn rate, and a plan for profitability.
Be realistic about your valuation: It's important to have a realistic valuation for your company in a bear market. Overvaluing your company could scare off potential investors, while undervaluing it could leave money on the table.
Look for alternative sources of funding: In a bear market, venture capital may be harder to come by. Consider looking for alternative sources of funding, such as angel investors, crowdfunding, or government grants.
Network and get introductions: In a challenging market, it's more important than ever to have a strong network. Try to get introductions to potential investors through mutual connections or industry events.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
It’s a turbulent—and busy—time in private markets. Portfolios are fuller than ever and there is significant dry powder across the industry. Yet fundraising and deal making for larger transactions are well off 2021’s highs. The slowdown in exits, coupled with declining public market valuations and the resulting denominator effect, has shifted investor allocations.
As a result, the current fundraising environment is far more challenging than in the past several years. The latest issue of McKinsey on Investing—brought to you by senior partners Pontus Averstad, Pooneh Baghai, Alejandro Beltrán, and others—steps back from the immediate challenge of the market, and the broader macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty, to present a longer-term perspective on how investment firms are evolving.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
There are multiple reasons why robotic technology is making waves in many industries. From improving customer service to reducing waste, it has a positive impact on a wide range of businesses and industries. So, whether you are an entrepreneur looking to increase efficiency or a business owner looking to cut costs, keep reading to learn more about the amazing global improvements that can be made with robotic technology.
Robotics is often thought of as a job for those in the manufacturing industry, but that is not the only place where it can be used. Robotic technology has been increasing in popularity for use in a variety of fields, including logistics, the adjustable standing workstation building industry, retail, and even healthcare.
How Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Change the World
Robotics has become an integral part of everyday life around the world, whether at work or home. From delivery drones to self-driving cars, robotic technology has been responsible for numerous global advancements. Let’s look at some of the ways robotic technology improves people’s quality of life:
New Kinds of Jobs
One of the most important benefits of robotic technology is that it creates new kinds of jobs. For example, a company may use robotic technology to build and maintain towers.
Previously, this job would have been done by humans using ropes and scaffolds, but now robots can do the job much faster and safer. It has led to an increase in jobs in fields like construction, engineering, and maintenance.
Improved Customer Service
Robotic technology also allows for improved customer service. Instead of having one person handle all customer interactions, a business can use robotics to create more efficient line systems with multiple workers. In addition, robots can provide customers with a more personalized experience by taking into account various customer preferences.
Reduced Costs
Robotic technology also reduces costs in many industries. For example, self-driving cars require less maintenance and are cheaper to operate than traditional vehicles. It has led to an increase in businesses that rely on robotic technology, such as taxi companies and ride-sharing services.
Improved Quality of Life
In addition to improving business efficiency and reducing costs, robotic technology also improves the quality of life for people around the world. For example, elderly citizens no longer have to spend hours each day walking to the grocery store.
Instead, they can use a robotic cart that takes them to the food they need without having to expend any energy. Similarly, people with disabilities can now enjoy regular activities such as gardening and cooking without risk of injury.
A Decade of Progress Enabling Autonomy
Robotic technology has come a long way in the last decade, and there is no sign of it stopping. This technology seems to be only getting better and more versatile with time. With such significant benefits for businesses and consumers alike, it is hard to imagine a world where robotic technology is not mainstream.
Agile Production Systems
It is no secret that the global economy is changing rapidly. With new technologies emerging all the time, it can be hard to keep up with all the changes.
It is where agile production systems come into play. These systems allow businesses to quickly test new ideas and prototypes to improve their products and remain competitive in a constantly shifting market.
Working Alongside People
Robotic technology is not intended to replace people but to work alongside them. This means that humans must still be able to understand and operate the machines. In some cases, this may involve training employees in new skills, such as machine operation or software development, so they can use robotic technology effectively.
Easy Integration
Robotic technology is not only easy to use, but it also integrates easily into existing processes. It means that businesses can quickly adopt robotic technology without having to make any big changes to their current operations.
It is one of the main benefits of agile production systems. They allow businesses to rapidly adapt and change to stay ahead of the curve.
Robots Take on New Roles
There are now a wide variety of different roles that robotic technology can play in businesses. From manufacturing to logistics, robots can take on a wide range of tasks and responsibilities. It means that businesses no longer have to rely solely on human workers for certain tasks.
AI and Robotics’ Impact on the Workplace
Robotic technology is not intended to replace people. However, it does not mean AI and robotics are irrelevant to the workplace. They can have a big impact on how businesses operate.
For example, robots can help companies automate certain processes so they can focus more attention on other areas of their business. It lowers costs, frees up employees for more important tasks, and enables businesses to identify potential problems early in the manufacturing process, avoiding costly repairs.
Robotics technology is slowly but steadily making its way into the mainstream. Some may regard robotics technology as too expensive or difficult to use, while others begin to embrace it. If you are ready to take your operational processes to the next level, start right away, and robotic technology will guide you to success.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
Donald Trump may not be a fan of crypto but he has launched “Trump Cards,” an NFT collection featuring pictures of — you guessed it — himself.
Back in 2019, Trump tweeted that Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies “are not money” and are “based on thin air.” but that hasn't stopped Trump from launching his own NFT collection priced at $99 apiece, the collection of 45,000 trading cards was minted on the Polygon blockchain and sold out in less than a day. NFT holders have a chance to win various Trump-themed prizes that include dinner with the former president, a round of golf, and individual and group Zoom calls.
According to the website, card rarities are pre-assigned with an upper limit of 10 copies per card. The very next sentence, however, casts doubt on that claim.
The cards mark the former president’s first foray into NFTs, although Melania Trump released an NFT back in February and reportedly bought it herself for $185K.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
The landscape of the gaming industry has changed dramatically over the last couple of decades with a wide range of different factors behind this trend.
One of the most obvious drivers is the proliferation of smartphones. These pocket-sized computers have given almost everyone on the planet the ability to play games on the go, with more than a million different titles available to play on both Android and Apple devices.
The internet has also been a major influence in a number of ways. The most notable of these is that it has allowed people to play with their friends and strangers without having to be in the same room. There are plenty of ways this can be done, but the most common is to load up a game and join a public lobby.
However, players that want a more intimate experience with just the people they know can create their own private games. For fans of poker, the leading online card room, PokerStars offers its Home Games platform that lets players create their own clubs that they can decorate and set the rules for. This means players can still enjoy their poker nights with their pals, even if they’re in other parts of the country or even the other side of the world.
Aside from these two examples, another big factor that has helped to reshape the gaming industry has been crowdfunding. This is because it has helped to democratise the development and marketing of many different kinds of content, including video games, board games, and card games.
Through sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo, crowdfunding has helped to finance the development of thousands of different titles. While many have eventually flopped or ticked over with mediocre performance, some have gone on to become smash hits that are enjoyed by millions of people right around the world.
Exploding Kittens
Exploding Kittens might seem like a strange name for a card game, but it’s one of the reasons why it has been able to stand out and make history.
It made history in 2015 when it became the most-funded project on Kickstarter at the time. Even today, almost eight years on, Exploding Kittens remains the third-largest in the history of the platform having raised US$8.7 million.
It wasn’t just the final figure that was impressive, either. It was also the speed in which it hit eye-watering sums. In just the first 24 hours on the website, Exploding Kittens had more than $1.3 million pledged with 91,000 backers chipping in over $3.5 million by the fourth day. This was despite an initial target of just $10,000.
Since its launch, Exploding Kittens has gone on to sell more than 11 million copies with several expansion packs helping to keep it fresh.
Image: Unsplash/Igor Karimov
Divinity: Original Sin
It’s not just physical games that are crowded funded, either. Divinity: Original sin is an RPG video game that was partially funded through Kickstarter.
Although it didn’t quite reach the levels attracted by Exploding Kittens, the $1 million that Larian Studios managed to raise through the crowdfunding platform helped to cover the roughly $4 million development budget.
Following the success of the first, developers turned to Kickstarter again when they wanted to raise the funds for a sequel. After hitting the platform in August 2015, Divinity: Original Sin 2 received $500,000 in just 12 hours and, by the end of the campaign, more than $2 million was pledged.
The game eventually launched for Windows two years later, with console versions following in the months that followed.
Cards Against Humanity
But before either of these two projects made it to Kickstarter, Cards Against Humanity became a trail blazer in the crowd-funded game space.
Its campaign was much more modest. After going live on the platform in December 2010 with a target of just $4,000. This was achieved just a few weeks late and by the end of the fundraising period in late January 2011, the creators has raised more than $15,000.
Although this was pocket change compared to Exploding Kittens, Cards Against Humanity has gone on to be one of the most successful card games of the 21st century. The company that produces the game generates around $50 million in sales from it and the expansion packs and it reportedly worth around $500 million.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
If you want to launch your own business and sell goods, you may have thought about becoming a franchisee. Finding franchise opportunities can be an excellent way to connect with an audience that wouldn’t buy your goods otherwise, and it creates an immediate sense of trust in the consumer’s mind.
For instance, brands with a reputation for being green have more chances to attract customers, and these customers are willing to pay more for sustainable products. So, if you’re interested in joining a franchise to offer such products, allow us to show how being a franchisee works.
Starting Operating a Franchise
Franchises exist for any kind of business providing customers with goods or services. The first examples coming to mind are fast-food restaurants such as McDonald’s or Burger King. However, it’s possible to join a franchise to sell other alimentary products like groceries, jewelry, or apparel.
As a franchisee, you’ll have to pay a fee to the franchise to get the right to use their brand name and sell their products. In most instances, the franchise can ask the operator to adapt their facility or invest in machinery to offer the products with their exigence in quality.
Is It Lucrative For The Franchisee?
If you didn’t know, franchises have generated over 827 billion US dollars in the US in 2022, and it employs over 8.5 million people every year. Once you’ve paid all you’re due, including paying for the goods, advertisements, and the various fees and royalties linked to the franchise. Then, the rest of the recipes go to paying your employees, facilities, and, finally, your operating company.
Moreover, franchises have started to partner up with innovative payment methods like XTM to offer customers more convenience. These payment solutions usually boost sales by providing incentives or crypto payments.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of a franchise varies depending on the brand and type of products and services you intend to offer. In some instances, the initial investment can reach upwards of $21,000 to get started. You’ll have to pay the franchise fee, permits, insurance, supplies, promotions, furniture, and legal procedures.
You may also have to invest in hardware and pay for professional software solutions to run the business. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the operation. like delivery and training expenses. So, it’s a profitable venture if you already have the initial funds to get it up and running in a matter of months.
If the franchise you intend to launch is more luxurious, like a resort, the initial investment is in millions. and most of these businesses require seeking investors with enough money to pay for everything.
Are There Low Investment Options?
Even though the most prestigious franchises, like Hilton, will ask for a tremendous price upfront due to the quality of the brand and the crowd it attracts, it’s possible to get started with a franchise for far less money.
For example, paying for a fitness franchise is one of the most profitable investments. You’ll have to pay for the hardware, machines, and professional coaching, but the franchise is relatively cheap. Furthermore, this will attract pre-existing customers to your venue.
Image: Unsplash/Taylor Grote
Is It Always Profitable?
For a franchising business to be successful, you must be ready to invest the required amount of money. However, it can fail for a number of reasons. Before buying a franchise, you need to get legal advice and do a business survey. For instance, opening too close to similar businesses can lead to your business not making enough. Still, if your facility is too far removed from a city center or places of interest, no one will know it’s there. It’s all about finding the right balance to attract the right customers.
Furthermore, the franchise will review your application to ensure you can provide the quality of service expected by the brand and its customers. Nowadays, this process can be made easier if the franchise is an online service.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. 
It’s a turbulent—and busy—time in private markets. Portfolios are fuller than ever and there is significant dry powder across the industry. Yet fundraising and deal making for larger transactions are well off 2021’s highs. The slowdown in exits, coupled with declining public market valuations and the resulting denominator effect, has shifted investor allocations.
Donald Trump may not be a fan of crypto but he has launched “Trump Cards,” an NFT collection featuring pictures of — you guessed it — himself.
