Category: Exchange

Naoris Protocol Raises $3M in Strategic Round Led by Mason Labs

Naoris Protocol, the first quantum-resistant blockchain and cybersecurity mesh architecture, has raised $3 million in a strategic funding round led by Mason Labs, that includes Frekaz Group, Level One Robotics and Tradecraft Capital following a six-month technical due diligence process.

The round, which includes proceeds from Naoris’s public sale and related allocations, was oversubscribed, prompting the team to open a new institutional raise — now live as of today, Thursday, 29 May.

David Carvalho, CEO and Founder of Naoris Protocol, says: “The strong interest we’ve seen from institutions reflects how urgently the industry is beginning to take the threat of quantum computing seriously. This investment supports our mission to future-proof the blockchain ecosystem before these risks become reality.”

Mason Labs, a leading venture capital firm focused on infrastructure-grade technologies, conducted a detailed review of Naoris Protocol’s post-quantum trust structure prior to securing the entire VIP allocation.Rain Huan, Founder of Mason Labs, says: “In recent years, cybersecurity issues related to digital assets have become increasingly severe and a serious challenge also faced by Mason Labs as an institution focusing on on-chain asset trading and investment. Naoris Protocol’s groundbreaking infrastructure layer has the potential to effectively mitigate such security risks. If successful, this would represent a substantial advancement for the Web3 ecosystem.”

This latest round follows a $31 million fundraise in 2022 backed by Tim Draper, the Holdun Family Office, Expert Doja, Uniera and other institutional investors.

Naoris Protocol is led by a team of cybersecurity, defense, and blockchain leaders, including:

The protocol offers a plug-and-play cybersecurity mesh designed to protect any blockchain or enterprise system from the sub-zero layer upward, without requiring a hard fork. Its decentralized security layer is powered by post-quantum cryptography and AI, and aligned with standards from NIST, NATO, and ETSI.

Naoris Protocol also runs a quantum-resistant Layer 1 blockchain secured by its proprietary Proof-of-Security (dPoSec) consensus mechanism.

About Naoris Protocol

Naoris Protocol is the world’s first Decentralized Post-Quantum Infrastructure, built to secure both Web3 and Web2 against traditional and quantum threats. Operating beneath blockchain layers 0 to 3 as a Sub-Zero Layer, it integrates with existing EVM chains, nodes, bridges, dApps, enterprise systems, and IoT devices without requiring hard forks. Naoris Protocol combines Post-Quantum Cryptography, dPoSec Consensus, and Decentralized Swarm AI to create a self-healing security mesh that eliminates single points of failure. Since launching in January 2025, it has processed over 64 million transactions and mitigated 341 million threats. Powered by the $NAORIS token, it is the fastest-growing trust and security layer for a quantum-resilient internet.

To learn more about Naoris Protocol, visit https://www.naorisprotocol.com/ 

Press contact:
Anna Fedorova
anna@babslabs.io 

HODL 2025: Blockchain’s Brightest Minds. All in Dubai

HODL 2025, set for 14-15 May 2025 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, follows the Dubai FinTech Summit and marks a new chapter for Trescon’s flagship event. Formerly known as the World Blockchain Summit, the event has been at the forefront of blockchain innovation for nearly a decade. As the world’s longest-running crypto and Web3 summit series, HODL 2025 will bring together over 5,000 industry leaders, innovators, and investors to explore the technologies and trends that will define the next decade.

Join the discussion on the groundbreaking shifts reshaping Web3, crypto, and DeFi.

Institutional adoption is accelerating as TradFi ramps up its crypto play, while evolving regulations set the stage for the next compliance era. DeFi 2.0 is breaking boundaries with real-world integrations, and AI-powered blockchain innovations are pushing scalability to new heights alongside next-gen cross-chain interoperability.

From RWA tokenization unlocking trillions in liquidity to Web3 gaming emerging as the next digital frontier, and modular blockchain architectures revolutionizing infrastructure—this is where the future of the industry unfolds. Expect hot takes on market trends, the rise of Layer-2 solutions, and blockchain’s expanding role in enterprise innovation

HODL 2025 is where the industry’s brightest minds come together to collaborate and explore the real-world impact of blockchain and Web3 technologies.

What to Expect at HODL 2025:

Investor & Collaboration Access: Connect with over 500 investors looking to fund blockchain projects and seize opportunities for collaboration with industry leaders and innovators. HODL 2025 is the place to secure funding and form strategic partnerships.

  • Brand Exposure & Strategic Insights: With 60+ media and listing partners, your brand will gain global visibility. At the same time, discover how emerging blockchain technologies are transforming industries and learn how to leverage them for growth.
  • Powerhouse Speakers & Networking: Hear from leading experts in blockchain, AI, DeFi, and Web3. Plus, meet entrepreneurs, regulators, and investors from around the world, expanding your network and gaining valuable insights.
  • Collaborative Discussions: Engage in focused discussions on governance, tokenization, and interoperability, gaining practical insights to solve real-world challenges in the blockchain space.

There was a time when brands set up individual meetings to pitch their ideas. But at HODL 2025, you’ll be under one roof with not just your target prospects, but thousands of potential collaborators. This is where you can pitch your ideas, collaborate in real-time, and expand your network to include key players from across the blockchain ecosystem.

The lead generation process has evolved. Events like HODL bring together both the solution and the user in one space. This creates an ideal environment for forging meaningful connections, driving innovation, and building strategic partnerships that will shape the future of blockchain.

As we look forward to the discussions at HODL 2025, Nils Andersen-Röed, Global Head of FIU at Binance, said, “Excited to share insights on blockchain and connect with leaders driving GameFi, NFTs, and Web3 advancements at HODL 2025.”

Billal Yamak, Head of Growth GCC, The Sandbox, added, “HODL 2025 is where the future of Web3 and crypto innovation takes shape. I am thrilled to collaborate with pioneers shaping this exciting digital revolution”

Alongside Nils Andersen-Röed, the summit will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including:

  • Corbin Fraser, CEO, Bitcoin.Com
  • Robert Crossley, Global Head of Industry and Digital Advisory Services, Franklin Templeton
  • Gracy Chen, CEO, Bitget
  • Viktor Fischer, Managing Partner, RockawayX
  • Talal Tabbaa, CEO, CoinMena
  • Luther Maday, Global Head of Payments, Algorand Foundation
  • Dyma Budorin, Co-Founder & CEO, Hacken

With its deep focus on blockchain adoption, AI integration, DeFi, NFTs, and institutional investments in Web3, HODL continues to be the premier networking destination for industry stakeholders.

For more information, visit: https://hodlsummit.com/dubai2025/

Unlock your FREE access to HODL 2025 (limited time only). Click here to claim!

This 30th edition of HODL Summit is supported by

About HODL

HODL, born from the legacy of the iconic World Blockchain Summit (WBS) and organised by Trescon, is the World’s Longest-Running Crypto and Web3 Summit Series with 29 global editions across cities like Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok. Since 2017, HODL has served as a platform for blockchain deal-making, innovation, and connecting disruptive projects with investors, enterprises, and governments.

Join HODL Dubai on 14-15 May 2025, to engage with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge blockchain developments, and secure your place at the forefront of Web3 innovation.

Visit https://bit.ly/4cC9HyM for more details and ticket information.

For further inquiries, contact:
Shadi Dawi
Sr. Director – PR, Comms., & Media
M: +971 55 498 4989 | E: shadi@tresconglobal.com

Bahrain Launches Informational Website and Hotline for the Golden Residency to Attract Global Professionals and Investors

With the aim of attracting exceptionally talented individuals and investment into the Kingdom of Bahrain, in line with strategic efforts to enhance national competitiveness and support development across various economic, investment, and service sectors, Bahrain today launched a website (www.goldenresidendy.gov.bh) and a hotline (+973 17484000) dedicated to providing information on its Golden Residency Program. The new services work towards providing a point of reference for interested applicants and beneficiaries.

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Since the Golden Residency Program was first launched in 2022 as part of the Economic Recovery Plan, the Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs has granted permanent residency to investors, expats owning real estate, artists, athletes, talented professionals, and long-serving employees alongside their dependents.

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H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain Economic Development Board said, “With its strategic location and its business-supportive ecosystem, the Kingdom of Bahrain has always been a hub for both global talent and investment. The Golden Residency Program reaffirms our commitment to fostering a dynamic and welcoming environment where individuals and businesses can thrive and become part of Bahrain’s growth plans. Bahrain is committed to consistently providing streamlined and advanced services to its citizens, residents, and visitors.”

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Bahrain has cemented itself as the destination of choice for global professionals and investors. With its welcoming community and high quality of life, it offers an attractive home for all. Residents enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle that blends modern island living with rich cultural heritage. As a regional business hub, Bahrain offers 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, a competitive taxation system, and a highly skilled bilingual workforce. Positioned at the heart of the Arabian Gulf, residents will experience strategic access to key markets and a business-friendly regulatory environment that fosters innovation and investment.

H.E. Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs (NPRA) said: “Through the Golden Residency Program, we aim to attract global talent and investors to contribute to Bahrain’s development plans. The website and hotline going live enable us to provide comprehensive information on the program, which will support in attracting talent and investment, thereby positioning the Kingdom as one of the region’s tourism destinations of choice.”

The Golden Residency Program enables holders and their families to live and work in Bahrain, and is available to individuals who meet the following eligibility criteria:

Employees: Professionals who have worked in Bahrain for at least five years with a minimum monthly salary of BHD 2,000 (equivalent to USD 5,306) over the past five years.

Property Owners: Investors who own real estate in Bahrain valued at BHD 200,000 (equivalent to USD 530,555) or more at the time of purchase.

Retirees: Individuals who have worked in Bahrain for at least 15 years and have an average monthly pension of BHD 2,000 (equivalent to USD 5,306) or more during the last five years of residency. Non-residents with an average monthly pension of over BHD 4,000 (equivalent to USD 10,624) are also eligible.

Talented Individuals: Entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and individuals who contribute significantly to Bahrain’s economy or society.

Eligible individuals can apply to the Program through Bahrain’s eGovernment portal which provides a fast and efficient application process. A dedicated team is also available to assist Golden Residency applicants and holders, ensuring they have access to ongoing support in the Kingdom.

For more information, please contact:
Abdulelah Abdulla
Communications Department
Economic Development Board
Phone: +973-39798919
E-mail: internationalmedia@bahrainedb.com

About Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB)
Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB) is an investment promotion agency with overall responsibility for attracting investment into the Kingdom and supporting initiatives that enhance the investment climate. Bahrain EDB works with the government and both current and prospective investors to ensure that Bahrain’s investment climate is attractive, to communicate the key strengths, and to identify where opportunities exist for further economic growth through investment.

Bahrain EDB focuses on several economic sectors that capitalise on Bahrain’s competitive advantages and provide significant investment opportunities. These sectors include financial services, manufacturing, logistics, ICT and tourism.For more information on the Bahrain EDB, visit www.bahrainedb.com.

SOURCE: Bahrain Economic Development Board

Swiss based Inacta Ventures and The Hashgraph AssociationCo-Host Morocco WEB3FEST GITEX Edition

Morocco WEB3FEST GITEX Edition, a global conference series focused on technology and innovation in AI, Blockchain, and sustainability, organized by InactaVentures and co-hosted by The Hashgraph Association, being carried out in Marrakech, Morocco from April 14-16, 2025 is set to bring together the world’s foremost Web3 leaders, innovators, and investors at the intersection of technology, finance, and sustainability. Hosted in Marrakech during GITEX Africa, this premier event serves as a critical bridge linking the vibrant ecosystems of Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.With a strong commitment to advancingdecentralized technologies and sustainable innovation, Morocco WEB3FEST GITEX Edition is poised to drive meaningful dialogue and collaboration among industry pioneers, enterprises, and policymakers.

What is the WEB3FEST?

WEB3FEST is a global conference series focused on technology and innovation in AI, Blockchain and Sustainability. It serves as a vibrant hub where companies across the value chain – from agile startups to international corporations – converge to share ideas, build networks, and shape the future of the industry.

Kamal Youssefi – President of The Hashgraph Association noted, “We are honored to be co- hosting the WEB3FEST in Morocco during GITEX Africa given that one of the aims of THA is to empower entrepreneurs, enterprises and governments with the technologies and knowhow needed to foray into Web3 while keepingsustainability at the heart of their endeavors. This is why Hedera network, considered one of the most sustainable in the world, is at the center of our conversations.”

Ralf Glabischnig – Founder of Inacta Ventures, added, “Switzerland has always been a hub for Blockchaininnovation, and our Layer 1 technology is solving real-world challenges in developing countries. With Morocco as the perfect gateway to Africa, we are connecting European expertise with Africa’s immense potential for Blockchain adoption.”

Event Highlights:
The Green Block Talks
April 14, 2025
Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial

A high-impact evening bringing together thought leaders and industry experts to discuss the role of AI and Web3 in driving sustainability. Featuring insightful panels, networking opportunities, and meaningful discussions.

Featured Speakers:

  • Ian Putter – Head of Blockchain COE, Standard Bank
  • Tom Rieder – Director Marketplace, The Green Block
  • Abdelaziz Benyahya – Chief Transformation Officer, AXA Morocco
  • Kamal Youssefi – President of The Board, The Hashgraph Association
  • Ralf Glabischnig – Founder, Inacta Ventures

WEB3 Investor Dinner (Co-hosted by NEO AI)
April 15, 2025
Private Villa, Marrakech

An exclusive, invitation-only gathering for venture capitalists, fund managers, and private equity professionals.This intimate setting will facilitate high-level discussions on investment opportunities, portfolio strategies, and the evolving digital asset landscape.

About the Organizer Inacta Ventures

At the helm of the WEB3 revolution, Inacta Ventures builds ecosystems, ventures, and smart capital strategies.With operations in the thriving Crypto Valley in Switzerland and the Crypto Oasis in the UAE, Inacta empowers over 100 portfolio companies and enterprises to scale groundbreaking WEB3 solutions.

About the Co-Host The Hashgraph Association

The Hashgraph Association, a Swiss non-profit, drives global adoption of Hedera-powered solutions by funding innovation, training, and venture programs. It promotes economic inclusion and a digital future with a positive ESG impact. https://www.hashgraph.swiss/about

Registration

Reserve your spot now and join the world’s brightest minds to shape the future of WEB3: Register Here

For more details, visit: web3fest.ch

Contact:
Fabio Schlaf
Head of Ecosystem Development Inacta Ventures & Crypto Oasis
fabio.schlaf@inactaventures.com

Naoris Protocol Unveils World’s First Post-Quantum DePIN Testnet with Over 2.5 Million Transactions in First Week

Naoris Protocol, pioneers of Decentralized CyberSecurity, launched their highly anticipated Post-Quantum DePIN Testnet, recording over 2.5 million transactions in the first week. This represents an important step towards a decentralized cybersecurity future, empowering users to secure, earn through a transformative community based security model.

Digital infrastructure is increasingly exposed, with centralized cybersecurity systems failing against sophisticated cyber threats and emerging quantum computing risks. Naoris Protocol’s Decentralized Proof of Security (dPoSec) blockchain with fully integrated Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) and Decentralized SWARM AI, introduces a new era of trustless, distributed security validation online.

The integration and alignment with Post-Quantum Cryptographic Standards, including NIST PQC, NATO NCIA, and ETSI agencies, ensures that Naoris Protocol’s dPoSec blockchain is resistant to both classical and quantum cyber threats.

In just one week since launch on January 31, 2025, Naoris Protocol’s Testnet has shattered expectations:

  • 524,000 Naoris Wallets installed
  • 210,000 Browser Security Nodes deployed
  • 17M+ cyber threats mitigated by dPoSec
  • 2.6M Post-Quantum transactions processed

The Naoris dPoSec blockchain is standing up to massive volumes of post-quantum transactions, proving its quantum-safe architecture can neutralize future cyber threats today. See a post-quantum key in action: here

“Our vision is to create a cybersecurity framework that becomes stronger as it grows,” said David Carvalho, CEO & Founder of Naoris Protocol. “The overwhelming response to our DePIN Testnet underscores the need for decentralized cybersecurity solutions that eliminate single points of failure and build collective resilience across Web2 and Web3.”

The continual failure of centralized cybersecurity was perfectly highlighted with the CrowdStrike outage of July 2024, which crippled global systems. Naoris Protocol’s DePIN approach removes such vulnerabilities by distributing security validation across a decentralized mesh of devices, protecting against breaches and malpractice.

“Centralized security models are obsolete,” said David Holtzman, Chief Strategy Officer of Naoris Protocol. “Naoris Protocol ensures that security is continuously validated by the network itself, reducing risk and increasing trust in the digital ecosystem.”

Following the Post-Quantum DePIN Testnet launch, Naoris Protocol will also introduce:
– Expanded Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) implementations across a range of decentralized applications that safeguard against quantum-era threats.
– Cross-chain interoperability, enabling PQC security across multiple blockchain infrastructures.
– Integration with enterprise cybersecurity solutions, securing critical Web2 & Web3 ecosystems.

With the DePIN sector expected to reach $3.5 trillion by 2028, Naoris Protocol is positioning itself as the backbone of security and trust for all Web2 & Web3 infrastructures across cloud computing, data storage, and IoT security.

By participating, users not only protect their digital environments but also actively contributing to the creation of a decentralized cybersecurity mesh network, designed to secure the digital world—devices, applications, APIs, and systems—across critical infrastructure, enterprises, governments, and key sectors like finance, defense, healthcare, and Web3. Use cases here.

How the DePIN Testnet works:
Users can now install the Naoris Wallet and operate a Browser Security Node, an advanced cybersecurity tool that will:

– Transforms devices into security validator nodes, providing real-time threat detection and prevention.
– Blocks ads, trackers, phishing attempts, malware and insecure connections.
– Rewards users for their participation in a DePIN community compute model.
– Creates a self-reinforcing ‘Security Hive Mind,’ where all nodes collaborate to mitigate threats.

Join the Post-Quantum DePIN Testnet, visit https://naorisprotocol.network/testnet 

For more information, visit https://www.naorisprotocol.com/
Check out our White Papers

Naoris Protocol is available for investment, interviews and technical demonstrations of their groundbreaking Post-Quantum DePIN solution for Web3 & Web2

Contacts: 
Guy Davies / CMO  guy@naoris.com
Lucas Bonnard / Investment lucas.b@naoris.com

Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform

Don’t just watch the movie star, become the movie star!

Fourth Star, the cutting-edge virtual reality immersive media streaming platform, is officially available to the public. This innovative platform transforms traditional entertainment by enabling users to seamlessly watch standard 2D, 180 and 360 immersive media content and movies. Fourth Star redefines how audiences engage with immersive storytelling, offering an unparalleled first-person centric perspective on entertainment.

https://youtu.be/1qJvsRAJSr4

“Fourth Star is more than just a platform – it’s a revolution in entertainment,” said Greg Simon, Co-Founder & CEO of Fourth Star. “We’ve created an immersive experience where users can not only consume content but also actively participate in it. Our vision is to transform how people experience media content and movies in a way that has never been done before.”

A New Era of Interactive Entertainment
The largest immersive media streaming platform available on Sidequest, users can explore nearly forty unique environments, interact with AI-driven crew, and experience entertainment in an entirely new way. Fourth Star offers a groundbreaking approach to digital engagement, whether socializing in the Cafe, customizing avatars in private Apartments or Ships, or stepping directly into a movie’s storyline.

“The combination of VR, AI, and blockchain in Fourth Star sets a new standard for immersive entertainment,” said Craig Wiltshire, CTO of Fourth Star. “Our vision is to seamlessly integrate all three technologies into the user experience. We are redefining the entertainment experience from passive observation to active creation.”

Built for Content Partners
Fourth Star is a self-serve platform designed for content partners of all sizes, from individual creators to blockbuster studios. Content partners can set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing their work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience. The Creator Portal empowers partners to distribute and profit from their immersive media with ease, making Fourth Star a truly open and accessible metaverse for digital entertainment.

Key Features of Fourth Star

  • VR Streaming Platform – Users can access nearly forty environments and own their own luxury apartments and ships all equipped with an immersive media streaming entertainment hub. 
  • Social & Customization – Connect with others in dynamic social hubs, personalize your avatar, and invite your friends to your own luxury apartment and ship. 
  • Player Portal – Users can access the web-based marketplace to explore content, invite friends, 
  • Creator Portal – Set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing your work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience.
  • Blockchain Integration – The FSTR token, built on the Polygon blockchain, powers the ecosystem, providing secure transactions and exclusive rewards.
  • AI-Powered Companions – Coming soon

FSTR: The Utility Token Powering Fourth Star
FSTR serves as the primary ecosystem currency within the Fourth Star platform, enabling users to purchase Apartments, Ships, AI Companions, and exclusive content. Token holders benefit from:

  • VIP Access – Exclusive events, early screenings, and red carpet experiences.
  • Discounts – 25% savings on in-app purchases (IAPs) and entertainment content.

FSTR can be purchased today to unlock the above benefits and more at the Probit Global Exchange using this link: https://tinyurl.com/35jbbcxb

A New Paradigm in Entertainment
Fourth Star is designed to deliver the future of entertainment through merging cinematic storytelling with interactive gaming, offering:

  • A seamless transition from passive to interactive experiences.
  • A thriving community for players, creators, and investors.
  • Advanced AI integration for interactive AI characters.
  • Don’t just watch the star in the movie, become the star. 

Availability and Access
Fourth Star is now live and available for users worldwide on Sidequest. Whether you’re an explorer, content creator large to small, storyteller, or entertainment enthusiast, Fourth Star provides an immersive space to experience digital entertainment like never before.

About Fourth Star
Fourth Star was established in 2022 with platform design and environmental modeling. In 2023, focus turned to closed alpha and beta testing, alongside workshops with content creators. By Q1 2024, we launched the open beta, gathering feedback and introducing creators. In Q2 2024, we launched the FSTR, sold ships and apartments, and developed our creator and partner reward systems. In 2025, we’ll be launching ‘Genevieve’, an AI-powered comprehensive marketing system, advanced AI tools enabling the generation of immersive content and interactive storylines, AI companions, a creator reward system introducing virtual asset rentals, and interactive gamified blockbuster films.

For more information, visit www.fourthstar.com or follow us on social media.

Media Contact:
Greg Simon
CEO and Co-Founder
greg@fourthstar.com
XVerse Inc (DBA Fourth Star)
https://www.fourthstar.com/

Tamkeen Launches ‘Bahrain Skills and Gender Parity Accelerator’ at Davos

The Bahrain Labour Fund (Tamkeen) has partnered with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to launch the Bahrain Skills and Gender Parity Accelerator. The announcement was made at Davos, exemplifying the theme of the 55th Annual Meeting “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age,” wherein the data-driven accelerator is aimed at closing the gender skills gap in high-growth industries and at increasing the participation of the current and next generation of the local Bahraini workforce.

Tamkeen Launches ‘Bahrain Skills and Gender Parity Accelerator’ at Davos

In the presence of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Education Charitable Trust and Chairman of the Board of Directors the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) and H.E. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, alongside other key dignitaries; the agreement was signed by H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain Economic Development Board in her capacity as a board member of Tamkeen, also in the presence of Professor Klaus Schwab, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, World Economic Forum, Sriram Guttta, Head of Engagement and Operations and Member of the Executive Committee and Maroun Kairouz, Director, Middle East and North Africa.

Bahrain has prioritised building a future-ready workforce by introducing a strong educational foundation of robust digital and STEM skills training, reskilling and upskilling its human capital to bridge the gap in global talent. Having proven itself as a regional leader in gender parity and wage equality, according to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2024, Bahrain has additionally been ranked within the top five globally for girls outperforming boys in learning outcomes, according to Forum and the World Bank.

Sriram Gutta, Head, Engagement and Operations and Member of the Executive Committee, World Economic Forum, said, “Following our successful initial cycle, which mobilized more than $2.5M in funding and resulted in more than 54,500+ individuals trained, we will continue our collaboration to drive further progress on reskilling and upskilling in Bahrain. Our second cycle of work will have a particular focus on increasing gender parity in high growth sectors and jobs of the future. This initiative joins a network of more than 35 Accelerators championing transformative, local initiatives in their respective countries.”

The island nation is seeking to provide a blueprint for other governments, countries and regions by launching this new accelerator, building on its achievements in developing a highly skilled talent pool. The creation of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) has been a key driver of Bahrain’s progress, where the Fund offers government-backed training and curated programmes catered to close gender gaps in typically male-dominated industries. The Labour Fund additionally established Skills Bahrain in 2024, an initiative dedicated to unlocking the full potential of Bahrain’s human capital. It collaborates with employers, training providers, and government organisations to provide market intelligence and sector-specific data to identify skills gaps across key sectors in the kingdom.

Through a trailblazing multi-stakeholder partnership model, the accelerator will be coordinated by Skills Bahrain and led by the Bahrain Economic Development Board, and the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), with plans to engage in partnerships with leading entities within the private sector. The subsequent phases of the launch will download insights from the collective organizations and leverage the Forum’s global research efforts to create a cross-sectoral analysis to help identify current and future gender skills gaps, forming instrumental groundwork for an actionable talent development strategy.

Government-led investments in female empowerment and in upskilling Bahrain’s young, bilingual human capital have paid off, earning the country a ranking of 4th Globally for both Women in Managerial Positions and Women with Degrees on the Institute for Management Development (IMD) World Competitiveness Ranking 2024. The diversity of its workforce and proven standing as a leading service hub has successfully attracted global industry giants in the likes of AWS and Citi, the latter of which chose Bahrain as the location for its Global Technology Hub in 2021, pledging to hire 1,000 Bahraini coders.

For more information, please contact:

Abdulelah Abdulla
Communications Department
Economic Development Board
Phone: +973-39798919
E-mail: internationalmedia@bahrainedb.com

About Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB)

Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB) is an investment promotion agency with overall responsibility for attracting investment into the Kingdom and supporting initiatives that enhance the investment climate.

Bahrain EDB works with the government and both current and prospective investors to ensure that Bahrain’s investment climate is attractive, to communicate the key strengths, and to identify where opportunities exist for further economic growth through investment.

Bahrain EDB focuses on several economic sectors that capitalise on Bahrain’s competitive advantages and provide significant investment opportunities. These sectors include financial services, manufacturing, logistics, ICT and tourism. For more information on the Bahrain EDB, visit www.bahrainedb.com.

SOURCE: Bahrain Economic Development Board

Swiss WEB3FEST Winter Edition 2025

Switzerland is set to host the highly anticipated Swiss WEB3FEST Winter Edition 2025, an unparalleled event series on innovation, investments and collaboration within the WEB3 ecosystem. Organized by Inacta Ventures, the event will unfold across iconic Swiss locations: Zug, Zurich, St. Moritz, and Davos, from January 13 to January 24, 2025.

Proudly titled in partnership with BitcoinOS, this event series promises to unite global leaders, investors, startups, and enthusiasts under one mission: unlocking the transformative potential of WEB3 technologies. Bitcoin is evolving beyond digital gold to become the foundation of a new economy. Innovations like those from BitcoinOS enable fast transactions, smart contracts, and decentralized applications, positioning Bitcoin as a key driver of the WEB3 revolution.

What is the WEB3FEST

WEB3FEST is a global conference series focused on technology and innovation in AI, Blockchain and Sustainability. It serves as a vibrant hub where companies across the value chain – from agile startups to international corporations – converge to share ideas, build networks, and shape the future of the industry.

The Swiss WEB3FEST Winter Edition is taking place across Zug, Zurich, St. Moritz, and Davos during the World Economic Forum. It is designed to explore specific topics each day, connect the thriving Crypto Valley and Crypto Oasis ecosystems, and bridge diverse regions through meaningful collaboration. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders, pioneers, and visionaries in the blockchain space, fostering an environment of innovation and networking. Now in its 5th edition and the 2nd Winter Edition, WEB3FEST continues to be an important cornerstone for those looking to connect with global stakeholders, investors, and innovators in the world of Web3.

At the heart of this transformative event is BitcoinOS, whose groundbreaking advancements in Bitcoin technology redefine possibilities in Blockchain. Participating organizations such as aeternity Foundation, The Hashgraph Association, DFINITY Foundation / Internet Computer, Solana Foundation, Ledger, and Multibank.io add to the event’s relevance, reflecting its global influence and comprehensive approach to WEB3 innovation.

The investor events are co-created with Ordway Selections, a private investment office from Switzerland, to connect the participating early-stage investors, VCs and private equity institutions with outstanding investment opportunities.

Event Highlights

January 13, 2025
Kick-Off Night – Launch Swiss WEB3FEST with a dynamic networking evening at SHED Zug.

January 14, 2025
The Green Block Talks – Explore sustainability in AI and WEB3 at Trust Square, Zurich.

January 15, 2025
Crypto Valley Afterwork – Engage with innovators over cocktails at SHED Zug.
BitcoinOS Investor Dinner – Discover BitcoinOS’s vision and connect with top blockchain investors at SHED Zug.

January 16, 2025
Crypto Valley Afterwork – Enjoy informal networking at Pavarotti Wine Bar, St. Moritz.

January 17, 2025
WEB3 Talks – Gain insights from thought leaders at the Kempinski Hotel, St. Moritz.
WEB3 Investor Dinner – Celebrate Crypto Valley with an exclusive show & dining experience at Billionaires Restaurant, St. Moritz.

January 18, 2025
WEB3 Investor Circle – Network in the serene mountain setting of El Paradiso, St. Moritz.

January 21, 2025
WEB3 Investor Circle – Connect with investors during a private dinner in Davos.

January 22, 2025
WEB3 Talks – Dive into blockchain insights and future trends at the House of Trust, Davos.
OnlyFriends Party – Connect with WEB3 leaders in a lively, exclusive setting also at the House of Trust.

January 24, 2025
Shark Island – Witness groundbreaking startup pitches in a live treasure hunt at SHED Zug.
Recap Night – Reflect on the festival’s highlights during the concluding night at SHED Zug.

Powered by BitcoinOS

As the title partner, BitcoinOS is revolutionizing Bitcoin by bringing fast, secure transactions, smart contracts, and modern applications to the world’s most trusted blockchain. Their pioneering work includes the first verification of a zK proof on Bitcoin and numerous high-profile integrations with platforms like Cardano, Merlin, and BSquared. BitcoinOS’s innovations position it as a cornerstone of the WEB3 revolution and a driving force behind the success of WEB3FEST.

BitcoinOS’s vision aligns perfectly with WEB3FEST’s goal of fostering innovation and creating impactful connections across the blockchain ecosystem. By showcasing Bitcoin’s expanded capabilities, BitcoinOS emphasizes its role in shaping the next chapter of WEB3 development.

About the Organizers

Inacta Ventures

At the helm of the WEB3 revolution, Inacta Ventures builds ecosystems, ventures, and smart capital strategies. With operations in the thriving Crypto Valley in Switzerland and the Crypto Oasis in the UAE, Inacta empowers over 100 portfolio companies and enterprises to scale groundbreaking WEB3 solutions.

Ordway Selections

Ordway Selections, headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, is a private investment firm dedicated to seeding innovation and financing growth. Leveraging our extensive industry network, they adopt a collaborative approach, striving to co-invest with partners who share their values and vision for transforming global critical systems.

Registration

Reserve your spot now and join the world’s brightest minds to shape the future of WEB3: Register Here

For more details, visit: web3fest.ch

Contact:
Fabio Schlaf
Head of Ecosystem Development
Inacta Ventures and Crypto Oasis
fabio@cryptooasis.ae

Xeleb Joins Miss Charm as Exclusive Web3 Partner to Revolutionize Voting and Judging with Decentralization

  • Xeleb debuts misscharm.io with Miss Charm 2024 on 21 December in Ho Chi Minh, marking the first-ever use of blockchain in a beauty pageant.
  • Contestant-issued MEME coins allow fans to directly support their favorite beauty queens, with a portion of proceeds benefiting charitable causes
  • Xeleb plans a Token Generation Event (TGE) in Q1 2025, with listings already secured on global top 5 crypto exchanges.
Miss Charm’s contestants

Xeleb, an online voting and judging platform for global talent contests has launched through an exclusive partnership with Miss Charm, an international beauty pageant. From global beauty pageants to song and model contests, Xeleb leverages decentralization and digital assets to reward fan participation and amplify audience interaction.

Xeleb has launched with a mission to increase and monetize fan and viewer engagement for these contests. The global audience for talent contests is enormous, as evidenced by the 243 million total engagements for the 2024 Miss Universe live broadcast on Telemundo(1), and the 163 million viewers of the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest(2). Xeleb taps into this unparalleled engagement potential by creating an ecosystem where fans can vote, judge, and earn rewards through a decentralized platform powered by blockchain technology.

This year’s edition of the Miss Charm global finals will be held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on December 21, featuring contestants from 38 countries.

Xeleb has developed misscharm.io as the official digital hub for Miss Charm fans. Fans can access two innovative features:

  • Telegram Game Powered by TON: Fans can cast votes and judge contestants, earning rewards in return.
  • Miss Charm MEME Coins: Fans can purchase unique MEME coins issued by contestants, allowing direct support for their favorite beauty queens. A portion of any gains from these coins will benefit charities chosen by the respective contestants.

The Miss Charm advisory team includes key players from global franchises such as Miss World, Miss Universe, Elite Models, and Ford Models. They are joined by experts in regulated global crypto platforms and token listing strategies on major exchanges. CEO Paul Vinciano, former owner of Elite Models Vietnam and Miss Vietnam, and his team also operate one of Vietnam’s leading crypto technology development firms.

Paul Vinciano, CEO of Xeleb said “Xeleb is set to revolutionize fan and audience engagement in global talent contests through our blockchain-powered, tokenized voting and judging platform. By integrating decentralization and digital assets, we are creating an ecosystem that not only enhances interactivity but also empowers fans to play an active role in the success of their favorite contestants.”

Xeleb’s launch is backed by strategic seed investment from tech investor Calvin Cheng, a former Singapore Parliamentarian, and current Honorary Consul of Serbia in Singapore. Calvin was also Head of Elite Models Asia and owned the franchise for Ford Supermodel of the World Singapore, Malaysia and China. He is also currently Chairman & Founder at Paymonade, one of the largest European digital asset on-off ramps, which counts Binance as a major client. He is also the founder of AEUR, one of the world’s largest listed Euro-backed stable coins.

In conjunction with this launch, Xeleb is excited to announce the completion of a major funding round led by HashKey Capital. Other prominent investors include Amber Group, MEXC Ventures, Foresight Ventures, and Mirana Ventures. Notably, MEXC Ventures is the investment arm of MEXC Crypto Exchange, Foresight Ventures represents the investment division of Bitget, and Mirana Ventures serves as the investment arm of Bybit.

“The team combines both world-class track records in entertainment as well as digital assets. I am honored to invest in Xeleb alongside crypto investment titans like HashKey, Amber, Mirana, Foresight and MEXC,” said Calvin Cheng.

Looking ahead, Xeleb plans a Token Generation Event (TGE) in Q1 2025, with listings already secured on global top 5 crypto exchanges.

(1) https://tinyurl.com/y94pk5ht 
(2) https://tinyurl.com/yrn2u8r2 

About Xeleb

Xeleb (xeleb.io) is a cutting-edge online voting and judging platform designed to revolutionize global talent contests by leveraging blockchain technology. Launched in partnership with Miss Charm on misscharm.io, Xeleb empowers fans to engage more deeply in their favorite contests while earning rewards.

Xeleb is backed by an experienced team of industry experts, including veterans from global beauty franchises and regulated crypto platforms. Strategic investments from industry leaders such as HashKey Capital, Amber Group, and Calvin Cheng have further solidified Xeleb’s position as a trailblazer in the intersection of entertainment and blockchain.

About Miss Charm

Miss Charm 2024 is a global-scale beauty pageant, which aims to search for the most exceptional female representatives from different countries all around the world, to appreciate their beauty as well as their cultures and educational backgrounds. The judging criteria for the pageant will involve beauty, physique, intellect as well as the ability to captivate the audience with the appeal.

For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact:
Lee Ke Wei (Financial PR)
(T) 6438-2990
(E) kewei@financialpr.com.sg

Naoris Protocol announces World’s First Post-Quantum DePIN for Cybersecurity & Digital Trust ahead of Testnet

As the digital world is increasingly threatened by advanced cyberattacks and looming quantum computing challenges, Naoris Protocol unveils groundbreaking technology that revolutionizes digital security through the world’s first Post-Quantum powered Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN) for cybersecurity and digital trust.

Backed by prominent figures including DNS designer David Holtzman, former White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, and Shanfari & Partners Chairman H.E. Sheikh Thamer Said Ahmed al-Shanfari, this innovative protocol transforms traditional untrusted devices into a decentralized security layer of cyber-trusted validator nodes, eliminating single points of failure that plague centralized security systems.

Decentralized Security: A Necessary Shift Amidst Rising Centralized Failures

The launch comes at a critical time, following the CrowdStrike outages in July 2024 that demonstrated the vulnerabilities of centralized security frameworks. These incidents disrupted global services across aviation, banking, and media sectors, highlighting the urgent need for decentralized security solutions.

“Current centralized models are vulnerable by design,” states David Carvalho, CEO & Founder of Naoris Protocol.”Our protocol decentralizes digital security, where every device becomes a secure validator node as part of a trusted, incentivized layer that uses post-quantum cryptography to create a real time, decentralized validation brain.”

The protocol introduces four key innovations:

  • Post-Quantum Security: Designed to withstand quantum computing, ensuring sensitive data and blockchain infrastructures are protected from next-generation cyber threats.
  • Decentralized Security Layer: Devices actively validate and prove their trusted state in real time, creating a self-reinforcing security layer that scales without weakening.
  • Incentivized Security Model: Devices are rewarded for maintaining security validations across the network to continually reinforce cyber defenses.
  • Real-Time Validation: Continuous verification of node integrity mitigates risks of compromise or collusion, a stark contrast to static and reactive centralized systems.

Impact on Expanding DePIN Ecosystems

With the DePIN market projected to reach $3.5 trillion by 2028, Naoris Protocol positions itself as the critical security DePIN for both Web2 and Web3 infrastructures. As DePIN expands into various industrial applications, the protocol provides essential infrastructure for DePIN ecosystems across cloud computing, storage, wireless and energy, offering unprecedented cyber resilience for community compute network models.

DNS pioneer David Holtzman, serving as Chief Strategy Officer, emphasizes: “Naoris Protocol is not just another blockchain project; it’s the security backbone that enables the entire DePIN sector to thrive safely. This could be the catalyst that propels decentralized infrastructures into mainstream adoption.”

Incentivized Testnet Launch

The upcoming Testnet launch will allow users to participate in stress-testing this revolutionary system. Validating and maintaining security standards, while counteracting threats like phishing and network breaches, the testnet will lay the groundwork to seed a global post-quantum cybersecurity DePIN.

For Testnet participation, visit https://naorisprotocol.network/

For more information, visit https://www.naorisprotocol.com/  Naoris Protocol is available for interviews and technical demonstrations of their groundbreaking DePIN solution for cybersecurity and digital trust.

Check out our White Papers

Stay connected: Twitter | Discord | Telegram | LinkedIn

Contact: 
Guy Davies
CMO, Naoris Protocol
Guy@Naoris.com