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

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

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

A R75 Billion Industry at a Turning Point

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

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

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

Why the 20% GGR Tax Matters

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

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

Those adjustments rarely happen in isolation.

How the Market Is Likely to Respond

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

Punters are likely to notice changes in three key areas:

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

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

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

The Risk of Unintended Consequences

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

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

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

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

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

Regulation Needs More Than Taxation

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

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

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

What This Means for Punters

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

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

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

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

Where the Market Goes From Here

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

The market is likely to become:

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

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

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

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About Betting.za.com

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A spokesperson for SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za said:

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

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

Betting-Led Platforms Are Broadening the Player Experience

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

 

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

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

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

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

A More Mature Market Needs Better Player Information

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

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

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

The spokesperson added:

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

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

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

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

 

Atlanta-based development and investment firm advances multiple luxury residential projects throughout Buckhead, Loring Heights, East Cobb, and surrounding high-growth markets

United States, 12th May 2026 – Vice Holdings LLC, an Atlanta-based luxury real estate development and investment firm, is continuing to expand its footprint across Metro Atlanta through a growing portfolio of architecturally driven residential developments, strategic acquisitions, and high-end infill construction projects.

The company specializes in modern luxury residential development, focusing on transforming underutilized properties into premium, design-forward living spaces tailored to today’s evolving luxury buyer. Vice Holdings oversees every phase of the development process, including acquisition strategy, site evaluation, planning, construction management, redevelopment, and final delivery.

Among the firm’s recent and active developments is a three-level modern luxury residence located at 1490 Brooklyn Avenue NW in West Buckhead, featuring a rooftop terrace and contemporary architectural design. The company is also actively redeveloping properties throughout Loring Heights as part of a broader long-term neighborhood investment strategy focused on revitalization, elevated design standards, and long-term value creation.

Vice Holdings is additionally developing a 10-townhome luxury residential community in an exclusive East Cobb location, while advancing plans for another signature Buckhead infill development at 998 Northrope Drive NW Atlanta, a nearly 4,000-square-foot modern luxury residence featuring a private pool, spa, rooftop terrace, and high-end custom amenities designed to reflect the future of upscale urban living in Atlanta.

As Atlanta continues to experience sustained demand for luxury housing and modern infill development, Vice Holdings LLC is positioning itself at the intersection of strategic investment, elevated architecture, and market-driven residential design.

“Luxury development requires more than construction expertise, it requires vision, disciplined execution, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of how modern buyers want to live,” said Tommy Femi Ashadele, founder of Vice Holdings LLC. “Our focus is creating architecturally significant projects that combine lifestyle, functionality, long-term investment value, and thoughtful design while contributing positively to the surrounding community.”

The firm’s development philosophy centers around what it describes as a “Land to Luxury” approach, a vertically integrated strategy that transforms raw land, aging properties, and underutilized sites into premium modern residences through disciplined planning, strategic acquisitions, and high-quality execution.

Working alongside architects, engineers, consultants, and construction professionals, Vice Holdings manages each project with an emphasis on modern aesthetics, efficient operations, structural integrity, and long-term market sustainability. The company believes the future of residential development in Atlanta lies in intentional, design-driven projects that enhance both lifestyle experience and asset value.

With active developments spanning Buckhead, Midtown, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, East Cobb, and the greater Metro Atlanta market, Vice Holdings LLC is also investing heavily in expanding its digital presence, strategic partnerships, and development portfolio as it continues scaling operations across Georgia’s luxury residential sector.

“Our objective is not simply to build homes,” Ashadele added. “We aim to create enduring residential experiences and strategically positioned developments that reflect where the Atlanta luxury market is heading over the next decade.”

About Vice Holdings LLC

Vice Holdings LLC is an Atlanta-based real estate development, investment, and consulting firm specializing in luxury residential development, modern infill construction, strategic acquisitions, and high-end redevelopment projects. The company focuses on architecturally driven homes, design-forward construction, and long-term value creation across Metro Atlanta’s most desirable residential markets. Through its integrated “Land to Luxury” development model, Vice Holdings LLC manages projects from acquisition and planning through construction and final delivery.

For more information, visit https://www.viceholdingsllc.com

Media Contact

Organization: Vice Holdings LLC

Contact Person: Femi Tommy Ashadele

Website: https://www.viceholdingsllc.com

Email: Send Email

Contact Number: +14048504860

Country:United States

Release id:44937

The post Vice Holdings LLC Expands Luxury Residential Development Portfolio Across Metro Atlanta appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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United States, 12th May 2026 — Smoothie Bar is making waves with the official launch of Blend 3.0, its most innovative product yet, now rolling out across Launch States (NY, CA, OK, NV). The highly anticipated release follows a feature in Forbes, where the device was spotlighted as a “must-have accessory” for today’s consumers.

With Blend 3.0, Smoothie Bar is pushing boundaries, delivering a product designed for those who expect more from their everyday experience.

“We built Blend 3.0 for the next generation of users,” said a Smoothie Bar spokesperson. “It’s smarter, more customizable, and designed to give people control over how they use it.”

Built for Customization and Control

At the center of Blend 3.0 is a full-screen front display, giving users a modern, interactive interface that feels intuitive from the first use. The display offers real-time feedback and simplifies control, making the experience more engaging and seamless.

The device is equipped with multiple performance settings and adjustable airflow, allowing users to fine-tune every session. Whether prioritizing smoothness, intensity, or balance, Blend 3.0 adapts to the user.

What sets the product apart is its dual-flavor system, allowing users to switch between flavors or blend them together for a completely unique experience. This feature transforms how users interact with the device, turning customization into a core part of the experience.

An enhanced airflow system further elevates performance, ensuring consistency and smooth delivery with every use.

Expanding Across the U.S.

Smoothie Bar’s expansion into New York, California, Oklahoma, and Nevada represents a major step forward for the brand. These markets reflect both high demand and strong growth potential, allowing Smoothie Bar to connect with a wider audience.

From trend-setting cities like Los Angeles and New York to rapidly growing markets in Oklahoma and Nevada, Blend 3.0 is positioned to reach consumers nationwide.

Backed by Buzz

The recent Forbes recognition has amplified excitement around the launch, helping position Blend 3.0 as one of the most talked-about products in its category. Being named a “must-have accessory” highlights the brand’s ability to stay ahead of consumer trends.

More Than a Product

For Smoothie Bar, Blend 3.0 is more than just a release; it’s a statement about where the brand is headed. By focusing on innovation, personalization, and experience, the company is building a platform that resonates with modern consumers.

Blend 3.0 is now available across Launch States (NY, CA, OK, NV), with additional markets expected soon.

Media Contact

Organization: Smoothie Bar Infusions

Contact Person: Melissa M Murphy

Website: https://smoothiebarinfusions.com

Email: Send Email

Contact Number: +13238094658

Country:United States

Release id:44884

The post Smoothie Bar Blend 3.0 Rated Top Product by Forbes.com appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Upcoming Gardners integration will help UK booksellers connect catalog data, availability, ecommerce, Shopify POS-connected operations, and TikTok Shop access through one integrated system.

St. Petersburg, FL, United States, 12th May 2026— Emersoft, the St. Petersburg-based team behind the Emersoft Books Shopify App, today announced an upcoming partnership with UK book wholesaler Gardners. The collaboration will enable UK booksellers to access Gardners’ catalog data and availability through Emersoft’s platform, delivering a modern, Shopify-native way to automate ecommerce, POS-connected bookstore operations, and more from one integrated system.

After successfully serving more than 100 booksellers across the United States, Emersoft is bringing its Shopify-native bookstore infrastructure to the UK market. Set to be available in early June 2026, the Gardners and Emersoft Books App integration will help UK booksellers connect their Shopify stores to Gardners catalog and availability data, support ecommerce and Shopify POS-connected operations, and tap into TikTok Shop through Shopify’s native sales channel capabilities.

For independent booksellers, the integration is designed to reduce the manual work that often sits between running a physical bookstore and selling online. Catalog data, product availability, ecommerce listings, customer orders, and POS-connected workflows should not have to live in disconnected systems. With the upcoming Gardners integration, UK booksellers will have a clearer path to operate through Shopify while keeping more sales in their own store.

“After working with more than 100 booksellers in the US, we have seen the same pattern again and again: booksellers want modern ecommerce, stronger catalog access, and fewer disconnected systems,” said Marcin Ruman, Founder, Emersoft.

“Partnering with Gardners gives UK booksellers a practical path to run catalog data, availability, Shopify ecommerce, POS-connected workflows, and TikTok Shop selling through one connected ecosystem. The goal is simple: help booksellers say yes to more customers and keep more sales in their own store,” said Pawel Marciniuk, Co-Founder and CTO, Emersoft.

“At Gardners, through our partnership with Emersoft, we are focused on enabling booksellers to access the ever-growing digital marketplace more easily. By making our data and availability accessible through modern platforms and providing access to our fast and efficient CDF service, we aim to support retailers in expanding their reach, improving efficiency, and continuing to thrive both in-store and online,” said Nigel Wyman, Chief Sales Officer, Gardners.

The Emersoft Books Shopify App helps bookstores manage catalog data, import titles, automate fulfillment workflows, handle pre-orders, enrich product metadata, and connect online selling with broader bookstore operations inside Shopify. The product is built for bookstores, authors, publishers, and book-focused creators who need a direct-to-reader commerce system without building custom infrastructure themselves.

The upcoming Gardners integration expands that model for the UK market by connecting domestic UK catalog and availability data into Emersoft’s Shopify-native bookstore system. For omnichannel booksellers, this creates a stronger operational bridge between online storefronts, physical retail, Shopify POS, and emerging sales channels like TikTok Shop.

“This collaboration is just getting started,” added Marcin Ruman. “We are excited for what is ahead and for the role this can play in helping UK booksellers modernize without losing the independence, customer relationships, and community presence that make their stores matter.”

The Gardners integration is expected to be available in early June 2026, with onboarding details and launch information to be shared directly with UK booksellers ahead of release.

About Emersoft

Emersoft builds Shopify-native commerce infrastructure for bookstores, authors, publishers, and book-focused creators. Headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, Emersoft has served more than 100 US-based booksellers through the Emersoft Books Shopify App, which helps merchants manage catalog data, import titles, automate fulfillment workflows, support pre-orders, enrich product metadata, and connect online selling with broader bookstore operations inside Shopify. Emersoft is also a Certified Shopify Partner, offering Shopify design, development, onboarding, and technical support for merchants building or expanding their bookstore on Shopify. Learn more at emersoft.co.

About Gardners

Gardners Books is one of the world’s leading book wholesalers and distributors of English-language books, providing booksellers worldwide with instant access to more than 500,000 in-stock titles for fast and efficient delivery. With a broad range of in-stock titles, reliable distribution, and a focus on supporting booksellers, Gardners provides a one-stop supply solution across print, digital integration, and direct-to-consumer fulfillment services. Learn more at gardners.com.

Media Contact

Organization: Emersoft LLC

Contact Person: Marcin Ruman

Website: https://www.emersoft.co

Email:
marcin@emersoft.co

City: St. Petersburg

State: FL

Country:United States

Release id:44784

The post Emersoft Expands Internationally Through Partnership with Gardners to Power UK Bookstore Commerce on Shopify appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Gameday by NJF Holdings reports that Italy’s Lega Volley Femminile generated 1.4 billion digital views during the current regular season – months ahead of target – following its investment in the league’s digital infrastructure. Founder Nicole Junkermann argues the result demonstrates a broader thesis: that AI is revaluing live sport rather than disrupting it, and that league-level investment in data and distribution will define the next phase of sports business growth.

London, United Kingdom, 12th May 2026 – Gameday by NJF Holdings, the sports investment and media platform founded by technology investor Nicole Junkermann, has reported that Italy’s professional women’s volleyball league, Lega Volley Femminile, generated more than 1.4 billion digital views during the current regular season – months ahead of the league’s original target of one billion views for the full season.

The milestone, achieved through Spike Media, the joint venture created by Gameday and LVF, also includes more than 45 million social media interactions during the regular season alone, with an engagement rate of 2.8%. The league is now the second most-followed sports league in Italy by social media audience, with more than 1.2 million followers across its channels.

The results offer an early proof point for Gameday’s investment thesis: that the most significant long-term value in sport is created not at the level of individual franchises, but through the digital and commercial infrastructure built around entire leagues.

These numbers demonstrate what happens when strong sport is matched with the right platform strategy,” said Nicole Junkermann, founder of Gameday by NJF Holdings. “Women’s volleyball in Italy wasn’t a broken product. It was an under-distributed one.

The announcement comes as private capital continues to accelerate into professional sport globally. The NFL opened its doors to private equity in 2023. NBA franchise valuations have surpassed $10bn. And rights packages for top-tier competitions are being repriced upward across global markets.

Gameday argues that AI is accelerating this revaluation rather than threatening it. As AI-generated content becomes ubiquitous, the scarcity premium on authentic, unscripted live competition rises.

AI can produce content at near-zero marginal cost,” Junkermann says. “But it can’t produce unpredictability. It can’t manufacture genuine stakes. In a world where algorithms generate most content, people will pay more for things that cannot be faked. That’s exactly why live sport is becoming more valuable, not less.

The company’s approach centers on deploying AI as an amplifier rather than a replacement – using data, personalization and direct-to-consumer platforms to deepen fan relationships and expand the commercial surface area around live events without displacing them.

The match is the anchor,” Nicole Junkermann says. “AI helps everything built around it perform better. Leagues that own their fan data will build more resilient businesses than those that continue to lease their audiences to broadcasters.

Junkermann’s broader investment track record spans more than 40 companies through NJF Capital, including an early and major position in Groq prior to its acquisition by Nvidia. That dual vantage point – inside both the AI economy and the sports investment market – informs Gameday’s conviction that the two are not in opposition.

I invest in AI because I believe in its transformative power,” she says. “And I invest in sport for exactly the same reason AI is so powerful: because attention is scarce, and sport commands it better than almost anything else – as we’re already seeing with Italian women’s volleyball.

About NJF Holdings and Gameday by NJF Holdings

NJF Holdings is a global investment group founded by Nicole Junkermann, with a focus on technology, artificial intelligence and life sciences. Through NJF Capital, the group has built a portfolio of more than 40 companies with a focus on early-stage investments in AI, deep tech and life sciences. Notable investments include SpaceX, Rippling, and Revolut, as well as Groq, where Nicole was an early investor before its recent acquisition by Nvidia.

Gameday by NJF Holdings is the group’s sports investment and strategic platform, focused on building long-term value across leagues, media and sports technology. It is the largest shareholder in Italy’s professional women’s volleyball league, Lega Volley Femminile, and is behind Cayo TV, a next-generation sports media platform.

For more information, visit: njfholdings.com and gameday.team

Media Contact

Organization: NJF Holdings

Contact Person: Michael Oakes

Website: https://www.njfholdings.com

Email:
marketing@njfholdings.com

City: London

State: London

Country:United Kingdom

Release id:44881

The post Nicole Junkermann’s Gameday reports 1.4bn views as AI revalues sport appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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United States, 12th May 2026, Grand Newswire – Independent Etsy sellers facing rising fees and algorithm-driven visibility are turning to public relations firms to build name recognition that travels with them off the marketplace, where margins are higher and customer relationships are direct.

Rising seller fees and shifting search rankings on Etsy have pushed a growing number of makers to invest in off-platform brand visibility, according to public relations practitioners working with the segment. TheBuzzBlast, a public relations firm working with independent merchants, says coverage in craft, design and regional outlets is increasingly the lever sellers reach for when marketplace economics tighten.

The firm places stories with lifestyle, home, and hometown publications, where handmade and small-batch products tend to find editorial fit. Reporters covering those beats are looking for makers with a story behind the work, BuzzBlast notes, and Etsy sellers often have exactly that — without the time or contacts to surface it.

“A ceramicist in Vermont can have ten thousand Etsy sales and still be invisible the moment a customer closes the app,” said John, Chief Editor of BuzzBlast. “Press coverage gives makers an identity that follows them anywhere — to their own site, to a craft fair, to a wholesale buyer’s inbox.”

Earned coverage also functions as a hedge against platform dependency. Sellers who build name recognition through press can route customers to their own websites, sell at retail, or pitch wholesale buyers — moves that compound returns long after the original article runs.

The firm works on a project basis with sellers preparing for product launches, holiday seasons, or transitions to standalone storefronts.

CONTACT: For more information, contact TheBuzzBlast at https://www.thebuzzblast.com 

Media Contact

Organization: TheBuzzBlast

Contact
Person:
John Watson

Website:

https://www.thebuzzblast.com

Email:

team@thebuzzblast.com

Country:United States

The post TheBuzzBlast Helps Etsy Sellers Build Brand Recognition Beyond The Marketplace
appeared first on Grand Newswire.
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Rio Perfumes has added new fragrance selections to its online catalogue as part of ongoing inventory updates aimed at maintaining variety and availability.

Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa, 12th May 2026 – Rio Perfumes has expanded its online catalogue with the addition of new fragrance selections, reflecting ongoing updates to its digital inventory. The latest additions form part of the company’s structured approach to maintaining product availability and responding to evolving consumer preferences within the fragrance market.

The updated catalogue introduces a broader range of scent profiles across multiple categories, supporting increased variety within the existing product offering. This development aligns with Rio Perfumes’ operational focus on inventory consistency and the regular introduction of new items to its online platform.

According to internal updates, the expansion follows recent inventory assessments aimed at identifying gaps in product availability and ensuring a balanced representation of fragrance types. The additions are now integrated into the website, accompanied by updated product information and categorisation to support navigation and selection.

Rio Perfumes continues to implement periodic updates to its online store as part of its wider digital management strategy. These updates are intended to maintain alignment between stock availability and user demand patterns while ensuring that the platform remains current and functional.

The newly added products are accessible through the company’s official website.

For more information, please visit https://www.rioperfumes.co.za/

Media Contact:
Communications Department
Rio Perfumes
Email: info@rioperfumes.co.za
Website: https://www.rioperfumes.co.za/ 

Media Contact

Organization: Rio Perfume

Contact Person: Riaz

Website: https://www.rioperfumes.co.za/

Email: Send Email

Contact Number: +27833952999

Address:Grand Bazaar Oriental Plaza, C114, Fordsburg

Address 2: Fordsburg

City: Johannesburg

State: Gauteng

Country:South Africa

Release id:44926

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Nepal, 12th May 2026 – Annapurna Encounter Pvt. Ltd., a pioneer in Himalayan adventure tourism, today announced a transformative expansion of its 2026 service portfolio. By introducing high-speed “Express” itineraries and ultra-luxury mountain experiences, the company is effectively dismantling the barrier between time-constrained global professionals and the world’s most formidable peaks.

As the tourism landscape in Nepal evolves, Annapurna Encounter is positioning itself at the intersection of rugged tradition and modern efficiency. The hallmark of this new era is the launch of the Annapurna Circuit Trek 7 Days and the Manaslu Circuit Trek 7 Days. These condensed expeditions utilize strategic transport and optimized logistics to allow hikers to cross the Thorong La Pass or the Larke La Pass in a single week—a journey that traditionally required a 20-day commitment.

Redefining Himalayan Luxury

Beyond the trails, Annapurna Encounter is capturing the growing demand for “comfort at altitude.” The company’s flagship High-End Luxury Tour in Nepal and the specialized Luxury Everest Helicopter Tour—branded as “Everest for Breakfast”—offer a zero-strain alternative to traditional trekking. Guests are whisked from Kathmandu to the base of the world’s highest peak for a champagne breakfast with views of the Khumbu Icefall, returning to the city by midday.

In a bold move into the “milestone travel” sector, the agency has also unveiled its Destination Wedding in Nepal package. This service provides full logistical support for couples wishing to exchange vows against the backdrop of the Himalayas, utilizing private Heli-Tours to reach remote, high-altitude sanctuaries like the Annapurna Base Camp.

Precision Mountaineering & Remote Wilderness

For the serious alpinist, Annapurna Encounter remains a powerhouse in technical Peak Climbing in Nepal. Their refined “Base Camp to Base Camp” services for Island PeakMera Peak, and Lobuche Peak Climbing provide high-altitude climbers with seasoned Sherpa guides, medical-grade oxygen, and top-tier camp infrastructure.

The agency also continues to champion “The Lost Frontier” through expeditions into restricted regions. Rare treks such as the Upper Dolpo & Shey Gompa Trek, the medieval Nar Phu Valley Trek, and the spiritually profound Tsum Valley Trekking offer solitude and ancient Tibetan culture far removed from the crowded commercial trails.

A Visionary Approach to Tourism

“The modern traveler is seeking depth without the sacrifice of time,” says Subas Bhandari, Director of Annapurna Encounter. “We have engineered our 2026 season to ensure that whether you are a CEO with seven days to spare or a couple looking for a once-in-a-lifetime wedding venue, the Himalayas are accessible. Our Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek routes have been optimized with safety protocols that are second to none.”

Prajwal Acharya, Tour and Trek Manager, highlights the company’s commitment to local expertise: “Our heart is in the Annapurna Region. From the short Ghorepani Poonhill Trek to the 5-day ABC Trek from Pokhara, we leverage local knowledge to provide an authentic ‘encounter’ rather than just a tour.”

Commitment to Sustainability

As a leader in Trekking in Nepal, Annapurna Encounter maintains a strict “Leave No Trace” policy. The company works closely with local tea houses and porters to ensure that the surge in tourism directly benefits the mountain communities while preserving the fragile ecosystem of regions like the Langtang Valley.

About Annapurna Encounter Pvt. Ltd.

Annapurna Encounter Pvt. Ltd. is a premier, government-authorized travel and expedition agency based in Kathmandu, Nepal. Specializing in Tours in Nepal, peak climbing, and helicopter expeditions, the company provides bespoke travel solutions for individuals, families, and corporate groups seeking the ultimate Himalayan experience.

Media Contact:

  • Contact Persons: Subas Bhandari (Director) | Prajwal Acharya (Tour and Trek Manager)
  • Company Name: Annapurna Encounter Pvt. Ltd.
  • Emails: annapurnaregion@gmail.com | info@annapurnaencounter.com
  • Official Website: www.annapurnaencounter.com
  • Headquarters: Kathmandu, Nepal

Media Contact

Organization: Annapurna Encounter Pvt. Ltd.

Contact Person: Subas Bhandari

Website: http://www.annapurnaencounter.com/

Email: Send Email

Country:Nepal

Release id:44917

The post Annapurna Encounter Debuts 7-Day Express Treks and Luxury Heli – Weddings for 2026 appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Designer Pool Covers has expanded its operations across Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, reflecting growing demand for pool cover solutions linked to safety, water conservation, and residential design trends. The move aligns with broader shifts in South Africa’s home improvement sector, where functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics increasingly intersect.

Germiston, Gauteng, South Africa, 12th May 2026 – Designer Pool Covers, a South Africa-based company specializing in pool cover solutions, has announced an expansion of its operational footprint across key metropolitan regions, including Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town. The development reflects broader trends in residential infrastructure adaptation, water conservation awareness, and evolving safety standards within the country’s built environment.

The company, operating under the name “Designer Pool Covers,” has established its presence within the pool cover segment through a focus on design integration, functional performance, and compliance with safety considerations. Its expansion into multiple provinces marks a shift from a regionally focused operation to a more nationally distributed service model.

This development occurs against the backdrop of increasing attention to water usage and safety measures in South Africa, where residential pool ownership remains relatively high in urban and suburban areas. In regions such as Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape, pools are a common residential feature, accompanied by ongoing concerns around evaporation, safety, and maintenance.

Designer Pool Covers’ expanded operations appear to respond to these factors by aligning product availability with regional demand patterns. In Johannesburg and the greater Gauteng area, demand is often linked to water conservation considerations and seasonal variability. In Durban, coastal conditions introduce factors such as humidity and debris accumulation, while in Cape Town, heightened awareness around water retention has influenced homeowner priorities.

Industry observations indicate that the pool cover sector has gradually evolved from purely functional offerings to solutions that also consider aesthetics and integration into outdoor design. This shift has influenced product development, with increasing attention to materials, usability, and compatibility with residential environments.

Designer Pool Covers’ portfolio reflects this evolution, incorporating a range of cover types designed for different use cases, including safety covers, thermal covers, and automated systems. These categories align with broader international trends in pool management and residential infrastructure.

From a regulatory standpoint, pool safety remains an important consideration in South Africa. Municipal guidance and safety recommendations emphasize the use of barriers and covers to reduce risk, with awareness continuing to grow among homeowners and insurers.

The company’s expansion into Durban and Cape Town introduces logistical considerations related to regional supply chains and service delivery. Coastal and inland environments present different performance requirements, influencing material selection and installation practices.

The move also reflects broader trends within South Africa’s home improvement sector, which has seen sustained activity driven by increased investment in residential spaces. Outdoor areas, including pools, have become central to these developments, shaping demand for complementary products.

Designer Pool Covers’ presence across multiple cities positions the company within a competitive and evolving market landscape. Companies operating in this sector continue to balance performance, durability, and cost considerations while adapting to regional and consumer-specific needs.

Sustainability remains a relevant factor, particularly in regions affected by water scarcity. Pool covers designed to reduce evaporation and heat loss may contribute to more efficient resource use, depending on application and maintenance practices.

As Designer Pool Covers establishes operations in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, its expansion reflects alignment with key economic centres and residential growth areas. Ongoing developments in safety standards, environmental considerations, and design preferences are expected to continue shaping the industry.

Media Contact

Organization: Designer pool covers

Contact Person: Willem de Wet

Website: https://designercovers.co.za/

Email: Send Email

Contact Number: +27824618330

Address:Sunnyrock Park 3

Address 2: Unit 2, 2 North Reef Road

City: Germiston

State: Gauteng

Country:South Africa

Release id:44923

The post Designer Pool Covers Expands Across South Africa’s Major Cities appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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