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PEOPLES FINANCIAL CORPORATION REPORTS RESULTS FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 2024, ANNOUNCES NEW STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM, AND SETS DATE FOR ANNUAL MEETING

Peoples Financial Corporation

Peoples Financial Corporation (the “Company”) (OTCQX Best Market: PFBX), parent of The Peoples Bank (the “Bank”), announced earnings for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2024. Additionally, the board of directors of Peoples Financial Corporation announced its approval to repurchase the Company’s outstanding and issued common stock up to a limit that is the lesser of 40,000 shares or the number of shares that can be acquired pursuant to a 2025 maximum of $750,000 in aggregate repurchase price for all such repurchases, effective following the announcement. The new repurchase program has an expiration date of December 31, 2025, and replaces its prior 2024 repurchase plan for the lesser of $1,000,000 or 64,000 shares that expired on December 31, 2024, through which the Company repurchased 44,220 shares. Shares will be repurchased at the discretion of management either on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions, and repurchased shares will be retired. As of December 31, 2024, the Company reported common shares outstanding of 4,617,466. The Company also announced that its 2025 annual meeting of shareholders will take place on April 23, 2025. Fourth Quarter Earnings Net income for the fourth quarter of 2024 decreased $195,000 to $1,528,000 compared to net income of $1,723,000 for the fourth quarter of 2023. The earnings per weighted average common share for the fourth quarter of 2024 were $0.33 compared to earnings per weighted average common share of $0.37 for the fourth quarter of 2023. Per share figures are based on weighted average common shares outstanding of 4,640,537 and 4,666,349 for the fourth quarters of 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease in net income for the fourth quarter of 2024 was primarily due to an increase in noninterest expense of $300,000 to $5,550,000 for the fourth quarter of 2024 compared with $5,250,000 for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in noninterest expense was mainly due to an increase in employee benefits from prior year. Total interest income decreased by $63,000 to $7,640,000 for the fourth quarter of 2024 as compared with $7,703,000 for the fourth quarter of 2023 due to lower interest income on securities caused by a decrease in balances and yields. Total interest expense increased by $234,000 to $2,064,000 for the fourth quarter of 2024 as compared with $1,830,000 for the fourth quarter of 2023 due to higher interest rates paid on deposit accounts. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased $12,537,000 to $21,703,000 compared to net income of $9,166,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023. The earnings per weighted average common share for the year ended December 31, 2024 were $4.66 compared to earnings per weighted average common share of $1.96 for the year ended December 31, 2023. Per share figures are based on weighted average common shares outstanding of 4,656,370 and 4,675,067 for the years ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The increase in net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 was due to a discrete item of $15,194,000 recorded as a tax benefit for the reversal of the Company’s valuation allowance on federal and state deferred tax assets during the third quarter and year ended December 31, 2024. Pre-tax income for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased $2,907,000 to $8,380,000 as compared with $11,287,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023. Total interest income increased by $465,000 to $33,094,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024 as compared with $32,629,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023 due to higher interest and fees on loans and overnight federal funds. Total interest expense increased by $3,488,000 to $9,643,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024 as compared with $6,155,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023 due to higher interest rates paid on deposit accounts and borrowings. The Company had a valuation allowance on federal and state deferred tax assets totaling $15,617,000 as of December 31, 2023.In the third quarter of 2024, the Company reassessed the valuation allowance in accordance with applicable accounting guidance and determined it was appropriate to reverse substantially all the valuation allowance which resulted in a one-time discrete reduction to income tax expense of $15,194,000 in the third quarter of 2024. Excluding the discrete item, income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2024, totaled $1,871,000 based upon the expected annual effective tax rate for 2024 of 22.33% compared to income tax expense of $2,121,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023, at an effective rate of 18.79%. The net deferred tax asset recognized on the Company consolidated balance sheet totaled $13,902,000 at December 31, 2024 and $756,000 at December 31, 2023. Return on average assets for the year ended December 31, 2024, which included the discrete item, increased 1.55% to 2.65%. With the discrete item excluded from the calculation, return on average assets would be 0.80% compared to 1.10% for the year ended December 31, 2023.The Company’s efficiency ratio increased 6% to 73% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to 67% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Asset Quality “The Bank’s leadership remains committed to maintaining high-quality assets. We are closely monitoring economic conditions and staying vigilant for any potential changes in interest rates,” said Chevis C. Swetman, chairman and chief executive officer of the Company and the Bank. Shareholders’ Equity Total shareholders’ equity increased by $20,718,000 to $90,001,000 at December 31, 2024 from $69,283,000 at December 31, 2023. The improvement in shareholders’ equity was mainly due to positive pre-tax earnings, a decrease of $1,875,000 in unrealized losses on securities since December 31, 2023, and the aforementioned $15,194,000 reduction of the valuation allowance on federal and state deferred tax assets in the third quarter of 2024. Also, the Company has paid dividends of $2,039,000 to shareholders of record since December 31, 2023. The Company reported $38,006,000 and $39,881,000 in unrealized losses on the available for sale securities portfolio as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. These unrealized losses are presented in accumulated other comprehensive income for the respective periods. The cause of the unrealized losses has primarily resulted from higher interest rates that have impacted the current market value of available for sale securities. The unrealized losses are not related to any credit deterioration within the portfolio. The Company has maintained strong liquidity and continues to do so; therefore, the Company does not foresee a sale of any affected securities that would cause the realization of these losses by the Company as part of net income in the near future. The Bank’s leverage ratio has not been impacted by these unrealized losses on available for sale securities due to an opt- out election previously made by the Bank in accordance with current regulatory capital requirements and therefore remained strong at 13.95% as of December 31, 2024. Liquidity The Company maintains a well-capitalized balance sheet which includes strong capital and liquidity. The Bank provides a full range of banking, financial and trust services in our local markets. The majority of the Bank’s deposits are fully FDIC insured. The Company evaluates on an ongoing and continuous basis its financial health by preparing for various moderate to severe economic scenarios. As interest rates have increased and the cost of attracting new deposits and replacing deposit attrition has increased, the Bank experienced an increase in its cost of funds during the twelve months ended December 31, 2024. Due to an influx of public fund tax deposits during the first and last quarters of 2024 and 2023 that were slowly allocated by the public accountholders throughout the year, the Bank’s total deposits increased by $32,240,000 to $720,730,000 at December 31, 2024 from $688,490,000 as of December 31, 2023. About the Company Founded in 1896, with $832 million in total assets as of December 31, 2024, The Peoples Bank operates 18 bank facilities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast in Hancock, Harrison, Jackson and Stone counties. In addition to offering a comprehensive range of retail and commercial banking services, the Bank also operates a trust and investment services department that has provided customers with financial, estate and retirement planning services since 1936. The Company just experienced its third best year of earnings ever. Peoples Financial Corporation’s common stock is listed on the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol PFBX. Additional information is available on the Internet at the Company’s website, www.thepeoples.com, and at the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), www.sec.gov. This news release reflects industry conditions, Company performance and financial results and contains “forward-looking statements,” which may include forecasts of our financial results and condition, expectations for our operations and businesses, and our assumptions for those forecasts and expectations. Do not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risk factors and uncertainties which could cause the Company’s actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results and expectation expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements are described under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Regulation and Supervision” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, and in other documents subsequently filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available at the SEC’s website and the Company’s website, each of which are referenced above. To the extent that statements in this news release relate to future plans, objectives, financial results or performance by the Company, these statements are deemed to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are generally identified by use of words such as “may,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “will,” “should,” “plan,” “estimate,” “predict,” “continue” and “potential” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements represent management’s beliefs, based upon information available at the time the statements are made, with regard to the matters addressed; they are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that change over time and could cause actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. All information is as of the date of this news release. Except to the extent required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement for any reason. PEOPLES FINANCIAL CORPORATION (In thousands, except per share figures) (Unaudited) Contact Details Chevis C. Swetman, President and CEO +1 228-435-8205 cswetman@thepeoples.com Company Website https://www.thepeoples.com

January 23, 2025 04:05 PM Central Standard Time

Cutoshi Fast Tracks Towards Launch As DeFi Hub Development Accelerates Ahead Of Schedule

Cutoshi

Recently, the Cutoshi community has become the fastest-growing meme coin community. Widespread participation has significantly boosted the project’s development and impacted its presale success. Due to this, CUTO has zoomed through the presale rounds and is now ahead of schedule for its launch on popular exchanges. As early presale investors await the launching, the project’s team is updating the presale timeline and shifting more focus to the development to finish adding the platform features and final touches to offer investors the DeFi hub with its DEX and wallet in complete working condition before the schedule so they can immediately start using it to manage their finances. Cutoshi’s Unique MemeFi Approach The project has adopted a hybrid approach to cater to the needs of both types of crypto enthusiasts. Cutoshi combines the fun of a meme community and the practicality and real-world use cases of a utility token, giving rise to a hybrid token. Cutoshi is inspired by Satoshi Nakamoto’s original vision for Bitcoin and blockchain technology. Cutoshi embraces privacy, security, and monetary freedom and follows Satoshi's ideals to promote decentralization and create an efficient global economy free from centralized control. On the other hand, Cutoshi’s meme characteristic is based on the Chinese Lucky Cat, Maneki-Neko. According to Japanese and Chinese folklore, the lucky cat has extraordinary powers and blesses its owners with good fortune. Thus, Asian people traditionally decorate this idol’s figurine in their homes to receive its blessings. Cutoshi aims to spread this luck worldwide. Thus, it has tokenized the lucky cat into its native token, CUTO, bringing it to the blockchain and making it accessible to everyone. People can harness its powers by including it in their portfolios and receive good luck and wealth in their digital assets. Cutoshi’s Unified DeFi Hub The main component of this memeFi ecosystem is the Cutoshi DEX (Decentralized Exchange), which is in the final stages of development and will be launched soon for members to access. This DEX is developed to be cross-chain interoperable and thus will allow users to swap their assets peer-to-peer across multiple blockchain networks. The DEX is capable of performing lightning-fast asset swaps with low slippage at a tiny 0.25% fee. Moreover, the transaction fees will be in the form of CUTO tokens, 80% of which will go to liquidity providers, and the remaining 20% will be burned to create a deflationary effect on the token’s value and ensure its growth over time. Another essential part of the ecosystem is the Cutoshi Academy, established to reduce the Web3 knowledge gap. Through this learning academy, Cutoshi aims to spread the mass adoption of decentralized technology. Through this academy, community members can access engaging learning materials and modules that explain complex DeFi concepts in an easily understandable way. All the knowledge will be free so newcomers can learn, adapt, and start using decentralized means of managing their finances. Benefits of The CUTO Token Presale The Cutoshi presale has raised over $1.6 million, showcasing the immense demand from crypto and DeFi enthusiasts. The presale started with the CUTO token valued at $0.15 for first-stage investors, who have made over 106% returns on their initial investments since the price surged through the presale rounds to the current $0.031 in stage four. However, those who missed out on these early gains still have time to get in and lock their spot in the future of DeFi since the presale will only accelerate with the project's ongoing growth and increasing demand. The token's value will continue surging, and the presale will provide investors with returns similar to the early stages. For more information on the Cutoshi (CUTO) Presale: https://cutoshi.com/ Join and become a community member: https://twitter.com/CutoshiToken https://t.me/cutoshicommunity Cutoshi is a revolutionary meme coin inspired by the Chinese Lucky Cat and Satoshi Nakamoto’s teachings. It’s based on decentralization, privacy, and monetary freedom, embodying the blockchain's original purpose and ethos. And Cutoshi has a vision - to introduce more people to cryptocurrencies and bring financial freedom to all who want it. The regulatory environment surrounding cryptocurrencies is evolving and varies across jurisdictions. It is your responsibility to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations in your country or region before engaging with Custoshi. Contact Details Cutoshi Camila Perez Support@cutoshi.com Company Website https://cutoshi.com/

January 23, 2025 01:42 PM Eastern Standard Time

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News Release

ELD Asset Management Warns Trump Tariffs Could Stoke Inflation

Pinion Newswire

ELD Asset Management, a leading regional investment and wealth manager, has issued a cautionary note to investors regarding the Trump administration’s plans to impose tariffs on imports from several of the United States’ major trading partners. The firm warns that these tariffs could have significant implications for inflation, both domestically and globally, and advises investors to be prepared for potential market volatility. Wide-ranging impact The proposed tariffs are expected to lead to price hikes on goods imported to the U.S. which could contribute to higher inflation in the world’s largest economy. The imposition of retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports by trading partners cannot be ruled out and the ripple effects of these policies would almost certainly be felt worldwide as global supply chains and trade flows are disrupted, potentially triggering inflationary pressures in other economies. Consequences of tariffs include: Rising consumer prices Supply chain disruptions Central bank responses Advice for investors ELD Asset Management suggests investors remain open to further portfolio diversification into assets that tend to do well in inflationary environments including precious metals and other hedges like inflation-linked bonds which may help mitigate the risks associated with rising inflation. Best to be prepared “While it’s impossible to say for certain whether or not Mr. Trump will make good on his campaign promises vis a vis tariffs, it makes sense to keep one eye firmly on assets that perform well in inflationary environments. We think the potential for a rout in stocks and higher living costs for ordinary Americans could see President Trump hold fire but we believe it’s better to be prepared,” explained George Palmer - Director of Private Clients at ELD Asset Management. About ELD Asset Management: At ELD Asset Management, we combine research-driven strategies, personalised solutions, and a commitment to transparency to help you achieve your financial goals. With a global perspective and local expertise, we offer tailored investment solutions that prioritise long-term growth and stability. Contact Details ELD Asset Management Pte. Ltd. Mr. Luke T luke.tan@eldglobal.com Company Website https://www.pawfury.com/

January 23, 2025 01:03 PM Eastern Standard Time

What Impact Is New Coin Elluminex Going To Have? Should Other DeFi Coins Be Worried?

Elluminex

The DeFi market is no slacker when it comes to innovations, considering how many new DeFi coins come to disrupt the marketplace, periodically. This time around, the buzz is around Elluminex (ELX), a new DeFi project with strong potential to outperform several other DeFi coins due to its varied approach to simple cross-chain activities. Amongst its key bullish factors, the one that stands out the most is its strong positioning on the TON blockchain, whose network has an impressive growth rate. This has particularly spiked up the anticipation for its upcoming presale launch Leveraging on TON’s user base, which has over 950 million users, Elluminex is primed to deliver a huge impact, not just for its network adoption potential but for its advanced ecosystem. However, does it have what it takes to challenge established players? A Glimpse Into Elluminex - The Ultimate DeFi Platform On TON Blockchain The entire ecosystem of Elluminex (ELX) promises to stand as a competent game player in the DeFi space— its opportunity to utilize the fast-growing network on TON is only a stepping stone. The platform’s focus on solving DeFi issues with a high liquidity pool, low fees, convenient cross-chain bridging, wide accessibility, and security shows its intent to contend with the big dawgs as a multi-chain DEX. One of its most interesting perks includes its AI-powered portfolio tracker, an extra feature that keeps its users updated on market trends and analytic insights. Moreso, users will be able to partake in robust cross-chain activities as they can also connect with major blockchains like Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and Solana. Meanwhile, this type of flexibility and interoperability makes the integration of Elluminex into other DeFi ecosystems convenient. Moving on, the platform offers staking and farming models, where users can earn an extra $ELX token- the native currency for processing transactions on its network. Alongside its portfolio tracking feature, Elluminex makes it easy for both seasoned and inexperienced investors to learn proper asset management strategies. The platform offers free educational services in a DeFi-learning hub, where users enroll and become DeFi literates. Overall, the exclusive pre-market access to pre-launched TON project tokens has also bolstered its value among speculators. As Elluminex rides the wave of innovation and continues to attract interest, it may further expand enough to challenge the likes of Uniswap. The Potential Elluminex Has To Contend With Other Top DeFi Projects The growth potential embedded in Elluminex as a multi-chain DEX on TON should not be underestimated. With VanEck predicting $4 trillion in DeFi trading volumes by 2025 and DEXs expected to capture 20% of centralized exchange (CEX) volumes, Elluminex is strategically positioned to benefit from this explosive growth. Considering how active and growth-stimulating the TON network is due to its affiliation with the social media platform, Telegram, Elluminex is set for a huge adoption rate in 2025. Aside from this strong foundational strength, the fast-rising DeFi platform has made sure to adopt top strategies that will keep its token ahead of the game. Furthermore, the adoption of a token burn mechanism for its native token, $ELX, is poised to boost the overall value of the project monumentally as a result of scarcity and high demand for its limited 350 million token supply. This deflationary model, alongside its advanced DeFi network, is poised to keep Elluminex on the list of trending DeFi projects. Both retail and large-scale stakeholders already have their eyes on Elluminex as they rush to secure a slot in the presale. As a result, market players who are particularly waiting to start investing in its network once it launches its presale will be positioning them for massive ROIs. Although Elluminex stands as a solid contender to already established DeFi platforms, it’s not all bad news for them. Elluminex’s focus on interoperability could foster collaboration rather than competition, creating opportunities to work alongside other DEX protocols like Jupiter. How Good Of A Short-Term Investment Is Elluminex Token? Elluminex's strong positioning on the TON blockchain and adoption of a token burn mechanism is surely going to serve as a catalyst for both short and long-term crypto investment. The platform’s approach to further interoperability and advanced features also offers solid ROI potential. For more information about Elluminex (ELX) visit the links below: Website: https://elluminex.com/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/elluminex Telegram: https://t.me/Elluminex Elluminex is a next-generation DeFi platform built on the TON Blockchain and Ethereum, offering a seamless decentralized finance experience with innovative features. Users can engage in staking, farming, and enjoy AI-powered portfolio tools, all while participating in a cross-chain ecosystem. Elluminex is unique in that it is bringing DeFi to the TON Network/Blockchain which at the moment is very limited in this sense with very few options available to its users. Despite this the TON Network is still the fastest growing blockchain in the world and many view it as a future powerhouse to rival Bitcoin, Ethereum and Solana. By bringing DeFi to the TON Network, Elluminex would immediately transform the chain and take its capabilities and vast reach to the next level. Much like Uniswap did with Ethereum, Pancakeswap did with Binance Chain and Jupiter did with Solana. Cryptocurrency may be unregulated in your jurisdiction. The value of cryptocurrencies fluctuates and it is important that you thoroughly understand the risks associated with acquiring cryptocurrencies, as outlined in the Disclaimer. You confirm that you are not a citizen or resident of the United States, United Kingdom, or any prohibited jurisdiction, or any other location where the purchase of Elluminex and $ELX token may be legally restricted. Please note that our list of restricted countries and terms of service may undergo updates, and it is your responsibility to stay informed about the latest version. By proceeding to continue to use Elluminex.com, you acknowledge and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Contact Details Elluminex Andy Green press@elluminex.com Company Website https://elluminex.com/

January 23, 2025 12:20 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Missed Shiba Inu Coin And Pepe Coin Rallies? This New Altcoin Could Rally 10X In The Next 30 Days

Cutoshi

The crypto market rally is pushing all tokens up, but not all will benefit equally. So far, established projects like Shiba Inu and Pepe have already seen major gains. With their market caps in billions, there is not as much upside. That’s why traders are looking for new tokens with major potential. One of them has already raised over $1,634,237.332 in investments and with its current momentum, set for a bright future ahead. Cutoshi Set For 10x Gains In The Next 30 Days While both Shiba Inu and Pepe have already seen significant gains, one token has substantial potential to outperform them. MemeFi token Cutoshi (CUTO), a new project that is currently trending on X, has secured over $1.6 million in investment and could be headed for 10x major gains very soon. Most recently, traders were attracted to this Ethereum-based project for its combination of memecoin and DeFi utility. Cutoshi is not just a fun memecoin, but also one that is building a complete DeFi ecosystem. Its DeFi ecosystem will feature its own multichain DEX, which puts decentralization first. The DEX will offer self-custody, low fees and trading without barriers. Thanks to its intuitive user interface, it hopes to appeal both to seasoned traders and newcomers. With the token over half way through its presale, it is rapidly concluding. This means that the token will soon trade on the open market and when this happens, Cutoshi has the potential for major gains. For this reason, some traders are predicting 10x gains in just the next 30 days. If Cutoshi’s DeFi ecosystem gets traction, it may become one of the biggest Ethereum-based memecoins on the market. Shiba Inu Prediction For 2025 The “Dogekiller” Shiba Inu (SHIB) has been making some big moves recently. Thanks to the overall market rally, Shiba Inu has seen strong growth this year. At its current level of $0.00002383, the biggest Ethereum meme coin was up 142.88% last year. These price increases were a combination of broader market trends and Shiba Inu’s ecosystem developments. For one Shibarium, its Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum, has been gaining traction recently. Token burns, which are key for Shiba Inu, also played an important role. Notably, on December 3, Shiba Inu’s burn rate rose by 1,500%. In 24 hours, over 30 million Shiba Inu tokens left circulation. Current conservative predictions for 2025 put Shiba Inu between $0.0000105 and $0.0000125. More optimistic predictions suggest that SHIB could reach $0.000033 or even reach a high of $0.00006392. Still, Shiba Inu will likely not repeat the rally it did in late 2021 when it reached its all-time high of $0.0000884. The token now has a huge market cap of $14.04 billion, ranked 15th among all crypto assets. Traders who want to see 10x or 100x gains are now looking for lower-cap tokens that can replicate Shiba Inu’s success. Pepe Coin Set For Big Gains In 2025 One token that recently replicated Shiba Inu’s early success is Pepe. This Ethereum-based meme coin quickly rose through meme coin rankings, registering huge gains this year. Notably, Pepe was up a staggering 1641.41% year over year, reaching its current level of $0.00002067. What is more, the token reached its all-time high in December, at $0.00002825. Numerous indicators show that Pepe still has momentum going forward. For one, Pepe has seen significant whale activity, with one whale getting $24.5 million worth of Pepe. These big whale moves come in anticipation of major price rallies. For that reason, Pepe, price predictions currently suggest a significant upside. One prediction suggests a potential 227% upside in early 2025. Most predictions range from $0.000037 to $0.000073 for 2025, suggesting a more modest increase. Still, if Pepe manages to secure the spotlight again, traders are speculating that the $0.0001 level is not beyond its reach. For more information on the Cutoshi (CUTO) Presale: https://cutoshi.com/ Join and become a community member: https://twitter.com/CutoshiToken https://t.me/cutoshicommunity Cutoshi is a revolutionary meme coin inspired by the Chinese Lucky Cat and Satoshi Nakamoto’s teachings. It’s based on decentralization, privacy, and monetary freedom, embodying the blockchain's original purpose and ethos. And Cutoshi has a vision - to introduce more people to cryptocurrencies and bring financial freedom to all who want it. The regulatory environment surrounding cryptocurrencies is evolving and varies across jurisdictions. It is your responsibility to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations in your country or region before engaging with Custoshi. Contact Details Cutoshi Camila Perez Support@cutoshi.com Company Website https://cutoshi.com/

January 23, 2025 09:57 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Why Wait Until 2025 To See What Elluminex Has To Offer?

Elluminex

As the sun gradually sets for the year, many investors have logged off on investing in 2024. However, the ever-active crypto market means one can always make high-value moves before the year ends. For instance, the Elluminex (ELX) presale is growing to become a high-potential, time-sensitive investment opportunity that big stakeholders should take advantage of before the year ends. Elluminex is poised to become the first DeFi hub on the TON network and will lead the trail for a series of DeFi solutions on the blockchain. Given the influx of traders into the Elluminex project and the limited supply, it is possible that by early 2025, the presale tokens will be sold out. The Concept Of Elluminex On TON Network The common shortcoming of the DeFi industry is liquidity fragmentation, which restrains users from performing cross-chain transactions with multiple networks. This has stunted DeFi's growth from reaching its full potential. The solution to this issue has been tackled on the Binance Smart Chain with the introduction of PancakeSwap and on the Ethereum network with the introduction of Uniswap. However, this lack of interoperability has continued to be a lingering issue on the TON network, alienating over 950 million active users from accessing opportunities in other blockchains. That is where Elluminex (ELX) comes in with its next-generation features that will bridge the gap and create an environment where TON users can access over 40 blockchain networks for better liquidity offerings. Elluminex Game-Changing Features Using the Elluminex DEX exchange, users can trade their assets across multiple blockchains. The DEX is designed to offer low slippage, high liquidity, and advanced order types, which are the core features users need for an enhanced trading experience. Advanced trading features like the Elluminex AI-powered tracker ensure that users are able to track, monitor, analyze, and gain insight into the market. This means users can efficiently execute trades, opening doors to trading opportunities which will ensure that users earn rewards all in one place. Newbie users can learn more about DeFi through Elluminex's educational academy, which aims to eliminate DeFi illiteracy within the DeFi ecosystem. The over-the-counter (OTC) platform is another benefit that grants users early access to new TON projects, giving them ample time to invest in promising projects before their listing in exchanges. With advanced trading features and a user-friendly interface, the project will solve the interoperability issue on the TON network and propel it to its full potential. How To Be Part Of The High-Flying Elluminex Project With Huge Bullish Growth Projection Market participants looking to be part of the growth of Elluminex can do that by buying the presale of $ELX native token. Given the high-end use cases of the Elluminex project in providing DeFi solutions to TON users, smart players have keyed into the project, which is projected to generate great returns in value by 2025. The Elluminex tokenomics shows the ELX has a limited total supply of 350M, of which 50% is mapped out for presale. To further increase the value of the ELX token, a deflationary model approach will be implemented whereby a percentage of the token will be burned to increase scarcity over time. Some of the advantages of investing in Elluminex include its high-growth potential, low price entry point, and an opportunity to be an early investor in the project. Elluminex is the future of DeFi on the TON network, and investing in the project can position one for exponential ROIs in 2025. Elluminex The Best Investment Of 2025 The ideal goal of every investor is to discover a high-potential project with a real-world solution offering and a low-price entry advantage. Elluminex ticks all these boxes and stands tall as one of the best DeFi investment opportunities in the crypto market today. For more information about Elluminex (ELX) visit the links below: Website: https://elluminex.com/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/elluminex Telegram: https://t.me/Elluminex Elluminex is a next-generation DeFi platform built on the TON Blockchain and Ethereum, offering a seamless decentralized finance experience with innovative features. Users can engage in staking, farming, and enjoy AI-powered portfolio tools, all while participating in a cross-chain ecosystem. Elluminex is unique in that it is bringing DeFi to the TON Network/Blockchain which at the moment is very limited in this sense with very few options available to its users. Despite this the TON Network is still the fastest growing blockchain in the world and many view it as a future powerhouse to rival Bitcoin, Ethereum and Solana. By bringing DeFi to the TON Network, Elluminex would immediately transform the chain and take its capabilities and vast reach to the next level. Much like Uniswap did with Ethereum, Pancakeswap did with Binance Chain and Jupiter did with Solana. Cryptocurrency may be unregulated in your jurisdiction. The value of cryptocurrencies fluctuates and it is important that you thoroughly understand the risks associated with acquiring cryptocurrencies, as outlined in the Disclaimer. You confirm that you are not a citizen or resident of the United States, United Kingdom, or any prohibited jurisdiction, or any other location where the purchase of Elluminex and $ELX token may be legally restricted. Please note that our list of restricted countries and terms of service may undergo updates, and it is your responsibility to stay informed about the latest version. By proceeding to continue to use Elluminex.com, you acknowledge and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Contact Details Elluminex Andy Green press@elluminex.com Company Website https://elluminex.com/

January 23, 2025 09:37 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Trading Challenges Vs. Prop Firms: A Gamified Way To Become A Better Trader?

Benzinga

By James Blacker, Benzinga Think you’ve got what it takes to take home some prizes? Check out the BullRush fantasy trading platform here! A new trading site is looking to shake up the industry with its new gamified platform that promises to be an incubator for aspiring traders. BullRush offers a variety of games, competitions and challenges in which traders compete against each other for real cash prizes while also levelling up their trading skills. Following the recent release of BullRush’s new Profit Factor Challenge, let’s take a look at how this platform strives to be unique and how it differs from traditional prop firm challenges. Gamification As A Learning Tool BullRush is not about spending hours poring over charts and data. It is designed to be an enjoyable experience that motivates traders to constantly improve and bring their A-game to every challenge. Features such as XP and leaderboards give each trader an incentive to keep getting better and show off their skills to the whole community. These features are designed to keep traders engaged and help them learn, as it can be much easier to be consistent when you’re having fun. On top of this, BullRush competitions are either free or have nominal entry fees, so the stakes are relatively low, which not only makes for a lower-risk experience but is also conducive to learning, as traders can refine their skills and strategies without the risk of losing real money. It also lowers the barrier to entry, meaning that anyone can try their hand at trading. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned trader, you have little to lose by giving it a go. This stands in contrast to prop firm challenges, which can be expensive to enter and can put traders in a more stressful situation as they are being evaluated under pressure. Prizes Vs. Funding One of the core differences between BullRush and prop firms is the rewards for successful traders. Most prop firms will offer you a funded account to manage if you complete their multi-phase evaluation process. While this gives you the opportunity to trade for a living, it means that you are then tied to a funded account, managing someone else’s capital. BullRush, meanwhile, provides instant cash rewards that you can withdraw at any time. There is no long-term commitment to continue trading, you can simply take the money and enter another trading challenge. Community And Competition Competition among like-minded traders is among the key benefits offered by BullRush. It is this healthy competition that can push traders to become the best they can be. The BullRush platform also incorporates numerous community features, such as leaderboards and social media channels for traders to discuss strategies and help each other out. Prop firm challenges, on the other hand, are generally focused on individual performance, and you may not have the benefit of a helpful community to encourage you. What Are BullRush Challenges? Separate from BullRush’s “Competitions,” the Trading Challenge Arena is a structured way to test and improve specific trading areas. Each challenge type has a different profit goal that must be reached within a certain time limit. The Basic Challenge can serve as the perfect starting point for beginners. In the Basic 3:1, for example, you have 720 hours to reach a profit target of 15% before hitting the maximum drawdown of 5%. If you complete this challenge, you will win 1,850 credits, which is worth $18.50, with a buy-in of just $5. Next is the Double Up Challenge, which gives successful traders the chance to either claim the basic prize or take the challenge a second time for a shot at an even bigger reward. Traders with a greater appetite for risk can win twice as much with this challenge. Finally, BullRush’s newest challenge type is the Profit Factor Challenge – a new concept that the company reports is used by tier-one hedge funds when choosing a strategy to invest through. This just-released advanced option challenges traders to hit specific profit and win-rate targets. Profit Factor is perfect for traders who are looking for a bigger challenge to really put their skills to the test. Joining The BullRush Revolution BullRush is looking to redefine the way traders learn. With its gamified, community-driven platform, it seeks to offer a refreshing alternative to traditional prop firms, and the ideal starting point for traders looking to boost their trading skills in a fun and accessible environment. Whether you are a beginner just learning the ropes or an experienced trader looking to test out and refine new strategies, BullRush Challenges offer an intriguing option and, with little upfront cost, may be worth checking out. Think you’ve got what it takes to take home some prizes? Check out the BullRush fantasy trading platform here! Featured photo courtesy of BullRush. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

January 23, 2025 08:40 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Streamlining Cryptocurrency Payments For Everyday Shopping As Rezolve Ai And Tether Join Forces

Benzinga

By Anthony Termini, Benzinga Cryptocurrency payments in retail have long been seen as a futuristic concept, but that future could now be within reach. Rezolve Ai (NASDAQ: RZLV), a leader in conversational commerce, and Tether, the world’s largest stablecoin platform, have teamed up to bring crypto into everyday shopping. By integrating Tether’s Wallet Development Kit (WDK) with Rezolve Ai’s Brain Checkout platform, this collaboration aims to create a seamless, fee-free payment system that could make using crypto as simple as swiping a credit card. This collaboration has the potential to revolutionize retail, the two companies argue, by helping consumers pay with a single tap, while potentially saving merchants billions in processing fees. Rezolve Ai asks; could this be the tipping point for mainstream crypto adoption? Aiming To Create A Seamless Shopping Experience Rezolve Ai and Tether say they are combining their expertise to potentially revolutionize how people shop and pay. Rezolve Ai offers AI-powered solutions that make online shopping faster, easier and more personalized. Tether, on the other hand, is a pioneer in stablecoin technology, with its USD₮ stablecoin being the largest in the industry, boasting over $138 billion in circulation. The collaboration integrates Tether’s WDK, an open-source crypto wallet library, into Rezolve Ai’s Brain Checkout platform. Tether’s WDK allows developers to build mobile, desktop and web wallets, enabling consumers to securely store and use cryptocurrencies for transactions. Meanwhile, Rezolve Ai’s Brain Checkout platform allows consumers to make instant purchases across any of a retailer’s digital channels, potentially creating a seamless shopping experience from engagement to checkout. By combining these technologies, Rezolve Ai says the integration will allow consumers to use cryptocurrencies to pay for products offered by merchants using its Brain Checkout. Together, the two companies aim to make cryptocurrency as easy to use as cash or credit, potentially bringing it into the mainstream retail world. The companies say that their collaboration offers significant benefits for both merchants and consumers. The Rezovle Ai, Tether Integration Could Offer Benefits To Merchants And Consumers One of the biggest potential advantages for retailers is economic. Rezolve Ai estimates that merchants worldwide spend over $600 billion annually on credit card and payment processing fees, which eat into their profitability. By integrating Tether’s WDK with Brain Checkout, this initiative eliminates these fees entirely, creating a fee-free payment system that allows merchants to keep more of their revenue, Rezovle Ai says. Additionally, Tether’s global reach could bring new customers to retailers. With over 400 million users worldwide, Tether’s stablecoins (e.g., USD₮, MXN₮, CNH₮) are pegged to local fiat currencies, making them accessible and familiar to consumers in different regions. This could open up new opportunities for retailers to attract a broader customer base, Rezovle Ai says. For shoppers, the integration could mean more payment options and a frictionless checkout experience. The plan is that consumers will be able to use cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Tether’s stablecoins to pay for everyday items, from groceries to transportation, with just a single tap. The system also offers added security and fraud protection, reduced transaction costs, and faster payment processing—key advantages of using cryptocurrencies in e-commerce, Rezovle Ai says. By expanding the number of merchants that accept crypto, this collaboration could make it easier for consumers to incorporate cryptocurrency into their daily lives. A Shared Vision To Transform Retail Rezolve Ai and Tether share a vision of making cryptocurrency ubiquitous and as easy to use as traditional payment methods. Rezolve Ai’s globally scalable platform, combined with Tether’s blockchain technology, could reshape the global retail market. “By embedding crypto functionality into everyday shopping experiences, Rezolve Ai is breaking down barriers to adoption and enabling consumers around the world to use cryptocurrency seamlessly in their daily lives,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. He added that this initiative “will empower both consumers and retailers.” Daniel M. Wagner, CEO of Rezolve Ai, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We’re pioneering a disruptive solution set to transform the $30 trillion retail sector” and are working to “reshape the global payment landscape.” The Road Ahead Rezolve Ai believes its total addressable market is upward of $540 billion, as noted in its June 2024 investor presentation. The company says it is off to a strong start to 2025, announcing multiple new customer wins in early January. Shoeby, one of the Netherlands’ leading fashion retailers with over 210 stores, has selected Rezolve Ai to transform its online shopping experience through the adoption of the cutting-edge BRAiN Commerce solution. Mitch van Deursen, CEO of Shoeby, expressed his enthusiasm, “Rezolve Ai’s BRAiN Commerce solution is a game-changer for Shoeby. By embracing conversational commerce and reducing cart abandonment, we are setting a new benchmark for online shopping in the fashion industry. This partnership is key to delivering the personalized, seamless experience our customers expect while strengthening our position as a digital retail leader.” In addition to Shoeby, Royal Caviar Club (RCC) announced it was integrating Rezolve Ai’s conversational commerce tools to help it redefine the luxury shopping experience by allowing it to offer personalized interactions, streamlined checkouts and AI-driven product recommendations. Rezolve Ai says it is positioning itself as a leader in the next wave of retail innovation. By making cryptocurrency payments accessible, secure and easy to use, Rezolve Ai and Tether say they are not just keeping up with the times—they’re shaping the future of how we shop and pay. Featured photo by Traxer on Unsplash Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

January 23, 2025 08:35 AM Eastern Standard Time

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News Release

The Evolution of Slot Machines: From Mechanical to Digital

Acroud Media

Slot machines have come a long way since their inception in the late 19th century. From the clunky mechanical devices of the past to the sleek digital versions we see today, their evolution is a fascinating journey through technological advancements and changing player preferences. The Mechanical Era The first slot machine, known as the Liberty Bell, was invented by Charles Fey in 1895. This mechanical device featured three spinning reels and five symbols: horseshoes, diamonds, spades, hearts, and the Liberty Bell. Players would pull a lever to set the reels in motion, hoping to line up matching symbols for a payout. The Liberty Bell's simplicity and the thrill of winning made it an instant hit. As the popularity of slot machines grew, so did the complexity of their designs. In the early 20th century, manufacturers began to experiment with different themes and additional features. The introduction of fruit symbols, such as cherries and lemons, became a staple in many machines, giving rise to the term "fruit machines" in the UK. The Electromechanical Transition The 1960s marked a significant shift in the evolution of slot machines with the introduction of electromechanical devices. These machines combined mechanical components with electrical ones, allowing for more intricate designs and features. Bally Manufacturing was at the forefront of this innovation, releasing the first fully electromechanical slot machine, the Money Honey, in 1963. The Money Honey featured a bottomless hopper and automatic payouts, which eliminated the need for an attendant to dispense winnings. This innovation paved the way for more complex game mechanics, including multiple paylines and bonus rounds. The lever, once a defining feature of slot machines, began to be replaced by buttons, making the games more accessible to a wider audience. The Digital Revolution The late 20th century saw the advent of digital technology, which revolutionized the slot machine industry. Video slot machines, which used computer screens to display the reels, began to replace their mechanical and electromechanical predecessors. The first video slot machine, Fortune Coin, was developed by Walt Fraley in 1976 and was installed in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel. Video slots opened up a world of possibilities for game designers. They could now incorporate advanced graphics, animations, and sound effects, creating a more immersive gaming experience. The number of pay lines increased dramatically, and new features such as wild symbols, scatter symbols, and interactive bonus games became standard. The Online Era The rise of the internet in the 1990s brought about another major transformation in the world of slot machines. Online casinos began to emerge, offering digital versions of traditional slot games that players could enjoy from the comfort of their homes. This shift not only made slot machines more accessible but also introduced new opportunities for innovation. Online slots could feature progressive jackpots, where a portion of each bet contributed to a growing prize pool that could be won by any player at any time. This added an extra layer of excitement and the potential for life-changing wins. Additionally, online slots could be themed around popular movies, TV shows, and video games, attracting a broader audience. If the idea of playing online appeals to you why not check out our list of the best slot sites? Click here for more. The Mobile Revolution In the 21st century, the proliferation of smartphones and tablets has further transformed the slot machine industry. Mobile gaming has become increasingly popular, with many online casinos developing apps and mobile-friendly websites to cater to this growing market. Players can now enjoy their favourite slot games on the go, anytime and anywhere. Mobile slots often feature touch-screen controls and optimised graphics to provide a seamless gaming experience on smaller screens. The convenience and accessibility of mobile gaming have made it one of the fastest-growing segments of the gambling industry. The Future of Slot Machines As technology continues to advance, the future of slot machines looks promising. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are poised to take the gaming experience to new heights, offering immersive environments where players can interact with the game in unprecedented ways. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning could also play a role in personalizing the gaming experience, tailoring games to individual preferences and behaviors. In conclusion, the evolution of slot machines from mechanical to digital has been marked by continuous innovation and adaptation to changing technologies and player preferences. As we look to the future, it's exciting to imagine what new advancements will shape the next generation of slot machines. Contact Details Acroud Media info-media@acroudmedia.com

January 23, 2025 05:21 AM Eastern Standard Time

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The Evolution of Slot Machines: From Mechanical to Digital