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Driving Economic Growth: The Impact of Tahaluf’s Flagship Events on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

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Driving Economic Growth: The Impact of Tahaluf’s Flagship Events on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

On this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Tahaluf, a Riyadh-based joint venture that is rapidly establishing itself as a global leader in the events industry. With partnerships involving Informa, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity Programming and Drones, and the Events Investment Fund, Tahaluf is playing a pivotal role in driving Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transformation. In just three years, the company has launched 21 event brands, including major events like Leap, DeepFest, Cityscape Global, and Black Hat MEA, positioning Saudi Arabia as a premier destination for international investors and business events.

Michael Champion, shares insights into how flagship events are attracting global investors and fostering confidence in the kingdom’s economic transformation. With events like Leap drawing over 200,000 attendees and thousands of investors, the capital inflow into Saudi Arabia is becoming increasingly significant. Cityscape Global, recognized as the world’s largest real estate event, exemplifies this trend, attracting institutional investors who are keen to engage with the financing of major Giga projects in the region.

The economic impact of Tahaluf’s events is substantial, with a conservative estimate of $17.6 billion generated over the past three years. This figure highlights the importance of mega events in driving GDP growth, job creation, and foreign investment inflows. For instance, Cityscape Global recorded $5.1 billion in transactions during its last edition, showcasing the vibrant real estate market and the potential for further growth in the sector.

As Saudi Arabia continues its diversification journey beyond oil, Tahaluf’s model of strategic event creation aligns perfectly with the nation’s broader goals. By focusing on sectors deemed strategic by the government, Tahaluf is not only enhancing its own portfolio but also contributing to the development of a global events hub in the kingdom. With a growing appetite for face-to-face interactions and the emergence of homegrown events like Leap, the future of the events industry in the Middle East looks promising, with exciting opportunities on the horizon.

The Cannabis Industry’s Growth Trajectory: What Investors Need to Know

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The Cannabis Industry’s Growth Trajectory: What Investors Need to Know

The cannabis industry is rapidly growing in the U.S. and is projected to reach around $45 billion in revenue this year. With recent discussions around the potential declassification of marijuana from a Schedule 1 to a Schedule 3 drug, investor interest in cannabis stocks is on the rise. On this episode, Henry Miller, Managing Director for Polaris Capital Group, shares his expertise on the current state of the cannabis market and what it means for investors.

Henry explains the varying dynamics of the cannabis sector across different states, emphasizing the importance of state-level legalization processes. He discusses the initial frenzy of activity and competition as new markets open up, followed by a period of steady growth. For those considering investing in cannabis, Henry highlights the significance of understanding the fundamentals of the businesses involved and cautions against getting caught up in the hype of perpetual growth.

As we approach the end of 2025, Henry also shares his outlook for the cannabis industry heading into 2026. He anticipates a seasonal bump in sales during the holidays and expresses excitement about the potential for consolidation within the industry. With discounted valuations presenting a unique buying opportunity, this episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of cannabis investing.

The Math Behind the Money: How Gauntlet Protects $42 Billion in DeFi Assets

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The Math Behind the Money: How Gauntlet Protects $42 Billion in DeFi Assets

Transforming Finance: A Deep Dive with John Morrow of Gauntlet

As the world embraces the digital age, financial technologies are rapidly evolving, presenting both opportunities and challenges. John Morrow, co-founder and COO of Gauntlet, exemplifies this evolution through his commitment to decentralized finance (DeFi) and blockchain technology. His insights on the future of finance provide a compelling narrative for entrepreneurs and investors in the crypto space, emphasizing the disruptive potential of these technologies.

Who is John Morrow?

John Morrow is an influential figure in the cryptocurrency landscape, with a wealth of experience in financial modeling and automated trading systems. Gauntlet, founded by Morrow and his team, specializes in developing cutting-edge financial modeling software for DeFi, making a significant impact in a sector that currently manages $42 billion in assets. With automated trading vaults holding approximately $2 billion, Gauntlet stands as a critical player in the rising tide of decentralized finance.

The Disruption Story: DeFi and Blockchain

Morrow highlights how DeFi represents the future of finance, offering unprecedented speed, transparency, and accessibility. As traditional financial systems grapple with inefficiencies, the advantages provided by blockchain technology are becoming increasingly evident. With leaders like Larry Fink advocating for the tokenization of assets, Morrow sees the potential for a shift in the financial landscape that prioritizes innovation and consumer empowerment.

Addressing Challenges and Building Trust

For the promising realm of DeFi to reach its full potential, Morrow identifies two crucial areas that need improvement: regulatory clarity and a proven track record. Regulatory frameworks are essential for legitimizing the crypto market and encouraging traditional finance participants to embrace DeFi fully. Recent announcements from regulators aim to provide this clarity, indicating a supportive shift from governmental bodies towards innovation in the crypto space.

The Journey of DeFi: From Toddler to Teenager

Morrow likens the current state of DeFi to that of a teenager—maturing and learning from past experiences. After a tumultuous history marked by high-profile failures and volatile market reactions, the industry is advancing towards stability and is slowly earning the trust of investors. Success stories, like that of Solana, which grew its DeFi assets from $2 to $10 billion, demonstrate the shift towards more significant and reliable market participation.

Implications for the Future of Finance

The implications of this evolution extend well beyond the immediate financial sector. Morrow believes that as DeFi matures and traditional assets flow into the blockchain ecosystem, the landscape will witness more productive capital movement. This transformation will alleviate the speculative nature that has often characterized crypto investments, allowing for better risk management and real returns.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Finance

In conclusion, John Morrow’s insights provide a roadmap for understanding how decentralized finance and blockchain technology can transform traditional financial practices. By focusing on regulatory clarity and building trust, we may witness a pivotal shift towards a more inclusive financial ecosystem. Entrepreneurs venturing into the realms of crypto, sustainability investing, and financial technology are poised to leverage these advancements for substantial impact. As we progress, the integration of AI and sustainable practices alongside robust financial models will define the next chapter of finance.

The Richness of Kindness: Insights from America’s Happiness Doctor

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The Richness of Kindness: Insights from America’s Happiness Doctor

Remy Blaire welcomes Dr. Elia Gourgouris, the President of Kindness Factor International and known as America’s Happiness Doctor. The segment coincides with Kindness Week, a global initiative that encourages acts of kindness to improve communities and individual well-being.

Remy begins by discussing the origins of Kindness Week, which started in 1997 as a single day of kindness and has since expanded into a week-long celebration. She introduces Dr. Gourgouris, who shares his personal journey of becoming a kindness advocate, rooted in a lesson from his grandfather in Greece. His grandfather taught him that to be the richest man in the world, one must do something good for someone else every day. This foundational lesson shapes Dr. Gourgouris’s understanding of kindness as a transformative force.

Dr. Gourgouris elaborates on the neuroscience behind kindness, explaining how performing acts of kindness releases chemicals in the brain that promote happiness for both the giver and the receiver. He emphasizes that kindness is not merely about being nice; it is about love in action and being aware of the needs of those around us. He encourages listeners to commit to daily acts of kindness, which can lead to profound personal and communal transformations.

As the conversation shifts to the corporate world, Remy asks Dr. Gourgouris how kindness impacts finances and workplace culture. He explains that organizations that foster a culture of kindness see numerous benefits, including healthier employees, increased creativity, and reduced turnover. Happy employees become brand ambassadors, promoting the company culture and attracting talent without the need for extensive marketing efforts.

Remy and Dr. Gourgouris also address the challenges faced by individuals in toxic work environments. Dr. Gourgouris advises listeners to focus on what they can control, particularly their attitudes and relationships. He introduces the concept of HOT conversations—Honest, Open, and Transparent discussions—as a way to address toxicity and promote a healthier workplace culture.

Throughout the segment, Dr. Gourgouris encourages listeners to engage in deliberate, mindful acts of kindness, urging them to shift their focus from negativity to positivity. He highlights the importance of recognizing one’s sphere of influence and using it to spread kindness and positivity.

Finally, the discussion touches on the concept of toxic positivity, with Dr. Gourgouris clarifying that genuine positivity acknowledges challenges while navigating them with gratitude and love. He stresses the importance of self-care as a prerequisite for being able to help others effectively.

The Impact of AI on Real Estate: Trends and Predictions for 2026

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The Impact of AI on Real Estate: Trends and Predictions for 2026

Remy Blaire engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Luke Morris, Co-Founder and CEO of Capitalize.io, about the significant impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the real estate sector. The conversation begins with an exploration of how AI is set to transform the traditionally illiquid asset class of real estate, which typically requires 30 to 90 days to close transactions. Luke emphasizes that AI will enhance liquidity by increasing confidence, speed, and trust in underwriting processes, ultimately leading to higher transaction volumes and reduced closing times.

As the discussion progresses, Remy prompts Luke to elaborate on the structural shifts in real estate demand driven by AI. Luke highlights the growing need for data centers and the pressures facing office spaces, suggesting that a reduction in the number of employees at certain companies will impact demand for office real estate. Despite these challenges, he reassures listeners that real estate remains a robust asset class, with people continuing to seek out experiences in retail environments.

Looking ahead to 2026, Luke predicts a significant recycling of assets across various sectors, including office, industrial, and multifamily properties. He foresees a necessary adjustment in rents and purchase prices to attract tenants back to urban centers like New York and San Francisco. This anticipated market reset presents a unique opportunity for buyers, especially in light of economic indicators suggesting a slowing economy.

How CredCore is Using AI to Fix a $5 Trillion Problem in Finance

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How CredCore is Using AI to Fix a $5 Trillion Problem in Finance

When “Almost Right” Isn’t Good Enough

Imagine you’re applying for a student loan, and the bank’s computer system makes a tiny error in calculating your credit score. That small mistake could mean the difference between getting approved or rejected, or paying 5% interest versus 15%. In the world of credit and loans, there’s no room for “close enough.”

That’s the problem Saumil Annegiri and his team at CredCore are solving. During a recent interview with Fintech TV at Money 2020 USA in Las Vegas, Nevada, Saumil explained how his company is using artificial intelligence to bring absolute precision to the massive $5 trillion global credit market. And when we say massive, we mean it—this market includes everything from your credit card to massive loans between corporations.

What Exactly Is CredCore?

CredCore sits at the intersection of two powerful forces: credit and technology. As co-CEO and co-founder, Saumil Annegiri leads a company that’s trying to solve some of the biggest problems in how the world handles lending and borrowing money.

The credit market is enormous and complex. It includes both public credit (like bonds that anyone can buy) and private credit (like specialized loans between companies). Within this huge system, there are countless opportunities for errors, hidden risks, and inefficiencies. That’s where CredCore comes in.

Three Main Goals:

  1. Automate tedious processes: Much of credit analysis still involves humans manually reviewing documents and data—work that’s time-consuming and prone to human error.
  2. Identify hidden risks: Sometimes dangerous financial problems are lurking in places people don’t think to look. AI can spot patterns and red flags that humans might miss.
  3. Manage investments more effectively: By processing huge amounts of data quickly and accurately, CredCore helps investors make smarter decisions about where to put their money.

The “Almost Right” Problem

One of the most memorable things Saumil said during the interview perfectly captures why CredCore’s work matters: “Almost right is almost always wrong in credit.”

Think about what that means. In many areas of life, being “close enough” works fine. If you estimate that your school is 2 miles away when it’s actually 2.1 miles, no big deal. But in credit and finance, small errors can have huge consequences.

Here’s Why Precision Matters:

For individuals: A tiny error in your credit report could wrongly label you as high-risk, making it harder to get approved for loans, apartments, or even some jobs.

For companies: If a business gets a loan based on slightly incorrect data, they might borrow more than they can actually afford to pay back, leading to bankruptcy.

For investors: Making investment decisions based on “almost accurate” information could mean losing millions of dollars.

For the financial system: When lots of slightly wrong decisions pile up across the entire economy, it can contribute to major problems like the 2008 financial crisis.

This is why CredCore doesn’t just build AI and let it run wild. They’ve built something more sophisticated.

The Secret Sauce: Human Experts + AI

Here’s where CredCore does something really smart. Many tech companies believe AI can solve everything on its own. CredCore takes a different approach.

They employ domain experts—people who have spent years working in debt and credit and really understand how it all works. These experts work alongside the AI, training it and checking its work. It’s like having an experienced teacher guide a very smart but inexperienced student.

This combination ensures that CredCore’s AI models produce precise outcomes, not just pretty close ones. And here’s the best part for their clients: CredCore takes on the responsibility of making sure everything is accurate. Their clients don’t have to spend time and resources validating the AI’s work or making adjustments—CredCore handles all of that.

This isn’t just a nice extra feature. In the world of finance, where mistakes can cost millions, this oversight is absolutely essential. It’s what separates CredCore from other AI companies that might prioritize speed over accuracy.

Following the Money: CredCore’s Series A Funding

Saumil also shared some exciting news during the interview: CredCore recently completed their Series A funding round. For those unfamiliar with startup terminology, this is typically the first major round of investment a young company receives after proving their initial concept works.

What makes CredCore’s funding particularly interesting is who invested and why.

A Unique Mix of Investors:

Traditional Venture Capitalists: Companies like Inspired Capital and Avataar Ventures brought financial capital—the money CredCore needs to grow and hire more people.

Strategic Partners from Credit: CredCore also attracted investors who are major players in the credit industry itself, including Fitch Ratings, one of the biggest credit rating agencies in the world.

This second group is especially important. These aren’t just investors writing checks—they’re industry experts who can provide mentorship and insider knowledge about where the credit market is heading. It’s like getting both funding for your business and a advisory council of experienced professionals who want you to succeed.

This diverse mix of investors positions CredCore perfectly for their next phase of growth. They have the money to scale up, plus the guidance to make smart strategic decisions.

Why AI in Credit Matters Right Now

You might be wondering: why is this happening now? Why is AI suddenly becoming so important in finance?

Several trends are converging to make this the perfect moment for companies like CredCore:

Data explosion: Financial institutions now have access to massive amounts of data about borrowers, markets, and economic trends. Humans can’t possibly analyze it all quickly enough, but AI can.

Demand for speed: In today’s fast-moving economy, investors and lenders need answers in hours, not weeks. AI can process information exponentially faster than human analysts.

Complexity increase: Financial products and markets have become incredibly complicated. The old methods of analysis often can’t keep up with modern complexity.

Risk of another crisis: After the 2008 financial crisis, everyone in finance became more aware of how hidden risks can bring down entire economies. Better tools for identifying these risks are desperately needed.

Ethical investing growth: More investors want to know that their money is going to responsible, sustainable businesses. AI can help analyze companies across many more criteria than just profit.

The Bigger Picture: Sustainable and Responsible Finance

CredCore’s work connects to something bigger than just making credit analysis more efficient. Their technology supports what’s called “sustainable development goals” (SDGs)—a global framework for addressing major world challenges.

Here’s how that works:

When investors have better tools to analyze companies accurately, they can more easily identify businesses that are both profitable andresponsible. This means money can flow toward companies that:

  • Treat their workers fairly
  • Minimize environmental damage
  • Contribute positively to their communities
  • Operate transparently and ethically

By making it easier to evaluate these factors, CredCore helps support the growing movement toward impact investing—putting money where it can do good while still generating returns.

This matters because the global financial system has enormous power to shape the world. When $5 trillion in credit is allocated more thoughtfully and accurately, it can drive meaningful positive change.

What This Means for Different Groups

For students and young professionals: As AI transforms finance, new career opportunities are emerging that combine technology skills with financial knowledge. Understanding both domains will be increasingly valuable.

For borrowers: Better credit analysis could mean fairer treatment—getting approved when you deserve it, and getting accurate interest rates based on real risk, not errors or bias.

For investors: More precise analysis means better investment decisions, whether you’re investing for retirement or managing billions for a large institution.

For entrepreneurs: If you’re thinking about starting a business that needs funding, AI-powered credit analysis could mean faster decisions and potentially better terms if your business plan is solid.

For society: A more accurate, efficient credit system means money flows to where it can do the most good, supporting economic growth and stability.

Lessons from CredCore’s Approach

CredCore’s story offers several valuable lessons for anyone interested in technology, business, or finance:

Precision matters more than speed: In some industries, being fast isn’t enough if you’re not accurate. Knowing when precision is non-negotiable is crucial.

Combine AI with human expertise: The most powerful solutions often come from blending technology with domain knowledge, not replacing one with the other.

Choose your investors wisely: Money is important, but smart money (investors who also bring expertise and connections) is even more valuable.

Solve real problems: CredCore isn’t chasing trends—they’re addressing actual pain points in a massive market. That’s a solid foundation for a business.

Build trust through oversight: In industries where stakes are high, taking responsibility for accuracy builds credibility and differentiates you from competitors.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Credit and AI

As blockchain technology, AI, and sustainable investing continue to evolve, companies like CredCore are at the forefront of a major transformation in finance. The credit market isn’t going away—if anything, it’s growing. But how that market operates is changing dramatically.

We’re moving toward a world where:

  • Credit decisions are made faster and more accurately
  • Hidden risks are identified before they become crises
  • Investment capital flows more efficiently to deserving businesses
  • Technology handles the tedious work while humans focus on strategy and judgment
  • Financial systems are more transparent and accountable

CredCore exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking company that thrives in this environment. They’re not trying to replace the credit industry—they’re making it work better.

For high school students thinking about future careers, this is worth paying attention to. The intersection of technology and finance is creating entirely new job categories and opportunities. Whether you’re interested in computer science, economics, business, or mathematics, understanding how these fields come together will be increasingly important.

The question Saumil Annegiri and CredCore are answering is simple but profound: In a $5 trillion market where precision is everything, how do we harness the power of AI while ensuring absolute accuracy? Their answer—combining cutting-edge technology with deep human expertise and taking full responsibility for the results—might just be the blueprint for the future of financial technology.

And in a world where “almost right” really is “almost always wrong,” that precision could make all the difference.

Crypto Market Sentiment: Waiting for the Next Big Catalyst

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Crypto Market Sentiment: Waiting for the Next Big Catalyst

Remy Blaire engages in a deep discussion about the current state of the cryptocurrency market with guest Andy Baehr, Head of Product & Research at Coindesk Indices. The segment opens with a focus on Bitcoin, which is holding steady above $102,000 as traders await clarity on the U.S. government’s reopening and broader economic signals. Remy highlights that Bitcoin ETFs have experienced their largest inflows since October, indicating that investors are still willing to buy the dips, despite a cautious and choppy market influenced by rising interest rates and a stronger U.S. dollar.

Andy describes the crypto markets as being in a “snooze button” phase, reflecting a lack of momentum. He notes that even after a positive shift in equity markets following hints of government reopening, Bitcoin remains at a critical support level, while Ether has dropped significantly from its late August highs. The conversation shifts to the catalysts that could potentially awaken the market, with both Remy and Andy acknowledging the sentiment-driven nature of current trading behaviors.

The discussion then turns to the upcoming December Federal Reserve meeting, which both host and guest believe could play a crucial role in shaping market liquidity and investor sentiment. Andy explains the importance of SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Rate) and Fed repo rates, particularly in relation to stablecoin activity. He elaborates on how these financial indicators impact the lending and borrowing of stablecoins, suggesting that a rise in stablecoin interest rates could signal a positive shift in market strength.

The Aftermath of the Longest U.S. Government Shutdown: Economic Impacts and Market Reactions

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The Aftermath of the Longest U.S. Government Shutdown: Economic Impacts and Market Reactions

Remy Blaire discusses the recent end of the longest U.S. government shutdown in history, which lasted for 43 days. The shutdown had significant economic consequences, draining approximately $15 billion from the nation’s GDP each week and resulting in the loss of tens of thousands of jobs. Remy highlights the lasting effects on productivity, consumer sentiment, and government operations.

Joining Remy to delve deeper into the implications of the shutdown is Gabriela Berrospi, CEO and Founder of Latino Wall Street. Gabriela shares her insights on the lingering effects of the shutdown, noting that while the government is now open, the economic repercussions will continue to be felt. She mentions an estimate that the GDP could be $11 billion lower by 2026 and expresses concern over the uncertainty surrounding the release of key economic data for October, particularly the unemployment rate, which may never be published.

As they discuss the current state of the markets, Remy points out that the Dow Industrials recently closed above the 48,000 mark for the first time. However, Gabriela emphasizes the importance of focusing on commodities in the current economic climate. She explains that the return to government operations means a return to “business as usual,” characterized by massive spending and deficits. Gabriela warns that this situation is unlikely to improve and suggests that the uncertainty surrounding government data and economic conditions will lead investors to seek refuge in commodities, particularly gold and silver, which are seen as safe havens during times of instability.

The conversation also touches on the potential for inflationary pressures resulting from government spending and proposed stimulus checks linked to tariffs. Gabriela articulates that all these factors contribute to an inflationary environment, making commodities an attractive investment option.

Smobler: Using AI and Blockchain to Change Gaming, Food Safety, and Shipping

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Smobler: Using AI and Blockchain to Change Gaming, Food Safety, and Shipping

From Theater to Tech: An Unexpected Journey

Dr. Loretta Chen never expected to become a tech entrepreneur. With a background in theater, she seemed destined for a career in the arts. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, everything changed. She watched her friends and colleagues in creative industries lose their jobs and struggle to find work. That’s when she decided to use technology to create something that could help people while making a real difference in the world.

The result? Smobler, a company that combines artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology in three completely different industries. Recently, Dr. Chen sat down with Ashley Mastronardi at the New York Stock Exchange to explain how her company is bridging the gap between the physical and digital worlds.

What Exactly Does Smobler Do?

Smobler focuses on three main areas that might seem totally unrelated at first, but they all share a common goal: using technology to solve real-world problems.

1. Educational Gaming That Actually Teaches You Something

If you’re a gamer, you’ve probably noticed that most video games are either purely for entertainment or filled with violence. Dr. Chen saw this as a missed opportunity. She believes gaming should be fun and educational.

Smobler’s gaming platform uses blockchain technology to create what she calls “edutainment”—games that are interactive and engaging but also help you learn valuable skills. Think of it as the opposite of mindless gaming. These games are designed to be non-violent and actually teach you things that could help you in real life, whether that’s problem-solving, critical thinking, or even financial literacy.

2. Making Food Safety Easier with AI

Starting a food business is incredibly complicated. You need to understand nutrition labels, follow strict safety rules, and create something called a HACCP plan (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)—basically a detailed plan for keeping food safe from farm to table.

For many food entrepreneurs, especially those just starting out, navigating these regulations can be overwhelming and time-consuming. That’s where Smobler’s AI tools come in. The company has developed artificial intelligence systems that help food business owners understand and comply with these complex rules much faster. This means new food products can get to market quicker while still meeting all the necessary safety standards.

3. Revolutionizing How Ships Refuel at Sea

This might be the most surprising part of Smobler’s business. Working with a company called Mysten Labs, Dr. Chen’s team is creating a digital tool that completely changes how ships refuel (called “bunkering” in the maritime industry).

Traditionally, the process of buying and transferring fuel to ships at sea involves lots of paperwork and complicated transactions. Smobler’s blockchain-based solution makes these transactions seamless and instant, even when ships are in the middle of the ocean. The company is also developing financing tools to help shipping companies manage their fuel costs more efficiently.

Why does this matter? The shipping industry is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint and become more environmentally friendly. By making fuel operations more efficient, Smobler is helping the industry move toward sustainability—something that benefits everyone on the planet.

The Power of Storytelling in Business

Dr. Chen has an interesting take on what makes entrepreneurs successful. She believes that running a business isn’t just about understanding numbers and finances—it’s also about being able to tell a compelling story.

This makes sense when you think about her theater background. Just like a good play needs a strong narrative to connect with the audience, a good business needs a clear story that explains why it exists and why people should care. Dr. Chen uses storytelling to help Smobler connect with customers, investors, and partners. It’s not just about what the company does; it’s about why it matters.

Why Smobler Matters for the Future

What makes Smobler particularly interesting is how it connects cutting-edge technology with real-world needs. The company isn’t just creating technology for technology’s sake—it’s using AI and blockchain to:

  • Make learning more engaging and accessible
  • Help small food businesses succeed
  • Make the shipping industry more sustainable

All of these efforts support what the United Nations calls Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a blueprint for creating a better, more equitable world. By focusing on education, entrepreneurship, and sustainability, Smobler is showing how technology companies can do well financially while also doing good for society.

Lessons from Dr. Chen’s Journey

Dr. Chen’s story offers several important lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs:

Adaptability is crucial. When the pandemic upended her industry, she didn’t give up—she pivoted to something completely new.

Your background matters, even if it seems unrelated. Her theater experience gave her skills in storytelling and communication that turned out to be incredibly valuable in the tech world.

Look for problems that need solving. Smobler exists because Dr. Chen saw people struggling and wanted to help. The best businesses often come from identifying real needs.

You don’t have to choose between making money and making a difference. Smobler proves that companies can be profitable while also contributing to education, sustainability, and social good.

The Bigger Picture

As blockchain technology and AI continue to develop, companies like Smobler are showing us what’s possible when these tools are used thoughtfully. Rather than just chasing trends, Dr. Chen has built a company that uses advanced technology to address meaningful challenges in education, food safety, and environmental sustainability.

For students thinking about their future careers, Smobler’s story is a reminder that entrepreneurship can take many forms. You don’t need to follow a traditional path, and your unique background—whatever it is—might be exactly what the world needs. Dr. Chen’s journey from theater to tech entrepreneurship proves that with creativity, determination, and a genuine desire to help others, you can build something truly innovative.

As we move further into the digital age, the world needs more entrepreneurs who can combine technical skills with empathy, creativity, and a commitment to making things better. Dr. Loretta Chen and Smobler are leading the way, showing that the future of technology isn’t just about what we can build—it’s about what we can improve.

PrizePicks and Polymarket Are Changing How Sports Fans Bet on Games

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PrizePicks and Polymarket Are Changing How Sports Fans Bet on Games

A New Way to Put Your Sports Knowledge to the Test

If you follow sports, you’ve probably heard friends debate who’s going to win the big game or whether a star player will score over 20 points. What if you could actually put money on those predictions—not against a casino, but against other fans just like you? That’s exactly what’s happening with a groundbreaking partnership between PrizePicks and Polymarket.

Yesterday, Remy Blair from Fintech TV sat down with Mike Ybarra, CEO of PrizePicks, to discuss their innovative collaboration. Together, these companies are launching the first federally regulated prediction market specifically designed for sports fans. This isn’t just another betting app—it’s a completely new way to engage with sports that combines blockchain technology, social connectivity, and a marketplace where fans compete against each other instead of against the house.

What Exactly Is PrizePicks?

PrizePicks has been the number one Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) operator for several years running. If you’re not familiar with DFS, here’s the basic idea: instead of managing a fantasy team for an entire season, you pick players for a single day or week and compete based on their real-game performance.

PrizePicks made this concept incredibly popular by making it simple, fast, and engaging. But the company isn’t stopping there. By partnering with Polymarket, they’re taking things to the next level.

How Is This Different from Regular Sports Betting?

This is where things get interesting. Traditional sports betting works like this: you place a bet with a sportsbook (the “house”), and the house sets the odds. If you win, the house pays you. If you lose, the house keeps your money. The house always has an edge built into the system.

Prediction markets work completely differently. Instead of betting against a company, you’re betting against other people. Think of it like a stock market, but instead of buying shares of companies, you’re buying and selling predictions about sports outcomes.

Here’s How It Works:

Let’s say you think the 49ers will beat the Rams. You can buy a “share” in that prediction. If other people disagree and think the Rams will win, they can buy shares in that outcome. The price of each prediction goes up or down based on what everyone thinks will happen—just like supply and demand in any marketplace.

When the game ends, if you were right, you get paid based on how many shares you bought. If you were wrong, you lose your investment. The key difference? You’re competing against other fans’ opinions, not against a company that’s designed to always have an advantage.

Why Use Blockchain Technology?

Polymarket brings blockchain infrastructure to this partnership, which might sound complicated, but it actually makes things better for users in several important ways:

Transparency: Every transaction is recorded on the blockchain, which means everything is visible and can’t be changed or manipulated. You can see exactly what’s happening in the market at all times.

Trust: Because the system runs on blockchain, there’s no single company controlling the outcome. The technology itself ensures fairness, which gives users more confidence that they’re getting a fair shake.

Federal Regulation: Unlike some betting platforms that operate in legal gray areas, this prediction market is federally regulated, meaning it follows official rules and provides legal protections for users.

Mike Ybarra emphasized that this transparent nature could fundamentally change how fans interact with sports. When you can see exactly how the market is moving and know that everything is recorded publicly, it creates a different level of trust than traditional betting.

What Can You Actually Predict?

The partnership will allow fans to make predictions on all sorts of matchups and outcomes:

  • Game winners: Will the Giants beat the Jets?
  • Point spreads: Will a team win by more than a certain number of points?
  • Player performance: Will a specific player score over a certain number of points?
  • Various other metrics: Rebounds, assists, yards gained, and more

Basically, if you have an opinion about how a game or player will perform, there’s probably a market for it. This gives fans way more options than traditional fantasy sports or simple win/loss bets.

Who’s Using PrizePicks?

One of the most interesting things Ybarra shared is who’s actually using the platform. PrizePicks attracts a young, diverse audience that’s highly engaged with the brand. These users aren’t passive—they’re constantly giving feedback and asking for new features.

This demographic reality drives the company to keep innovating. When your users are actively involved and vocal about what they want, you have to stay responsive and keep improving. That’s partly why this partnership with Polymarket happened—PrizePicks customers were asking for more engaging options, and the company listened.

Expansion Across the Country

Here’s something that could make this even bigger: the prediction market is expected to roll out in 38 states, including places like Washington that haven’t had access to PrizePicks before. This massive expansion means millions more sports fans could soon have access to this new way of engaging with games.

For PrizePicks, this represents a huge opportunity to grow their user base and compete more effectively against traditional sportsbooks and other fantasy sports platforms. For users in states that previously couldn’t participate, it opens up a whole new world of sports engagement.

The Social Side of Sports Betting

Mike Ybarra also talked about where he sees this industry heading in the future. His vision? Making prediction markets more social and interactive.

Imagine being able to create a private prediction market just for your friend group. You and your friends could compete against each other on specific games or matchups, share your results, and build a community around your shared love of sports. This concept of “social betting” takes advantage of how connected we all are through technology and social media.

Think about how much more fun trash-talking becomes when there’s actually something on the line between friends. Or how satisfying it would be to prove you know your team better than your friends do. This social element could transform prediction markets from a solo activity into something you do with your community.

Why This Matters Beyond Sports

While this partnership is focused on sports, the implications reach much further. Here’s why:

It’s changing gambling regulations: By creating a federally regulated prediction market, PrizePicks and Polymarket are helping shape how the government thinks about these new types of platforms. This could influence regulations in other areas.

It’s making blockchain practical: Many people hear about blockchain and think of cryptocurrency hype or scams. This partnership shows how blockchain can actually solve real problems (like transparency and trust) in mainstream applications.

It’s about financial literacy: Prediction markets work like financial markets. By participating, users learn about concepts like supply and demand, market prices, and risk assessment—skills that translate to understanding investments and economics.

It could extend to other areas: If prediction markets work well for sports, why not for other things? People already create informal prediction markets around elections, entertainment awards, and even business outcomes. This could be the beginning of a much larger trend.

Lessons from PrizePicks’ Approach

The PrizePicks story offers valuable insights for anyone interested in business, technology, or entrepreneurship:

Listen to your customers: PrizePicks developed this partnership because users were asking for more engaging options. Successful companies pay attention to what their audience wants.

Stay innovative: Even when you’re the number one operator in your space, you can’t rest. PrizePicks continues to push boundaries and try new things.

Use technology thoughtfully: The blockchain integration isn’t just about being trendy—it solves real problems around transparency and trust.

Think about the social element: As our lives become more connected online, building social features into platforms makes them more engaging and sticky.

Play by the rules: By ensuring federal regulation, PrizePicks builds legitimacy and trust rather than operating in legal gray areas.

What Comes Next?

As this partnership rolls out across 38 states, we’ll get to see whether prediction markets become the next big thing in sports entertainment. Will fans embrace this new model of competing against each other rather than against the house? Will the transparency of blockchain technology actually build more trust? Will the social features create vibrant communities of sports enthusiasts?

The answers to these questions could shape not just the future of sports betting, but how we think about entertainment, finance, and technology working together. PrizePicks and Polymarket are betting (pun intended) that fans are ready for something new—a more transparent, engaging, and social way to put their sports knowledge to the test.

For high school students thinking about the future of technology and business, this partnership is worth watching. It demonstrates how established companies can innovate by embracing new technologies, how listening to customers drives product development, and how different industries (sports, finance, and technology) can merge to create something entirely new.

Whether you’re a sports fan, a tech enthusiast, or just someone interested in how businesses evolve, the PrizePicks and Polymarket collaboration shows us that the future of entertainment is interactive, social, and built on technologies that prioritize transparency and trust. And that’s a future that could change far more than just how we watch the game.

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