by | May 15, 2025 | Business
Hai Robotics, a global leader in warehouse automation, proudly unveiled its latest breakthrough solution, HaiPick Climb, paving the way for a future where automated vertical warehousing is no longer limited by height, complexity, or floor space
Hai Robotics, a global leader in warehouse automation, proudly unveiled its latest breakthrough solution, HaiPick Climb, at the Hai Robotics Innovation Summit 2025 which was held on Friday, 25 April.
As Southeast Asia rapidly evolves into a global logistics hub, the demand for smarter, more space-efficient warehousing solutions has been increasing. The HaiPick Climb addresses these challenges with a game-changing robotic solution that simplifies goods-to-person automation, enabling warehouses and distribution centres to retrofit existing facilities more seamlessly. It increases throughput while reducing implementation time and costs compared to traditional Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS), making ASRS more accessible and affordable for a wider range of facilities.
HaiPick Climb is engineered to operate in high-density storage environments, allowing robots to autonomously ascend storage racks and retrieve cases from multiple levels. This not only maximises vertical warehouse space—a critical factor in urbanised areas with limited land—but also significantly reduces the need for costly infrastructure expansion. The compact robots are ideal for narrow aisles, and their agility eliminates the need for cross-aisles, leading to a space-efficient racking design that makes the most of every square foot on the floor. HaiPick Climb’s efficient use of both horizontal and vertical space, reaching up to 12 metres (39+ feet) in height, allows for an impressive 30,000 storage locations within 1,000 square metres (10,763+ square feet), significantly enhancing space utilisation and reducing footprint.
Traveling at an impressive speed of 4 metres per second (13 feet per second) and climbing at 1 metre per second (3 feet per second), the HaiPick Climb system can process 4,000 totes per hour within a 1,000-square-meter (10,764-square-foot) space. Totes are delivered to workstations in as little as 2 minutes after order receipt — 34% faster than traditional ASRS — allowing for extended order cutoff times for same-day fulfillment.
By automating previously manual and labour-intensive vertical picking tasks, HaiPick Climb also addresses ongoing labour shortages and improves workplace safety. Moreover, the system’s integration with HaiQ, an intuitive and user-friendly warehouse management platform, enhances throughput and operational efficiency by intelligently managing order execution and robot dispatch, ensuring faster order fulfillment. Additionally, HaiQ provides real-time insights into warehouse and automation operations, supporting data-driven decision-making.
“HaiPick Climb represents a transformative step in warehouse automation,” said Nathan Zeng, President of Hai Robotics SEA & ANZ & South Korea, during the opening speech. “With the ability to climb and retrieve goods from elevated storage zones, this solution pushes the boundaries of what is possible in intelligent logistics and paves the way for smarter, more scalable operations.”
For markets like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, where space comes at a premium and operational costs are rising, HaiPick Climb offers a timely and strategic solution. The launch of HaiPick Climb reinforces Hai Robotics’ position at the forefront of warehouse automation, enhancing efficiency and enabling global supply chains to operate at new levels of performance.
by | May 14, 2025 | Business
She’s your biggest cheerleader, your fiercest protector, and the heart of your home. This Mother’s Day, why not give her something that says more than just “thank you”? Give her a gift that wraps her in comfort and helps her recharge — every single day.
Enter the MyZonic Pro from OGAWA Philippines, a luxurious massage chair designed to turn any space into Mom’s personal sanctuary. With all that she does — juggling work, family, and everything in between — Mom deserves more than a break. She deserves wellness, comfort, and moments of pure relaxation.
The MyZonic Pro is more than just a chair. It’s a full-body wellness experience wrapped in elegant design and advanced technology. Its 2D massage mechanism mimics the skilled hands of a professional, while the SL track follows the spine’s natural curve, massaging from the neck down to the buttocks. Soothing lumbar heat melts away tension, and a spring extension footrest offers perfect leg support — because even Supermoms need to put their feet up.
Tired soles? The fixed foot rollers are ready to revive them. And with full-body airbags that gently hug the shoulders, arms, calves, and feet, the MyZonic Pro delivers a truly immersive experience. She can kick back to her favorite playlist through Bluetooth speakers, charge her phone wirelessly, and control everything through a sleek LCD touch tablet. Even the LED side panel lighting sets the mood for ultimate calm.
It’s the kind of self-care that doesn’t require a spa appointment. And this Mother’s Day, OGAWA makes it easier than ever to bring it home. From now until Mother’s Day, the MyZonic Pro is available for only ₱119,000.00, down from its regular SRP of ₱199,000.00. Flexible installment plans of up to 36 months are also available via partnered banks — because comfort should be accessible, not a luxury.
“Motherhood is beautiful, but it’s also demanding,” shares Marianne Rodillo, Marketing Manager of OGAWA Philippines. “With the MyZonic Pro, we want moms to feel cared for, appreciated, and supported — the way they care for everyone else.”
Transform your mom’s well-being this Mother’s Day by seizing the opportunity to invest in OGAWA’s premium massage chairs. Visit any OGAWA showroom nationwide for a FREE trial, explore the full range of wellness products at OGAWA’s official website, or send your inquiries via the official Facebook and Instagram pages. Celebrate Mom with the gift of relaxation, love, and a healthier lifestyle through #OGAWA.
Operating at full capacity with over 30 stores nationwide, OGAWA branches include key locations in One Ayala Makati, Greenhills Mall, Gateway Mall 2, Shangri-La Plaza, SM Megamall, Greenbelt 5, Lucky Chinatown Mall, Robinsons Manila, Ayala Malls Vertis North, Eastwood Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, SM Fairview, SM North EDSA The Block, TriNoma, UP Town Center, Promenade Greenhills, Alabang Town Center, Evia Lifestyle Center, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, SM BF Parañaque, and Newport Mall. For those outside Metro Manila, OGAWA can also be found in SM City Bacoor, Ayala Solenad 3, SM Sta. Rosa in Laguna, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Lanang Premier in Davao, SM Clark in Pampanga, and SM City Olongapo Central.
This Mother’s Day, give her more than a present — give her peace of mind, comfort, and her very own space to just be. Give the gift of OGAWA.
by | May 14, 2025 | Business
PhilCVS 2025 will take place on July 3-5, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, featuring top exhibitors, a Business Matchmaking Program, and discussions supporting the Transport Modernization Program. The event will also host the Road Transport Summit on July 3, in partnership with key transport agencies and organizations. 
The Philippine Commercial Vehicle Show (PhilCVS) is set to return on July 3-5, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, bringing together the best of the transport and logistics industries.
Building on the success of last year’s show, PhilCVS 2025 will offer an even larger showcase of exhibitors and trade buyers. Attendees can expect to see the latest products, services, and innovations from the country’s leading transport and logistics companies.
Among the standout features of this year’s event is the Business Matchmaking Program, designed to create more business opportunities between exhibitors and both local and international trade buyers.
Additionally, the show will host a series of talks and programs in support of the Philippines’ Transport Modernization Program. Since its inception in 2020, PhilCVS has been dedicated to advancing better transport vehicles and systems in the country.
In support of this, the event has partnered with key local agencies and transport groups to drive this vision forward. On July 3, 2025, it will host the Road Transport Summit in partnership with the Department of Transportation, the Land Transportation Office, the Office of Transportation Cooperatives, and transport organizations HATAW, BUSINA, MANTRA, PATRA, and PTMPSA.
Mark your calendars and get ready to drive the future of transport at PhilCVS 2025!
by | May 14, 2025 | Business
The ASEAN Sparks programme has officially launched! Powered by the ASEAN Centre for Energy with support from Japan-ASEAN Integrated Fund & United Nations Industrial Development Organization, this 3-phase journey empowers clean energy startups across Southeast Asia to scale, connect, and create impact. Applications for ASEAN Sparks: Ignite are open until 22 May 2025!
JAKARTA, 6 May 2025 — The ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE), with funding support from the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integrated Fund (JAIF), is set to sail an acceleration programme targeting aspiring startup founders and innovators across Southeast Asia: ASEAN Sparks.
ASEAN Sparks is a programme designed to address climate and energy pressures by accelerating the growth of climate tech enterprises. The programme empowers early-stage startups with the tools, expertise, and networks needed to scale while fostering a gender-inclusive environment that drives impactful clean energy solutions across the region.
Partnering with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), ASEAN Sparks is designed as a measurable and structured journey through three programme phases: Ignite, Catalyse, and Elevate.
Igniting the Region’s Energy Future
The ASEAN Sparks will start with the Ignite phase, which focuses on nurturing early-stage solutions and equipping the founders with the essential skills to scale their business ideas effectively. Most promising participants will then advance to the Catalyse phase, where startups receive targeted mentoring, market-readiness training, and strategic business development support.
The journey culminates in the Elevate phase, during which top-performing startups will pitch their refined solutions on the Grand Pitching Day at the 25th ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF-25) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. These participants will then gain exposure to potential investors, corporate partners, and government stakeholders to explore funding, partnerships, and cross-border scaling opportunities.
Accelerating Innovation to Address Regional Climate Challenges
In response to growing climate-related challenges across ASEAN, the programme will centre around six key energy pillars, which include Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Smart Grids, Energy Storage, Clean Mobility, and Other Climate & Energy Technologies.
“This programme is aligned with APAEC (ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation), especially in increasing the role of private sector and financial institutions,” said Dr Zulfikar Yurnaid, Acting Manager of Energy Efficiency and Conservation (CEE) Department, of the ASEAN Centre for Energy. “By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in clean energy, ASEAN Sparks directly supports the development and adoption of energy-efficient solutions across ASEAN.”
Building a Collaborative & Inclusive Ecosystem
Beyond capacity-building, ASEAN Sparks also aims to strengthen the regional ecosystem by connecting diverse stakeholders — from experts and mentors to startups and policymakers — within a collaborative and inclusive environment.
To ensure consistency and alignment throughout the programme, all participating experts will receive a certification tailored to the ASEAN Sparks framework. This step supports a shared understanding of the programme’s methodology, tools, and impact goals—enabling experts to deliver guidance that is cohesive and high-impact across all stages.
Startups and solutions will be assessed on the technology and business readiness level which includes team credibility and commitment, product impact, as well as market potential and scalability.
Join the Movement
The ASEAN Sparks is a dynamic and inclusive platform for energy innovators to synergise in advancing global climate goals, contributing to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 7: Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG 13: Climate Action. Throughout the programme, participants will be accompanied by mentors and trainers to develop their solutions in various areas from technology, business, and impact.
Running from June to October 2025, the ASEAN Sparks programme invites aspiring founders, researchers, and innovators to submit their applications for ASEAN Sparks: Ignite by 22 May 2025.
Those who are interested in amplifying impacts in Southeast Asia can visit go.aseanenergy.org/ApplySPARKS for application and more information.
by | May 14, 2025 | Business
Discover Space and Time (SXT) price predictions for 2025–2040. Explore expert insights, growth forecasts, and ROI potential in this in-depth analysis.
Space and Time (SXT) has emerged as a promising digital asset in the blockchain and cryptocurrency ecosystem, gaining attention for its unique technological offerings and steady community growth.
With a SXT current market price of $0.1418 (as of May 13, 2025), investors and analysts alike are keeping a close eye on its future price trajectory.
In this article, we will examine both short-term and long-term predictions for SXT, backed by technical analysis, market sentiment, and algorithmic forecasting.
Current Market Overview
- SXT Current Price: $0.1418
- Market Cap: $200.28 M
- 1-Day Price Change: +0.41%
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Short-Term Sentiment: Neutral (50% bullish, 50% bearish)
While the SXT token currently trades at a modest level, predictive models suggest a potential surge in value by the end of 2025 and even more ambitious targets beyond 2030.
Short-Term Price Predictions: May–December 2025
The following projections are based on algorithmic trends and anticipated market momentum. Year-End 2025 Target: $0.48777. Annual Increase: +188.45%
1. May 2025
2. June 2025
3. July 2025
4. August 2025
5. September 2025
6. October 2025
7. November 2025
8. December 2025
Mid-Term Forecast: 2026–2030
These forecasts are based on a conservative 5% annual growth rate, as well as more optimistic algorithmic models.
Projected Growth (5% Annual Rate)
Note: While 2026 shows a slight decline under the conservative model, the bullish outlook for 2029 and 2030 reflects anticipated adoption and technological advancements.
Long-Term Forecast: 2031–2040
Assuming sustained development and broader crypto adoption, Space and Time may see substantial value appreciation.
2035 Monthly Breakdown
- Range: $1.80 – $1.97 USD
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Average Monthly Price: ~$1.88 USD
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Forecasting Indicators: RSI, MACD, MA, Bollinger Bands, ATR
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Assumptions: Technological integration, ecosystem growth, stable market expansion
Return on Investment (ROI) Calculator
5-Year ROI Example
- Initial Investment: $100
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Annual Growth Rate: 5%
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Total Return in 5 Years: $127.63
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ROI: +27.63%
Note: This is just an estimate and basic information, not an investment guide. Do thorough research before investing in any crypto token.
Technical Analysis Summary
- Trend: Currently in consolidation phase
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Short-Term Sentiment: Neutral
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Resistance/Support Levels: Unclear; susceptible to sudden swings
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Recommendation: Monitor RSI and MA trends before entering long positions
Key Takeaways
- Short-Term Outlook (2025): Highly bullish with potential 3x–4x returns before year-end
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Mid-Term Outlook (2026–2030): Gradual growth or explosive increase depending on adoption
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Long-Term Outlook (2035–2040): Could reach new highs ($1.90–$2.00+), especially if ecosystem develops
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Risks: Market volatility, lack of established resistance levels, and external economic conditions
Conclusion
Space and Time (SXT) presents a compelling opportunity for both short-term traders and long-term investors. While its current price hovers below $0.20, bullish sentiment, predictive modeling, and market adoption trends indicate significant potential upside in the coming years.
As always, cryptocurrency investments should be approached with caution and a diversified strategy. However, for those willing to endure the volatility, SXT could be a star performer by 2035 and beyond.
by | May 14, 2025 | Business
Engineers at RMIT University have invented a small ‘neuromorphic’ device that detects hand movement, stores memories and processes information like a human brain, without the need for an external computer.
Team leader Professor Sumeet Walia said the innovation marked a step towards enabling instant visual processing in autonomous vehicles, advanced robotics and other next-generation applications for improved human interaction.
“Neuromorphic vision systems are designed to use similar analogue processing to our brains, which can greatly reduce the amount of energy needed to perform complex visual tasks compared with digital technologies used today,” said Walia, Director of the RMIT Centre for Opto-electronic Materials and Sensors (COMAS).
The work brings together neuromorphic materials and advanced signal processing led by Professor Akram Al-Hourani, who is Deputy Director of COMAS.
The device contains a metal compound known as molybdenum disulfide, or MoS2.
In their latest study, the team showed how atomic-scale defects in this compound can be harnessed to capture light and process it as electrical signals, like how neurons work in our brain.
“This proof-of-concept device mimics the human eye’s ability to capture light and the brain’s ability to process that visual information, enabling it to sense a change in the environment instantly and make memories without the need for using huge amounts of data and energy,” Walia said.
“Current digital systems, by contrast, are very power hungry and unable to keep up as data volume and complexity increases, which limits their ability to make ‘true’ real-time decisions.”
The research is published in Advanced Materials Technologies. Walia and Al-Hourani are corresponding authors and Mr Thiha Aung, a PhD scholar at RMIT, is first author.
RMIT has filed a provisional patent for the work.
Seeing the future in the wave of a hand
During experiments, the device detected changes in a waving hand’s movement, without the need to capture the events frame by frame – this is known as edge detection, which requires significantly less data processing and power.
Once the changes were detected, the device stored these events as memories like a brain.
The researchers conducted experiments in the spectrum visible to the human eye, which built upon the team’s previous neuromorphic research in the ultraviolet domain.
“We demonstrated that atomically thin molybdenum disulfide can accurately replicate the leaky integrate-and-fire (LIF) neuron behaviour, a fundamental building block of spiking neural networks,” Thiha said.
The past UV work only involved the detection, memory making and processing of still images. In both the visible-spectrum and UV devices, memories could be reset so that devices were ready to perform the next task.
Potential applications
The team’s innovation could one day improve response times of automated vehicles and advanced robotic systems to visual information, which could be crucial particularly in dangerous and unpredictable environments.
“Neuromorphic vision in these applications, which is still many years away, could detect changes in a scene almost instantly, without the need to process lots of data, enabling a much faster response that could save lives,” Walia said.
“For robots working closely with humans in manufacturing or as a personal assistant, neuromorphic technology could enable more natural interactions by recognising and reacting to human behaviour with minimal delay,” Al-Hourani said.
Next steps
The team is now scaling up the proof-of-concept single-pixel device to a larger pixel array of MoS2-based devices.
The Australian Research Council has recently funded the team with a Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities (LIEF) grant to enable this scaling up of their neuromorphic devices.
“While our system mimics certain aspects of the brain’s neural processing, particularly in vision, it’s still a simplified model,” Walia said.
“We will optimise the devices to perform specific real-world applications with more complex vision tasks, and further reduce power consumption.”
The team plans to develop hybrid systems that integrate their analogue technology with conventional digital electronics.
“We see our work as complementary to traditional computing, rather than a replacement,” Walia said.
“Conventional systems excel at many tasks, while our neuromorphic technology offers advantages for visual processing where energy efficiency and real-time operation are critical.”
The team is also investigating materials other than MoS2 that might extend capabilities into infrared, which could enable real-time tracking of global emissions and intelligent sensing of contaminants such as toxic gases, pathogens and chemicals.
‘Photoactive monolayer MoS2 for spiking neural networks enabled machine vision applications’ is published in Advanced Materials Technologies (DOI: 10.1002/admt.202401677).
by | May 13, 2025 | Business
Explore a detailed price prediction and in-depth analysis of BlockDAG ($BDAG), a rising Layer-1 blockchain blending DAG and PoW technology. Discover its presale performance, tech innovations, CEX listings, and both bullish and bearish market outlooks for 2025 and beyond.
BlockDAG ($BDAG) has emerged as one of the most discussed Layer-1 blockchain projects in 2025, following a massive $210 million presale and confirmed listings on major centralized exchanges (CEXs).
With a hybrid architecture combining Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) and Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus, BlockDAG is positioning itself as a high-throughput alternative to traditional blockchains.
But behind the hype and technical innovation lies a divided narrative, one of enormous potential but also rising skepticism.
From Presale Sensation to Market Contender
Launched in December 2023, BlockDAG’s presale quickly captured investor interest due to its low entry price of $0.0001 and bold technological promises.
Over time, the token’s price has surged to $0.0248 during Stage 27 of a planned 45-stage presale, with a final listing target of $0.05. The project has now raised over $210 million, putting it among the largest ongoing crypto presales in history.
In early May 2025, BlockDAG confirmed it would be listed on global crypto exchanges, providing investors with a clear exit route after nearly a year and a half of anticipation.
Analysts project a short-term price range of $0.05–$0.08, with more optimistic targets of $1 by 2025 and $30 by 2030, depending on adoption and trading volume.
BlockDAG’s Technology and Ecosystem
BlockDAG isn’t just riding the wave of presale enthusiasm. It brings tangible innovations to the table:
1. DAG + PoW Hybrid Model: By combining DAG structure with PoW consensus, BlockDAG achieves high throughput (up to 15,000 TPS), sub-second confirmation times, and scalability, critical for decentralized apps (dApps).
2. Developer-Ready Testnet: The live testnet supports wallet integration, node deployment, and smart contract execution. This early access environment has helped BlockDAG attract interest from developers and institutions.
3. Mobile Mining Capabilities: BlockDAG’s X1 mobile app enables users to mine BDAG tokens using smartphones, while advanced miners (X10, X20, X30) offer scalable options for serious participants.
4. Real-World Integrations: Partnerships with SpaceDev, HackerEarth hackathons, and a pilot project with Inter Milan show BlockDAG is pursuing real-world engagement beyond code.
The Market Buzz and the Backlash
While the market enthusiasm surrounding BDAG is undeniable, the project hasn’t escaped controversy. Several critical issues have emerged:
1. Prolonged Presale: Running since December 2023, the presale’s lengthy duration has triggered concerns. Some investors fear a post-launch sell-off due to accumulated profit-taking pressure.
2. Transparency Issues: The absence of a fixed listing date, unclear roadmap updates, and claims of a whitepaper resembling Kaspa’s have eroded trust in some circles.
3. Scam Site Proliferation: The popularity of BDAG has attracted fraudulent websites and fake token offerings, raising security concerns for new investors.
4. High Presale Cap: With a hard cap of $600 million, critics argue the project may be overcapitalized relative to its current progress, and the high token allocation for early buyers could distort future market behavior.
BlockDAG Price Predictions: Bull vs. Bear Outlooks
Despite its technical promise and exchange listings, market analysts are divided on BDAG’s future performance.
Bullish Scenario
1. 2025: Listing at $0.05, reaching up to $1 due to rapid adoption, strong exchange volume, and retail excitement.
2. 2030: If BlockDAG captures developer mindshare and real-world use cases, BDAG could soar to $30.
Bearish Scenario
- 2025: Heavy sell-offs from early investors push the price down to $0.02–$0.03.
2. 2026–2030: Sluggish adoption leads to modest growth, with prices between $0.07–$0.10 by 2030.
BlockDAG Average Predicted Prices
Tokenomics and Investor Dynamics
BlockDAG has issued a total supply of 150 billion BDAG tokens, with 33% allocated for the presale, 66% reserved for community incentives, and 1% for the core team.
This distribution structure is designed to support long-term ecosystem growth but could also leave early buyers with a disproportionate influence on price trends.
Additionally, as presale stages advance and prices increase, latecomers are paying significantly more than early entrants, adding pressure on the team to deliver a successful listing and mainnet launch.
Conclusion: Is BlockDAG Worth It?
BlockDAG is a project of contradictions. On one hand, it boasts real technological value, wide community engagement, and impressive fundraising. On the other, it suffers from credibility concerns, prolonged delays, and presale fatigue.
For risk-tolerant investors who believe in the long-term vision of a scalable, developer-friendly blockchain, BDAG could be a high-reward opportunity. However, caution is warranted.
Given the extended presale and community uncertainty, a phased investment approach, or even waiting until post-launch trading begins, may be the wiser move.
by | May 13, 2025 | Business
XRP surges amid Trump’s surprise endorsement, a key SEC settlement, and growing ETF speculation. Discover how political intrigue, legal milestones, and institutional interest are shaping XRP’s future.
XRP has once again seized the spotlight amid a dramatic convergence of political intrigue, legal developments, and renewed institutional interest.
The token’s recent surge has been anything but ordinary, propelled by an unexpected endorsement from former President Donald Trump, speculation surrounding a potential XRP-spot ETF, and a possible settlement in its long-running legal battle with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Trump’s Surprise Endorsement Ignites Political and Market Debate
In a move that caught both Washington and Wall Street off guard, former President Donald Trump publicly suggested that XRP could serve as a strategic reserve currency, potentially rivaling the U.S. dollar.
Posted on Truth Social, his remarks sent shockwaves through both the political and crypto communities.
While some close to the former president believe he may have been influenced by pro-XRP advocates or misinformed advisors, the endorsement has sparked intense debate about the future role of cryptocurrencies in national monetary policy.
Critics argue that Trump may not fully grasp the ongoing legal complexities surrounding Ripple, while others see his comments as a sign of growing political entanglement in digital asset discourse.
Legal Turmoil: Ripple’s Partial Settlement With SEC and Renewed Scrutiny
Just days before the Trump announcement, Ripple reached a $50 million settlement on one aspect of its legal battle with the SEC. Though this sparked a temporary surge in XRP price, the situation remains unresolved.
The SEC has now filed a motion to lift the longstanding injunction against XRP’s institutional sales and reduce Ripple’s $125 million penalty, raising hopes for a full resolution.
Legal experts caution that political noise could complicate the matter. “The legal system doesn’t react well to political interference, especially in unresolved cases,” one compliance analyst noted.
The appearance of XRP in a draft policy document on strategic reserves also triggered regulatory red flags, with sources confirming due diligence reviews have been reopened.
ETF Speculation Heats Up: Is BlackRock Eyeing XRP?
Market sentiment turned euphoric over the weekend following speculation that BlackRock may be preparing to file for an XRP-spot ETF.
While not officially confirmed, a leaked letter hinted that the asset management giant has been in discussions with the SEC’s Crypto Task Force about expanding its ETF offerings.
BlackRock’s previous success with its iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), which attracted over $44 billion in inflows, has only added fuel to the fire.
Should BlackRock pursue an XRP-based product, the implications for institutional demand could be massive, possibly unlocking a wave of capital not yet seen in XRP’s history.
Price Action: XRP Struggles to Hold Above Key Levels
Despite the bullish backdrop, XRP’s price has faced resistance at $2.50, failing to maintain momentum after Trump’s endorsement and legal optimism.
On May 13, the token down 0,85% to $2.53, underperforming both Bitcoin and Solana. Profit-taking near resistance led to an estimated $360 million in market outflows within 24 hours.
Still, technical analysts remain cautiously optimistic. XRP is holding above key support at $2.36, the midline of the Keltner Channel.
A breakout above $2.50, backed by high trading volume, could lead to a run at $2.75 and potentially $3.00. Derivative markets also reflect defensive positioning, with Open Interest down 4.7% and funding rates stabilizing.
XRP’s Growing Adoption and Investor Confidence
Despite the volatility, indicators show rising investor confidence:
- Holders of XRP increased by over 11% year-to-date.
- Travala.com now accepts XRP as payment.
- Missouri’s House Bill 594 offers a full income tax deduction on crypto capital gains, including XRP.
XRP even briefly overtook USDT to become the third-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization before retreating. According to Santiment, these milestones point to increasing confidence in a favorable outcome to the Ripple case.
Analyst Insights: XRP Rally May Just Be Starting
Pseudonymous trader DonAlt, who correctly predicted XRP’s late-2024 breakout, believes XRP is still in the early stages of a broader move. The token recently broke out of a multi-month range, and if it can surpass $2.75, the rally could accelerate significantly.
Other analysts project a bullish continuation pattern forming, with targets set as high as $3.43 if ETF rumors are substantiated and legal clarity emerges. However, a drop below $2.24 could reverse momentum and expose XRP to a deeper correction toward $1.93.
Macro Factors: Trade Talks and Inflation Sentiment Provide Tailwinds
Global market sentiment has turned positive following renewed U.S.–China trade negotiations. Trump’s softened stance on tariffs and inflation concerns has led to greater risk appetite across asset classes, benefiting digital assets like XRP.
The Ripple Fear and Greed Index has jumped to 65, marking “Extreme Greed”, with trading volumes trending 38% above the 30-day average. Such metrics indicate sustained investor enthusiasm despite the legal and political uncertainty.
Conclusion: XRP’s Path Forward
XRP is now navigating a critical inflection point. The combination of (1) A high-profile political endorsement; (2) An impending legal resolution; and (3) ETF speculation involving BlackRock, has transformed the token’s short-term narrative from uncertainty to optimism.
Yet, major questions remain. Can XRP break and sustain levels above $2.50? Will the SEC’s case finally resolve in Ripple’s favor? And could an ETF provide the same kind of institutional tailwind that has propelled Bitcoin to new heights?
XRP may not yet be a “millionaire-maker,” but the coming weeks could define its role in the future of finance, whether as a major institutional asset or simply another volatile altcoin navigating the crypto rollercoaster.
by | May 13, 2025 | Business
The National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Greece (ETHEAS) and the Latvian Dairy Committee (LDC) proudly continued the “Information Provision and Promotion Measures on Agricultural Products in Canada, Malaysia, and South Korea” program, running from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026. Funded by the European Union, the program promoted high-quality European agricultural products across South Korea, Malaysia, and Canada under the campaign “Premium European Products”.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia [13 May 2025, Tuesday] – For Immediate Release
This campaign represents the European Union’s commitment to safety, quality, and animal welfare. EU regulations are trusted globally for their rigorous safety protocols, including strict controls on pesticide use and hygiene standards in processing facilities, ensuring premium products of the highest quality. The campaign has four main objectives: raising awareness of high-quality European products, enhancing consumer recognition, increasing consumption, and boosting exports.
Premium European Success at SIAL Canada
To kickstart the program, Premium European Products had a resounding success at SIAL Canada 2025, held in Toronto from 29 April to 1 May 2025. At Booth 1017.3, visitors discovered a curated range of premium products reflecting the best of Greek and Latvian agriculture. The Premium European Products campaign promotes five categories of products. The first category features 11 PDO-certified products from Greece, including olive oils, table olives, dried grapes, saffron, hard cheeses, and mastic gum and gum oil. The remaining four categories highlight Latvian products: dairy products, candied fruits, chocolates and confectionery, and salty snacks. This collaboration at SIAL Canada underscored the growing international demand for authentic, traceable food products, connecting European agricultural excellence with consumers worldwide.
Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
The Premium European Products campaign reinforces the European Union’s rigorous standards in food production, ensuring that every product meets strict criteria for safety, sustainability, and authenticity. From traditional Greek farming methods to Latvia’s natural dairy fermentation practices, these standards guarantee distinctive flavor profiles and nutritional benefits.
The campaign’s recognizable branding which is inspired by Europe’s natural landscapes and agricultural heritage, reminds consumers of the deep-rooted traditions behind every product.
Expanding Global Reach
Following SIAL Canada, ETHEAS and LDC will continue their promotional journey at Seoul Food & Hotel (SFH) in South Korea from 10-13 June 2025, and Food & Hotel Malaysia (FHM) from 23-26 September 2025 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The event will feature specialized tasting sessions highlighting the unique qualities of Greek and Latvian products. Through these key international platforms, the campaign strengthens European agricultural presence in Asia and North America, fostering lasting relationships with importers, distributors, and retailers while demonstrating the distinctive quality, safety, and sustainability features that make these European products premium choices for consumers worldwide.
Premium European Products Campaign in Malaysia
Following Food Hotel Malaysia, the Premium European Products campaign will expand its initiatives in Malaysia by conducting an extensive B2B meeting program, connecting Greek and Latvian producers directly with Malaysian key trade professionals through pre-arranged business matchmaking sessions. These meetings will allow personalized interactions with high-level buyers specifically interested in premium European food products.
In addition to the B2B programmes, strategic plans targeting consumers in Malaysia’s leading food industry publications and digital platforms will complement the physical presence, emphasizing the exceptional standards, sustainable production methods, and authentic flavors that distinguish European products in Malaysia’s diverse food market.
The Premium European Products campaign welcomes industry professionals to discover the quality, authenticity, and diversity of European offerings from Greece and Latvia. We invite importers, distributors, retailers, and foodservice leaders to connect with trusted producers and explore potential collaborations that support long-term growth and value in the Malaysian market.
For more information about the “Premium European Products” campaign, please visit https://premiumeuropeanproducts.eu/ or email us to in**@*********************ts.eu.
Pages dedicated to this program can be found on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, @premiumeuropeanproducts.
Notes to Editor
About National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Greece (ETHEAS)
Founded by Greece’s leading cooperatives and established by Greek law, ETHEAS is the national coordinating body of Agricultural Cooperatives in Greece. With over 300 member cooperatives representing approximately 80% of Greece’s total agricultural cooperative turnover, ETHEAS aims to foster rural and cooperative development, support and promote its members’ activities domestically and internationally, provide expert opinions on cooperative movement agricultural production and sector development, supervise the dissemination and promotion of cooperative ideas, and serve and educate its members through studies, research projects, and assignments.
About Latvian Dairy Committee (LDC)
The Latvian Dairy Committee (LDC), established in 1995, represents Latvian dairy processing sector and aims to protect its interests. It consists of 17 members processing approximately 80% of industrially produced milk in Latvia.
by | May 13, 2025 | Business
Most Malaysian Indian boutiques primarily sell traditional silks and heavy bridal wear, but Choli by MyDesiStyle (or Choli, as it’s known to regulars) is determined to carve a lane of its own. Their venture is rooted in culture, yet shaped by modern trends. They have a one-of-a-kind store that offers fashionable pieces while retaining the charm and grandeur of Indian fabrics.
Founded by husband-and-wife duo Preya and Nav, Choli is more than just a retail store. It’s a boutique, a creative space, and above all, a place where customers can feel at ease. There’s no pressure to shop fast and pick the wrong items — their helpful staff understands the importance of picking the right wedding clothes and make it a priority to help in the best way. Every piece is created with intention, and every shopping experience is designed to be calm, personal, and welcoming.
What began with Preya’s earlier fashion business — and Nav’s strength in operations — has now grown into a family-run brand that reflects their shared values: authenticity, attention to detail, and care for the customer. Even with a young child in tow, they remain hands-on with every design and every client.
Your Bespoke Wedding Outfit Partner
Rather than offering off-the-rack generic items, Choli intentionally keeps more semi-stitched or unstitched items in-store. They want their customers to have full freedom to create a fit that’s uniquely theirs and doesn’t look like what everyone else is wearing at events.
To help their customers realize their vision for the perfect lehenga or sherwani for their big day, Choli has a full-time in-house tailoring team, led by a master tailor who understands both classic techniques and modern trends. His expertise spans everything from fabric cutting, alterations, kurta refitting, saree fall finishing, full custom builds for lehengas, punjabi suits, and sarees from raw materials. Tailoring is not just an add-on here — it’s the core of the experience.
Each customer works directly with the tailoring team to bring their ideal outfit to life. And every blouse and custom piece is personally checked by Preya and Nav to ensure a perfect finish.
So when customers say Choli clothes “fit like a dream,” it’s because they actually do.
On a tight timeline? There’s also a curated collection of ready-to-wear Indo-Western suits, Punjabi suits, Shararas, Anarkalis, and Readymade Sarees. perfect for wedding receptions, temple events, ROMs, pujas, or last-minute events.
From Brides to Grooms to Guests
While Choli first started out focusing on bridal lehengas and sarees, the boutique has now expanded its range to include groomswear, guestwear, and everyday ethnic styles with a modern twist. They have blossomed into quite a “one-stop shop” for every type of Indian clothing. Now their service offerings include:
Making custom sherwanis and Indo-Western looks for grooms
Stylish kurta sets for men and women
Casual-to-dressy outfits for temple events, pujas, ROMs, and wedding receptions
A ready-to-wear collection that includes Punjabi suits, anarkalis, shararas, and their new Readymade Sarees — perfect for last-minute occasions
Their tailoring team also handles saree fall finishing, blouse stitching, kurta refits, and full custom builds for lehengas, sarees, and suits made from in-store fabric.
When people say Choli outfits “fit like a dream,” it’s because they truly do.
Transparent Pricing You Can Trust
Choli has built strong customer loyalty not just through its thoughtful designs, but also through its clear and honest pricing.
There’s no guesswork, no inflated rates, and no pressure. Just high-quality fabric, fair pricing, and consistent service.
Here’s what to expect:
Bridal Lehengas – RM800 to RM2,500
Lightweight/Party Lehengas – RM420 to RM880
Saree Materials – RM280 to RM780
Punjabi Suits & Indo-Western Sets – RM280 to RM580
Men’s Kurta Pyjama Sets – RM180 to RM450
Alterations for Ready-Made Materials – From RM35
Blouse Stitching & Custom Tailoring – From RM80
Need accessories like tassels, blouse pads, beads, and material borders to elevate your blouse or suit design? They have those available in-store as well.
Visit Choli by MyDesiStyle
Because so much of what they offer is unique and custom, you must visit their store to experience the “Choli” difference.
They are conveniently located in Petaling Jaya in a block where parking is not an issue. Just walk in and their staff will be happy to assist.
Address: D-2-57, Block Dahlia, 10 Boulevard PJU 6A, SPRINT, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Hours:Open Tuesday – Sunday | 11AM – 7PM (Mondays Closed)
Walk-ins Welcome | Plenty of Parking Available
Google: Choli by Mydesistyle Official | Lehenga Malaysia
Follow Along for First-Look Access
Instagram – @choli_bymydesistyle
Facebook – Choli by MyDesiStyle
TikTok – @choli_bymydesistyle
For Brides Who Want Options — Not Overwhelm
At Choli, it’s not about impressing the crowd. It’s about feeling like the best version of yourself — confident, comfortable, and completely you.
From fit to finish, Choli delivers more than just clothes. They deliver peace of mind, unforgettable moments, and a whole lot of heart.
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