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MultiChoice Tests Weekly DStv Subscriptions in Uganda Amid Mounting Losses, May Expand to Nigeria

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Faced with mounting subscriber losses and declining revenues across its traditional pay-TV business, MultiChoice Group has begun piloting weekly subscription options for DStv customers in Uganda — a major shift that could soon be rolled out to key markets like Nigeria.

The test, which quietly launched seven weeks ago, is part of MultiChoice’s strategy to adjust its pricing model to better match the economic realities of its customer base, particularly in markets where inflation and currency depreciation have made monthly subscriptions increasingly unaffordable.

“It is a big change,” said MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela in an interview with Sunday Times. “We think when people are struggling, as we have seen, offering them weekly passes will help in the same way cellphone prepaid has changed the mobile industry.”

Mawela noted that the company expects to evaluate the success of the pilot within three to six months. If it performs well, MultiChoice plans to replicate the model in Nigeria and other major African markets.

Sharp Declines in Nigeria Fuel Urgency

The move comes amid a steep downturn in the company’s core pay-TV performance, especially in Nigeria — one of its most important markets. MultiChoice’s financial report for the year ended March 31, 2025, shows a 9 percent drop in overall revenue to $2.87 billion (ZAR50.8 billion), largely driven by an 11 percent fall in subscription income.

Operating profit fell by 34 percent to $263.50 million (ZAR4.7 billion), while trading profit plunged nearly 50 percent to $228.14 million (ZAR4.1 billion). The pressure has been most severe in its Rest of Africa (RoA) segment, which includes Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia, and Angola.

Over the last two years, MultiChoice has lost a staggering 2.8 million active linear subscribers. Between March 2024 and March 2025 alone, the company shed 1.4 million subscribers in Nigeria — representing 77 percent of the 1.8 million it lost across the RoA segment.

“Nigeria saw sizeable customer losses as high inflation adds more pressure on consumers,” the company wrote in its annual report. Inflation in Nigeria reached 23.71 percent in April 2025, severely eroding purchasing power and forcing many households to cut discretionary spending like pay TV.

As a result, MultiChoice Nigeria’s subscription revenue dropped sharply from $355.93 million (ZAR6.3 billion) in the year ending March 2024 to $197.74 million (ZAR3.5 billion) in the latest fiscal year.

In response, MultiChoice is not only trialing weekly subscription options but also exploring new packages that allow users to build their own viewing bundles by selecting preferred channels. This unbundled, low-cost model could help retain customers who can’t afford or are unwilling to pay for large preset bouquets.

These steps form part of a broader pivot to digital services, which appear to be the only bright spot in MultiChoice’s latest earnings. Revenue from DStv Internet jumped 85 percent year-on-year, while KingMakers — the company’s sports betting platform — surged 76 percent (in constant currency). DStv Stream posted a 48 percent increase, and Showmax, the streaming service, saw a 44 percent rise in active paying customers.

“Our strategy is shaped by developments in our industry, such as changes in technology, which are driving shifts in consumer behavior, as well as the impact of a rise in piracy, streaming services, and social media,” Mawela said.

Nigeria, Next in Line for Weekly Passes?

While MultiChoice has not set a specific timeline for expanding the weekly pass system beyond Uganda, Nigeria is high on the list, given the severe customer attrition and pricing resistance the company faces there. Introducing something close to the widely-touted pay-as-you-go model could mirror the transformation that prepaid mobile services brought to African telecoms — a shift that democratized access and boosted penetration.

With streaming platforms, free content online, and economic hardship eroding the appeal of monthly DStv subscriptions, MultiChoice may have little choice but to adapt or risk further contraction in its most lucrative markets.

If the Ugandan test proves successful, Nigerian consumers could soon be paying for DStv the same way they buy mobile data: one week at a time.

Bamboo Launches Misan to Empower Africa With Remittance And Virtual Card Tools

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Bamboo, an investment platform that gives Africans the tools to build wealth,  has introduced Misan by Bamboo, a robust remittance app and virtual USD card service to empower Africans with remittance and virtual card tools.

This strategic expansion positions Misan as a pivotal solution for seamless money transfers and global digital transactions across the continent.

Addressing the growing need for efficient and transparent financial solutions, Misan by Bamboo enables direct transfers to a wide network of countries and offers versatile Virtual USD Cards. These tools empower individuals and businesses to navigate international payments with ease.

Speaking on the launch of this service, Bamboo’s co-founder Yanmo Omorogbe said,

“We built Misan by Bamboo to provide simple, clear ways to manage money, no matter where you are. With powerful tools like our virtual USD cards, users can manage their finances smoothly across Africa’s diverse economies.”

Misan by Bamboo makes it simple, fast, and affordable to send, spend, and receive money globally. The service has enhanced Pan-African transfer capabilities that allow faster, more reliable money transfers to over 15 African countries, strengthening financial connections for families, friends, and businesses. This advancement promotes regional financial integration by overcoming traditional cross-border payment challenges.

Additionally, Misan’s Virtual USD Card offers instant access to global online marketplaces, supporting e-commerce purchases, subscriptions, and international bill payments. With instant issuance and competitive exchange rates, the card provides users with unparalleled freedom in the digital economy.

Notably, Misan by Bamboo’s full suite of features enables users to manage international payments and engage in global commerce directly from their mobile devices. This initiative reflects Bamboo’s commitment to driving financial inclusion and economic integration across Africa through innovative digital solutions.

It also provides virtual USD cards for online payments, enabling Africans to shop on global platforms like Google Ads, PayPal, Apple, and e-commerce sites. The virtual cards are designed for secure online transactions, supporting freelancers, remote workers, and businesses managing subscriptions or international payments.

Misan enters a competitive remittance market dominated by established players like Western Union, Wave, and newer fintechs like GeegPay, Grey, and Bitnob. Bamboo leverages its Canadian Money Service Business license and U.S. broker-dealer license (secured in 2024) to ensure regulatory compliance and trust.

Founded in 2019 by Richmond Bassey and Yanmo Omorogbe, Bamboo provides real-time access to global investment opportunities, particularly in the U.S. and Nigerian stock markets. The platform enables Africans to invest in stocks, ETFs, and fixed-income products with as little as N15,000 (USD 10), using fractional investing to make wealth-building accessible. It has over 500,000 registered users, with 75% being first-time investors, and offers a user-friendly mobile app for trading and portfolio management.

In 2024, Bamboo launched “Coins by Bamboo,” a remittance app backed by a Canadian Money Service Business license, targeting Nigerians in the diaspora for affordable money transfers, initially in the Nigeria-Canada corridor, with plans to expand to the UK. It also facilitates donations to charities like Women at Risk International Foundation.

Bamboo aims to democratize wealth creation for Africans, addressing barriers like high fees and limited access to global markets. By offering virtual USD cards and low-cost remittances, it addresses the challenges of accessing international financial instruments in Africa, where local banking restrictions and currency volatility are common barriers.

Tron Set To Go Public In The U.S. Through Reverse Merger With SRM Entertainment

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Justin Sun’s blockchain platform Tron is set to go public in the U.S. through a reverse merger with SRM Entertainment, a Nasdaq-listed company known for theme park merchandise. The deal, facilitated by Dominari Securities, will create a new entity called Tron Inc., which will hold up to $210 million in TRX tokens, adopting a strategy similar to MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin holdings.

Reports initially suggested Eric Trump would take a leadership role in Tron Inc., but he has publicly denied any official involvement, stating on X that he has “no public involvement” despite his advisory role at Dominari Securities and his praise for Sun as a “great friend and an icon in the crypto space.” SRM Entertainment’s stock surged significantly, with reports indicating a 250% to 647% increase on June 16, 2025, though some gains were later moderated, with shares still up over 400% on the day.

TRX, Tron’s native token, saw a more modest rise of around 3-7%, trading at approximately $0.28-$0.29. The claim of SRM being “up 10x on the week” aligns with the dramatic stock spike reported on June 16, though exact weekly gains may vary depending on the source and timing. The merger coincides with the U.S. SEC pausing its fraud investigation into Sun, raising questions about regulatory shifts and Trump family ties, given Dominari’s connections to Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, who serve on its advisory board.

Sun’s $75 million investment in the Trump-linked World Liberty Financial and his status as a major holder of the $TRUMP meme coin further deepen these ties. Always approach such developments with caution, as crypto markets and political connections can invite speculation and volatility. Verify details through primary sources like company announcements or regulatory filings before making investment decisions.

The reverse merger of Tron with SRM Entertainment, alongside the reported (but denied) involvement of Eric Trump, carries significant implications for the crypto and financial markets, as well as broader societal and political divides. Tron going public via a reverse merger on Nasdaq could signal further mainstream adoption of blockchain platforms. By mirroring MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin strategy with a $210 million TRX token reserve, Tron Inc. may attract institutional investors, boosting confidence in TRX and similar altcoins. This could set a precedent for other crypto projects to pursue public listings, blending traditional finance with decentralized ecosystems.

The dramatic 250-647% surge in SRM’s stock price and TRX’s 3-7% gain reflect speculative fervor. Such volatility, driven by high-profile names and political connections, risks inflating valuations beyond fundamentals, potentially leading to sharp corrections. Investors should brace for continued price swings as the merger progresses and regulatory scrutiny unfolds.

The SEC’s pause on Justin Sun’s fraud investigation, coinciding with the merger, raises questions about political influence, especially given the Trump family’s ties to Dominari Securities. Eric Trump’s denial of involvement doesn’t fully dispel speculation, as his and Donald Trump Jr.’s advisory roles at Dominari, alongside Sun’s $75 million investment in World Liberty Financial, suggest a nexus of crypto and political interests.

A perceived alignment with pro-crypto political figures could ease regulatory pressures on Tron but risks alienating regulators or investors wary of politicized markets. This could also embolden other crypto entities to seek political alliances, complicating the regulatory landscape. The involvement of high-profile figures like the Trumps, combined with Sun’s history of controversial moves (e.g., $TRUMP meme coin holdings), fuels concerns about market manipulation. The 10x SRM stock surge, partly tied to unverified rumors of Eric Trump’s role, underscores how narratives can drive markets, regardless of fundamentals. This highlights the need for transparency and due diligence in crypto-related investments.

Tron’s move could accelerate blockchain integration into traditional markets, particularly if Tron Inc. leverages its public status to expand use cases (e.g., DeFi, NFTs, or tokenized assets). However, success hinges on execution, regulatory clarity, and avoiding overreliance on speculative hype. The merger bridges crypto and traditional markets, but it also exposes tensions. Traditional investors may view Tron’s public listing as a step toward legitimacy, while crypto purists might criticize it as a betrayal of decentralization principles, especially with centralized figures like Sun and political connections involved.

This divide pits those who see crypto as a tool for financial innovation against those who prioritize its anti-establishment ethos. The Trump family’s apparent proximity to the deal (despite Eric’s denial) polarizes reactions. Pro-crypto communities, particularly those aligned with figures like Trump who advocate for deregulation, may celebrate the merger as a win against SEC overreach. Conversely, critics may see it as cronyism, accusing the crypto industry of cozying up to political elites to dodge accountability. This mirrors broader U.S. political divides, where crypto policy is increasingly a partisan flashpoint.

The 10x SRM surge and TRX’s more modest gains highlight a divide between short-term speculators chasing hype and long-term investors seeking sustainable value. Speculative bubbles driven by high-profile names risk disillusioning retail investors if the merger underdelivers, while patient investors may focus on Tron’s blockchain fundamentals and its potential to scale post-merger.

Tron, founded by Chinese entrepreneur Justin Sun, going public in the U.S. via a Trump-linked deal underscores a divide between global crypto ambitions and U.S.-centric regulatory and political dynamics. While Tron aims for global blockchain dominance, its success in the U.S. may depend on navigating a polarized regulatory environment, potentially alienating international users wary of American political influence.

The Tron-SRM merger, with its political undertones and market impact, could reshape crypto’s integration into traditional finance, but it also risks fueling volatility and regulatory skepticism. The divides—between crypto and traditional finance, political factions, speculators and investors, and global vs. U.S. interests—highlight the complex interplay of ideology, profit, and power in this space. Investors should approach with caution, verifying claims through primary sources (e.g., Tron or SRM filings, regulatory updates) and avoiding hype-driven decisions.

5 Ways Non-VoIP Temporary Numbers Can Protect Your Privacy Online

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Ever stopped to think about how often you’ve given out your phone number online in the last month alone? How about the past six months? This year? 

When almost every website expects you to share this personal data when you want to create an account or make a purchase, it can feel impossible to keep your identity private online. But, aside from buying a separate phone just for account signups, what can you do?

The more cost-effective solution is to use a site like https://www.smspool.net/ to buy a temporary number that can be used in place of your real one for SMS verification purposes. They’re linked to a real SIM card, like your real phone, and you can access verification codes sent to them via the website you buy them on. 

Here are five ways non-VoIP temporary numbers can protect your privacy online. 

  • Keeps your Real Phone Number Private

The biggest benefit of using a non-VoIP number in place of your own is that you can keep your real phone number private. That way, companies and unknown contacts can’t store or share it (which they often do without your permission). Instead, they’ll store the temporary number you use during signup, which is fine for you since you’ll only use it for the initial account creation process.

  • Helps You Avoid Spam Contact

Another big perk of using a temporary number instead of your own is that your real phone won’t be targeted by spam and robocalls. You’ll discard the temporary number once you’ve used it, so you won’t even be aware if that number ends up being spammed in the future. 

  • Protects Your Identity On Marketplaces

A lot of people are rightfully hesitant to sign up for classified sites and marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. These sites demand a lot of information upfront, and if you don’t want to disclose too many personal details tied to your identity, using a non-VoIP number is the safer alternative. 

  • Lets You Test Services With No Commitment

When you’re signing up for services or trials and don’t want to commit in the long run, it makes sense to use a non-VoIP number. This will also prevent you from giving away personal contact details when you just want to take advantage of a deal or a trial.

  • Helps You Steer Clear of Data Leaks

Even when a site or service promises security, you never quite know what might happen to your number once it’s stored online. There have been at least 12,195 confirmed data breaches in 2025 so far, and if you don’t want your main phone number to be part of them, you can use non-VoIP numbers to limit how many services have access to it.

Takeaway

Using a non-VoIP number just makes sense if you want to protect your personal data or identity online. 

Sites like SMSPool make it easy to buy temporary numbers, use them to create an account or sign up for a trial, then discard them when you’re done. Don’t share your real number online unless it’s absolutely necessary. 

FinScorpio Review: Can You Trust This Platform?

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In the ever-growing landscape of online trading platforms, it’s hard to know which ones truly deliver on their promises. FinScorpio has quickly become a name that’s drawing interest, especially for its support across multiple asset classes and a clean, user-first experience. But is it trustworthy? This review unpacks how the platform functions, what real users are saying, and whether FinScorpio earns its spot among the reliable trading solutions.

What Is FinScorpio?

FinScorpio is a fully licensed trading platform that enables users to engage in a wide range of financial markets — including Forex, Stocks, Crypto, Metals, Commodities, and Indices. Built with a focus on both functionality and simplicity, it caters to beginner traders as well as those with years of market experience.

It combines a sharp user interface with a toolkit that includes both manual and automated trading options, live charting, and integrated market analysis. What makes FinScorpio stand out is its transparency in pricing and its strict approach to user safety and compliance.

The platform has been operational since 2021 and complies with international financial regulations, operating under an offshore license in a recognized jurisdiction.

How FinScorpio Trading Works?

To trade on FinScorpio, users first need to sign up and complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, which typically takes less than 24 hours. Once verified, deposits can be made using traditional payment methods like credit cards or via cryptocurrency wallets.

The trading terminal is intuitive and offers full customization: from changing chart types to applying advanced indicators. Automated tools such as trade bots and preset triggers can be used to streamline strategy execution. Real-time updates and multi-screen charting further enhance the user experience, allowing traders to act on market changes immediately.

Most withdrawals are processed within 1–2 business days, depending on the payment method and region.

FinScorpio Review: Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages:

  • Regulated & Transparent: Licensed operations with published terms, risk warnings, and a transparent fee structure.
  • Variety of Assets: Trade across six core market types with one unified account.
  • User-Centric Interface: Whether you’re using desktop or mobile, the experience is smooth and intuitive.
  • Fast Support: Live chat and multilingual email support ensure prompt help when needed.
  • Automation Support: Traders can access signal-based execution or plug in third-party bots.

Disadvantages:

  • Lack of Social Trading: There’s no current option to copy or follow other traders.
  • Advanced Tools Locked by Tier: Some advanced indicators are only available after hitting a minimum account balance.
  • No Demo Account: Unlike some competitors, FinScorpio does not offer a demo mode for practice trades.

Is FinScorpio a Scam?

There are no red flags that suggest FinScorpio is a scam. It provides a clear overview of its licensing, terms of use, and user responsibilities. Financial transactions are secure and backed by bank-grade encryption.

KYC is mandatory for all users, and transaction records are available in each user’s profile. Unlike questionable platforms, FinScorpio does not promote unrealistic returns or high-risk bonuses. The platform also avoids aggressive advertising, focusing instead on performance and client satisfaction.

Is FinScorpio Legit?

Yes, FinScorpio is a legitimate trading platform. It adheres to the latest compliance standards and puts effort into security and transparency. The site is fully encrypted, all client funds are kept in segregated accounts, and trading risks are clearly disclosed.

Traders who’ve used FinScorpio regularly report a consistent experience with no hidden fees or issues withdrawing profits. The company appears to take reputation seriously, offering direct support and conducting regular updates to the trading system.

How to Start Trading with FinScorpio?

The onboarding process is user-friendly:

  1. Register: Provide your name, email, and password to create an account.
  2. KYC Process: Submit ID verification documents to unlock full access.
  3. Deposit Funds: Choose from crypto or traditional banking options to load your wallet.
  4. Start Trading: Use FinScorpio’s tools to analyze markets, place orders, and manage risk.

Everything happens via the web app or mobile application, which are both optimized for speed and usability.

FinScorpio Platform Testimonials

“I was skeptical at first, but FinScorpio has delivered exactly what they promised. Fast deposits, clean UI, and no surprises.” – Anya, Poland

“I like the ability to trade metals and crypto from the same screen. It’s fast, and I’ve never had issues with withdrawing.” – Jerome, Netherlands

“Support team was helpful when verifying my account. I feel safe trading here, and everything’s been smooth.” – Katia, Brazil

Summary About FinScorpio

FinScorpio positions itself as a balanced platform for traders looking for control, clarity, and multi-market flexibility. It doesn’t rely on hype — instead, it offers practical tools, secure infrastructure, and a customer-first design.

Whether you’re day trading crypto or building a longer-term portfolio in stocks and commodities, FinScorpio offers a trustworthy space to execute your strategy. For anyone looking for a serious trading environment without distractions or gimmicks, it’s a name worth considering.