10 Years Ago, A Truly Bizarre Battle Of The Sequels Went Down At The Box Office – SlashFilm

May 10, 2025

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(Welcome to Tales from the Box Office, our column that examines box office miracles, disasters, and everything in between, as well as what we can learn from them.)

“I don’t understand how they’re not still shooting that film, and I don’t understand how hundreds of people aren’t dead.” Those are the words of “Ocean’s 11” director Steven Soderbergh in 2017, marveling at the cinematic classic that is 2015’s “Mad Max: Fury Road.” 10 years later, its place in cinema history is unquestioned.

It might then surprise many people to know that “Fury Road” did not top the box office when it arrived in the summer of 2015. Despite its reputation, it was actually not an outright hit upon release. In stark contrast, Universal’s “Pitch Perfect 2” opened directly against Miller’s long-awaited fourth “Mad Max” film as counterprogramming and, in defiance of most Hollywood logic at the time, won the day. Both movies were part of a summer full of female-driven movies. Both of them walked down very different paths that converged on one fateful weekend.

“I went shopping at Target before the holidays, and all the DVDs for ‘Pitch Perfect’ were all sold out. And I was like, ‘Oh, there’s like something happening here,'” screenwriter Kay Cannon said to Variety in 2015. Something was happening indeed in the form of a bizarre, fascinating box office battle.

In this week’s Tales from the Box Office, we’re looking back at the showdown between “Mad Max: Fury Road” and “Pitch Perfect 2” a decade later. We’ll go over how both films came to be, what happened when they hit theaters, what happened in the aftermath of those respective releases, and what lessons we can learn from them a decade later. Let’s dig in, shall we?

The movies: Mad Max: Fury Road and Pitch Perfect 2

Anna Kendrick's Beca on the phone with a smile on her face in Pitch Perfect 2

Universal Pictures

To say that these movies wandered down very different paths on the road to release would be a bit of an understatement. In the case of “Mad Max: Fury Road,” it spent literal decades trapped in development hell. A couple of years after the release of “Beyond Thunderdome” in 1985, Miller first conceived of the idea for “Fury Road,” which originally would have seen Mel Gibson return in the title role. Needless to say, that’s not how things panned out. It would be a full 30 years before Miller would realize his vision.

On the flip side, director Jason Moore’s first “Pitch Perfect” was released by Universal Pictures in September 2012 and became something of a sleeper hit. Against a very reasonable $17 million budget with a cast that included the likes of Anna Kendrick and Brittany Snow, it made $115 million worldwide. To Cannon’s point, it also became a smash hit on home video. As a result, Universal confirmed “Pitch Perfect 2” at CinemaCon in April 2013, wasting very little time getting that train moving in the right direction.

That’s generally how things go in Hollywood. If a movie is successful enough, a sequel will probably happen. On one side, we had a filmmaker who had a desperate passion to tell an epic story on the largest scale imaginable, hitting roadblocks every step of the way On the other side, we had a sequel to an unexpected hit that was a low-risk, high-reward prospect that would count as business as usual for just about any studio. Aside from the fact that these movies couldn’t be more different in terms of what unfolds on screen, their paths to eventual release were also wholly unalike.

Mad Max: Fury Road was decades in the making

Tom Hardy as Max sitting on the hood of the War Rig in Mad Max: Fury Road

Warner Bros.

“Fury Road” as we know it takes place years after the collapse of civilization, with the tyrant Immortan Joe ruling over the Wasteland. When the warrior Furiosa (Charlize Theron) escapes with Joe’s five wives, she must forge an uneasy alliance with the quiet loner Max (Tom Hardy). Car-driven chaos ensues.

Made for less than $1 million, the original “Mad Max” is one of the most profitable films of all time, leading to the two sequels that followed. A big part of what complicated matters with “Fury Road” is that it increasingly became a wildly expensive prospect, with an eventual budget north of $150 million. In a 2015 Q&A, Miller explained why the film was delayed for so long.

“The American dollar collapsed with 9/11, the budget ballooned, we had to get on to Happy Feet because the digital facility was [ready]. Then it rose again, and we had unprecedented rains in the outback of Australia. Where there was red desert there were now flowers. We waited a year for it to dry out. It didn’t, so we had to take everything from the east coast of Australia to the west coast of Africa, to Namibia where it never rains.

“We had to do it old school, this is not a CG movie, we don’t defy the laws of physics, and so we had to stage it,” Miller added. “For 120 days, and every day was a big stunt day.” Indeed, the movie unfolds as a largely practical stunt spectacular, filmed for several grueling months in the hot desert. It was a prime “suffer for your art” situation.

Pitch Perfect 2 was a sequel to an unexpected hit

The Barden Bellas singing on stage in their black vests and white shirts in Pitch Perfect 2

Universal Pictures

Meanwhile, Universal’s handling of “Pitch Perfect 2” seemed to largely go off without a hitch. The sequel focuses on the Barden Bells after a botched Lincoln Center performance, leading to a scandal that strips them of their performing duties. Their only shot at redemption? The world championships in Denmark.

It was somewhat unremarkable so far as the sequel development goes. Elizabeth Banks, who starred in the first installment, was tapped to direct the follow-up in January 2014, serving as her feature directorial debut. The entire core cast from the first entry returned and Banks was given a bigger but not too big budget in the $30 million range to work with. It all made sense.

“We made the first movie, we were like the Little Engine That Could — ‘I think I can, I think I can’ — and I don’t think people really knew what we were doing, and now people really love it. It’s really beloved,” Banks said of taking on “Pitch Perfect 2” in an April 2014 interview. “Frankly, all I feel is pressure. I try to only work on things that I feel this passionately about. Directing takes more time and energy; I’m just wearing a few more hats this time around, but I wouldn’t be doing it if I didn’t feel a hundred percent passionately about it.”

Banks and Universal went bigger with the sequel, getting the a cappella group Pentatonix to appear, in addition to adding more star power such as Hailee Steinfeld (“Ender’s Game”). All the while, love for the first film continued to blossom, with the song “Cups” becoming a smash hit in its own right. Unbeknownst to Banks or the studio, this was going to translate to a bigger-than-expected debut for the sequel.

The financial journey

Warner Bros. and Universal both picked May 15, 2015, as the date to drop “Mad Max: Fury Road” and “Pitch Perfect 2,” respectively. Both movies had some of the most-viewed trailers of the year overall, with “Fury Road” barely edging out “PP2.” Both movies were aimed at very different audiences, meaning they would, in theory, be able to co-exist just fine.

Critically, “Fury Road” was met with a rapturous response, with /Film giving it a near-perfect 9 out of 10 review at the time. “Pitch Perfect 2,” meanwhile, was met with a more mixed response. Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron” kicked off the 2015 summer box office with a bang earlier in the month, but it was entering its third weekend of release. The coast was clear. On one side, we had an action-packed, widely-acclaimed blockbuster sequel. On the other side, we had a women-driven musical comedy sequel. Let them fight.

“Pitch Perfect 2” topped the domestic charts with a $69.2 million debut, besting pre-release estimates. It made more domestically in a single weekend than the first film did during its entire run. “Fury Road,” which cost five times as much to make, had to settle for second with $45.4 million. That was largely how it went until July rolled around, when both movies fell out of the top 10, with effusive critical buzz carrying Miller’s passion project, while sheer audience demand propped up Banks’ directorial debut.

In the end, “Pitch Perfect 2” finished its run with $184.2 million domestically and $102.8 million internationally for a grand total of $287.1 million worldwide. “Mad Max: Fury Road,” won the global battle, however, finishing with $153.6 million domestically and $225.8 million overseas for a grand total of $379.4 million in its original run.

Pitch Perfect 2 and Fury Road both found success, in their own ways

Charlizee Theron's Furiosa walking alongside the War Rig in Mad Max: Fury Road

Warner Bros.

“Fury Road” made more money globally, but against its huge budget, it wasn’t a big theatrical hit. It had to rely largely on post-theatrical revenue to turn a profit. Rest assured, it did profit, particularly after it won six Oscars after being nominated for 10, including Best Picture. The critical acclaim carried Miller’s “Mad Max” epic in the short run. In the long run? It’s become a timeless, almost universally heralded blockbuster that is nothing shy of spectacular. It will make money and be cherished for decades to come.

On the other side of the fence, “Pitch Perfect 2” turned a huge profit out of the gate, with Deadline estimating it made $140 million for Universal by March 2016. Though not nearly as big of a hit, “Pitch Perfect 3” arrived in 2017 to round out the trilogy, with the short-lived TV spin-off “Bumper in Berlin” expanding the scope of the franchise on Peacock as well. This sequel helped turn this into a fully-fledged cash cow for the studio. It’s the kind of mid-budget original we don’t see enough of in the pandemic era.

In both cases, success was achieved, albeit through different means. Though not a huge moneymaker initially, any studio in Hollywood would kill to have “Fury Road” in its library. By that same token, any studio would kill to stumble into a moneymaker like “Pitch Perfect” any day of the week. We don’t have to lower one to raise the other, even if there was a clear winner out of the gate.

The lessons contained within

Rebel Wilson's Fat Amy standing and talking with Adam Devine's Bumper in Pitch Perfect 2

Universal Pictures

The big takeaway here is that success in the realm of studio filmmaking can — and should — take on many forms. Studios should take big risks with existing franchises like “Fury Road.” They should also invest in mid-budget plays like “Pitch Perfect,” because good things can happen. New franchises can’t exist if original movies aren’t made in the first place.

Another big thing here is how remarkable it is to consider that this happened 10 years ago, in the sense that it still feels like a fight to get movies aimed more squarely at women made at the highest levels on a more regular basis. Hollywood continues to be obsessed with older franchises aimed at men. All the while, movies like “It Ends With Us” come along and absolutely crush it at the box office. Certain audiences are seemingly starved for movies made with them in mind. “Pitch Perfect 2” benefited greatly by filling that void.

Just look at the whole Barbenheimer thing, where “Barbie” ($1.44 billion worldwide) came out on top over “Oppenheimer” ($975 million worldwide). The vast majority of studio execs probably would have been on Christopher Nolan, given the choice. Put simply and more broadly? Franchise-obsessed, male-focused thinking needs to change in a meaningful way. It would be to everyone’s benefit.

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Halls of Torment Steam Review

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May 10, 2025

Halls of Torment is an Auto Shooter, like Vampire Survivors. And like Army of Ruin before it, it improves upon the Vampire Survivors formula in significant ways. But unlike Army of Ruin, they’re still updating Halls of Torments months after release, which is good! So I will review it based on how it is now, and Halls of Torment is good, really drawing parallels with the original Diablo It does this in two ways. First are the visuals and sound design, which seemed to be copied directly from the original Diablo. This allows the game to have its own unique identity among other auto shooters. The second is the fact there is inventory and more involved quests, which involve reading randomly found books.

It is worth showing a video of Halls of Torment, I show two different sections of game play, enjoy:

Halls of Torment: An Auto Action-RPG

When viewing the video, Halls of Torment appears to be another auto-shooter, but there are some big differences here. First, leveling up gives you options to upgrade traits, like action speed and strength, and weapons you already have. Weapons are gained via defeating mini-bosses or picking up banners on the field. Upgrading a weapon to level three allows you to upgrade it a new weapon. Arcane Shards(those shiruiken things), for example, gain the ability to splinter further. There is inventory, which modifies stats or gives you cool abilities, like summoning skeletons. You gain inventory by defeating bosses. However, you cannot keep the inventory until you use a well to send up an item, which you then buy from the well-keeper to permanently unlock it. Most inventory is not shared among characters, so keep that in mind.

Another welcome change to the Formula in Halls of Torment are the quests. Every area and character has their own set of quests to complete. Character quests tend to unlock traits which permanently upgrade the character. You can set a quest to show on the screen to track its progress. But even if you don’t do that, it’ll still complete. Speaking of characters, being a work in progress, the characters are unbalanced. The exterminator, who shoots a permanent stream of fire, owns all. Meanwhile, the cleric is pretty awful, as is the archer. I assume this will get fixed.

Conclusion

Should Halls of Torment get a Must Play? It should, but it won’t, because it is a work in progress. It is very unbalanced and important features, like equipment upgrading, is unlocked far into the game and not well explained at all. There’s a second currency at play with it, and I have no idea how to get it. Potions are unlocked via gathering items, but only if you wear a certain amulet and you get very few items per run. Still, for what Halls of Torment currently is, I’ll give it a recommended with an eight back-end score. Worth it now, warts and all, and will almost certainly be better later.

Overall: Halls of Torment is an auto-shooter that plays like an action RPG. It is a work in progress though, with a long way to go.

Verdict: Recommended

Steam Page

Release Date9/24/24Cost$6.66PublisherChasing Carrots

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Alex Jones calls for The One Show to be taken off air following heartbreaking death admission

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May 10, 2025

Alex Jones calls for The One Show to be taken off air following heartbreaking death admission

During last night’s (May 9) The One Show, host Alex Jones declared the show should “finish” after Robson Green shared an emotional story.

On Friday, Alex was joined by co-presenter Roman Kemp. For the final episode of the week, the show welcomed singer Dannii Minogue, boxer Chris Eubank Jr., and actor Robson to their green couch.

Robson Green appeared on The One Show last night (Credit: BBC)

Robson Green on The One Show last night

At the start of the show, Roman spoke to Newcastle United supporter Robson about his team’s Carabao Cup win against Liverpool at Wembley Stadium in March. The huge moment saw Newcastle United seal their first domestic trophy in 70 years.

“Now, Robson, we’re going to be talking a great moment in sporting history with Chris later on about the fight, but the moment we want to talk about with you, Newcastle,” Roman said.

“70 years without a domestic trophy, a massive moment for you,” he added.

Robson responded: “You’ve got to remember, the last time for me Newcastle won a trophy, King Harold still had two eyes, but they did it.”

“It wasn’t just Wembley, Newcastle rocked it. It was amazing, and with Dan Burn getting that header, it was just fantastic.”

Alex Jones and Roman Kemp hosting The One Show — Alex was moved by Robson’s story (Credit: BBC)

‘I think we should finish the show there’

Robson recalled having a ticket to watch the match live alongside footie legend Alan Shearer. However, he was unable to attend due to filming with the BBC when it took place.

“What was amazing when we won, I went to ring my dad, and my father died in 2009. I went to ring him, that’s what it meant, it was so important, so moving,” he shared.

Roman insisted that’s “what football can do” before Robson stated: “One city, one club. That’s what we are. It was amazing, and now that emotional valve has been opened up. It was fantastic, very special.”

Alex was moved by the story and shared: “Gosh, I think we should finish the show there, that was such a nice line.”

Dannii agreed, adding: “It wiped us out!”

The emotional show came following complaints about The One Show‘s tribute to a 100-year-old VE Day veteran. The segment was branded a “disgrace” by many watching at home.

Read more: The One Show host JB Gill left ‘devastated’ after A-list guest Usher pulls out at the last minute

Robson Green On Grantchester's New Vicar & DI Keating’s Future | This Morning

What do you think of this story? You can leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.

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Emergency Lighting Inverters Market to Witness Robust Expansion Backed by Infrastructure Growth – Persistence Market Research | Web3Wire

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May 10, 2025

Emergency Lighting Inverters Market to Witness Robust Expansion Backed by Infrastructure Growth – Persistence Market Research | Web3Wire

The emergency lighting inverters market has been witnessing significant growth in recent years, driven by the ever-expanding demand for backup power solutions in commercial, industrial, and residential sectors. These devices are crucial for maintaining lighting operations during power outages, ensuring safety in critical environments like hospitals, airports, and industrial plants. As technological advancements continue, the market for emergency lighting inverters is expected to grow at a steady rate from 2021 to 2031, with a projected growth rate of 6% to 8% during this period. This article delves into the dynamics of the market, key drivers, challenges, and growth opportunities, providing a comprehensive overview of the current landscape.

Get a Sample Copy of Research Report (Use Corporate Mail id for Quick Response):https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/32595

✅ Overview of the Emergency Lighting Inverters Market

The emergency lighting inverters market is poised for steady growth, driven by a combination of technological advancements and the increasing need for reliable backup power solutions. Emergency lighting inverters play a vital role in various commercial and residential applications by providing an alternate power source in case of a failure in the main power grid. With the growing reliance on uninterrupted lighting in critical infrastructure like hospitals, airports, and government buildings, the demand for such devices is expected to rise significantly.

A primary driver of this market is the ongoing development in lighting solutions, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors. As the global lighting industry evolves, integrating more advanced, energy-efficient, and smart solutions, the demand for backup power solutions, including emergency lighting inverters, has surged. This trend is further supported by a shift toward more energy-efficient and sustainable lighting solutions, which requires reliable backup systems. The increase in construction activities, particularly in emerging economies, is also contributing to the demand for emergency lighting inverters, as new buildings require power backup solutions to ensure operational safety.

Geographically, North America and East Asia stand out as the key regions driving the market. North America, led by the U.S., is experiencing strong demand due to government initiatives focused on energy conservation, the construction of new commercial buildings, and a rising emphasis on energy-efficient lighting systems. In East Asia, countries like China and Japan are witnessing rapid infrastructure upgrades and increased investment in smart cities, which are expected to further fuel the demand for emergency lighting inverters.

✅ Key Highlights from the Report

➤ The emergency lighting inverters market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% to 8% from 2021 to 2031.➤ Technological advancements and innovations in lighting systems are major growth drivers.➤ The increasing construction of new buildings is expected to boost demand for emergency lighting inverters.➤ North America is the leading geographical region, followed closely by East Asia.➤ Emergency lighting inverters are increasingly being viewed as cost-effective solutions for power backup.➤ Key market players are investing in R&D to develop energy-efficient and cost-effective products.

✅ Market Segmentation

The emergency lighting inverters market can be segmented based on product type, application, and geographical region. These categories offer a deeper insight into how different market segments are evolving and what factors are driving demand in specific areas.

By Product Type

Emergency lighting inverters are primarily available in two types: single-phase and three-phase inverters.

Single-Phase Inverters: These inverters are typically used in smaller applications such as residential buildings and small commercial establishments. They provide reliable backup power for essential lighting circuits, ensuring that safety lighting systems remain operational during power outages.

Three-Phase Inverters: These inverters are designed for larger commercial and industrial applications, including hospitals, airports, and factories. They offer higher power capacity and are capable of handling more demanding loads, providing power to more extensive lighting systems.

By Application

The emergency lighting inverters market is also segmented based on its end-use applications. These applications include residential, commercial, and industrial sectors:

Residential: As the global population continues to urbanize, the demand for residential buildings with reliable backup power systems is increasing. Homeowners and property developers are opting for emergency lighting solutions to ensure safety during power failures.

Commercial: The commercial sector, including office buildings, retail outlets, and public institutions, is a significant consumer of emergency lighting inverters. Commercial properties are required by law to have emergency lighting systems to ensure safety during power outages. This segment is expected to see substantial growth driven by new commercial construction and retrofitting of existing buildings with energy-efficient lighting solutions.

Industrial: In industrial sectors, such as manufacturing plants, warehouses, and factories, the need for reliable emergency lighting is even more critical due to the high risk associated with power interruptions. Emergency lighting inverters are used to power essential lighting systems that ensure safety and operational continuity.

✅ Regional Insights

North America

North America holds a dominant share in the global emergency lighting inverters market, primarily due to the region’s emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainable infrastructure development. The U.S. government has introduced various regulations promoting energy-efficient lighting solutions, which has propelled the adoption of advanced emergency lighting systems. Additionally, the ongoing construction of both residential and commercial properties is expected to further drive demand for emergency lighting inverters.

The U.S. market is also seeing a surge in demand for smart lighting solutions, including emergency lighting inverters, due to increasing awareness regarding energy conservation. Moreover, the availability of high-quality emergency lighting systems from key market players in North America is expected to continue driving the market’s growth.

East Asia

East Asia, particularly countries like China and Japan, is projected to experience rapid growth in the emergency lighting inverters market. This growth can be attributed to extensive infrastructure development and the increasing need for power backup solutions in urban areas. The region has witnessed a significant rise in smart city projects, which require advanced emergency lighting systems to ensure uninterrupted power supply during emergencies.

China’s growing urbanization and the government’s push towards sustainable development are further contributing to the demand for emergency lighting inverters. Japan, on the other hand, continues to invest in resilient infrastructure to protect against frequent natural disasters, making emergency lighting systems critical.

✅ Market Drivers

The demand for emergency lighting inverters is primarily driven by the growing need for backup power solutions in various sectors. Key drivers include:

Safety Concerns: Power outages in critical environments like hospitals, airports, and industrial plants can lead to severe safety hazards. Emergency lighting inverters provide a reliable source of power to ensure that essential lighting systems remain operational during outages, safeguarding both people and property.

Technological Advancements: The lighting industry has seen significant advancements in recent years, with energy-efficient and smart lighting solutions becoming more mainstream. These innovations have driven the demand for more sophisticated emergency lighting inverters capable of supporting new lighting technologies.

Regulatory Mandates: Governments worldwide are imposing stricter regulations requiring businesses and buildings to install emergency lighting systems. These regulations are particularly prevalent in commercial and industrial sectors, where power outages can disrupt operations and compromise safety.

✅ Market Restraints

While the emergency lighting inverters market is growing, several factors may impede its growth:

High Initial Costs: Emergency lighting inverters can be expensive, especially for high-capacity, three-phase systems. This upfront cost can be a barrier for some businesses and homeowners, particularly in developing regions where budgets for infrastructure upgrades may be limited.

Lack of Awareness: In some regions, there is still a lack of awareness about the importance of emergency lighting systems. This lack of knowledge can delay the adoption of emergency lighting inverters in sectors where they are essential.

Technological Barriers: While technological advancements have boosted demand, the integration of new, smart technologies into existing infrastructure can be complex and costly, especially for older buildings. This challenge may delay the widespread adoption of emergency lighting systems in certain regions.

✅ Market Opportunities

Despite the challenges, the emergency lighting inverters market presents several opportunities for growth:

Emerging Markets: As developing countries continue to industrialize and urbanize, there is a growing demand for energy-efficient and reliable lighting solutions. These markets represent a significant opportunity for companies in the emergency lighting inverters industry.

Smart Cities and Green Building Initiatives: The increasing focus on creating smart cities and sustainable buildings presents a major opportunity for emergency lighting inverter manufacturers. Smart cities, in particular, require advanced lighting systems that integrate with the broader infrastructure to ensure energy efficiency and resilience during power outages.

Technological Innovations: Companies that invest in R&D to develop next-generation emergency lighting inverters, such as those incorporating IoT capabilities or enhanced energy storage, will be well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends in the market.

✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

➤ How Big is the Emergency Lighting Inverters Market?➤ Who are the Key Players in the Global Emergency Lighting Inverters Market?➤ What is the Projected Growth Rate of the Market?➤ What is the Market Forecast for Emergency Lighting Inverters for 2032?➤ Which Region is Estimated to Dominate the Industry Through the Forecast Period?

✅ Company Insights

✦ Signify (Cooper Lighting)✦ Hubbell✦ Vertiv✦ ABB✦ Acuity Brands✦ Perfect Power Systems✦ Controlled Power✦ Staco Energy✦ Myers Emergency Power Systems✦ Online Power✦ Go2Power✦ DSP Manufacturing (DSPM)✦ Standard Products Inc.✦ Beghelli✦ LVS Controls✦ IEP Systems Inc.

✅ Recent Developments

■ New Product Launch by Hubbell: Hubbell has recently launched a new line of energy-efficient emergency lighting inverters for commercial buildings, designed to reduce energy consumption and provide reliable backup during outages.

■ Expansion of Vertiv’s Production Capacity: Vertiv has expanded its manufacturing facilities in Asia to meet the growing demand for emergency lighting inverters, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors.

✅ Conclusion

The emergency lighting inverters market is expected to continue its growth trajectory due to rising infrastructure demands, technological advancements, and increasing safety concerns. Key regions like North America and East Asia are set to remain at the forefront, with emerging markets offering significant opportunities. As the industry continues to evolve, manufacturers who focus on innovation and energy-efficient solutions will likely capture the most market share in the coming years.

Persistence Market ResearchG04 Golden Mile House, Clayponds LaneBrentford, London, TW8 0GU UKUSA Phone: +1 646-878-6329UK Phone: +44 203-837-5656Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com

About Persistence Market Research:

At Persistence Market Research, we specialize in creating research studies that serve as strategic tools for driving business growth. Established as a proprietary firm in 2012, we have evolved into a registered company in England and Wales in 2023 under the name Persistence Research & Consultancy Services Ltd. With a solid foundation, we have completed over 3600 custom and syndicate market research projects, and delivered more than 2700 projects for other leading market research companies’ clients.

Our approach combines traditional market research methods with modern tools to offer comprehensive research solutions. With a decade of experience, we pride ourselves on deriving actionable insights from data to help businesses stay ahead of the competition. Our client base spans multinational corporations, leading consulting firms, investment funds, and government departments. A significant portion of our sales comes from repeat clients, a testament to the value and trust we’ve built over the years.

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Luxury & Affordable Mother’s Day Gift – The Luxury Closet

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May 10, 2025

Luxury & Affordable Mother’s Day Gift – The Luxury Closet

Your mom didn’t just raise you; she raised the bar! Putting her heart and soul into making you the best version of yourself wasn’t a cakewalk. She gave you what you needed most: love, strength, and the occasional well-timed side-eye. You see her care in everything she does, from the everyday moments to the grand gestures. No matter what you do, you can never repay her. Besides showing appreciation for her and vowing never to do anything that wouldn’t make her proud, this Mother’s Day, gift her something truly meant for her.

No flowers and chocolates, please (seriously, you were not thinking that). Nor apparel, footwear, perfume, or fine diner’s coupons. This year’s gift must have that timeless quality and what smart moms love- investment appeal- too. How about a luxury handbag? Whether she adores LV, Hermès, Prada, Gucci, or Chanel, you will find a designer piece made just for her.

Relax, We are Not Talking About Breaking a Bank

Let’s be honest: luxury handbags have a reputation for jaw-dropping price tags. But here’s the twist—we’re talking about affordable luxury. Not replicas, not knockoffs—authentic, pre-owned designer bags with all the prestige at up to 70% off.

Why Pre-Owned Luxury is the Smartest Gift

Luxury doesn’t have to mean new. Pre-owned designer bags offer unbeatable value, unique charm, and major eco-points. At The Luxury Closet, you get authenticated pieces from top brands—LV, Chanel, Gucci—at a fraction of retail. She gets the dream bag. You keep your savings. Win-win.

But Why a Designer Handbag?

Designer bags aren’t just a nice carryall to flaunt—they’re wearable heirlooms, style statements, and symbols of appreciation. Whether she’s a fashion-forward trendsetter or a minimalist person who loves elegance, the right handbag makes her feel seen, stylish, and spoiled (as she should be). Besides, if we talk practically, it will remain in fashion for years to come and naturally be a great hands-me-down once she has used it enough.

Tips for Choosing the Right Bag for Your Mom

Luxury is personal—and so is your mom’s style. The best designer handbag for your mom shouldn’t be about labels but how well it fits into her life. So before you click “add to cart,” take a moment to think like a stylist-meets-therapist. Here’s how to find the one:

1. Take Into Account Her Persona

Your mom’s vibe says it all. Match the bag to her unique presence:

Elegant and Stylish with High-End Tastes

Think Chanel, Hermès, or Dior. Look for refined silhouettes, luxe textures (lambskin, croc-embossed leather), and timeless shades like beige, black, or blush. The Chanel Classic Flap Bag or Hermès Garden Party Tote exudes quiet luxury with everyday elegance.

Smart Dresser Without Going Over the Top

She’s the queen of understated sophistication. Go for clean lines and structured designs like the Saint Laurent Sac de Jour or Céline Luggage Tote. They make a statement—without screaming for attention.

If she’s all about minimalism with a twist, opt for brands like Bottega Veneta, Loewe, or The Row. Neutral-toned hobos, pouches, or slouchy cross bodies are effortlessly cool and age beautifully.

Always event-ready? She needs a bag that turns heads. Think Fendi Baguette, Gucci Dionysus, or a pop-color Balenciaga Hourglass. These are conversation starters with just the correct dose of drama.

Pro tip: Stalk her current go-to bag. Is it structured or slouchy? Gold or silver hardware? Is it big enough for a Kindle or just to accommodate a phone and lipstick? The answers are clues.

2. Match Her Lifestyle

Luxury should never gather dust. Pick a handbag that complements how she lives, moves, and multitasks:

Always balancing errands, appointments, and family? Go hands-free with a Gucci Soho Disco, Prada Nylon Backpack, or a spacious Louis Vuitton Neverfull. Style meets stamina.

The Effortlessly Cool Mom

She lives by the “less is more” mantra. Sleek, unfussy bags like the Céline Trio, Saint Laurent Lou Camera Bag, or a Bottega Veneta Pouch are just her speed—compact, curated, and cool.

She needs polish and practicality if she juggles meetings, laptops, and life goals. Go for a Tory Burch tote, Givenchy Antigona, or Fendi Peekaboo—boardroom-worthy and beautifully functional.

3. Canvas vs. Leather: What Would Mom Prefer?

Some moms crave the earthy charm of canvas; others swear by the polished power of leather. Each material has its own vibe, so match her bag to her personality:

If She’s All About Effortless Ease—Go Canvas

Durable, lightweight, and casually cool, canvas bags are ideal for moms who love comfort with a side of style.Top Picks:

Louis Vuitton Neverfull Monogram Canvas – Spacious, iconic, and endlessly versatile

Goyard Saint Louis Tote – Understated luxury with a graphic edge

Gucci GG Supreme Tote – Structured yet relaxed, and eco-conscious to boot

If She Loves Luxe and Longevity—Pick Leather

Timeless, elegant, and made to last, leather bags age beautifully and mean business.Top Picks:

Saint Laurent Sac de Jour – Sleek, structured, and pure power-dressing

Chloé Marcie Satchel – A soft, boho classic with feminine flair

Prada Saffiano Leather Tote – Durable, refined, and perfect for work or weekends

Pro Tip: Canvas is great for day-to-day ease; leather ups the luxury factor for elevated occasions.

4. Think About Her Wardrobe

Fashion harmony is key—her new bag should blend seamlessly with her everyday looks:

Classic & Neutral Palette?

Stick to timeless shades like black, tan, grey, or beige that pair effortlessly with her staple pieces.

Bold & Bright Enthusiast?

Go vibrant with red, emerald, cobalt, or even pastels to add a fun pop to her outfits.

Match the aesthetic—fringed and soft for boho, structured and elegant for glam, and retro shapes for vintage lovers.

Pro tip: A bag she’ll actually use should complement her wardrobe—not compete with it.

5. Prioritize Versatility

She’s dynamic, and her bag should be too. Look for styles that can transition effortlessly between moments:

Convertible bags—like those with a crossbody and shoulder strap options—add major mileage.

Picks like the Chanel Wallet on Chain (WOC) or Mulberry Lily go from coffee runs to cocktails with stylish ease.

6. Pay Attention to Hardware & Features

The little things matter—sometimes more than you realize.

Gold Hardware: Warm, timeless, and a little glam.

Silver Hardware: Cool, sleek, and modern.

Brushed or Matte Finishes: Subtle sophistication.

Bonus points for thoughtful design: feet on the base to prevent scuffs, interior compartments for organization, or a top zip for added security.

7. Add a Personal Touch

Make it more than just a gift—make it memorable.

Slip in a handwritten note. Add something sentimental: a keychain with her initials, a printed silk scarf, or a note slipped into the inner pocket. These extra touches turn a gift into a keepsake.

Top Affordable Luxury Picks for Mom: Timeless yet Budget-friendly

Here are some curated selections available on The Luxury Closet:

1. Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 Monogram Canvas

Why She’ll Love It: An iconic piece known for its spacious interior and classic design, perfect for daily use or travel.
Price Range: Approximately $550 to $650 for pre-owned models, offering significant savings compared to new retail prices.
Product Link: Louis Vuitton Speedy 30.

2. Gucci Soho Disco Bag

Why She’ll Love It: Compact yet roomy, this crossbody bag is versatile for day and evening outings.
Price Range: Prices for pre-owned Gucci Soho Disco Bags vary, with some listings around $451.
Product Link: Gucci Soho Disco Bag

3. Prada Nylon Shoulder Bag

Why She’ll Love It: Lightweight and durable, this bag is ideal for the mom who appreciates practicality without compromising style.
Price Range: Pre-owned prices can vary, with some models at $1,196.
Product Link: Prada Nylon Shoulder Bag

4. Chloé Marcie Crossbody Bag

Why She’ll Love It: With its bohemian charm and elegant design, the Marcie is perfect for casual and formal occasions.
Price Range: Pre-owned Chloé Marcie bags are available in various colors and sizes, with prices depending on the specific model and condition.
Product Link: Chloé Marcie Crossbody Bag

How to Shop Confidently for Pre-Owned Luxury.

Worried about counterfeits? We get it. Here’s how TLC makes your gift foolproof:

Rigorous authentication process
Detailed product descriptions and condition grades
Clear return policies and secure payment options

At The Luxury Closet, you’ll find pre-loved designer handbags that are:

100% Authentic, verified by expert in-house authenticators
Up to 70% off retail prices
From top brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, and Chanel

It’s the smart, stylish way to splurge without going broke. Basically, we’ve done the homework so you can relax.

Wrap It Up Right With Taste, Love and Happiness

This year, you’ve got yourself a Mother’s Day win that says: I love you, and I have great taste. This isn’t just a bag—it’s a thank-you. A “you deserve the world” in calfskin and canvas—a Mother’s Day moment she’ll remember every time she zips it open. Shop smart, wrap it right, and watch her face light up—a luxury never looked so personal. With love @ The Luxury Closet!

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Monad Announcing Monad Testnet-2

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Metaverse Fashion Week Online

May 10, 2025

Monad Testnet-2 launch aligns with a broader trend of blockchain projects preparing for mainnet launches in 2025, following a record-breaking year for crypto adoption, with Bitcoin surpassing $100,000 in February.

Announcing Monad Testnet-2!

Testnet-2 is an experimental environment for enhancing validator readiness for mainnet – this is for validators, not for users.

A total of 100-150 participants will be selected. T-2 is expected to last for 10 weeks starting in late May. pic.twitter.com/ias3KBv8LE

— Monad ⨀ (@monad_xyz) May 8, 2025

The focus on validator readiness in Testnet-2 reflects Monad’s emphasis on decentralization, addressing a key challenge in the blockchain trilemma – balancing scalability, security, and decentralization – as highlighted by Shardeum’s similar efforts in 2023.

Monad’s selection of 100-150 validators for Testnet-2 mirrors strategies used by other Layer 1 blockchains like Ethereum, which used testnets like Ropsten to simulate mainnet conditions before major upgrades.

Source: X

The 10-week duration of Testnet-2, starting in late May, positions Monad’s mainnet launch potentially in early August, aligning with community predictions of a Q3 rollout.

Monad’s parallel operation of Testnet-1 and Testnet-2 ensures continuity for users, a strategy similar to Solana’s use of devnet and testnet environments to separate user and validator testing.

The experimental nature of Testnet-2 builds on Monad’s earlier success, with its first testnet crossing 1 billion transactions in April, signaling strong network performance.

Monad’s focus on validator training could enhance its appeal for institutional adoption, especially as US banks now face fewer restrictions on handling client crypto assets following recent OCC rule changes.

The timing of Testnet-2 coincides with Ethereum’s Pectra upgrade on May 7, which improved scalability and staking limits, potentially intensifying competition among Layer 1 blockchains.

Read more: ETH Price Prediction after Pectra Upgrade in May

Additionally, Monad launched a MON testnet airdrop to reward active users on Farcaster, distributing tokens to 77,000 accounts.

Read more: Check Airdrop Monad Token (MON) on Your Farcaster Wallet

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Why Is Ethereum Beating Bitcoin With Explosive Gains? – Decrypt

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Metaverse Fashion Week Online

May 9, 2025

Why Is Ethereum Beating Bitcoin With Explosive Gains? – Decrypt

In brief

Crypto markets rallied this week, with Bitcoin reclaiming $100K in the process.
On Friday, ETH was the big winner, gaining at one point more than 15% in 24 hours.
Still, the coin has failed to get near to breaking a new high this year—unlike Bitcoin and Solana.

For the past two years, Ethereum‘s price has lagged behind Bitcoin. But over the past two days, ETH has been outpacing BTC and other major coins, with three analysts whom Decrypt contacted attributing its huge gains to a flawlessly executed technical upgrade and a few hopeful signs about the global economy.

The analysts believe that Ethereum may have significant upside after languishing in the doldrums amid concerns about its underlying network’s speed and efficiency.

“The market is poised to reward ETH, the world’s second-largest crypto asset, as it emerges from internal challenges, layer-1 competition, and Q1 risk-off pressures,” said Joel Kruger, market strategist at LMAX Group, a financial technology firm offering foreign exchange and crypto trading services.

“With the Ethereum Foundation advancing upgrades and a favorable global macro risk environment, investors are seizing heavily discounted prices.”

On Thursday, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization smashed through the $2,000 threshold and later topped $2,400 early Friday, hitting its highest level in more than three months, according to crypto data provider CoinGecko. ETH, which was recently settled at $2,337, has gained 30% over the past 48 hours. Bitcoin has risen 8%.

Those gains, a continuation of an upswing in markets dating to early April, accelerated on Wednesday after the so-called Pectra upgrade, which aims to improve the Ethereum network’s scalability and user friendliness. Pre-launch testing of the upgrade hit some snags, but those were ironed out in time for the mainnet launch, which encountered no such issues.

Ethereum has faced increasing competition from Solana and other layer-1 networks whose proponents say are more capable than ETH.

“Enthusiasm only grew after this week’s flawless rollout of the Pectra upgrade, the biggest technical milestone since the merge,” GSR Research Analyst Carlos Guzman said.

He added that the upgrade, combined with “broader crypto tailwind fueled by encouraging macro headlines,” was causing the rally.

It was the second major improvement in three years for Ethereum, following the 2022 merge, which changed the network from a proof-of-work blockchain to a proof-of-stake blockchain.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump this week appeared to ratchet back his trade war, signing a deal with the U.K. and suggesting plans to lower tariffs with China.

Risk-on assets responded with a flurry, with major indexes jumping on Thursday, including the tech-heavy Nasdaq and S&P 500.

Amberdata’s Director of Derivatives Greg Magadini told Decrypt that ETH last week was experiencing less volatility, and increased buying could lead it to “relief rally”—when negative news tends to be more positive than previously interpreted.

Even with this week’s spike, however, Ethereum remains considerably down from its 2021 record of $4,878. Bitcoin, meanwhile, is only down 5% from its own peak price set back in January.

Edited by James Rubin

Daily Debrief Newsletter

Start every day with the top news stories right now, plus original features, a podcast, videos and more.

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General Hospital: Dante Hating Gio – Huge Repeat Plot – 5th Time GH Has Done It!

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May 9, 2025

General Hospital: Dante Hating Gio – Huge Repeat Plot – 5th Time GH Has Done It!

General Hospital sees Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) having this growing animosity towards Gio Palmieri (Giovanni Mazza) basically out of nowhere. This is his secret son. And so this feels like another redo of the same old plot that GH likes to do where there’s a secret parent and child relationship and they dislike each other right before they find out they’re related.

Do you know how many times GH has done this? It’s a lot. We’re going to talk about it. It’s Belynda from Soap Dirt. And we’re going to look back really quick at how GH always makes people hate each other while building up to a secret paternity or maternity connection. This is, I think, the fifth time at least that they have done it. And now they’re playing it out again with Dante and Gio.

Dante’s Sudden Animosity Towards Gio: Another General Hospital Secret Parent Plot?

So right now, the people who know Dante is Gio’s father are Lois Cerullo (Rena Sofer), her mom Gloria Cerullo (Ellen Travolta), and Martin Gray (Michael E. Knight) the lawyer. I think that’s pretty much it. But Lulu Spencer’s (Alexa Havins Bruening) on the case and it looks like she’s about to figure it out and blow this whole thing wide open.

And this dislike that Dante has for Gio, it’s come out of the blue. It’s very ill-placed, not organic and very awkward. It’s very forced. That’s what I feel watching it, honestly. It feels contrived and out of character for Dante. Obviously, he was scared about what Rocco Falceroni (Finn Frances Carr) did, but Gio clearly did nothing wrong when it came to the college party where Rocco got drunk.

General Hospital: Played Out Plot?

And what’s funny is I was watching Monday’s episode and my husband walked through my office and said, “GH is going to make Dante hate Gio just like they did with Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) and Dante.” I laughed and I was like, “Oh, they wouldn’t do that again.” And then a few minutes later, I was like, “Ah, hubby called it. They are doing it again.”

Everybody thought Gio was a great kid until this alcohol poisoning incident. We haven’t heard an unkind word about him. And then Dante all of a sudden is blaming Gio, who didn’t take him to the party, didn’t know he was there, none of that. And he even threatened criminal charges.

They are making Dante dislike Gio in a very transparent ploy to replay history yet again. This is, as I said, the fifth time this has happened. Maybe more, but five. This is the fifth time I can recall. Do you remember the four other times that they had two characters hate each other before a big parent and child reveal? We’re going to talk about it.

General Hospital’s First Secret Son Story: Sonny and Dante’s Shocking Reveal

So, speaking of Dante, let’s talk about him and Sonny first. If you have been watching General Hospital for a while, you’ll recall that when Dante first came to Port Charles, he had no idea Sonny was his dad, and vice versa. Sonny didn’t know either. Dante’s mother, Olivia Falconeri (Lisa LoCicero), got pregnant as a teen, but she never told Sonny and raised him as a single mom.

And then lo and behold, a couple of decades later, Dante popped up in Port Chuck as an undercover cop using a fake name. He was trying to take Sonny down because he was a mob boss, you know. And Dante got the goods on him, but then he felt guilty for building a case against Sonny because they had gotten close. And when the warrant came in, in the end, Dante was like, “Okay, I have to do my job.”

He went to arrest Sonny and by then Jason Morgan (Steve Burton) and Sonny figured out Dante was a cop. Sonny set a trap and he shot Dante point blank. He almost killed him. Olivia showed up and screamed at Sonny that he had just shot his own son. That’s how Sonny found out about his kid.

Dante almost died. He recovered. He did not rat out Sonny for shooting him. And although they’re close now, Dante and Sonny conflicted over the years because they are on opposing sides of the law. Now, lo and behold, we’re getting a second-generation secret son storyline with Gio and Dante. And although it’s not identical to the Sonny and Dante story, the vibe and intent are very much the same.

Sam and Alexis’ Secret Mother-Daughter Drama: A GH History of Conflict and Connection

Next, you cannot forget about Sam McCall (Kelly Monaco) and Alexis Davis (Nancy Lee Grahn). Things got off to a bad start when Sam had gotten pregnant by Sonny at the same time that his and Alexis’ daughter Kristina Corinthos-Davis (Kate Mansi), who was little back then, was sick.

And Alexis wanted Sam to induce labor early so they could use the stem cells from her umbilical cord to save Kristina because they were half-sisters. And Sam was very reluctant. She knew it would be risky, but in the end, she agreed. And then of course sadly baby Lila died.

So, there was a lot of resentment from Sam aimed at Alexis. And then things got even worse between them when her brother Danny Morgan was dying of encephalitis. Alexis also had it and got the life-saving serum while Danny did not. And then he died. And of course, Sam named her son Danny (Asher Jared Antonyzyn) after her brother Danny.

General Hospital: Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) - Gio Palmieri (Giovanni Mazza) — General Hospital: Dante Falconeri – Gio Palmieri

General Hospital: Family Fallout from Secret Children

Right before he died, Danny told Sam that she was adopted. And that happened at the same time that her dislike of Alexis was intensifying. And of course, later when Sam found out Alexis was her mom, she wasn’t thrilled. Things got even messier between Sam and Alexis when Sam slept with Ric Lansing (Rick Hearst) while he was married to Alexis.

Even worse, when Sam and Ric were doing the deed on the living room rug, Alexis actually saw them going at it through the window. I remember that so vividly. And eventually Sam and Alexis grew into this wonderful mother-daughter relationship. And then of course she tragically lost Sam when Cyrus Renault (Jeff Kober) murdered her last year. This was yet another storyline contrived to make a secret parent and child hate each other before the big reveal.

Nina and Willow’s Difficult Path: Uncovering a Secret Mother-Daughter Relationship on GH

Next, got to talk about Nina Reeves (Cynthia Watros) and Willow Tait (Katelyn MacMullen), right? They disliked each other from the jump. That was back when Michelle Stafford was playing the role of Nina. And at the time, Willow was Charlotte Cassadine’s (Scarlett Fernandez) teacher, and Nina was her devoted stepmother. That was when she was with Valentin Cassadine (James Patrick Stuart).

So, Nina hassled Willow. She accused her of being unfair and unkind to Charlotte. And as it turned out, Willow was in the right. Charlotte was in the wrong because the kid was a school bully. And Nina tried to get Willow fired.

And Nina probably would have made it happen if not for a petition signed by a lot of other parents saved Willow’s job. Meanwhile, Nina was on a mission to find her long-lost daughter she gave birth to during that 20-year-long coma. And it turns out that her daughter was Nelle Benson (Chloe Lanier).

General Hospital: Twin Twist Fails?

But there was more to come because Harmony Miller (Inga Cadranel) turned out not to be Willow’s bio mom and Nina was. So they were doing a whole bunch of recon stuff on top of this. Turns out Nina had twin girls while in a coma and her awful mom Madeline Reeves (Donna Mills) wanted the kids out of Nina’s life because she hated Silas Clay (Michael Easton), the twins’ father.

So Nelle died in the interim and Nina thought she’d never be a mom and then the twin twist. And immediately Nina wanted to put their past behind them so she could be a mom to Willow, but she rejected her and it was just a whole lot of back and forth. They’re in a good spot now, of course, but it seems doomed because of Nina plotting against Drew Cain Quartermaine (Cameron Mathison). I feel like Willow and Nina’s relationship is on borrowed time.

The Original GH Secret Parent Hate Story: Bobbie and Carly’s Volatile Beginnings

And last, but by no means least, we’re going to go back in time to the very first of these storylines that I can recall on GH, which is Bobbie Spencer (Jacklyn Zeman) and Carly Corinthos Spencer (Laura Wright). Things with them were particularly volatile because Carly came to Port Charles hellbent on destroying her biological mom, Bobbie.

So, this first story was slightly different because Carly knew Bobbie was her mom when she came to town, unlike the other reveals where both the child and the parent were in the dark. So, that’s kind of why I saved this one for last, but it was really the genesis of all of this that they keep repeating and repeating and repeating, every 10 years or so. Carly did not have the best childhood, and she resented Bobbie. She thought that her mom had this charmed life in Port Charles and had just kicked her aside.

Of course, Carly had no idea about Bobbie’s rough and tragic upbringing, living at a brothel as a teen, working as a prostitute for years. All Carly saw was this nice cushy life Bobbie had worked very hard for and she wanted to destroy it. So, Carly seduced Bobbie’s husband, Tony Jones (Brad Maule) and destroyed their marriage.

That was a whopper of an obstacle for them to overcome but they eventually did and had a loving mother-daughter relationship right up until Bobbie’s sad passing in May of 2023. So, this is certainly a pattern for General Hospital, and it looks like they’re going to follow suit with Dante and Gio. Hopefully, they don’t make Gio and Dante completely hate each other before it’s revealed that they are father and son and hopefully that bombshell drops sooner rather than later. We’ll have to wait and see.

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NEBULA Phase Launches: The New Era of Decentralized Compute Has Begun

Web3

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May 9, 2025

NEBULA Phase Launches: The New Era of Decentralized Compute Has Begun

The landscape of decentralized infrastructure is rapidly evolving, and Spheron continues to lead the charge. Building on the momentum of Stellar Phase III, we are now launching the NEBULA Phase — our most accessible and frictionless chapter to date in the Fizz Node journey. With this phase, Spheron eliminates barriers to participation and opens the door to anyone who wants to contribute to the future of decentralized compute and AI infrastructure.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to join, this is it.

The NEBULA Phase represents a pivotal moment in developing Spheron’s decentralized GPU network. While previous phases helped lay the foundation, NEBULA is designed to maximize accessibility and enable mass participation with minimal friction.

Key features of the NEBULA Phase:

No registration or onboarding fees

Free minting of the NEBULA NFT

No complex setup or technical barriers

Immediate eligibility to run a Fizz Node and earn FN Points

This approach transforms high-performance consumer hardware, particularly GPUs, into productive capital that contributes to decentralized infrastructure while generating passive income for participants.

Why NEBULA is a Game-Changer

With over 35,000 Fizz Nodes already live, Spheron is rapidly scaling toward 75,000 and beyond. NEBULA unlocks the next wave of growth by providing:

Frictionless onboarding: Anyone with eligible hardware can join the network without upfront costs.

Free access to infrastructure: Participants receive a NEBULA NFT at no cost, which serves as their entry pass to the Fizz Node ecosystem.

Passive income potential: Nodes earn FN Points based on uptime and network contribution, allowing participants to turn idle compute into ongoing rewards.

Simple setup: Registering, installing, and running a Fizz Node is streamlined and accessible even to non-developers.

Community incentives: Active participants gain access to events, special roles, and early opportunities in Spheron’s roadmap.

This phase removes every traditional barrier—cost, complexity, exclusivity—and opens decentralized infrastructure to anyone with capable hardware.

Who Should Participate?

The NEBULA Phase is not limited to developers or crypto-native users. It’s built for a broad audience:

Gamers with high-end GPUs can earn rewards while their systems are idle.

Builders and Web3 enthusiasts can help power a decentralized AI future.

DeFi users and early adopters can contribute to a foundational infrastructure layer with long-term value.

General users interested in contributing to decentralized systems without the complexities of mining or staking.

How to Get Started

Joining the NEBULA Phase is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps to become part of the network:

Visit fizz.spheron.network

Claim your free NEBULA NFT

Install and run the node using the dashboard guide

Begin earning FN Points for participation and uptime

No upfront fees, no technical roadblocks — just a simple path to contributing to and benefiting from the decentralized future.

The Road to 100K Nodes: From Stellar to Nebula

The launch of the NEBULA Phase builds on the phased structure Spheron has implemented to steadily scale its decentralized network:

Phase 1 – OG Fizzers (5,000 nodes): The initial pioneers who validated the concept and formed the base layer.

Phase 2 – Lunar Fizzers (25,000 nodes): Reinforced and tested the network’s growth and reliability.

Phase 3 – Stellar Fizzers (50,000 nodes): Expanded capacity and introduced incentivized participation via a small NFT minting fee.

Phase 4 – Nebula Fizzers (75,000 nodes): Broadens participation through full accessibility and zero cost entry.

Phase 5 – Galactic Fizzers (100,000 nodes): Completes the first decentralized GPU constellation supporting AI and Web3.

Each phase introduces new levels of accessibility and community engagement, while expanding Spheron’s capability to support advanced decentralized applications.

Why This Matters

The NEBULA Phase is more than a network expansion—it is a shift in how individuals interact with and support digital infrastructure. Traditionally, only large corporations had access to the tools and capital required to build AI and Web3 systems. Spheron changes that by enabling anyone with the right hardware to become a contributor.

Through the NEBULA Phase, Spheron transforms consumer hardware into infrastructure and individual contributors into stakeholders in a decentralized AI future. This democratization of compute power ensures broader access, enhanced resilience, and a truly decentralized approach to infrastructure development.

Key Benefits of Participating

Join the largest decentralized GPU network with no upfront cost

Mint your NEBULA NFT for free and gain access to exclusive roles and events

Start earning FN Points immediately after setup

Help build a robust infrastructure for AI, Web3, and DeFi applications

Future-proof your participation by becoming an early contributor in a rapidly growing ecosystem

Conclusion: Your Opportunity to Contribute to a New Internet Layer

The decentralized future needs infrastructure, and the NEBULA Phase offers an open invitation to help build it. Whether you’re a gamer with an idle rig, a developer passionate about decentralized systems, or someone simply seeking to be part of something meaningful, now is the time to act.

Join the NEBULA Phase and help shape the compute backbone of tomorrow’s internet.

Get started: fizz.spheron.networkJoin the community: sphn.wiki/discord

Let’s build the decentralized future—together.

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Digital Economy: The Cloud Mining Platform as Wealth Engine

Arts

Metaverse Fashion Week Online

May 9, 2025

Digital Economy: The Cloud Mining Platform as Wealth Engine

The swift expansion of cryptocurrencies in recent times has caused significant changes in the world’s financial system and brought about new technological advancements. The mining industry has played a significant role in shaping this trend, with digital assets like Bitcoin and Dogecoin being the most popular. Traditional mining is challenging for many beginners due to its expensive hardware, significant energy usage, and demanding technical specifications. The cloud mining model’s widespread adoption in 2025 has subverted this situation, and the global cloud mine platform is now a significant factor in driving industry change.

U.S. Government Position on Crypto Integration

In a statement, the OCT confirmed that national banks in the United States can engage in cryptocurrency activities and have more authority over their supervision. Today’s decision aims to ease the requirements for banks participating in crypto-related operations and to promote consistent regulatory treatment of these financial activities by the Office of the Comptroller of the Connemara, regardless of which technology is used, stated Rodney Hood, the interim head of the U.S. government’s financial oversight agency. But I’m going to work hard on making sure there is no excessive regulation and a strong federal system of banking.

Digital Assets and the Future of the Financial System

Analyze the future of digital assets in the U.S. financial system, particularly as the President’s Digital Asset Task Force seeks to integrate digital currencies like Cardano, XRP, and Solana into the country’s financial model. The U.S. government is exploring ways to leverage cryptocurrencies strategically, as the global market for digital currencies has evolved. This move follows several other recent developments in this area.

Breaking the Barrier and Generating Value Through Global Cloud Mining

By transferring the intricate cryptocurrency mining technique to global cloud mining, traditional mining still requires significant investment in equipment and technical expertise. Users can access and participate in the mining of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Dogecoin through the Internet. The overall mining efficiency is greatly improved, in addition to a decrease in the participation threshold.

With the aid of advanced technology and improved user experience, the Global Cloud Mining Platform has quickly gained prominence. The cryptocurrency ecosystem has created a vast terrain for all investors to navigate by offering user-friendly operating tools and full-process services.

Why Choose Global Cloud Mining?

Despite the fierce competition in the market, Global Cloud Mining quickly established itself as the primary platform for users.

Simple one-stop operation

Its user interface is simple and accessible, making it easy for newcomers to grasp the fundamentals of how things work. User-friendly guidance facilitates the creation of accounts, contract selection for contracts, and the mining startup with ease.

Strict security protection

It uses the latest technologies in industry, such as McAfee® and Cloudflare®, to build a multi-level strong data structure for users, with an emphasis on creating user-friendly investment environments.

Flexible income and personalized choices

Global Cloud Mining offers a daily income distribution system and custom-made flexible contracts to cater to users’ diverse mining needs, with primary personalized income.

Absolute transparency, no hidden fees

The site maintains a transparent operating model, no additional charges, and no form of disinformation about daily investment returns.

The new model of cloud mining provides further opportunities for users in the currency circle…. By focusing on Global Cloud Mining, the industry is leading in technology and economy integration to create more opportunities for all.

The Cloud Mining Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose Global Cloud Mining at the beginning of the process

Mining options like Dogecoin and Bitcoin are available through Global Cloud Mining. The users can begin mining immediately with a minimum deposit.

Step 2: Register an account

The only thing required is an email address to become a member. Users can start mining Global Cloud Mining without pre-payment by using an invitation code, which comes with an optional $10 bonus..

Step 3: Select a Mining Contract

Choose the appropriate plan according to your investment objectives to achieve sustainable profitability.

A sustainable method for mining cryptocurrencies in 2025 is now possible, thanks to Global Cloud Mining’s advanced technology and customer-centric approach. Profitability and ease of use are guaranteed by the platform, which is suitable for both experienced investors and novice users.

Toward Sustainable, Responsible Tech-Driven Growth

Experts at the epicenter of the technological storm will enhance cooperation and understanding through this one-of-a-kind platform.. Remember that with the rise of technology, you can also be in compliance, environmental protection and social responsibility! Please! The digital economy can genuinely facilitate sustainable development through this approach.

Visit the official website for more information: https://35global.com

Email: [email protected]

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