AUSTRAC is contacting inactive crypto exchanges and warning they must deregister or face cancellation.
Several firms, including FTX Express and AccE Australia, have already lost their registrations due to inactivity or insolvency.
The crackdown comes ahead of Australia’s May 3 election, with calls mounting for clearer crypto regulation.
Australia’s financial watchdog has told dormant crypto businesses to “use it or lose it,” warning it will cancel registrations as part of a sweeping crackdown to protect consumers and curb criminal activity.
The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) said it is connecting with digital currency exchanges (DCEs) that appear inactive, urging them to voluntarily withdraw their registrations or face cancellation, in a statement released Monday.
AUSTRAC’s CEO, Brendan Thomas, said in the statement that such businesses pose a “high risk” of being “co-opted” by criminals due to the legitimacy attached to AUSTRAC registration.
“Our intelligence shows cryptocurrency can be exploited by criminals for money laundering, scams, and money mule activities, and we’re seeing far too many people falling victim to scams involving digital currency,” Thomas said.
AUSTRAC has 427 registered DCEs but believes many are no longer operating, according to the statement.
The financial watchdog plans to publish cancellations online and launch a public register to help customers verify legitimate providers.
“Members of the public should feel confident that they can identify legitimate cryptocurrency providers that are registered and subject to regulatory oversight,” the AUSTRAC CEO said, vowing to “drive criminals out of this industry.”
Several companies, including FTX Express Pty Ltd, AccE Australia Pty Ltd, and Oaks Payments Pty Ltd, have already had their registrations canceled in recent years after falling inactive or facing insolvency.
“If a DCE does intend to offer a service, they need to contact us otherwise, we will cancel the registration,” Thomas said, adding that firms can reapply if “circumstances change.”
AUSTRAC’s crypto “blitz”
The “blitz” follows a year-long AUSTRAC investigation that led to regulatory actions against 13 crypto firms in February.
The regulator flagged over 50 additional firms under scrutiny and warned that non-compliant businesses face suspension or deregistration.
The intense crackdown comes as Australia heads toward an election on May 3, with crypto regulation emerging as a key flashpoint.
Recently, global crypto exchange Coinbase called on Australian voters to support candidates pushing for clear digital asset regulations, calling the country’s crypto policy environment “frustratingly vague and underdeveloped.”
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This report summarizes the activities and accomplishments of Web3j, an LF Decentralized Trust project, from November 2024 to April 2025. During this period, the project made significant strides in improving the framework’s functionality, enhancing user engagement, and bolstering overall community interaction.
Key highlights include successful library upgrades, a noteworthy LF Decentralized Trust mentorship initiative, and critical integrations that elevate Web3j’s capabilities and compatibility. This document outlines the achievements against previously set goals and provides an overview of additional developments that enrich the Web3j ecosystem.
The current project roadmap is public and can be found here.
Goals Achieved
During the last six months, the project has achieved the following goals:
Upgrade web3j-android branch to the latest version and release libraries as Android artifacts – this was done during the 2024 mentorship under Hyperledger Foundation:Organized the First Web3J Hyperledger Ecosystem Summit – an event at which we connected with the enterprise users of Web3j and collected feedback:Connect with the community through various events:Solved bugs and closed part of the open issues: Closed 15 open issues across all Web3j repositories;Implemented, reviewed, and merged over 20 Pull requests in the Web3j repositories that fixed different bugs or improved the functionalities, such as:Fix ENS CCIP, ERC-3668Fix build scripts on web3j-androidFix Web3j Transaction logic to return the expected chainId when interacting with Solidity 0.8.26 or 0.8.27 Clean subscription after EVM websocket disconnectsCatch all the exception during EVM response parsingImprove codebase by fixing Sonar reported issuesExtended ENS integration support (details in this blog post):Added support for HoleskySet Primary Name functionalityManage ENS record metadataManage ENS Service metadataRefactor the off-chain gas provider inside the library to work dynamically: https://github.com/LFDT-web3j/web3j/pull/2142Enhanced Web3j libraries by migration to Java 21, Kotlin 2.1.0 and integration with a more recent version of the EVM client, Besu:Prague/Electra Upgrade:EIP-7702 support: https://github.com/LFDT-web3j/web3j/pull/2178
Other Accomplishments
Except the goals mentioned above we managed to achieve other accomplishments also for Web3j project:
Removed “Hyperledger” from the project name to streamline the Web3j brand under LF Decentralized TrustSubmitted and got approval for two Web3j mentorship programs, which will take place in 2025, under Linux Foundation Decentralized Trust Membership Program:LFDT – Web3j Libraries Full Development Lifecycle – This project aims to enhance the core Web3j by improving and bringing up to date its component libraries as web3j-unit, web3j-evm, web3j-openapi, focusing on reducing existing issues and integrating the missing EIPs. By improving the additional Web3j libraries, we aim to streamline development workflows, enhance testability, and create a more robust framework that simplifies Ethereum development for Java and JVM-based projects.LFDT – Web3j: Enhancing JVM Android Support with Kotlin Wrappers for Solidity Smart Contracts – This project proposes to build upon the accomplishments of the prior mentorship by further enhancing and expanding the functionalities of the Web3j-Android library. Given Kotlin’s prominence as the preferred programming language for Android development, this initiative aims specifically to facilitate the generation of Kotlin-based smart contract wrappers.Added support for Solidity versions 0.8.27, 0.8.28, 0.8.29 in web3j compiler (web3j-sokt) for processing new Solidity Smart ContractsFixed external imports of the Solidity Smart Contracts for the resulting Java Wrappers in order to manage complex smart contracts which are using different libraries within the web3j: https://github.com/LFDT-web3j/web3j-solidity-gradle-plugin/pull/78Improved the Java Wrapper smart contract generation for files that have duplicate event names: https://github.com/LFDT-web3j/web3j/pull/2124Added RPC support for Linea networks: https://github.com/LFDT-web3j/web3j/pull/2150Added support for Solidity Custom Error Type: https://github.com/LFDT-web3j/web3j/pull/2173Released three versions for the library during this period:
The past six months have marked considerable progress for the Web3j project. The successful completion of major updates, including the significant upgrade to web3j-android and improved ENS integration, exemplifies the team’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
Additionally, proactive community engagement, highlighted by the first Web3j Hyperledger Ecosystem Summit and frequent contributor interactions, has fostered a more vibrant and collaborative environment. Looking forward, approved mentorship programs and ongoing enhancements underscore a promising trajectory for Web3j, ensuring it remains a robust, versatile tool for Ethereum and smart contract developers.
April 29, 2025 — In a significant move for India’s rapidly growing blockchain ecosystem, Bitget and Avalanche have officially announced a strategic partnership aimed at driving grassroots-level adoption of Web3 technology across the country. This collaboration represents a key step in the companies shared mission to empower developers, educate users, and build robust Web3 infrastructure within one of the world’s largest emerging digital economies.
While Bitget — a Seychelles-based leading crypto exchange — continues to expand its footprint globally, Avalanche, an open-source layer-1 blockchain created at Cornell University and developed by New York-based Ava Labs, has been actively investing in Asia’s blockchain sector. Their new partnership focuses on boosting India’s crypto services landscape, offering mentorship, funding opportunities, and public awareness campaigns for blockchain and Web3 use cases.
A Year-Long Web3 Campaign and Community Programs:
As part of this agreement, Bitget and Avalanche are rolling out a series of educational workshops, awareness campaigns, and meetups under the banner of “HODL ON” tours. These initiatives are specifically designed to promote crypto literacy, blockchain safety, and hands-on learning opportunities for Indian developers and crypto enthusiasts.
The “HODL ON” tours, which kicked off recently with meetups in Delhi and Bengaluru, have already drawn attention from India’s fast-growing Web3 community. These events provide local developers and startups with a platform to showcase their innovations, engage with global blockchain leaders, and compete for funding and grants.
“Empowering users with the right knowledge are essential to unlocking the full potential of blockchain in India’s digital future. We’re committed to bridging this gap through community programs, partnerships with universities, and accessible learning tools,” said Jyotsna Hridyani, South Asia Head at Bitget, in a prepared statement.
Supporting India’s Web3 Developer Boom:
India has rapidly emerged as a global leader in Web3 talent. The India Web3 Landscape Report (2024) by Hashed Emergent recently revealed that the country’s Web3 developer community grew by an impressive 28% in 2024, adding 4.7 million developers to GitHub — setting the stage for India to surpass the US as the largest hub of Web3 developers by 2028.
Recognizing this potential, both Bitget and Avalanche are committed to nurturing India’s blockchain innovation pipeline through mentorship, grant programs, and funding opportunities for promising Web3 projects. Avalanche is also collaborating with several Indian state governments to migrate public records to blockchain networks, strengthening transparency and data security.
Meanwhile, Bitget is actively working with India’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) to secure its mandatory registration, paving the way for its legal operations in the country.
India’s Expanding Web3 Startup Ecosystem:
Despite ongoing regulatory uncertainty, India’s blockchain sector continues to thrive. According to last year’s report by the Bharat Web3 Association (BWA), India crossed the 400 Web3 startups milestone in 2024. Karnataka has emerged as the epicenter of this growth, housing over 97 firms, followed by Maharashtra, Telangana, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Backing this momentum, several venture capital firms and global Web3 players — including PwC India, AlgoBharat (the India-focused initiative by Algorand), and the Solana Foundation — have launched accelerator and funding programs tailored for Indian Web3 startups.
A Promising Road Ahead for Web3 in India:
Industry leaders like Jesse Pollak, developer of Coinbase’s Base blockchain, have also lauded India’s Web3 developer community for its potential. In a conversation with Gadgets 360, Pollak remarked that with adequate banking support and regulatory clarity, Indian developers could pioneer globally impactful Web3 solutions.
The new partnership between Bitget and Avalanche is a promising stride in that direction — offering educational resources, technical mentorship, and real opportunities for India’s next generation of Web3 innovators.
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LOS ANGELES, April 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — VidAU AI, a fast-rising innovator in AI-driven video advertising, has officially secured a new round of funding, reaffirming its status as a leader in transforming how brands engage consumers through video. The latest round was led by Nuohai Venture Capital, with continued backing from Nuohui Investment and early-stage support from River Jin Technology. Building on the momentum of its successful Pre-A round in September 2024, this strategic investment marks a defining moment for VidAU as it accelerates product innovation, expands into global markets, and scales its team to meet surging demand.
The company’s mission is bold: to make high-quality, sales-driven video advertising effortless, accessible, and scalable for brands and marketers everywhere. Leveraging cutting-edge AI, VidAU enables businesses to instantly produce captivating, multilingual, and shoppable video creatives that convert views into purchases — a key capability as content-led commerce rapidly reshapes digital marketing.
Fueling Global Growth and Innovation with Fresh Capital:
This newly secured funding will directly empower VidAU’s ambitious plans to expand its product offerings, bolster its presence in key global markets like North America and Europe, and recruit top-tier talent in AI engineering, creative technology, and product development.
The company’s next-gen tools — from digital avatars and multilingual voiceovers to cinematic animations and interactive video features — are engineered to drive instant viewer engagement and seamless purchasing experiences. Early trials and client feedback have demonstrated that these innovations can boost viewer engagement by 50%, improve campaign effectiveness by 30%, and increase user satisfaction rates by 20% within six months of adoption.
VidAU’s roadmap also includes expanding into high-growth territories, where the company targets a 50% increase in regional users and a 30% uplift in its global customer base. New hires across AI development and product operations are expected to increase feature development speed by 35% and improve platform stability by 15%, strengthening VidAU’s reputation for reliability and performance.
AI-Powered Video Tools Reshaping E-Commerce Advertising:
At its core, VidAU AI is committed to transforming how businesses of all sizes harness the power of video content. Under the leadership of CEO Joanna Chan and co-founder Andy Liu, the company envisions video advertising not just as a marketing tool but as a dynamic, sales-driving engine for e-commerce.
Chan shared her excitement about this milestone, stating,
“This investment is about empowering every business, big or small, with standout video content that doesn’t just look good — it performs. We’re putting powerful AI tools into the hands of marketers everywhere.”
Liu, meanwhile, emphasized the shift in how video content is now a direct path within the consumer funnel, saying,
“We’re turning video into a seamless bridge between discovery and purchase, helping brands close the gap between attention and action.”
The VidAU platform is built for speed, accessibility, and performance. It can turn a product link into a polished, multilingual video ad in minutes. AI-driven insights, A/B testing, and creative flexibility — from lifelike avatars to casual UGC (user-generated content) styles — allow brands to tailor their video strategies for any audience. Importantly, VidAU also upholds ethical AI principles, robust security standards, and a consistently intuitive user experience.
Industry leaders such as Anker, Miniso, and eBay have already integrated VidAU’s tools into their marketing arsenals, citing improvements in engagement, conversion rates, and campaign ROI.
Positioning for the Future of Content-Led Commerce:
Looking ahead, VidAU AI is strategically positioning itself at the forefront of the booming content-driven e-commerce landscape — a sector projected to account for 17% of global online sales by the end of 2025. By embedding AI-driven video experiences into the heart of the shopping journey, VidAU is not just adapting to new trends; it’s actively shaping them.
Liu emphasized this vision, noting,
“We’re not just following the market — we’re building the tools that will define what’s next for e-commerce and digital advertising. With AI as our foundation, video becomes more than content; it becomes commerce.”
Projections for 2025 highlight VidAU’s impressive growth trajectory: a 300% increase in revenue, a 200% rise in user adoption, and a 65% improvement in customer satisfaction rates globally.
Discover the Future of AI-Powered Video Advertising:
With this landmark round of funding, VidAU AI is poised to revolutionize video advertising for a new era of personalized, high-conversion, AI-powered campaigns. Whether you’re a marketer seeking faster content creation, a business leader aiming for stronger digital engagement, or a creator looking to monetize more effectively — VidAU is building the future of video-driven e-commerce.
Explore VidAU’s platform and learn how it can power your brand’s video strategy today at vidau.ai.
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In a remarkable milestone, YouTube recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. The platform has grown from its humble beginnings to become a powerhouse of entertainment, culture, and creativity. The first video ever uploaded, “Me at the zoo,” courtesy of Jawed Karim on April 23, 2005, marked the inception of a new era in digital media. Today, YouTube hosts an incredible variety of content—from educational tutorials to hilarious pet videos—cultivating niche communities around virtually any interest you can imagine.
As YouTube marks two decades of innovation and influence, it’s natural for enthusiasts and casual users alike to reflect on the site’s most significant contributions to entertainment. Among the most discussed topics are YouTube’s top 10 music videos, a collection of clips that not only amassed staggering view counts but also impacted pop culture in varied and sometimes perplexing ways.
These music videos showcase an amalgamation of genres, artistry, and sometimes questionable taste that elicits both nostalgia and annoyance. It’s a fascinating journey through the history of popular music and how it has evolved over the years. Let’s dive into the eclectic list of YouTube’s top 10 music videos, examining what makes each video uniquely compelling and, at times, downright bewildering.
The Evolution of Music Videos on YouTube
The Beginning of an Era
The advent of YouTube marked a seismic shift in how music was consumed and disseminated. No longer were fans limited to radio play or expensive music video airtime on television. Instead, artists could upload their content directly to the platform, reaching a global audience instantly. This democratization of music showcased the incredible potential for creativity and engagement among artists and fans alike.
In the early days, music videos were often simple affairs—recording sessions, performance clips, and sometimes just the artist in front of a camera. However, as technology and editing techniques improved, so did the artistry and production quality of these videos. Complex storytelling, stunning visuals, and elaborate choreography became the norm, further enhancing their allure.
Viral Phenomena and Cultural Impact
With the rise of social media, music videos burgeoned into viral phenomena, often transcending the realm of music. This is notably true for YouTube’s top 10 music videos, which not only showcase catchy tunes but also cultural moments that resonated with viewers around the world. Each video on this list has carved a unique niche in pop culture, whether through meme creation, dance challenges, or sheer over-the-top spectacle.
It’s important to note that the sheer volume of views on these clips raises some eyebrow-raising questions about the taste of the viewing public. What draws billions to certain tracks, while others languish in obscurity? The collective experience of sharing these videos, laughing, and sometimes cringing together has united viewers in a shared digital landscape.
Kicking off the list at number ten is the feel-good anthem “Counting Stars” from OneRepublic. Released in 2013, the song quickly became a staple of radio playlists, thanks to its catchy chorus and thought-provoking lyrics about chasing dreams. The music video features striking visuals of nature and urban life intertwined, emphasizing the theme of seeking fulfillment beyond material wealth. This combination of catchy hooks and relatable lyrics made “Counting Stars” resonate with millions, earning it a secure spot among YouTube’s top 10 music videos.
9: “Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)” – Shakira (4.2 Billion Views)
Coming in at number nine, Shakira’s “Waka Waka” became an anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Featuring a vibrant array of dance moves, colorful visuals, and uplifting lyrics, the song quickly captured the spirit of unity and celebration surrounding the event. The song’s infectious beat and Shakira’s charismatic performance have endured well beyond the tournament, allowing it to maintain its popularity across generations. With over 4.2 billion views, it demonstrates the potent influence of sports in music and how iconic moments can resonate through time.
8: “Sugar” – Maroon 5 (4.2 Billion Views)
At eighth place is “Sugar” by Maroon 5, released in 2015. The video’s whimsical visuals include the band crashing weddings to perform the song, encapsulating the idea of love and celebration. Its upbeat rhythm and romantic themes made it a favorite for wedding playlists, contributing to its monumental view count. The clever use of humor and love in weddings has positioned this video firmly among YouTube’s top 10 music videos.
7: “Dame Tu Cosita ft. Cutty Ranks” – El Chombo (5 Billion Views)
Seventh on the list is a quirky animated music video featuring a dancing green alien, “Dame Tu Cosita” by El Chombo. The nonsensical yet catchy tune captures the essence of viral content, as it transcended language barriers to become a global sensation. Its popularity prompted countless dance challenges and memes across social media platforms, making it another prime example of how YouTube’s top 10 music videos reflect amusing cultural moments.
6: “Axel F” – Crazy Frog (5.1 Billion Views)
At number six, we have “Axel F” performed by Crazy Frog, a character created by Swedish animator Erik Wernquist. Released in 2005, this iconic tune became a ringtone phenomenon and burst onto the scene with an unforgettable animation video. Part techno, part novelty, the track’s catchy beat appeals to a wide audience—while its absurdity continues to polarize opinions. Nevertheless, its spot in YouTube’s top 10 music videos cements its place in pop culture history.
5: “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars (5.5 Billion Views)
Mark Ronson’s collaboration with Bruno Mars, “Uptown Funk,” has become an iconic hit since its release in 2014. With its retro-inspired sound and flashy aesthetics, the music video is a dazzling showcase of dance and style. Its infectious groove has made it a dancefloor favorite at parties and events worldwide, and the visuals capture the spirit of celebration. All of these elements have solidified its place as one of YouTube’s top 10 music videos, appealing to both nostalgia and contemporary sensibilities.
4: “Gangnam Style” – Psy (5.5 Billion Views)
In fourth place, we find Psy’s “Gangnam Style,” which became a cultural overnight sensation upon its release in 2012. This catchy K-pop track with its viral dance moves not only took over YouTube but also swept the globe, sparking “Gangnam Style” flash mobs in various locations. The clever satire reflecting the opulent lifestyle of Southern Seoul combined with Psy’s larger-than-life persona captured the attention of millions. It remains a striking example of how YouTube’s top 10 music videos can alter the course of music history.
3: “Shape of You” – Ed Sheeran (6.4 Billion Views)
Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You” comes in at number three, establishing itself as a modern romantic classic. Released in 2017, the song’s infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics about love and attraction have put it on top of charts worldwide. The video, showcasing various relationship dynamics and lively dance scenes, adds depth to the lyrics. Its achievement in garnering 6.4 billion views is a testament to Ed Sheeran’s ability to resonate deeply with listeners, further solidifying its place within YouTube’s top 10 music videos.
2: “See You Again ft. Charlie Puth” – Wiz Khalifa (6.6 Billion Views)
At number two, “See You Again,” featuring Charlie Puth, became an emotional tribute following the tragic passing of actor Paul Walker. This music video, infused with poignant imagery and a heartfelt message, quickly swept the internet upon its release as the theme song for “Furious 7.” Its profound resonance with the themes of loss and remembrance has led it to secure over 6.6 billion views. “See You Again” serves as a prime example of how YouTube’s top 10 music videos can impact audiences on a personal level and provoke thoughtful reflection.
1: “Despacito ft. Daddy Yankee” – Luis Fonsi (8.7 Billion Views)
Finally, claiming the top spot is “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi, featuring Daddy Yankee. Released in 2017, this reggaeton track became a global phenomenon almost instantly. Combining catchy rhythms with sultry lyrics, the song invites listeners to get lost in the moment. The explosive view count of 8.7 billion is reflective of its universal appeal, including diverse demographics and regions. The song has led to an increased interest in Latin music across the globe, making it a cultural touchstone and a crown jewel in YouTube’s top 10 music videos.
The Cultural Significance of YouTube Music Videos
Shaping the Music Industry Landscape
The rise of YouTube’s top 10 music videos signifies more than just a collection of popular songs; it represents profound shifts in the music industry landscape. Record labels are now adapting to this reality, redirecting their marketing strategies to center around digital platforms, influencers, and social media.
The Power of Influence
As traditional forms of media continue to decline, the power of platforms like YouTube to shape careers and create superstars has never been greater. Anushka Shankar, the Indian sitar player and composer, articulates this beautifully: “YouTube has bridged the gap between musicians and fans, allowing for direct engagement that was previously unheard of.” This engagement fosters a new landscape where artists can cultivate fan relationships devoid of corporate interference.
Nostalgia and Current Trends
The songs within YouTube’s top 10 music videos also evoke nostalgia, prompting audiences to reminisce about significant moments in their lives. Music acts as a time capsule, allowing individuals to traverse memories linked to specific songs. This emotional connection to music is integral to human experience, showcasing the capacity to shape culture.
Diversity in Genres and Representations
As the list demonstrates, diversity is key. From K-Pop to Latin reggaeton, the music videos encompass various cultural backgrounds and musical styles. This diversity reflects the global audience that YouTube has fostered over the years, facilitating cross-cultural exchange and understanding.
Conclusion: The Ever-Changing Landscape of YouTube Music Videos
YouTube’s 20-year history is rich with milestones, clips, and innovations, particularly within the realm of music videos. The wonder of YouTube’s top 10 music videos sits not only in their view counts but also in their cultural impact. Each of these videos resonates within the collective consciousness, merging art, social commentary, and entertainment in ways that transcend borders.
As we look ahead, there’s no telling how the evolution of music and digital engagement will progress. One thing is clear: the power of YouTube’s top 10 music videos will continue to shape the music industry, create new cultural narratives, and leave an indelible mark on the digital landscape for years to come. So, the next time you find yourself scrolling through YouTube, consider indulging in these iconic videos that have, in many ways, defined our collective listening experiences.
Susan Sarandon’s daughter Eva Amurri is sharing details of her recent breast reduction surgery with her social media followers.
Amurri, 40, documented her recovery from the surgery via her Instagram account on Friday, April 18. (Sarandon shares Amurri with filmmaker Franco Amurri and she also shares two sons, John “Jack” Henry Robbins, 35, and Miles Robbins, 32, with actor Tim Robbins.)
In one photo, Amurri lifted up her shirt to show the post-op effects she’s dealing with.
“Apparently random bruising can show up during the healing process!” she explained. “It’s been strange to see my body bruised and recovering from trauma. It’s not an easy sight, and it’s definitely brought up a lot for me. I’m looking at these next few weeks as a great opportunity to be kind to myself and nurture myself.”
Related: Susan Sarandon’s Daughter Says She Was a ‘True Almond Mom’
Susan Sarandon was uncompromising when it came to her family’s diet, according to her daughter Eva Amurri. Amurri revealed that her mother, 78, was an “almond mom” in an interview with SheKnows, published Thursday, November 21. (Sarandon shares Amurri with filmmaker Franco Amurri and two sons, John “Jack” Henry, 35, and Miles Robbins, 32, with […]
Amurri shared in another image in the post that sleeping had turned out to be “the worst part of recovery by far.”
She shared an image of her sleeping setup and explained, “I bought a wedge for my bed, and a neck pillow, and neither of those have been comfortable. Now I’m on to a pregnancy pillow. I still didn’t sleep last night.”
Amurri continued: “I hate sleeping on my back, so I know these next few weeks are gonna be rough for me with sleeping.”
Throughout the series of images in the post, Amurri also shared that things like drinking with a Stanley cup, working out as normal and blow-drying her own hair are all activities she has been forced to put on hold as she recovers.
Instead, Amurri said she is focusing on “self-care” as she tries to allow her body to heal following the operation.
“Nourishing my body during this healing time has felt like the best form of self-care,” she wrote. “I’ve really been enjoying helping my body heal by giving it what it needs to feel best.”
Related: Susan Sarandon’s Daughter Eva Amurri Is Married
Susan Sarandon’s daughter Eva Amurri has married chef Ian Hock. Amurri, 39, an actress and lifestyle blogger, is the daughter of Sarandon and director Franco Amurri. She tied the knot with Hock in a small ceremony held on Saturday, June 29, in Hudson Valley, New York. (The couple announced their engagement in February 2023.) “We […]
Good health is something Amurri’s mom Sarandon has instilled in her from a young age.
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Amurri told SheKnows in November, 2024 that the actress was a true “almond mom” during her childhood.
“My mom was a tried and true ‘almond mom,’” Amurri shared at the time. “She actually used to walk down to the Village to the only organic grocery store that existed in New York City in the early ’80s and would get everything there.”
Amurri added, “My mom thought Cheerios [were] a junk food — that is how almond mom she was.”
As Shanghai cements its status as one of fashion’s most dynamic (yet seemingly underrated) capitals, a new generation of up-and-coming designers is stepping into the global spotlight. Fusing directional aesthetics with cross-cultural fluency, these rising talents are reshaping perceptions of Chinese fashion, blending tradition, technology, streetwear and luxury into striking new forms. From sculptural experiments to sleek urban tailoring, the work of these designers reflects a city of sartorial innovation.
Sankuanz
Shangguan Zhe founded Sankuanz in 2013, where he quickly gained recognition for his sculptural pieces, merging traditional Chinese design elements with modern silhouettes. Sankuanz was successful in carving out a reputation for its daring fusion of cultural references and rebellious spirit. After studying visual communication and advertising at Xiamen University, Shangguan launched his menswear label rather than following a traditional career route.
His distinctive vision quickly positioned him as one of China’s most unconventional new voices in fashion. By combining classical influences with graphic elements, sharp tailoring and deconstructed, androgynous silhouettes, Sankuanz’s collections successfully balance eccentricity with skillful precision. The brand’s designs often portray genderless figures infused with philosophical reflections on collectivism and belief.
Sankuanz debuted at Shanghai Fashion Week and by 2015, Shangguan was a finalist for the prestigious LVMH Prize. Since 2016, the label has been a regular fixture on the official Paris Fashion Week Men’s calendar, gaining global recognition and a cult following. Today, Sankuanz’s thought-provoking approach to contemporary menswear is a testament to Shangguan Zhe’s commitment to making Chinese fashion an internationally recognised power player.
Head to their official website or Instagram to find out more.
Xander Zhou
A true pioneer of Shanghai streetwear, Xander Zhou’s ability to balance experimental fashion with everyday, “wearable” pieces has made his collections highly sought after both in China and beyond. Known for his genre-defying approach to menswear, Xander Zhou draws from a multicultural background shaped by industrial design studies in China and fashion design training in the Netherlands. His collections are marked by playful disruptions such as rainbow prints, exaggerated silhouettes and unexpected graphic accents that challenge traditional notions of masculinity and style. Inspired more by personal instinct than by heritage fashion houses, Zhou’s designs reflect a fascination with youth culture, fluid identities and the emotional response that clothes can evoke.
While Xander Zhou is primarily based in Beijing, his strong presence at Shanghai Fashion Week has made him an influential figure in the city’s fashion scene, alongside regular appearances at international events like London Fashion Week Men’s. In fact, Xander Zhou was the first menswear fashion designer from China to be part of London Fashion Week Men’s. Today, his boundary-pushing pieces are stocked internationally in cities like London, New York, Tokyo and Seoul.
Head to their official website or Instagram to find out more.
SHUSHU/TONG
Founded by Liushu Lei and Yutong Jiang in 2015, SHUSHU/TONG redefines conventional notions of femininity with a bold, irreverent spirit. Based in Shanghai, the duo — both womenswear MA graduates from the London College of Fashion — bring a directional edge to unabashedly feminine codes like ruffles and bows, stripping them of “primness” and infusing them with a relaxed, modern attitude. With refined in-house tailoring techniques, SHUSHU/TONG bridges the boundary between “girlhood” and “womanhood” in a way that feels simultaneously youthful and polished.
After early stints at Simone Rocha and Gareth Pugh, the designers quickly captured international attention. Their debut collection was picked up by Lane Crawford, and as of writing, the brand is stocked globally at prestigious retailers including Dover Street Market, Opening Ceremony and 10 Corso Como.
Head to their official website or Instagram to find out more.
Chen Peng
Specialising in oversized outerwear, Chen Peng’s designs have caught the eye of international celebrities and fashion influencers alike. His work combines comfort with luxury, blending rich textiles and innovative patterns to create one-of-a-kind, statement-making pieces. Founded by designer Peng Chen in London in 2015, Chen Peng reimagines contemporary fashion through the lens of body inclusivity and individualism. A graduate of London College of Fashion’s MA menswear programme, Peng developed the concept of “One-Sized Fashion,” designing pieces that transcend conventional sizing and embrace a spectrum of body shapes. His work challenges traditional ideas of beauty, highlighting personal features rather than adhering to standard ideals.
Chen Peng quickly rose to international attention, with collections now stocked in over 70 boutiques and department stores worldwide, including Dover Street Market, SSENSE, Opening Ceremony and Galeries Lafayette. His designs have been worn by major names like Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Bella Hadid and Fan Bingbing.
Blending bold creativity with practical function, Peng’s aesthetic mixes oversized silhouettes with unexpected detailing, offering a fresh voice in modern fashion. His career highlights include being appointed chief costume designer for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony, a collaboration with Moncler House of Genius, and being named Designer of the Year at the BAZAAR Design Awards 2022. Chen Peng continues to reshape the conversation around fashion equality and individuality on a global scale.
Head to their official website or Instagram to find out more.
Samuel Guì Yang
Founded by Samuel Yang and Erik Litzén, Samuel Guì Yang is a London-based studio with deep ties to both Shanghai and London. The brand weaves together Chinese and Western influences to create modern wardrobe essentials distinguished by subtle, dramatic details and a rich cultural dialogue. Their design ethos centres on blending historical references with contemporary forms, resulting in garments that “carry a quiet, enigmatic strength”. Committed to sustainability, the studio embraces mindful fabric choices, ethical production methods and thoughtful design practices. At the heart of their vision is a desire to “redefine perceptions of Chinese creativity”, crafting pieces that hone in on artistry and cultural innovation for a new generation of fashion-conscious consumers.
Head to their official website or Instagram to find out more.
Jacques Wei
Founded in 2010, Jacques Wei’s namesake label was created to challenge traditional ideas of glamour with couture-inspired craftsmanship. Known for his attention to detail, Wei reimagines classic silhouettes and sharp tailoring through the use of luxurious materials. With an infusion of romanticism, his designs capture the essence of the “modern woman” while drawing on the sophisticated aesthetics of the ‘90s. Specialising in clean, precise cuts, Jacques Wei’s collections blend silhouettes frequently seen in the ‘90s (minimalist dresses, structured corset slings and oversized suits that reflect the decade’s rebellious spirit) with timeless elements.
Each piece is thoughtfully designed, with a strong focus on tailoring and fine details. Wei’s latest collection is a tribute to the bold muses of the ’90s, incorporating playful butterflies, floral patterns and striking cutouts. Their latest collection, seen during the Shanghai 2025 Fall collection, features rich silks, luxurious feathers, soft leathers and an array of embellishments, including crystals and mirrors, adding an opulent touch to the signature designs.
Head to their Instagram to find out more.
Oude Waag
Named after the 17th-century Amsterdam weigh house where goods were once measured and valued, Oude Waag draws on ideas of tradition, worth and quiet introspection. Founded in 2017 by Jingwei Yin, a Central Saint Martins and Royal College of Art graduate, the Shanghai-based label is quickly becoming one of China’s most compelling new voices in luxury fashion. For Yin, designing is akin to “keeping a diary” — a deeply personal, evolving record of human experience, marked by fleeting, abstract moments of emotion and intimacy. Oude Waag’s aesthetic is defined by its intellectual and empathetic exploration of the relationship between mind, clothing and body.
Yin’s sharp cutting, fluid draping and attention to understated beauty are central to his design language, revealing garments that are delicate yet structured, poetic yet subversive. There is a subtle tension at play: a celebration of feminine strength that also critiques the way the body has historically been idealised and objectified. Having trained under visionary designers like Haider Ackermann and Hussein Chalayan, Yin brings a razor-sharp sense of craftsmanship and a quietly radical spirit to each collection, bridging Asian sensibilities with the precision of European tailoring.
Head to their official website or Instagram to find out more.
Yueqi Qi
Founded in 2019, Yueqi Qi’s namesake label is a vibrant testament to her instinct, craft and imagination. A graduate of London’s prestigious Central Saint Martins, Qi honed her skills at Chanel’s embroidery atelier before launching her brand, which quickly caught international attention with collaborations for Gucci’s GUCCIFEST and Vault projects. Her work — often a dazzling interplay of intricate beading, embroidery and cutting-edge fabric innovations — weaves narrative threads that explore time, memory and identity.
Whether showcasing at Tokyo pop-ups or walking the runways of Shanghai, Qi’s creations — seen on stars like Blackpink’s Lisa — fuse traditional Chinese artistry with an avant-garde, futuristic sensibility. A semi-finalist for the 2022 LVMH Prize and a participant in the Love of Couture exhibition at Hong Kong’s K11 Musea, Qi is part of a new generation rewriting the codes of couture without being confined to geographical labels. As she was quoted in an interview saying, “Couture is art,” and for Qi, every bead, feather and laser-cut detail is a brushstroke on a canvas of imagination.
Head to their official website or Instagram to find out more.
Louis Shengtao Chen
At just 27 years old, Louis Shengtao Chen is reshaping the idea of glamour on his own terms. A graduate of Central Saint Martins and a former model, the Beijing-born designer established his namesake label in 2021 with a mission to challenge traditional notions of luxury. His creations — often a collision of exaggerated colours, dramatic textures, and unconventional materials (exploring sustainable materials like Ultrasuede) — celebrate storytelling, craft and an offbeat sense of beauty. Based in Chongqing, a city typically unassociated with fashion, Chen’s avant-garde designs — think exposed hoop skirts, furry shoes, and sequinned leg warmers — have won fans from Blackpink’s Lisa to Caroline Polachek.
A semi-finalist for the 2023 LVMH Prize, Chen continues to make his mark globally, showing in Paris and Milan while staying true to his instinct-driven, experimental ethos. For Chen, glamour is not polished perfection but something raw, emotional and fiercely alive. While Louis Shengtao Chen is not based in Shanghai, his work has undeniably contributed to the city’s rising influence in the global fashion scene, helping to shape a new wave of Chinese designers pushing beyond the regional boundaries of the luxury fashion industry.
Head to their official website or Instagram to find out more.
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Abra, the psi Pokémon from Kanto, can be found in the wild in Pokémon Go. Yes, Abra can be shiny in Pokémon Go!
If you already have a shiny Abra (or its evolutions), you may have participated in Abra Community Day in April 2020. The first few evolutions have only a slight difference when shiny, but Alakazam and its Mega form get more prominent pink accents, which rule.
What is the shiny rate for Abra in Pokémon Go?
As per old research by the now-defunct website The Silph Road (via Wayback Machine), the shiny rate for Pokémon on a regular day is approximately one in 500. Abra is not a confirmed Pokémon that gets a “permaboost” (meaning that it’s a rare spawn and thus gets a boosted shiny rate).
What can I do to attract more shiny Pokémon?
Not much, unfortunately. It appears to be random chance. Shiny Pokémon catch rates are set by developer Niantic, and they are typically only boosted during special events like Community Days or Safari Zones, or in Legendary Raids. There are no consumable items that boost shiny Pokémon rates.
Where can I find a list of available shiny Pokémon?
The concept of intelligent agents has undergone a fascinating transformation since its inception in the 1980s. What began as a theoretical framework is now poised to revolutionize enterprise software and automation in unimaginable ways. This evolution has unfolded in two distinct waves, demonstrating how technological innovations often require the right timing and supporting infrastructure to realize their full potential.
The First Wave: A Promising Beginning
The first wave of intelligent agents emerged from Marvin Minsky’s groundbreaking 1985 book, “The Society of Mind.” During a time when artificial intelligence predominantly focused on monolithic, logic-based approaches, Minsky proposed a radical alternative. He suggested that intelligence could emerge from the interaction of many small, limited agents with local perspectives, rather than from centralized logical processing. This represented a fundamental shift in thinking about how artificial intelligence might be structured.
This revolutionary idea arrived during a critical period in AI history, when the field was facing mounting criticism for its limitations. Ironically, while Minsky’s work was visionary, it inadvertently contributed to AI’s second “winter” – a period characterized by reduced funding and diminished public interest in artificial intelligence research. Nevertheless, the intelligent agent concept persisted by drawing inspiration from multiple disciplines, including object-oriented programming, distributed systems, sociology, and biology.
At its core, an intelligent agent is characterized by several key properties. It is situated within an environment that it can sense and act upon. It maintains permanence, unlike ephemeral computational processes. It demonstrates autonomy by pursuing its own defined goals independently. It applies intelligence through AI techniques while accounting for other rational agents. And finally, it exhibits sociality through awareness of and interaction with other agents, either cooperatively or competitively.
Researchers developed substantial technological infrastructure throughout the 1990s and early 2000s to support intelligent agents. This included communication languages like KQML and FIPA ACL, knowledge representation frameworks like RDF and OWL, and development environments such as JADE and NetLogo. Despite this technological maturity, the first wave of intelligent agents failed to achieve widespread adoption, primarily due to the disruptive emergence of smartphones beginning with the iPhone in 2007, which consumed the technological landscape and left little room for other innovations.
The Second Wave: AI-Powered Agents
Today, we find ourselves at the beginning of a second wave of intelligent agents, driven by remarkable advances in AI, particularly large language models. The smartphone disruption has largely run its course, creating an opportunity for new technological paradigms to emerge. This new wave of intelligent agents manifests in two primary forms: action-capable AI systems that can interact with applications and complete complex tasks, and coordinated AI systems where multiple intelligences work together toward common goals.
Several key technological frameworks have emerged to support this new wave. LangChain, developed around 2022, was an early framework allowing large language models to interact with other software components. The Model Context Protocol from Anthropic (later supported by Google) provides standards for integrating LLM applications with external data sources and tools. Most recently, Google’s Agent-to-Agent protocol offers interoperability between agents developed by different organizations.
Unlike the first wave, the second wave of intelligent agents is being implemented through sophisticated platforms from major technology companies and startups alike. Microsoft’s AutoGen, Google’s Vertex AI Agent Builder, LangChain’s LangGraph, and PwC’s Agent OS are just a few examples of the platforms enabling this new generation of intelligent agents.
Real-World Applications and Impact
The second wave of intelligent agents is enabling the automation of complex tasks previously resistant to AI solutions. Travel planning represents a perfect example of this potential. The process involves coordinating flights, accommodations, and schedules across fragmented systems with temporal dependencies, while accounting for user preferences and geospatial considerations. Traditional automation approaches have struggled with such complexity, but agent-based systems make this possible.
Beyond travel planning, intelligent agents are being applied to HR applications triage, patient record integration in healthcare, supply chain planning, and enterprise IT integration. These applications share common characteristics: they involve multiple systems, complex dependencies, and the need for contextual understanding that goes beyond simple rule-based automation.
The vision for intelligent agents extends to personal assistants far beyond today’s capabilities. This concept resembles Apple’s prophetic “Knowledge Navigator” video – a digital butler capable of understanding context, taking complex actions, and managing information across systems. While the first wave of intelligent agents failed to realize this vision, the second wave appears positioned for success with its mature AI models, standardized protocols, and enterprise-ready platforms.
The Future Landscape
As we look ahead, intelligent agents are poised to profoundly transform enterprise software and automation. Rather than improving chatbots or eliminating AI hallucinations, these agents will elevate information processing automation to unprecedented levels. Organizations will need to adapt to this new paradigm, rethinking processes and workflows to leverage the capabilities of intelligent agents effectively.
The future of work will likely involve closer collaboration between humans and intelligent agents. Agents will handle routine tasks and complex coordination while humans focus on judgment, creativity, and interpersonal aspects. This represents a technological shift and a fundamental change in how we think about work and productivity.
For individual users, personal agents may finally deliver on the long-promised vision of digital assistants that truly understand our needs and contexts. These agents will operate across our digital lives, managing information, coordinating activities, and executing tasks with minimal supervision.
It’s been a long journey from Marvin Minsky’s early ideas to the current implementation of agent-based systems. Now, with artificial intelligence reaching new levels of capability and the technological infrastructure in place to support agent-based approaches, we stand at the threshold of a new era in computing. Intelligent agents are coming, whether organizations and individuals are prepared or not. Those who embrace this shift and learn to work effectively with intelligent agents will likely gain significant productivity, innovation, and competitive positioning advantages.
As with any technological revolution, the rise of intelligent agents brings opportunities and challenges. The key will be finding the right balance between automation and human control, ensuring that intelligent agents serve human needs while respecting privacy and autonomy. With thoughtful implementation and clear ethical guidelines, intelligent agents have the potential to transform our relationship with technology in positive and empowering ways.
On the latest episode of Sister Wives, viewers delved deep into the psyche of Kody Brown.
First, as previously analyzed, the father of 17 talked at length with spouse Robyn about their relationship and all the reasons he believes marriage is a cult.
Second, Kody reveals that one of his kids doesn’t think the two of them have a very strong relationship.
Kody Brown doesn’t seem like a great dad. (TLC)
At one point on the aforementioned installment, Kody said he “made arrangements to go see Christine’s girls in Utah,” referring to the first sister wife who left him and the children they still share together.
Kody told Robyn (during their Valentine’s Day meal) that it was “a really good trip,” with one apparent highlight taking place during his conversation with his and Christine’s 30-year-old daughter, Aspyn Thompson.
“Aspyn and I had this long discussion,” he detailed to Robyn, noting that Christine’s oldest asked him, “‘What did I do? Why don’t you like me?’”
Continued Kody on this same awkward and sensitive topic:
“She confronted me, which for Aspyn meant something’s wrong.”
Kody addresses Robyn in an intense moment. (TLC)
Kody has never been known as an attentive dad.
He infamously wasn’t even talking to his son Garrison last year when the 25-year old took his own life.
Later in the episode, Kody placed the blame for his broken relationship with his sons and/or daughters on their mothers, of course, most notably the ones who decided to leave him.
“Aspyn literally asked why I didn’t like her,” Kody said on air. “And I I’m like, ‘Sweetheart, I love you. And I have, always have and always will.’”
The pair went on to have “a long discussion,” Kody said, “about us having a relationship not filtered through my view of her mother or her mother’s view of me.”
Yup. There it is. There is Kody blaming Christine for his estrangement from their daughter.
Christine Brown and Kody Brown barely talk these days. (TLC)
Kody said he ultimately left Utah with an “improved” relationship with his 30-year-old daughter, telling Robyn: “What I explained to her was just there’s this place of pain that I didn’t feel welcome to reach out to everybody.”
He also emphasized that, in his opinion, Kody got “alienated from my children when the divorces happened.”
Christine walked away from Kody in late 2021, with Janelle and Meri both doing the same about a year later.
“We haven’t had a lot of connection,” Kody also noted of his children. “So I’m trying to establish this relationship where they’re no longer having me represented to them by my ex-wives.”
Kody Brown just doesn’t seem like a very nice guy. (TLC)
For her part, meanwhile, Christine wasn’t taking any bait from her ex, stressing on the episode:
“I don’t talk trash on Kody to my kids, ever. I wish Kody would reach out to them more and I wish he had a better relationship with his kids. I’ve done everything that I can to facilitate that relationship.”
Christine has often said how she feels about her former husband.
And we have to say, it’s hard to argue with any points she has made over the years.
