Game Changers issue 47 by PaulGC

Game Changers ISSUE #47

IOAN MIHALACHI GC speaks exclusively with Ioan Mihalachi, CEO at MEX Europe.

GAME CHANGERS

DIRECTORY O1 Note from the editor View from the top. 03

O2 Nadine Bautista O3 The Banking Expert XS. 04-05

The simple way to save your brand millions. 06-07

O4 Dora Christofi O5 Ioan Mihalachi O6 Sophie Hannah Eliades O7 Baiana Kashaeva O8 Holiston media awards 08-10

MEX Europe. 11-13

Just a writer. 14-15

16-19

20-25

O9 Anna Artemova 1O TIQBEE 11 Kent Riboe 12 Views are my own 13 Vasos Haralambous 14 GC Wins again 15 GC: GOING OUT PRNEWS.IO 26-29

30-33

MT Proxy. 34-35

36-37

ARK Insurance. 38-39

40-42

Chaplins and Da Vinci. 44-45

16 GC: EAT 17 GC: LIFE 18 GC: SPORT

Kalimera India. 46-47

Stacy Thomson. 48-49

Joao Montiero - Brazilian Grand Prix. 50-51

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Hello everyone, It looks like we have another year in the books, as we wind things down to the end of the year and begin the party season. This is a great time of year where we all get to relax and reflect on the year that has gone by. Personally, it has been a solid year, where a lot of achievements and personal growth has occurred. Onwards to bigger and better things next year! I hope that all the personal and professional goals that you have been set, you have reached and are basking in the glow that achieving these brings. Without wanting to sound too much like a happy clappy motivational speaker, however, pushing yourself and having big goals works every time. Also, a big thanks to everyone who over this year has contributed to Game Changers. Without great content we wouldn’t get the huge amount of readers and traction that we have. It really feels like GC has gone from outsider to mainstream which is a bit weird. However we will find ways to measure that the content is always fresh and engaging, and not becoming a dull PR placement. In this edition it is great to have my good friend Ioan Mihalachi, the CEO of MEX Europe on the front cover. Ioan has a great personal and professional story which was great featuring him in Game Changers. It’s very rare in this industry that you see people go from a support role, all the way to CEO of a major brand. Have a happy Christmas everyone and a great new year!

Paul ORFORD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Game Changers

Pioneering Online Trading Excellence in the Philippines NADINE BAUTISTA In this issue of Game Changers, we had the privilege of engaging in a compelling conversation with Nadine Bautista, the esteemed Country Manager of XS.com in the Philippines. With over a decade of invaluable experience in the financial industry, Nadine’s profound expertise and exclusive insights into the dynamic landscape of Online trading and investment in the Philippines bring a wealth of knowledge to the forefront. Throughout this insightful discussion, Nadine sheds light on XS.com’s pivotal role in reshaping the landscape for Filipino traders. Join us as we embark on an in-depth exploration of XS.com’s strategic acumen, groundbreaking initiatives, and visionary outlook for the region. Q: Online trading is gaining popularity as an alternative investment in the Philippines. How does XS.com cater to the specific needs of Filipino traders in this regard? Trading the Global Markets has indeed been on the rise as an alternative investment avenue in the Philippines, and XS.com has been at the forefront of addressing the unique requirements of Filipino traders. Our local team, which happens to be one of the largest physically present in the region compared to other brokers, plays a pivotal role in this. What sets us apart is our team’s extensive expertise, with each member boasting more than a decade of experience within the financial industry. This wealth of knowledge allows us to provide tailored solutions that align perfectly with the diverse investment preferences of our Filipino clients. We understand that trading can be a complex endeavor, and our experts are adept at assisting traders in navigating the intricacies of the global markets. Whether clients are looking for short-term gains or long-term investments, our team is well-equipped to provide the necessary guidance to help them achieve their financial goals. Moreover, our local presence ensures that we are deeply attuned to the local market dynamics and regulatory landscape, ensuring that our services are not only cutting-edge but also in full compliance with Philippine regulations. Q: XS.com has been recognized for its trusted team of experts and multi-regulation. Can you tell us more about the awards and accolades the company has received, both individually and as a whole? XS.com takes immense pride in the recognition we’ve garnered, both as individual experts and as a company. We firmly believe that our success is a testament to the unwavering commitment we have to excellence and integrity within the financial industry. GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Individually, our team members have received numerous awards for their outstanding contributions to the field. These accolades are a testament to their dedication and expertise, which underpin XS.com’s commitment to offering top-tier services. As a company, we’ve received multiple awards, with one of our most recent and significant achievements being recognized as the “Best Market Leader.” This recognition highlights our position as a pioneer and leader in the industry, setting the standard for excellence and reliability. It also underscores our adherence to multi - regulation, a cornerstone of our operations, which assures our clients that they are dealing with a trusted and highly regulated entity. These awards reflect our unwavering dedication to maintaining a highly skilled and credible team, as well as our commitment to regulatory compliance, ensuring that our clients’ investments are secure and their trading experiences are exceptional. Q: With more than 1000+ trading instruments available, XS.com offers a diverse range of options for Filipino traders. How do you recommend traders choose the right instruments based on their investment strategy and risk tolerance? The availability of a vast array of trading instruments is indeed one of XS.com’s distinguishing features. We firmly believe that empowering our clients with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions is paramount to their success. When it comes to selecting the right trading instruments, it’s crucial for traders to align their choices with their unique investment goals and risk tolerance. We understand that navigating the complexities of the financial markets can be daunting, especially for those new to trading. Therefore, we offer a comprehensive suite of educational materials and market analysis, aimed at empowering traders with the insights they need. Additionally, our team of experts is available 24/7 to answer questions and provide personalized guidance. Our experts not only possess in-depth knowledge of the markets but also understand the unique needs and preferences of Filipino traders. They can help traders evaluate their risk tolerance, investment horizon, and trading style to recommend instruments that are best suited to their individual circumstances. At XS.com, our commitment is to ensure that traders have the information and support they require to make well-informed decisions that align with their investment objectives.

Q: XS.com has plans for regional seminars and expos in the Philippines. Could you elaborate on these initiatives and how they will benefit your clients and partners? We are genuinely excited about our forthcoming initiatives in the Philippines, which involve organizing regional seminars and expos. These events hold significant promise for our clients and partners and will further reinforce our commitment to their success. Our regional seminars will serve as valuable educational platforms where traders can gain insights from our seasoned experts. These seminars will cover a wide range of topics, from market analysis and trading strategies to risk management and regulatory updates. By attending these events, our clients and partners will have the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills, ultimately making them more effective traders. Furthermore, our expos will offer a unique opportunity for our clients and partners to meet our expert team face to face. This personal interaction is invaluable, as it allows us to address their specific needs and concerns directly. It reinforces the trust we place in our clients and partners and underscores our commitment to their success. Afterall, building strong, lasting relationships it the cornerstone of our business philosophy. Overall, these initiatives are designed to provide our clients and partners with a deeper understanding of the financial markets, access to expert guidance, and a sense of belonging to the XS.com trading community. Q: Looking ahead, what can we expect from XS.com in terms of its vision and goals for the future in the Philippines and globally? XS.com’s vision is steadfast and revolves around empowering traders with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their trading portfolios. In the Philippines, we are committed to expanding our educational efforts through seminars and expos, ensuring that traders have access to the latest insights and strategies. On a global scale, XS.com will continue its journey as a market leader, offering innovative solutions and maintaining the highest standards of trust and credibility. We will remain at the forefront of industry advancements, continuously enhancing our platform and services to meet the evolving needs of traders worldwide. Furthermore, we will explore new opportunities for growth, both in terms of expanding our product offerings and entering new markets. XS.com’s focus remains unwaveringly on ensuring our clients’ success in the dynamic and competitive world of trading. Our dedication to transparency, integrity, and client satisfaction will continue to be the driving force behind our endeavors.

P-5

The simple way to save your brand millions. Q Who and what is the banking expert? That’s a good question, it’s more of a collective of people all who work in payments, banking or in the institutional CFD /FX space. It sounds more mysterious than what it is, we all work day jobs still so it’s easier to keep it like this. It’s not to say we are like anonymous people, we just aim to teach people more about how the payments industry works and show brands how to save a lot of money from day one. Q What is the point of the banking expert? We don’t aim to hugely monetize this, as it is going to be used as more of a knowledge resource rather than banners covering the entire website, that doesn’t really add or offer anything to the industry as a whole. Ideally it is the place to go to so you can read about questions in the industry. When we all started in payments or institutional trading we had a lot of questions, and sometimes it is hard to ask the questions from your colleagues. Moreover, it is such an evolving industry that new systems, laws and tricky acronyms come out which are hard to keep up to date with.

To give you an understanding of other services that we offer include offering the legal and banking framework for listing your brand as an IPO. This also includes a stable banking solution that complements larger transactions such as this. To give you an idea about this, each listing generates between $2M - $75M on a capital raise, so you have to make sure all the banking functions are robust and working correctly. With regards to the rebates on institutional FX trading, we have been doing this for a number of years and it has worked well in saving a tremendous amount of money for our clients. We initially had a relationship with them for banking services, as they were typically offshore entities and struggled to find a solid solution to move funds to their liquidity provider. Where we have relationships with tier one banks, we can help solve this problem, rather than perhaps an unconventional transaction method. Q How much do you think you have saved the brands you work with?

Moreover, it’s best to kind of look at us as a very base level aggregator, without the technology. We connect you into solid solutions that based on your need solve your problem. From this you receive hugely reduced fees paid directly from the provider.

I guess if you could add together all the money we have saved over the past couple of years with the relationships prior to making The Banking Expert a formal thing, it would add up to many millions of USD in rebates.

Q Is it just banking and payments that you offer?

Just on the rebates on FX/CFD liquidity it would be quite substantial as we execute around 10 yards a month collectively from the clients we have helped with the LP’s we work with.

There are quite a few other services that we offer outside of banking and payments. In all honesty we chose the domain name as it sounded great and was cheap.

Issue #47

The high risk industry does significant volumes, and if you have a network of solid providers you can get very good volumes. However, you have to have good clients who are transparent to make it work both ways. We are not looking to take everyone, just the right ones. Q What does the banking expert do? It’s a very simple concept of giving money back to the client in the form of a rebate directly from the provider. There is usually a lot of fat that can be cut from the margins with introducers cut baked in, we look to give this back to the client. People could go directly and ask for it, however in our day jobs we have large volumes being sent to our network already so we can get better rebates. Based upon this it is better to leverage our relationships and save your brand more money. When a relationship starts both sides are looking to get the best price, and quite right to as they have a fiduciary requirement to their business. However, from experience it is very rare you get a reduction in fees with no volume. Maybe you can tease it with a big brand name signing on, however it always comes down to volume. Also you can’t get any PR from saying you work with a big brand as it is a confidential relationship based on a maze of NDA’s. One of the services that we are looking to expand on is the public listing of your brand. If you are the right fit for this it is a great way to use that terrible phrase ‘take you to the next level’. The CFD rebates service is quite basic in so far as you get back the introductory fee direct to your brand.

Most of the clients we work with are offshore, as we can combine that also with the banking services to really make a difference to your bottom line over one year. Q Who does The Banking Expert work with? We are always looking to expand our network of banking and CFD liquidity partners. We are looking for solid solutions that offer transparency and are technically solid solutions. Ideally we don’t work with too many consultants, as sometimes it can just get weird with the rebate system often resembling some type of multi level marketing program. If you are a consultant and looking to use our network for the brands you represent we are open to this. We do like them to understand how the relevant products work, and not just send a connecting email and expect a huge commission. We like it nice and clean, with a nice shiny contract so everyone knows who gets what, where and when. Moreover, what they are obliged to do. Sadly in the industry a lot of promises are made on a service where the delivery is not matched. We are not incentivised by huge rebates, just make sure your product works. Q How do you get more information? Just message us and we can find out what you need and see if we can find a good fit, most people go by our website thebankingexpert. com and fill out the basic info to schedule a brief call.

Digital Marketing Insights

Banking's Digital Transformation: Digital Marketing in the Neobanking Revolution Dora Christofi Head of Digital Marketing In In thethe ever-changing world of of finance, traditional banking ever-changing world finance, traditional banking is undergoing a monumental shift. AsAs wewe transition into thethe is undergoing a monumental shift. transition into neobanking era, digital marketing stands at at thethe forefront of of neobanking era, digital marketing stands forefront this thisrevolution. revolution.Dora, Dora,with withher herdeep deepexpertise, expertise,offers offersa a unique lens onon how digital marketing strategies areare being unique lens how digital marketing strategies being sculpted forfor this new banking wave, providing insights that sculpted this new banking wave, providing insights that areare setset to to redefine thethe future of of finance. Dive with usus into redefine future finance. Dive with into this transformation, seen through thethe eyes of of a seasoned this transformation, seen through eyes a seasoned digital marketer. digital marketer.

Q QHow Howhave haveyou youseen seenthe thebanking bankinglandscape landscape evolve with the rise ofof neobanks inin recent years? evolve with the rise neobanks recent years? The banking landscape has significantly transformed The banking landscape has significantly transformed with the neobanks' rise during the last with the neobanks' rise during the lastfew fewyears. years. Traditional Traditionalbanks bankscompete competewith withdigital-only digital-onlybanks banks that offer agile, customer-centric solutions. that offer agile, customer-centric solutions. Operating Operating without without physical physical branches branches allows allows neo-banks neo-bankstotoreduce reduceoverhead overheadcosts, costs,which whichusually usually means meanslower lowercustomer customerfees. fees.They Theyfocus focusonona agood good user experience with easy-to-use user experience with easy-to-use designs designs and and always-available support. They are more convenient always-available support. They are more convenient forforpeople peoplewho whocan caninstantly instantlyopen openananaccount accountand and conduct real-time transactions. conduct real-time transactions. Neobanks can innovate and implement new features Neobanks can innovate and implement new features like likereal-time real-timetransactions, transactions,notifications, notifications,budgeting budgeting tools, tools,and andsavings savingsgoals. goals.They Theycan canprovide providetailored tailored financial financialadvice adviceand andpresent presentpersonalized personalizedsaving saving plans toto people depending onon their spending, which plans people depending their spending, which raises the need forfor personalized banking experiences raises the need personalized banking experiences from traditional banks. from traditional banks. We Weallallremember rememberthat thatneo-banks neo-banksstarted startedwith with essential banking services and expanded essential banking services and expanded their their portfolios toto include insurance, wealth management, portfolios include insurance, wealth management, trading, and hotel booking services. trading, and hotel booking services. Traditional Traditionalbanks bankscompete competewith withdigital digitalbanks banksbyby leveraging leveragingtheir theirstrengths strengthsand andadapting adaptingtotothe the changing changing customer customer preferences preferences and and market market conditions. conditions.Many Manytraditional traditionalbanks bankshave haveinvested investedinin improving improvingtheir theironline onlineand andmobile mobileplatforms platformstoto provide providecustomers customerswith withmore moreuser-friendly user-friendlyand and convenient services. convenient services. GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Digital Marketing Insights

Q QAre local banking routes best when working under Are local banking routes best when working under restrictions? restrictions? A Alocal localroute routeis isnecessary necessaryand andbeneficial beneficialif ifthe the neobank neobankoperates operatesinina ajurisdiction jurisdictionwith withstrict strict regulations regulationsand andrestrictions. restrictions.A Alocal localapproach approach ensures ensures better better compliance compliance with with local local banking banking regulations, regulations,licensing licensingrequirements, requirements,and andcustomer customer protection measures. protection measures. Adopting a local approach is is essential and advantageous Adopting a local approach essential and advantageous forforneobanks neobanksoperating operatingininjurisdictions jurisdictionswith withstrict strict regulations. regulations. This This strategy strategy aligns aligns with with banking banking regulations, regulations, licensing licensing protocols, protocols, and and customer customer protection protectionmeasures measuresand andfacilitates facilitatesstreamlined streamlinedrisk risk assessments inin financial management. assessments financial management. Additionally, it it enables neobanks toto customize their Additionally, enables neobanks customize their offerings inin tune with a specific region oror country's offerings tune with a specific region country's unique uniqueneeds, needs,cultural culturalpreferences, preferences,and andnuances. nuances. Given Giventhe thecomplexities complexitiesofoftoday's today'srapid rapidfinancial financial landscape, landscape,financial financialofficers officerswho whoconcentrate concentrateonona a singular singularjurisdiction jurisdictionare arebetter betterequipped equippedtotohandle handle regulatory and financial intricacies. Simultaneously, aa regulatory and financial intricacies. Simultaneously, localized focus allows compliance experts toto deepen localized focus allows compliance experts deepen their their understanding understanding ofof regional regional regulations, regulations, enhancing compliance efficiency enhancing compliance efficiencyand andminimizing minimizing potential pitfalls. potential pitfalls. When adopting local strategies, marketers can design When adopting local strategies, marketers can design campaigns campaignsthat thatresonate resonatewith withthe thelocal localaudience's audience's specific specificculture, culture,preferences, preferences,and andneeds, needs,potentially potentially making makingthem themmore moreeffective effectivethan thangeneric, generic,broader broader campaigns. campaigns.This Thislocalized localizedapproach approachstrengthens strengthensthe the brand's identity inin a particular market and facilitates brand's identity a particular market and facilitates a a rapid rapid and and precise precise feedback feedback loop, loop, enabling enabling marketers to fine-tune their strategies in real-time. marketers to fine-tune their strategies in real-time. Q QWhat Whatrole roledoes doesdigital digitalmarketing marketingplay playinin promoting and establishing trust in these digital promoting and establishing trust in these digital- only financial institutions? only financial institutions? Digital marketing is is indispensable inin nurturing trust Digital marketing indispensable nurturing trust and and visibility visibility forfor exclusively exclusively online online banking banking institutions. Neobanks use different online methods institutions. Neobanks use different online methods totoraise raisebrand brandawareness awarenessand andreach reachtheir theirtarget target audience, audience,from fromwebsites websitesand andsocial socialmedia mediatotoniche niche financial forums. financial forums. One Oneofofthe themost mosteffective effectivetools toolsinintheir theirarsenal arsenalis is content contentmarketing. marketing.These Theseinstitutions institutionscan caninterpret interpret complex financial offerings byby offering webinars and complex financial offerings offering webinars and in-app in-appeducation education(articles, (articles,videos, videos,quizzes), quizzes),making making them them more more straightforward straightforward forfor allall users users toto understand. understand.When Whenpeople peopleunderstand understanda aproduct productoror service well, they trust it it more. service well, they trust more. Moreover, Moreover,showcasing showcasingonline onlinereviews, reviews,testimonials, testimonials, and in-depth case studies proves and in-depth case studies provesananinstitution's institution's credibility. credibility.The Theactive activeengagement engagementononsocial socialmedia media and andstrategic strategicpartnerships partnershipswith withinfluencers influencersalso also foster a sense ofof community, amplifying trust through foster a sense community, amplifying trust through a digital word-of-mouth effect. a digital word-of-mouth effect. Neobanks Neobankscan caninstantly instantlycommunicate communicatewith withtheir their

Dora Christoﬁ

clients through integrated live chats onon their mobile clients through integrated live chats their mobile apps, which helps establish trust. This strategy apps, which helps establish trust. This strategy cultivates a favorable online reputation that can bebe cultivates a favorable online reputation that can leveraged toto promote their products and services toto leveraged promote their products and services attract new clients and retain existing ones. attract new clients and retain existing ones. Digital marketing tools enable neobanks toto provide Digital marketing tools enable neobanks provide highly highlypersonalized personalizedrecommendations, recommendations,enhancing enhancing the theuser userexperience experienceand anddemonstrating demonstratingthe thebank's bank's commitment commitmenttotomeeting meetingindividual individualneeds. needs.While While maintaining consistent messaging and branding may maintaining consistent messaging and branding may sound soundsimple, simple,it'sit'sessential essentialinincreating creatinga afamiliar familiar connection connectionforforusers. users.Over Overtime, time,this thisconsistency consistency fosters fosterstrust, trust,especially especiallywhen whencombined combinedwith witha a seamless, user-focused experience. seamless, user-focused experience. Q Q How Howdodoneobanks neobanksleverage leveragepersonalization personalizationinin their marketing strategies toto stand out? their marketing strategies stand out? Neobanks, operating exclusively inin the digital realm, Neobanks, operating exclusively the digital realm, recognize recognizethe theneed needtotodifferentiate differentiatethemselves themselvesinina a saturated fintech landscape. Personalization is is one ofof saturated fintech landscape. Personalization one their theirprimary primarystrategies strategiestotoachieve achievethis thisdistinction, distinction, which relies onon technology and data analytics. which relies technology and data analytics. The digital nature ofof neobanks equips them with vast The digital nature neobanks equips them with vast user userdata, data,from fromtransaction transactionbehaviors behaviorstotoapp app interactions. interactions. Analyzing Analyzing this this data, data, they they craft craft personalized personalizedoffers offersand andcommunications communicationsthat thatalign align closely closelywith withuser userpreferences preferencesand andhabits. habits.For For example, example,bybyleveraging leveragingartificial artificialintelligence, intelligence,they they can canrecommend recommendfinancial financialproducts productstailored tailoredtoto specific needs, such as currency-specific specific needs, such as currency-specificaccounts accounts forfor those who frequently spend internationally. those who frequently spend internationally. Some Some neobanks neobanks offer offer customizable customizable interfaces, interfaces, allowing allowingusers userstototailor tailortheir theirdashboards dashboardsbased basedonon their needs, delivering a truly personalized banking their needs, delivering a truly personalized banking journey. journey.They Theytake takea amore moreprecise preciseapproach approachtoto communication, communication, moving moving away away from from the the usual usual marketing marketingcampaigns campaignsand andfocusing focusingononsegmented segmented email campaigns and in-app notifications that align email campaigns and in-app notifications that align better with the user’s behavior. better with the user’s behavior. Geolocation Geolocation capabilities capabilities provide provide significant significant advantages advantagesforforneo neo- -banks banksbybyallowing allowingthem themtoto customize their offerings based on a user's location. customize their offerings based on a user's location. This means that neo-banks can tailor their services This means that neo-banks can tailor their services and promotions toto better suit customers' needs and and promotions better suit customers' needs and preferences preferencesinindifferent differentgeographic geographicareas. areas.For For example, example, they they can can provide provide location-specific location-specific discounts, discounts,offers, offers,ororrecommendations recommendationsthat thatare are more morerelevant relevantand andappealing appealingtotousers usersinina a particular particularregion. region.This Thisfine-tuning fine-tuningbased basedonon geolocation geolocationenhances enhancesthe theuser userexperience experienceand and increases increasesthe thechances chancesofofattracting attractingand andretaining retaining customers byby delivering services closely aligned with customers delivering services closely aligned with their local context and requirements. their local context and requirements. Neobanks Neobanksencourage encouragespecific specificfinancial financialbehaviors behaviors using a reward system that acknowledges how users using a reward system that acknowledges how users spend or save money. This motivates individuals toto spend or save money. This motivates individuals take takedesired desiredactions actionsand andbuilds buildsloyalty loyaltybybyoffering offering personalized incentives. personalized incentives.

Digital Marketing Insights

Q Can you remember any notable campaigns and initiatives that have received acclaim and achieved success in the neobanking industry? While I have yet to gain direct experience with neo-banking marketing, a significant aspect of my role in devising new campaign ideas is to draw inspiration beyond just the financial services sectors, e.g., traditional banking, neo-banking, and more. Many neobanks have used referral programs as a core user acquisition strategy. They fostered organic growth and word-of-mouth marketing by giving both the referrer and the referred bonuses or financial incentives. One of Europe’s biggest Neobank made a standout digital marketing initiative was the #RevRally campaign. It incentivized customers to introduce friends and family to their app, offering enticing rewards such as cash prizes and complimentary card upgrades. A UK-based neo-bank leveraged user-generated content, including reviews, photos, and videos, to highlight its role in assisting customers in reaching their financial objectives. Through authentic storytelling, they enhanced customer engagement, prioritized client retention, and attracted new business.

Dora Christoﬁ

Artiﬁcial intelligence and automation will play an increasingly vital role in neobank marketing. AI-driven chatbots provide real-time assistance, personalized product recommendations enhance customer experiences, and automated email campaigns improve efficiency. These technologies not only streamline operations but also enhance the effectiveness of marketing strategies. Some neobanks may distinguish themselves by emphasizing their environmental and social responsibility commitment. This unique selling point could involve promoting sustainable banking practices and supporting ethical investments. By aligning with values and causes important to their audience, companies can build a loyal customer base through digital marketing. The future of digital marketing for neobanks will depend on how they can differentiate themselves from traditional banks and other neobanks and build trust and loyalty with their customers.

Another Brazilian neobank is synonymous with a vivid shade of purple. This hue became a focal point of their branding, leading them to initiate a campaign that featured events and activations that adorned cities in their signature purple. Q How do you foresee the future of digital marketing for neobanks, especially as the market becomes more saturated? Personalization will take the stage. Neobanks recognize the importance of delivering tailored experiences to their customers by crafting experiences attuned to individual behaviors, preferences, and financial aspirations. Everything, from app notifications to emails, will be tailored to the user. Neobanks are adopting a multi-channel marketing strategy to reach customers across various touchpoints. This approach encompasses social media, email marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and paid advertising. The goal is to meet customers where they are, delivering a consistent message and experience across different platforms. Encouraging customers to share their positive experiences through reviews and testimonials is a powerful marketing tool for neobanks. By showcasing user-generated content, they build trust and credibility. Authentic endorsement from satisfied customers resonates with potential clients and further enhances the brand's reputation. Promotional messages can effectively leverage these favorable experiences to attract new clients. GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Dora Christofi Head of Digital Marketing Dora is a highly skilled Digital Marketeer with a strong understanding of technology and over 7 years of experience in the financial industry. She has hands-on-experience in a range of marketing disciplines which include marketing strategies, content development, SEO, Social Media, Email Marketing, PPC, ORM and Data Analysis. Dora is dedicated to using her knowledge and expertise to create targeted, effective campaigns that will drive traffic, increase engagement, and boost conversions. Dora's enthusiasm lies in supporting businesses to flourish and thrive. She constantly seeks out new challenges that can extend the brand's influence and reach.

Ioan Mihalachi CEO MEX EUROPE

Q You started your career in the midst of the Cyprus FX/CFD boom, working in a customer service role. Did this provide a good foundation for entering the FX industry and developing essential skills? My professional adventure in the Financial Services field began in 2008 when I established my presence in Cyprus. In 2010, I started a new chapter in the FX/CFD world, in a vital customer support position. Given my lack of knowledge in the industry, my initial move was filled with difficulties. My obsessive dedication to perfection, on the other hand, motivated me to put in extra hours to understand not just the complexity of customer service, but also the wider organizational environment. This mission-driven endeavor resulted in a major turning point in my career in 2012, when I consciously moved my focus to business development and sales, utilizing my gained expertise and skills to drive the organization’s growth and success. Furthermore in 2015 I turned my attention to Institutional Business. Q What prompted your transition to the payments industry? Leaving the FX industry can be tough for some. In 2016, I achieved a huge career milestone by accepting the highly esteemed position of Director of Business Development and Operations at a pioneering FCA-regulated startup FX broker linked with a major worldwide corporation. As part of this role, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the dynamic area of the payment business, where I found the tremendous potential for groundbreaking growth.

Building on this epiphany, I managed the successful launch, alongside the exceptional team, our Crypto arm firm in 2017, while still working for the same powerful corporate organization, marking an evolutionary milestone in our path. By 2018, my strategic skills and innovative leadership had resulted in my employment as Chief Executive Officer of Sticpay, a significant worldwide e-wallet organization with a large international presence.

Q What inspired you to start your own ventures, such as KooPay and Koo Tech?

Q Becoming the CEO of Sticpay was a significant step. Were you nervous about taking on such a role?

Recently, MultiBank Group obtained the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission license (CySEC). I am proud to share that, based on the trust gained during my tenure as the Head of Payments for Multibank Group, I have been offered the position of Chief Executive Officer at MEX Europe, a part of MultiBank Group.

To be honest, yes I was stressed at the start as I was new to the payment industry. It was my first time as a CEO as well, so I had a mix of emotions. At the same time, I was very excited about the new challenge in my career and I was looking forward to that challenge. I’ve always been open to new challenges, but it wasn’t easy. I had the right team next to me and it helped me to achieve the impossible. Q What did you learn during your time as CEO of Sticpay? Becoming a CEO is a continuous learning process, and the specific skills and knowledge you need will depend on the industry, company size, and your own background. It was a challenging learning experience for me since I had to choose and trust the proper people, manage and bring all the departments together, have effective communication and tactics, and convey my vision and goal to the department. I also had the opportunity to understand payment licenses, EMI, e-Wallet, Payment Gateways, IBAN’s, Card Issuing, and Card Acquiring business. After successfully building the Global e-Wallet Sticpay, I decided to go back to the first love, the FX Business, joining as Head of Payments one of the Largest Financial Derivatives providers worldwide, Multibank Group. You may ask why? I knew that working for such a heavily regulated FX broker will bring more challenges and knowledge in both the payments and financial services field. Q Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently in your career? Looking back, I would absolutely seek out a mentor in the payment sector to help me understand the industry faster, learn better tactics, and inspire me to study more. Because industries are always evolving, the pursuit of excellence is a never-ending endeavor. To maintain a prominent position, it is vital to be educated and to foster an inventive culture.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

My motivation was inspired by an unwavering dedication to innovation and the desire to provide a unique and outstanding service. Q How does being a CEO differ from being the owner of a brand?

The role of CEO at MEX Europe comes with significant responsibilities. Success in this position demands not only an innovative mindset but also the crucial support of a team that shares the same passion and forward-thinking approach. As you may be aware, MEX Europe operates as a CySEC-regulated FX broker. Adhering to CySEC regulations is a challenging task, requiring careful consideration in product marketing. With the right team and strategy, we are diligently working to maximize our potential within these regulatory frameworks. Q For startups, what are the key elements to success in your opinion? The successful journey of a startup is dependent on a smart combination of critical components, such as building a great team, utilizing existing knowledge, acquiring critical information, developing a strong business strategy, and setting specific and realistic milestones. Q What advice do you have for those considering starting their own ventures? A strategic approach to individuals seeking to make a significant influence entails an in-depth review of competitors, deriving important ideas from their practices, and maintaining a persistent dedication to continual innovation. Q Looking back at your career, is there anything you would have done differently? Mistakes and lessons are unavoidable on the road to success, but learning from them and persevering are crucial. If I wanted to change one thing, it would be to seek mentoring and enroll in accelerated learning courses. With the advent of AI, we now have access to a variety of knowledge, education, and answers to everyday challenges.

Q Your brand achieved significant success and even made it to the Nasdaq billboard. How did it feel to see your brand reach that level of recognition? The satisfaction of seeing our brand showcased on a Nasdaq billboard was a source of tremendous joy for us. Although this was not the final goal, it was undoubtedly a significant milestone in our road to success. Q Why did you decide to exit your successful venture relatively early? The decision to end the venture was a strategic business choice that aligned with our overall objective to increase our worldwide footprint. It was a proud time for both my team and me as we reflected on the huge accomplishments we had achieved. Q After achieving such significant success, did you experience any psychological challenges or a sense of letdown? As people navigate a complex environment of psychological problems and feelings, achievement frequently comes with a wide range of emotional responses. It is vital to recognize that success may bring both enormous satisfaction and new and exacting pressures. I am, nevertheless, unwavering in pursuit of the next fascinating challenge and eager to explore new horizons. Q What motivated your choice of the next challenge in your career? What drove me the most was a desire to learn everything I could about financial services. There is so much knowledge in the financial world that you may learn something new every day. Every day, you educate yourself and become a better person than the day before. For me, the financial market was difficult since I was in the payment sector and had to learn and understand a new industry. Q Looking back, what are you most proud of in your career? I am proud of my journey. Every difficult path I’ve experienced has been a valuable lesson. However, the proudest moment, as I mentioned before, was when we achieved the placement of our brand on the Nasdaq billboard. If I have the chance again, I will set that goal once more, and I hope to be able to say that we’ve achieved it twice. Q What can you share about your future plans and what’s in store for you next? My current strategy is to speed up MEX Europe’s growth in international markets and increase its global awareness and growth. Personally, my goal is to support MultiBank Group’s growth and success in the industry. My personal goal is continuously learning. I believe that taking advantage of today’s technology in both Financial Services and Payments industry and striving for improved techniques are two of the most crucial things you can accomplish. P - 13

Just a writer SOPHIE HANNAH ELIADES Q Did you always want to write? I’ve got to be honest and tell you that I started out as a Biologist! One of the main issues I had with Biology was that my academic writing always had a touch of ‘unnecessary’ flair. So, the move into marketing was quite literally fate. I moved to Cyprus and the opportunity to step into the dazzling world of content marketing just landed at my feet… And I’ve been loving it ever since.

I came across Joe Pulizzi’s colgate smile quite early in my content career. He’s the Founder of the Content Marketing Institute; where I spent many late nights deep diving into all things content. They’ve created so many different content resources which any writer would find useful. Q What motivated you to begin your own brand? It was actually working at my last employer, Praxis, that gave me that final push.

Q How does a creative writing brain find themselves in FX. They seem like two things that are opposed to each other?

As the Marketing Manager, I had this holistic view of all marketing activity and the amazing opportunity to build the foundations of what they’re doing now.

On the surface they’re definitely opposed. But, in reality, you really need a creative mind to be able to create compelling content about FX. You need to have that imaginative flair to draw parallels that can span current events, pop culture, and everything in between to attract traders. The key is remembering and addressing the fact that the people you’re targeting have lives, interests, and hobbies. So you’ll need to draw on that and create content that actually appeals to them on multiple levels.

Even though I loved the company and the role, there was always this voice telling me to pour my blood, sweat and tears into something that not only was my own, but had a deep rooted foundation in content. After all, that’s where I specialize and where the marketing magic happens.

Q You have a huge experience working with big brands. What did you learn working with them?

Q Is it a different energy than working for someone?

Phew, where to begin… Well firstly, it’s given me an almost unhinged level of attention to detail. Every word, every syllable, every punctuation mark matters. And, when you’re addressing a huge audience, you need to have that continuity of quality in whatever you do. I’ve also learnt about the power of personas. Marketing is literally useless without understanding the people you’re targeting. You’ve really got to take the time to build those personas so that you can create content that appeals to the different segments of your audience. One key learning point was that sometimes, content marketing isn’t a firm’s main focus. When you’ve got a huge team that is running ads, monitoring social media, organizing expos, ordering merchandise and everything else in between; we tend to forget that it all starts with content. So it’s really useful to have an external person with a more objective view of how the content is coming across. Q Do you have any role models when it comes to content writing? GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

So now, we have Just a Writer! Which ironically, actually provides so much more than just a writer.

It’s like night and day. The first couple of weeks were the most daunting; where I was getting business plans written, designs created, strategies in place. But, the pure excitement of knowing that I’m about to be doing something I’m great at, solely for myself and my clients was incomparable to anything I’ve felt before. The drive to work is just a totally different beast, because now I’m basically selling myself, instead of all the wonderful products I’ve been working with up until now. Q What makes the difference in outsourcing content creation compared to inhouse? Most brokers love an inhouse content manager, but the truth is, we’re a rare breed! Although it’s great having someone who’s desk you can just walk to, the sole focus has to be on the quality of the content. An in-house content manager is usually carrying out so many other tasks that they aren’t always given the time to dwell in their creativity. They’ll be managing other writers’ content, posting content, monitoring content, creating reports about the content. You benefit from having an external, seasoned professional

who can focus on understanding and developing content that gives that added value to your clients. That’s one of the main reasons that Just a Writer came about. As a content manager I found it really difficult to get that uninterrupted time to dwell on keyword placement, keyword clustering, brainstorming… So, having a content manager in house does have huge benefits. But, having Just a Writer on an external basis gives you the opportunity to have that awesome, next level content that your clients want. Q Can you give us some tips on what makes good content in FX? I’ll share a couple of tricks of the trade! Here’s a few really important things to remember. Segmentation is a must! You need to know all of the intricate differences between the different groups of traders that you’re targeting. You’ll need to know their location, education, determination, trading style, strategy and all of the other things that make them unique. That’s what’s crucial in making bespoke and tailored content that will appeal to those different groups. Brokers really need to start moving towards using approachable and conversational tones. We’re all aware that the generation with the most buying power (and trading power) are those elusive millennials. The thing is, they’re not that elusive. Understandably they’re skeptical of companies that use complex and confusing language. They want authenticity, transparency and a ‘cut the BS’ approach. Your content needs to do that to appeal to them. Lastly, make sure you’re not just sharing the same content on all of your channels. The world is so diverse and within that, so are the audiences using different social media platforms. You need to understand what the platform is used for, and who it’s used by. As an example, 40% of people between 30-49 read news on LinkedIn. So, having current and updated news that’s directly useful for traders will keep their finger on the pulse of the market and strengthen their trust in your brand at the same time. Q Does your content support a brand’s SEO effort? If a brand is looking for SEO optimized content, then that’s exactly what we’ll create! We’re actually quite flexible with how a company wants to do their SEO. We can either do the keyword research for you, form the keyword clusters and then structure the articles from there, or we’ll work with the specific keywords that they’re looking to target. It’s really important to be able to offer a company a bespoke SEO service, because every company is different. Maybe they’re new to the market with no longform content in circulation, or maybe they’ve been around for a long time and want to start targeting new areas - it’s all relative to the goals of the company you’re working with. Q How does your brand work with clients? Is it paid per piece or a different way?

We like to make sure everyone knows where they stand. So, we’ll have an initial meeting to get a real understanding of what’s needed in terms of content. Then we’ll estimate the time we need to complete the project and send a formal estimate. Once we have the go-ahead we’ll begin. Q Can you apply your content to other industries also, such as Prop Trading or online gaming? The possibilities are actually endless. In reality, you just need a smart writer who will conduct that in depth research and get the full understanding of a topic. Luckily for Just a Writer, we’ve got quite a bit of experience in areas like Prop Trading, Gaming, Tech and Payments. So research comes that bit easier. We’ve even worked with Development Companies and Gyms. At the risk of sounding like ChatGPT, whatever you need, we’ve got you covered! Q What is the best way of contacting you for a bespoke audit of content requirements? All of our contact details are on our website at www.justawriter.me So, when you need Just a Writer, pop me an email or give me a call and we can start creating content that connects, content that converts. P - 15

Baiana Kashaeva A Journey to oneself When Paul texted me with a suggestion to write an article about the mental detox of my travels, I was traveling in Madeira, a very beautiful island in Portugal, and was exactly in the process of clearing my mind. Naturally, I agreed, as writing a summary of my travels was something I planned myself, so Paul pushed me to structure it in a format that might be useful for others. So where did my journey begin? Obviously, it started with me leaving the company I’ve been working for for almost a decade – Tools For Brokers. One would assume that «10 years» says it all. As it turned out - it does not. Being curious is natural, and a little gossip doesn’t hurt anybody. However, I was getting a lot of questions and comments, snooping to find something beneath the surface, drama about why I left, and which company I’ll join next. All that made me think that such a few people find the mere idea of a career change or taking a proper break possible for themselves.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Taking a break for me was a logical decision and part of my plan, so when I talked to people I was surprised they expected me to jump right into another company. After all, we’re all reading about thousands of layoffs that started with IT giants in 2022 and are still happening. Well, I can only say that quitting should not be a surprise, neither to you nor to your employer. You help yourself and everyone by preparing and planning this «sabbatical» months beforehand. Or maybe it simply means that most of us do not consider «sabbatical» as part of the plan? Or does one simply think it’s a waste of time and merely a trend for lazy millennials? Well, I can not say for others, but for me taking this time off brought nothing but joy. I got to see my family and spent quality time with my friends around the world. Originally I did not have a bucket list of what I’d do with my free time, except for traveling. The plan was to be spontaneous, and open-minded, exploring what’s happening in the world and with the world.

I took guiding a couple of non-profit projects, focusing on my health, and exercising to build a routine. I was binge-reading the books that I never found time before and it was such a bliss. Not business literature, but rather classic one - from Russian to English authors. I also had a feeling that 2020 and the pandemic stole my time, so I tried to make it up by going to new and favourite destinations. I went to England, Wales, Spain, Georgia, Portugal, and Jordan. I’ve been doing group and solo hiking: to Snowdon summit, in Georgia mountains and Madeira landscapes. During this time, I had also the most interesting journey - to myself. The one, that you can only have when you’re completely out of your comfort zone, in silence, and away from your real and digital world. Sadly, I found out that some of my previous goals and dreams were either dictated by the expectations of others or by society’s standards of what kind of person you have to be by 30. I also had a certain role to play, which contradicted my other interests.

P - 17

And my biggest problem was that I am a classic workaholic without a single bit of understanding about work-life balance. Probably it’s something that you would naturally inhabit if you were born in the USSR: no pain, no game. At some point, which was most likely during the pandemic, I understood that I was walking in the wrong direction. I could clearly see that if I didn’t push full stop I could never find my way out. Metaphorically speaking, I was looking under each layer, ripping it off if I did not like the set of ideas and qualities until I somewhat detached myself from the person I used to be. Maybe if I had gone to a professional coach or my mentor it could have saved me a lot of money, and the process would be easier and faster, but I have a genuine interest in human and behavioral psychology, so I did not mind being my own patient. I got the idea of why people call for nature when they want to find some answers. Every alpinist I talked to, no matter whether they ascended the Everest summit or smaller mountains, would tell me that after such an experience when they’re back to business, they felt powerful and fearless enough for any challenge. I did not make it to Everest (yet), my personal record is 3280 meters in height, but I think I can relate. When it’s cold, windy and rainy, dark and foggy, and you’re out of breath, and your legs are shaking from all the miles you walked up - that’s when you learn. You learn to keep going, find your own balanced pace, find a second breath, and enjoy the process along the way. And what’s most important is you learn to define when it’s time for making that extra effort, that would bring you to the summit even though everyone around tells you to turn around. Not through the books, but through your own experience you see a lot of parallels between these physical hardships and ones in business. It’s sort of cliche, but that’s how it works. My sabbatical continues, as I still have a few travel destinations on my list. But I already know that this time off was the best investment I made in years. And to enjoy it 100% you have to prepare for it the right way. Here I’d like to share several very obvious, yet essential tips for your perfect sabbatical: •

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Inform your employer in advance, and give them proper time to prepare. And we don’t talk about the standard 1 month period, especially if you’re on a managerial position;

•

It’s your responsibility to find a replacement and prepare this person to take over your role. We were personally very lucky on this part.

•

Respect your team and make this transition as smooth as possible for them. It might be very stressful, especially for those, who’re not fond of changes;

•

Another obvious point: finish the projects you’ve started or delegate them;

•

Should I say that you have to be financially prepared for 3-6-12 months of unemployment? There, I said it;

•

Spend quality time with friends and family. Make it up for all the time you’ve been busy!

•

Focus on your health, you own it to your body for all the sleepless nights and long shifts;

•

You will not immediately have a new life or become a new version of yourself, you’ll have flashbacks and old patterns, but when it’s all gone and your mind will be clear - it will start generating new ideas. They can be scary in some sense, but be open-minded and give yourself a time to process, without judgement and rejecting them right away;

•

And lastly, travel and explore the world, as it’s so big and beautiful :)

P - 19

Global Forex Awards - Retail Winners Are Revealed!

After months of nominations and voting, Holiston Media has announced the winners of the World’s Biggest Retail Forex Awards. For five years running the Global Forex Awards - Retail have celebrated the top businesses who are pushing the boundaries of innovation in retail forex trading solutions. Covering over 50 award categories that include global, as well as regional winners in specific territories including Africa, Asia, Europe, LatAm and the Middle East, the Global Forex Awards 2023 - Retail are voted for by forex traders, and presented to the cream of the crop. The awards aim to highlight those businesses at the forefront of cutting-edge technology, low-cost trading, comprehensive market research tools, advanced educational programs and world-class customer service for direct to consumer/trader businesses. “These awards are the biggest of their kind and the most transparent and trustworthy,” explains Mike Boydell, Director of Holiston Media. “This year we have received more business nominations and votes than ever before, which proves that winning one of these awards is a fantastic mark of trust and success in this highly competitive industry.” he public voting process for the awards took T place throughout July 2023 and as has been the trend in previous years, there were very high engagement levels, with the nominees receiving tens of thousands of votes from right across the global forex trading communities. This year’s category winners are as follows:

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Award Category - Global

Winners

Best Affiliate Programme - Global Best Copy Trading Platform - Global Best Customer Service - Global Best EA - Global Best ECN Broker - Global Best Educational Broker - Global Best Educational Resources - Global Best Emerging Broker - Global Best Fintech Broker - Global Best Introducing Broker Programme - Global Best Media Provider - Global Best Mobile Trading Platform /App - Global Best MT4 Broker - Global Best MT5 Broker - Global Best Partnership Programme - Global Best Trade Execution - Global Best Trading Experience - Global Best Trading Platform - Global Best Trading Support - Global Best Value Broker - Global Most Competitive Broker - Global Most Reliable Broker - Global

Skilling INFINOX Tickmill Forex Forest EBC Financial Group OctaFX Hantec Markets HonorFX Mitrade Errante Game Changers Magazine ThinkMarkets Trade Nation Scope Markets Exclusive Markets INFINOX Tickmill Skilling Scope Markets FP Markets FOREX.com HYCM

P - 21

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Award Category - Global

Winners

P - 23

Award Category - Africa Best Introducing Broker Programme - Africa Best Trade Execution - Africa Most Trusted Broker - Africa

Winners axi Scope Markets Hantec Markets

Award Category - Asia Best Copy Trading Platform - Asia Best Introducing Broker Programme - Asia Best Partnership Programme - Asia Best Trading Support - Asia Most Reliable Broker - Asia Most Trusted Broker - Asia Best Broker - Asia

Winners Forex4you INFINOX FP Markets FairMarkets OctaFX axi Hantec Markets

Award Category - Europe Best Trading Experience - Europe Best Trading Platform - Europe Most Trusted Broker - Europe Best Broker - Europe

Winners IronFX FOREX.com HYCM FP Markets

Award Category - LatAm Best Copy Trading Platform - LatAm Best Partnership Programme - LatAm Best Trading Experience - LatAm Best Trading Platform - LatAm Most Reliable Broker - LatAm Most Transparent Broker - LatAm Most Trusted Broker - LatAm Best Broker - LatAm

Winners Forex4you Skilling Hantec Markets FOREX.com Hantec Markets Mitrade axi 4XC

Award Category - MENA Best Copy Trading Platform - MENA Best Customer Service - MENA Best Trading Experience - MENA Best Trading Support - MENA Most Trusted Broker - MENA Best Broker - MENA

Winners axi ThinkMarkets Century Financial Consultancy Century Financial Consultancy T4Trade FOREX.com

“Winning a Global Forex Award - Retail is a huge achievement and one that will set businesses apart, helping them to engage with new potential customers and retain current client trust and loyalty. Well done to all of this year’s winners,” adds Mike.

The Global Forex Awards 2023 - Retail are sponsored by: 4XC, axi, Century Financial, EBC Financial Group, Eightcap, Errante, Exclusive Markets, FairMarkets, FOREX.com, Forex4you, Forex Forest, FP Markets, Hantec Markets, HonorFX, HYCM, INFINOX, IronFX, MiTrade, Muinmos, OctaFX, Scope Markets, Skilling, T4Trade, ThinkMarkets, Tickmill and Trade Nation.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

P - 25

PRNEWS.IO ANNA ARTEMOVA

Q Tell us about Anna. What have you been up to professionally? Hello everyone! First of all, I am grateful for the invitation ;) Not only professionally, but in general, I love discovery and new things. I am madly in love with communicating with people and inventing solutions, and marketing seems to be at the intersection of that. Once I got an internship at a worldwide digital agency as a student and felt the vibe of the movie “99 Francs,” I knew that only advertising would be next. Then there were all kinds of advertising, working for agencies and brands, igaming with all its specifics, and now - PR and SEO, which, as it turns out, can be great friends. Q You have extensive experience in digital marketing. How did you make the transition to PRNEWS.IO? Love just happened with PRNEWS.IO! The kind of love you move to another country for. Initially, I found a fantastic solution I wish I had known about years ago. I’ve faced challenges several times when trying to place articles and ads precisely where I wanted them. Unfortunately, due to tight deadlines, they often ended up in less effective locations.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

-It seems that I have gone through all the negative customer journeys in the world of working with publishers. I have encountered both scams and the inability to agree and find at least a common payment method when you attract traffic from a country that you can hardly find on the globe at the first attempt. PRNEWS.IO simply saves its clients from these worries and risks. Apparently, I am an ICP, and that’s why we are together. And secondly, it was nice after a long wander to find a team of compatriots, people with whom you grew up on the same jokes and TV shows, and ate the same chips after school.

Your manager searches for suitable media, looks for contacts of site owners, rich out through all the channels again and again, gets a response only from units (we all know that the conversion rate is never 100%), negotiates terms and formats, concludes a contract, tries to match payment options, pings the publisher so that the article is finally published. All in all, it’s a long, a bit sad, inefficient, and demotivating story. Who needs this, right? Instead of all this, you can simply use the marketplace and with full confidence publish the article on the announced terms and in the predictable time frame. While all the bottlenecks are fixed by the representatives of PRNEWS.IO.

A common background is important, whatever one may say.

Q A lot of brands have an in-house marketing department. Can your services work to complement an existing in-house marketing department?

Q What is PRNEWS.IO?

Yes, it’s even a perfect scenario.

It’s your go-to digital PR marketplace, which helps SMBs or individuals and publishers to get connected. The online platform allows brands to publish PR and SEO content across 110,000 sites, including big names like Forbes and Bloomberg.

PRNEWS.IO is not an agency, we are more like opportunity providers.

On the other side, publishers benefit by receiving orders from relevant advertisers from all over the world. So publishers can focus on what they love most — producing great content while leaving us to care about revenue. To give you a clearer picture, PRNEWS.IO can be likened to Amazon for media publications. Q Are there specific industries you work best with? As practice has shown, our marketplace has more applications than we initially thought. The main industries for which the tool turns out to be a real godsend are fintech, payment solutions, crypto and trading-related projects, e-commerce, software development companies, various startups, igaming, and so on. It is also a tool for personal PR, for example, for publishing articles for talent visas for settling in the US. Q Why does my brand need it? If a brand realizes the need to build user and partner trust, create an image with PR, and increase organic traffic valumes by doing SEO, then PRNEWS.IO will be the perfect solution to do it cost and time-efficiently. What does the usual way of solving the task of publishing an article in online media look like?

So for a brand with an in-house marketing department and a solid strategy, our marketplace is the perfect solution to conduct it efficiently. The strategy is yours and the execution is automated by our tool. We don’t try to compete with in-house teams, we help them.

Q What should we look for if we are going to engage a PR agent? Apart from having a PR agent with experience in your industry or niche, it is also essential to think about a person who: - is able to develop a PR Strategy Plan, - has strong written and verbal communication skills; - can handle crisis situations and manage negative publicity; - has general SEO skills and Digital PR knowledge: to optimize press releases, articles, blog posts and other content for search engines; to improve authority by leveraging link-building strategies; to create content that is also shareable and engaging on social platforms; to track and analyze the performance of PR campaigns.

P - 27

Q What are the warning signs of a bad PR agent? Some red flags: - Lack of a well-defined and customized PR strategy tailored to your brand’s goals and needs; - Lack of communication and transparency about actions, results, and expenses; - Shortage of creativity and initiative and no extra mile in developing compelling content for your brand; - Weak written and verbal communication skills, which can lead to ineffective campaigns and content that fails to resonate with your target audience; - Lack of an extensive network of media contacts and relationships within your industry, as it can restrict your PR agent’s ability to secure valuable media coverage and opportunities for your brand. Q How do you educate your clients on what works best? We always start with a consultation – we need to understand the client’s real goals and why they need articles. Everything that seems obvious should be voiced.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Based on this, we tell you what features of the service will be the most useful and how best to use them. Also, we willingly share strategies and select options for placement. We also maintain our own blog, where we regularly talk about successful cases and curious niche news.

Q Is it easy to use your services? Yes! Even if it seems complicated to some - our caring managers will guide you by the hand ;) To get started, all you need to do is register, select a media outlet, upload your article, and voila, you will soon receive a notification that the article has been published.

Q What’s the best way to reach you to learn more? Feel free to email me at a.artemova@prnews.io or on LinkedIn With the promo code GameChangers, you will receive a 50 euro gift card, which you can use to test our platform (and fall in love with it irrevocably).

P - 29

Q Tiqbee is the brainchild of some of the smartest brains in FX. Can you give us a brief bio of each of you? I would like to answer this applying a more general approach, it would be unfair if we emphasize on the key players as we strongly believe that everyone has and plays a very important role in Tiqbee, from the very first days up until today, the core team remains the same. A team of enthusiasts, thirsty to always evolve and tackle the never-ending battle with the markets. Our very early days in the financial industry started as clients of the Investments firms, normal traders, analysing the markets and trying to develop our own unique strategies. The founding team of Tiqbee are all Certified Technical Analysts, portfolio managers and CFTe instructors, each one with their own unique trading style, methodology and character. In regards to our experience in the industry, we have also held key positions such as Head of Portfolio management, Head of Investment Advice as well as both Non-Executive and Executive Directorships.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

P - 31

Q Why do this? Why go to all the bother of setting up a signal’s brand, when it seems like an impossible job to make people happy? Couldn’t agree more , the idea came along the way. The main reason being to document our own track record, analysing and actually promoting your analysis adds discipline which helps to have more consistent results. As instructors of the CFTe diploma, we also had requests of providing trading ideas, then we added tools to assist in trading, leading to providing strategies for all the different types of traders and trading techniques and concluding finally to the educational videos which are abstracts of the Certified Financial Technician syllabus and presented by Mr Petros Floridis, an expert in the field. So I will firmly sum up, that it evolved along the way into a complete ecosystem which was purely based on the needs of friends, students and fellow traders. Q Speaking personally in a life before Game Changers Magazine, we used to use a ‘leading brand’ for signals at the brokerage I worked for. To say the results were mixed, would be kind to the provider. How do you conduct your research? There are good days and bad days in trading, the key is to possess the discipline and disregard any form of emotions, I suppose experience will be the main factor. We have 4 different portals of signals which very among each other covering all asset classes. Research is made by each analyst applying their own strategy and algorithms, filtered based on market conditions and reviewed before promoting, so by passing a three phase quality control leads to more consistent results.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Q As a user of Tiqbee and also being an idiot, I found using your service very straightforward as I am not a trader by any stretch of the imagination. Do you cater for people at the lower end of the knowledge spectrum and also sophisticated traders? We apply a more personal touch to the extent allowed as to also perform, we communicate and assist everyone requesting any form of clarifications, guidance and mentoring. We have managed to structure our Traders Dashboard in a simplified and user friendly manner, signals are clear and to the point, accompanied by a graph clearly indicating the main purpose and analytical tools applied. There are no alternative scenarios, but at the same time, everyone can apply their own risk appetite and trading strategy. Above all, the entry point is the determining factor to whether a trade will be profitable or not. Q Can a brand use you like a white label, to incorporate all your research to help them? Yes, in 2013 we have launched our white label offering, enabling investment firms and brokers, to provide quality educational material, tools and signals to their clients in a single dashboard, in our white label offering, we also provide brokers with a branded Telegram Channel with all signals, videos and content provided by Tiqbee. Our solution can be integrated directly with the CRM and mainly the client portal or it can also be offered with an I-Frame. For us and mainly the brokers, it’s a way clients – traders can benefit from an all in one solution produced by traders.

Q At the other end of the spectrum. As a retail client, can I go directly to you for signals?

Q Is there a demo mode that you can show the relevant decision maker in the brokerage?

Even though with our white label offering, clients can access the dashboard free of charge with any broker we are cooperating with, we have still kept the retail offering open for several reasons, mainly to provide the service to clients that their broker do not have similar offerings and clients seeking as mentioned above any form of guidance.

Live credentials are offered to any relevant member of the brokerage firm as to navigate and explore the dashboard, we also conduct a demonstration where needed, but in general, the Dashboard is so simplified that all functionalities can be easily comprehended.

Q As with anything. How complex is it to add Tiqbee to my brokerage? Do I need to complete years worth of paperwork to get it finished? A very simplified agreement with no long-term commitment, where a broker can commence and end whenever they wish. Simple as that. Q We all know there are different types of brokerages, with different ethics on execution etc. Is this aimed at a specific type of brokerage? To be honest, I strongly believe that all brokers aim to provide client satisfaction, and there is no better way than to offer an all in one solution consisting of absolutely everything a client needs to maintain an active trading experience.

Q How does both a brand and an individual user pay for your services? An individual can subscribe to our services directly from our website www.tiqbee.com, in regards to brokers, we issue an invoice supporting nearly all payment methods. Q What’s the best way to reach you all for more info? We have all relevant information on our website: www.tiqbee.com but we can also be reached at our email: info@tiqbee.com as well as on our social media. We can also be reached at the company’s phone number which is +357-96656666.

P - 33

MT Proxy KENT RIBOE

Leading with Integrity in the Financial World In today’s fast-paced financial landscape, leadership is not just about guiding a team or making strategic decisions. It’s about setting a precedent, fostering a culture of trust, and ensuring that ethical standards are upheld consistently. For professionals in this industry, leadership in the financial sector is a journey of continuous learning, adaptation, and commitment to integrity.

The Evolving Role of Leadership in Finance The financial industry, characterised by its intricate web of regulations, high stakes, and global implications, demands leaders who can navigate these complexities with both confidence and caution. It’s not just about understanding numbers or market trends; it’s about understanding people, their motivations, and the broader societal implications of financial decisions. It is clear that the role of leadership in finance has evolved substantially over time. As automation and technology have become increasingly prevalent, financial leaders must now possess a wide skill set that includes technology management, customer service acuity, and insight into social trends. Rather than relying on information provided, leaders in finance are increasingly being asked to delve further into data points, question the facts, and synthesise their own conclusions.

Cultivating Ethical Leadership One of the most pressing challenges leaders face in this sector is maintaining and building trust. Leaders need to make sure they are honest, responsible, and do the right thing in all their dealings.This means not only adhering to regulations but going above and beyond to ensure that all actions are in the best interest of clients, stakeholders, and society at large.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Cultivating ethical leadership begins with setting a strong example from the top. Leaders should articulate what kind of values they wish to establish for their organisations and why it is important to adhere to them. Moreover, these ethics principles need to be reiterated and reinforced at each level in every team. To achieve this, leaders must provide employees with proper education on governing laws such as regulation compliance, codes of conduct, whistleblowing policies and more.

Balancing Technical Expertise and People Management Leadership in finance necessitates a delicate balance between technical expertise and people management. While proficiency in financial matters is essential, the ability to lead and inspire a team is equally vital. Effective leaders understand that their teams are their greatest assets and invest in their development. They also recognize that diverse perspectives can lead to more well-rounded decision-making and they actively seek out input from team members. Motivating employees to take ownership of projects requires patience and an open communication style. Leaders should remember that each individual has unique strengths and weaknesses, and work to provide feedback that is both constructive and supportive. By having regular check-ins with team members, leaders can ensure everyone feels heard. They can also assess progress, identify areas for growth, and alleviate potential roadblocks before they become insurmountable obstacles. Showcasing success, fosters a sense of shared purpose, which ultimately helps keep morale high.

Client-Centric Approach The financial industry is ultimately about serving clients’ needs. Leaders should adopt a client-centric approach by actively listening to clients, understanding their financial goals, and tailoring solutions

accordingly. Additionally, using data analytics to anticipate clients’ needs and provide personalised services can set a financial organisation apart in a competitive market. Empowering employees with the autonomy to make decisions that benefit clients can be instrumental in achieving client-centricity. When employees feel a sense of ownership and responsibility for their clients’ well-being, it can lead to more proactive and customised solutions. Incentives and performance metrics should also align with the goal of enhancing the client experience rather than merely focusing on short-term profits.

Adaptation and Innovation in Financial Leadership In a world that’s constantly evolving, leaders must be proactive in their approach, willing to adapt, learn, and innovate. This means staying updated with the latest industry trends, understanding the changing needs and expectations of clients, and being open to feedback and constructive criticism. Furthermore, as the financial world becomes increasingly digital, leaders must also grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by technology. From cybersecurity concerns to the potential of fintech innovations, leaders must be at the forefront, guiding their teams and organisations through uncharted waters.

Final Thoughts Leadership in the financial world is a multifaceted role that requires a delicate balance of technical expertise, ethical considerations, people management, and forward-thinking. As the industry continues to evolve and face new challenges, it will be leaders with unwavering commitment to integrity and excellence, who will set the standard and pave the way for a more transparent and ethical financial future.

P - 35

Views are my own The modern BD department is in crisis. I don’t say this in terms of revenues which are booming across the board. However, as a species the old ways are dying out where we just used to have to make revenue and life was simple. Before everyone howls cries of dinosaur, it seems that we have become a department where we are dumped on from all areas of the organisation which leads to less and less time in doing our actual role of generating revenue. If you asked an AI what the role of a business development person should be and what should be their primary daily focus, their raison d’etre if you like. I am quite sure it would say focus on making as much money for the company as possible. Would it give a description of the role that now seems to cover first line technical support, handling many

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

administrative roles of an overloaded back office or perhaps our least favorite of dealing with a marketing department and explaining how the product works and why a series of facebook likes don’t pay the bills. When that difficult transition comes from a small organisation to the upscaling you have to expect the extra roles and it has to be embraced. However, as a brand becomes more bloated with many NPC’s, you can often find that it just becomes lets see how many thankless chores we can push onto the BD department. Now if you are still reading this, don’t worry this was not intended to be a rant against others. More of a constructive way for those who are in control of the levers of organizational power to maybe look at things a different way. Moreover, hopefully as some kind of instructional manual to save yourself and to go on to bigger and better things.

The great Manchester United coach Alex Ferguson always argued that any new coach should choose your owners, rather than basing their choice on the name of the club they were joining. Your relationship with the owners or management will determine the success in your role. In this case look at who the CEO is and what their professional background is. The reason I say CEO and not the owner is that in a startup the owner will take on a dual role, no doubt you will have a more fluid revenue growing role in that they also will still be selling the same product to some extent until they take a step back and install a CEO. If the CEO comes from a numbers or detail background such as accountancy or compliance. Best of luck as you are about to get lead generating activities and budgets cut, staff reductions and more non core tasks for you taking time out of your day. Start looking for a new role now. However, if you strike gold and get the unicorn you will have the CEO that came from a sales background (and was successful, not transitioned into marketing) who will no doubt understand that the focus of this department should be on generating revenue and the whole organisation is focused on this. Moreover, they will no doubt be looking to improve your skills so you can raise more money. Lets face it, it is not completely altruistic, as they probably have a big override at the end of the year so it benefits him to do this. Good luck to them, we are not doing it for a pat on the back. Do not depend on your marketing department to save you. This is not a critique of them, however no doubt those of a softer disposition reading this will no doubt be offended. Don’t be, lifes too short. The reason for this is that ultimately you are looking to make your own unique future where you can go freelance and make more money. You are in the best place to do this as you know the product, industry and the buyer better than anyone so you know what sells and the message to give to the world.

Do what you have to do to make your own database outside of work hours, therefore it is not owned by the company.It is your property. This only takes a couple of hours a week of solid focus. It seems like a chore but will give you the freedom that you desire. Moreover, once the lack of solid marketing and leads coming in, and the inevitable drop off from your network you will need to make a plan B. This plan B should focus on your long term personal success, not the increase of the brand’s bottom line, but your bottom line. Let’s face it AI is coming for all our jobs, the dream of automation of the sales process has owners slathering like a hungry dog looking at a steak. It’s time to act now. It is important that when you start your own lead generation that you are connecting them to your personal brand. Most celebrities and sports people are selective on who they endorse (which they get paid for) . You should do the same and make sure they mirror your ethics and values. Moreover, having a list of KPIs that you expect from the brand you represent gives you a sense of agency and control. That’s not to say that you march into the CEO’s office on the first week of each quarter and tell them what is expected. It means to have a list of redlines that shouldn’t be crossed and what you expect in terms of development and compensation. This gives you a sense of psychological autonomy going forward. It may sound like a pile on to other department. In all honesty I don’t care, take the advice for what it is worth. Remember your revenues pay salaries and put food on the table not only for your family and others in your organisation. Don’t be afraid to flag this up to your organisation, last time I checked you were paid on revenues made, not for being a compliance person on a tuesday, technical support on Wednesday and cleaner on a Thursday. Be strong, you sales warrior and get after it!

P - 37

ARK Insurance VASOS HARALAMBOUS

Meet Vasos Haralambous - From Waiter to Insurance Entrepreneur How I Started in Insurance: My journey into the world of insurance began in 2011 when I found myself at a crossroads in my career. Previously, I had worked as a waiter from a young age and later became an area manager for two restaurants. During this period, I pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor’s degree in management whilst working at the same time. I reached a point in my life where I found myself wondering if there’s something else for me out there and what that could be. I was then headhunted by Mr Chrysodontas a manager at Eurolife and I found myself intrigued by this industry and I wanted a change. This meeting marked the inception of my career in the insurance industry.

insurance sector, particularly one tied to the Bank of Cyprus. Although it was a slow start over the years, with determination and dedication, it’s started paying off, and year by year, my journey as a successful insurance advisor has unfolded, highlighting the remarkable transformation of persistence into achievement. In addition, the unwavering support from my wife, who consistently encouraged me to reach my full potential, helped me conquer these challenges and each obstacle faced contributed to my personal and professional growth. The birth of our beautiful family further fueled my dedication to self-improvement and success as both an individual and a successful Insurance Advisor.

Why I Chose This Industry:

Why ARK Insurance:

When I first ventured into insurance, what captivated me most was the freedom of being my boss, limitless potential for earnings as I could earn as much as I wanted with no limitations. Furthermore, I especially came to appreciate the opportunity to help people protect their financial future and assets, making a positive impact in their lives. Becoming a life insurance advisor is not just about selling policies; it’s about providing peace of mind and financial security to individuals and their families.

In 2022, I decided to take a significant step in my insurance career. Teaming up with my sister, who joined the industry in 2021, we founded ARK Insurance. The name, inspired by Noah’s Ark, reflects our commitment to helping people in their time of need. At ARK Insurance, we provide comprehensive insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients, whether individuals or businesses. We believe in making insurance accessible, understandable, and hasslefree. Our dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals is passionate about safeguarding your assets, securing your future, and providing financial protection for your loved ones.

The Obstacles: Obstacles have been an integral part of my journey, from struggling to afford basic necessities to navigating a trust deficit in the aftermath of the financial crisis. However, each obstacle became a stepping stone, strengthening my resolve and shaping my career. Turning my obstacles to a success: My early days in the insurance field were far from easy, as is often the case with any new career. I faced financial challenges, at times struggling to even afford petrol for my car or a cup of coffee. These obstacles, though daunting, only fueled my determination and made me more resilient. In 2013, the financial crisis in Cyprus created an additional hurdle, as it was challenging to gain the trust of clients in the GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

What’s Next for Me and ARK Insurance: My journey has taken me from a humble beginning to becoming an agency manager and ultimately an entrepreneur with my own insurance brokerage, ARK Insurance. We’ve assembled a team of 7 dedicated agents, and our mission is to continue growing, expanding our reach, and making insurance more accessible and understandable for our clients. We aim to provide peace of mind by safeguarding their assets and securing their financial future. Additionally, I am committed to sharing my knowledge and experience to help others succeed in the insurance industry. The future holds exciting opportunities for both me and ARK Insurance as we work together to serve our clients and make a positive impact.

P - 39

Thanks everyone! - GC Wins again I just wanted to say thanks to everyone that voted for us at the recent Global Forex Awards, where we were honored to win the ‘Best Global Media Provider’ for the fourth year in a row. The awards circuit has in recent years become a bit of a cash cow, where you can buy awards for literally anything. However, we absolutely love the Holiston Media awards, with it being the only one that we enter each year as it has a huge amount of transparency that both Mike and Archie have given us. I know I always say it, but GC did start out as a bit of a joke between myself and friends in a bar, where I said I could make a magazine with my usual mantra of ‘how hard can it be?’ After quite a few years later I am still amazed at the huge traction that it gets with each new edition. Moreover, I am still fascinated by how widely it is read globally. It always seems weird to me that it has such huge following as I am just on the production side. We just create the content and let it naturally get out there. It is always great when you meet people at various events and expo’s from all parts of the world telling us how much they enjoy it. Without being too cheesy, it really is about the contributors who make GC what it is. Without the content it would just be a series of blank pages which will always be delivered in a PR free reduced filter type of way. Hopefully it will give people a place to get their ideas out there. The modern world is becoming more constrained by marketing orthodoxy’s that still can feel like a square peg in a round hole with many ideas. As GC is kind of a fluid creative vessel, where any suggestions that you have come from the seed of something, so lets hear them. There is no such thing as a bad creative idea as an idea is malleable and can be formed into may different interpretations.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

P - 41

Finally, but certainly not last is a huge thank you to Vera, the goliath of the GC team, who has revolutionized the GC design look over the years. Keep up the staggeringly high quality of work, with the feedback from contributors and readers being is universally positive. Moreover, you gave us a real sense of organization in the delivery of each issue...Nice one V! Thanks everyone who took the time to vote and those who didn’t who are reading this, you can redeem yourself next year by exercising your democratic right and vote for GC next year!

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

Game Changers Magazine

Lifestyle

GC:GOING OUT DaVinci & Chaplins Both central Limassol by Agia Napa church.

Walking through the door of DaVinci you are greeted with one of the best examples of an old brick building wonderfully renovated and decorated keeping with its older elegance, and the decor complimenting it with it being an incredibly high standard of decor.

on the reasoning that the holder of the birthday was Greek and female. Both of which are not common components for a good old fashioned birthday drink. (that’s not to say she doesn’t drink, she can rival any rum drinking sailor on shore leave)

We made our way up the staircase to the roof garden, where the weather was perfect for not only the late summer evening, but also for my drinking companion’s birthday celebration.

The birthday girl leafed through the ample drinks menu and settled on a nicely curated old fashioned (whiskey), along with some fruit based type of cocktail for me which was very nice although a touch too much foliage.

After all these years I am still not used to the Greek tradition of the person buying the drinks for their own birthday. On the rain soaked island of England we have our own tradition and ancient customs of jagerbombs and curry for the lucky person’s big day. The usual birthday drinks war cry that normally resonates from the grey northern country of ‘lets get well pissed’ was probably not going to be used tonight,

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

This place seems to be high end, although the price is pretty decent for the venue. However, there was one thing that I found weird was this small door which kind of looked like the entrance to Narnia via Limassol. Sadly, the server informed me that it wasn’t a gateway to a mystical world, more like an access to one of the

lower rings of hell...A VIP karaoke room. What would make people pay excessively to listen to karaoke is beyond me. However, they seemed happy enough when they came outside to relax their ears and have a smoke. Wanting to move onto somewhere else, we took a brief walk past the Agia Napa church to Chaplins which is very different in looks. However, it had a different energy to it that you get when you enter a well weathered bar. Chaplins has been a staple of central limassol for a long time, and is a great place to go if you want a beer and listen to songs from what seem like they are from yesterday. Moreover, it may seem like a rock music bar, it isn’t death metal played at extreme volume. It’s the songs that you sing the lyrics to in your mind when it comes on, and you think of where you were when it first came out. I have a confession, I have recently embraced my old age and i like to go to a bar and hear people talk. As a result of many years of loud music, I have been

awarded the special prize of tinnitus so I need to keep things at a pretty low level. Chaplins covered this nicely and I didnt have to get out my ear horn to have a conversation. (google it, its safe for work). From this night I learnt two things. I know why the Greek debt crisis happened. Too many birthdays and knowing too many people led to the Greek people taking on too much booze based debt forcing the IMF to step in. Take a lesson from your northern cousins, let others pay for your birthday. Sure you are served some random long term health threatening drinks, but others take care of the bill. Kind of like universal healthcare, but with alcohol. Secondly, I actually preferred Chaplins to the more high end place. Sometimes you just want a drink in a dark bar without the hassle. Not to say that DaVinci is bad or pompous. It is not, just not as much fun as Chaplins. Perhaps the best description is that Da Vinci is a bar where people take pictures for instagram, Chaplins is where you go to have a good time.

P - 45

GC: EAT Kalimera India Bragadinou 3, Limassol 3041

I cant believe we have never reviewed Kalimera India in all the years that Game Changers has been around. That in itself is a crime! I first discovered this little gem when I first arrived in Cyprus a long, long time ago when the curry choice was very low. It was Raj in the tourist area which gave you a sit down option, but it was always just missing something that I couldn’t put my finger on, and also Kalimera India which seemed to be miles aw from my location. Two more different establishments you couldn’t find. What I love about Kalimera India is its informality of only a couple of tables in a side room where the food comes out at express speed. It is set in a beautiful, very rustic building in central Limassol, with the architecture being a great clash of styles that works incredibly well.

I have had so many dishes here from the standard korma, madras and tikka to what I think is one of the underrated dishes they serve, the granddaddy of them all the chicken tikka sandwich. Visually imagine a naan bread the size of a l arge viking adult’s forearm, with chicken tikka masala through the middle and wrapped up like a huge curry sleeping bag, dripping and oozing curry sauce all over your hands. Each mouthful is a careful balancing act between eating and spilling all over yourself. This amazing snack is everything that a fajita aspires to be, but its Mexican cousin can never match its awesome power. Now if this is eaten in the confines of an office space you will need all of your colleagues onboard, as the sweet smell of curry will lovingly caress the air. It is not an overpowering scent which leads to the customer support department complaining of symptoms similar to a tear gas attack, it is just a little curryish and should be tolerated by dictat of company internal policy. For those who are not aware. Tikka Masala is not even an Indian dish, it was invented in Scotland and is perhaps Glasgow’s greatest creation after the breakfast beer and chronic heart disease. However, I was never blessed to see it in a rolled up Naan iteration until I came to the CY One of the many reasons that we are blessed to live on this sunny Mediterranean island. Perhaps the tourism board should use this as an adverting strategy to lure new tourists in.

I remember about 8 years ago myself and my colleague ate them for 5 days straight for lunch, and only stopped from the anonymous complaint made by a rat to the HR department. That run could have gone on for 2 weeks without a break. Anyway, back to the review. Although some may turn their nose up at not being seated in luxury surroundings, Kalimera India is designed for you to order, eat and go. Not quite at McDonalds speed, but certainly not where you take up the space for 2 hours. If you are a non meat eater there is an extensive amount of dishes that are available all year round, not just in the fasting season. I once had a spicy bean curry which was a work of art. My brain couldn’t work out if it was more chili than curry, but either way it was amazing. Also if you get a chance, try one of the incredibly delicious lassi drinks which is a fruit flavored yogurt made mainly in the northern part of India. I remember when i visited India for work several years back, I was inhaling about 4 of these a day. Absolutely delicious. Kalimera is always my default curry joint, no need to book a table as I don’t think it is possible. Just roll the dice and see if you get lucky. One last thing. order a Peshwari naan bread and thank me later!

P - 47

GC:LIFE STACY THOMSON - REDDI APP

Why Alpha Males Are So Attractive: Exploring the Science Behind the Charisma As someone who has spent literally ‘years’ on dating apps, this one resonates deeply with me. In fact, I have been described as an “alpha female” myself on the odd occasion. I have to admit though, I am one of the many who are attracted to confident, smart and intelligent men, so it is not that surprising that I have also dated an ‘alpha male’ once or twice in my lifetime.

However, when we hear the term “alpha male,” we may conjure up images of someone who is muscular, confident, and dominant. But what is it about these traits that make alpha males so appealing? Is it simply a matter of physical attraction, or is there more to the story? In this article, I’m going to try and explore the science behind the charisma of alpha males and why they continue to be so attractive to many. Q What is an alpha male? First, let’s define what we mean by “alpha male.” This term, believe it or not originates from animal behaviour research and refers to the dominant male in a social group. In humans, an alpha male is often seen as a leader or top-performer in various domains, including business, sports, or social interactions.

When is comes to characteristics, Alpha males are often described by a range of traits, including confidence, assertiveness, competitiveness, and physical attractiveness.

Q Why are we so attracted to these guys? Well, according to evolutionary psychologists (they speak my language), believe it or not, the answer lies in the role of natural selection. In ancestral times, alpha males had higher status, resources, and access to mates, making them more likely to pass on their genes to the next generation. As a result, humans have evolved to find alpha males attractive as potential partners or rivals. So, let’s start with one of the most obvious traits of alpha males - their physical appearance. Research has shown that women tend to prefer men who are taller (sorry to all the short guys reading this!), muscular, and have symmetrical features, which are all indicators of health and genetic fitness apparently. In addition, a study conducted by the University of California found that women rated men who displayed “hunter-gatherer traits” (such as a muscular physique, a deep voice, and a dominant posture) as more attractive than men who displayed “farmer traits” (such as a more average body type and a less dominant posture) which did in fact make me giggle somewhat I must say! But let’s delve a little further - physical appearance is only one part of the equation. The personality traits that alpha males possess, such as confidence and assertiveness, are also highly attractive to many. According to another study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, men who displayed more “alpha male behaviours” (such as speaking loudly, interrupting, and dominating conversations) were rated as more attractive by women - so politeness isn’t always attractive then! So why , you may ask? Well, this is because these behaviours signal status, dominance, and competence, which are desirable traits in a mate.

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

However, it’s worth noting (thankfully) that not everyone is attracted to alpha males. Some of us (I’m in recovery!) actually people prefer partners who are more nurturing, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent, which are not typically associated with alpha

male traits. In fact, studies have shown that women who are more anxious or neurotic tend to prefer more “beta” or nurturing partners over alpha males believe it or not. Similarly, men who are less competitive or assertive may not be drawn to alpha females or dominant partners. This has most definitely been the case for me - in fact, the more I ‘achieve’ the harder I have found it to date. Q What does this all mean for men who aspire to be alpha males? Well, firstly, it’s important to note that there is a HUGE difference between healthy confidence and toxic masculinity. Confidence can be an attractive trait, but it should not come at the expense of others or be used to justify harmful behaviour - that’s just rude, disrespectful, and shows a lack of complete thought for others.

there is no one-size-fits-all approach to dating and relationships. It’s important to be authentic and true to yourself, rather than trying to fit into a certain mold. If you’re someone who struggles with confidence or assertiveness, remember that these qualities can be developed and improved over time. Practice being more assertive in your daily life, and work on building your self-confidence through positive self-talk and self-care. Ultimately, what makes someone attractive is their unique combination of qualities and traits, and how they make others feel when they’re around them. Focus on being the best version of yourself, and the right person will be attracted to you for who you are. If you want to make that process simpler, you could also just apply to join us at REDDI. Til, next time. Stacy

Furthermore, it’s worth considering that alpha male traits are not the only markers of success or attractiveness. For example, embracing traits such as empathy, kindness, and emotional intelligence can also be highly attractive to many. For those of you who struggle with confidence or assertiveness, there are ways to develop these traits without resorting to toxic or harmful behaviours. For example, practicing assertive communication skills, setting clear boundaries, and pursuing activities that build self-esteem (such as exercise or hobbies) can all help to build confidence and assertiveness. Let’s wrap that all up in a conclusion So, the appeal of alpha males is rooted in evolutionary biology and the desire for genetic fitness and status. However, it’s important to remember that these traits are not the only markers of success or attractiveness. Individuals who aspire to be alpha males should strive for healthy confidence and assertiveness, while also embracing traits such as empathy, kindness, and emotional intelligence. Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance between these traits and being true to oneself. It’s also worth noting that the concept of “alpha males” itself is a subject of debate and has been criticised for oversimplifying human behaviour, perpetuating rigid gender stereotypes and encouraging toxic masculinity. Human behaviour and relationships are complex, and it’s crucial to acknowledge these concerns and work towards promoting healthy masculinity that does not rely on dominance or aggression. However, it’s also important to note that being an alpha male is not the only way to be attractive. People are attracted to different qualities and traits, and

P - 49

GC:SPORT JOAO MONTIERO BRAZILIAN GRAND PRIX

Game Changers favorite FX entrepreneur Joao Montiero provided us with some great content from the Brazilian Grand Prix. Held annually in Sao Paulo, in what many consider one of the great race tracks for the F1 circus. The much anticipated Brazilian race is anticipated as one of the favorites by many of the F1 teams, as it is a great place to race, and also a great place to sample the legendary Brazilian way of life. Joao told GC that one of the core ethos of 4XC was to be personally accessible to their clients. Moreover, it is great to attend events like this and to get to meet them. “We have found that our clients have turned into long lasting business relationships, which then turned into friendships. We like to make sure that all our clients at 4XC are taken care of, as if it were one of my family.” He goes further “Although I do expect high standards from my colleagues when it comes to client care. This should be industry standard and a basic for any successful business. An informed client is a happy client!” For more information you can visit 4xc.com Enjoy your travels Joao!

GAME CHANGERS Issue #47

P - 51

ISSUE #47

THE JOURNAL FOR INDUSTRY LEADERS