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Story Time Learning Adds New Story Time Chess Level 2 and 3 Game Expansions, On-Demand Video Lessons to its Award-winning Learning System

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Expansions Teach More Advanced Chess Strategy and Tactics, Require Story Time Chess: The Game, Now at New Everyday Price of $39.99

Subscriptions to Story Time Learning LIVE Now Available

BROOKLYN, N.Y., Nov. 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Story Time Learning, creators of Story Time Chess, the only board game in the world that teaches kids as young as three years old how to play chess, launched today all new ways for children to continue learning chess the Story Time way. Story Time Chess Level 2 Strategy and Level 3 Tactic Expansions bring kids on more adventures in Chesslandia, while teaching advanced chess skills. The game expansions build on the skills learned through Story Time Chess: The Game, now even more accessible at an everyday price of $39.99. The company also introduced Story Time Learning LIVE, an on-demand, subscription-based series of video lessons brought to life by fun, engaging tutors.  

“Since launching Story Time Chess: The Game, we’ve successfully taught more than 250,000 kids around the world how to play the classic game of chess, but the fun doesn’t need to end there!” says Andrew Kashian, co-founder of Story Time Learning. “Playing chess is truly a lifelong journey, and we’re excited to help kids become better players, while giving them more fun, memorable ways to learn chess strategies and tactics.”

Story Time Chess Expansions

Each game expansion includes a beautifully illustrated 9-lesson storybook with 20+ minigames and exercises that teach kids new chess concepts—one silly story at a time! Included puzzle, activity and coloring workbooks help kids practice, reinforce and retain key skills after each storybook chapter.

The Level 2 Strategy Expansion teaches kids how to make and execute a game plan through concepts like pawn promotion, castling, piece mobility and opening strategy. Kids can read storybook chapters like “Flight of the Pillow-copter” and meet new characters like Queens Heather and Hazel who come to life with two new playing pieces.

The Level 3 Tactics Expansion explores the tricky middlegame of chess and teaches advanced playing style tactics like how to analyze the board, find “ranks” or “files,” and calculate piece point values. Kids meet new characters King Richard, Mango the Giraffe and Beatrice the Elephant, and experience adventures like the “Spaghetti Tug ‘o War,” which comes to life with three new food playing pieces.

Each level, sold separately, is available now at StoryTimeChess.com and Amazon for $29.99 each.
Expansions require the original Story Time Chess: The Game, which includes a story book, double-sided chess board, and special character chess playing pieces, available now at StoryTimeChess.com, Amazon and Target for $39.99. The story-based learning system is meant for children ages 3 and up.

Story Time Learning LIVE

Story Time Learning LIVE, a new subscription-based digital platform offering on-demand video lessons, makes the Story Time Chess learning experience even more fun and interactive. This companion content augments the board game play experience as kids learn through expanded stories with their favorite Story Time characters. Each lesson, brought to life by engaging Story Time Learning tutors, also includes “Chessercizes” that will have kids getting up (even dressing up!) and moving like chess pieces, along with on-board exercises to practice. Over time, more games will be added for kids to learn and master.

Story Time Learning LIVE is available now online and free to download through the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Roku. Apps will soon also be available for Apple TV, Android TV and Amazon Fire TV. Users can choose from $7.99 monthly or $74.99 yearly subscription plans. Free trial available.

About Story Time Learning

Story Time Learning makes tricky subjects easy for kids as young as three through fun, engaging stories. Its award-winning Story Time Chess game is based on a chess teaching method, established by New York City-based tutoring company Chess at Three, that has been utilized and perfected over the last 12 years of successfully teaching more than 250,000 children how to play chess through storytelling. The same story-based curriculum is used by more than 1,000 schools across the U.S. The board game compresses a decade plus’ knowledge from teaching young children into a beautifully designed game that can teach anyone ages 3-103 how to play chess through fun, engaging stories and exercises.

 


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SOURCE Story Time Chess

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Patent Granted for Dymax’s HLC™ Technology

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Novel Adhesive Solution Offers Curing in Light and Darkness and Bonding to Various Substrates
Including Opaque Materials Impermeable to Light

SINGAPORE, Nov. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Dymax, a leading manufacturer of rapid curing materials and equipment, has been granted a patent for its HLC™ (Hybrid Light-Curable) adhesive platform. The new technology combines the optimal qualities of anionic polymerization and free radical chemistries into one formulation.

The newly patented HLC technology aims to improve the curing performance of urethane (meth)acrylate compositions commonly used to formulate coatings, adhesives, sealants, and inks. Primary advantages of HLC™ include fast cure, low-to-no blooming after proper light cure, better aesthetics, humidity resistance, and more flexible joints than ordinary cyanoacrylates.

While standard light-curing materials cure effectively using UV/Visible light, they often struggle in areas where the light cannot reach, leaving behind uncured areas. These shadowed regions not only compromise the reliability of the final product but can also weaken adhesive bonds over time. HLC addresses the issue of incomplete curing in dark areas with rapid moisture/contact cure capability. Bonding to a broad range of substrates, including opaque and light-blocking materials, is also possible.

Due to the composition of their light-curing component, Dymax HLC adhesives form a cross-linked polymer framework, enabling the successful bonding of small gaps or larger joints. Light-curing also reduces the risk of “blooming,” a common issue with cyanoacrylates, where a white residue forms at the edges of bond lines when they react with ambient humidity. Light-curing can significantly reduce the risk of blooming as the material cross-links before the monomer can volatilize.

Dymax HLC-M-1000, the first adhesive in the series, is engineered for medical applications and meets several biocompatibility standards. Its light-curing capabilities allow for rapid curing in seconds with low-intensity light, optimizing performance even at ~20 mW/cm². With an extremely low viscosity of 3 cP, the material is capable of wicking into extremely tight bond joints not typically accessible with other, higher-viscosity adhesives.

“HLC™ technology fills a gap that many manufacturers using light-curing technology face when bonding opaque substrates,” said Dr. Ahmet Nebioglu, Dymax Sr. R&D Director, Global. “It balances the need for rapid cure in light or darkness while addressing the issues of blooming, low impact resistance, and limited long-term moisture exposure. This new technology is a major breakthrough for adhesion quality in the manufacturing process.”

This advancement may provide greater product reliability for end users through improved curing, stronger bonds, and enhanced durability, contributing to the overall quality of finished components.

For technical inquiries about patented HLC technology, a team of Dymax application engineers and system integrators is available to develop customized dispensing solutions for users, assist with material handling challenges, and support customers throughout the manufacturing process.

About Dymax

Dymax develops innovative rapid and light-curable materials, dispense equipment, and UV/LED light-curing systems. The company’s adhesives, coatings, and equipment are perfectly matched to work seamlessly with each other, providing design engineers with tools to dramatically improve manufacturing efficiencies. Major markets include aerospace and defense, medical device, and consumer and automotive electronics.

For additional information on Dymax, visit www.dymax.com or call us at +65 6752 2887.

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SOURCE Dymax

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MODIFI Secures Strategic Investment from SMBC Asia Rising Fund to fuel Asian exports by SMEs

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Fintech leader strengthens position in cross-border B2B payments and trade finance, eyeing rapid growth across Asia, including China and India

AMSTERDAM and SINGAPORE, Nov. 6, 2024 /CNW/ — MODIFI, a leading global platform in B2B Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) solutions, today announced the successful completion of a $15 million funding round led by SMBC Asia Rising Fund with participation from existing investors Maersk, IntesaSanPaolo, Heliad and other top-tier global investors. Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), one of Japan’s leading banks and a major financial force in the APAC region, brings both capital and strategic alignment to the partnership. Beyond the equity investment, MODIFI and SMBC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly advance digital solutions that support SME exporters across Asia in expanding their international trade operations. Through a series of joint initiatives, MODIFI and SMBC aim to empower SMEs with innovative cross-border financing solutions.

The announcement comes on the sidelines of Singapore Fintech Festival, showcasing MODIFI’s drive for innovation in the global fintech landscape. This new capital infusion will accelerate MODIFI’s expansion, particularly in high-growth markets like China and India, where the company has already made significant inroads. MODIFI’s platform delivers critical liquidity and flexible payment terms to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping them optimize cash flow and expand their international reach.

“The funding underscores the strength of our business and the confidence our investors have in our vision for the future,” said Nelson Holzner, CEO and Co-founder of MODIFI. “As global commerce evolves, MODIFI is at the forefront, providing innovative solutions that empower businesses to scale and succeed across borders.”

MODIFI’s exponential growth has solidified its position as a market leader in cross-border payments and trade finance. Recognized by Financial Times and Statista as one of the Fastest Growing European Fintech Companies in 2024, MODIFI has facilitated over $3 billion in global trade for more than 1,800 companies since it was founded in 2018. The platform offers instant working capital approval, alongside integrated risk management tools that shield businesses from buyer defaults and fraud.

“Our mission is simple: We empower SMEs to compete and thrive in the global market with fast, flexible, and secure payment solutions,” added Holzner. “With this fresh funding, we’re set to redefine global trade finance—ensuring businesses of all sizes can unlock the liquidity and get the protection they need to grow internationally.”

“By transforming cross-border supply chain finance for the digital age with their global presence, we believe MODIFI supports SMEs to scale their export businesses with ease. We look forward to collaborating with MODIFI to empower our corporate clients to expand their businesses globally with agility and financial flexibility overcoming traditional trade barriers,” said Keiji Matsunaga, General Manager of Digital Strategy Department, SMBC.

About MODIFI

MODIFI is redefining global trade finance as a leader in B2B Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) solutions. Trusted by businesses across 55+ countries, MODIFI provides cutting-edge tools that optimize working capital and streamline cross-border payments. Through its extensive global network, MODIFI delivers fast, flexible, and secure financial solutions, helping companies expand their international footprint with ease. By integrating advanced risk management features and seamless payment processes, MODIFI is setting new benchmarks in global commerce, empowering businesses of all sizes to thrive in a rapidly evolving market.

About SMBC and SMBC Asia Rising Fund

SMBC, one of the leading banks in Japan, co-funded SMBC Asia Rising Fund with Incubate Fund which is a corporate venture capital fund, for the purpose of accelerating business development and partnerships through investments in high potential start-ups operating actively in Asia. Through this fund, SMBC Group will enhance its business and provide clients with new solutions by uncovering/ applying new technologies via partnerships with investee firms and the development of new business models and products.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2549272/MODIFI_Strategic_Investment.jpg
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2549327/Modifi_Logo.jpg

 

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SOURCE MODIFI B.V.

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CGTN: China showcases commitment of opening up via massive trade fair

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BEIJING, Nov. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — International companies looking to enter the Chinese market are flocking to Shanghai to take advantage of the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE), the country’s biggest import trade fair slated to run from November 5 to 10 this year.

A global economic and trade event, the expo generated deals cumulatively valued at $78.4 billion last year, an increase of 6.7 percent year on year, hitting an all-time high. This year’s CIIE will host 3,496 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions in an exhibition center space that covers over 360,000 square meters – equivalent to 50 standard soccer fields.

According to Chinese officials, the number of participating countries and exhibitors has surpassed previous records. And the most notable thing is that 297 exhibitors are from Fortune Global 500 companies, marking a historic high. Among all participants, 186 enterprises and institutions have participated in the expo for seven consecutive years.

Hosting the CIIE is an important aspect of China’s opening up and cooperation, representing China’s solemn commitment to the world, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said during his keynote speech at the opening ceremony of this year’s CIIE on Monday.

The Piraeus Port Authority, the operator of Greece’s largest port, is participating in the expo for the seventh consecutive year. Following its debut at the inaugural CIIE in 2018, Piraeus Port saw its container throughput hit a record high in 2019, with 40 percent of the total volume coming from China.

“Piraeus Port takes part in the CIIE every year to explore new cooperation opportunities, aiming for a win-win partnership with China,” exhibitor Evdoxia Kastrinelli told CMG, adding the port operator will keep participating in the event in the future.

Apitv, an automotive technology supplier headquartered in Dublin, is participating in the expo for the first time. A part of a global industrial machinery manufacturer with over 100 years of history, the company is showcasing more than 45 cutting-edge technological innovations, including hydrogen energy solutions, liquid hydrogen booster pumps, and other advanced products, all making their debut in China.

“We’ve seen the impact the CIIE has had on global trade over the years, and with China’s automotive industry rapidly advancing, this is an excellent opportunity for us to leverage the platform to engage in deeper cooperation with enterprises both in China and around the world,” said Jiang Weihao, a representative of the exhibitor.

In addition to tech products and consumer goods from developed countries, this year’s expo also welcomed a large number of developing nations, including 37 of the world’s least developed countries. Over 120 exhibition booths were provided free of charge to these countries. Some booths highlight African agricultural specialties such as peanut, coffee, honey and beer.

During the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, China announced plans to grant zero-tariff treatment on all tariff items for the least developed countries with diplomatic ties to China, including 33 African nations. Following that, 22 tonnes of avocados imported from South Africa cleared customs and arrived at Shanghai Yangshan Port in early October.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Li stressed the need to strengthen consensus on opening up, adding that all parties should jointly adhere to international economic and trade orders and rules and earnestly fulfill multilateral and bilateral economic and trade agreements.

This year, China has rolled out a series of measures to underscore its commitment to deeper reforms and greater openness.

Starting November 8, China will grant visa-free entry to citizens from nine more countries, bringing the total to nearly 30. On November 1, China implemented an updated negative list for foreign investment, removing all restrictions in the manufacturing sector. 

The country has also revised policies for foreign investment in listed companies and will now allow foreign-invested hospitals in nine cities. A nationwide negative list for cross-border services trade will also be introduced.

As China continues to open its economy and stimulate growth, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised its growth forecast for China to five percent, matching the country’s original growth target.

Based on IMF projections, Bloomberg has reported that China is expected to remain the largest contributor to global economic growth over the next five years, surpassing the combined contributions of all G7 countries.

China will further expand institutional opening up and actively align with high-standard international economic and trade rules, Li said, pledging efforts to implement the strategy for upgrading pilot free trade zones.

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-11-05/China-showcases-commitment-of-opening-up-via-massive-trade-fair-1yhuKBzAgZa/p.html 

SOURCE CGTN

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