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Associated Press
12 hours ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Ispire-Backed IKE Tech to Present 7th Annual Next Generation Nicotine Delivery USA Conference
Conference Attendance Follows Groundbreaking FDA PMTA Filing for Blockchain-Powered Age-Gating System LOS ANGELES, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ispire Technology Inc. ('Ispire' or the 'Company') ( NASDAQ: ISPR ), a trailblazer in vaping technology and precision dosing, announced that IKE Tech LLC ('IKE Tech'), a joint venture that includes Ispire as a founding partner, will showcase their technology at the 7th Annual Next Generation Nicotine Delivery USA at the Hyatt Regency in Miami from June 4-5th. This event convenes key business leaders from the FDA, the ENDS (Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems) sector, and the tobacco industry across the U.S. market to explore strategies for legal compliance and commercial success. The announcement comes on the heels of IKE Tech's historic milestone, in which the joint venture filed a component Pre-Market Tobacco Product Application (PMTA) and Tobacco Product Master File (TPMF) with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) System-on-a-Chip. IKE Tech has now received an Acceptance Review letter from the FDA, confirming that their PMTA meets regulatory requirements to be accepted, and moves the application into the FDA's filing review phase. This marked the first-ever complete PMTA submission for a standalone, interoperable, blockchain-enabled age-verification component designed for universal integration across all ENDS devices. Unlike traditional systems that verify age only at the point of purchase, IKE Tech's platform requires continuous, real-time identity verification, offering an unprecedented level of security against underage vaping. IKE has formally requested expedited review of the application, citing its potential to significantly enhance public health. At the conference, John Patterson, senior vice president of International Nicotine at Ispire and president of IKE Tech, will speak on a panel titled " Technology to End Youth Vaping for Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems,' scheduled for Wednesday, June 4, at 2:00 p.m. In his capacity as President of IKE Tech, Patterson will discuss: To schedule a meeting with John Patterson or other Ispire representatives, please email [email protected]. About IKE Tech LLC IKE Tech LLC is a joint venture comprised of three leading technology and research companies -- Ispire Technology Inc, Touch Point Worldwide Inc. d/b/a Berify, and Chemular Inc. -- dedicated to revolutionizing Identity and Age Verification (IAV) technology solutions. Recognizing the absence of a universal point-of-sale IAV solution and recognition of the need for one, these companies joined forces to create a unique IAV technology component. IKE's mission is to set the gold standard for IAV by (i) permitting access to electronic nicotine delivery systems by authorized adult users while (ii) preventing underage access through a 'plug and play' component compatible across different devices and platforms. About Ispire Technology Inc. Ispire is engaged in the research and development, design, commercialization, sales, marketing and distribution of branded e-cigarettes and cannabis vaping products. The Company's operating subsidiaries own or license more than 400 patents worldwide. Ispire's branded e-cigarette products are marketed under the Aspire name and are sold worldwide (except in the U.S., People's Republic of China and Russia) primarily through its global distribution network. The Company also engages in original design manufacture (ODM) relationships with e-cigarette brands and retailers worldwide. The Company's cannabis products are marketed under the Ispire brand name primarily on an ODM basis to other cannabis vapor companies. Ispire sells its cannabis vaping hardware in the US, Europe and South Africa and it recently commenced marketing activities and customer engagement in Canada and Latin America. For more information, visit or follow Ispire on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ('Securities Act') as well as Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe the Company's future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as 'believe,' 'expect,' 'may,' 'will,' 'should,' 'would,' 'could,' 'seek,' 'intend,' 'plan,' 'goal,' 'project,' 'estimate,' 'anticipate,' 'strategy,' 'future,' 'likely' or other comparable terms, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding the Company's strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause the Company's actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties including those regarding: the Company's ability to collect its accounts receivable in a timely manner, the Company's business strategies, the ability of the Company to market to the Ispire ONE™, Ispire ONE's success of meeting its goals, the ability of its customers to derive the anticipated benefits of the Ispire ONE™ and the success of their products on the markets; the Ispire ONE™ proving to be safe, and the risk and uncertainties described in 'Risk Factors,' 'Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,' 'Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements' and the additional risk described in Ispire's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2023 and any subsequent filings which Ispire makes with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. The forward-looking statements made in the press release relate only to events or information as of the date on which the statements are made in the press release. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events except as required by law. You should read this press release with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. IR Contacts: For more information, kindly contact: Investor Relations Sherry Zheng 718.213.7386 [email protected] KCSA Strategic Communications Phil Carlson 212.896.1233 [email protected] PR Contact: Ellen Mellody 570.209.2947 [email protected] View original content: SOURCE Ispire Technology Inc.

The Star
5 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Over 1,000 spectators cheer on 50 muay thai boxers in Bkt Mertajam
Some 1,000 people converged in Taman Sireh for the festival. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star OVER 50 amateur and professional boxers from sports clubs in the country took part in a muay thai competition at the inaugural Festival Kebun Sireh X Penang2030. The event, held at a public field in Taman Sireh, Bukit Mertajam, was organised by Penang Muay Thai Association (PMTA) and Kebun Sireh Village Community Management Council. It was supported by the Batu Kawan parliamentary office, Bukit Tengah service centre and Seberang Perai City Council. Some 1,000 people attended the event which PMTA president Hilmie Ibrahim described as the festival's highlight. 'Besides muay thai, there were other events such as checkers and a colouring contest. 'It was good to see many youngsters showing interest in muay thai which helps with character building among youths,' said Hilmie. Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao Leung said the event encouraged youngsters to be active in healthy sporting activities while promoting unity. 'It is good to see people from different walks of life coming together to attend the event and cheer for each other,' he said. He added that although muay thai was a serious sport that required intense training and discipline, it also fostered camaraderie among the boxers. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow described the event as a platform for Penangites to be involved in healthy activities and community building. 'The event is a clear reflection of the people of Penang being an active community, engaged in social and healthy activities. 'Not only does it promote the sport of muay thai, it also shows that festive occasions, traditions, sports, and community events can be celebrated in harmony,' he said in his speech. Chow expressed hope that Penang would continue progressing towards becoming a developed state, in line with Penang2030 Vision. 'The Penang2030 vision is a roadmap for developing the state during my tenure, aimed at advancing various industries, strengthening social development and achieving balanced growth that improves the overall quality of life for the people. 'It is also my hope that, with the time we have left, we can intensify efforts to mobilise greater community and public participation in support of these balanced development initiatives,' he said. Auxiliary police member Muhammad Sayuti Mad, 37, from Kuala Kedah, said he was invited by his friend in Taman Sireh to join the event. 'I am happy to be part of this event. I also asked my daughter to take part in the colouring contest,' he said. Technician Khairul Annur Harun, 35, who lives near Taman Sireh, said such events brought the community together, offering a break from routine. 'Such programmes create a positive atmosphere, especially when these combine culture, sports, and festive elements. 'I hope more such events will be held in future to strengthen the spirit of unity among residents,' he said.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
U.S. Tobacco Market to Surpass $180 Billion by 2030, Despite Declining Cigarette Consumption and Rising Regulatory Scrutiny
Rapid Expansion of Nicotine Pouches and Smokeless Alternatives Present Lucrative Opportunities Dublin, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "United States Tobacco Market by Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" report has been added to United States Tobacco Market was valued at USD 112.82 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 180.48 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 8.15%. Despite declining cigarette consumption and rising regulatory scrutiny, the market continues to hold substantial value. Traditional cigarettes still lead in sales, but the industry is undergoing transformation, with increasing demand for smokeless tobacco, cigars, and emerging alternatives like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Leading companies such as Altria Group and Reynolds American are shifting focus toward next-generation nicotine delivery systems. Product innovation, brand loyalty, and diversification are helping firms navigate a market challenged by health concerns, regulatory pressure, and high taxation. New categories such as nicotine pouches and vaping devices are gaining momentum, particularly among younger adult consumers, signaling a shift in preferences and shaping the market's future trajectory. Key Market Driver: Growth of Reduced-Risk and Alternative Tobacco ProductsThe growing popularity of reduced-risk products (RRPs) is a major force reshaping the U.S. tobacco market. These include e-cigarettes, heated tobacco systems, nicotine pouches, and other non-combustible options. As health concerns increase and public health campaigns discourage traditional cigarette smoking, consumers are actively seeking alternatives perceived as safer. Tobacco companies have responded by expanding their portfolios with brands like JUUL, Vuse, and ZYN, which appeal to adult users looking for convenient and lower-risk products. Advanced technology, a variety of flavors, and modern product designs are boosting consumer adoption. Although regulatory oversight has tightened - particularly concerning flavor bans and youth access - the category continues to grow, allowing major tobacco firms to remain competitive and maintain revenue despite declines in conventional cigarette Market Challenge: Intensifying Regulatory Pressures and Compliance CostsA key challenge for the United States tobacco industry is the increasingly stringent regulatory environment. The FDA continues to introduce comprehensive measures aimed at reducing tobacco use, especially among youth. These include regulations on flavored products, warning label mandates, restrictions on marketing, and the demanding Premarket Tobacco Product Application (PMTA) process. Compliance requires extensive investment in product research, scientific testing, and documentation, placing financial strain on companies - particularly smaller firms. The potential for additional regulatory actions, such as banning menthol cigarettes or reducing nicotine levels, creates further uncertainty. These regulatory burdens can delay innovation, increase operational costs, and result in product removals, all of which impact profitability and market Market Trend: Rapid Expansion of Nicotine Pouches and Smokeless AlternativesA prominent trend in the U.S. tobacco market is the surge in popularity of nicotine pouches and other smokeless tobacco alternatives. Brands such as ZYN, VELO, and On! are increasingly preferred by adult users seeking smoke-free, discreet nicotine consumption options. These products, which contain nicotine salts derived from tobacco but not the tobacco leaf itself, offer a modern, clean, and portable alternative to traditional formats. Their appeal is especially strong among younger consumers and those seeking to reduce smoking or avoid combustion-based products. The segment is seeing rapid year-over-year growth and gaining shelf space in retail channels. With the support of strong marketing and broad flavor assortments, nicotine pouches are expected to remain a major growth driver in the evolving tobacco Players Profiled in this United States Tobacco Market Report Altria Group, Inc. Reynolds American Inc. ITG Brands, LLC Liggett Vector Brands LLC Swedish Match USA, Inc General Cigar Co., Inc. Turning Point Brands, Inc. Dosal Tobacco Corporation J.C. Newman Cigar Company Swisher International Group Inc. Report ScopeIn this report, the United States Tobacco Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:United States Tobacco Market, by Product Type: Cigarettes Cigar Smoking Tobacco Smokeless Tobacco United States Tobacco Market, by Distribution Channel: Tobacco Shops Convenience Stores Supermarkets and Hypermarkets Online Others United States Tobacco Market, by Region: South West Midwest Northeast Key Attributes Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 70 Forecast Period 2024-2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $112.82 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $180.48 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.1% Regions Covered United States For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data


News18
02-05-2025
- Politics
- News18
Hindus To Congress: Review Highlights ‘Textbook Case' Of Pakistan's Anti-India Propaganda
Last Updated: The review, 'General Standard of Pakistani Textbooks', evaluates the content and quality of Pakistani school textbooks and suggests corrections From biased content against Hindus and India to historical inaccuracies, Pakistani school textbooks are replete with anti-India content, according to a critical review. The document, 'General Standard of Pakistani Textbooks' (October 2014), authored by Anjum James Paul and published by the Pakistan Minorities Teachers' Association (PMTA), evaluates the content and quality of Pakistani school textbooks and suggests corrections. Hindu Religion: The term 'Hinduism" is often used instead of 'Hindu religion". The report recommends consistently using 'Hindu religion", arguing that 'Hinduism" is used pejoratively or inconsistently compared to respectful references for other religions like Islam. Historical Terms: History Grade VII (Chapter 1: Mughal Empire) mentions, 'Mughal emperors ruled Indo-Pak which had a majority of Hindus and Muslims with many other communities." Mislabelling: Lahore Resolution is inconsistently referred to as 'Pakistan Resolution," which promotes the ideological narrative of an Islamic state while omitting the original context and inclusive language of the resolution. HISTORICAL INACCURACIES ABOUT INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS (INC) Hindu Party: History Grade V states, 'Within a few years, this party [INC] became completely a party of the Hindus." The report recommends correction stating it is factually incorrect and omits contributions of key Muslim leaders in the INC. It also rebuts it listing the names of Badruddin Tyabji (President in 1887), Nawab Syed Muhammad Bahadur (President in 1913), and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad – President in 1923 and again in 1940–1946 (the longest tenure). Maulana Muhammad Ali Jouhar, Hakim Ajmal Khan, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Ansari, and others also served as Congress presidents. Misleading Goals: INC is described as promoting 'purely Hindu nationalism" and marginalising Muslims. The report criticises this as biased, arguing that INC was a multi-religious, anti-colonial platform for decades. Misuse of 'Indo-Pak Subcontinent': Descriptions of historical periods like the Mughal Empire and British Raj inaccurately use terms like 'Indo-Pak subcontinent". The report suggests using 'India' or 'Indian subcontinent' instead, since Pakistan did not exist prior to 1947. Renaming India: The term 'Hindustan" is replaced inconsistently with 'Indo-Pak", and 'India" is used selectively to obscure the continuity of Indian civilisation and downplay its shared heritage with Pakistan. First Published: May 02, 2025, 19:44 IST


Associated Press
01-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
IKE Tech Files First-Ever PMTA for Standalone Interoperable Blockchain-based Age-Gating System at Point of Use - Marking a New Chapter in Youth Vaping Prevention
LOS ANGELES, May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- IKE Tech LLC('IKE Tech'), a leading innovator in the intersection of Internet of Things (IoT), identity verification (IDV) and tokenization technology, announced today that it has filed a component Premarket Tobacco Product Application (PMTA) and Tobacco Product Master File (TPMF) with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its blockchain-based Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) System-on-a-Chip with the smartphone-enabled identity and age-verification IKE Mobile Application. This marks the first ever complete PMTA submission for a standalone, scalable age-gating component that provides real-time continuous age verification at the point-of-use for electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). The IKE System is designed for universal integration across all ENDS devices, utilizing unique blockchain-based tokenization technology to further ensure user privacy and security. According to a multi-center Human Factors Validation Study submitted as part of the PMTA, the IKE system proved to be 100% effective in preventing device activation for anyone under the age of 21. The company has formally requested expedited review of its application, emphasizing the system's potential to enhance public health. 'This is a major milestone for IKE Tech and the ENDS category', commented John Patterson, President of IKE Tech. 'We're not just building technology. We're paving a new regulatory framework that gives the FDA and manufacturers powerful tools to safeguard public health and ensure adult-only access to vaping products. With proven, scalable age-gating technology built into ENDS devices, the sector now has a real opportunity to eliminate underage vaping for good'. One chip, every device: unlocking new era of vaping IKE Tech adopted a rigorous software development lifecycle, following consultation with the FDA. The IKE platform offers a seamless identity and age verification experience via a single, user-friendly mobile app available on iOS and Android. By leveraging blockchain technology, it securely validates user's identity and age through integrated identity verification (IDV) partners, anchoring credentials to a tokenization system without storing sensitive data on user's device, nor on IKE's system, to ensure complete user privacy and security. Unlike existing solutions that allow permanent access after a single verification, IKE's system requires continuous verification to maintain device access. Human Factors Validation study showed 91% of users (aged 18 – 67) rated the app as 'Extremely Easy' or 'Very Easy' to use - with a user error rate of less than 0.8% - proving its appeal to the wider market. 'This is a pivotal moment from a regulatory perspective,' said Kevin Burd, CEO of Chemular. By embedding robust age verification at the point of use, the IKE technology enables manufacturers and regulators to confidently allow access to a broader range of products for verified adults. This approach opens the doors for responsible flavor pathways, empowering adult consumers with more choice, while maintaining the highest levels of youth protection.' Building Smarter and Better ENDS IKE Tech is dedicated to building a better, more secure future for all. To meet the evolving needs of manufacturers, the company is planning to continue integrating advanced features like counterfeit protection, geofencing, targeted messaging, and real-time data access to its systems. These innovations are designed to address underage vaping and combat the illicit market, ensuring that only products that FDA has determined are Appropriate for the Protection of Public Health (APPH) are available to adult users. To learn more about IKE Tech, visit Notes to Editors: Human Factors Study Design and Key Results Conducted with 102 participants (51% male, 49% female, aged 18–67 across race/ethnic demographics), the study simulated real-world use of the IKE system. Participants downloaded the app, verified their age, paired with a test device and interacted with BLE-based access controls including biometric reactivation. Key performance highlights: Devices could only be reactivated with biometric authentication. Demographic data (age, race/ethnicity, gender) was accurately verified in all cases. The results confirm the IKE System's ability to reduce user error, prevent underage access, and provide a user-friendly experience for adults. About IKE Tech IKE Tech LLC ('IKE Tech') is pioneering real-time age and identity verification at the point of use, helping to safeguard access to age-restricted products. A leading innovator at the intersection of Internet of Things (IoT), identity verification (IDV), and tokenization technology, IKE Tech has developed an industry-first, scalable age-gating component that provides continuous, real-time verification for electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and other restricted consumer products. IKE Tech's interoperable Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) System-on-a-Chip, powered by a user-friendly mobile app available on iOS and Android, integrates seamlessly into ENDS devices, giving manufacturers and regulators a flexible, future-proofed solution to combat underage vaping and illicit markets. By setting the new standard for responsible, adult-only access, IKE Tech is helping eliminate youth vaping for good. View original content: SOURCE IKE Tech LLC