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XRP Rides Wave of Optimism as Crypto Goes Mainstream

Sienna Wilson
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XRP Rides Wave of Optimism as Crypto Goes Mainstream

XRP is still holding its position as one of the most popular cryptocurrencies in the market, and it is currently trading at the fourth position with a total price of $2.08 after a growth of 3.76% in the past 24 hours.

XRP has an overall market capitalization of $121.15 billion and has traded $3.78 billion in the last 24 hours. It has vividly portrayed the attributes of resilience and growth in the digital asset market that is continuously evolving.

XRP was created by David Schwartz, Jed McCaleb, and Arthur Britto in 2012 as an alternative to Bitcoin, focusing on the glob한다al financial transfer and currency exchange improvements.

It is interesting to note that XRP is more focused on the payment aspect than many other cryptocurrencies as it provides a transaction time of 3-5 seconds while Bitcoin’s transaction speed is with a 500-second delay.

The cryptocurrency is powered by the XRP Ledger (XRPL) blockchain, which is their own invention, and is open-source, permissionless, and decentralized. There is no exact supply but it is mentioned that XRP’s main supply is 100 billion tokens where they are pre-mined and 58.2 billion of the total supply is currently in circulation which is an impressive percentage.

XRP’s meager transaction costs significantly lower at around $0.0002 per transaction which has attracted not only individuals but also financial institutions. With a cost cheaper than that of its nearest rival like Bitcoin, XRP has the ability to process about 1,500 transactions per second, making it a very scalable solution for global payments thus the cost-effectiveness remains the same.

There have been several new developments that have greatly affected the profile of XRP. On March 2, 2025, the Donald Trump administration announced a plan to include XRP among five digital assets in a cryptocurrency strategic reserve and on March 6, 2025, the order was officially published in the White House.

This update comes after a very important legal win in July 2023, when Judge Analisa Torres of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York declared that XRP itself was not a security. This move was very important because it made the XRP token investment more attractive for institutional players by giving them a higher level of regulation.

The increase of XRP’s value was the consequence of the mentioned good news which was pretty obvious last year. Specifically, as of about mid-March 2025, the XRP cryptocurrency rallied around $2.30 with an impressive gain of approximately 282% from $0.60 to over $2.30, demonstrating a strong market belief against the recent fluctuations in the price.

Analysts on the market continue to be positive that XRP will perform well in the future. The 2025 estimates claim that the digital assets may touch even $4.28 and will bottom out at $1.39. Detailed projections suggest that the price of XRP may range even within the bands of $2.45-$2.49 in March 2025 and quite possibly even further up to $2.93-$4.28 by the end of April.

Since it is actually the ability of the token to be used in the real world that makes it different from its competitors, it is mostly utilized in international money transfer activities that involve bank surrender.

With the help of XRP, the banks can very rapidly and at the same time very cheaply accomplish the settlement of transactions internationally, the hands of some long-running challenges of the financial institutions being thus finally played off.

XRP is a digital asset with a variety of uses apart from the international money transfer direct action, such as remittances, peer-to-peer lending, insurance claims processing, supply chain management, and smart contracts. This feature has mainly been responsible for its increased use in different financial industry segments.

XRP cryptocurrency’s environmental likelihood even sounds more attractive to investors. XRP is highly sustainable while Bitcoin, by contrast, accounts for only 0.3% of the global energy consumption, which is virtually zero in relation to current climate. Thus, it is a more environmentally friendly and co2 responsible choice among the digital assets.

It is imperative to state that Ripple, the digital currency solution company, employs the XRP token XRP in its international payment network, RippleNet, whereas Ripple does not own or control XRP Ledger or XRP.

The link of Ripple and XRP is one that remains incomprehensible for many crypto enthusiasts, with most of the people thinking that Ripple is the owner of XRP, which is actually not the case.

Ripple indeed footprints the six conferring nodes along the XRP ledger. The XRP Ledger Foundation, which was ushered in 2020 and sustained by the donations of Ripple and other companies, has effectively maintained the XRP Ledger even as it continuously develops.

In summary, XRP’s tokenomics is an anti-inflation. Where other cryptocurrencies have transaction fees XRP takes some part of the token away from the sender progressively destroying the total number of tokens.

The fact that cryptocurrency is a part of the impressive list of powerful corporate partnerships is driving his position further ahead. Among others, Ripple is in partnership with the largest financial institutions globally, such as Santander, American Express, and SBI Holdings, which are adopting XRP for their payment system.

XRP comes across as a digital asset that fosters real innovation in the world of money and finance as it gradually becomes a global financial driver. The speed with which it is possible to do the transactions, virtually without any cost and high scalability as well as the acceptance of the large institutions is what makes it ripe for the growth in the digital world of the future.

Currently, there are 58.2 billion XRP in the market against a total supply of 100 billion, which make the cryptocurrency balance itself between easy availability and scarcity, maintaining its existence. The great valuation together with the fully diluted valuation of $207.62 billion is the exact expression of marketer trust in XRP’s future.

Advancement of regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies across the globe will make XRP a clear winner in comparison with its rivals, which are still in an uncertain legal status. This kind of clarity lowers risks of investment and, on the other hand, brings along potential doors opened for wider institutional adoption in the upcoming period.

UK Faces Growing Recession Risks as Spring Statement Highlights Worsening Economic Conditions

ABC Staff
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UK Faces Growing Recession Risks as Spring Statement Highlights Worsening Economic Conditions

The UK economy is increasingly vulnerable to recession, with the latest Spring Statement confirming widespread fears that conditions are deteriorating. According to Nigel Green, CEO of financial advisory firm deVere Group, government policies are exacerbating rather than alleviating growth challenges. Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Spring Statement on Wednesday placed spending cuts at the core of the government’s strategy, signaling tough times ahead for businesses and consumers alike.

Meanwhile, rising taxes, increased employment costs, and added regulatory obligations are all landing at once, threatening to choke off business investment and hiring.

Despite repeated claims of a pro-enterprise agenda, the policy direction from the government is undermining confidence and dragging the country toward a slowdown.

“The government talks a good game on growth, but it’s making life harder for the very businesses it needs to deliver it,” said Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group.

“Firms are being asked to shoulder higher taxes and rising wage costs, while contending with fresh employment rules that make operations more complex and costly. It’s a punishing environment for growth-minded businesses.”

The Office for Budget Responsibility today confirmed that it would slash its 2025 growth forecast from 2% to around 1%. That follows cuts from both the Bank of England and the OECD.

Business leaders, including Nigel Green, say these revisions reflect the reality they’ve been warning about for months.

Headline inflation has dipped slightly, from 3% to 2.8%, but the Bank expects it to rise again through 2025. Interest rates remain elevated. And with borrowing running higher than anticipated, the Treasury’s room to support the economy is narrowing. The Chancellor’s £9.9 billion fiscal buffer has already been wiped out, leaving little scope for manoeuvre.

Instead, ministers are preparing to cut back. Departmental spending increases will be capped at just 1.3% a year, benefits are expected to be reduced, and 10,000 civil service jobs could go.

“The result is a fiscal stance that doesn’t dare speak its name—but walks and talks like austerity-lite.

“It’s a slow squeeze disguised as prudence. But squeezing harder when growth is already weak is a recipe for stagnation.”

While the government has positioned itself as pro-deregulation, the business community is less convinced.

“Beyond some long-overdue trimming of outdated rules, little has been done to materially reduce the pressure on employers. In fact, many are now facing increased legal obligations and compliance costs that cut into productivity,” notes the deVere CEO.

“There’s nothing radical here. Labour’s deregulation agenda only looks bold because of how little progress there’s been in the past. This isn’t a wave of liberalisation—it’s more like quiet tinkering. Meanwhile, the policies that have been bold—on tax, wages, and employment law—are actively holding back growth.

“The gap between rhetoric and reality is growing. Despite promises to back business, the Labour’s policy environment is becoming more expensive, more complex, and less competitive.”

The Prime Minister’s and the Chancellor’s pledge to strip away barriers to growth is being directly contradicted by the measures being introduced.

“With the current trajectory, recession risks are rising by the day,” said Green. “What we need now is a reset—one that backs businesses to invest, hire and expand. That means less tax, less drag, and a genuine shift in priorities.”

As firms across the UK brace for April’s changes, the concern is that “a slow grind is already underway”—one that risks becoming a full-scale downturn if policy doesn’t catch up with economic reality.

“It’s time for serious economic leadership,” concludes Nigel Green. “That means facing the consequences of these policies head-on and putting private enterprise back at the centre of the recovery. Growth won’t return on its own—it has to be enabled.”

Elavon Survey Found Strong Growth Confidence Among UK SMBs Despite Market Challenges

ABC Staff
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Elavon Survey Found Strong Growth Confidence Among UK SMBs Despite Market Challenges

A recent merchant survey by Elavon, a global payments provider, found that UK small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) demonstrated agility and resilience in managing uncertainty. The research, conducted in February 2025 ahead of the Spring Budget, showed that despite fiscal challenges, a significant proportion of UK businesses remained optimistic about the future.

Just over 54% of respondents expressed optimism about the UK’s 12-month economic outlook, while an overwhelming 82% felt confident in their ability to achieve growth within the same period.

The findings underscored how UK SMBs had adapted to an unpredictable external environment, showing flexibility and confidence despite ongoing economic pressures.

Looking ahead, merchant businesses are prioritizing investment across innovation and collaboration to support their growth aspirations – 58% of businesses plan to invest in upgrading technology, 47% in enhancing customer experience and support, and 42% in investing in new partnerships.

There are some pronounced differences in confidence levels across vertical sectors. This is likely down to a multitude of external factors, including consumer spending patterns, supply chain dynamics and industry-specific sensitivities to an increasingly unpredictable market.

With Rachel Reeves’ Spring Statement imminent, businesses are hoping to see government investment in policy and initiatives that foster a favorable environment for growth.

“UK SMEs are facing a multitude of challenges. While sentiment remains positive, it’s clear that small businesses are looking for additional support and are prioritizing investments to insulate their businesses against headwinds,” says Hemlata Narasimhan, President of Europe, Elavon.

Businesses have identified late payments, security and fraud, keeping up with innovation, and chargebacks as key concerns. Nearly a third (30%) consider late payments a primary concern, and 45% have noticed an increase in late payments over the past six months. In terms of payment-specific issues, security and fraud is cited as the top issue (40%), while over a third (34%) of businesses are concerned about keeping up with payment innovation and 33% worry about chargebacks.

To mitigate these payments challenges, the UK’s SMBs are busy investing in contactless and alternative payment methods to lay the foundations for smoother payments processes that will benefit both cashflow and the user experience on offer to their customers. Over the past year, 50% of businesses have adopted contactless payments through digital wallets, 40% have implemented contactless payments using debit and credit cards, and 34% have sought a more innovative payment provider to manage cash flow. 

“Businesses hesitant to adopt new technologies may risk falling behind, particularly in a highly competitive landscape,” says Hemlata Narasimhan, President, Europe at Elavon.

“Payments modernization can unlock a wealth of new opportunities for the UK’s small businesses, from streamlining operations, enhancing customer experience, to opening up new revenue streams.”

 

L&G Commits $235M to Nature Conservation & Sustainable Development

ABC Staff
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Legal & General (L&G) has announced a $235 million (£183 million) commitment to nature conservation and sustainable development in emerging markets through the launch of its Nature and Social Outcomes strategy.

This initial investment comes from L&G’s Future World Multi-Asset Fund and Retirement Income Multi-Asset Fund, both key components of its Target Date and Lifetime Advantage Fund ranges. These funds, available to 5.5 million UK Defined Contribution (DC) members, will continue to grow with regular capital inflows.

The $235m investment for the strategy brings L&G’s total commitment to nature conservation and sustainable development in EMs to over $1.1bn (£890m) – capitalising on the investment opportunity presented by the $4 trillion annual funding gap to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and the potential for strong returns and diversification that exposure to EMs can provide.

The newly launched Nature and Social Outcomes strategy further diversifies L&G’s Private Markets platform, expanding its commitments to addressing the critical funding gap faced by developing countries. By leveraging innovative financing methods that benefit from credit enhancement through multilateral guarantees and insurance, such as use of proceeds bonds, debt conversion bonds, and outcome bonds, the strategy will deploy capital through projects that aim to deliver strong commercial returns alongside positive nature and social outcomes. Indicative projects will target habitat and biodiversity conservation, as well as socially beneficial infrastructure to support education, healthcare, and access to clean water.

L&G has now committed over $1.1bn in private debt financing for nature conservation and sustainable development in EMs, targeting projects worldwide:

  • Over $465m invested in debt conversions for nature in Belize, Ecuador, and Gabon, offering much-needed support for marine, forestry, and freshwater conservation. This includes L&G’s $250m cornerstone investment in Ecuador’s record-setting transaction which seeks to generate $323m for marine conservation in the Galapagos islands over 18 and a half years.
  • Almost $350m invested in use of proceeds bonds across Africa and Eastern Europe to support the financing of critical social infrastructure such as drinking water supply, social housing, and a public university in the Ivory Coast, as well as solar power projects in Senegal.
  • Up to $100m committed to women-led EM infrastructure debt investor ImpactA Global, which aims to address the critical infrastructure deficit in EMs through debt financing.
  • $235m initial investment into the Nature and Social Outcomes strategy, made on behalf of its DC members from L&G’s Future World Multi-Asset Fund and Retirement Income Multi-Asset Fund.

L&G completed its first direct investment for the Nature and Social Outcomes strategy in December 2024 with an investment in Ecuador’s second debt conversion for nature. This initiative, led by the Republic of Ecuador and The Nature Conservancy, is the first of its kind to support forestry and freshwater conservation. The partnership should provide significant gross savings over the life of the transaction, unlocking around $460m to facilitate the Biocorridor Amazónico program, which aims to protect 4.6 million hectares of forest and 18,000km of freshwater, as well as benefitting indigenous populations and communities.

Jake Harper, Senior Investment Manager, Asset Management, L&G: “Exposure to EMs has the potential to offer attractive returns for investors whilst aiming to support communities and ecosystems which play an indispensable role in upholding economies across the globe. Innovative debt financing allows investors to allocate to nature conservation and sustainable development in EMs whilst benefitting from an improved credit rating and higher returns. By leveraging our proven track record and long-standing industry relationships, we believe L&G has distinct access to diverse investment opportunities and is advantageously positioned to shape future transactions in the sector.”

L&G utilises a proprietary sustainable investment framework to assess and monitor the impact and outcomes of its investments for the strategy. Individual investments are measured against key performance indicators aligned with the strategy’s targeted core themes: inclusive economy; health, wellbeing, and quality of life; and protecting and enhancing nature. This is underpinned by active engagement with key project stakeholders, including development finance institutions and charities, and the wider industry, on the sustainability commitments and outcomes, governance, and monitoring and reporting requirements.

Jesal Mistry, Head of DC Investments, Asset Management, L&G: “We’re delighted to be launching our Nature and Social Outcomes strategy as an opportunity for DC members to gain exposure to a fast-growing and impactful part of the global debt market. Today’s announcement is a great example of the increasingly diverse range of assets that DC schemes can invest in, combining the need to unlock financing where it is often most needed with the aim of delivering positive returns for members in retirement.”

Solus Power Targets £5M to Revolutionise Defence and Civilian Energy

ABC Staff
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Solus Power Targets £5M to Revolutionise Defence and Civilian Energy

Solus Power, a pioneering battery technology company, has announced the launch of its Series A funding round, aiming to raise £5 million to support its mission of revolutionising energy access across defence, security, and civilian sectors.

Founded in 2020 and headquartered in London, Solus Power specialises in advanced energy mobilisation solutions, focusing on cutting-edge military-grade portable Lithium-ion battery technology. The company’s innovations are set to enhance energy reliability and efficiency in critical sectors worldwide.

Its Kratos technology is an industry-first ruggedised and modular Lithium-ion battery pack, referred to as a ‘Jerry can of electricity’. Kratos’ dual-use technology provides portable, flexible and scalable off-grid power whenever and wherever – an ideal solution to support global defence and security and the evolving electrified military landscape. 

Led by an experienced team including seasoned board executives with backgrounds at Goldman Sachs, its Series A targets a raise of £5 million with an overall valuation of £28.5 million. The funds raised will go towards advancing the development of its ground-breaking, dual-use technology and expanding upon its experienced team.

Solus Power will simultaneously seek to establish a robust manufacturing and supply chain with production lines capable of producing units at a mass scale. Further investment will see Solus Power expand its team of experts with key personnel hiring in in R&D, sales, and operations.

Stas Leonidiou, founder and CEO of Solus Power, said: “Solus Power’s experienced board and team of experts have been working relentlessly over the past two years to create a product that will transform how energy is transported, used, and stored. It gives us much pride to launch our Series A opening. Funding will be pivotal to taking our innovative technology into its next phases where we will accelerate product development and scale our production capabilities. 

With the current geo-political landscape and potential demand for Solus Power’s technologies, we have already had interest from institutional investors and are confident the round will be fully subscribed and filled.” 

Solus Power’s Kratos has been developed to solve the challenges of providing power and reducing dependency on fossil fuels across diverse locations and infrastructure availability faced by military units. 

Compliant with NATO & UK defence standards for battlefield operations, its sustainable off-grid mobile DC-to-DC rapid charging and energy storage can provide mission critical portable energy to the increasing number of electrical equipment and systems entering modern warfare such as drones, GPS and advanced communications. In addition, the versatile energy solution is ideally positioned for disaster response, emergency services, and industrial applications where power needs to be mobile. 

Solus Power has also developed a higher-capacity charging technology called Titan, which has been designed to solve the challenges faced by car hire and fleet operators of electric vehicles. The solution can provide high power DC charging to operators that are unable to obtain grid connection for charging points due to high cost or logistical impossibility. 

Solus Power’s proven military-grade technology has been validated by experts and key stakeholders within the MoD, having successfully won the 2024 Defence and Security Accelerator competition to find innovations to enhance operational advantage through improved self-sufficiency and energy solutions. 

The global military battery market was valued at $1.3B in 2022 and is projected to grow to $1.6B by 2027 (CAGR: 4.0%). The lucrative market opportunity for defence technology is being fuelled by the growing EU defence expenditure growth. EU member state spending surged to €279 billion in 2023, a 10% increase from 2022, with projections to reach €326 billion in 2024, bringing it closer to NATO’s 2% GDP guideline.

This aligns with record-breaking defence investment where €72 billion was allocated in 2023 (26% of total defence budget), with forecasts exceeding €100 billion in 2024 (31% of total expenditure).

Exploring the Metaverse: A New Frontier in Virtual Interaction

Claire James
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Exploring the Metaverse: A New Frontier in Virtual Interaction

The metaverse is a term used to describe a collective virtual shared space that is made up of interconnected digital environments where people can interact with each other and computer-generated elements in real-time. 

It’s essentially an evolution of the internet into a more immersive, 3D experience where users can live, work, socialize, play games, create content, and engage in a variety of activities. Here’s a breakdown of key concepts related to the metaverse:

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

Virtual Reality (VR) immerses users in a fully digital world through headsets and motion tracking, allowing them to interact with the environment as if they were physically present. Meanwhile, Augmented Reality (AR) enhances the real world with digital overlays. This is like seeing virtual objects or information in your surroundings through your phone or AR glasses.

Both VR and AR are key technologies that help build the metaverse. VR provides a fully immersive experience, while AR augments your physical reality with virtual elements. This makes your online experience better. Even simply enjoying the best free spins recommended by poker choice online is heightened with VR and AR technology.

Interoperability

The metaverse is envisioned as a connected, interoperable network of different digital worlds. This means users can move seamlessly between different platforms or virtual spaces, carrying their digital avatars, assets, and data with them.

Digital economy

In the metaverse, there’s an emerging digital economy where users can buy, sell, and trade digital goods and services, often through cryptocurrencies or virtual currencies. This includes virtual real estate, NFTs, skins, accessories, and even virtual workspaces.

Platforms like Decentraland and The Sandbox allow users to buy virtual land and create experiences, while Ethereum and Solana are popular blockchain platforms powering the metaverse economy.

Gaming and entertainment

Games are a central part of the metaverse, with titles like Fortnite, Roblox, and Minecraft being early examples of virtual spaces that have elements of the metaverse. Players can interact, create, and explore in a fully digital world, blending entertainment with socializing.

Digital design and creation

The metaverse is not just a place to consume content; it’s also a space for creating. Users can build virtual environments, objects, and experiences, from virtual houses to art galleries, creating a space for expression and innovation. Platforms like Unity and Unreal Engine allow creators to design 3D worlds and immersive experiences that can be integrated into the metaverse.

Blockchain and NFTs

Blockchain technology, which powers cryptocurrencies, plays a significant role in the metaverse by ensuring that digital ownership is verified and secure. NFTs are used in the metaverse to represent ownership of unique digital assets, such as virtual art, collectibles, or even virtual land. These tokens give users a way to prove ownership and trade assets securely across platforms.

The future of the metaverse: Will it continue to thrive?

Currently, the metaverse is still evolving, with many different companies, platforms, and technologies contributing to its development. Major tech companies like Meta (formerly Facebook), Microsoft, Apple, and Google are heavily invested in creating and shaping the future of the metaverse.

Over time, the metaverse is expected to become more interconnected, immersive, and accessible. You can explore niche interests like creating your very own NFT or even looking for the best free spins recommended by poker choice as a metaverse casino player. As the metaverse  evolves, more and more users will have more engaging experiences from both the digital and physical world.

Exploring the History and Appeal of the Irish Lotto

Claire James
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Exploring the History and Appeal of the Irish Lotto

Ireland’s most popular lottery, the Irish Lotto, offers players the opportunity to win significant prizes in a format that is both simple and widely recognised. Since its inception in 1988, it has become a key part of the country’s lifestyle culture, presenting a chance for participants to experience the potential of life-changing winnings.

A Brief History of the Irish Lotto 

Launched by the Irish government, the Lotto was initially managed by the state-owned An Post National Lottery Company, operating on a weekly basis. It has since been overseen by Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI) from 2014 onwards. The Irish Lotto is not just a game but also a vital contributor to good causes in Ireland. Revenue from the Lotto helps fund a wide array of charitable initiatives, supporting sectors such as health, education, sports, and community development.

With the introduction of online lottery in recent years, players can now participate from the comfort of their homes all over the nation, making the game even more accessible. However, the traditional in-store experience of grabbing a physical ticket remains a popular option for many players.

Key Features of the Irish Lotto 

The Irish Lotto game follows a straightforward format where players choose six numbers from a pool of 47. The draw takes place twice a week, on Wednesday and Saturday evenings, at 8pm. During each draw, six main numbers and one bonus number are drawn. Players win by matching a combination of these numbers, and prizes are awarded according to how many numbers they match.

The coveted jackpot is awarded to those who match all six numbers, while smaller prizes are given for matching fewer numbers. If no one wins the jackpot in a particular draw, the prize rolls over to the next draw, often resulting in even larger jackpots.

For those looking to increase their chances of winning, there are optional add-ons available, such as Lotto Plus 1 and Lotto Plus 2. These add-ons provide additional opportunities to win by entering the player’s numbers into separate draws for an extra €1 per line. The Lotto Plus Raffle also gives players the chance to win fixed cash prizes.

How to Play the Irish Lotto 

Here’s a simple guide to help you get started:

Select Your Numbers

Choose six numbers from 1 to 47. You can either manually mark your numbers on a play slip or opt for a Quick Pick, where the numbers are randomly selected for you.

Determine Your Entry

Each line of numbers costs €2, and you must select a minimum of two lines for each entry, making the base cost €4.

Select Your Draw Days

You can choose to enter the Lotto for the Wednesday draw, the Saturday draw, or both. Simply mark the relevant options on your play slip or select them when playing online.

Add Lotto Plus (Optional)

For an additional €1 per line, you can add Lotto Plus, which gives you the chance to enter the Lotto Plus 1 and Lotto Plus 2 draws, as well as the Plus Raffle. If you choose to add Lotto Plus, your ticket will show “PLUS: YES”.

Choose the Number of Draws

You can also decide how many consecutive draws to enter. Your options are 1, 2, 4, or 8 draws.

Complete Your Entry:

  • In-Store: Hand your completed play slip to the retailer and pay the required amount. Your ticket will be issued, so be sure to keep it safe until the draw results are announced.
  • Online: Confirm your entry on the official Irish Lotto website, and the cost will be deducted from your account. No physical ticket is required, as all winnings are credited directly to your account.

Check Your Winnings 

After the draw, check the results and compare your selected numbers with the winning numbers. If you’re playing online, you’ll be notified immediately of any prizes won, and your winnings will be credited to your account.

Irish Lotto Prize Tiers & Odds

The Irish Lotto offers a variety of prize categories; here’s a breakdown of the different tiers and odds associated with winning at every stage.

Match 6 (Jackpot)

  • Odds of winning: 1 in 10,737,573
  • Prize Value: Jackpot (minimum of €2 million)
  • Average Prize: €4,902,426.48

The jackpot is the most coveted prize, offering a minimum value of €2 million. If no one wins the jackpot in a particular draw, the prize ‘rolls over’ to the next draw. This means that the prize money is added to the next draw’s jackpot, often resulting in a larger prize pool.

Match 5 + Bonus Ball

  • Odds of winning: 1 in 1,789,596
  • Prize Value: 5.37% of the prize fund
  • Average Prize: €118,507.75

Match 5

  • Odds of winning: 1 in 44,740
  • Prize Value: 3.22% of the prize fund
  • Average Prize: €1,701.74

Match 4 + Bonus Ball

  • Odds of winning: 1 in 17,896
  • Prize Value: 0.81% of the prize fund
  • Average Prize: €168.11

Match 4

  • Odds of winning: 1 in 918
  • Prize Value: 5.24% of the prize fund
  • Average Prize: €52.00

Match 3 + Bonus Ball

  • Odds of winning: 1 in 688
  • Prize Value: 3.29% of the prize fund
  • Average Prize: €26.44

Match 3

  • Odds of winning: 1 in 54
  • Prize Value: 15.93% of the prize fund
  • Average Prize: €9.19

Match 2 + Bonus Ball

  • Odds of winning: 1 in 72
  • Prize Value: €3 Daily Million Quick Pick (with Daily Million Plus)
  • Average Prize: €3.00

The remaining portion of the Prize Fund, after all the prizes have been allocated, is directed to a ‘Reserve Fund.’ This fund is primarily intended to ensure that the minimum jackpot is always available. If the jackpot is won in a draw, the Reserve Fund can also be allocated to other prize tiers within a game if required.

Players can choose to enter as many times as they please with different number combinations in the Irish Lotto. With the minimum play requiring two lines, the effective odds of securing the jackpot become 1 in 5,368,768 when all numbers differ across the combinations.

Adding Lotto Plus to a ticket provides additional opportunities by entering the selected numbers into two extra draws. Playing both games together increases the overall odds of winning a prize to 1 in 10.

Contributions to Good Causes 

One of the unique aspects of the Irish Lotto is that nearly 30% of every €1 spent on lottery tickets goes toward funding important causes across the country. Since its launch, the Irish Lotto has raised an estimated €6 billion for various charitable projects. These funds benefit communities and support various sectors, including health, sports, the arts, and community development. Annually, over 4,500 groups and organisations receive funding to carry out projects that positively impact Irish society.

Responsible Gambling 

As with all aspects of gambling, the Irish Lotto should remain a form of entertainment. The National Lottery encourages responsible play by offering resources to help players manage their spending and avoid developing unhealthy habits.

Apart from traditional lottery participation, there are other ways to engage, such as betting on various lotteries through platforms like Lottomart. These alternatives offer players the chance to win substantial amounts with relatively small bets.

The UK Gig Economy Surge and Its Impact on Flexible Employment

Claire James
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The UK Gig Economy Surge and Its Impact on Flexible Employment

Around 1.4% of the UK’s workforce operates within the gig economy. This is likely higher when considering those completing ad hoc side hustles from home. Hence, it’s more important than ever to ensure you’re in the best position possible to reap the benefits from a sector that prides itself on flexibility. We explore proactive steps you can take today.

What is the UK Gig Economy?

The UK gig economy is now an encompassing sector comprising anything from Deliveroo drivers to at-home side hustlers. The gig economy facilitates working arrangements centered around short-term contracts or freelance work. Its prominence has increased in recent years due to technological advancements, the worker’s desire for a more flexible lifestyle, and the economic downturn, leading to people trying to supplement their income. Whether the gig economy is morally correct or not is for another day. This article aims to show you how to position yourself effectively to reap the benefits while avoiding potential challenges.

Keys to success:

Time efficiency

Many gig opportunities are accessible in seconds – think free money sign-up bonuses. These are companies that will pay you to sign up to their website. The aim? Lure you in with an initial cash reward in the hope that you’ll remain an active customer. It can be done under the guise of paying you to switch your bank account, open a new savings account, or free shares for opening an investment account. These types of offers can be completed on your lunch break, at home, or even while commuting on public transport.

Your bargaining power

Many of the most successful gig workers have made upwards of £1 million on platforms like Upwork. They’ve developed a unique skill that companies are willing to pay a premium for. This in essence allows them to auction their skill to the highest bidder. Unfortunately, a Deliveroo/Uber Eats driver doesn’t have this trump card meaning they’re more disposable. We’d focus on developing a skill with a high market value that can be completed remotely and generates tangible results. This way, the social proof can help attract future clients!

Time management

While we’ve mentioned developing a unique skill as a great way to stand out, we understand this won’t appeal to everyone. Many gig apps, especially food delivery or taxi services, operate on demand-led pricing. While not so good for the consumer, it can lead to you being able to make some extra cash during peak periods. Many Deliveroo drivers/riders will pinpoint Friday evening as a peak time to earn additional income – with a conventional 9-5, you’ll tend to get paid the same rate regardless of the time of day. You could also be combining a more structured gig job, like Deliveroo, alongside some online surveys or user interviews!

Tax considerations

While filing for self-assessment is a surprisingly simple process, you should be aware of the filing deadlines. Luckily, in the UK, we have the ‘Side Hustle Allowance’. This means you can earn £1000 per tax year without needing to declare anything to HMRC (you won’t pay any tax). The thought of not paying the appropriate amount of tax can create anxiety for many, but most people (especially online side hustlers) likely won’t need to worry. If you reach that £1000 amount (or think you might), it’s worth tracking all your incomings and outgoings. It is worth noting that any expenses you have incurred generating this cash can be offset!

To conclude

If you’re shrewd, it’s possible to make the gig economy work for you. It is important to be flexible and understand opportunities can appear in my different guises. While it’s no secret that large corporations do employ gig workers in an attempt to cut their employment costs, they fundamentally need top-level skills to succeed. In a world centered around social proof/employee experience, a brand’s reputation can be tarnished if they don’t operate ethically.

Regulatory Changes Bring Significant Shifts to the UK’s Gaming Sector

Claire James
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0
Regulatory Changes Bring Significant Shifts to the UK’s Gaming Sector

The UK gaming industry continues to be a profitable one but will this continue to be so as stricter regulation is introduced?

There have been plans for stricter regulation of the UK gambling industry for several years. There was a White Paper on the subject of gambling reform published by the then Conservative Government. Little action was taken but the new Labour administration is starting to take action.

April will see a new maximum stake limit introduced for online slot games. These are extremely profitable for the industry. Gambling companies make a significant proportion of their profits from the UK’s online slot and casino websites. According to Offersbet and market data collected by the Gambling Commission up to December 2024, the profits from slots increased 15% year on year to a new high of £709m. The number of spins increased 9% in the previous quarter to a new peak of £23.9bn.

There have been major concerns though over how addictive they can be. Politicians and those who run charities that help people who have suffered gambling harm have long called for changes to be made.

Younger players are particularly keen on playing online slots. Many have themes such as popular TV shows or movies that attract players. However, there is no maximum stake limit for the games and huge losses can be incurred. This will change in April with those aged between 18 and 24 not being able to stake more than £2 on each spin. The following month will see older players have their maximum stake reduced to £5.

This is not the first time that such action has been taken in this area. High Street betting shops have fixed odds machines and players were making massive losses as they could stake up to £100 per game. After a lot of campaigning, the maximum stake was reduced to just £2. This led to a drop in revenue, some shops being closed and staff redundancies being made.

Will the same happen when the new maximum stake limits for online slots are introduced? Stella David is the Interim CEO of Entain whose UK businesses include Coral and Ladbrokes. Her view is that those in the second and third tier of the industry may be affected by the changes. Players may desert those sites and head to those owned by Entain so it may be “a gentle tailwind” for them and they should still enjoy a secure future.

Whether that is what happens remains to be seen but those who have been campaigning against online slots are still calling for more action to be taken. Many believe that the £2 limit should be applied to all players, not just the younger ones.

Stewart Kenny is one of the founders of Paddy Power but left the board in 2016. He still has many concerns over the safety of online slot games. His view is that they are too fast and they need to be slowed down. There was a reduction in speed four years ago but Mr Kenny believes a further reduction is needed to make them safer.

He says that there is “only seconds” between a player making their stake and finding out if they have won anything. This swift turnaround means players can “repeat the dose” and find themselves losing large amounts of money in a very short period of time. He is also concerned about the fact that many spins nearly produce wins is “fundamental to gambling addiction.”

While he continues to bet on horse and greyhound racing, he does not visit online casinos. Another area of concern for him is the offers that gambling companies make. These are used to attract new customers, for example free bets or spins.

Once a player has signed up with them, more offers are made to retain their custom in what is a very competitive market and to bet at their online casino. Kenny sees this as the gambling companies making an attempt to “try and suck you into the highly addictive online casino by sending you free spins.”

Other measures are also due to be introduced this year. While gambling companies have been making voluntary donations each year, they make varying amounts. The funds are used to help those affected by gambling harm. Now the Labour government is introducing a compulsory levy with the aim of raising £100 million a year. The amount companies will have to pay will range from 0.1% to 1.1% of their Gross Gambling Yield.

2025 is therefore going to be an interesting one for the UK gambling industry. Stricter affordability checks could also be on the way. The concern of gambling companies is that such moves might lose them custom to the unlicensed black market and further affect their profits. Time will tell us just whether that will be so.

Emerging Mobile Gaming Trends Set to Define 2025

Claire James
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0
Emerging Mobile Gaming Trends Set to Define 2025

The mobile gaming industry continues to evolve rapidly, with 2025 ushering in several key trends that are reshaping the landscape. The experts at Slots UK have provided an insight into what to expect from the gaming industry this year.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Enhancing Gameplay

AI is set to revolutionise the gaming industry by introducing smarter, more immersive experiences. With advanced machine learning algorithms, AI will create dynamic, responsive game worlds that adapt to player behaviour, making each session unique.

Procedurally generated content, powered by AI, will allow developers to craft vast, ever-evolving landscapes that players can explore, offering limitless possibilities and reducing repetitive gameplay. AI-driven NPCs (non-playable characters) will feature more sophisticated interactions, enhancing realism and emotional depth in games.

Evolution of Online Slot Games

A key trend to look out for with online slots is the rise of gamification elements, where slots will incorporate elements of storytelling, quests, and rewards that go beyond traditional win/loss scenarios.

Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology are also gaining traction, offering players faster and more secure transactions. With these advancements, 2025 looks set to be an exciting year for online slot gaming.

Hybrid Monetisation Models

The traditional reliance on either in-app purchases (IAP) or advertisements is shifting towards hybrid monetisation strategies. By combining various revenue streams, developers can cater to a broader audience, enhancing user experience and increasing revenue. ​

Cross-Platform Integration

Cross-platform play is becoming a standard feature, allowing gamers to enjoy seamless experiences across mobile, console, and PC platforms. This integration not only broadens the player base but also enhances engagement by providing flexibility in how and where games are played. ​

Growth of Cloud Gaming

With 5G and fibre-optic networks becoming more widespread, players can now access high-quality games without the need for expensive hardware, allowing the gaming industry to reach a broader audience.

Cloud gaming has bridged the gap between casual and hardcore gamers, enabling players to game on various devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs without compromise.

This shift has also led to a transformation in the business model, with subscription-based services gaining significant traction, offering players an all-you-can-play experience for a fixed monthly fee. As technology continues to evolve, cloud gaming is poised to become the dominant method of play in the coming years.

Emergence of Hybrid Game Genres

The blending of different game genres is leading to innovative gameplay experiences. For instance, combining elements of role-playing games (RPGs) with hyper-casual mechanics attracts a diverse audience, keeping the gaming experience fresh and engaging.

Focus on Player Loyalty and Retention

With the market becoming increasingly saturated, developers are prioritizing strategies to enhance player loyalty. Implementing live operations (live ops) such as regular updates, special events, and community engagement initiatives helps maintain player interest and encourages long-term retention. ​

Gaming Demographic Expansion

The demographic profile of gamers is expanding, with more women and older adults engaging in mobile gaming. This diversification is prompting developers to create content that appeals to a wider audience, challenging traditional gaming stereotypes.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Development

With growing awareness of environmental issues, developers in 2025 will likely prioritise sustainability in game design and development. Expect to see mobile games with lower carbon footprints, more efficient use of resources, and environmentally conscious production practices.

From using renewable energy in data centres to optimising game code for lower battery consumption, the industry is beginning to take its environmental impact seriously.

Mobile gamers themselves will also become more aware of sustainability, leading to a push for eco-friendly gaming accessories and devices, such as energy-efficient smartphones or recyclable gaming accessories.

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