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LiberNovo Introduces Enduring Support as a Modern Expression of Love

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HONG KONG, Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — This Valentine’s Day, LiberNovo is offering an alternative to gifting chocolates and flowers. Instead of fleeting gestures, LiberNovo is spotlighting something designed to last: enduring support and better comfort, delivered through an innovative Dynamic Ergonomic design.

The LiberNovo Omni, LiberNovo’s wildly popular ergonomic chair, is now available in a new Moss Green color palette. The launch aligns with Valentine’s Day across the US, Canada, and Europe, positioning comfort, care, and long-term well-being as a more modern expression of love.

Real Support Doesn’t Ghost You After V-Day

The LiberNovo Omni doesn’t just hold you—it understands you. While traditional chairs force you to fight with levers and knobs to find a moment of relief, the LiberNovo Omni’s dynamic design acts as your postures better half. Every part of the chair adjusts in sync as you alternate positions, keeping your comfort and support right where you expect them to be. No ghosting.

Enduring Comfort & Support

Valentine‘s gifts often feel meaningful at first, then fade. LiberNovo’s idea of care is simpler. Real support shows up every day.

The LiberNovo Omni is designed for long-term stability, not short-lived romance. Built for adaptability and durability, it delivers consistent comfort across work, rest, and everything in between.

The Bionic FlexFit Backrest follows the natural shape of the spine through an intricate system of 16 articulated joints and 8 pressure-relief panels. These allow the chair to maintain continuous contact as your posture changes, shifting with you rather than against you. Instead of forcing you to fit its expectations, the LiberNovo Omni is designed to support every curve—just as it is.

Moss Green: Bringing Calm into the Workspace

The introduction of the Moss Green LiberNovo Omni adds a new visual dimension to the product line. Inspired by natural environments, Moss Green reflects LiberNovo’s growing focus on natural design principles.

The color is intended to soften the visual tone of workspaces, bringing a sense of calm and balance into home offices and shared living areas. Subtle and understated, Moss Green integrates easily into modern interiors while reinforcing the idea that ergonomic furniture can feel warm rather than clinical.

Designed for Shared Spaces

One of the defining characteristics of the LiberNovo Omni is its ability to adapt between people. It responds in real-time to different body types and sitting styles, making it perfect for shared home offices.

Instead of wrestling with complex presets, finding your fit is intuitive. When a new person sits down, it takes less than a minute to recalibrate. A quick adjustment of the integrated lumbar controls on the armrest, the 4D armrest height and width, and the seat elevation is all it takes to find your fit. It’s professional-grade support that doesn’t require a manual to share.

“No Strings Attached”: A Risk-Free Commitment

A commitment to your physical health shouldn’t be a leap of faith. LiberNovo is introducing a “No Strings Attached” 30-day free trial (including return shipping) across the US, Canada, and Europe. If you don’t fall in love with your LiberNovo Omni within a month—no hard feelings.

Valentine’s Global Launch Offers (Feb 01–Feb 14)

LiberNovo is framing this launch as an open invitation to rethink daily comfort. It’s less about a closing window and more about opening a door to a workspace that works with you—like a partner who actually listens.

  • United States: Moss Green Omni for $829 (was $1,099). First 1,000 orders over $800 get a “Comfort Gift Set” (silk mask, tote, StepSync mat). 0% APR via Klarna.
  • Canada: CA$1,258 (was CA$1,814). First 500 orders over CA$1,200 receive the gift set. 0% APR via Afterpay.
  • Share the Love: Share your referral link for a 2% cash rebate for both you and a friend.

About LiberNovo

LiberNovo is a design-driven ergonomics brand focused on creating products that support the body through movement rather than restriction. Founded by a multidisciplinary team of engineers and designers, the company challenges traditional assumptions about sitting by prioritizing adaptability, balance, and long-term comfort.

The LiberNovo Omni is the brand’s flagship product, representing its vision of Dynamic Ergonomics applied to real workspaces.

This Valentine’s Day, LiberNovo invites people to choose a gift that endures, one that supports focus, comfort, and well-being every single day.

Learn more at: libernovo.com

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Australian Open men’s final tickets selling for staggering price

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Tickets to watch genuine tennis history unfold at the Australian Open remain available — but they will set punters back an eye-watering amount.

Coming off one of the finest wins of his legendary career, Novak Djokovic will hold an unprecedented 25th major trophy aloft if he defeats young superstar Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday night’s men’s final.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Alcaraz and Djokovic set for epic Australian Open final.

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No matter the result, it will be a momentous climax to the tournament, with Alcaraz vying to become the youngest man to achieve a career grand slam.

After winning two titles each at the French Open, US Open and Wimbledon, Alcaraz won through to his first Melbourne Park decider when he toppled German Alexander Zverev in an unforgettable semi-final on Friday.

The battle of the legendary, ageless Djokovic against a young warrior, 16 years his junior, is the most eagerly anticipated men’s final in Australia since great rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal faced off in a major decider one last time back in 2017.

After Djokovic booked his spot in the championship match with a monumental five-set triumph over dual defending champion Jannik Sinner in the early hours of Saturday morning, attention turned to securing the hottest ticket in world sport.

On Saturday afternoon, the cheapest tickets to the Djokovic-Alcaraz showdown were $1899.

When those were quickly snapped up, some re-sale tickets went online for a staggering $6598.

Other individual tickets ranged between $5718 and $5999.

Already clear as the most prolific men’s champion of all time, Djokovic will overtake Margaret Court’s long-standing record of 24 grand slam singles titles if he can claim an 11th Australian Open crown.

The Serbian superstar has won all 10 of the previous finals he has contested at Melbourne Park, beating Nadal, Andy Murray, Dominic Thiem, Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Jo-Wifried Tsonga on his Rod Laver Arena fortress.

Alcaraz and Djokovic have previously faced off twice in a major final, with the 22-year-old Spaniard winning both times at Wimbledon in 2023 and 2024.

“He (Alcaraz) also had a big match, but he has 15, 16 years on me,” a weary Djokovic said about 3am on Saturday morning.

“It’s going to be a bit easier for him to recover.

“I play tennis competitively mainly to be able to reach the finals of grand slams.

“I’ll think about finals later (on Saturday and Sunday), but for me, this is a win (over Sinner) that almost equals winning a grand slam (trophy).”

Arguably Djokovic’s greatest rival and Alcaraz’s biggest mentor and idol, Nadal will be in the stands watching on Sunday night.

Thanks to the Australian Open’s major sponsor Kia, Nadal is back in Melbourne for the first time since he finished his legendary career at the end of 2024.

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Flights grounded and events canceled as dangerous deep freeze grips unexpected parts of US

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Snow cancellations and delays may be nothing new for the Northeast, but this weekend, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida were among the states that have seen big events canceled or postponed due to frigid temperatures.

From the coastal Carolinas through the Northeast and New England, winter weather was forecast and was expected to cause travel headaches Saturday and Sunday as Fox Weather has been reporting.

Airlines canceled scores of flights for Saturday and beyond in anticipation of the extreme weather. 

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By roughly 3 p.m. EST Saturday, more than 12,000 U.S. flights were either delayed or canceled by the nor’easter off the Southeast coast, according to FlightAware. 

That number included total disruptions from Friday through Monday. 

Cars travel along an icy road during a winter storm in Carrollton, Texas.

Drivers navigate icy road conditions Jan. 26 in Carrollton, Texas, as a winter storm moved through the region. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

The surprising twist was the slew of cancellations in — among other places — South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. 

“The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 8 above zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes,” the National Weather Service said in a warning for many parts of Florida. 

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“Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. … Young children, the elderly and the homeless are especially vulnerable to the cold,” the NWS also said. 

Throughout the Southeast, children’s activities were affected. Even Disney and Universal closed their water parks.

A lone pedestrian walks along a snow-covered residential street during a winter storm.

A person walks down a residential street as snow falls in Brooklyn, N.Y., in January.  (Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images)

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park, located in Lake Buena Vista, was closed due to arctic temperatures. Universal’s Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort was shuttered Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 due to extreme weather, Fox Business reported. 

Zoo Miami was to remain open, but some animals have been no-shows. 

“They’re being kept back just for the warmth that they need,” said Ron Magill, the zoo’s communication director, as WSVN reported

“Sunday’s forecast for Miami at 36 would tie the low mark set in 1909,” according to The Miami Herald.

Miami, Florida

Sunday’s forecast for Miami, Fla., could tie the low mark set in 1909, officials said.  (Giogrio Viera/AFP via Getty Images)

Georgia shuttered numerous attractions, too. The Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Zoo Atlanta, Center for Puppetry Arts and Michael C. Carlos Museum were all reported to be closed on Saturday.

In North Carolina, the Ringling Bros. & Barnum and Bailey circus performances scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the First Horizon Coliseum in Greensboro were canceled due to a state of emergency and snow emergency declared by local officials, according to the venue’s website. 

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Here is a sampling of a few other highly anticipated events or activities that have been canceled or postponed, according to the latest information available Saturday afternoon. 

1. Polar Plunge, Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Due to the deep freeze, the annual Polar Plunge in Myrtle Beach in which people run into the frigid Atlantic Ocean to raise money for the local Special Olympics was taken off the schedule. 

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Organizers cited forecasts of “significant snowfall, dangerously cold temperatures and hazardous travel conditions throughout the weekend.” Those interested can still donate to the effort. 

Winter snowy street

Snow-covered cars line the streets in winter in New York City.  (Selcuk Acar/Anadolu via Getty Images)

“We strongly encourage everyone to stay home, stay warm and stay safe while this storm moves through our area,” the event’s website noted. 

2. Braves Fest, Atlanta, Ga.

Sports fans looking forward to Braves Fest at Truist Park found themselves making other plans for the weekend. 

The Braves Fest event sponsored by Delta Air Lines was canceled due to weather. 

Organizers cited forecasts of “significant snowfall, dangerously cold temperatures and hazardous travel conditions throughout the weekend.”

“We were very excited to celebrate with the more than 76,000 fans who had claimed tickets for the event,” a statement on the Atlanta Braves’ website said.

“However, given the anticipated impact throughout our region, we want to ensure the safety of our fans who were planning to travel from near and far for the event.” 

3. Aqueduct Racetrack weekend racing, Queens, N.Y.

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) canceled live racing this weekend at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Horse racing at Aqueduct

The New York Racing Association canceled live racing Saturday and Sunday at Aqueduct Racetrack. (Victor J. Blue/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

NYRA had previously canceled racing Wednesday through Friday, so there was no live racing all week.

Aqueduct Racetrack said it would be open for simulcasting, betting on races that run elsewhere.

4. Penguin Plunge, West Hartford, Conn.

On Saturday, Connecticut was enduring glacial temperatures in the teens. 

The organizers of the Penguin Plunge fundraiser postponed their Sunday, Feb. 1 event, which would have been the first-ever in the town.

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Organized by the police department to support Special Olympics Connecticut, the event is to feature officers jumping into a mobile plunge pool at West Hartford Town Hall to raise money and awareness for the cause.

Anyone can still donate as they wish. The fundraising event is being pushed back to an as-yet unannounced date in March, according to reports.

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Flying without a Real ID? You may owe $45 — or more — starting Feb. 1

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Travelers wait in a long security line at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California, May 7, 2025.

Allen J. Schaben | Los Angeles Times | Getty Images

Travelers, be warned: Starting Feb. 1, you may need to pay a fee of $45 or more for going through airport security checkpoints without a Real ID or another acceptable travel document.

“That’s not nothing,” John Breyault, vice president of public policy, telecommunications and fraud at the National Consumers League, a consumer advocacy group, said of the fee. “If you ever needed a reason to get a Real ID-compliant ID, now’s the time.”

The Real ID card is an upgraded driver’s license or state identification card that officials say carries more stringent security and helps prevent fraudulent identification. It is state-issued and marked with a star.

The federal government began requiring travelers to have a Real ID — or another document like a U.S. passport or passport card — to board a domestic flight, or enter certain federal facilities or nuclear power plants as of May 7, 2025.

However, Feb. 1 marks the first time the Transportation Security Administration will impose a fee to enforce the rule.

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Travelers ages 18 and older without an acceptable travel document will need to pay $45 to use an optional alternative identity verification system — called TSA ConfirmID — to fly.

Roughly 6% of travelers don’t have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification, the TSA said in December when it announced the fee.

“This is really an enforcement mechanism,” said Sally French, a travel expert at NerdWallet. “It’s a real penalty for travelers who arrive unprepared.”

More fees for longer trips

Tanaonte | Istock | Getty Images

Verification in the ConfirmID system is valid for a 10-day travel period, according to the TSA.

Passing through a TSA checkpoint outside that 10-day period would require paying the TSA ConfirmID fee again, an agency spokesperson said in an email. In that scenario, a traveler on a longer trip could pay $90 total.

“If you go to Honolulu for two weeks, you may have to pay on the way back, too,” Breyault said. “If it wasn’t bad enough to be nickel-and-dimed by the airlines, now you’re getting nickel-and-dimed by the TSA.”

Travelers may face delays, missed flights

Travelers without an acceptable ID can complete the ConfirmID process before arriving at the airport.

They can visit tsa.gov/ConfirmID, and then show their pay.gov receipt — a printout or screenshot — and any government-issued ID to the airport TSA officer, the agency said.

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Travelers can also pay the fee on-site. But TSA recommends that travelers pay the fee online before travel. Failure to do so may result in delays and missed flights, the TSA said.

“It is important that airline travelers plan ahead to ensure they have an acceptable form of ID to avoid these additional delays, as the process can take up to 30 minutes,” according to the TSA.

Low-income travelers, families face largest burden

A Real ID sign at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York, May 7, 2025.

Kylie Cooper | Reuters

Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005. The law set minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Breyault said he understands why the government would choose to impose a fee: It’s a good way to motivate people to comply with the Real ID requirement, he said.

However, the burden will fall hardest on low- to moderate-income travelers and families with older children, he said. A family of four, for example, might pay more than $200 to fly, assuming the children are at least 18 years old and the trip is longer, Breyault said.

TSA doesn’t require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the U.S., even if they are traveling alone, the agency said. Each airline sets its own ID requirements, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

Breyault’s advice to consumers: “Well in advance of your trip, make sure to get a Real ID-compliant ID from your [department of motor vehicles], and if you don’t have it, make sure you have one of the other acceptable forms of ID.”

Real ID costs vary by state. In New Jersey, it costs $35 to get a Real ID, for example.

TSA estimates travelers will use the ConfirmID program about 10.6 million times over the next five years.

The $45 fee will generate about $476 million in revenue, meant to offset administrative costs during that time, the agency said in a report issued Dec. 2.

Adam Stahl, a senior official performing the duties of deputy TSA administrator, said in recent press release that the fee would ensure “non-compliant travelers, not taxpayers, cover the cost of processing travelers without acceptable IDs.”

In a Nov. 13 report, the TSA initially estimated travelers would need to pay an $18 fee — less than half the final rate — to cover administrative expenses.

Asked for comment on the fees, a TSA spokesperson didn’t specify why the estimate changed in a matter of weeks.

The TSA plans to reevaluate its fee structure every two years “to account for evolving conditions and rates of compliance,” the spokesperson said in an e-mail.

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SJM Welcomes the Year of the Horse with Prosperity and Good Fortune

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 Celebrating a new year filled with endless fun

MACAO, Jan. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As the Year of the Horse approaches, the city is alive with the vibrant energy of the season. To celebrate Chinese New Year, SJM Resorts, S.A. (“SJM”) presents an exciting, and joy-filled festive journey across its hotels, resort, and food hall from 2 February to 8 March. Throughout the season, Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau (“Grand Lisboa Palace”) will delight guests with an array of vibrant celebrations and exclusive privileges, including shopping rewards, lucky draws, and fun-filled family workshops. Guests can also gather with loved ones to savour exquisite reunion feasts at the MICHELIN-starred restaurants, or rejuvenate with revitalising treatments at the spa—embracing a prosperous and healthy start to the New Year.

Restaurants at Grand Lisboa Palace and Grand Lisboa will present exclusive set menus and festive à la carte dishes.
Restaurants at Grand Lisboa Palace and Grand Lisboa will present exclusive set menus and festive à la carte dishes.

The festivities extend citywide, as Grand Lisboa Macau (“Grand Lisboa”), JAI ALAI Oceanus, L’Arc Macau, and Kam Pek Market are dressed in their holiday best. Adorned with dazzling décor, these destinations are ready to welcome guests from near and far, lighting up Macau with the year’s brightest blessings and jubilant energy.

Stop 1: Festive Photo Spots & Blessings from the God of Fortune

Upon arriving at Grand Lisboa Palace, guests are instantly surrounded by a joyful and celebratory atmosphere, while the Jardim Secreto features six lively festive installations of SJM’s mascot, Sam the Rooster—offering the perfect photo opportunity for families to capture cherished New Year memories.

Meanwhile, the God of Fortune will make appearances at Grand Lisboa Palace, Grand Lisboa, JAI ALAI Oceanus, and L’Arc Macau, showering guests with auspicious goodies, dining, and shopping vouchers.[1] From 17 to 22 February, diners at Grand Lisboa Palace may have the chance to meet the God of Fortune and enter a lucky draw to win dining privileges. Guests at Grand Lisboa and JAI ALAI Oceanus can also redeem festive Fai Chun to bring the season’s blessings home.[2]

[1] The God of Fortune will appear and distribute red packets as follows:
1st to 6th day of Chinese New Year (17–22 February) at Grand Lisboa Palace; 1st to 5th day (17–21 February) at Grand Lisboa and JAI ALAI Oceanus; 1st to 4th day (17–19 February) at L’Arc Macau.

[2] With valid spending receipts, guests may redeem lucky Fai Chun as follows:
27th day of the 12th lunar month to 1st day of Chinese New Year (14–17 February) at JAI ALAI Oceanus. 29th day of the 12th lunar month to 6th day of Chinese New Year (16–22 February) at Grand Lisboa.  

 

Stop 2: Spend & Win this Chinese New Year

From 7 February to 8 March, guests who spend MOP100 or more at designated retail, dining, and spa outlets across Grand Lisboa Palace, Grand Lisboa, JAI ALAI Oceanus, or Kam Pek Market can enjoy access to Sam’s Bouncy Castle and Sportopia. Those spending MOP300 or more can get on the Samtastic Express, symbolising a prosperous start to the New Year. Guests can also experience the Sam’s Photo Booth, and take part in “the Year of the Horse Grand Lucky Draw” or “Grab & Win” Claw Machine with chances to win exclusive resort experiences, limited-edition souvenirs, and value of MOP16,888 Gold & Jewellery Voucher!

Stop 3: Time-Honoured Traditions & Family Bonding

The New Year roars to life with majestic lion dance performances, bringing good fortune to Grand Lisboa and Kam Pek Market on 21 February—as the troupe winds its way from Kam Pek Market to the Hong Kung Temple, spreading auspicious energy throughout the route. Performances continue with joyful flair on 22 February at Grand Lisboa Palace and on 23 February at JAI ALAI Oceanus and L’Arc Macau, welcoming the Year of the Horse with waves of prosperity and luck. The celebration extends citywide as the spectacular SJM Float joins the Macao Government Tourism Office’s Chinese New Year Parade on the evenings of 19 and 28 February. Meanwhile, families can bond over creativity at the GLP Arte workshops on weekends from now to 28 February to craft personalised red packets, fuzzy wire potted plants, or lucky pinwheels.

Stop 4: A Culinary Odyssey of Auspicious Flavours

SJM’s culinary masters will craft premium Chinese New Year delicacies starting from 1 February, featuring everything from opulent set menus and curated à la carte specialties to exquisite dim sum—an invitation to gather, feast, and savour the essence of the season.

Palace Garden at Grand Lisboa Palace
Palace Garden at Grand Lisboa Palace

At Grand Lisboa Palace, the celebration is plated to perfection. Signature restaurants including Palace Garden, Chalou, and Hua Ting are launching limited-time set menus and auspicious à la carte dishes—ideal for sharing prosperity with family and friends. From 17 to 19 February, The Grand Buffet will host festive food stations and the traditional “Lo Hei” prosperity toss, symbolising rising fortunes and new beginnings. For a sweet interlude, La Scala del Palazzo, The Book Lounge, and Vivienne Westwood Café will serve elegant afternoon teas and festive pastries. Guests can also select from an array of rice pudding, Poon Choi, and premium hampers, to bring the flavour of happiness home.

Hua Ting at Grand Lisboa Palace
Hua Ting at Grand Lisboa Palace

Robuchon au Dôme at Grand Lisboa will launch a special Chinese New Year set menu. On the evening of 19 February, guests can savour three-MICHELIN-starred French cuisine from one of the city’s most spectacular vantage points, gazing upon the brilliant fireworks display during an unforgettable feast for both the eyes and the palate. The two-MICHELIN-starred The Eight will present its the Year of the Horse set menu, à la carte and dim sum selections. L’Arc Chinese Restaurant at L’Arc Macau will offer spring dinner menus for festive corporate or family gatherings, while JAI ALAI Oceanus joins the celebration with seasonal delicacies across Treasury Restaurant, Jai Alai Buffet Restaurant, CASA DE MASSA, and Treasure House.

Chalou at Grand Lisboa Palace
Chalou at Grand Lisboa Palace

 

The Grand Buffet will host festive food stations and the traditional “Lo Hei” prosperity toss.
The Grand Buffet will host festive food stations and the traditional “Lo Hei” prosperity toss.

 

Vivienne Westwood Café will serve elegant afternoon teas and festive pastries.
Vivienne Westwood Café will serve elegant afternoon teas and festive pastries.

Stop 5: Revitalise Your Glow for the New Year

Greet the Year of the Horse with rejuvenated spirit and glowing vitality. From now until 31 March, SJM’s world-class spas present exclusive treatments to reveal a radiant new you.

The Spa at THE KARL LAGERFELD introduces the “Diamond Revival.” Powered by the luxurious London skincare house 111SKIN, this treatment harnesses potent black diamond particles to firm and illuminate. Combining a lifting facial, body contouring, and restorative foot care, it ensures guests step into the Year of the Horse with glowing confidence.

For a more holistic approach, The SPA at Palazzo Versace Macau presents the “Spring Rejuvenation with Traditional Chinese Therapy” from now until 28 February. Rooted in traditional wisdom, this therapy blends acupoint massage with warm moxibustion to dispel dampness and detoxify the body. Complemented by a complimentary back “Gua Sha” session, it melts away deep-seated stress and recharges the body with vital energy.

The SPA at Palazzo Versace Macau presents the Spring Rejuvenation with Traditional Chinese Therapy throughout the Chinese New Year.
The SPA at Palazzo Versace Macau presents the Spring Rejuvenation with Traditional Chinese Therapy throughout the Chinese New Year.

Finally, The Spa at Grand Lisboa Palace offers the “Luminous New Year Indulgence”. With qualifying retail purchases, guests can enjoy a complimentary 30-minute extension on their facial or body massage—an invitation to prioritise self-care and start the year with vitality.

Unlock the complete journey of festive wonders, explore exclusive offers and surprises now at: https://www.sjmresorts.com/en/happenings/celebrate-the-year-of-the-horse-at-sjm

– End –

Source: SJM Resorts, S.A.

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The $5,000 ‘flex room’ upgrade adding $20k to your home’s value

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If you’ve been considering a home gym, it’s time to look at the numbers. According to property experts, a well-designed garage to gym conversion can add $15,000 to $25,000 to a home’s value, with an average upgrade costing around $5,000. That’s an impressive four times return on investment, but only if you get it right.

The garage dilemma: Asset or liability?

Garages are often the most popular spot for home gyms, but they’re also a high-stakes real estate gamble. Convert the space poorly, and you could lose $30,000 to $60,000 in buyer appeal. In dense inner-city suburbs like Sydney’s Inner West or Melbourne’s Richmond, a secure car park is worth its weight in gold. Lose the car space, and your “wellness upgrade” might look more like a liability.

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On the flip side, a high-end gym signals a high-performance lifestyle, particularly in post-COVID Australia, where convenience is a currency. Buyers with busy careers are often willing to pay a premium for a turnkey workout space that saves them commuting hours each week.

The pros: Why the ‘wellness suite’ wins

Not Supplied
Not Supplied Credit: View

Flexibility is key. Unlike a permanent home cinema, a gym can remain a “soft” conversion. Modular flooring and freestanding equipment make it a flex room, adaptable to future trends and appealing to buyers looking for versatility. For homes with deep garages or underutilised spaces, converting the back half into a gym increases the habitable feel without the cost of a full-scale extension. According to property valuers, this can translate into a value bump of up to $20,000, depending on the quality of the upgrade and the suburb.

Alex Loven, CEO at Net World Sports, says: “A home gym makes it much easier for people to stay active because it eliminates barriers like commuting to a commercial gym, waiting for equipment, or fitting workouts into a busy schedule. Having a dedicated workout space at home encourages consistency and makes exercise feel more achievable.”

Even a modest space can be highly effective. “With a few essentials, dumbbells, resistance bands, a cardio option, and a mat for stretching or yoga, a home gym can support a wide range of workouts and make staying fit more convenient,” Loven adds.

The cons: When the workout weakens the sale

If your gym prevents a car from being parked inside a garage, you could be shaving $30,000 to $60,000 off your potential buyer pool.

There are other pitfalls to be aware of. Poor ventilation can lead to moisture, mildew, and rusted barbells, instantly turning your value-add into a buyers’ ‘ick. Low-effort gyms with cheap mats and mismatched weights can also clutter the space, discouraging potential buyers.

The key is to avoid the DIY trap. A professionally styled gym with quality flooring, bright lighting, mirrors, and neat storage ensures that the room feels inviting rather than chaotic.The most successful gym conversions follow the 24-Hour Rule. The space must be capable of returning to its original purpose, usually a garage, within a day. This approach preserves both lifestyle appeal and resale potential.

When done right, a $5,000 garage-to-gym upgrade can add up to $20,000 in value, transforming underused space into a luxury wellness retreat that attracts motivated buyers.

“Even a modest space can be highly effective with a few essentials,” Loven says.

“It helps maintain consistency, makes exercise enjoyable, and turns workouts into part of your daily routine.”

So before you bolt in a power rack, think carefully, but with the right design, your flex room could be the biggest ROI upgrade in your home this year, without losing your car in the process.

Not Supplied
Not Supplied Credit: View

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DOCOMO Concludes Partnership Agreement with Aduna to Advance Global Network API Expansion

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TOKYO, Jan. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — NTT DOCOMO, INC. and Aduna announced today that they concluded a partnership agreement (the “Agreement”) on January 29, 2026. This partnership enables DOCOMO’s network Application Programming Interfaces (network APIs), developed for the international markets, to be made available through Aduna’s platform. Together, the companies aim to accelerate the expansion of the global network API ecosystem in response to evolving industry demand.

Providing mobile network capabilities through APIs has been gaining traction globally as an effective way for enterprises to address critical issues such as fraud prevention and secure digital authentication. Supported by the CAMARA1 framework, Mobile Network Operators are developing and exposing standardized API solutions that address critical security needs. Aduna—acting as the global aggregator2 for these standardized APIs—provides a single, centralized access point to multiple operators worldwide, helping to accelerate ecosystem adoption and simplify enterprise integration at scale.

As part of its efforts to generate new revenue streams, DOCOMO has participated in the GSMA Open Gateway3 initiative and, since June 2025, has been collaborating with Aduna to expand network API–based services through aggregation model.

Through the Agreement, DOCOMO’s advanced network APIs are expected to become accessible to enterprises and developers worldwide via Aduna’s global platform. This collaboration aims to support fraud prevention strategies via APIs such as Number Verification and SIM Swap detection, thus enabling enterprises to protect customers from account takeovers, identity theft, and mobile fraud. The partnership also opens up additional routes for DOCOMO to reach new customer segments through global distribution.

Leveraging DOCOMO’s innovation and Aduna’s global aggregation and distribution model, the companies intend to support broader adoption of network APIs and enable enterprises and developers to create new, value–driven services.

Nobuko Hiraguchi, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Core Network Design Department at NTT DOCOMO, commented: “We are delighted to enter into this partnership agreement with Aduna. By making NTT DOCOMO’s network APIs—developed in alignment with global standards—available through Aduna’s global platform, we are confident that this collaboration will help create new value that enhances the safety and comfort of each customer’s daily life. NTT DOCOMO will continue to advance technical development, including network APIs, to deliver even greater value to society and our customers.”

Anthony Bartolo, CEO of Aduna, commented: “Aduna was founded to help telecom operators such as DOCOMO transform standardization into real commercial value. By linking DOCOMO’s advanced network APIs to a global distribution platform, we enable enterprises worldwide to innovate more quickly, securely, and at scale. This partnership strengthens Aduna’s presence across the Asia region and reflects our shared commitment to accelerating the growth of the global Network API economy.”

1 The CAMARA Project is an open–source project under the Linux Foundation that develops common specifications for operator network APIs.

2 An aggregator is an entity that enables enterprises and developers to access standardized network APIs—offered by multiple mobile network operators—through a single unified platform.

3 GSMA Open Gateway is a global industry initiative launched by the GSMA to promote the commercialization of common network APIs across mobile operators.

For further information, please contact:

NTT DOCOMO

Mr. Tomita or Mr. Narita
Brand Communication Department
Tel: +81 (0)3 5156 1366
Fax: +81 (0)3 5501 3408
www.docomo.ne.jp/english/

About NTT DOCOMO
NTT DOCOMO, Japan’s leading mobile operator with over 91 million subscribers, is one of the global leaders in 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Under the slogan “Bridging Worlds for Wonder & Happiness,” DOCOMO is actively collaborating with global partners to expand its business scope from mobile services to comprehensive solutions, aiming to deliver unsurpassed value and drive innovation in technology and communications, ultimately to support positive change and advancement in global society.

https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/ 

About Aduna
Aduna is a landmark venture between some of the world’s leading telecom operators and Ericsson, dedicated to enabling developers worldwide to accelerate innovation by leveraging networks to their full potential via common network Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). Its venture partners include AT&T, Bharti Airtel, Deutsche Telekom, KDDI, Orange, Reliance Jio, Singtel, Telefonica, Telstra, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Vodafone. Aduna’s developer partner platforms include Google Cloud, Infobip, Sinch, and Vonage. By combining network APIs from multiple operators globally under a unified platform based on the CAMARA open-source project, driven by the GSMA and the Linux Foundation, Aduna provides a standardized platform to foster collaboration, enhance user experiences, and drive industry growth. To find out more about network APIs and Aduna, visit adunaglobal.com

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Las Vegas casino owner offers unique deal to entice visitors back amid slump

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NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Las Vegas casino owners are coming up with creative ways to entice visitors back to Sin City.

Many officials, hotel owners and travel folks are citing a drop in Canadian tourists as a major reason that tourism numbers have been down.

Now, Circa Resort & Casino has launched an “at par” promotion — making the exchange rate for Canadians equal at its properties.

LAS VEGAS TOURISM CRASHES TO EARLY 2000S LEVELS AS VISITORS FLEE THE CITY

Casino owner Derek Stevens told Fox News Digital he was inspired by his upbringing in Detroit.

“When the Canadian exchange rate got too far off a par with the U.S. dollar, I remember many times that restaurants, hotels, bars and such would put a sign out in front of their establishment,” he said. 

las vegas casino ditch live dealer tourism

Hoping to boost tourism, a top casino owner in Vegas has launched an “at par” exchange rate promotion for Canadian tourists.  (iStock)

The sign “showed a Canadian flag and a U.S. flag with an equal sign between them — or a Canadian dollar and a U.S. dollar with an equal sign,” he said. 

Stevens said it was a welcome signal for Canadians from those establishments. 

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He said that right now, Canadian tourism is “down so dramatically,” not just in Las Vegas but also in Hawaii and Miami.

“Canadian [visitors] are down anywhere from 20% to 50%, depending on what month you look at over the course of the last year,” said Stevens.

circa las vegas resort shown cuts live dealers

“Canadian [visitors] are down anywhere from 20% to 50%, depending on what month you look at over the course of the last year,” said a casino owner. (Circa Casino & Resort)

So far, the response from Canadians has been “bifurcated.”

“I would say half or maybe a little less are saying, ‘No, I’m not coming, no chance. I’m upset. I don’t feel welcome in the United States,'” said Stevens.

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“The other half are like, ‘I appreciate the gesture. I appreciate the welcome. I’m going to make sure that I think about booking with you, because I appreciate the fact that there’s someone welcoming us, because we didn’t feel welcome,'” he also said.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas had 35.4 million visitors in 2025 through the month of November, according to the latest figures available from Vegas convention officials. (Getty Images)

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LCVA) released its year-to-date summary for 2025, which includes numbers through the month of November. 

There were 35,457,000 people who visited Sin City — down 7.4% from 2024, the report says.

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The latest month-end summary for November indicates that international visitors were down, with 239,500 tourists, compared to 303,834 tourists last year.

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Total occupancy in 2025 was 80.7% — with average room rates at $183.51 and a convention attendance of 5,682,200.

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Southwest ends open seating after 54 years. Here’s what the last flight was like

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Southwest Airlines ended its decades long open-seating policy – here's what travelers think

OVER THE PACIFIC OCEAN — The 112 passengers on this Southwest Airlines red-eye from Honolulu to Los Angeles were the last in the airline’s more than 54-year history to scramble for a seat on board.

Before dawn on Tuesday, Southwest ended its quirky (or anxiety-inducing, depending on the traveler) open-seating policy in favor of assigned seats for all customers as the carrier that prided itself on marching to its own drum becomes more like its rivals, under pressure to increase revenue.

The change means that all Southwest passengers will know exactly where they will be sitting before they board, and some of them will pay more than $70 per leg to have a new, roomy spot up front. Prices vary.

CNBC flew on the last open-seating flight and hopped on one of the first with seat assignments to talk to passengers and crew about how they felt about the change. Their feelings were mixed.

“It’s overdue, honestly,” said Lisa Tate, 33, a teacher from Honolulu, who was traveling to Atlanta via Las Vegas on Monday. “I like the reassurance that I can sit with my loved ones. It makes the situation less stressful.”

Vicki Economou, a 68-year-old based in Houston, who is in the process of retiring from running a family restaurant, felt otherwise. “Now they’re like everybody else, and nothing is setting them apart,” she said.

Economou said she might consider flying other airlines after years of Southwest loyalty because she doesn’t want to pay for seats.

“I’m not real happy about it,” she said. “I think that there are people that are getting money hungry.”

Read more about Southwest’s changes

‘If you can’t beat them, join them’

Several Southwest flight attendants in Los Angeles said they were relieved about the change. One told CNBC that she is so happy she wants to cry because having customers roam up and down the aisle looking for a seat was stressful for crew members.

Other airline employees greeted the last open-seating passengers with applause though, serving them coffee and handing out commemorative bag tags and other souvenirs.

Southwest has been training employees for months, including by offering suggestions on clear announcements that remind customers, especially in the early stages of assigned seating, how boarding will work.

CNBC heard some of the first eight-group boarding calls moments after landing at Los Angeles. Gate agents reminded customers several times that seats were assigned and told them where on their boarding passes they could find that information. Customers lined up next to the posts that used to designate the boarding groups just hours before, though the numbers were no longer there.

Digital boarding screens showing two lanes are already installed and will replace the metal stanchions at airports to instruct travelers when they can get on according to the new boarding order.

A new Southwest Airlines boarding sign at Los Angeles International Airport debuted Jan. 27, 2026.

Leslie Josephs/CNBC

Until Tuesday, Southwest was the the last U.S. carrier to board customers with an open seating policy that meant passengers could pick any seat they wanted once they got on the plane. Flyers would get assigned an A, B or C group and then a number to line up at the gate, and the higher the boarding group and number, the better their shot of getting a coveted aisle or window seat.

The end of open seating is a casualty of today’s consumers, who Southwest executives have said are looking for more certainty on where they’ll sit as the airline’s once Texas-only network now sprawls from Hawaii to Costa Rica.

Eighty percent of Southwest customers prefer an assigned seat, market research found, CEO Bob Jordan told analysts in July 2024, when the airline announced the change.

The new seating policy comes after a push from investors who are hungry to see the airline capitalize on fees and catch up to rivals’ profit margins.

From 2018 through 2023, American AirlinesDelta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines and United Airlines brought in $12.4 billion in seating fees, according to a Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations report in 2024.

It’s not the only policy Southwest is changing. Less than a year ago, the airline ended its “two bags fly free” policy for all passengers and began charging for checked luggage. Bag fees brought in $5.5 billion for U.S. carriers in the first nine months of 2025 alone, according to the Transportation Department.

There are exceptions for big spenders on all fronts, as is the case with other airlines. Customers with certain credit cards, elite status or those who buy the most expensive tickets can forgo some fees and select the best seats.

Some of the first passengers to fly with assigned seats on Southwest Airlines on the new policy’s debut day Jan. 27, 2026.

Leslie Josephs/CNBC

“What it shows is that Southwest has basically said if you can’t beat them, join them, and I actually think this is going to be a positive move for Southwest,” said Henry Harteveldt, founder of the Atmosphere Research Group travel consulting firm. “This is a positive move for both what travelers want and for Southwest’s revenue and profitability. One reason why Southwest has struggled to attract more frequent travelers and poach customers from other airlines is its lack of assigned seating.”

Stock flies higher

Investors are already excited for the top-performing airline stock.

Southwest told investors on Thursday that it expects earnings to more than quadruple this year from 2025 to an adjusted $4 a share, at least, more than what analysts expected, sending shares surging by almost 20%, the biggest one-day percentage gain since 1978.

The stock is up more than 53% over the last 12 months through Thursday’s close.

Other initiatives could be on the way, but Southwest declined to provide details this week.

“We’re not done,” Southwest CFO Tom Doxey said in an interview after the carrier reported results. CEO Bob Jordan told CNBC last month that Southwest is exploring airport lounges.

On Thursday, however, Jordan acknowledged in an interview that this year’s expected spike in profits “would be difficult to duplicate in 2027” because it would be a comparison of two years with the same policies.

All aboard

The airline’s original plastic boarding cards have long been replaced with digital boarding passes, but customers for years set alarms to check in at the earliest moment they could — 24 hours before a flight — to make sure they got the best possible spot in line.

Comedian Adam Mamawala’s Southwest check-in alarm went off during a set in September 2022.

“I’ll tell you why,” he told the audience. “Tomorrow, at exactly 8:10, I’m flying home on Southwest,” he said. “You think I am going to end up in the C Group because I’m doing a show? Are you kidding me? I’m checking in right now.” He informed the audience that he got A51, and the crowd cheered. (He said he missed a Southwest check-in during a show the previous year and didn’t want it to happen again.)

Assigned seating is the last of the major policy shifts Southwest, which carries more customers in the United States than any other airline, has announced in the last two years.

The last Southwest Airlines passengers to fly without seat assignments line up at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu on Jan. 26, 2026.

Leslie Josephs/CNBC

Southwest in 2024 reached a settlement with activist investor Elliott Investment Management, which had called for management changes and noted in one presentation that the carrier had long eschewed what are now airline industry standards: restrictive basic economy tickets, baggage fees, premium products and seat assignments. Elliott declined to comment.

But there might be some growing pains for the airline as customers adapt to the changes.

Mamawala said he’s become a “loyal Delta man” because he flies the carrier more frequently now and that he has an American Express card that gives him access to the lounge at LaGuardia Airport.

But he still flies Southwest on occasion.

“Frankly I’m surprised that so many Southwest devotees are seemingly heartbroken,” he said. “We’re moving from chaos to order.”

CNBC’s Erin Black contributed to this article.

Read more CNBC airline news

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Photo Dance: Making AI Dance Trends Accessible to Everyone – How This App Lets Ordinary Users Join the Dance Wave Without Appearing On Camera

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SINGAPORE, Jan. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Photo Dance, a globally leading AI photo dance application, today announced a major product upgrade with the introduction of its new feature, Magic AI Video.

Magic AI Video is a groundbreaking motion-transfer feature that seamlessly blends a user-uploaded static image with the movements and facial expressions from a reference video, producing highly fluid and lifelike dynamic videos. Powered by advanced temporal consistency algorithms, the generated content maintains smooth continuity from frame to frame, completely eliminating frame drops and motion artifacts. This technology lowers the barrier to professional-grade motion capture to zero—any user can bring a person in a single photo to life, perfectly on beat and vividly expressive. With an exceptionally low creation threshold and strong shareability, it is inherently designed for viral growth.

Photo Dance is an AI-powered photo dance app developed by SPARKHUB PTE. LTD. Since its launch, Photo Dance has achieved more than 1.2 million downloads worldwide, with users generating over 1.8 million AI dance videos across global markets.

As conversations around “AI photo dance” continue to gain momentum on social media platforms, Photo Dance‘s continuous innovation and product upgrades are helping to redefine the category. Through measurable performance data, real-world use cases, and a long-term commitment to technological advancement, Photo Dance is setting new standards for creativity and accessibility in AI-generated video content.

Photo Dance: Making AI Dance Trends Accessible to Everyone
Photo Dance: Making AI Dance Trends Accessible to Everyone

What is Photo Dance? What Problem Does It Solve?

Photo Dance is an AI-powered photo-to-dance video application whose core function is transforming any static photograph into a dancing video.

Unlike traditional dance content creation, it doesn’t require users to film videos or dance themselves. Instead, through AI motion transfer technology, Photo Dance brings people, babies, pets, or virtual characters in photos to life with dance movements. For users who prefer not to appear on camera, lack dancing skills, or simply want to effortlessly participate in short-form video trends, Photo Dance offers a low-barrier entry point into dance culture.

Is Photo Dance Easy to Use? Real User Experience

From a user experience standpoint, Photo Dance‘s workflow is designed to be straightforward:

Select template → Choose photo → Generate video. The entire process requires no professional editing or AI operation experience.

Photo Dance offers 500+ dance templates covering trending TikTok choreography and supports continuous updates. Videos are typically generated within 3 minutes and can be directly shared on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and other platforms.

To date, Photo Dance has accumulated:

  • 1.2 million downloads globally
  • 4.4-star App Store rating
  • 1.8+ million videos generated

Users consistently highlight keywords like “fun,” “quality exceeded expectations,” “fast rendering speed,” and “simple to operate” in their reviews.

How is Photo Dance Different from Other Photo Dance Apps?

In common user comparisons, Photo Dance is frequently discussed alongside other tools. Photo Dance distinguishes itself on three key points:

  • Template Quantity & Update Frequency: Covers more trending TikTok choreography
  • Generation Quality & Stability: Reduces motion distortion and unnatural movements
  • Creation Efficiency: No lengthy waiting times or complex setup – simple workflow for quick creation

This makes Photo Dance ideal for ordinary users to rapidly produce and share “viral-worthy content,” rather than positioning it as a specialized or experimental AI tool.

What Scenarios Can Photo Dance Be Used For?

Based on user behavior patterns, Photo Dance‘s applications extend beyond entertainment:

  • Baby Dance Videos: One of the most popular content types among family users
  • Pet Dancing & Funny Expressions: Perfect for lighthearted social sharing
  • Anime & Character Dancing: Used for fan-created content and virtual character videos
  • Old Photo Animation: Bringing precious memories “back to life”

The last category, in particular, has sparked discussions about “appropriateness” and “boundaries” among some users.

On Controversy: Beyond Technology, Usage Matters Most

Regarding discussions about “whether old photos or photos of deceased loved ones should dance,” the Photo Dance team hasn’t shied away from the topic. They emphasize that the technology itself carries no preset emotional stance – what truly matters is the user’s intention and method of use.

Many users choose to create memorial videos, family memories, or personal emotional content rather than public content. The Photo Dance team encourages users to employ these features with respect, goodwill, and personal judgment.

Photo Dance‘s recently launched Magic AI Video feature further optimizes motion control and naturalness, producing more restrained and authentic results that reduce exaggerated or inappropriate expressions.

Safety & Trustworthiness: One of Users’ Top Concerns

In AI applications, “is it safe? Is it trustworthy?” remains a focus of user inquiries. Photo Dance is currently available exclusively on iOS, adheres to app store privacy and subscription regulations, and clearly discloses subscription and auto-renewal mechanisms. The team has also stated they will continue optimizing product transparency and user experience.

Photo Dance: An AI Creation Tool Built for Short-Form Video

Photo Dance doesn’t position itself as an “all-in-one AI video tool,” but rather focuses on a clear objective: enabling ordinary users to create and express themselves on short-form video platforms at minimal cost.

As AI continues to lower barriers to content creation, Photo Dance represents a broader trend – shifting from “Can I make videos?” to “Do I want to express myself?”

About Photo Dance

Photo Dance is an AI photo dance application developed by SPARKHUB PTE. LTD., enabling users to transform any photograph into a dance video suitable for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and other video platforms. Photo Dance targets users aged 25–45, delivering a lightweight, entertaining, and shareable creation experience.

Product Overview:

About SPARKHUB PTE. LTD.

Founded on May 16, 2024, and headquartered in Singapore, SPARKHUB PTE. LTD. is a team with deep expertise in the mobile social space. Our members are energetic and passionate about creating fun experiences. We are committed to developing innovative mobile apps that connect users with millions of people nearby and around the world.

Company Overview:

  • Company Name: SPARKHUB PTE. LTD.
  • Address: 10 ANSON ROAD #12-08 INTERNATIONAL PLAZA SINGAPORE (079903)
  • Official Website: https://sparkhubcorp.com/ 

Contact Information:

Source: SPARKHUB PTE. LTD.

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