Tag Archives: collaboration

Steak ’n Shake Launches Bitcoin Reserve and Fold Rewards Partnership

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Steak ‘n Shake Introduces Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and $5 BTC Rewards to Boost Sales and Support Open-Source Bitcoin

Steak ‘n Shake has launched an innovative Strategic Bitcoin Reserve program, transforming the way it handles Bitcoin payments. All Bitcoin transactions made at the restaurant chain are now held in this dedicated reserve. Additionally, the company donates 210 satoshis (sats) per Bitcoin meal sold to the OpenSats Initiative, a nonprofit supporting open-source Bitcoin development.

Since the launch, Steak ‘n Shake has reported a remarkable 15% increase in same-store sales. The brand attributes this growth to rising Bitcoin adoption and increased customer engagement with digital payments. This move positions Steak ‘n Shake as a forward-thinking leader in integrating cryptocurrency into everyday dining experiences.

### What Is Steak ‘n Shake’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve?

The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve is a program designed to securely hold all Bitcoin payments received by Steak ‘n Shake. Launched on October 31, 2025, it represents the company’s structured entry into cryptocurrency adoption within the fast-food industry.

Beyond securing Bitcoin payments, the reserve supports community-driven initiatives by donating 210 sats from each Bitcoin meal sale to the OpenSats Initiative over the next 12 months. This demonstrates Steak ‘n Shake’s commitment not only to embracing digital assets but also to fostering innovation within the Bitcoin ecosystem.

### How Does the Fold Partnership Enhance Bitcoin Rewards for Customers?

Steak ‘n Shake has partnered with Fold Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLD), a Bitcoin-focused financial services company, to offer customers $5 worth of Bitcoin as a reward for purchasing a Bitcoin Meal or Bitcoin Steakburger.

According to Fold CEO Will Reeves, this collaboration is designed to bring Bitcoin into everyday life. Similar past initiatives by Fold have resulted in over 100,000 reward redemptions, introducing thousands to crypto ownership.

The nationwide rollout started on October 31, 2025, and will continue while supplies last. This partnership taps into a growing trend where traditional businesses use crypto rewards programs to boost customer engagement and loyalty.

### Impact on Sales and Industry Trends

Steak ‘n Shake’s integration of Bitcoin reflects a broader shift in the restaurant industry toward digital currencies. By maintaining a Bitcoin Reserve and offering tangible rewards through its Fold partnership, the chain appeals directly to tech-savvy customers and crypto enthusiasts alike.

Financial publications such as CoinDesk report that crypto-based reward programs can increase customer repeat visits by 20-30% compared to traditional loyalty schemes. Steak ‘n Shake’s own data backs this, with a 15% sales increase attributed partly to the enthusiastic Bitcoin community.

The company expressed gratitude to Bitcoin supporters in a public announcement on X, attributing its recent sales uplift directly to this growing community. This growth showcases how cryptocurrency adoption can revitalize legacy brands facing stiff competition.

### Supporting Open-Source Bitcoin Development

The 210 satoshis donated per Bitcoin meal help fund the OpenSats Initiative, a nonprofit backed by prominent figures in the Bitcoin space. This contribution supports long-term innovation and development without involving speculative investments, fostering a healthier digital currency ecosystem.

### Aligning with Global Cryptocurrency Trends

Steak ‘n Shake’s strategy mirrors moves by major corporations like MicroStrategy, which have accumulated large Bitcoin reserves as part of their treasury strategy. For Steak ‘n Shake, the reserve helps preserve value amid Bitcoin’s price volatility.

At the same time, the Fold partnership gamifies Bitcoin adoption, turning familiar purchases like burgers and shakes into easy entry points for crypto ownership.

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## Frequently Asked Questions

**How Can I Claim $5 in Bitcoin Rewards from Steak ‘n Shake and Fold?**
To claim the $5 Bitcoin reward, simply purchase a Bitcoin Meal or Bitcoin Steakburger at any participating Steak ‘n Shake location. Upload your receipt to the promotion website and create a Fold account to receive your redemption code. Note that the offer is limited to one reward per person while supplies last.

**What Impact Has Bitcoin Adoption Had on Steak ‘n Shake’s Sales?**
Steak ‘n Shake has seen a 15% increase in same-store sales, which the company attributes to growing Bitcoin adoption and an increase in digital payment engagement. The approach has helped the brand stand out and deepen customer loyalty.

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## Key Takeaways

– **Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Launch:** Steak ‘n Shake now securely holds all incoming Bitcoin payments, signaling a strong commitment to digital assets.
– **Rewards Drive Adoption:** The partnership with Fold offers $5 in Bitcoin per qualifying purchase, making crypto engagement accessible through everyday dining.

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### Conclusion

Steak ‘n Shake’s forward-thinking adoption of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and its collaboration with Fold Holdings to offer Bitcoin rewards highlight an exciting fusion of fast-food dining and cryptocurrency. This approach not only enhances customer loyalty and sales but also supports the broader Bitcoin ecosystem through meaningful donations. As digital currencies become increasingly mainstream, Steak ‘n Shake’s innovative strategy offers a blueprint for other businesses aiming to embrace the future of payments.

Learn more about how Steak ‘n Shake is blending crypto and dining to create new opportunities for customers and the Bitcoin community.
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/bitcoin/steak-n-shake-launches-bitcoin-reserve-and-fold-rewards-partnership/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=steak-n-shake-launches-bitcoin-reserve-and-fold-rewards-partnership

NVIDIA (NVDA) becomes first company to pass $5 trillion valuation

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NVIDIA Hits Historic $5 Trillion Market Capitalization Milestone

This week, NVIDIA made history by becoming the first-ever company to reach a staggering $5 trillion valuation. As one of the most prolific chip makers and designers powering the booming AI market, NVIDIA’s growth continues to soar alongside the expanding artificial intelligence sector. Tech giants are increasingly investing heavily in AI, driving significant demand for NVIDIA’s cutting-edge products.

On Tuesday, the company’s market capitalization hit an impressive $5.07 trillion, marking a landmark moment closely observed across global markets. This milestone was first reported by CNBC and highlights NVIDIA’s rising prominence in the technology landscape.

Recently, NVIDIA announced it had relocated much of its Blackwell AI chip manufacturing to Arizona, United States—a strategic move reflecting its ongoing commitment to innovation and scaling production capacity.

The reasons behind NVIDIA’s soaring valuation are clear. The company has long been at the forefront of AI chip and hardware design, positioning itself as a critical enabler for tech firms pouring millions into AI to gain a competitive edge. Despite facing setbacks, such as being forced to exit the Chinese market due to pressures from both Chinese and U.S. governments, NVIDIA’s value has skyrocketed.

Additionally, strategic collaborations have propelled NVIDIA forward. One notable example is its recent partnership with pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly to build a state-of-the-art supercomputer, underscoring NVIDIA’s expanding role beyond traditional tech sectors.

As NVIDIA continues to innovate and lead in AI technology, its historic $5 trillion valuation cements its status as a powerhouse in the industry, with a promising future ahead.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146567/nvidia-nvda-5-trillion-valuation

Representative Taylor Rehfeldt Selected for 2025 CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award

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**Representative Taylor Rehfeldt Honored with 2025 CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award**

SIOUX FALLS, SD — The Council of State Governments (CSG) has named Representative Taylor Rehfeldt (R-District 14) as a recipient of the prestigious 2025 CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award. This award recognizes the bipartisan leadership and public service of 20 emerging elected and appointed state officials across all four CSG regions.

“Serving South Dakota is a privilege. I’m grateful for this recognition because it reflects what matters most: delivering real results for families and communities across our state. There is important work ahead, and I’m committed to staying focused on solutions that make life better for every South Dakotan,” said Rep. Rehfeldt.

Established in 2020 through the vision of former New Hampshire Senator Lou D’Allesandro, a public servant of more than five decades, the CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award was created during his tenure as CSG National Chair. The award aims to strengthen engagement with younger state leaders.

Since its inception, the CSG 20 Under 40 community has annually welcomed a new class of inspiring public servants under the age of 40. These leaders make meaningful contributions to their communities while exemplifying the core CSG values of civility, collaboration, and innovation.

Rep. Rehfeldt was selected from a competitive pool of applicants who demonstrated excellence in one or more of the following areas:
– Engaging officials across party lines, departments, branches, and/or state lines to advance the common good for their state or territory.
– Providing exceptional leadership to a state project, committee, chamber, commission, or special group.
– Serving as a champion of change, seeking to enhance the lives of all constituents within a specific policy area.

A recognition ceremony for the 2025 recipients will take place at the CSG National Conference from December 9-13 in Chicago. Leaders from all 56 states and U.S. territories will be in attendance to exchange ideas, address complex state policy issues, and celebrate the work of outstanding public servants.

For more information about The Council of State Governments and the 2025 CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award, please visit [csg.org](https://www.csg.org).
https://dakotawarcollege.com/representative-taylor-rehfeldt-selected-for-2025-csg-20-under-40-leadership-award/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=representative-taylor-rehfeldt-selected-for-2025-csg-20-under-40-leadership-award

Deepika Padukone becomes Meta AI’s first Indian voice, joins global roster including Awkwafina, Judi Dench and more!

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Deepika Padukone has created history by becoming the first Indian to lend her voice to Meta AI, the virtual assistant integrated into Meta’s ecosystem, including the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. She joins a prestigious global lineup of voices for the AI assistant, featuring Hollywood celebrities such as Awkwafina and Judi Dench.

This collaboration marks a powerful intersection of technology and culture, positioning Deepika as a bridge between global innovation and Indian identity. Meta announced that users in India will now be able to interact with Meta AI through Deepika’s voice, available in Indian English. Alongside this, the company introduced full Hindi language support and UPI Lite payments, making the experience more localized and personal.

The biggest talking point remains Deepika’s voice — warm, poised, and unmistakably familiar. Known for her global influence and grounded presence, Deepika brings authenticity and emotion to a space often dominated by synthetic tones. Her voice adds a human touch to artificial intelligence, turning digital interactions into something relatable and distinctly Indian.

For millions of users, hearing Deepika guide them through tasks or respond to questions adds a sense of comfort and connection rarely found in technology. This partnership also represents India’s growing significance in the global tech landscape. By featuring Deepika, Meta acknowledges India’s cultural power and linguistic diversity.

This move goes beyond mere convenience; it celebrates representation and the inclusion of an Indian identity within a global product. For Deepika, this step expands her influence beyond cinema into the realm of digital innovation. It’s another milestone in a career defined by versatility, intelligence, and impact.

With this collaboration, she becomes not just the voice of Meta AI but the voice of a new era where technology feels a little more human, and a lot more Indian.

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**Also Read:**
Deepika Padukone’s 8-hour work rule sparks debate: Hansal Mehta, Hema Malini, and Sharmila Tagore weigh in

**BOLLYWOOD NEWS LIVE UPDATES**
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/deepika-padukone-becomes-meta-ais-first-indian-voice-joins-global-roster-including-awkwafina-judi-dench/

BTS’s Taehyung sends ‘Hirono’ doll keychain flying off shelves

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**BTS’s Taehyung Sends ‘Hirono’ Doll Keychain Flying Off Shelves**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 8, 2025, 4:04 PM*

BTS member Kim Taehyung, popularly known as V, has once again demonstrated his massive global influence. On October 4, Taehyung was spotted at Incheon International Airport, en route to Paris Fashion Week. While his fashion ensemble caught many eyes, it was the Hirono doll keychain hanging from his Celine bag that truly stole the spotlight—sparking an immediate sell-out of the collectible.

**The Instant Sell-Out Phenomenon**

The plush toy, officially named the *Hirono Living Wild Fight For Joy* edition, is a collaboration between Chinese artist Lang and the well-known designer toy brand Pop Mart. Within just 24 hours of Taehyung being seen with it, more than 500 units flew off the shelves from Pop Mart’s official stores in China, marking a record-breaking sell-out.

The adorable character is dressed in a brown suede bear suit paired with denim overalls, holding a small torch symbolizing courage and hope—a design that resonates with fans worldwide.

**Collector Trends and Fan Reactions**

Prior to Taehyung’s airport appearance, the Hirono doll was already gaining traction among art toy collectors. However, the BTS star’s endorsement propelled it to global sensation status overnight. Fans quickly dubbed Hirono “the new Labubu,” referencing Pop Mart’s previous viral toy line.

On social media, admirers shared their excitement with remarks like, “Labubu walked so Hirono could run,” while others praised Taehyung’s trendsetting influence as “Taehyung’s Midas touch in action!”

As always, Taehyung proves that his unique style and choices have the power to shape trends and captivate fans around the globe—turning simple collectibles into coveted must-haves almost instantly.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/bts-s-v-ignites-worldwide-craze-for-hirono-doll/story

Products by students and alumni to be sold at John Hansard Gallery

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As part of a new collaboration for the university’s retail initiative, Re: So, the John Hansard Gallery will be selling products on-site. This exciting partnership allows gallery visitors to engage directly with the work of three talented graduates. The items available for purchase include typographic prints, one-of-a-kind bookmarks, and stickers featuring a bespoke motif.

John Hansard Gallery’s duty manager, Jessica Willis, shared her enthusiasm about the collaboration:
“We are delighted to be a new stockist of Re: So products and to support the work of early career creatives from Solent University. Re: So is a fantastic resource for students, and it’s so exciting to see the fresh and innovative talent that’s emerging through their programme.”

Bookmarks handmade by illustration graduate Liberty Baker are now available to buy at the gallery as part of this initiative. Ms. Baker expressed her gratitude for the opportunity:
“I’m super grateful to have this opportunity. There is a great beauty in the uniqueness of each piece because you never know what the final outcome will look like, which is exciting. I hope that this exposure will allow more people to be inspired to create their own.”

Providing a platform for emerging designers is the central aim of Re: So, showcasing the creativity and talent of Solent University graduates.

[READ MORE: Young Southampton artist brings fresh energy to Sarisbury Green sign]
http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25506813.john-hansard-gallery-selling-solent-university-students-work/?ref=rss

Asia Mobiliti to launch demand-responsive transit service in Muscat in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Transport

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**DRT Combines Private Transport Convenience with Public Transport Affordability**

Asia Mobiliti, Malaysia’s leading Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) technology company, in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), has announced the upcoming launch of Oman’s first Demand-Responsive Transit (DRT) service in Muscat.

The announcement was made during the Gulf Green Mobility Forum held earlier this month in Salalah, a significant regional gathering of transport ministers from across the GCC and beyond. The forum showcased major initiatives shaping the future of sustainable mobility.

### Introducing Community Demand-Responsive Transit

The pilot project will introduce a community DRT service — a flexible form of public transport that dynamically adjusts routes and schedules based on passenger demand. Utilizing smaller vehicles, this model extends the reach of public transport into neighborhoods that are not served by traditional bus lines, while minimizing empty runs and significantly reducing operational costs.

For Oman, the importance of this pilot goes beyond just technology. DRT offers the convenience of private transportation combined with the affordability of public transport. It provides a scalable approach to improving accessibility, reducing inefficiencies, and developing a more inclusive mobility system for residents, said Asia Mobiliti.

### A Milestone in Oman’s Public Transport Journey

The launch of this pilot marks a crucial step forward in Oman’s public transport evolution. Demand-Responsive Transit bridges the gap between fixed-route services and private transport, offering a financially sustainable and socially inclusive mobility model.

“We believe technology cannot simply be transplanted from one market to another,” said Ramachandran Muniandy, CEO and co-founder of Asia Mobiliti. “For Oman, we are working closely with the ministry and local partners to tailor the service to the culture and needs of its people, crafting a solution that truly belongs here.”

### Supporting Sustainability and Electrification Goals

Eng. Abdullah Al-Busaidi, Director General of the Oman Logistics Centre at MTCIT, emphasized the significance of the pilot: “This marks an important milestone in Oman’s journey towards sustainable mobility. Demand-Responsive Transit provides a practical solution to improve accessibility while reducing inefficiencies in the transport system.”

He added, “By starting with community DRT, we are testing an approach that can help us reach underserved areas, optimize resources, and advance our national net-zero objectives. This pilot also lays an excellent foundation for electrification, where flexible operations and intelligent routing can maximize the benefits of zero-emission fleets, supporting Oman’s broader logistics innovation agenda.”

### Building Towards an Integrated MaaS Ecosystem

The DRT pilot is a strategic move toward building a fully integrated Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) system in Oman. By addressing current gaps in the transport network and encouraging a shift toward shared and sustainable travel, DRT sets the foundation for greater public transport adoption.

Looking ahead, this initiative paves the way for a MaaS ecosystem that seamlessly connects different modes of travel, ensures interoperability across services, and delivers a truly integrated mobility experience for all residents and visitors in Oman.
https://www.digitalnewsasia.com/startups/asia-mobiliti-launch-demand-responsive-transit-service-muscat-collaboration-omans-ministry