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iQIYI iJOY Conference 2026: Expanding Its Premium Slate with 350+ New Titles and Entering a New Chapter for AI-Powered Entertainment

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BEIJING, Sept. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On September 23, iQIYI, China’s leading online entertainment platform, unveiled a slate of over 350 new titles for 2026–2027 at its iJOY Conference in Shanghai. The company highlighted significant advancements in its All in AI strategy, aimed at revolutionizing long-form content production and fostering a dynamic creator ecosystem. Additionally, iQIYI introduced an upgraded marketing framework, showcasing its commitment to driving innovation across content development and commercial growth.

In his opening remarks, iQIYI Founder and CEO Yu GONG laid out three strategic priorities driving the company’s AI agenda: applying the technology across premium live-action and long-form AIGC production, building a healthy content creator ecosystem, and pioneering new content formats enabled by emerging technologies. At the heart of this vision is a commitment to creators. GONG introduced seven dedicated creator service programs built around the vision to make the platform “a community for film and television creators and audiences” where every creator can be seen, earn sustainably, and be recognized.

Premium Content Slate Across Genres

China’s film and television industry is entering a period of profound change. iQIYI Chief Content Officer Xiaohui WANG highlighted three major shifts reshaping the industry: the rapid move toward a C2C era of broad creative participation, the rise of a “Minority” era shaped by increasingly niche demand, and the Platinum era, where emotional value commands a premium. He said these shifts would help break the industry’s current deadlock of audience fragmentation, narrowing creative scope, and rigid cost structures. As AI makes creation accessible to more people, anyone can become a creator. With generative tools in their hands, ordinary people can collectively become a powerful force driving the industry forward.

In response to these shifts, iQIYI has deployed a diverse, youth-oriented slate of long-form dramas spanning contemporary, historical, romance, suspense, and sci-fi genres. The lineup will bring together top-tier, high-profile actors and acclaimed creative teams across a range of premium productions, while continuing to expand offerings with warm, emotionally engaging stories that resonate with younger audiences.

The platform is also scaling its horizontal-screen, short-form drama presence through three specialized branded theaters, expanding premium supply to serve a broader range of audience needs.

In vertical-screen micro-drama and animation, iQIYI is leveraging established long-form IPs, pairing top talent with diverse themes, and using AIGC to accelerate series development.

In variety shows, the platform maintains a robust portfolio of returning flagship franchises and creative originals, complemented by a co-investment program with Douyin to incubate premium creator-produced variety content and discover new creative voices.

Onsite, representatives from iQIYI and Galaxy Arena announced that the 2026 iQIYI Scream Night will take place on December 5 at Galaxy Arena in Macao. Under the two parties’ strategic partnership, the event will return to Galaxy Arena for another three-year residency from 2026 to 2028. As one of iQIYI’s flagship annual entertainment events, Scream Night celebrates the year’s standout content and creators while highlighting major industry trends.

Premium Content as Foundation, AI as Enabler

At the conference, iQIYI unveiled the trailer for its first full-length hybrid AI multi-season drama “Immortals Over Mortal Love”. Leveraging NadouPro, iQIYI’s proprietary studio-grade production platform, the series seamlessly integrates cutting-edge filmmaking technology with live-action performances by professional actors. The first season is slated to premiere in the fourth quarter of 2026, featuring 16 episodes of around 20 minutes each.

“This series will open a new chapter for iQIYI and the broader industry,” Yu GONG said. “This is not only a technological breakthrough, but a paradigm shift in content creation. AI is empowering our content creation across the board, enhancing the efficiency of premium live-action production, expanding the boundaries of long-form AIGC, improving content creation efficiency, enriching the ecosystem, and delivering more diverse entertainment experiences to users.”

The commercial viability of long-form AIGC was validated by “The Ferry Man” series, whose first two installments recouped their production costs within the first week of release. The series generated more than RMB 8 million (approximately US$1.19 million) in cumulative platform revenue-sharing earnings in its first month.

In addition, several feature-length AIGC films from the “Peter Pau • iQIYI Film Theater” were unveiled at the event, with genres spanning adventure, suspense, action, romance, and animation. The initiative is designed to help move AIGC from experimental shorts toward commercially viable feature-length productions. From over 100 global submissions, nine projects were selected for production, with Academy Award-winning Cinematographer and Director Mr. Peter Pau providing comprehensive guidance to ensure high-level professional standards.

Upgraded Marketing Powered by Data and Algorithm

At the event, iQIYI launched the industry’s first big-data marketing system designed for household terminals, shifting the focus from individual behaviors to long-term family needs and life stages. The company also co-published the “Content Touchpoint Value Research Report” with Miaozhen Systems, China’s leading intelligent marketing platform, offering data-driven insights into how brand advertising translates into sustained business growth. By leveraging AI – from generative content creation to scalable in-drama product placements – iQIYI is evolving brand marketing from a cost-saving exercise into a driver of measurable commercial effectiveness.

Looking ahead, iQIYI remains committed to pioneering AI-driven innovation across its content and marketing ecosystems. By fostering deep collaborations with creators, brands, and industry partners, iQIYI aims to catalyze high-quality growth and redefine the entertainment landscape, delivering next-generation premium experiences to audiences worldwide.

Contact:
iQIYI Press
press@qiyi.com

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Tecpinion Launches Sweepstakes Industry Analysis Report 2026, Covering Market Insights, Growth, Regulation, Technology and Industry Future

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Tecpinion’s 2026 report examines U.S. sweepstakes growth, rules, technology and future scenarios.

MIAMI, Sept. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Tecpinion, a GLI-19 iGaming platform provider delivering technology solutions across iGaming, sweepstakes, prediction markets and other digital gaming verticals, today announced the launch of its new industry report, “Sweepstakes Industry Analysis 2026: Market Dynamics, Trends & Forecast.”

Sweepstakes industry Report 2026 – Latest Insights into Market Growth, Regulation, Technology and the Future of the sweepstakes/social Industry

The report is designed not only to examine where the sweepstakes industry stands today, but also to share practical market insights and contribute to a more informed industry conversation as the sector continues to evolve.

The research provides a detailed assessment of the U.S. sweepstakes ecosystem, covering market structure, consumer behaviour, business economics, regulation, technology, payments, customer acquisition, competitive dynamics and the 2026–2030 outlook. It spans 16 analytical sections, five market segments and 12 U.S. states, supported by nine strategic exhibits and 21 primary, regulatory, standards and company sources.

As the industry moves from experimentation toward greater professionalisation, the report highlights a shift in competitive priorities. Launch speed alone is becoming less important as operators increasingly need to balance customer acquisition, retention, payment reliability, fraud prevention, promotional costs, regulatory requirements and consumer trust.

A Sneak Peek at the Report

One of the report’s key observations is that a single official market-size figure cannot accurately capture the sweepstakes industry. Different estimates can cover very different segments. Rather than presenting an unsupported headline number, the report takes a segmented, scenario-based approach to understanding the market.

The report identifies five key segments: promotional sweepstakes, social casino, sweepstakes casino, prize-based gaming and B2B sweepstakes technology.

Technology is also becoming a major competitive layer. Modern platforms increasingly depend on PAM, payments, identity and age verification, geolocation, fraud detection, CRM, analytics, game aggregation and security. The report also explores practical AI applications, including LTV prediction, churn analysis, player segmentation, fraud detection, forecasting and customer support.

Regulation remains another defining factor. The report assesses 12 U.S. states, examining regulatory attention and legislative activity while highlighting the importance of jurisdiction-specific analysis.

Looking ahead, the report presents four 2026–2030 scenarios – professionalisation, high growth, regulatory constraint and technology-driven growth, and explores how regulation, technology, payments, trust and customer economics could shape the industry’s next phase.

Knowledge Sharing at the Core

For Tecpinion, the report is also about sharing knowledge, not just presenting data.

“We believe the industry grows stronger when knowledge is shared. Sweepstakes is evolving quickly, and operators and technology providers are facing many of the same questions around regulation, technology, payments, customer acquisition, trust and long-term sustainability. By sharing our research and observations, we want to contribute to a more informed industry where businesses can learn from one another, innovate responsibly and build for the long term.” said [Manoj Trivedi, Co-Founder & CSMO, Tecpinion].

The publication forms part of Tecpinion’s broader commitment to industry research, thought leadership and knowledge sharing across the evolving digital gaming ecosystem.

Access the Full Report

The full “Sweepstakes Industry Analysis 2026: Market Dynamics, Trends & Forecast” is now available for operators, technology providers, affiliates, investors and industry professionals looking to understand the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the market.

👉 [Explore the Full Report]

About Tecpinion

Tecpinion is a GLI-19 iGaming platform provider delivering technology solutions across online casino, sportsbook, sweepstakes, prediction markets, social gaming and emerging gaming verticals. Its offerings include full source code, iGaming platform development, PAM, game aggregation, payment solutions, KYC, geolocation, fraud prevention, CRM, bonuses and promotions, affiliate management, analytics, responsible gaming, security and compliance technology.

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Manoj Trivedi, TECPINION, 91 9926504499, sales@tecpinion.com, https://www.tecpinion.com/ 

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Agoda Unveils 2026 Return Visitor Ranking: Tokyo Is Asia’s Most Revisited City

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SINGAPORE, Sept. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its latest Repeat Visitor Ranking, highlighting the top 10 destinations across Asia that keep travelers coming back for more. Based on bookings made during the first half of the year, Agoda reveals that Tokyo has claimed the top spot for the first time, overtaking Bangkok. Rounding out the top five are Bali—ranking third place for the first time—followed by Seoul and Osaka. Da Nang, Kuala Lumpur, Fukuoka, Taipei, and Johor Bahru complete the top 10 list.

Some destinations have a way of calling travelers back for more. The chance to discover new attractions, revisit fond favorites, or simply enjoy the familiar surroundings keeps travelers booking again and again. Agoda’s data shows that these beloved places often attract repeat visits, with some travelers returning multiple times in just the first half of the year.

Tokyo’s rise to number one reflects its unique ability to offer something new with each visit, from seasonal spectacles like cherry blossoms to hidden neighborhoods and an unmatched culinary scene. Bangkok, ranking second, continues to captivate with its unparalleled wellness experiences, world-class dining, and cultural landmarks. Bali’s climb to third place underscores the island’s magnetic appeal with its irresistible beaches, spiritual retreats, and lush landscapes that enchant travelers time and again.

This year’s ranking also reveals the rising appeal of Japan and Vietnam as increasingly popular places people love to revisit. Beyond Tokyo’s ascent to the top, Fukuoka has entered the top 10 for the first time at number eight, signaling travelers’ desire to explore beyond Japan’s traditional tourist hubs to experience Fukuoka’s renowned ramen culture and laid-back atmosphere. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s Da Nang has climbed two spots to sixth place, with its stunning beaches, proximity to UNESCO sites like Hoi An, and excellent value drawing visitors back repeatedly.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda, shared, “Asia is home to so many destinations that are worth revisiting, and what we’re seeing is that travelers are building relationships with their favorite cities. The shift with Tokyo’s rise to number one and destinations like Fukuoka and Da Nang gaining ground show that travelers are finding new reasons to return, whether it’s seasonal attractions, undiscovered neighborhoods, or simply great food. At Agoda, we’re here to make those return trips easy and rewarding.”

For travelers looking to revisit their favorite destinations or discover new ones, Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in a single booking. Visit the website at www.Agoda.com or download the mobile app for the best deals.

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FDIC Appoints Sunwest Bank as Nano Banc’s Acquiring Institution

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IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sunwest Bank has acquired Nano Banc of Irvine, California in an FDIC-assisted acquisition. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) accepted receivership of Nano Banc from the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), which closed Nano Banc on Friday, September 25th. The FDIC subsequently entered into an agreement with Sunwest Bank, under which Sunwest agreed to acquire substantially all the deposits and a portion of assets of Nano Banc. The assumed deposits total approximately $605 million and assumed loans total $227 million.

Nano Banc customers will have immediate access to their deposits. Over the weekend, they can access their deposits by writing checks, using ATMs or through their debit cards. Checks drawn on Nano Banc will continue to be processed. All loan customers should continue to make their payments as usual. The former Nano Banc will reopen as Sunwest Bank on Monday, September 28th.

“We are honored to once again to be selected by the FDIC as the acquiring institution of an FDIC-assisted acquisition, marking the sixth time Sunwest Bank has completed such a transaction,” said Carson Lappetito, President and CEO of Sunwest Bank. “This opportunity reflects the financial strength, disciplined management, and stability that have defined Sunwest Bank for more than five decades. We are excited to welcome Nano Banc’s customers to Sunwest and show them the high-touch service, advanced technology and sophistication we offer to our clients.”

Customers with questions should contact the FDIC toll-free at 1-866-314-1744 or visit the FDIC Website at FDIC.GOV. This phone number will be operational this evening until 8:00 p.m., Pacific Time (PT); on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., PT; Sunday from noon to 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., PT; Monday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., PT, and thereafter, weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., PT. 

About Sunwest Bank

Founded in 1969, Sunwest Bank is a privately held commercial bank with over $5.0 billion in assets. With a growing presence throughout the United States, Sunwest is headquartered in Sandy, Utah, with offices across California, Arizona, Idaho, Colorado, Utah, and Florida. The bank partners with businesses,

individuals, and entrepreneurs nationwide to deliver leading banking services including technology forward treasury management, commercial and real estate lending products, and corporate financial solutions.

With a strong capital position and a commitment to innovation, Sunwest Bank continues to challenge traditional banking models through forward-thinking initiatives designed to support its clients’ growth and long-term success. Sunwest Bank operates with a Fortress Balance Sheet, long-term outlook, and has an impeccable track record of supporting their clients through all economic cycles.

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SOURCE Sunwest Bank

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