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  • Morpho Signs First Hong Kong Partnership With HashKey’s HSK Chain

    Morpho Signs First Hong Kong Partnership With HashKey’s HSK Chain

    Morpho, the DeFi lending protocol with about $7.6 billion in total value locked, will complete a full deployment on HashKey’s HSK Chain and become the network’s official onchain credit partner, HSK Chain said in a post on X on Tuesday.

    The deal gives Morpho its first anchor in Hong Kong, one of the few jurisdictions running a licensed regime for virtual asset trading, and gives HashKey, the licensed Hong Kong crypto group behind the chain, a battle-tested credit engine to build regulated lending products on. The two said they will develop onchain credit products for institutional and retail users, explore CeDeFi and yield products backed by Bitcoin and real-world asset collateral, and bring more institutional-grade assets into Morpho as eligible collateral.

    “HashKey becomes our anchor partner in one of the world’s most important capital markets,” Shan, who leads APAC growth at Morpho, said in a post on X. “This is proof that onchain credit infrastructure is ready to expand via licensed, institutional rails in APAC.”

    Morpho’s infrastructure lets HashKey layer KYC, wallet screening and access controls on top to meet local regulatory requirements, Shan said, calling Hong Kong “a strategic entry to APAC.”

    MORPHO rose 0.7% in the past 24 hours while HSK slipped 0.8%, both trailing Bitcoin’s 1.3% gain, according to CoinGecko. Morpho’s TVL stands at roughly $7.6 billion, per DefiLlama.

    Compliance Meets Permissionless

    The structure the partners describe keeps Morpho’s base contracts permissionless while pushing compliance to the edges — a licensed operator gates who gets in, while the credit engine underneath stays open infrastructure.

    HashKey Group operates a licensed virtual asset trading platform and holds a Type 9 asset management license from Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission, making it one of the most heavily regulated crypto operators in Asia.

    The partnership extends a year in which Morpho has leaned hard into distribution through regulated channels rather than direct-to-DeFi growth, powering lending products for exchanges and fintechs. HSK Chain framed the deal as accelerating “the adoption of open, efficient on-chain financial services in Asia and beyond.”

  • The evolution of play-to-earn models: From NFT gaming to mining simulators

    The evolution of play-to-earn models: From NFT gaming to mining simulators

    Play-to-earn gaming is evolving beyond crypto rewards as developers prioritize sustainable economies, stronger gameplay, and long-term player retention.

    The play-to-earn (P2E) genre of games has witnessed a lot of popularity since the 2021–2022 crypto boom. The concept was pretty straightforward: spend time playing a game but get something valuable in return. The use of NFTs, crypto tokens, and the whole blockchain technology has become one of the biggest selling points for the genre.

    With the rise in popularity of crypto, numerous P2E games emerged. While some were able to form a strong community around themselves, most of them faced challenges related to sustainability. They relied on the constant flow of new users, which declined with the decrease in interest in the crypto market. Earning money was not enough to retain players.

    A different approach to play-to-earn

    As a result, many of the developers have changed their approach. Rather than developing game mechanics based on costly NFTs or quick gains, they have placed much emphasis on designing entertaining games. The incentives are still a part of the game, but not the only motivation for playing anymore.

    Rollercoin provides a perfect example. It is a mining simulator that can be accessed through one’s web browser. In this simulator, people are required to engage in mini-games and build virtual mining projects to earn rewards. The idea is to encourage regular participation and consistent gains instead of focusing on immediate gains. This is in line with what many gaming applications are doing.

    How traditional gaming is influencing P2E Design

    Most modern play-to-earn projects are taking inspiration from classic video games and not the earlier attempts in the cryptocurrency space. Concepts like season-specific battle pass, daily missions, achievements system, ranking battles, and cosmetic customization have all found their way into blockchain games.

    This shift reflects changing player expectations. Rather than viewing crypto rewards as the primary attraction, developers are incorporating blockchain elements into gameplay loops that players already understand. The result is a model where digital ownership and token incentives support the experience instead of defining it, potentially making blockchain games more accessible to mainstream audiences.

    What has changed?

    There are a few features that distinguish some of the most successful P2E games from others:

    • They prioritize gameplay before rewarding the player.
    • The economy of the game is well-balanced.
    • It’s possible for new players to start without spending much money.
    • Progress comes from regular play rather than pure speculation.
    • The developers care about keeping players interested in the game.

    None of these factors is a recipe for success, but they make the games look more sustainable than many P2E projects were at their beginning.

    Why mining simulators are growing

    In this new form of P2E, mining simulators have taken root. Instead of acquiring costly NFTs, players establish their own mines and make money through consistent upgrades to both themselves and their gear.

    The game is for those individuals who are interested in management and idle gaming, and at the same time, some concepts of cryptocurrency will be introduced in an easy manner. Since the main idea is to upgrade and optimize, such games can be fun even during crypto market downtimes.

    How regulation could shape the next generation of P2E

    With the evolution of blockchain-based gaming, regulation is gradually becoming an essential consideration for developers. Various jurisdictions have become more interested in digital currencies, token issuance, and in-game economies featuring monetary value. Although play-to-earn games have been made primarily for entertainment purposes, those games issuing tokens or NFTs will be subject to differing legal considerations according to their jurisdiction.

    For developers, this means balancing innovation with compliance. Features such as KYC requirements, regional restrictions, or transparent token disclosures may become more common as the industry evolves. Although regulation introduces new challenges, it could also help improve trust among players and institutional partners by establishing clearer standards for blockchain-based games.

    Looking ahead

    The play-to-earn game industry has evolved significantly within a relatively short period of time. Initially concentrated around the use of NFTs and rapid profits, it has been shifting its attention to creating games for extended player engagement.

    Much experimentation is left to do, yet one thing is evident: people will stay involved in the process if the game is fun by itself. Getting some sort of reward could be an additional element, but it certainly is not enough anymore to drive everything.

  • Woot’s Best Deals of the Week: Save $610 on a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

    Woot’s Best Deals of the Week: Save $610 on a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

    With prices on the rise just about everywhere, it pays to shop at Woot. The site is essentially a deals hub where you can find discounted items every single day of the year across seven categories, including electronics and computers. While the selection is constantly changing, it’s not unusual to find devices from Apple, Samsung, Google, and other top tech brands at steep markdowns. Since items tend to sell out quickly, don’t wait to checkout when you see something that catches your interest. Plus, Prime members automatically get free shipping.

    Right now, you can take advantage of a $1,000 markdown on a Samsung 11-channel surround sound system and save $700 off a Samsung 65-Inch The Frame QLED 4K TV. Plus, pick up a self-emptying iRobot Roomba Combo 2 for $340 less. The deals don’t stop there: snag the award-winning Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra for $610 less, and get a year of NordVPN Standard for just $24.99.

    Let’s take a closer look at the best Woot deals so you can start saving!

    VR Headset Deal


    the Meta Quest Pro headset with hand controllers

    Meta Quest Pro

    With 1,920 by 1,800 resolution (per eye), 90 Hz refresh rate, and 6DOF motion detection

    $679.99
    at Woot

    $999.99
    Save $320.00


    Get Deal

    Earning our PCMag Best of the Year Award in 2022, the Meta Quest Pro is an impressive standalone virtual reality headset with performance that makes it suitable for professionals and enthusiasts alike. We were highly impressed by the eye- and face-tracking tech, color pass-through camera, and comfortable fit. Plus, the headset and controllers are all rechargeable, and you don’t need a PC to operate.

    VPN Deal


    the NordVPN subscription icon

    NordVPN Standard

    1-year digital code for PC, Mac, or mobile. Connect up to 10 devices at once


    $24.99
    at Woot

    $69.99
    Save $45.00


    Get Deal

    Boasting an extensive suite of privacy and security features, including advanced encryption, threat detection, and transparent data practices, NordVPN is not only the fastest VPN we’ve tested, but also the best value. It’s essentially a robust privacy ecosystem, using tools like NordPass for secure password management and NordLocker for file encryption and cloud storage. It’s our Editors’ Choice Pick for VPN, and right now, you can get an entire year’s subscription on sale for just $24.99.

    Smartphone Deals


    the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

    Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

    1 TB, 14-hour tested battery life, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, Android 15, IP68 rating

    $1,049.99
    at Woot

    $1,659.99
    Save $610.00


    Get Deal

    Per our expert, Iyaz Akhtar, “The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the ultimate Android handset with top-of-the-line power, terrific cameras, a built-in stylus, and the most innovative AI features we’ve seen in a phone to date”. The large 6.9-inch screen provides an immersive experience for watching content, while the rounded corners and narrower body make the phone ergonomic and comfortable to hold. Performance is exceptionally smooth, too. It earned our Editor’s Choice Award last year, and right now, you can pick one up for $610 less.

    Computer Monitor Deals


    the Odyssey G9 Curved Gaming Monitor

    Samsung 49-Inch Odyssey G9 Curved Gaming Monitor

    32:9 ratio, 240 Hz refresh rate, Neo Quantum processor, FreeSync Premium Pro, Gaming Hub

    $954.99
    at Woot

    $1,299.99
    Save $345.00


    Get Deal

    In the words of our expert reviewer, Zackery Cuevas, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 is “a feast for the eyes and the ultrawide monitor to beat for immersive PC gaming”. It’s slim in design with a dazzling 49-inch screen featuring glare-free technology and automatic brightness control. Both color gamut and color accuracy are exceptional, and it boasts a near-instant 0.03ms GTG response time. Premium performance comes at a premium price, but you can save $345 right now.


    the 27-inch curved monitor

    Samsung 27-Inch Essential S3 FHD Curved Monitor

    FHD 1800R, Game Mode, Advanced Eye Comfort, HDMI and D-sub Ports

    $99.99
    at Woot

    $159.99
    Save $60.00


    Get Deal

    If all you need is basic curved monitor for work or play, then the Samsung Essential S3 delivers. The wide screen is slightly curved to enhance depth perception and minimize peripheral distraction, immersing you in your content. In terms of performance, it’s fast and smooth so you don’t have to put up with lagging or motion blurring. Plus, it features plenty of optimizable game settings.

    More Deals on Monitors

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    Smartwatch Deal


    the smartwatch

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8

    3,000-nit AMOLED display, 26-hour battery life, WearOS, GPS, ECG, Light Sensor, Gyroscope, Pedometer

    $249.99
    at Woot

    $499.99
    Save $250.00


    Get Deal

    Samsung’s flagship smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch 8, is our Editors’ Choice pick for Android-compatible smartwatches. It looks as stunning as previous models but now has more accurate exercise and sleep tracking, plus advanced AI abilities. Google’s AI Gemini is built in to allow for convenient voice assistance, and an AI coach provides health insights for training, sleep, and stress. Overall, the Galaxy Watch 8 is an exceptionally capable fitness, wellness, and lifestyle wearable — and right now, you can save $250.


    the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra with orange band

    Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra

    Waterproof at depths up to 328 feet. Functions at up to 29,500 feet above sea level

    $389.99
    at Woot

    $649.99
    Save $260.00


    Get Deal

    The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is designed for Android users who enjoy exploring and going off-grid, as well as athletes. It offers advanced technical performance and rugged durability. In addition to highly detailed sleep analysis (including snore detection) and multisport tracking, it features AI-based recommendations to maximize your progress, giving an energy score, wellness score, and more. In terms of hardware, it’s slightly bigger and beefier with a titanium build and includes a customizable quick button to speed up navigation. Currently $260 off, it’s a great time to invest in this adventure companion.

    More Smartwatch Deals

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    Robot Vacuum and Mop Deal


    the robot vacuum and mop

    iRobot Roomba Combo i5

    Smart navigation, Dirt Detect Technology, microfiber mop pad, Alexa, Siri, or Google voice control

    $149.99
    at Woot

    $349.99
    Save $200.00


    Get Deal

    The iRobot Roomba Combo i5 is a capable robot vacuum and mop designed for dry and wet messes. It uses a 4-stage cleaning system with unique dual multi-surface rubber brushes that adjust to different floor types and don’t get tangled with pet hair. Plus, it empties itself into an enclosed bag that can hold up to 60 days’ worth of dirt, making your life even easier. With a 57% discount, now is the time to grab this smart cleaning companion!

    See how it compares to other robot vacuums we’ve reviewed.

    Earbuds Deals


    the earbuds

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro

    IP57 rating, 24-bit hi-fi codec, HD voice conversations, and intuitive touch-control

    $199.99
    at Woot

    $249.99
    Save $50.00


    Get Deal

    The sleek and stylish Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are a premium pair of noise-cancelling earbuds, offering a comfortable fit, excellent audio quality, and nifty AI features – and all for under $200 right now. In addition to crisp high-res audio, adaptive ANC technology automatically adjusts the noise cancellation in real time for a strong, smooth, and distraction-free listening experience. Plus, you can access Galaxy’s AI assistant hands-free and take advantage of live translation. We awarded their predecessor, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, a rating of “Excellent.” If you’re an Android user, these are a top pick.


    the Beats Fit Pro

    Beats Fit Pro

    H1 chip, Spatial Audio with head tracking, one-touch iOS pairing, IPX4 rating, USB-C charging

    $109.99
    at Woot

    $199.95
    Save $89.96


    Get Deal

    The Beats Fit Pro are designed to fit securely in your ears and stay in place, making them a compelling choice for those who find typical earbuds tend to slip out of their ears. In terms of sound, they deliver the classic bass-forward Beats audio profile, with above-average noise cancellation and adaptive EQ. We already recommend them for iPhone users who love strong bass, and now they’re $90 cheaper.


    the Galaxy Buds FE 3

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

    IPX4 rating, Auto Switch, EQ presets, Bluetooth 5.2, ANC and Ambient modes, on-ear controls

    $71.99
    at Woot

    $149.99
    Save $78.00


    Get Deal

    Currently on sale for under $80, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE are an affordable but quality option for Samsung users. They provide above-average noise cancellation with a bass-forward sound signature and crisp mics. We reviewed a prior model of these earbuds and especially appreciated how seamlessly they integrate across the Samsung device ecosystem. If you’re an Android user looking for capable earbuds on a budget, these are for you.


    the Beats Studio Buds

    Beats Studio Buds

    On-ear controls, IPX4 rating, Bluetooth 5.2, support AAC and SBC codecs, multi-mic array

    $78.82
    at Woot

    $149.95
    Save $71.13


    Get Deal

    The Beats Studio Buds are another solid budget-friendly option for wireless noise-cancelling earbuds. While they’re significantly cheaper than AirPods Pro 2 (especially with this 47% discount), they offer similar features, including active noise cancellation, Spatial Audio, and one-touch pairing for iOS and Android devices. The overall audio output is solid with powerful bass and crisp highs, too. As you might expect, the noise cancellation is less impressive, but for the price, it’s a great value.

    More Deals on Earbuds

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    Headphones Deals


    the headphones

    Sennheiser Accentum Wireless Headphones

    AAC, AptX, AptX HD, and SBC codec support, 37mm dynamic drivers, adjustable five-band EQ

    $79.95
    at Woot

    $199.95
    Save $120.00


    Get Deal

    According to our expert, Tim Gideon, the Sennheiser Accentum Wireless Headphones “offer commendable active noise cancellation (ANC) and produce balanced sound with plenty of sub-bass power and high-frequency detail for half the price of category leaders from Bose and Sony” (and that’s at full price). Add a sleek design and a comfortable fit, and you’ll understand why we recommend them as a great value for wireless Bluetooth over-ear headphones. With a 55% discount, bringing the price to well under $100, they’re practically a no-brainer.

    Smart Thermostat Deal


    the thermostat and sensor

    Google Nest Smart Thermostat (4th Gen) + Nest Temperature Sensor

    Stainless steel design, Google Home App control, compatible with most 24V systems with no C-wire

    $189.99
    at Woot

    $299.99
    Save $110.00


    Get Deal

    This Google Nest smart thermostat bundle helps you save energy and money. Like any thermostat, you can program a specific heating and cooling schedule (either manually or through the app), but it goes one step further by learning your routine and adjusting the temperature in your home accordingly. It even takes into account the outdoor temperature and how it affects indoor temperatures in certain rooms! You can place the Google Nest temperature sensor in any room and use the app to set the temperature it should reach at a specific time of day.

    Portable Speaker Deals


    the purple JBL Charge 6

    JBL Charge 6

    IP68 rating, 30-watt woofer, 15-watt tweeter, Lossless audio via USB-C, Bluetooth 5.4, Auracast

    $129.95
    at Woot

    $199.95
    Save $70.00


    Get Deal

    Compact and rugged, the JBL Charge 6 produces surprisingly powerful sound for its size with strong bass and high-frequency clarity – and it’s $70 off right now! Plus, the companion app features adjustable EQ for a more personalized listening experience. Per our expert testing, this fully waterproof and dustproof device earned a rating of “Excellent,” and we recommend it as a top pick for a Bluetooth speaker you can bring anywhere and everywhere.


    the JBL Clip 5

    JBL Clip 5

    Weighs ~0.5 pounds, 12-hour battery, IP67 rating, 7W of power, and USB-C charging

    $49.95
    at Woot

    $79.95
    Save $30.00


    Get Deal

    Featuring a built-in carabiner, this fully waterproof (and dust-proof) Bluetooth speaker is super portable and easy to bring on the go. Considering its small size, the Clip 5 produces surprisingly loud and crisp sound, thanks to the powerful driver and passive radiator. The bass is punchy, and you can pair it with other JBL speakers for more robust stereo sound. With a sale price of $49.95, it’s a solid budget-conscious choice if you want to listen to music when you’re out and about. Clip it to your bag, belt, or bike, and get ready to jam out—for less.

    More Speaker Deals

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    Sound System Deals


    the 11-channel sound system

    Samsung HW-Q990H/ZC Surround Sound System

    11.1.4 ch sound, Wireless Dolby Atmos, Q-Symphony, SpaceFit Sound Pro, Adaptive Sound, Game Pro Mode

    $1,199.99
    at Woot

    $1,997.99
    Save $798.00


    Get Deal

    The Samsung HW-Q990H/ZC system features a powerful soundbar, wireless subwoofer, and rear speaker kit that work together to create rich, room-filling sound. The wireless soundbar automatically analyzes the environment to calibrate the sound to your space. At the same time, “Active Voice Analyzer” technology helps make sure dialogue and on-screen voices remain crisp, clear, and easy to understand. Plus, the sound system integrates easily with voice assistants and smart devices via Alexa, Chromecast, AirPlay, and more. It’s a robust, high-end sound system that’ll immerse you in your favorite on-screen content — and with roughly an $800 markdown, now is the time to upgrade.

    Curious how this model compares to other soundbars? Read our reviews for the best soundbars.

    Recommended by Our Editors

    More Soundbar Deals

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    Smart TV Deals


    the Samsung Frame QLED 4K TV

    Samsung 65-Inch The Frame QLED 4K TV

    Pantone-validated color, AI-driven motion and brightness sensors, Samsung Tizen OS

    $897.99
    at Woot

    $1,697.99
    Save $800.00


    Get Deal

    At first glance, the Samsung 65-Inch The Frame QLED 4K TV looks more like a framed work of art than a smart TV. That’s because it’s meant to double as wall art when not in use. It hangs flush against the wall with customizable bezel options and features an anti-glare matte display for showcasing beautiful works of art (such as Monet’s Water Lilies or the famous Mona Lisa). However, it also streams video content and video games beautifully in clear, colorful 4K resolution. You can see how it compares to other TVs we’ve tested at a similar size and price.

    More TV Deals

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    Home Security Camera Deal


    the Ring cam

    Ring Outdoor Cam (Stick Up Cam)

    130-degree field of view, mounting bracket, Amazon Alexa voice commands

    $39.99
    at Woot

    $79.99
    Save $40.00


    Get Deal

    The Ring Outdoor Cam is a completely wireless, battery-powered security camera that’s rich in features, versatile, and easy to install, earning it our Editor’s Choice Award. It records 1080p HD footage day and night with motion detection, two-way audio, and a built-in siren. There’s no hub required, but you will need a subscription to view previously recorded footage.

    Computer Mouse Deal


    the Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse

    Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse

    Hero 25k sensor, Lightforce hybrid switches, tracks to sub-micron with mechanical feel

    $49.99
    at Woot

    $89.99
    Save $40.00


    Get Deal

    Weighing just 68 grams (and 86 grams with the battery installed), this lightweight, wireless mouse provides reliable and efficient performance for both work and play. In addition to optical-mechanical switches, six programmable buttons help ensure optimized video gaming performance as you can set up personalized gameplay and custom shortcuts. With a single AA battery installed, it boasts over 300 hours in battery life, but you can also use the Powerplay wireless charging station for virtually endless use.

    More Computer Mice Deals

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    Smart Lighting Deal


    the Philips Hue Bridge 2.0 with box

    Philips Hue Bridge 2.0

    Zigbee advanced technology enables Wi-Fi free control. Voice Control via Apple HomeKit

    $31.99
    at Woot

    $52.79
    Save $20.80


    Get Deal

    If your home is already decked out with Philips Hue bulbs, you’ll want to pick up this Hue Bridge 2.0 for full control of your smart home lighting. It lets you add up to 50 Philips lights and accessories (both indoor and outdoor) to your smart home devices, meaning you can turn them on/off, adjust the brightness, sync the lights to music, and more, all from your smartphone — even from miles away. This clever smart hub earned a rating of “Excellent” in our 2015 review, so it’s worth grabbing for under $32.

    Microsoft Office Deals


    Microsoft Office Home 2024

    Microsoft Office Home 2024

    32-bit or 64-bit installer or offline installation, ODF1.4 support, imports from PDF, records macros

    $114.99
    at Woot

    $149.99
    Save $35.00


    Get Deal

    Earning an Editors’ Choice and PCMag’s Best of the Year awards, Microsoft Home Office 2024 is a one-time purchase that gives you lifetime access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote on a single Mac or Windows device (meaning you won’t have to pay for a Microsoft 365 subscription over and over again). The Microsoft Office productivity apps are top-tier, especially with Word being the world’s most powerful word processor and Excel boasting more features and power than Apple’s Numbers. It’s a worthwhile investment if you primarily use one device.


    Microsoft Project Professional 2024

    Microsoft Project Professional 2024

    Run what-if scenarios, auto populate start and end dates, and visually represent complex schedules

    $49.99
    at Woot

    $149.99
    Save $100.00


    Get Deal

    Suitable for cloud-free use on a single device, the Microsoft Project Professional 2024 software package includes an extensive set of project- and resource-management tools, timesheets, Microsoft Teams business collaboration, and the option to sync with Project Online and Project Server. It’s a powerful tool if your team manages lots of complex projects and has the time to learn how to use the software optimally — you can read more about who we recommend Microsoft Project for in our review.

    Portable Charger Deal


    the charging dock for Apple Watch

    Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Dock

    Connects via the Lightning to USB Cable and Apple 5W USB Power Adapter

    $19.99
    at Woot

    $79.00
    Save $59.01


    Get Deal

    Compatible with all Apple Watch models and sizes, this handy charging dock lets you power up your smartwatch through wireless magnetic charging. You can lay the watch flat with the band open or prop the watch up on its side to enable Nightstand mode and use your watch as an alarm clock.

    For more options, give a gander at our expert advice and tips for buying Batteries & Power.

    Looking for something else? Check out additional Woot tech deals for even more summer savings.

    About Our Expert

  • Penélope Cruz, Sian Heder, Isabelle Huppert Set for Tributes Awards at Toronto Film Fest

    Penélope Cruz, Sian Heder, Isabelle Huppert Set for Tributes Awards at Toronto Film Fest

    Penélope Cruz, Sian Heder, Isabelle Huppert, Rosalind Eleazar and Lee Chang-dong are set to receive TIFF Tribute Awards at the upcoming Toronto Film Festival.

    Oscar–winning actor Cruz will receive a Special Tribute Award as she touts two movies in Toronto, the Spanish drama epic La Bola Negra and Florian Zeller’s Bunker, both of which premiered in Cannes.

    Korean auteur Lee Chang-dong will pick up the Ebert Director Award as he brings Possible Love to TIFF. Netflix has set a theatrical release in Korea, U.S. and other select territories for Lee’s first film in eight years after premieres in Venice and Toronto. Eleazar will receive a Performer Award as she helps launch in Toronto Chris Rock’s Misty Green, the comedian’s latest work as a film writer/director in which Eleazar stars as Misty Green.

    Elsewhere, fellow actor Huppert will also receive a Performer Award as her latest film, Marc Fitoussi’s All About Corinne, gets gala treatment in Toronto. Also at the Sept. 13 fundraiser, Oscar–winning CODA filmmaker Heder will receive the Impact Media award as she brings her latest movie, Being Heumann, to Toronto for a world premiere.  

    Proceeds from the Tribute Awards go towards the festival’s year-round talent development programs that encourage diversity, equity and inclusion in filmmaking. The gala dinner fundraiser for the fest’s philanthropic efforts is also an occasional harbinger of Oscar recognition and is held each year at Fairmont Royal York Hotel. 

    TIFF Tribute Award honorees tend to have films in Toronto’s official lineup. The 51st Toronto Film Festival is set to run Sept. 10 to 20.

  • Need a New Laptop or Tablet for School? Skip the Sales Tax During Your State’s Tax Holiday

    Need a New Laptop or Tablet for School? Skip the Sales Tax During Your State’s Tax Holiday

    It may be the most expensive time of the year for parents and college students, but back-to-school season can be made a little more affordable when coupled with a sales tax holiday.

    A sales tax holiday is a tax-free shopping event that states offer throughout the summer to pause taxes charged on eligible back-to-school essentials. This year 18 states (and Puerto Rico) are participating, and nine of them will pause sales tax on tech purchases, including laptops, personal computers, and tablets. And many of them are kicking off this weekend.

    With inflation still high and the RAM crisis continuing to drive the cost of PCs, finding easy ways to save on back-to-school tech is crucial. In fact, a PCMag survey recently found that most US adults are willing to spend $800 on a new laptop, but the median price of a new one is double that at $1,600. What’s the solution? While shopping sales and secondhand can help, timing your purchase with your state’s sales tax holiday is another way to keep a little extra cash in your bank account.

    Here’s every state that’s holding a tax-free holiday this summer, and when to shop.

    Which States Have Sales Tax Holidays on Tech This Summer?

    There are 9 states offering sales tax exemptions on computers and tech during summer sales tax holidays. They are:

    How much RAM Do You Actually Need?

    PCMag Logo

    How much RAM Do You Actually Need?

    Full 2026 Sales Tax Holiday Schedule and Eligible Items by State

    Here’s a full overview of every US state and territory offering sales-free back-to-school shopping events this summer.

    Alabama 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: July 17 – July 19, 2026 (expired)

    • Items included: Clothing up to $156, school supplies up to $78, computers up to $1,173, books up to $47 (per item). See the full list here.

    • Notes: Local municipalities can opt in/out; more than 300 cities/counties waive local tax.

    Arkansas 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 1 – August 2, 2026 (starts this weekend!)

    • Items included: Clothing and accessories up to $100 per item, school supplies (no strict limit), select electronics (no strict limit). See the full list here.

    • Notes: Applies to state and local sales tax; participation is mandatory for retailers.

    Connecticut 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 16 – August 22, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing and footwear up to $300 per item. Includes standard back-to-school apparel; excludes athletic uniforms and luxury goods. See the full list here.

    Florida 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: July 20 – August 20, 2026 (now live!)

    • Items included: Clothing, footwear, and accessories up to $100, school supplies up to $50, computers and electronic accessories up to $1,500, learning aids and puzzles up to $30 (per item). See the full list here.

    Illinois 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 7 – August 16, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing, footwear, and select school supplies up to $125 per item. See the full list here. 

    • Note: Illinois does not eliminate sales tax during this event. Instead, it is lowered by 5%.

    Iowa 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 7 – August 8, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing and footwear up to $100 per item. See the full list here. 

    Maryland 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 9 – August 15, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing and footwear up to $100 per item, backpacks (first $40 is exempt). See the full list here.

    Massachusetts 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 8 – August 9, 2026

    • Items included: Most retail items up to $2,500 per item. Full list here.

    • Notes: Broad retail holiday that excludes alcohol, electricity, gas, meals, motor vehicles, motorboats, tobacco, and more.

    Mississippi 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: July 10 – July 12, 2026 (expired)

    • Items included: Clothing, footwear, and school supplies up to $100 per item. See the full list here.

    Missouri 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 7 – August 9, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing up to $100, school supplies up to $50, computer software up to $350, computers up to $1,500. See the full list here.

    New Mexico 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: July 31 – August 2, 2026 (starts this weekend!)

    • Items included: Clothing and footwear up to $100, school supplies up to $30, computers up to $1,000, computer hardware up to $500 (per item). See the full list here.

    • Notes: Retailers are not required to participate.

    Ohio 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 7 – August 9, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing up to $75, school supplies up to $20, school instructional materials up to $2 (per item). See the full list here.

    Oklahoma 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 7 – August 9, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing and footwear up to $100 per item. See the full list here.

    • Notes: Exemptions do not apply to most athletic wear.

    Puerto Rico 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: July 17 – July 18, 2026 (expired)

    • Items included: School uniforms, footwear, and school supplies (no specified limit). See the full list here.

    South Carolina 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 7 – August 9, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing, footwear, school supplies, computers, bed and bath items (no specified limit). See the full list here.

    Tennessee 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: July 31 – August 2, 2026 (starts this weekend!)

    • Items included: Clothing up to $100, school supplies up to $100, computers up to $1,500 (per item). See the full list here.

    Texas 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 7 – August 9, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks up to $100 per item. See the full list here.

    Virginia 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: August 7 – August 9, 2026

    • Items included: Clothing and footwear up to $100, school supplies up to $20 (per item). See the full list here.

    West Virginia 

    • Sales tax holiday dates: July 31 – August 3, 2026 (starts this weekend!)

    • Items included: Clothing up to $125, school supplies up to $50, computers up to $500, instructional materials up to $20, sports equipment up to $150 (per item). See the full list here.

    What Are Sales Tax Holidays?

    Also known as ‘tax-free weekends’, a state sales tax holiday is a statewide event where sales tax is temporarily paused or reduced on certain items. Many states hold these events during the back-to-school shopping season. Items that are typically exempt from tax during these events include clothing, school supplies, and computers (laptops and tablets).

    If you live in a state that also imposes local sales tax, it may also be exempt during the event. This varies by state and county.

    Do Sales Tax Holiday Exemptions Apply to Online Purchases?

    Yes, you’ll be able to shop tax-free even at online retailers like Amazon and Apple during your state’s event.

    Can Sales Tax Holidays Really Save You Money on Laptops, Desktops, and Tablets?

    Shopping for school supplies during a tax-free event can help you save a little extra, especially if you need to purchase a big-ticket item, like a new laptop or desktop.

    Let’s say you plan to purchase a new MacBook Neo, which starts at $599 for students. If you live in Massachusetts, which has a 6.25% state sales tax rate, this would cost you $636.44 after tax. So, you could save $37.44 on one new MacBook Neo (with the student discount) by shopping during this tax holiday. 

    If you need a MacBook with more power, we recommend the Apple MacBook Air 13-Inch (2026, M5) as our top pick for most college students. This starts at $1,149. Using the same example from Massachusetts, with the 6.25% sales tax tacked on, this MacBook would cost you $1,220.81. If you were to buy this laptop during the sales tax holiday, you’d save $71.81.

    Recommended by Our Editors

    Can You Save on Refurbished Tech During Sales Tax Holidays?

    Yes, if you live in a state that’s offering sales tax exemptions on computers and electronics, you won’t pay sales tax on used tech during the sales tax holidays. Shopping secondhand is one of the best ways to beat rising computer prices. We even have tips on how to find the best value when shopping for refurbished computers and tablets.

    Are There States That Never Charge Sales Tax?

    Yes, there are five US states that do not impose a state-level sales tax. They are Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon. Alaska does, however, charge a local sales tax.

    Will You Pay Local Sales Tax During Sales Tax Holidays?

    If you live in a city or county that levies local sales tax, it may be temporarily paused for eligible items during your state’s sales tax holiday. This varies across cities, counties, and states, so check your local state and city website for more information.

    My State Doesn’t Have a Tax Holiday. Can I Shop In Another State?

    Technically, yes, you can travel to another state to shop tax-free during that state’s sales tax holiday. However, if you bring the items you purchased back to your home state, you might be required to list these items on your taxes next year and pay use tax on them.

    Is New Jersey Holding a Sales Tax Holiday This Year?

    New Jersey used to hold tax-free weekends in the summer for the back-to-school season. Its sales tax holiday was officially repealed in 2024, and the state has not held a tax-free holiday since.

    About Our Expert

  • SiriusXM Is Launching a Sports Subscription Service

    SiriusXM Is Launching a Sports Subscription Service

    SiriusXM is launching a niche subscription offering targeting sports fans, creating what will be its least expensive option in the process.

    The satellite radio giant is launching SiriusXM Sports Pass, a $5 per month audio subscription that will bundle all of its sports channels alongside a slew of terrestrial sports radio stations.

    The service will be the most comprehensive live sports subscription offering anywhere (albeit audio-only), with every home and away NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL game broadcast; every NASCAR, IndyCar and Formula 1 race; PGA TOUR events and golf’s major championships; WWE Premium Live Events including WrestleMania, and many other events.

    The new offering will launch Sep. 1, right as the NFL and college football season get underway. Channels include Mad Dog Radio, Fantasy Sports Radio, and the channels dedicated to individual sports like the NFL, MLB, NBA, F1, etc. It also includes national sports radio brand from ESPN, Fox Sports and Westwood One, as well as sports stations from Audacy, including WFAN New York and 97.1 The Fan Los Angeles.

    “Every new channel, artist performance, live event, and creator collaboration advances our vision for the future of audio: making SiriusXM a home for fandom, where listeners can go deeper into the things they love and feel part of a lasting community,” said Jennifer Witz, SiriusXM’s CEO, in a statement. “SiriusXM Sports Pass brings that vision to life for sports fans by putting every game and event we carry, hometown voices, national personalities and the daily sports conversation into one simple, affordable subscription. No matter who you cheer for or where you listen, it brings you closer to the teams and voices that matter most to you.”

    The sports offering opens up new possibilities for the company, which currently has an all-music tier for $11.99 per month and an all-access tier for $25.99 per month ($11.99 for streaming only) that serve as its most popular offerings. There also premium and family plans, as well as a $14.99 per month news, talk and sports plan.

    The sports offering suggests a future where SiriusXM could cater to more specific tastes, be it through news or opinion, specific music genres, or other areas of “fandom,” as Witz puts it.

  • Major Record Labels Call to Disqualify AI Slop Songs From Global Charts

    Major Record Labels Call to Disqualify AI Slop Songs From Global Charts

    A coalition of nearly a dozen of the biggest record companies in the music business — including the “big three” of Universal Music Group, Sony Music and Warner Music Group — are calling for global music charts to adopt policies that would disqualify many AI slop tracks from consideration.

    The companies are calling on the chart companies to introduce new rules that would only allow AI-generated songs to be included if the use of AI is properly authorized and lawful, if the track was substantially human made and if it doesn’t raise concerns of streaming fraud or chart manipulation.

    Those stipulations don’t outright disqualify all AI songs — a primarily human created song that lawfully uses AI as a supplemental tool is still allowed — but they’d certainly limit eligibility considerably. The biggest AI music generation platforms still face lawsuits over allegations of mass copyright infringement to train their models, and much of the AI music uploaded to streaming services is linked to streaming fraud.

    “Tracks created using generative AI systems have been appearing on streaming services, however many of these have been developed with tools that have been trained on artists’ music without authorisation,” the companies said in a release on Wednesday. “These tracks are also commonly associated with streaming fraud. To tackle this, record companies are driving the development and licensing of AI music services that respect the rights of music creators. Through the implementation of these principles, human creators will have further assurance that tracks manufactured via unauthorised algorithms unjustly built upon their work – or fraudulently promoted – will not be celebrated by industry charts.”

    While AI-generated songs haven’t overwhelmed the charts yet, there have been several notable cases. The AI country act Breaking Rust, for example, garnered major headlines last year after managing to make it on the country digital sales chart. Still, it should be said that placements on digital sales charts certainly don’t reflect mass consumption, as it only takes a thousand-or-so sales to chart there given that digital downloads have become far less common in the streaming era.

    AI remains among the most pressing issues in the music industry, as the record companies have announced partnerships with the likes of Nvidia, Spotify and Stability AI to develop AI music tools, while also suing when the AI companies cross the line. All three of the major labels sued AI music generators Suno and Udio back in 2024, though UMG settled with Udio last year, while WMG settled with both Suno and Udio. Sony is yet to carve out a deal with either company.

    The labels’ call comes just weeks after the RIAA and IFPI announced a push for streaming services to more explicitly label AI-generated content on their platforms, suggesting a strategy similar to the current labeling of explicit music on streamers, with AI icons next to a song.

  • ACLU, National Coalition Against Censorship and 20 Other Groups Line Up to Support Disney in Tangle With FCC

    ACLU, National Coalition Against Censorship and 20 Other Groups Line Up to Support Disney in Tangle With FCC

    A consortium of 22 different advocacy organizations are lining up to support Walt Disney Co. as it continues to tangle with the Federal Communications Commission.

    “We urge you to continue to defend and exercise your First Amendment rights, so that we can all continue to exercise ours,” reads the letter, addressed to Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro and signed by the American Civil Liberties Union, the National Coalition Against Censorship, the Electronic Frontier Foundation, Public Knowledge, TechFreedom and several other groups.

    Disney has for the past several weeks grappled with unorthodox pressure from the Trump administration. The Federal Communications Commission, led by Chairman Brendan Carr, ordered Disney to file for renewals for eight of its stations years ahead of schedule. In filings, Disney has said its applications were made “under protest in response to an unlawful, arbitrary, and unconstitutional order.” “The View,” which has thrived in recent years with discussion of politics, has also found itself in the administration’s cross-hairs. The FCC has probed whether the program has violated so-called “equal-time” election laws following the appearance of political figures, launching its investigation after James Talarico, the Democratic Senate candidate from Texas, appeared on the show in February. The FCC issued new guidance in January that late-night and daytime hosts needed to give equal time to political candidates from various parties, claiming the programs might be working along partisan lines.

     “Freedom of the press is such a core component of having a functioning democracy,” says Jenna Leventoff, senior policy counsel for the ACLU, during a recent interview. The groups wanted to remind Disney that “when you’re standing up for yourself, you are standing up for all of us,” she says. Eroding the ability of media organizations to report on things that governments may not approve of will also undermine the nation’s democratic values, she adds. 

    “Meaningfully fighting back requires more than strongly worded regulatory filings. It requires that you make clear to the public what is happening to you and to them — that the government is violating the First Amendment,” the letter to D’Amaro reads. “Remember: the public rebelled against the heavy-handed attempt to force Jimmy Kimmel off the air, and stood with you. Disney now has the opportunity to stand with all of us in protecting our rights to watch, read, and access information the government wishes we would not. Illegal jawboning demands decisive and vocal resistance. Your rights, and all of our rights, depend on it.”

    Other signatories include Fall of Freedom, Issue One, PEN America, People for the American Way, LGBT Tech, The Media and Democracy Project, The Trevor Project, The Tully Center for Free Speech and UnidosUS.

  • The inside story of how a hike in Hong Kong changed crypto trading forever

    The inside story of how a hike in Hong Kong changed crypto trading forever

    It was sometime in 2015, on a hiking trail in Hong Kong, that the perpetual swap — also called a perpetual future or a “perp” for short — was born. Ben Delo, the mathematician and co-founder of BitMEX, was walking with a friend called Bavik, a derivatives trader, wrestling with a problem that had been nagging at him for months.

    BitMEX had been trying everything. Quarterly futures, monthly futures, weekly futures, 48-hour futures, even a contract that lasted just 24 hours before resetting. Nothing was working. Customers kept complaining that their positions were closing without warning. They wanted something that looked like spot, traded like spot, but gave them the leverage that only a derivatives exchange could offer.

    “What if a future never expired?” Delo asked.

    Bavik’s answer was immediate. “Mathematically, it would be worth infinity,” Delo recalls him saying.

    Technically, he was right. A futures contract’s value is partly derived from the time remaining until expiry and the cost of carrying the position. Remove the expiry date and that carrying cost compounds indefinitely, making the theoretical value infinite. But then Bavik offered a solution: just charge traders the bitcoin overnight rate, the way you might charge LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate) in traditional finance.

    There was one problem. “I said, what’s that?” Delo recalls. “He said, ‘Hm, just charge them the overnight bitcoin interest rate’. I said, ‘I don’t think that exists.’”

    So Delo built it. And in doing so, he invented one of the most consequential financial products of the 21st century.

    Building BitMEX

    To understand why the perpetual swap mattered, you have to understand what BitMEX was trying to be before it became the most liquid bitcoin market in the world.

    When Delo and Arthur Hayes founded the exchange in 2014, they were not thinking about retail traders chasing 100x leverage. They were thinking about institutional hedgers. Hayes had worked at Deutsche Bank, while Delo spent years building high-frequency trading systems at JP Morgan. Their thesis was that bitcoin miners and payment companies needed a way to hedge their exposure, and BitMEX would provide the professional infrastructure to do it.

    “We built it basically to look like a Bloomberg terminal,” Delo said. “We used Reuters instruction codes. Z14 meant expiring December 2014.”

    The institutions never came. What came instead were traders, sophisticated but retail, people who had financial experience but were playing with their own money. And what they wanted was not guaranteed settlement or low leverage. They wanted to speculate, and they wanted to do it with as much size and leverage as possible.

    BitMEX listened. By Halloween 2015, the exchange was offering 100x leverage, made possible by a real-time margining system that Delo had built from scratch. “I built the order matching engine, the position keeping system, the margining system, the PnL system, the settlement system,” he says. “Everything on that was me.”

    The issue with futures, even short-dated ones, is basis, the premium at which a futures contract trades above the spot price of the underlying asset. A futures contract trades at a premium to the underlying asset, and that premium reflects an implied interest rate. In traditional finance, this is well understood. In crypto, in 2015, it confused almost everyone.

    “Our customers would be like, why is bitcoin so expensive on your exchange?” Delo recalled “And we would say, ‘Well, if it is expensive, why don’t you short it?’ And that would blow some of their minds. You could short something rather than just long it.”

    BitMEX kept shortening the expiry of its listed futures contracts. Weekly futures. Then 48-hour. Then a contract that relisted every single day.

    “Every 24 hours, it would expire or settle. And people would say, ‘Why did you liquidate me?’ And we’d say, ‘We didn’t liquidate you. Your position closed at the index price. You got exactly the spot price,’” Delo said. “They’re like, ‘We don’t understand.’”

    The customers knew what they wanted, even if they could not articulate it. They wanted a leveraged product that never went away. Delo’s hiking trail conversation gave him the framework to build one.

    Inventing the funding rate

    The perpetual swap launched in May 2016 with little ceremony. The core mechanic was straightforward: a futures contract with no expiry date, anchored to the spot price through a daily funding rate. Longs paid shorts, or vice versa, depending on whether the swap was trading above or below spot. BitMEX took no cut. The rate was purely a balancing mechanism.

    The early funding rate was derived from third-party lending markets, primarily Bitfinex, where traders could borrow dollars or lend out Bitcoin. Take the dollar borrow rate, subtract the Bitcoin borrow rate, and you had something approximating the cost of holding a long position.

    It worked, until it did not. As Bitcoin began its rise through 2016 and into 2017, demand for long exposure on BitMEX overwhelmed the funding mechanism. The swap started trading at a persistent premium to spot, causing the contract price to drift away from the actual price of bitcoin and undermining the mechanism designed to keep them aligned. The interest rate being imported from Bitfinex was simply not high enough to reflect what was happening on BitMEX itself.

    “We had to dynamically adjust how we calculated that funding rate,” Delo said.

    The original funding rate had been imported from external lending markets, a fixed reference point that could not respond to conditions on BitMEX itself. The new approach replaced that with a dynamic one, looking inward at how the swap was actually trading rather than outward at what Bitfinex was charging to borrow dollars.

    The solution was elegant. Rather than looking outward to other markets, BitMEX would look inward. The exchange began measuring how far the swap was trading above or below spot over an eight-hour window, treating that gap as an implied basis, and back-calculating the annualized rate from it. That rate would then be charged at the end of the next eight-hour window.

    “This was very important because you gave market makers notice of how you were calculating it, what it would be, and then when you would charge it,” Delo said. “Because it was paid from longs to shorts, if the swap was trading at a 1% premium, you would charge longs 1% but give 1% to shorts. And then immediately the market makers, knowing that, would come in, short the swap, and anchor it back down to the spot price. It was a dynamic equilibrium.”

    This is, in essence, the funding rate mechanism that every major derivatives exchange in the world now uses.

    The product that took over

    By 2017, BitMEX was the most liquid bitcoin market on the planet. The exchange was processing $3-4 billion a day, and the perpetual swap was at the center of it all. Price discovery for bitcoin was happening not on Coinbase or Bitstamp but on the BitMEX order book.

    The concentration of liquidity was itself a product of the swap’s design. Before it launched, BitMEX had been running quarterly, monthly, weekly, 48-hour and 24-hour contracts simultaneously, spreading market maker capital thin across six different tenors. The swap collapsed all of that into one instrument.

    “By offering one product, they [traders] were able to consolidate their liquidity, which meant a more liquid market, tighter spreads,” Delo said.

    Competitors noticed. Another competitor exchange copied so literally that it reproduced portions of the BitMEX FAQ without understanding how the product worked, Delo told CoinDesk. Others took the concept more seriously. Eventually, every major exchange in crypto offered its own perpetual swap, each one built on the funding rate architecture that Delo had begun assembling on that Hong Kong hiking trail.

    “The fact that every other exchange has copied the swap just proves what a financial innovation it is,” he said. “I think it now does $40, 50 trillion dollars a year of turnover. It’s one of the most successful products in the history of capitalism.”

    What comes next

    BitMEX chose not to patent the perpetual swap. Delo says they considered it and decided the startup’s time was better spent building.

    “We were a scrappy startup,” he says. “We thought, just get it out there. If it was any good, the market would show us.”

    And show them the market did. Now, a decade on, the product is starting to attract the attention of traditional finance regulators. The CFTC is reportedly making room for perpetual swaps under its framework, and there is speculation that the CME could eventually list them on equities.

    For Delo, that prospect is the final validation of something that started as a question on a hillside above Hong Kong, asked by someone who had grown tired of watching his customers complain about positions that kept disappearing.

    “I think once traditional finance sees the benefits of this financial product,” he said, “it’ll be impressive.”

  • Penélope Cruz, Isabelle Huppert, Lee Chang-dong Among First TIFF Tribute Awards Honorees

    Penélope Cruz, Isabelle Huppert, Lee Chang-dong Among First TIFF Tribute Awards Honorees

    Penélope Cruz, Lee Chang-dong, Rosalind Eleazar, Siân Heder and Isabelle Huppert are the first honorees announced for the eighth annual TIFF Tribute Awards, the gala set for Sept. 13 during the Toronto International Film Festival.

    Cruz, who won the supporting actress Oscar for “Vicky Cristina Barcelona,” will receive the TIFF Special Tribute Award. Eleazar and Huppert will each be honored with the TIFF Tribute Performer Award, while Lee will take the TIFF Ebert Director Award. Heder, whose “Being Heumann” is this year’s opening night selection, will receive the TIFF Tribute Award in impact media.

    “Now in its eighth year, the TIFF Tribute Awards celebrate some of cinema’s most exciting artists at an event dedicated to the transformative power of film,” says Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF. “From the captivating performances of Isabelle Huppert, Penélope Cruz and Rosalind Eleazar to Lee Chang-dong and Siân Heder’s vital filmmaking, each has shown a profound impact on screen storytelling. It’s our privilege to recognize their achievements as we gather to celebrate another exceptional year in film and rally support for TIFF’s ongoing work.”

    Cruz arrives in Toronto with two titles including the Spanish-language drama “La Bola Negra” which premiered at Cannes, where directors Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi won best director. She also stars opposite Oscar winner Javier Bardem in “Bunker,” from writer-director Florian Zeller, the Oscar-winning scribe of “The Father” (2020).

    Lee returns to the festival with the Special Presentations premiere of “Possible Love,” his first feature since “Burning” in 2018. Eleazar, the breakout of Apple TV’s “Slow Horses,” appears in “Misty Green,” which Chris Rock wrote and directed. Huppert, whose career spans more than 100 films, reunites with director Marc Fitoussi, who guided her through “Paris Follies” in 2014, for the comedy “All About Corinne,” a gala presentation.

    Heder makes her festival debut with the world premiere of “Being Heumann,” her follow-up to “CODA,” which won best picture at the 2022 Academy Awards and earned her the adapted screenplay Oscar.

    The Tribute Awards is TIFF’s largest annual fundraiser, with proceeds supporting expanded access to cinema, artist development and industry initiatives.

    The 51st Toronto International Film Festival runs Sept. 10-20. The fest has long served as a launchpad for Oscar-winning fare, particularly through the People’s Choice Award, whose past winners include “Chariots of Fire” (1981), “American Beauty” (1999), “Slumdog Millionaire” (2008) and “Green Book” (2018).