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Decentralized Social Media App Own Launches Amid TikTok Exit Deadline

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

June 18, 2025

As TikTok faces an impending U.S. operational deadline, a new decentralized social media platform, Own, has entered public beta. This initiative arrives as a strategic response to market shifts, offering a comprehensive alternative for content creators and users alike.

Forging a New Path With Blockchain Innovation

Own distinguishes itself by incorporating blockchain technology into its core framework, harnessing a token-based economy to reward content creators without imposing restrictive follower or post thresholds. The platform’s unique model enables creators to earn revenue irrespective of geolocation, fostering a more equitable environment for monetization.

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Leadership With a Proven Track Record

Developed by industry veterans Amir Kaltak (CEO) and Katia Zaitsev (COO), the app benefits from their extensive experience, including the co-founding of the web3 company Lexit. Additionally, Sarah Mick (CCO) brings valuable insights from her tenure at major dating apps such as Tinder and Bumble. This leadership team underpins Own’s commitment to redefining content monetization and ownership.

Revolutionary Token Economy and Monetization Strategy

At the heart of Own’s system is the $OWN Token, awarded based on video engagement and fully tradeable on the open market. Kaltak emphasizes that this approach not only democratizes revenue sharing but also introduces consistent market demand, ensuring long-term price resilience. The platform sets a new standard, charging creators only minimal fees on tipping, sponsorship, and in-app commerce, a stark improvement compared to traditional platforms like TikTok.

Enhanced Monetization Features and Global Reach

Creators on Own could earn up to 50% more than on other platforms. With lower deductions on tips, sponsorships, and Own Shops, the platform maximizes revenue retention—for instance, creators keep 95% of their earnings from in-app sales. Additional revenue streams, such as content licensing, are supported by blockchain-verified ownership, allowing fair resale deals to brands.

User Engagement and Community Governance

The innovative ranking system empowers viewers to upvote or downvote content, similar to Reddit, allowing high-engagement posts to gain greater exposure. This community-driven oversight not only democratizes content visibility but also reinforces the platform’s commitment to fair play and transparency.

Looking Ahead: Strategic Rollouts and Market Impact

Own is slated to roll out monetization features by the third quarter, with its e-commerce component, Own Shop, following in beta later in the year. With nearly 40,000 users already on the waitlist and over $5 million raised from notable investors, Own is well-positioned to disrupt social media dynamics globally.

The convergence of decentralized technology and equitable monetization marks a significant evolution in the digital content landscape, challenging incumbent platforms to rethink their revenue models while enhancing creator empowerment at scale.

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Cyprus Hotels Report Improved Bookings Ahead Of Summer Season

Overview of Booking Trends

The Chairman of the Pan-Cypriot Hotel Association, Thanos Michailidis, stated that there is a gradual improvement in booking activity. However, he cautioned that the current flow remains below expectations for May, with a similar outlook anticipated for June.

Seasonal Performance Concerns

According to Michailidis, booking activity has improved compared with March, but volumes remain lower than typically expected at this stage of the season. The shortfall has been particularly noticeable for July and August bookings, a trend that first emerged in March. At the same time, increased last-minute demand has provided some encouragement, with industry stakeholders closely monitoring booking patterns ahead of the peak summer season.

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Implications Of The Israeli Market

Michailidis highlighted the growing importance of the Israeli market for Cyprus tourism. He noted that demand from Israeli travellers tends to respond quickly to changing conditions, making the market an important factor in the sector’s short-term performance.

The Critical Role Of Human Capital

Michailidis also pointed to staffing challenges facing the tourism industry. Regional instability in the Middle East has added uncertainty for employers seeking to retain and recruit personnel. He said government measures introduced in April helped address requests from the sector and supported efforts to maintain staffing levels during the summer period.

Competitive Pricing And Market Adaptations

Hotel operators continue to offer competitive pricing, according to Michailidis. Many businesses have expanded discounts for travel agents and introduced special offers targeting the domestic market in an effort to stimulate demand. He also noted that Cyprus faces structural challenges linked to air connectivity, with flight costs often remaining higher than those of competing destinations.

Key Markets And Future Prospects

The United Kingdom, Israel, Poland, Germany and the Scandinavian countries remain among Cyprus’ most important tourism markets, according to Michailidis. Domestic tourism also continues to play a significant role, particularly during holiday periods such as the Pentecost weekend.

Industry stakeholders are expected to monitor booking trends closely over the coming weeks as they assess demand for the remainder of the summer season.