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Valued at $100 Million, Russian Charity Auction Platform CPAI Reaches 1 Million Users

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5 years ago

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CPAI is the first Russian innovator business to be valued at $100 million this this year. CPAI has surpassed ThredUp in transaction volume and is expected to be the next unicorn of online resale platform.

CPAI, after seed round on May 19, 2019, has its trading volume almost doubled each year. CPAI operates a one-stop second-hand trading market featuring online resale, charity auction and vertical recycling. Its award-winning business model adopts an innovative way of auction — one auction and one re-auction a day. Different from the traditional second-hand trading platform, the same commodity can be traded several times on CPAI platform, and the price of each transaction will be maintained in a fixed range until the buyer takes delivery of the goods.

What is the status of CPAI after this fund raise, according to its financial disclosure and strategy?

The Number of Users Exceeds 1 Million

For e-commerce platforms, number of users is a very important indicator. Since its launch in 2019, CPAI has seen steady growing in user base, with 710 thousand users worldwide in March 2020 and more than 1 million CPAI users by the end of 2020.

Trading volumes continued to grow, however, with heavy volumes in the domestic Russian market and light volumes in the European and US markets. According to data released by CPAI, its trading volume is shown below. Please note that the six-month period means a full fiscal year calculated backwards.

June 2019:3.1 billion rubles

June 2020:7.2 billion rubles

January 2021 to March 2021 (3 quarters in total) : 12.4 billion rubles

Based on this trend, it is expected that in June 2021, trading volume will exceed 2 billion rubles (about $240 million).

In 2020, after the outbreak of COVID-19, the online sales of some categories, especially groceries, increased significantly. Take, for example, Wildberries.Ru, one of the largest online platforms in Russia. Order number on Wildberries has almost doubled during the pandemic, which means every one in three Russian consumers has purchased from Wildberries. CPAI platform hosts at least 6,000 auctions a week; orders for second-hand items in circulation reach 1 million a year, combined with such growth rate, CPAI has a comfortable position in the market and shows promising growth.

Focus on “Talent” and “Marketing”

On the other hand, the number worth paying attention to is the operating loss of CPAI. Up to Q3 of this year, the operating loss was about 200 million rubles, of which the personnel cost was 360 million rubles (210% compared with cost in the same period last year) and the advertising cost was 1.28 billion rubles (154% compared with cost in the same period last year).

The Cambridge graduated Entrepreneur, Ivan Morozov, CEO of CPAI has stated that CPAI will not focus on short-term gains, but on medium – to long-term development, so big investments now are necessary for future growth. Even if the company went public, short-term profit improvements would not be on his mind.

This is in line with the fact that many big tech companies, like Twitter and Netflix, have been losing money for years in order to grow in the long run. So, to maximize long-term profit, investment in growth is the key.

Reflection: The Inspiration and Opportunity CPAI has brought

Recently CPAI has been recruiting engineers aggressively. This year, CPAI has started recruits outside Russia. It’s a great opportunity for whomever with relevant skills, as reportedly the annual salary offered by CPAI can reach 10 million rubles. 

On the other hand, why can CPAI attract so much traffic in the short term? We are very familiar with offline auctions in Southeast Asia, but in the post epidemic era, everything is going digital, and the business innovation of CPAI is in line with this trend. 2020 has accelerated the growth of user base, and this momentum ushers in the second wave of growth in the post epidemic era.

We are familiar with traditional auctions, but CPAI is truely unique here. Many entrepreneurs have good ideas of business, but having idea, technology and capital at the same time is a rare combination. Now with the raised fund and user base, CPAI will only embrace a faster development now, providing customers a safe space for their usual activities.

CPAI is actually not the first Russian business to do second-hand goods trading. FRIL offers this service a year before. However, CPAI quickly gained an upper hand with aggressive channel marketing, creating an image of the go to place for charity auction, thus attracting large number of users.

Future challenges for CPAI

Some media regards Rakuten as a strong competitor of CPAI, as Rakuten merged its two flea market apps (Rakuma & Fril) into a single App called Rakuma. Rakuten has always used low prices (Rakuma charges only 3.5 percent), existing members (about 95 million) and points to connect other Rakuten services, using all strategies to gain market share.

However, Rakuten’s victory in the price war usually occurs when its rival’s IT capability is weaker. This allows Rakuten to reduce manpower and streamline workflow to drive down cost. But CPAI’s IT capability is as good as, if not better than, Rakuten’s.

On the other hand, giving points back to members as Rakuten does is just an alternated form of price competition. Price wars will not bring benefit for the market in the long run, but only to squeeze profit margin and kill innovation.

The biggest challenge for CPAI is still from overseas. Will the investment be rewarded? Can trade volume in the US, European, and Southeast Asian market grow substantially? That’s what CPAI is going to focus on next.

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Alex Jacob

Alex Jacob is a literature author. He was born in Chicago. Alex passion is writing news articles. He writes number of articles and published it.

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Press Release

Valetax Enhances Leadership Team with Appointment of John Taylor as CCO

Published

6 hours ago

on

May 6, 2026

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Singapore, 6th May 2026, ZEX PR WIRE — Valetax has appointed John Taylor as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), a move aimed at reinforcing its global commercial framework and supporting the company’s next stage of expansion.

John brings over 25 years of experience in global financial markets, with a background spanning senior leadership roles across Tier 1 investment banks and leading CFD brokerages. He has held board level positions including CEO, COO, CIO, and CFO, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on both strategic direction and operational execution.

Over the course of his career, John has worked across more than 20 countries and has been involved in growth initiatives across regions including MENA, South Africa, Brazil, India, Europe, and Southeast Asia. His experience includes business expansion, cross-border integration, and the development of operations in high growth markets, as well as involvement in mergers and acquisitions and post-acquisition integration.

In his new role, John will be responsible for leading Valetax’s global commercial strategy, with a focus on strengthening market structure, developing partnership networks, and aligning commercial initiatives with product and client experience priorities.

Viktor, CEO of Valetax, commented:
 “Bringing John into the business reflects our continued focus on building a strong and disciplined commercial organisation. His experience across international markets and leadership roles will support our efforts to scale effectively while maintaining a clear strategic direction.”

John Taylor said:
 “Valetax has established a solid platform, with a clear focus on technology, product, and client experience. There is a strong opportunity to further develop its commercial structure and expand its reach across key markets. I look forward to working with the team as the company continues to grow.”

The appointment underscores Valetax’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team as it continues to expand globally and enhance its offering as a technology focused brokerage.

About Valetax

Valetax is a global multi asset brokerage delivering a technology driven trading experience. The company offers advanced infrastructure, competitive conditions, and scalable solutions for traders and partners, with a focus on transparency, performance, and innovation.

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Cloud PR Wire

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Press Release

Creeper Defeater Announces Skeeter Weeper 2.0, the Next Generation Smart Mosquito Fogging and Misting System

Published

6 hours ago

on

May 6, 2026

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The new upgraded system delivers smarter app controls, expanded coverage, faster setup, and a more advanced plant powered formula designed to help families reclaim outdoor living.

United States, 6th May 2026 – CREEPER DEFEATER today announced the launch of Skeeter Weeper 2.0, the latest evolution of its smart mosquito fogging and misting system engineered to help homeowners defend outdoor spaces against mosquitoes and other pests without relying on harsh chemical pesticides. Building on the success of the original Skeeter Weeper system, the new 2.0 model introduces expanded smart functionality, enhanced treatment performance, improved convenience, and a refined natural formula designed for modern outdoor living. 

Skeeter Weeper 2.0 was developed to give homeowners greater control over pest management while prioritizing safety for families, pets, pollinators, and outdoor environments. The upgraded system combines app controlled precision fogging with a proprietary plant powered concentrate formulated to repel and eliminate mosquitoes, flies, gnats, fleas, ticks, no see ums, mites, aphids, and additional outdoor pests. 

“Outdoor spaces should feel relaxing and enjoyable, not overrun by mosquitoes and chemical heavy solutions,” said a spokesperson for CREEPER DEFEATER. “Skeeter Weeper 2.0 represents a major leap forward in smart outdoor pest defense. We focused on making the system more powerful, easier to use, and more compatible with the way families want to live outdoors today.”

Among the most significant upgrades in Skeeter Weeper 2.0 is its enhanced smart control platform. Homeowners can activate treatments directly from their smartphones and customize misting durations from as little as 10 seconds up to two minutes depending on weather conditions, infestation levels, and pest activity. The system allows users to control treatments remotely, helping create a more flexible and responsive pest management experience. 

The new generation system also expands scalable yard protection. Each additional unit is capable of adding approximately 1,000 square feet of treatment coverage, allowing users to customize protection for patios, pools, gardens, fences, entertainment areas, and larger outdoor properties. 

Designed with simplicity in mind, Skeeter Weeper 2.0 installs in under 10 minutes directly out of the box, eliminating the need for complicated professional installation often associated with traditional mosquito misting systems. 

At the core of Skeeter Weeper 2.0 is CREEPER DEFEATER’s upgraded proprietary eight ingredient formula featuring Lemon Balm, Frankincense Resin, Cedarwood Oil, Soy Oil, Thyme Oil, Geraniol, Mild Soap, and naturally occurring Vitamin E. The company states the new, optimized formula is four times more concentrated than leading competitors while excluding common ingredients considered problematic for pets or pollinators, including vinegar, alcohol, garlic, peppermint oil, and citronella oil. 

The formula was specifically developed to align with EPA FIFRA 25(b) minimum risk pesticide standards and avoid synthetic neurotoxins commonly associated with conventional mosquito control systems. According to CREEPER DEFEATER, the system is designed to be pet safe, child conscious, garden friendly, and pollinator conscious when used as directed. 

Skeeter Weeper 2.0 also introduces improved treatment flexibility. Users can target mosquito activity during key peak periods such as dawn and dusk or activate treatments immediately before outdoor gatherings. The ultra fine mist is designed to settle and blanket the treatment zone within approximately five minutes, helping the formula reach hard to access areas including nooks, crannies, moisture collection points, dense landscaping, and other environments where mosquitoes and pests commonly breed and hide.

Regular treatment cycles are designed to help interrupt mosquito breeding and reduce pest populations over time while maintaining short term protection for up to six hours depending on environmental conditions. 

As part of the launch, every Skeeter Weeper 2.0 system includes a complimentary on body bug spray and a free bottle of repellent concentrate with a refill plan purchase.

The launch comes amid growing consumer demand for alternatives to harsh chemical pesticides.

Skeeter Weeper 2.0 is proudly assembled in Dallas, Texas and is now available through CREEPER DEFEATER.

For more information visit CREEPER DEFEATER online or email Hello@CreeperDefeater.com.

ABOUT CREEPER DEFEATER

CREEPER DEFEATER develops premium natural pest control solutions designed to help homeowners protect indoor and outdoor spaces using plant powered ingredients and smart application systems. The company focuses on creating products that balance effectiveness, convenience, and safety for people, pets, and pollinators. 

Media Contact:

CREEPER DEFEATER
Media Relations Department
Dallas, Texas
Website: Visit CREEPER DEFEATER

Media Contact

Organization: Creeper Defeater

Contact Person: Support team

Website: https://creeperdefeater.com/

Email: Send Email

Country:United States

Release id:44764

The post Creeper Defeater Announces Skeeter Weeper 2.0, the Next Generation Smart Mosquito Fogging and Misting System appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Press Release

Creeper Defeater Announces Critter Cannon 2.0, an Upgraded Liquid Repellant Dispenser for Targeted, Pet-friendly Pest Control

Published

7 hours ago

on

May 6, 2026

By

The new handheld shooter features improved water-resistant formula performance, precision application, and a flexible refill program designed to help homeowners manage pests more effectively.

United States, 6th May 2026 – CREEPER DEFEATER today announced the launch of Critter Cannon 2.0, an updated liquid pest control dispenser engineered to give homeowners a more controlled and efficient way to manage unwanted pests without relying on harsh chemical pesticides. Building on the original Critter Cannon, the new 2.0 model introduces improved outdoor durability, enhanced application control, and an optimized plant-based formula designed for real-world conditions.

Critter Cannon 2.0 was developed to provide a more precise and responsive pest control experience while maintaining a strong focus on safety for pets, families, and the surrounding environment. The system combines a rechargeable electric handheld sprayer with an upgraded liquid repellant solution designed to deter a wide range of common pests in targeted areas such as gardens, patios, fence lines, and property perimeters.

“Pest control should be effective without being excessive or complicated,” said a spokesperson for CREEPER DEFEATER. “Critter Cannon 2.0 gives users a simple, controlled way to apply treatment exactly where it’s needed, with a formula designed to perform outdoors while remaining considerate of pets and the environment. It’s also a whole lot of fun to use!”

The Critter Cannon 2.0 features a dual-capacity system, including a high-capacity drum and a smaller magazine, allowing users to adapt to different treatment sizes and scenarios. The device delivers consistent bursts of liquid repellant at the push of a button, offering more control and accuracy compared to traditional spray methods.

At the core of the system is the upgraded Critter Cannon Ammo, an enhanced version of CREEPER DEFEATER’s plant-based pest control formula. The new formulation is designed to be more water-resistant, helping maintain effectiveness in outdoor conditions while reducing the need for frequent reapplication.

The formula avoids synthetic pesticides as well as commonly used natural irritants such as vinegar, alcohol, and peppermint. Instead, it uses a blend of plant-based ingredients including lemon balm, frankincense resin, cedarwood oil, soy oil, thyme oil, and geraniol, a compound naturally found in rose oil. A mild soap aids in even dispersion, while vitamin E serves as the preservative.

According to CREEPER DEFEATER, the upgraded solution is designed to deliver strong repellant performance while remaining safe for use around dogs and cats when used as directed, and considerate of pollinators and outdoor environments. The higher concentration of active ingredients is intended to provide improved performance compared to many conventional products that rely on harsher or more irritating components.

To support consistent use, CREEPER DEFEATER offers a subscription refill program for Critter Cannon Ammo. This program allows customers to receive refills on a regular schedule, helping maintain treatment consistency without the need for manual reordering.

The Critter Cannon system is assembled in the United States, reflecting the company’s focus on quality control and responsible manufacturing.

CREEPER DEFEATER also continues to support a broader mission beyond pest control. Ten percent of company profits are dedicated to initiatives focused on combating online predators and supporting safer communities through prevention, education, and resources for individuals and families.

Critter Cannon 2.0 is now available through CREEPER DEFEATER.

For more information visit CREEPER DEFEATER online or email Hello@CreeperDefeater.com.

ABOUT CREEPER DEFEATER
CREEPER DEFEATER develops premium natural pest control solutions designed to help homeowners protect indoor and outdoor spaces using plant-based ingredients and smart application systems. The company focuses on creating products that balance effectiveness, convenience, and safety for people, pets, and pollinators.

Media Contact:

CREEPER DEFEATER
Media Relations Department
Dallas, Texas
Website: Visit CREEPER DEFEATER

Media Contact

Organization: Creeper Defeater

Contact Person: Support team

Website: https://creeperdefeater.com/

Email: Send Email

Country:United States

Release id:44765

The post Creeper Defeater Announces Critter Cannon 2.0, an Upgraded Liquid Repellant Dispenser for Targeted, Pet-friendly Pest Control appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Cloud PR Wire

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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