Strike is a Bitcoin payments application built on the Lightning Network that enables instant, low-cost global money transfers. Founded by Jack Mallers, Strike allows users to send and receive payments in Bitcoin or fiat currency, convert between the two, and pay merchants using Bitcoin rails. The app is available in the US, El Salvador, and other markets. Strike also provides merchant payment processing tools and APIs, enabling businesses to accept Bitcoin payments that settle instantly in either Bitcoin or local currency.
Velocity Black is a luxury concierge and lifestyle membership company founded in 2014 by Zia Yusuf in London, United Kingdom. The company combines artificial intelligence technology with human concierge expertise to deliver personalized luxury experiences to its members. Velocity Black positions itself as a technology-forward alternative to traditional luxury concierge services, utilizing a mobile application as the primary interface for member interactions.
The company's membership provides access to concierge services spanning travel, dining, entertainment, wellness, and exclusive experiences. Members can book luxury travel, secure reservations at sought-after restaurants, arrange private event access, procure luxury goods, and organize bespoke experiences through the app and supporting concierge team. Velocity Black also curates its own exclusive experiences, including destination-based events and member gatherings.
Velocity Black operates on an invitation-only or application-based membership model, with annual membership fees. The company's technology platform processes member requests using a combination of AI-driven matching and human concierge fulfillment, aiming to reduce response times compared to traditional phone-based concierge services. The app also provides personalized recommendations based on member preferences and past activity.
The company has offices in London and New York and serves members globally. Velocity Black has attracted venture capital investment and has been recognized in the luxury technology space for its approach to modernizing concierge services. The membership fee structure typically involves an annual subscription, with pricing varying by membership tier and market.