Mirae Asset, South Korea’s largest securities firm, has agreed to acquire crypto exchange Korbit for $92 million. This positions the firm in the country’s emerging tokenized securities market. The deal, conducted through a subsidiary to comply with regulatory constraints on direct ownership, reflects the company’s effort to connect traditional brokerage, digital bonds, tokenized securities (STOs), and exchange infrastructure. Mirae Asset aims to “secure digital asset-powered future growth engines.” This aligns with its “Mirae Asset 3.0” strategy and follows its recent issuance of private digital bonds on a blockchain. The Korbit acquisition adds exchange infrastructure to that wider strategy. Infrastructure Over Market Share While Korbit’s market share has declined to around 1% from earlier levels, the exchange remains operationally viable and strategically relevant. The acquisition's timing coincides with regulatory developments in South Korea. The government has passed legislation enabling the issuance of security tokens (STOs), while regulators are discussing plans to allow public companies and professional investors to invest directly in crypto assets starting in 2026. This move could expand institutional participation in the sector. Against this backdrop, Mirae Asset’s move appears aimed at positioning the firm ahead of potential digital asset market shifts. An Industry-Wide Convergence Mirae Asset is not alone in exploring integration between traditional finance and crypto in South Korea. Tech conglomerate Naver has reportedly pursued discussions involving market-leading exchange Upbit. Mirae Asset’s strategy targets operations in both traditional and digital asset markets. Acquiring a crypto exchange offers operational exposure that may gain importance if regulatory easing increases institutional participation or retail activity rebounds. The company’s share price rose by over 15% in the five days following the announcement. The deal highlights a broader trend in South Korea’s financial sector: growing integration between securities firms and digital asset infrastructure as regulatory clarity on tokenization emerges. This article was written by Tanya Chepkova at www.financemagnates.com.

Individual Savings Accounts are long-standing financial products in the UK, providing a tax-efficient way for people to save for emergencies, major life events, or long-term goals.Robinhood UK's launch of its stocks and shares offering comes amid growing competition in the UK ISA market. eToro recently introduced a Cash ISA through a partnership with Moneyfarm, while IG has highlighted concerns about Cash ISAs in its “Save Our Stock Market” campaign.Inflation Awareness Reduces Interest in CashRobinhood UK has launched its first Stocks & Shares ISA, offering zero account fees, low FX fees, and a 2% cash bonus on eligible contributions until 5 April 2026. The launch coincides with new research conducted by Robinhood on UK consumers’ attitudes towards ISAs, long-term saving, and investing for themselves and their families.Robinhood’s research, based on a nationally representative online survey of 3,331 UK adults and in-depth interviews conducted in late 2025, highlighted several patterns in saving and investment behavior.One key finding is that interest in Cash ISAs drops when respondents are shown the impact of inflation on cash holdings. More than a third of those initially interested lost interest after seeing the illustration. The survey found that 32% said their top priority is keeping pace with or outgrowing inflation, 30% prioritised growth potential, and 17% prioritised minimising the risk of losing money.The research also found that many Britons see investing as a reward for wealth rather than a way to build it. Respondents reported needing a median of £8,764 in cash before opening a Stocks and Shares ISA, with 19% indicating they would require more than £20,000. This tendency can leave significant sums in low-return accounts even when people are pursuing long-term goals.UK Savers Unfamiliar with Specialized ISAsUnderstanding of non-cash ISA options is lower. Just under half of respondents said they knew at least a little about Stocks and Shares ISAs. Awareness drops for more specialised products: 36% for Lifetime ISAs, 9% for Innovative Finance ISAs, and 2% for Innovate Finance ISAs. The survey suggests this reflects how savings choices are structured rather than a lack of interest in long-term saving.Jordan Sinclair, President of Robinhood UK, said that “too often, investing is seen as a reward for wealth rather than a way to build it.” He added that the launch aims to “challenge this perception and increase awareness of the role investing can play,” while emphasising that the product is not intended to replace saving, but to help UK consumers make clearer choices so their money “works harder for them.”The research included a large sample and subgroup analysis by demographic factors and saving purpose. Ten additional in-depth interviews supported the survey design. Secondary data sources were also referenced throughout the report. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

As of Monday morning, February 16, 2026, XRP price trades at $1.47, down 2.34% from the previous session. However, the XRP price surged more than 8% yesterday reaching an intraday high of around $1.66 before falling back to close at $1.509, leaving the daily chart with big one-candle sell signal.The initial spike was triggered by news that Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse was appointed to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission's (CFTC) Innovation Advisory Committee. However, the rally couldn't sustain momentum as technical weakness and profit-taking quickly reversed the gains.In this article, I am examining why XRP is falling after its brief surge on regulatory news, analyzing the XRP price chart based on my over a decade of experience as an analyst and trader, and presenting the newest XRP price predictions from major financial institutions.Follow me on X for more XRP market analysis: @ChmielDkXRP Price Catalyst: Garlinghouse Joins CFTC Innovation CommitteeBrad Garlinghouse's appointment to the CFTC's Innovation Advisory Committee was initially seen as a bullish development for XRP's regulatory outlook. This announcement came on the heels of a broader presentation where the CEO had positioned 2026 as the "institutional deployment phase" for XRP, following 2025's validation period with ETF launches and tokenization pilots.The regulatory appointment added credibility to Ripple's institutional push, particularly given the company's emphasis on dual-layer regulatory compliance with both NYDFS trust approval and an OCC federal charter for its RLUSD stablecoin. For XRP advocates, this engagement indicates a shift toward regulatory normalization that could bolster Ripple's standing in US policy discussions.[#highlighted-links#] However, as I highlighted in my January 26 analysis identifying three downside targets, positive news alone cannot overcome entrenched technical weakness when momentum indicators turn bearish and resistance levels remain intact.Technical Analysis: Why the XRP Rally Failed?According to my technical analysis, Sunday's price action created a textbook bearish reversal pattern. The cryptocurrency briefly rose sharply to the $1.67 level but ultimately closed the day with a loss of over 2% at $1.47. As shown on my chart, this created a candle with a very long upper wick and short body, whether we call it a bearish doji, bear engulfing, or falling pin bar, one thing is certain: the demand move was rejected by the bears, and the sharp price pullback suggests significant accumulation of sell orders near current resistance levels.Critical Support and Resistance ZonesResistance levels are currently located at $1.51-1.57, coinciding with local support and resistance zones from November 2024. This area has proven formidable, as Friday's 18% intraday surge was completely erased within 24 hours.As XRP continues to fall, according to my analysis, the first support level is $1.26, the flash crash low from October 10. The next support sits at $1.12, marking this year's lows tested multiple times in January and early February. In an ultra-bearish scenario, I'm targeting barely above $0.53, representing a 100% Fibonacci extension based on the descending trend that has dominated price action since mid-2025.What Must Happen for Bullish Reversal?In my view, for this strong sell signal in the form of Sunday's bearish candle to be invalidated, we would need to see several developments. First and foremost, a return above the current resistance zone, and ideally above the $1.81 level, where the November and December lows were located, also tested in late January and coinciding with the 50-day exponential moving average.The next resistance level is the round $2.00 psychological barrier, then the 200 EMA around $2.15, and finally the January peaks at $2.35. In my opinion, only then will the full selling pressure be lifted from XRP's shoulders, and we can talk about an official return to an uptrend with chances of a bounce toward the July high above $3.60.As I noted in my January 6 analysis when XRP crushed Bitcoin and Ethereum returns, the token remains capable of explosive moves, but only when technical conditions align with fundamental catalysts. Currently, those conditions remain absent.Bitcoin Correlation: The $60,000 Liquidation Cascade RiskXRP's weakness cannot be understood in isolation from Bitcoin's precarious technical position. Bitcoin currently trades around $68,700-$68,900 on February 16, 2026, after nearly breaking below the critical $60,000 support level in early February."$60,000 is the key level to watch, with strong technical significance near the 200-week moving average," Maxime Seiler of STS Digital noted.As he added about liquidation risks, "a break under $60,000 could trigger forced deleveraging and hedging flows, creating a cascade effect that drives price action. In that scenario, we would expect volatility to rise sharply as liquidations accelerate and market participants rush to protect downside exposure."The cryptocurrency market experienced over $2 billion in liquidations during February's early selloff, amplifying volatility as overleveraged positions were force-closed automatically. Bitcoin's drawdown has reached approximately 47.5% from peak to trough, while altcoins like XRP have suffered even steeper declines.XRP Price Predictions 2026-2028: Standard Chartered's Bold ForecastDespite the current technical weakness, Standard Chartered remains aggressively bullish on XRP's medium-term prospects. Geoffrey Kendrick, the bank's head of digital assets research, predicts XRP could reach $8 by the end of 2026, a 430% gain from current levels around $1.47.The forecast factors in XRP's institutional utility for cross-border payments, particularly as banking partners expand their use of Ripple's technology. Standard Chartered notes that programs like Japan's Financial Infrastructure Innovation Program, backed by Mizuho Bank and SMBC Nikko Securities, are fostering startups building on the XRP Ledger, cementing its role in the financial ecosystem.What Happens Next? XRP Near-Term OutlookAccording to my analysis, XRP's immediate trajectory depends on two critical factors: whether it can defend the $1.26 support level (October flash crash low), and whether Bitcoin can hold above $60,000 to prevent a broader liquidation cascade.Bearish scenario: A Bitcoin break below $60,000 combined with XRP's failure to reclaim $1.51 resistance would likely push the token toward $1.12 (2026 lows), with potential for further decline to $0.53 in an extended capitulation event.Neutral scenario: XRP consolidates between $1.26 and $1.57 for several weeks as ETF inflows continue to accumulate, creating a base for eventual breakout once Bitcoin stabilizes and macro conditions improve.Bullish scenario: Bitcoin rallies above $72,000, triggering a short squeeze in XRP above $1.81 resistance. This would open the path toward $2.00 psychological level, then $2.35 (January highs), with Standard Chartered's $8 year-end target coming into play if institutional adoption accelerates as predicted.FAQ: XRP Price Questions AnsweredWhy is XRP price falling today?XRP fell 2.34% to $1.47 on February 16, 2026, unable to sustain Saturday's 8% rally to $1.66 triggered by Brad Garlinghouse's CFTC appointment. According to my technical analysis, a bearish doji pattern with long upper wick signals rejection at $1.51-1.57 resistance, while broader crypto market weakness and Bitcoin's proximity to the critical $60,000 level create persistent downward pressure.How low can XRP go?Based on my technical analysis, XRP has support at $1.26 (October flash crash low), then $1.12 (2026 YTD lows). In an ultra-bearish scenario with Bitcoin breaking $60,000, I'm targeting $0.53 representing a 100% Fibonacci extension. However, $1.4 billion in ETF inflows suggests institutional buyers would likely step in before such extreme levels.What is XRP price prediction for 2026-2028?Standard Chartered's Geoffrey Kendrick predicts $8 by end of 2026 (430% gain from current $1.47), $10-12 in 2027, and $12.50 by 2028. The forecast assumes $4-8 billion total ETF inflows, continued regulatory clarity, and expansion of Ripple's cross-border payment adoption.Will XRP recover after this decline?Recovery requires reclaiming $1.81 (50 EMA, November-December lows), then $2.00 psychological level, and finally $2.35 (January peaks) to invalidate the bearish structure. Bitcoin stabilizing above $70,000 would provide crucial support. Standard Chartered maintains conviction despite current weakness, suggesting institutional players expect eventual recovery. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin warns that prediction markets are drifting toward low-value gambling rather than long-term utility. He argues that excessive reliance on such activity creates what he calls a “fundamentally ‘cursed’” dynamic. “Prediction markets seem to be over-converging to an unhealthy product market fit: embracing short-term cryptocurrency price bets, sports betting, and other similar things that have dopamine value but not any kind of long-term fulfillment or societal information value,” Buterin wrote. He described this slide toward low-value, high-volume betting as "corposlop," a term he uses to describe platforms that focus on mass-market, addictive gambling products instead of substantive, socially beneficial financial tools.Recently I have been starting to worry about the state of prediction markets, in their current form. They have achieved a certain level of success: market volume is high enough to make meaningful bets and have a full-time job as a trader, and they often prove useful as a…— vitalik.eth (@VitalikButerin) February 14, 2026Notably, in December 2025, he described participation in prediction markets as “healthier” than in traditional markets and argued that concerns around prediction markets were exaggerated and that these markets represented a more truth-seeking alternative to traditional finance. A Pivot Toward Generalized Hedging Buterin proposes that, rather than relying on the current model dominated by short-term betting, prediction markets could evolve into highly personalized hedging tools. By allowing individuals to hold assets like stocks or ETH for growth and then use prediction market positions to achieve stability, prediction markets could potentially replace the need for fiat-backed stablecoins. “We do not need fiat currency at all!” he wrote. “People can hold stocks, ETH, or whatever else to grow wealth, and personalized prediction market shares when they want stability." Buterin suggests prediction markets evolve into generalized hedging utilities, offering insurance-like functions rather than mere speculative entertainment.A Strategic Dilemma for the Industry Buterin's recalibrated position arrives as prediction markets experience rapid growth and increased institutional investment; platforms including Kalshi and Polymarket now command multi-billion dollar valuations, while major players like Jump Trading and Coinbase stake significant claims. His comments point to a structural dilemma for the industry: a choice between competing product equilibria - one driven by short-term engagement and transactional volume, and another by long-term hedging and utility.For existing platforms that thrive on sports and crypto bets, a successful pivot requires realigning incentives rather than abandoning basic models. This article was written by Tanya Chepkova at www.financemagnates.com.

Cryptocurrency exchange OKX has secured a Payment Institution license in Malta. The authorization falls under the European Union’s payments framework and aligns OKX’s payment services with the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation and the Second Payment Services Directive.The PI license follows OKX’s MiCA license, granted by the Malta Financial Services Authority in January last year. The MiCA license allows the company to offer localized services to customers across the European Union through passporting. EU users can access regulated crypto exchange products, including OTC trading, spot trading, bot and copy trading, and more than 240 cryptocurrency tokens across 300 trading pairs.OKX Faces AML Fine Post-MiCAAlso last year, OKX was fined €1.1 million by Malta’s Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit for anti‑money‑laundering failures in 2023. The FIAU said that while OKX had improved its AML policies, its business risk assessment did not fully address risks from cryptocurrency mixers, privacy coins, stablecoins, and decentralized exchanges. The fine indicates that the MiCA license does not exempt the company from past compliance issues. The company also announced its acquisition of a MiFIDII‑licensed entity in the same year. JUST IN: @okx secures a Payment Institution (PI) license in Malta ahead of the EU’s March regulatory deadline.The approval allows OKX to offer stablecoin-related payment services across the EU in compliance with MiCA and PSD2. pic.twitter.com/HWBxX9xzJr— Satoshi Club (@esatoshiclub) February 16, 2026Malta PI License Covers OKX PayOn the new license, OKX Europe CEO Erald Ghoos said that “securing a Payment Institution license ensures that these products operate on a fully compliant footing.” He added that “Europe has chosen clarity over ambiguity when it comes to digital asset regulation” and that stablecoins can improve cross‑border efficiency and reduce friction in payments, “but only if built within strong regulatory guardrails.”The PI license will cover products including OKX Pay and the OKX Card, which allow users to spend crypto assets and stablecoins. The OKX Card, launched in late January, supports stablecoins such as Circle’s USDC and the Paxos-issued Global Dollar. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, February, 16, 2026 – CXM Group has been awarded the prestigious “Best Gold Trading Broker 2026” title at iFX EXPO Dubai 2026, recognizing the broker’s leadership in precious metals trading and its commitment to delivering institutional‑grade conditions to retail and professional clients.As a Diamond Sponsor at this year’s event, CXM showcased its deep gold liquidity, ultra‑tight spreads, and advanced execution infrastructure to thousands of attendees from across the global trading industry. The award highlights CXM’s strength in providing a premium gold trading environment built for all types of traders.“This award reflects the depth of our XAU liquidity, our focus on fast and reliable execution, and our commitment to delivering a robust trading environment that supports our clients in all market conditions,” said Bassel El Harakeh, CEO, CXM (MENA)Winning the “Best Gold Trading Broker 2026” award at iFX EXPO Dubai 2026 marks another important milestone in CXM’s growth trajectory in the FX and CFD industry and, more importantly, underscores the company’s leadership in gold trading.About CXM GroupEstablished in 2015, CXM Group is a global leader in the Forex and CFD industry and one of the largest B2B brokers in Asia, serving institutional and retail clients and handling more than 2,000,000 trades daily across 150 countries. CXM provides a wide range of services and offers a diverse selection of financial products spanning various asset classes, including Forex, Metals, Commodities, Indices, Shares, Cryptocurrencies, and ETFs. For more information, visit CXM’s website. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Beeks Financial Cloud Group reported first-half revenue of £14.7 million for the six months ending December 31, a 7% decline from the same period last year, even as the company secured its largest batch of contracts to date.Cloud Provider Beeks Burns Cash to Fund Record Pipeline of Exchange DealsThe AIM-listed cloud provider for financial firms (LSE: BKS) attributed the revenue drop to timing issues with its Proximity Cloud product and an ongoing transition to revenue-share arrangements with exchange clients. Those deals take longer to show up as recognized revenue but promise steadier long-term income streams."The first half of FY26 has seen strong commercial momentum across all offerings, securing multiple large-scale contracts, demonstrating the growing demand for our secure, high-performance cloud infrastructure across the global financial markets," CEO Gordon McArthur said in the statement. Beeks closed several major deals late in the period, including two Exchange Cloud contracts and multiple Private Cloud and Proximity Cloud agreements worth a combined £7 million. About half that amount should convert to revenue in the second half of the fiscal year ending June 2026.Financial SnapshotRecurring Revenue Base Grows as One-Time Sales SlowThe company's annual contracted monthly recurring revenue climbed to £32.8m from £28.5m a year earlier, reflecting 15% growth in its Private Cloud business. That metric tracks the predictable revenue Beeks can expect from ongoing client relationships rather than one-time implementations.The shift mirrors a broader trend in financial technology infrastructure. Beeks posted 26% revenue growth for its full fiscal year 2025, driven largely by exchange contracts. But as those relationships mature, the revenue recognition pattern changes."We have entered the second half of the year with record levels of revenue visibility, underscoring our confidence in full year numbers, and our focus remains on executing against a strong pipeline,” the CEO added.The company now works with seven exchanges globally under various arrangements. In December, it secured a £4 million five-year contract with a large FX broker and signed a deal with a Canadian bank. Earlier that month, Beeks landed its fifth exchange client of 2025 through a revenue-sharing agreement with nuam, a Latin American holding company operating across Chile, Colombia, and Peru.Cash Position Tightens on Infrastructure SpendingNet cash dropped to £3.3 million from £7.0 million in June 2025, a 53% decline driven by upfront investments in infrastructure to support the new contracts. The company tapped debt facilities to fund deployment of its Proximity Cloud, Exchange Cloud, and Private Cloud platforms.Gross cash remained relatively stable at £7.0 million compared to £7.4 million six months earlier. The company said it needed to spend ahead of revenue recognition to get new exchange and proximity hosting sites operational.Exchange Cloud contracts typically require Beeks to build out data center presence near trading venues before revenue starts flowing. Under revenue-share models, the company earns a percentage of client trading activity over time rather than collecting large upfront fees.Last year, the company's first-half profit jumped 31% to £1.8m on revenue of £15.8m, with management saying performance was tracking board expectations. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Arboris Capital Limited, a financial services firm regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, announced the launch of its CapGain platform within the Dubai International Financial Centre. The platform is designed to provide a structured digital environment for Professional Clients and Market Counterparties to access private market opportunities, including private equity, private credit, and infrastructure.Arboris Launches CapGain for Private MarketsThe launch comes as interest in alternative and private market strategies continues to grow. According to the McKinsey Global Private Markets Report 2025, the private markets industry is valued at approximately $22 trillion. Traditionally, accessing these markets has involved manual processes and relied on institutional networks and personal relationships, creating barriers for many investors.Richard Chalhoub, Chairman and Executive Director at Arboris Capital, said: “Regional investors have long sought a more efficient route to access private markets. CapGain is designed to support that participation through a structured process for evaluation and subscription.”Arboris Capital Limited is a DIFC-based firm regulated by the DFSA The firm focuses on mergers, acquisitions, and alternative and private market investment strategies. It offers advising and arranging services across the capital structure, from equity and debt to alternative investments. Arboris Platform Centralises Documentation and ProcessesThe platform consolidates key steps such as opportunity review, due diligence tools, and subscription workflows into a single digital environment. Xavier Remond, Senior Executive Officer at Arboris Capital, said: “A growing share of investment opportunities are emerging in private markets. CapGain is designed to bridge the structural barriers that have historically made private markets difficult to navigate for eligible investors.”CapGain provides selected deal flow, structured data, and investor communication tools. It also centralises documentation to reduce administrative tasks and support efficient decision-making. The platform includes a learning library and masterclasses focused on private markets. Educational materials can be provided in investors’ preferred languages to assist review processes. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Plus500 kicked off a new $100 million share buyback program today (Monday), the latest piece of a broader capital return plan that will see the trading platform distribute $187.5 million to investors this year.Plus500 Launches $100 Million Share Buyback ProgramThe Israel-founded, London-listed company announced the buyback alongside $87.5 million in dividends when it reported its 2025 results on February 9. Plus500 posted revenue of $792.4 million last year, up 3% from 2024, while earnings per share jumped 10% to $3.93. The company closed the year with roughly $800 million in cash on its balance sheet."This significant Share Buyback Program is consistent with Plus500's disciplined capital allocation framework and reflects the Group's robust financial position, cash generative business model and the Board's ongoing confidence in the Group's ability to deliver strong shareholder returns over the medium-term," the company said in a statement.Panmure Liberum will manage the buyback under an irrevocable arrangement that gives the broker discretion over timing and execution. Plus500 can purchase up to 3.8 million shares under existing shareholder authority, though it plans to seek additional authorization at its upcoming annual meeting. The program will run through the release of 2026 full-year results.Buyback Strategy Mirrors RivalsPlus500's latest capital return follows a string of similar programs at the company and its London-listed competitors. The broker launched a $90 million buyback in August 2025 and extended an earlier program by $110 million in August 2024.IG Group, another CFD platform operator, launched a £125 million program in September 2025 through Morgan Stanley. The company later added £50 million to an existing £150 million buyback that started in 2024.Since its 2013 IPO, Plus500 has returned roughly $2.9 billion to shareholders through dividends and buybacks. Shares repurchased under the program will sit in treasury without voting rights or dividend entitlements.Client Deposits Surge Despite Fewer CustomersAverage customer deposits jumped 124% to roughly $26,900 per active user in 2025, though active customer numbers slipped 5% to 242,440. The company said the shift reflects its focus on attracting higher-value traders.Average revenue per user climbed 8% to $3,268, while customer acquisition costs fell 13% to $1,267. Roughly half of the company's OTC revenue came from clients who had been trading with Plus500 for more than five years.The company's EBITDA rose 2% to $348.1 million on a reported basis, though currency-adjusted EBITDA grew 8%. Plus500 said it expects 2026 results to beat current analyst expectations, which call for revenue of $749.3 million and EBITDA of $348.4 million. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

The global FX market is expanding rapidly, driven by digital-first traders who demand seamless, reliable ways to fund their accounts. Yet while trading is global, payment expectations remain local. This gap is becoming more visible as the scale of global payments accelerates. Digital payment transaction value is projected to reach $24 trillion dollars by 2025, and annual cross-border payments are moving toward $1 quadrillion dollars. At the same time, traders continue to rely on familiar regional methods rather than global ones.For FX brokers competing in an increasingly crowded landscape, delivering localized, frictionless payments is becoming a key differentiator. This theme is central to Paysafe’s recent whitepaper, The forex payment optimization playbook. Readers can download it via the link below for practical guidance on building a more effective, scalable FX payment strategy.Get the Forex Payment Optimization PlaybookLocal payment methods are essential to trader conversionIt’s become abundantly clear that payment performance directly affects acquisition. When traders encounter friction at the funding stage, they often abandon the process. High decline rates are a major contributor to this issue, especially when preferred local methods are unavailable to users. For example, while a trader in Europe may rely on bank transfers, one in Latin America may use eCash or a local wallet. In other regions, digital wallets or instant payment rails are the norm. Without the right regional options, payment success rates fall, and trust erodes before the trading relationship even begins.This directly affects key business metrics. A lack of regional payment options reduces conversion rates, increases acquisition costs, and erodes trader confidence. With that in mind, brokers who offer locally preferred payment methods can gain an immediate advantage in onboarding and activation.Fragmentation and compliance challenge global scalingScaling across regions introduces a range of operational complexities. Each jurisdiction has its own mix of banking relationships, regulations, and payment behaviors. It’s a somewhat fragmented ecosystem, making it difficult to provide a consistent funding experience. The result is a higher operational cost and a more complex payment infrastructure.Compliance adds an additional layer of difficulty. Anti-Money Laundering and Know Your Customer requirements are essential across all FX markets. However, when these checks are not integrated into the payment process, they slow down account funding and introduce uncertainty. This often pushes traders toward competitors with smoother, more transparent processes.In this environment, brokers need payment systems that can adapt to regional differences while maintaining consistency across the platform.Building a localized payments stack for global growthDelivering a localized payment experience requires more than adding a few extra methods at checkout. It depends on having the right underlying infrastructure to support regional preferences at scale. For FX brokers, this starts with offering fast and reliable funding tools, such as digital wallets that enable quick deposits and withdrawals. Traders expect to move funds in and out of their accounts with minimal delay, and wallets provide a consistent way to meet these expectations across different markets.Another important component is intelligent transaction routing. By automatically directing payments through the most effective pathway based on geography, issuer, and payment type, brokers can reduce decline rates and improve authorization success. This has a direct impact on conversion, especially in markets where card performance varies widely.Flexibility is also key. Modern API integrations allow brokers to plug in new local payment methods quickly as they expand into new regions. This avoids the need for complex redevelopment work while ensuring traders always see payment options that feel familiar.Visibility is equally critical. Real-time reporting gives brokers insight into how payments perform across regions, highlighting where friction occurs and where optimization is needed. These insights help refine the payment experience continuously rather than relying on trial and error.Finally, compliance must fit seamlessly into the payment flow. Automated checks that validate identity and meet regulatory requirements in each jurisdiction help reduce delays while maintaining both speed and security.When these elements work together, brokers can deliver a localized, high-performing payment experience in every market they serve, supporting both global expansion and long-term trader trust.The ROI of localization and the future of FX paymentsFor brokers focused on global expansion, localization ensures that the payment experience scales alongside the trading experience. As FX trading becomes even more global, local payment expectations will continue to shape competitive outcomes. By building a localized and future-ready payments infrastructure today, brokers can position themselves for long-term growth and stronger trader relationships.To explore the full findings, regional insights, and optimization strategies, download Paysafe’s recent whitepaper, The forex payment optimization playbook. Get the Forex Payment Optimization Playbook This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Pepperstone Launches Spot Crypto ExchangePepperstone has launched a dedicated spot cryptocurrency exchange, initially for users in Australia. At launch, the platform lists Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, USDC, and USDT, all paired against the Australian dollar. Trading carries a flat fee of 0.1%. CEO Tamas Szabo said the company built the exchange infrastructure in-house to maintain oversight of liquidity, execution, and security. Pepperstone will continue offering crypto CFDs separately. The move follows Szabo’s announcement last November at AusCryptoCon, reflecting a broader trend: industry observers note that other CFD brokers, including IG Group and CMC Markets, are expanding into spot crypto services.CFD Brokers Accelerate Shift to CryptoIndustry perticipants highlighted the operational challenges of creating a standalone crypto unit. They said, “execution quality, compliance oversight and operational resilience remain central as brokers and crypto exchanges increasingly converge in product scope and client expectations.” Rising spot volumes and clearer regulations have supported the shift, as brokers weigh the trade-offs between in-house infrastructure and white-label solutions while managing custody, liquidity, and treasury responsibilities.2025 crypto exchange activity in review.Spot volume reached $18.6T (+9% YoY) while perpetuals surged to $61.7T (+29%), with Binance dominating spot, BTC perps, liquidity, and reserves.Growth is derivative-led, and market power continues to concentrate at the top. pic.twitter.com/Om8udJJ9Qv— CryptoQuant.com (@cryptoquant_com) January 12, 2026European CFD Brokers Shift to Listed DerivativesA related trend can be seen in Europe, where CFD brokers are increasingly offering exchange-traded futures and options, according to a survey by Acuiti for CME Group. The shift comes amid tighter restrictions on high-leverage OTC products. Transitioning to listed derivatives changes revenue models, with less reliance on internal B-Book profits and greater dependence on commissions, financing, and ancillary services. Margins per trade may decline, but listed products offer more predictable income and reduced regulatory risk. Data from IG Group indicate growing momentum in listed derivatives despite near-term profitability pressures and higher client education costs.Plus500 Reports Higher Deposits Despite Fewer ClientsFinancial metrics from Plus500 illustrate another dimension of broker performance. The firm reported FY2025 revenue of $792.4 million and EBITDA of $348.1 million. Active clients fell 5% to 242,440, while new customers dropped 11% to 104,902. However, the average deposit per active customer rose 124% to about $26,900. Average revenue per user increased 8% to $3,268, and acquisition cost declined 13% to $1,267. Earnings per share rose 10% to $3.93. The company launched a $100 million share buyback and declared $87.5 million in dividends. Non-OTC revenue exceeded $100 million, reflecting growth in US futures and other exchange-traded segments.NAGA Revenue Stable Amid Market HeadwindsSimilarly, NAGA Group reported group revenue of EUR 62.4 million in 2025, slightly below the prior year. FX-adjusted revenue rose 3.5% to EUR 65.4 million. EBITDA fell to EUR 3.3 million from EUR 4.7 million FX-adjusted, with the company citing low market volatility and “structural headwinds” across the trading sector. Client numbers surpassed 2.5 million, with over 180,000 funded accounts. Marketing spend increased 15.6% to support acquisitions, while average revenue per user rose 6.4% and withdrawals fell 21%. NAGA expects 2026 revenue of EUR 68–75 million and EBITDA of EUR 10–15 million, emphasizing an AI-first approach to operations.ISO 20022 Migration Highlights Operational GapsOperational shifts are not limited to brokers. The ISO 20022 migration, implemented by SWIFT on 22 November 2025, replaced legacy MT messages for cross-border payments. Adoption reached 97% on day one, though many firms rely on translation services rather than native processing, introducing new costs and operational risks. The standard requires detailed beneficiary information, purpose codes, and remittance data. Brokers face workflow adjustments in client funding, including enhanced validation and back-office tasks. Meanwhile, crypto platforms can leverage ISO 20022 to integrate fiat rails with traditional banking systems.Bithumb Accidentally Distributes Billions in BitcoinOperational risks were also highlighted in South Korea, where exchange Bithumb mistakenly credited customers with over $40 billion worth of Bitcoin. A 2,000 KRW marketing reward was distributed as BTC. BITHUMB ACCIDENTALLY SENDS OUT 2000 BTC TO USERS WHO IMMEDIATELY MARKET DUMP A major operational mistake at South Korea’s crypto exchange Bithumb reportedly led to the accidental distribution of 2,000 BTC ($130M) instead of 2,000 KRW ($1.50) as a rewards payout.According to… pic.twitter.com/GonGPdJ97r— Bitcoin News (@BitcoinNewsCom) February 6, 2026The exchange restricted affected accounts and recovered 99.7% within 24 hours. Bithumb said the incident was “not related to a hack” and pledged to improve verification systems and deploy AI to detect abnormal transactions. The error underscores ongoing concerns about platform integrity and operational controls.FCA to Regulate UK BNPL SectorRegulatory oversight continues to expand in adjacent financial sectors. The UK Financial Conduct Authority will regulate buy now, pay later (BNPL) services starting 15 July 2026. The rules aim to ensure credit is only extended to those able to repay. BNPL firms active as of 15 July 2025 must apply for a temporary permission regime, while those that do not seek authorization must stop regulated BNPL activities. Pre-existing agreements remain exempt. The approach follows consultations and aligns with frameworks in other countries, including Australia.iFX EXPO Dubai 2026 OpensIn events coverage, iFX EXPO Dubai 2026 exhibition began on 11 February at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The three-day event includes keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and networking. Participants include retail brokers, fintech firms, liquidity providers, and service companies. Sessions cover trading fundamentals, broker liquidity, AI in trading, stablecoins, digital assets, fintech leadership, risk management, and MENA regulation. Workshops provide practical guidance on trade execution, risk management, and portfolio strategies. The first day concluded with awards and networking events.MENA Finance Leaders Discuss Markets and TechnologyThe final day of iFX EXPO highlighted financial discipline, wealth strategies, geopolitics, trading technology, operational risk, digital currencies, tokenization, and crypto trends. Speakers represented KojoForex, Markets.com, CEPR, TradingView, My Forex Funds, Galadari Accelerator, and Versus On Chain. Key discussions included the UAE’s Digital Dirham, AI and algorithmic trading, bullion markets, and regional regulatory updates. Advanced workshops focused on trade execution, risk management, and portfolio development. Overall, the event emphasized sustainable wealth, resilience, and the integration of technology and digital assets in financial markets. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

iFX EXPO Dubai 2026 did not resemble a typical industry gathering centered only on product launches or headline remarks. Over three days at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the tone was measured and operational. Discussions reflected a sector moving into a more mature phase.Sustainability Over ExpansionFrom the opening of the exhibition floor to the final meetings, the dominant theme was sustainability. Speakers focused on business models, liquidity structures, regulatory positioning, and trader behavior. Growth was discussed, but not as an objective at any cost.Panels on liquidity management, brokerage scaling, and margin optimization emphasized efficiency. Executives addressed flow structuring and execution stability. Conversations examined how to stabilize spreads during volatility, how to balance retail and institutional flows, and how to prevent operational blind spots from escalating into broader risk. The language suggested recalibration after years marked by market turbulence, proprietary trading firm failures, and regulatory shifts.Regulation as InfrastructureRegulation was framed as infrastructure rather than limitation. Sessions connected to the UAE’s virtual asset framework pointed to a jurisdiction seeking to shape standards. Panels reviewed licensing processes, leverage considerations, and supervisory models. Compliance was described as a prerequisite for long-term credibility and institutional engagement.Payments discussions reinforced this structural focus. Sessions on cross-border wallets and the UAE’s Digital Dirham initiative highlighted changes in settlement systems. Stablecoins were presented as settlement tools and liquidity bridges rather than speculative assets. The emphasis remained on interoperability, coordination, and practical deployment across traditional and digital finance.Applied Technology, Measured ExpectationsArtificial intelligence was discussed in operational terms. Speakers referred to pricing optimization, predictive retention models, and anomaly detection in risk systems. They also acknowledged constraints, including misclassification risks and overreliance on automation. The focus was on measurable outcomes and cost-benefit trade-offs rather than long-term projections.Trading Psychology and Structural LossesHuman factors received sustained attention. Sessions examined burnout, cognitive overload, and overtrading in continuous markets. One speaker summarized the structural nature of risk, stating, “The one thing guaranteed in trading… losses. It’s the only thing guaranteed. You’re not guaranteed to win… The only thing guaranteed in trading is that you will lose.” The comment framed volatility and drawdowns as inherent features of markets rather than exceptions.The same speaker added that many traders are “always hunting for something that means that they won’t lose,” even though loss is embedded in the process. The emphasis was on managing losses within a disciplined, long-term framework rather than attempting to eliminate them.Retail trading panels echoed similar themes. The statistic that most traders lose money was examined rather than dismissed. Speakers analyzed behavioral bias and transaction-driven revenue structures. Workshops on execution and fundamentals drew consistent attendance, indicating demand for structured approaches.Market Structure and Capital FlowsIn sessions focused on execution and price action, attention shifted to market mechanics. One presenter noted, “Regardless of your strategy, whether you’re a scalper, a day trader, a swing trader, it doesn’t matter.” The speaker continued, “What matters is your understanding of what’s going on behind those candles — the buyers and sellers.”The argument was that performance depends on understanding order flow and positioning rather than relying solely on strategy labels. As the presenter stated, “The best traders… understand what’s going on behind the markets. They understand the money flows.” Over the past 12 to 24 months, those flows have been visible in areas such as AI, semiconductor equities, and data infrastructure. The discussion highlighted capital rotation as a central factor in price formation.Geopolitics, Commodities, and Portfolio BalanceGeopolitics and commodities added context. Analysts reviewed how political risk is priced across oil, gold, and industrial metals. Discussions referenced tensions in multiple regions and their impact on volatility. Risk management sessions returned to stress testing, diversification, and disciplined leverage use.Gold featured prominently in several panels. Conversations addressed bullion volatility and central bank demand. Rather than framing digital assets and traditional stores of value as opposites, speakers suggested coexistence within diversified portfolios.The UAE’s Strategic PositioningThe UAE’s positioning featured throughout the event. Sessions highlighted digital asset integration into everyday transactions, including fuel retail and airline partnerships. Regulatory clarity and institutional backing were presented as structural advantages. Informal discussions reflected similar assessments.A Shift in Industry MindsetBy the final day, the pace of the exhibition floor appeared deliberate. Meetings focused on long-term alignment rather than immediate transactions. Brokers met payment providers. Fintech firms engaged regulators. AI vendors connected with liquidity providers. The interactions reflected an increasingly interconnected ecosystem.The central outcome of iFX EXPO Dubai 2026 was not a single announcement or technology. It was a shift in emphasis. The focus moved from expansion to durability, from speculation to structure, and from isolated innovation to integrated systems.The discussions suggested that in MENA, the industry is prioritizing infrastructure, oversight, and operational resilience. The direction appears incremental. The approach is pragmatic. The emphasis is endurance. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

This week, prediction markets offered a lesson in how quietly a market can spread across territories until it is virtually everywhere. They have morphed from a niche experiment into a hybrid of betting, crypto culture, and online speculation almost before anyone could blink. Now, event contracts are part of both the financial system and everyday life: retail brokerage flows, institutional trading desks, sports ecosystems, and data infrastructure. Retail Engine Gains Traction Event contracts have become a growth engine for Robinhood. More than 12 billion contracts were traded on the platform in 2025, including 8.5 billion in Q4 alone. Early January data suggests momentum is continuing into 2026. Notably, crypto trading revenue declined 38% year over year. CEO Vlad Tenev has positioned prediction markets alongside equities, options, and banking products rather than as an experimental add-on. The signal is clear: for large retail brokers, event contracts are emerging as an engagement engine capable of offsetting weaker crypto activity. Wall Street Steps In Institutional players are moving deeper into the space. Proprietary trading firm Jump Trading is set to take small equity stakes in Kalshi and Polymarket in exchange for liquidity provision. The arrangements resemble venture-style deals and highlight the strategic value of market-making in event contracts. Meanwhile, Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), owner of the NYSE, launched a Polymarket Signals and Sentiment tool that normalises and distributes prediction-market probabilities to institutional investors. Under the partnership, ICE acts as the exclusive distributor of Polymarket data for capital markets clients. Sports and Esports Go Native On the consumer side, integration into entertainment ecosystems is accelerating. Tournament organiser BLAST announced Polymarket as its official prediction partner for the 2026 season, marking what is believed to be the first major prediction-market sponsorship in esports. Markets will be integrated into broadcast segments and live events across BLAST’s Counter-Strike and Dota 2 tournaments.In traditional sports, analysts estimate that prediction markets captured roughly 80% of year-on-year growth in Super Bowl wagering activity, operating under federal oversight by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission rather than state gambling regimes. The competitive dynamic is shifting as prediction markets are operating under a different regulatory model. The Competitive Edge: Regulation as Strategy The Super Bowl data underscores a broader theme: regulatory positioning is becoming a competitive weapon. By framing themselves as federally regulated event-contract venues, platforms such as Kalshi have gained access to markets where traditional sportsbooks face state-level restrictions. At the same time, incumbents are launching their own prediction-style products to defend market share. The growth is not just product-driven. It is architecture-driven. Bottom Line This week’s developments point to one overarching trend: prediction markets are no longer a side experiment at the edge of crypto or betting culture. They are becoming embedded across retail brokerage apps, institutional data feeds, proprietary trading desks, and global sports entertainment. From Robinhood’s volume surge to Jump’s liquidity deals, from ICE’s data integration to esports partnerships, prediction markets are evolving into a layer of financial infrastructure. The least predictable outcome is about how quickly the markets built around those events become part of the system itself. This article was written by Tanya Chepkova at www.financemagnates.com.

The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission has confirmed that the Investors Compensation Fund has withdrawn the membership of two firms, VMVita Markets Ltd and HTFX EU Ltd. Both had previously been licensed as Cyprus Investment Firms and offered retail trading services, including contracts for difference.The changes come amid a broader regulatory update, as CySEC seeks to adjust the cost of doing regulated investment business in Cyprus. The consultation covers Cyprus Investment Firms, foreign branches, and market operators, introducing higher licence and service fees as well as charges for material change notifications and algorithmic trading. [#highlighted-links#] The update also removes some outdated items, including a crypto‑services approval fee now covered under EU MiCA rules, aligning costs more closely with firms’ size, business model, and turnover.Clients Retain Rights Despite ICF WithdrawalToday’s (Friday) move follows CySEC’s earlier decision to revoke the investment firm licences of both companies. HTFX’s licence withdrawal has already been reported by Finance Magnates, though no further details were provided on the reasons for the cancellations.CySEC clarified that the loss of ICF membership “does not mean loss of rights of covered clients to receive compensation in relation to investment operations carried out until the loss of membership status” if conditions for compensation are met. The regulator added that the change “does not obstruct the initiation of the compensation procedure for covered clients.”The ICF provides limited compensation to eligible clients if a regulated firm cannot return client funds or instruments. It does not cover trading losses, and compensation is capped per eligible client.Cyprus CFD Brokers Face Regulatory ChangesWith the withdrawal of membership, both firms are no longer part of the investor protection scheme for future business. Clients may still seek compensation for eligible past dealings under the fund’s rules.The action comes amid wider regulatory changes in Cyprus, where several CFD and retail brokers have recently seen licence cancellations or have voluntarily left the market. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Silver crashed more than 10% during Thursday's trading session, marking one of the three most violent selloffs since the COVID-19 pandemic began nearly six years ago. The white metal lost approximately $9 in value during that single session, though prices remain within technically safe zones as of Friday, February 13, 2026.According to my technical analysis, the $80 level is once again acting as resistance, these were the highs from late 2025, and the 50-day exponential moving average (50 EMA) currently runs almost horizontally through this zone, reinforcing this resistance level. This level was already tested from above during Friday's session, when silver changed hands at $77 per ounce, which may be a short-term signal of continued correction momentum.In this article, I am examining why silver is falling after its historic crash, analyzing the silver price chart based on over a decade of experience as an analyst and trader, and presenting the newest silver price predictions from major financial institutions for 2026-2027.Follow me on X for more silver market analysis:@ChmielDkSilver Price Today. Recovery Attempt After 10% Single-Day PlungeSilver rose to approximately $78.91 per troy ounce on Friday, up 5.52% from Thursday's $74.78 close, recovering some of the brutal losses. However, the metal remains down 16.69% over the past month, with prices oscillating between $73 and $90 throughout early February."The silver market is currently experiencing one of its most sensitive and complex phases since the beginning of the latest monetary tightening cycle," Rania Gule, Senior Market Analyst at XS.com, noted.[#highlighted-links#] As she added about the current rebound, "this contradictory movement reflects a clear struggle between short-term technical factors supporting a rebound and deeper fundamental pressures weighing on the broader trend."The Thursday crash represented silver's third-hardest single-day decline in six years, following the brutal 33% flash crash on January 30 when prices plummeted from $121 to $76. That earlier selloff was triggered by Reuters reporting about ending US strategic metals support, which sparked algorithmic panic selling and forced mass liquidations across precious metals markets.Silver Technical Analysis: Key Support and Resistance LevelsAs shown on my chart, we now have another crucial support zone forming around the $70 level, defined by local lows from late December, the February 2 minimum, and where the selling pressure halted on February 5. Even if this level breaks, the next significant support zone appears around $55, where the 200-day moving average runs alongside historical highs from October 2025.Critical Price Levels to Watch:Immediate resistance: $80 (50 EMA, late 2025 highs)First support: $70 (late December/early February lows)Major support: $55 (200 EMA, October 2025 highs)Bullish breakout level: $90 (psychological resistance)Path to ATH: $100 psychological level, then $120 (January 29 high)"The pullback in gold and silver reflects a wider cross-asset correction rather than a metals-specific move," Laurence Booth, Global Head of Markets at CMC Markets, said. As he added about the broader picture, "while there has been consolidation from recent highs, the complex remains firmly higher year-to-date."For silver to seriously consider a move toward all-time highs again, we would first need to see a breakout of local resistance and a return above the $90 level, where another significant resistance zone emerges. Not counting the psychological $100 level—which also attracts profit-taking orders, the path toward $120, last tested on January 29, should reopen once these hurdles clear.Why Is Silver Price Falling? Key Market DriversSeveral interconnected factors explain the current silver weakness:Fed policy uncertainty: The Federal Reserve maintained its 3.5-3.75% target range in January, pausing the easing cycle and signaling cautious assessment of incoming dataProfit-taking after extreme rally: Silver surged 65% in January 2026 alone following a 150% gain in 2025, creating massive profit-taking pressureCross-asset correlation: Silver dropped alongside tech stocks and crypto, with OANDA Japan slashing gold/silver trading limits by 70% due to extreme volatilityLiquidity concerns: CME Group increased margin requirements following the January flash crash, reducing speculative positioningAccording to my analysis, even if a more significant correction occurs, the 50 EMA combined with the psychological $4,700 per ounce level for gold provides substantial support for the precious metals complex. I've also identified a zone around the late October and early November lows as another critical support area for related metals positioning."Across precious metals, we anticipate a more sideways bias to develop, with easing volatility potentially encouraging renewed participation in gold," Booth added about near-term expectations.Silver Price Predictions 2026-2027: What Banks ForecastDespite the recent volatility, major financial institutions maintain constructive medium-term views on silver, though with significantly more cautious near-term outlooks than their January forecasts.Institutional Silver Forecasts:HSBC's Colin Steel raised the bank's 2026 average silver forecast from $44.50 to $68.25 per ounce, citing "persistent physical tightness, strong investor demand and a supportive macro backdrop". However, Steel views current prices as "fundamentally overvalued" and expects volatility to persist with "likely upside spikes" as long as near-term tightness endures.Earlier, my January 20 piece on silver's rally highlighted Robert Kiyosaki's $200 forecast and Robert Maloney's $375 target, though these extreme predictions now appear less probable following the correction.The synchronized gold and silver selloff on January 30 marked the worst single-day decline since 2013, with gold crashing 8% and silver plunging 17%. Yet both metals remain significantly higher year-to-date, suggesting the fundamental bull case remains intact despite the volatility.What's Next for Silver? Near-Term OutlookAccording to my technical analysis, silver's immediate trajectory depends on whether the $80 resistance level can be reclaimed and held. Friday's pin bar candlestick formation suggests supply rejected the bulls' move toward all-time highs, though the new week brings another attempt to enter price discovery mode [user-provided analysis].The current bounce appears "more like a temporary rebalancing following an excessive sell-off rather than the start of a sustained bullish trend, especially amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding US monetary policy and global liquidity expectations," as Rania Gule characterized the price action [user-provided quote].Key catalysts to watch:US economic data: Employment reports, inflation figures, and Fed speaker commentaryDollar dynamics: A weaker dollar historically supports precious metals pricingGeopolitical developments: Middle East tensions and trade policy shiftsChinese demand: Central bank buying and industrial consumption trendsRetail participation: Physical demand at current price levelsEven with moderate corrections, HSBC's Colin Steel noted that "moderate deficits, a soft dollar and ongoing geopolitical and policy uncertainty should continue to support silver prices on downswings". This suggests the $55-70 zone represents high-probability accumulation territory for longer-term positioning.As shown on my chart, silver maintains important technical support structures despite the violent selloff. The 50 EMA near $80 and the 200 EMA around $55 provide clear boundaries for the correction range. If silver were to correct 25-30% from recent highs, similar to typical precious metals bull market corrections, the $55-60 zone aligns perfectly with these technical levels and would likely attract substantial institutional buying interest.FAQ: Silver Price Questions AnsweredWhy is silver price falling today?Silver is consolidating after a 10% crash on Thursday and remains below the $80 resistance level (50 EMA). Profit-taking following a 65% January rally, Fed policy uncertainty, and cross-asset correlation with tech stocks are driving the weakness.Will silver continue declining?According to my technical analysis, silver has strong support at $70 (late December lows) and major support at $55 (200 EMA, October highs). HSBC expects a $58-88 trading range for 2026, suggesting current levels may find buyers.What is silver price prediction for 2026-2027?HSBC forecasts $68.25 average for 2026, Citigroup maintains a $150 target within 3-6 months, while more conservative estimates place year-end 2026 at $62 and 2027 average at $57. The wide range reflects extreme uncertainty.Should I sell silver now?This depends on your time horizon and risk tolerance. Silver remains up 11% year-to-date despite the correction. Structural supply deficits and industrial demand provide long-term support, but near-term volatility remains extreme. This article does not constitute investment advice.Is this a buying opportunity for silver?The $70-80 zone may offer tactical entry points for traders, while the $55-60 area (200 EMA) represents higher-probability accumulation for longer-term investors. However, extreme volatility and potential for further declines require careful position sizing and risk management. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Clear Street shelved its initial public offering (IPO) on Thursday, just hours after cutting the deal's size from $1.05 billion to $364 million in a last-ditch attempt to salvage the listing.The New York-based prime broker cited "market conditions" for scrapping Friday's planned Nasdaq debut and said it would reconsider the listing later. The withdrawal marks the second major IPO postponement in a week, following Blackstone-backed Liftoff Mobile's decision to pull its $762 million offering on Feb. 5 amid a software sector rout.Clear Street had already trimmed its ambitions significantly before pulling the plug entirely. The firm cut its offering from 23.8 million shares priced at $40 to $44 each down to 13 million shares at $26 to $28. That would have valued the company at roughly $7.2 billion at the top of the revised range, compared to an initial target of $11.8 billion.Revenue Surges as Valuation Ambitions CollapseThe firm expects net revenue between $1.04 billion and $1.06 billion this year, more than double its 2024 figure of $463.6 million. That growth came largely from Clear Street's expansion beyond its original prime brokerage platform into investment banking and equity research since its 2018 founding.But investors balked at the initial valuation, according to Bloomberg. The firm encountered pushback on its pricing expectations even before Thursday's attempted downsizing.The pricing was scheduled for Thursday evening, with trading set to begin Friday under the ticker "CLRS".Even companies that managed to go public have little reason to celebrate. eToro, trading under the ticker ETOR, has been listed on Wall Street for nearly a year and has fallen about 60 percent over that period.Meanwhile, another publicly traded broker, NAGA Markets, carried out a 10-for-1 reverse stock split at the end of 2025. According to management, the company’s penny-stock status “does not accurately reflect the operational profile.” The shares are currently valued at €3, which would have been €0.30 before the split. The latest results, however, align with the weak share price, showing EBITDA for 2025 at roughly one-third of the level reported in 2024, when it stood at €9 million.Crypto Exposure Compounds AI-Driven SelloffClear Street's role as an underwriter for cryptocurrency-related capital raises likely amplified investor concerns. The firm has served as underwriter for multiple crypto treasury offerings, particularly Strategy's recent fundraising rounds."The recent AI-driven selloff in financial stocks likely dampened investor sentiment, but the sharp decline in crypto markets also had an impact as Clear Street has served as underwriter for multiple crypto treasury capital raises, particularly Strategy's latest offerings," said IPOX Research Associate Lukas Muehlbauer.Broader volatility has rattled the IPO market in recent weeks. Software and IT stocks tumbled earlier this month on fears that AI-first offerings would disrupt existing business models, dragging down shares of Wall Street brokerages on Tuesday.Ripple Effects Across MarketsThe postponement could prompt other companies planning listings to reconsider their timing. Clear Street was coming off what the source material described as a "banner year," making the withdrawal particularly notable.Brazilian fintech Agibank slashed its offering size just a day before its Feb. 11 debut, following weak post-IPO performance by rival PicPay. PicPay's shares have fallen roughly 20% since its January listing, the first IPO by a Brazilian company in more than four years.SBI Holdings took a $50 million minority stake in Clear Street in January, establishing a joint venture focused on prime brokerage services in Japan. Last May, the firm launched an outsourced trading desk led by former UBS executive Morgan Ralph. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

OANDA Japan cut maximum position sizes for gold trading by 70% effective immediately, marking the broker's second emergency intervention in precious metals markets within two weeks as wild price swings strain market infrastructure.The broker reduced maximum open positions for XAU/USD from 100 lots to 30 lots, according to a client notice issued Friday. The move comes as gold whipsawed from $5,600 per ounce on January 29 to $4,400 just four days later, before recovering to around $4,980 today."Currently, we are seeing extremely volatile price movements in the precious metals market that are significantly higher than normal," OANDA Japan stated in the notice. The broker said the restrictions aim "to protect our customers' assets and ensure the safety of their transactions."Liquidity Evaporates as Spreads WidenOANDA Japan flagged "extremely low liquidity" and rapidly widening spreads as primary concerns. The broker warned that margin rates and funding costs for both gold and silver CFDs may be adjusted without advance notice due to deteriorating market conditions."As a result of sudden price fluctuations, the precious metals market has become extremely volatile and liquidity has become extremely low, resulting in a rapid widening of spreads," the firm said.Transaction costs with counterparties have risen sharply as volatility persists. Gold dropped more than 3% during Thursday's session, falling back below $5,000, before climbing 1% Friday to trade near $4,980.Second Precious Metals Intervention in Two WeeksThe gold restrictions follow similar emergency measures OANDA Japan imposed on silver trading on January 29. That intervention slashed maximum silver leverage from 20:1 to 5:1 and cut position limits by 75% as silver climbed toward $120 per ounce.Both moves come after a historic market crash that began January 30 erased an estimated $7.4 trillion in precious metals market value. Gold plunged 9-12% in a single day, while silver suffered its worst daily drop since 1980, falling 26-31%.The Chicago Mercantile Exchange switched to percentage-based margin calculations in January as the rally intensified, while liquidity provider Scope Prime adjusted spreads in response to the CME changes.Brokers Scramble as Retail Interest SurgesTrading activity at broker Axi has been dominated by gold contracts as retail interest more than doubled during the recent price surge. CFD broker ACCM reported record January trading volume of $285 billion, with gold accounting for over 67% of the total.However, some executives have raised concerns about the sustainability of the rally. Scope Markets EU CEO Constantinos Shakallis warned that Wall Street's $6,000 price targets may be luring retail traders into a speculative trap similar to 1980's gold crash.Wells Fargo dramatically upgraded its year-end gold forecast to $6,100-$6,300 earlier this month as China's central bank extended its gold buying spree for a 15th consecutive month.OANDA Japan said it will continue monitoring the situation closely and "strongly recommend that customers actively seek out information through reliable financial news and other sources, and that they manage their funds with sufficient margin for all precious metal transactions." This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

IC Markets Global has been recognised by TradingView as the “Social Champion” at the 2025 TradingView Broker Awards, highlighting the broker’s strong engagement and connection with the global trading community. The Social Champion award recognises brokers that stand out on TradingView through active participation, meaningful interaction, and consistent engagement with traders across the platform’s social ecosystem. Recognition driven by community engagement Unlike traditional broker awards that focus solely on volume or scale, the Social Champion award reflects how brokers show up for traders day-to-day: through educational content, timely market commentary, and genuine interaction within the TradingView community. The award is based on a combination of verified user feedback, engagement metrics, and platform activity, ensuring recognition is grounded in real trader experience. Building a dialogue with traders IC Markets’ presence on TradingView focuses on more than execution and pricing. The broker actively supports traders by: Sharing market insights and trade-relevant commentary Engaging directly with trader discussions and feedback Supporting transparency and education within the community This approach has helped IC Markets Global build a strong, trusted voice within TradingView’s global network of traders. “Being recognised as TradingView’s Social Champion is especially meaningful because it reflects how traders engage with us, not just how they trade,” said Tony Philip, CMO at IC Markets. “We see TradingView as more than a platform, it’s a community. This award reinforces our commitment to staying connected, transparent, and responsive to traders worldwide.”IC Markets Global also thanked its clients and partners, noting that ongoing feedback from the TradingView community continues to shape how the brand communicates, educates, and evolves. About IC Markets Global Founded in 2007, IC Markets Global is a globally recognised CFD broker offering access to FX, indices, commodities, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. Known for its institutional-grade infrastructure and trader-focused approach, IC Markets serves clients across multiple regions worldwide. Find out more about IC Markets Global at icmarkets.com/global This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Trading is often seen as a solitary path, but for many traders, real progress comes from the people they walk that path with. In this episode of the Born to Trade Podcast, the discussion focuses on friendship, mentorship, and accountability as core parts of a sustainable trading journey. Guests Eyram and Kommon (Prince Obed) share how shared goals, honest feedback, and strong communities help transform trading from a lonely hustle into a more balanced, growth-oriented experience.From solo journey to shared growth When asked to describe his trading journey in one word, Kommon chose growth. He later expanded on this, stating that this growth is “not just financial, but financial, psychological, and emotional as well.” For him, trading has been a way to understand how he reacts when things are going well, when they are not, and how he responds to risk and pressure. Eyram chose transformation as his defining word, describing how trading has changed both his career path and his understanding of himself. He explained that over time, “I came to realize that trading is a character development job. Because as you are getting into trading, trading also reveals who you truly are.” Both guests view trading not only as a financial activity but as a process that shapes personality, decision-making, and emotional resilience. Collaboration instead of competition Many traders are accustomed to viewing others as competitors, but both guests argued that collaboration creates more long-term value. Eyram explained that, at first, trading felt competitive, but his perspective changed as he gained experience. He now believes that the market is large enough for everyone to find their own path and that sharing strengths is more productive than hiding weaknesses. He summarized this view by saying, “So, I think collaboration is really important, but, however, competition is somehow a bit important, some kind of healthy competition to keep everyone on your toes.” Kommon agreed, adding that he prefers “healthy competition, not just wanting what your friend or your counterpart has, but letting his journey inspire you.” For both, collaboration and inspiration go hand in hand: traders can push each other to improve without falling into destructive rivalry. Building communities that compound progress A major part of their work now is building trading communities that continue to grow beyond a single classroom or seminar. Eyram described how the concept of community is embedded in his mentorship structure. “The biggest selling point for me is how I’ve built my mentorship community,” he said. “I actually add everyone together in a whole community where they are able to converse and then learn from each other.” He doesn’t position himself as the only source of knowledge. Instead, he encourages mentees who excel in specific areas—such as psychology, risk management, or particular trading pairs—to share their perspectives. As he put it, “For example, we’ve had people that are also good at certain trading pairs that share their ideas with us.” This creates a network where knowledge is distributed rather than centralized, and where mentees gradually grow into mentors themselves. Kommon has seen a similar pattern, with former mentees eventually sharing the stage with him at events and becoming educators in their own right. For both traders, this evolution is proof that mentorship and community can have a compounding effect on the broader ecosystem. Trading partners and accountability in practice One of the key concepts discussed in the episode is the idea of a trading partner—someone who shares your experience and helps you stay grounded. Kommon explained, “I know even at this level, I still have trading partners.” He views these relationships as essential, especially during difficult periods, because they allow traders to discuss and manage emotional and psychological pressure. He went further to say, “I would just always opt for having a trading partner, regardless of the level you’re on,” emphasizing that it doesn’t matter whether the partner is more experienced, less experienced, or at the same stage. What matters is shared understanding and mutual honesty. Accountability is a core part of this. Kommon described situations where his trading partner questioned him when he broke his own rules, helping him recognize when emotions such as greed were creeping in. He values this external check and prefers, in his own words, “to be held accountable all the time by my mentees, my mentors, and friends as well.” Eyram echoed this, linking trading partners directly to accountability. For him, a trading partner must be someone you respect enough to listen to when they call out over-trading or emotional decisions. Without respect and trust, accountability can’t function. Humility, transparency, and disciplined structure The episode also explored why some traders struggle to ask for help. Kommon connected this to ego and what he called “the seven deadly sins of trading. And one of them is pride.” He argued that premature exposure—trying to look like a trader before truly understanding the craft—makes people reluctant to admit when they need guidance. Humility and a willingness to learn from those with a track record become essential. Transparency is another recurring theme. Eyram explained how he uses weekly breakdown sessions with his mentorship team to analyze both successes and losses. “We need to understand that losses are part of trading and that transparency is really important,” he said. After a losing trade, he makes a point of telling his community that “yes, we took an L and then we need to be patient and wait for the next setup.” This normalizes losses and helps traders accept risk management and stop losses as part of professional behavior rather than signs of failure. Discipline also shows up in the form of clear structures and routines. Eyram defined his anchor habit simply: “I think for me, it has to do with having a trading plan and sticking to it.” He outlined rules around the number of trades, sessions traded, and other boundaries, concluding that “these are certain rules and a whole lot more that I have on my trading table. And that is something I must stick to religiously.” Kommon shared a similar approach, noting, “I have a system I’ve actually stuck to for a very long time.” His structure covers everything from sleep schedules to entry criteria. “I have a vivid entry criteria I always follow,” he said, and he makes sure to apply it consistently, regardless of device or market conditions. From hustle to harmony By the end of the episode, a clear picture emerges: sustainable trading is not built on constant hustle, isolation, or ego. It is built on structured routines, emotional awareness, transparent communication, and communities where people hold each other accountable. Eyram summed up the starting point for anyone seeking this kind of support: “First of all, get yourself into a community of like-minded people, get a mentor.” From there, shared experiences, honest feedback, and mutual respect can turn trading partners into long-term allies. For traders looking to move beyond a solitary, high-pressure approach and toward a more balanced and collaborative path, this conversation offers a practical roadmap. Catch the full discussion in Episode 2, as we break down how trust, mentorship, and community can transform trading from an individual struggle into a shared journey of growth and transformation. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

The industry’s most credible awards, the UF AWARDS MEA 2026, announce the MEA region’s best financial service providers, brokers, and fintech brands. Following a marathon Voting Round concluded on February 4, the votes were tallied and the winners revealed at a stylish Award Ceremony held at the Dubai World Trade Centre.The Industry’s Most Credible Award SeriesWhy is the UF AWARDS series considered the most credible award series? Because it is based on an open vote. That means anyone can nominate, and every member of the industry, from broker to affiliate and retail trader, can vote. This includes clients, partners, and even employees, real people, with real experience with the nominated brands, to ensure a completely impartial process. The winning brands have shown an on-going commitment to providing their clients with high-quality trading solutions and reliable client support in an extremely competitive industry. This year’s MEA finalists include:BROKER AWARDSATFX: BEST BROKER - MEAFXTM: MOST TRUSTED BROKER - MEAEXNESS: BEST TRADING CONDITIONS - MEACFI: MOST TRANSPARENT BROKER - MEAFXCM: BEST CFD BROKER - MEADERIV: BEST TRADE EXECUTION - MEACPT MARKETS: BEST TRADING EXPERIENCE - MEAWRPRO: BEST EDUCATION TOOLS - MEAPU PRIME: BEST MOBILE TRADING APP - MEACENTFX: BEST ECN/STP BROKER - MEACXM: BEST GOLD TRADING BROKER - MEATRAZE: FASTEST GROWING BROKER - MEATRADINGPRO: BEST SPREADS BROKER - MEATRADEZERO: BEST BROKER FOR SHORT SELLING - MEAHOLA PRIME: FASTEST PAYOUT PROP FIRM - MEAB2B AWARDSX OPEN HUB: MOST TRUSTED LIQUIDITY PROVIDER - MEAARIZET LABS: MOST ADVANCED PROP TRADING TECHNOLOGY - MEAEXINITY CONNECT: MOST RELIABLE LIQUIDITY PROVIDER - MEAEXO CRM & TRADER: BEST EMERGING CRM PROVIDER - MEATECHYSQUAD: BEST IB/AFFILIATE SOLUTION FOR BROKERS - MEATRADE TECH SOLUTIONS: BEST PROP FIRM TECH PROVIDER - MEACENTROID SOLUTIONS: BEST CONNECTIVITY PROVIDER - MEAATFX CONNECT: BEST B2B LIQUIDITY PROVIDER - MEACTRADER: BEST TRADING PLATFORM - MEA5PAY: BEST PAYMENT GATEWAY - MEACENTROID SOLUTIONS: BEST RISK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM PROVIDER - MEALaunched in 2021 by Ultimate Fintech, the UF AWARDS were established as a benchmark for excellence within the global financial services industry. They operate as a standalone initiative, with a clear scope and purpose centred exclusively on recognising industry excellence. Recognition That Builds Industry TrustReaching the voting stage already represents a significant victory for nominated companies, offering increased visibility and engagement to hyper-focused audiences. This is because it means they can compete head-to-head with the most prominent and most innovative industry representatives. Being selected as a winner further reinforces a brand’s reputation, positioning it among the region’s most respected and trusted names.The organisers would like to thank all participants in the UF AWARDS MEA 2026 and congratulate the winners for their resilience and relentless pursuit of innovation. As the MEA edition reached its ceremonious close, the industry looks forward to the next edition of the UF AWARDS taking place alongside iFX EXPO LATAM in Mexico City. Will you be among Mexico’s winners? This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.