GCEX Group has added Gold Futures CFDs to its product range. The regulated digital prime broker serves institutional and professional clients in the UK, the EU, and the UAE.The launch comes as institutional participation in the CFD market continues to grow. Brokers are expanding product coverage to meet demand for diversification and hedging. Data from Finance Magnates Intelligence show that CFD trading volumes remain strong, particularly in metals and commodities. Industry analysis has also pointed to institutional services as a strategic focus for many firms.Gold Futures CFDs Join GCEX PortfolioGCEX said the launch expands its multi-asset offering. The company said additional Futures CFDs are planned. These products are intended to broaden its coverage across traditional and digital asset classes.The new instruments offer an alternative to rolling spot products and non-expiring CFDs. They provide exposure through contracts with a defined term. The initial release includes the GCG26 contract, which references the February 2026 Gold Future. The CFDs are priced against underlying exchange-listed futures.XplorTrader Supports Gold Futures TradingFutures CFDs have a fixed expiry date, which is shown on GCEX’s XplorTrader platform. Pricing follows the futures curve. The contract structure embeds cost-of-carry elements and removes overnight financing charges. Clients must close positions before expiry. If positions remain open, GCEX will close them at the final settlement price.GCEX provides access to CFDs on digital assets and foreign exchange. It also offers spot trading and digital asset conversion. The group supplies brokerage and technology services through its XplorDigital suite.GCEX Gains Institutional-Grade Product ExpansionLars Holst, chief executive of GCEX, said the launch reflects ongoing product development. He said the focus is on “offering institutional-grade instruments” supported by “robust regulatory governance across all GCEX entities.”GCEX is headquartered in London and operates offices globally. It is regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. It is authorised as a crypto-asset service provider under the EU’s MiCA framework. It also holds a virtual asset service provider licence from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority. True Global Ventures is an investor in the company. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Cryptocurrency payments have long been discussed as an alternative to traditional financial systems, but their adoption in everyday B2B operations remains limited. While many businesses experiment with accepting crypto for single transactions, structured use cases such as invoicing, subscriptions, and recurring billing have proven far more difficult to implement. Finunion aims to address this gap with its B2B crypto payments platform, which is already live and being used by early merchants. The platform is designed for companies that bill clients on a regular basis and need a predictable way to accept cryptocurrency payments without overhauling existing processes. Simplifying Crypto Payments for Businesses One of the main barriers to crypto adoption in business payments is operational complexity. Wallet management, technical integrations, and accounting considerations often make crypto more difficult to use than traditional payment methods. Finunion’s platform is built around simplicity. Businesses can issue invoices directly from the dashboard, either as one-time payment requests or as recurring invoices for subscription-based models. Once an invoice is created, the system generates a payment link that can be shared with the client.Clients access the link, review the invoice, and complete the payment in cryptocurrency on a hosted payment page. From the client’s perspective, the process is similar to paying a standard invoice, with no additional technical steps required. On the merchant side, incoming payments are credited to the company’s crypto balance. All invoices, transactions, and payment statuses are displayed in a single interface, allowing finance teams to track activity without relying on multiple tools. Supporting Recurring Billing and Cross-Border Payments Recurring billing remains one of the more challenging areas for crypto payments. Subscription services and SaaS companies require reliable billing cycles, clear visibility into unpaid invoices, and predictable cash flow. Finunion supports automated recurring invoicing, enabling businesses to bill customers on a predefined schedule. Unpaid invoices can be monitored, and payment history is available in real time. This functionality is particularly relevant for companies operating internationally, where traditional cross-border payments can be slow and costly. By focusing on invoicing rather than one-off transactions, the platform adapts crypto payments to established business practices instead of requiring businesses to change how they operate. Bridging Crypto and Fiat The platform is designed to support both crypto and traditional financial operations. While payments are received in cryptocurrency, businesses are not required to hold digital assets indefinitely. Funds can be withdrawn to euro-denominated bank accounts when needed. This approach reflects how many companies manage their finances today. Crypto may be used for receiving payments, while fiat remains essential for payroll, taxes, and operational expenses. Keeping both options within a single platform reduces operational friction and simplifies financial management. Built in Response to Market Demand According to the founder of Finunion, Vladyslav Savchenko, the platform was developed after repeated requests from businesses that were already accepting crypto but lacked suitable tools for B2B invoicing and recurring payments. Rather than introducing experimental features, the company focused on core functionality: invoice creation, payment links, recurring billing, transaction tracking, and fiat withdrawals. These elements form the foundation of most B2B payment workflows.A More Practical Direction for B2B Crypto Finunion’s launch reflects a broader shift in the crypto sector toward practical infrastructure rather than speculative use cases. As adoption matures, businesses are looking for tools that integrate smoothly with existing workflows. By aligning crypto payments with familiar invoicing and billing processes, Finunion positions its platform as a functional layer between digital assets and traditional business operations. This approach may prove essential for wider adoption of crypto in B2B environments, where reliability and clarity often matter more than innovation alone. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Swissquote has launched joint trading accounts that let two people invest together across stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs, bonds, forex and CFDs. The Swiss online bank said the accounts address a gap in digital banking, where most joint offerings focus on spending rather than wealth building.The timing puts Swissquote just ahead of Valentine's Day on February 14, when couples typically exchange flowers and chocolates. They can now turn it into shared access to global financial marketsSwissquote Joint Trading Accounts Spans 3 Million Financial ProductsThe joint accounts tap into Swissquote's existing infrastructure, giving users access to the same range of products available to individual account holders. This includes securities, crypto assets, funds, structured products and derivatives traded across more than 50 global exchanges."We looked at other joint solutions, and all of them offer ways to spend your shared money—but what about ways to grow it?" said Arjeta Haskaj, Head of Product Strategy at Swissquote, in a LinkedIn post announcing the feature.Finally, a partner to share the blame when trades go south. But jokes aside, both account holders get separate login credentials and equal rights to manage the shared portfolio. The setup works through an "either-or-survivor" structure, meaning each person can independently execute trades and transactions without requiring the other's approval.Each joint account comes with multi-currency debit cards that support 13 different currencies. The cards work with Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay and TWINT for digital payments.The launch comes after Swissquote reported better-than-expected 2025 results, with revenue reaching at least CHF 720 million and pre-tax profit approaching CHF 420 million. Client assets on the platform neared CHF 89 billion by year-end.Onboarding Limited to Same-Country ResidentsTo open a joint account, both parties must already hold individual Swissquote trading accounts as beneficial owners. The two people also need to live in the same country, a requirement tied to regulatory and compliance rules.One person initiates the process through their dashboard and sends an invitation to the other account holder. The entire onboarding happens digitally without paperwork. Customers can open up to four joint accounts, though only one invitation can be sent at a time.Swissquote doesn't charge extra fees for joint accounts beyond the standard costs that apply to individual accounts. There are no minimum balance requirements.The accounts aren't available to minors or institutional customers. At launch, Swissquote is limiting joint accounts to two holders.Competitors Roll Out Similar FeaturesThe joint account rollout at Swissquote comes as other digital banking platforms explore similar offerings. Robinhood introduced joint investing accounts for families and partners to manage investments together, while Revolut launched joint accounts in its mobile app for users in the European Economic Area.N26 expanded joint account availability to 21 European countries in 2024, offering features for tracking expenses and monitoring joint budgets. Yuh, the mobile-first neobank that Swissquote now fully owns after buying out PostFinance's stake, has also been developing its own joint account feature.Joint investment accounts let multiple people pool funds and make collective decisions, potentially accelerating portfolio growth through larger regular contributions. The structure also cuts down on duplicate fees that would otherwise apply to separate accounts.Recent data shows that married couples in the US are moving away from traditional joint accounts, with 23% maintaining completely separate finances in 2023 compared to 15% in 1996. However, financial advisors have pointed to joint investment accounts as practical Valentine's Day gifts that support long-term wealth building.Swissquote continues to expand its operations globally, recently searching for a CEO to lead its South African business in Cape Town. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

ThinkMarkets, a global leader in online CFD trading, recently received the Best Trading App award from CompareForexBrokers.com for its proprietary platform, ThinkTrader. This award recognises ThinkTrader, and the people behind it, for delivering cutting-edge technology and advanced tools for traders. CompareForexBrokers.com’s annual awards assess 34 leading forex brokers with ASIC, FCA or MAS tier-1 regulation, recognising those that stand out for their trading conditions, performance and innovation. Commenting on the award, Nauman Anees, CEO and co-founder of ThinkMarkets, said the following: “We’re delighted to have received another award recognising our ThinkTrader platform. This award reflects our long-term focus on building proprietary technology that puts traders first. ThinkTrader was designed to combine powerful analysis, robust execution and intuitive usability across web and mobile, giving traders access to the tools they need wherever they trade. Recognition like this reinforces our commitment to continuously improving the trading experience for our clients. I’d like to thank our dedicated team for building and shaping ThinkTrader, as well as our loyal clients for their continued support.” About ThinkMarketsThinkMarkets is a global, multi-regulated online brokerage established in 2010 offering clients quick and easy access to 4,000 CFD instruments across FX, indices, commodities, stocks, and more. ThinkMarkets has offices in London and Melbourne, along with hubs in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, and South Africa. It also operates under several financial licences around the globe and delivers some of the industry's most recognised trading platforms, including its award-winning platform, ThinkTrader. For more information, users can visit the ThinkMarkets website https://www.thinkmarkets.com/en/ This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Crypto exchange BingX reported its traditional finance trading product surpassed $1 billion in 24-hour volume, with gold contracts accounting for more than half the total as the precious metal extended gains to test a record $4,722 per ounce.BingX TradFi Volume Hits $1 Billion as Gold Trading SurgesGold trading on the platform exceeded $500 million within the 24-hour period, driven by heightened demand as geopolitical tensions pushed the metal up 2.6% on Tuesday. The rally came after President Trump threatened additional tariffs on European nations over control of Greenland, reigniting safe-haven buying across markets.BingX launched its TradFi product earlier this month, offering perpetual futures contracts tied to more than 50 traditional financial assets. The platform uses perpetual futures, or "perps," which have no expiration date and settle in USDT, operating 24/7 like crypto markets."As the demand for TradFi continues growing, we remain at the forefront of delivering robust products and services that adapt to our users' evolving needs." Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at BingX, commented. "Our expanded suite of offerings provides traders with greater choice and broader market access, unlocking new opportunities in a dynamic environment.”Unlike contracts-for-difference offered by regulated brokers, these instruments fall under crypto exchange infrastructure and offer leverage up to 500x.Volume Concentration Mirrors Precious Metals RallyGold's dominant share of BingX's TradFi volume reflects the metal's explosive performance over the past year. Prices climbed roughly 65% in 2025 and added another 9% in the first three weeks of 2026. The January surge accelerated after a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell sparked concerns about central bank independence, with some analysts projecting targets as high as $6,000 for 2026.Volatility in precious metals has also affected traditional market infrastructure. CME Group shifted gold, silver, platinum, and palladium futures margins from fixed amounts to percentage-based requirements earlier this month, while liquidity providers like Scope Prime adjusted spreads in response to price swings.BingX’s copy trading feature for traditional assets reached a single-day peak of $51.84 million within 15 days of launch, according to company data. Crypto Exchanges Push Into Broker TerritoryBingX joins rival platforms Binance and Bitget in expanding beyond digital assets. Binance introduced perpetual contracts on commodities like gold and silver, settling them against USDT under Abu Dhabi Global Market oversight, though stablecoin settlement may limit EU availability.Bitget rolled out derivatives on gold, forex, metals, indices, and stock-based contracts under Mauritius Financial Services Commission oversight. The moves blur lines between crypto platforms and retail brokers, with exchanges leveraging round-the-clock trading and stablecoin settlement to bypass traditional brokerage friction.Crypto.com purchased Cyprus-based broker Allnew Investments in mid-2025 to obtain a MiFID license, though planned CFD offerings have not yet materialized.Other platforms like XBO.com launched tokenized stocks, linking major equities with crypto markets. The convergence, however, flows both ways. CFD broker Axi expanded to over 150 crypto contracts last year as perpetual futures captured 76% of crypto derivatives volume. BingX serves over 40 million users globally and ranks among the top five crypto derivatives exchanges. The exchange sponsors Chelsea FC and became the first official crypto exchange partner of Scuderia Ferrari HP in 2026. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

CME Group hit Tanius Technology with a $150,000 fine after finding the proprietary trading firm entered outsized orders in Treasury futures markets that exceeded its ability to cover the trades if executed immediately.CME Fines Proprietary Trading Firm Tanius Technology $150,000The Chicago Board of Trade Business Conduct Committee panel determined Tanius violated exchange rules between January 2020 and December 2022 by stacking multiple maximum-quantity orders at top price levels in 2-Year, 5-Year, and 10-Year Treasury spread order books during roll periods. The strategy exploited pro-rata matching algorithms to grab a bigger share of fills relative to other passive traders.Had all the firm's resting orders executed at once, the required margin payment would have surpassed the net liquidation value in Tanius' accounts at that time. The panel ruled this conduct violated CBOT rules prohibiting behavior "inconsistent with just and equitable principles of trade" and actions "detrimental to the interest or welfare of the Exchange".Different Species of Prop TradingInstitutional prop firms like Tanius trade their own capital directly on exchanges and face CME Group's market conduct rules. They shouldn't be confused with retail-focused prop trading platforms such as FTMO or FundedNext, which operate evaluation programs where individual traders compete for access to funded accounts.FTMO recently adopted institutional-grade Know Your Business protocols, pointing to a broader B2B strategy beyond retail prop trading .According to the newest research, prop firms targeting retail traders can break even in about one month in South Asia, compared to six months in the US market, with peak return on ad spend touching 12x in some regions . Moreover, retail prop firms tracked roughly $325 million in payouts to traders in 2025, according to Prop Firm Match's monitoring data, though that figure excluded several major brands.Second Strike for California FirmTanius settled the charges without admitting or denying wrongdoing, but the penalty marks its second run-in with CME Group regulators in less than two years. In May 2025, the firm paid a $95,000 fine for wash trading violations after its automated systems repeatedly matched opposing buy and sell orders in Treasury futures contracts.That earlier case found Tanius developed anti-wash trade functionality but failed to implement it consistently across trading strategies or communicate it adequately to traders. Between March and October 2023, the firm's algorithms self-matched "on more than an incidental basis" in 10-Year T-Note, Ultra 10-Year, and Treasury Bond futures.CME has also expanded into new market segments, including a partnership with FanDuel to offer event contracts on sports outcomes alongside traditional financial products . That move arrived amid regulatory questions about whether such contracts constitute gambling. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

The Australian financial market regulator has secured about AU$40 million (around US$27 million) in refunds for more than 38,000 retail contracts for difference (CFD) investors following a sector-wide review. Announced today (Tuesday), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) found that more than half of the CFD brokers operating in the country were offering “margin discounts” to retail clients.Industry-Wide Lapses in Following Mandatory RulesAccording to the Aussie regulator, there were “widespread weaknesses” in CFD brokers’ design and distribution obligations (DDO), the regulator’s CFD product intervention order (PIO), and regulatory reporting requirements.The “margin discounts” offered to retail traders also breached the regulator’s PIO rules for CFD products.The regulator said that 68 per cent of retail CFD investors in Australia lost money in 2024, totalling more than AU$458 million (US$308.3 million), including AU$73 million (US$49.1 million) in fees.The action followed ASIC’s review of 52 licensed CFD issuers. However, the regulator did not name any CFD brokers that breached local regulations or issued the refunds.During the review, ASIC issued a temporary stop order against the Aussie FXCM operator last month after the company failed to respond to concerns about deficiencies in its target market determination. The regulator later revoked the stop order after FXCM addressed the concerns and amended its target market determinations.The Aussie regulator also issued similar orders against several brokers, including Saxo and Mitrade. These companies corrected the issues and continued offering their services. Only one broker was taken to court over similar breaches, and the case is still ongoing.“Each year, thousands of Australians lose money trading CFDs, and through our review, we have helped put $40 million back in the pockets of more than 38,000 investors,” said ASIC Commissioner Simone Constant.“These are complex, high-risk products where most investors face losses, and even profitable trades can be fully eroded by trading costs.”The High-Risk Industry Is Improving, but Lapses RemainShe added that direct regulatory intervention improved the CFD industry’s target market determinations, client onboarding questionnaires, reporting compliance, and monitoring of client trading outcomes.The regulator said that 39 CFD issuers made changes to their target markets, 46 improved website content, and 44 improved client onboarding questionnaires. In addition, 42 Aussie CFD issuers introduced new processes for monitoring client trading, and 48 made changes to meet OTC derivative transaction reporting requirements.ASIC’s action also led to a 127 per cent increase in the number of reported situations lodged.“While the CFD industry has made important changes, there is still work to do,” Constant added. “Issuers must continually monitor, adapt, and strengthen their compliance practices, and we urge Australians to pay close attention to what they are being offered.” This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.

Plus500 has stopped offering new CFD trading accounts to residents of Spain, tightening access to leveraged products in a market where regulators already restrict advertising and distribution to retail investors. The decision comes as Spain continues to apply some of the toughest rules in Europe on how firms can market and sell CFDs to non-professional clients.Plus500 Changes Onboarding for SpainPlus500 now blocks new CFD account openings for users resident in Spain, according to information on the company’s registration page. Spain’s securities regulator, the Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores, rolled out a new set of rules for the CFD space in 2023.The measures prohibit the marketing of CFDs to retail clients in Spain and extend to banning introducing-broker and influencer-style promotion, as well as advertising through events or using celebrities to endorse the services.​Continue reading: Plus500 Reports Half Its Revenue Now Comes From Customers Trading Over Five YearsThe framework aimed to curb the ways firms promote leveraged trading to the public rather than outlawing CFDs themselves. While the rules set formal limits on how providers reach retail investors, their practical impact depends on how firms interpret and apply them in day-to-day operations.​The tight regulations is behind the decline in the region's leveraged trading space. The space shrunk to a fraction of its 2021 peak, with the number of active FX and CFD traders dropping another 10% to around 35,000 as of early last year, according to a report by Investment Trends.ESMA Rules and Spain’s Stricter LineESMA rules created a baseline for investor protection but allowed national regulators to adopt stricter measures where they saw additional risks.Read more: Spain’s Expanded Restrictions on CFDs Set for July 20, Gets ESMA BackingThe measures apply to all firms authorized to provide investment services in Spain, regardless of where the firm is based or whether it operates through a branch or cross-border passporting. ESMA summarized the effect by stating that marketing, distribution and sale of CFDs by means of advertising communications aimed at retail investors in Spain is prohibited.For Spanish residents, Plus500 now focuses on non-leveraged equity trading through its Invest platform, which allows access to real stocks in Spain and other markets. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

The New York Stock Exchange plans to launch a tokenized securities platform that will enable 24/7 trading in U.S.-listed equities and ETFs with on-chain settlement and immediate funding. According to the platform, the initiative extends the exchange’s market model into blockchain-based infrastructure while keeping traditional shareholder rights and regulatory safeguards in place.Part of Intercontinental Exchange, the NYSE has started developing a platform for trading and on-chain settlement of tokenized securities and will seek regulatory approvals before launch.Today, NYSE is proud to announce the development of a platform for trading and on-chain settlement of tokenized securities. NYSE’s new digital platform will enable tokenized trading experiences, including 24/7 operations, instant settlement, orders sized in dollar amounts, and…— NYSE ? (@NYSE) January 19, 2026NYSE Plans Tokenized Trading VenueThe planned venue will support tokenized shares that are fungible with traditionally issued securities, as well as securities issued directly in token form. Token holders will retain access to dividends and governance rights under the existing corporate framework.It combines the NYSE’s Pillar matching engine with blockchain-based post-trade systems to support continuous, around-the-clock operations. The platform will allow fractional share trading via dollar-denominated order sizes and will use stablecoin-based funding, with the ability to support multiple blockchains for settlement and custody.The new venue will follow established market structure principles and will distribute access through qualified broker-dealers on a non-discriminatory basis.You may also find interesting: Revolut Files for Peru Banking License in Fresh LATAM PushThe model aims to maintain alignment between the tokenized venue and existing NYSE markets, limiting liquidity fragmentation between traditional and on-chain trading.By keeping tokenized securities fungible with their conventional counterparts, the exchange seeks to extend trading hours and settlement options without departing from current standards on investor protection and oversight.Part of ICE’s Wider Digital PushThe initiative forms part of a broader digital strategy at Intercontinental Exchange, which operates six clearing houses worldwide. ICE is preparing its clearing infrastructure to support 24/7 trading and to accommodate tokenized collateral in margin and settlement workflows.ICE is working with banks including BNY and Citi to support tokenized deposits across its clearinghouses. The effort aims to let clearing members move funds outside traditional banking hours, meet margin obligations in different time zones and manage funding across jurisdictions using tokenized capital. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Frontbroker has integrated Spotware’s cTrader platform into its trading offering, giving its CFD traders access to the multi-asset interface across live and demo accounts. The Mauritius-based broker links the move to a focus on order transparency and platform controls that target trading manipulation risks.cTrader Integration at FrontbrokerFrontbroker now offers cTrader as a core trading platform option to its client base. The broker states that trader trust sits at the center of its model and points to cTrader’s design, which aims to provide a transparent trading environment with safeguards against interference in order execution.“Partnering with cTrader helps us advance that commitment through a platform built around a trader-oriented approach, bringing a premium trading experience and advanced tools designed for traders at every level,” commented Shakeel Bhatoo, the Director of Frontbroker.In the prop trading space, Spotware partnered with UK-based proprietary trading firm OneFunded last year, enabling its clients to access the cTrader platform on web, desktop, and mobile devices.Keep reading: Spotware Puts Prop Challenges Front and Center for “10,000 Daily Users”The latest addition of cTrader is presented as a signal that transparency forms a key part of how the firm structures its service. With the rollout, Frontbroker supports a mobile-first trading setup via cTrader Mobile.Open Trading Stack and Third-Party ToolscTrader willreportedly connects Frontbroker to more than 100 FX/CFD-related solutions. These span CRM systems, liquidity provision, risk management tools and signal services. Recently, Spotware rolled out version 5.6 of its mobile app, introducing several updates designed to enhance transparency, usability, and visual clarity. The version added an equity chart to the account dashboard, allowing users to monitor how trading activity, deposits, and withdrawals impact overall account equity over time. It also included a candle countdown feature and a redesigned landscape view, giving traders greater control and clearer visuals when analyzing market performance on mobile devices.Spotware also integrated with iSAM Securities, a technology provider specializing in broker-focused risk and execution management solutions. The partnership gives the platform's brokers access to iSAM’s Surge and Radar tools, broadening their risk and execution management options.iSAM Securities also recently launched a real-time risk analytics dashboard aimed at dealing desks, risk managers, and CEOs. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

An alleged crypto laundering scheme that pushed more than $100 million through South Korean bank accounts now sits with prosecutors. Officials say the network hid behind everyday-looking bills for cosmetic surgery and overseas studies while it moved large volumes of digital assets into Korean won.Three Chinese Nationals Face ProsecutionSouth Korea’s customs service said on Monday that it has referred three Chinese nationals to prosecutors on suspicion of laundering about 148.9 billion won, or roughly $107 million, in cryptocurrency, according to local media outlet Yonhap News Agency.The agency alleges that the group used an unauthorized foreign exchange channel in violation of the Foreign Exchange Transactions Act.Investigators say the activity ran from September 2021 to June of last year and relied on a network of domestic and overseas cryptocurrency accounts and South Korean bank accounts.Keep reading: He Promised 1,200% Returns on $10M - Then Used Photoshop to Hide the TruthAccording to customs officials, the suspects booked transfers as if they covered cosmetic surgery for foreign nationals in South Korea or study-abroad costs for students.According to Yonhap News, South Korea’s Korea Customs Service said it uncovered an international ring accused of laundering about 150 billion won ($101.7 million) in cryptocurrency through unauthorized FX schemes, with three Chinese nationals referred to prosecutors for using…— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) January 19, 2026By doing so, they allegedly made repeated high-value transactions resemble routine cross-border payments that banks see in sectors such as healthcare and education.Alleged Laundering Method and Use of Front ExpensesThe authorities say the ring bought cryptocurrency in several countries, sent it to digital wallets in South Korea, converted it into Korean won and then dispersed the proceeds across numerous domestic bank accounts.The case occurs as South Korea continues to debate a comprehensive framework for its crypto market, even as digital assets have become a common investment for local households.Towards the end of last year, South Korea tightened oversight of cryptocurrency transactions, unveiling plans to expand its anti-money laundering framework. The government announced that the Travel Rule, a key compliance measure requiring information sharing on crypto transfers, will soon apply to transactions below 1 million won (approximately $680). The initiative introduced bans on insider trading, market manipulation, and other illicit practices while strengthening regulators’ oversight powers. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

The second full week of January in the financial markets was relatively quiet in comparison to the first week. Volumes were muted across the board, as stocks, and metals have entered consolidation areas. The series of events within the week included the US CPI report and earnings reports of financial companies from the US.So far, the data hasn’t added anything: the CPI report was slightly softer than expected (2.5% vs 2.6% anticipated), though probabilities of the interest rate kept unchanged for two upcoming meetings of FOMC have increased. Despite that, yields of 30-year bonds of the US have declined displaying some safe haven demand.30-year bond yields for the US. Source: https://www.cnbc.com/quotes/US30YThe main intrigue within the week, however, was not the interest rate. It was a geopolitical factor: the unrest in Iran and the related threat from the US president Donald Trump to Iran’s authorities, has created a speculation for Crude oil. Despite the softening rethorics, there’s still a possibility of a strike from the US towards Iran. Markets, however, seem to not bet on any escalation, as volatility dropped across the board, with Gold keeping in the tight trading range, indices shaking within the range, and Crude oil erasing most of the week’s rally.Tech stocks back in playNasdaq was lagging behind Russell2000 and S&P500 during the first two weeks of January, as basic material, industrial, and oil stocks were moving in a bullish rally.The spread between tech and industrial stocks has reached the lower band of the Bollinger Bands (which stands for 2 standard deviations from the 20-day moving average).Usually, that is a moment for rotation, and Nasdaq might fuel up the rally at the 2nd part of January.XLK/XLI spread: it indicates the ratio between two ETFs representing tech and industrial sectors respectively. If the spread reaches the supposed bottom of the trading range, it’s expected to bounce, which usually means acceleration of the sector in the numerator. Source: Tradingview.comThe CNN’s fear-and-greed index also flashes a “greed” mode, having good strength and momentum, whereas breadth (i.e. the stability of the flow) is neutral, but not negative.Next week, traders will await the publication of the PCE index on Thursday (also known as “FED’s inflation”). The World economic forum in Davos will take place between 19 and 23th of January, and traders will also focus on statements and speeches of politicians and central bankers,Now, let’s dive into the performance of Nasdaq and Gold, and try to figure out the possible track for the upcoming period.Gold (XAUUSD)Gold has reached the new all-time-high, not being able to keep the momentum and having locked in a consolidation for several days, as demand for safe haven assets. Volume and open was rising for Gold futures according to the data from Chicago Mercantile Exchange, but the price action didn’t confirm the follow-through.That skews probability for some correction, as the market would need to deleverage before resuming the uptrend. From a technical standpoint, the price is locked in a very narrow trading range (coil), and if the new peak won’t be achieved early in the week, the possibility of a correction would increase: that might push the price towards the $4500 area as shown at the chart.Gold (XAUUSD), D1. Source: Exness.comNasdaqNasdaq might be completing the consolidation phase before making another leg up. Technical and financial sectors were lagging behind other sectors (basic materials, industrial, energy sectors), but should the bull market continue, the rotation of sectors might start and drive Nasdaq from the trading range as shown at the chart.The market is entering the earnings season, and many big tech companies were in a drawdown (AAPL, NVDA, PLTR) dragging the Nasdaq down. If the buying activity will get back to techs, we might observe another round of buying for the US tech sector.Nasdaq (USTEC), D1. Source: Exness.com This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

“I cannot even begin to put my family’s struggles during this time into words. When the CFTC did what it did, the effect was devastating. I went for seven months without a single penny to my name.”For the first time since My Forex Funds was abruptly shut down in August 2023, its founder and CEO, Murtuza Kazmi, is speaking publicly about the chain of events that followed - an enforcement action that erased one of the prop trading industry’s largest firms overnight and triggered a legal battle. That fight ended with the case dismissed with prejudice, after a US Court found that key facts had been misrepresented by the CFTC in bad faith in order to obtain an asset freeze.In the interview, Kazmi walks through how the investigation began without warning, how corporate and personal accounts were frozen within hours, and how the fallout rippled through employees and traders awaiting payouts. He also outlines what comes next: with assets and systems now gradually being restored, My Forex Funds is signalling a potential return to the market, even as key questions remain unresolved.“We Were Blindsided”According to Kazmi, it all started as one big shock: "We were blindsided by the CFTC’s discreet investigation".The CFTC initially charged My Forex Funds and Kazmi with fraud. According to the regulator, MFF acted as a counterparty in settling traders against its customers and terminated customers' accounts under false pretences. The platform was also accused of using manipulative software to execute customers' orders at the worst possible prices.The regulator at the time said that the company generated at least $310 million in fees through its prop trading business. However, Kazmi now highlights that “it was a bit more than what the CFTC alleged.” He further revealed that MFF had close to half a million users since its inception and paid out over $290 million to traders by 2023.Important Notice ?Yesterday we learned that, without prior notice or discussion, a provincial securities regulator in Canada and the commodities regulator in the United States issued orders preventing us from trading securities or accessing funds in our bank accounts.Until… pic.twitter.com/dKpxmx5axT— MyForexFunds (@MyForexFunds) September 1, 2023“Nightmare for Our Staff”Along with the accusations, the regulatory agency obtained a temporary restraining order and asset freeze against My Forex Funds and Kazmi, which shuttered the prop trading services overnight. The asset freeze not only impacted the firm’s assets, but it also barred Kazmi from accessing his own money.Recalling the struggles, he said: “I had to beg and borrow funds from family and friends. From getting gas for the car to buying groceries to paying for medication, all had to be done on borrowed funds.”"The hardest moments were the ones involving my children. Explaining to my seven-year-old son why we couldn't hold a birthday party because our resources were unjustly taken was a low point I wouldn't wish on anyone.“My family, my MFF family, community, and I always knew and believed that we didn’t do anything wrong. This is one of the main ways we coped with this situation.”When asked about his breaking points, he said that “there were a lot of tears.”“When we had to let go of our amazing global workforce, everyone had their own struggles, and when they lost their income, it hurt in a way that I cannot put into words. Some newly married couples, some buying homes, others who were caring for their elderly parents, all were stripped of their future. Their messages, their cries still resonate in my mind.”He also emphasised that the MFF staff “were aware that MFF was being wrongfully accused and knew that we would eventually overcome the stressful times,” adding: “However, losing a job without much explanation and due to no fault of their own must have been a nightmare for our staff.”“They Chose Speed Over Accuracy”It later came to light that CFTC representatives had “deliberately” mischaracterised the company's tax payment as a personal payment to Kazmi to obtain the freeze order. After a legal challenge by the defence, the court lifted most of the asset freeze on Kazmi’s holdings.“They chose to prioritise speed over accuracy, as they did not take the time to understand either the business or the industry in which we operated,” Kazmi claims. “The agency’s failure to interview our team or investigate the industry led to the false portrayal of legitimate tax payments as 'missing' funds. They spoke to only one of our vendor analysts, who wasn’t aware of the full scope of the business. No team members were interviewed, no customer complaints were filed, and there was no missing money, as the CFTC initially portrayed to get a freeze order from the district court.”“This lack of due diligence, combined with what the court found to be a willful disregard for the truth, resulted in a significant miscarriage of justice.”In August 2023, MyForexFunds was wrongfully shut down. The CFTC’s case in USA has been dismissed and the unwinding process of Receivership in Canada is still ongoing. Thank you to our community for your support and strength during this time.Please see an update from our CEO… pic.twitter.com/p4Dyi3cHVL— MyForexFunds (@MyForexFunds) October 9, 2025The Commissioner DramaLater, the lapses in CFTC's investigations also came to light in open court through statements and filings. The lead investigator in the case even gave false testimony in court to hide the procedural lapses.The defence lawyers sought a sanctions order against the agency. “I found out that the CFTC had possibly made a mistake within the first 2-3 days,” Kazmi said. “We all make mistakes, and I thought they did as well.” “However, as we went back and forth, it became clear that prior to filing their application, the CFTC had received an email from the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) confirming that these transfers were tax payments made to the Canada Revenue Agency.”“I cannot comment on why the investigator made false testimony. What I understand is that the US District Court judge explained that the action was intended to secure a tactical advantage by freezing the company’s assets and restricting my financial resources, while still expecting me to fight on equal terms.”The agency faced another massive setback when, in the middle of the court battle, one of its then-Commissioners, Caroline Pham, officially criticised its enforcement division, saying: “This type of behaviour cannot be tolerated at a law enforcement agency.”Read more: CFTC Commissioner Drama and My Forex Funds Case - "Government Lawyers Can't Afford to Slip"Following her intervention, a US Senator took up the issue, without naming MFF, and sent a set of questionnaires to the CFTC Chair, asking him to clarify the agency’s “processes and procedures.”A Bloomberg report later claimed that multiple attorneys involved with the MFF case, along with investigators, were put on “administrative leave”.Notably, the CFTC’s lead attorney for the MFF case admitted in court that the investigations were “careless and sloppy”.“I would say that the agency’s enforcement division had its own issues, not the CFTC,” the MFF founder continued. “The agency’s leadership, i.e., the commissioners, were not even aware of what was going on till we had filed an official sanctions motion.”He also believes that “administrative leave seems like an insufficient response to the scale of the damage caused,” adding that “there must be a fundamental systemic change to prevent those in powerful positions from misusing their authority to destroy livelihoods and businesses based on false pretences.”When asked if he or any of the MFF representatives spoke to Pham, he said: “We neither approached her nor were we ever able to speak with her directly.”Although the court dismissed the CFTC’s case against MFF and Kazmi, it was not necessarily because the regulator could not prove the original allegations. Rather, it was because of deliberate procedural misconduct.Kazmi, however, believes that if the case were to continue, MFF “would have won the case regardless.”“We were fully prepared to demonstrate that our business was lawful, transparent, and consistent with industry standards and practices,” he continued. “At the end of the day, whether due to improper handling, which essentially amounted to misleading the court, or on merit itself, I am confident the outcome would have been the same: MFF’s victory.”Interestingly, the CFTC and MFF were also discussing a settlement, but they were “unable to reach terms”, according to Kazmi.“Today, Anyone with Instagram can Start a Prop Firm”At its peak, MFF was one of the largest prop trading venues. Since its collapse the industry has undergone significant changes. “The industry certainly changed, but I am not sure whether it was for the better or for the worse,” Kazmi stressed. “I have continued to observe the prop trading industry closely. It pains me to say that the industry has not moved in a positive direction.”“During the 'MFF era,' most prop firms were run by experienced professionals with strong technical and trading backgrounds. Today, it seems that anyone with an Instagram account and a small amount of capital can start a prop firm. This shift has negatively affected the industry and, more importantly, the end users. The rise in payout denials, along with unnecessary and unclear rules designed to deny payouts, clearly reflects the downward spiral the prop industry is currently experiencing.”“Recovering Everything That Rightfully Belongs to Us”Now, MFF is also teasing a comeback to the industry. Although it did not confirm a relaunch, it is now in the process of getting back its assets and data.Related: My Forex Funds Clone Targets Traders While the Prop Trading Firm Battles CFTC at CourtKazmi also highlighted that the present state of the prop trading industry “presents an opportunity for us and for true industry leaders to make things right again.”“I believe we can bring the industry back to its prior glory by launching some ideas that will require participation from both the market at large and from three or four of our biggest competitors.”Dear MFF Family and Prop Community,Our roadmap is more than just a plan; it’s a journey we’re taking together with our community. We’re opening the doors to transparency - keeping you informed of each step, challenge, and achievement along the way. From early victories to… pic.twitter.com/hNGC9yTFwv— MyForexFunds (@MyForexFunds) November 6, 2025He further stressed that relaunching MFF presents challenges, as the company, which has recently regained access to its assets, must rebuild a team to conduct proper analysis.“Then, we need to recover data from various vendors, some of whom may not be cooperative,” Kazmi added. “Once the data and teams are in place, we can begin analysing and determining what the future holds for MFF. For now, my utmost priority is recovering everything that rightfully belonged to us.”However, it remains unclear what happened to the MFF traders who were entitled to a payout at the time of the shutdown. Kazmi did not give a straight answer to the fate of those traders, but said: “We are just starting to gain access back to these systems and the data inside them, with court-ordered restoration in progress, along with putting together a team to conduct analysis. Once the analysis is complete, I will be in a better position to provide more information and answer this.”Another talking point in the prop industry is the prospect of new regulations. The industry today remains unregulated, but regulators are already taking an interest in the sector. FinanceMagnats.com earlier reported that the pan-European regulator ran an initial check and also discussed possible regulations.“Regulation will likely evolve as the industry continues to grow and becomes more mainstream,” Kazmi believes. “As for how that regulation should take shape, we have ideas and are open to discussions with all relevant regulatory bodies, as appropriate.”Arnab Shome contributed to this article. This article was written by Yam Yehoshua at www.financemagnates.com.

Crypto Fund Trader (CFT), the first proprietary trading firm built specifically for crypto traders, today announced that it has paid more than $18 million to traders, marking a key milestone in the development of crypto proprietary trading.Founded as a crypto-native firm from the outset, CFT was not created as an adaptation of traditional prop trading models. Instead, it was built around the structural realities of digital asset markets, including blockchain-based infrastructure, continuous trading hours, and elevated volatility.This foundation positioned Crypto Fund Trader as a pioneer in a category that did not previously exist. Today, that early vision continues to translate into sustained leadership.From the Pioneer to Leader in the Crypto Prop Trading IndustryThe announcement of more than $18 million distributed to traders reflects the maturity and scale of Crypto Fund Trader’s operating model. In an industry where growth is often uneven and credibility must be earned over time, consistent payouts based on real trading performance remain a clear indicator of stability.CFT has developed infrastructure capable of supporting a growing global trader base while maintaining disciplined risk management and reliable execution across volatile market conditions. This ability to scale without sacrificing consistency has positioned Crypto Fund Trader as a reference point for crypto prop trading.Trust Built on TransparencyTrust in financial markets is demonstrated through transparency. Crypto Fund Trader operates with Proof of Reserves, making it the only crypto prop firm that publicly and transparently demonstrates it has the funds to back its traders.By introducing verifiable accountability into a segment where opacity has often been common, CFT sets a higher standard for the industry. Proof of Reserves is treated not as a differentiator, but as an operational requirement that reinforces confidence and raises expectations across the crypto prop trading landscape.Execution, Scale, and ConsistencyCFT’s leadership is reflected in its day-to-day operations rather than in feature lists or comparisons. In crypto markets, reliable execution is essential, particularly during periods of heightened volatility. Infrastructure must also be capable of scaling without introducing instability.Consistency plays a central role as well. Predictable rules, stable systems, and timely payouts allow traders to focus on performance while relying on the firm’s underlying structure. Crypto Fund Trader integrates execution, scale, and consistency into a single operating framework designed exclusively for cryptocurrency trading.Trading With a Broader PurposeThrough Ascend, Crypto Fund Trader reinforces a long-term vision that extends beyond short-term individual profit. Ascend reflects the firm’s commitment to sustainability, responsibility, and meaningful impact within the broader crypto ecosystem.By incorporating this perspective into its identity, CFT positions itself not only as a proprietary trading firm, but as a company aligned with the long-term evolution of digital asset markets.Setting the Industry StandardCrypto Fund Trader was created for crypto traders at a time when no true crypto-native prop firm existed. By establishing standards tailored specifically to digital asset markets, the firm helped define how crypto proprietary trading could operate at scale.The announcement of more than $18 million paid to traders reinforces that position. Through verifiable results, transparent Proof of Reserves, and consistent execution, Crypto Fund Trader continues to demonstrate what leadership looks like as the crypto prop trading industry matures.About Crypto Fund TraderCrypto Fund Trader https://cryptofundtrader.com is a next-generation prop firm, offering traders the opportunity to prove their skills and earn real rewards through simulated capital. Specialized in the evaluation of crypto, forex, indices, commodities, and stock traders through a performance-based model. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

A survey conducted by CMC Markets indicates that UK investors are cautious about the trading outlook for 2026. The results show a broadly pessimistic view of domestic markets and a preference for opportunities abroad.The survey asked participants to rate the UK trading landscape on a scale from one, meaning overwhelmingly negative, to 10, meaning overwhelmingly positive. Respondents gave an average score of 4.3, reflecting slight pessimism about trading in the UK next year.UK Trading Outlook Weak, Uncertainty PersistsLaurence Booth, Global Head of Markets at CMC Markets, said 2025 was “another challenging year for the UK trading landscape,” and investors “do not anticipate that things will change significantly in the year ahead.” He added that following the November 2025 Autumn Budget, investors are “viewing the UK markets sceptically and turning their attention abroad,” which could affect economic growth.Nearly a quarter of respondents, 22 percent, gave scores of one or two, signalling strong pessimism. Only 2 percent scored nine or 10. Almost half, 48 percent, gave middle-range scores of four, five, or six, suggesting uncertainty about the 2026 outlook.Tax Pressures Weigh on UK Trading SentimentThe survey also asked about expectations for global markets. More than two fifths of respondents, 43 percent, predicted the US would be the best-performing market in 2026. The Far East, excluding Japan, was next at 26 percent, followed by Japan at 11 percent.Few investors expect strong performance from the UK or continental Europe. Only 3 percent named the UK as a top market, the same proportion as South America. Continental Europe was chosen by 10 percent of respondents.Booth said tax measures are weighing on investor sentiment. “Higher rates of tax and a frozen income tax threshold” are “further dampen[ing] the mood towards trading in the UK,” he said, adding that this is shaping trading behaviour. He concluded that while there is hope for “better performance in 2026,” investors “require further convincing.” This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

XTB's Polish clients traded 16 billion zlotys worth of securities on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE) in 2025, a 76.3% jump from the previous year, though it lagged the broker's 115% account growth.XTB Trading Volumes on WSE Surge 76%The Warsaw-listed fintech added 441,500 domestic accounts last year while the broader market expanded by 565,000 total accounts, pushing Poland past 2.5 million registered securities accounts for the first time. XTB now controls roughly 33% of all Polish brokerage accounts but holds just 1.7% of Warsaw Stock Exchange trading volume, according to market data analyzed by Polish financial newspaper Parkiet.That gap reflects XTB's focus on mass-market retail customers who are younger and less experienced than traditional brokerage clients, said Filip Kaczmarzyk, a member of XTB's management board. Many new accounts belong to first-time investors building knowledge and portfolio size over time, rather than active traders generating immediate volume."We've democratized access to financial markets," Kaczmarzyk said. "Our average client is significantly younger than the Polish investor average, which naturally means smaller starting portfolio values and a learning phase."Foreign Capital Drives Market GainsThe 2025 rally on the Warsaw Stock Exchange pushed total main market equity turnover to 470.3 billion zlotys, a 41.9% increase from 2024. Average daily trading reached 1.89 billion zlotys versus 1.33 billion zlotys the prior year.Foreign brokers captured the bulk of that activity. Goldman Sachs led the market with a 22.76% share, followed by BofA Securities at 8.2% and PKO BP's brokerage arm at 8.15%. Jump Trading posted the largest year-over-year growth among major players, boosting Warsaw volumes 65.5%.Polish brokerages serving international institutional clients outperformed the market average. Bank Handlowy's brokerage unit increased turnover 66.2% as global hedge funds and long-only investors piled into Polish equities, said Tomasz Ossig, director of institutional clients at BM Citi Handlowy.Santander's Polish brokerage grew volumes 53% and executed 10 accelerated bookbuilding transactions during the year. "Foreign investors showed the biggest increase, both in absolute and percentage terms," said Kamil Kalemba, director at Santander BM.Retail Brokers Show Mixed ResultsAmong domestic-focused firms, XTB's 76.3% volume growth exceeded market expansion but fell short of its account additions. ING Bank Śląski's brokerage division, which also serves retail investors exclusively, held a 1.46% market share with roughly 202,000 accounts at year-end, four times fewer than XTB despite comparable per-account trading activity.BM PKO BP increased volumes 45.4% and lifted its market share from 7.95% to 8.15%. Director Samer Masri said the bank plans to capitalize on higher domestic investor activity in 2026 as lower interest rates and pension account inflows redirect capital toward equities.Smaller retail brokers also benefited from the rally. Noble Securities boosted turnover 65.1% and BNP Paribas Bank Polska's brokerage arm grew 47.6%, though both firms hold market shares below 1%.Account Growth Concentrated at TopXTB captured 78% of all new Polish brokerage accounts opened in 2025, with mBank's division adding 62,225 accounts for a distant second place. PKO BP's unit gained 19,000 accounts while Dom Maklerski BOŚ added 17,400.December brought a surge across the industry as brokers promoted IKE and IKZE tax-advantaged retirement accounts ahead of contribution deadlines. The market added 100,374 accounts that month, more than double the 42,000 monthly average from the prior 11 months.German fintech Trade Republic entered Poland in late 2025, triggering fee cuts across the industry. mBank and DM BOŚ eliminated ETF trading commissions on retirement accounts through February 2026 in response to the new competition.Kaczmarzyk said XTB's younger client base increasingly trades U.S. stocks and European ETFs rather than limiting activity to Warsaw-listed securities. He expects trading volumes will rise as customers gain experience and disposable income.Polish brokers are counting on domestic capital to drive future growth after foreign investors dominated the 2025 rally. "We'll only feel the full benefits of this bull market when local money gets more active," one Warsaw broker said. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

FundingTicks, a prop trading platform, has announced it will wind down its operations. The company said the decision is part of a "strategic plan" to focus resources on areas that deliver long-term value to clients and partners.The move comes after backlash in December 2025, when the platform introduced new trading rules. Changes included a one-minute minimum trade hold for scalpers, higher daily profit requirements, and reduced profit splits. Traders reported that previously valid trades and profits were reduced or invalidated. FundingTicks’ Trustpilot rating fell from 4.1 in October 2025 to 3.2. CEO Khaled defended the platform, stating he had “paid out more than US$220M” and prioritized traders.Live, Evals, Master Accounts To RefundFundingTicks said the wind-down will be handled with “security, fairness, clarity and transparency.” The company outlined how it will manage accounts and rewards during the process. Disclaimer: All Payments are subject to the applicable terms and conditions, the trader’s account type, and satisfaction of the relevant eligibility criteria, as determined by the Company. Eligibility is assessed based on account status as of the applicable shutdown cutoff date… pic.twitter.com/DqRlVjxijp— FundingTicks (@fundingticks) January 18, 2026All active Evals and Master accounts will be refunded in full, regardless of profit or drawdown. Master accounts that reached profit targets and met trading objectives will receive an 80% reward split, while those that did not meet objectives will receive a 20% split.For live accounts, those in profit will receive a refund, 90% of realized profit, and 20% of the initial balance. Accounts at the initial balance will receive a refund and 20% of the initial balance. Accounts in loss will receive a refund only. Pending live transition accounts will also be refunded and receive 20% of the initial balance.Traders Advised to Check DashboardsThe company said refunds and account handling are already underway and advised traders to check their dashboards for details. FundingTicks’ support team will remain available until January 31 to respond to questions.The company concluded by thanking traders and stating that its focus will remain on execution and other areas going forward.Hundreds of Prop Firms Closed 2024Finance Magnates reported earlier that the prop trading industry experienced significant disruption in 2024. Estimates suggest that 80 to 100 prop trading firms closed, challenge pass rates fell, and average trader investments dropped by around 50%. The shift followed MetaQuotes’ decision to reduce support for prop firms, prompting consolidation and changes in trader behavior. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

XRP is falling for the sixth consecutive session, falling to $1.8470 during Monday's flash crash on January 19, 2026, the lowest level since early January and triggering the largest long liquidation since November 2025. The token has now declined 13 of the last 14 sessions, plunging 16% from last Wednesday's local peaks at $2.357. Current price stands at $1.97, down 3.22% from yesterday's $2.062, after recovering from the $1.84 intraday low.According to my technical analysis, the bounce from $1.84 to $1.97 creates a potential bullish pin bar, but the structural trend remains overwhelmingly bearish with targets at $1.61 (April 2025 lows) and ultimately $1.25 (2024 minimums).Let’s check together why XRP is going down today and how low can the Ripple’s token price go.Why XRP Is Going Down? Geopolitical Chaos Triggers $873M Crypto LiquidationsThe crash triggered $40.36 million in XRP liquidations over 12 hours, with $39.14 million from long positions, representing 96% of total XRP liquidations. This occurred amid broader crypto carnage that saw $873.31 million in total liquidations, with $787.75 million from longs as geopolitical tensions and tariff fears sparked a risk-off cascade."Crypto markets have come under heavy downside pressure as the new week gets underway, amid a broader deterioration in global risk sentiment," notes Joel Kruger, crypto strategist at LMAX. "The move lower has been driven primarily by rising geopolitical and trade tensions."Kruger's firm LMAX recently announced a $150 million partnership with Ripple to integrate RLUSD stablecoin as collateral for spot crypto, perpetual futures, and CFD trading across institutional infrastructure. The integration highlights how traditional finance and crypto derivatives are converging, even as XRP itself experiences severe technical breakdown." President Trump's proposed new tariffs on eight European countries over Greenland prompted reports the EU is preparing potential counter-tariffs on up to €93 billion of US goods. "A new front has opened in the Atlantic as Europe braces for a trade war," explains Samer Hasn, Senior Market Analyst at XS.com. The EU is weighing its "never-before-used anti-coercion tool, which could result in retaliatory tariffs on $100 billion of American goods.""Even if the takeover of Greenland would not have been a geopolitical shock enough to shake the market, Trump recklessly insisted on making it so," Hasn adds. "US stock futures opened significantly lower today".The Fed independence crisis compounds uncertainty. "The political headache stems from a criminal investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell, which has effectively paralyzed the central bank's leadership transition," Hasn explains. This "institutional friction has immediate consequences for market sentiment, as uncertainty regarding the Fed's autonomy typically triggers a flight from dollar-denominated assets."24-Hour Liquidation DataData from Coinglass confirms XRP witnessed $29.7 million in long liquidations on Monday, the largest since November 4, 2025, when $36.25 million was liquidated. Bitcoin fell 3.79% in one hour, dropping from $95,500 to $91,900 before recovering to $92,800.XRP Technical Analysis: 13 of 14 Sessions Down, Structural Bear IntactXRP fell below the psychological $2.00 barrier over the weekend and tested $1.8470 during Monday's brief collapse on Binance exchange. Intraday declines reached over 7%, and from local peaks last Wednesday when the bad series began, XRP has lost as much as 16%.Most of the downward movement has since been reversed, however, and at this moment XRP is trading at $1.995, down 3.22% from yesterday's $2.062. The cryptocurrency bounced clearly from the support zone marked on my technical chart at $1.90, and if it closes in such form, we will get a very large bullish pin bar, which could be short-term consolation for buyers.Looking at what's happening long-term on XRP, however, I don't have good news. 13 out of 14 recent sessions are declines, the trend is still bearish (we're moving below 200 EMA), now we're falling back below 50 EMA, and we're again in the area of lows, the lowest since early January 2026.Key XRP Technical LevelsMonday crash low: $1.8470 (flash crash, largest liquidation since Nov 2025)Current price: $1.97 (Jan 19, 2026, down 3.22% from $2.062)Support zone: $1.90 (strong bounce, bullish pin bar forming)Breakdown level: $2.00 (psychological barrier broken)Recent high: $2.357 (Jan 6, 2026 - down 15.4% since)Session record: 13 of 14 recent sessions are declines200 EMA: Overhead resistance (trend bearish)50 EMA: Price falling back below (bearish signal)Key resistance: $2.40 (must break with 200 EMA for bullish reversal)According to my technical analysis, I remain a structural bear on the XRP chart and am targeting declines to $1.61 (April 2025 lows) and ultimately even to the $1.25 level, the 2024 minimums.At the same time, as I show on my chart, XRP has been moving for many months in a downward-sloping regression channel. If the cryptocurrency were to get more breathing room, it would have to break out of it upward and conquer the 200 EMA while simultaneously breaking resistance at $2.40. Currently, the bearish scenario seems more likely to me.How Low Can XRP Go?According to my technical analysis, XRP's structural downtrend targets two key levels:Near-term: $1.61 (April 2025 lows) - This represents the next major support after breaking $2.00. A decline to $1.61 would mean 19% drop from current $1.995 levels.Ultimate bearish target: $1.25 (2024 minimums) - This is the floor established in 2024. A fall to $1.25 would mean 37% decline—devastating but consistent with the months-long downward regression channel."Ultimately, we see a shift from 'market fundamentals' to 'geopolitical theater' as the primary driver of price action," concludes Hasn from XS.com. "For the crypto markets, this 'politicized dollar' narrative serves as a long-term bull case, even if current prices are dipping."For real-time XRP technical analysis as price tests $1.90 support with targets at $1.61-$1.25, follow me on X (Twitter) @ChmielDk. I provide regression channel analysis, pin bar signals, and liquidation insights.XRP Price Analysis, FAQWhy is XRP falling? XRP is falling for six consecutive sessions, crashing to $1.84 on January 19, 2026, amid geopolitical chaos, Trump's Greenland tariffs prompting EU counter-tariffs on €93B US goods and Fed Chair Powell criminal investigation. This triggered $873.31M crypto liquidations ($40.36M from XRP longs) as "rising geopolitical and trade tensions weighed on risk assets," per LMAX's Kruger. According to my technical analysis, 13 of 14 recent sessions are declines with XRP below 50 EMA and 200 EMA at $2.56, maintaining structural downtrend.Does XRP still have a future?Yes, but the near-term outlook is bearish. According to my technical analysis, XRP trades in months-long downward-sloping regression channel targeting $1.61 (April lows) and $1.25 (2024 minimums). Long-term, XS.com's Hasn notes "politicized dollar narrative serves as crypto bull case" if investors lose faith in Fed autonomy. For bullish reversal, XRP must break regression channel upward, reclaim 200 EMA at $2.56, and conquer $2.40 resistance simultaneously—currently unlikely given 13 of 14 sessions declining.Why does XRP keep crashing?XRP crashed 13 of last 14 sessions (worst since November 2025) due to structural technical weakness, price below 200 EMA at $2.56 and 50 EMA at $2.02. As I show on my chart, XRP moves in downward-sloping regression channel established months ago. Monday's flash crash to $1.84 triggered largest long liquidation ($40.36M) since November 2025. Macro headwinds compound: Greenland trade war, Fed independence crisis, and "shift from market fundamentals to geopolitical theater," per Hasn. Each rally meets resistance, creating lower highs pattern.Could XRP hit $100?Yes, but not in the foreseeable future based on current technical structure. According to my technical analysis, XRP faces immediate downside targets of $1.61 and $1.25, not upside to $100. At current price $1.975, reaching $100 would require 5,063% increase with market cap exceeding $5.6 trillion (larger than entire crypto market). This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Lambros Savva has joined FXGlobe.com as Head of Operations after spending nearly 10 years at IronFX, where he rose from a customer support role to Head of Business Development.Savva announced the career change on LinkedIn over the weekend, marking his exit from IronFX at the end of December 2025. He started at the Cyprus-based broker in July 2016 as a Customer Support Officer with no prior industry experience, climbing through multiple positions including Sales Coordinator, Sales Manager, Head of Sales and Customer Support, and ultimately Head of Business Development, a role he held from February 2022 until his departure.“I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Head of Operations at FXGlobe.com,” he wrote on his LinkedIn.From IronFX to FXGlobeSavva's transition represents the latest in a series of high-profile moves to FXGlobe. Brett David joined FXGlobe as Global Head of Revenue Operations & Sales in January 2025 after nearly four years at IronFX, where he served as Head of EU Partnerships. Before IronFX, David worked at Microsoft and IBM.In November 2025, Reginald Sherekete left his position as Head of Risk at Doo Group to become Chief Risk Officer at FXGlobe. Sherekete previously worked as Senior Dealer at Scope Markets and Chief Dealer at Trade Capital Markets.In his new role, Savva will oversee operations at FXGlobe, a CySEC-regulated broker based in Limassol that also holds licenses from South Africa's FSCA and Vanuatu's VFSC. The broker offers trading on MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and its proprietary Black Arrow platform, with access to forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Fintrix Markets, a multi-asset CFD broker built for active traders, has launched under the leadership of three former Pepperstone executives. The firm is positioned around execution quality, transparent pricing, and instant deposits and withdrawals, designed to meet the growing needs of active retail traders in global markets.Leadership beyond the expectedFintrix launched in October 2025 under new ownership and leadership, building on client services and trading infrastructure that have been operating in live market conditions since 2022. These systems were selected for their operational stability and have since been upgraded under current management to deliver fast funding and withdrawals, raw spreads, and competitive trading conditions, supported by strengthened execution controls, risk oversight, and client fund handling processes. Fintrix is led by founder and CEO Gordon Buchanan, alongside directors Peter Spanos and Scott Redford. The leadership team brings extensive experience across trading, risk, finance, and brokerage operations in high-volume, regulated environments, with a clear focus on execution reliability, capital protection, and operational discipline.Buchanan draws on a blend of private equity discipline and brokerage leadership. As former Chief Financial Officer at Pepperstone, he saw first-hand where trader confidence is earned or lost, particularly through client money protection, the reliability of deposits and withdrawals, and the strength of the systems underpinning every trade. His private equity background sharpened this focus on capital integrity, operational resilience, and long-term viability. At Fintrix, this philosophy underpins best-in-class client money management and a payment experience designed to be seamless, transparent, and dependable. Peter Spanos joined Fintrix as Director, adding market risk expertise built at IG Group, CMC Markets, Pepperstone, and GO Markets. His career spans dealing desks, volatility risk, and product development, with a consistent focus on disciplined risk frameworks that protect both traders and brokerage operations, particularly during periods of market stress.Scott Redford completes the leadership team, with experience across sales, trading, and market risk at IG and Pepperstone. He brings a sharp understanding of what active traders value most, and how to align execution quality, liquidity, and service delivery without compromise.Collectively, the Fintrix leadership team brings more than four decades of experience across trading, risk, finance, and operations, with a shared focus on accountability and performance under real market conditions.The expectation gap between brokers and tradersFintrix launches as former institutional leaders warn that Southeast Asia is approaching an inflection point that could reshape retail trading in 2026. A 2022 report by the Bank for International Settlements notes that market structure across Asia-Pacific remains uneven, with many emerging markets operating on less mature liquidity and infrastructure than major financial hubs.Findings from the 2024 Investment Trends Singapore Leverage Trading Report show a widening expectation gap, with retail traders increasingly demanding near-institutional standards for execution, liquidity access, and transparency, while also demonstrating a greater willingness to switch brokers when those expectations are not met.“Market structure has changed, trader behaviour has changed, but much of the broker infrastructure behind it has not,” Buchanan said. “Traders now expect clean execution, resilient systems, and full clarity on pricing and withdrawals. When those expectations are not met, confidence erodes quickly. Fintrix exists to close this gap.”The hybrid model shaping the next generation of brokersFintrix positions itself as part of a new wave of boutique-style brokers offering institutional-grade trading conditions without the scale-driven limitations of legacy platforms. “Many brokers continue to rely on frameworks built for an earlier phase of the industry,” Buchanan said. “Fintrix represents a new model for retail brokers, combining boutique service with institutional-grade execution.”Building a new brand guided by decades of experience, together with a service model anchored in a robust infrastructure, has allowed the firm to focus on the details that matter most to active traders, creating a trading experience designed to remain reliable across varying market conditions.Early momentum in Southeast AsiaSince securing its Mauritius licence, Fintrix has expanded across Southeast Asia, reporting 106 percent growth in accounts. Client engagement is tracking ahead of forecast, with the region remaining central to the firm’s 2026 expansion strategy.To support growth in its primary launch markets, Fintrix has made several hires across Asia in client operations, partner management, and multilingual support. The firm reports growing interest from senior industry talent seeking to move from legacy brokers to more agile, technology-led platforms built for active retail traders.Slippage and withdrawals as the next battlegroundActive traders consistently cite slippage, withdrawal delays, and unclear pricing as their most significant pain points, with regulators increasing scrutiny on how brokers manage these areas. Fintrix’s founders believe these pressures are defining the next competitive battleground in retail FX, where execution quality becomes a decisive differentiator.“Traders cannot control the market, but they can control their choice of broker,” Spanos said. “Execution is one of the few advantages fully within their control. We have built Fintrix with that reality in mind.” Fintrix has been engineered to deliver consistent performance under stress through low-latency execution, deep liquidity access, and fully integrated trading and funding systems designed to keep capital moving efficiently, particularly for high-frequency and event-driven strategies.Product pipeline and regulatory roadmapFintrix Markets operates under a Full Service Investment Dealer Licence (GB22200883), issued by the Mauritius Financial Services Commission.The firm indicates an active product pipeline for 2026, including new platform integrations, expanded trading capabilities, and continued enhancements to its execution infrastructure. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.