Philippe Capelle has joined Trade Nation as Chief Marketing Officer. He shared the update in a post on LinkedIn.The appointment comes as Trade Nation continues to build its senior management team. In recent months, the company has added several executives with previous experience at IG Group.These include Kypros Zoumidou, who joined as Managing Director, and Chief Executive Officer Jon Noble. Both previously held senior roles at the London-listed broker. Zoumidou later served as Chief Executive Officer of Capital.com.Former Wirex Marketing Chief Joins Trade NationBefore joining Trade Nation, Capelle worked at Wirex. He served as Chief Marketing Officer for more than two years. The role was based in London and followed a hybrid working model.Prior to Wirex, he was Marketing Director at Novakid Inc. He held the position for around one year and six months.Marketing Roles Across Sky, Dyson, FintechEarlier in his career, Capelle worked at Sky. He served as Head of Marketing for more than a year. He then joined Dyson, where he held the same title for roughly eight months.His professional background includes senior marketing roles across fintech, education technology, media, and consumer electronics.Trade Nation Reports Return to ProfitabilityTrade Nation operates a global brokerage business with licensed entities in the UK, Australia, the Bahamas, South Africa, and Seychelles. The company also maintains a public presence through a sponsorship arrangement with English Premier League club Aston Villa FC.In its UK operations, Trade Nation reported a net profit of £996,766 for the financial year ended 30 November 2024, a reversal from the prior year’s net loss of £2.2 million. Revenue increased to £21.7 million from £13.4 million, while gross profit rose to £18.1 million. Operating profit reached £636,136, up from a previous operating loss of £2.6 million.Several factors contributed to the improved performance, including controlled administrative expenses, higher interest income, and the absence of hedging losses, which had totalled £3 million in the previous year. The company’s tax charge also fell significantly, supporting the improved bottom line. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Leverate is rolling out a three-month free trial of its full MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 brokerage stack as competition in the broker technology market potentially pushes vendors toward increasingly aggressive pricing tactics. The offer gives forex and CFD brokers access to MT4/MT5 servers, hosting, CRM, branded client portals, liquidity connectivity, risk tools, back-office systems, and payment integrations without setup fees or commissions during the trial period.Leverate Waives Fees for MT4/MT5 Broker Infrastructure TrialThe company, active in brokerage technology for almost two decades, is targeting both new entrants testing the market and existing brokers considering alternatives to their current providers. Leverate manages MT4/MT5 migrations and maintains connections to more than 150 partner services, allowing firms to onboard real clients and execute live trades before deciding whether to continue on standard commercial terms."Our ecosystem has been refined and proven over 19 years in the industry,” said Chief Operating Officer, Shmulik Kordova, in the announcement. “We believe so strongly in our services that offering three months of free access is the ideal way for brokers to truly test and experience everything we've built," Competitors Push Bundled and Turnkey OffersHowever, Leverate’s move lands in a market where rival vendors are also trying to lock in brokers with bundled infrastructure and service packages. MetaTrader Price War?B2Broker has been especially active, teaming up with Your Bourse to deliver turnkey solutions that combine liquidity, risk management, and trading platforms in a single offering. Match-Trade Technologies promotes three MT4/MT5 white-label bundles aimed at different broker profiles, while Quadcode markets proprietary CRM systems built for forex operations with quick setup.Beyond MT4/MT5-focused providers, Leverate also competes with alternative platforms such as cTrader, DXtrade, and TradeLocker, as brokers diversify away from single-vendor dependency and look for more flexibility in their tech stack. At the same time, Leverate effectively competes with its own SiRiX platform, which it positions as a non-MetaQuotes option for brokers wanting to reduce reliance on MetaTrader.Leverate Builds Around Ecosystem PlayLeverate is pitching the new promotion as a way for brokers to test not just a trading platform but a broader operational ecosystem. The package includes a 360-degree CRM, configurable A-Book and B-Book routing, multi-currency payment processing, and ongoing optimization support.The firm has also been expanding its offering through partnerships and product development. In March 2025, Leverate integrated TradingView charting tools into its SiRiX platform to enhance analytics and charting for brokers and prop firms, and in April it joined forces with Convrs to offer messaging and communication tools integrated with operational management. In May, the company promoted Idan Stambulchik to head of product, signaling continued focus on product expansion and competitive positioning. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Finance Magnates is extending its international platform into the Asia-Pacific region with FM Summit Singapore, reinforcing its presence in one of the region’s most established financial hubs. FM Summit Singapore will take place from 12–14 May 2026 in Singapore as part of the group’s broader international footprint, supporting commercially focused engagement among institutional financial services participants. FM Summit Singapore joins the Finance Magnates platform, which operates across key global financial centres and is recognised for facilitating senior-level dialogue, partnership development, and market-relevant interaction across the entire financial services ecosystem. This edition brings an established format to the Asia-Pacific region, creating a focused environment for commercial engagement and regional market development. Across the wider FM Summit portfolio, the platform has connected a global audience of more than 50,000 attendees and 2,000 exhibitors, with participation from over 100 countries worldwide. Singapore’s role as a regional financial centre makes it a strategic location for Asia-Pacific engagement. The city serves as a decision-making base for financial services firms operating across multiple APAC markets, supported by regulatory clarity, mature market infrastructure, and strong connectivity to global capital flows. FM Summit Singapore is designed for institutional decision-makers and senior executives across financial services firms, market infrastructure providers, and technology and data companies with active commercial mandates in the region. The platform prioritises structured engagement and informed discussion around regional strategy, infrastructure development, regulatory considerations, and cross-border collaboration. The Singapore edition builds on an established international platform, bringing a proven audience and clear strategic focus to the region, while staying closely aligned with the local market as part of Finance Magnates’ global growth strategy. Ongoing programme updates are available via the FM Summit Singapore website, ahead of delegate registration opening shortly. This article was written by FM Events at www.financemagnates.com.

In an industry flooded with noise, true leaders don't just follow trends—they predict them. Wei Sheng, the founder of TX EduGroup, has built his reputation on exactly that: seeing what others miss.From his early days navigating the financial markets to establishing one of Malaysia’s most respected education groups, Wei Sheng’s journey is defined by a refusal to accept the status quo. Where others saw risk, he saw opportunity. Where others saw barriers, he built bridges.Today, he is not just teaching finance; he is engineering a shift in the Southeast Asian mindset, transforming ordinary savers into disciplined, global-ready "Traderpreneurs."The Pioneer: Redefining the Playing FieldWei Sheng’s rise began with a critical realization: Malaysian investors were being left behind. While the world’s financial engines were accelerating in the U.S. and Europe, local education was still stuck on traditional, domestic concepts.He decided to break the mold.Wei Sheng became the pioneer behind the Global Index Mastery (GIM), the very first program to introduce fellow Malaysians to the high-velocity world of Global Indices. The impact of this initiative has been massive: over 150,000 individuals were exposed to these powerful trading instruments for the very first time through his efforts, resulting in a community of 6,000 successful students who have mastered the craft.By demystifying the U.S. and German markets, he gave these students a "Wall Street" edge long before it was mainstream, proving that with the right guidance, local traders could compete on the world stage.The Futurist: Acting Before the Market OpensPerhaps nothing illustrates Wei Sheng’s foresight better than his bold strategy for the China market.Long before the global capital rush into China’s A-shares in 2024, Wei Sheng had already identified the macroeconomic signals pointing to a massive shift to the East. It wasn’t a gamble; it was a calculated read on the global pulse. Refusing to wait for the infrastructure to catch up, he personally flew to Hong Kong to negotiate direct execution channels for his students.This led to the launch of the China Stock Market Mastery (CSM). By the time mass-market platforms like Moomoo finally democratized access months later, Wei Sheng’s students were already positioned at the optimal entry points. They weren't just participating; they were front-running the trend, guided by Wei Sheng’s precise market projections that played out exactly as predicted.The Architect: Designing for Human LivesWei Sheng’s impact goes beyond market predictions; it changes lives. He realized that the "one-size-fits-all" approach of traditional gurus was failing because it didn't account for real life.To solve this, he architected The Mentored Trader (TMT). This wasn't just another course; it was a bespoke incubator. Wei Sheng and his team began crafting unique Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for each student, ensuring their trading strategies fit their specific lifestyles and careers.This approach is best captured by the group’s core mantra: "Generate a sustainable USD income in just 15 minutes a day."For Wei Sheng, this isn't just a catchy slogan; it is a strict operational rule. He believes that trading should never hijack a student's normal lifestyle. Instead, it must be a powerful, efficient tool that enhances their life, allowing them to generate wealth without sacrificing their freedom.The Impact: Transforming Lives, Not Just PortfoliosThe proof of this philosophy lies in the diversity of the students. Walk into a TX EduGroup seminar, and you won't find a single "type" of trader. You will find high-level corporate professionals seeking an escape from the 9-to-5 grind sitting next to dedicated housewives managing their household finances.For Wei Sheng and his team, witnessing these diverse transformations is the ultimate motivation. Seeing a stay-at-home mom use these skill sets to generate an independent income, or a burnt-out executive reclaim their time, changes the dynamic of the business entirely."It is no longer just about providing trading courses," Wei Sheng reflects. "It is about creating impactful moments for the students who trusted us."Every lifestyle changed is a milestone, and every success story fuels the team's mission to keep building.The Promise: A Safe Haven in a Chaotic IndustryBeyond the strategies and the profits, Wei Sheng is driven by a deeper mission: to restore trust in an industry plagued by uncertainty. He is acutely aware that the financial education space is often tarnished by "fly-by-night" scammers and instructors who lack true dedication.His goal is to break that cycle by building an "Education Safe Haven"—a sanctuary where students can find truth, transparency, and consistency.“My hope is that ten years from now, you will still find me standing right here, teaching these same principles,” Wei Sheng often says.For him, longevity is the ultimate proof of integrity. In a market full of fleeting trends, he aims to be the constant—a trustable figure who remains dedicated to his students long after the hype has faded.The Next Frontier: TX EduGroup Meets the WorldToday, the boundaries between local ambition and global impact are dissolving, and TX EduGroup stands at that precise intersection.What started as a mission to guide Malaysians in exploring new markets has evolved into a borderless movement. With digital classrooms that transcend geography and a curriculum that speaks the universal language of profit and discipline, the group is no longer just a Malaysian success story—it is a global contender.From major financial hubs to the trading desks of Kuala Lumpur, Wei Sheng’s vision has proven that talent has no nationality. As the group expands its footprint into the broader Asian market and beyond, the message to the international financial community is clear:TX EduGroup isn't just catching up to the world standards. This is where TX EduGroup meets the world—and sets a new one. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Financial fraud targeting retail trading platforms reached unprecedented levels in 2025, with impersonation scams growing more than 1,400% year-over-year as criminals deploy artificial intelligence and phishing-as-a-service tools to dupe investors. Professional money laundering networks now process billions in stolen funds annually, according to a new report from blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis.The dramatic spike reflects how scammers have industrialized their operations, purchasing AI-powered deepfake software and bulk SMS systems that allow even technically unsophisticated criminals to execute sophisticated attacks at scale. The tools have proven brutally effective: AI-enabled scams extracted 4.5 times more money per operation than traditional fraud methods in 2025.In our latest 2026 Crypto Crime Report chapter, we examine how crypto scams reached $17 billion in 2025, driven by sophisticated operations using AI, phishing-as-a-service tools, and professional money laundering networks. Our analysis reveals that impersonation scams grew 1400%… pic.twitter.com/ioiVFu4OJv— Chainalysis (@chainalysis) January 13, 2026CFD Brokers Battle Daily Takedown DemandsThe explosion in impersonation attempts has forced retail brokers to dedicate full-time teams to combating fake websites and social media accounts. Pepperstone Group CEO Tamas Szabo said in December the firm takes down scam sites impersonating the broker "on an almost daily basis," despite purchasing more than 100 domain variants to prevent misuse.“We've purchased over a hundred variants of our domain, but haven't been able to capture them all. It has become a full-time job for our fraud team to take these sites down," he added.The problem extends beyond domain cybersquatting. Fraudsters increasingly impersonate not just trading platforms but regulators themselves. The UK's Financial Conduct Authority received 4,465 reports of impersonation scams in the first half of 2025 alone, with 480 victims actually transferring money to criminals posing as FCA officials. Malta's financial regulator warned that scammers were using forged documents bearing the CEO's fake signature, while Cyprus flagged multiple cases of staff being impersonated.Phishing-as-a-Service Lowers Entry BarriersThe Chainalysis report reveals how criminal enterprises have built modular, service-based business models that dramatically lower barriers to entry. Chinese-language vendors on Telegram sell complete phishing kits for as little as $20 to $50, offering fake website templates, domain setup tools, and spam distribution services designed to evade detection.One prominent vendor, Lighthouse, received over 7,000 deposits and amassed more than $1.5 million before Google filed suit in November 2025. The operation allegedly reached 330,000 texts in a single day and duped over 1 million people across 121 countries, according to court documents.Scams leveraging these industrial-grade phishing kits proved 688 times more effective in dollar terms than regular scams, while operations that purchased bulk social media accounts were 238 times more effective, the data shows.Deepfakes Supercharge Fraud EffectivenessArtificial intelligence has emerged as a force multiplier for scammers targeting retail investors. New Zealand authorities warned in August about deepfake videos featuring local financial experts promoting fraudulent trading schemes on Facebook and WhatsApp. The AI-generated content proved alarmingly convincing to victims unfamiliar with the technology.Financial institutions globally have detected a 2,137% increase in deepfake fraud attempts over the past three years, according to identity verification firm Signicat. Deepfakes now account for 42.5% of all fraud attempts in the financial sector, making them the most common type of digital identity fraud facing companies today.Law Enforcement Scores Record SeizuresAuthorities responded with unprecedented enforcement actions in 2025. The UK's Metropolitan Police recovered over 61,000 Bitcoin, currently valued around $5 billion, in connection with an investment fraud that victimized more than 128,000 people. The U.S. Department of Justice unsealed charges against individuals allegedly running forced-labor scam compounds in Cambodia, pairing the indictments with seizures exceeding $15 billion.European regulators took down more than 1,400 fraudulent trading platforms during a coordinated crackdown in 2025, following an earlier operation that shut down 800 illicit domains. Germany's BaFin identified at least 20 nearly identical websites advertising AI-based trading services with no verifiable operators or regulatory oversight.The average scam payment climbed from $782 in 2024 to $2,764 in 2025, a 253% year-over-year increase, indicating scammers are successfully targeting more sophisticated investors with larger account balances. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Prediction markets posted their highest single-day trading volume on record this week, reaching $701.7 million despite mounting regulatory pressure from state authorities across the country.Kalshi dominated the day's activity with $465.9 million in volume, accounting for roughly two-thirds of total trading. Polymarket and Opinion combined for approximately $100 million in trades, according to Gate Research data from Dune Analytics.The record broke the previous high of $666.6 million set just one day earlier, with Kalshi maintaining a similar share of overall volume.Prediction Markets Volume Surge Follows Explosive Growth YearThe January trading spike continues momentum from Kalshi's breakout 2025, when the platform processed $23.8 billion in total volume, representing year-over-year growth exceeding 1,100%. The company handled 97 million transactions last year, up more than 1,680% from 2024.December proved particularly strong, generating $6.38 billion in monthly volume as sports betting contracts drove platform usage. Traditional crypto exchanges including Coinbase and Gemini have moved to integrate prediction markets into their platforms, while self-custody wallets like MetaMask have added similar functionality. The expansion has attracted Wall Street interest, with Kalshi and Polymarket now carrying multibillion-dollar valuations.However, recent blockchain analysis revealed that 70% of prediction market traders lose money, mirroring the loss rates seen among retail CFD investors.Maduro Bet Triggers Fresh ScrutinyA Polymarket user placed roughly $32,000 in bets on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's removal just hours before U.S. forces captured him, ultimately collecting more than $400,000 in winnings. The account was created in late December and made only Venezuela-related wagers before being deleted.The timing raised immediate concerns about potential insider knowledge of U.S. military operations. "There are a lot of telltale signs that make it seem like insider trading," Stephen Piepgrass, a regulatory attorney at Troutman Pepper Locke specializing in futures trading, told CBS News.Polymarket data showed odds of Maduro's exit at just 6.5% on the afternoon of January 2, jumping to 11% before midnight and spiking in early hours of January 3 before Trump announced the capture. Another account following a similar pattern collected $80,000.New York lawmakers are reviewing legislation that would ban prediction markets tied to politics, sports, stock prices, and certain other categories. The proposed ORACLE Act would grant the state attorney general enforcement authority including injunctions and monetary penalties.Moreover, Tennessee regulators recently ordered Kalshi and competitors to cease sports-related contracts, joining at least 10 other states that have taken action against the platforms.​State-Federal Jurisdiction Battle IntensifiesConnecticut, Nevada, and New Jersey have attempted to restrict prediction market operations, prompting legal challenges from platform operators. The platforms argue their CFTC registration as designated contract markets allows them to operate nationwide regardless of state gambling restrictions. Kalshi has filed federal lawsuits challenging cease-and-desist orders in multiple jurisdictions, claiming states lack authority over federally regulated derivatives exchanges.Ukrainian authorities blocked access to Polymarket in December, classifying the platform's offerings as unlicensed gambling. The ban, issued December 10 by Ukraine's National Commission for the Regulation of Electronic Communications, cited the platform's role in enabling bets on geopolitical developments related to Russia's invasion.Polymarket is now blocked or restricted in 33 countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Singapore, Australia, Iran, and Russia. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Funderblu (https://funderblu.com/) has announced the launch of its proprietary trading firm, offering traders access to trading capital through a structured, performance-based evaluation process. The firm enters the market aiming to address common operational concerns in the industry, such as evaluation costs, unclear guidelines, and delays in fund disbursement.The company’s model includes a growth framework that scales up to $1 million, guided by defined evaluation criteria and a standardized approach to funding progression. Funderblu’s operations prioritize procedural transparency, consistent governance, and streamlined processes to support participant engagement.A More Accessible Path to Professional FundingFunderblu’s evaluation programs enable traders to progress through capital tiers with clear targets, risk parameters, and scaling requirements. This structure supports systematic growth while promoting discipline and consistency. In addition to the Gen Z plan, Funderblu offers evaluation tracks tailored to various skill levels, ensuring competitive options for traders from all backgrounds.Introducing the Gen Z Plan: A Market-First Entry OptionA core highlight of the launch is the Gen Z Plan, an industry-first, budget-friendly evaluation option. While designed for younger traders in mind, the program is available to anyone seeking professional funding at a lower entry cost.The Gen Z Plan addresses a major industry barrier: high upfront evaluation fees. It provides an affordable entry point for developing traders seeking professional experience without significant financial risk. Despite its lower cost, the plan maintains the same transparent rules, payout structure, and evaluation criteria as Funderblu’s higher tiers. Other plans continue to offer unique advantages, including advanced scaling and structured evaluation formats, ensuring balanced support for all traders.Global Access Through MT5Funderblu operates on the MetaTrader 5 (MT5) platform, allowing traders worldwide to participate using a global standard recognized for speed, stability, and advanced analytics. This infrastructure ensures consistency for both new and experienced traders.24-Hour Payouts and Operational TransparencyTo reinforce trust and reliability, all approved payouts are processed within 24 hours. Funderblu maintains standardized rules with no hidden conditions. There are no undisclosed restrictions on trading styles or unexpected changes to drawdown calculations. Traders are able to complete evaluations at their own pace, allowing for greater flexibility in managing their strategies.Key Components of the Funderblu Ecosystem:Scalable Funding up to $1,000,000: A performance-driven progression framework.Gen Z Plan: A low-barrier, transparent evaluation tier specifically for skill validation.Multiple Evaluation Tracks: Pathways with distinct benefits for different trading approaches.24-Hour Payout Processing: Fast processing to reinforce trust and liquidity access.MT5 Trading Infrastructure: A globally recognized platform for professional trading.Flexible Evaluation Conditions: No strict time limits or hidden clauses.Transparent Governance: Clear, consistent rules supporting long-term sustainability.Leadership Commentary"Funderblu was launched with a simple mission: to remove unnecessary barriers in the prop trading industry," said Kaifi Gaur, Founder of Funderblu. "Many talented traders struggle with high evaluation costs or confusing conditions. Our goal is to create a transparent, accessible pathway where performance, not capital, determines opportunity."About FunderbluFunderblu launches a transparent prop trading evaluation suite with an industry-first Gen Z plan. is a proprietary trading firm providing traders worldwide with structured access to capital through transparent, performance-based evaluations. The company offers scalable funding, fast payouts, and a globally accessible MT5 trading platform. Funderblu’s programs support both new and experienced traders seeking a professional environment and institutional-level capital. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

LSEG has introduced a new Trade Surveillance platform that aims to help financial institutions tackle market abuse and financial crime with greater precision and lower cost at a time of fast-changing trading behaviors and regulatory scrutiny. The launch targets firms that need to replace rigid legacy tools with more flexible, data-rich surveillance that can keep pace with fragmented liquidity and complex cross-venue activity. By focusing first on MiFID instruments and FX markets, LSEG positions the new service at the center of Europe’s core regulatory and trading workflows.LSEG’s New Surveillance OfferingLSEG’s Trade Surveillance combines clients’ private trade data with public market data, reference data and news to generate cross-venue alerts that aim to reduce false positives and highlight meaningful behavioral anomalies.The initial rollout includes two live solutions: one focused on MiFID-reportable instruments and another on FX trading across LSEG and connected third-party venues.According to the exchange, the design responds to growing pressure on firms to identify market abuse and financial crime in more sophisticated ways, as regulators intensify their expectations around monitoring quality and evidencing of controls.Traditional tools can struggle with fragmented data and complex cross-market strategies, which in turn can drive high volumes of false alerts and strain compliance teams.Continue reading: London Stock Exchange Group’s FX Volumes Hit New Highs in Q1 2025Trade Surveillance for MiFID offers a multi-market, multi-asset surveillance solution for participants that trade MiFID instruments across Europe. It uses the same datasets that UK and EU regulators rely on for detecting market abuse, which gives firms the ability to align internal surveillance more closely with supervisory perspectives. Trade Surveillance for MiFIDThe service draws on LSEG’s consolidated European orderbook, which incorporates data from more than 40 UK and EU trading venues and Approved Publication Arrangements, to support cross-venue and cross-product alert generation.For clients already using LSEG’s Regulatory Reporting Solutions Approved Reporting Mechanism, the MiFID product operates on a plug-and-play basis, removing the need for additional technical build or data integrity work. The FX component of Trade Surveillance focuses on spot FX activity and serves participants on LSEG’s FX Dealing, Advanced Dealing and Matching platforms, as well as those trading on third-party venues that feed into LSEG’s Trade Notification network. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

MAS Markets, an institutional trading and liquidity provider, has appointed three senior professionals to its institutional team. The company said the additions support its global expansion plans and aim to strengthen client coverage, sales leadership and relationship management across key regions.MAS Markets has appointed Michael Quirk as Institutional Account Manager. He has broad experience in institutional sales and client relationship management in financial markets.Focusing on Institutional Client AcquisitionQuirk previously served as Head of Institutional Sales at Global Market Index (GMI UK). In that role he focused on institutional client acquisition and engagement across a range of asset classes. MAS Markets expects his background in market structure, sales execution and institutional service to support its drive to offer tailored solutions and responsive support to institutional partners.“Their combined expertise, leadership, and deep institutional experience will play a critical role as we continue to expand our global institutional offering and strengthen strategic client partnerships,” said Simon Blackledge, the CEO of MAS Markets. The firm has named Jorge Darias as Head of Institutional Sales for Southern Europe and LATAM. Darias is an MBA-qualified executive with a track record in business development and institutional sales across Europe and Latin America.He most recently worked at Swissquote as Senior Officer, Head of Relationship Management (HNW). At Swissquote he helped shape institutional growth strategies and managed key regional client relationships. At MAS Markets he will use his regional market knowledge and strategic focus to push the firm’s expansion in Southern Europe and Latin America.Nicholas Chantzaras Becomes Head of Institutional SalesMAS Markets has also appointed Nicholas Chantzaras as Head of Institutional Sales. He is a sales leader with experience in fixed income, FX, CFDs and institutional business.More moves: Jason Keogh Joins Sage Capital After Fusion Capital StintChantzaras previously held senior sales roles in the brokerage sector, including Head of Sales at CPT Markets UK. There he led commercial growth and client engagement strategies for institutional and professional clients. His remit at MAS Markets covers overall institutional sales leadership and commercial development.MAS Markets is a multi-asset liquidity provider that offers bespoke trading solutions for institutional clients such as professional traders, brokers, hedge funds, family offices and corporates. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

TradersYard has rolled out a new set of trading challenges built specifically for futures traders, marking a shift away from the FX and CFD-style rulebooks that dominate the retail prop space. “We built these because most prop firms treat futures like an afterthought - same old fx/cfd rules slapped onto completely different instruments combined with unnecessary complex restrictions just to confuse users into failing their accs,” Manuel Sonnleithner, the Co-Founder and CEO of TradersYard, said.The firm confirmed the launch of futures-based challenges as part of an expansion of its retail proprietary offering, saying the product targets traders who operate on exchange-traded derivatives and who have previously had to work within conditions designed for other asset classes.CEO Criticises FX-Style Futures RulesThe rollout positions futures as a standalone segment inside TradersYard’s evaluation structure. According to the company, the new ruleset emerged after it observed that many prop trading providers apply the same framework across FX, CFDs and futures.This practice, it said, often leaves futures strategies constrained by conditions that do not reflect contract size, tick value or margining. The launch aims to address those mismatches by introducing futures-specific parameters from the outset.Related: Prop Firm TradersYard Shifts Focus from Social Network to Trading ChallengesSonnleithner added that “futures need different risk management, different scaling logic, different everything,” highlighting the need for tailored challenge design.The New Hottest Futures Prop Firm Is Here!? pic.twitter.com/qCd6K11Sev— TradersYard (@TradersYard) January 13, 2026“Futures need different risk management, different scaling logic, different everything. So we designed challenges specifically for how futures traders actually operate: position sizing that makes sense for leverage, drawdown rules and profit targets that align with typical futures moves and removal of most of the noise of weird rules other props throw at their clients.”Focus on Position Sizing and DrawdownsSonnleithner also framed the changes as a response to trader feedback around opaque rules and non-market constraints. In his announcement, he said “traders who've been waiting for proper futures challenges – they’re live now,” signalling that the firm expects demand from participants who have avoided futures programmes under mixed-asset templates. TradersYard is majorly owned by Andromeda Capital Partners Suisse, a Swiss-based private equity firm. It was founded by entrepreneurs Ingmar Mattus and Antonis Dessipris.In Finance Magnates' prediction for the news year, futures-focused prop firms have become an attractive extension for CFD-based props, particularly in the US market. Established US names such as TopStep, Apex and MyFundedFutures dominate this segment, while newer entrants like FundedNext have also moved into futures. The5ers is likewise anticipated to roll out its own futures prop trading platform. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Hong Kong has signaled that it is not moving quickly toward gold-backed stablecoins, despite growing global interest in asset-backed digital currencies. Recent reports indicate regulators have no current plans to introduce or support stablecoins linked to physical gold, reflecting a cautious approach as the city balances innovation with financial stability. The new stance may affect crypto firms that had hoped to launch gold-backed tokens in Hong Kong. Several companies have been exploring commodity-backed digital assets as part of the city’s expanding Web3 ecosystem.SFC Seminar Highlights Digital Asset ComplianceLast year, the Securities and Futures Commission participated in a seminar organised by the Association of Fund Administrators of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, focusing on regulatory compliance in the digital asset sector. [#highlighted-links#] At the same time, Chinese technology groups, including Ant Group and JD.com, paused stablecoin plans in Hong Kong following guidance reportedly issued by mainland authorities, highlighting the cautious approach to privately issued digital currencies.Fiat-Backed Stablecoins Focused Regulatory ApproachOver the past two years, Hong Kong has positioned itself as a regional crypto hub. Authorities have introduced licensing regimes for virtual asset trading platforms and promoted blockchain development through policy statements and pilot projects. ⚡ INSIGHT: Hong Kong hints that the city isn’t entertaining gold-backed stablecoins yet. South Korea’s STO pioneer risks closure. Asia Express via Cointelegraph Magazine pic.twitter.com/bGeUNID7si— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) January 13, 2026At the same time, regulators have maintained tight control over higher-risk segments of the market. Earlier proposals focused on a regulatory framework for fiat-backed stablecoins, which did not include commodity-backed tokens such as those linked to gold. Limiting the framework to fiat-backed stablecoins allows regulators to prioritize clarity and risk management, while commodity-backed tokens raise additional considerations, including custody of physical assets, valuation, and redemption rights.Hong Kong Expands Gold Trading InfrastructureIndustry interest in tokenised gold products remains. Some institutional trading platforms in Hong Kong already offer gold-pegged tokens, including Tether Gold (XAUt), to professional investors. Separately, the city has outlined plans to strengthen its physical gold trading and settlement infrastructure as part of broader financial market development. Legal analyses note that the current stablecoin framework focuses on fiat-referenced tokens and does not cover commodity-linked stablecoins, which would require future regulatory expansion or clarification. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

CySEC’s Chair, Dr. George Theocharides, has opened 2026 with a warning that Cyprus’ capital market is entering a stricter supervisory phase, as the new EU Anti‑Money Laundering Authority (AMLA), MiCA, DORA and revisions to MiFID II/MiFIR and AIFMD II reshape the regulatory landscape while local market activity continue to grow. In a new circular, Dr. Theocharides informed all supervised entities that AMLA has launched a public consultation on draft Implementing Technical Standards.By the second quarter of 2025, the commission supervised 319 Collective Investment Management Companies and Collective Investment Undertakings with total assets under management of €10.6 billion.Άρθρο του Δρ. Θεοχαρίδη με θέμα Σταθερή ανάπτυξη της κεφαλαιαγοράς υπό το βλέμμα της ΕΚΚ στον «ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟ»Article by Dr. Theocharides titled “Steady development of the capital market under the supervision of CySEC” in “Phileleftheros”. (in Greek)https://t.co/TRoNtd2Cik— CySEC - Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (@CySEC_official) January 13, 2026CySEC Chair Urges Response to AMLA Consultation"Despite the decrease in the number of management companies and collective investment undertakings, the total volume under management is increasing, which demonstrates that the sector is raising funds in a more stable and structured manner."The consultation applies broadly to most regulated firms in Cyprus, including investment firms, administrative service providers, fund managers and investment funds (including smaller and self‑managed ones), as well as crypto‑asset service providers and crowdfunding platforms.Dr. Theocharides stressed that AMLA has already started to reshape the supervisory environment. As of 1 July last year, AMLA assumed a coordinating and supporting role for national authorities on AML/CFT matters and will move to direct supervision of high‑risk entities from 2028, with powers to impose sanctions and set common European standards.You may also like: UK Watchdog Extends Consumer Duty Lens from CFDs to “Complex” Exchange Traded ProductsThe Chair highlighted that new rules for investment funds will strengthen cash and risk management, especially during times of market stress. These changes aim to make funds more resilient and protect investors when markets become volatile.MiFID II/MiFIR and Investment Services TighteningThe statement also places AML changes in the wider context of EU capital markets reforms. After several years of intense legislative activity, the EU has moved from drafting rules to implementing and evaluating them in 2025 and 2026.Against this backdrop, Dr Theocharides noted that Cyprus’ investment services sector continued to reorganise and grow in 2025, with 253 CIFs supervised by November and about 30 additional applications under review. “In an era where technological risks are as serious as financial ones, effective implementation of DORA is a key indicator of maturity."MiCA, DORA and Early Licensing of Crypto ProvidersIn his overview, Dr Theocharides highlighted the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto‑Assets Regulation (MiCA) in 2025 as particularly important, as it introduced uniform rules for crypto‑asset services at EU level for the first time."In general, the combined implementation of the new European rules, the enhancement of transparency and investor protection, in combination with the enhanced supervisory role of the CySEC, create a stable and safe environment. In this context, the Cypriot capital market has every reason to develop further in 2026, strengthening the economy."Related: CySEC Chair: “Honestly, No Matter What We Do, Scammers Will Find New Ways to Deceive Investors”Linked to this shift is DORA, the Digital Operational Resilience Act, which introduced harmonised requirements for the digital resilience of financial institutions in 2025Beyond regulation, the CySEC chair draws attention to structural change at the heart of the domestic market: the planned privatization of the Cyprus Stock Exchange. The relevant bill is before the House of Representatives for consultation and a vote, with the goal of selecting a strategic investor to take over the CSE’s operation. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Saxo Bank and Etihad Capital PJSC announced that they have signed a Model Manager agreement at Etihad Capital’s office. Under the agreement, retail clients in the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf Cooperation Council will be able to access professionally managed asset management products through Saxo Bank’s trading and investment infrastructure.Retail Clients Gain Professional Portfolio AccessNicholas Wright, MENA Head of Institutional at Saxo Bank, said the agreement “builds on that legacy” of partnership with Etihad Capital. He added that “through the Model Manager structure, more retail investors across the UAE and GCC will have access to diversified, professionally managed portfolios in a digital-platform-first setup.”The collaboration builds on eight years of work in digital trading and investment services, aiming to bring institutional-grade investment solutions to retail clients within a regulated, technology-driven framework.Through the Model Manager initiative, Etihad Capital will offer a range of model portfolios. These portfolios give retail investors access to strategies usually reserved for high-net-worth or institutional clients. The partnership will expand professional asset management offerings on Etihad’s platform, focusing on accessible entry points, risk-matched portfolios, and global diversification, based on Etihad Capital’s investment framework.New Model Portfolios Launch Early 2026Since 2017, the companies have worked together to provide global market access, digital onboarding, and multi-asset trading for clients in the UAE. The Model Manager initiative combines Saxo Bank’s digital infrastructure with Etihad Capital’s investment expertise.The new portfolios are expected to be available to retail clients in early 2026 and will include thematic, fixed-income, and multi-asset strategies.Saxo Bank Reaches 1.5 Million ClientsSeparately, Saxo Bank now serves 1.5 million clients, following growth in client assets to DKK 800 billion in May last year. The bank reported a net profit of DKK 1,005 million for 2024, up from DKK 260 million in 2023. Saxo is continuing to expand its professional and international services, including digital wealth management in France and industry participation in the UK, while exploring AI integration to enhance its trading and investment platforms. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

CFD broker xChief (formerly ForexChief) has entered Kazakhstan’s regulated market. The company launched an AIFC-licensed entity offering local oversight and institutional-grade services, but only to professional investors who meet strict eligibility thresholds. xChief Central Asia Ltd received authorization from the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) under license number AFSA-A-LA-2025-0012. The company is permitted to act as principal and agent in investments and to arrange investment deals. The AIFC license imposes strict client eligibility criteria. Under AFSA regulations, qualified investor status typically requires a portfolio exceeding $500,000 or at least two years of documented trading experience. This restriction excludes retail traders, who continue accessing xChief services through the group's offshore entity. A regulated Presence with Clear Limits The company opened a physical office within the AIFC zone at 55/20 Mangilik El Avenue, Block C4.1, Office 230 in Astana. xChief Central Asia stated the location will serve as a regional hub for partnerships with institutional counterparties, affiliates, and influencers targeting Central Asian audiences. The broker's product offering emphasizes CFD trading on metals, particularly gold, where the company claims to provide deep liquidity and competitive spreads. The execution infrastructure relies on prime brokerage liquidity providers regulated in the UK and the EU, according to the announcement. The AIFC operates under English common law and maintains regulatory standards that sit between those of offshore jurisdictions and Tier 1 regulators such as the UK's Financial Conduct Authority or Australia's ASIC. The framework emphasizes anti-money laundering compliance and qualified client protection rather than retail investor safeguards. xChief Central Asia operates a separate Kazakhstan-facing website at xchief.kz, distinct from the group's main domain. The entity's regulatory status can be verified through AFSA's public register at publicreg.myafsa.com. The Dual-Structure ModelThe entity operates independently from the group's main offshore structure, which holds a license from the Mwali International Services Authority in the Comoros.The dual-structure model—maintaining an offshore license for retail operations while establishing a regulated entity for professional clients in specific markets—reflects a common approach among multi-jurisdiction brokers seeking to balance accessibility with regulatory compliance in emerging markets. For Kazakhstan residents, the AIFC-licensed entity provides local regulatory oversight, but the professional client threshold creates a barrier to entry that excludes most individual traders from accessing domestically regulated services. This article was written by Tanya Chepkova at www.financemagnates.com.

XRP trades at $2.058 on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, facing its seventh consecutive session of declines, the worst losing streak in two months. The cryptocurrency has fallen 13% from its $2.357 peak reached on January 6, when CNBC called it "the hottest crypto trade of the year" with analysts predicting $8 targets for 2026. Now XRP moves near a critical $2.00 support after rejecting the 200-day EMA at $2.56 for the third time, a pattern that has consistently preceded multi-week corrections.According to my technical analysis, XRP has broken below the 50-day EMA at $2.07, signaling a deeper correction is unfolding. The immediate target is the round $2.00 level, followed by November lows around $1.90, December lows at $1.80, April minimums at $1.61, and an ultimate bearish target of $1.25, representing potential 40% decline from current levels.Why XRP Price Is Going Down? Seven-Session Losing StreakAlthough XRP prices rose 0.31% during today's session, Tuesday, January 13, 2026, and are defending the $2.05 level, they have behind them a series of seven consecutive declining sessions, the worst such sequence in two months.The depreciation follows after XRP entered 2026 strongly, rising five consecutive sessions from $1.84 to $2.357 on January 6, testing nine-week highs. Just one week ago, I reported XRP "crushed Bitcoin and Ethereum returns" with 25% January gains and bullish $8 predictions.However, the cryptocurrency met stronger supply resistance at the 200-day exponential moving average around $2.56, the third rejection at this critical level in recent months.XRP Technical Analysis: 40% Downside RiskAs shown by my technical analysis, we are falling below the 50 EMA at $2.02, as a result of which a correction is about to unfold. The breakdown of this key support signals momentum has shifted decisively bearish.Key technical levels:Current price: $2.058 (down 13% from January 6 peak)50 EMA: $2.07 (broken - now resistance)200 EMA: $2.33 (rejected third time)Target 1: $2.00 (psychological support)Target 2: $1.90 (November lows)Target 3: $1.80 (December lows)Target 4: $1.61 (April minimums - year low)Target 5: $1.25 (October Flash Crash - 40% decline)The first short-term target is obviously the round level of $2.00. MEXC notes "$2.00 has acted as a formidable barrier that has capped rallies in previous cycles". Losing $2.00 opens the door to $1.90 and $1.80 December lows.The next two medium-term decline levels are $1.61, matching the year low, and my ultimate target level is $1.25 per XRP, the flash crash low from October 10. As a result, from current levels, XRP could fall by as much as 40%.CFD brokers like Axi recently expanded offerings to over 150 crypto perpetual contracts, enabling retail traders to access leveraged exposure to tokens, including XRP.Crypto Market Sentiment Weighs on XRPBroader crypto market weakness explains much of XRP's decline. "Crypto markets are trading sideways and sentiment is quite low. BTC Price action has been stuck in the $84,000-$95,000 range," explains James Harris, CEO of Tesseract Group.The lack of speculative interest shows in declining metrics. "With speculative spirits very low, there is less interest in trading the markets and exchange volumes remain at lower levels," Harris notes. This reduced activity means fewer opportunities to exploit, consequently reducing demand for leverage. "So borrowing rates are lower, with lenders having to drop rates to find borrowing demand," visible in both OTC lending markets and across DeFi platforms.Despite Federal Reserve rate cuts, three in 2025 with two more expected in 2026 bringing rates to around 3.25%, the anticipated boost to risk assets hasn't arrived. "It is hoped that with this lower 'risk free rate' crypto markets will begin to look more attractive and encourage bullish, risk taking behaviour," Harris observes. "This hasn't materialised yet though."Technical indicators confirm the bearish sentiment Harris describes. Hexn.io shows 70% Bearish reading on XRP with Fear & Greed Index at 26 (Fear), well below the 41 level Harris cites for broader crypto markets. XRP had only 43% green days over the last week with 0.69% price volatility. For real-time XRP technical updates follow me on X (Twitter) @ChmielDk. I provide moving average analysis, support/resistance levels, and crypto sentiment insights.XRP Price Analysis, FAQWhy is XRP falling today?XRP fell seven consecutive sessions from $2.357 (January 6) to $2.058 (January 13), worst streak since November 2025. According to my technical analysis, XRP rejected 200 EMA at $2.56 for the third time and broke below 50 EMA at $2.02, signaling correction with $2.00 support critical.What is XRP price today?XRP trades at $2.058 on January 13, 2026, down 13% from $2.357 peak reached January 6. Price defending $2.00 psychological support after rejecting 200-day moving average resistance for third time in recent months.How low can XRP go?According to my technical analysis, XRP targets: $2.00 (immediate), $1.90 (November lows), $1.80 (December lows), $1.61 (April minimums), and $1.25 (October Flash Crash, 40% decline from current). Break below $2.00 activates deeper correction toward $1.80-$1.90 zone. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

OneRoyal has appointed Marilena Iakovou as its new Chief Marketing Officer. She has more than 20 years of experience in marketing, communications, and fintech, holding senior roles across online brokerage and financial services firms.Former Tickmill, M4Markets CMO Joins OneRoyalBefore joining OneRoyal, Iakovou served as Group Chief Marketing Officer at Tickmill for four years, where she helped shape the broker’s global marketing strategy. She later led marketing at M4Markets for three years, during which the company expanded internationally and obtained a CySEC licence. In 2023, she joined Doo Prime, part of Doo Group, as Chief Marketing Officer. Her experience includes public relations, brand strategy, digital marketing, and international expansion in regulated fintech environments.In her new role, Iakovou will oversee brand development, global go-to-market strategy, digital acquisition, partnerships, and customer experience. She said OneRoyal’s aim to build a global fintech brand “aligns strongly with my own values” and added that she looks forward to expanding into new markets.Leadership Team Expanded to Support GrowthThe company also appointed Mariliza Karrera, who previously worked at M4Markets and Doo Group. Karrera brings experience in marketing and brand management and has worked closely with Iakovou in previous roles. OneRoyal said the appointments are part of efforts to strengthen its senior leadership team and support growth in regulated markets.OneRoyal Names Poynter Chief Commercial OfficerIn addition, Dominic Poynter has been named Chief Commercial Officer. He previously served as Head of Marketing at OneRoyal in Limassol for over a year. Before joining the firm, Poynter held senior marketing roles at HYCM, Axiory, ATFX, and easyMarkets, focusing on digital strategy, brand development, and international marketing operations across multiple regions.Financial Commission Grants MembershipSeparately, OneRoyal was accepted as a member of the Financial Commission. Membership provides access to services including client complaint coverage of up to €20,000 through the Commission’s Compensation Fund. The Financial Commission acts as an independent mediator between brokers and clients, offering an alternative to arbitration or court proceedings in CFDs, forex, and cryptocurrency markets. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

XTB captured 441,500 new Polish brokerage accounts in 2025, according to data from Poland's Central Securities Depository (KDPW), extending the fintech's grip on a domestic market that crossed 2.5 million total accounts for the first time.The publicly-listed broker (WSE: XTB) added 63,500 accounts in December alone, pushing its total to 821,748 and giving it roughly 33% of all securities accounts registered with KDPW. That December figure represents the strongest monthly industry performance since April 2010, when Polish brokerages collectively added 140,000 accounts.December Spike Driven by Retirement Account RushThe December surge reflected intensified marketing around IKE and IKZE tax-advantaged retirement accounts ahead of year-end contribution deadlines. Poland's total brokerage account count jumped by 100,374 in December, more than double the 42,000 monthly average from the previous 11 months.IKE accounts offer tax-free withdrawals after age 60, while IKZE contributions provide immediate tax deductions of up to 12% for high earners. XTB introduced access to IKZE in the middle of last year, while IKE was added to the multi-asset broker’s offering in October 2024.Toward the end of 2025, Poland’s brokerage houses became embroiled in a price war to attract new clients, driven by an increasingly saturated domestic market and growing competition from abroad. As reported earlier by FinanceMagnates.com, German fintech Trade Republic entered the Polish market with the aim of shaking up the local landscape. As a result, brokerage firms began cutting their commissions on a broad scale.Market Growth Tracks Bull Run on Warsaw ExchangeThe 565,000 accounts added across Poland's brokerage industry in 2025 also coincided with a historic rally on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. The WIG index gained 47% last year and crossed 100,000 points for the first time in April, while record trading volumes pushed the exchange's second-quarter revenue to all-time highs.XTB is seeking to attract new clients by promoting its brand through sports-focused marketing campaigns. To this end, the broker has recently entered into partnerships with one of Europe’s two largest mixed martial arts federations and with combat sports athletes, including Conor McGregor.Traditional Banks Show Modest GainsmBank's brokerage division finished second in the KDPW rankings with 532,928 accounts after adding 62,225 over the year. December brought 27,952 new accounts to mBank, its strongest monthly performance in the data.PKO BP's brokerage arm held sixth place with 178,873 accounts following 19,001 additions in 2025. Dom Maklerski Banku Ochrony Środowiska rounded out the top gainers with 17,402 new accounts for the year, including 5,902 in December.The KDPW figures include all accounts with access to Polish markets regardless of activity level. Brokerages periodically close dormant accounts, which can cause temporary dips in reported totals. XTB also ranks among the global leaders in terms of active clients in the CFD market. In the third quarter of 2025, eleven brokers worldwide exceeded 100,000 monthly active accounts, with the Polish broker taking the top position.XTB shares received a buy upgrade from mBank analysts in November despite third-quarter results marking the company's weakest financial performance since 2022. Analysts cited expected higher profitability per lot and the record client base expansion as drivers for the recommendation. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Sage Capital Management has hired Jason Keogh as Sales Director, bringing on a veteran with three decades of experience spanning global banks, brokerages, and digital asset platforms as the firm looks to expand its institutional client base.Sage Capital Names Jason Keogh Sales Director Keogh joins from Fusion Capital, where he spent nearly two years as international sales director building a global sales operation. At Fusion, he helped scale revenue from launch to over $500,000 monthly within six months, according to his professional profile. His new role at Sage Capital focuses on attracting hedge funds, asset managers, trading firms, and brokerages to the platform.The appointment comes as Sage Capital prepares to announce what CEO Nathan Sage described as "major news about our offering." The firm, which has operated since 2015, provides institutional clients with multi-venue execution, collateralized lending, and access to more than 200 digital assets through a single API.Keogh said he was drawn to Sage Capital's regulatory framework, balance sheet strength, and multi-product offering. "From everything I have seen to date, Sage Capital Management ticks all the boxes for what the market is looking for," he said.Three Decades Across Banks and Crypto FirmsKeogh's career trajectory mirrors the evolution of modern financial markets. He spent years in equity sales and trading roles at Credit Lyonnais, Raymond James, and Oppenheimer before moving into fintech and digital assets. More recent positions included head of digital asset sales at Skarb and counterparty management roles at EXANTE, where he worked across four regulated entities.Between 2020 and 2023, Keogh built a 12-person sales team at EXANTE's UK arm, reaching profitability within the first year. He also ran institutional equity desks at StoneX and Sucden Financial, giving him exposure to both traditional and digital trading infrastructure."Jason is very well known and highly respected in the industry, with a proven track record in driving revenue growth, building strategic partnerships, and managing client relationships," Sage said in a statement.Prime Brokerage Competition Heats UpSage Capital competes in a crowded field of crypto prime brokers serving institutional clients. The firm recently expanded its partnership with Finery Markets to offer 10x leverage through a trilateral arrangement with Gold-i, creating unified infrastructure for trading across 200+ digital assets. Last year, Sage also partnered with EDXM to provide institutional access to perpetual futures liquidity.The new whire follows a broader trend of executive movement in the sector. Earlier this week, Arman Tahmassebi took the CEO role at savings platform Flagstone after stints at IG Group and OvalX, signaling continued reshuffling of senior talent across fintech and digital asset firms.Sage Capital operates across multiple jurisdictions, with entities regulated in Switzerland, the UK, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The firm's Swiss entity received a no-action letter from FINMA allowing it to offer spot digital asset trading, margin lending, and custody to institutional clients without a securities license. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

CME Group switched to a new margin calculation system for precious metals futures today (Tuesday), moving away from fixed dollar amounts to percentage-based requirements after gold and silver hit record highs this week.The exchange now sets margins for gold, silver, platinum and palladium contracts as a percentage of notional value rather than specific dollar figures. The adjustment went into effect after Tuesday's close following what CME described as a routine volatility review.Dollar Amount System Couldn't Keep Pace with Gold and Silver SurgeThe old system required frequent manual adjustments as precious metals rallied and price swings intensified. Gold surged to $4,568 on January 12, entering what analysts call price discovery phase with no clear resistance levels ahead. Silver gained about 20% in just the first two weeks of 2026, pushing CME to raise margins multiple times last year as speculative trading picked up.CME's notice to clearing members noted that the exchange "currently sets margins for Gold, Silver, Platinum and Palladium based on a dollar amount" but "with this change, CME will be setting margins for Gold, Silver, Platinum and Palladium based on a percentage of notional."Under the percentage method, gold futures now require 5% maintenance margin for standard accounts and 5.5% for higher-risk positions. Silver margins stand at 9% and 9.9% respectively. Platinum margins are set at 9% and 9.9%, while palladium requires 11% and 12.1%.The percentage approach automatically scales margin requirements up or down with price movements. CME made at least three margin adjustments in the fourth quarter of 2025 alone using the old dollar-based system. The exchange has been expanding its metals offerings while also growing its footprint in emerging markets.Short-Term Pressure ExpectedChristopher Wong, a strategist at Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp., said to Bloomberg the changes "may temporarily weigh on precious metals" as traders adjust to higher collateral requirements at current price levels. The percentage-based method should reduce the need for frequent adjustments going forward, though CME could still raise the percentage itself if volatility exceeds historical norms or unexpected events occur.Clearinghouses like CME require brokers to post cash margins daily to cover potential losses on client positions. These deposits help ensure clearing members can meet their obligations to customers and the clearinghouse itself. The system becomes particularly important during volatile periods when daily price swings can exceed 5% or more.CME opened a Dubai office last year as Middle East trading volumes climbed, adding another regional hub to its global network. The exchange has been dealing with elevated metals trading activity across multiple time zones as both institutional and retail participants chase the rally.Fed Crisis Fuels Haven DemandMultiple factors are driving the precious metals surge beyond typical seasonal patterns. Concerns about Federal Reserve independence emerged after reports of a criminal investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell. Dollar weakness and expectations for additional interest rate cuts have also supported prices. Silver faces additional speculation about potential US import tariffs, adding another layer of volatility to an already turbulent market.The percentage-based margin system mirrors approaches used for other volatile asset classes where fixed dollar amounts quickly become outdated during trending markets. CME processes millions of precious metals contracts monthly across its various gold, silver, platinum and palladium products. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Integral, a technology provider in the forex trading industry, announced today (Tuesday) that it has tripled the size of its presence in Singapore’s Equinix SG1 data facility following a significant increase in transaction volume and system load.Trading Demand Surging in the APACAccording to Integral, regional trading demand has soared, with the company now processing over one million tickets daily at Equinix SG1. Notably, the SG1 data centre serves Integral’s clients across the Asia Pacific.The tech provider highlighted that it had inked numerous client partnerships in the past year in the Asia Pacific, which was another key reason behind the increase in the size of its regional infrastructure.The expansion will allow the company to manage any increase in transaction volume without any decline in speed or performance.“For over three decades, Integral has remained resolute in its support of the growing institutional and retail trading landscape across APAC, increasing our established customer base and strengthening the local liquidity ecosystem,” said Harpal Sandhu, CEO of Integral.“Singapore has been a key market for accelerating our regional presence, and the expansion of our SG1 data facility represents our commitment to ensuring our clients have access to the most sophisticated and agile cloud-based infrastructure possible.”Apart from the increased size, the technology provider is also using Equinix’s software-defined interconnection, Equinix Fabric, to establish private and direct connections to cloud service providers.Apart from the SG1 data centre, Integral also operates infrastructure within Equinix data centres in New York (NY4), Tokyo (TY4), and London (LD3).“This growth not only reflects Integral’s commitment to meeting the rising demand in the financial markets but also underscores the trust it places in Equinix as a strategic partner,” said Equinix Singapore’s Managing Director, Yee May Leong, while highlighting Integral’s expansion.Integral’s Expansion Beyond ForexEstablished in 1993, Integral primarily provides cloud-based SaaS FX workflow solutions and targets a broad range of buy-side forex market participants, including banks, brokers, asset managers, and hedge funds.Although the company made its name in the forex trading industry, it entered the crypto space directly in 2023 with the launch of Integral Digital, a trading and client distribution platform that supports cryptocurrencies and fiat-backed stablecoins. It developed the platform by bringing Mint Exchange, an institutional crypto exchange, on board as a partner.Last year, Integral also launched a stablecoin-based crypto prime broker, where trading and settlements are done on-chain. This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.