Prediction market platform Kalshi has added support for Solana (SOL) deposits, allowing users to fund their accounts directly via Solana-compatible wallets, the company said Friday. Solana becomes the fourth cryptocurrency accepted on Kalshi, alongside USDC and bitcoin. The platform also supports the WLD token through its integration with the Worldcoin digital identity project. The new crypto funding option is powered by Zero Hash, which provides the backend infrastructure for crypto and stablecoin transactions. While Kalshi still supports deposits via debit cards, bank transfers, and wires, the company says crypto deposits offer faster processing and raise the maximum funding limit to $500,000. “Depositing with crypto on Kalshi allows for immediate access to your funds,” the firm noted on its website. Since its 2021 launch, Kalshi established itself as a go-to exchange for political and financial prediction markets. Its popularity surged after a successful legal challenge against the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, which tried to block Kalshi from listing election-related contracts. The exchange prevailed in court, and analysts have since argued that such markets reflect public sentiment more accurately than traditional polls. The platform now estimates a 68% chance of the US entering a recession this year. In March, Kalshi also inked a partnership with Robinhood, bringing its prediction contracts to millions of retail users. Earlier in March, Kalshi filed lawsuits against the Nevada Gaming Control Board (GCB) and New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) after both state regulators ordered the company to halt its sports-related event contracts. Kalshi argues that as a federally regulated commodities exchange, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) — not state gambling regulators. Kalshi is pushing back, arguing that its event contracts function as financial derivatives — not wagers — and that they fall within the regulatory framework established by Congress via the Commodity Exchange Act. The lawsuits claim the state actions are both field-preempted and conflict-preempted by federal law, meaning that state enforcement would override and interfere with federal authority. The core of the dispute is whether event-based trading — such as betting on a sports game outcome or an election result — should be classified as gambling, which is traditionally regulated by states, or regulated financial trading, overseen at the federal level. In February, CFTC acting director Caroline Pham said the agency would shift away from regulation-by-enforcement and focus on fraud, fraud victims, and legal clarity. The CFTC has also taken no action against Kalshi’s controversial Super Bowl contracts, despite reviewing them earlier this year.

The second-largest ADA trading pair worldwide, Cardano (ADA), is generating waves in Japan’s crypto market as the ADA/JPY trading pair shot to an amazing $121 million daily volume. This evolution reveals an increasing curiosity in Cardano among Japanese investors driven by a mix of regulatory clarity, cultural love for innovative tech, and a developing crypto scene. ADA/JPY Surpasses Major Global Pairs Recent figures show that ADA/JPY has now passed long-standing trading pairs, including ADA/KRW (South Korean Won) and ADA/USDT (Tether), to rank second globally in daily volume. In terms of trade volume, only ADA/USD stays ahead. This boom emphasizes Japan’s increasing importance in the worldwide crypto scene. Japan, long known for its strict financial rules and early blockchain tech adoption, has stayed a hub for crypto innovation; Cardano is the most recent beneficiary. Why Japan Is Embracing Cardano The rising popularity of Cardano in Japan is not accidental. First, Cardano’s founder, Charles Hoskinson, has long focused strategically on Asia. Cardano’s parent firm, Input Output Hong Kong, has regularly interacted with Asian markets; Japan has been a particular area because of its strong tech infrastructure and receptivity to blockchain uses. Furthermore, appealing to Japanese investors who respect accuracy, consistency, and structure is Cardano’s scientific approach to blockchain, which includes peer-reviewed development and a dedication to long-term sustainability. Furthermore, the rising local availability of ADA on controlled Japanese exchanges such as Bitbank and BitFlyer has made it simpler for regular investors to access the token without depending on overseas platforms. User interest and activity are sparked by Cardano’s enhanced DeFi ecosystem and staking rewards, together with this accessibility. Regulatory Clarity Fuels Growth Another important consideration is Japan’s highly defined legal system. With one of the strongest and unambiguous crypto rules in the world, the nation promotes ethical investment and lowers fraud risk by means of sudden crackdowns. Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) offers a safe and trustworthy environment that has raised investor confidence in digital assets like Cardano, unlike areas where ambiguity clouds crypto growth. What’s Next For ADA in Japan? Though the present $121 million ADA/JPY volume mark is noteworthy, it could only be the start. Cardano is positioned to establish itself in Japan with growing institutional interest, forthcoming smart contract enhancements, and a closer connection with local DeFi and NFT initiatives. Local events, community organizations, and educational materials help the ADA community in Japan to flourish as well. Cardano gains from its solid foundations and developer activity as more investors search for substitutes for Bitcoin and Ethereum. Cardano’s Impact Continues To Thrive Cardano’s ascent in Japan is evidence of both its expanding worldwide presence and the potency of localized adoption policies.  As ADA/JPY takes the front stage as a major trading pair, it underscores both Japan’s special role as a portal to more general Asian markets and the changing dynamics of crypto investing. If present trends persist, Cardano’s impact in the area may keep growing, therefore confirming its importance as a main participant in the next wave of crypto expansion.

The founder of Binance, Changpeng Zhao (CZ), has shown great support for Dubai’s development as a worldwide crypto center, therefore underlining the emirate’s increasing standing in the digital asset market. In a recent visit, CZ not only commended Dubai’s regulatory clarity and innovative environment but also revealed an AI-powered school project consistent with the city’s vision for future-forward education. CZ’s Endorsement of Dubai’s Crypto Ambitions Now living in Dubai, Zhao underlined the regulatory system of the emirate, which has made it one of the most appealing places for blockchain and crypto businesses. His remarks coincide with Dubai’s founding of the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), a specialized agency meant to monitor and mentor crypto-related operations. “Dubai is setting a global standard with its forward-thinking policies,” CZ said, underlining that recruiting both startups and institutional players in the crypto industry mostly depends on well-defined and business-friendly rules. This support from one of the most powerful people in the business fuels the momentum Dubai has been accumulating lately. Driven by its tax-friendly legislation, strategic location, and tech-savvy populace, several big exchanges and Web3 firms have already established activities in the city. A New AI-Powered School Initiative Apart from cryptocurrencies, Zhao’s vision spans artificial intelligence and education. CZ disclosed during his speech ideas for a new school project centered on AI-powered learning, which he hopes would alter how future generations in the area receive their education. Although specifics are yet few, the project will apparently use sophisticated artificial intelligence algorithms to customize and improve the educational process. This indicates not only financial innovation but also CZ’s dedication to long-term society development. The initiative fits the larger strategic goals of the United Arab Emirates. The country has been particularly funding artificial intelligence, blockchain, and future technologies, and in 2017, it even named the first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence worldwide. The new university might act as a testbed for developing technology in practical learning environments. Dubai: A Magnet For Tech Visionaries It is not shocking that CZ is getting more involved in Dubai. Tech entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and digital asset companies now center the city. Its regulatory clarity contrasts sharply with areas like the United States, where continuous regulatory uncertainty has caused conflicts between government agencies and crypto companies. CZ is ensuring his presence in the area and helping Dubai to develop technologically by matching his educational and crypto aspirations with its national agenda. His decision to support Dubai instead of other international tech hotspots speaks volumes about the city’s rising relevance in the next wave of blockchain and artificial intelligence development. Dubai Becomes A Crypto Hub ChangPeng Zhao’s twin advocacy of an AI-enhanced education in Dubai and a crypto-friendly legislative climate highlights a strong synergy between financial innovation and human capital development. Dubai is ready to lead not just the crypto revolution but also the change of education through technology, as more worldwide players think about moving operations to countries that favor innovation. Should it be successful, Zhao’s AI school project might serve as a model for the direction of education, one molded by data, tailored algorithms, and worldwide visionaries, as the next frontier for disturbance.

Concerns over a London-based Uber driver accused of drugging an American visitor and pilfering more than $123,000 worth of cryptocurrencies have rippled across the crypto and rideshare sectors. The victim, a 35-year-old, allegedly lost access to his crypto wallet after being drugged during a journey in the UK capital. Over the occurrence, 37-year-old Artur Leal de Oliveira, the driver, is currently under criminal accusations. Details of The Alleged Attack The occasion happened in February 2024. UK officials claim Oliveira picked up the tourist and gave him a drug that knocked him out. The chauffeur is said to have obtained passwords for many Bitcoin wallets by illegally accessing the victim’s mobile device while she was immobilized. Major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, which were rapidly transferred across several wallet addresses in an effort to hide their source, were among the approximately £96,000 ($123,000) total taken. How The Crime Unfolded Information gathered from the investigation points to the accused using a methodical technique. Oliveira is thought to have unlocked the victim’s phone and apps using his biometrics or passcodes after knocking the tourist unconscious.  According to investigators, the suspect entered the tourist’s Binance and Trust Wallet accounts and then transferred money into the wallets under control. Following a digital trail left on the blockchain, the claimed thief was found and taken into custody, therefore attesting to the openness and traceability of Bitcoin transactions. During the arrest, authorities also recovered portions of the pilfered funds. Uber Responds to The Incident An Uber spokesman denounced the claimed crime and verified that Oliveira had been kicked off the platform pending the result of legal actions.  The firm said, “Our first concern is rider safety. We are fully helping law enforcement with their inquiry. This event fuels mounting worries about ride-hailing services’ safety procedures, particularly in light of crimes crossing the digital banking scene. Legal Proceedings and Community Reaction Oliveira is under custody right now and waiting on trial. The case has generated responses from the IT and crypto sectors as well; many want more mobile security education and tougher screening policies for companies like Uber. The episode also emphasizes the vulnerability of passengers who carry significant digital assets on widely available mobile wallets—a conduct that is progressively dangerous in the surroundings of today. A Call For Caution A sobering reminder of the actual dangers connected to digital assets is the claimed $123,000 theft of cryptocurrencies by a London Uber driver following the drugging of a tourist. Although blockchain itself is safe, human mistakes and malicious intent remain the weakest points.  As the story goes on, it serves as a wake-up call for consumers to reconsider how they protect their cryptocurrency in a society that is becoming more and more erratic.

Hundreds of digital asset aficionados went to Donald Trump’s golf club in Miami for a gala commemorating the rise of a new meme currency: TrumpCoin, a token reaching a market cap of $230 million in an odd confluence of crypto culture, political branding, and meme coin frenzy. Held on May 22, the event combined MAGA supporters, influencers, and well-known investors to create a flimsy mix of crypto hype and political spectacle. Fundamentally, it’s a meme coin using Trump’s name, image, and persona without his official support. Inside the Gala: Luxury, Loyalty, and Meme Coin Mania The banquet was held at Trump National Doral, a luxury property run by the U.S. president. Attendees spent up to $1,000 per seat, socializing under gilded chandeliers while meme currency holders celebrated a token that started just months ago and skyrocketed in value over Trump’s presidential campaign trail. Though Trump himself does not formally support the meme coin, its images mostly reflect MAGA symbolism, with token holders sporting red caps and branding materials displaying themes connected to Trump’s political campaign. Many find it to be a cultural movement as well as an investment possibility. Along with talks, networking among crypto whales, and dinner presented with Trump-themed décor, the event also featured a visitor who said it was “half finance seminar, half political rally.” Trump’s Relationship With Crypto Donald Trump’s attitude has changed more lately, especially as he attracts younger, tech-savvy voters in the run-up to the 2024 U.S. election, even if he has already voiced doubts about cryptocurrencies, calling Bitcoin a “scam.” Previously hosting his brand of Trump NFTs, Trump has started receiving crypto donations for his campaign. Still, the TrumpCoin shown at the gala is not formally connected to him. Its legal position is still unclear, which raises issues with the illegal use of public personalities in token branding, a common grey area in the field of meme coins. The Rise of Politically Charged Meme Coins The TrumpCoin gala fits a larger trend in cryptocurrencies whereby tokens are ever more linked to political personalities and popular culture. Often more dependent on community buzz and viral marketing than on basic usefulness are these coins. But in a bull market and with the extra gasoline of U.S. election drama, such tokens have attracted significant attention and speculative money. As TrumpCoin’s market capitalization approaches $230 million, investors are counting on the ongoing crossover appeal between political allegiance and financial speculation. Critics caution, meanwhile, that these initiatives lack long-term viability and are prone to pump-and-dump dynamics. What It Means For the Future of Crypto The event emphasizes how crypto is developing outside of money into political identity, fandom, and entertainment. It also shows how, once laughed off as online jokes, meme coins, especially in relation to real-world individuals and events, are now commanding major money and attention. Events like this might likely come under more scrutiny as authorities monitor the meme coin area more closely. For now, though, the TrumpCoin gala has shown that in the realm of cryptocurrencies, spectacle and speculation still play a powerful combined role.

Following a startling $15 billion capital exodus in 2023, a large share of which has been connected to uncontrolled crypto activity, Kazakhstan’s central bank authorities are attempting to enforce stricter cryptocurrency rules. Timur Suleimenov, Governor of the National Bank of Kazakhstan, announced it on May 16 during the Astana International Financial Forum. Suleimenov claims that the administration is now resolved to act more aggressively since it has found inadequate regulatory control as the main cause of the capital flight. Crypto’s Role in Capital Flight Suleimenov underlined in his comments that although acceptance of cryptocurrencies in Kazakhstan has grown, the infrastructure to control it has not caught up. “Capital is leaving Kazakhstan because of inadequate control of regulations. Roughly $5 billion to $6 billion of this outflow has been connected to grey zone cryptocurrency sites, he said. This amount shows a significant portion of the nation’s overall $15 billion capital outflow, suggesting that digital assets are not only a side issue but also a developing systemic risk for Kazakhstan’s financial system. Given the state of the macroeconomics right now, the governor also cautioned that laundering money, shifting riches overseas without responsibility, and bypassing present financial restrictions have been increasingly done using crypto channels, a top concern. Proposed Regulatory Measures The National Bank of Kazakhstan (NBK) is responding with a set of actions meant to restrict crypto exchange activities, enforce anti-money laundering (AML) rules, and guarantee that only compliant platforms can run in the nation. Under examination are some of the main changes: Licensing requirements for all crypto service providers, including exchanges and custodial platforms Stricter KYC/AML procedures to curb anonymous transactions Enhanced coordination between the NBK, the Financial Monitoring Agency, and law enforcement bodies Potential restrictions on cross-border crypto transactions to prevent unchecked capital outflows Industry Reaction and Economic Context The local crypto sector has responded carefully; some players worry that too rigorous rules will discourage creativity or encourage activity underground. Others agree, though, that Kazakhstan’s earlier detached attitude could have unintentionally added to the issue. Attracting major investment and hash power, Kazakhstan has been establishing itself as a regional crypto mining center following China’s 2021 industry crackdown. But with capital restrictions now tightening and authorities emphasizing stability, this more open posture seems to be changing. Striking a Balance The action of Kazakhstan fits a larger worldwide trend of nations striving to strike the ideal balance between financial stability and digital innovation. Digital assets provide a two-edged blade for emerging nations, where capital flight can have especially negative economic consequences: a tool for inclusion and development as well as a means of unchecked wealth transfer. Recognizing this difficulty, Governor Suleimenov said, “We are not against innovation, but innovation must serve the interests of our people and economy, not undermine them.” Kazakhstan Aims For Better Control  The strategy of Kazakhstan to tighten control over cryptocurrencies signals a significant turning point in the way the nation approaches the digital economy. All eyes will be on how officials combine innovation with national economic stability as they draft new restrictions to stop additional capital flight.

Changpeng Zhao, the co-founder and former CEO of Binance, has fired back at a Wall Street Journal article suggesting he played a behind-the-scenes role in a politically connected crypto venture, calling the piece a “hit job” filled with inaccuracies. In a post on X, Zhao denied claims that he helped arrange foreign meetings for World Liberty Financial, a decentralized finance project backed by a business tied to U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump’s sons, Eric and Donald Jr., are reportedly involved in running the company. The Journal story said Zhao acted as a “fixer” for WLF and co-founder Zach Witkoff, helping arrange introductions abroad — including a meeting in Pakistan that led to a memorandum of understanding with a local official. “I am not a fixer for anyone,” Zhao wrote. He said he met the Pakistani official, Mr. Saqib, for the first time during that trip and had no role in setting up the meeting with WLF. “They had known each other way back,” he added. The Journal report delved into the growing entanglement between diplomatic roles and crypto ventures tied to the Trump orbit. It focused on WLF co-founders Steve and Zach Witkoff — the former serving as a U.S. envoy to the Middle East under Trump, the latter reportedly helping land a $2 billion crypto deal. The story also suggested Zhao was trying to win favor with Trump’s circle, especially as he seeks a presidential pardon following his conviction for violating U.S. anti-money-laundering laws. Zhao confirmed on May 6 that he is pursuing a pardon. The WSJ article noted that WLF raised over $600 million in token sales but hasn’t publicly disclosed all of its backers. Among the known investors is Tron founder Justin Sun, who recently attended a private “TRUMP” memecoin dinner hosted by the former president. Other crypto executives including Magic Eden CEO Jack Lu and BitMart’s Sheldon Xia were also at the event. Zhao accused the Journal of ignoring responses from his PR team and said the outlet went ahead with what he called a “flawed narrative.” He described the article as part of a broader push to undermine crypto-friendly figures and policies in the U.S. “They want to attack crypto, global crypto leaders and the pro-crypto administration,” Zhao wrote. He labeled the newspaper a “mouthpiece” for anti-crypto forces. This isn’t the first time Zhao has sparred with the Journal. In April, the outlet reported that he had agreed to testify against Justin Sun as part of his settlement with U.S. prosecutors, citing anonymous sources. Zhao denied the claim and questioned the reliability of the sourcing, going so far as to suggest someone may have paid WSJ journalists to damage his reputation.

R3 and the Solana Foundation have announced a strategic collaboration to integrate regulated financial networks with the Solana blockchain, establishing the first enterprise-grade, permissioned consensus service deployed directly on a public Layer 1. The initiative aims to bridge traditional financial infrastructure with decentralized networks, enabling regulated real-world assets (RWAs) to transact on Solana. “We’ve never pursued blockchain for its own sake” David E. Rutter, Founder and CEO of R3, commented, “We’ve never pursued blockchain for its own sake—our mission is to solve real financial problems. After years of laying the groundwork, R3 is ready to bring our experience and our network of regulated financial institutions towards a new public future with one of the best and most trusted public ecosystems—Solana. This is more than a milestone; it’s a strategic realignment for the entire industry. We know DeFi isn’t coming to TradFi, so it’s up to us to build the connective infrastructure that links these two ecosystems. This is about adapting to deliver real-world utility, institutional-grade readiness, and shaping the long-term future of regulated markets.” The partnership will allow R3’s Corda-based networks—used by major financial institutions including Clearstream—to interoperate natively with Solana. This will support direct confirmation of private Corda transactions on the Solana mainnet, inheriting its performance and security features and allowing for atomic settlement across systems. This integrated architecture bypasses traditional interoperability layers by embedding identity, privacy, and compliance features into a unified environment. “The future of capital markets will be built on public infrastructure” Lily Liu, President of the Solana Foundation, commented, “This is a major step forward for the institutional adoption of public blockchain. R3’s decision to bring its regulated financial network onto Solana is powerful validation that public blockchains have reached institutional readiness. With Solana’s unmatched performance, enterprise-grade permissioning, and growing roster of regulated assets, we’re not just witnessing convergence between TradFi and DeFi—we’re enabling it. This collaboration signifies that the future of capital markets will be built on public infrastructure. We’re thrilled that the Solana ecosystem is leading the way.” The decision follows an extensive technical evaluation by R3, which selected Solana for its low transaction fees, scalability, robust developer community, and existing integrations with financial institutions such as BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, and Hamilton Lane—all of which have deployed regulated assets on Solana. The collaboration introduces a consensus service on Solana to support identity-aware and compliant asset movement between private R3 networks and public Solana infrastructure. Institutions using Corda will be able to interact with public blockchain liquidity and settlement options—such as stablecoins—without rewriting applications or compromising compliance standards. “This is a generational shift in how value moves” Jens Hachmeister, Head of Issuer Services & New Digital Markets at Clearstream, commented, “Tokenization isn’t just about digitizing assets—it’s about building scalable, global infrastructure where real-world assets can interact directly and securely, no matter where investors are located. The convergence of public and private blockchains is no longer a future promise—it’s happening now. This is a generational shift in how value moves, and a compelling moment for any institution looking to enter the crypto space. We’re excited for what’s ahead.” With more than $10 billion in regulated assets already transacting across R3 networks and a growing regulatory push toward tokenization, the collaboration with Solana signals an industry-wide pivot toward public blockchain adoption. R3 has also appointed Lily Liu to its Board of Directors as part of this alignment. The partnership sets the stage for a deeper institutional presence on public chains by merging Corda’s strengths in regulatory compliance with Solana’s speed and cost-efficiency. As regulatory tailwinds boost confidence in tokenized assets, this integration is expected to catalyze further adoption across global capital markets.

May 23, 2025 – Global — Binance Research has released its latest Weekly Market Commentary, showing the important changes happening in the crypto and financial worlds this week. According to the report, a decrease in political uncertainty, the development of new laws and positive investor feedback all played a part in Bitcoin exceeding its highest recorded price. Important Findings from the Report: Bitcoin’s Value Hits a New Peak This week, Bitcoin rose 6.3%, reaching a peak of US$110,797 and bringing its year-to-date gains to 17.8%. At the same time, Ethereum (ETH) did not drop further after its last week’s major 43% surge—the strongest such rally since late 2021. At this point, investors are turning their attention from gold to things like digital assets. ETPs tracking spot bitcoin are on track for their sixth week in a row of new investment inflows, now hitting over US$8 billion. Meanwhile, North American ETPs backed by gold have seen two straight weeks of investor redemptions, a sign that preference is shifting due to economic worries. Update: Senate Committee Considers Advancing GENIUS Act The Act was moved closer to the floor for debate and amendments after the Senate passed cloture with a 66-32 vote. Although the bill must still be passed, it brings us closer to better digital asset legislation, with it expected to be enacted in July 2025. There is a divergence from traditional ways of understanding risk factors Bitcoin’s rise after a rating downgrade points to a new view that Bitcoin can be a smart way to balance portfolios when markets are volatile. You can read the report in its entirety To learn more, check out the Weekly Market Commentary here: https://www.binance.com/en/research/analysis/weekly-market-commentary-2025-05-23

You’ve only got a few months left until iFX EXPO International 2025 which is the top annual gathering for the online trading, fintech and financial services industry. Between June 17 and 19, 2025, Limassol, Cyprus, will welcome thousands of international experts and top exhibitors. As the exhibition space is full to the brim, top executives are excited to show their latest offerings, talk to important decision-makers and partner to help advance the industry. This is where all parts of the Global Trading Industry unite The annual iFX EXPO International isn’t only an expo; it also serves as the main event for important groups involved in sectors like online trading, fintech, payments, banking, compliance and regulation. Named the heart of global trading, the 2025 edition will be greater in size and more lively than ever. Global companies such as IC Markets, TradeLocker, Zota, ECOMMBX, Deriv, Syntellicore, MetaQuotes and oneZero are participating, giving everyone the opportunity to learn about new technology and make meaningful business connections. You will find countless opportunities to work with and connect, with others Strong connections are at the heart of what iFX EXPO does. If you’re striving to grow in various markets, improve your offerings or secure meaningful agreements, the event gives you the best opportunities to connect with others. You’ll find a Networking Lounge and a useful iFX EXPO App, making it much easier to network and schedule meetings to get the most from the conference. By popular demand, the expo will again offer two special parties during the event. The Welcome Party helps you get in the spirit for what’s coming A cheerful Night Party, where you can work and celebrate life simultaneously The events help form ongoing collaborations between exhibition guests. At the Exhibition, the Spotlight Program showcases quality industries The event showcases high-caliber inspiring ideas from thought leaders. The Speaker Hall and Idea Hub will host many expert discussions on important issues in the industry, including technological advancements, market trends, compliance regulations and what to expect going forward. Senior executives from Visa, Mastercard, Oracle, Microsoft and Bank of Cyprus will be present, as will thought leaders Michael Ioannides, Mirco Rohr, Demetris Milis, Nicolas Yiallouros and Dr. Stella Mourouzidou Damtsa. Both the agenda and list of speakers are on the website for iFX EXPO International 2025 and updates will be provided over time. Full Access to Fresh Ideas and Life Opportunities The iFX EXPO pass you receive opens the door to a vivid experience that offers: There are over 170 global exhibitors at Global Infrastructure Summit. Access to the unique Welcome and Night Parties You can make connections, organize events and find out more using the official app. Experience the World’s Leading Culinary Event There are no more spots left on the expo floor and thousands of guests already registered, so this year’s iFX EXPO International 2025 will be a standout for the online trading industry. If growing your business, making connections and following the latest market advances is your goal, this event is a must for you. Make sure to register now to take part in the important discussions and important developments in the financial industry. Register Now to Secure Your Place.  

Bybit has introduced direct trading of global stocks using USDT, becoming the first major cryptocurrency exchange to offer a unified platform for trading crypto, equities, commodities, and forex from a single account. The company said the launch is part of its expanded Gold & Forex (MT5) product suite and includes access to 78 major global equities, such as Apple, Tesla, Meta, Nvidia, and Amazon. All trades are executed in Tether (USDT), eliminating the need for fiat onboarding or transferring funds outside the crypto ecosystem. Bybit stated that the new feature allows users to access traditional markets like gold, oil, indices, and forex alongside digital assets, enabling seamless transitions across asset classes. The move represents a shift toward integrating decentralized and traditional finance on one platform. “From Bitcoin to Wall Street and beyond” A company spokesperson commented, “From Bitcoin to Wall Street and beyond, Bybit traders can now move fluidly between digital and traditional markets—leveraging the power of stablecoins to access a full spectrum of global opportunities in real time.” The company emphasized that users can now engage in strategies such as hedging crypto positions with traditional assets or speculating on global macro events using one wallet and trading account. No fiat currency is required to access the service. Bybit’s MT5 infrastructure underpins the new offering, which the firm describes as enabling “crypto-native speed, simplicity, and flexibility” across financial instruments. The integration aims to reduce friction for crypto traders seeking exposure to traditional asset classes and to provide more diversified tools within a single ecosystem. The firm said that this marks a major step in making its platform the central hub for multi-asset trading, using stablecoins as the default currency. No additional licensing or fiat conversion steps are necessary to access stock markets, according to Bybit. While several exchanges and neobrokers have explored crypto-stock bridges in recent years, Bybit claims to be the first among the largest global crypto exchanges by trading volume to deploy direct USDT-based stock trading at scale. Bybit reported strong user interest in its broader Gold & FX suite since its initial release and plans to further expand its asset list and capabilities.

CME Group has reported that its new FX Spot+ platform reached over $1.4 billion in daily trading volume on May 12, 2025, marking a milestone for the exchange’s hybrid solution connecting the over-the-counter (OTC) spot FX market with the liquidity of FX futures. In its first month, more than 40 clients participated on the platform, including 20 banks that had not previously engaged with FX futures. The FX Spot+ marketplace allows cash FX participants to trade via an anonymous, central limit order book that functions in OTC spot terms while leveraging the futures market’s liquidity. Through implied matching technology, the system provides seamless access to CME’s existing $100 billion-a-day FX futures volume. All-to-all model aims to address fragmentation in global FX markets Paul Houston, Global Head of FX Products at CME Group, commented, “The launch of FX Spot+ has gotten off to a strong start, with the first month of trading seeing participation from a diverse set of global clients with different trading strategies and across the full range of currency pairs available on the platform. We’re extremely pleased with the reception for this innovative new platform. We look forward to supporting more clients with their first trades, growing the ecosystem, and enhancing trading opportunities in the process.” The platform’s all-to-all model aims to address fragmentation in global FX markets, particularly during volatile periods and off-peak hours. According to CME, FX Spot+ improves price discovery and execution quality by centralizing access to firm liquidity sourced from futures. Luke Marriott, Head of eFICC at ANZ, said, “The FX market continues to be hugely fragmented, which can pose challenges to sourcing liquidity across the different time zones—particularly in times of heightened market volatility. FX Spot+ is an excellent addition to our existing OTC market access as it augments the strong liquidity available on other primary CLOBs such as EBS Market by giving us access to the $100 billion+ a day traded in FX futures but in spot format, improving our ability to manage inherent FX risks and customer execution.” Other market participants echoed the value of the new model. Michael Driscoll, Head of eFX Spot Trading Europe at Commerzbank, commented, “FX Spot+ provides spot trading desks with simple access to the FX futures market. Through implied pricing in the futures market, FX Spot+ enables our spot orders to reach a wider audience offering opportunities for additional business.” “CME FX Spot+ reshapes the spot FX trading ecosystem through futures-derived liquidity” Jimmy Jim, Managing Executive Director and Head of Global Markets at ICBC Asia, added, “CME FX Spot+ reshapes the spot FX trading ecosystem through futures-derived liquidity, effectively filling liquidity gaps in traditional spot markets during off-peak trading hours and mitigating liquidity drought risks under extreme market conditions.” Kevin Love, Global Co-Head of eFX Trading Products at RBC Capital Markets, stated, “Although the FX market already hosts a wide range of trading venues, we believe FX Spot+ stands out due to its innovative capability to bridge the spot and futures markets. By democratizing access to the highly liquid FX futures market, they have created a truly centralized source of firm liquidity that is complementary to other venues.” FX Spot+ is designed to operate alongside CME’s existing FX futures and EBS Market platforms, offering a unified liquidity framework for a broader set of FX market participants. CME Group said it expects continued client onboarding and deeper participation over the coming months as more institutions explore the benefits of spot-futures integration.

Bitcoin (BTC) is trading around $110,742 as of May 23, 2025, just shy of its all-time high of $111,891 reached the previous day. The rally is being fueled by unprecedented institutional demand and a wave of favorable regulatory developments. BlackRock’s spot Bitcoin ETF, IBIT, has become a key driver of momentum, amassing over 636,000 BTC, making it the largest institutional holder. Meanwhile, traditional financial institutions like JPMorgan Chase are now offering clients direct access to Bitcoin, signaling broader market acceptance. Adding further legitimacy to Bitcoin’s role in the economy, President Trump recently signed an executive order establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, placing BTC alongside gold as a strategic national asset. Despite the bullish sentiment, technical indicators suggest short-term caution. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is currently at 72, indicating overbought territory. Bitcoin faces immediate resistance at $112,000, with additional resistance projected at $116,000 to $125,000 if upward momentum continues. On the downside, support is seen around $107,000, with stronger support near the psychologically significant $100,000 level. Forecasts for the coming week predict a price range between $112,469 and $122,182, with the possibility of reaching $133,624 by early June if the bullish trend persists. The market sentiment reflects a high-risk environment, with the Fear & Greed Index currently at 78, denoting “Extreme Greed.” While investor enthusiasm remains high, such levels often precede short-term corrections. Traders are advised to remain cautious, balancing optimism with risk management strategies. In summary, Bitcoin’s short-term outlook is bullish, supported by macro-level adoption and institutional flows. However, elevated technical indicators and euphoric sentiment suggest that investors should brace for potential volatility in the days ahead. As of May 23, 2025, Ethereum (ETH) is trading around $2,658, up 2.75% in the past 24 hours. The recent rally has been catalyzed by a 10-year low in exchange supply and a $45 million ETH purchase by BlackRock, reflecting rising institutional interest. This influx of capital, combined with reduced circulating supply on exchanges, is tightening ETH availability and strengthening bullish momentum. Analysts are closely watching resistance levels at $2,745, with upside targets at $2,800 and $2,900 should the trend persist. Despite optimistic fundamentals, technical indicators point to caution. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at 73.15, signaling overbought conditions that often precede pullbacks. Support levels are observed at $2,500, with stronger backing near $2,300. Market forecasts for Ethereum suggest a trading range between $2,400 and $2,900 in the short term. Investor sentiment, as measured by the Fear & Greed Index, currently sits at 72—reflecting a “Greed” sentiment that implies strong optimism, albeit with heightened risk of volatility. Ethereum’s medium-term prospects are also being bolstered by the forthcoming Pectra upgrade, scheduled for mid-2025. The update is expected to enhance scalability and staking flexibility, making the network more attractive to developers and validators. Meanwhile, although Ethereum ETFs have yet to see the robust inflows seen by Bitcoin, their eventual approval and expansion remain a key potential growth catalyst for ETH’s institutional adoption. In summary, Ethereum continues to show bullish momentum supported by macro-level investments and impending network advancements. However, technical indicators advise caution as the market navigates potential corrections in the near term.  

Major U.S. banks—including JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citigroup, and Wells Fargo—are in preliminary discussions to launch a jointly developed stablecoin. The effort, still in its conceptual stage, aims to create a regulated digital currency that could serve as a competitive counterbalance to the rapidly expanding influence of cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance platforms. The proposed stablecoin would be pegged 1:1 to cash or U.S. Treasury reserves, focusing on enhancing transaction speed and reducing cross-border payment costs. Institutions involved are reportedly working with entities like Early Warning Services, operator of the Zelle payment network, and The Clearing House, a bank-owned payment infrastructure provider. The collaboration could help traditional financial players reclaim ground lost to more agile crypto-native firms, which have captured market share with promises of faster, cheaper, and borderless financial services. The stablecoin discussions follow a broader strategic shift within traditional finance to adopt blockchain technologies for settlements and value transfer. Bank executives reportedly see the joint initiative not only as a technological upgrade but also as a necessary defense against potential disintermediation by crypto exchanges and stablecoin issuers such as Tether and Circle. Regulatory Framework on the Horizon for Stablecoin The timing of this initiative coincides with momentum in Washington around stablecoin regulation. The Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act recently advanced in the Senate, proposing comprehensive guidelines for the issuance and reserve management of stablecoins. The bill outlines requirements for transparency, consumer protection, and federal oversight—factors seen as essential to the success of any institution-backed digital currency. The GENIUS Act represents the clearest signal yet from U.S. lawmakers that regulated stablecoins could become an integral part of the financial system. If passed, the legislation would pave the way for traditional banks to enter the stablecoin market with greater legal certainty. Bank lobbyists have long argued that a clear framework is crucial for enabling innovation while maintaining financial stability. Meanwhile, smaller regional and community banks are reportedly exploring the formation of their own stablecoin consortiums. While such efforts highlight a growing interest in blockchain-based settlement solutions, analysts warn that limited scale and technical resources could hinder adoption among these players. Industry observers note that for smaller banks, collaboration may be the only path to competing effectively with both big banks and crypto startups. As stablecoins become an increasingly significant component of the digital asset ecosystem, traditional financial institutions appear poised to modernize their infrastructure and compete with the efficiencies offered by blockchain-based platforms. The proposed consortium stablecoin, if realized, could mark a turning point in the evolution of digital money in the U.S. For now, the discussions remain exploratory, and no official timeline has been announced. However, with regulatory developments accelerating and market dynamics shifting rapidly, the financial industry may soon see the emergence of a new era where traditional banking and digital currencies converge.

The U.S. House of Representatives is poised to take a pivotal step in regulating the cryptocurrency industry. A markup session scheduled for June 10, 2025, will review the proposed cryptocurrency market structure bill. The session will be led by Congressman French Hill, Chair of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Digital Assets. The bill is designed to lay down a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets in the United States. It aims to resolve long-standing ambiguity surrounding whether certain cryptocurrencies should be treated as securities or commodities. This distinction is crucial, as it determines whether the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) will have primary oversight. In recent years, regulatory uncertainty has hindered innovation and raised compliance costs, with some firms opting to relocate or limit operations in the U.S. due to unclear guidelines. Clear Guidelines for a Growing Industry Key provisions in the legislation include the classification of digital assets, explicit operating guidelines for crypto exchanges, token issuers, and custodians, and enhanced consumer protection measures. The proposed framework also outlines the roles and responsibilities of both the SEC and CFTC in regulating the digital asset ecosystem. Under the bill, digital assets that qualify as securities would fall under the purview of the SEC, while those deemed commodities would be overseen by the CFTC. This regulatory clarity is expected to provide legal certainty, encourage innovation, and attract more institutional players into the U.S. crypto market. Industry stakeholders have long advocated for well-defined rules to reduce compliance burdens and promote responsible growth. The bill also seeks to establish pathways for token registration, disclosure requirements, and secondary market trading, ensuring both investor protection and market integrity. Ripple Effects Across Markets and Policy The announcement of the June 10 markup has already begun to influence market sentiment, with analysts predicting that a structured regulatory environment could lead to greater market stability. Some view the move as a sign that the U.S. is moving toward a more mature and internationally competitive stance on digital assets. Legal experts suggest that this could also strengthen the United States’ role in shaping global standards for crypto regulation, especially as jurisdictions such as the European Union and Singapore have implemented or proposed similar frameworks. Simultaneously, the Senate is advancing the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act), a bipartisan initiative focused on regulating stablecoins. The GENIUS Act includes provisions to oversee the issuance, backing, and redemption mechanisms of stablecoins, reinforcing trust in this critical segment of the crypto economy. Together, these legislative efforts signal a significant shift in how the federal government approaches the rapidly evolving crypto sector. The June 10 session marks a major milestone in shaping the future of digital finance in the United States. Market participants and policymakers alike will be closely watching the outcome, as it could set the tone for global standards in crypto regulation. Should the bill advance successfully through committee markup, it would proceed to a full House vote, with potential Senate consideration later this year. The coming months could prove transformative for the regulatory landscape of digital assets in the U.S. and beyond.

The Cetus Protocol, the largest decentralized exchange and liquidity platform on the Sui blockchain, has suffered a devastating exploit resulting in the loss of over $223 million in digital assets. The attack, which occurred on May 22, 2025, marks one of the most significant DeFi breaches in recent memory and has triggered widespread disruption across the Sui ecosystem. Attackers exploited vulnerabilities in Cetus’s smart contracts by introducing spoof tokens—such as the fictitious BULLA token—into its liquidity pools. These spoof tokens manipulated the protocol’s automated market maker (AMM) by inflating their value and triggering flawed asset swaps. As a result, hackers were able to extract legitimate tokens like SUI and USDC in disproportionate amounts. Further exacerbating the situation, weaknesses in the pricing oracle allowed the malicious actors to distort price feeds, compounding their gains and rendering Cetus’s internal risk mechanisms ineffective. Blockchain analysts believe that the exploit was premeditated and technically sophisticated, involving careful preparation and exploitation of layered vulnerabilities. The attackers executed a series of rapid transactions, likely using bots to avoid detection until the damage was already done. Ecosystem Reels as Token Prices Plunge and TVL Plummets The immediate aftermath of the breach saw a dramatic market response. CETUS, the native token of the platform, plummeted over 40%. Other Sui-based tokens such as LOFI and Hippo recorded losses exceeding 80%, while the USDC stablecoin on Sui briefly lost its peg, dipping to $0.99. Cetus’s total value locked (TVL) nosedived by over $200 million, underscoring a sharp erosion of investor confidence. The breach has had ripple effects beyond Cetus, shaking confidence in the broader Sui ecosystem and raising concerns about the security of DeFi protocols hosted on newer blockchains. Liquidity providers rushed to withdraw funds, exacerbating slippage and destabilizing token markets. Cross-chain bridges involving Sui assets also saw increased scrutiny, with some pausing transactions to prevent potential contagion. In response to the crisis, Cetus Protocol halted all smart contracts and launched an internal investigation in collaboration with the Sui Foundation and other stakeholders. The team is actively pursuing recovery options, including the identification of the attacker, whose wallet address (0xe28b50) reportedly holds over 12.9 million SUI—currently valued at $54 million. Cetus has also extended a $6 million bounty offer to the attacker, pledging immunity from legal action if the stolen funds are returned. This white-hat recovery approach, though controversial, reflects the urgency and magnitude of the loss. Looking Ahead: Recovery and Reform The Cetus team has committed to a comprehensive security audit and overhaul of its codebase. Developers are working to patch the vulnerabilities exploited in the attack, while third-party firms have been brought in to conduct independent reviews. The incident is likely to lead to broader reforms in how DeFi protocols approach oracle security, token whitelisting, and smart contract validation. Meanwhile, the Sui Foundation is expected to introduce new standards and guidelines aimed at preventing similar breaches across its ecosystem. Further updates are expected in the coming days as investigations continue and the platform charts a course toward recovery and renewed trust.

Strategy, the enterprise software firm turned Bitcoin powerhouse, announced a new initiative to raise up to $2.1 billion through the issuance of Series A Perpetual Strife Preferred Stock (STRF). This move underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to increasing its Bitcoin reserves, positioning itself as a leader in corporate crypto adoption. The STRF shares, offering a 10% annual cash dividend, are specifically designed to appeal to institutional investors seeking Bitcoin exposure with lower volatility than direct cryptocurrency investment. According to the company, the proceeds from this offering will be used for general corporate purposes, with a significant portion allocated to acquiring additional Bitcoin. This latest offering follows a series of capital-raising efforts by Strategy, formerly known as MicroStrategy, that have reshaped the company’s financial identity. Since pivoting to a Bitcoin-centric business model under Executive Chairman Michael Saylor, the company has steadily increased its digital asset holdings through a combination of debt instruments, equity sales, and now preferred stock. Saylor has consistently argued that Bitcoin represents a superior store of value compared to traditional assets, and the firm’s strategy reflects a long-term belief in Bitcoin’s price appreciation and resilience. Capital strategy bridges traditional finance and crypto markets This preferred stock issuance is part of a broader capital-raising plan that includes a $21 billion goal from common share issuance and an additional $21 billion from sales of Perpetual Strike Preferred Stock (STRK). Strategy’s multi-pronged funding approach aims to build a financial structure that merges conventional investment products with crypto-centric use cases. The STRF and STRK offerings are tailored to address different investor appetites while enabling the firm to scale its crypto treasury further. Industry analysts have noted that Strategy’s approach may pave the way for other corporate entities to enter the digital asset space in a less volatile, more regulated fashion. By utilizing financial instruments familiar to traditional investors, Strategy is effectively lowering the barrier to entry into the Bitcoin ecosystem. This hybrid model offers an alternative to both pure-play crypto exposure and conventional stock market strategies. As of this week, Strategy holds approximately 576,230 BTC—valued around $64 billion—cementing its status as the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin. The company’s aggressive accumulation strategy has had a tangible impact on Bitcoin’s market performance, with the digital asset recently reaching an all-time high of $111,800. Market participants closely watch Strategy’s Bitcoin moves as a signal for institutional sentiment and broader adoption trends. By offering a pathway for traditional investors to gain crypto exposure via preferred stock, Strategy hopes to widen its investor base and further entrench its position as a hybrid entity at the intersection of legacy finance and decentralized digital assets. The STRF launch also signals Strategy’s confidence in the ongoing institutionalization of Bitcoin and its potential as a core component of corporate treasury strategies. With this bold capital initiative, Strategy continues to lead the charge in bridging the divide between Wall Street and the blockchain frontier.

Crypto perpetual futures may soon be trading legally in the U.S., according to outgoing Commodity Futures Trading Commissioner Summer Mersinger. “I think those can come to market now,” Mersinger said Thursday in an interview on Bloomberg TV. “I believe we’ll have some of those products trading live very soon. It would be great to get that trading back onshore in the United States.” The products, known as perpetual swaps, are a type of cryptocurrency derivative that lets traders bet on price movements without an expiry date. They’ve become a mainstay of offshore crypto exchanges but remain largely unavailable on U.S. platforms due to regulatory hurdles. Unlike traditional futures contracts, which settle on a specific date, perpetual swaps remain open indefinitely, using a mechanism called a funding rate to tether their price closely to the spot market. This structure has made them particularly attractive to both retail and professional traders seeking leveraged exposure to volatile crypto markets. Global crypto futures activity hit $3.7 trillion in volume last month, according to data from The Block. Mersinger, a Republican appointed by former President Joe Biden and sworn in at the CFTC in March 2022, is stepping down on May 30. She’s set to take over as CEO of the Blockchain Association, the industry’s main lobbying group in Washington. During her time at the agency, Mersinger urged the CFTC and SEC to coordinate on crypto oversight and pushed back on the idea that digital assets were just a passing trend. With her departure, the commission will have four vacant seats. The market appeared to react to her comments. Hyperliquid, a Layer 1 blockchain optimized for perpetual futures trading, saw its token HYPE jump 18% after Bloomberg aired the segment. The chain is designed with a built-in order book and native support for perpetual futures at the protocol level. Hyperliquid is among a new wave of DeFi projects betting that U.S. regulators will open the door to more structured trading products, and sooner rather than later.

Moneycorp has selected Temenos to support its global growth strategy, adopting Temenos SaaS for core banking and payments across its international operations. The move signals a broader digital transformation initiative aimed at accelerating product deployment, increasing scalability, and improving operational efficiency for the cross-border payments and FX provider. The company will transition to Temenos’ software-as-a-service model to focus on delivering new services while using the platform’s advanced wallet and payments capabilities to support client operations in over 190 countries. With offices across Europe, the Americas, and Asia, Moneycorp processes more than 1 million payments each year and in 2023 handled £71 billion in trading volume. The firm serves 11,000 business clients, 250 financial institutions, and over 23,000 private customers. Temenos’ solution will allow Moneycorp to develop and deploy new capabilities globally through its Model Bank framework, which includes pre-configured banking functionality and country-specific localization. This is intended to reduce deployment risk and speed up time to market across jurisdictions, supported by an open, API-based architecture designed to simplify integration across Moneycorp’s existing technology stack. Moneycorp holds 63 regulatory permissions globally Srini Kasturi, Group Chief Technology Officer at Moneycorp, commented, “Best-in-class technology is key to delivering the seamless client experience and personalized service that Moneycorp is known for, so we’re delighted to partner with Temenos, an established global leader in banking technology. Temenos’ multi-country support and localization will enable us to launch new solutions quickly around the world, while running on SaaS will help us to scale efficiently while maintaining our focus on delivering our award-winning, easy to use service to customers worldwide.” Temenos said the partnership reflects its ability to deliver robust SaaS infrastructure for complex financial institutions seeking cross-border functionality and regulatory adaptability. Mark Yamin-Ali, Managing Director, Europe at Temenos, commented, “We’re proud to partner with Moneycorp, a U.K. success story and world leading cross-border payments provider. This strategic transformation which will see Temenos underpin Moneycorp’s core banking and payments ecosystem across its global operation. Moneycorp sought a SaaS solution with deep functionality and the latest technology—capabilities only Temenos could deliver—along with our expertise in Western Europe and the U.S. We look forward to working with Moneycorp to drive the next phase of their impressive growth story.” Moneycorp holds 63 regulatory permissions globally, providing a significant operational footprint that Temenos will now support through its SaaS offering. The collaboration reinforces Moneycorp’s strategy of leveraging digital tools to scale efficiently while retaining its reputation for client service across its diverse customer base.

Kraken is preparing to roll out tokenized U.S. stocks to clients outside the United States, as the crypto exchange broadens its focus beyond digital assets and edges closer to traditional financial territory. The new service will be offered through a partnership with Backed, a recently launched firm, Kraken said in a statement. The tokens, which mirror publicly traded U.S. stocks, will be issued on the Solana blockchain, chosen for its speed and low transaction costs. Tokenization refers to the process of converting real-world assets such as equities, real estate, or commodities into digital tokens that can be traded on blockchain platforms. By moving stocks onto a decentralized ledger, brokers can sidestep traditional market infrastructure, cutting costs, speeding up transactions, and opening access to a wider range of users. “The whole point of crypto is transparency,” Kraken co-CEO Arjun Sethi said at Solana’s Accelerate event in New York on May 22. “It’s decentralized, it’s open-source, and you can build fast. There’s no reason why companies like ours can’t evolve with it.” The move allows Kraken to compete not just with crypto-native players like Coinbase, but also with retail brokerages such as Robinhood, which already offer both crypto and equities under one roof. The no-fee app is reportedly in discussions with crypto firms Arbitrum and the Solana Foundation, both of which are vying to support the project. Kraken began offering stock and ETF trading to a limited group of U.S. clients in April, including residents of New Jersey, Connecticut, and Wyoming. This isn’t the first time a crypto exchange has experimented with tokenized equities. Binance launched a similar product in 2021 but pulled the plug amid regulatory pressure. Kraken’s latest effort comes as interest in real-world asset (RWA) tokenization accelerates. The market has grown by more than 40% since the start of the year, with total capitalization reaching $22.7 billion as of May 20, according to data cited in the announcement. Tokenized stocks, however, remain a small fraction of that, with only $373 million in market cap. Sethi said Kraken is developing modular infrastructure — described as a “set of microservices” — to support a wider product suite as it gears up for broader expansion. Rivals are also moving in. Robinhood recently disclosed plans to build a blockchain platform for tokenized stocks, with an eye on giving European investors easier access to U.S. equities.