At first glance, the idea of “burning” tokens sounds strange. Why would anyone deliberately destroy something valuable? In cryptocurrency, however, token burning isn’t wasteful . It is a deliberate strategy projects use to manage supply, increase scarcity, and strengthen their ecosystems. Whether you’re new to crypto or already exploring the space, understanding token burning is important because it shapes the value and stability of many coins you may hold or consider buying. What is Token Burning in Crypto? In simple terms, token burning means permanently removing coins from circulation. Once burned, those tokens cannot be retrieved or spent again. A good analogy is in traditional finance When companies buy back their shares, they reduce the number available on the market. This can make each remaining share more valuable. Similarly, crypto projects burn tokens to reduce supply. The difference is that, instead of buying them back, tokens are sent to a special wallet address that nobody can access often called a “burn address” or “eater address.” How Does Token Burning Work? There are a few main methods used across the crypto industry. They are: 1. Burn Addresses In this method, tokens are sent to a blockchain wallet with no private keys. Once there, they’re locked forever. 2. Smart Contract Burns Some networks have built-in rules that automatically burn a portion of tokens during transactions. Ethereum’s upgrade EIP-1559 is a well-known example, where part of the transaction fee is burned instead of going to miners. 3. Scheduled Project Burns Some crypto projects regularly burn tokens as part of their roadmap. Binance, for example, conducts quarterly burns of its Binance Coin (BNB), removing millions of dollars’ worth of tokens each year. Why Do Crypto Projects Burn Tokens? Now, you are probably wondering why projects burn tokens. Token burning isn’t just a marketing strategy,  instead projects do it for strategic reasons. 1. To Create Scarcity With fewer tokens available, the ones that remain could become more valuable, especially if demand rises. 2. To Build Trust with Investors Burning tokens shows commitment. It signals that the project is willing to sacrifice some of its supply for the long-term health of the ecosystem. 3. To Manage Inflation In crypto ecosystems with high distribution rates, burning tokens helps balance out supply so coins don’t become worthless due to oversupply. Real-World Examples of Token Burning Several major crypto projects rely on token burning as a key part of their strategy. Let’s take a look at a few of them. 1. Binance Coin (BNB) Binance runs quarterly token burns using trading fees. In 2023 alone, it burned over $500 million worth of BNB. This process continues until 50% of the total supply is destroyed. 2. Ethereum (ETH) Since the 2021 EIP-1559 upgrade, a portion of every transaction fee is automatically burned. This has permanently removed millions of ETH from circulation, helping to offset new distribution. 3. Shiba Inu (SHIB) This meme coin has gained attention partly because of its community-driven burns. Shiba Inu holders voluntarily burn tokens to reduce supply, hoping it increases scarcity. These examples show that token burning isn’t limited to one type of project. From utility tokens to meme coins, many use it as a tool. Does Token Burning Really Affect Price? A common belief is that token burning always makes a coin’s price rise. Well, it is not as straight forward as it looks. Yes, it can help because reducing supply creates scarcity, and if demand stays the same or grows, prices may go up. But not always because burning tokens doesn’t automatically create demand. If a project has no real use case or community, the price might not move even if supply is reduced. While Binance’s BNB burns have contributed to long-term growth, not every burn leads to immediate price spikes. Is Token Burning the Same as Stock Buybacks? Token burning is often compared to share buybacks in traditional finance. Both reduce the circulating supply, but there are differences. In stock buybacks, companies repurchase shares, sometimes holding them for future use while In token burns, coins are permanently destroyed and cannot be recovered. So while the goal (increasing scarcity) is similar, the mechanics are different. Why Token Burning Matters to You Whether you invest, trade, or simply use crypto, token burning is something you’ll want to pay attention to and here is why. 1. It signals project commitment Understanding how burns reflect project commitment helps you separate serious teams from hype-driven ones. When you know how to read these signals, you can better judge whether a project has long-term intentions or is just after quick profit. 2. It protects you from bad investments Learning about token burning teaches you how supply impacts value. If you don’t understand this, you might get caught up in projects that print endless tokens and lose value over time. Understanding how burns manage scarcity protects you from bad investments. 3. Investor Confidence Knowing why burns influence investor confidence helps you see beyond the excitement. Many traders react positively to burns, but if you understand the mechanics, you’ll be able to tell whether the confidence is justified or just hype. Bottom Line Token burning only matters when paired with genuine demand, real-world use, and community trust. By permanently removing coins from circulation, projects can create scarcity, control inflation, and show commitment to investors. Understanding this mechanism helps you read between the lines and make smarter investment choices.

Openbank, the digital lender owned by Spain’s Santander Group, has migrated its investment accounts to Berlin-based fintech Upvest, adopting its Investment API to strengthen services in Germany, the companies said on Tuesday. The move gives Openbank access to a fully digital investment infrastructure, allowing it to expand its product range across asset classes while offering fractional trading in stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) with entry points as low as €1. Customers will also benefit from lower costs, with trading fees set at 0.20% per transaction (minimum €1) and no custody fees. Upvest’s Investment API provides an end-to-end solution covering brokerage, settlement, custody, and regulatory compliance. “This partnership with Openbank proves that modern investment infrastructure can meet the requirements of large financial institutions while offering the flexibility and speed to scale across markets,” said Jonathan Brander, Upvest’s chief operating officer. For fintechs like Upvest, the collaboration with a major banking group marks a validation of their model of building “plug-and-play” investment rails that let large incumbents modernize without fully replacing legacy core systems. Unlike traditional brokerage setups, API-based platforms can be integrated in weeks rather than months, while still complying with strict European regulations. The partnership reflects a growing trend of banks replacing traditional systems with API-based investment infrastructure, enabling scalability and resilience during market volatility. Meanwhile, the German retail investment market has become highly competitive, with local fintechs such as Trade Republic and Scalable Capital leading in low-cost trading and ETFs. By leveraging Upvest’s infrastructure, Openbank challenges these players with the advantage of Santander’s balance sheet and global reach, while still offering the sleek digital experience expected by German retail investors. As Europe’s largest fully digital bank by deposits, Openbank serves more than 2 million customers across multiple markets. The bank said the integration with Upvest will deepen its presence in Germany, one of its key growth markets, while improving user experience through a streamlined digital-first platform. Santander has been investing heavily in Openbank as its flagship digital unit, using Germany as a testing ground for innovative financial products. The Spanish banking giant said auccess there could provide a blueprint for expansion into other European markets, where demand for low-cost, app-based investment solutions continues to grow.

Pump.fun, a Solana-based platform for launching memecoins, has generated more than $800 million in lifetime revenue, data from blockchain analytics shows. According to a Dune dashboard by onchain analyst @adam_tehc, Pump has collected $800.7 million in fees since launch. The platform earns revenue through a 1% swap fee on token transactions, having previously charged projects when they “graduated” to Raydium, a Solana decentralized exchange, after hitting a set market capitalization. The announcement follows a steep drop in Pump.fun’s platform revenue — from over $7 million per day in January during a memecoin boom to roughly $200,000 daily in recent weeks, according to on-chain data. Pump has been a driving force behind Solana’s memecoin boom, though it has faced rising competition from LetsBonk.fun, a rival launchpad that went live in April with backing from the Bonk community and ties to Raydium’s LaunchLab. LetsBonk briefly overtook Pump in the number of tokens reaching “graduated” status last month. However, Pump has since regained the lead after several top memecoin deployers migrated back to its platform. “The top 10 deployers on LetsBonk moved over to Pump,” crypto trader @WazzCrypto said on social media. Revenue Divergence The recovery has widened the revenue gap. Pump has been generating over $1 million a day, while LetsBonk’s daily revenue has slumped to below $30,000, down sharply from about $1 million earlier this month, according to the data. Pump also launched its own token last month, raising $600 million in 12 minutes during an initial coin offering. The platform has since begun a buyback program at a premium to the market price in an attempt to support the token’s value. The memecoin landscape itself is shifting. While Solana led the sector through 2024, it has recently been overtaken by Base, the Coinbase-incubated blockchain. Base’s new Base App combines token trading with decentralized social media features, automatically minting posts as ERC-20 tokens through the Zora protocol.  

The pace of Bitcoin adoption among global businesses is accelerating, opening fresh doors for both crypto enthusiasts and everyday shoppers. While some companies accept Bitcoin directly, others use trusted payment processors and integrations to facilitate Bitcoin transactions seamlessly. Here’s a rundown of the top 20 companies embracing Bitcoin payments in 2025—including major retailers, luxury brands, and digital platforms shaping the future of commerce. 1. Microsoft A tech giant and early adopter, Microsoft allows users to fund their accounts with Bitcoin for digital content purchases via the Microsoft Store. 2. PayPal PayPal enables millions of merchants worldwide to accept Bitcoin, with seamless integration for buyers looking for checkout flexibility and access through PayPal’s crypto wallet. 3. Amazon (Indirect) Amazon doesn’t accept Bitcoin directly, but customers can shop on the platform using third-party apps like BitPay, Purse, and Moon, which convert crypto to gift cards or process payments through the Lightning Network. 4. AT&T The first major U.S. mobile carrier to embrace crypto, AT&T lets customers pay bills online using Bitcoin through BitPay’s secure payment gateway. 5. Starbucks Starbucks accepts Bitcoin payments in select countries and through third-party integrations, making it possible to buy coffee and goods with crypto balances loaded into the Starbucks app. 6. Whole Foods Owned by Amazon, Whole Foods is among the first major grocers to accept Bitcoin using Flexa, allowing crypto users to pay for groceries at physical locations. 7. Tesla Tesla still holds Bitcoin as an asset and, while direct car payments via BTC are currently paused, the firm is exploring further crypto integration in areas such as solar solutions and energy rewards. 8. Gucci This luxury fashion house accepts Bitcoin for select purchases at flagship stores in North America, Europe, and Asia, targeting tech-savvy, fashion-forward clientele. 9. Shopify Shopify merchants can accept Bitcoin payments via plugins like Coinbase Commerce and BitPay, empowering over 500,000 online stores to serve crypto customers worldwide. 10. Overstock A pioneering force in retail crypto acceptance, Overstock offers a smooth Bitcoin payment flow for furniture, electronics, and home decor using Coinbase Commerce. 11. AMC Theatres America’s largest theater chain, AMC, sells movie tickets and concessions for Bitcoin and other top cryptocurrencies via BitPay’s secure checkout. 12. Newegg The tech and electronics retailer accepts Bitcoin through BitPay, making it easy for customers to buy the latest gadgets, gaming gear, and computer components with BTC. 13. Home Depot Leverage Flexa for in-store Bitcoin payments at one of the world’s biggest hardware and building stores, making BTC usable for everything from DIY tools to home improvement supplies. 14. Rakuten Japanese e-commerce leader Rakuten supports Bitcoin purchases via its Rakuten Pay solution and dedicated crypto wallet, streamlining digital shopping for millions of global users. 15. Best Buy (via Gift Cards) Best Buy, a top U.S. electronics retailer, supports crypto-driven shopping through partnerships with gift card and payment platforms that let customers pay with Bitcoin. 16. Gyft Buy and redeem gift cards from a huge roster of brands, including Amazon and Starbucks, using Bitcoin with Gyft’s trusted app, expanding BTC’s utility beyond direct merchant partners. 17. Reeds Jewelers This jewelry retailer accepts Bitcoin both online and in physical stores, giving shoppers access to fine jewelry and luxury watches using their crypto assets. 18. Jomashop Buy luxury watches, handbags, and accessories with Bitcoin at Jomashop’s online store, supporting several cryptocurrencies for seamless crypto checkout experiences. 19. BitPay Travel Plan global trips and book flights, hotels, and rentals through BitPay Travel, a partnership enabling travelers to use Bitcoin for comprehensive travel bookings. 20. Ralph Lauren The iconic fashion brand Ralph Lauren now offers Bitcoin payments at select flagship locations via BitPay, combining modern digital currency with timeless luxury. Why Are Major Companies Accepting Bitcoin? With Bitcoin’s mainstream adoption on the rise, businesses are looking to tap into a global, tech-savvy customer base. Accepting Bitcoin reduces payment friction in global transactions, avoids currency conversion fees, and underscores a brand’s commitment to innovation and future-facing commerce. Crypto payments also empower companies to serve unbanked populations and offer customers enhanced privacy and security. How to Pay with Bitcoin at Leading Retailers While some brands accept Bitcoin directly at checkout, others use payment processors and integrations: Direct Checkout: Look for the “Pay with Bitcoin” or cryptocurrency options during the online checkout process. Payment Partnerships: Companies like BitPay, Coinbase Commerce, and Flexa enable crypto support for thousands of retailers. Gift Card Platforms: Use crypto-specific services like Gyft or Bitrefill to purchase store gift cards with Bitcoin and redeem at your favorite retailers. In-Store Payments: Scan your wallet QR code at checkout, or ask staff about the store’s cryptocurrency payment options. What Can You Buy with Bitcoin in 2025? From electronics and groceries to luxury goods and entertainment, Bitcoin lets you access a diverse product range: Tech & Gadgets: Microsoft, Newegg, Best Buy (via gift cards) Groceries & Coffee: Whole Foods, Starbucks Travel & Leisure: BitPay Travel, AMC Theatres Fashion & Accessories: Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Reeds Jewelers, Jomashop Home Improvement: Home Depot Online Shopping: Amazon (indirect), Rakuten, Shopify stores Global Trends: The Future of Bitcoin Payments The number of retail and institutional Bitcoin payment options is growing as technological advances like the Lightning Network make transactions faster and cheaper. With regulatory clarity improving and powerful crypto payment gateways scaling, expect even broader Bitcoin acceptance in the years to come—both in-store and online. The Bottom Line Bitcoin payment is rapidly gaining ground across retail, tech, travel, and luxury sectors. Whether you’re equipping your home, streaming a movie, booking a flight, or indulging in designer goods, using Bitcoin has never been easier. As adoption expands, expect even more brands to join this innovative payment revolution, freeing consumers to shop, pay, and invest using digital currency around the globe.

Billionaire crypto entrepreneurs Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss have donated an additional $21 million in bitcoin to a political action committee backing U.S. President Donald Trump, deepening their financial and political support for the Republican leader ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The donation, made in the form of 188 bitcoins, was directed to the Digital Freedom Fund PAC, which was formed in July, according to a statement on Wednesday. “The mission of the @FreedomFundPAC is to help realize President Trump’s vision of making America the crypto capital of the world,” Tyler Winklevoss wrote on social media platform X. He said the twins intend to continue lobbying for new legislation aimed at clarifying oversight of the digital asset sector. The Gemini exchange founders are advocating for a “Skinny Market Structure Bill” to prevent overlapping jurisdiction by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. They have also floated a “Bitcoin & Crypto Bill of Rights” to enshrine Americans’ ability to own and transact digital assets without government interference. The brothers oppose a potential U.S. central bank digital currency, arguing it could give unelected officials outsized power over financial activity. They also criticized efforts that restrict banking services based on political or business affiliations, drawing comparisons to past controversies such as Operation Choke Point. Ties to Trump and Crypto Ventures The Winklevoss twins have become some of Trump’s most vocal backers in the crypto industry. Last year, they donated $2 million in bitcoin directly to his presidential campaign, though a portion exceeded federal contribution limits and was refunded. They later gave about $3.5 million in bitcoin to the pro-Trump MAGA Inc. super PAC and have since invested in American Bitcoin Corp., a mining company tied to Trump’s sons. In Wednesday’s post, Tyler Winklevoss praised Trump’s 2024 election win, which he called a “historic landslide,” adding that the latest contribution was intended to support both the president and Republican-aligned candidates. “We want the American Golden Age and we are ready to fight for it,” Tyler wrote. “And we don’t just want another year of it, we want three more years of it.” Super PACs are not allowed to donate directly to candidates but can raise unlimited funds to independently support political campaigns. The Federal Election Commission has not yet published a full accounting of donations to the Digital Freedom Fund.

When it comes to digital assets, traders are always looking for ways to keep their transactions safe, safeguard their privacy, and circumvent regulations. In crypto trading, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become a popular way to reach these goals. VPNs help you stay anonymous online and get to sites that might not be available to you because of where you live by encrypting your internet connections and hiding your IP address.  Yet, the topic of legality is also important: Is it okay to use a VPN to trade crypto? This post talks about what’s legal and what’s not, the pros and cons of using a VPN for crypto trading, and how to pick the best one. It’s important to know these things if you want to securely navigate the regulatory landscape, whether you’re a new trader or an experienced one. What Are VPNs and Why Should You Use Them To Trade Crypto? A VPN is a service that connects your device to the internet through a secure, encrypted tunnel and sends your traffic through a remote server. This method hides your real IP address and keeps your data safe from hackers and internet service providers (ISPs) who want to see it on public Wi-Fi networks. Uses of VPNs VPNs have various uses in the world of crypto trading, including: Breaking Restrictions: First, they enable people to get around location-based restrictions that exchanges put in place. For example, some platforms only let people in certain places use them to follow local rules. By using a VPN, you can make it look like you’re connecting from another country, which will let you use these services.  Privacy: VPNs protect your privacy by stopping other people from connecting your trading activity to your identity. This extra level of security is very important because IP logs can sometimes be used to track crypto wallets and transactions. Finally, traders who are on the go can use a VPN to ensure their connections are secure even on insecure networks. This lowers the chance of man-in-the-middle assaults during trades. These capabilities make VPNs enticing, but there is some disagreement about whether or not they should be used for crypto trading. Rules are very different, and not all platforms allow VPN users. As we go deeper, it’s important to think about the pros and cons of the law and the real world. Countries and Their VPN Restrictions VPNs are legal in most nations throughout the world since they are seen as ways to protect privacy and security. But a few countries have very tight rules or bans on its use. North Korea, Belarus, Turkmenistan, Iraq, and Oman are among the countries that completely ban VPNs. This means that using one for any reason, including to trade crypto, is against the law. In these areas, trying to use a VPN could get you into a lot of trouble. Some countries are more careful with their regulations. Countries like China, Russia, India, Egypt, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Uganda allow VPNs, but only through providers that the government has certified. These licensed services generally keep track of what users do and may share that information with the government, which hurts the privacy benefits of crypto trading. Using an unapproved VPN in these kinds of places could get you in trouble with the law or result in a fine. It’s important to remember that just because VPNs are legal in some places doesn’t mean that everything you do with them is legal. Users can still get in trouble if they use a VPN to engage in illicit activities such as fraud or money laundering. When it comes to trading cryptocurrencies, the focus moves to whether the activity is legal in the area, since some places completely ban or tightly restrict digital assets. Is It Legal To Use A Vpn To Trade Crypto? In most locations where both VPNs and cryptocurrencies are legal, you can use both together. Traders can use VPNs to get to exchanges, keep their data safe, and stay anonymous without breaking the law. For instance, VPNs are a common way to protect your anonymity online in the US, Canada, and much of Europe. As long as users follow tax and reporting rules, they can also be used for crypto trading. But things get complicated when people use VPNs to get around platform-specific limitations or national bans. Many crypto exchanges, including Binance and Coinbase, have rules that say you can’t use a VPN to get around geo-blocks. Break these rules, and you could have your account suspended, your money frozen, or be banned for good. Platforms can usually find VPN IP addresses, and they may ask for more proof, such as email confirmations, before letting you continue. Using a VPN to circumvent regulations in countries where crypto trading is illegal or limited, like China or India, could be considered breaking the law and could lead to legal problems. If a government also forbids VPNs, using one for crypto trading increases the risk. Always check the regulations in your area and the policies of the exchange before moving forward. Intent is often what makes something legal or not. It’s usually allowed to use a VPN for privacy, but not to breach the rules. What Are The Risks And Downsides Of Using VPNs for Crypto Trading? VPNs provide certain benefits, but they also come with big hazards when it comes to trading crypto. One big worry is that exchanges will find out. Advanced platforms use complex technologies to detect VPN activity, which might trigger alerts or restrictions. If found, customers could lose access to their accounts or have to wait longer to withdraw money, which would mess up their trading plans. Another problem is that the connection rates could slow down. When you encrypt data and send it through servers that are far away, it can take longer to get there. This is an issue for deals that need to happen quickly, like seconds. This problem gets worse with free VPNs because their servers are often too full and they have restricted capacity. There are still legal issues in some areas, where the government might monitor legal VPNs or pursue illegal ones. Also, not all VPNs are the same. Some keep track of user data or sell it to other companies, which goes against the privacy they are supposed to safeguard. In crypto trading, where a lot of money is on the line, picking a bad service could mean losing money or having your data stolen. Finally, using a VPN doesn’t mean you can’t be hacked. If the connection fails and there is no kill switch, your true IP address could be disclosed, which could link your activity back to you. These problems show how important it is to choose the best VPN for Bitcoin trading to avoid problems. Why You Should Use VPNs When Trading Crypto The good news is that VPNs are quite helpful for people who trade cryptocurrencies. Security must come first: A VPN protects your transactions from hackers, especially while you’re using public Wi-Fi, by encrypting your connection. This is very important when handling sensitive wallet information or making deals. Another big plus is privacy. Masking your IP address makes it harder for ISPs and exchanges to find out where you are or what you do, which lowers the odds of targeted assaults or data aggregation. This anonymity can make a big difference for merchants in areas where there is a lot of scrutiny. One of the best things about it is that it gives you access to worldwide marketplaces. VPNs let people access servers in countries where some trades work freely. This opens up new opportunities without having to move. Getting around limits on DeFi platforms like 1inch might provide you access to a wider range of assets. Also, good VPNs have features like ad blockers and malware protection that offer even more layers of security. When you pick the right one, the best VPN for crypto trading not only follows the law, but it also makes your experience better by being fast, reliable, and having strong encryption. How to Pick the Best VPN for Trading Cryptocurrencies There are several factors to consider before choosing the best VPN for crypto trading. Privacy policies should be the first thing you look at:  No-logs Policy: Choose providers who have a strong no-logs policy so they don’t keep track of or share your activity. This is very important for keeping your identity secret when trading crypto. Network Speed: The speed of the connection and the server network are very important. Look for services that have fast servers that cover the whole planet so you can access exchanges around the world without any lag. There are a lot of places to choose from, so you can swap when you need to. Security: Security aspects are important. A kill switch, AES-256 encryption, and support for protocols like WireGuard for faster, safer connections are all things that the best VPN for crypto trading should have. Features such as port forwarding or virus prevention make trading safer. Device Compatibility: For versatility, devices must be able to work with each other. Make sure the VPN works with multiple operating systems and allows simultaneous connection from multiple devices at the same time, such as a PC or a mobile phone. Cost: Cost is important, but don’t choose cheap choices because they generally don’t offer good security. Paid subscriptions, which usually cost $2 to $3 a month, are a better deal. Check out user evaluations and independent audits to verify the claims. In the end, the best VPN for trading cryptocurrencies strikes a balance between these factors, giving you trustworthy service without any legal problems. Traders love popular choices since they usually do well in these regions. How to Use Safely and Legally Follow these rules to use VPNs safely and legally when trading cryptocurrencies.  Look up the regulations in your nation about VPNs and digital assets to avoid accidentally breaking them. Check the terms of the trade to ensure you follow them. Pick the best VPN for crypto trading from well-known companies, with a focus on those that have been checked for security. Enable options like the kill switch and use servers that are hard to find to stay hidden. Keep an eye out for changes in the rules. Don’t just use VPNs; mix them with other security measures like hardware wallets to make your approach more varied. If you’re going to be travelling, check your network ahead of time. Lastly, keep up with changes by getting information from trustworthy sources. This will help you stay safe and legal while trading Bitcoin. In a world where rules are strict, VPNs can be quite helpful for crypto trading because they protect your privacy, security, and access. Even if they are usually legal, you need to be aware of worldwide constraints and platform laws to avoid problems. You can trade with confidence if you know what’s legal and what’s not, and use the best VPN for crypto trading. Keep in mind that responsible use puts compliance and protection first, which leads to a long-term attitude to digital assets.

Deutsche Bank Chief Executive Christian Sewing is facing fresh scrutiny in a lawsuit brought by a former employee that revisits his role in a high-profile derivatives probe more than a decade ago. The case, filed by ex-banker Dario Schiraldi, seeks €152 million ($178 million) in damages and claims Sewing, then the bank’s chief auditor, helped unfairly pin blame for controversial trades tied to Italian lender Monte dei Paschi di Siena (MPS). The lawsuit, due to be heard in Frankfurt in December, argues that the audit overseen by Sewing damaged Schiraldi’s career and reputation. Deutsche Bank has reviewed its handling of the trades in recent months and found no wrongdoing, a person familiar with the matter said. Still, the lawsuit puts Sewing — who became CEO in 2018 and is credited with returning the lender to profitability — under renewed examination of his past decisions. Old Scandal, New Spotlight The case traces back to complex transactions Deutsche arranged with MPS during the financial crisis. Italian prosecutors alleged the deals helped MPS conceal losses. Schiraldi and several other bankers were convicted in 2019, only to be acquitted on appeal in 2022. Schiraldi now claims the bank’s management, including Sewing, tacitly approved the trades but later scapegoated him and colleagues. Court filings reviewed by Reuters show Schiraldi’s lawyers obtained millions of internal documents they argue reveal flaws in the bank’s audit process. According to a 2014 report Deutsche sent to the Bank of Italy, the audit concluded that the “Deal Team,” which included Schiraldi, provided “insufficient and selective disclosure.” That framing, Schiraldi alleges, misrepresented how widely the trades were understood inside the bank and ignored management’s involvement. Deutsche confirmed to Reuters that the audit had “identified material failings” but declined to discuss its communications with regulators. The bank said the claims made in the lawsuit were “false” and amounted to an attempt to damage the reputations of its executives. Schiraldi’s lawyers say the audit’s findings were predetermined and based on only a fraction of available evidence. They argue that if the trades had been properly reviewed, they would have been either blocked or escalated internally. Instead, Deutsche accounted for the deals as loans rather than derivatives, which reduced its capital requirements and boosted profitability at the time. Schiraldi, who has since held other senior roles in finance, contends he and his colleagues were unfairly made to bear responsibility while top executives escaped blame. In its 2024 annual report, Deutsche disclosed Schiraldi’s lawsuit as part of a list of civil litigation and regulatory matters. Chairman Alexander Wynaendts said the supervisory board supports management in contesting the case. “We stand by the audit’s core findings,” a Deutsche spokesperson told Reuters, adding that executives “discharged their responsibilities appropriately.” Since taking the helm in 2018, Sewing has cut back risky operations, returned Deutsche to profit, and steadied its image after years of losses, fines, and management turnover. In March, he was reappointed to a third term as CEO, with the bank now positioned as a key partner in Berlin’s “Made for Germany” economic program.

Kraken is moving to broaden the reach of its professional trading arm with the acquisition of Israeli start-up Capitalise.ai, a no-code automation firm that lets traders build strategies in plain English. According to Kraken’s statement, the deal will see Capitalise’s technology integrated into Kraken Pro later this year in what the exchange is pitching as a step towards making systematic trading mainstream. Founded in 2015, Tel Aviv–based Capitalise.ai developed a proprietary natural-language engine and data infrastructure capable of translating simple text commands into executable trades. The platform has been used by traditional brokers such as Interactive Brokers, allowing retail and institutional clients to automate backtesting, execution and monitoring across equities, crypto, FX and derivatives without writing code. “This acquisition gives Kraken Pro clients a powerful new way to act on ideas in real time—testing, optimizing, and executing bespoke strategies with unprecedented speed and confidence,” said Shannon Kurtas, Kraken’s head of exchange. “Capitalise.ai’s technology transforms how people interact with financial data… This is a major leap forward in democratizing access to pro-grade trading tools.” The company’s co-founders, Amir Shiovich and Shahar Rabin, will join Kraken alongside key product and engineering staff. That continuity should ease integration of Capitalise’s text-to-trade tools into Pro’s existing execution and risk stack. For Kraken, the move is the latest in a string of acquisitions in derivatives and professional markets. In 2019, it bought Crypto Facilities, the London-based venue licensed by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority that now anchors Kraken Futures. More recently, the firm agreed a $1.5 billion deal to acquire NinjaTrader, one of the largest independent U.S. futures platforms. Capitalise.ai slots into that strategy by tackling a different bottleneck. As trading platforms have grown more sophisticated, retail adoption of advanced features has often lagged, held back by the technical skills required to code strategies. By embedding natural-language automation directly into Kraken Pro, the exchange is betting it can appeal to both systematic traders and newcomers who want to experiment with hedging or complex strategies without external software. Kraken says the rollout will be phased, starting with core automation and backtesting tools. Longer-term ambitions may extend beyond crypto, with Capitalise’s infrastructure already proven on traditional asset classes.

Brian Quintez is working with professionals in the cryptocurrency business to get more support for his confirmation as a commissioner on the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Cryptopolitan says that Quintez has been talking to important people in the crypto world to show how serious he is about creating a regulatory environment that encourages innovation while keeping the market honest.  His nomination was announced in early 2025, but the Senate has been slow to act on it. This is why he is reaching out to important people in the digital asset ecosystem to get support. The U.S. government is paying more attention to regulating cryptocurrencies right now, which is why Quintez is working.  The CFTC’s job of keeping an eye on the crypto derivatives and futures markets is becoming more important as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), led by Chair Paul Atkins, focuses on making crypto rules clearer and making it easier for regular people to invest in alternative assets. Quintez, who used to work as a financial regulator and knows a lot about derivatives markets, is trying to connect the crypto business with authorities. Putting Rules In Line With New Ideas Quintez has said in public that he wants to build a regulatory framework that protects investors without stifling new ideas. He has talked to crypto KOLs about the importance of having clear rules for crypto derivatives, which are the CFTC’s job.  This is in line with the SEC’s recent changes to the requirements for accredited investors, which were made in 2020 to make it easier for more people to invest in private companies, including early-stage crypto ventures. Quintez’s outreach stresses working together with people in the sector to make sure that rules keep up with how quickly digital assets change. The way the CFTC candidate wants to do things is similar to what SEC Chair Atkins has said about making sure that regular investors have the same chances in private equity and crypto markets. Quintez, on the other hand, has underlined the need for “proper guardrails” to lower risks, which is similar to Atkins’ warning against letting investors have too much access to unstable assets. Quintez wants to work with crypto leaders to agree on rules that will let the market flourish while also easing worries about financial stability. Risks and Dangers of Regulating Crypto There are problems with the demand for clear rules in the crypto industry. The CFTC is in charge of a complicated market of crypto derivatives that can be quite risky if not handled properly.  As was said in recent talks about SEC reforms, private investments like crypto projects often lack the same level of openness as public markets. This makes it even more important for investors to learn about and protect themselves. Quintez’s outreach to the crypto community shows that he knows about these issues and wants to work with others to fix them. The fact that the approval process has been put on hold also shows how complicated the politics of regulating crypto are. The Trump administration‘s executive order allowing crypto in 401(k) plans puts pressure on regulators like the CFTC and SEC to make their rules more consistent. Quintez’s nomination might be very important in making the U.S. a world leader in digital assets, but he needs support from both parties and the industry to get confirmed. The Next Step for Quintez and Crypto Quintez’s nomination shows how important digital assets are becoming in U.S. financial markets as he continues to pursue leaders in the crypto industry. He can only be successful if he can find the right balance between protecting investors and encouraging innovation.  This is a difficult task that requires both regulatory knowledge and trust from the sector. If affirmed, Quintez might aid the CFTC’s job of making the crypto market safer and more stable, which would complement the SEC’s work to make alternative investments more accessible to everyone.

Robinhood Derivatives, the derivatives division of the well-known trading platform Robinhood, has sued authorities in New Jersey and Nevada to stop them from taking action against its sporting event contracts. These contracts, which are made possible by a collaboration with Kalshi, a Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)-regulated prediction market, allow people to bet on the results of events such as elections and sports games.  On August 19, 2025, lawsuits were filed in U.S. District Courts because state officials claimed that these contracts were illegal sports betting, even though federal courts had already ruled that Kalshi’s operations were legal. The fight started after federal courts ruled in favour of Kalshi earlier in 2025. This stopped New Jersey and Nevada from using state gambling laws against their CFTC-regulated contracts. Robinhood says that similar decisions should also apply to its products because they run on Kalshi’s infrastructure. But state authorities have kept threatening to take action, which is why Robinhood has asked for injunctions and temporary restraining orders to protect its company. Federal vs. State Authority The main issue in the case is a disagreement between federal and state regulatory powers. Robinhood and Kalshi say that their event contracts are not bets that are subject to state gambling regulations, but rather commodities that the CFTC regulates under the Commodity Exchange Act.  Federal courts have agreed with this point of view, saying that federal law stopped state measures against Kalshi. Robinhood’s claims say that what New Jersey and Nevada did goes against this precedent since it gives Kalshi an unfair advantage by letting it operate while threatening Robinhood with sanctions. Robinhood called the Division of Gaming Enforcement in New Jersey to find out if it could provide contracts under the Kalshi verdict. Still, officials wouldn’t promise not to enforce the law and didn’t respond to follow-up questions.  The Gaming Control Board in Nevada also said that issuing these kinds of contracts would be seen as “wilful violations” of state law, even if federal courts had ruled otherwise. Robinhood says these efforts could hurt competition since it could lose market share to Kalshi if it can’t operate. What This Means For Prediction Markets The lawsuits show how the gap between traditional state-licensed gaming and new federally controlled prediction markets is getting worse. Event contracts, which use blockchain technology to clarify terms, have become more popular. Robinhood says that more than two billion contracts have been traded.  The site has lately added NFL and NCAA football markets, which shows how popular they are. However, state authorities and traditional sportsbooks say that these markets are similar to sports betting, which raises worries about consumer safety and regulatory supervision. The legal fight over Robinhood could establish a standard for how digital financial products should be regulated. If the verdict goes in the CFTC’s favour, it would strengthen its control over event contracts. This might provide ordinary investors with more access to new financial products. On the other hand, state wins could slow the growth of prediction markets, which would hurt platforms like Robinhood and Kalshi. Wider Context and Future Outlook The disagreement comes at a time when regulations are changing in general. For example, the SEC has been working to make it easier for regular people to invest in private equity and cryptocurrencies.  These improvements are meant to make investment more accessible to everyone, but they also show how important it is to have clear rules that protect consumers while allowing for new ideas. Robinhood’s lawsuits are a call for clearer rules in a rapidly changing financial world. The results will certainly have an impact on the future of prediction markets and digital assets

London, United Kingdom, August 20th, 2025, Chainwire OpenServ, the leading full-stack AI app-building infrastructure in Web3, today named Joey Kheireddine as Head of Blockchain. Kheireddine joins OpenServ from his former role as Head of Engineering for Eliza Labs, bringing enterprise-scale experience at the intersection of agentic AI and crypto to accelerate OpenServ’s onchain roadmap. “OpenServ is doubling down on people who ship,” said Tim Hafner, CEO of OpenServ. “Joey has shipped at a pace and quality most teams struggle to match. Since 2017, Joey has shipped a multitude of decentralized applications, including wallets, block explorers, agent frameworks, indexers, NFT and token contracts, while handling a total revenue of over 50M+ USD and a combined volume of 70,000 ETH across marketplaces. He’s the execution engine we want driving our blockchain roadmap.” “I’m joining OpenServ because its versatile and scalable architecture makes agents actually useful in the real world, allowing for endless possibilities,” said Kheireddine. “My mandate is simple: ship faster, harden the stack, and make building on OpenServ the easiest path for teams launching AI-powered apps.” Kheireddine has led engineering across category-defining Web3 and AI projects. At Eliza Labs (ElizaOS / AI16Z), he worked on the open-source token launchpad auto.fun that heavily utilized AI features —experience directly aligned with OpenServ’s agentic runtime and protocol ambitions. Prior to Eliza, he served as CTO at FLUF World (Non-Fungible Labs) and later Head of Engineering at Walker Labs, shipping large-scale consumer experiences and developer tooling under real-world load. Earlier, he contributed as a blockchain architect with FUSION. Collectively, his portfolio spans high-throughput services, developer platforms, and production-grade releases across multiple chains. About OpenServ OpenServ is the simple, scalable platform for building AI-powered apps, products, and services. Developers worldwide choose OpenServ to build and employ AI agents with advanced cognitive reasoning that take action across digital systems. Designed for builders at every level, OpenServ provides the world’s leading infrastructure for deploying agents that interact with APIs, automate workflows, and operate across any framework. With native support for Telegram and a modular SDK, OpenServ enables agents to move from passive interfaces to active participants in decentralized ecosystems. Learn more at openserv.ai. Contact Head of Marketing Ryan Dennis OpenServ marketing@openserv.ai Disclaimer: This content is a press release from a wire service. This press release is provided for informational purposes only. We have not independently verified its content and do not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

Kraken and tokenization startup Backed are extending their tokenized equities product, known as xStocks, to the Tron blockchain, widening access to assets such as Apple, Nvidia, and Tesla. The product was first rolled out on Solana earlier this summer, before expanding to BNB Chain. The latest integration with Tron was announced Wednesday in partnership with Tron DAO. “Expanding xStocks to three blockchains in under 60 days shows what’s possible when you design for openness from the start,” Kraken co-CEO Arjun Sethi said in a statement. xStocks are structured as debt instruments for compliance purposes, meaning they do not confer shareholder rights such as voting. Still, they allow investors to trade fractionalized shares around the clock and integrate with decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms. On Solana, they connect with Kamino, Raydium, and Jupiter, while on BNB Chain they link with PancakeSwap and Venus Protocol. The assets are not yet available in the United States. Tron Integration and Market Context On Tron, the assets will be issued as TRC-20 tokens, with Backed pledging full one-to-one backing for each tokenized equity listed on Kraken. Deposits and withdrawals through Tron are expected to go live in the coming weeks. Backed co-founder Adam Levi said xStocks have already surpassed $2.5 billion in combined centralized and decentralized exchange volume since their June launch. That figure highlights both the appetite for tokenized assets and the speed at which the market is scaling. Tokenization has long been pitched as a bridge between traditional finance (TradFi) and crypto, enabling investors to gain exposure to real-world assets without intermediaries like brokerages. The ability to fractionalize high-value stocks such as Apple or Tesla lowers the barrier to entry, particularly for retail users in emerging markets. Tron founder Justin Sun said in a release that tokenized equities meet demand from a “global base of previously excluded users,” framing them as a step toward more flexible and accessible markets. Tron, known for its high transaction throughput and low fees, has a large user base in Asia and developing economies. Its integration with xStocks could help Kraken and Backed capture liquidity from markets where access to U.S. equities has traditionally been limited or restricted. Kraken’s move comes as tokenized equities gain traction across the crypto industry. Robinhood recently launched its own tokenized stock product on the Arbitrum network, including offerings tied to private companies such as OpenAI and SpaceX, a rollout that sparked debate over regulatory compliance. The regulatory question remains the biggest wildcard. While tokenized equities offer accessibility and 24/7 liquidity, their legal treatment varies widely across jurisdictions. In the U.S., regulators have yet to establish a clear framework, leaving many projects excluded from the market. Europe, meanwhile, has taken steps toward clarity with the MiCA regime, and some exchanges are testing tokenized equity models under local sandbox programs. If adoption continues, tokenized equities could become a multi-trillion-dollar market in the next decade, blurring the line between securities trading and decentralized finance.

Trade tensions ease temporarily, central banks await data before action, and cautious diplomatic progress in Ukraine stabilizes markets amid lingering uncertainties. Trade Tensions Cool, but with Caveats Trade tensions between major global powers have seen a partial de-escalation. The United States and China have agreed to a 90-day extension on their tariff truce, and a new agreement has been reached between the U.S. and the EU to trim most tariffs on American exports. This has been received with some apprehension in Europe, particularly by leaders in Germany and France who have voiced concerns about the potential negative effects on their economies. The ongoing, albeit temporary, truce provides some market stability but does not resolve the underlying issues, and the ultimate outcome remains uncertain. Central Banks Focus on Data, Not Immediate Action Both the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank are currently in a “wait-and-see” mode, with a strong emphasis on evaluating incoming economic data before making any new policy decisions. The Fed has maintained its interest rates, and while some are calling for cuts, recent U.S. labor and inflation data have pushed markets to increase their bets on a rate cut in September. Over in the eurozone, the ECB’s president has noted that economic growth is “solid,” and markets have pushed back their expectations for a rate cut until well into 2026. This data-first approach from both central banks indicates that their next moves will be heavily influenced by economic indicators, making upcoming releases and speeches by officials highly anticipated events. Geopolitical Tensions See a Cautious Thaw Recent diplomatic efforts have led to a limited easing of geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning the conflict in Ukraine. A meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as the prospect of a future meeting between Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin, has helped to calm markets. The U.S. has also offered to work with its allies on providing security guarantees for Ukraine. However, this is a fragile situation, as the Kremlin has downplayed the possibility of direct talks, and the broader geopolitical backdrop remains complex. This environment of tempered optimism continues to influence market sentiment and currency valuations. Top upcoming economic events: Based on the provided list and the current date, here are 10 of the most important news events for this week, selected evenly and with an emphasis on those with a “High” or “Medium” impact, as they are most likely to influence financial markets. Wednesday, August 20, 2025 Event: FOMC Minutes Time: 18:00 CEST Impact: High Importance: This is a highly anticipated event. The minutes provide a detailed insight into the Federal Open Market Committee’s perspectives on the U.S. economy, the outlook for monetary policy, and future interest rate decisions. The release can cause significant volatility in the U.S. Dollar and other major currencies as traders and investors analyze the language for clues about whether the Fed is leaning towards rate hikes (hawkish) or rate cuts (dovish). Event: Fed’s Bostic speech Time: 19:00 CEST Impact: Medium Importance: Speeches from Federal Reserve officials are closely watched for any new insights into their economic outlook and policy intentions. Bostic’s remarks could provide a more current view on the economy following the FOMC minutes and ahead of the Jackson Hole Symposium. Thursday, August 21, 2025 Event: Jackson Hole Symposium Time: 00:00 CEST (runs through August 22) Impact: High Importance: This annual gathering of central bankers and economists is one of the most significant events on the financial calendar. Speeches from key central bank figures, especially the Fed Chair, can set the tone for global monetary policy for the months ahead. Market participants will be parsing every word for clues on the future direction of interest rates. Event: HCOB Manufacturing & Services PMI (Germany) Time: 07:30 CEST Impact: High Importance: As the largest economy in the Eurozone, Germany’s PMI data is a key indicator of economic health. The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) is a leading indicator of economic trends, and a reading above 50 suggests expansion. These releases provide up-to-date information on business conditions in both the manufacturing and services sectors, which the European Central Bank (ECB) uses to help make interest rate decisions. Event: S&P Global Composite & Services PMI (UK) Time: 08:30 CEST Impact: High Importance: These releases provide a timely snapshot of the health of the UK economy. The data, particularly from the dominant services sector, is closely monitored by the Bank of England (BoE) for signs of economic growth or contraction and for inflationary pressures. Event: Initial Jobless Claims (USD) Time: 12:30 CEST Impact: Medium Importance: This weekly report on the number of new unemployment claims is a key indicator of the health of the U.S. labor market. A low number of claims suggests a strong job market, which can support the Federal Reserve’s decision-making regarding interest rates. Event: S&P Global Manufacturing & Services PMI (U.S.) Time: 13:45 CEST Impact: High Importance: These releases offer a real-time look at the U.S. economy. The PMI data, especially for the Services sector, provides a forward-looking indication of economic activity, including new orders, employment, and prices, which are all crucial for the Federal Reserve’s policy considerations. Event: Existing Home Sales Change (MoM) (U.S.) Time: 14:00 CEST Impact: Medium Importance: As a sensitive sector of the U.S. economy, the housing market’s performance is a key indicator of overall economic strength. The monthly change in existing home sales provides insight into consumer confidence and economic momentum. Event: National CPI ex Fresh Food (YoY) (Japan) Time: 23:30 CEST Impact: Medium Importance: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a primary measure of inflation. In Japan, the CPI excluding fresh food is often seen as a more stable indicator of underlying price trends, as it removes volatile food prices. This data is critical for the Bank of Japan (BoJ) in formulating its monetary policy. Friday, August 22, 2025 Event: Gross Domestic Product (QoQ) (EUR) Time: 06:00 CEST Impact: Medium Importance: GDP is the broadest measure of a country’s economic activity. The quarterly release provides a high-level overview of the Eurozone’s economic performance. This data is a key input for the European Central Bank’s policy decisions and for assessing the overall health of the Eurozone economy.    The subject matter and the content of this article are solely the views of the author. FinanceFeeds does not bear any legal responsibility for the content of this article and they do not reflect the viewpoint of FinanceFeeds or its editorial staff. The information does not constitute advice or a recommendation on any course of action and does not take into account your personal circumstances, financial situation, or individual needs. We strongly recommend you seek independent professional advice or conduct your own independent research before acting upon any information contained in this article.

Rome, Italy, August 20th, 2025, FinanceWire B2BINPAY, the all-in-one crypto ecosystem for business, has published a new industry report, “Crypto Becomes an Integral Part of Sports — Growth and Trends,” exploring how cryptocurrency is reshaping the global sports industry. Once considered a niche financial tool, cryptocurrency has become a driving force in sports. The report reveals that crypto’s community-driven ethos mirrors football’s global fan culture, making the two a natural fit. It traces the journey from early achievements, such as the first crypto-assisted player transfer in 2018, to landmark deals like São Paulo FC’s $6 million USDC transfer in 2022. Sponsorships have grown rapidly, with global crypto sports sponsorship spending reaching $565 million in the 2024/25 season, 59% of which was driven by football, representing a 20% year-on-year increase. The report also explores how NFTs, fan tokens, and decentralized autonomous organizations are transforming fan engagement, giving supporters unprecedented access, influence, and exclusive experiences. Looking ahead, it predicts a rapid increase in crypto use for transfers and salaries, the rise of blockchain-powered football games that merge entertainment with decentralized finance, and deeper integration between sponsors and clubs that goes beyond logo placements. B2BINPAY’s own partnership with Athletic Club is highlighted as an example of this trend. Renewed for the 2025 season, the collaboration reflects the shared values of innovation, community, and ambition that unite football and crypto. Athletic’s direct qualification to the UEFA Champions League adds an exciting new chapter to the partnership’s story. “Football and crypto share the same DNA — community, innovation, and the will to break boundaries,” said Arthur Azizov, CEO of B2BINPAY. “This report shows that what started as isolated experiments has grown into a global trend that’s here to stay.” The full report is available now on B2BINPAY’s official website. About B2BINPAY B2BINPAY is Europe’s comprehensive crypto platform for businesses. As an all-in-one ecosystem, the company offers secure and advanced services for integrating cryptocurrency payments into daily operations. Supporting over 350 coins and the majority of blockchain networks, B2BINPAY processes billions in transactions annually. The platform operates fully under European regulations and adheres strictly to KYC and KYT protocols, ensuring safe and compliant operations. Contact B2BINPAY marketing@b2inpay.com Disclaimer: This content is a press release from a wire service. This press release is provided for informational purposes only. We have not independently verified its content and do not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

Core Foundation announced an expanded partnership with Hex Trust to integrate Core’s Dual Staking solution into Hex Trust’s institutional-grade custody platform. The collaboration allows institutional clients across APAC and MENA to timelock Bitcoin and CORE tokens within a secure, regulated environment to generate blockchain rewards. “We are accelerating the adoption of Bitcoin yield strategies” Hong Sun, Institutional Contributor at Core, commented, “This partnership with Hex Trust is a significant step in unlocking Bitcoin’s utility for institutional clients. Hex Trust has consistently been a forward-thinking leader in the digital asset space, and their rapid move to offer new solutions to their clients—who are keen to turn Bitcoin into a productive, secure asset—perfectly aligns with Core’s mission. Together, we are accelerating the adoption of Bitcoin yield strategies and creating a more robust and sustainable ecosystem for Bitcoin DeFi.” Hex Trust will embed Core’s Dual Staking model into its custody infrastructure, enabling clients to stake Bitcoin and CORE while retaining full control of their assets. The solution offers direct blockchain rewards without the need to sell or transfer holdings, mitigating counterparty risk. Features include sustainable staking returns, streamlined onboarding to BTCFi products, and an integrated reward calculator to help institutions assess expected yields. Calvin Shen, Chief Commercial Officer at Hex Trust, said, “Hex Trust is proud to integrate Core’s Dual Staking, advancing BTCFi and unlocking greater utility for Bitcoin. Through our fully licensed infrastructure, we’re delivering secure, high-quality staking solutions for institutions and family offices across the APAC and MENA regions. Together with Core, we’re driving institutional adoption, innovation, and sustainable growth in the Bitcoin economy.” Core positions itself as a Bitcoin scaling solution that converts idle Bitcoin into a productive asset. Through its TimeLock and TimeLock+ mechanisms, Bitcoin holders can earn yield natively on the blockchain while supporting Core’s EVM-compatible network. The ecosystem underpins over $500 million in DeFi value, backed by more than 7,000 timelocked Bitcoin and roughly 75 percent of Bitcoin mining hash power. Hex Trust, established in 2018, provides regulated digital asset custody, staking, and market services to institutions. Its integration of Core’s staking model creates a new pathway for banks, asset managers, and family offices to access Bitcoin yield strategies while operating within regulatory frameworks. The partnership marks a step toward scaling institutional adoption of BTCFi in regions where regulatory clarity and demand for digital asset products continue to grow.

Hong Kong, PRC, August 20th, 2025, Chainwire MultiBank Group, one of the world’s largest financial derivatives institutions, has announced a strategic buyback and burn program for its $MBG Utility Token. Backed by strong H1 2025 results, with $209 million in revenue (up 20% year-on-year) and $170 million in profit, the measure is designed to enhance scarcity and drive long-term value for $MBG token holders. Since its debut on July 22 across MultiBank.io, MEXC, Gate.io, and Uniswap, $MBG has surged to seven times its listing price, quickly becoming one of the most closely followed tokens globally. Under the program, $MBG will be repurchased from the open market and permanently removed from circulation. The framework projects up to $58.2 million in buybacks within the first year and a cumulative $440 million over the initial five years. The Group describes the initiative as both a celebration of its H1 results and a gesture of gratitude to its worldwide client base. “This is our way of thanking our customers and community for their trust,” said Naser Taher, Founder and Chairman of MultiBank Group. “We’ve established a solid foundation in traditional finance, and the rapid adoption of $MBG proves we’re equally ready to lead in digital assets. The token burn program is just the beginning, and we have more major announcements on the horizon.” The $MBG token powers MultiBank’s four-pillar ecosystem: MultiBank TradFi: The Group’s traditional CFD powerhouse, which generated $362 million in revenue last year, allows traders to use $MBG for reduced fees and enhanced platform features. MEX Exchange (Institutional ECN): This is a $23.7 billion institutional-grade hybrid FX and crypto ECN for emerging markets. $MBG automates settlement, reduces counterparty risk, and enables smart contract-based margin and delivery versus payment (DvP). MultiBank.io (crypto exchange): Regulated across multiple jurisdictions, including the UAE and Australia, the platform offers both spot and leveraged trading. $MBG unlocks reduced costs along with additional utilities such as launchpad access, staking, and token participation opportunities. MultiBank.io RWA: Built on Mavryk’s layer-1 blockchain, this division stems from the world’s largest real-world asset (RWA) tokenization initiative to date, a $3 billion real estate deal with MAG Lifestyle Development. $MBG holders receive fee discounts and early entry to projects. Together, these four pillars are fueling MultiBank’s expansion, momentum that is also reflected in the Group’s growing community of more than 396,000 members on Telegram and over 280,000 followers across its X channels. With more than two million clients, 17+ financial licenses across five continents, and an unblemished compliance record since 2005, MultiBank Group is accelerating its blockchain and DeFi infrastructure to deliver more value-driven initiatives in the months ahead. ABOUT MULTIBANK GROUP MultiBank Group, established in California, USA in 2005, is a global leader in financial derivatives. With over 2 million clients in 100+ countries and a daily trading volume exceeding $35 billion, it offers a broad range of brokerage and asset management services. Renowned for innovative trading solutions, robust regulatory compliance, and exceptional customer service, the Group is regulated by 17+ top-tier financial authorities across five continents. Its award-winning platforms provide up to 500:1 leverage across Forex, Metals, Shares, Commodities, Indices, and Cryptocurrencies. MultiBank Group has received over 80 international awards for trading excellence and regulatory compliance. For more information, users can visit MultiBank Group’s website. Contact Mr Nikolas Neofytou MultiBank Group nikolas.neofytou@multibankfx.com Disclaimer: This content is a press release from a wire service. This press release is provided for informational purposes only. We have not independently verified its content and do not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

AUDUSD currency pair can be expected to fall to the next round support level 0.6415 (low of the previous minor impulse wave I from the end of July).   AUDUSD broke support trendline from April Likely to fall to support level 0.6415 AUDUSD currency pair recently broke the upward sloping support trendline from April. The breakout of this trendline continues the active minor impulse wave iii which started earlier from the resistance zone between the strong resistance level 0.65701 (which has been reversing the price from the start of July, as can be seen from the weekly AUDUSD chart below), 61.8% Fibonacci correction of the downward impulse from September of 2024 and the upper daily Bollinger Band. Given the strength of the aforementioned resistance zone, AUDUSD currency pair can be expected to fall to the next round support level 0.6415 (low of the previous minor impulse wave I from the end of July). AUDUSD Technical Analysis The subject matter and the content of this article are solely the views of the author. FinanceFeeds does not bear any legal responsibility for the content of this article and they do not reflect the viewpoint of FinanceFeeds or its editorial staff. The information does not constitute advice or a recommendation on any course of action and does not take into account your personal circumstances, financial situation, or individual needs. We strongly recommend you seek independent professional advice or conduct your own independent research before acting upon any information contained in this article.

The Nasdaq 100 index (US Tech 100 mini on FXOpen) came under heavy selling pressure yesterday, with the chart showing a decline of roughly 1.6%. According to market commentary and media reports, the growing bearish sentiment is closely linked to the anticipation of several key macroeconomic events: → Later today, at 21:00 GMT+3, the minutes of the latest FOMC meeting will be released. → On Friday, attention will turn to Jerome Powell’s speech at the Jackson Hole symposium, with investors keen to hear the Federal Reserve Chair’s guidance on the future trajectory of interest rates. While the Nasdaq posted a steep loss, the S&P 500 recorded a much smaller decline, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average was almost unchanged. This divergence between indices carries two important implications: → Technology stocks may be excessively overvalued, inflated in part by the ongoing hype surrounding artificial intelligence. → At the same time, market participants appear to be rotating capital away from riskier assets — including cryptocurrencies — into perceived safe havens. The question now is whether technology stocks, already under pressure, could see further declines in the near term. Technical Analysis of the Nasdaq 100 (US Tech 100 mini on FXOpen) In our 5 August analysis, we identified and outlined the primary ascending channel (highlighted in blue). That broader technical structure continues to remain in place, and since then the price action has unfolded within its boundaries. Specifically, the index has: Tested the upper boundary of the channel, which, as is often the case, acted as strong resistance. Retraced back toward the median line, where volatility subsided for a short period — a classic sign of temporary balance between buying and selling forces. Yesterday’s session, however, brought a decisive move lower, with the index touching the lower boundary of the channel. From a bullish perspective, several technical factors could still provide support for buyers: → The possibility of an uptrend resuming from the lower channel boundary, similar to the price reaction seen in early August. → The presence of the 50% Fibonacci retracement level following the A→B impulse, which is situated near the current trading zone. → Indications of a potential rebound from the RSI, which has entered the oversold area. → Support around the 7 August low of 23,250, which could once again act as a floor and might even produce a false bearish breakout. From a bearish standpoint, however, the evidence currently appears more convincing: → The price has broken decisively below the channel’s median line and then accelerated downwards, creating an imbalance in favour of sellers. → This imbalance has left behind a technical zone that, under Smart Money Concept methodology, can be classified as a bearish Fair Value Gap — and such zones frequently act as resistance during subsequent rallies. Considering the speed and strength of yesterday’s downward move, it is reasonable to assume that sellers currently hold the initiative. If the market only manages weak recoveries — resembling so-called “dead cat bounces” — from the channel’s lower boundary, the probability of a sustained bearish breakout and further downside momentum will increase. FXOpen offers spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $1.50 per lot. Enjoy trading on MT4, MT5, TickTrader or TradingView trading platforms! The FXOpen App is a dedicated mobile application designed to give traders full control of their accounts anytime, anywhere. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice. Disclaimer: This sponsored market analysis is provided for informational purposes only. We have not independently verified its content and do not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

MoonPay announced a new multi-year strategic partnership with Trust Wallet to provide seamless on- and off-ramp services for crypto users. The agreement designates MoonPay as a primary provider for Trust Wallet’s ‘Buy Crypto’ function for the next two years, beginning with the US market. The collaboration extends a relationship first established in 2020 when Trust Wallet integrated MoonPay’s on-ramp, later adding off-ramp services in 2023. The expanded deal makes MoonPay the default provider for buy and sell flows within the wallet, simplifying access to crypto across multiple fiat currencies and payment methods. “We’re taking that mission to the next level” Ivan Soto-Wright, CEO of MoonPay, commented, “This is more than just an integration, it’s a strategic alignment between two major forces in the crypto industry. Trust Wallet shares our mission to make crypto simple, safe, and accessible for everyone. By becoming their premiere on- and off-ramp provider in key markets, we’re taking that mission to the next level.” Eowyn Chen, CEO of Trust Wallet, said, “We’ve worked with MoonPay for years and have seen first-hand how their infrastructure enhances the user experience. This partnership deepens our collaboration, bringing smoother transactions and more payment options for our users, starting with the US.” Trust Wallet, which has more than 200 million users globally, will leverage MoonPay’s global payments infrastructure to expand coverage to over 190 countries. The integration focuses on delivering a frictionless checkout process and broader access to digital assets. MoonPay rolls out liquid staking program for Solana holders MoonPay is rolling out a new liquid staking program for Solana holders, offering users an 8.49% annual yield on their SOL tokens with no lockup period. The new feature is available starting today in most regions except New York and the European Economic Area, and allows users to stake as little as $1 worth of SOL. In return, they receive a token called mpSOL, which accrues rewards roughly every two days and can be swapped back for unstaked SOL at any time. MoonPay’s product enters a growing market already served by Solana-native players like Marinade and Jito, both of which offer similar liquidity and yields. The company says the new feature is aimed at simplifying access to on-chain rewards. “We’ve built something that looks and feels like a traditional savings account, but with blockchain earnings behind it,” said MoonPay CEO Ivan Soto-Wright in a statement. Founded in 2019, MoonPay started as a fiat-to-crypto gateway and has gradually expanded into broader Web3 services, including NFTs, stablecoins, and now staking. Earlier in June, MoonPay received a BitLicense from New York state regulators, granting the company direct access to offer digital asset services across all 50 U.S. states without relying on third-party intermediaries. The license, issued by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), places MoonPay among a select group of 34 firms approved since the framework’s introduction in 2015. Other holders include Coinbase, Circle, Robinhood, and Ripple. The launch comes at a time when Solana staking is gaining attention across both crypto-native and traditional investment circles. In April, Solana briefly overtook Ethereum in total value staked — $53.9 billion versus Ethereum’s $53.7 billion — driven in part by higher yield offerings. Solana’s staking rewards currently average around 8.3%, compared to Ethereum’s 3.2%. Institutional interest also picked up. Earlier this month, the first Solana staking ETF debuted and passed $100 million in volume within its first two weeks. Meanwhile, DeFi Development Corp and Upexi both disclosed large Solana purchases this week, bringing their combined holdings to nearly 3 million tokens. Robinhood has also entered the space, announcing plans to support ETH and SOL staking for U.S. customers. MoonPay’s move adds another option to what’s quickly becoming a crowded field — but with a user-friendly interface and wide regional availability, the company is betting it can attract everyday users looking to earn yield without jumping through technical hoops.

Bahrain is intensifying its efforts to position itself as a global hub for digital assets. Officials recently disclosed that they are in discussions with more than 50 financial services firms, nearly half of which operate in the cryptocurrency or investment management sectors. The pitch emphasizes a suite of attractive incentives: zero percent personal income tax, 100 percent foreign ownership rights, and an increasingly robust regulatory framework. The country is not starting from scratch. Binance, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, and Crypto.com, a leading global trading platform, have already secured licenses to operate in Bahrain. These early successes are being leveraged as proof points of Bahrain’s ability to attract and retain major industry players. New Licenses and Regulatory Frameworks Recent developments highlight Bahrain’s ambition to expand its foothold. In May 2025, BitOasis — now under the ownership of Indian unicorn CoinDCX — officially launched operations in Bahrain after obtaining a Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) license. The move strengthens the country’s role in the Middle East’s evolving digital asset landscape and sets up direct competition with neighboring hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Beyond licensing, the CBB has introduced a comprehensive framework for stablecoin issuance and offerings. This new rulebook provides clarity for the creation and distribution of fiat-backed tokens denominated in currencies such as the Bahraini dinar (BHD), the U.S. dollar (USD), and others. Analysts have hailed the framework as a critical milestone, describing it as a “new era of legitimacy” for crypto firms operating in the region. The rules are designed to provide both flexibility for innovation and safeguards for consumers, potentially making Bahrain an attractive jurisdiction for firms seeking long-term stability. Regional and Global Competition The Middle East is rapidly becoming one of the most competitive regions for crypto regulation and innovation. The United Arab Emirates, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have already attracted dozens of firms by offering progressive licensing regimes and innovation zones. By launching a stablecoin framework and proactively courting digital asset companies, Bahrain is signaling that it intends to compete head-on with these established players. Globally, Bahrain’s efforts are being compared to those of Hong Kong, Singapore, and even certain European jurisdictions that are pushing for regulatory clarity. While Bahrain is smaller in scale, its advantage lies in agility — the ability to swiftly enact regulatory frameworks and market-friendly policies without the lengthy political processes that sometimes slow progress in larger economies. Bahrain’s strategy is clear: leverage its tax-friendly environment, robust legal system, and forward-looking regulatory initiatives to attract a critical mass of crypto companies. If successful, the kingdom could position itself as a regional leader in fintech and digital assets, carving out space alongside the UAE and other global financial centers. For now, the key question will be whether Bahrain can maintain momentum. With competition heating up across the Middle East and Asia, the challenge lies in converting ongoing negotiations into long-term commitments — and ensuring that companies not only set up shop in Bahrain but also scale their operations there. If it can achieve this, Bahrain may well establish itself as a rising star in the world of digital finance.