Web3 adoption continues to expand, yet many users still struggle with the technical steps required to participate in cryptocurrency presales. Switching networks, choosing the right chain, and managing gas fees often make simple actions feel overwhelming. These barriers prevent newcomers from exploring opportunities such as the best crypto presale offerings. This fragmentation has slowed down mainstream adoption because each blockchain operates in isolation. When users must manage multiple networks manually, even basic tasks become complicated. The result is a Web3 environment that feels intimidating for beginners and inefficient for long-time participants. What Chain Abstraction Really Means Chain abstraction is a new approach aimed at removing these barriers entirely. Instead of navigating different networks, users interact with one clean interface while the system manages everything in the background. Mono Protocol is one of the first presale cryptocurrency projects to bring this concept into a working execution layer. The goal is to make Web3 operate like traditional apps, where complexity never reaches the user. When networks, routing, and balances are automated, more users can participate in top crypto presale opportunities without prior technical knowledge. This shift is becoming essential as the crypto presales market grows. How Mono Protocol Simplifies Web3 for Everyone Mono Protocol introduces a unified balance system that ensures each token appears as a single balance across every supported chain. Users no longer need to bridge assets or switch networks before interacting with decentralized applications. This alone makes Mono a strong contender among the best crypto presale options in 2025. Alongside unified balances, the protocol includes automated routing that selects the best path for every transaction. When a blockchain becomes congested, Mono redirects execution to a more efficient route without user input. This reliability helps the project stand out across competitive presale crypto markets where usability is becoming a key differentiator. Why Developers Are Paying Close Attention Developers typically deploy multiple versions of their smart contracts across different networks, which increases maintenance costs and introduces unnecessary complexity. Mono Protocol removes this burden by allowing applications to operate across chains using a single execution environment. This makes it one of the most promising infrastructure projects within the broader category of cryptocurrency presales. Reducing fragmentation also improves application reliability and speeds up development. Teams can focus on user experience instead of managing multi-chain deployment strategies. As a result, Mono continues gaining visibility across discussions about the top crypto presale opportunities with real long-term utility. How to Buy MONO During Stage 19 The MONO token sale is currently in Stage 19 at a price of $0.0550, with $3.73M raised out of the $3.80M target. To join the crypto presale, buyers visit the Mono Protocol dashboard, connect a compatible wallet, and choose their preferred purchase amount. Payments can be made in supported cryptocurrencies such as USDT or ETH. After the transaction is confirmed, the allocation is secured and will be claimable once the presale crypto event concludes. The straightforward process appeals to newcomers exploring crypto presales for the first time. With clear pricing and a structured raise, Mono attracts both experienced investors and first-time participants. Why Mono Protocol Is Emerging as a Top Crypto Presale Mono Protocol’s approach to chain abstraction directly solves the usability issues that limit broader Web3 adoption. Its unified balance system and automated routing engine reduce friction and create a seamless experience for users at every level. As more investors look for infrastructure projects within cryptocurrency presales, Mono stands out as one of the most compelling choices of the year. Learn More about Mono Protocol Website: https://www.monoprotocol.com/  X: https://x.com/mono_protocol  Telegram: https://t.me/monoprotocol_official  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/monoprotocol/ 

FINRA has imposed a total of $3 million in sanctions on Securities America, ordering $2 million in restitution to affected customers and levying a $1 million fine after finding that the firm failed to reasonably supervise mutual fund recommendations over a six-year period. The regulator concluded that Securities America did not maintain systems or procedures capable of detecting or preventing harmful trading patterns involving Class A mutual fund shares. These failures, FINRA said, caused customers to incur unnecessary commissions and fees that were avoidable had the firm exercised proper oversight. The action stems from transactions executed between January 2018 and June 2024—spanning the period before the firm was integrated into Osaic Wealth, Inc. During that time, Securities America facilitated approximately $3.8 billion in Class A share purchases, a material revenue stream for the business. Despite this scale, FINRA found that the firm lacked adequate mechanisms to supervise recommendations for compliance with Rule 2111 (Suitability) and, following its implementation, Regulation Best Interest’s Care Obligation. The Care Obligation requires broker-dealers to demonstrate reasonable diligence, care and skill when making recommendations to retail customers. Regulators noted that Securities America’s supervisory lapses were systemic, not episodic. Even when potential issues—such as fund switches or short-term Class A sales—were flagged internally, the firm failed to perform meaningful reviews or ensure that representatives had evaluated associated costs. As a result, FINRA determined that more than 3,000 transactions involving Class A switches and short-term sales were potentially unsuitable or not in customers’ best interest. These trades collectively generated over $2 million in commissions and fees that clients should not have paid. Customer Harm Rooted in Improper Fund Switching and Short-Term Trading At the center of FINRA’s findings are two categories of transactions that can impose unnecessary costs on investors: switching between mutual fund families and selling Class A shares shortly after purchase. Class A shares typically include a front-end sales charge, which is often waived when investors exchanges funds within the same family. By failing to monitor switches between different fund families, FINRA said Securities America allowed customers to be charged new front-end loads—fees that could have been avoided had the firm ensured suitable recommendations. Short-term trading in Class A shares also raised concerns. When an investor pays an upfront sales charge but exits the position soon after, the opportunity to benefit from the investment is limited, increasing the likelihood that the transaction is not cost-effective. FINRA found that Securities America did not analyze whether Class A purchases made by customers would be held long enough to justify the initial fee. Without supervision designed to detect rapid exits from these investments, customers ended up paying loads on products that were never intended to be used in a short-term context. FINRA emphasized that firms recommending mutual funds must be especially vigilant, because share-class selection can materially affect investor outcomes. Mutual fund share classes are structured with distinct cost profiles, and determining suitability requires evaluating holding periods, fee structures, breakpoints and the availability of lower-cost alternatives. Securities America’s inability to enforce these standards, regulators concluded, resulted in recommendations that did not consistently align with customer interests or regulatory expectations. Takeaway FINRA’s action underscores the need for strong systems to detect unsuitable mutual fund switches and short-term sales, highlighting how supervisory failures can directly translate into avoidable costs for retail investors. Implications for Broker-Dealers and the Future of Mutual Fund Supervision The case signals continued regulatory focus on mutual fund supervision, particularly around share-class recommendations and switching activity. With Regulation Best Interest now firmly embedded in supervisory expectations, FINRA is placing greater emphasis on demonstrable processes that ensure cost-efficient outcomes for customers. The large-scale lapses identified in Securities America’s systems illustrate how firms relying on outdated or incomplete oversight models may face heightened scrutiny as regulators examine whether policies align with the evolving standards of investor protection. This matter also highlights a broader industry challenge: surveillance systems must not merely flag transactions but trigger effective review and documentation. As FINRA noted, Securities America did identify certain problematic trades but failed to meaningfully evaluate them or require representatives to justify the associated costs. Regulators increasingly expect firms to establish automated rules, exception reports and supervisory checkpoints capable of identifying patterns across time—not just isolated trades. Firms that do not invest in these capabilities risk exposing customers to avoidable harm and themselves to substantial penalties. The enforcement action, which originated from a FINRA cycle examination, underscores the importance of proactive oversight rather than corrective remediation. While the $2 million restitution order aims to make customers whole, FINRA stressed that prevention is the ultimate priority. For broker-dealers industrywide, the message is clear: supervisory systems must evolve to address unsuitable switching, improper share-class recommendations and early exits from front-loaded products. As regulators continue to scrutinize mutual fund transactions, firms that fail to modernize their compliance frameworks may face consequences similar to those imposed in this case.

BlackRock CEO Larry Fink has once again reframed the narrative around Bitcoin, calling it “an asset of fear” in a widely circulated DealBook interview, a phrase that immediately sparked debate across Wall Street and the broader crypto industry. Fink’s comments reflect his belief that Bitcoin’s demand is rooted in global anxiety over inflation, geopolitical instability, and distrust in traditional financial systems. But alongside the provocative label came a detailed recounting of how BlackRock, one of the earliest institutions skeptical about Bitcoin, ended up launching what is now the world’s largest Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF), reshaping institutional access to digital assets and accelerating mainstream adoption at a pace few expected. Fink’s Switch From Criticizing Bitcoin to Dominating It Fink acknowledged that his views on Bitcoin have changed dramatically over the past decade. Once publicly dismissive of crypto, he now describes Bitcoin as a fearful asset gaining traction during periods of macroeconomic stress when investors seek alternatives to sovereign currencies or volatile equity markets.  The characterization of Bitcoin as an “asset of fear” stems from the belief that people buy BTC not because they reject financial systems, but because they fear the system is weakening. However, Fink emphasized that BlackRock’s pivot into crypto wasn’t ideological. Instead, it was driven by client demand, especially as more institutions and wealth managers began asking for safe, regulated ways to hold Bitcoin. Because of this, BlackRock made the call to create an ETF that could meet that demand without the operational friction of owning crypto assets or wallets.  This strategic shift led to what is now among the largest Bitcoin ETFs globally. Fink noted that the ETF’s success exceeded expectations, drawing significant inflows even from conservative institutions that had previously avoided crypto exposure. Fink Believes Bitcoin Drives a Double Narrative Through ETFs With the Bitcoin ETF’s explosive growth, Fink argues that Bitcoin has become a dual-identity asset. On one hand, it is a macro hedge, and on the other hand, it’s a psychological instrument shaped by fear, uncertainty, and shifts in global power structures. He pointed to several forces behind rising institutional interest, including geopolitical conflict, concerns over banking efficiency, generational shifts, and currency debasement concerns.  Fink stressed that none of these forces require belief in “crypto ideology.” They reflect broad-based anxiety that pushes investors toward assets perceived as outside political or monetary manipulation. Bitcoin, he argued, sits uniquely at that intersection, with its digital, borderless, and scarce structure. Fink’s recounting of BlackRock’s journey from skepticism to building the world’s largest Bitcoin ETF reflects a broader shift across global finance. Whether fear continues to be Bitcoin’s primary fuel or evolves into a broader investment is unknown for now. However, with BlackRock steering one of the market’s most influential Bitcoin products, Fink’s words will likely shape both perception and policy long after the headline fades.

Citadel Securities has urged the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to classify decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms as regulated exchanges or broker-dealers. According to its argument, DeFi’s current structure mirrors traditional trading but operates outside crucial investor protection rules. The recommendation, made in a formal response to the SEC’s latest market structure review, immediately triggered strong criticism across the crypto industry. For Citadel, one of the world’s largest market-making firms, the move reflects growing pressure from traditional finance to fold DeFi into the same regulatory oversight that governs equity and derivatives markets. However, to many builders, developers and policy advocates, the proposal is an existential threat that could undermine DeFi’s open and permissionless foundations. Citadel Pushes for a Regulatory Redefinition, But DeFi Pushes Back Citadel’s argument rests on the claim that DeFi platforms facilitate trading activity functionally not different from centralized exchanges, but without offering investor protections, surveillance mechanisms, or disclosure standards mandated in traditional markets. In their view, automated market maker (AMM) pools, on-chain order books, and liquidity-routing systems all perform activities that should legally fall under the SEC’s jurisdiction. By urging the SEC to treat DeFi protocols as exchanges or broker dealers, Citadel is demanding that regulators impose stringent requirements, including registration, KYC verification, transaction reporting, and market abuse monitoring frameworks. However, the crypto sector responded within hours, and with force. Developers argued that applying centralized financial rules to decentralized code is technically incompatible and also dangerous. DeFi systems often have no operators, no intermediaries, and no legal entity capable of fulfilling the compliance duties Citadel proposes. Citadel’s Move on Market Power, Policy Influence, and the Future of Open Finance At the heart of this debate lies a big question on who gets to shape the future of finance between code and incumbents.  Citadel maintains that investor protection should be uniform across all financial venues, regardless of technological structure. Nonetheless, critics argue that enforcing Wall Street frameworks on DeFi is equivalent to forcing the internet to operate like a cable television network, restricting what makes it transformative in the first place. Crypto policy analysts also point out that DeFi already provides transparency advantages unmatched in traditional markets since every trade is recorded on-chain, every pool is auditable, and every rule is encoded in the protocol. Meanwhile, some regulators appear to welcome Citadel’s input. The SEC has long sought clearer authority over crypto markets, and Citadel’s recommendations give legal ammunition to those aiming to expand jurisdiction over DeFi protocols. Whether the SEC adopts the framework remains uncertain, but the conversation is heating up quickly. As the SEC reviews comments and prepares its next steps, the battle shows clearly that the future of DeFi may hinge on whether regulators prioritize decentralization or structural uniformity. And with industry backlash mounting, the debate is only just beginning.

Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has announced the launch of Predict.fun, a new prediction-market platform built on BNB Chain that introduces a yield-generating mechanism for staked funds. The model allows users to earn passive returns on their capital while betting on the outcome of real-world events, marking a shift from traditional prediction platforms where funds typically remain idle until markets resolve. Predict.fun enables users to stake assets on specific outcomes while those locked funds are simultaneously deployed into low-risk yield strategies. This dual-purpose use of capital aims to improve efficiency and attract traders who are wary of opportunity costs when participating in prediction markets. The platform was developed by a team that includes former Binance staff and is backed by YZi Labs, CZ’s investment and incubation firm. Despite drawing attention to the project, CZ clarified that his announcement should not be interpreted as a formal endorsement. The launch aligns with BNB Chain’s broader efforts to expand real-world use cases beyond trading and decentralized finance applications such as lending and yield farming. With low transaction fees and fast settlement times, the chain provides an environment well-suited for micro-staking and high-frequency participation in prediction-based activity. Predict.fun could therefore play a strategic role in driving new users and liquidity into the BNB Chain ecosystem. Initial reactions from the crypto community have been positive, with heightened interest around the platform’s waitlist and early access options. CZ BNB Chain’s Rising On-Chain Activity Sets the Stage for Predict.fun BNB Chain’s recent performance provides a strong backdrop for the launch of Predict.fun. According to DeFiLlama, the network has led the market in decentralised exchange activity, recording approximately $77.62 billion in DEX trading volume over the past 30 days—a level that confirms its current dominance among major blockchains. In the past 24 hours alone, BNB Chain has flipped Ethereum in trading volume, reaching about $2.117 billion. Such spikes typically indicate heightened on-chain engagement, with increased user participation across decentralised applications and trading venues. This momentum extends into the prediction market sector itself, which has remained resilient despite broader market weakness. Total value locked across prediction platforms has increased significantly, climbing from $150.38 million at the start of the year to $366.25 million at the time of writing. The steady rise points to renewed confidence in event-based markets as both speculative and hedging tools. Polymarket continues to dominate the sector by total value locked, holding $282.39 million on the Polygon network. However, Opinion—the second-largest prediction market with a TVL of $58.77 million—operates on BNB Smart Chain, further improving BNB Chain’s growing influence within this niche. Notably, Opinion also leads in fee generation, pulling in around $939,318 over the past seven days. This level of activity highlights strong demand for prediction-based products on BNB Chain and suggests fertile ground for new entrants.

What Is the European Commission Proposing? The European Commission has released a plan that would hand the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) direct oversight of major crypto-asset service providers, trading venues and other system-level firms. The package, published Thursday, is part of Brussels’ effort to reduce regulatory gaps across the bloc and bring supervision closer to the US model, where a single watchdog handles most market activity. Under the proposal, ESMA would receive “direct supervisory competences” for selected firms and an expanded coordination role in the asset management sector. The plan still needs approval from the European Parliament and the Council. If adopted, the structure would move the EU away from its current patchwork of national regulators and closer to the centralized approach used by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Investor Takeaway A single EU supervisor for major crypto firms would raise compliance expectations and reduce the regulatory differences firms currently exploit across member states. Why Are EU Governments Pushing for a Bigger ESMA Role? France, Italy and Austria have pushed hardest for ESMA to handle supervision of major crypto firms. Their stance hardened after ESMA’s peer review in July found Malta’s financial regulator only “partially met expectations” when approving a crypto provider. The concern is straightforward: if some countries apply lighter standards, a weak license could spread across the bloc through passporting. MiCA relies on that mechanism to create a unified market, so uneven enforcement could weaken the framework before it is fully rolled out. The three governments are also backing revisions to MiCA that would tighten oversight of crypto activity outside the EU, add more scrutiny to cybersecurity requirements and revisit rules for token offerings. How Did the Push for an EU-Level Supervisor Start? The idea has circulated since at least 2023, when European Central Bank president Christine Lagarde said the bloc’s fragmented oversight created blind spots whenever firms operated across multiple borders. “Creating a European SEC, for example, by extending the powers of ESMA, could be the answer. It would need a broad mandate, including direct supervision, to mitigate systemic risks posed by large cross-border firms,” Lagarde said at the European Banking Congress in November 2023. The Commission has raised similar concerns, arguing that Europe’s mix of national and regional agencies slows cross-border activity and complicates the development of early-stage fintech projects. Investor Takeaway Centralized oversight could improve clarity for large firms but make life harder for startups that rely on quicker decisions from domestic regulators. Could Expanded ESMA Authority Slow Crypto and Fintech Innovation? Industry groups say putting authorization and supervision entirely under ESMA would raise barriers for smaller firms that depend on access to local supervisors. They also note that a single EU-level regulator would need substantial staffing and funding to review applications, conduct inspections and handle risk across the bloc. Faustine Fleuret, head of public affairs at decentralized lending protocol Morpho, said that shifting all oversight to ESMA “would demand vast human and financial resources,” which could delay decisions and slow growth “particularly for newer players.” The concern reflects a long-running tension in Europe’s capital markets: the EU wants deeper integration, but national regulators remain reluctant to hand off control. That divide is one reason Europe’s markets remain smaller and less liquid than those in the US. How Does This Fit Into Europe’s Push to Strengthen Its Capital Markets? The Commission links the overhaul to its broader attempt to build a stronger internal capital market. EU stock exchanges had a market capitalization equal to 73% of GDP in 2024. In the US, the figure stood at 270%. Brussels believes a more unified supervisory framework would help attract investment, improve cross-border access and build confidence that rules apply consistently—especially as MiCA comes into force. Negotiations are ongoing, and member states have not reached a final position. But the debate shows the EU wrestling with a key question: can a decentralized system keep up with global crypto and fintech activity, or does the bloc need a single authority to handle firms that operate across borders?

Broadridge Financial Solutions has named Rostislav (Ros) Kotov as Head of Strategy and Business Development for its Bank Broker-Dealer (BBD) Investor Communication Solutions business, reinforcing the company’s focus on expanding its governance and communication solutions across global markets. Based in London, Kotov will oversee long-term strategic planning, product and investment prioritization, and identify new opportunities for mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships. His appointment highlights Broadridge’s commitment to accelerating international growth and deepening its leadership bench in key regions. Kotov brings extensive experience from McKinsey & Company, where he led high-impact strategy programs, transformation initiatives, and M&A projects for major financial institutions across Europe and globally. His background in advising banks, asset managers, and market-infrastructure firms positions him to drive Broadridge’s next phase of innovation in investor communications—an area increasingly shaped by regulatory change, digitalization, and evolving client expectations. Swatika Rajaram, President of the BBD Investor Communication Solutions business, emphasized Kotov’s ability to deliver strategic clarity and operational excellence. She noted that his track record across securities services, brokerage, and asset management makes him exceptionally well-suited to identify opportunities for growth in a rapidly changing market. The appointment signals Broadridge’s focus on reinforcing customer relationships and strengthening its position as a premier provider of investor communication technology. How Kotov’s Experience Enhances Broadridge’s Vision for Governance and Client Solutions In his new role, Kotov will help shape the strategic roadmap for BBD’s governance-focused solutions, a critical area as financial institutions face rising regulatory scrutiny and expanding expectations around transparency. Broadridge’s communication technologies—including proxy services, shareholder engagement tools, and governance platforms—require robust strategic leadership to remain aligned with market needs. Kotov’s experience leading complex transformation programs equips him to guide this growth with a strong data- and client-driven perspective. One of Kotov’s responsibilities will be to drive collaboration across Broadridge’s global enterprise, ensuring that BBD solutions benefit from the company’s broader investments in technology, digital modernization, and client experience. His familiarity with cross-border transformation gives Broadridge an advantage as the firm continues to scale its solutions for large financial institutions operating in multiple regulatory environments. This includes aligning product priorities with emerging trends in digital governance, automated communication workflows, and international standards. Kotov’s appointment also supports Broadridge’s ambition to deliver more cohesive, end-to-end experiences for its institutional clients. Given the growing complexity of investor communication—from regulatory filings to proxy voting and stakeholder engagement—having a strategic leader focused on data, integration, and global adoption strengthens Broadridge’s ability to provide comprehensive, future-ready solutions. His expertise in operational restructuring and growth initiatives positions him to help clients adapt efficiently as markets evolve. Takeaway Broadridge’s appointment of Ros Kotov reinforces its commitment to global expansion and strategic leadership in investor communication solutions, strengthening its competitive edge in governance-driven financial technology. What the Appointment Means for Broadridge’s Global Expansion and Market Positioning Kotov joins Broadridge at a pivotal moment as the company continues expanding its footprint across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The financial services industry is undergoing accelerated change, with institutions increasingly seeking technology partners that can deliver scalable communication and governance solutions. Broadridge’s decision to appoint a strategy leader based in London underscores its commitment to serving clients in key global markets and capturing opportunities arising from evolving regulatory frameworks. Broadridge has consistently invested in international talent to support this vision, and Kotov’s appointment adds depth to the company’s leadership in transformation-focused roles. As BBD’s offerings expand and client demands grow more complex, Broadridge aims to strengthen its presence across bank broker-dealers through innovation, service enhancement, and stronger alignment between business lines. Kotov’s role is designed to ensure the division remains ahead of market shifts—whether through strategic partnerships, targeted acquisitions, or accelerated technology investments. In reflecting on his new position, Kotov noted that joining Broadridge offers the opportunity to build on his experience driving strategic change for global financial institutions. He emphasized that the company’s growth ambitions align with his expertise in large-scale transformation and market expansion. As Broadridge continues its evolution as a leading financial technology provider, Kotov’s appointment represents a commitment to long-term innovation, stronger global collaboration, and enhanced client outcomes across the bank broker-dealer ecosystem.

The Property (Digital Assets, etc.) Act received royal assent on December 2, and the UK government officially recognized digital assets such as cryptocurrencies and stablecoins as personal property under national law. The House of Lords passed this law, and King Charles signed it. It ended years of uncertainty about how courts would handle crypto matters on a case-by-case basis.  It brings the UK in line with the US, which took similar steps earlier in 2025. This makes both countries more attractive as places to do business with digital assets. Freddie New, the head of Bitcoin Policy UK, said this was a tremendous step forward for English law, as it gives everyday individuals the same level of certainty in disputes or inheritance as traditional asset owners.  CryptoUK praised the law for making it easier to recover stolen property and ensuring that bankruptcy proceedings are handled correctly. This strengthens statutory protections that were previously based on common law precedents. Putting An End To The Legal Gray Area In the past, UK law divided personal property into "things in possession," such as tangible property, and "things in action," such as contractual rights. The Act adds a third category for digital or electronic "things," ensuring they are covered by property rights even though they don't fit any of the previous definitions. Courts can now apply standard law tests more freely to assets such as cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and domain names.  This reduces lawsuits over simple status questions, and this is in response to a 2023–2024 Law Commission report that pointed out problems with private law in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, especially when it comes to theft, inheritance, and bankruptcy. The law applies to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, but the details are left to the courts to adapt as technology evolves. Praise From The Industry And Regulatory Momentum Bitcoin Policy UK and other groups that have long called for clarity see it as a game-changer for consumer confidence. Companies like Coinbase and Ripple see opportunities for growth in the UK, which runs counter to earlier warnings from OMFIF's Digital Monetary Institute that the UK might fall behind the EU and US without changes. The UK-US Taskforce for Markets of the Future, which started in September, shows that the two countries are working together on digital assets. The government is taking tighter steps to build public trust, such as a possible ban on political donations in cryptocurrency under a new Elections Bill. This balanced plan puts the UK in a strong position to lead regulated crypto innovation as rules change worldwide.

What Does Standard Chartered’s Move Add to CLSNet? Standard Chartered has joined CLSNet, the bilateral post-trade netting service run by CLS Group, adding one of the most active emerging-market transaction banks to a network that is gradually becoming part of the FX market’s core plumbing. While the announcement reads like a normal onboarding update, the implications reach deeper into how banks handle settlement exposure in markets outside the world’s major currencies. CLSNet targets the part of the FX market that still settles outside CLSSettlement — the utility that processes more than USD 7 trillion daily through payment-versus-payment (PvP) settlement in central-bank money. Because CLSSettlement covers only eighteen major currencies, a large share of global flows still settle bilaterally, including most emerging-market and same-day trades. Those exposures, long recognized by regulators, are where operational failures and mismatched payments tend to cluster. Investor Takeaway Standard Chartered’s entry strengthens CLSNet’s reach in Asia, the Middle East and Africa — regions that generate the bulk of non-CLS currency flows. Broader participation increases network value and reduces manual post-trade risk. Why CLSNet Exists — and What It Actually Does The roots of CLS go back to the collapse of Germany’s Bankhaus Herstatt in 1974, when counterparties who had already delivered one leg of a trade never received the other. That event shaped four decades of regulatory focus on settlement risk and eventually led to CLSSettlement’s launch in 2002. CLSNet is the parallel track built for everything that CLSSettlement cannot cover. Introduced in 2018 with early adopters such as Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, the service standardizes post-trade matching and automates net calculations across more than 120 currencies. It does not move funds or settle payments; instead, it produces a single matched record and returns net obligations to each bank, which then settles through its usual correspondent or domestic channels. For institutions handling large volumes in emerging-market or less liquid pairs, shifting from manual spreadsheets and bilateral reconciliations to automated netting provides cleaner records, fewer breaks and reduced operational load. CLS says daily netted notional value recently ran above USD 160 billion — an indicator that the platform is now scaling beyond its early-stage footprint. Why Standard Chartered’s Joining Changes the Network’s Shape Standard Chartered stands out because its business is heavily concentrated in Asia, the Middle East and Africa — regions where most FX turnover involves currencies not supported in CLSSettlement. The bank provides liquidity, trade finance and corporate-banking services across dozens of markets where bilateral settlement remains the default. By routing these flows through CLSNet, Standard Chartered gains a more automated structure for matching and netting trades that historically required high-touch processing. But the impact goes beyond internal efficiency. When a major regional bank joins, it sends a practical message to peers in the same markets that CLSNet is becoming part of the standard toolkit for handling non-CLS currencies. For CLS, the addition builds on a steady run of recent onboardings from banks in Japan, Taiwan, Southeast Asia and the Gulf. This aligns with its stated focus on better coverage for emerging-market flows — a longstanding gap in global settlement safety. Investor Takeaway Emerging-market currency flows are expanding faster than G10 volumes. Utilities that reduce bilateral settlement exposure in these markets are likely to grow in relevance across the FX ecosystem. What This Tells Us About the Direction of FX Market Infrastructure The update reflects three broader trends playing out in post-trade FX infrastructure. First, regulators continue to push banks to reduce settlement exposure in currencies beyond the G10. Adoption of automated netting tools helps dealers stay aligned with the expectations embedded in the FX Global Code and central-bank guidance. Second, the industry’s early experiments with distributed-ledger technology — including earlier prototypes for CLSNet — have settled into more pragmatic designs. Instead of replacing existing payment rails, utilities are adding modern matching and messaging layers on top of the market’s current structure. Third, the geography of FX liquidity is shifting. More turnover now comes from Asia and other developing regions where banks like Standard Chartered play key roles in corporate payments and cross-border trade. Post-trade services are adjusting to match where volumes are growing fastest. The Bottom Line Standard Chartered joining CLSNet is less a procedural update and more a reflection of how FX post-trade workflows are changing. As banks deal with rising volumes in currencies outside the core CLSSettlement universe, automated bilateral netting is moving from optional to expected. With regional banks in Asia and the Middle East now entering the network, CLSNet’s role is becoming clearer: reducing break risk and operational strain where the market’s legacy settlement systems do not reach.

This week, the Bitfinex- and Tether-backed Layer-1 blockchain Stable disclosed all the information on its STABLE tokenomics. This means that its mainnet will be activated on December 8 at 8:00 a.m. The network is designed for stablecoin transactions, with fast throughput, low costs, and easy forecasting.  It only uses USDT for gas fees, freeing up STABLE for security and governance tasks. This structure is meant to facilitate enterprise-level apps and tokenized payments without the volatility of native token prices. Stable's pre-deposit campaigns raised more than $1.1 billion from over 10,000 wallets across two phases.  The first phase hit its $825 million cap in 22 minutes, but this was changed to allow more people to participate through KYC and wallet limits. With $28 million in seed funding from investors such as PayPal Ventures, the project is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for stablecoin-optimised chains. Breakdown of Fixed Supply and Allocation STABLE has a maximum supply of 100 billion tokens, ensuring stability over time and preventing further issuance that would cause inflation. The USDT-denominated network fees collected in the protocol vault will be used to pay staking rewards. These rewards will be divided among delegators in the StableBFT delegated proof-of-stake system. Key allocations are as follows:  40% (40 billion tokens) for ecosystem expansion, including developer awards, user incentives, partnerships, and long-term funding. 8% unlocks at launch, and 32% vests over three years. 25% goes to the team and 25% to investors/advisors, both on a four-year vesting plan with a one-year cliff to ensure everyone shares the same goals. 10% for Genesis distribution to get things started and get people involved in the community early on. This concept prioritises network security by allowing validators to stake delegations and users to vote on improvements and how funds are spent. Launch of Mainnet and Strategic Focus The deployment on December 8 starts with governance activation, which lets STABLE holders have a say in protocol decisions right away. Validators will be added alongside developer tools to enable stablecoin settlements to happen quickly and easily.  Stable is different from other Layer-1s because it focuses on building dependable infrastructure for on-chain financing, and it competes with networks like Arc and Plasma. Industry professionals say the tokenomics are suitable for investors because they provide rapid liquidity while also supporting long-term growth. As pre-deposits show strong interest, Stable enters a maturing market where stablecoin volume needs greater scalability.

The crypto market shows mixed signals as December begins. Market conditions shift with volatility across major assets. The Avalanche ETF has drawn attention from institutional players, though approval remains pending. Zcash price movements reflect typical market corrections after recent gains. But Zero Knowledge Proof enters the market differently. The project invested $20M to build a complete 4-layer blockchain infrastructure before launching its presale auction. Meanwhile, the presale auction stands out for its unique distribution method, giving daily token allocations to participants based on their percentage contribution to the presale.  This advanced network and the presale auctions are both live now, giving participants a level of security and certainty that even established networks struggle to deliver!  Avalanche ETF Progress & What Comes Next The Avalanche ETF represents a traditional finance approach to crypto. Bitwise filed an updated form with regulators for its Avalanche ETF proposal. The ticker will be BAVA if approved. The fund would trade on the NYSE Arca exchange. The Avalanche ETF proposal includes staking features built into the structure. This means holders could earn extra returns beyond price changes. The management fee is set at a percentage, though waived initially. For those considering the Avalanche ETF as a top crypto to buy, this offers familiarity and oversight. Several companies filed similar applications in recent months. The competition shows interest in bringing crypto to mainstream investors. However, approval is pending review. The regulatory process can take many months. Even after approval, Avalanche ETF performance depends on market conditions. Launch timing remains uncertain. Zcash Price Sees Pullback After Recent Rally The Zcash price has gone through typical market movements in recent trading activity. The token is trading after being rejected at resistance levels around higher price points that capped upward momentum. This follows a common pattern where strong rallies are followed by pullbacks to find support. Analysts view the current Zcash price action as a normal correction phase. The coin uses zero-knowledge cryptography to allow private transactions on the network. Users can choose between transparent or private transfers depending on their privacy preference. The Zcash price tested key support zones during recent sessions. One important area sits between the lower levels, where the rally moved so fast that balanced trading never formed. Institutional developments include potential ETF products being filed with regulators.  For those researching the top crypto to buy in privacy coins, the Zcash price reflects both its technology and market conditions. Anyone seeking a top crypto to buy should consider privacy features. Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP): Live Infrastructure Changes the Game! Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) stands apart because everything is running. The presale auction is live now, and the infrastructure isn't theoretical. With $20M invested in building the system, Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) offers a working product from day one. The project runs on a 4-layer blockchain system handling real transactions today. The first layer handles how the network agrees on transactions. It rewards computers that do real AI work and store data efficiently. The system checks everything privately without exposing sensitive information. The second layer focuses on security. It uses multiple encryption methods to keep data safe. The third layer stores files. It connects with existing storage networks like IPFS and Filecoin. The fourth layer runs programs. Developers can build applications using familiar tools like Solidity. It also handles heavy AI tasks without slowing down. What makes Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) different is how it combines artificial intelligence with privacy. Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) has built a decentralized data marketplace operating now. Users can buy, sell, and verify data without exposing sensitive information. The system uses mathematical proofs instead of trust. The proof pods are live and being shipped out worldwide, reaching users within 5 days of purchase. These computational units will perform AI tasks while maintaining privacy. No one sees the data, yet everyone can verify the work. Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) solves a problem with current blockchains. Most networks make you choose between performance and privacy. This one delivers both. Developers can build applications using familiar languages with built-in privacy. The $20M infrastructure investment shows serious development, not marketing hype. For anyone evaluating the top crypto to buy today, this operational advantage stands out. The Zero Knowledge Proof technology also works for multiple use cases. Healthcare organizations share research without exposing patient information. Financial institutions verify transactions without revealing details. AI companies train models on collective data while keeping datasets private. Final Thoughts The Avalanche ETF offers a regulated pathway but requires waiting for approval. Zcash price reflects an established privacy coin dealing with market cycles. However, Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) presents a different proposition. The $20M investment created a working 4-layer system, not a whitepaper, and the infrastructure is live and operating today.  And while Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) delivers a working network, others remain in development stages. The combination of privacy technology, artificial intelligence, and proven systems makes Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) worth consideration for anyone seeking the top crypto to buy in today's market. Get more information about Zero Knowledge Proof: Website: https://zkp.com/

December has opened with sharp volatility across the cryptocurrency market, but this time momentum shifted upward. Bitcoin briefly fell under $84,000 during yesterday’s rapid sell-off before reversing with force and rallying above $91,000 minutes ago. Analysts from the Kobeissi Letter said the rebound is shaping up to be Bitcoin’s strongest daily move since May, driven largely by mechanical liquidity swings rather than changing fundamentals. While spot markets swing violently, Mono Protocol continues attracting steady interest inside the crypto presale segment. Stage 19 has now reached $3.71 million of the $3.80 million target, keeping its presale crypto price fixed at $0.0550. Its structured approach stands in sharp contrast to the high-leverage turbulence dominating the broader market. Below is a look at how Mono Protocol’s stable trajectory compares to the volatile market conditions shaping Bitcoin, Ethereum, and large-cap assets today. Major Coins Rebound Rapidly as Liquidations Sweep the Market The 24-hour charts across the top digital assets tell the story of extreme leverage unwinding. Bitcoin has gained 7%, Ethereum has climbed 9% to reclaim the $3,000 region, and XRP has added over 7%. Solana is up 12%, and ADA leads top alts with a 15% surge to $0.43. These moves are driven by forced short covering. According to CoinGlass, more than $380 million in liquidations has taken place in the last day, with over $300 million coming from short positions alone. Bitcoin accounts for more than half of all liquidations, followed by $91 million in ETH. The single-largest wipeout was a $13 million Bybit position. [caption id="attachment_174608" align="aligncenter" width="1365"] Source: CoinGlass[/caption] These swings illustrate why many investors shift attention toward cryptocurrency presales during periods of instability. Projects with fixed pricing and structured fundraising, such as Mono Protocol, often see more predictable engagement than assets tied directly to leveraged order books. Mono Protocol Shows Steady Growth as Web3 Users Seek Infrastructure Stability With market sentiment fluctuating hour by hour, Mono Protocol continues to draw participants in the coin presale market for different reasons. Its architecture directly addresses one of Web3’s biggest weaknesses—multi-chain fragmentation. The project gives users one balance per token across all supported chains, eliminating the need to bridge assets, switch networks, or manage multiple wallets. This unified design is gaining traction across the web3 crypto presale landscape because it solves a real, recurring friction point. Mono’s automated routing engine strengthens this model. When markets become congested, spikes in transaction failures are common. Mono’s engine evaluates network conditions in real time, selecting the most reliable and efficient path. This capability positions Mono as one of the most utility-driven entries in today’s crypto pre sales, especially as users push for infrastructure that performs well under pressure. The contrast is sharp: while Bitcoin and Ethereum whipsaw due to liquidation cascades, Mono’s Stage 19 continues moving steadily toward completion with consistent growth and no exposure to leverage-driven instability. Volatility Exposes Market Fragility While Presale Crypto Models Offer Structure Analysts remain bullish on Bitcoin as long as the price stays above critical support at $83,000, which was tested during yesterday’s crash. A breakout above $91,800 could extend the rally. But even with optimism returning, the market continues to react more to liquidity shifts than fundamentals. This uncertainty pushes many users toward pre sale cryptocurrency opportunities where price does not move with market swings. Mono Protocol’s stage-based model, transparent progress, and fixed pricing make it visible across lists tracking the best crypto presale opportunities of December. Participants inside the crypto presale space often prefer projects that show clear development traction rather than speculative hype. Mono's weekly updates, dashboard improvements, Rewards Hub expansion, and transparent communication strategy place the project among the top-watched infrastructures in ongoing cryptocurrency presales. Why Mono Protocol Is Standing Out in December’s Web3 Crypto Presale Market The renewed volatility has underscored why infrastructure-focused platforms attract consistent interest. Mono Protocol sits at the intersection of three major needs: Stability during volatile cycles Utility through unified balances and automated routing Transparency through steady presale reporting and development updates These traits support Mono’s continued rise across crypto presale trackers as the broader market adjusts to rapid price reversals. While Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana move on leveraged positioning, Mono Protocol advances on development and user participation. That separation has made it one of the most stable and utility-centric projects in today’s presale crypto market. Conclusion Bitcoin’s violent correction and explosive rebound highlight the leverage-driven nature of the current market. Liquidations continue to reshape short-term price action, even as fundamentals remain intact. In contrast, Mono Protocol demonstrates measured and predictable progress, with $3.71M raised in Stage 19 and rising participation across the crypto presale ecosystem. As markets adjust to December’s volatility, infrastructure-focused presales like Mono are gaining visibility among users seeking reliability and long-term utility. Learn More about Mono Protocol Website: https://www.monoprotocol.com/  X: https://x.com/mono_protocol  Telegram: https://t.me/monoprotocol_official  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/monoprotocol/ 

2025 saw the world put the spotlight on the global markets, with focus on assets like Bitcoin and precious metals, which were impacted by low interest rates, inflation concerns and jittery geopolitics. Yet, rather than riding in the same boat, Bitcoin (BTC) and Gold (XAU) ended the year on starkly different trajectories. According to recent data, Gold surged to become 2025’s best-performing major asset, while Bitcoin lagged, despite similar macroeconomic challenges. As investors sought safety and stability, gold remained a hedge, ultimately outpacing Bitcoin in a dramatic reversal of the usual “digital gold” narrative. By late 2025, gold had climbed roughly 55% on the year, according to recent market-performance reviews. Meanwhile, the world's largest cryptocurrency, after hitting historic highs around $126,000 earlier in the year, dropped significantly from its peak, leaving it nearly flat or negative on a year-to-date basis. Gold Remains A Safe Haven As Crypto Hopes Wane The story of gold’s resurgence this year was a combination of market mechanics and psychology. During prolonged geopolitical tension and financial unease, investors reverted to the known precious metal with cultural, monetary and historical legitimacy.  Central banks across Asia and the Middle East accumulated reserves. Institutional funds sought covert exposure through bullion exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Retail investors returned to physical holdings. Even stablecoin issuers like Tether became the largest individual holder of gold as a safe haven. Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s story was more turbulent. Having surged early in the year and briefly commanding six-figure BTC price predictions, the asset failed to retain momentum once macro narratives shifted from risk-embracing to risk-hedging.  Also, outflows from BTC ETFs accelerated during the year’s mid-turbulence despite BTC still possessing structural demand and growing in adoption. This showed that the market treated it differently from gold, which remained a shelter to Bitcoin’s alternative battleground. Investors Relearn the Difference Between a Store of Value and a Risk Asset The events of 2025 forced investors, institutions, and even policymakers to reckon with a simple truth that Bitcoin and gold may share scarcity, but they do not share behavior. Gold thrives in crises because its value is culturally and monetarily ingrained. Unlike Bitcoin, it does not require confidence in technology, networks or market adoption. Meanwhile, while the cryptocurrency is mathematically finite and technologically secure, it still operates within a psychological world shaped by sentiment, signaling, and momentum. When cracks appear in confidence, the crypto reacts swiftly, while gold absorbs shock. However, this divergence does not mean Bitcoin is dead as a long-term asset; it has only reframed it. Many long-term investors still treat Bitcoin as a generational asset, but not for capital preservation. Instead, they bank on its potential capital gains.  In other words, 2025 has shown that gold preserves wealth, while Bitcoin, in favorable cycles, can multiply it. Ultimately, the year has clarified the Bitcoin vs gold debate — the two do not compete for the same role, but they serve different investment styles. 

ARK Invest, led by Cathie Wood, has increased its exposure to crypto-related equities, buying new positions in Coinbase, Bullish, and Robinhood as markets recover from a recent slump. On December 2, 2025, ARK added 28,315 Coinbase shares, valued at approximately $7.5 million, to its ARKK ETF. Coinbase now accounts for roughly 5.6% of the fund, making it ARKK’s among the top holders. The firm also purchased 42,434 Bullish shares, worth about $1.8 million, and another 1,951 Robinhood shares, valued at $245,000. This follows earlier purchases just a week prior, when ARK acquired $16.5 million worth of Coinbase shares across several ETFs. ARK appears to view the recent market dip as a buying opportunity rather than a signal to exit crypto-linked equities. Its portfolio remains heavily tilted toward fintech and crypto infrastructure names. Coinbase’s recent rebound reflects renewed optimism around both institutional and retail crypto activity. Meanwhile, increasing positions in Bullish and Robinhood underscores ARK’s confidence in companies bridging traditional finance and crypto. Given ARK’s fund-weighting rules, further rebalancing is possible. If shares of Coinbase, Bullish, or Robinhood rally, ARK may trim positions or rotate into other overlooked names in the sector. ARK Invest’s Steady Accumulation of Crypto-Linked Stocks Throughout 2025, ARK Invest has consistently increased its exposure to crypto-linked equities, particularly Bullish, seizing market dips as buying opportunities. During Bullish’s debut on the NYSE, ARK acquired millions of shares across its flagship ETFs, investing a substantial sum and establishing a strong position early on. In the following months, as Bullish shares experienced pullbacks, ARK continued to add to its holdings. In August, the firm purchased additional Bullish shares, significantly increasing its stake in the ARKK fund. Early November saw another round of purchases at lower prices, with ARK distributing buys across multiple ETFs to increase its position. By November, ARK’s combined Bullish holdings had reached over two million shares, reflecting a clear strategy of accumulation rather than retreat amid volatility. At the same time, the firm maintained significant positions in other crypto infrastructure and fintech-related companies such as Coinbase and Robinhood, reflecting its long-term commitment to the sector and its view of temporary market weakness as an opportunity to strengthen its portfolio.

What Exactly Is Binance Junior and How Does It Work? Binance has launched Binance Junior, a parent-controlled crypto app built for users aged 6 to 17. The standalone mobile app links directly to an adult’s main Binance account, letting parents deposit funds, set spending limits and control access to selected features. The company describes it as a family-oriented financial tool that mirrors custodial accounts in traditional finance, where minors can hold assets but adults retain legal ownership. The app functions as a sub-account tied to the parent’s verified identity. Adults decide whether their children can access onchain transfers, move funds within the ecosystem or enable Binance’s Junior Flexible Simple Earn feature, which generates yield depending on the rules in each jurisdiction. Teens aged 13 and up can use Binance Pay to send and receive crypto from other Junior accounts or their parents, with daily transfer limits controlled by the adult. Binance noted on its website that certain tools may be restricted based on local laws, meaning available features will differ by country. Investor Takeaway Binance is expanding into youth financial tools at a time when regulators are tightening oversight. The app opens a new user segment, but it also amplifies scrutiny around crypto access for minors. Why Is Binance Moving Into Youth-Centric Crypto Tools? Binance framed the initiative as a response to increasing interest from families who want controlled exposure to digital assets for younger users. The company presented the product as a structured introduction to crypto, built around educational value rather than speculation. By giving adults full authority over transfers, spending and Earn access, Binance Junior seeks to avoid the pitfalls of minors accessing platforms through informal means. The approach resembles custodial bank accounts, stock-trading equivalents for teens and youth debit cards offered by fintech apps. The difference is that this version operates in a sector still under close regulatory pressure, where age restrictions, marketing practices and financial education remain contested topics. How Did the Crypto Community React? The announcement split the community almost immediately. Some users said the project crosses a line by introducing crypto to children, accusing Binance of “targeting” a demographic that should not be involved in digital assets. One X user wrote that the industry already has too many youth-focused marketing efforts and questioned whether creating child-friendly crypto products could lead to more scrutiny. Another person called the move “crazy and irresponsible,” while a separate commenter joked that kids using the app would become “exit liquidity.” Others saw the launch in a different light, arguing that controlled access may help families teach financial basics and give younger users practical experience with digital assets. One commenter described the move as “huge for real adoption,” noting that structured parental controls may lower risks compared with minors using unsecured or borrowed wallets. The divide reflects a broader debate inside the industry about how early exposure to crypto should start and who bears responsibility for protecting younger users. Investor Takeaway The split reaction highlights a key tension: crypto firms want new growth channels, but child and teen access could draw regulatory pushback. How regulators respond may determine the app’s long-term viability. What Happens Next? The launch comes at a time when exchanges are under pressure to keep marketing and access aligned with global standards. Binance has not yet clarified how widely Binance Junior will roll out or how it will handle regional restrictions. Whether Binance Junior becomes a mainstream feature or remains a niche product will depend on regulatory tolerance and parental demand. For now, the app introduces a new dimension to the conversation around crypto and youth access — one that is likely to draw continued debate as more platforms test educational or controlled-entry tools.

According to reports, Taiwan is preparing to introduce its first fully regulated stablecoin by late 2026, following a coordinated regulatory push by its Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) and central bank. The move represents the island’s new approach to digital assets, which is moving away from the loosely governed trading environment of previous years and toward a clearly defined, supervised framework for crypto-based financial activity. This development arrives just as authorities tighten the domestic rules governing digital transactions, including licensing requirements for crypto exchanges, governance standards for digital asset custodians, and strict reserve-control measures for any entity seeking to issue a stablecoin. With regulators increasingly concerned about monetary stability, capital flow regulation, and the prevention of abusive or fraudulent crypto practices, Taiwan is positioning itself to enter the global stablecoin arena cautiously with strong institutional oversight. Taiwan’s Regulatory Net Brings Banks Into the Arena The story of Taiwan’s stablecoin strategy begins with the island’s Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) legislation, which realigns the conversation from “crypto as commerce” to “crypto as regulated finance.” Under the emerging legal structure, crypto exchanges, wallet operators, token custodians, and broker services must register under the new compliance system and demonstrate operational viability through minimum capital requirements, risk-control frameworks, and transparent reporting.  Within this regulatory migration, a striking feature is that the island appears ready to place stablecoin issuance squarely in the hands of licensed financial institutions, particularly regulated banks. The country wants stablecoins backed by entities already subject to banking rules, audit standards, and reserve management obligations. However, it’s still unclear whether Taiwan’s first stablecoin will be pegged to the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD) to reinforce its national monetary policy. That approach would favour domestic commerce, fintech integration, and internal payments innovation.  Meanwhile, the stablecoin being pegged to dollar-backed options like Tether’s USDT and Circle’s USDC will help the nation access greater global liquidity, but at the risk of linking its digital currency to another nation’s monetary system.  The Global Market Watches Taiwan’s Move Taiwan’s approach emphasises resilience over speed. The island is not attempting to outrun Singapore, Hong Kong, or Japan in the race to stablecoin deployment. Instead, it is studying them and learning in real-time from their financial experimentation and regulatory adjustments.  While other markets tested crypto tokens before legal clarity, Taiwan is crafting legal clarity before testing the token. By timing its launch for 2026, Taiwan gives itself time to build the surrounding compliance ecosystem first.  Licensed exchanges will be in place, reserve verification systems will be operational, and regulatory audit trails will be active ahead of the stablecoin launch. In other words, the rails will be laid before the train arrives. International markets are watching closely. If Taiwan can successfully introduce a compliant, bank-issued stablecoin that demonstrates risk-controlled utility for payments, payroll, cross-border settlement, or digital commerce, it could serve as a model for countries seeking digital asset innovation without regulatory vulnerability. 

Toronto, Canada, December 3rd, 2025, FinanceWire Automated brand control meets marketing speed: InvestiFi streamlines customer rollout with compliant, scalable content powered by Sesimi. Sesimi, a creative automation and digital asset management platform for regulated brands, has partnered with InvestiFi, a fast-growing fintech serving financial institutions. The collaboration allows InvestiFi to deliver compliant, customizable marketing assets at scale, without compromising regulatory standards. In today’s compliance-heavy fintech landscape, speed and scale often clash with regulatory rigour. As financial institutions rush to meet consumer expectations with personalized, omni-channel content, marketing teams are hindered by lengthy approval cycles, extensive legal reviews, and the lack of scalable creative systems. InvestiFi, a fast-growing fintech building momentum in the financial services space, selected Sesimi to solve this tension. The partnership enables InvestiFi to deliver compliant, customizable marketing assets to its clients quickly and at scale, without compromising disclosure requirements or brand control. "As a fast-growing fintech, InvestiFi demands partners that can support our ability to scale quickly," said Sarah Lambert, VP of Marketing at InvestiFi. "It was clear from the start that Sesimi would help our customers launch marketing campaigns faster, with the brand control and compliance safeguards financial institutions need." As regulatory scrutiny intensifies and expectations for timely, personalized communication grow, financial institutions are under pressure to do more, faster, without increasing compliance risk. This partnership reflects a broader industry shift: marketing in finance must now operate with the speed of a fintech startup and the precision of a regulatory body. InvestiFi’s customers, including financial institutions and credit unions, require on-brand content that’s not only customizable but also fully compliant with industry standards. Sesimi addresses this by embedding locked disclosures and compliance language into dynamic templates, ensuring that every asset meets legal requirements without delaying go-to-market speed and eliminating the need for lengthy approval processes. "Fintech moves fast, but compliance doesn't always," said Andrew Baker, CEO of Sesimi. "Sesimi bridges that gap. Our platform gives regulated brands the ability to create and deploy compliant content at the speed their customers expect." InvestiFi expects the partnership to accelerate client onboarding, improve marketing support capabilities, and strengthen relationships with financial institutions. For more information, users can visit https://sesimi.com/industries/banking-finance/ About Sesimi Sesimi is a creative automation and digital asset management platform built for distributed brands. Trusted by Toyota, Volkswagen, and Dräger, Sesimi enables marketing teams to scale personalized, compliant content while maintaining brand consistency. Users can learn more at sesimi.com. About InvestiFi InvestiFi is a fintech platform that helps financial institutions modernize their digital banking and investment services. Serving credit unions, community banks, and regional institutions, InvestiFi provides turnkey technology solutions for competitive digital experiences. Users can learn more at investifi.co Contact Cameron Smith Sesimi csmith@sesimi.com

Crypto presales are resurfacing as a focal point of December’s market activity, and three names continue to rise above the noise: Mono Protocol, Nexchain, and WeWake. Each one reflects a different pillar of Web3 infrastructure—cross-chain execution, AI-enabled networking, and mainstream onboarding. Together, they are shaping the final month of 2025 with clear development progress, sharp funding momentum, and practical use cases that stand out in a crowded field. Below is a closer look at why these three presales now define the current cycle. 1. Mono Protocol — A Unified Cross-Chain Layer Taking Shape in Real Time Mono Protocol’s presale continues to build at a steady pace as Stage 19 reaches $3.71 million of its $3.80 million target, with the token priced at $0.0550. Rising participation is pushing it further into the spotlight as an infrastructure project that is already moving from concept to functional architecture. Mono’s core design challenges one of Web3’s oldest issues: fragmented multi-chain workflows. Instead of juggling wallets, bridges, gas tokens, and routing failures, Mono consolidates every interaction through a single balance per token across all supported chains. This gives users one balance, one interface, and one execution environment—regardless of the number of networks in use. The protocol’s automated routing engine strengthens that experience. It parses real-time network conditions and selects the best execution path, reducing transaction failures and smoothing out peak-hour volatility. These capabilities have made Mono a central talking point in December’s presale coverage, especially in discussions around practical chain abstraction. Mono’s team has kept visibility high with consistent development updates, the expansion of its Rewards Hub, UI fixes, dashboard improvements, and transparent fundraising milestones. This pattern of continuous iteration is helping position Mono as one of the most credible infrastructure-driven presales closing out the year. 2. Nexchain — An AI-Powered Layer-1 Accelerating Toward Mainnet With Strong Funding Momentum Nexchain continues to be one of the most heavily financed crypto presales of the quarter, with Stage 29 priced at $0.116 and $12,278,421 raised out of the $12,975,000 target. The projected listing price of $0.30 gives Nexchain an expected 259% ROI, sustaining interest from users evaluating large-scale Layer-1 opportunities. The platform is built around an AI-supported consensus design capable of targeting up to 400,000 TPS, placing it in the category of high-performance networks preparing for institutional-level workloads. The rollout of TESTNET 2.0 continues to lift visibility across developer communities and presale research channels. The latest testnet version introduces: Wallet reputation scoring Contract behavior monitoring In-protocol risk tagging Real-time transparency tools for developers These features aim to reduce smart-contract uncertainty and improve network safety—two priorities for teams building high-risk or high-value applications. Nexchain has used the December cycle to demonstrate active development rather than static marketing. With capital inflow still rising and technical updates landing consistently, Nexchain maintains its position as a leading AI-enabled blockchain crypto presale with momentum through the final stage of its raise. 3. WeWake — Gasless, Walletless Access Driving Web3 Toward Mainstream Adoption WeWake approaches Web3 onboarding from a different angle—removing complexity instead of adding power. The project allows users to join through Google, Apple, or Telegram logins without ever touching a seed phrase or setting up a wallet. This is rapidly becoming one of the most discussed approaches to broad-scale adoption as everyday users move closer to the blockchain economy. Stage 17 is live at $0.0340, with $1,493,885.78 raised out of the $2,210,000 target. The listing price of $0.15 offers an estimated 441% ROI, placing WeWake among the most high-margin entries in the active presale crypto market. The network also introduces gasless transactions, handled internally through a native fee abstraction layer. This design allows users to interact with applications without paying for gas or switching networks—a model that mirrors Web2 simplicity while maintaining the benefits of Web3 execution. As interviews, dashboards, and user data reflect a growing demand for friction-free access, WeWake’s focus on practical onboarding has made it highly visible across L2, onboarding, and consumer-ready presale discussions. Why These Three Projects Are Defining December Mono Protocol, Nexchain, and WeWake are capturing attention for a simple reason: each delivers a functional answer to one of Web3’s most persistent obstacles. Mono solves fragmentation with unified balances and automated routing. Nexchain solves performance and transparency with AI-driven consensus and advanced testnet tooling. WeWake solves onboarding friction with walletless, gasless access. Their combined footprint reflects a broader trend shaping the end of 2025: users want presales with working architecture, visible progress, and clear pathways to real adoption. Learn More about Mono Protocol Website: https://www.monoprotocol.com/  X: https://x.com/mono_protocol  Telegram: https://t.me/monoprotocol_official  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/monoprotocol/ 

How Much Did USDe Contract in November? Ethena’s synthetic-dollar stablecoin USDe recorded one of its steepest monthly drops yet. CoinGecko data shows USDe fell from a $9.3 billion market cap on Nov. 1 to $7.1 billion by the end of the month — a decline of about $2.2 billion, or 24% of its supply. The token, which relies on trading strategies and derivatives rather than cash reserves, saw sizable redemptions across decentralized applications. Outflows reflect users selling USDe, exiting liquidity pools or unwinding positions on on-chain platforms. The broader stablecoin market now stands at $311 billion. Dollar-pegged assets continue to dominate the sector, accounting for $303 billion of total value — a reminder of how strongly fiat-backed tokens anchor the ecosystem. Investor Takeaway USDe’s contraction shows how synthetic models can experience more volatile confidence cycles than fiat-backed counterparts, especially after stress events. The supply drop reshuffles stablecoin market rankings. Did the October Depeg Drive USDe Redemptions? USDe’s pullback followed the October episode on Binance, where the asset briefly dropped to $0.65. At the time, Ethena founder Guy Young said the event stemmed from a Binance-specific oracle failure, not from USDe’s collateral structure. Young added that USDe’s minting and redemption functions worked “perfectly” during the turbulence, noting that around 2 billion tokens were redeemed across DeFi platforms during that period. USDe’s supply loss since early October has been steep. On Oct. 9, the stablecoin had a market cap of roughly $14.8 billion, making it the third-largest stablecoin at the time. Since then, it has dropped by more than 53%. As of the latest CoinGecko reading, USDe stands at $6.9 billion and has slipped to fourth place in market rankings. How Did Fiat-Backed Stablecoins Perform in the Same Period? While USDe contracted, fiat-backed stablecoins posted steady inflows throughout November. Tether’s USDT gained about $1.3 billion, rising to $184.6 billion. Circle’s USDC added about $600 million, bringing its supply to $76.5 billion. PayPal’s PYUSD saw the strongest percentage rise among major stablecoins. Its supply increased from $2.8 billion to $3.8 billion during November — an inflow of $1 billion, or 35% month-on-month. DefiLlama data shows PYUSD has expanded more than 216% since September when it held a $1.2 billion market cap. In three months, that amounts to roughly $2.6 billion in growth. Ripple’s RLUSD also continued building momentum. After surpassing the $1 billion threshold for the first time early in the month, RLUSD rose from $960 million on Nov. 1 to $1.26 billion by Nov. 30 — a gain of about $300 million. Investor Takeaway November widened the divide between models: fiat-backed stablecoins grew by $3.2 billion, while USDe shed supply. Market preference leaned toward fully backed structures after recent stress events. What Does the Shift Say About Stablecoin Demand? The November data points to a rotation back toward fiat-backed assets. USDT, USDC, PYUSD and RLUSD all saw inflows as traders, on-chain participants and liquidity providers consolidated around tokens with clearer reserve frameworks. Synthetic models like USDe remain actively used within DeFi but tend to face sharper demand swings when redemption flows spike. The October depeg episode likely heightened caution, even with Ethena’s assurances about the underlying mechanism working as designed. As the overall stablecoin market grows toward new highs, competition is tightening between collateral models. The latest snapshot shows users favoring reserve-backed tokens in the wake of volatility, while synthetic alternatives adjust to shifting confidence cycles.

Navro has activated stablecoin payments across its international payments platform following a new integration with BVNK, a leading infrastructure provider for stablecoin-powered financial services. The addition marks a significant step in Navro’s strategy to offer businesses the widest possible choice of cross-border payment rails through a single platform, API, and contract. As global businesses confront increasing complexity in managing international payroll, contractor payments, and regional compliance, the introduction of stablecoins enhances Navro’s ability to deliver faster, more reliable alternatives to traditional banking systems. With demand rising sharply among businesses paying contractors and freelancers in countries facing inflationary pressures and unstable currencies, stablecoins have emerged as an attractive option for predictable, dollar-linked settlement. Navro’s move to embed stablecoin rails directly into its platform aligns with its broader mission to simplify international payments at scale. By minimizing the need for multiple FX conversions and reducing settlement friction, stablecoins offer a more intuitive path for companies managing distributed workforces across challenging currency environments. Aran Brown, CEO of Navro, noted that the company’s long-term focus has been on removing many of the pain points that historically affected cross-border payments, including slow settlement times, opaque fees, and fragmented infrastructure. Integrating stablecoins provides clients with an additional “always on” payment method, allowing them to tailor payment workflows to the specific needs of each market. The capability expands Navro’s already broad range of global corridors and widens its appeal among platforms that require rapid and compliant movement of funds across borders. Harnessing BVNK’s Stablecoin Infrastructure to Improve Speed, Reliability, and User Choice BVNK’s infrastructure was selected for its strength in payouts, licenced-grade compliance standards, and a product roadmap aligned with Navro’s broader expansion goals. The partnership integrates BVNK’s fiat and stablecoin payout capabilities into Navro’s system, enabling instant or near-instant settlement across multiple jurisdictions. With businesses increasingly expecting smooth, consumer-grade experiences in B2B payments, reliability and transaction transparency have become key competitive differentiators. According to BVNK CEO Jesse Hemson-Struthers, the integration provides Navro’s clients with greater flexibility in how they compensate employees, contractors, and end customers. The ability to execute payments outside traditional banking hours and across borders without encountering intermediary-driven delays is particularly valuable for companies with global operational footprints. As stablecoins continue gaining traction among enterprises, partnerships such as this are accelerating the shift toward next-generation payments infrastructure. This collaboration also directly benefits industries that rely heavily on high-frequency international payouts. Employer of Record (EOR) platforms—which represent a key customer base for Navro—stand to gain significantly. These platforms must manage thousands of simultaneous payments across multiple regulatory jurisdictions while maintaining strict controls around payroll compliance. By offering stablecoins alongside a growing suite of realtime and bank-transfer rails, Navro positions itself as a comprehensive payment orchestration hub for scaling workforce platforms. Takeaway Navro’s integration with BVNK adds stablecoin payouts to its unified payments platform, giving global businesses faster, more reliable, and always-on cross-border payment options. Stablecoins Gain Momentum as Regulatory Clarity Accelerates Global Adoption Navro’s rollout of stablecoin payment capabilities follows a year marked by major regulatory milestones across leading financial jurisdictions. Legislative frameworks such as the GENIUS Act in the United States, MiCA in the European Union, and the UK’s roadmap for systemic stablecoins have provided institutions with long-awaited clarity on issuance, custody, and risk standards. This regulatory progress has fueled adoption among mainstream enterprises, with stablecoins now powering an estimated $9 trillion in annual transactions globally. The appeal lies in their structural advantages: near-instant settlement, the ability to move value outside standard banking windows, and reduced dependency on intermediaries that add cost, friction, and delays. For businesses navigating global liquidity needs, stablecoins represent a reliable vehicle for moving funds with precision, particularly in regions where conventional rails remain slow or unpredictable. Navro’s integration positions it at the center of this growing shift toward digital settlement infrastructure. The launch also follows Navro’s recent expansion of 17 new realtime pay-to-bank corridors, bringing its global direct-to-bank coverage to 61 countries. By combining traditional bank payouts, modern realtime payments, and now stablecoins within one unified API, Navro is pushing toward its vision of becoming the world’s leading payments curation platform. As businesses scale internationally and require agile, compliant, multi-rail infrastructure, Navro’s latest enhancement strengthens its position as a comprehensive solution for global transactional demands.