An Israeli man was arrested at Rome airport after Interpol issued a warrant over his alleged role in a €50 million forex and cryptocurrency scam that defrauded German investors and possibly others across Europe. Italian police detained the man, in his 30s, during a routine passport check as he prepared to board a flight for vacation and business meetings, Israeli media outlet Mako reported, as translated into English.Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!Authorities acted on an Interpol warrant issued at Germany’s request, accusing him of involvement in the forex and cryptocurrency scam that defrauded investors across Europe.Interpol Warrant and German InvestigationThe arrest reportedly followed months of coordination between Interpol and German law enforcement agencies investigating a network of fraudulent online investment schemes.According to investigators, the scams targeted German citizens and possibly victims in Austria and Switzerland through fake forex and crypto platforms. A source familiar with the case said the suspect was unaware of the warrant when police detained him. Information obtained by the media publication suggests the suspect works for a large Israeli company headquartered in Cyprus. The firm reportedly operates in Western Europe, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland - regions heavily affected by the scam.His detention is expected to lead to additional arrests among company executives and employees suspected of participating in the scheme.Legal Proceedings in ItalyThe man reportedly appeared before a court in Rome on Tuesday. His attorneys, Sagiv and Nir Rotenberg, who specialize in international law and extradition cases, successfully argued for his release under house arrest pending an extradition hearing. Italian authorities have barred him from leaving the country until the court rules on Germany’s extradition request.Continue reading: UK Court Hands Nearly 12-Year Sentence in Massive £5B Bitcoin Case: ReportAs the investigation expands, European authorities are expected to examine the company’s operations and financial records closely. The case underscores ongoing efforts by EU member states and Interpol to crack down on large-scale investment frauds exploiting the booming retail crypto and forex markets.Not too long ago, the Philippine authorities arrested two Israelis and seven Filipinos for allegedly operating a forex trading scam from an apartment in Angeles City. The arrests were reportedly made by the Bureau of Immigration Fugitive Search Unit (BI-FSU), which found the suspects working at rows of desktop computers during the raid.The scammers reportedly used a common tactic: they initially offered mentorship services to attract victims before gradually enticing them into fraudulent investment schemes. The identities of the nine individuals have not been publicly disclosed. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

UK crypto investors are more focused on long-term wealth than short-term gains, according to research from trading platform IG.Digital assets meet tradfi in London at the fmls25The survey of over 500 crypto holders in the UK found that 51 percent invest to build wealth over time, while 27 percent are motivated by short-term returns. Around a third said they invest for retirement and 18 percent said they are saving for a house.Young Crypto Investors Focus on RetirementAmong younger investors aged 18 to 24, 39 percent cited retirement as a reason for investing and 28 percent mentioned saving for a house. Only 22 percent said short-term gains are their main motivation.The research also shows a cautious approach to risk. Respondents were more likely to describe themselves as cautious, seeking to avoid losses, than willing to accept large risks for high returns, 35 percent compared with 7 percent.Crypto Matures, Institutional Participation RisesInvestment strategies reflect this. Nearly half said crypto forms a small part of a diversified portfolio. One-third said it is a significant part and six percent invest only in crypto. On average, crypto accounts for 23 percent of a portfolio.Chris Beauchamp, Chief Market Analyst at IG, said crypto has matured and institutional participation has increased.“Crypto has become part of the financial landscape and a crucial part of portfolios across the globe. No longer the speculative upstart of the financial markets, its place now seems assured,” Beauchamp added.Traditional Finance Expands into Digital AssetsThese patterns among UK investors coincide with wider developments in the crypto market. The SEC’s approval of Ethereum and Bitcoin ETFs has accelerated institutional participation, while traditional finance firms such as BNY Mellon, State Street, and Franklin Templeton expand their digital asset offerings. PayPal and Mastercard are exploring on-chain payments. Venture capital funding is increasingly focused on exchanges, trading, custody, liquidity, and digital asset management, while speculative projects receive less attention. Startups including Securitize and ClearToken are developing regulated platforms. The market is gradually adopting execution, clearing, and settlement practices similar to traditional finance, supporting risk management and integration into mainstream portfolios. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

News breaks in seconds, stock prices shift in real time, and consumers expect instant results. For a growing generation of digital-native investors, waiting days to move money no longer makes sense.This is especially relevant for investment platforms, which face rising competition and higher user expectations. Delays in funding or accessing capital clash with the seamless digital experiences users are accustomed to. Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!Instant payments today also generate data, offering brokers, prop firms, and trading platforms both competitive insight and improved user experience.Fast Markets Require Fast FundingTiming is critical for institutional investors, who act on market shifts in real time. Retail investors have not always had the same advantage. Slow settlement times and outdated methods, like manual transfers or failed card payments, can delay trades and disrupt the user journey.Instant account funding directly impacts engagement, letting investors act when motivation is highest. It enables smooth entry into positions or withdrawals, creating a more confident experience. For platforms, this improves conversion rates and user satisfaction.Funding patterns also provide insights. Spikes in deposits before major announcements help brokers anticipate surges, giving an edge in fast markets like forex and CFDs.Frictionless Funding That Drives ConversionThe moment a user decides to invest is critical—curiosity becomes commitment. If the process is cumbersome, requiring manual input or card details, users are likely to drop off.Instant, bank-based payments, such as Pay by Bank, remove these barriers. Users can top up accounts quickly and securely with minimal friction. This simplicity improves first-time conversion rates and encourages repeat investing.Withdrawals have historically caused frustration. Investors often wait days to access funds, despite expecting instant access elsewhere in their financial lives. This delay signals a lack of control and can undermine trust.Real-time payouts change this dynamic, putting users in charge of their money. Immediate access builds confidence and strengthens a platform’s reputation. In an industry where trust is critical, providing fast and predictable access to funds is a key differentiator.Turning Payments into IntelligenceModern payment infrastructure increasingly offers built-in intelligence, particularly through open banking frameworks. Features like real-time account verification, identity checks, and balance confirmation streamline onboarding, reduce fraud, and support compliance.For brokers and prop firms, instant payment flows provide aggregated signals of investor behaviour. Data on deposits, withdrawals, and funding geographies helps optimise liquidity management, refine risk models, and anticipate demand for certain asset classes. Payments, therefore, become a forward-looking market indicator rather than just a back-office function.Designing for a Real-Time Financial FutureInstant payments enhance user experience at every stage, from onboarding and funding to withdrawals and re-engagement. They boost usage while creating confidence and control for investors.For brokers and trading firms, fast payments combined with behavioural insights offer operational speed and strategic foresight. In fast-moving markets like forex and CFDs, that combination is increasingly decisive.Beyond individual platforms, instant money movement allows capital to flow across the wider ecosystem. Users can fund or withdraw from a single account, transfer between platforms, access new assets, and respond to opportunities immediately.Platforms that meet these expectations stand out—not just by moving money quickly, but by providing seamless, secure, and responsive digital experiences.The Competitive Edge Where Instant Equals ImpactReal-time payments are already transforming industries such as retail, lending, travel, and gig work. Investment platforms are next. Instant money movement helps new users fund accounts immediately, gives experienced investors access to returns without delay, and provides embedded data for compliance and operational insights. The ability to move money instantly is changing what successful investing looks like.For platforms, the combination of speed, convenience, and intelligence is no longer optional—it’s a competitive requirement. For investors, it is increasingly a baseline expectation. The platforms that succeed will be those that align with user expectations, support confident decision-making, and deliver a seamless experience from the moment curiosity turns into commitment. This article was written by Lena Hackelöer at www.financemagnates.com.

Hola Prime Markets has been awarded the Global Best Rising Star Broker 2025 at the Finance Magnates Annual Awards. This achievement highlights the company’s rapid growth, innovation, and commitment to excellence in online trading.The Finance Magnates Awards are among the most respected recognitions in the financial industry, honouring top-performing companies that demonstrate leadership, transparency, and client trust. The 2025 winners were celebrated at the Finance Magnates Awards Gala Dinner, held on 6 November 2025 at Carob Mill, Limassol, where industry executives and innovators gathered to honor outstanding performance across global markets.A Global Broker Built on Trust and InnovationHola Prime Markets is a globally recognised and regulated brokerage firm dedicated to providing a seamless and transparent trading experience. The company empowers traders with state-of-the-art platforms such as MT4 and MT5, offering razor-thin spreads and comprehensive educational resources to support traders of all levels.Winning the Global Best Rising Star Broker award underscores Hola Prime Markets’ strong market position and dedication to client satisfaction. The recognition reflects the company’s focus on creating a modern, trustworthy environment for traders, where technology, transparency, and support come together to drive long-term success.About the Finance Magnates AwardsThe Finance Magnates Annual Awards celebrate excellence across both B2B and B2C sectors within the financial industry, covering trading, fintech, and payments. Winners are determined through a three-stage process of nominations, community voting, and expert panel evaluation, ensuring every award is based on both peer respect and verified achievement.Each trophy represents progress and leadership in finance, designed to honour brands that set new benchmarks for the industry.Congratulations to All WinnersCongratulations to all the Finance Magnates Awards 2025 winners for their remarkable contributions to the financial world.See All Finance Magnates Awards 2025 WinnersTo view the full list of Finance Magnates Awards 2025 winners, visit the official winners page. This article was written by Finance Magnates Staff at www.financemagnates.com.

The FM Events App Is Now Live!Your all-access pass to plan, connect, and make the most of fmls:25.It’s designed to give attendees everything they need for an effortless event experience: from the full speaker lineup and exhibitor list to smart networking tools and real-time updates throughout the summit.With thousands of industry professionals set to gather at Magazine London, the app bridges the gap between planning and participation - giving delegates the ability to engage early, secure meetings, and tailor their time for maximum impact.Key Features? Meeting Planner - Schedule one-to-one meetings with brokers, fintech innovators, and industry leaders.?️ Interactive Floorplan - Navigate the venue and locate key companies fast.?️ Personal Agenda - Build your schedule, bookmark sessions, and stay on track throughout the day.? Instant Connections - Engage with decision-makers, exchange details, and grow your network before the doors even open.Haven’t registered yet? It only takes a minute - free passes are available for select delegate categories and first-time visitors.Already registered? Download the FM Events App on the Apple Store or Google Playand start preparing for London.The summit kicks off in less than two weeks - make sure you’re ready to take advantage of the ultimate networking tool at fmls:25.See you in London. This article was written by FM Events at www.financemagnates.com.

The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority has issued a warning to Contracts for Difference providers, following a review that found some firms had not met the standards set under the Consumer Duty. The duty, introduced in July 2023, establishes higher expectations for consumer protection across financial services.Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!Mark Francis, director of sell-side markets at the FCA, said: "The Consumer Duty raises the bar for consumer protection across financial services and CFD providers must meet those standards."CFD Providers Criticized Over Fees, TransparencyThe FCA noted that some firms had adopted good practices, such as simplifying fee structures and restricting access for investors unlikely to bear losses. However, the review identified areas requiring improvement. Firms were found to be failing to consider consumer complaints or satisfaction when assessing fair value. Some had made little or no changes to products or services in response to the Consumer Duty.The review also highlighted issues with overnight funding charges. Some firms applied varying levels without clear justification, and disclosure of potentially significant costs was inadequate. Certain providers charged overnight funding separately on matched long and short positions, resulting in ongoing charges with limited benefit to consumers.CFD Providers Must Improve, FCA StatesThe FCA said it would engage directly with firms included in the review to drive improvements. It will also consider further work to address identified issues and take action against firms or individuals that fail to meet required standards.Francis added: "CFDs are complex, risky products and it is vital that providers act to deliver good outcomes for customers, communicate clearly and provide fair value." He further noted: "It is also important that consumers shop around and ensure they fully understand the investment and its costs."Whistleblowing Highlights CFD Compliance Concerns FCAMeanwhile, the FCA reported 315 new whistleblowing cases in Q2 2025, containing 1,130 allegations. Among these, 98 allegations related to Consumer Duty, highlighting continuing concerns about compliance. The authority closed 350 reports in the quarter, taking significant action in eight cases and harm-reducing steps in 147. The FCA emphasized protecting whistleblower identities and using reports to inform its wider regulatory work. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Khaled A'yesh, CEO of FundingPips, has officially announced the launch of his new brokerage platform, Tradin. FundingPips has quickly become one of the leading names in the proprietary trading industry, boasting over 2 million users globally. Tradin is designed with a trader-centric approach, embodying the ethos of "built by traders for traders." The platform emphasizes an exceptional user experience and optimal trading conditions, featuring ultra-tight spreads, instant withdrawals, high-speed execution, and immediate human support. With institutional-grade liquidity, Tradin is committed to delivering a superior trading experience that combines competitive pricing with high-quality, reliable trade execution across various markets.Khaled A'yesh's vision for Tradin is rooted in prioritizing the needs of traders worldwide, ensuring instant funding options and a focus on user satisfaction in all facets of the trading experience.Since its inception, FundingPips has been committed to positively influencing the future of traders by removing obstacles that hinder their success. Ayesh has focused on empowering individuals, ensuring they have a fair opportunity to pursue their dreams while creating opportunities for talented traders in need of support. With FundingPips firmly established on principles of clarity and trust, they are excited to begin a new chapter with Tradin, aimed at further enhancing our contribution to the global trading community."The launch of Tradin represents a significant milestone in our dedication to empowering traders and making a global impact," stated Khaled A'yesh, CEO and Owner of FundingPips. "We have established a brokerage that combines advanced technology and seamless market access with a strong focus on the needs of our trader-clients. Our objective is to eliminate barriers and foster a trading environment that is fair, efficient, reliable, and accessible for traders of all levels.Tradin adopts a trader-client-first approach, enhancing the trading experience through a diverse range of instant funding methods. This commitment streamlines the processes of deposits and withdrawals, ensuring that traders can access the markets swiftly and without unnecessary delays.The launch of Tradin significantly reinforces CEO A'yesh's vision and leadership within the financial industry. Under his guidance, FundingPips has successfully distributed approximately $160 million in rewards to traders and cultivated a thriving community of over 2 million traders across 195 countries in less than three years. A'yesh is now dedicated to expanding his mission to enhance transparency, inclusivity, and efficiency in trading through his brokerage.With FundingPips as a Titanium Sponsor of Forex Expo 2025, it showcased Tradin to the global trading community, highlighting its role as a transformative solution in today's evolving financial landscape.FundingPips has quickly established itself as a leader in the proprietary trading sector by prioritizing transparency, innovation, and the empowerment of its traders. 2 million traders from more than 195 countries have recognized FundingPips as their top choice in prop trading, resulting in the distribution of an impressive $160 million in rewards, all with a strict policy of zero reward denials, underscored by a commitment to transparency and client dedication. FundingPips remains steadfastly focused on trader-oriented solutions, with its team devoted to dismantling barriers and cultivating opportunities for traders at every level. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Gold price surged for a fifth consecutive trading session today (Thursday), November 13, 2025, climbing nearly 1% to reach intraday highs of $4,239.52 per ounce before settling around $4,229.59, marking a dramatic reversal from last month's correction and reigniting the precious metal's historic bull run.The rally has delivered impressive gains of approximately 7% over five sessions, pushing gold back to levels not tested since October 21st and stoking renewed optimism that the metal could challenge its all-time high near $4,400 established in mid-October.In this article, I explore why gold price is going up today, analyze technical chart patterns suggesting further upside potential, and examine institutional forecasts predicting the precious metal could surge another 20% to breach $5,000 per ounce by 2026.Why Gold Price Is Going Up Today?The catalyst behind gold's resurgence centers on the resolution of America's longest government shutdown in history. President Donald Trump signed legislation late Wednesday night, November 12th, officially ending the 43-day impasse that had paralyzed federal operations and created unprecedented economic uncertainty.The House of Representatives voted 222-209 to approve the funding package, which extends government operations through January 30th and includes full-year appropriations for military construction, veterans affairs, and the Department of Agriculture. Speaking from the Oval Office after signing the bill at 10:25 PM EST, Trump stated the government would now "resume normal operations" after "people were hurt so badly" during the extended shutdown.The shutdown's end removes a critical source of data uncertainty that had complicated Federal Reserve policy decisions. According to Eric Chia, Financial Markets Strategist at Exness, "The dollar index edged lower on Thursday as investors remained concerned about the potential weakness in upcoming data, as progress in Washington helped end a government shutdown".Markets are now bracing for a flood of delayed economic reports, including two monthly employment figures and critical inflation data that could reshape rate cut expectations.How High Can Gold Go? Technical Analysis Points to $4,400 RetestBased on my technical analysis of gold's chart patterns, the precious metal has been climbing for five consecutive sessions, gaining 7% during this period and testing levels last seen nearly a month ago on October 21st. As of today, November 13th, 2025, gold is increasing by nearly 1% and establishing session highs at $4,239.52 per ounce, trading around $4,229.59 at the time of writing.As visible on my technical chart, gold is currently consolidating between the $3,900 support zone reinforced by the 50-day exponential moving average and the previous all-time high from October near the $4,400 level.[#highlighted-links#] The current upward movement has a clear path to retest the ATH and enter a price discovery phase, which would align with forecasts from major financial institutions.The current price action suggests gold has established a solid foundation above the psychologically critical $4,000 threshold. The 50 EMA, positioned around $3,830-$3,900, has provided dynamic support during recent pullbacks and represents the first line of defense against any renewed selling pressure.In my earlier analysis of gold, I suggested that Fibonacci extensions point to the possibility of the yellow metal rising to $5,600, which would represent a 40 percent jump from current levels.A disruption to the bullish scenario would occur if gold falls below the current main support area at the 50 EMA, opening the path toward testing the 200 EMA at the $3,440 level, coinciding with peaks drawn from April through July. This entire support zone extends down to $3,273. However, given the current fundamental setup, I would not expect a decline that deep.Federal Reserve Rate Cut Expectations Fuel RallyBeyond shutdown resolution, gold's surge reflects intensifying market conviction that the Federal Reserve will deliver another interest rate reduction in December. CME FedWatch Tool currently shows traders pricing a 63% probability of a 25-basis-point cut at the December FOMC meeting, though some Fed officials have hinted at potentially larger moves.​"Markets responded to Powell's caution by bidding up the U.S. dollar, which has emerged as the primary headwind for Bitcoin. However, gold remains the trusted store of value, while Bitcoin continues to mirror broader risk sentiment, reacting to liquidity swings and dollar strength rather than insulating against them,” Jorge Schnura, President of Keyrock Asset and Wealth Management, explained the dynamics at play.Lower interest rates fundamentally support gold by reducing the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets. When bond yields and savings rates decline, gold's lack of income generation becomes less of a disadvantage, making the precious metal more attractive relative to interest-bearing alternatives.​"Gold is reflecting broader market uncertainty, driven by global tariffs, interest rates, and monetary policy shift,” Mamadou Kwidjim Toure, Founder and CEO at Ubuntu Group, commented for FinanceMagnates.com. “It continues to serve as a proven hedge against inflation, a role it has held for decades. Rising gold prices often act as a benchmark for other assets like Bitcoin, influencing long-term portfolio diversification strategies".The combination of strong investor inflows, heightened trading activity, and broad-based central bank accumulation has positioned 2025 as one of gold's most dynamic years on record, with both institutional and sovereign players reinforcing its role as a hedge against uncertainty.Gold Price PredictionBullish Forecasts Target $5,000+Despite recent volatility, major financial institutions maintain aggressively bullish outlooks for gold through 2026, with several forecasts suggesting the precious metal could surge another 20% or more from current levels to breach $5,000 per ounce.JP Morgan delivered perhaps the most bullish projection, forecasting gold could average $5,055 per ounce by Q4 2026, supported by investor interest and central bank purchases averaging approximately 566 tons each quarter throughout 2026. The bank maintains a longer-term target of $6,000 per ounce by 2028, urging investors to adopt a multi-year perspective.Natasha Kaneva, head of Global Commodities Strategy at JP Morgan, stated: "Gold remains our conviction long for the year. We see upside as the market enters the Fed rate-cutting cycle". Goldman Sachs projects similar upside, targeting $5,055 by late 2026, citing "strong Western ETF inflows and continued central bank buying as the drivers" while noting that "risks to this forecast remain skewed to the upside because private sector diversification into the relatively small gold market may push ETF holdings higher than expected".Bank of America raised its 2026 forecast to $5,000 per ounce with an average around $4,400, acknowledging the possibility of short-term corrections but remaining optimistic about further gains by 2026. The bank highlighted that "a 10-15% increase in investment demand—similar to this year's trend—could elevate gold to $5,000 per ounce".Major Institution Gold Price Forecasts TableGold Prices, FAQWhy is gold surging today?Gold surged for a fifth consecutive session (+7% over five days) to $4,229.59 following President Trump signing legislation November 12th ending 43-day government shutdown (longest in US history), removing data uncertainty that complicated Federal Reserve policy decisions while traders price 63% probability of December rate cut (25 basis points), reducing opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets.How high can gold price go?Technical analysis identifies clear path to retest all-time high near $4,382 and enter price discovery phase, with institutional forecasts targeting $5,000-$5,055 by Q4 2026 (19.5% upside), supported by JP Morgan's conviction trade recommendation and Goldman Sachs projection citing strong Western ETF inflows ($8.2 billion October) and central bank purchases (200 tonnes year-to-date).Is the gold rally sustainable?Gold ETFs attracted five consecutive months of inflows through October 2025 with North American funds seeing $6.5 billion despite 5% price pullback, while central banks reported highest 2025 monthly purchases (39 tonnes September), with Poland (67 tonnes), Kazakhstan (40 tonnes) leading year-to-date accumulation of 200 tonnes, demonstrating institutional confidence in long-term trajectory regardless of volatility.Should I buy gold now?Yes. Current consolidation between $3,900 support (50 EMA) and $4,400 previous ATH represents attractive entry zone according to technical analysis, with Morgan Stanley's $4,400 average 2026 forecast (+6.4%), Bank of America's $5,000 peak target (+18.2%), and JP Morgan's $6,000 by 2028 suggesting multi-year bull market intact, though investors should monitor December Fed decision and delayed economic data releases. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Glover brings a wealth of expertise in auditing and hands-on FX product control.OnePrime, a provider of CFD liquidity and custom technology solutions to the brokerage sector and part of the OneRoyal Group run by Royal Financial Trading Pty Ltd, announces the appointment of long-serving senior executive Mark Glover. This follows OneRoyal’s Katalina Pantea’s extension to OnePrime Head of Compliance in June 2025 and marks a strategic move as OnePrime expands its operations.Joining the company as Financial Controller, Glover is an experienced and highly skilled financial professional with a deep understanding of the derivatives market. He started his career as an auditor at Deloitte in South Africa and held multiple senior and executive roles at various global financial institutions. In the early 2000s, Glover’s career took a remarkable turn. After qualifying as a chrtered accountant, he moved to London, which was emerging as a main financial and fintech hub. The City offered Glover further growth at brokerage firms and other reputed financial institutions. It was only the beginning of an exciting journey that would take him overseas.Asked to briefly describe that period, Glover said, “I did several contracts at banks and brokers and enjoyed the fast pace of the industry, with minimal knowledge of the financial products. I saw this industry as one that would constantly challenge me and offer limitless learning potential."New opportunities then started to unfold. After completing his engagements in London, Glover moved to Melbourne, where he was offered senior roles at Rabobank and Deutsche Bank. Stretching over 10 years, both corporate tenures offered him “a great training ground” and hands-on expertise in product control, as he was “exposed to many financial instruments,” which required him to “understand the full end-to-end cycle of each product.” As he pointed out himself, it was an enriching and enjoyable experience. Particularly, “the focus on daily reporting and working daily with people across finance, risk, and front office operations.” It was the perfect way to build “great relationships and learn a lot more than just accounting. However, there's nothing like an angry trader to accelerate your learning curve," Glover humorously reflects.A decade in the big corporate environment opened his appetite for less conventional, smaller and arguably more agile fintech firms. This led him to pursue further growth as a Financial Controller with market players like Axitrader and Invast Global (rebranded to “26 Degrees”). “However, there's nothing like an angry trader to accelerate your learning curve."Working in an always-on FX environment like Axitrader can be both a strife and an enriching yet fun experience. From the position of the Financial Controller, Glover has candidly captured this serendipity, while also highlighting the importance of constant learning: "I was lucky to work with some industry veterans at Axitrader and learnt so much about the derivative trading industry and AFSL compliance. Fintechs are nimble, and everything happens quickly, which comes with new challenges. What I enjoy most is being involved in all aspects of the business, instead of feeling like just a small cog in a massive machine."Before joining OnePrime, Glover was Head of Finance at Thorn Group Limited, an Australian exchange-listed financial firm. Beyond ASX and APRA reporting and “endless audits,” he oversaw “a ledger implementation and a debtor financing system.” All these experiences have equipped Glover with the know-how and expertise of an all-round financial professional. Seasoned in accounting, revenue and cost control, business reporting, analysis and FX product control, Glover is ready to start a new chapter at OnePrime:"I'm excited to join OnePrime at this time. With so many promising initiatives in motion, I’m excited to work alongside a strong team to build a robust foundation that enables the company to scale effortlessly."Welcoming Mark Glover to OnePrime, Jerry Khargi, Executive Director of OnePrime, commented:“I am honoured to welcome Mark Glover to the team. He is a strategic addition to OnePrime’s Financial Control team as we seek to reinforce our position in the industry and regionally in Australia, where Mr. Glover is based.”About OnePrimeOnePrime is a brand operated within the OneRoyal Group by Royal Financial Trading Pty Ltd, providing tailored liquidity and trading infrastructure solutions to emerging and established forex brokers globally. Operating under an ASIC licence, OnePrime helps clients optimise execution, manage risk, and scale with confidence. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

British consumers are keeping hundreds of billions of pounds out of stocks and other investments largely because they fear falling victim to online scams, according to new research from Capital.com.Scam Concerns Keep £610 Billion in UK Savings AccountsThe survey of 1,004 UK adults found that 34% of conservative investors cited worries about potential fraud as the primary reason they avoid investing beyond basic savings accounts. That figure topped concerns about market volatility, economic uncertainty, and product complexity, marking a shift in how consumers evaluate financial risk.About eight in 10 British adults feel too nervous to invest, with the research showing that confusion and misinformation create bigger obstacles than actual product performance or market conditions. Only 13% of people who limit themselves to traditional savings products like Individual Savings Accounts and pensions feel confident about their investment knowledge.The fear is not unfounded. According to data from industry body UK Finance, Britons lost £1.17 billion to financial fraud and scams in 2024, with 2.6 million savers falling victim, a 22% increase from the previous year.This is another study of the British market conducted by Capital.com, following the September report that found UK traders use stop-losses 60% more often than others, which in turn helps them achieve profits more frequently.Security Concerns Trump Market RiskThe research suggests that fraud anxiety now plays a more decisive role than conventional investment worries in keeping people on the sidelines.[#highlighted-links#] Conservative savers express roughly equal concern about online scams and actual investment losses, a pattern that doesn't hold for more experienced investors who view scams as just one risk among many.Another significant issue is the lack of education. Capital.com CEO Rupert Osborne said the findings point to a fundamental knowledge problem rather than pure risk appetite. "When nearly nine in 10 can't tell the difference between the risk of investing in FTSE-listed companies and speculative crypto assets, it's clear the education gap is costing the economy," he said.The research comes as regulators and policymakers push to unlock what the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Barclays recently quantified as £610 billion sitting in excess cash savings held by roughly 15 million UK adults. Chancellor Rachel Reeves last month backed a new advertising campaign to encourage stock and share investment, while the government released its Financial Inclusion Strategy 2025, which calls for mandatory financial literacy teaching in English schools by 2028.Confidence Gaps Widen With ComplexityFamiliarity with financial products drops sharply as complexity increases. While 88% of conservative investors feel very familiar with standard savings accounts, that figure falls to under 10% for stocks, exchange-traded funds, and other investment vehicles.The survey found that 92% of low-risk investors view cryptocurrencies and alternative assets as extremely high risk, with 87% placing publicly traded stocks in the same category. This lumping together of vastly different asset classes suggests confusion rather than sophisticated risk assessment.Mid-level investors who already hold some investments beyond pensions and ISAs show notably different patterns. While 45% of conservative savers say investing feels too complex or difficult to navigate, only 22% of mid-level investors share that view. The gap extends to understanding inflation's impact on cash savings — a concept that mid-level investors grasp intuitively but that conservative savers only recognize when explicitly explained.The research, titled "Fear or Fortune?", was conducted between December 2024 and February 2025 using focus groups and a nationally representative online survey. It covered both conservative investors limited to traditional savings products and mid-level investors with exposure to stocks, bonds, or other assets beyond basic accounts. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Deriv has been named Global Best Trading Conditions 2025 at the Finance Magnates Annual Awards, recognising its outstanding commitment to providing traders worldwide with fair, transparent, and high-performance trading environments.For 25 years, Deriv has stood out as a trusted global trading platform, committed to making online trading accessible to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Serving more than 3 million traders, Deriv offers over 300 assets across major markets, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Its clients benefit from tight spreads, fast execution, and reliable access through its award-winning trading platforms.This award highlights Deriv’s dedication to excellence in market execution, pricing transparency, and liquidity, key factors that make a real difference for both new and experienced traders. By consistently investing in advanced trading infrastructure and client-driven innovation, Deriv continues to set the bar high for quality and trust in online trading.About DerivFor 25 years, Deriv has been committed to making online trading accessible to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Trusted by over 3 million traders worldwide, the company offers a wide range of trade types and more than 300 assets on award-winning, intuitive trading platforms. Deriv’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction has earned it multiple industry awards, including Best Trading Experience Global, Most Innovative Broker MEA, and Best CFD Broker LATAM.About the Finance Magnates AwardsThe Finance Magnates Awards spotlight the leading brands and individuals shaping the future of the global financial industry. The awards are decided through a transparent three-stage process of nominations, community voting, and expert panel evaluation, ensuring that each recognition is earned through both industry respect and real-world results.The winners were revealed during the Finance Magnates Awards Gala Dinner, held on 6 November 2025 at Carob Mill, Limassol, where top executives and innovators gathered to celebrate leadership and performance in finance.Established in 2009, Finance Magnates stands at the forefront of financial news and industry events, connecting leaders across online trading, fintech, payments, and crypto. The Finance Magnates Annual Awards celebrate excellence, leadership, and innovation within the financial sector through a fair and transparent selection process.See All Finance Magnates Awards 2025 WinnersTo view the full list of Finance Magnates Awards 2025 winners, visit the official winners page: This article was written by Finance Magnates Staff at www.financemagnates.com.

Phillip Securities has picked Integral to power its entry into institutional foreign exchange (FX) trading, adding technology infrastructure to support larger clients and higher trading volumes.The Singapore brokerage, which has historically concentrated on retail customers, will use Integral's pricing and distribution systems to handle FX contract-for-difference trades for institutional clients. The move builds on Phillip Securities' existing equity CFD business and follows similar technology adoptions by sister companies Phillip Nova and Phillip Securities Japan, both of which already run Integral's systems.Phillip Securities Adds Institutional CapacityThe Integral platform will let Phillip Securities route real-time price feeds to institutional clients and other entities within the PhillipCapital Group. Clients will be able to trade FX instruments through direct market access, a model that's been picking up users across Asia-Pacific markets looking for faster execution and transparent pricing.The brokerage can also add more FX products down the road without overhauling its systems, thanks to the platform's flexibility. That matters as Phillip Securities tries to serve a broader range of clients while managing the operational complexity that comes with institutional volumes."Diversifying into the institutional markets is a key pillar of our development strategy, and Integral's solutions give us the pricing precision and distribution efficiency to deliver an institutional-grade FX capability that meets the expectations of today's professional clients," said Luke Lim, managing director of Phillip Securities.Axi, CFI and Taurex are just a few of the big names that have recently taken similar steps. Why are CFD brokers going “insti”? According to Gold-i CEO Tom Higgins, professional clients “understand the markets far better than retail clients, so they cause fewer issues.”Two other PhillipCapital units have already integrated Integral's technology for their FX operations, giving Phillip Securities a preview of how the systems work within the group's structure. The setup lets the Singapore entity distribute pricing across the organization's network, which spans 15 countries and serves more than 1.5 million clients with over $65 billion in assets under management.Technology Provider Expands Asia FootprintIntegral, a Palo Alto-based firm founded in 1993, provides currency technology to banks, brokers and payment companies. The company operates from offices in six cities, including Singapore and Tokyo, and counts hundreds of financial institutions as clients.Harpal Sandhu, Integral's chief executive, said the partnership shows how the company's tools have performed for other PhillipCapital entities. "To excel in institutional markets, garnering the trust of clients is key," Sandhu said. "The reliability and efficiency of Integral's technology will support Phillip Securities in securing this trust."A few months ago, Integral also entered into a partnership with the Singapore-based brokerage Straits Financial Services.In the meantime, the company has launched direct connectivity to CME Group's primary foreign exchange trading venues, giving its clients immediate access to two major liquidity pools. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Why emotional discipline, not just strategy, separates success from failure.A trader sits before a screen, armed with a meticulously researched strategy. Every indicator has been checked, every risk parameter set. The plan is flawless. Then, the market moves unexpectedly and a sudden surge of fear, or a rush of greed, hijacks the decision. The plan is abandoned, and the trade ends in a loss. This scenario is not a failure of technical analysis but a failure of psychology. The financial markets are not just an arena of numbers and charts but an arena of human emotion. For every trader, the most significant battle is not with the market, but with the mind.Mindset: The unseen variableTechnical analysis, economic calendars, and sophisticated risk models are foundational tools for any trader. Yet, their effectiveness is often neutralised by an unseen variable: the trader's psychological state. The Corporate Finance Institute notes that trading psychology is a critical factor that can determine the outcome of a trade, as emotions such as nervousness, fear, and greed often compromise performance.Fear and greed are primary emotional drivers that cloud judgment. Fear can lead to premature exits from profitable positions or an inability to enter a valid trade. Greed can push a trader to take excessive risks, overleverage their account, or hold a winning position for too long until it reverses. Even experienced professionals must constantly manage these internal struggles to act rationally under pressure. Success in trading depends heavily on a trader’s ability to develop emotional discipline and operate with a calm, objective mindset.​The cognitive traps that sabotage decisionsBeyond overt emotions, traders fall prey to subtle cognitive biases that distort their perception of reality. Behavioural finance, a field that merges psychology with economics, helps explain why traders make irrational decisions. Recognising these ingrained mental shortcuts is the first step toward mitigating their impact.​One of the most common patterns is the disposition effect, where traders show a tendency to sell winning assets too early while holding onto losing assets for too long. This behaviour is rooted in prospect theory, which suggests that people feel the pain of a loss more intensely than the pleasure of an equivalent gain. This "loss aversion" causes traders to take bigger risks to avoid realising a loss, hoping a losing position will turn around, even when evidence suggests otherwise.Other biases include anchoring, where a trader becomes fixated on an initial piece of information, like a purchase price, and fails to adjust their view based on new market data. Confirmation biasis equally damaging. This is the tendency to seek out and interpret information that confirms one's existing beliefs, while ignoring contradictory evidence. A trader who believes a stock will rise will notice every positive news story and dismiss any negative signals, creating a flawed and incomplete picture of the market.Emotional regulation as a market toolThe financial markets are inherently volatile. A trader who can regulate stress, resist impulse, and maintain discipline is better positioned to navigate drawdowns and achieve consistency. This emotional resilience is more of a skill that can be developed, rather than a personality trait.The somatic marker hypothesis links bodily emotional responses to decision-making. A racing heart or a knot in the stomach are physiological signals that can mislead traders into making fear-based decisions if not properly understood and managed. Research conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic further highlights this connection. Studies found that periods of intense negative investor sentiment correlated with lower market returns, demonstrating how collective psychology can impact the market on a grand scale.In extreme cases, problematic trading can even resemble behavioural addiction patterns, reinforcing the need for self-regulation, boundaries, and awareness. True trading resilience comes from the ability to stay detached and execute a plan, regardless of the emotional noise.The power of self-awarenessBefore applying any new strategy, a trader must first look inward. Self-awareness is the primary line of defence against emotional trading and cognitive biases. This involves understanding personal emotional triggers, stress responses, and inherent decision-making patterns. A trading journal, for instance, is a powerful tool for tracking not just trades, but the emotions and thoughts that accompanied them, revealing patterns that would otherwise go unnoticed.​Financial literacy plays a moderating role. Research shows that a deeper understanding of financial concepts can help reduce the effect of biases on investment decisions. Awareness extends to social influences as well. A behavioural experiment found that retail investors who were exposed to the high returns of others took on more risk and felt less satisfied with their own results. This "upward social comparison" highlights how external pressures can warp a trader's risk appetite and judgment. Building awareness helps a trader filter out that noise and focus on their own process.A broker that builds resilient tradersRecognising that a trader’s mindset is a core component of success is what separates forward-thinking brokers from the rest. While many focus solely on platforms and technology, leaders in the industry are providing the tools and education necessary to build psychologically resilient traders.T4Trade has established itself as a broker that champions this behavioural edge. The company understands that long-term success is built on a foundation of knowledge that includes trading psychology and emotional intelligence. By offering comprehensive educational resources, market analysis, and tutorials, T4Trade equips traders with the insights needed to navigate both the markets and their own minds. This commitment to education goes beyond charts and indicators, fostering a community of smarter, more self-aware traders. This approach, which focuses on developing the person behind the trade, is becoming a key differentiator in the financial industry.​Ultimately, the journey to becoming a consistently successful trader is an internal one. It requires a commitment to mastering not just market mechanics, but the complexities of human psychology. With the right educational support, traders can learn to manage their emotions, recognise their biases, and cultivate the discipline needed to execute their strategies with clarity and confidence.To learn more about developing a professional trading mindset, visit T4Trade’s educational resources. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Prestigious industry awards in Cyprus highlight the group's global growth and dedication to trader success.On 6 November, the global financial technology community gathered in Limassol, Cyprus, for the annual Finance Magnates Awards, an evening dedicated to recognising the firms shaping the future of trading. For years, these awards have served as a benchmark for performance and innovation in a sector defined by rapid change. As industry leaders and professionals convened, the focus was on which companies had truly set themselves apart over the past year. Amid a field of distinguished nominees, two names emerged to claim some of the night's most coveted titles: OneRoyalOneRoyal and its liquidity arm, OnePrime. The dual accolades highlight a period of significant achievement for the brands, validating their strategic focus on technological advancement and superior service delivery.OnePrime: The engine of elite tradingOnePrime was awarded "Best Trading Infrastructure Provider 2025," a significant recognition of its work in building the systems that power modern trading. This award celebrates the behind-the-scenes architecture that ensures stability, speed, and reliability for brokers and their clients. In financial markets, where milliseconds can translate into substantial market movements, the quality of trading infrastructure is paramount. It forms the foundation upon which all trading activities are built, from order execution to data processing. The award acknowledges OnePrime’s success in delivering a robust and sophisticated framework that meets the demands of a global client base. This recognition from Finance Magnates, an authority in the fintech space, underscores OnePrime's position as a premier provider in the B2B liquidity and technology sector. The platform, available at www.onepeime.pro, has become synonymous with performance and dependability.OneRoyal: A new standard for innovation in MENAIn a testament to its client-facing achievements, OneRoyal secured the award for "Most Innovative Broker MENA 2025." This honour speaks directly to the company's efforts in one of the world's most dynamic and fast-growing regions. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) market is characterised by a diverse and digitally savvy population of traders who demand advanced tools and tailored services. Winning this category required demonstrating a clear commitment to pushing boundaries and introducing new solutions that empower traders. Whether through its proprietary AI-driven tools, educational resources, or a seamless user experience, OneRoyal has established itself as a forward-thinking broker. This award validates the company's regional strategy and its ability to understand and respond to the specific needs of its clients. It also reinforces the brand’s reputation for combining cutting-edge technology with a human-centric approach to service, a balance that has resonated deeply within the MENA trading community.The significance of industry recognitionThe Finance Magnates Awards are a reflection of industry-wide sentiment, combining votes from community members and an expert panel. This dual-system approach ensures that winners are recognised for both client satisfaction and peer-reviewed excellence. For OneRoyal and OnePrime, these awards serve as independent verification of their strategic direction. The recognition for "Best Trading Infrastructure Provider" affirms OnePrime’s technical proficiency and reliability, critical factors for its institutional partners. Simultaneously, the "Most Innovative Broker MENA" award highlights OneRoyal's success in translating that powerful infrastructure into tangible benefits for retail traders. Together, the accolades paint a picture of a cohesive organisation that excels at both the foundational and application layers of the trading journey. This external validation strengthens the trust that clients place in the brands and reinforces their growing influence on the global stage.A foundation of trust and a vision for the futureIn response to the win, a spokesperson for OnePrime expressed gratitude to the clients and partners who have been integral to this journey. "This award is both rewarding and motivating. Our goal has always been to empower brokers and their traders with the best possible technology and liquidity, and this recognition confirms we are on the right path.”Along the same lines, a spokesperson for OneRoyalOneRoyal commented on the meaning of the award. “The innovation award for OneRoyal demonstrates our dedication to creating an exceptional trading experience doesn’t go unnoticed. It validates our team’s work, but more than anything, it fuels our resolve to achieve more as we continue to innovate."This dual success is both a milestone and a catalyst for future growth. With a reinforced mission and validated approach, OneRoyal is poised to continue its expansion across key markets, including the GCC, SEA, and LATAM regions. For more information on their award-winning services, visit oneroyal.com/en. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Funtico has opened the token presale for Earth Version 2 (EV2), the studio’s forthcoming multiplayer sci-fi MMO. The sale offers early access to $EV2 – the token that drives the game’s economy – with 40% of the fixed 2.88 billion supply allocated to presale buyers.$EV2 will function as the in-game currency for upgrades, item crafting, and marketplace activity. Purchases during the presale can be made using ETH, USDT, USDC, BTC, BNB, SOL, SUPER, or via credit card. This flexible payment structure is designed to make participation straightforward for players who may not be familiar with crypto, lowering the barriers typically associated with Web3 presales. Purchases of over $1K will be awarded an additional 10% bonus in the form of TICO tokens.Earth Version 2 is set on a newly discovered planet where human explorers uncover remnants of an advanced alien civilization. The game mixes shooter mechanics and progression-based play with class roles and customizable gear. By focusing on high-visual fidelity and intensive combat, Funtico aims to deliver a gaming experience aligned with mainstream titles rather than the typical browser-based Web3 model.The project arrives at a moment of meaningful growth for the Web3 gaming category. Major publishers and investors have increasingly turned their attention toward decentralized platforms, where digital asset ownership and player-driven economies become more relevant to how games monetize and retain communities.EV2 builds upon this shift by enabling players to own their in-game progress – but without requiring prior blockchain knowledge. A streamlined login process, traditional store listings, and multi-currency checkout support are intended to meet gamers where they already play, instead of pushing them into crypto-native flows.EV2 introduces five playable classes – Brute, Cloaker, Mag, Pathfinder, and Valkyrie – that offer distinct combat roles ranging from tanking to stealth, support, and tactical drone deployment. Battles take place across multiple modes. Oblivion centers on team-based combat within a shrinking map, while Fracture is a 25-player free-for-all where everyone is hunting for glowing cubes. Players must collect two of each color to reveal a secret relic, but dying resets their progress.The rollout of EV2 follows a detailed timeline, starting with gameplay testing and presale onboarding which is currently underway. Partnership activity and additional ecosystem development are planned for Q1 2026 and the full launch and token generation event will take place in Q2, followed by tournaments, seasonal content, and integration of limited-edition digital asset bundles available to presale participants.Following earlier titles released on Avalanche, the $EV2 token will be issued on Ethereum. The move positions EV2 within one of the most active trading ecosystems, maximizing liquidity and reach ahead of launch. The game is scheduled for release on PC through Funtico, Steam, and the Epic Games Store, with console support planned at a later stage.The EV2 presale is now live at https://ev2.funtico.com/ About EV2Developed by Funtico, Earth Version 2 (EV2) is an MMORPG powered by the $EV2 token in which character actions and core features are recorded onchain. The Web3 game, which fuses blockchain features such as true player ownership with seamless onboarding, is set in a cosmic battlefield where alien invasion threatens humanity. Players must gather alien tech, build their personalized EV2 suit, and face the invaders head-on. Skill-based PvE modes and tournaments enable players to compete for collectibles while fighting to save humanity. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Polymarket has started accepting real bets from select US users as the crypto-based prediction platform tests its American exchange ahead of a full reopening next month.The platform is running what founder Shayne Coplan calls a beta test, matching actual trades between users on event outcomes. Speaking at Cantor Fitzgerald's Crypto & AI Infrastructure Conference in Miami, Coplan said the exchange is "actually live and operational" with people being onboarded to place bets on real contracts.The soft launch marks Polymarket's return to American soil after leaving in 2022 when the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) hit the company with a $1.4 million fine for operating without proper licenses. The platform spent three years offshore before buying QCX, a firm with CFTC approval to run a derivatives exchange and clearinghouse.Competition Intensifies for Prediction Market ShareThe timing puts Polymarket in a crowded field. Kalshi has served US customers for years, while FanDuel announced Wednesday it will roll out its own prediction market product in December, partnering the derivatives giant CME. The sector has attracted renewed attention after Polymarket processed billions of dollars in election-related bets during last year's presidential race.Earlier this month, two cryptocurrency exchanges also announced plans to enter the space: Crypto.com made its move in early November, followed last week by Gemini, the exchange founded by the Winklevoss brothers.In addition, Polymarket revealed a partnership with Yahoo Finance on Tuesday, becoming the financial news site's exclusive prediction market partner. Coplan said "deep integrations" between the platforms are coming soon.Polymarket is now the exclusive prediction market partner of @YahooFinanceDeep integrations coming soon ? https://t.co/oOT8EbPtas— Shayne Coplan ? (@shayne_coplan) November 13, 2025The company positions itself differently from traditional sportsbooks by letting users trade directly with each other rather than betting against the house. In Polymarket's exchange model, users set their own prices and can take either side of an outcome, similar to how stock exchanges operate."I don't think anyone would argue that the sports book model is the optimal model," Coplan said. "There's a monopoly on pricing. You trade against the house every time and they can set whatever prices they want and to make matters worse, if you make any money, they can ban you."Regulatory Path Clears After Federal ScrutinyFederal agencies dropped separate investigations into Polymarket earlier this year, removing obstacles to a US return. The Justice Department and CFTC both closed their probes before the company acquired QCX's regulatory approvals.Coplan claims the company moved faster than any previous entrant in getting a CFTC-approved exchange operational. "Definitely a difficult task, but our team has been incredible and made that happen," he said.The platform has been shopping a funding round that would value it between $12 billion and $15 billion. Intercontinental Exchange, which owns the New York Stock Exchange, committed up to $2 billion in October. That investment made the 26-year-old Coplan one of the youngest self-made billionaires.Whether Polymarket can convert its offshore user base and brand recognition into domestic market share remains uncertain. The platform must compete against entrenched gambling operators with established customer bases while navigating state-by-state wagering regulations that vary across the country.Not to mention another pressing issue that many seem to overlook: is this even trading anymore? This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Interest in proprietary trading, more commonly known as prop trading, has grown exponentially over the past five years. Originally more of a niche product for professionals, it has seen rapid adoption amongst retail traders owing to how it makes online markets more accessible to a wider audience. This growth has led to the prop trading market being valued at over $10 billion in 2025, driven by remote accessibility, digital platforms, and new evolutions in trading technology.Prop trading firms like the award-winning Ultimate Traders are revolutionising the industry by transforming trading from a wealth-based undertaking into a skill-based one. This reshaping of the retail trading landscape echoes the changes seen in the broader fintech industry over the last decade, where increased participation has been driven by a greater focus on accessibility and transparency.Democratising Market Access By Removing Capital RestrictionsOne of the main barriers people have traditionally faced in online trading is restrictions on capital. With certain minimum deposits and trading volumes required by online brokers, those with less funds have often been left out in the cold. Prop trading firms like Ultimate Traders are eliminating this barrier by offering qualified traders access to company-funded accounts. This means market access is no longer tied to the size of someone’s bank account, but to how skilled they are at trading.By rewarding process-based performance and introducing accountability and consistency metrics, Ultimate Traders are redefining what the future of trading looks like. This “learn-to-earn” model means success is now based on skill, repeatability, and discipline, rather than luck and financial advantages. The firm’s model sets a new global standard, one that’s based on simple rules, accessible funding, and trader-first education. Its flexible challenges, Classic and Speedy, cater to different experience levels and risk appetites, allowing retail traders to move at their own pace and reach their financial goals.The Importance Of Data & Technology To Trader EmpowermentProp firms like Ultimate Traders are now operating more as performance ecosystems. By investing in and utilising the latest technology, they are helping reshape and improve trader performance. With tools like modern AI analytics, in-depth data dashboards, and real-time feedback systems, traders now have more information than ever to help guide and optimise their decision-making in the markets. This can help them notice potential missteps sooner, while opening up new investment opportunities that they may not have noticed otherwise.Access to this additional data alongside a structured and transparent evaluation path helps traders build confidence, not just in the firm, but in themselves and their abilities. By being able to clearly measure their progress and adapt strategies on the fly, traders can grow and develop in a stable environment without the threat or worry of uncertainty.The Global Growth Of The Funded-Trader ModelThe prop trading revolution isn’t just limited to Western markets. There has been massive growth in the funded-trader model in many emerging markets as well, including Asia, Latin America, and Africa. These regions have often suffered from much higher fees and capital requirements when it comes to traditional online trading, intensified further by weakness in local currencies and the ever-changing import-export landscape. As a result, greater desire for market accessibility, high mobile penetration, and increased local awareness have led to prop trading seeing high rates of adoption among retail traders in these regions. Southeast Asia specifically has seen some of the highest growth in this regard, driven by greater interest in the latest fintech developments, alongside more favourable market regulation.Ultimate Traders Leads The Way As An Industry VisionaryWith prop trading and the funded-trader model set to revolutionise the fintech industry in 2026, Ultimate Traders is leading the way. By offering a supportive trading environment that removes capital restrictions and rewards trading skill and consistent development, the firm is redefining retail trading for a new generation. By focusing on offering clear rules, easy funding, and comprehensive education, Ultimate Traders is investing in the success of its clients, helping them grow as traders and achieve their financial goals one step at a time.Visit UltimateTraders.com to explore funded trading opportunities. Learn more about Ultimate Traders and become part of the next generation of prop traders by visiting www.ultimatetraders.com.For industry insights and trader success stories, follow Ultimate Traders on LinkedIn. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

The prediction markets app targets sports bettors in states where online wagering remains illegal while offering trades on financial benchmarks.CME Group and FanDuel announced plans to launch a prediction markets platform in December, aiming to blur the traditional boundaries between financial derivatives and sports betting. The partnership pairs the century-old Chicago derivatives exchange with North America's largest online gambling operator to offer so-called event contracts starting at one cent per trade.Still Investing or Already Gambling?The deal raises questions about why a derivatives marketplace typically serving institutional clients and sophisticated traders would join forces with a company built on daily fantasy sports and wagering to launch FanDuel Predicts.It will function as a standalone mobile app offering contracts on sports outcomes, stock indexes, commodity prices, and economic data."Our new event contracts on benchmarks, economic indicators and now sports will appeal to a new generation of potential participants who are not active in these markets today," CME Chairman and CEO Terry Duffy said in a statement. "This launch will dramatically expand our distribution and reach, connecting directly with FanDuel's millions of registered U.S. users."The question of whether prediction markets still fall under investing or have already crossed into gambling first came up for me in April. Since then, the industry has grown rapidly, but recent moves suggest it is shifting toward the latter.This is especially evident when the largest market operator, Kalshi, chooses a poker legend to help run its platform, and Robinhood introduces contracts such as “Will the United States say that aliens exist this year?” These kinds of wagers resemble gambling far more than investing.In states where online sports betting remains illegal, users of FanDuel Predict will be able to trade contracts on baseball, basketball, football and hockey games. The companies plan to stop offering sports contracts in those jurisdictions once online betting becomes legal there.Customers will also be able to trade contracts tied to the S&P 500, Nasdaq-100, oil and gas prices, gold, cryptocurrencies, and indicators like GDP and consumer price data. Stakes range from as little as one cent to 99 cents.Regulatory Hurdles Cloud Launch PlansThe venture operates in a gray area that has drawn federal scrutiny. In September, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission issued an advisory warning companies offering sports event contracts to prepare for potential market disruptions stemming from state-level challenges and ongoing litigation.A group of U.S. senators sent a letter to the CFTC in September challenging the agency's oversight of prediction markets, arguing these platforms circumvent state gambling laws by offering yes-or-no contracts. The lawmakers accused event contract issuers of avoiding "myriad state laws, including licensing and background investigations, minimum age requirements, federal anti-money laundering rules, and consumer protections."The CFTC has not formally approved sports event contracts or determined whether they violate the Commodity Exchange Act's prohibition on contracts based on "gaming." The agency noted in its advisory that outstanding litigation "should be accounted for with appropriate contingency planning, disclosures, and risk management policies and procedures."Kalshi, a prediction market operator, has been locked in legal battles with both the CFTC and state regulators. Robinhood suspended its event contracts launch in February, one day after introduction, following a CFTC request.Second Attempt at Sports Market EntryCME and FanDuel first announced their partnership in August, though details remained sparse until this week. CME has operated event contracts since September 2022, targeting retail investors with payouts capped at $100 per contract. The FanDuel collaboration represents the exchange's largest push to reach mainstream consumers outside traditional trading circles.FanDuel has approximately 17 million customers across all 50 states and operates 25 retail locations. The company is owned by Flutter Entertainment, which trades on both the New York Stock Exchange and London Stock Exchange.FanDuel plans to extend its consumer protection program to the new app, including deposit limits, spending alerts, and self-exclusion options. Customers must complete a "Know Your Customer" verification process that requires birth date, Social Security number, home address, banking information and valid identification.The app will include educational resources about prediction markets and how to buy and sell event contracts. Customers can set deposit limits that apply across all FanDuel products."We can't wait to bring FanDuel's proven approach to product innovation into this dynamic sector," FanDuel CEO Amy Howe said. "Our partnership with CME Group allows us to leverage their deep market expertise built over decades while delivering the seamless, accessible and trusted experience our customers expect."Hot Prediction MarketsAnd although FanDuel speaks confidently about KYC and education, the end user is still receiving a product rooted in gambling, somewhat similar to the now-banned binary options that circulated in Europe several years ago.These uncertainties, including regulatory ones, have not discouraged more companies from joining the accelerating trend. In November, the cryptocurrency exchange Gemini announced plans to launch its own prediction markets, and a week earlier a similar move was made by another digital-asset platform, Crypto.com.The platform is slated to launch in December, subject to appropriate regulatory filings. Neither company disclosed financial terms of the partnership. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Dr Markus Dennler will step down as Swissquote’s Chairperson when his current term ends, as he will “reach the age limit in 2026.” He will not seek re-election at the company’s upcoming annual general meeting.Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!A New Name in LineThe board of the Switzerland-listed brokerage and online banking group has proposed Hans-Rudolf Köng as the next Chairman. Köng joined the board in May 2025.Dr Dennler joined Swissquote’s board in 2005 and has served as Chairman since 2019, succeeding Mario Fontana.“It has been a privilege to contribute to Swissquote’s remarkable growth in recent years,” Dr Dennler said. “After more than twenty years on the Board, the time feels right to pass the torch.”Although Dr Dennler was a non-executive, his tenure as Chairman coincided with Swissquote’s share price rising by more than 1,100 percent. The company also reported significant growth in both revenue and profits.FinanceMagnates.com previously reported that Swissquote generated CHF 358.2 million ($444.2 million) in revenue in the first half of 2025, with a pre-tax profit of CHF 185.2 million ($229.6 million). The firm also raised its full-year pre-tax profit guidance to CHF 365 million ($452.6 million) from CHF 355 million ($440.2 million).Another Veteran to Take the TorchKöng is best known for leading PostFinance, a major Swiss financial institution, where he served as CEO for 12 years before retiring in 2024.Swissquote and PostFinance have maintained close ties. The two firms jointly launched the digital finance platform Yuh in 2021, before Swissquote acquired PostFinance’s stake earlier this year. Yuh also achieved profitability in 2025. This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.

Pepperstone’s Group CEO, Tamas Szabo, said the broker is forced to take down scam websites and fake social media accounts impersonating the firm almost every day. In a LinkedIn post on Wednesday, Szabo said the impersonation attempts target both Pepperstone’s clients and brand, creating an ongoing challenge for its fraud team.Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood at London’s leading trading industry event!“We are having to take down scam websites and social media accounts impersonating Pepperstone on an almost daily basis to protect both our clients and brand,” Szabo said. “We've purchased over a hundred variants of our domain but haven't been able to capture them all. It has become a full time job for our fraud team to take these sites down.”Szabo Calls Out Domain Registrars According to Szabo, Pepperstone has purchased more than a hundred domain variants in an effort to prevent misuse, but fraudulent sites continue to appear.Szabo criticized domain registrars for failing to curb the problem, suggesting that some may be allowing illegal activities by approving deceptive registrations. “Surely domain registrants should be doing more to stop this. I can only assume what they are facilitating is all just out and out illegal behaviour.”Cybersquatting Cases Highlight Broader ProblemThe CEO cited several examples of misspelt domains – including pepperston.com, peppersone.com, and pepperstoe.com – that attempt to redirect traffic away from Pepperstone’s official site.Keep reading: Google Takes Cybercrime Group to Court Over “Smishing” Involving 115M Credit Cards: Report“To top this off we have firms cybersquatting on misspelt domains trying to direct traffic away from Pepperstone – here are a few examples: www.pepperston.com , www.peppersone.com , www.pepperstoe.com.” Szabo described the situation as “frustrating” and “depressingly part of daily business,” reflecting a broader trend of online impersonation targeting financial service providers.Cases of fraudulent domains are on the rise. Notably, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) recently obtained a court order to shut down 95 companies linked to online investment and romance baiting scams, commonly referred to as “pig butchering” scams. These scams involve fraudsters posing as someone else on social media, building trust with victims over time, and then promoting risky investments such as contracts for differences or cryptocurrencies.More recently, ASIC also reported that it removed 6,900 investment scam and phishing websites in the year ending June 30, as part of increased efforts to shield consumers from online fraud. The actions targeted a range of illicit operations, including around 2,800 fake investment platforms, 2,400 cryptocurrency scams, 1,400 phishing links, and 250 fraudulent online advertisements.In addition to takedowns, ASIC added 1,035 warnings to its Investor Alert List and issued consumer advisories highlighting schemes aimed at retirement savings. The regulator emphasized these measures as part of its ongoing campaign to protect investors and raise awareness of online financial threats. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.