Credible brokers understand the value of operating in a regulated environment. It reinforces their commitment to transparency, trustworthiness, and ensures a smooth trading experience. Above all, it protects brokers’ clients and their funds. This is precisely why iTech Software offers regulated and licensed brokers such a high value proposition. Meeting the region’s required legal obligations can be time-consuming, increasing both required labour hours, costs, and potentially causing client frustration. Worst of all, any human errors during a regulated onboarding process may cause avoidable dropouts during the most crucial stage of a broker's acquisition funnel, conversion. With iTech’s one-stop solutions, brokers can minimise both development cost and time to market, even in regulated locations, minimising preventable loss of conversions. Get Direct Insights with Client Profile and QuestionnaireDuring the sign-up process, a seamlessly integrated questionnaire can provide a broker with all the necessary information to meet regulatory prerequisites. Gain even more valuable insights directly from clients with the client card functionality: view profiles, documents, payments, activities and meetings in a consolidated workflow and interface. This helps brokers understand their clients better, analyse their behaviours and when needed adjust their offerings on the fly. Automate Costly KYC OperationsOne of the biggest bottlenecks for regulated brokers and clients trading in regulated markets is the KYC process. Human error can cause lost conversions, unnecessary frustration, and a protracted process. By automating the KYC process, brokers can minimise avoidable losses and costs. iTech’s solution also unifies and automates all procedures related to the KYC process, including assigning statuses, approvals and rejections, resubmissions of documents, and reporting, further minimising labour costs. Clients can also see the current status of their KYC approval in real-time, which increases customer satisfaction. It also frees resources from customer support teams for more urgent requests and queries. Data and Client SecurityThe iBuilt-in Compliance solution also removes the need to use third-party software to process and analyse clients’ sensitive information. Keeping all information in-house minimises the potential for third-party data leaks or security compromises. iTech’s enhanced data protection technology means you offer a much more secure product to your customers, reinforcing your brand’s reliability and dedication to security. Adding to these security benefits is the ability to automate password resets without the intervention of a customer support agent. A client can secure their account immediately when they experience a security issue or simply forget their password. Ultimately, this feature helps increase customer satisfaction and minimise the resources needed to perform this operation manually. An Adaptable CRM & Trading PlatformBrokers and financial service providers often operate in numerous locations with varying licensing and regulatory requirements. This is why iTech’s solutions are adaptable. This includes a CRM with deep levels of dashboard customisation, business intelligence insights, and advanced statistical analysis. iCRM allows brokers to run practically everything client-facing from a single interface. This includes setting up hyper-focused personalised offers and targeted marketing campaigns to account for different incentivisation limits in various locales. The backend allows for an unparalleled level of adjustability so regulated brokers can have a solution that perfectly fits their use case and objectives. Here is just a small list of what iCRM offers:● A dealing desk section for valuable trading behaviour statistics● Customisable and granular statistical charts, including by asset or currency insights● User-defined dashboardA Straight to Market Trading SolutionOffer clients everything from TradingView integration, 1000+ assets, including 130+ cryptocurrencies, to popular social trading. Save resources and development costs with this all-in-one and customisable solution. Create bespoke tradable bundles with up to 7 assets. Adjust them or create new bundles easily through the CRM. Over 10 liquidity providers ensure smooth operation, competitive pricing, and market-beating execution. Launch Your Brokerage in One WeekiTech’s comprehensive suite of products covers the needs of any broker from A to Z, including those that are yet to be launched. In just one week, iTech and its expert team can help you launch your own brokerage, website, client-facing and back-end, and trading infrastructure. The leading fintech firm can also host websites. Minimise time to market even further with dozens of attractive and contemporary website designs. Work with an in-house Design and development specialist to customise and align it with your existing or new brand. Launching a new brand or streamlining your operations? Between 4 and 5 September, iTech Software will be attending Affiliate World Budapest 2025. Contact the team to arrange a meeting in advance. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Match-Trader, the trading platform developed by Match-Trade Technologies, has witnessed a 290 per cent increase in server clients since January 2024, the company revealed yesterday (Tuesday). However, it did not mention any absolute figure for clients using its server.Props Might Be the Big Booster“Trading technology is moving decisively toward integrated, adaptable solutions that prioritise the user experience, and our development roadmap doubles down on this philosophy,” the company noted.“What we’re witnessing with Match-Trader goes far beyond temporary migration patterns—it’s a fundamental realignment toward platforms that deliver business value rather than ticking technical checkboxes.”Match-Trader is a relatively new trading platform offering third-party integrations. Although it was publicly launched in late 2019, the company said it had been available to institutional clients since 2015, well before the wider launch.The technology developer was also quick to predict the market trend and started licensing it to prop trading platforms. Over the years, several big and small prop brands have added Match-Trader to their platform offerings.MetaQuotes Crackdown Boosted Alternative AdoptionThe adoption of Match-Trader by prop firms was boosted when MetaQuotes, the developer of the two popular trading platforms MetaTrader 4 and 5, cracked down on them in early 2024. The MetaQuotes crackdown targeted the prop firms using its platform to serve US residents.Following the crackdown, demand for MetaTrader alternatives skyrocketed across the prop industry. Last August, Devexperts, the developer of trading platform DXtrade, revealed that it had added over 40 prop firms in only a year.Read more: Prop Trading Craze - Devexperts “Signed and Launched a Dozen Firms in 5 Days”FinanceMagnates.com reported earlier this year that the number of active accounts on its DXtrade SaaS platform reached approximately 1 million in 2024, three times the previous year's total. However, that figure did not include the final numbers for December.While Match-Trade’s announcement also emphasised the popularity of its platform among prop firms, it did not specify any number.Meanwhile, the MetaTrader platforms still dominate the overall retail trading space despite rising licensing fees at the beginning of this year. Finance Magnates Intelligence also estimates that trading volume on MetaTrader 5 has surpassed activity on the legacy MetaTrader 4 in the first quarter of this year. This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has secured nearly $4 million from the widow of a deceased investment adviser who ran a Ponzi scheme that defrauded more than 50 investors out of $29 million over an 11-year period. The scam was so effective that it continued to operate for a while even after its creator’s death.SEC Collects $3.8M from Widow in Ponzi Scheme SettlementWendy Swensen agreed to pay $3.8 million in a settlement reached July 31, marking the conclusion of a case involving her late husband Stephen Swensen's fraudulent investment operation. The money will go directly to harmed investors through a court-appointed receiver.Stephen Swensen died in June 2022 while the SEC's investigation was ongoing. He had promised investors guaranteed annual returns of at least 5% through his company Crew Capital Group, telling clients their money would be invested in bank loans and options tied to the S&P 500 index.You may also like: How One Trader's Spoofing Scheme Cost Him $357K in PenaltiesThe Fraudulent Scheme UnraveledNone of that was true. Instead, Swensen used incoming investor funds to pay fictitious returns to earlier investors while spending the bulk of the money on personal expenses, including real estate, vehicles, and multiple private aircraft. Unfortunately, this practice occurs far more often than we would like."According to the complaint, however, Mr. Swensen misappropriated investor funds to make Ponzi-like payments to other investors and to pay for his, and his family’s, personal expenses. The SEC did not allege wrongdoing by Ms. Swensen," the SEC commented in the statement.The scheme ran from 2011 until Swensen's death. He operated under the guise of being a registered investment adviser representative, working with several legitimate brokerage firms during the period. This gave him access to clients seeking retirement planning advice, whom he then steered toward his fraudulent investment.This is another example of an elaborate Ponzi scheme uncovered by the SEC, which defrauded a large group of investors out of millions of dollars. A few months ago, Finance Magnates reported on a similar case in which 200 people were promised high returns and risk-free investments.Elaborate Deception Fooled InvestorsSwensen went to elaborate lengths to make Crew Capital appear legitimate. He created fake documentation showing a partnership with Pacific Investment Management Company (PIMCO), one of the world's largest investment firms. PIMCO never had any relationship with Swensen or his company.He also maintained a professional-looking website where investors could log in to view their account balances and supposed returns. The numbers displayed were entirely fictitious, but they convinced several victims to invest additional money.The deception ran deep. Swensen used mail forwarding services to create fake addresses in major cities like Boston, New York, and San Francisco. He hired a virtual receptionist service and paid extra fees to keep his name off public corporate filings in Nevada, where Crew Capital was registered.Widow Pays Back Ill-Gotten GainsWendy Swensen received more than $350,000 in investor funds directly from her husband's scheme, along with real property purchased with stolen money. The SEC did not allege she knew about or participated in the fraud.Under the settlement, she must pay $3.6 million in disgorgement, plus $41,279 in prejudgment interest and an additional $171,592 representing interest she earned on investor funds during the litigation.Swensen's clients trusted him to manage their retirement savings, only to discover their nest eggs had been funding his lavish lifestyle.Red Flags Investors Should WatchCourt-appointed receiver Chad Pehrson will distribute the recovered funds to victims. The SEC's investigation was led by staff from the Denver Regional Office and San Francisco Regional Office.Crew Capital's website remained active even after Swensen's death, continuing to display false account information to investors until the SEC intervened. The company had no legitimate business operations beyond the fraudulent fundraising efforts.This case serves as a reminder that guaranteed returns in investing are typically too good to be true. Legitimate investments carry risk, and promises of steady, guaranteed profits should raise immediate red flags for potential investors. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Openbank has switched its investment infrastructure to Upvest, completing the migration of existing customers to the Berlin-based fintech's platform.The digital banking unit of Spain's Santander Group now uses Upvest's technology to offer fractional stock and ETF trading to its German customers. Users can start investing with just one euro, paying trading fees of 0.20% per transaction with no custody charges.Openbank Taps Upvest for Digital Investment PlatformOpenbank serves more than 2 million customers across Spain, Germany, the Netherlands and Portugal. The bank holds €18.5 billion in deposits and positions itself as Europe's largest fully digital bank by deposit volume.The partnership represents a shift away from traditional investment providers toward API-based infrastructure. Banks increasingly favor modular systems that can scale across markets and adapt quickly to changing conditions."This partnership with Openbank proves that modern investment infrastructure can meet the rigorous requirements of large financial institutions, while still offering the flexibility and speed needed to scale across markets," said Jonathan Brander, Upvest's Chief Operating Officer.Upvest provides end-to-end investment services including brokerage, settlement, custody and regulatory compliance through a single interface. The company was founded in 2017 and employs over 220 people across offices in Berlin, London and Tallinn.Fintech is attracting more clients across Europe, having recently partnered with Webull and earlier with Revolut, following its FCA approval in October 2024.You may also like: Investment Tech Provider to N26 and Revolut Raises €100MCompetition Between Traditional Banks and ChallengersThe German market launch starts with stocks and ETFs, though both companies plan to expand the product range. Openbank can now offer lower fees by using Upvest's cost-efficient infrastructure rather than building similar capabilities internally.Traditional banks face pressure from digital-first competitors that can launch investment products faster and at lower cost. By partnering with specialized fintechs, established players can access modern technology without lengthy development cycles.Openbank recently expanded into the United States and Mexico as part of Santander's broader digital banking strategy. The bank offers loans, mortgages and automated investment services through its mobile app and website.Banks that build investment capabilities in-house often struggle with the complexity of multi-market operations and regulatory requirements. Third-party providers like Upvest can offer specialized expertise and economies of scale that reduce costs for bank partners. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

XS.com has strengthened its offshore presence by obtaining a licence from the regulator in Mauritius, which the contracts for differences (CFDs) broker highlighted as a “strategic move.”XS.com’s Offshore PushAnnounced today (Wednesday), the broker stressed that the licence from the Financial Services Commission (FSC) will allow it to serve its global clients.“This new licence not only solidifies our presence in the financial services industry but also aligns with our core principles of prioritising regulatory compliance and delivering exceptional service,” said Mohamad Ibrahim, the Group Chief Executive Officer at XS.com.XS.com was established in Australia in 2010, and since then the broker has obtained several regulatory authorisations from authorities in Australia, Cyprus, Seychelles, Labuan, South Africa, Kuwait, and now Mauritius.FinanceMagnates.com reported last month that the broker opened a new office in Kuwait with a local partnership, making it a central customer support and market development base.A Preferred Offshore DestinationMauritius has long been a popular jurisdiction for CFD brokers to set up their offshore businesses. Several big and small brokers operate with Mauritius licences. Some of the well-known brands holding Mauritius licences are ActivTrades, ATFX, Deriv, Exness, Hantec Markets, XM, and many more.Recently, EC Markets, another CFDs broker, also opened an office in Mauritius.Apart from the regulatory approvals, XS.com is also streamlining its technology and core offerings. The broker recently partnered with technology provider Centroid Solutions to expand access to its liquidity services for retail brokers worldwide. This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.

Prop trading firm Propel Capital has shut down just 14 months after its launch, saying competition in the industry has made operations unsustainable. The company’s website has also gone offline.Fierce Competition CitedIn an announcement posted on X, the company's Founder and CEO Mitchell Ali said the decision followed months of mounting pressure as rival prop firms cut prices and loosened trading rules to attract clients. The company has promised more updates on Discord Channel, X Page, and through email. Official Announcement: Please read pic.twitter.com/FFp4xixsKl— PropelCapitalUK (@PropelCapitalUK) August 19, 2025“The sheer volume of competition in the market has led us to a position where I believe that scaling the business would go against our goal of sustainability,” Ali said. “As you have probably noticed, firms across the industry have significantly increased their offerings, with higher discounts and relaxed rules. I do not believe we can compete with these offers without selling evaluations at a loss, which we refuse to do.”Related: Trade Tech Solutions Launches 3 Broker Backed Prop FirmsThe company has promised refunds to clients “who qualify,” saying it will wait for a few weeks to see if another individual or corporation will continue with the brand. “We will no longer be processing any payments, and all trading activity will be halted,” the announcement mentioned.Companies House filings from December 2024 show Propel Capital held just over £3,000 in assets against more than £150,000 in liabilities. The firm is registered in the UK, with Ali listed as its sole employee.More Prop Firms ClosePropel Capital joins a growing list of prop firms that have failed to sustain their operations in recent months. Germany-based Funded Unicorn, once considered among the country’s largest prop trading firms, shut down operations last month. The sudden collapse has revived concerns about whether some firms’ business models are sustainable in an increasingly competitive and volatile sector. Unlike most prop firms that depend on trader challenge fees and simulated accounts, Funded Unicorn adopted a distinctive A-book model.Industry sources show that at least 50 prop trading firms ceased operations last year alone. Among the companies that were forced to shut their operations are Funded Engineer, Karma Prop Trader, and Fund For Trader. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Robinhood is expanding its prediction markets to include professional and college football, opening trading on outcomes of America’s most-followed sport ahead of the new season.Football Contracts Go Live on RobinhoodRobinhood Derivatives, LLC confirmed Tuesday that customers can now access contracts tied to all professional regular-season games and matchups involving Power 4 college programs and independents.“Football is far and away the most popular sport in America,” commented JB Mackenzie, VP & GM of Futures and International at Robinhood. “Adding pro and college football to our prediction markets hub is a no-brainer for us as we aim to make Robinhood a one-stop shop for all your investing and trading needs.”The contracts will be available in the Robinhood app’s Prediction Markets Hub, with initial listings reportedly covering the first two weeks of the season. Additional games will be added weekly as the season progresses.Event Contracts vs. BettingSince launching prediction markets in late 2023, Robinhood has reported more than two billion contracts traded. The company already offers markets tied to cryptocurrencies, economic indicators, cultural events, and other sports.The football rollout is part of a wider effort to broaden Robinhood’s prediction hub, which is operated through its derivatives unit and offered via a CFTC-regulated exchange in the United States.Starting today, you can now trade contracts on the men's and women's college basketball tournaments. See you at tip-off: https://t.co/WXpUDpYBJO pic.twitter.com/fRF6xhr0Xd— Robinhood (@RobinhoodApp) March 17, 2025In March, Robinhood launched a new prediction markets hub, allowing users to trade contracts tied to major real-world events. The platform’s initial offerings include the Federal Reserve’s May interest rate decision and the men’s and women’s college basketball tournaments.New Event-Based Trading Hub in Robinhood AppThe standalone hub, introduced by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC, allows users to speculate on outcomes by purchasing event-based contracts. The service is reportedly operated through KalshiEX LLC, a regulated exchange under the oversight of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission.Robinhood executives said the expansion reflects their belief in prediction markets as a bridge between economics, politics, sports, and culture.The company said it plans to expand the product to cover elections, corporate earnings, and geopolitical events as prediction markets gain traction among traders seeking to merge current events with trading strategies. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Global broker MultiBank Group is setting up a new office in Abu Dhabi, adding to its growing presence in the Middle East. The move places the firm in the UAE’s capital city, where it aims to strengthen relationships with clients and provide more direct market support.Building a Capital City PresenceThe Abu Dhabi office is designed to serve both retail and institutional customers, the company said in a Tuesday announcement, adding that it will support faster onboarding, offer dedicated relationship management, and provide local assistance. By situating itself in the capital, MultiBank Group seeks to bring services closer to its UAE client base.Expanding OfferingsIn February, MultiBank Group introduced Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on shares listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) across its mobile app and MetaTrader 5 platform. The firm said the rollout is designed to broaden global investor access to the UAE’s fast-growing financial markets.The offering enables clients to trade UAE-listed equities through CFDs, supporting all account types, including Standard, Pro, and ECN. By consolidating forex, commodities, indices, cryptocurrencies, and now UAE stock CFDs under one platform, MultiBank Group aims to simplify portfolio diversification and remove the need for multiple trading accounts.“The launch of UAE CFD shares is a significant milestone in our journey to redefine financial services. By offering access to the Dubai Financial Market and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, we are creating new investment avenues while reinforcing our commitment to progress and excellence,” Naser Taher, Founder and Chairman of MultiBank Group, commented.Related: MultiBank Expands Trading Portfolio with UAE CFDs on MetaTrader 5The launch comes amid strong momentum in the UAE’s capital markets. DFM and ADX added AED 257 billion in value by the close of 2024, reflecting rising investor demand. MultiBank Group said it expects the new CFDs to provide international traders with greater exposure to the region as the UAE consolidates its position as a leading financial hub.Strong Earnings ReportMultiBank Group's expansion seems to be paying off. The financial derivatives broker reported first-half 2025 revenue of $209 million and profit of $170 million, a 20% year-on-year revenue increase.MultiBank also achieved a single-day trading record in April, handling $56 billion in transactions, supported by consistently high client activity across its global platforms. It now serves more than 2 million clients in over 100 countries and processes an average daily trading volume above $35 billion. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Tether Holdings SA has appointed Bo Hines, the former head of President Donald Trump’s digital assets advisory council, as a strategic advisor to help coordinate its expansion in the United States. The El Salvador-based company announced the appointment on Tuesday, stating that Hines will begin his role immediately.Background on HinesHines resigned from the White House Presidential Council of Advisers for Digital Assets earlier this month. During his tenure, he led the Trump administration’s first crypto summit and oversaw the passage of the Genius Act, legislation aimed at regulating stablecoins. An ex-college football player who ran twice unsuccessfully for Congress in North Carolina, Hines was not widely known in crypto or lobbying circles before his nomination.Thrilled to join @Tether_to! Huge thanks to @paoloardoino & the team for the warm welcome. Excited to help build an ecosystem of digital asset products that set the standard for compliance & innovation—empowering U.S. consumers and reshaping our financial system. The best is yet… https://t.co/DloARijWkh— Bo Hines (@BoHines) August 19, 2025US Institutional Stablecoin PlansTether plans to launch a stablecoin aimed at U.S. institutions later this year, according to Chief Technology Officer Paolo Ardoino. The firm’s $167 billion USDT stablecoin is backed by reserves managed by Cantor Fitzgerald LP, which was led by Howard Lutnick until his appointment as Trump’s commerce secretary earlier this year.You may find it interesting at FinanceMagnates.com: Tourists in Rio May Soon Pay with Crypto as Bybit and Tether Expand.Trend of Washington EngagementThe appointment reflects a broader trend of crypto firms strengthening ties with Washington. In recent months, Coinbase Global Inc. hired David Plouffe, a former senior adviser to Vice President Kamala Harris’ 2024 campaign and Barack Obama aide, as a senior adviser. Venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz hired Michael Reed, previously a top adviser to House Minority Whip Katherine Clark, as a government affairs partner.Tether Price and Market ActivityTether’s stablecoin continues to maintain its peg to the U.S. dollar. As of August 19, 2025, USDT is trading at roughly $1.00, with a 24-hour low of $0.999996 and a high of $1.001. The 24-hour trading volume is around $113 billion, showing steady activity amid broader market fluctuations. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

This article was written by Gregory Cowles, Chief Strategy Officer and Co-founder, IntellistakeI've been watching digital currencies evolve since I first encountered Bitcoin years ago, but I'll be honest; nothing has captured my attention quite like what's happening with stablecoins right now. We're witnessing something that feels both inevitable and revolutionary at the same time.As I write this, stablecoins have surpassed $220 billion in market capitalization, representing roughly 1% of the U.S. money supply. Total transfer volume hit $27.6 trillion last year, surpassing the combined volume of Visa and Mastercard transactions. But here's what really gets me excited: this is just the beginning.The Current Uprising: More Than Just Another Crypto StoryWhat we're seeing isn't your typical cryptocurrency boom. This feels different, more substantial. The European Union's MiCA regulation came into effect in mid-2024, and in the U.S., the GENIUS Act is advancing through Congress, which would establish the first comprehensive regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers.Vice President JD Vance became the first sitting U.S. vice president to address the bitcoin community, delivering a full-throated endorsement of crypto. When you have that level of political backing combined with major banks including JPMorgan, Bank of America and Citi in early talks to issue a unified digital dollar, you know we've moved beyond speculation into implementation.The numbers tell a compelling story, but they don't capture the human element. In countries like Argentina, Nigeria, and Turkey, plagued recently by extreme inflation and falling exchange rates, stablecoins have grown sharply. These aren't just investment vehicles—they're becoming essential tools for economic survival.CBDCs vs. Stablecoins: Two Very Different VisionsLet me be clear about something that often gets confused: Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and stablecoins are fundamentally different beasts.CBDCs are an extension of state authority, an evolution of existing monetary systems to the digital economy designed to give governments more direct tools for policy execution. Stablecoins, on the other hand, represent a break from it: they were born out of the crypto movement and carry its ethos of accessibility, interoperability, and financial autonomy.The governance structures couldn't be more different. CBDCs are created, controlled, and regulated by the central bank of a country or region, while stablecoins are usually governed by private companies such as Circle or Binance.Perhaps most importantly for individual users, the privacy implications are stark. Unlike cash, which affords a high degree of anonymity, CBDC transactions—unless specifically designed otherwise—could be fully traceable by the issuing authority. This creates the potential for real-time surveillance of individuals' spending habits, associations, and location. Stablecoins, while not completely anonymous, operate on public blockchains where transactions are transparent but pseudonymous.The Republican-led Congress and the White House oppose CBDCs, ensuring that no CBDC legislation will move forward in the United States in the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the focus has clearly shifted toward creating a robust framework for stablecoins.The Broken Promise of Traditional FinanceTo understand why stablecoins matter, we need to honestly assess what's wrong with our current financial system.Cross-Border Payment Dysfunction: International flows remain constrained by fragmented legacy rails, which rely on correspondent banking networks that introduce delays, lack transparency, and impose high FX costs. I've seen businesses wait days for what should be simple international payments, watching exchange rates fluctuate while their money sits in limbo.Infrastructure Decay: Nearly six out of 10 banking leaders surveyed consider legacy infrastructure to be the top challenge impeding their organization's business growth. We're talking about mainframe systems from the 1960s still processing modern transactions. Since a full replacement of these core systems is often a cost-prohibitive, multi-year endeavour, some banks may "feel like hostages" to their legacy technology.Regulatory Burden: From data security regulations to anti-money laundering (AML) rules, the compliance landscape in 2025 remains complex. Financial institutions need scalable processes and technology solutions to manage the growing compliance demands efficiently.Exclusion and Access: Despite decades of "financial inclusion" initiatives, traditional banking still excludes massive populations. The account minimums, documentation requirements, and geographic limitations create barriers that billions simply can't overcome.How Stablecoins Address These Fundamental ProblemsHere's where I get inspired by the potential. Stablecoins aren't just incremental improvements; they're architectural solutions to systemic problems.Solving the Cross-Border Nightmare: A payment from a European company to a U.S. supplier sent through SWIFT-based channels can incur fees ranging from $25 to $50, due to intermediary bank charges. Settlement may take 1–3 business days. By comparison, transferring USDC via the Solana blockchain typically costs less than $0.01 in network fees and settles in under 5 seconds.I recently worked with a mid-cap company that was spending over $200,000 annually just on wire transfer fees for international supplier payments. By switching to stablecoins, they reduced those costs to under $5,000 while improving payment speed from 3-5 days to under an hour.Infrastructure Modernization: Rather than trying to modernize 60-year-old mainframes, stablecoins operate on modern blockchain infrastructure built for the digital age. Why patch legacy systems when you can leapfrog entirely?True Financial Inclusion: Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino said commodity trading firms will be "the biggest driver" of stablecoin adoption in the next five years, but I think the real driver will be global financial inclusion. Anyone with a smartphone can access stablecoins, regardless of their banking status or geographic location.Programmable Finance: This is where things get really interesting. Smart contracts can automate complex financial operations — automated payroll, conditional payments, treasury management — without human intervention.And here’s where AI quietly supercharges the potential. AI systems can analyze market conditions, detect fraud patterns, or predict cash flow needs, then trigger smart contract actions instantly. Imagine payroll systems that automatically adjust based on staff hours logged, or supplier payments that execute the moment AI verifies goods have reached their destination.For treasury teams, that means less time moving numbers around and more time focusing on strategy. For businesses, it means efficiency gains that could previously only be achieved with large teams and long lead times. Stablecoins make this possible by being programmable, instantaneous, and compatible with both human and machine decision-making.The Institutional ShiftWhat excites me most is watching institutional adoption accelerate. 86% of firms report their infrastructure is ready for stablecoin adoption, shifting the focus from pilots to execution. This isn't experimental anymore... it's operational.Tether has already demonstrated the profitability of this model, netting $5.2 billion in the first half of 2024 after placing reserves in US Treasury bonds. The strategy is compelling: launch a regulated stablecoin, negotiate with exchanges for promotion, and earn consistent yields from fiat reserves.The underlying business model of stablecoin issuers offers the U.S. government an innovative opportunity to financially engineer a larger base of short-term debt buyers, and extend the dollar's monetary influence worldwide. This isn't just about technology; it's about geopolitical strategy.The Treasury RevolutionLet me share something I've been observing in my work with institutional clients. Stablecoins are being adopted for cross-border supplier payments in countries with poor access to banks. They can help with digitalizing trade documentation, and automate parts of treasuries.Programmable Treasury Operations: Smart contracts can automate recurring payments and complex multi-party transactions. AI adds another layer — monitoring market conditions, adjusting liquidity allocations, and even forecasting currency needs — and can execute those adjustments via stablecoin transfers instantly.Real-Time Settlement: The ability for tokenized cash to operate continuously, satisfy demand for instant settlement, and offer improved operational risk controls solves real-world pain points. AI can track settlement flows in real time, flag anomalies, and maintain 24/7 operational readiness without human fatigue.Global Liquidity Management: Instead of maintaining cash balances in multiple currencies across different banks, companies can hold USD-backed stablecoins and convert at the point of transaction. With AI-driven treasury dashboards, those conversions can happen dynamically based on exchange rate trends or supplier payment priorities.The Future: Beyond What We Can See TodayThe applications we're seeing today are just scratching the surface — and the most transformative ones may not even be on the radar yet.Autonomous Economic Systems: As automation advances, we’ll see more systems — both human-run and AI-driven — managing their own financial flows. Whether it’s an AI coordinating global logistics routes or a decentralized app running a micro-lending network, stablecoins give these systems a reliable, borderless currency to operate in real time, without depending on legacy bank rails.Supply Chain Finance Revolution: Imagine payments automatically releasing as goods move through verified checkpoints, tracked by IoT sensors and confirmed by AI analysis. This could speed up trade, shrink financing gaps for smaller suppliers, and reduce fraud by ensuring only verified deliveries get paid.Micro-Transaction Economy: With near-zero transaction costs, entirely new business models emerge. Pay-per-article journalism, per-second software subscriptions, instant digital asset rentals, even AI-generated research sold by the query — all become possible when payments are fast, precise, and globally accessible.Global R&D and Collaboration: Stablecoins also make it easier to fund innovation across borders, whether for AI development, renewable energy, biotech, or space tech. Teams in different regions can receive direct, instant funding in a currency that holds its value, bypassing currency conversion losses and bank delays.Cross-Chain Interoperability: As more services and applications — from AI compute marketplaces to music streaming platforms — live on decentralized networks, stablecoins can act as the universal settlement layer, moving value seamlessly between blockchains without volatility risk.We’re heading toward a future where money is as programmable as software, able to move instantly between people, machines, and networks. Stablecoins won’t just ride that wave — they’ll be one of the forces making it possible.Challenges and RealismLet me be honest about the challenges. Questions around the reserves backing stablecoins have led to increased scrutiny, with regulators pushing for clearer disclosure requirements. Transparency remains an issue, particularly with some issuers' reserve practices.Technical risks remain real. Smart contract bugs, blockchain outages, and scalability constraints could all impact adoption. Regulatory frameworks are still evolving; they're trying to balance innovation with consumer protection.The Bottom LineHere's what I think is happening: we're witnessing the emergence of a new financial operating system. Stablecoins have proven themselves to be a foundational tool for blockchain-hosted finance and commerce, by providing a simple yet critical financial primitive of a stable, liquid, and programmable medium of exchange.The current financial system isn't broken by accident; it was built for a different era, when information moved slowly and trust required intermediaries. Stablecoins represent something fundamentally different: programmable money for a programmable world.I've been in this space long enough to see multiple cycles of hype and disappointment. But this feels different. The infrastructure is maturing, regulation is clarifying, and institutional adoption is accelerating. If that rate of growth were to continue, stablecoin transactions could surpass legacy payment volumes in less than a decade.That's not just a technological shift—it's a fundamental reorganization of how value moves through the global economy. The question isn't whether stablecoins will reshape finance. They already are. The question is whether traditional institutions will adapt quickly enough to remain relevant in a world where money moves at the speed of information.From where I sit, I can tell you this: the future of money is already here. It's just not evenly distributed yet.Gregory Cowles, Co-Founder & CSO at Intellistake | X | LinkedInGregory brings extensive leadership experience in digital currencies and AI marketing strategies, having first engaged with Bitcoin and digital currencies in 2013. His expertise includes advising small-cap mining operations and executing impactful marketing initiatives for public companies. Over the past four years, Gregory has specialized in incubation, DeFi strategies, and successful digital currency launches, managing impressive AI and digital currency clients with portfolios valued at over $2.5 billion USD. His strategic insight positions Intellistake at the forefront of decentralized AI & finance, confidently guiding investors toward high-growth opportunities in emerging digital asset markets. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Bitcoin's (BTC) price spectacular run to record highs above $124,000 has hit turbulence, with the world's largest cryptocurrency now trading around $115,000, a drop of roughly 7% from its peak just weeks ago. This pullback isn't happening in isolation. The entire crypto market is wrestling with a perfect storm of profit-taking, leverage cleanup, and Fed policy uncertainty that's testing even the most bullish investors.Massive Liquidations Signal Overleveraged PositionsThe crypto market witnessed brutal liquidations totaling over $1 billion in recent days, with $270 million wiped out in a single session. Long positions, bets that prices would rise, accounted for the vast majority of these losses, with 95% of liquidations coming from bullish trades.This tells a clear story. Traders had become dangerously overleveraged, betting big on continued price gains. When Bitcoin stumbled, these positions got crushed in cascade-style liquidations that pushed prices down further. The pain was particularly acute in Ethereum, which saw $170 million in liquidations, while Bitcoin contributed $104 million to the carnage.Market watchers note this wasn't just random selling. Nick Forster from Derive.xyz called it "a reset of short-term positioning rather than a structural shift". But when you have this much leverage in the system, even small price moves can trigger massive unwinding events.Why Bitcoin Price Is Going Down? Profit-Taking Hits Critical LevelsOne of the biggest headwinds Bitcoin faces right now is simple math. Most Bitcoin holders are sitting pretty with substantial gains, and that creates natural selling pressure. Bitcoin's Market Value to Realized Value (MVRV) ratio currently stands at 21%, meaning the average investor who bought Bitcoin over the past year is comfortably in profit.According to sentiment platform Santiment, this puts Bitcoin in what they call "a mild danger zone". When investors are this far in the green, they start thinking about locking in gains, especially after hitting new all-time highs. The temptation to sell becomes stronger with each passing day of uncertainty.Glassnode data shows Bitcoin just completed its third major wave of profit-taking in the current bull cycle. These waves typically create cooling-off periods where prices consolidate before potentially moving higher. But they also mark points where market momentum can shift if new buyers don't step in to absorb the selling pressure.Fed Policy Uncertainty Rattles Risk AssetsPerhaps the biggest cloud hanging over Bitcoin is Federal Reserve policy. Markets spent months pricing in aggressive rate cuts, only to see those hopes fade as inflation data came in mixed and employment numbers showed resilience.Polymarket odds of no Fed rate cut in September jumped from 12% to 26% in just days, reflecting this recalibration. While most economists still expect a quarter-point cut at the September 17 meeting, the certainty that existed earlier has evaporated.This matters enormously for Bitcoin. Lower interest rates typically boost risk assets like crypto by making them relatively more attractive compared to safe bonds. When rate cut expectations fade, it removes a key pillar supporting Bitcoin's recent rally.Jerome Powell's upcoming speech at Jackson Hole on Friday has become the market's next major focus point. Traders are looking for any hints about Fed thinking, but many analysts expect Powell to keep his cards close to his chest.Technical Analysis Shows BTC Upside PotentialAlthough the BTC price on my technical analysis chart is crossing the trendline drawn since mid-April, the outlook remains mostly bullish. The key factor is the 50 EMA, which has been protecting bulls from declines for the past four months and has not yet been broken. Even if a breakout occurs, there is an immediate strong support zone around $112,000, reinforced by the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement.Everything above this zone can be seen as a buyback opportunity, with potential for another move toward resistance at $120,000 and $124,000. Moreover, the 200 EMA is positioned near $103,000, forming, together with the $100,000 level, a broad base for reaccumulation. Only a drop below this range would shift my outlook, and likely that of many investors, toward a bearish scenario.Market breadth data reveals deeper problems. While 63 of the top 100 cryptocurrencies still trade above their 200-day moving averages, a bullish long-term sign, exactly 50% now trade below their 50-day averages. This suggests short-term weakness is spreading through the crypto ecosystem.Interestingly, the Nasdaq shows an almost identical profile, with 61 stocks above their 200-day averages and 49 below their 50-day averages. This parallel movement suggests crypto isn't facing unique problems but rather participating in broader market caution.You may also like: Why Bitcoin Is Surging? BTC Price Prediction to $200K as Market Cap Flips GoogleBitcoin Price Predictions 2025, 2026 TableThe predictions range from relatively conservative targets around $130,000 to ambitious projections exceeding $400,000. What's particularly interesting is that most of these forecasts were made before Bitcoin's recent surge to $124,000, suggesting that many analysts still see room for further gains.On the more bullish end, Michael Saylor from MicroStrategy continues advocating for Bitcoin as a superior store of value, with long-term targets reaching $500,000. Similarly, Cathie Wood from ARK Invest maintains her $400,000 prediction by 2026, driven by institutional adoption and blockchain technology advancement.Ethereum, XRP and Solana Provide Mixed SignalsThe altcoin market offers conflicting signals about Bitcoin's direction. On one hand, Bitcoin's dominance has dropped to 59% from over 65% earlier this year, suggesting money is rotating into alternative cryptocurrencies—typically a sign of healthy risk appetite.Ethereum has led this rotation, surging toward $4,600 and approaching its all-time high near $4,870. Other major altcoins like XRP and Solana have also shown strength at times, indicating the crypto ecosystem remains vibrant despite Bitcoin's struggles.But this rotation cuts both ways. When Bitcoin dominance falls during uncertain times, it can signal that the market lacks a clear directional bias. Investors spread their bets rather than concentrating on the market leader, which can create more volatility overall.What Happens Next?Bitcoin's next moves likely depend on three key factors. First, whether Powell's Jackson Hole speech provides clarity on Fed policy direction. Second, how much additional leverage needs to be unwound from the system. And third, whether institutional buyers continue stepping in to absorb selling pressure.The current environment feels more like a healthy correction than a fundamental shift in Bitcoin's trajectory. Profit-taking after massive gains is normal market behavior. Leverage cleanup, while painful, ultimately creates more sustainable price action. And Fed uncertainty should resolve one way or another in coming weeks.Bitcoin News FAQHow Much Will $1 Bitcoin Be Worth in 2025?Based on current expert predictions, one Bitcoin could be worth between $100,000 to $150,000 by the end of 2025. Conservative Wall Street estimates from JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs suggest targets around $130,000-$150,000, while crypto analysts like Alex Krüger predict $140,000 depending on Federal Reserve policy changes. Given Bitcoin's current price of $115,000, this represents modest upside potential, though the wide range reflects the cryptocurrency's inherent volatility.Why Is Bitcoin Falling?Bitcoin's decline from its $124,000 all-time high results from a perfect storm of factors. Massive leverage liquidations totaling over $270 million hit the market, with 95% being bullish positions that got crushed. Profit-taking pressure intensified as Bitcoin's MVRV ratio reached 21%, meaning most holders are sitting on substantial gains. Additionally, Federal Reserve uncertainty grew as rate cut expectations for September weakened, removing a key pillar supporting Bitcoin's rally.Will BTC Rise Again?Most indicators suggest Bitcoin will eventually recover, though the timeline remains uncertain. Whale accumulation continues with large holders adding over 218,000 BTC since March, while institutional demand from ETFs and corporate treasuries stays strong. Historical patterns show Bitcoin typically recovers from technical corrections, and long-term moving averages still indicate a bullish trend. However, short-term momentum has clearly shifted negative, requiring time to rebuild.Should I Sell BTC Now?The decision depends entirely on your risk tolerance and investment timeline. Institutional investors continue accumulating during this dip, suggesting smart money sees opportunity rather than danger. However, the high MVRV ratio indicates many investors may take profits, and technical indicators show continued weakness. Market leverage cleanup could cause more volatility before conditions stabilize. Never invest more than you can afford to lose.Will Crypto Go Back Up?The broader cryptocurrency market shows mixed but generally positive signals. Altcoin strength continues as money rotates into Ethereum, XRP, and other major cryptocurrencies, while total crypto market cap remains near all-time highs despite Bitcoin's pullback. Institutional adoption keeps growing with new ETF products and corporate investments. However, the market faces headwinds from Fed policy uncertainty and technical selling pressure, with recovery timing dependent on resolving these uncertainties. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

The US Securities and Exchange Commission has extended its review period for several proposed XRP exchange-traded funds. Notices filed on Monday (yesterday) set new deadlines between October 18 and October 23.As of writing, XRPUSD is trading near $3, a key psychological level. Traders are closely monitoring price action to gauge the next move.Applications Under ReviewThe applications include proposals from CoinShares, 21Shares, Canary Capital, and Grayscale. CoinShares filed in February seeking a Nasdaq listing. Around the same time, 21Shares submitted its Core XRP Trust to the Cboe BZX Exchange. The SEC had already postponed these applications in May, saying it required more time for assessment.Part of a Broader PatternThe delay follows a broader pattern of extensions for digital asset funds. Similar postponements were recently made for Solana and Litecoin ETF applications, with no decision expected before late October.?SEC delays Spot XRP ETF decisions for Bitwise, CoinShares and 21Shares.But don't worry! Expert still believes that #XRP will reach $100 this cycle.Once XRP starts to see millions in inflows and becomes the backbone of global financial transactions, then it is entirely… pic.twitter.com/5oKSHHqgsC— Skipper | XRPL (@skipper_xrp) August 18, 2025Mixed Market ReactionsCommunity response has varied. Some traders voiced frustration at the repeated delays. Others described the extensions as part of the normal review process. On social media, one trader suggested the timing was intended to suppress XRP’s price ahead of a possible approval. These claims have not been verified.You may find it interesting at FinanceMagnates.com: BTC and ETH “Likely to Trade in Ranges,” Analyst Says as Futures Leverage Remains HighPrice MovementsXRP traded at $3.06 on Monday, a 1.33% decline from the prior session. Some traders said they intended to increase holdings during the dip, expecting higher valuations if ETFs are launched.Speculation that BlackRock might enter the XRP ETF market has been denied. The firm stated it has no current plans to submit an application.Read More: XRP Trades in Range as Analysts Predict $6 by 2025 Amid SWIFT Transaction Decline.Analyst AssessmentsAnalysts maintain a more structured view. Bloomberg ETF specialists James Seyffart and Eric Balchunas estimate a 95% chance of approval. They pointed to the conclusion of the SEC’s case against Ripple as a key factor. Data from prediction market Polymarket also indicated optimism, with odds of approval before year-end at 77%, up six percentage points after the SEC’s latest filing. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Did you really forget what August–September does? The kill zone — August baits, September traps, and you might be running out of time. This isn’t superstition or “seasonal weakness.” It’s a scheduled, mechanical portfolio reset — one that’s already in motion, and it ends with a September hit.This isn’t random seasonality — it’s a planned portfolio reset built into the calendar.September is the S&P 500’s weakest month, averaging –1.17% over the past two decades — and August often lays the trap.In 2021, the market had been grinding higher for months. VIX pinned to the floor, volumes dead — summer silence. A couple of hawkish Fed headlines, and September didn’t just cool the rally — it cut through it, sparking forced selling and panic exits.August 2023 was pure euphoria. AI mania peaking, Nvidia at fresh highs, Nasdaq screaming. While retail chased headlines, funds were already unloading — not reacting, but executing the plan. Two weeks into September, it was gone — Nvidia and Nasdaq back to their starting point, as if the rally never happened.Different years, different triggers — same playbook. The August–September drop is never a random reaction — it’s the planned reset playing out on schedule. August loads the gun — September pulls the trigger. Earnings Season: The Most Strategic Reports of the YearThe timing of Q2 earnings — late July through mid-August — isn’t a coincidence. It’s the cover phase of the reset. With books closed on June 30, companies drop their reports right as institutions start reshaping portfolios for the final fiscal stretch. The tactic is simple: use strong reports as cover to unload.For example, on July 28, 2021, Meta smashed expectations — revenue $29.08B, +56% YoY, net income doubled, earnings per share (EPS) crushed forecasts and stock popped 10% to a fresh ATH at $385.And then — the reversal. By September 30, Meta was down nearly 13% from that peak. Not because the report was bad — it was too good. The fundamentals didn’t change. The positioning did — the reset was underway. Peak sentiment, max retail FOMO, and an open door to sell without tanking your own PnL. Strong beats become exit windows — and every one of them is just another brick in the calendar-driven repositioning foundation that September will finish building.Why it happensEvery summer, the S&P 500 sinks into a local liquidity drought. Fifteen years of data say the same thing: volumes dry up, order books thin, and even modest trades are hitting hard. Thin books + low volume aren’t an accident — they’re the perfect cover for the stealth phase of the reset.The VIX sits low here, peddling the illusion of safety — but that calm is a lie. Over the past four years, volatility has exploded an average of +71% from August’s quiet lows to late-September’s chaos – right on schedule. That spike isn’t panic — it’s the trigger point of the quarter-end unwind, when the stealth phase flips into open execution.August — The Setup Isn’t Breaking. It’s Peaking.August is when institutional desks start their moves. They exit positions while prices are still near the highs, locking in profits to book them in the current quarter. The mission isn’t just to make money — it’s to make the quarter-end snapshot look perfect before the storm they know they’ll help trigger.SPX futures liquidity runs 20–30% below average this month. Desks are half-staffed, risk managers are on the beach, and it only takes one real sell order to start a slide. With VIX near the floor, no one’s hedged — which is exactly how pros like it. They sell into strength while retail is still reading “resilient market” headlines, and they’re gone before the first crack shows on the chart.That’s why August rarely implodes. It leaks — quietly. By the time September starts, the stealth phase of the reset is no longer preparation — it’s already in full motion.September Hits HarderBy September, the reset became deliberate and aggressive. For many US funds and corporations, it’s not just quarter-end — it’s the fiscal year-end. Portfolios aren’t being “adjusted,” they’re cleared for reporting purposes. Profits get locked in, losers get cut, and risks are being reduced, so balance sheets look bulletproof heading into Q4.What looks like “random selling” is nothing of the sort — it’s mandated portfolio resets tied to the calendar. The final phase of the cycle is about appearance as much as performance: managers want to print strong returns, hide drawdowns, and walk into year-end with portfolios that look unshakable on paper. When thousands of funds do this simultaneously, it amplifies every other September stressor — thin liquidity, buyback blackouts, and macro bombs waiting on the calendar.September: The Perfect Storm WindowThe Mechanical SqueezeSeptember isn’t just the weakest month for equities — it’s when the market’s plumbing turns hostile. First, the buyback blackout kills one of the most reliable daily demand engines. Without corporate bids soaking up supply, every sell order hits harder. Then triple witching slams in, forcing billions in options and futures flows through an order book already running on fumes. These are not market “events” — they’re pre-scheduled shocks baked into the reset. Look at September’s calendar — it isn’t random. The witching, CPI/PPI, FOMC: stack them up and you don’t see events, you see a firing sequence.The Macro DetonatorsWhile the mechanical stress is still rippling, the calendar drops its macro payload: CPI and PPI in the same week, a full FOMC meeting with Powell’s presser, and major index rebalances that shove megacap weights around like cargo in a storm. In this tape, even neutral Fed language can land like a hawkish bomb. History is brutal here — in 2022, a single CPI beat erased $3 trillion in market cap within three weeks. But 2025 is set up to be even harsher. This time, the entire market is leaning on one assumption — that Powell will finally pivot, that rate cuts are coming to save the tape. If that relief doesn’t arrive, the faith holding this rally together cracksWhen you stack macro bombs, mechanical flows, and no liquidity, you don’t get a dip — you get a hit that doesn’t pause for you to react. If you think you’ll have time to adjust when it starts, you’re already too late.How it looks in real timeThe tells aren’t hidden — they’re screaming if you know where to look.● Strong earnings, falling prices: A company crushes EPS and revenue, and the stock sells off anyway. That’s not a miss — that’s pros using your bid to exit.● Weak names rallying: Laggards suddenly lead, not because fundamentals flipped, but because funds are rebalancing without chasing stretched leaders.VIX creeping up: The tape looks calm in the mid-teens (14–15), but fake breakouts and stop runs multiply. First push through 16.5? That’s your early warning. Weekly close above 18.5? That’s regime change — “buy the dip” flips to “sell the rip.”In 2020, Tesla surged 74% into late August ahead of S&P inclusion, then dumped 34% in three weeks. In 2015, after China’s devaluation, the S&P fell 11% in ten days. The trigger headlines change. The reset mechanics don’t.August–September: the setup is visible on the tapeWhile feeds are still cheering new highs, the chart tells a cleaner story. Price is stalling beneath 6,480–6,500 after a 16% run. The tape is stretched, VIX is creeping off the floor, and the liquidity under you is paper-thin. The map is already drawn: First — a September flush into the highlighted liquidity band at 5,900–6,000 as VIX pushes from 14–15 through 16.5 and toward 18.5–20. Then — a reversal drive toward the 1.618 extension near 7,100. This isn’t a random correction — it’s the market’s quarterly reset playing out on schedule.If the index breaks 6400 and closes the week under 6350 with VIX >16.5 (ideally ≥18.5), the wash opens straight to 6150 → 6000–5900. That’s the shakeout.If, after that sweep, price reclaims 6150–6300 while VIX drops back under 16, the runway to 6600 and 7100 is clear.Invalidation is simple: a clean hold above 6500 with VIX ≤15 skips the wash and squeezes toward 6600 — but the base case into September is flush first, extension later.ConclusionWhile retail still treats this rally like an open barrier, the planned reset is already in progress. The calm you see isn’t stability — it’s the pause before the blade drops. And when it does, it won’t miss. If you’re still long without a plan, you’re not trading — you’re volunteering as someone’s exit liquidity. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Fortrade Limited, the UK financial services firm specializing in contracts for difference (CFDs) trading, reported a sharp increase in profitability for 2024 as trading activity picked up across its platform.UK Broker Fortrade Posts £1.3M Profit on Higher Client Activity LevelsThe London-based company saw operating profit jump 37% to £1.34 million, up from £921,000 the previous year. Revenue climbed to £21.2 million from £19.8 million in 2023, representing a 7% increase that helped drive the stronger bottom line.The Financial Conduct Authority-regulated firm attributed the improved performance to higher client activity levels, even as it faced what directors described as "difficult trading conditions and increasing competition" in its core markets.Fortrade's gross profit margin expanded significantly, rising to £5.4 million from £4.4 million the year before - a 22% jump that outpaced the revenue growth. This suggests the company managed to control its direct costs while handling higher volumes.Fortrade is the latest London-based brokerage to publish its 2024 results. Recently, Saxo Capital Markets UK reported a 32% drop in net profit despite a surge in client growth. Meanwhile, Monex Europe Holding Limited posted a net loss of £2.3 million.Stronger Balance SheetThe firm's balance sheet also strengthened considerably. Net assets grew to £13.9 million from £12.6 million, with cash holdings more than doubling to £6.4 million from £3.0 million. The company maintained no debt during the period.Employee headcount nearly doubled to 43 people from 24, with wage costs rising to £2.3 million from £1.8 million as the company expanded its operations team to handle growing business volumes.Fortrade operates through subsidiaries in Israel and Serbia that provide back-office support services. The company offers CFD trading to retail clients, taking the opposite side of customer positions while hedging its own market exposure.Directors Remain CoutiousIn regulatory filings, directors said they remain cautious about market conditions ahead. "The Group continues to look for opportunities overseas although the directors expect that the Group's future profitability will be primarily from its existing core market," the company stated.The firm paid no dividends during 2024, with directors choosing to retain earnings to support future growth plans. Fortrade is ultimately controlled by Liechtenstein-registered Audina Treuhand AG through parent company Alba Capital SA.Trading revenue represents the bulk of Fortrade's income, generated from spreads, commissions and financing charges on CFD positions. The company also earned £161,000 in interest income, double the prior year's £80,000, benefiting from higher rates on its cash deposits. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Digital asset trading platform GCEX has hired Kevin Gillespie, a 35-year industry veteran, to spearhead sales and business development across the UK and EMEA regions.Gillespie joins the regulated digital prime broker from Laser Digital, the Nomura Group subsidiary, where he focused on digital asset and FX sales to institutional clients. The appointment comes as GCEX looks to capitalize on growing demand for institutional crypto services.GCEX Hires Veteran FX Trader for EMEA ExpansionThe newly created role sees Gillespie reporting directly to GCEX CEO and founder Lars Holst. The company claims his mandate involves driving growth for the new employer’s FX, CFD and cryptocurrency offerings among brokers, hedge funds, asset managers and professional traders."I have known Kevin for many years and am thrilled that he has chosen to join our team," Holst said. "He has a wealth of experience in the FX, CFD and crypto industries, a strong network of institutional clients, and an in-depth understanding of their requirements."The move comes two months after GCEX hired Stanislav Bunimovich as managing director, the former chief operating officer at Finalto, a company co-founded by Holst. While Gillespie will be responsible for developing the offering in EMEA, Bunimovich is focusing on the APAC market.Three Decades of FX ExperienceGillespie's career spans more than three decades, starting as an FX trader before transitioning to sales and business development two decades ago. His resume includes senior institutional sales positions at firms like Menai Markets, Spotex, CobaltFX, Hotspot and IFX Markets.At IFX Markets, he developed the electronic institutional FX business into $2 million monthly revenue. His trading background includes proprietary FX positions at Banca di Roma, Bank of Yokohama and Toronto Dominion Bank, where he traded major currency pairs including USD/CHF.You may also like: GCEX Joins Lynq Network’s Real-Time Settlement Platform for Digital AssetsGCEX's Regulatory FoundationGCEX competes in the institutional digital asset space alongside established players and newer entrants seeking to bridge traditional finance with cryptocurrency markets. The firm's XplorDigital technology offerings include "Crypto in a Box" and "Broker in a Box" solutions designed to address regulatory requirements while providing custody, staking, liquidity and risk management capabilities.Gillespie highlighted the firm's infrastructure as a key factor in his decision to join. "I am really impressed by the strength of GCEX's offering, its robust infrastructure, the fact that it is regulated in three jurisdictions, and the breadth of its institutional client base," he said. "I am looking forward to playing a key role in driving further growth by sourcing new revenue opportunities and attracting new clients in the UK and EMEA."The role creation for Gillespie suggests GCEX sees significant expansion potential in the UK and EMEA regions, where regulatory clarity around digital assets continues to evolve. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

New Zealand's financial watchdog has issued warnings about sophisticated scammers using deepfake technology to impersonate well-known local finance experts and commentators on Facebook.Artificial intelligence is being used to create videos that lure unsuspecting users into investing in fraudulent projects, promoted with the faces of local radio hosts, investment advisors, and television presenters regarded as financial experts.Facebook Deepfakes Target Kiwi Investors in WhatsApp ScamThe Financial Markets Authority (FMA) identified fake Facebook pages targeting investors by mimicking prominent figures from the local media. These fraudulent accounts use artificially generated videos of the personalities to promote what appear to be legitimate WhatsApp investment advisory groups.The scale of the problem is evident from the fact that WhatsApp recently removed nearly 7 million fake accounts, many of which were being used to defraud users.The scam begins when victims encounter Facebook or Instagram advertisements featuring deepfake videos of these respected financial voices. The AI-generated content shows the impersonated figures discussing their supposed investment successes and encouraging viewers to join exclusive WhatsApp groups for free trading advice.The elaborate deception doesn't stop there. Once victims join these WhatsApp groups, they encounter what appears to be a thriving community of successful investors. However, most group members are fake accounts controlled by the scammers, all praising their supposed mentor's investment guidance and sharing fabricated success stories.From Fake Celebrities to Fake MentorsPeople are drawn into these groups through deceptive video materials that use the likenesses of well-known local figures, including:Carmel Fisher, an investment advisor and founder of Fisher Funds Management, Frances Cook, a popular personal finance journalist and podcast host, Mike Hosking, the well-known radio host and television presenter, Gareth Morgan, the economist and founder of Gareth Morgan Investments,Simon Tong, a financial commentator and investment strategist. Victims then connect with an investment "mentor" or "coach" who provides personalized trading recommendations and stock picks. These mentors gradually build trust before introducing victims to fraudulent investment platforms, often requesting payments in cryptocurrency to make transactions harder to trace.The warning comes shortly after the FMA also cautioned that scams based on popular chat applications are gaining momentum. Although no exact statistics were provided, in neighboring Australia such cases rose by nearly 30% in the first half of 2025, with victims losing three times more than during the same period a year earlier.The Evolution of WhatsApp ScamsThe scammers frequently ask victims to install software on their devices, which turns out to be malware or remote access tools. This gives fraudsters access to sensitive personal and financial information stored on victims' computers and phones.When investors attempt to withdraw their funds, they hit the final trap. Scammers claim victims must pay additional fees before accessing their money. Even after paying these bogus charges, victims never receive their investments back.The FMA noted this represents an evolution of previous WhatsApp investment scams the agency has tracked. The addition of deepfake technology and impersonation of trusted local figures makes these schemes particularly convincing to New Zealand investors.A study conducted last year showed that Telegram, WhatsApp, and Facebook are currently the riskiest platforms when it comes to encountering potential investment scams.The agency also advises reporting spam messages to the Department of Internal Affairs and seeking support from Victim Support, which provides free emotional and practical assistance to fraud victims. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Blockchain lender Figure Technology Solutions filed for a U.S. initial public offering this week, revealing strong financial performance as the blockchain lender joins a growing wave of crypto companies heading to Wall Street.Figure Technology Files for IPO Amid Crypto Market RallyThe New York-based firm's revenue jumped 22.4% to $191 million in the first half of 2025, while swinging to a $29 million profit from a $13 million loss in the same period last year. The results underscore how blockchain-focused financial companies are capitalizing on renewed investor interest in digital assets.Figure's IPO filing comes as crypto firms are flooding public markets at an unprecedented pace. The company joins recent filers including the Winklevoss twins' Gemini exchange, which submitted its paperwork last week, and stablecoin issuer Circle, whose successful debut has emboldened other digital asset players.The crypto IPO pipeline has swelled this year with trading platforms eToro and Bullish already completing successful debuts, creating what industry observers describe as the most active period for digital asset public offerings in years."Crypto is becoming one of the big pillars of the IPO market, with more deals expected not only via IPO but also through deSPAC transactions," Josef Schuster, CEO of IPOX told Reuters, referring to companies going public through blank-check mergers.Figure Technology Solutions - Key Performance IndicatorsTraditional Lending Moves to BlockchainFigure's business model centers on bringing traditional financial products onto blockchain infrastructure. Co-founded in 2018 by technology entrepreneur Mike Cagney, the platform handles lending, trading and investing across consumer credit and digital assets. The company and its 160-plus partners have originated more than $16 billion in home equity loans.Cagney sees blockchain technology as transformative for capital markets beyond just cryptocurrency trading. "Blockchain can do more than disrupt existing markets. By taking historically illiquid assets – such as loans – and putting these assets and their performance history on-chain, blockchain can bring liquidity to markets that have never had such," he said in the filing.The former SoFi co-founder will retain majority voting control of Figure after the offering. Both Figure and existing shareholders plan to sell stock in the deal, though specific terms weren't disclosed.Pro-Cryptocurrency Trump Administration Supports IPO DecisionsPolitical winds have shifted favorably for crypto companies seeking public listings. The Trump administration's supportive stance toward digital assets has created a more welcoming regulatory environment, encouraging firms that previously hesitated to pursue IPOs.Figure last raised capital in 2021, securing $200 million at a $3.2 billion valuation during the height of the previous crypto boom. The company plans to list on Nasdaq under the ticker "FIGR," with Goldman Sachs, Jefferies and BofA Securities serving as lead underwriters.The IPO represents just the beginning of Figure's broader ambitions. "The IPO is one step in a long process to bring blockchain to all aspects of capital markets," Cagney noted in the filing.The broader crypto IPO wave also reflects changing investor sentiment toward blockchain technology and digital assets. After years of regulatory uncertainty and market volatility, institutional investors appear more willing to back crypto-related public companies with proven business models and solid financials. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

The ambition of Plus500 (LON: PLUS) to capture the Latin American markets has become prominent with the establishment of its first representative office in Colombia. Announced today (Tuesday), it is the first strategic expansion of the broker in that “fast-growing region.”Plus500’s Aim to Grow in Latin AmericaInterestingly, FinanceMagnates.com recently reported that Plus500 is also seeking a local licence in Chile, another South American country. It already established a local entity there last year.Plus500 has obtained authorisation from the Colombian Financial Superintendence (SFC) to establish a new representative office in Colombia.The new representative office will allow the Israeli broker to build stronger relationships with local stakeholders and offer “a localised and more tailored service proposition” to its regional customers.“This is another significant milestone reflecting our commitment to growing the Group's presence in new markets worldwide, while ensuring that we continue to operate in full compliance with local regulatory frameworks,” said Plus500’s CEO, David Zruia.“This authorisation represents an important step in establishing our position in Latin America.”Expansion Never StopsHeadquartered in Israel, Plus500 entered the Americas eyeing the retail futures market in the United States. It entered the country by acquiring two entities of the same group: Cunningham Commodities and Cunningham Trading Systems. The deal was closed for $30 million, which the Israeli broker paid from its growing cash reserves.Earlier this year, it also gained a Canadian licence to offer over-the-counter (OTC) products locally.Meanwhile, Plus500 is not the only broker to establish a base in Latin America. AvaTrade, another CFDs broker, gained approval from the Colombian regulator to offer services in the country. Poland-based XTB also gained a licence in Chile.Plus500’s ambitions, however, are not limited to Latin America. It obtained a Dubai licence earlier this year and also acquired an Indian broker to tap into the South Asian market. This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.

Robinhood expanded its AI-powered investment tool to UK customers, giving retail investors access to automated summaries that explain why stocks are moving.The feature, called Digests by Robinhood Cortex, uses artificial intelligence to scan breaking news, analyst reports, technical data and the company's internal trading information. It then produces plain-English explanations for stock price movements that appear directly on individual stock pages within the app.Robinhood first introduced Digests to US customers earlier this summer after announcing the tool at a company event in San Francisco. The company claims hundreds of thousands of American users have already tried the feature, with 95% expressing satisfaction in surveys.Robinhood Brings AI Stock Analysis Tool to UK InvestorsUK customers can access Digests at no additional cost when the rollout completes. Robinhood positions Digests as an educational tool rather than investment advice. The summaries aim to help users understand market dynamics and form their own investment opinions before making trades."We believe our UK customers, from first-time investors to seasoned traders, will appreciate the timely, accessible summaries that highlight what may be moving a stock," said Jordan Sinclair, President at Robinhood UK.For Robinhood, this marks another step following the introduction of tokenized stocks in 2025, aimed at reducing the fintech’s reliance on cryptocurrency revenues, which fell by another 36% in the second quarter.The AI assistant analyzes multiple data streams simultaneously, including news reports, analyst coverage, technical indicators and proprietary trading data from Robinhood's platform. Users can find these summaries by navigating to any supported stock's detail page within the mobile app.At launch, Digests covers many of the most actively traded stocks on Robinhood's UK platform. The company plans to expand coverage and introduce additional AI-powered features over time.You may also like: Robinhood Targets 11 Million UK Traders with Desktop Trading PlatformAI Takes Over the Investment IndustryThe tool represents Robinhood's first major AI integration following broader industry trends toward automated investment research. Traditional brokerages and fintech platforms have increasingly adopted AI to help retail investors navigate complex market information.Examples from recent months are plentiful. In early August, eToro launched its AI assistant, Tori, which answers questions and provides personalized investment insights. Earlier this year, Acuity and cTrader formed a partnership that allows users of the Spotware trading platform to access AI-driven analytical tools directly from their charts.Recently, Interactive Brokers also joined the trend, introducing an AI tool that covers all S&P 1500 stocks and is available to all clients at no additional cost. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Forex industry recruitment specialist FinTop Consulting is looking to expand beyond its base in London and Cyprus. The company is now seeking to acquire boutique recruitment agencies based in the UAE, Europe, the USA, or the Asia Pacific.FinTop’s Expansion DriveThe two founding partners of FinTop, Kishore Panjwani and Reece Pawsey, posted on LinkedIn about their plans to expand through acquisitions.They detailed that their target business profile would be companies generating £500k EBIT annually, with strong client relationships and niche expertise.Further, FinTop is also open to founders seeking the “next stage of growth or an exit.”The New FX and CFDs HubsThe expansion plans come at a time when many brokers are increasing their presence in the Middle East, especially in Dubai. Big brands like XTB and Plus500 have also obtained local Dubai licences and established physical offices there to strengthen their position in the region.The Middle East market's strict approach also became visible when many CFD brokers reported strong trading revenues from the region.While London and Cyprus were once considered the hubs of retail trading, especially for CFDs, Dubai has now challenged their dominance. FinTop earlier revealed that salaries in the retail trading industry in Dubai are much higher than in Cyprus-based roles. Some Dubai-based roles even offer double the salary of those in Cyprus.While the cost of living is lower in Cyprus, Dubai offers tax-free income.In addition, the vast talent pool in Dubai is another reason why many brokers are setting up their operations in the city.Read more: IC Markets Seeks UAE License; Eightcap Secures a New Dubai LicenseMeanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is another growth market for the CFDs industry. Although the region does not regulate retail CFDs like Europe or Dubai, brokers are aggressively expanding in countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and China. India is also a major market where many brokers now offer services.Interestingly, Exness recently stopped onboarding new clients from India but continues to serve existing ones. This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.