Andreessen Horowitz’s crypto division, a16z Crypto, has announced a $50 million investment in Jito, a leading Solana-based liquid staking protocol. The funding, completed through a private token sale, represents one of the most significant Solana ecosystem investments of 2025 and underscores a16z’s continued confidence in blockchain infrastructure and decentralized finance (DeFi) innovation. Founded to make Solana staking more efficient, Jito has become a cornerstone of the network’s liquid staking landscape. The platform issues JitoSOL, a liquid staking token that allows users to stake SOL and still retain liquidity to participate in other DeFi activities. With this investment, Jito plans to scale its validator infrastructure, expand its liquid staking solutions, and enhance its suite of open-source tools for developers building on Solana. Building Solana’s Liquid Staking Infrastructure Jito’s unique model integrates MEV (Maximal Extractable Value) optimization, redistributing extracted value to stakers and validators. This mechanism helps reduce network congestion, improve capital efficiency, and reward participants more equitably. Through MEV auctions and its Block Assembly Marketplace, Jito enables Solana validators to maximize block profitability while maintaining transparency and fairness. According to sources close to the deal, the $50 million investment was structured as a strategic, long-term commitment. a16z reportedly acquired Jito’s native tokens with a vesting period designed to align long-term incentives between the protocol’s team and investors. The investment not only provides capital for Jito’s growth but also gives the project access to a16z’s extensive network of institutional partners, developers, and advisors. The investment comes amid renewed interest in the Solana ecosystem, which has experienced rapid growth in total value locked (TVL) and on-chain trading volume throughout 2025. Solana’s speed, low transaction costs, and growing developer base have positioned it as a strong competitor to Ethereum for scalable DeFi and on-chain finance applications. Institutional participation has become a defining trend in Solana’s resurgence. a16z’s $50 million investment in Jito follows several other venture-led token purchases this year, indicating that traditional VC firms are increasingly favoring token-based deals over equity. This strategy allows them to participate directly in governance, staking, and the long-term appreciation of the underlying networks. Jito’s commitment to decentralization and transparency also aligns with regulatory trends. As U.S. authorities intensify scrutiny of staking services offered by centralized exchanges, decentralized and permissionless alternatives like Jito present a more compliant, globally accessible solution. The platform’s open-source framework allows developers and validators worldwide to contribute to Solana’s growing liquidity layer. A Vote of Confidence in Solana’s Future Following the announcement, Jito’s native token, JTO, surged approximately 4% in market trading, signaling investor optimism about the protocol’s strengthened position. Analysts view the deal as a milestone that could accelerate innovation within Solana’s DeFi sector and attract further institutional capital to on-chain staking. For a16z, this investment reflects a broader belief in Solana’s potential as the foundation for high-performance decentralized applications. By backing Jito, a16z positions itself at the intersection of liquid staking, MEV optimization, and Solana’s next wave of DeFi growth. The move reinforces that despite regulatory uncertainty, venture capital remains deeply invested in blockchain infrastructure that powers the decentralized economy.

SharpLink Gaming Ltd. (Nasdaq: SBET) has announced the pricing of a $76.5 million registered direct offering to expand its Ethereum (ETH) holdings, signaling a growing corporate appetite for blockchain assets. The move strengthens SharpLink’s position as one of the most prominent public companies integrating cryptocurrency into its treasury strategy. Strong investor demand and premium pricing According to the company’s announcement, SharpLink issued 4.5 million shares at $17 per share—representing a 12 percent premium to its October 15, 2025, closing price of $15.15. The offering is expected to close around October 17, pending customary closing conditions. The institutional investor involved also received a 90-day premium purchase contract, allowing the purchase of an additional 4.5 million shares at $17.50 per share. If fully exercised, this would bring total proceeds to more than $155 million. SharpLink said the funds will be used primarily to expand its Ethereum reserves and strengthen its balance sheet. The company emphasized that holding ETH aligns with its long-term strategic vision of building shareholder value through blockchain exposure and decentralized technology integration. Despite the premium structure of the offering, SharpLink’s stock experienced a temporary pullback as investors weighed the impact of potential dilution. Analysts noted that while the direct offering adds liquidity, it could increase short-term volatility in the share price. However, the company’s commitment to acquiring ETH and its early-mover advantage in integrating blockchain technology into the gaming sector continue to attract institutional attention. Citizens JMP Securities recently initiated coverage of SharpLink with a “market outperform” rating and a $50 price target, implying substantial upside potential. Analysts believe the company’s aggressive Ethereum strategy could pay off if ETH continues its upward trajectory and decentralized applications gain mainstream adoption. Positioning among corporate Ethereum holders With approximately 840,000 ETH already in its treasury, SharpLink now ranks among the largest publicly traded holders of Ethereum globally. This accumulation strategy mirrors similar moves by companies like MicroStrategy with Bitcoin, marking a broader trend of corporate crypto adoption. SharpLink’s leadership stated that Ethereum’s versatility, including its role in decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and gaming ecosystems, makes it an ideal asset for long-term value growth. The company’s integration of Ethereum also supports its broader goal of advancing blockchain-based gaming and prediction market technologies. By leveraging smart contracts and decentralized applications, SharpLink aims to enhance transparency and engagement within its gaming platforms while aligning with the broader Web3 movement. SharpLink’s $76.5 million Ethereum investment highlights a growing corporate trend toward digital asset accumulation. As blockchain technology matures, more publicly traded firms are exploring cryptocurrency holdings as a diversification tool and hedge against traditional market volatility. By taking an assertive stance on Ethereum, SharpLink positions itself not only as a gaming technology innovator but also as a forward-thinking participant in the decentralized finance ecosystem. The company’s latest capital raise underscores its belief that digital assets will play an integral role in the next generation of corporate finance and online entertainment.

DeFi Development Corp (Nasdaq: DFDV) has announced the acquisition of an additional 86,307 Solana (SOL) tokens valued at approximately $15 million. This purchase brings the company’s total Solana holdings to 2,095,748 SOL, now estimated to be worth around $499 million. The move reinforces DeFi Development Corp’s long-term strategy to accumulate and compound Solana as part of its blockchain-based treasury operations. Strategic accumulation of Solana assets The acquisition aligns with DeFi Development Corp’s vision of building a robust digital asset portfolio anchored in high-performance blockchain networks. The company’s growing SOL position signals confidence in Solana’s scalability, low transaction costs, and expanding developer ecosystem. As of this acquisition, the company’s Solana per share (SPS) stands at roughly 0.0816, translating to a per-share value of approximately $19.44 based on 25,670,108 outstanding shares. The company emphasized that its treasury strategy is focused on long-term growth through the accumulation of high-utility tokens with strong adoption metrics. Solana, known for its throughput and institutional-grade infrastructure, has become one of the most actively used Layer 1 blockchains in decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and real-world asset tokenization. DeFi Development Corp’s latest acquisition underscores its intent to strengthen exposure to one of the industry’s most resilient ecosystems. DeFi Development Corp’s investment comes at a time when institutional players are increasingly seeking exposure to high-performing blockchain ecosystems beyond Ethereum. Solana’s network has demonstrated strong uptime, consistent developer activity, and growing traction among decentralized exchanges, lending protocols, and liquid staking platforms. By holding Solana directly in its treasury, DeFi Development Corp positions itself to benefit from both token appreciation and the network’s on-chain innovation. The firm’s commitment reflects a broader trend of public companies integrating blockchain assets into their balance sheets, mirroring earlier corporate strategies centered on Bitcoin accumulation. Industry analysts view the move as a calculated bet on Solana’s continued dominance in high-speed decentralized trading and settlement infrastructure. With DeFi volumes surging and institutional participation rising, Solana’s ecosystem is emerging as a cornerstone of scalable financial applications. DeFi Development Corp’s treasury expansion aligns with this macro narrative, bridging traditional finance principles with blockchain-native asset management. Long-term blockchain investment strategy DeFi Development Corp’s ongoing accumulation of SOL throughout 2025 demonstrates its steady approach toward digital asset exposure. The company has consistently emphasized transparency in reporting its holdings, reflecting its intent to set a benchmark for public companies managing blockchain treasuries. As Solana continues to gain traction across decentralized finance, artificial intelligence, and cross-chain interoperability, DeFi Development Corp’s latest acquisition strengthens its position as a pioneer in corporate blockchain investment. The firm’s treasury diversification strategy may inspire similar moves from other public entities exploring long-term participation in blockchain economies. The acquisition of 86,307 SOL reinforces DeFi Development Corp’s standing as one of the few publicly traded companies actively leveraging blockchain-based assets as a strategic reserve, underscoring the growing convergence between traditional finance and decentralized networks.

Seed Funding to Boost Stablecoin Settlement Infrastructure YZi Labs, the venture arm formerly known as Binance Labs, has led a $50 million seed round in Better Payment Network (BPN), a startup developing stablecoin-based payment infrastructure. The company said the funding will be used to build onchain liquidity pools and market-making systems for stablecoin-to-stablecoin transactions across emerging markets. In a statement released Thursday, BPN said it is building a hybrid system that merges centralized and decentralized finance models to enable real-time minting, swapping, and settlement of fiat-backed stablecoins. The network operates on BNB Chain and aims to reduce cross-border transaction costs from roughly 2% to 0.3% while shortening settlement times from two days to a few hours, according to a blog post by YZi Labs. BPN’s platform targets markets with fragmented banking systems and limited access to dollar liquidity, seeking to make stablecoin payments more efficient for fintechs and merchants operating across multiple currencies. Investor Takeaway The deal highlights renewed venture appetite for payment infrastructure that bridges stablecoins across borders as regulatory clarity improves and stablecoin volumes rise. How the Network Works BPN’s liquidity model supports multiple fiat-backed stablecoins and operates as a clearing layer between issuers, market makers, and payment processors. By combining centralized liquidity management with onchain settlement, the company aims to address inefficiencies in existing corridors dominated by USD-based rails. “BPN creates a seamless, scalable, and efficient payment ecosystem that has the potential to outperform both traditional Web2 players and fragmented Web3 solutions,” said Dana H., Investment Partner at YZi Labs. Founder Rica Fu said the company’s approach “offers a more inclusive and efficient alternative to USD-centric payment systems,” suggesting that multi-stablecoin interoperability could help local economies settle directly in their preferred digital currencies rather than converting through the dollar each time. YZi Labs’ Broader Push Into Infrastructure The investment marks YZi Labs’ first major deal since its rebranding from Binance Labs earlier this year, part of a wider effort to distance its venture operations from the exchange’s regulatory challenges. The firm has been actively backing infrastructure projects that support liquidity, payments, and compliance layers for digital assets. While other investors in BPN’s seed round were not disclosed, the size of the raise signals renewed venture confidence in stablecoin infrastructure at a time when payments startups are regaining investor interest. Market data from DefiLlama shows that stablecoin supply has expanded to over $160 billion globally, with transaction volumes continuing to rise across BNB Chain, Ethereum, and Tron. Investor Takeaway For investors, BPN’s model reflects a broader trend toward multi-chain liquidity and regional payment networks competing to power the next generation of stablecoin transactions. Outlook for Emerging Market Payments BPN’s focus on emerging markets aligns with a wider trend of stablecoin adoption in regions where capital controls, inflation, and banking inefficiencies limit access to hard currency. By enabling stablecoin settlements across jurisdictions, the company hopes to position itself as a bridge between digital assets and traditional payment infrastructure. With YZi Labs’ backing and technical integration on BNB Chain, BPN joins a growing list of stablecoin-focused startups targeting remittance-heavy economies and regional payment corridors. Whether the network can scale adoption among banks and fintechs will depend on regulatory acceptance and its ability to deliver reliable onchain liquidity at lower cost.

The UK’s top financial watchdog is slicing through its own red tape. In a sweeping clean-up of its rulebook, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is cutting the volume of text governing how investment firms manage their capital by nearly three-quarters — without changing how much they must hold. The new rules, published this week, will take effect on April 1, 2026, and mark one of the regulator’s most practical simplifications since the Investment Firms Prudential Regime (IFPR) came into force in 2022. The FCA says the overhaul reduces the word count of its “own funds” section — which defines what counts as eligible capital — from roughly 44,000 to just 13,000 words. In plain English: the rules stay the same, but reading them just got a lot less painful. “We’ve stripped out the old banking references that were cluttering up the rulebook,” an FCA spokesperson said. “Firms will now be able to see clearly what applies to them — no more cross-checking endless banking provisions.” The FCA has been working since the UK’s exit from the European Union to carve out a capital framework that fits the country’s investment firms rather than its banks. The original rules had borrowed heavily from the EU’s Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) — a dense, bank-oriented playbook that many smaller investment houses said didn’t suit their business models. When the FCA launched its consultation on the rewrite back in April 2025, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Many firms argued that the complexity of the existing text made compliance unnecessarily costly. The regulator agreed, noting that too much of the inherited EU material was irrelevant to non-bank entities. Under the new version, firms will still have to hold the same tiers of capital — Common Equity Tier 1, Additional Tier 1, and Tier 2 — but the definitions and eligibility criteria have been rewritten to fit investment structures, not bank balance sheets. The move also reflects the Treasury’s wider deregulation drive, tied to what ministers dubbed the “Edinburgh” and “Leeds” Reforms, a post-Brexit effort to make the UK more competitive against hubs like New York and Singapore. Those initiatives encourage regulators to pare back excess complexity while preserving safeguards for investors and markets. Simon Walls, the FCA’s interim executive director of markets, said earlier this year that the goal was to make the framework “proportionate and effective for investment firms while keeping financial resilience and consumer protection intact.” For compliance officers, this translates to less time hunting through footnotes and more time understanding what actually counts as capital. The regulator hopes the streamlined handbook will make it easier for smaller players — often without in-house legal teams — to stay compliant. The FCA insists this is not deregulation in disguise. Firms must still meet the same minimum capital ratios and reporting obligations. What changes is the structure of the handbook: the dense legalese has been replaced by a single, self-contained section under MIFIDPRU, the main prudential sourcebook for investment firms. Industry lawyers welcomed the shift. “This is a genuinely helpful edit,” said Tom Callaby, a regulatory partner at CMS in London. “It’s not a relaxation of prudential standards, but it should make the rulebook far less intimidating — especially for firms outside the big-bank ecosystem.” The FCA’s decision is also linked to its new secondary objective, introduced under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023, which requires the regulator to support the UK’s growth and competitiveness alongside its traditional oversight duties. Cutting down bureaucracy, the FCA argues, is part of fulfilling that mandate. The rewrite might sound technical, but it matters. Investment firms across the UK — from asset managers to brokers — have long complained that they’re bound by banking-grade paperwork. The promise now is a handbook written in their language, not a banker’s. Whether that promise holds up in practice will become clear next spring, when firms begin reporting under the simplified regime. For now, though, the FCA just proved that in regulation, fewer words can sometimes mean more clarity.

Crypto Figures Among Donors to $250 Million Ballroom Project U.S. President Donald Trump hosted a dinner at the White House for companies pledging funds toward the construction of a new $250 million ballroom, with attendees reportedly including senior executives from Gemini, Coinbase and Ripple. According to the Wall Street Journal, the dinner was part of a fundraising effort to finance the 90,000-square-foot expansion, first proposed by Trump in July. Among those present were Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, co-founders of Gemini, alongside representatives from Coinbase Global and Ripple Labs. The event took place on the fifteenth day of the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, with multiple federal agencies operating with limited staff. As of Thursday, no agreement had been reached in Congress to fund government operations, leaving negotiations between Republicans and Democrats stalled. Investor Takeaway The White House event underscores how deeply the digital asset industry has embedded itself in Washington’s political scene, blending policy advocacy with donor influence. Silicon Valley and Defense Giants Join Crypto Leaders The dinner’s guest list extended beyond crypto, including executives from Meta, Google, Amazon, Lockheed Martin and Microsoft. Former Bakkt chief Kelly Loeffler, now serving as administrator of the Small Business Administration, also attended. Sources said the event was designed to rally high-profile backers around the ballroom initiative, which Trump has described as part of his plan to “modernize the people’s house.” The planned expansion would add roughly 8,361 square meters to the White House, hosting official ceremonies and private donor events. The project has sparked criticism over its cost at a time when government operations remain partially suspended. Crypto Executives Deepen Ties to Washington The dinner capped a week of outreach by crypto executives to lawmakers and regulators in Washington. Industry leaders have been lobbying for clearer digital asset rules following the passage of the GENIUS stablecoin bill earlier this year. The Winklevoss twins, who pledged $2 million in Bitcoin to Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, have maintained a visible presence in D.C., attending the bill’s signing ceremony in July and donating $21 million to a pro-Trump political action committee ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and Chief Legal Officer Stuart Alderoty have also built close ties to the Trump administration. Both met with the president-elect in November, attended inauguration events in January, and later joined a White House crypto summit in March. Ripple advertising has since appeared across Washington metro stations, part of a campaign to present the company as a compliant bridge between crypto and traditional finance. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has been equally active on Capitol Hill. The company donated $1 million to Trump’s inauguration fund, and Armstrong met with Trump privately in November to discuss the GENIUS Act and broader market structure reforms. Coinbase continues to position itself as a key advocate for regulated digital assets within the U.S. financial system. Investor Takeaway The administration’s outreach to crypto donors comes as Washington prepares new enforcement frameworks. The sector’s political spending may help shape how regulation unfolds in Trump’s second term. Policy, Optics, and the Growing Crypto Lobby The optics of the dinner — a luxury fundraising event during a federal shutdown — drew scrutiny from political analysts. Critics said the gathering reinforced perceptions of growing private-sector influence within Trump’s White House, particularly from industries seeking regulatory clarity. Supporters, meanwhile, framed it as evidence of a pragmatic partnership between policymakers and technology innovators. For the digital asset sector, participation in such events signals the industry’s evolution from regulatory outsider to political stakeholder. With major firms like Ripple, Coinbase, and Gemini now regular fixtures in Washington, the relationship between the administration and crypto companies appears poised to deepen as the next phase of regulation begins.

Retail FX and CFDs broker Hantec Markets has reported its strongest quarter on record, fueled by a surge in trading activity and new client growth that capped off a fast-paced year of expansion and leadership changes. The London-based broker said total notional traded volume hit $725.5 billion in Q3 2025, an increase of around 20% from the previous quarter and more than 70% higher than the same period last year. September alone accounted for roughly $283.1 billion, making it the firm’s most active month on record. The gains round out a year of steady acceleration: Q1 volumes were up about 54% year-on-year at $437.6 billion, and Q2 growth pushed that base even higher. “We started the year with a clear sign of trust from clients and our long-term investment in product, people and partnerships. The numbers speak for themselves,” said COO Nader Nurmohamed. Institutional Momentum Much of the recent momentum stems from Hantec’s deeper push into institutional markets through its Hantec Prime division. The company brought in Michael Nichols as CEO of Hantec Prime in mid-September to expand liquidity services and professional-trading infrastructure. Industry analysts said the move helped the group diversify beyond its core retail clientele and attract larger volume flow. The business has also seen growing interest in non-FX products, which made up the majority of traded volume during the quarter. Broader product access through its desktop and mobile platforms—covering equities, commodities, indices and precious metals—has helped widen its user base. Expansion in the Americas Another driver of the quarter’s surge came from abroad. In October, Hantec opened a new office in Cancún, Mexico, anchoring its first Latin American hub. The site supports Spanish-speaking markets and builds on existing relationships across the region. The company described the move as part of a broader global rollout that began in 2024, when it added more regional licenses and strengthened its partner network. Founded in 2010 by Bashir Nurmohamed, a former ODL Securities and Rosenthal Collins executive, Hantec Markets is part of the Hong Kong-based Hantec Group, established by financier Tang Yu Lap in 1990. The group has operations across Asia, Europe and the Middle East and holds licenses in several jurisdictions, including the UK’s FCA, ASIC in Australia, and regulators in Hong Kong and Mauritius. A Decade in the Making While 2025 has been a breakout year, the groundwork was laid over the past decade. Hantec’s early investment in technology and regulation gave it a stable base at a time when many mid-tier brokers struggled with tighter capital requirements and declining margins. Its multi-entity setup now allows cross-regional client onboarding and broader time-zone coverage—advantages that helped it capitalize on the volatility of 2025’s energy and metals markets. The firm’s strategy has also mirrored a wider industry trend of brokers expanding into prop-trading, copy-trading, and multi-asset portfolios to offset softer spreads in traditional FX pairs. Non-FX products, particularly indices and commodities, became standout contributors to Hantec’s Q3 performance. Looking Ahead Hantec’s Q3 results come amid a rebound in global retail-trading activity after a lull in 2024. Industry data show brokers with diversified offerings are regaining ground as clients return to leveraged products, drawn by high volatility in rates and equities. The company is now betting that its institutional arm and regional expansion will sustain that momentum. Further details on client acquisition, profitability and regional growth are expected when the group’s UK entity—Hantec Markets Ltd —files its next financial statement.

The Cardano Foundation launched a $50 million ADA liquidity fund in 2025 to address liquidity issues and promote the adoption of stablecoins and decentralized finance (DeFi). With Cardano’s ecosystem and strategic plans on the rise, this raises the question: might this increase in liquidity start a new rally for ADA? This article discusses Cardano’s plans, expert price estimates, and factors that could impact ADA’s path in 2025. What The $50 Million Liquidity Fund Means For Strategy The Cardano Foundation’s donation of 50 million ADA, or around $40.5 million, to a liquidity fund addresses one of the network’s most significant challenges: insufficient liquidity. The fund aims to boost trading volumes, expand liquidity pools, and increase the number of stablecoins on the Cardano blockchain.  The foundation aims to allocate 15% of its monthly earnings to the treasury and reinvest 85% into protocols to sustain liquidity growth. This steady source of income is expected to help decentralized applications (dApps) and protocols, which will encourage more people to use and accept them. ​ Expanded Ecosystem Initiatives That Make It Easier To Adopt Cardano is working on improving the whole ecosystem, not just the liquidity. Investing in the Web3 team’s growth, developing business applications, and establishing connections with new exchanges aims to enhance the platform’s accessibility and utility. Ten million dollars’ worth of real-world asset (RWA) tokenization projects have been started.  These projects represent an effort to connect traditional banking with blockchain. The foundation’s Venture Hub, which has $2 million in ADA ($1.62 million), helps entrepreneurs by working with top accelerators to speed up innovation. The foundation is still working to decentralize by giving 220 million ADA to new representatives. This lowers the foundation’s self-delegation and provides the community with more voting power. ​ Expert Predictions for ADA Prices in 2025 Expert predictions for ADA’s price in 2025 show a wide range, but they all indicate a lot of room for growth: Investing Haven thinks that ADA will trade between $0.66 and $1.88, with a stretched bullish objective of $2.36. If they can go over technical barrier levels around $0.82, their average price projection is $1.21. ​ Analysts at Binance predict that the price will range between $0.66 and $1.10 in 2025, with an average price of $0.93 and a potential return on investment of 63.91%. They believe momentum will develop gradually throughout the year. ​ Bitpanda’s analysis reveals that bullish factors include the adoption of ADA on DeFi platforms like Minswap, as well as the effects of scaling solutions like Hydra. They predict that ADA might grow over $1.50, but there are also concerns from regulatory scrutiny and competition from Ethereum and Solana. ​ Digital Coin Price, a more positive outlook, predicts the average price will reach $2.46 by the end of 2025, with ADA potentially exceeding $2.69. ​ Conservative predictions suggest that prices could drop below $0.60, primarily due to market instability, slow technology, or issues with the regulatory framework. ​ Analysis of Technical and Market Sentiment As of this writing, ADA is trading around $0.65, boasting a market cap of over $23 billion and significant trading volumes. Technical analysis reveals a long-term bullish trend, alongside short-term volatility.  Critical support levels for Fibonacci retracement levels (around $0.81) that, if broken, could mean more negative risk. If executed correctly, positive changes in governance, ecosystem expansion, and the $50 million liquidity fund could all contribute to a new bullish trend. ​ Possible Factors That Could Lead to ADA Growth In 2025, the main things that will help ADA grow are: The liquidity fund is being utilized effectively to support DeFi projects and stablecoins, thereby increasing ADA’s popularity and demand. Cardano’s Layer 2 scaling solution, Hydra, is still under development and being rolled out. It speeds up transactions and lowers fees. More institutions are interested due to the potential for crypto ETF approvals and the broader adoption of blockchain. Tokenization of real-world assets is growing, which opens up new use cases and attracts money from traditional finance. Governance reforms that promote decentralization can foster trust and strengthen the community. Crucial Factors To Consider About Cardano’s Price Potential  Cardano has a lot of potential, but it also has some big problems: Ethereum, Solana, Avalanche, and other companies continue to face significant competition in the market due to their robust DeFi ecosystems. Unclear rules could slow down the pace of innovation or coding updates. If technical improvements like Hydra are delayed or underperform, it could limit the benefits of scalability. Changes in the broader economy can make crypto markets more volatile, which can change how people feel about ADA. Will Cardano Experience A Massive Rally Before 2025 Ends? The Cardano Foundation’s $50 million liquidity fund is a crucial step toward solving significant problems with liquidity and adoption. It might lead to a strong rally for ADA in 2025.  Most expert predictions indicate that ADA will trade between $0.66 and $1.88, with the possibility of exceeding $2.00 if specific goals are met.  Sustained growth will depend on the success of ecosystem activities, good governance reforms, and good market conditions. There are risks along the way, but Cardano’s well-thought-out strategy and robust community involvement put it in a good position to see significant price increases in the coming year.

A shareholder of Semler Scientific, a U.S.-based medical equipment company, has filed a lawsuit to stop the company’s planned $1.34 billion merger with Strive Asset Management. This investment firm focuses on Bitcoin. The complaint argues that the acquisition fails to consider shareholders’ interests adequately and exposes them to excessive risk due to the volatility of Bitcoin prices. The Background: A Merger Based on Bitcoin Strive announced in September 2025 that it would acquire Semler Scientific for $1.34 billion in stock, representing a 210% premium over Semler’s market value at the time. Under the terms of the deal, Semler shareholders would get 21.05 shares of Strive for every share of Semler they own. This would merge the Bitcoin holdings of both companies into a single holding of about 10,900 BTC. People said that the combination will bring together Strive’s Bitcoin-first investment mentality with Semler’s more traditional healthcare activities. Both parties’ executives said the purchase will make one of the most significant corporate Bitcoin holdings in the world and open up new revenue streams for Semler’s medical technology firm. Shareholders Are Angry and Suing Some shareholders, on the other hand, have strongly opposed the planned sale. The lawsuit in the Delaware Court of Chancery alleges that the shareholder is accusing Semler’s board of failing to conduct sufficient research and of not being transparent about the risks associated with Bitcoin’s price fluctuations and Strive’s exposure to crypto markets. The plaintiff argues that the merger would “transfer excessive risk” to current shareholders, whose equity could fluctuate significantly due to the Bitcoin market’s volatility. The complaint also challenges how quickly the merger was put together, reportedly within a week, and whether the board acted in the best interests of shareholders or rushed the process without thoroughly examining the regulatory and financial effects. Concerns About The Market And What They Mean For The Future After the news came out, Semler’s stock initially rose because people were excited about the premium offer. But later, investors and analysts raised questions about how long a faltering healthcare business could last with a balance sheet full of cryptocurrencies. People who watch the market say that this case shows how traditional corporate governance is becoming increasingly at odds with the new Bitcoin treasury tactics that U.S. corporations are using. As regulators pay more attention to crypto assets, the outcome of this lawsuit could affect how future hybrid mergers between traditional companies and Bitcoin-focused businesses are set up. The Semler–Strive merger shows both the ambition and the controversy that come with Bitcoin’s expanding position in business finance. The case highlights the legal, financial, and governance concerns associated with such aggressive inroads into digital assets, as the company aims to become one of the world’s largest holders of Bitcoin. The Delaware court’s ruling on this issue could set a standard for how much firms can link the value of their shares to the performance of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

Japan is on track to become the first Asian country to outlaw insider trading, as Japan’s Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission would be authorized to investigate suspicious trading activity based on how much they profited from insider trading, Nikkei Asia reported on Tuesday.  This marks a significant advancement for the country’s digital asset market. The move indicates that investors worldwide are increasingly concerned about market integrity and seek to align crypto monitoring with traditional banking regulations. Background: Moving From Self-Regulation To Government Oversight Japan’s Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA) hasn’t directly touched cryptocurrencies until now. This means that self-regulatory groups like the Japan Virtual and Crypto Assets Exchange Association (JVCEA) have primarily been in charge of overseeing them. But as more and more individuals in Japan utilize cryptocurrencies—over 12 million, or about 10% of the population—many are calling for the government to make the rules more transparent and stronger. The JVCEA has struggled to monitor exchanges and detect illegal conduct, raising concerns about investor protection as their use increases. To address these issues, Japan’s primary financial regulator, the Financial Services Agency (FSA), is implementing changes to the FIEA that will explicitly prohibit trading cryptocurrencies based on inside information. FSA’s Push for Tougher Rules If the reforms go through, the Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission (SESC) will be able to investigate suspicious crypto deals, penalize individuals for illegal profits, and refer severe cases to the police.  By the end of 2025, these changes should be in place. More changes to the law are anticipated to be suggested in 2026. The new rules would make it illegal to utilize private or secret information, such as plans for exchange listings or weaknesses in internal systems, to get an unfair edge in trading. What “Insiders” Mean In A Decentralized Market One of the most challenging tasks for authorities is identifying who constitutes an “insider” in the crypto market. Many crypto ventures lack a central management or a single issuing organization, unlike regular stocks. To determine the meaning of “material nonpublic information” in decentralized systems, authorities and exchanges must collaborate and utilize advanced blockchain analytics. Effects on the Market and The World The FSA’s plan aims to make Japan’s digital asset market more open, boost investor trust, and reduce market manipulation. Japan is establishing a benchmark that could influence regulatory practices across Asia by requiring crypto dealers to meet the same ethical standards as stock market traders. If Japan’s ban on insider trading proves effective, it could establish a benchmark for regulating the crypto market, prompting other countries to follow suit as they seek to strike a balance between investor protection and the promotion of innovative ideas.

Wall Street’s prime brokerage services are proving more lucrative than ever as major U.S. banks report strong profits, riding a wave of increased trading activity and growing hedge fund demand. JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bank of America, three of the largest players in the U.S. banking sector, posted substantial gains in their prime brokerage units during the third quarter. This division, which involves lending cash and securities to hedge funds, has thrived alongside a buoyant market, as valuations of stocks and other assets have surged across industries. While some banks have cautioned that asset prices might be reaching unsustainable levels, the current business boom continues to fuel competition among U.S. lenders, especially as they vie for market share against European rivals. The demand for prime brokerage services has soared this year, driven by heightened market volatility, particularly linked to the Trump administration’s trade policies. A recent uptick in hedge fund activity and the overall size of funds has contributed to an increase in the leverage ratios of these entities, which hit a five-year high earlier in 2025, according to Reuters. As banks like JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs race to capture a bigger slice of the pie, the industry’s recovery is in stark contrast to a few years ago when Credit Suisse was forced to shut down its brokerage lending operations after the Archegos Capital scandal resulted in billions in losses. The current boom is further propelled by a surge in hedge fund activity, with some investors seeing large trading volumes as a direct result of global financial turbulence. Strong Results From Leading Banks JPMorgan’s equity markets division reported a remarkable 33% rise in revenue, totaling $3.3 billion for the quarter ending September 30. The surge was driven by strong performance in prime lending, which has become a key contributor to the bank’s success in the current market environment. Morgan Stanley, too, saw impressive results, with equities revenue climbing 35% to $4.12 billion. The rise was fueled primarily by record-breaking figures in prime brokerage, while fixed-income revenue also grew by 8%. Morgan Stanley’s Chief Financial Officer, Sharon Yeshaya, highlighted the pivotal role prime brokerage played in driving the firm’s performance, as both client balances and financing revenues reached historic highs. At Bank of America, revenue from prime brokerage services also saw a significant boost, according to CFO Alastair Borthwick. The bank noted that strong results in this segment helped fuel its broader equity markets business, as the company continued to capitalize on the growing demand for prime lending. Citigroup, looking to expand further in this lucrative space, reported that its prime brokerage balances surged 44% in the latest quarter. This contributed to a 24% rise in overall revenue from its equity markets unit, which reached $1.5 billion. CEO Jane Fraser emphasized Citi’s commitment to growing its prime lending services, reflecting a clear recognition of the segment’s revenue potential. Goldman Sachs, meanwhile, posted a 7% increase in its equities revenue to $3.74 billion. The growth was largely attributed to higher net fees from equities financing, with prime lending remaining a core strength of the bank’s portfolio. CFO Denis Coleman noted that the prime brokerage business, alongside other areas of financing, had become a “stable source of revenue” for Goldman, driven by robust demand from hedge funds. “Balances are very correlated with overall levels in the markets, which is an attractive feature of the business,” Coleman said. The prime brokerage boom comes amid a period of uncertainty, with some analysts warning that the market’s rapid expansion may be unsustainable in the long term. Still, for now, banks are cashing in on the surge in trading activity, which shows no sign of slowing down in the short term.

Deal Targets Corporate Treasury Market Ripple said Thursday it has acquired GTreasury, a Chicago-based provider of treasury management systems, for $1 billion. The acquisition is intended to open access to the multi-trillion-dollar corporate treasury and global repo markets while deepening Ripple’s foothold in institutional finance. Ripple described GTreasury as “the global leader in treasury management systems,” with more than 40 years of experience supporting large corporate clients. GTreasury’s platform is known for risk management and foreign exchange tools used by multinational companies, as well as compliance and audit solutions. Ripple said the acquisition will allow its clients to tap into the global repo market via prime broker Hidden Road, enabling companies to earn higher returns on short-term assets and execute real-time cross-border payments at lower cost. The deal is expected to close in the coming months, subject to customary approvals. Investor Takeaway The acquisition gives Ripple access to Fortune 500 treasury clients and strengthens its push to integrate blockchain-based liquidity into traditional finance. Executives Outline Strategy “For too long, money has been stuck in slow, outdated payments systems and infrastructure, causing unnecessary delays and high costs,” said Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse. “Ripple’s and GTreasury’s capabilities together bring the best of both worlds, so treasury and finance teams can finally put their trapped capital to work, process payments instantly, and open up new growth opportunities.” Renaat Ver Eecke, CEO of GTreasury, called the acquisition “a watershed moment for treasury management,” adding that the company’s goal has always been to provide compliant and feature-rich solutions for corporations worldwide. “By joining Ripple, we are accelerating our vision from managing capital to activating it,” he said. GTreasury’s client list includes some of the world’s largest industrial and financial corporations. Integrating its systems with Ripple’s blockchain and liquidity infrastructure could give those clients direct access to tokenized cash management and on-chain repo products through Hidden Road. Ripple’s 2025 Acquisition Spree The deal is Ripple’s third major acquisition in 2025. In April, the company acquired prime broker Hidden Road for $1.25 billion — one of the largest transactions in the crypto industry’s history. Four months later, Ripple bought Rail, a stablecoin payments platform, for $200 million. The three acquisitions reflect Ripple’s pivot toward institutional finance, where it sees opportunities to merge blockchain settlement with traditional markets. The company has been expanding its network beyond payments into lending, tokenization, and capital market infrastructure. Ripple executives said the addition of GTreasury will help build a “complete institutional stack,” connecting liquidity, payments, and asset management under one platform. Investor Takeaway With three deals in less than a year, Ripple is moving deeper into regulated finance, positioning itself as a bridge between crypto liquidity and corporate balance sheets. Leadership and Outlook The acquisition comes amid leadership changes. Last month, Ripple’s long-serving CTO David Schwartz announced plans to step down by year-end. Schwartz, who helped code the XRP Ledger, has been central to Ripple’s technical development and regulatory defense during its years-long legal battles with U.S. authorities. Speaking Wednesday at DC Fintech Week, Garlinghouse said Ripple’s experience fighting the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission gave it the clarity the industry needs. “We had to get clarity through a $150 million lawsuit and a federal judge,” he said. “But the whole industry deserves that same clarity, and we’ll continue to fight for it.” Garlinghouse said the combination of Ripple’s blockchain settlement network, GTreasury’s corporate client base, and Hidden Road’s brokerage capabilities will create “a unified liquidity platform” aimed at simplifying cash and collateral management for global enterprises. The company did not disclose whether it will keep GTreasury’s Chicago headquarters or integrate the team into Ripple’s existing offices in New York, London, and Singapore. Industry analysts expect Ripple to use the acquisition to expand its enterprise offering across Europe and Asia once the deal closes. Ripple’s shares are not publicly traded, but the firm is widely seen as one of the largest privately held fintechs globally. Analysts estimate its private valuation near $20 billion, though the company has not confirmed a figure.

The United States has fallen roughly a decade behind in the crypto revolution and must urgently close the gap, says SEC Chair Paul Atkins. Speaking during DC Fintech Week, Atkins declared that reforming the country’s approach to digital assets is “job one” for his agency.  A Decade of Delay Atkins did not mince words. The U.S. is “probably 10 years behind” in developing a coherent regulatory infrastructure for crypto, he asserted. This lag has pushed innovators and capital toward more welcoming jurisdictions abroad, places where regulatory frameworks are clearer, more flexible, and more experimentally minded. Atkins emphasised that the SEC must build a regime that not only restrains abuse and risk but actively attracts investment and innovation back to U.S. shores.  “Job One” for the SEC If closing the regulatory gap is task one, the SEC is already repositioning itself for the effort. Atkins framed his agency as evolving into a “securities and innovation commission,” reflecting a shift in mindset from purely policing markets to enabling technological progress. He argued that the SEC already possesses broad statutory authority to grant exemptions in appropriate cases, tools that could be deployed to allow experimental crypto projects breathing room to grow.  Atkins also mooted the concept of an “innovation exemption,” enabling new ideas to be trialled without falling immediately afoul of rigid rules. He noted that the SEC is working full-time on crypto regulation, signalling institutional commitment.  Beyond Tokens: Superapps & Regulatory Coordination The SEC Chair went further, suggesting that the U.S. needs to modernise the architecture of financial services. He praised the idea of “superapps”   platforms combining payments, investing, and other financial functions that already thrive in markets such as China. Atkins believes that such integrated systems could flourish under a unified, sensible regulatory approach.  Finally, he floated the notion of coordinating regulation itself as a kind of “app,” that is, building interfaces or systems that help different regulatory agencies interact more smoothly and consistently. His ambition is clear: the U.S. should be viewed not as an afterthought in crypto circles, but as the natural home for innovation. A Race to Regain Crypto Leadership SEC Chair Paul Atkins’s remarks underscore a pivotal moment for the United States. After years of hesitation and fragmented policy, the country now faces a pressing need to modernise its approach to digital assets. His commitment to making crypto regulation the SEC’s “job one” signals a shift from scepticism to strategic engagement, one that could finally bridge the innovation gap. If executed effectively, these reforms may not only attract investors back to U.S. markets but also reestablish America as a global leader in fintech and blockchain development, where innovation and regulation work hand in hand.

Klarna, the Swedish fintech best known for its buy now, pay later (BNPL) model, is taking direct aim at Britain’s retail banks with the launch of a debit card and a digital wallet, expanding its push beyond instalment payments into mainstream financial services. The new offerings — Klarna Balance and the Klarna Card — is said to make the app a daily spending hub, not just a checkout option. The wallet allows users to store funds, move money in and out, and earn cashback on certain purchases made through Klarna. The card, backed by Visa, will give users direct access to those funds and is expected to roll out to UK consumers following launches in the U.S. and across Europe. “Traditional banks have taken the trust out of banking,” said David Sandstrom, Klarna’s chief marketing officer. “We’re here to change that.” The UK move follows Klarna’s authorisation from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in July to offer e-money services, effectively granting it the same licence that digital banks such as Revolut and Monzo use to operate customer wallets and cards. The authorisation clears the regulatory hurdle that had previously limited Klarna’s ambitions in the UK beyond BNPL lending. The expansion reflects Klarna’s long-term strategy to become an all-in-one spending and savings app, allowing customers to manage funds, shop, and pay in instalments from a single platform. By moving into debit cards and wallets, Klarna is stepping squarely into territory dominated by traditional banks — daily consumer payments and deposits — a market that provides a steady stream of interchange and customer engagement. The new products arrive as the UK prepares to bring BNPL services under tighter FCA oversight in 2026. The rules, part of a broader consumer credit overhaul, will require affordability checks and clearer disclosure of repayment risks. Klarna’s new e-money licence, meanwhile, gives it a regulated footing ahead of those changes. Founded in Stockholm in 2005, Klarna made its name offering interest-free instalment payments for online shopping, a model that exploded in popularity during the pandemic. Its valuation soared to $46 billion in 2021, before collapsing to $6.7 billion in a 2022 down round amid rising losses and investor pullback from growth fintechs. Since then, the company has worked to rebuild profitability through tighter credit controls, automation, and expansion into fee-based products like advertising and cards. Klarna returned to profitability in 2024, reporting annual revenues above $2.8 billion and its first profit in five years. Yet the company’s first-half 2025 results showed renewed pressure from credit losses, underlining its reliance on lending income and the need for more stable, transaction-based revenues — something debit cards and wallets could deliver. The Klarna Card already processes roughly one in ten Klarna transactions across Europe, according to company figures, with total deposit balances topping $14 billion across its licensed markets by mid-2025. In the UK, Klarna is betting that blending instant cashback, flexible payments, and a sleek digital interface will attract consumers away from incumbent banks’ current accounts. Meanwhile, the partnership extends Visa’s reach into Klarna’s large mobile user base, keeping card volumes on its rails even as fintechs introduce new payment flows. Klarna’s challenge will be to balance regulatory compliance and risk management with the frictionless experience that made its BNPL product so popular. The UK’s new Deferred Payment Credit rules will likely force greater scrutiny of any card-linked instalment features, and Klarna’s rivals — from Revolut to Monzo — already offer integrated cards, wallets, and savings pots under the same app model. Still, Klarna’s track record of reinventing its business suggests it won’t shy away from the competition. By turning its checkout network into a gateway for banking-style services, the company is betting that the same brand that reshaped online shopping can convince Britons to rethink everyday spending too.

Vested Finance has partnered with Monark Markets to embed private markets directly inside the Vested app, giving Indian investors access to Pre-IPO shares and other alternative assets through a regulated, in-app experience. Monark’s “Alts-as-a-Service” APIs power the new Private Markets offering, connecting Vested to a network of pre-IPO brokers, marketplaces, syndicates, and funds. The collaboration expands on Vested’s prior SPV offerings in names such as SpaceX, Stripe, and Perplexity, moving from one-off transactions to a scalable, integrated workflow. For retail investors who have been largely excluded from the roughly $16 trillion private markets, the partnership promises a streamlined path to discover, evaluate, and participate in curated deals. “Vested is thrilled to partner with Monark to bring private market investing in a regulated and seamless manner to Indian investors around the world,” said Viram Shah, Co-Founder and CEO of Vested. “Monark’s technology opens doors to opportunities that were once out of reach for most individuals, and together we will introduce more curated offerings in the months ahead.” Takeaway By embedding Monark’s API stack, Vested shifts private market access from ad-hoc SPVs to a native, repeatable flow—broadening deal availability for Indian investors while keeping compliance, allocation, and execution in a single experience. Monark’s infrastructure abstracts the operational complexity of private market participation. Behind the API, Monark facilitates allocations, standardizes due diligence artifacts, and structures SPVs—reducing friction for investors and partners. The result is a “click-to-invest” experience that brings institutional workflow discipline to a retail interface. “We are excited to partner with the incredible team at Vested and proud to power their Private Markets investing experience,” said Ben Haber, CEO of Monark Markets. “Through Vested, investors can now manage their entire portfolio across public and private markets within a single platform.” Access to pre-IPO shares is available now to Vested clients, with the roadmap extending to additional alternative asset categories. The co-developed pipeline is expected to include private equity funds, private credit, real estate, sports teams, and infrastructure—broadening diversification options within a single account environment. Takeaway The partnership unifies public and private market exposure under one app—bringing institutional-style diversification (PE, credit, real assets) to a retail investor base that historically lacked consistent access. From a product perspective, the integrated flow aims to address three recurring barriers for individuals entering private markets: discovery of credible deals, standardized documentation and diligence, and post-investment lifecycle management. With Monark handling the back-end rails and Vested owning the client experience, the offer targets both simplicity and regulatory rigor. The move comes as more high-growth companies remain private for longer, pushing value creation earlier in the lifecycle and outside public markets. For Indian investors seeking exposure to this growth curve, curated access with clear risk disclosures, eligibility checks, and transparent fees becomes essential. Crucially, the collaboration is designed to scale across jurisdictions where Vested serves Indians worldwide. A single embedded interface reduces fragmentation, allowing investors to evaluate historical SPV performance, compare opportunities, and track allocations alongside listed securities within the Vested app. Takeaway As private companies stay private longer, integrated access—paired with standardized diligence and lifecycle tools—helps investors participate earlier while understanding constraints, fees, and risks up front. For compliance and operations teams, Monark’s rails centralize workflows that are traditionally manual and bespoke—allocation requests, document collection, investor eligibility, and settlement. This lowers the administrative burden per deal and shortens time-to-allocation, enabling a more frequent cadence of curated opportunities. For advisors and advanced users on Vested, the native private markets module complements listed markets by offering potential sources of uncorrelated returns. The ability to assess opportunity quality within the same portfolio context—alongside public holdings—supports better sizing and risk budgeting decisions. With the launch live for Vested clients, both firms signal a longer-term plan to add liquidity pathways and broaden asset coverage. As APIs standardize the back office and mobile UX reduces friction for the front end, Indian investors gain a clearer, more scalable route into private markets that historically required institutional relationships. Takeaway Standardized rails plus a native mobile UX create a repeatable private-markets funnel—compressing operational friction so investors can focus on selection, sizing, and portfolio fit.

Top crypto trading platforms like Binance and Coinbase have successfully fended off challengers to their throne for years, but they could struggle to deal with an intriguing new competitor. It’s a new crypto trading platform called On-Demand Trading, and it has created a revolutionary business model, offering a white-glove experience for every user. For years, crypto platforms have offered preferential treatment to so-called “whales”, namely hedge funds and individuals who own massive amounts of digital assets, and this can really make the difference between trading profitability or losing out.  The benefits of a white-glove service are significant – you’ll get a dedicated account manager, priority support when you have problems, bespoke trading tools, access to off-market liquidity pools and first dibs on any new digital assets listed on the platform. In addition, platforms will offer you reduced trading fees to take into account the massive volume of funds you’re buying and selling.   It couldn’t be more different from the generic experience offered to everyone else. Poor old John ‘Nobody’ Smith has to deal with limited support, less advanced trading tools, higher fees, limited analytics and very little assistance when it comes to understanding those confusing charts. Unless he’s willing to search Google for articles and sit through dozens of YouTube videos, he’s basically on his own. Money Talks Why is it like this? Well, it’s just the way the world works, and we see the same disparity in the business model of traditional financial institutions. If you’ve just won the lottery, you’ll notice that you’ll be treated very differently the next time you rock up at your local bank branch. You’ll be ushered into a private office, the bank manager will instruct his secretary to bring you a coffee, or tea, probably some biscuits too – and he’ll happily sit there with you for hours discussing all of the wonderful investments and savings opportunities for your newfound wealth.  Money talks, and the richest clients get all of the attention, because they’re the ones who make the banks even more money. Crypto exchanges know this too, which is why they tend to go all out to attract the biggest whales. They want that trading volume for themselves, and they’ll make whales’ lives as easy as possible in order to get it. After all, the volume they bring to the table can easily surpass what 10,000 regular retail traders generate.   However, the potential of retail investors should not be ignored. While they might not trade so much individually, their collective riches are still very significant, which is why On-Demand Trading wants to democratize the white-glove service and give everyone the same kind of VIP treatment.   A New Kind Of Trading Experience With On-Demand Trading, regular folks can access a VIP crypto trading experience with as little as just $500 and enjoy the same benefits, such as personalized support and advanced trading tools, that were previously only accessible to the elite.  Its platform stands out from traditional crypto exchanges, where traders have to work out how to do everything for themselves. Instead of wading through user guides and FAQ pages, every new customer gets access to a dedicated human account manager who eases them into the intricacies of the crypto trading universe.  For anyone who is new to crypto, this personalized, white-glove experience is worth its weight in gold. They’ll be given expert assistance as they attempt to navigate the confusing landscape of non-custodial wallets and diverse digital assets. Rather than trying to muddle their way through a confusing user interface, traders can simply let their account manager know which asset they want to buy or sell. They’ll be told the current exchange rate, and all they have to do is pull the trigger on the trade. The entire experience is reinvented, driven by human interaction.  ODT also focuses on providing its clients with strategic insights into the crypto markets, helping them to understand market trends and spot trading opportunities. It aims to educate its users, with account managers helping them to understand different trading strategies and teach them about specific digital assets. It’s a personal approach that’s designed to give users more confidence and help them to become better traders, similar to how banks and brokers try to aid their hedge fund clients.  Retail Investors Deserve Better With this new business model, ODT doesn’t need to compete for the largest whales, but can instead build up a loyal following by helping smaller investors to trade profitably and become bigger players over time in an organic way.  By rolling out the red carpet to everyone, it recognizes the enormous potential of the retail investor market. After all, there are millions of people who dabble in stocks and shares who could easily be tempted to explore crypto, if only they’re given a helping hand. If it succeeds, those investors can collectively contribute millions of dollars in new crypto trading volume. This is ODT’s long-term goal. ODT is growing fast already, and it still has a long way to go. But its focus on providing an accessible, concierge trading experience to every investor is just the kind of thing the crypto industry needs to get more people interested and reach its first billion users.

As the crypto market matures, investors are increasingly seeking projects that combine decentralisation, functionality, and genuine growth potential. BlockchainFX (BFX) has quickly become one of the standout names of 2025, with its presale surpassing $9 million as interest builds in its multi-asset, decentralised trading ecosystem. While established players like Cardano and Chainlink have historically driven innovation in blockchain infrastructure, their momentum has slowed in recent months. Against this backdrop, BlockchainFX is capturing the attention of those looking for the best crypto to buy today — one that offers immediate utility, diversified exposure, and strong staking incentives. BFX Presale Is About Rewarding Early Participation The BFX presale continues to attract investors who recognise the potential upside of entering early. Currently trading at $0.028, the token’s price will rise with each presale tier before reaching its $0.05 market launch value. This structure rewards those who join early, offering the opportunity for strong returns before the official listing. Adding further appeal is the time-limited 30% token bonus available via the BLOCK30 code. This promotion has helped fuel the presale’s rapid growth and added urgency to investor participation. With $BFX demand accelerating, early buyers are positioning themselves ahead of what many see as a transformative project. Cardano’s Ambitious Vision Meets Slower Delivery Cardano has long been praised for its academic foundation and peer-reviewed approach to blockchain development. Its focus on scalability, interoperability, and sustainability helped build a loyal community. Yet, despite years of development, Cardano has often faced criticism for slow implementation and limited dApp adoption compared to rivals. Its ecosystem, while growing, remains relatively cautious in pace. That deliberate methodology, though admirable, can be a disadvantage in a fast-moving crypto market. Investors now seek more agile projects capable of delivering rapid feature expansion and immediate usability. BlockchainFX’s approach, with its decentralised super app model, directly addresses this desire for speed and functionality. Chainlink’s Integration Strengths and Challenges Chainlink revolutionised decentralised data feeds and remains a backbone for countless DeFi applications. However, its token performance has struggled to keep pace with its technical relevance. Many investors view LINK as an essential utility token rather than a growth asset, limiting its speculative momentum. Furthermore, as the DeFi landscape evolves, new projects are emerging with built-in cross-market capabilities — an area where BlockchainFX’s design excels. By integrating crypto, stocks, forex, and ETFs into a single decentralised environment, BlockchainFX has effectively expanded the concept of connectivity that Chainlink pioneered. Staking Built for Sustainability BlockchainFX’s staking structure is central to its appeal. Seventy percent of all trading fees are allocated to staking pools, buybacks, and token burns. Half of the fees go directly to $BFX stakers, while 20% funds daily buybacks, and half of the repurchased tokens are permanently burned. This model offers passive income potential while maintaining deflationary pressure on supply. Rewards are capped at $25,000 USDT per day to ensure long-term sustainability. It’s a carefully balanced system that contrasts with some older staking models where rewards diluted token value over time. Multi-Asset Trading: Expanding DeFi’s Frontier What truly distinguishes BlockchainFX is its multi-asset trading platform. Users can trade cryptocurrencies, stocks, forex, and ETFs — all within one decentralised interface. This structure blends traditional finance with Web3 technology, appealing to a broader investor base seeking diversification without leaving the blockchain ecosystem. In contrast, both Cardano and Chainlink have focused on single-domain innovations. BlockchainFX’s multi-sector reach positions it as a next-generation platform for those looking to consolidate financial activity into one decentralised application. The BFX Visa Card: Real-World Integration BlockchainFX’s presale also unlocks access to its exclusive BFX Visa Card, available in metal or 18-karat gold. The card supports top-ups with BFX and more than 20 cryptocurrencies, enables purchases up to $100,000, and allows $10,000 monthly ATM withdrawals. Accepted globally both online and in stores, the card bridges crypto and everyday spending, offering tangible use for staking and trading rewards. This kind of real-world integration is something most DeFi-focused tokens, including LINK and ADA, have yet to achieve at scale. A Shift Toward Utility-Driven Investment Cardano and Chainlink remain important to blockchain development, but their ecosystems have matured into more predictable, slower-moving projects. BlockchainFX’s presale success and integrated financial model are capturing attention from those who want to participate in the next phase of decentralised finance — one defined by usability, interconnectivity, and tangible reward structures. As blockchain adoption expands beyond crypto-native audiences, projects like BlockchainFX are positioning themselves as the bridge between decentralised technology and practical financial engagement. With its presale continuing to climb, it may soon become the benchmark for the next generation of DeFi platforms. Website: https://blockchainfx.com/  X: https://x.com/BlockchainFXcom Telegram Chat: https://t.me/blockchainfx_chat Disclaimer: This content is provided by a sponsor. FinanceFeeds does not independently verify the legitimacy, credibility, claims, or financial viability of the information or description of services mentioned. As such, we bear no responsibility for any potential risks, inaccuracies, or misleading representations related to the content. This post does not constitute financial advice or a recommendation and should not be treated as such. We strongly advise seeking independent financial guidance from a qualified and regulated professional before engaging in any investment or financial activities. Please review our full disclaimer for more details.

Traders Hub, the Abu Dhabi-based global multi-asset brokerage, has launched an exclusive trading account for UAE nationals, underscoring its commitment to supporting local traders and contributing to the UAE’s long-term vision for an inclusive, innovation-led financial ecosystem. The new account offers Emirati clients enhanced trading conditions, fee-free transactions, and personalized incentives designed to celebrate their participation in the country’s expanding investment landscape. The initiative aligns with the UAE’s national goals of fostering financial inclusion and empowering citizens through access to professional-grade trading platforms. By offering zero-fee trading and custom benefits, Traders Hub aims to bridge the gap between local investors and the tools traditionally reserved for institutional participants, strengthening the UAE’s position as a regional hub for capital markets innovation. “We’re proud to introduce an offering that celebrates the UAE’s trading community while creating opportunities for sustainable financial growth,” said Hafez Baker, Chief Operating Officer at Traders Hub. “This exclusive account represents our commitment to empowering Emirati investors with the tools, conditions, and confidence they need to succeed in today’s fast-moving global markets.” Takeaway Traders Hub’s new Emirati-only trading account reflects the UAE’s ambition to expand citizen participation in financial markets—combining inclusivity, innovation, and local empowerment under one regulated platform. The account provides highly competitive trading conditions, including raw spreads, zero commissions, and leverage up to 1:1000, giving investors flexibility while maintaining robust risk controls. Clients benefit from extended trading hours on select products, five-day swap-free trading, and zero withdrawal fees with unlimited local bank transfers, simplifying fund management across the UAE. A 30% stop-out level adds an extra layer of protection during volatile market periods. To encourage participation and reward loyalty, Traders Hub has introduced a 3% welcome bonus—up to USD 10,000—on the first deposit for Emirati clients. Seasonal promotions aligned with national events such as UAE National Day and Eid holidays include double bonuses and fee waivers. The account also enables access to dividend adjustments on select CFD equity products, expanding opportunities for diversification and long-term wealth growth. Through these incentives, Traders Hub recognizes the growing sophistication of UAE investors while fostering a culture of engagement and financial literacy. The structure of the offering blends competitive trading conditions with responsible risk management—reinforcing a balance between market opportunity and investor protection. Takeaway By offering zero fees, flexible leverage, and cultural incentives, Traders Hub is not only driving trading adoption among Emiratis but embedding national pride and investor safety into its client experience. Technology lies at the core of this initiative. The account integrates advanced infrastructure and free VPS hosting for high-volume Emirati clients, ensuring stable connectivity, faster execution, and uninterrupted performance. This digital-first approach supports the UAE’s broader transformation agenda—leveraging fintech and AI-driven tools to modernize financial services and improve investor outcomes. Accessibility is another cornerstone of the offering. The account is exclusively available to UAE nationals with valid passports and can be activated with a minimum deposit of just USD 100. By lowering entry barriers, Traders Hub encourages both new and experienced investors to engage with the markets confidently through a globally recognized brokerage. As a Category-1 regulated brokerage under the UAE’s Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), Traders Hub operates with full transparency and oversight. The firm serves retail and institutional clients across forex, commodities, indices, and CFDs—combining regulatory assurance with a technologically advanced trading ecosystem. Takeaway Traders Hub’s Emirati account blends accessibility with institutional-grade infrastructure, allowing citizens to trade under SCA-regulated standards while benefiting from digital innovation and global connectivity. This launch forms part of Traders Hub’s wider strategy to deepen engagement with the UAE’s investor community and contribute to the country’s vision of a diversified, knowledge-driven economy. By localizing its offerings and promoting financial inclusion, the company aims to help Emiratis play a greater role in the country’s evolving capital markets. Through initiatives like this, Traders Hub continues to position itself as a key catalyst in the UAE’s journey toward a more dynamic, participatory, and tech-enabled financial sector. The exclusive account stands as both a commercial innovation and a symbolic step toward national financial empowerment. With tailored trading solutions, regulatory strength, and local alignment, Traders Hub’s Emirati account exemplifies the future of inclusive finance—one where accessibility, technology, and trust converge to drive sustainable growth for the nation’s investors. Takeaway By combining national focus with global standards, Traders Hub strengthens the UAE’s identity as a regional financial leader—empowering Emiratis to participate confidently in the world’s markets.

Ripple has announced a strategic partnership with Absa Bank to provide institutional-grade digital asset custody services to customers in South Africa. The collaboration marks Ripple’s first major custody partnership on the continent and extends its global network of financial institutions deploying blockchain-based asset infrastructure. Under the partnership, Absa will leverage Ripple’s digital asset custody technology to offer secure, scalable storage for tokenized assets, including cryptocurrencies. The integration gives the bank’s clients access to Ripple’s proven infrastructure—designed to meet stringent operational and regulatory standards for financial institutions adopting blockchain technology. “Africa is experiencing a major shift in how value is stored and exchanged,” said Reece Merrick, Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa at Ripple. “Our partnership with Absa underscores Ripple’s commitment to unlocking the potential of digital assets across the continent. As one of Africa’s most respected and innovative banks, Absa’s leadership represents a milestone for digital asset adoption.” Takeaway Ripple’s collaboration with Absa Bank marks its formal entry into African digital asset custody—extending institutional-grade infrastructure to one of the continent’s largest and most progressive banking networks. The partnership reflects rising institutional demand for secure and compliant digital asset solutions across emerging markets. With regulators across Africa clarifying frameworks for crypto and tokenized assets, banks like Absa are positioning to serve both retail and corporate clients exploring blockchain-based investments. Ripple’s infrastructure enables banks and custodians to manage tokenized assets while meeting stringent security, reporting, and operational standards. The system’s design helps financial institutions minimize counterparty risk, safeguard private keys, and comply with cross-jurisdictional regulatory requirements—key factors for institutions entering the digital asset space responsibly. “As we continue to innovate within the financial ecosystem, we recognize the importance of secure and compliant digital asset solutions,” said Robyn Lawson, Head of Digital Product, Custody at Absa Corporate and Investment Banking. “Ripple’s technology meets the highest standards of operational security, allowing us to deliver next-generation financial infrastructure to our customers.” Takeaway With Ripple’s custody infrastructure, Absa gains the tools to meet Africa’s emerging demand for compliant digital asset storage—aligning institutional innovation with regulatory maturity. The move expands Ripple’s growing footprint in Africa, complementing earlier initiatives such as its partnership with Chipper Cash to enable crypto-powered payments and the introduction of its USD-backed stablecoin RLUSD to African markets. These projects highlight Ripple’s dual focus on payments modernization and digital asset infrastructure across developing economies. According to Ripple’s 2025 New Value Report, 64% of Middle East and Africa finance leaders identify faster settlement times as a key reason for adopting blockchain-based currencies. With its technology now embedded in both payments and custody, Ripple is establishing itself as a critical enabler of digital finance across the continent. The collaboration with Absa also supports Africa’s transition toward tokenized financial services—laying the foundation for future use cases in digital bonds, tokenized deposits, and stablecoin-enabled cross-border transfers. It represents a convergence between established banking institutions and blockchain-native infrastructure. Takeaway Ripple’s expansion into custody deepens its African presence beyond payments—positioning the company as a full-stack digital asset partner for banks modernizing their infrastructure. Ripple now operates a custody network spanning Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa, serving a growing roster of financial institutions adopting tokenization strategies. With 60+ regulatory licenses and more than a decade of experience in digital assets, the company provides a foundation of trust and compliance that supports banks entering the blockchain economy. For Absa, the partnership signifies a strategic move to modernize its asset management capabilities and prepare for an era of interoperable finance. By aligning with Ripple’s custody framework, Absa can expand beyond traditional securities services and position itself as a pioneer in Africa’s digital asset ecosystem. The collaboration represents more than a technology integration—it is a signal of accelerating institutional adoption across Africa’s banking sector, as legacy systems converge with decentralized infrastructure to form the backbone of the next generation of financial services. Takeaway Ripple’s custody partnership with Absa reflects the next phase of Africa’s fintech evolution—where traditional banks embrace blockchain infrastructure to future-proof asset management and compliance.

XM Launches $35,000 Deposit Bonus Campaign XM, a global leader in online trading, is celebrating its 15th anniversary with its largest-ever promotion — giving traders the opportunity to claim up to $35,000 in deposit bonuses. Running from October 15 to November 11, 2025, the campaign rewards active traders with weekly bonuses tied to their trading volume across selected assets. Participants can start earning with as little as 2 lots traded, unlocking up to $8,750 in weekly bonuses. Over the full four-week campaign, eligible traders can accumulate a total of $35,000 in rewards — making this XM’s most generous promotion to date. “We wanted to mark a highly successful 15-year journey with equally rewarding opportunities for our loyal traders and everyone around the world,” said Panos Lamprakos, Global Chief Marketing Officer at XM. “With $35,000 in deposit bonuses available, this promotion gives traders the chance to make October their best trading month yet.” Investor Takeaway XM’s 15-year milestone promotion combines generous incentives with global participation — reinforcing its position as a trusted leader in retail trading and client engagement. Celebrating 15 Years of Client Success The deposit bonus promotion is part of XM’s year-long 15th anniversary celebration, marking a decade and a half of innovation, client trust, and industry recognition. The broker has already launched two global campaigns earlier in the year, alongside a full redesign of its trading environment across web and mobile platforms. The new unified ecosystem introduces advanced features and tools, including XM AI — a proprietary trading assistant designed to enhance decision-making and control. By integrating these innovations into its anniversary celebrations, XM continues to demonstrate its commitment to client empowerment and cutting-edge technology. Trusted by over 15 million clients worldwide, XM has built its reputation through transparent execution, education, and consistent service quality. Its platform supports Forex, CFDs, stock indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, all delivered through fast execution and tight spreads. How the $35,000 Deposit Bonus Works The limited-time promotion offers flexibility for traders of all levels. Weekly bonuses are unlocked based on trading activity, and participants can increase their total rewards through higher trading volumes. Key details include: Duration: October 15 – November 11, 2025 Weekly Rewards: Earn up to $8,750 each week Total Bonus Cap: $35,000 across the full promotion period Minimum Activity: 2 lots traded to qualify for weekly bonuses Eligible Assets: Selected instruments across XM’s trading platforms Traders can join the promotion through XM’s official portal and access full terms and eligibility requirements. The bonus is available globally, reflecting XM’s inclusive approach to rewarding both new and existing clients. Investor Takeaway XM’s record-breaking bonus underscores its 15-year track record of rewarding loyalty — a strategic move to strengthen engagement and attract global traders amid a competitive landscape. XM’s Legacy of Trust and Innovation Since its founding, XM has distinguished itself through education, transparency, and client protection. The broker has received numerous global awards for trading excellence and remains one of the most recognized brands in the online brokerage sector. Its continued focus on regulatory compliance and customer-centric growth has made it a preferred choice for millions of traders in over 190 countries. The 15-year celebrations — culminating in this record deposit bonus — represent XM’s ongoing mission to combine innovation with reliability. By offering tangible rewards tied to real trading activity, XM reinforces its philosophy of putting traders first while celebrating a major company milestone.