“(Prop trading) value proposition to the client is such that this has attracted a large number of users who never considered FX and CFD trading before” Drew Niv, the Chief Strategy Officer at ATFX Connect, shared the comment when asked whether prop trading is good for the industry. Speaking to Jonathan Fine, Content Strategist at Ultimate Group, Niv, a long-time industry expert, defended proprietary trading as a force for market expansion, even as he warned brokers to brace for a looming wave of competition from neobanks and fintech giants.He admitted that prop trading remains “mathematically unsound” in many of its current forms, yet argued it has become a crucial gateway for new entrants into the online trading world. The Prop Trading ParadoxATFX is a global online forex and CFD broker that offers trading in currencies, indices, commodities, shares, and cryptocurrencies via the MetaTrader 4/5 platforms and its institutional ATFX Connect offering. The broker operates under the “ATFX” co-brand across multiple regulated entities, including AT Global Markets (UK) Ltd.Niv acknowledged the model’s flaws, high churn rates, inconsistent performance metrics, and patchy risk controls, but sees gradual maturation. Early prop challenges, he explained, were driven “99.99% by luck,” yet are now evolving toward more realistic trading conditions and skill-based evaluation.“But the problem was that initially the qualifying rules of you won and you qualify for a quote unquote real account. Those rules were too loose. And people essentially won by a lot. They're still too loose, but they're getting tighter. The leverage restrictions are getting more.” He likened today’s prop trading phase to the “wild west” period preceding the rise of regulated retail FX two decades ago. The end result, he suggested, will again be positive: “Just as retail FX expanded the market 25 years ago, prop trading will bring in a fresh generation of traders.”Neobanks and the Threat of ScaleNiv struck a more cautionary tone when the conversation shifted to neobanks like Revolut and Monzo entering the trading arena. Drawing on FXCM’s experience in Japan, where internet conglomerates like Rakuten and GMO wiped out hundreds of brokers, he warned that the same dynamic could now play out in Europe.“And what happened around those years is that the large, essentially the Rakuten, which is like the Amazon of Japan, GMO. So you look at all these Internet giants who had an endless amount of inventory from online advertising, all of the stuff that they do. And a user base.”“And therefore, they had a user base and a massive brand. And their cost of acquisition was tiny. And they had to essentially say, oh, if you open an account with us, you know, like Rakuten is a good example.”You may also like: “MENA’s Digital Banking Challenge Isn’t Demand; It’s the Restrictive Infrastructure,” Jas Shah at FMLS:25Niv argued that brokers face a choice: specialize regionally, expand into multi-asset offerings, or risk being outspent. “And most FX and CFD brokers are self-funded. They make some money, they keep it. They don't need external investors until IPO, but until really. When you have to compete on a much grander scale and you're going to need a much larger scale.”“These firms have the advantages that when they're not profitable, they can easily raise money and large sums of money in bulk. Because they do not have the earnings volatility of a B-book pure shop.”Shifting Geographies and New FrontiersThe conversation also touched on emerging markets, which Niv described as “where the action is shifting.” Once overlooked, he said regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Levant now boast real wealth and rising trading participation.“Who would have thought 15 years ago Africa would be a hot market? Who would have thought, you know, outside of South Africa, which always was. But the other countries were definitely not.”“Who would have thought that sort of the non-GCC Middle East would be a hot market. Jordan, all these places. ATFX is the second largest office, if I'm not mistaken. So that 15 years ago, you'd call me crazy. It never would have happened.” “Today, it's a real place with real income, with real, you know, wealth.”More from FMLS:25: “Prop Isn’t Finished, but If You’re Coming into Prop Now, You Are,” FMLS:25 TakeawaysNiv predicted that global financial “supermarkets” would eventually buy their way into these growth regions. “It’s not happening tomorrow, but sooner than most people think,” he warned. “Look at Kraken acquiring NinjaTrader — if that weren’t an American firm, its first target would’ve been one of the top 10 FX brokers.”Industry Reflections: Convergence and FocusReflecting on the broader discussions at the summit, Niv said the line between institutional and retail trading remains less blurred than some suggest, though convergence is clearly accelerating. What he values most, he added, is perspective.“I was not of the opinion, given my experience, that the retail industry and institutional business is converging. I think other people's experience is definitely different. But I think that's something that that would be a cool debate.”But I think that's something that is a very, is a very big deal. When asked whether he expected to win his upcoming debate on whether prop trading is good for the industry, Niv laughed: “I rigged it — I picked the favorable side. It’s a biased room.” This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

SBI Holdings and Startale Group team up to develop a fully regulated yen-denominated stablecoin for global settlement. The initiative aims to bridge traditional finance and blockchain-based payments, positioning Japan to challenge dollar dominance in the $300 billion stablecoin market.Building a Regulated Digital YenThe two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to co-develop a compliant, tokenized yen designed for enterprise use and cross-border settlements."The transition to a 'Token Economy' where all real-world assets are tokenized and tokens permeate society as a means of settlement - is now an irreversible societal trend,” said Yoshitaka Kitao, Representative Director, Chairman & President of SBI Holdings. “By jointly issuing a Yen-denominated stablecoin with the Startale Group to serve as the foundation of this infrastructure, and by circulating it both domestically and globally, we aim to dramatically accelerate the movement toward providing digital financial services that are fully integrated with traditional finance.”Startale Group and SBI Holdings partner to develop a fully compliant Yen stablecoin for the global market.https://t.co/Pz4ASnuMer— Startale ? (@StartaleGroup) December 16, 2025The project is framed under Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) regime for stablecoins and aims to go live in the second quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approval.Technology Meets Traditional BankingUsing Startale’s blockchain and smart contract expertise alongside SBI’s financial infrastructure, the yen stablecoin will reportedly function as a Type 3 Electronic Payment Instrument, free from the domestic ¥1 million transfer limit. This structure allows for scalable settlement flows across both retail and institutional networks.Startale will lead the token’s technical development, focusing on smart contract architecture, APIs, and compliance mechanisms. Shinsei Trust & Banking, part of the SBI Group, will handle issuance and redemption, while SBI VC Trade manages circulation under its crypto asset exchange license.Read more: Visa Brings Stablecoins to Main Street Banking With U.S. RolloutThe initiative complements Japan’s broader push toward compliant stablecoins and tokenized assets, part of the FSA’s Payment Innovation Project. Authorities have encouraged regulated experimentation, backing pilots by major banks such as Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho.Japan’s Digital Currency PushThrough this new collaboration, SBI and Startale seek to create interoperability between blockchain-native assets and traditional finance, creating a base layer for on-chain settlement, cross-border payments, and real-world asset (RWA) tokenization.Even as SBI expands into stablecoins, security remain a challenge. Recently, SBI Crypto reportedly suffered losses of about $21million following a blockchain exploit. The incident was first flagged by blockchain investigator ZachXBT, who said the activity bears hallmarks consistent with suspected North Korean state-backed hacking groups. According to ZachXBT, the exploit involved suspicious outflows of multiple cryptocurrencies from wallets linked to SBI Crypto, including Bitcoin, ether, Litecoin, Dogecoin and Bitcoin Cash. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

“Compliance doesn’t have to be a bottleneck; it can be a competitive advantage,” said Aydin Bonabi, CEO and co-founder of Surveill, highlighting the transforming role of technology in financial services. Speaking at the Finance Magnates London Summit 2025, he emphasized that modern brokers face growing regulatory scrutiny while trying to scale their businesses, and that AI tools are increasingly key to balancing speed and oversight.In an interview with Jonathan Fine, Content Strategist at Ultimate Group, Bonabi expanded on these themes. A recurring topic across panels and side discussions was “negative friction” in financial services – where compliance, traditionally seen as a cost center, can either hinder or accelerate growth depending on how it is managed. Bonabi argued that artificial intelligence is reshaping how brokers manage risk without slowing operations, turning compliance into a potential differentiator.Surveill AI Raises $1 Million for Compliance ToolsSurveill AI is a US-based compliance technology company that provides AI-driven tools for monitoring communications, marketing, and regulatory content in financial firms. Its platform uses rule-based artificial intelligence to identify potential compliance risks, ensure adherence to regulatory standards such as FINRA and the SEC, and maintain traceable audit records.The system is designed to support human compliance officers while reducing the time and cost of oversight. The company raised approximately $1 million in seed funding in 2025 to develop its technology and expand its market presence.Monitoring Influencer MarketingBonabi, speaking on the monitoring side of the compliance equation, focused on one of the industry’s most persistent pain points: oversight of introducing brokers and influencer-driven marketing. Regulators, particularly in the UK, are paying close attention to what is being communicated to retail clients, even when those messages originate far from a firm’s own marketing department.“Firms have the obligation to monitor these IBs,” Bonabi said, noting that the distance between affiliates and the broker creates “a tremendous amount of risk.” Surveill’s systems, he explained, scan published marketing outputs across more than 190 languages to identify statements that could mislead consumers or breach regulatory guidelines.Early Flagging Prevents IssuesThe risk is not hypothetical. Bonabi pointed to cases where AI-driven monitoring identified problematic claims made by affiliates that could have resulted in regulatory action or reputational damage. By flagging such issues early, he said, brokers were able to intervene before enforcement costs mounted.Compliance Meets MarketingA notable point of agreement during the discussion was that compliance and marketing are no longer operating in isolation. While compliance teams remain the ultimate gatekeepers, Bonabi said Surveill increasingly works directly with marketing departments – an approach that reflects changing internal dynamics at brokers.Reducing Approval Bottlenecks“Marketing teams want to get content out as fast as possible,” he said. “Compliance represents a bottleneck.” His argument was that AI can ease this tension by reducing approval times from days to minutes, without lowering regulatory standards. In this model, technology does not replace compliance officers but augments them.AI as Virtual Compliance OfficerBonabi described Surveill’s AI as “a compliance officer that is trained to operate like an in-house compliance officer,” built around regulatory rules rather than probabilistic guesswork. Each flagged issue is linked to a specific rule, accompanied by an explanation and a citation – an effort to address regulators’ and firms’ demands for traceability and transparency.Managing AI ReliabilityThe question of AI reliability inevitably followed. Large language models have drawn scrutiny for so-called hallucinations – confident but incorrect outputs that can be dangerous in a regulated environment. Bonabi was candid about early challenges, saying initial hallucination rates were around 30 percent, though he claimed they have since been reduced to zero through what he described as an “agentic framework” involving multiple AI checks on each piece of content.Human-Led AI Oversight“We believe in the concept of human-led AI,” he said, stressing that a human compliance officer still signs off on every decision. The anecdote underscored a broader point echoed across the summit: AI adoption in financial services is less about autonomy and more about controlled scalability.Changing Compliance MindsetLooking beyond technology, Bonabi reflected on how attitudes toward compliance have shifted over the past decade. Drawing on his experience as an industry veteran and former FXCM executive, he said firms have long viewed compliance as a “necessary cost center.” That mindset, he argued, is increasingly at odds with the need to scale in a tightly regulated market.Technology Reduces Operational Friction“If compliance cannot scale, then there’s friction,” he said. The opportunity, in his view, is to “unlock compliance and make compliance a competitive advantage for the firm.”That framing resonated with the summit’s broader narrative. As regulatory scrutiny intensifies and marketing channels become more diffuse – spanning influencers, affiliates, and global audiences – manual processes are struggling to keep up. Technology, when carefully governed, is emerging as a way to reduce friction rather than add to it.Compliance Shapes Growth TrajectoryBonabi hinted that new client segments, including proprietary and funded account firms, may soon come into focus, suggesting that the same pressures are spreading beyond traditional retail brokerage models.For an industry facing growth constraints and increased oversight, the discussion in London focused on compliance beyond enforcement. How firms manage compliance may affect both the pace and sustainability of their growth. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

MetaQuotes, the developer of MetaTrader platforms, has launched a new pricing model for its Ultency solution that removes fixed monthly fees and shifts costs entirely to traded volume. This move directly challenges the economics of third-party bridge providers used by MT5 brokers.A Direct Challenge to Third-Party Liquidity BridgesThe company announced on Tuesday that it is eliminating the minimum monthly service fee for its Ultency matching engine. Instead, it will now charge clients on a purely volume-based model at $1 per $1 million traded, with progressive discounts for higher volumes. In its announcement, MetaQuotes positioned the new structure as a direct challenge to prevailing market practices. It published a breakdown of what it described as the “true cost” of using third-party aggregation systems. According to the company, brokers often face monthly base fees of $1,500 to $7,000 for a liquidity gateway. They also encounter additional charges for connecting multiple liquidity providers and hosting infrastructure in major data centres.Most MT5 brokers currently rely on third-party liquidity bridges to aggregate quotes from multiple liquidity providers, route orders, and manage execution and risk. These solutions typically integrate directly with the MT5 server. They support low-latency execution, A- and B-Book routing, and FIX connectivity. Specialized vendors dominate the segment, offering plug-ins and gateways with depth-of-market aggregation, markup controls, and embedded risk-management tools. Pricing models range from fixed monthly fees to bundled access tied to preferred liquidity providers.Pricing Transparency Raises Open QuestionsHowever, MetaQuotes did not disclose Ultency’s previous pricing structure, making it difficult for brokers to assess the actual cost impact of the change on a like-for-like basis. The company’s savings calculations are framed against a generic “average market solution,” rather than named competitors or existing Ultency contracts. At the time of publication, no brokers had publicly commented on how the new pricing model compares with their current arrangements or whether it represents a material improvement over established third-party bridges. The move reflects MetaQuotes’ broader effort to deepen its control over the MT5 ecosystem. It offers native alternatives to external infrastructure providers. By positioning Ultency as both a pricing and integration advantage, the company challenges the business models of vendors that have built liquidity aggregation and risk solutions around MetaTrader. This article was written by Tanya Chepkova at www.financemagnates.com.

With over 6 million users across more than 100 countries, RedotPay is disrupting traditional fintech by leveraging blockchain rails to deliver the best product experience to users globallyPayment volume nearly tripled year-on-year with more than 3 million new users joining the platform in 2025 through NovemberNew investment led by Goodwater Capital, with participation from Pantera Capital, Blockchain Capital, and Circle Ventures, with continued backing from existing investorsRedotPay (https://www.redotpay.com/), a global stablecoin-based payment fintech, today announced the successful completion of its US$107 million Series B round, bringing the total capital raised in 2025 to US$194 million. This oversubscribed round is a clear signal of investor confidence in RedotPay’s strong growth momentum and its leading market position in stablecoin application. As of November 2025, RedotPay has over 6 million registered users globally in over 100 markets, with over US$10 billion annualized payment volume. RedotPay now generates over US$150 million in annualized revenue and continues to deliver profitable growth through an efficient, scalable business model.RedotPay’s Series B brought in new investment led by Goodwater Capital, with participation from Pantera Capital, Blockchain Capital, Circle Ventures and the continued backing from HSG and others. With portfolios across consumer fintech, blockchain infrastructure, and global payments, these investors bring deep expertise aligned with RedotPay’s vision to accelerate financial access globally through the mass adoption of stablecoin-based payments, as well as its mission to make digital finance accessible, secure, and efficient for everyone.“Our goal is to help users manage their finances with confidence through stablecoin-powered financial services. With our latest funding, we plan to accelerate product innovation and expand our global reach. Beyond capital, our investors provide the expertise and resources to enable us to scale responsibly while remaining compliance focused and delivering outstanding user experiences.” said Michael Gao, Co-Founder and CEO of RedotPay. “Goodwater invests in platform companies who are reshaping consumer experiences at global scale, and stablecoin has the potential to disrupt global money flow and strengthen financial inclusion," said Jin Oh, Partner at Goodwater Capital. “RedotPay is improving financial access globally with remarkable traction for its stablecoin-driven solutions across major markets. We’re excited to support the company through its next phase of global growth as it expands stablecoin utility and continues to accelerate adoption and drive innovation across its payment products.”RedotPay is building stablecoin-powered financial services that make fund movement instant, predictable, and borderless for both crypto-native and non-crypto users. It empowers global payments with stablecoins through the following:Stablecoin-based Card: Users can spend stablecoins and other digital assets with a secure card globallyGlobal Payouts: RedotPay’s stablecoin-powered payout rails enable fast, secure global transfersStablecoin Access: RedotPay connects traditional finance and digital assets for users to access, hold, and use stablecoins through its multi-currency accounts* and P2P Marketplace**“Pantera backs companies that use blockchain to solve real world problems. RedotPay is bringing stablecoins into everyday payments at a global scale. It offers a glimpse into a future where digital assets form the foundation of faster and more inclusive financial systems." said Ryan Barney, Partner at Pantera Capital. "We believe RedotPay will play a meaningful role in the next phase of crypto adoption, and we are excited to support a company that is pushing the crypto ecosystem forward.”"In many countries, consumers face currency risk, savings erosion due to inflation, and fragile local banking systems. Many would prefer to store value in assets they trust, such as dollars, Bitcoin, or other digital assets, and spend in their local currency. RedotPay seeks to bridge this gap by giving consumers meaningful control over their financial destiny,” said Jonah Burian at Blockchain Capital. "For millions globally, it is becoming a primary financial tool and a top-of-wallet card. RedotPay’s numbers tell the story, and we are excited to back this team."The new capital will fund strategic acquisitions to deepen RedotPay’s product and infrastructure capabilities; secure required licenses and expand its compliance organization to support entry into new markets; and accelerate global hiring to scale its engineering, product, and compliance teams. Looking ahead, RedotPay will continue to expand its geographic coverage, with a focus on key growth regions, and enhance its product offerings to deliver a seamless bridge between crypto and traditional payment ecosystems.About RedotPayRedotPay is a global stablecoin-based payment fintech that integrates blockchain solutions with traditional banking and finance infrastructures. Our intuitive platform empowers millions around the world to spend and send digital assets, ensuring faster, more accessible and inclusive financial services. RedotPay advances financial inclusion for the unbanked and supports crypto enthusiasts, driving global adoption of secure and flexible stablecoin-powered financial solutions to bring crypto to real life. For more information, visit www.redotpay.com.About Goodwater CapitalGoodwater Capital is the world’s largest consumer tech-focused venture firm, empowering exceptional entrepreneurs everywhere to change the world for good. With a global investment approach, the firm identifies and invests in the most promising consumer technology startups worldwide. Goodwater's deep industry expertise, extensive network, and data-driven approach allow it to provide unparalleled support to entrepreneurs, guiding them towards becoming market-leading companies. For more information, visit www.goodwatercap.com.About Pantera CapitalPantera Capital is the first institutional investment firm focused exclusively on bitcoin, other digital currencies, and companies in the blockchain tech ecosystem. Pantera launched the first cryptocurrency fund in the United States when bitcoin was at $65 /BTC in 2013. The firm subsequently launched the first exclusively-blockchain venture fund. In 2017, Pantera was the first firm to offer an early-stage token fund. Pantera Bitcoin Fund has returned 114,841% in twelve years and has returned billions to its investors. Pantera manages over $5 billion across three strategies – passive, hedge, and venture – exclusively focused on bitcoin, other digital currencies, and companies in the blockchain tech ecosystem.About Blockchain CapitalBased in San Francisco and New York, Blockchain Capital is the first venture capital firm to invest exclusively in the blockchain technology sector. Founded in 2013 by Bart and Brad Stephens, Blockchain Capital has funded over 150 startups and is dedicated to working with founders on the principal mission to build world-class companies based on blockchain technology.*RedotPay is a fintech service provider and not a bank. Our Multi-Currency Wallet is provided by appropriately licensed financial institutions and RedotPay only facilitates your use of such Multi-Currency Wallet.**P2P crypto trading involves risks like counterparty default and market volatility. We facilitate trades but disclaim all liabilities for losses, disputes, or outcomes. Trade at your own risk, perform due diligence, and comply with laws. Available in selected regions only.Disclaimer: This publication is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, investment, or other professional advice. It does not represent an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any products, securities, or financial instruments. The information is provided on an “as is” basis as of the date indicated and is subject to change without prior notice. Rabbit7 Holding (BVI) Limited (“RedotPay”) makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or timeliness of the content. RedotPay, along with its directors, officers, agents, employees and affiliates, expressly disclaims any liability for any direct, indirect, special, incidental, consequential, punitive or exemplary damages, arising from the use of or reliance on this publication. Readers should seek independent professional advice before taking any action in relation to the matters concerned herein. This publication is strictly confidential and may not be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means without RedotPay’s prior written consent. The English version shall prevail in the event of any discrepancy or inconsistency between the various language versions hereof. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

In life, no matter what we do, there always comes the inevitable moment of reckoning—a time when performance is measured, and results are tallied. It might be your boss during an annual performance review, your coach analysing your season's stats, or a professor handing back an exam paper. In our case, it is our clients who get to decide if we delivered or missed the mark. So, now it is our turn to sit in the hot seat.Although it is a bit nerve-wracking (nobody wants to be wrong in public), it is also oddly satisfying and indeed, somewhat amusing to sit back, dust off the old predictions, line them up against what actually happened, and see if our 'crystal ball' was working or not. So, pull up a chair, grab your favourite end-of-year drink, and let's open the 2025 scorecard together. We'll go market by market and reveal exactly where we were right, what we got wrong, and how our 2025 outlook actually played out. Please, don't judge us too harshly!Octa broker's 2025 forecastsBack in December 2024, when we laid out our outlook for 2025, the world felt like it was 'rife with uncertainties and riddled with challenges', as we put it. It was a time of extreme uncertainty. Donald Trump had just been elected U.S. President, creating a thick fog of speculation around trade policies, taxes, and regulation. Bitcoin was trading near an all-time high (ATH), fueled by hopes for clearer crypto regulation. Gold was trading sideways amid election jitters and geopolitical tensions. Last but not least, the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) was riding high, fueled by a resilient economy, hawkish Federal Reserve (Fed) vibes, and hopes that trade tariffs would boost the greenback. We offered our best analysis then—now let's see what the market actually delivered.The scorecardWe're pleased to report that we nailed the overarching themes for 2025. Our key predictions proved mostly accurate, guiding traders through a volatile year.The Trump effect and trade war risksOur first major call was that the 'implications of the U.S. presidential election would play out in full force' in 2025. We also flagged a 'full-scale tariff war' as a 'major global risk'.This proved absolutely correct. Trump's administration rolled out sweeping tariffs starting in April—a universal 10% on all imports, escalating to 20-34% on big deficit partners like China, Mexico, and the European Union (EU). What we flagged as a 'major global risk' kicked off exactly the volatility we feared. Global growth forecasts from the OECD and World Bank were slashed by 0.5-1%, with U.S. GDP dipping 0.23% below baseline in 2025 due to trade frictions. Though the global economy showed surprising resilience, the threat—and the reality—of rising trade barriers led to market fragmentation, supply chain adjustments, and an increase in global inflationary pressure. The threat wasn't just a possibility; it proved to be the central drama of the year.The equities and risk-on rallyWe correctly anticipated that investors in industrialised countries would 'avoid cash as interest rates were projected to decline'. This led to our next successful call: 'investors would likely prefer to invest in risky assets like U.S. stocks and crypto, and equities may still perform well'.And perform well they did! Despite the trade drama, the boom in Artificial Intelligence (AI) productivity kept the S&P 500 and Nasdaq alive. Furthermore, lower interest rates, combined with the continued commercialisation of AI (which we highlighted as a key driver for tech, energy, and utilities), fuelled a strong 'risk-on' environment. Investors treated every dip as a buying opportunity, pushing tech stocks to new ATHs. The strength was particularly concentrated in the large-cap, technology-related stocks benefiting from the AI-driven capital expenditure cycle, a trend we had specifically highlighted. And the 'data centre build-out' we mentioned? It effectively put a floor under the energy sector, just as we thought.Gold's all-time highWe were spot-on with our view that gold will remain a 'major protective asset as geopolitical risks are not going away'. Moreover, we explicitly stated that we 'expect gold to establish new all-time highs (ATH) in 2025'.Geopolitical tensions, ranging from the U.S.-China trade war to Middle East unrest, and global monetary policy uncertainty kept demand for the yellow metal sky-high. Indeed, gold performed brilliantly, reaffirming its role as the ultimate safe-haven asset, even beyond most analysts' expectations. Crucially, the demand from global central banks for gold reserves continued its strong trajectory in 2025, providing a powerful floor to prices—a factor we had correctly identified as supportive.Bitcoin's correction and subsequent reboundOur outlook on Bitcoin was a cautious but successful one: 'the risk of a major downward correction in Bitcoin is very high in 2025, but if it does take place, it should be treated as a buying opportunity'.Just as we suggested, the crypto market saw a significant pullback in the first half of 2025. After the initial post-election optimism faded and regulatory clarity remained elusive for a period, Bitcoin endured a sharp correction. However, true to our forecast, this dip was indeed viewed as a prime buying opportunity. The underlying fundamental optimism—coupled with eventual signs of shifting regulatory tides in the second half of the year—saw Bitcoin prices not only recover but push toward new ATHs later in 2025, exactly following the 'correction and rebound' scenario we laid out.U.S. dollar's declineFinally, we were absolutely right when we said last year that 'the U.S. dollar seems overvalued... Betting on its continuing rise is risky'.While many expected trade tariffs to strengthen the dollar, we were sceptical of further gains, and the greenback tumbled. Indeed, the DXY experienced its steepest decline in over five decades in the first half of 2025, plunging by almost 11% due to anticipation of interest rate cuts by the Fed, growing investor concern over U.S. fiscal sustainability and ballooning federal debt and also due to reputational damage and uncertainty stemming from U.S. policy under the Trump administration.What we missedWhile the trends were spot-on, we have to admit one key area where we missed the mark: the scope of the movements. We got the direction right, but the sheer velocity of the market shifts in 2025 caught us—and many others—off guard.Gold's unprecedented rise. We confidently called for gold to set a new ATH and speculated that '$3,000 per ounce was not impossible'. Well, we were too conservative. The scale of safe-haven demand, driven by heightened geopolitical anxiety and central bank purchasing, was far beyond our wildest expectations. We didn't foresee the prolonged U.S. government shutdown in late 2025 acting as rocket fuel, pushing the metal not just past $3,000, but rallying as high as $4,000+ per ounce. We were bullish, but the market was hyper-bullish.The dollar's freefall. We were bearish on the greenback, predicting it was overvalued. But we didn't expect it to lose as much as 12% in a single year. The speed at which the market repriced U.S. debt sustainability caught even us by surprise.While we advised caution and risk, we underestimated the speed with which concerns over U.S. fiscal policy and tariff risks would unwind the multi-year rally.Growth of U.S. benchmark indices. Equities were another scope miss. We warned against broad-based growth and instead advocated for sector-specific focus like AI and energy—solid advice, as tech rose 25%+ and nuclear plays like Constellation Energy (+45% YTD) and Vistra (+51%) crushed it on data centre deals. But the S&P's 17% total return (including dividends) outpaced our cautious stance, thanks to resilient earnings (up 7.4% forward EPS). The takeawaySo, what have we learned from the 2025 market cycle?Our analysis of the major forces—geopolitical risk, the effects of new U.S. policy, the AI-driven tech cycle, the shift in interest rate expectations, and the underlying vulnerability of the U.S. dollar—was robust. However, 2025 was a stark reminder that in an environment 'rife with uncertainties', when a trend breaks, it can break hard and fast. As we eye 2026, with tariffs entrenched and Fed easing potentially pausing, volatility will linger—but so will opportunities for those who trade smart, and not scared to conduct a thorough self-review of trading predictions. Disclaimer: This article does not contain or constitute investment advice or recommendations and does not consider your investment objectives, financial situation, or needs. Any actions taken based on this content are at your sole discretion and risk—Octa does not accept any liability for any resulting losses or consequences.Octa is an international broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 61 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including improving educational infrastructure and funding short-notice relief projects to support local communities.Since its foundation, Octa has won more than 100 awards, including the 'Most Reliable Broker Global 2024' award from Global Forex Awards and the 'Best Mobile Trading Platform 2024' award from Global Brand Magazine. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Bitcoin (BTC) price fell to $85,266 today (Tuesday), December 16, 2025, declining 2.06% from the previous day and extending its losing streak to four consecutive sessions. The world's largest cryptocurrency has dropped 30% from its October all-time high of $126,000 and now trades 18% below year-ago levels. This persistent weakness comes despite the Federal Reserve's third rate cut of 2025, as hawkish forward guidance and elevated correlation with correcting tech stocks override traditional liquidity narratives.In this article, I answer the question of why Bitcoin is going down today by analyzing the BTC/USDT chart and presenting a current Bitcoin price outlook, drawing on my more than 10 years of experience as an analyst and trader.Why Bitcoin Is Going Down Today?At the moment, one Bitcoin is trading at 87,251, although the intraday lows are clearly lower. The price has posted four consecutive declining sessions and has moved decisively away from the 94,000 level that was still observed last week.Federal Reserve Hawkish Pivot Undermines RallyThe Federal Reserve delivered its third consecutive 25-basis-point rate cut on December 10, bringing the target range to 3.50-3.75%, the lowest in three years. However, the central bank's signal of a potential easing pause in 2026 has triggered risk-off sentiment across digital assets, with Bitcoin proving particularly vulnerable."From a macro standpoint, crypto continues to trade in close alignment with traditional risk assets, particularly U.S. equities,” Joel Kruger, crypto strategist at LMAX, explains the macro headwinds. “Correlations remain elevated, reinforcing bitcoin's role as a proxy for broader risk sentiment. Interest rates, real yields, and the U.S. dollar remain key variables for crypto pricing."Ten-year U.S. Treasury yields climbed to 4.2%, the highest since early September, creating unfavorable conditions for non-yielding assets like Bitcoin. The disconnect between rate cuts and rising yields reflects market concerns about persistent inflation and fiscal sustainability, pressuring growth assets across the board.How Low Can BTC Price Go? Death Cross Pattern Signals Extended DeclineBitcoin's technical structure has deteriorated significantly since mid-November when the dreaded "death cross" pattern emerged. On November 16, the 50-day moving average crossed below the 200-day moving average while Bitcoin traded around $93,000-$94,000. This bearish signal remains active as of December 16, with the 50 EMA currently residing near $94,000 and the 200 EMA above $103,000.According to my technical analysis, the price action shows Bitcoin consolidating at local support between $84,000-$85,000, levels that coincide with lows from April, November, and December. Recent daily data confirms the weakness: Bitcoin fell from $92,494 on December 12 to $86,413 by December 16, testing multi-week lows.Resistance has formed between $92,000-$94,000, representing May highs and the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement level where the 50 EMA acts as a ceiling. My chart structure suggests bears maintain control, with moving averages aligned in a bearish configuration supporting further downside."Bitcoin is consolidating at multi-month lows, and the chart structure with moving averages suggests bears have the advantage, not bulls,” Arkadiusz Jóźwiak, Editor-in-Chief at Comparic.pl, reinforces the bearish outlook. “Although we could move in either direction from this consolidation, I lean more toward a downside breakout scenario moving toward April minimums."BTC Targets $74,000: Capitulation Zone AheadUsing Fibonacci extensions, the primary technical target sits at $74,000, representing the 161.8% extension of the recent corrective wave and coinciding with 2025 yearly lows. This level represents an expected full capitulation zone where weak hands exit and institutional reaccumulation begins.Historical data shows Bitcoin testing progressively lower levels: $90,257 on December 14, $88,230 on December 15, and $86,413 on December 16. The critical support level to monitor is $80,000, a sustained break below this threshold would flip market structure decisively bearish and potentially trigger forced liquidations from institutional treasuries and ETF holders defending their balance sheets.BTC Year-End Dynamics and Reversal ScenariosHoliday season illiquidity may extend the current consolidation between $84,000-$94,000 before the next directional move materializes. The Bank of Japan meeting on December 19 represents a potential catalyst, as any hawkish tilt could trigger broader currency market volatility and additional pressure on risk assets.Kruger from LMAX expects range-bound but volatile trading: "Looking ahead, markets are likely to remain reactive to macroeconomic data and policy commentary this week. Absent a clear crypto-specific catalyst, price action may remain range-bound but volatile. Overall, bitcoin and ethereum are expected to trade as high-beta expressions of global risk conditions."Despite the bearish technical setup, my bearish scenario would be invalidated by a sustained breakout above $94,000, where the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement and 50 EMA converge. Ultimate bullish confidence returns only with a break above $103,000, where the 200 EMA resides, confirming the death cross reversal.Changpeng "CZ" Zhao, former Binance CEO, offered perspective on market cycles via Twitter: "If you were ever jealous of people buying crypto on the cheap, and able to hold them through the cycles, think about what they did in moments like this.”If you were ever jealous of people buying crypto on the cheap, and able to hold them through the cycles, think about what they did in moments like this.— CZ ? BNB (@cz_binance) December 16, 2025FAQ: Bitcoin Price Analysis QuestionsWhy is Bitcoin falling today?Bitcoin is falling due to the Federal Reserve's hawkish 2026 guidance despite December rate cuts, elevated correlation with correcting Nasdaq tech stocks, active death cross pattern since November 16, and capital rotation from crypto to gold as safe-haven preference intensifies. The 10-year Treasury yield at 4.2% creates unfavorable conditions for non-yielding digital assets.How low can Bitcoin go in 2025?Technical analysis using Fibonacci extensions identifies $74,000 as the primary target, representing the 161.8% extension and 2025 yearly lows where full capitulation and institutional reaccumulation is expected. Critical support sits at $80,000, a break below triggers bearish market structure flip. Current consolidation between $84,000-$85,000 represents April/November/December lows.Will Bitcoin crash further?The bearish scenario toward $74,000 remains probable while Bitcoin trades below $94,000 resistance and the death cross pattern stays active. Historical death cross patterns precede extended declines, though Bitcoin must fail to bounce within seven days of testing support to confirm another leg down. Sustained breakout above $94,000 (50 EMA, 61.8% Fibonacci) invalidates the bearish thesis.What is Bitcoin price prediction for 2026?Current technical setup suggests capitulation at $74,000 before institutional reaccumulation begins. Bullish reversal requires sustained breakout above $103,000 (200 EMA) to confirm death cross invalidation and trend change. Year-end holiday illiquidity may extend $84,000-$94,000 consolidation before next directional move.When will Bitcoin recover?Sustained breakout above $94,000 where the 50 EMA and 61.8% Fibonacci retracement converge negates the bearish scenario. Full bullish confidence returns above $103,000 (200 EMA), confirming death cross reversal. The Bank of Japan meeting December 19 could provide near-term catalyst for volatility in either direction.Before you go, you can also check my previous Bitcoin price predictions: This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Saloi Benbaha, Head of XDC Network Enterprise Alliance & Ventures received the Policy Pioneer Award at the Digital Assets Global Forum's 100 Commonwealth Impact Leaders Dinner, held at the UK House of Lords by Baroness. The award was presented by Dr. Lisa Cameron, former UK Member of Parliament and founder of the UK-US Crypto Alliance.Saloi Benbaha, Head of XDC Network Enterprise Alliance & Ventures receives Dr. Lisa Cameron, former UK Member of Parliament The Policy Pioneer Award recognizes exceptional contributions to digital asset policy and cross-border regulatory collaboration between the United Kingdom and United States. Saloi's work in trade finance innovation and blockchain integration has positioned her as a leading female voice in the sector.“I’m deeply honored by this recognition received at the House of Lords. It highlights how collaboration between policymakers, innovators, and institutions can shape a more inclusive and transparent future for blockchain, AI and digital trade finance. At XDC Network, we remain committed to bridging traditional finance and blockchain to unlock real impact across global trade,” said Saloi Benbaha, Head of XDC Network Enterprise Alliance & Ventures.Saloi has led strategic initiatives integrating blockchain into global trade workflows, including MLETR-compliant digital trade documents and partnerships with regulators, banks, and enterprises across the MENA region but also participating regularly in policy discussions around the globe. Her contributions have advanced frameworks for stablecoin regulation, capital market integration, and cross-border cooperation.The evening featured keynote addresses from Lord Taylor of Warwick and Dr. Lisa Cameron, with discussions focused on stablecoins and their role in strengthening transatlantic financial ties.The UK-US Crypto Alliance, founded by Dr. Lisa Cameron, promotes cross-border collaboration in digital asset policy and regulatory harmonization between the United Kingdom and United States. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission has issued a call for expressions of interest to lease additional office space in Nicosia to accommodate part of its staff, according to a notice published on its website.Regulator Plans Lease for Staff OfficesThe regulator is seeking office premises of around 500 square metres, with a margin of plus or minus ten percent, located within approximately 800 metres of its existing headquarters, which is at 19 Diagorou Str., 1097 Nicosia, Cyprus. The space must also include storage facilities and meet accessibility, security, and technical requirements suitable for housing about 30 employees. The building must be ready for delivery, including any requested modifications, by the end of April next year.CySEC said the initial lease period will not exceed three years, with options to extend for up to two additional one-year terms. While the invitation does not constitute a commitment to rent or purchase, the commission noted that proposals will be evaluated based on value for money rather than price alone. The #CySEC family is growing. The new recruits are undergoing a three day introductory and orientation process, which includes learning about the organization and its structure, culture, vision, mission and values. pic.twitter.com/6JcLOzYGfk— CySEC - Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (@CySEC_official) July 4, 2023Growing Market Prompts CySEC Headcount IncreaseThe search for additional office space coincides with an expansion of CySEC’s workforce. Since September 2021, the commission has added 32 new staff members, many in supervisory roles, and plans to hire an additional 42 employees to support its supervision departments, as reported by Finance Magnates earlier. These measures reflect the growing market and increasing regulatory requirements.CySEC now regulates and supervises approximately 840 entities. The commission continues to adjust its resources and processes to maintain oversight and ensure investor protection in Cyprus and abroad. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Gemini started offering prediction markets across the United States this week, capping a five-year effort to secure federal approval and entering a sector that has drawn billions in trading volume this year.Gemini Launches Prediction Markets Nationwide After Five-Year Regulatory WaitThe crypto exchange, founded by billionaire twins Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss, rolled out Gemini Predictions through its subsidiary Gemini Titan after receiving a Designated Contract Market license from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) on December 11. Users can now trade yes-or-no contracts on events ranging from whether Bitcoin will close the year above $200,000 to specific regulatory outcomes.Introducing Gemini Predictions, now live across all 50 US states ??Users can trade on outcomes of real world events with near instant execution and full transparency. pic.twitter.com/1wRhkLCEG5— Gemini (@Gemini) December 15, 2025Gemini first filed for the DCM license in March 2020, making the approval one of the longer regulatory reviews in recent memory. Cameron Winklevoss credited the Trump administration's approach to crypto regulation for the eventual greenlight, saying it ended what he called the previous administration's hostility toward digital assets.Three-Way Race for Market ShareThe launch puts Gemini directly against Kalshi and Polymarket, which together processed billions in monthly volume during the run-up to the November elections. Polymarket only resumed U.S. operations this month after being banned from American markets in 2022.Gemini enters with advantages that neither rival has fully matched: a public listing on Nasdaq, a large retail customer base, and regulatory approvals that took years to obtain. The exchange resolved its SEC disputes in September and has since expanded rapidly, adding tokenized stocks and now prediction markets to its platform.The CFTC granted Gemini and three other platforms relief from certain swap reporting requirements on December 12, easing compliance burdens for fully collateralized event contracts. That decision came just one day after Gemini Titan received its DCM license, signaling faster regulatory processing under Acting Chairman Caroline Pham.Platform Push Beyond Core TradingGemini Predictions fits into a wider push across the crypto industry to build what executives call "super apps,” platforms that combine trading, staking, lending, and now event-based betting in a single interface. Coinbase has made similar moves, racing to add prediction markets and tokenized equities before the end of the year.Smaller platforms followed quickly. PancakeSwap announced Probable, a zero-fee prediction market on BNB Chain, on December 15. The project received backing from YZi Labs, the venture fund started by Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao. Self-custodial wallets including MetaMask and Trust Wallet have also begun adding prediction features, either through partnerships or direct integrations.Gemini itself has expanded beyond crypto trading over the past year. The exchange launched tokenized stocks in the European Union in June, starting with MicroStrategy shares and promising to add more equities and ETFs shortly after. That followed an earlier rollout of staking and rewards programs, all aimed at keeping users inside Gemini's ecosystem.Regulatory Friction Persists in Some StatesFederal approval hasn't stopped state-level pushback. Connecticut issued cease-and-desist orders to Kalshi, Robinhood, and Crypto.com in early December, claiming their prediction offerings violated state gambling laws. A judge granted the platforms temporary relief from enforcement while litigation continues.Those orders marked the tenth state to challenge Kalshi's contracts, illustrating the gap between federal commodity regulation and state gambling statutes. Gemini has not disclosed whether it expects similar challenges or how it plans to navigate conflicting state rules.Tyler Winklevoss, Gemini's CEO, has called prediction markets a potentially larger opportunity than traditional capital markets, echoing comments he made when the exchange first sought regulatory approval in November. The company also indicated it may pursue broader derivatives offerings, including crypto futures, options, and perpetual contracts, though it gave no timeline for those products.Gemini Predictions is available on the web and iOS, with no trading fees during an initial promotional period. The platform converts users' existing dollar balances into contract positions with what the exchange describes as near-instant execution. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Elon Musk, the world’s richest person, sets a new wealth record amid surging private valuations and speculation about a massive SpaceX stock market debut.A Record Like No OtherElon Musk has just rewritten the record books. On Monday, he became the first individual ever to amass a personal fortune of $600 billion or more, according to Forbes. This milestone is not just another number on a leaderboard. It stands apart from even the previous high of $500 billion, a level no one else in history had ever hit before.What’s driving this extraordinary surge? Part of it is old-fashioned market dynamics. Shares of Tesla, of which Musk owns about 12 percent, have climbed this year, supported by optimism around autonomous robotaxis and AI integration.SPACE X 2026 IPO CONFIRMED BY ELON MUSK‼️ ? They are looking to take the company at an absolutely unprecedented $1.5 TRILLION, issuing $30 BILLION worth of shares to boost their buildout of AI Data Centers in space. IPOs always have some underpricing done by investment… pic.twitter.com/eGJrs4v4Qr— Paul Kolomeyer (@PaulKolomeyer) December 11, 2025But there’s a new and even bigger engine behind this record: SpaceX’s skyrocketing private valuation and the possibility of a historic IPO.SpaceX’s IPO: A Wealth EngineSpaceX, Musk’s space exploration company founded in 2002, isn’t public yet. But its private valuation, now reportedly around $800 billion, has injected a huge boost into Musk’s net worth. Because Musk owns roughly 42 percent of SpaceX, that valuation bump translates to a direct jump in his personal wealth. On the same day Elon hit the $600 billion mark, that stake alone was estimated to have added about $168 billion to his total fortune, pushing his theoretical net worth to roughly $677 billion.JUST IN:?️ Elon Musk Space X expected to IPO at $1.5 TrillionHere’s how I plan on making money off him becoming the world first trillionaire: pic.twitter.com/PvJzJ7c9Dv— Joshua Jake (@itzjoshuajake) December 10, 2025The company is preparing for what could be one of the largest initial public offerings in history, possibly in 2026. Though timing and valuation figures can shift, early reports suggest the IPO could value SpaceX between $800 billion and over $1 trillion, making it possibly one of the largest IPOs in history.If SpaceX really does go public at the high end of those estimates, Musk’s wealth could jump again and even spark speculation about him becoming the first trillionaire in modern history.How Musk Got HereFrom Tesla Turnaround to Space FrontierMusk’s path to this point is part rocket science, part Wall Street ballet. For years, his wealth was dominated by Tesla’s stock performance. That company’s share price volatility alone has driven billions of dollars in valuation swings. Now, Tesla, still the world’s most valuable electric vehicle maker, continues to contribute significantly to his net worth. But SpaceX has been the real game changer. Its private valuation, informed by secondary market trades and tender offers, has exploded as the company expanded its Starlink satellite internet service and advanced its reusable rocket technology."Unless civilization collapses, SpaceX will make life multiplanetary"-Elon Musk pic.twitter.com/haUoNqRKMd— SMX ?? (@iam_smx) November 3, 2025Beyond Rockets and EVsMusk’s financial empire also includes ventures like xAI, an artificial intelligence startup reportedly in talks to raise fresh funding at high valuations. That adds another layer to the wealth story, even if it doesn’t yet have public stock.So while SpaceX steals headlines with its IPO prospects, Tesla’s stock performance and AI bets are quietly helping pad Musk’s standing at the top of global wealth charts.What This MeansA New Benchmark in WealthMusk’s ascent to $600 billion is more than an ego metric. It reshapes what’s possible in the global wealth hierarchy. No individual before has reached this level, and the milestone underlines how tech and private capital markets can concentrate immense economic value in one person’s portfolio.That raises thorny questions about inequality, capital returns and how much influence private founders wield over public markets once their companies list.The IPO That Could Rewrite the BooksIf SpaceX’s IPO hits valuation estimates over $1 trillion, it could surpass some of the largest offerings ever. The biggest to date is Saudi Aramco in 2019 at $25.6 billion. That would have big consequences for investment banks, long-term investors and retail participants eager to get a slice of a company that was once only accessible to venture capitalists and major funds.The sheer size of the potential IPO also signals renewed confidence in space tech and infrastructure, even as broader markets grapple with inflation and lingering macroeconomic uncertainty.Looking ForwardElon Musk’s meteoric rise to $600 billion net worth is far from the end of the story. As SpaceX prepares for a possible public listing that could redefine IPO records, all eyes will be on how markets react to this next giant leap. Whether Musk ends up closing in on a trillion-dollar net worth, or stepping back from the spotlight, one thing is clear: few narratives in business and wealth will be as captivating in 2026 and beyond. This article was written by Louis Parks at www.financemagnates.com.

Prop trading has become one of the fastest growing segments in retail finance, and its rise has created a new visual vocabulary across the industry. The leading firms in this space no longer resemble brokers, they look like competitive digital platforms shaped by gaming influence, creator culture, and challenge based mechanics. The shift is dramatic and cultural, it reflects a generation that experiences digital intensity as a native environment rather than an intrusion. As a creative observing this space, what stands out is how these firms visualise emotion.Their interfaces and messaging feel urgent, expressive, and psychologically charged, rather than calm and corporate. The result is a design language that reshapes how young traders perceive discipline, risk, progress, and reward. Prop trading does not hide volatility, it brings it into the aesthetic, turning performance pressure into a deliberate part of the brand experience.Why Prop Trading Branding Resembles iGamingThe visual language of prop trading has moved noticeably closer to iGaming and esports, not because finance wants to imitate gaming, but because its newest traders grew up inside digital environments shaped by games, creator culture, and continuous stimulation.For this generation, challenge based ecosystems feel natural. They understand risk, reward, identity, and progression through the logic of games, not through the calm design of traditional finance.Funding challenges mirror game levels, evaluation steps behave like quests, and dashboards resemble performance screens instead of financial interfaces.The emotional architecture is similar. Ambition, urgency, recognition, and reward are communicated visually through bright accents, animated metrics, and bold progression graphics. Even language shifts into game vocabulary. Phases, verification, scaling, and challenges have become industry wide terms.Related: Prop Traders Want to Hear About Others’ Experience: Is That Why They Trust YouTube?This influence is psychological, not aesthetic. Young traders respond to environments that feel dynamic and competitive. Prop firms simply speak the visual and emotional language their users already understand.The Generational Shift, from Financial Glamour to Digital Challenge CultureThe new generation entering prop trading no longer aspires to the financial glamour narratives of the past. The luxury lifestyle, the marble building, the quiet prestige of institutional finance carry less emotional power than before. Their ambitions are shaped by digital subcultures, not traditional symbols.They grew up with competitive games, short form video, livestream culture, and the hyper expressive energy of TikTok. Their understanding of progress is built on levels, badges, streaks, and social visibility. Their sense of community is shaped by Discord, not by formal professional networks.Prop firms adapted quickly. They replaced silent professionalism with visible progression. They turned evaluation mechanics into visual stories. They brought friction, speed, and intensity into the interface because this generation associates challenge with meaning. The result is a new aesthetic and behavioural model for financial platforms, one built on digital native psychology rather than legacy finance.Emotional Triggers in Prop Firm DesignProp firms design for emotion as intentionally as they design for information, with four emotional triggers appearing consistently across the strongest brands. Ambition is conveyed through scaling ladders, progress diagrams, and phase-based challenges that give traders a clear sense of movement and purpose. Urgency is reinforced by live payout tickers, time-limited offers, animated statistics, and countdown visuals, injecting tempo and keeping digital-native traders engaged.Belonging is fostered through global maps, Discord communities, user spotlights, and shared achievements, creating a tribal identity that drives retention. Trust is established with clear rulebooks, verified payouts, founder visibility, transparency statements, and stable terms, grounding the emotional intensity in credibility.FTMO. The Professional BenchmarkFTMO represents the disciplined, institutional identity of the prop industry. Its monochromatic palette and structured layout communicate credibility and order. Navigation is deep but intuitive, supported by extensive resources and clearly defined challenge flows. Emotionally, FTMO appeals to ambition through mastery and consistency.Keep reading: “Every Design Choice in Prop Trading Creates a Corresponding Risk”: Arizet Labs’ CEOTrust is built through awards, transparent rules, verified payouts, and years of stability. Gamification exists structurally but never theatrically. FTMO is trying to be perceived as the environment for traders who value clarity, structure, and professionalism.The 5%ers. The Educational, Support Driven BrandThe 5%ers differentiate themselves through calm design, educational structure, and a deeply supportive tone. Their interface is clean, modern, and intentionally simple. Messaging centres on discipline, patience, and growth rather than adrenaline or hype. UX guides traders through structured paths with clear expectations and unlimited evaluation time, reducing pressure. Emotionally, The 5%ers evoke stability and mentorship.Trust is grounded in their long history, transparent rules, and global user community. Gamification is light, focused on positive reinforcement, healthy competition, and long term progression. They represent the mentoring archetype in prop trading.ATFunded. The Minimal, High Credibility PerformerATFunded presents a clean, precise, institutional identity tailored for traders who prioritise credibility over theatrics. The interface employs structured grids, whitespace, and balanced typography to convey clarity and discipline. Messaging focuses on reliability, verification, and transparency rather than emotional hype.UX prioritises efficiency, offering instant funding structures, clear program flows, and rapid navigation. Emotionally, ATFunded appeals to traders seeking calm, control, and predictability. Trust is anchored in consistent payouts, compliance focused documentation, and a measured public voice. Gamification is minimal, reinforcing its position as a serious, institutional style prop firm.PipFarm. The New Digital Native BrandPipFarm embodies the energy of gaming culture with neon accents, fast UI, and visible power up mechanics. Its messaging balances excitement with honesty, openly discussing risk while highlighting innovation. UX is designed for rapid understanding. External reviews and payout verification build trust. Emotionally, PipFarm appeals to curiosity and empowerment, especially through customizable challenge enhancements. It represents the new generation of high transparency, culturally fluent prop firms designed for digital native traders.The Funded Trader. The Fully Gamified EcosystemTFT transforms the trading journey into a medieval themed digital world. Knights, crests, quests, and narrative driven challenge flows create a full gamified identity. Competitions, leaderboards, and a vibrant community amplify excitement and belonging. Despite heavy theming, the UX remains structured and accessible. Trust is built through community visibility, founder engagement, and public payouts. TFT sits at the extreme end of gamified trading, turning evaluation into an immersive experience.Vantir. The Anti Hype FutureVantir offers a contrasting identity, calm, minimal, and deeply transparent. Its dark aesthetic, neon accents, and geometric V logomark create a premium fintech presence. Messaging focuses on clarity, fair rules, no fine print, and founder visibility. UX is refined and direct. Trust is reinforced by liquidity backed payouts, transparent structures, and rapid withdrawal commitments. Gamification appears subtly through AI driven feedback and multiple evaluation paths. Vantir represents the emerging professional future of prop trading design.E8 Markets. The Transparent InnovatorE8 positions itself as a forward looking, technologically confident firm that blends a cosmic design palette with a strong operational backbone. The dark interface, accented with neon gradients, creates a futuristic tone while the messaging focuses on clarity, openness, and payout consistency. UX is fast, structured, and built around user control through customisable evaluations. Emotionally, E8 appeals to ambition and innovation. Trust is reinforced through public metrics, large payout volumes, and consistent communication. Gamification appears through dashboard progression, challenge modes, and community driven competition. E8 represents the technically sophisticated future of prop trading. This article was written by Christos Georgiou at www.financemagnates.com.

IG Group Holdings plc posted its scheduled trading update for the three months ended November, showing growth across key segments, driven by CFD, stock, and retail trading. Net trading revenue reached £271 million, up nearly 30% on the previous year. The United States remained the fastest-growing market, with tastytrade generating over $65 million.Customer activity surged, with first trades rising 64% and active accounts increasing 8% year-on-year. CEO Breon Corcoran noted that “strategic initiatives were translating into revenue growth and accelerating client acquisition”.UK, APAC Markets Drive IG GrowthStock trading and investments revenue also climbed, supported by IG’s zero-commission UK proposition, now expanded to Ireland, Singapore, and France. UK and Ireland share dealing volumes nearly doubled year-on-year, with overseas trades accounting for over 40% of activity.IG’s crypto expansion gained momentum after securing FCA and MiCA licences, paving the way for 2026 growth across APAC, the Middle East, and Europe. Meanwhile, Freetrade, acquired earlier this year, continued strong performance, with assets under administration reaching £3.3 billion and total revenue up 31% on the prior year.Daily Tesla Options, UK Cashback PromotionAlongside its trading update, IG has introduced new retail initiatives. The firm launched a 5% cashback promotion for UK residents opening their first ISA, SIPP, or General Investment Account before the end of December 2025, aimed at supporting new investors or those switching platforms.In addition, IG rolled out daily options on Tesla shares, offering same-day expiry contracts. While focused on a US-listed stock, the product complements IG’s “Save Our Stock Market” initiative, which promotes retail investment in UK-listed companies and supports greater participation in financial markets.IG Sells Small Exchange to KrakenRecently, IG completed the sale of Small Exchange to Kraken for $100 million, exiting its U.S. derivatives venture. The transaction, which includes $32.5 million in cash and $67.5 million in Payward stock, generated a post-tax profit of £73.3 million for IG and increased the firm’s regulatory capital resources by £22.7 million, excluding the equity portion. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Broctagon Fintech Group announced the connection between its AXIS FX CRM and Brokeree Solutions' copy trading software, combining client management tools with automated trade copying across multiple MetaTrader and cTrader servers.The two companies are linking their platforms so brokers don't need to run separate systems for client onboarding and copy trading operations. AXIS handles client accounts, compliance workflows, and commission payouts, while Brokeree's software manages the mechanics of copying trades between strategy providers and followers.Cross-Platform Deployment Through Single Sign-OnThe setup uses single sign-on authentication, which means clients log into one system and access both their trading accounts and copy trading features without entering separate credentials. Brokeree's platform already works with MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader servers, allowing traders on different platforms to share signals.Similar arrangements have emerged elsewhere in the industry. CRM provider EAERA added social trading features through a Brokeree deal in August 2025, enabling forex brokers to track copy trading activity directly from customer management dashboards.Brokeree recently expanded beyond MetaTrader's configuration files by launching a web interface for risk management controls, allowing brokers to adjust margin and leverage settings through a centralized dashboard rather than server-level files.Tatiana Pilipenko, who heads Business Development for APAC, UK, and Americas at Brokeree, noted that bundled CRM and copy trading solutions appeal to brokers in Asia-Pacific and Southeast Asia due to simplified deployment and reduced integration work."Together, we’re enabling brokers in these markets to move faster, stay agile, and offer more competitive, community-driven trading experiences," she added.Multi-Tier Commissions Applied to Copied TradesThe AXIS platform includes a commission engine that distributes payouts across multiple tiers of introducing brokers. Under the new integration, these commission structures now apply to trades executed through copy trading, meaning brokers can pay referral fees on follower activity.Strategy providers earn performance fees that accumulate in separate Brokeree wallets. These funds can be transferred into the main CRM wallet or directly to trading accounts for immediate use.The system automatically synchronizes server names and account groups between the two platforms, removing the need for manual configuration when setting up new copy trading environments.Deployment Time and Customization OptionsBroctagon claims its CRM can be deployed under a broker's brand within one day without setup fees, offering 380 customizable parameters. The company serves 350 clients across 50 countries and supports brokers regulated by authorities including the FCA and CySEC.Don Guo, Chief Executive of Broctagon, said the integration "empowers brokers to incentivize, reward, and engage their trading communities with greater speed and impact."Brokeree has been adding copy trading to other CRM systems this year. Versus Trade tapped into the copy trading market in November through a separate arrangement that brought multi-server technology and risk controls to its offering.Broctagon previously partnered with Takeprofit Tech to integrate investment management tools that enable forex brokers to operate multiple client accounts with coordinated strategies. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Nasdaq submitted a formal request to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) yesterday (Monday) to expand its trading hours to 23 hours per weekday, adding a late-night session that would run from 9 PM to 4 AM Eastern Time.The filing represents the latest regulatory step in the exchange industry's broader shift toward continuous trading. Nasdaq already operates pre-market, regular, and after-hours sessions, but the new overnight window would extend access for international investors and respond to growing retail demand for flexible trading times."Global investors expect access on their terms, in their time zones, without compromising trust or market integrity," Chuck Mack, Senior Vice President of North American Markets at Nasdaq, commented for Bloomberg.24-Hour Trading Competition Heats Up Among Major ExchangesNasdaq's application follows similar moves by its rivals. The New York Stock Exchange received initial SEC approval in February for a 22-hour weekday trading schedule, though implementation depends on data feed infrastructure upgrades. Cboe Global Markets has also outlined plans to extend hours on its venues.If approved, Nasdaq expects to launch the extended session in early third quarter 2026. That timeline assumes regulatory clearance and coordination with industry infrastructure, which remains a significant hurdle.The push toward longer hours gained momentum after retail brokers like Robinhood Markets and Interactive Brokers started offering 24/5 trading on alternative venues. One-third of eToro's trades now occur during extended market hours, reflecting retail appetite for flexible access. Meanwhile, 24X Exchange partnered with TNS to offer extended-hours trading ahead of the major exchanges.Infrastructure Providers Must Align for LaunchExtended trading across major exchanges requires coordination from key market infrastructure players. The Depository Trust & Clearing Corp., which handles trade settlement, submitted plans to offer 24-hour clearing five days a week by second quarter 2026. The Operating Committees of the Securities Information Processors, responsible for consolidated market data, also need to extend their hours.Without these providers operating during overnight sessions, exchanges can't effectively support extended trading.Asian-based investors have welcomed the development. "It effectively brings US stocks into our local trading hours, increasing liquidity and allowing investors here to react in real time instead of waiting for overnight sessions," said Dilin Wu, Research Strategist at Pepperstone Group in Australia.Liquidity Concerns Persist Despite EnthusiasmMarket participants remain split on whether extended hours will deliver the benefits exchanges promise. Trading activity still concentrates around the opening and closing bells when volume is highest and pricing is most efficient. The question is whether institutional traders will migrate to overnight sessions or stick with traditional hours.Critics have warned that lower volume during off-hours could lead to wider spreads and more volatile price swings, particularly when major news breaks and fewer traders are active. The World Federation of Exchanges previously cautioned that 24/7 trading is "not inevitable nor universally desirable," citing concerns about market quality and investor protection.The pandemic accelerated adoption of extended trading as investors sought immediate reaction to after-hours events. That trend shows no signs of reversing, with retail brokers reporting sustained demand for flexible hours even as markets normalized post-pandemic. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

The UK is preparing to regulate the cryptocurrency sector under the supervision of the Financial Conduct Authority. The government aims to introduce consumer protections that are currently missing in the industry, according to The Guardian. Officials said one goal of the legislation is to close this protection gap.The FCA launched a public consultation to examine how existing handbook provisions would apply to crypto firms. The consultation covers governance, operational resilience, financial crime controls, and Consumer Duty obligations. Companies would need FCA authorization before operating. Officials said this is intended to raise standards, strengthen consumer protection, and address risks, including volatility, as new legislation is drafted.Rising Risks and FraudCrypto growth in the UK has coincided with rising fraud and investment losses. UK Finance data showed a 55% increase in funds lost to crypto-related scams over the past year. Last month, authorities carried out the country’s largest Bitcoin seizure. Chinese national Zhimin Qian, who defrauded more than 128,000 people in China, had hidden the proceeds in the UK. Authorities recovered 61,000 BTC, worth over £5 billion.UK TO REGULATE CRYPTO UNDER FINANCIAL LAW FROM 2027- The UK will bring cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin under full financial regulation from 2027, placing crypto alongside traditional financial products, per Reuters.- The Treasury plans to extend existing financial laws to… pic.twitter.com/RhWK96NN51— BSCN (@BSCNews) December 15, 2025Goals of the New RulesThe rules are expected to increase market transparency, improve detection of suspicious activity, allow sanctions, and hold companies accountable. Officials said the measures could help position the UK as a hub for digital asset innovation.“By giving firms clear rules of the road, we are providing the certainty they need to invest, innovate and create high-skilled jobs here in the UK, while giving millions strong consumer protections, and locking dodgy actors out of the UK market,” UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves said.Support for "Growth"City Minister Lucy Rigby said the legislation would support growth. “Bringing forward this legislation is a milestone. Our intention is to lead the world in digital asset adoption. The rules we are putting in place are going to be proportionate and fair. They are going to be good for growth, encourage firms to invest here and protect consumers as well,” she said.Rigby is expected to table secondary legislation. Officials aim to have the final rulebook ready by mid-2026, with full implementation in 2027.Faster Registration ProcessThe FCA has accelerated its registration process for crypto firms, reducing the average approval time from over a year to five months. Approval rates have increased to 45% in recent months, compared with less than 15% over the past five years. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

N26 selected Mike Dargan, a senior executive from UBS Group AG, to become its next CEO. The appointment comes amid new regulatory restrictions against the Berlin-based neobank. Appointment and TransitionFrom April 2026, Dargan will assume the role of CEO of both N26 SE and N26 Bank SE, pending regulatory approval from Germany’s BaFin. He will succeed co-founder Maximilian Tayenthal and interim co-CEO Marcus Mosen. With more than 25 years in banking and financial technology, Dargan brings extensive global experience spanning UBS, Standard Chartered, and Merrill Lynch. At UBS, he focused on the bank’s global digitization strategy as Group Chief Operations and Technology Officer.In August, N26 appointed former Bundesbank executive Andreas Dombret as chairman of its supervisory board, marking the end of a period of internal friction between investors and the founding team. The leadership change comes as BaFin impose fresh restrictions on N26 after an audit uncovered weaknesses that regulators said crossed legal lines, reviving concerns that have followed the lender for years.The decision signaled a strategic move to strengthen governance and repair strained relationships within the company’s leadership. It followed months of upheaval that had raised concerns about N26’s direction amid regulatory challenges and management rifts. BaFin Steps Up Supervision After 2024 AuditBaFin has announced stricter oversight of N26, including limits on parts of its business and the appointment of a special monitor, Reuters reported. The regulator has also ordered the company to hold additional capital.More executive moves: IG CEO Joins Sportradar Board as Gaming Firm Eyes Entering Prediction MarketsThe action marks the second time since 2021 that BaFin has installed a special representative at the bank. The latest decision follows a special audit completed in 2024.The watchdog framed the decision as necessary to address structural weaknesses rather than isolated failures. However, the measures amount to a significant intervention against a prominent name in Germany’s fintech sector.The regulatory action comes during a period of internal change at N26. The neobank has reshaped both management and governance in recent months This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Sportradar Group AG has elected Breon Corcoran, Chief Executive Officer of IG Group, to its Board of Directors. Sportradar is exploring expansion into iGaming and prediction markets while maintaining its sports-focused product mix. The company has begun testing its iGaming product in Brazil, using AI-driven client acquisition and retention tools as part of a holistic approach. Sportradar plans to scale this model into larger markets, including the US. In parallel, the firm sees growth potential in prediction markets but is taking a cautious approach, according to SBC News, UK.Sportradar Names Corcoran to BoardCorcoran was the second‑highest‑paid executive among publicly listed contracts for differences brokers in fiscal 2025, earning about £3.35 million, including £896,000 in fixed pay and more than £2.45 million in bonuses.Jeffery Yabuki, Chairman of Sportradar’s Board, said Corcoran brings “a wealth of leadership experience” and “a deep understanding of the sports technology and data landscape.”Corcoran currently leads IG Group. Before that, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Zepz for about four years, led Paddy Power Betfair for nearly two years, and Betfair for about three and a half years. From August 2022 to August 2024, he was Chairman of Auction Technology Group. The appointment takes effect on December 11, 2025. His career has included leadership roles across Europe, Australia, and the United States.Corcoran to Guide Sportradar’s Global OperationsSportradar founder and CEO Carsten Koerl said Corcoran joins the board as the company continues to expand its global operations and technology focus. Corcoran said Sportradar has “built an impressive business in sports technology” and added that he looks forward to contributing to its long-term development.IG Highlights Concerns as eToro Launches ISAMeanwhile, IG has highlighted concerns that growing use of Cash ISAs could reduce investment in domestic equities. Separately, eToro has expanded its partnership with Moneyfarm to launch a Cash ISA for UK customers. The account offers a return on cash held and is available alongside eToro’s existing investment accounts. The launch comes amid broader discussion in the UK about the role of Cash ISAs in the savings landscape. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

PrimeX Capital has become the latest CFD broker to secure a license from the United Arab Emirates' Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA). The approval signals the broker’s formal entry into one of the MENA region’s most tightly regulated markets.“This license is not just a legal requirement; it is a promise to our clients,” the company commented. “The UAE is the financial heart of the region, and receiving the SCA’s approval validates our mission to provide a secure, transparent, and world‑class trading environment for investors in the Middle East and North Africa.”Strengthening MENA Market ReachOperating under SCA supervision allows PrimeX Capital to extend regulated access to a broader base of traders across the Gulf and North Africa.The broker plans to enhance its localized services, including Arabic-speaking client support and educational initiatives aligned with investor needs in the region.Read more: XM to Begin Using UAE Regulatory Approval from SCAAccording to the company, clients under the new framework will benefit from enhanced safeguards. The new SCA’s regulatory measures cover fund protection, fair market conduct, and strict compliance with anti‑money laundering (AML) and know‑your‑customer (KYC) obligations. Registered in Dubai, PrimeX Capital offers forex and CFD trading across global markets through technology‑driven platforms. The firm continues to expand its international presence under recognized regulators while providing traders with resources and support tailored to their needs.More CFD Brokers Obtain UAE LicensesMore global brokers are steadily securing licenses from the United Arab Emirates’ Securities and Commodities Authority, highlighting the UAE’s rise as a tightly regulated hub for forex and CFD trading in the Gulf.Rostro Group, owner of retail broker Scope, secured a Category 5 license from the SCA last week, enabling the Dubai-based holding company—founded in 2021 and active across multiple brokerages and fintech brands—to expand its trading services across the region.Finalto was also granted a similar approval, allowing the firm to operate under the country’s regulatory framework and provide services to professional and institutional clients in the UAE, with Conor Canny appointed as CEO for MENA.Recently, the UAE automated parts of its authorization process and is expected to reduce processing times by around one-third, according to the regulator. The regulator reported that 18% increase in applications in the first nine months of this year compared with the same period in 2024. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Gold price surged to $4,355 per ounce today (Monday), December 15, 2025, marking its fifth consecutive session of gains and approaching the all-time high of $4,383 reached on October 20. The precious metal climbed 0.5% at the end of last week, testing $4,353, and continues trading just $28 below historical maximums. This rally represents a stunning 66% year-to-date performance, significantly outpacing most traditional asset classes.In this article, I look for answers to why gold price is surging and what the latest gold price forecasts suggest.Why Gold Is Surging? Federal Reserve Rate Cuts Fuel RallyThe Federal Reserve delivered its third 25-basis-point rate cut of 2025 during its December 9-10 meeting, bringing the federal funds rate to its lowest level in three years. This dovish policy stance has dramatically reduced the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets like gold, triggering massive capital flows into precious metals.Markets currently price in a 75.6% probability of a pause at the January meeting, though Fed Chair Stephen Miran and New York Fed President John Williams are scheduled to speak today, potentially providing fresh guidance on the policy trajectory. The central bank is simultaneously purchasing $40 billion in bonds monthly, adding liquidity to the financial system and pressuring the dollar lower.Ten-year U.S. Treasury yields climbed to 4.2%, the highest since early September, creating a paradox where nominal rates rise but real yields fall, a historically bullish configuration for gold.[#highlighted-links#] As Ray Youssef from NoOnes notes, "Gold's move from around $4,200 before the Fed's 25-bps announcement to $4,326 reveals that smart capital is hedging policy ambiguity."How High Can Gold Go? Technical Analysis Shows Strong MomentumGold futures are strengthening with rising bullish DMI/ADX signals, suggesting sustained upward momentum, according to Michał Pietrzyca from Bossafx. The price is pressuring the upper bullish range of $4,345-$4,381, with critical resistance at the seven-week maximum near the technical pivot of $4,350.According to my own technical analysis, the friday's pin bar pattern indicates supply rejected the bull move toward all-time highs, though the new week brings another attempt at price discovery.Key support levels include the 50-day EMA combined with the psychological $4,000 threshold, followed by a secondary support zone around $3,900 where late October and early November lows reside. Deeper support sits at $3,600 (200-day EMA) and the major range of $3,273-$3,441, representing previous April-August highs.Silver has accompanied gold's ascent, reaching a record $62.37 and posting a 120% year-to-date gain, demonstrating broad-based precious metals strength.Gold Price Prediction: Major Banks Forecast $5,000 GoldWall Street's largest institutions have dramatically increased their gold price forecasts, with several predicting the metal will breach $5,000 per ounce in 2026:Bank of America raised its 2026 forecast to $5,000, with an average of $4,400, stating "a 6-14% increase in investment demand, similar to this year's trend, could elevate gold to $5,000 per ounce".Goldman Sachs lifted its December 2026 target to $4,900 from $4,300, noting "risks associated with our revised gold price forecast are predominantly tilted towards the upside, as private sector investments in the comparatively small gold market may enhance ETF holdings beyond our rates-implied calculations". The bank expects central bank buying to average 80 tonnes in 2025 and 70 tonnes in 2026.HSBC projects gold could reach $5,000 in the first half of 2026, raising its average 2026 forecast to $4,600 from $3,950. The bank stated, "Unlike previous rallies, we believe many of these new buyers are likely to remain in the gold market, even after the rally concludes, not solely for appreciation but also gold's diversification and safe haven attributes".Société Générale also targets $5,000 by end-2026, with head of commodity research Mike Haigh declaring "Gold's ascent to $5000 seems increasingly inevitable".While consensus forecasts cluster around $5,000, two extreme scenarios demonstrate gold's potential range in 2026, from spectacular gains to significant corrections. In their "Outrageous Predictions 2026" report, Saxo Bank outlines two tail-risk scenarios that could send gold skyrocketing to unprecedented levels.The first involves "Q-Day," when a quantum computer breaks standard digital encryption. Neil Wilson, Saxo's UK Investor Strategist, warns this would trigger trust collapse in digital assets and traditional banking systems. "Bitcoin collapses toward zero. Fear spills into traditional finance... Gold rockets toward $10,000 as the ultimate 'no-password' asset," Wilson projects.Balancing the euphoric forecasts, the World Gold Council's Gold Outlook 2026 report presents four distinct macroeconomic scenarios, including a bearish "Reflation Return" path where gold could crash 5-20% from current levels.Major Bank Gold Price Forecasts Table 2026What's Next for Gold Prices?Critical data releases this week could determine gold's trajectory toward all-time highs. Tuesday brings U.S. employment reports for October and November, including nonfarm payrolls, average hourly earnings, and the unemployment rate, metrics that will shape expectations for the Fed's January meeting.The Bank of Japan meeting on December 19 represents another potential pivot point, as any tightening by the BOJ could trigger yen strength and broader currency market volatility.Pietrzyca added that "uncertainty and risk aversion may increase capital flows to safe havens" while highlighting important technical support at $3,919.FAQ: Gold Price Analysis QuestionsWill gold reach $5,000 per ounce?Bank of America, HSBC, and Société Générale all forecast gold will hit $5,000 in 2026, driven by continued Fed easing, central bank buying, and ETF inflows. Goldman Sachs predicts $4,900 by December 2026. The consensus among major institutions places 2026 forecasts between $4,000 and $5,300 per ounce.Why is gold price surging right now?Gold is surging due to the Federal Reserve's third rate cut of 2025, dollar weakness, safe-haven demand from tech sector rotation, central bank diversification away from U.S. Treasuries, and robust ETF inflows. Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost of holding gold while geopolitical uncertainty increases safe-haven appeal.Is gold a good investment in 2026?Experts remain bullish on gold for 2026, though they caution that repeating 2025's 66% returns is unlikely. Most analysts expect double-digit percentage gains supported by Fed policy, dollar weakness, and structural demand from central banks. Gold performs best as a long-term investment during periods of economic uncertainty and currency debasement.What drives gold prices higher?Key drivers include Federal Reserve monetary policy and real interest rates, U.S. dollar strength, inflation expectations, central bank reserve diversification, geopolitical risks, and physical demand from technology and jewelry industries. When real yields fall or turn negative, gold becomes more attractive relative to bonds and cash equivalents. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.