The recent introduction of Elev8, a new global brokerage brand, came as a surprise to some members of the trading community. However, it was a well-thought-out, strategic decision aimed at long-term development, the team behind the brand claims. In this article, the Elev8 team breaks down the hows and whys of this launch.   The reasons for change In the financial industry, any brand shift raises questions and concerns: after all, companies handle clients' funds, and the interest is well-founded. Soon after its introduction, Elev8, a new global brokerage brand, addressed the crucial points of discussion that may have lingered in the community since launch.   'We are well aware that any organisational changes in the brokerage industry raise many questions. Traders have the right to know about any decisions made by the broker they engage with, especially when a decision is as important as introducing a new brand. And this is why, as our brand makes its first steps, we consider it especially important to clarify the logic behind our decision,' the Elev8 team pointed out. When highlighting the main reasons for the new brand's creation, the Elev8 team emphasises that independence and change are the primary drivers of growth. According to them, for an online brokerage, building a new brand identity is often a great way to assert its market visibility and fully unlock its potential. Breaking away from the previous affiliations means companies can move faster, experiment more freely, and build something that aligns with their vision. Keeping the edge  At the same time, the Elev8 team ensured they stuck to the time-tested advantages they had at their disposal. When strategically terminating their affiliation with the Octa brand, they retained the infrastructure and expertise that allowed them to deliver an efficient trading experience for their clients for years.   'When launching Elev8, we focused on continuity and a seamless transition to the new brand. For our clients, the main change was about brand visuals and the domain. The overall trading experience, financial transactions, and the technology behind our solutions stayed the same—our team made sure we stay reliable and secure when it comes to client funds, accounts, and data,' Elev8 declared.   Regulation and partnerships Elev8 now operates as an entirely independent brand, but the broker behind it has been in the market for years. Its regulatory stance hasn't changed: the broker holds licenses from Mauritius and Comoros. The new visual identity may have been a surprise for some clients, but the compliance mechanisms that Elev8 adheres to remain unchanged. This is another anchor of the continuity that the broker's team emphasises in their communications. 'With the launch of the new brand, nothing changed in terms of our day-to-day operations. We continue to work under the same licenses and in the same jurisdictions as before. For us, it's just business as usual: we process transactions through the same payment providers and operate as before the launch. Our decision to launch a new broker wasn't in any way caused by any regulatory issues,' the broker's team said.  'Overall, our operational pipeline hasn't been affected in any way, and our clients haven't experienced any significant disruptions. Our relations with our IB partners are also implemented along the time–tested trajectories: no surprises here, either. We plan for the long term and aim for transparency in our relations with both clients and partners,' Elev8 added. Focus on the future First and foremost, the new brand plans to deliver value to clients through the core element: an all-in-one ecosystem for traders. According to Elev8, they plan to develop this comprehensive solution while keeping the efficient business processes established during the previous years.  'With the new brand, we plan to strengthen our position in the market. We believe we're well-positioned to do that: serving more than 18 million clients worldwide, Elev8 offers a powerful, multifaceted trading ecosystem that was designed to help traders reach a new level,' Elev8 said. Overall, the emergence of Elev8 seems to reflect the company's structural changes and long-term plans rather than a sudden attempt to start its journey from scratch. The planning, expertise, and well-established technological and regulatory foundations are there—these are the prerequisites for a successful start in the industry.   

DIGITEC has appointed Jessica Roberts as Head of Revenue Operations and Enablement, adding a senior FX markets executive as the firm expands its technology business focused on FX swaps and non deliverable forwards. Roberts is based in London and will oversee revenue operations strategy, coordinating sales, marketing and customer success teams as the company develops its global growth plans. The appointment comes as trading technology providers expand infrastructure supporting electronic trading and automation across foreign exchange markets. Executive Appointment Strengthens Revenue Operations Structure In the new role, Roberts will lead the development and execution of revenue processes across the organisation. The position focuses on aligning commercial operations across departments responsible for client acquisition, customer engagement and product delivery. Revenue operations teams have become increasingly important within financial technology companies as firms attempt to coordinate sales and product strategies across global markets. Jessica Roberts commented, “DIGITEC is recognised as the leader in FX swaps and NDF technology.” Roberts added, “I am excited to be joining the firm during a period of growth and innovation as new services are launched to capture opportunities from the increasingly automated FX swaps workflows.” The company said the role will help support the continued expansion of its client base as demand for automated FX trading infrastructure increases. Takeaway DIGITEC has appointed Jessica Roberts to lead revenue operations as the company expands its FX swaps and NDF trading technology business. Roberts Brings Experience from CME Group and NEX Markets Roberts has more than fifteen years of experience in foreign exchange markets and financial technology businesses. Before joining DIGITEC she served as Senior Director of Sales Operations at CME Group. She previously held several roles at EBS BrokerTec including Head of Off SEF NDFs and Head of CNH. Earlier in her career she worked as Business Manager for the Chief Operating Officer at Optimisation, the post trade division of NEX Group. Her experience includes developing commercial strategies, building operational processes and managing growth initiatives across global markets businesses. Peer Joost, Chief Executive Officer of DIGITEC, commented, “We are happy to welcome Jessica to our growing team.” Joost said Roberts brings experience in revenue operations as well as knowledge of emerging market currencies and non deliverable forward trading. Takeaway Roberts joins DIGITEC after senior roles at CME Group and EBS BrokerTec, bringing experience in emerging market FX and NDF trading. Electronic FX Markets Drive Demand for Trading Technology Technology providers operating in the foreign exchange market have expanded their infrastructure as electronic trading increases across currency markets. FX swaps and non deliverable forwards remain important instruments used by banks and financial institutions for currency hedging and liquidity management. Market participants increasingly rely on automated pricing, order management systems and data feeds to execute these transactions. Stephan von Massenbach, Chief Revenue Officer of DIGITEC, commented that the evolution toward more electronic market structures is increasing demand for trading technology solutions. DIGITEC develops technology platforms used by banks and financial institutions to price and execute FX swaps and NDF transactions. The company’s products include pricing systems, order management tools and market data services covering FX swaps and precious metals markets. DIGITEC said its client base includes more than half of the fifty largest foreign exchange trading firms. Takeaway Growing electronic trading activity in FX swaps and NDF markets is increasing demand for pricing technology and workflow automation tools.

Paris, France, March 18th, 2026, Chainwire In an era of fragmented information, Proof of Talk returns to the Musée des Arts Décoratifs at the Louvre Palace on June 2 & 3 to serve as the definitive Court of Record for the digital asset Industry. Increasingly seen by investors, asset managers, digital asset institutions, and policymakers as a venue where future trajectories are set, Proof of Talk expands the vision of Davos. Rejecting the standard conference format, Proof of Talk is bringing together a curated room of 2,500 decision-makers, where the world's most influential leaders will converge to break news, sign term sheets, and dictate the 2026–2027 market trajectory. The Content Council: 15+ Years on the Front Line of Digital Assets The 2026 agenda is engineered by the Content Council, a body of Editorial Architects with a combined 15+ years of dedicated digital asset coverage across Bloomberg, Fox Business, CoinDesk, and Forbes. Their collective record spans every major market cycle, regulatory inflection point, and institutional breakthrough the industry has produced. The Council's mandate is to shape the agenda of Proof of Talk 2026, turning it into a forum for serious, practical, and impact-driven conversations. It is led by Ben Schiller, Christine Lee, Eleanor Terrett, Frank Chaparro, Jacquelyn Melinek, Lisa Cameron, Michael del Castillo, and Pete Rizzo — eight of the most sourced journalists in the space. The Podcast Powerhouse: The Primary Source for Global Announcements Proof of Talk introduces the Podcast Powerhouse, a high-caliber media engine designed to capture and amplify world-first announcements. Featuring the industry's most trusted voices — Andy C (The Rollup), Amanda Cassatt (Endgame), Kevin Follonier (When Shift Happens), Marc Baumann (FiftyOne), and Michaël van de Poppe (New Era Finance) — this collective will serve as the primary source for global market announcements. The 95% C-Level Standard: Franklin Templeton, SWIFT, JP Morgan, & More In a room representing over $18T in AUM, the 2026 roster features the founders, C-level executives, and builders of the new financial order, brought to the table to provide proof of their vision. Confirmed speakers include: Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton; Tom Zschach, CIO of SWIFT; Carlos Domingo of Securitize; Diogo Mónica of Anchorage Digital, the first regulated crypto bank in America and a portfolio company of Haun Ventures; Emma Landriault, leading the JPM Coin Global Initiative at JP Morgan; Stani Kulechov of Aave, with $26 billion in TVL; Caroline Pham, former Chair of the CFTC; Arnaud Caudoux of Bpifrance, France's €80 billion sovereign wealth fund; Julian Sawyer, CEO of Zodia Custody (founded by Northern Trust and Standard Chartered) and co-founder of Temple Digital; Tom Lee of Fundstrat/Bitmine; Rob Hadick of Dragonfly — among dozens of other elite speakers. The agenda is built around five themes: Tokenisation of Finance (Stablecoins, RWAs, and DeFi), Investing in Digital Assets, Bitcoin, Privacy, and a Decentralised AI & Bittensor Track. The Court of Record for a Maturing Asset Class As capital consolidates, regulatory frameworks solidify, and infrastructure reaches institutional grade, 2026 represents a structural inflection point for digital assets. By convening global allocators, system-level builders, and the journalists who chronicle market truth in real time, Proof of Talk establishes a disciplined forum for price discovery of ideas, mandates, and long-term conviction. In a market defined by cycles, Proof of Talk 2026 aims to define the next one. Passes to Access the Event: https://tickets.proofoftalk.io/passes Contact Chiara Munaretto events@proofoftalk.io

For several decades, investing in commercial real estate has always required a lot of money. Properties like shopping centers, office buildings, and warehouses usually cost millions of dollars. Hence, the only people who could participate were large institutions or investors. Fractionalized commercial real estate platforms are transforming this model. They enable investors to purchase small shares of commercial properties rather than buying an entire building. This ensures real estate investing is more accessible to everyday investors.  Investors can earn rental income through these platforms and sometimes trade their shares with other users. If you’ve been looking for where to trade fractionalized commercial real estate, this article is for you.  We’ve reviewed the 5 best platforms for trading fractionalized commercial real estate and explained how they work.  Key Takeaways Fractional real estate allows you to invest in commercial properties with smaller amounts of money, making it more accessible to everyday investors. These platforms handle property management, so you can earn income without dealing with tenants or maintenance issues. You earn passive income through rent, based on the shares you own in a property. Some platforms offer secondary markets, giving you a chance to sell your shares more easily. Like any investment, there are risks, so it’s important to understand the platform and property before investing. What Does Fractionalized Commercial Real Estate Mean? This concept refers to the division of ownership of a property into smaller shares. Therefore, one person doesn’t just buy an entire rental space or office building; many investors can own a small portion of it.  Each investor purchases a fraction of the property through an online platform. These shares stand for partial ownership of the real estate asset. Investors can earn income from the rent generated by the property.   Technology platforms are in charge of the investment process. They manage ownership records, property listing, rent distribution, and sometimes secondary trading between investors.  This makes it easier for individuals to participate in commercial real estate markets.   How Fractionalized Commercial Real Estate Platforms Work They make the process simple, even for those new to investing. Here is how these platforms work. 1. Property is selected and listed The platform sources a commercial property and buys it. Then, they review it carefully before listing it for investors to ensure it has income potential. 2. The property is divided into shares Rather than selling the entire property to one buyer, you can split it into many smaller shares. Each share stands for a small portion of ownership that investors can buy. 3. Investors buy shares You can decide on the amount you want to invest depending on your budget. When you buy shares, you become a part-owner of that property.  4. Rental income is shared When tenants pay rent, the income is shared among investors. The amount you earn depends on the number of shares you own in the property.  5 Best Platforms for Trading Fractionalized Commercial Real Estate Many platforms now permit investors to buy small shares of commercial properties and earn income from them. Some platforms also enable investors to sell their shares through secondary markets, which makes the investment more flexible. 1. RealT This is a blockchain-based platform that enables investors to buy tokenized shares of real estate properties. Each property is divided into digital tokens representing fractional ownership.  Investors can get rental income depending on the number of tokens they hold. Key features Tokenized ownership, regular rental income payments, and blockchain-based records. Limitations Most properties are presently residential, and availability depends on regulatory restrictions. 2. Lofty This platform enables investors to buy fractional shares of real estate properties with blockchain technology. Investors can begin with small amounts and get daily rental income depending on their share of the property. Key features Daily rental payouts, low investment minimums, and a secondary market for trading property shares. Limitations Property availability might be limited in some regions. 3. Arrived This is a real estate investment platform where individuals can buy shares in rental properties. The platform manages property maintenance, acquisition, and tenant management while investors get a portion of the rental income. Key features Simple investment process, professionally managed properties, and rental income distribution. Limitations Its liquidity is limited because shares cannot always be sold instantly. 4. Fundrise It is one of the most popular online real estate investment platforms. Fundrise enables investors to access diversified portfolios of residential and commercial properties through fractional ownership. Key features Automated investment plans, diversified real estate portfolios, and regular dividend payments. Limitations Investments aren’t fully liquid because shares cannot be traded frequently. 5. HoneyBricks This platform focuses on commercial real estate investments like industrial facilities, office buildings, and retail spaces. HoneyBricks allows investors to purchase fractional shares in institutional-grade properties. Key features Access to large commercial properties, long-term investment opportunities, and professional asset management. Limitations Its minimum investment is higher compared to other platforms. Benefits of Trading Fractional Commercial Real Estate It makes investing more flexible and easier for everyday people. Here are some reasons why several investors are interested in it. 1. Much money isn’t needed Rather than saving millions to buy a full commercial property, you can begin with a small amount. This brings down the barrier to entry and enables more people to take part in real estate investing without a heavy financial burden. 2. You can earn passive income When tenants pay rent on the property, you’ll get a share based on your investment. This generates a constant income stream without actively managing or monitoring the property on a daily basis.  3. You can spread your risk Instead of putting all your funds in one building, you can invest in various properties across sectors or locations. This helps reduce your overall risk if one property doesn’t perform well or loses tenants. 4. You don’t oversee property stress It is stressful to manage real estate, especially when handling tenants, repairs, or legal issues. With fractional platforms, professionals handle these tasks for you, so that you can focus on investing without operational burdens.  5. You may have better liquidity Some platforms may permit you to sell your shares to other investors through a marketplace. This presents you with more flexibility compared to traditional real estate, where selling a property might take a long time.  Conclusion: Do Your Homework First Fractionalized real estate makes investing easier, but research is still important. Take time to understand how each platform works, the fees involved, and the type of properties offered. Also, check how easy it is to sell your shares, since liquidity can vary. Look at reviews and past performance to guide your decision. Start small, learn as you go, and invest only in platforms you understand.

Smart contracts are programs that work on blockchains. They manage transactions automatically. However, if there’s a security issue or a bug, it can result in problems like lost funds. Traditionally, smart contracts auditing were performed by security experts. This process can be expensive, slow, and sometimes susceptible to human error.  Generative AI is disrupting this. AI-powered tools can automatically read smart contract code, identify vulnerabilities, and suggest fixes. This makes the auditing process seamless, more accurate, and easier for developers.  In this article, we’ll look at 10 of the best generative AI tools for auditing smart contracts.  Key Takeaways Smart contracts auditing helps identify vulnerabilities and logic errors before blockchain deployment. Generative AI tools can analyze smart contract code faster than manual reviews alone. Many smart contracts auditing platforms combine AI with static analysis, symbolic execution, and fuzz testing. Automated tools help detect common vulnerabilities such as reentrancy attacks and access control issues. What Does Smart Contracts Auditing Mean? This is the process of reviewing blockchain code to find security problems, logic errors, and bugs before the contract is deployed. The aim is to ensure the contract functions as intended and doesn’t expose funds or users to risk.  When auditing, security experts or developers examine the code carefully to spot common vulnerabilities like access control issues, reentrancy attacks, and arithmetic errors.  They also confirm whether the contract logic functions correctly under different conditions.  When the review is complete, auditors usually provide a report explaining the issues found and the recommendations for fixing them. This process helps enhance the reliability and security of smart contracts before they go live on a blockchain network. Best Tools for Smart Contracts Auditing with Generative AI Smart contracts auditing tools help developers review blockchain code and monitor security risks before deployment. These tools combine automated analysis with generative AI to monitor vulnerabilities faster and enhance audit accuracy. 1. Mythril This tool is one of the most commonly used security analysis tools for Ethereum smart contracts. Mythril scans Solidity code and analyzes how the contract will behave during execution.  The tool uses symbolic analysis to explore various transaction scenarios and detect potential vulnerabilities before the contract goes live.  Key features It detects issues like integer overflow, reentrancy, and access control problems. It simulates contract execution to reveal hidden security risks.  Limitations It focuses mainly on Ethereum-based contracts and might require technical knowledge to interpret detailed reports. 2. Slither This tool is a fast static analysis framework that examines Solidity code for inefficient logic and vulnerabilities. It assists developers in quickly reviewing their contracts during development and identifying security weaknesses early.  This tool is mostly used by blockchain development teams and security researchers.  Key features It provides fast code analysis. It highlights optimization opportunities for developers. It identifies security issues. Limitations It doesn’t simulate runtime behavior, so developers usually combine it with other testing tools. 3. CertiK Skynet This refers to an AI-powered security monitoring and auditing platform. CertiK continuously analyzes smart contracts and blockchain activity to spot vulnerabilities and suspicious behavior. The platform provides risk assessments and live security insights for blockchain projects.  Key features It uses machine learning to continuously monitor blockchain projects. It also leverages machine learning to detect loopholes. Limitations Most advanced features are connected to the CertiK ecosystem and enterprise services. 4. SolidityScan This is an automated security platform that analyzes Solidity smart contracts and identifies known vulnerabilities.  It uses AI-assisted analysis to review contract logic and provide detailed security reports. Developers usually use it during development to spot issues before launching their contracts.  Key features Generates detailed reports and risk scores. It recommends fixes to help developers enhance contract security. Limitations Automated scans may need manual verification by security experts. 5. AuditWizard This platform uses generative AI to assist security teams in reviewing smart contract code. It incorporates many analysis tools and automatically produces audit summaries. This assists auditors in processing vast amounts of code and quickly identifies aspects that need deeper review. Key features It runs several analysis tools together and produces AI-generated summaries of vulnerabilities. Limitations It is structured primarily for security teams and professional auditors. 6. OpenZeppelin Defender This is a security team that assists developers in managing and protecting smart contracts throughout their lifecycle. Alongside focusing on operational security, it provides monitoring tools that help identify suspicious activities and contract vulnerabilities. Key features Provides automated monitoring, transaction management tools, and security alerts. Limitations It focuses on security automations rather than complete automated code auditing. 7. Echidna It is a specialized fuzz testing tool that tests smart contracts by generating random inputs. This process helps spot unusual contract behaviors that may reveal hidden vulnerabilities.  Developers might use it to stress-test contract logic before it is deployed.  Key features Helps reveal edge cases and vulnerabilities that traditional static analysis might miss. Limitations It requires developers to write testing rules and might take time to configure properly. 8. Foundry This is a popular toolkit that helps in building and testing Ethereum smart contracts. It includes tools for debugging, automated testing, and contract analysis.  Many developers use it during development to spot issues early and ensure contract functionality operates as intended. Key features It offers debugging tools, testing frameworks, and contract analysis features. Limitations Mostly designed for development workflows instead of dedicated security auditing. 9. MythX It is a cloud-based security analysis platform for Ethereum smart contracts. MythX merges multiple security analysis techniques, like static analysis and symbolic execution, to provide comprehensive vulnerability detection.  Key features It produces comprehensive security reports due to its combination of static analysis, vulnerability detection, and symbolic execution. Limitations Some advanced capabilities are only available to paid users. 10. Halmos This is a symbolic execution tool that helps developers analyze how smart contracts function under different conditions. It explores diverse execution paths in contract logic to spot vulnerabilities or unexpected outcomes.  Key features It helps developers analyze contract logic across different scenarios to detect complex security issues. Limitations It is quite new and still requires advanced technical knowledge. The Role of AI in Smart Contract Security Generative AI is becoming an important tool in the smart contracts auditing process. By analyzing large codebases and identifying patterns linked to vulnerabilities, these tools help developers detect security risks earlier in the development cycle. However, AI-based smart contracts auditing tools should not completely replace manual reviews. The most reliable approach combines automated analysis with experienced security auditors who can evaluate contract logic and complex attack scenarios. As blockchain applications continue to expand, AI-powered auditing tools will likely play a larger role in improving smart contract security and protecting decentralized financial systems.

Ripple has announced a major expansion of its operations in Brazil as the blockchain infrastructure company seeks to strengthen its presence across Latin America’s financial sector. The company said the move includes new product capabilities across payments, digital asset custody, stablecoins and institutional financial services. Ripple also plans to apply for a Virtual Asset Service Provider license with the Central Bank of Brazil under the country’s developing digital asset regulatory framework. Brazil has become one of the largest financial markets in Latin America and has introduced regulatory initiatives aimed at supporting digital asset adoption within the banking and fintech sectors. Ripple Expands Cross-Border Payment Infrastructure in Brazil Ripple said several financial institutions and fintech companies in Brazil are already using its payment infrastructure to process cross-border transactions. The company’s payments network processes transactions in both fiat currencies and stablecoins and operates across more than sixty global markets. According to Ripple, its payments platform has processed more than $100 billion in global transaction volume. Monica Long, President of Ripple, commented, “Latin America has always been a priority market for Ripple not just because of the scale of the opportunity, but because Brazil has built one of the most advanced financial ecosystems in the world.” Several financial institutions in Brazil are using the platform to support cross-border payments and treasury operations. Banco Genial uses Ripple infrastructure to process same day USD disbursements for international transfers. Braza Bank has adopted Ripple Payments for USD transactions and issued a Brazilian real backed stablecoin on the XRP Ledger. Other financial technology companies including Nomad, Azify, Attrus and Frente Corretora are also using Ripple’s payment infrastructure for cross-border settlements. Takeaway Ripple is expanding its payment infrastructure in Brazil as financial institutions adopt blockchain based systems for cross-border transactions and liquidity management. Digital Asset Custody and Tokenization Expand in Latin America Ripple is also expanding its institutional custody platform in Brazil to support financial institutions holding and managing digital assets. The custody system includes security infrastructure designed for institutional use along with compliance monitoring tools and transaction screening services. The platform integrates compliance tools such as Chainalysis and Elliptic to support monitoring of blockchain transactions. Ripple said the custody platform will support tokenization initiatives and digital asset issuance projects across the region. CRX, a partner working with the XRP Ledger, has used the platform to issue tokenized assets with approximately $100 million settled on-chain. Justoken, another partner operating in Latin America, plans to use Ripple’s custody infrastructure for tokenization projects related to natural resource assets. Tokenization initiatives in Latin America have expanded as financial institutions explore ways to represent traditional assets on blockchain networks. Takeaway Ripple is introducing institutional digital asset custody infrastructure in Brazil to support tokenization and digital asset management initiatives. Stablecoins and Institutional Finance Services Gain Adoption Ripple’s expansion also includes broader distribution of its USD backed stablecoin RLUSD across exchanges and fintech platforms operating in Latin America. The stablecoin has reached a market capitalization of more than $1.5 billion and is designed for institutional payment and settlement use. Several platforms in Brazil including Mercado Bitcoin, Foxbit and Ripio have listed RLUSD for trading and settlement. Ripple said the stablecoin operates under regulatory oversight from financial regulators in the United States. The company is also expanding services connected to Ripple Prime and Ripple Treasury. Ripple Prime provides institutional services such as clearing, financing and prime brokerage capabilities across digital assets, foreign exchange and derivatives markets. Ripple Treasury provides liquidity management tools allowing companies to manage cross-border payments and treasury operations through blockchain infrastructure. Ripple said these services allow financial institutions to combine payment processing, digital asset settlement and treasury management within a single system. Takeaway Ripple’s expansion in Brazil includes stablecoin distribution and institutional finance services aimed at supporting payments, liquidity management and digital asset settlement.

As of mid March, Bernstein has told investors that Bitcoin's ownership structure is changing at the root. About 60% of supply has been dormant for over a year, spot ETF inflows have hit three consecutive weeks of gains totaling $2.1 billion, and Strategy has absorbed over $1.5 billion in BTC in a single week according to CoinDesk. If there is a moonshot among trending presales with room to run right now, the best crypto presale is Pepeto. With three infrastructure products close to launch and $8.1 million raised at $0.000000186, everything is about to change once exchange listings go live. Bitcoin holder base strengthens as Australia legislates and miners pivot Bitcoin surged past $75,000 on March 17 before pulling back to $74,000. Strategy added 22,337 BTC worth $1.57 billion, pushing holdings past 760,000 BTC. In Australia, a Senate committee backed the Digital Assets Framework Bill, pushing crypto exchanges toward formal licensing according to Cointelegraph. BTC miners are pivoting into AI infrastructure, with data center revenue per megawatt running up to eight times higher than mining. Among trending presales, the ones with real products and proven utility are positioned to soar. Best crypto to buy now vs tokens searching for direction in 2026 1. Pepeto The meme coin market is drowning in projects that launch with nothing but a website and a dream. Pepeto is heading into exchange listings with three infrastructure products announced and close to being ready, plus $8.1 million in presale capital that proves real investors are behind it. Easily the best crypto presale available right now, Pepeto has a setup like no other meme coin in the market. PepetoSwap, Pepeto Bridge, and Pepeto Exchange will give this token real utility that most meme coins never even attempt. Gone are the days of throwing money at meme coins that have nothing behind them except a logo and a Telegram group. This is a project built by the PEPE cofounder who already proved he can create a token worth billions. It is not often you come across a meme coin presale with this much infrastructure behind it. There is nothing else among trending presales that combines three products close to launch with a $0.000000186 entry and the kind of upside that only six zero tokens can deliver. The adoption thesis is simple: once listings arrive, PepetoSwap, Pepeto Bridge, and Pepeto Exchange could become the infrastructure layer for the meme coin economy. That usage loop feeds directly into token demand, creating sustained buying pressure that turns presale entries into generational wealth. Easily the best crypto presale for anyone who wants to find the next Pepe coin before the crowd shows up. Now is the time to buy in before exchange listings erase this price and the next Dogecoin story begins without you. 2. Pudgy Penguins PENGU surged roughly 8.3% to above $0.008 on March 17, riding a meme coin rotation alongside a 201% volume spike. The brand expanded into physical toys and a browser game, drumming up community engagement. Resistance sits at $0.008, with a $5.62 million token unlock approaching that could add selling pressure. Meme coins live and die on sentiment, and Pudgy Penguins is finding creative ways to keep the energy going. But in 2026, utility is far more likely to sustain long term demand, which makes Pepeto's case even sharper. 3. Cardano ADA is trading at $0.28 on March 17 according to CoinMarketCap, with whale accumulation and derivatives positioning pointing to cautious optimism. The Midnight privacy sidechain continues development, adding a potential new narrative for the ecosystem. But ADA's market cap already prices in substantial adoption, and the returns from here are measured in modest percentages. For anyone searching for the best crypto to buy now, Pepeto at six zeros offers a fundamentally different return category with far more room to grow. People make wealth by buying early. Pepeto is early right now. If long term holders are winning this cycle, then Pepeto holders are building that exact advantage with 196% APY staking and a presale price the open market has not touched yet. People always make wealth by buying early, and Pepeto is early right now. Three products close to launch, the PEPE cofounder, $8.1 million raised, and a SolidProof audit. That is the setup that creates the next wave of crypto millionaires, and exchange listings are approaching fast. There is no better time to buy. Visit the Pepeto official website and enter the presale before the window closes. Click To Visit Pepeto Website To Enter The Presale FAQs What makes Pepeto different from other presales? Three products close to launch, PEPE cofounder, SolidProof audit, and $8.1M raised. No other presale matches that. Are new presales better valued than established altcoins? Established coins rarely multiply. Pepeto at $0.000000186 has the return math they cannot match. Which presales have real products approaching launch? Pepeto has PepetoSwap, Pepeto Bridge, and Pepeto Exchange all close to ready.

Ghana's Securities and Exchange Commission confirmed this week that it has approved 11 crypto trading platforms to participate in the country's brand new regulatory sandbox program, giving the platforms a controlled environment to pilot products under direct SEC oversight according to CoinDesk. This Ghana story matters if you are watching Pepeto because when regulators set clear crypto rules, risk drops and adoption jumps. More retail and institutional players enter the market, and projects with real infrastructure become essential. Pepeto already has three products close to launch, $8.1 million raised, and exchange listings approaching fast. Ghana's VASP Sandbox signals 2026 crypto boom Ghana's SEC greenlit 11 crypto platforms under a structured VASP sandbox framework with a six month pathway to full licensing according to Cointelegraph. When new markets get regulatory clarity, retail floods in and institutions accelerate. Bitcoin surged past $75,000 on March 17, ETH jumped 10% to $2,314, and the broader crypto market is heating up as the next wave of global adoption takes shape. Every day the presale stays open at ground floor pricing is a day closer to the listing that closes this entry permanently. Next Pepe coin: Pepeto exchange listings are the last shot to get in at the ground floor 1. Pepeto Pepeto's exchange listings are approaching, and if you have not positioned yet, then you are missing out on what could be the next Pepe coin to explode. Pepeto is not just another meme coin with nothing behind it. The team has announced three real products that are close to being ready. PepetoSwap will let holders trade tokens directly within the ecosystem, creating constant utility and demand from the moment it goes live after listing. That is the exact kind of infrastructure that every meme coin trader needs but almost no meme coin actually builds. Pepeto Bridge will connect multiple blockchains, so tokens can move freely and liquidity flows in from every corner of the market. Pepeto Exchange will serve as a full trading platform for the meme coin economy, something no other meme token has attempted at this scale. The SolidProof audit has verified every contract, giving investors real security that most presales skip entirely. And 196% APY staking is compressing supply every day while the presale stays open. All three products are announced and close to being ready, and the PEPE cofounder who built PEPE Coin is steering the entire build. Over $8.1 million has been raised by holders who positioned early and believe in what is coming. With the presale still at $0.000000186, Pepeto is the kind of entry that could change your financial future if you act now. Anyone searching how to buy Pepeto should move while the window is open and the price is still at six zeros. If Pepeto follows even a fraction of the trajectory DOGE and SHIB had after their early days, the returns from $0.000000186 could be the kind of story people tell for years. 2. Sky Protocol update for 2026 Sky Protocol is the rebranded evolution of MakerDAO, one of the most battle tested DeFi protocols in crypto history. SKY sits around $0.080 after touching its all time high of $0.10 in late 2024, trading approximately 28% below its peak while fundamental metrics accelerate. Analysts set a 2026 high target of $0.23, which is more than 3x from here if USDS supply doubles and buybacks continue compressing supply on schedule. 3. Hyperliquid update for 2026 HYPE is trading around $40 on March 17 according to CoinMarketCap, approximately 38% below its all time high. It entered the top 15 of all crypto assets by market cap with a $10.3 billion valuation despite the broader market sitting in extreme fear territory. The 2026 target sits at $90 with an average price of $50 as platform adoption expands into regulated markets. The people who got rich moved before everyone else Sky Protocol and Hyperliquid are solid positions for the institutional cycle, but they do not have the same entry math as Pepeto at six zeros. The people who got rich in crypto did not wait for certainty. They moved early on exactly this kind of project. Pepeto at $0.000000186 with three products and the PEPE cofounder is that same moment happening right now. Once exchange listings land, the presale price is gone forever. Do not be the person who watches this moment from the sidelines and wishes they had moved when it mattered. Click To Visit Pepeto Website To Enter The Presale FAQs Is there any extension on the Pepeto presale? No. Exchange listings are approaching and the presale closes when trading begins. How does Ghana's regulatory news connect to Pepeto? Regulatory clarity brings new users into crypto. Projects with real infrastructure like Pepeto benefit most from adoption waves. Why stack Pepeto alongside SKY and HYPE? SKY and HYPE are strong holds but Pepeto at six zeros has the steepest return math by far.

Bybit EU has integrated PayPal as a funding and withdrawal method for users across the European Economic Area, a move that expands fiat access to the crypto trading platform under the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets framework. The integration allows users to deposit funds into Bybit EU accounts or withdraw proceeds through PayPal without relying on traditional bank transfers. The companies said the cooperation aims to simplify the process of moving between fiat currencies and digital assets for European users. Digital asset platforms have increasingly focused on payment integrations that allow retail clients to fund accounts using familiar payment methods. Payment networks and digital wallets have become an important gateway between traditional finance and crypto markets. PayPal Integration Expands Crypto Funding Options Bybit EU users across the European Economic Area can now fund accounts through PayPal or withdraw funds using the same payment service. The integration allows customers to move money into their trading accounts using an existing PayPal account rather than opening new banking relationships or waiting for traditional transfer processing times. The addition of PayPal reflects a broader effort by crypto platforms to lower barriers for new users entering the digital asset market. For many retail investors, one of the first obstacles to accessing crypto markets is the process of converting fiat currency into digital assets. Payment integrations aim to reduce friction at this stage. Mazurka Zeng, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Bybit EU, commented, “Integrating PayPal is an important milestone in our mission to offer secure, compliant and intuitive access to digital assets.” Zeng added, “This collaboration aligns trusted payments with a regulated trading environment and gives users even greater confidence when entering the crypto space.” Takeaway Bybit EU has added PayPal as a funding and withdrawal method, allowing users across the EEA to move funds between fiat and crypto using a widely used payment platform. MiCA Framework Shapes Crypto Access in Europe The integration takes place within the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets regulatory framework, which introduced a unified licensing regime for crypto asset service providers operating across the bloc. Bybit EU operates from Vienna and serves customers across the European Economic Area except Malta under this regulatory structure. The MiCA framework requires crypto firms operating in Europe to meet standards covering custody, client protection, operational transparency and regulatory reporting. Regulated payment integrations have therefore become an important component of the European crypto market as platforms attempt to align digital asset trading with established financial infrastructure. Payment providers are also exploring opportunities in the digital asset ecosystem as demand for crypto services continues to expand among retail and institutional users. Samba Natarajan, Senior Vice President and General Manager for Europe at PayPal, commented, “As more consumers engage with crypto, trusted payment experiences are key to driving broader use of digital assets.” Natarajan added, “By providing a fiat payment and withdrawal option to enable crypto transactions on Bybit EU, we’re giving our users seamless access to the growing digital assets ecosystem with the same security and confidence they know PayPal for.” Takeaway The integration reflects how crypto platforms operating under the EU’s MiCA framework are connecting regulated digital asset services with established payment networks. Crypto Platforms Focus on Simplifying Market Entry Access to digital assets has often required new users to navigate unfamiliar onboarding processes, including external crypto gateways or specialized payment methods. Integrating widely used digital wallets allows platforms to simplify account funding and make the entry process more similar to everyday online payments. To accompany the launch, Bybit EU and PayPal will run a promotional campaign offering incentives for users who fund their accounts through PayPal. Users participating in the campaign may receive up to €30 in bitcoin rewards when topping up their accounts using the payment service. Bybit EU also said that, for a limited period, the platform will waive its own fees on fiat deposits made through PayPal. The promotion coincides with an update to the latest version of the Bybit EU mobile application. Crypto exchanges increasingly rely on payment integrations, promotional incentives and simplified onboarding processes to attract retail investors entering digital asset markets. As regulatory frameworks expand across major jurisdictions, these integrations may play a larger role in connecting traditional financial systems with digital asset platforms. Takeaway Crypto exchanges are increasingly partnering with established payment providers to simplify account funding and reduce barriers for new users entering digital asset markets.

Apex Group has released a research report examining how artificial intelligence is being adopted across private credit operations, with findings indicating that most firms now integrate AI tools into investment decision-making, risk monitoring, and operational workflows. The report, titled AI-powered private credit, draws on responses from 105 senior industry leaders, most of them C-suite executives representing institutional-scale private credit platforms across the Americas, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East. Apex Group said the research aims to assess how the industry is deploying AI and where operational transformation still remains incomplete. Private credit has expanded rapidly over the past decade as institutional investors search for yield outside traditional public markets. As assets grow, managers increasingly rely on data-driven tools to analyze credit risk, process large volumes of financial data, and monitor portfolios. Private Credit Firms Move AI Into Core Investment and Risk Functions The research indicates that artificial intelligence now plays a central role in the private credit sector’s operational environment. According to the report, 85% of respondents said AI is fully embedded within their private credit activities. Investment decision-making and risk management emerged as the areas where firms report the greatest value from AI adoption. Around 76% of respondents said AI supports investment decisions, while 67% cited benefits for risk monitoring and credit analysis. These tools are often used to analyze borrower financial statements, monitor credit exposure across portfolios, and evaluate macroeconomic factors that may influence loan performance. Automated analysis can also help managers process information across large loan portfolios that would otherwise require extensive manual review. The report also found that the technology may play a role in expanding the investor base for private credit. Approximately 94% of respondents said AI is critically or very important to making private credit more accessible to non-institutional investors. Access to private credit markets has historically been limited to institutional investors such as pension funds and insurance companies. Technology platforms that automate reporting and risk analysis may help firms distribute these investments to a broader audience. Takeaway The Apex Group report shows widespread AI adoption across private credit firms, with most respondents using the technology in investment analysis and risk management. Technology Adoption Outpaces Operational Transformation Despite widespread adoption, the research suggests that many firms have not yet redesigned operational processes to fully integrate AI systems. The report describes a gap between deploying AI tools and restructuring workflows to take advantage of them. While firms report embedding AI in their operations, fewer have modified the underlying data infrastructure, governance structures, and decision processes required for AI systems to influence daily activity. Helen Wang, Chief AI and Data Science Officer at Apex Group, commented, “Governance cannot be treated as an overlay once AI becomes part of core operating workflows.” Wang added, “It has to be designed in from the outset, so that controls scale alongside capability. This approach supports regulatory readiness and investor confidence without slowing decision-making, and it becomes especially important for firms operating across jurisdictions or serving a broader investor base.” The report suggests that private credit firms increasingly recognize this gap. Over 60% of respondents expect technology investment in operations to rise between 20% and 50% during the next three years. Nearly half of the surveyed firms said they expect between 50% and 75% of their technology budgets to be directed toward AI capabilities during that period. Eddie Kelly, Global Head of Product for Private Debt at Apex Group, commented, “AI is now part of how private credit firms operate, but embedding technology and embedding operating discipline are not the same thing.” Kelly added, “The firms that close that gap will be best positioned to scale with confidence.” Takeaway The report highlights a gap between AI adoption and operational transformation, with firms expected to increase technology spending significantly to integrate AI more fully into workflows. Middle Office Operations Emerge as Key Area for AI Deployment The research identifies middle-office functions as one of the most active areas for AI implementation within private credit firms. Approximately 63% of respondents said they are deploying automation or AI tools within middle-office operations. Common applications include extracting data from financial documents, processing borrower financial statements, and analyzing credit agreements. These tasks traditionally require significant manual effort and often involve reviewing large volumes of documentation. Respondents said the most noticeable benefits from these tools include improved data accuracy and faster processing times. Around 37% of firms cited better data quality as a key advantage, while 30% reported reduced processing time for operational tasks. The report also highlighted investment priorities across the industry over the next three years. Risk monitoring and analytics ranked first among planned technology investments at 27%. Other areas receiving attention include retail distribution platforms at 20%, valuation and pricing systems at 17%, and data infrastructure and integration at 14%. Governance also remains a major consideration as firms expand AI usage in financial decision-making. More than 60% of respondents said they have implemented formal policies governing the ethical use of artificial intelligence within credit analysis and portfolio management. As private credit markets continue to grow, firms increasingly rely on data-driven infrastructure to manage loan portfolios, monitor borrower performance, and provide reporting to investors. Takeaway Private credit firms are increasingly deploying AI in middle-office operations to automate data extraction, financial analysis, and credit agreement processing while improving operational efficiency.

Why Are Lawmakers Targeting Prediction Markets Now? Two Democratic lawmakers have introduced new legislation aimed at restricting prediction market activity tied to sensitive government actions, following concerns that traders may be profiting from non-public information. Texas Representative Greg Casar and Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy announced the Banning Event Trading on Sensitive Operations and Federal Functions (BETS OFF) Act on Tuesday. The proposal comes after several accounts on prediction markets platform Polymarket placed what lawmakers described as “highly unusual bets” on whether a conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran would escalate. Murphy had previously said it was likely that some traders were acting on inside knowledge related to potential US military decisions. Casar framed the issue in stark terms, warning about the risks of financial incentives intersecting with national security decisions. “We shouldn’t live in a country where someone sitting in the situation room making decisions about whether to invade or to bomb, decisions about war and peace, life and death, that those decisions could be driven by the fact that they have hundreds of thousands of dollars riding on the decision,” he said. Investor Takeaway Political and war-related contracts are becoming a regulatory flashpoint, increasing the risk that entire product categories could be restricted or removed in the US. What Would the BETS OFF Act Restrict? The proposed legislation targets event-based contracts tied to government operations and national security decisions, particularly those involving war, military actions, and federal policymaking. While details of enforcement remain to be clarified, the bill reflects a broader effort to prevent financial markets from intersecting with sensitive state decisions. The move follows a separate proposal introduced last week by California Senator Adam Schiff, known as the DEATH BETS Act, which aims to block prediction markets from listing contracts related to war, terrorism, assassinations, and individual deaths. Together, the bills point to growing bipartisan concern over how far prediction markets should extend into real-world events. At the center of the debate is whether these platforms function as forecasting tools or as unregulated betting venues. Lawmakers appear increasingly focused on the potential for misuse, particularly where contracts relate to events that could be influenced by insiders or carry ethical and security implications. How Platforms Like Polymarket and Kalshi Are Responding Prediction markets platforms continue to offer contracts across a wide range of topics, including politics, economics, and sports. However, markets tied to geopolitical events have drawn the most attention from regulators and policymakers. As of Tuesday, Polymarket still listed contracts linked to the US-Israel conflict involving Iran, including outcomes related to military escalation, ceasefire timelines, and leadership changes. The platform has defended its model as a tool for aggregating information and improving public understanding of uncertain events. “The promise of prediction markets is to harness the wisdom of the crowd to create accurate, unbiased forecasts for the most important events to society,” Polymarket said in a note. “That ability is particularly invaluable in gut-wrenching times like today.” Kalshi, by contrast, has taken a narrower approach, offering contracts tied to broader geopolitical outcomes rather than specific military actions. This difference in product scope may become more relevant as regulatory pressure increases. Investor Takeaway Platforms with exposure to politically sensitive or real-world crisis events face higher regulatory risk, which could lead to product limitations or forced restructuring. What Risks Are Driving Regulatory Pressure? The current push from lawmakers reflects two overlapping concerns: insider information and market impact. If traders with access to confidential government plans can take positions ahead of public announcements, prediction markets risk becoming channels for information leakage rather than neutral forecasting tools. There are also concerns about real-world consequences. A report from a military correspondent indicated that individuals had received threats linked to the timing of an attack report, reportedly tied to attempts to resolve prediction market outcomes. Such incidents have added urgency to calls for clearer boundaries around what types of events can be traded. For regulators, the challenge is defining where to draw the line. While prediction markets can provide signals about expectations, their expansion into areas like war and national security raises questions that go beyond market structure and into ethics and public safety. What Comes Next for Prediction Markets in the US? The introduction of the BETS OFF Act adds to a growing list of legislative and legal actions targeting the sector. While it remains uncertain whether the bill will pass, the direction of travel is becoming clearer: lawmakers are moving to restrict contracts tied to sensitive or high-risk events. For platforms, this could mean narrowing product offerings, strengthening monitoring of user activity, or engaging more directly with regulators to define acceptable use cases. For investors and users, it introduces uncertainty about which markets will remain available and under what conditions. As scrutiny intensifies, the distinction between prediction markets and traditional betting platforms is likely to face further testing, particularly in areas where financial incentives intersect with real-world decision-making at the highest levels.

TradingHub has agreed to a strategic investment from Nordic Capital, a deal that will see the private equity firm become the company’s majority shareholder as the trade surveillance technology provider prepares for its next stage of expansion. The transaction positions Nordic Capital as the primary investor while existing backer Summit Partners and TradingHub co founder Neil Walker retain minority stakes. Financial terms were not disclosed. Completion of the transaction is expected during the second quarter of 2026. TradingHub develops trade surveillance software used by financial institutions to monitor trading activity and detect potential market abuse across multiple asset classes. Nordic Capital Investment Supports Global Expansion The investment comes as financial institutions increase spending on surveillance technology in response to rising regulatory expectations and more complex trading activity across global markets. TradingHub plans to use the capital to expand its presence across international markets and continue developing its surveillance platform across additional asset classes, including equities. The company processes more than four billion trades and orders each day through its platform. Clients include investment banks, asset managers, hedge funds, commodity trading firms and brokerage houses that rely on surveillance systems to identify suspicious trading behaviour. Mike Coats, Chief Executive Officer of TradingHub, commented, “This investment represents an exciting moment for TradingHub and a strong endorsement of the strategy we have been building over the past several years.” Coats added, “We are delighted to welcome Nordic Capital as our new partner. They share our ambition for the future and bring valuable experience supporting high growth technology businesses. Together, we look forward to accelerating our growth, continuing to innovate for our customers and expanding our presence across global markets.” TradingHub will continue operating under its existing leadership team following the completion of the transaction. Takeaway Nordic Capital will become the majority shareholder of TradingHub, backing the company’s plans to expand its trade surveillance technology platform across global markets. Surveillance Technology Gains Importance in Modern Markets Trade surveillance systems have become a central component of market infrastructure as regulators increase scrutiny over trading activity and potential market manipulation. Financial institutions must monitor large volumes of transactions across multiple markets and asset classes while detecting patterns that may indicate insider trading, spoofing or other forms of market abuse. Technology platforms capable of analysing large datasets in real time have therefore become increasingly important for compliance teams at banks and asset managers. TradingHub’s software analyses trading behaviour across instruments and markets, aiming to detect suspicious patterns while limiting false alerts that can overwhelm compliance teams. Fredrik Näslund, Partner and Head of Technology and Payments at Nordic Capital, and Mohit Agnihotri, Partner at Nordic Capital Advisors, commented, “TradingHub has developed a highly differentiated technology platform at a time when market manipulation is becoming increasingly complex and cross product.” They added, “Nordic Capital’s focus will be on further investment in product innovation and supporting the existing team in building a global category leader in trade surveillance technology across all asset classes.” The expansion of electronic trading and the growing interconnectedness of markets have increased the need for systems capable of analysing behaviour across different instruments simultaneously. Takeaway Financial institutions increasingly rely on advanced surveillance platforms to detect complex trading patterns and meet regulatory expectations across global markets. Private Equity Interest in Financial Market Technology Continues The investment also highlights ongoing private equity interest in financial market infrastructure and compliance technology companies. Nordic Capital has built a portfolio of technology and financial services companies focused on data, payments and market infrastructure. The firm manages approximately €34 billion in assets and has invested in more than 150 companies since its founding. Within financial markets technology, the firm has previously invested in companies including Itiviti, ActiveViam, Duco, Macrobond, Regnology and BMLL. Summit Partners, which previously invested in TradingHub, will remain a shareholder following completion of the transaction. Antony Clavel, Managing Director at Summit Partners, commented, “We believe TradingHub is setting a new standard for trade surveillance technology. We are proud to continue supporting the team alongside Nordic Capital.” TradingHub was founded in 2010 and operates offices in London, Toronto, Singapore and Sydney. The company’s technology platform is designed to help market participants identify trading activity that may pose financial or reputational risks in increasingly complex financial markets. Takeaway The deal reflects continued private equity investment in financial market infrastructure and compliance technology as trading activity becomes more complex and data intensive.

US Democratic senators want to oversee the reported probe into Binance. The largest crypto exchange could face a potential lawsuit regarding sanctions violations, and the Democrats want to ensure the Department of Justice conducts a serious investigation according to CoinDesk. At the same time, the Pepeto presale window is closing fast and driving serious FOMO as exchange listings approach. Currently, Pepeto is at $0.000000186 with $8.1 million raised. This meme coin is grabbing attention because of its three real products close to launch and the PEPE cofounder behind the build. With Bitcoin surging past $75,000 and ETH jumping 10% to $2,314, the broader market is heating up and capital is flowing into early stage opportunities. US Democrats vow to oversee proposed probe into Binance Senators Chris Van Hollen, Elizabeth Warren, and Ruben Gallego vowed to ensure the DOJ conducts a serious probe into Binance following allegations of violating sanctions according to Cointelegraph. As reported by the Wall Street Journal, the DOJ is reportedly considering investigating Binance for allowing Iran to use the exchange to circumvent US sanctions. Bitcoin hit $75,800 on March 17 before pulling back to $74,000, triggering $485 million in short liquidations. Best crypto presale: Pepeto leads as exchange listings near 1. Pepeto: three products close to launch and a founder who already proved it The best crypto presale Pepeto has been featured across crypto chatter lately, and for good reason. This meme coin is delivering real infrastructure that everyday traders actually need. Pepeto boasts a growing ecosystem with three products announced and close to being ready: PepetoSwap, Pepeto Bridge, and Pepeto Exchange. These products will work together to let holders trade tokens, move assets across blockchains, and access a full trading platform built for the meme coin economy. Infrastructure like this plays a big part in whether a meme coin survives after listing. Having real products ready to go is what separates Pepeto from every other presale running right now. The math behind Pepeto is very interesting. At $0.000000186, even a modest entry buys billions of tokens, and the 196% APY staking compounds your position every single day while the presale is still open. If Pepeto reaches even a fraction of where DOGE and SHIB went after their listings, early holders could be looking at life changing returns. That kind of upside is unseen across most meme coin presales, but considering Pepeto's three products and the PEPE cofounder behind the build, the pepeto price prediction conversation is getting very real. Currently, Pepeto has raised $8.1 million at $0.000000186, with the SolidProof audit verified. Exchange listings are approaching and the price could go vertical once trading begins. 2. Remittix raises $29 million but can it match Pepeto's upside Remittix is now in its final presale stages, priced at $0.13 with $29.7 million raised and a $250,000 giveaway attracting new investors to the project. The project's core platform and iOS wallet went live in early February 2026. However, Pepeto has significantly more upside potential as it approaches exchange listings. While Remittix has delivered a working product, matching the explosive trajectory of a meme coin at six zeros with the PEPE cofounder behind it and three infrastructure products close to launch could be extremely difficult for any project at Remittix's current valuation. 3. SpyDoge's narrative is not convincing enough The SpyDoge presale is currently active, positioning as a utility backed meme coin themed around Shiba Inu's narrative. SPYD is priced at $0.0012 with just $118K raised, which is a tiny fraction of what Pepeto has achieved. With investors focused on how to buy Pepeto before exchange listings begin, attention around SpyDoge is fading fast. SPYD may not live up to the potential that Pepeto offers with three products, the PEPE cofounder, and $8.1 million in investor backing. The window is closing The Pepeto presale is still open at $0.000000186, but exchange listings are approaching fast. Once the window closes, this ground floor price is gone forever and trading begins. This means now is the time to get in if you want to be positioned before the rest of the market catches on. The window is closing with every passing day, and failure to move now could prove to be deeply regrettable once Pepeto hits exchanges and the price is set by the open market. Click To Visit Pepeto Website To Enter The Presale FAQs Is now the right time to buy Pepeto? Exchange listings are approaching. The presale at $0.000000186 is the last chance to enter before price discovery begins. Is the Pepeto presale ending soon? Yes. Exchange listings are approaching and the presale window will close permanently once trading begins. How to buy Pepeto? Visit the Pepeto official website, connect your wallet, and enter the presale at $0.000000186.

What Is the SEC’s New Crypto Interpretation? The US Securities and Exchange Commission has outlined how it intends to treat “non-security crypto assets” under federal securities laws, in one of its first actions following a memorandum of understanding with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The move sets out a framework aimed at clarifying which digital assets fall under SEC jurisdiction and which do not. In a formal notice, the SEC said its interpretation would act as an “important bridge” while lawmakers in Congress work toward a broader market structure bill that will define regulatory responsibilities across agencies. The guidance introduces a token classification system covering digital commodities, stablecoins, collectibles, and other crypto categories. According to the SEC, most of these categories do not fall under securities laws. The commission stated that only one class remains subject to those rules: traditional securities that have been tokenized. That distinction reflects a narrower scope compared with previous enforcement-heavy approaches. Investor Takeaway The SEC’s framework narrows the range of crypto assets treated as securities, reducing regulatory risk for large parts of the market while shifting more oversight toward the CFTC. How Does the Token Taxonomy Work? The interpretation introduces a structured classification system designed to separate crypto assets into functional categories. These include digital commodities tied to the operation of a blockchain system, stablecoins, and digital tools, all of which the SEC said are generally not securities. The framework also addresses how a non-security crypto asset could fall under securities laws. The SEC said this would occur when an issuer promotes the asset in a way that leads buyers to expect profits based on managerial efforts, aligning with the long-standing Howey Test used to define investment contracts. In addition, the guidance clarifies how securities laws apply to common crypto activities such as airdrops, protocol mining, and staking. These areas have historically been a source of uncertainty for both developers and investors, particularly when enforcement actions have varied across cases. By laying out these definitions, the SEC is attempting to draw clearer boundaries between functional blockchain assets and investment products, while still preserving its authority over offerings that resemble traditional securities. Why Coordination With the CFTC Matters The announcement comes alongside closer coordination with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, which joined the SEC in releasing the guidance. The two agencies are working to clarify how regulatory responsibilities will be divided as crypto markets continue to expand. Congress is currently negotiating legislation that is expected to give the CFTC a larger role in overseeing digital assets, particularly those classified as commodities. The SEC’s interpretation appears aligned with that direction, narrowing its own scope while encouraging market participants to better understand jurisdictional boundaries. The agencies said the framework is intended to provide market participants with clearer expectations after years of uncertainty. The guidance also reflects an effort to align regulatory treatment with how crypto assets function in practice rather than applying a single classification across the entire sector. Investor Takeaway A clearer split between SEC and CFTC oversight could reduce legal ambiguity, but it also introduces a dual-regulator environment that firms will need to manage carefully. What Has Changed From the Previous Approach? The new interpretation contrasts with the stance taken under former SEC leadership, when the agency pursued multiple enforcement actions against crypto firms and often argued that a large share of tokens qualified as securities. The updated framework points toward a more defined, rules-based approach rather than case-by-case enforcement. SEC Chair Paul Atkins said the goal is to provide clarity after years of uncertainty. “This is what regulatory agencies are supposed to do: draw clear lines in clear terms,” he said. He added that the interpretation recognizes that most crypto assets are not securities and that investment contracts can end over time. Atkins also indicated that the agency no longer views itself as responsible for regulating all aspects of the crypto market. “We’re not the ‘securities and everything commission’ anymore,” he said at the DC Blockchain Summit. At the same time, internal changes at the SEC have drawn criticism. The recent departure of enforcement division director Margaret Ryan prompted a sharp response from former SEC official John Reed Stark, who questioned the agency’s direction and approach to investor protection. What Comes Next for Crypto Regulation in the US? The SEC’s interpretation is not a final rule, but it sets a reference point for how the agency will approach crypto assets while Congress works on formal legislation. The outcome of that process will determine how authority is divided between regulators and how consistently the framework is applied. In the near term, firms are expected to review the guidance to assess how their products fit within the new taxonomy. Areas such as staking, token distribution, and platform design may see adjustments as companies align with the clarified definitions. The broader direction suggests a move toward separating functional blockchain assets from investment contracts more explicitly. Whether that approach holds will depend on how courts, lawmakers, and regulators interpret and apply the framework in practice.

Pepeto is emerging as the strongest point of interest among presale buyers in 2026 as investors become more selective about where they place capital. In a market still full of empty promises and roadmap heavy launches, Pepeto is gaining traction by offering something most meme coins cannot: three real products close to launch, the PEPE cofounder, and $8.1 million in presale funding according to CoinDesk. That distinction is becoming increasingly important. Early stage crypto buyers are paying closer attention to whether a project has real infrastructure, verified audits, and a team with a track record. On that basis, Pepeto is starting to stand apart from every other presale in the market, including projects like AlphaPepe according to Cointelegraph. Why Pepeto is resonating more strongly with investors 1. Pepeto A major part of Pepeto's appeal is that it does not ask buyers to trust a team with no track record. The PEPE cofounder who built PEPE Coin is behind this project, which gives participants real confidence in what they are buying. The difference may sound minor at first, but it changes the entire investment case. Instead of putting money into a meme coin with nothing behind it, buyers get three real products approaching launch and a SolidProof audited contract. That makes Pepeto feel more like a real investment and less like a gamble, even though it still sits firmly in the high upside segment of the market where the next Dogecoin will come from. Investors are also responding to the fact that Pepeto has built 196% APY staking directly into the presale phase, compressing supply every single day. Rather than limiting the experience to buying and waiting, Pepeto has created an ecosystem where PepetoSwap, Pepeto Bridge, and Pepeto Exchange will keep holders engaged long after listings begin. That makes the ecosystem easier to believe in and gives the presale more momentum than a typical meme coin launch. One reason Pepeto is drawing more attention than competing presales is that $8.1 million raised and three products close to launch present it as an active ecosystem, not a static fundraise. The broader structure, including PepetoSwap, Pepeto Bridge, Pepeto Exchange, and 196% APY staking, gives buyers the impression that this token is attached to a growing ecosystem instead of a one dimensional meme coin pump. 2. AlphaPepe AlphaPepe offers instant token delivery and a participation model that keeps buyers engaged after the initial purchase. The project includes features like reward claims and rank progression that give the presale more activity than a typical token sale page. For investors who want immediate visibility over their position, AlphaPepe delivers on that front. But AlphaPepe does not have the infrastructure depth that Pepeto brings with three announced products, a SolidProof audit, and the PEPE cofounder behind the entire build. 3. Kaspa Kaspa holds at $0.035 as of March 17 with a loyal community and consistent on chain transaction volumes that reflect real usage. But analysts project a potential dip toward $0.027 by mid April before any meaningful recovery comes through. The fully diluted valuation already bakes in significant adoption, and the returns from here are measured in modest single or low double digit percentages. For investors looking for the next Shiba Inu level entry, Pepeto at six zeros offers a fundamentally different opportunity category with far more upside potential. Do not be the person who watches from the sidelines Pepeto is gaining an edge over every other presale because it offers something no other meme coin has: three real products, the PEPE cofounder, and $8.1 million in proof that investors believe in it. The people who hesitated on DOGE at fractions of a penny and SHIB before it exploded know exactly what it feels like to miss a life changing entry. That regret is what drives smart investors to act early on projects like Pepeto. They can see the $8.1 million raised, the three products approaching launch, and the SolidProof audit, and they know this is the kind of setup that creates the next wave of crypto millionaires. Do not be the person who watches Pepeto list on exchanges and realizes they should have bought when it was still at six zeros. Visit the Pepeto official website and enter the presale today. Click To Visit Pepeto Website To Enter The Presale FAQs Why are investors choosing Pepeto over other presales? Three products close to launch, the PEPE cofounder, SolidProof audit, and $8.1M raised set it apart. What makes Pepeto the next Pepe coin? The same cofounder who built PEPE Coin is behind Pepeto, with real infrastructure this time. Could Pepeto have stronger upside than rival presales? At $0.000000186 with three products approaching launch, Pepeto has the steepest trajectory in the presale market.

Why Is Vietnam Targeting Offshore Crypto Trading? Vietnam’s finance ministry is drafting rules that would prohibit citizens from trading on overseas cryptocurrency platforms, according to a Reuters report, as authorities move to tighten control over one of the world’s most active digital asset markets. The proposal comes alongside a government-backed push to launch domestically licensed exchanges, with a pilot scheme expected to roll out soon. Officials are increasingly concerned about the growing use of crypto and stablecoins, particularly the risk of capital moving خارج the country through platforms that fall outside local oversight. Vietnam maintains strict controls on cross-border capital flows. In that context, unrestricted access to offshore exchanges presents a gap in the financial system, allowing funds to move in ways that are difficult to monitor or regulate. Investor Takeaway Vietnam is prioritizing control over capital flows and market supervision, even at the cost of limiting access to global crypto liquidity. How Big Is Vietnam’s Crypto Market? Vietnam ranks among the most active crypto markets globally. Chainalysis data places the country fourth on its Global Crypto Adoption Index, with local traders moving more than $200 billion in digital assets in the 12 months through June 2025. Crypto usage in Vietnam extends beyond speculation. Activity is tied to remittances, savings, and gaming, making digital assets part of everyday financial behavior rather than a niche investment product. This level of integration increases the stakes for regulators, as crypto intersects directly with household finance. At the same time, traditional investment channels remain limited. The domestic stock market is still classified as frontier, while the corporate bond market remains underdeveloped. As a result, many households allocate savings to gold and real estate, both of which have shown periods of volatility and pricing distortions. Against that backdrop, crypto has filled part of the gap, offering liquidity and access that local markets do not fully provide. The government’s latest move suggests it wants that activity to migrate into regulated domestic channels. Who Is Competing for Crypto Licenses? The planned restrictions on offshore platforms coincide with a licensing race among domestic financial institutions. According to Reuters, five firms have already passed an initial qualification round, including affiliates of Techcombank, VPBank, LPBank, stockbroker VIX Securities, and conglomerate Sun Group. At least 10 banks and securities firms have expressed interest in participating in the pilot program. The requirements are demanding, including a minimum charter capital of 10 trillion dong, or close to $400 million, and a foreign ownership cap of 49%. These thresholds point to a tightly controlled market structure, where only well-capitalized domestic players are able to operate licensed exchanges. The model suggests authorities are not aiming for open competition, but for a contained ecosystem aligned with existing financial institutions. Investor Takeaway High capital requirements and ownership limits indicate Vietnam is building a controlled crypto market dominated by domestic financial players rather than global exchanges. What Happens to Offshore Exchanges? Most Vietnamese crypto users currently rely on overseas centralized exchanges such as Binance, OKX, and Bybit, as digital assets are not recognized as legal tender within the country. The proposed rules would directly disrupt that access, forcing users toward licensed domestic alternatives once available. The transition may not be immediate or frictionless. Offshore platforms offer deep liquidity, a wide range of products, and established infrastructure. Domestic exchanges will need to match at least part of that offering to retain user activity within the country. Phan Duc Trung, chairman of the Vietnam Blockchain and Digital Assets Association, said locally licensed exchanges could help retain economic value domestically. “This would not only contribute to state budget revenues but also promote the growth of the domestic digital economy,” he said, while noting that gaps remain in areas such as supervision, taxation, and risk management. What Comes Next for Vietnam’s Crypto Framework? The draft rules targeting offshore trading are part of a broader effort to define how crypto fits within Vietnam’s financial system. While ownership of digital assets is not banned, the lack of legal recognition has left the market operating in a grey area, with users relying heavily on external platforms. The licensing pilot, combined with restrictions on overseas access, points to a model where crypto activity is allowed but tightly channeled through approved domestic entities. The success of that approach will depend on whether local exchanges can offer competitive services while meeting regulatory expectations. Vietnam’s approach reflects a wider trend across emerging markets: allowing crypto to exist, but within a framework that prioritizes capital control, oversight, and domestic value capture. How effectively that balance is implemented will determine whether activity stays onshore or continues to flow outward through alternative channels.

This preview of weekly data examines USOIL and XAUUSD, with economic data expected later this week as the primary market drivers of the near-term outlook.  Highlights of the week: US PPI, Fed & Bank of England’s interest rate decision, British unemployment, and ECB rate decision Tuesday Reserve Bank of Australia Interest rate decision at 3:30 AM GMT is expected to increase from 3.85% to 4.10%. If this is confirmed, it would be the first rate hike since November of 2023 and could create some gains for the Aussie against its pairs.  Wednesday U.S. Producer Price Index (PPI) at 12:30 GMT. Market participants are expecting the figure to come in at 0.3%, down from 0.5% in the previous reading. If this is confirmed, then it could hint at lower inflation figures in the coming months. Bank of Canada Interest rate decision at 13:45 GMT is expected to remain stable at 2.25%. A surprise hike in interest rates would support the loonie in the short term, while an unlikely rate cut might create some turmoil for the currency. The Fed interest rate decision at 18:00 GMT is broadly expected to remain steady at 3.75%, with the probability of a cut below 1%. Participants are closely focusing on what the central bankers will say in the subsequent press conference to get hints about the future direction of monetary policy. Thursday Bank of Japan Interest rate decision at 03:00 AM GMT. The market consensus is that the rates will remain static at 0.75%, and any shift away from this figure will most certainly create volatility in the yen pairs. British unemployment at 07:00 AM GMT for January is expected to hold steady at 5.2%, while the claimant count is expected to decrease to 24,500 in February, down from 28,600 in the previous month.   Bank of England interest rate decision at 12:00 PM GMT. The general expectation is that the central bank will hold its rate stable at 3.75%, but in the event that we witness another rate cut it could put some pressure to the quid in many of its pairs, especially against the US dollar whereas in the unlikely event of a hike it might give some support on the British pound in the aftermath of the release. ECB Interest rate decision at 13:15 GMT. The market consensus is that the European Central Bank will keep the rates stable at 2.15%. If there is a surprise rate hike, then the Euro might find support against other major currencies, while a cut might create some losses in the short term. Investors and traders are rather focused on the subsequent press conference following the release, which will focus on getting possible insights on the monetary policy steps ahead. USOIL, daily Oil prices climbed as tensions in the Middle East escalated after a second attack on the Port of Fujairah, a major oil export hub near the Strait of Hormuz. Oil loading at the port was suspended while damage was assessed following the strike, which further disrupted shipments from the UAE’s main export route. At the same time, the United States carried out strikes on Kharg Island, the key terminal for Iran’s oil exports. The International Energy Agency says the conflict has already caused the largest supply disruption in global oil market history, with shipping through the Strait of Hormuz largely halted. Governments are responding by releasing strategic reserves, including a record 400-million-barrel release coordinated by the IEA, while the United States and Japan begin distributing part of their emergency stockpiles to help offset supply shortages.  On the technical side, crude oil found sufficient support at the 38.2% monthly Fibonacci retracement level and has since corrected to the upside. Currently, it is testing the $100, which combines the psychological resistance of the round number with the 61.8% Fibonacci level. The Stochastic oscillator is not indicating any overbought or oversold conditions, suggesting the recent bullish correction could continue into the upcoming sessions, while the moving averages are still validating the overall bullish trend in the market. The overall picture, at least from a technical perspective, suggests a rather bullish short-term outlook for crude oil, as there are no major signs of a significant bearish correction just yet.  Gold-dollar, daily Gold has been volatile as the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran continues. Prices briefly fell before stabilizing, supported by a weaker dollar but pressured by rising oil prices and inflation concerns. The conflict is disrupting energy markets, with shipping through the Strait of Hormuz largely halted. Recent US strikes on Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export hub, and ongoing attacks on regional energy infrastructure have increased fears of prolonged supply disruptions. Higher energy prices are also raising inflation risks and reducing the likelihood that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates soon. While this limits gold’s upside in the short term, ongoing geopolitical tensions and stagflation risks could still support the metal over the longer run. From a technical point of view, gold tested lower around $5,000, where, for the time being, this level is a major technical support area comprising the 38.2% daily Fibonacci retracement level, the lower band of the Bollinger Bands, and the 50-day simple moving average. At the same time, the Stochastic oscillator is in extreme oversold territory, suggesting a near-term bullish correction. This might take some time, since volatility seems to be running low ( as shown by the contracted Bollinger Bands); therefore, it might take some time before any significant moves show up on the gold chart. The sideways move that has been ongoing since early March seems to be the dominant scenario for the next few days, if no significant catalyst comes into play, so the boundaries of $5,000 and $5,200 might be the major support and resistance areas, respectively.   Disclaimer: The opinions in this article are personal to the writer and do not reflect those of Exness or Finance Feeds.

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting on March 18 is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched events in recent months. Traders are trying to figure out how the Federal Reserve will react to rising inflation pressures caused by rising energy prices. Because of rising geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf, which are stopping oil from flowing around the world and pushing crude prices above $100 a barrel, markets are entering the decision in a cautious and very reactive state. Elev8 broker says that the Fed's top priority is still clear: keeping inflation in check, even if it means hurting short-term market sentiment. Inflation Pressures Grow Stronger Policymakers' biggest problem is still inflation. The Fed's favorite measure, the PCE Price Index, is still above its 2% target, even though rates rose by 525 basis points between 2022 and 2023. Recent changes in the world have made the problem worse. Oil prices have gone up more than 40% year over year because of the rising conflict in the Middle East. This has made fuel more expensive and added to inflation in other goods and services. Higher energy costs are like a tax on consumers, which makes it harder for the Fed to change its policies. Because of this, expectations for rate cuts have changed a lot. Markets are now expecting fewer and later cuts than they did before. 'Energy is your hidden ingredient in the price tag of almost everything. Since businesses usually pass those extra costs down to consumers rather than eating the loss, a spike at the pump quickly turns into a price hike across your entire shopping cart. The Fed cannot ignore the conflict in the Persian Gulf. To cut rates now would be to risk letting the inflation fire burn out of control again,' says Kar Yong Ang, Elev8 broker's financial analyst. [caption id="attachment_198644" align="aligncenter" width="1095"] Source: Refinitiv[/caption] What Traders Should Keep an Eye On Elev8 broker points out three important factors that will affect how the market reacts: The dot plot shows whether Fed officials still think rates will go down in 2026. The FOMC statement and Powell's press conference give us an idea of how long the Fed thinks the oil shock will last. Updates to GDP growth and unemployment forecasts for the economy Even small changes to the dot plot could have a big effect on rate expectations. If just a few policymakers changed their minds, the planned rate cuts could be canceled. 'The hard landing that economists feared in 2023 didn't happen, but the risks are reappearing,' argues Kar Yong Ang, adding that the economy doesn't necessarily need tight policy to slide into recession—even a reduction in monetary easing might be the tipping point. Hawkish Hold Expected Some economists still think that rates will go down later this year, but Elev8 broker is more cautious. The company thinks the Fed will keep rates steady at 3.50% to 3.75% while sending a message that rates will stay high for a long time. The data doesn't yet support easing policy because the U.S. economy is still growing faster than its non-inflationary rate. At the same time, higher energy costs make it more likely that inflation will pick up again in the next few months. This combination suggests a hawkish hold, where rates stay the same but forward guidance gets stricter. What the Market Is Watching: Gold and the Dollar The meeting's results are likely to cause fluctuations in important asset classes, especially gold and the U.S. dollar. If the Fed keeps being hawkish: The Dollar Index (DXY) could go up even more if yields go up. The AUDUSD may go down because it is too high. The USDJPY could test the 160.00 level. On the other hand, a dovish surprise, which is thought to be less likely, could make the dollar weaker and support risk assets. The British pound could benefit from a rebound. Gold may be under short-term pressure because yields are going up and the dollar is getting stronger. However, geopolitical risks and its role as an inflation hedge could limit the downside. Around $4,900 is where key support is found. [caption id="attachment_198643" align="aligncenter" width="1096"] Source: CFTC, Ele8 broker calculations[/caption] Uncertainty Makes the Market More Tense The upcoming change in leadership at the Fed adds to the uncertainty. As Chair Jerome Powell's term comes to an end and new leadership may be coming, the FOMC's internal divisions are becoming more clear. Markets don't like uncertainty, and different opinions within the Fed could make stocks, currencies, and commodities even more volatile. End The March FOMC meeting probably won't change interest rates, but it will give important information about the future direction of monetary policy. Traders should get ready for fewer rate cuts and a longer period of restrictive policy because inflation risks are rising and oil prices are going up. Elev8 broker tells people in the market to pay close attention to the dot plot and Powell's comments, as these will affect how they trade in the coming weeks. 'The market may be hoping for a sign of relief, but the Fed is looking at the geopolitical map. I expect a 'hawkish hold' that will provide a strong tailwind for the U.S. Dollar while putting the brakes on the recent rally in stocks,' notes Kar Yong Ang. Warning This article does not give advice on how to invest. There is risk involved in trading, so people should make decisions based on their own financial situation. About Elev8 Elev8 is a global broker that gives traders access to a full trading ecosystem that includes multi-asset instruments, analytical tools, educational materials, AI-driven solutions, and customer support that is always available. As part of its social responsibility efforts, the company also supports charitable projects around the world.

Orbs is betting that the next phase of DeFi won’t be manual. The company has introduced Orbs Agentic, a new execution layer designed to support autonomous trading agents with built-in verification and execution controls. The idea is straightforward: as AI-driven systems start handling trades, portfolio management and strategy execution, the infrastructure behind them needs to do more than just pass transactions through. It needs to check them. Agentic sits between the agent and the blockchain, acting as a filter before anything goes onchain. Instead of trusting the agent entirely, transactions are validated against predefined rules before they are allowed to execute. What Orbs Agentic actually does At its core, Agentic is an execution layer built on Orbs’ Layer-3 infrastructure. It allows automated systems to carry out common DeFi actions — swaps, limit orders and structured strategies like TWAP — using standardized tools rather than custom-built execution logic. These tools include: Autoswap and execswap for token swaps Autolimit for limit order execution Additional flows designed for controlled execution Instead of letting an AI agent send transactions directly, parameters are routed through Orbs’ infrastructure. There, they are checked before being approved for execution. This design separates strategy from execution. The agent decides what to do, but it does not have the final say on whether the transaction goes through. Investor Takeaway As AI trading grows, execution layers could become a key part of DeFi infrastructure. Projects that control how trades are validated — not just initiated — may capture an important position in the stack. Why verification matters for AI-driven trading The biggest risk in agent-based trading is not the strategy — it is execution. Giving an automated system direct control over a wallet introduces obvious problems, especially when private keys and real funds are involved. Orbs is addressing this with what it calls a cosigned oracle mechanism. Before a transaction is sent onchain, it is checked against a set of objective constraints. These include: Slippage limits Reference price checks Trigger conditions If the transaction passes, it is cosigned and allowed to proceed. If it does not, it is rejected. This creates a second layer of control that does not rely on trusting the agent itself. It also reduces the need to expose private keys or rely on centralized infrastructure like server-side execution environments. In practical terms, it turns execution into a shared responsibility between the agent and the network. Built on existing DeFi infrastructure Orbs is not starting from scratch. The new layer builds on its existing execution stack, which already supports products like dTWAP, dLIMIT and Liquidity Hub across multiple decentralized exchanges. According to the company, that infrastructure has processed more than $2.2 billion in onchain volume, giving it a track record before extending into agent-based workflows. The goal now is to make that same execution logic accessible to developers building AI-driven systems, without forcing them to recreate the underlying infrastructure. Agentic is designed to plug into common agent frameworks, allowing developers to integrate structured trading tools with relatively minimal setup. Investor Takeaway The combination of proven execution tools and AI compatibility could give Orbs an edge if agent-based DeFi usage grows. Infrastructure that is already battle-tested tends to scale faster than new, unproven systems. What comes next for agent-based DeFi The rollout of Agentic will happen in stages. The first version is already live as a proof of concept, allowing agents to execute swaps and orders using existing infrastructure. Future updates will introduce a more complete version of the architecture, including executor wallet contracts, a hybrid multisignature model and an onchain trust score system designed to formalize how agents are evaluated. Zooming out, Orbs is positioning itself as a backend layer for automated finance — not by building the agents themselves, but by controlling how they interact with DeFi protocols. If autonomous systems start handling a larger share of trading activity, the question will not just be which strategies work, but which infrastructure is trusted to execute them. That is where Orbs is placing its bet.

What Does the Crypto.com–KG Inicis Partnership Enable? Crypto.com has partnered with South Korean payment gateway KG Inicis to roll out crypto payment options for foreign visitors, opening access to a wide domestic merchant network. The integration will allow international travelers to pay for goods and services using digital assets across both physical stores and online platforms. KG Inicis processes hundreds of millions of transactions each year and supports around 190,000 merchants, giving Crypto.com Pay immediate reach across a large portion of South Korea’s retail infrastructure. Merchants in the network will be able to receive payments either in fiat or digital assets, with settlement handled through the platform. “KG Inicis boasts an unrivalled merchant acceptance network with 40% market share and we’re proud to partner with this fintech powerhouse to make digital asset payments easier for travellers to Korea,” said Eric Anziani, president and chief operating officer of Crypto.com. Investor Takeaway Crypto payment expansion is increasingly tied to tourism, where regulatory flexibility and cross-border demand create clearer use cases than domestic retail adoption. Why Focus on Foreign Visitors? South Korea has strict identity verification requirements for financial services, which can make it difficult for foreign visitors to access local payment systems. To address this gap, regulators have introduced special arrangements tailored to tourists. Earlier this year, the Financial Services Commission approved a sandbox program that includes a prepaid electronic payment instrument designed specifically for foreign visitors. The framework increases the anonymous prepaid payment limit from 500,000 won to 1 million won, giving tourists more flexibility in how they spend during their stay. Crypto-based payments fit into this structure by offering an alternative route for visitors who may not be able to complete domestic onboarding processes. By linking digital asset wallets to a widely accepted merchant network, the partnership creates a bridge between international users and local commerce. How Does This Fit Crypto.com’s Broader Expansion? The deal comes as Crypto.com continues to expand its regulatory and infrastructure footprint. In February, the company received conditional approval for a US national bank charter, a step that would allow it to operate as a federally regulated digital asset custodian if finalized. The platform has also pursued operational certifications, including ISO standards for AI systems management, reflecting a broader effort to align with institutional requirements as it grows beyond retail trading into payments and financial services. The partnership with KG Inicis adds a distribution layer to that strategy, focusing on real-world usage rather than custody or trading. By embedding crypto payments into an established payment processor, Crypto.com can test transaction flows in a live retail environment without building a merchant network from scratch. Investor Takeaway Partnership-led distribution remains a core path for crypto payment adoption, with exchanges relying on existing payment rails rather than direct merchant onboarding. Is Crypto Becoming a Viable Payment Tool for Tourists? South Korea is not alone in exploring crypto payments for tourism. In May 2025, Bhutan launched a system enabling travelers to pay for hotels, tickets, and services using more than 100 cryptocurrencies through a partnership involving Binance Pay. Thailand has also outlined plans for an 18-month program allowing tourists to convert crypto into local currency for spending. These initiatives share a common pattern: crypto is positioned as a tool for cross-border spending rather than everyday domestic payments. Tourists represent a contained user group with specific needs, including currency conversion and limited access to local banking infrastructure, making them a natural entry point for digital asset payment systems. Even so, broader adoption remains limited. Surveys indicate that while some crypto holders have used digital assets for purchases, usage tends to be occasional and concentrated in online or cross-border transactions. In markets that have formally adopted crypto for payments, routine retail use remains low. What Comes Next for Crypto Payments in Korea? The rollout through KG Inicis will test whether crypto payments can scale beyond niche use cases in a regulated environment. Much will depend on user experience, merchant acceptance, and how smoothly conversions between digital assets and fiat are handled at the point of sale. Further expansion will likely depend on regulatory clarity. The two companies said they are exploring additional areas of cooperation, including joint marketing and product development, subject to approval. That leaves room for broader integration if early usage meets expectations. For now, the focus remains on enabling tourists to spend rather than encouraging domestic crypto payments. Whether that model expands to local users will depend on how regulators balance innovation with existing financial controls.