The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued guidelines on tokenised stocks, clarifying the distinction between issuer-sponsored tokenised securities and third-party products that typically offer synthetic exposure.Promising Structure, but There Were ControversiesThe clarification came as many platforms, even US-based ones, began offering tokenised stocks to customers in foreign markets. Robinhood’s tokenised stock launch in Europe grabbed attention, but the space is still dominated by crypto exchanges, as many firms, including Kraken, Gemini and Bybit, are offering such products in non-US markets.Read more: Tokenised Stocks Are Here, but Do They Really Bring Added Value over CFDs?Although none are offering tokenised products in the US, multiple players, including Coinbase, are seeking the SEC’s approval to introduce them in the US markets. Other large institutions, such as Nasdaq and the NYSE, have also expressed interest in the sector.One of the promises was that tokenised stocks would allow investors access to both listed and unlisted stocks.However, controversy arose when OpenAI publicly disavowed tokenised “equity” linked to its shares offered by Robinhood in Europe. The American broker also offered tokenised exposure to the unlisted shares of Elon Musk’s SpaceX.[#highlighted-links#] SEC Clarifies the American Rules“Third parties unaffiliated with an issuer of a security could tokenise the unaffiliated issuer’s security,” the SEC noted, adding: “The models that third parties are using to tokenise securities vary, and the rights, obligations and benefits associated with the crypto asset may or may not be materially different from those of the underlying security.”The regulator further highlighted that, in the case of third-party-sponsored tokenised securities, investors would be exposed to the business risks associated with the third party, including bankruptcy, unlike traditional security holders.However, in both cases, the tokenised securities would be subject to US securities and derivatives laws.The joint statement by the SEC’s Division of Corporation Finance, Division of Investment Management and Division of Trading and Markets clarified that the format of a security, whether traditional or tokenised, does not alter the application of existing laws in the markets.It remains to be seen whether the clarification will encourage firms pushing for the launch of tokenised securities in the country, which would require regulatory approval, or deter them from such offerings, particularly those linked to unlisted stocks. This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.

Online broker Capital.com announced it will sponsor Cypriot race car driver Vladimiros Tziortzis as he competes in the 2026 NASCAR Euro Series, markring the CFD trading platform first entry into motorsports.Tziortzis will drive the No. 6 Ford Mustang in Capital.com livery throughout the PRO category season, which kicks off in Spain in April and runs through six European venues expected to draw over 300,000 spectators. The driver announced the platinum sponsorship deal Wednesday at a press conference in Nicosia.Capital.com Enters Racing CircuitThe partnership brings Capital.com back to sports sponsorships after previous forays into sports marketing. The broker signed a deal with Spanish football club Valencia in 2018 and later sponsored professional kiteboarder in 2023.Capital.com isn't the first trading platform to dip into NASCAR. TradingView sponsored two NASCAR cars for select races in 2018, though that arrangement covered only limited events rather than a full season."At high-performance levels, performance is not defined only by speed,” said Capital.com's European CEO Christoforos Soutzis. “It is defined by discipline, by the ability to operate within strict limits, to process information accurately and to execute consistently over time,” he added.Driver Brings European Racing ExperienceTziortzis finished second in the EuroNASCAR 2 category in 2023 and has competed in the series since 2020. The 2026 season will see him racing in the top PRO division, with testing scheduled to continue through early April before the season opener in Spain."I want to thank the company, as their move shows there are still companies today that truly support sports and, in this case, Capital.com promoting Cyprus through my participation in a certified FIA championship," Tziortzis said at the announcement.The calendar includes races in France at the Formula 1 circuit of Paul Ricard, plus stops in England, Czech Republic, Italy and Belgium.The full car reveal in Capital.com colors is scheduled for late March, when Tziortzis will also announce his racing team for the season. He's currently completing pre-season testing that runs through early April. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

OANDA Japan announced sweeping restrictions on silver trading effective this week, slashing maximum leverage from 20:1 to 5:1 and cutting position limits by 75% as extreme volatility continues to roil precious metals markets.The broker will increase margin requirements for silver (XAG/USD) from 5% to 20% starting February 2, according to a notice sent to clients. Maximum order sizes drop immediately from 50,000 units (10 lots) to 25,000 units (5 lots), while maximum open positions fall from 100,000 units to 25,000 units.Margin Increase Threatens Forced LiquidationsThe higher margin requirements will affect both existing positions and new trades. OANDA Japan warned that clients holding silver positions could face forced liquidation when the new rules take effect Monday if they don't add funds or reduce exposure beforehand."Depending on the account's equity, there is a risk that a stop loss (forced liquidation) will occur at the market open on February 2, 2026, when the above changes are applied," the broker stated.The restrictions follow similar moves by other market participants responding to unprecedented precious metals volatility. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange switched to percentage-based margin calculations earlier this month as silver and gold hit records, while liquidity provider Scope Prime adjusted spreads in response to CME's changes.Silver And Gold Rally Intensifies Across MarketsGold hit $5,598 per ounce on Thursday, up 3% and testing levels just below $5,600. The metal has surged roughly 30% since the start of 2026, extending a rally that began in 2025 and shows few signs of slowing.At the same time, silver has already risen nearly 70% this year, adding to its 150% rally in 2025. The white metal's price gained another 2.8% today with no signs of slowing down.Trading activity at broker Axi has been dominated by gold contracts as retail interest more than doubled amid the price surge. However, some industry executives have raised concerns about the sustainability of the rally, with Scope Markets EU CEO Constantinos Shakallis warning that Wall Street's $6,000 price targets may be luring retail traders into a speculative trap reminiscent of 1980.This isn't the first time OANDA Japan has flagged risks in precious metals. The broker issued a similar caution in October 2025 when silver volatility first began to spike, warning that margin requirements could be adjusted at short notice. "This reminds me of something. I have seen this movie before and we in Cyprus had a front-row seat for the previous sequels," Shakallis wrote in a LinkedIn post Sunday evening. "It was the 'dot-com' elevators of 1999, the 'house prices only go up' frenzy before the 2008 crash, and the crypto-mania of 2021."Broker Flags Liquidity CrunchOANDA Japan cited "extremely low liquidity" and "high volatility" in precious metals as the primary drivers behind the restrictions. Spreads have widened rapidly as sudden price fluctuations strain market depth, while counterparty transaction costs have risen sharply.The broker reserved the right to adjust margin rates and funding costs for both silver and gold (XAU/USD) without advance notice if market conditions worsen further. It also warned that trading in silver CFDs could be temporarily suspended altogether "in order to protect customer capital.""We strongly recommend that you collect information by referring to reliable financial news and other sources, and that you manage your capital with sufficient margin for all precious metals transactions," the broker said. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Strict but fair – that is how financial services companies view the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s approach to regulation, which includes regular consultation with current and prospective market entrants.Rethinking “Market-Friendly” AssessmentWhen it comes to assessing the merits of an industry regulator, an obvious starting point is to ask whether it is ‘market-friendly’. But that is an oversimplistic approach – the focus should instead be on how these bodies balance robust oversight with fostering innovation and growth.By this standard, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) scores well with domestic financial services firms and industry bodies alike.Principles-Based Regulation and Flexible GuardrailsThe regulator practices what Cora Ang, head of legal & compliance APAC at AMINA Bank, describes as pragmatic, principles-based regulation, maintaining an open door to participants willing to operate within its framework while upholding a demanding framework.“MAS explicitly emphasises responsible innovation within what it calls ‘flexible guardrails’, taking a risk-based approach particularly in evolving areas such as digital assets and AI,” she explains. “Unlike prescriptive, rules-based regulation, MAS guidelines focus on principles and desired outcomes, giving firms discretion in how they meet standards rather than dictating exact compliance procedures.”High Stakes EnforcementBut this flexibility comes with high stakes. MAS has low tolerance for firms falling short of expectations, and its enforcement strategy amplifies individual penalties into market-wide behavioural shifts.For example, when the regulator fined several institutions for AML/CFT failures in a 2023 money-laundering case, it simultaneously updated its supervisory guidance so that every market participant faced heightened compliance requirements and costs to meet the new baseline.“So while MAS welcomes innovation and growth, it operates with little margin for error and uses enforcement to move the entire market, not just individual actors,” adds Ang.Regulatory Maturity and Market PredictabilitySophisticated market participants look for regulatory maturity and systemic predictability. The MAS is increasingly viewed as a pragmatic architect that has successfully shifted the industry's focus from speculative experimentation to institutional-grade commercialisation.We were delighted to host central bank governors from across the region at the @sgfintechfest (SFF), where they witnessed firsthand the cutting-edge innovations shaping the future of finance.For more info on SFF: https://t.co/MWkA8Ct4Rw pic.twitter.com/kpFRnjGskh— MAS (@MAS_sg) November 17, 2025That is the view of Rohit Apte, head of markets at regulated institutional digital asset markets services provider Hex Trust, who notes that for digital assets to achieve global scale, they must be underpinned by interoperable, trust-minimised infrastructure that satisfies the fiduciary requirements of the world’s largest asset managers.“By prioritising market integrity and robust governance, the MAS is effectively establishing international benchmarks for the next generation of financial markets, attracting quality capital that prioritises long-term stability over short-term volatility,” he says.Consultative Approach and Stakeholder EngagementGiven that MAS actively consults stakeholders and related professionals before implementing significant policy and regulatory changes, the Securities Investors Association Singapore is of the view that it is a consultative market regulator, which is “most laudable,” according to the association’s head of regulatory, Robson Lee.Simon Forster, global co-head of digital assets at TP ICAP, says much of Singapore’s relevance in the digital asset space stems from the work of the MAS since Project Orchid in 2021, which explored the viability of a digital Singapore dollar, and more recently Project Bloom, which broadened that scope to include stablecoins and tokenised commercial bank money.In late 2025, the regulator announced plans to start testing the issuance of tokenised bills to primary dealers, which will be settled through a wholesale central bank digital currency.“What started as exploratory has now matured into a broad consensus that multiple forms of digital money will proliferate as payments firms, banks and private sector participants race to issue, support and provide access to these new instruments,” says Forster.Areas for ImprovementOf course, this is not to say that the regulatory environment in Singapore could not be improved.“As the global economy enters a more nuanced rhythm in 2026, market participants are advocating for structural refinements that enhance capital efficiency and cross-border mobility,” observes Apte.“The industry is primarily seeking the global standardisation of asset protocols – specifically for tokenised funds and bank liabilities – to ensure seamless interoperability across international platforms and jurisdictions.”Furthermore, there is a clear mandate for modernised post-trade infrastructure and enhanced multi-market connectivity, which would allow custodians to better align with international practices and unlock deeper liquidity pools.“Finally, as institutional pilots for real-world assets expand, the market is calling for an agile governance model that addresses emerging technical risks without stifling the responsible innovation that defines Singapore's macro strategy,” adds Apte.Refining Existing RulesWhen asked what rule changes market participants would like to see in Singapore, Ang suggests that the real need isn't for new rules but rather refinements to how existing rules are calibrated, applied and operationalised in practice.“The common wish list across banks, fund managers and digital asset firms centres on operational predictability, specifically more proportional requirements tied to actual business models and risk profiles,” she says. “Right now, there is ambiguity around when simplified compliance measures are acceptable versus when enhanced measures kick in. Clearer thresholds would help firms design appropriate controls from the outset.”#ICYMI: MAS has proposed Guidelines for AI Risk Management in the financial sector — including governance, risk management, life cycle controls, and capabilities. Submit your comments on the proposals by 31 Jan 2026.? https://t.co/oVBN2oXUGC pic.twitter.com/J8FnJb6Cbr— MAS (@MAS_sg) December 16, 2025There have also been calls for faster, more predictable licensing and approval timelines amid concerns that some processes have become so protracted that they have shifted from friction to a genuine deterrent for market entry, especially for firms trying to assess whether Singapore is viable for their business model.Ang calls for greater harmonisation across regulatory frameworks on the basis that firms operating across multiple licence types or business lines face overlapping but inconsistent requirements, creating compliance complexity that doesn't always map to risk.“Clearer playbooks for emerging sectors such as digital assets would also be welcome,” she continues. “The current principles-based approach creates flexibility but also uncertainty. Firms need enough regulatory clarity to commit capital and build sustainable operations without risking sudden supervisory expectation shifts.”Continued Consultation and TransparencyThe SIAS is in constant contact with the MAS as and when it obtains significant feedback on regulatory policies and market conduct rules, including when it receives credible information regarding market misconduct or breaches.“In this respect, we would like the MAS to continue with its consultative approach towards proposed rules implementation and receptiveness to market feedback regarding enforcement,” says Lee.The bottom line is that participants want to play by the rules – they just want to know what the rules look like in advance. This article was written by Paul Golden at www.financemagnates.com.

Tether has emerged as one of the biggest winners from this year’s record-breaking gold rally, booking a gain of more than 5 billion dollars on its bullion holdings while reigniting scrutiny over the risk profile behind the world’s largest stablecoin.According to the Financial Times, Tether held about 116 tonnes of gold at the end of September, according to estimates based on its public disclosures, a position then worth roughly 14.4 billion dollars. Since then, the price of gold has surged from about 3,858 dollars per troy ounce to above 5,200 dollars, lifting the value of that stash by more than 5 billion dollars on paper.The company has said it added a further 27 tonnes of bullion in the fourth quarter to support its gold-backed token, pushing its total gold holdings to around 24 billion dollars.Every week, more than a ton of gold is hauled into a high-security vault located in a Cold War-era bunker owned by Tether. It is now the world’s largest known hoard of bullion outside of banks and nation states, and has turned the crypto giant into a major player in the industry.… pic.twitter.com/qWwgjUuWy1— Bloomberg (@business) January 28, 2026Haven Rally Amplifies Tether GainsThe scale of the position now places Tether among the largest non-sovereign owners of the metal. Analysts say the stablecoin issuer controls a volume of gold similar to that of Qatar’s central bank, while the UK holds 310 tonnes.The rally in gold has been driven by surging demand for haven assets as geopolitical tensions rise. The price moved through the 5,000 dollar mark for the first time this week, with investors citing mounting global uncertainty and trade frictions.Keep reading: Wall Street's $6,000 Gold Price Targets May Be Setting a Retail Trap, Warns Scope Markets EU CEOGold surged to a fresh record high of 5,316 dollars per ounce on Wednesday, its seventh straight session of gains. This comes as the US dollar slumped to four-year lows ahead of a pivotal Federal Reserve meeting.President Donald Trump’s tariff threats and his demand to seize Greenland have added to a sense of instability, fuelling repeated record highs in the metal this year and magnifying the gains on Tether’s position.The windfall comes as Tether cements its dominance in digital dollar markets. Its USDT token is the most widely used stablecoin, with a circulating value of about 187 billion dollars. New US Token, Old Reserve ConcernsTraders use USDT as a bridge between sovereign currencies and crypto assets, relying on its one-to-one peg with the US dollar for liquidity across exchanges. Tether backs that peg with a mix of assets that include gold, Bitcoin, US Treasuries and secured loans.Alongside USDT, the company reportedly issues XAUt, a separate gold-backed token, and stores its bullion in Swiss vaults. The firm said its gold-backed token has risen in value by at least 700 million dollars this year.Tether is also pushing deeper into the US market. On Tuesday it launched USAT, a US-focused stablecoin that it says complies with the Genius Act stablecoin law. The latest gains have not eased long-standing concerns over the stability and transparency of Tether’s reserves. The company has faced years of questions from regulators, investors and rivals about the quality and liquidity of the assets backing USDT. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

The Chicago White Sox announced a multiyear agreement with CME Group, naming the derivatives exchange operator as the club’s inaugural jersey patch sponsor and Official Global Exchange Partner.The partnership follows CME Group’s recent expansion into event contracts, including a joint venture with sports betting company FanDuel. The deal lets users trade simple yes-or-no contracts on financial markets, blending finance with sports‑linked wagering. CME launched event contracts in September 2022, targeting retail traders with capped payouts, and the FanDuel agreement marked the company’s largest push toward mainstream audiences.CME Group Becomes White Sox SponsorCME Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Terry Duffy said the partnership reflects shared roots and global reach. He said the company was “pleased to become the first jersey-patch sponsor of the Chicago White Sox” and pointed to both organizations’ connections to Chicago and international audiences.As part of the White Sox deal, the CME Group logo will appear on the team’s home, road, and alternate uniforms, including the MLB Nike City Connect jersey. The patch will be worn during Spring Training, the regular season, and postseason games.CME Expands Sports Marketing PresenceCME Group will also receive fixed signage behind home plate at Rate Field during home games, along with other promotional placements.White Sox Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer Brooks Boyer said the team sought a Chicago-based partner whose brand would be visible on the uniform. He described CME Group as having a global footprint and said the partnership extends beyond branding.Two legacy Chicago institutions are merging innovation, perseverance and momentum.We’re proud to wear @CMEGroup on our sleeves starting this season! pic.twitter.com/Bh6khCUWO6— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) January 28, 2026White Sox Reveal Jerseys Featuring CME PatchThe jersey patch design will vary by uniform. On the home pinstripes, the blue CME Group logo will appear on a white background with a black border and black lettering. The road gray uniform will feature the blue logo on a gray background with black lettering. The City Connect and alternate black jerseys will display the blue logo on a black background with white lettering.The White Sox will debut the updated uniform during Cactus League play against the Chicago Cubs. The jersey patch will then appear in the 2026 regular season opener in Milwaukee, followed by the home debut at Rate Field against the Toronto Blue Jays. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

For years, Cyprus’ regulated firms have helped turn the island into a hub for FX, CFDs, funds and crypto, and other financial services. Now the regulator wants to put numbers on that role. CySEC has launched an economic impact survey of all entities under its supervision to show how they support jobs, spending and investment in Cyprus and how far their services reach into the EEA. In a new circular released on Wednesday, CySEC asked all supervised and registered entities to complete a detailed online questionnaire for the 2025 financial year.C753 to CySEC’s supervised/registered entities: Questionnaire regarding the benefits arising in the Cypriot Economy – CySEC supervised entitieshttps://t.co/Esp1g4z2Nm— CySEC - Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (@CySEC_official) January 28, 2026What CySEC Is DoingThe survey covers Cyprus Investment Firms, branches of foreign investment firms, fund managers, crypto asset service providers, administration firms and listed companies.The regulator says it wants to measure three types of impact. It will look at direct impact from firms’ own revenues and costs, indirect impact through their suppliers and induced impact from the spending of their staff and the staff of their suppliers. In practice, that means the survey aims to capture not just the turnover of an FX or CFD broker, but also what that broker spends on local technology, services and staff, and how those wages flow back into the wider economy.Related: Cyprus Regulator Proposes Higher CIF Licensing Costs, Plans to Drop Crypto Fee Under MiCACyprus hosts many FX and CFD brokers that passport services across the EEA. The survey gives them a chance to show that their presence goes beyond booking trades and that they support local employment, office space, technology spend and professional services.Why It Matters for FX and CFD FirmsFor a sector that often faces scrutiny over its business models and client outcomes, an official study that highlights economic contribution may influence how policymakers and the public view the industry.Early this month, CySEC Chair Dr. George Theocharides kicked off 2026 with a cautionary note, highlighting that Cyprus’s capital market is entering a more stringent supervisory period.As of the second quarter of 2025, the commission oversaw 319 Collective Investment Management Companies and Collective Investment Undertakings, managing a combined total of €10.6 billion in assets.The regulator has also signaled the intention to increase the cost of conducting regulated investment business on the island, proposing higher application and annual fees for Cyprus Investment Firms, foreign branches, and market operators, alongside new charges covering material change notifications and algorithmic trading activities. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

South Korea’s Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Eog-weon highlighted the need to limit ownership stakes of major shareholders in virtual asset exchanges. He said the move is necessary to align governance standards with the exchanges’ growing public role.The proposed ownership limits come amid broader regulatory moves in South Korea’s crypto market. The government is preparing to expand anti‑money laundering rules by extending the crypto Travel Rule to transfers below $680. The change follows the Virtual Asset Users Protection Act, which took effect in July 2025 and bans insider trading, market manipulation, and illegal trading of virtual assets. Exchanges will now be required to collect and share sender and receiver information for smaller transfers.Digital Asset Law May Limit ShareholdingThe remarks suggest the regulator plans to push ahead with the proposal despite resistance from industry participants and concerns from the ruling Democratic Party of Korea. The FSC is reportedly reviewing a cap of about 15 to 20 percent on controlling shareholders’ stakes. The provision is expected to be included in the tentative Digital Asset Basic Act, considered the second phase of the country’s virtual asset legislation.Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Eog-weon formally stressed Wednesday the need to limit the ownership stakes of major shareholders in virtual asset exchanges.https://t.co/zpV4sxM29I— The Korea Times (@koreatimescokr) January 28, 2026South Korea Targets Ownership Concentration RisksLee said existing rules, including the Act on Reporting and Using Specified Financial Transaction Information and the Act on the Protection of Virtual Asset Users, focus mainly on anti-money laundering and investor protection. “The proposed shift to an authorization system would effectively grant exchanges permanent operating status,” he said, adding that exchanges would need governance rules that reflect their larger role.He noted that once licensed, exchanges would no longer be treated simply as private enterprises but would assume characteristics similar to public infrastructure. “Excessive concentration of ownership could increase the risk of conflicts of interest and undermine market integrity,” Lee said. He also pointed out that securities exchanges and alternative trading systems already face ownership limits.The proposal is part of an effort to integrate crypto exchanges into the mainstream financial system, improving accountability, transparency, and public oversight.Upbit, Coinone Stakes May Be CappedThe joint council of domestic exchanges, including Upbit, Bithumb, and Coinone, has opposed the cap, warning it could hinder the sector’s development. At Upbit, Chair Song Chi-hyung and related parties hold over 28 percent of shares, while Coinone founder Cha Myung-hoon controls about 53 percent.Lee said discussions with the ruling party are ongoing. “Consultations with the National Assembly and relevant ministries will continue to ensure the bill moves forward without unnecessary delays,” he said. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

BaFin, Germany's financial watchdog, names social media and finfluencers as leading market risks for 2026. The regulator shows that these channels push retail investors toward highly speculative crypto assets. The annual risk outlook directly challenges brokers, as Germany's banking sector prepares to launch crypto trading services. The report directly warns: the main way to acquire crypto clients is now a top regulatory concern. A Direct Link Between Social Media and Crypto Buying BaFin's consumer survey shows that social media use directly links to crypto investing among 18- to 45-year-olds. Investors who follow finfluencers are almost four times as likely to buy crypto assets as those who do not (48% vs. 13%). In private chat groups, half of the participants reported buying crypto. Meanwhile, according to the report, "dubious finfluencers" can use hype around products like meme coins to "induce consumers to act hastily" by tapping into their "fear of missing out."The regulator has tracked the link between social media and crypto for years. Its earlier report confirmed that social media users are much more likely to invest in crypto than non-users, highlighting the growing pull of online channels.Caught Between Acquisition and Compliance For brokers and banks, this is a major strategic dilemma. Data shows social media is the most effective way to reach the next generation of crypto-curious clients. However, using this channel means associating with the speculative behaviour and hype cycles that regulators are now actively flagging as a systemic risk.Germany's major savings and cooperative banks plan to offer crypto trading to clients in 2026, bringing digital assets into the mainstream. These institutions will have to navigate a marketing landscape dominated by unregulated influencers while adhering to BaFin's strict conduct rules. The challenge grows as investor behaviour changes. Coinbase research shows that younger investors prefer to make their own decisions and consult digital channels, such as peers, rather than rely on traditional financial advisers. This shift explains why social media and influencer narratives are now powerful and hard for regulated firms to ignore. At the EU level, supervisors clearly state that financial promotion on social media must meet the same investor-protection standards as traditional ads. The European Securities and Markets Authority warns that promoting financial products has real consequences. National regulators, including BaFin, AMF, and CONSOB, have issued stronger warnings about influencer-led investment content. BaFin to Supervise the Firms, Not the Influencers Finfluencers are not licensed, but regulated firms must take more responsibility for their marketing, especially when social media is the primary channel.In its report, BaFin makes it clear that while it does not directly supervise finfluencers, it will hold the regulated firms accountable. The regulator stated that it will supervise all authorised Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs) to ensure compliance with the rules of conduct and enforce market abuse rules under MiCA, which apply to "any person," including influencers.
 BaFin's message is clear: brokers are not responsible for what finfluencers say, but they are responsible for the products they offer and the clients they onboard. As crypto goes mainstream in Europe's largest economy, regulated firms are caught between the undeniable power of social media marketing and the watchful eye of a regulator growing increasingly concerned. This article was written by Tanya Chepkova at www.financemagnates.com.

RoboMarkets, a Germany-based multi-asset broker, has expanded its equities offering by adding access to more than 1,400 stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) traded on Xetra, Deutsche Börse’s flagship electronic trading platform. The move is the latest step in the company’s deliberate pivot away from FX and CFDs. What Xetra Offers According to Denis Kiselev, Chief Product Officer at RoboMarkets, the expansion supports the company’s ambition to make global markets “accessible, efficient and intelligent”. Xetra accounts for more than 90% of on-exchange equity trading in Germany and is one of Europe’s leading ETF venues. The newly available instruments span a wide range of sectors, from clean energy to artificial intelligence, including German and European blue chips and growth stocks, as well as index-tracking, sectoral and thematic ETFs. “Clients can now explore new investment opportunities across Europe, diversify their portfolios with thematic strategies and trade with full transparency,” Kiselev mentioned.Related: RoboMarkets Executives Exit Post-Soviet Projects, Sell Their StakesA Strategic Pivot The latest addition builds on a series of recent expansions. In April 2025, RoboMarkets added around 1,160 stocks and ETFs to its proprietary R StocksTrader platform. Five months earlier, it had introduced more than 1,300 US-listed equities and ETFs, covering technology, finance, energy, healthcare and biotechnology. The additions underscore a clear strategic direction formalised in 2024, when RoboMarkets decided to shift its European business model away from FX and CFDs towards equities. As part of the transition, the Group rebranded and restructured its Cyprus-regulated entity to operate only as an institutional broker. However, the Group is still offering retail CFDs under the legacy RoboForex brand from its offshore base in Belize.By 2025, that arm had been refocused on institutional clients only, while retail activity was consolidated within its BaFin-supervised German operation, offering exclusively bonds, stocks and ETFs. The change mirrors a broader trend among European brokers following the European Securities and Markets Authority’s 2018 intervention in the retail CFD market. Tighter leverage caps and marketing restrictions made the segment less attractive, prompting firms either to move upmarket or to diversify into non-CFD products.Looking into MENARoboMarkets is also looking beyond Europe. It has recently secured a Category 1 licence from Dubai’s Securities and Commodities Authority, allowing it to onboard clients, hold assets and execute trades locally in the United Arab Emirates. Regulatory filings show that the firm has appointed Karine Ugarte as a local executive; her LinkedIn profile suggests she took on the role of CEO of RoboMarkets MENA in May 2025. This article was written by Adonis Adoni at www.financemagnates.com.

Crypto exchange Bitget has appointed Oliver Stauber as CEO of its European division, hiring a senior regulatory executive from rivals KuCoin and Bitpanda as it prepares to pursue a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) licence. The appointment coincides with Bitget’s decision to establish its European headquarters in Vienna, signalling a long-term effort to build a regulated presence in the European Union. Stauber brings extensive experience in European crypto regulation. He joins Bitget from his role as Managing Director and CEO of KuCoin EU. Prior to that, he served as Chief Legal Officer at Bitpanda, overseeing the group's legal, regulatory, and compliance functions.Buying Regulatory Experience to Accelerate MiCA Entry The hire underscores Bitget’s regulatory focus as MiCA reshapes EU market access under its passporting framework, which lets firms licensed in one EU country operate across the bloc. By recruiting an executive who has built compliance structures at competing exchanges, the company aims to accelerate its own licensing process.“Oliver’s appointment builds our confidence in Bitget’s long-term presence in Europe,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “He brings the regulatory fluency and operational discipline needed to set up our EU headquarters in Austria and strengthen a governance-first approach under MiCAR." Stauber said MiCA was changing expectations for how digital asset services are governed in Europe, particularly around risk controls, disclosures, and operational discipline. “Our HQ in Vienna will build a regulated, scalable setup ready to drive the future of finance in Europe,” he said.In its announcement, Bitget stated that Bitget EU is not yet operational and will provide services only after receiving the necessary regulatory approval from Austrian authorities. This article was written by Tanya Chepkova at www.financemagnates.com.

Gold price hit a fresh all-time high of $5,311 per ounce on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, marking its seventh consecutive session of gains. The yellow metal is trading at $5,200.73 at time of writing, up 1.8% on the day, as the US dollar plunged to four-year lows ahead of a crucial Federal Reserve meeting.In this article, I examine why gold is surging and checking what the XAU/USD chart shows.Gold Price Today: Historic Rally AcceleratesOver just seven trading sessions, gold has surged more than 15% - nearly matching the entire 2025 return of the S&P 500 index. The metal is now up 22% over the past month and has gained 91% since the start of 2025.This rally has pushed gold nearly 30% above its 200-day exponential moving average, a level that typically separates bull markets from bear trends. While prices normally revert to their moving averages under normal market conditions, the current geopolitical tensions and dollar weakness make timing any correction extremely difficult.Why Gold Is Surging?Dollar Crisis Fuels Safe-Haven DemandThe primary driver behind today's surge is the US dollar's "crisis of confidence" as it struggles near four-year lows. President Donald Trump's comments suggesting a "broad-based consensus within the White House to have a weaker greenback going forward" accelerated dollar selling and sent gold prices soaring."(Gold's rise) is due to the very strong indirect correlation with the dollar," explained Kelvin Wong, senior market analyst at OANDA. Dollar weakness makes gold cheaper to purchase in other currencies, increasing global demand.US consumer confidence slumped to its lowest level in more than 11-1/2 years in January amid mounting anxiety over a sluggish labor market and high prices. Trump also announced he will soon reveal his pick for the next Federal Reserve chair, predicting interest rates would decline under new leadership.FOMC Meeting Creates Additional UncertaintyThe Federal Reserve's two-day policy meeting, which concludes Wednesday, adds another layer of uncertainty to markets. While the Fed is widely expected to hold rates steady, investors are watching closely for any signals about the "neutral rate" and future policy direction.Trump's interference in Fed independence, combined with his preference for lower interest rates and a weaker dollar, has created what market analysts describe as a fundamental shift in how investors value gold. The metal is no longer being priced primarily on yield considerations, but on its ability to hedge systemic risks.Systemic Shift Beyond Cyclical FactorsAccording to Linh Tran, Market Analyst at XS.com: "If one looks only at price movements, this rally could be attributed to familiar factors such as geopolitical tensions or interest rate expectations. However, when viewed within the broader context of the global financial system, it becomes clear that gold is rising not merely due to market anxiety, but also because confidence in the global monetary–fiscal order is shifting toward a more cautious stance."Tran emphasizes this represents a structural change: "This does not appear to be a short-lived shock, but rather a process of re-positioning gold's role within the system."Technical Analysis Shows Gold Extended RallyFrom my technical perspective, the psychological $5,000 level was broken without resistance and now serves as critical support. Additional support levels include:$4,550 per ounce - December 2025 highs$4,360 per ounce - October 2025 peaksThe 200-day exponential moving average, which separates uptrends from downtrends, sits approximately 30% below current prices, an extraordinary deviation that would normally trigger profit-taking. However, the combination of geopolitical tensions and dollar weakness has kept buyers active despite the extended rally.Near-term resistance for gold could be seen around $5,240 per ounce, according to OANDA's Wong. In the current price discovery phase, traditional technical analysis provides limited guidance, though the momentum clearly remains to the upside.Follow me on X for more gold market analysis and trading insights: @ChmielDkGoldman Sachs Raises Gold Price Prediction Target to $5,400Major investment banks continue raising their gold forecasts. Goldman Sachs recently increased its 2026 gold price target by $500, from $4,900 to $5,400 per ounceby year-end, citing central bank buying and private-sector diversification.The bank's revised forecast assumes private diversification buyers who hedge "global policy risks" will not liquidate holdings in 2026. Goldman also expects Western ETF holdings to increase as the Federal Reserve cuts rates, while emerging-market central banks continue purchasing around 60 tonnes monthly [Finance Magnates].Deutsche Bank went even further, stating Tuesday that gold could climb to $6,000 per ounce in 2026, citing persistent investment demand as central banks and investors increase allocations to non-dollar and tangible assets.FAQ, Gold Price AnalysisWhat is the gold price today?Gold is trading at $5,200.73 per ounce as of Wednesday, January 28, 2026, after hitting an all-time high of $5,311 earlier in the session.Why is gold surging?Gold is surging due to the US dollar plunging to four-year lows, Federal Reserve policy uncertainty, Trump administration comments favoring a weaker dollar, geopolitical tensions, and structural demand from central banks diversifying away from dollar assets.How high can gold go?Goldman Sachs forecasts gold reaching $5,400 per ounce by year-end 2026, while Deutsche Bank suggests $6,000 is possible, citing persistent investment demand and central bank buying.Will gold continue rising?The rally shows strong momentum with seven consecutive sessions of gains totaling over 15%. As long as gold holds support above $5,000 and the dollar remains weak, the uptrend is likely to continue, though significant profit-taking could trigger short-term corrections.Is now a good time to buy gold?While gold has surged nearly 30% above its 200-day moving average - an extended level that typically sees corrections - the structural drivers of dollar weakness, Fed policy shifts, and geopolitical uncertainty remain intact. Investors should consider their risk tolerance and consult financial advisors before making investment decisions. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

The UK’s fintech sector posted a 29% year-on-year increase in professional job vacancies during 2025, substantially outperforming the broader financial services market as companies compete aggressively for scarce technology talent.The sector created roughly 16,200 professional positions last year, accounting for 24% of all finance industry vacancies in the UK, according to a new report from Morgan McKinley and Vacancysoft. Banking vacancies grew just 8% to around 41,100 roles, while accountancy firms increased hiring 15% to approximately 10,000 positions.For example, CMC Markets spent nine months searching for a CFO, ultimately opting for an internal appointment in November 2025 after an unsuccessful external search."The UK professional jobs market in 2025 marked a clear inflection point," said Victoria Walmsley, Managing Director at Morgan McKinley UK. "Following several years of disruption, rapid change and post-pandemic recalibration, hiring activity moved into a more selective and disciplined phase."Technology Hiring Accelerates SharplySoftware engineering vacancies climbed 71% to nearly 800 roles in 2025, while product management IT positions surged 82% to approximately 770 vacancies. Data analysis roles expanded 60% to around 340 positions, underscoring the sector's focus on technical capability over front-office expansion.Business development and sales remained the largest single category at close to 1,900 vacancies, up 47% year-on-year. Account management and inside sales roles reached around 850 vacancies but saw their share of total hiring slip from 6% to 5%, suggesting a strategic rebalancing toward product-led growth.UK fintech hiring was projected to rise 32% earlier in 2025 as compliance and cybersecurity demands intensified across the industry. Fintech, compliance, and risk roles emerged as top career paths in London's finance sector during Q2 2025, with financial crime specialists and regulatory experts becoming increasingly sought after.Compliance positions held steady at approximately 270 roles despite explosive growth in other technology functions, raising questions about whether firms are adequately staffing risk management teams as they scale operations. Compliance heads in CFD-heavy Cyprus now earn six-figure salaries, with heads of compliance receiving up to €120,000 as regulatory demands intensify.The IT CrowdIT emerged as the most in-demand profession across regional markets, exceeding 10,000 vacancies nationwide in 2025 and growing 23% year-on-year. Retail trading platforms and fintech companies today are no longer driven mainly by salespeople, but by engineers and software experts. For example, XTB reported as early as 2023 that out of more than 1,000 employees, nearly half were working in IT.Moreover, the compensation landscape reflects intensifying competition for specialized talent. IG Group's CEO earned $4.5 million in FY25, though this figure remained below Plus500's top executives, who each pocketed $4.97 million as retail trading platforms battle for leadership expertise.The cross-sector technology hiring boom is creating direct competition between fintechs, banks, and traditional accountancy firms for the same engineering talent. Dubai's FX sales heads now earn twice the pay of Cyprus roles, with compliance head salaries jumping 250% in Dubai as regional hubs compete for specialized expertise. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Two former executives at Near Intelligence face federal fraud charges for allegedly running a revenue inflation scheme with their company's biggest customer, according to a complaint filed this week in the Southern District of New York.Anil Mathews, Near's former CEO, and Rahul Agarwal, the company's ex-CFO, allegedly orchestrated what prosecutors describe as a "round-trip" accounting fraud with advertising technology firm MobileFuse between May 2021 and September 2023. The SEC also charged MobileFuse and its former CEO Kenneth Harlan with helping the two executives pull off the scheme.The complaint alleges the fraud inflated Near's revenue by $37.3 million out of total reported revenue of $138.3 million during the scheme's operation. Near filed for bankruptcy in December 2023, shortly after announcing its financial statements couldn't be trusted.How the Round-Trip Payments WorkedThe mechanics were straightforward but effective, according to the SEC complaint. MobileFuse would send Near an inflated invoice, Near would wire funds to MobileFuse, and MobileFuse would transfer money back to Near. Near then booked the full amount it received from MobileFuse as legitimate revenue."The purpose of the round-trip scheme was to falsely inflate Near's revenue, or to 'juice' the revenue through 'the turn around payment system' which 'allows [Near's] revenue to be higher,'" according to internal communications cited in the complaint.In one exchange from May 2021, Harlan told Agarwal the invoice arrangement would "allow your [Near's] revenue to be higher." The complaint includes multiple emails where MobileFuse employees explicitly referred to "turnaround" payments and coordinated timing to complete the circular transactions.The invoices sometimes inflated amounts by as much as 98%, regulators said. After netting out the round-trip payments, the actual amounts MobileFuse owed Near for data access services were substantially smaller than the amounts Near recorded as revenue.Growing Wave of Tech and Fintech Fraud CasesThe Near Intelligence charges arrive during a period of increased SEC enforcement against technology and financial sector fraud. Last month, the SEC charged seven companies with defrauding retail traders through fake cryptocurrency trading platforms and WhatsApp investment clubs that stole more than $14 million from investors.In December, regulators also charged a medical resident with running a spoofing scheme that generated nearly $374,000 in profits through off-hours stock trading, while a separate case involved a Discord-based fund manager who allegedly fabricated credentials and fund performance to steal $18 million from more than 40 investors.SPAC Merger MotivationsFederal prosecutors believe the scheme started before Near became publicly traded and was designed to make the company more attractive for a Special Purpose Acquisition Company merger. In May 2022, SPAC KludeIn announced plans to acquire Near at a valuation approaching $1 billion.The merger closed in March 2023, with the combined company listing on Nasdaq under the ticker NIR. Near's inflated financial statements were included in multiple registration statements filed with the SEC, all signed by Mathews.Text messages between Harlan and MobileFuse's co-owner in February 2022 discussed Near's SPAC plans, with Harlan noting Near needed MobileFuse to "juice their revenue and they know us best."The SEC alleges Mathews and Agarwal had their own financial motivations for keeping the fraud going. Both received Near stock and restricted stock units when the SPAC merger completed. Mathews also pocketed a $41,331 performance-based bonus shortly after Near went public.Near's Collapse and BankruptcyTo hide the scheme from Near's independent auditors, the defendants allegedly fabricated documents and made false statements.Near's board placed both executives on administrative leave in October 2023 and warned investors that financial statements for 2020 through 2022, plus the first two quarters of 2023, shouldn't be relied upon because revenue may have been overstated.The company terminated Mathews on November 15, 2023 and Agarwal on November 21, 2023, citing financial mismanagement and fraudulent actions. Near filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection less than three weeks later to liquidate its assets.The company's bankruptcy plan was approved in March 2024, and Near terminated its SEC registration later that month.The SEC is seeking permanent injunctions against all four defendants, officer and director bars against Mathews and Agarwal, disgorgement of ill-gotten gains from Mathews with prejudgment interest, and civil penalties against all defendants. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

The best multi-asset brokers in 2026 include Exness, Axi, Pepperstone, XM and Saxo. These firms give traders access to a wide range of markets from a single account, including forex, indices, commodities, shares and cryptocurrencies, typically via CFD trading and, in Saxo’s case, also direct investing in cash products.For active traders and investors, using a multi-asset broker can simplify portfolio management. Instead of maintaining several accounts across different providers, traders can access global FX pairs, stock indices, metals, energies, single-stock CFDs and sometimes ETFs and options from a consolidated platform. This can also make margin and risk management more efficient, especially when all positions share the same funding and reporting environment.In this guide, we look at what “multi-asset” actually means in practice, how to choose between providers, and how Exness and Axi compare with other well-known multi-asset brokers. The focus is on market coverage, platforms, pricing transparency and regulatory footprint, so traders can build a shortlist that fits their own strategy and risk tolerance.What Is a Multi-Asset Broker and Why Does It Matter?A multi-asset broker gives clients access to more than one asset class from the same account and platform. Instead of only trading forex, traders can also access indices, commodities, shares, ETFs or cryptocurrencies (usually via CFDs), and in some cases direct investing in cash products. This approach has become increasingly popular as platforms and pricing have improved and traders look to diversify beyond a single market.For active traders, using a multi-asset broker can make portfolio and margin management more efficient. All positions sit under the same login, funding and reporting environment, which simplifies monitoring risk, tracking performance and moving capital between strategies. It can also make it easier to react to macro events, shifting between FX, indices, commodities and other markets without changing broker.How We Selected the Best Multi-Asset Brokers in 2026To create this list, we looked at four main areas: regulation, market coverage, platforms and overall trading conditions.Regulation and reputation: We focused on brokers authorised by recognised regulators such as the FCA, CySEC, ASIC, FSCA and others, and cross-checked their public profiles and awards. For example, Exness has been recognised as a multi-asset broker and has received recent awards for its multi-asset offering, while Axi, Pepperstone, XM and Saxo are all long-standing, multi-regulated providers.Range of tradable markets: We prioritised brokers that offer multiple asset classes from one account: forex, indices, commodities, metals, share CFDs, and, where available, crypto and ETFs. Exness, Axi, Pepperstone, XM and Saxo all provide broad product ranges across key markets.Platforms and tools: All selected brokers provide at least one mainstream platform such as MT4 or MT5, and several also offer proprietary or advanced web platforms, plus research and analytics tools that support multi-asset trading.Pricing and execution: We looked at public information on spreads, commissions and execution quality, giving preference to brokers that emphasise tight pricing, good liquidity and stable conditions across their instrument range.These criteria help narrow down the field to a handful of best multi-asset brokers in 2026 that are widely available and suitable for a broad range of active traders.ExnessExness offers CFD trading for those who prefer leverage and flexibility over spot ownership. The company holds multiple regulatory licenses and provides a transparent, technology-driven trading environment trusted by professionals globally. Exness has also received multiple industry recognitions, including the recent ‘Best Global Multi-Asset Broker’ award at the Smart Vision Summit South Africa 2025.Exness offers a broad range of CFD instruments, including FX pairs, indices, energies, metals, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. Traders can access these instruments via MT4, MT5, the Exness Terminal, and the Exness Trade app, giving them access to both classic MetaTrader environments and proprietary web/mobile options.Exness delivers fast, reliable execution1 even during high-impact news events, supported by their proprietary trading engine and automated systems built to handle high trading volumes. Traders benefit from tight, stable spreads2 on major assets, allowing them to trade with confidence and precision. With its multi-asset offerings and a variety of trading platforms, Exness equips traders with the technology and infrastructure to efficiently manage a diverse range of assets. Furthermore, most withdrawal requests are processed automatically, ³ ensuring fast, seamless access to funds whenever traders need them.1 Delays and slippage may occur. No guarantee of execution speed or precision is provided.2 Spreads may fluctuate and widen due to factors including market volatility and liquidity, news releases, economic events, when markets open or close, and the type of instruments being traded. 3 Processing times may vary depending on the payment provider.AxiAxi is a global forex and CFD broker founded in 2007 and regulated in several regions, including the FCA (UK) and ASIC (Australia) via different entities. It positions itself as a cost-effective broker with raw spreads, high liquidity and fast execution, serving clients in more than 100 countries.While Axi’s core trading environment centres on MetaTrader 4, the broker offers enhanced functionality through its own tools and add-ons, including AI-powered analytics and copy trading features. From a single account, clients can trade CFDs on forex, indices, commodities, shares, cryptocurrencies and crypto perpetual futures, giving them access to 490+ products and a genuinely multi-asset toolkit.For traders who prefer the familiarity of MT4 but still want broader market access and modern tools, Axi offers an appealing mix of multi-asset coverage, competitive pricing and platform enhancements geared towards both active and higher-volume clients.PepperstonePepperstone is a well-known multi-asset CFD broker regulated by authorities such as the FCA, ASIC, CySEC and DFSA through various entities. It is widely used by active traders who prioritise tight spreads, fast execution and a choice of professional-grade platforms.The broker offers a broad product range covering forex, indices, commodities, shares and cryptocurrencies, all traded as CFDs from a single account, with both standard and razor-style pricing structures. Traders can access these markets via MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView, which makes Pepperstone attractive for those who want to run algorithmic strategies, discretionary trading and chart-based approaches within the same setup.Pepperstone’s focus on low-latency infrastructure, institutional-style liquidity and extensive platform choice positions it as a strong multi-asset option for active traders who want to move quickly between FX, index, commodity and equity markets without changing broker.XMXM is a large multi-asset CFD broker serving clients in 190+ countries and regulated by bodies such as CySEC, ASIC and DFSA through different entities. It offers a broad product range including forex, stock indices, commodities, precious metals, energies and share CFDs, all accessible via MT4 and MT5 on desktop, web and mobile.The broker supports several account types with different minimum deposits and pricing structures, allowing traders to choose between tighter spreads with commission or all-in spreads with no explicit commission line. Alongside its market coverage, XM is known for extensive education and research, with webinars, tutorials and market commentary in multiple languages, which helps traders build and manage multi-asset strategies within a single environment.SaxoSaxo is a multi-asset investment bank and broker that provides access to an exceptionally wide range of products, including stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, options, futures, FX and CFDs from a single account. Operating under strong regulatory frameworks in Denmark and other jurisdictions, Saxo caters to active traders, investors and professionals who want deep market access rather than only CFDs.Clients trade through Saxo’s proprietary platforms, SaxoTraderGO and SaxoTraderPRO, which offer advanced charting, portfolio tools, options and futures chains, and detailed risk and margin analytics. While its minimum deposits and fee structure may suit more capitalised traders, Saxo stands out in the multi-asset space for its combination of direct market access, breadth of instruments and professional-grade platforms, making it a natural consideration for serious multi-asset traders and investors.Comparison Table: Best Multi-Asset Brokers in 2026*Regulation summary is simplified and based on publicly available information. Always verify current licences and product availability on the broker’s official website and with the relevant regulators.How to Choose the Best Multi-Asset Broker in 2026When comparing multi-asset brokers, start with regulation and safety. Confirm which entity you will be opening an account with, which regulator oversees it, and what client money protections apply. Avoid unregulated or unclear structures, especially when trading leveraged products.Next, look at market coverage and platforms. Make sure the broker actually offers the instruments you plan to trade (for example, FX + indices + single-stock CFDs + crypto) and that they are available on a platform you are comfortable with, such as MT4/MT5, cTrader, or a strong proprietary web platform. Check mobile usability if you trade on the go.Then compare pricing and trading conditions: typical spreads, commissions, swaps, minimum deposits and any non-trading fees. Multi-asset setups can hide costs in different places, so it is worth testing live or demo conditions for the instruments you care about most.Finally, consider tools and support. Good multi-asset brokers will offer solid research, risk tools, account reporting and responsive customer service in your preferred language. If you plan to run algos or copy trading, confirm the relevant features and integrations are available before committing.Conclusion: Best Multi-Asset Brokers in 2026Exness, Axi, Pepperstone, XM and Saxo all qualify as multi-asset brokers, but they serve slightly different profiles. Exness focuses on tight pricing and strong tech for CFD traders; Axi targets MT4 users who want broader market access and add-ons; Pepperstone appeals to active traders who value low spreads and multiple pro-grade platforms; XM combines a wide CFD list with extensive education; and Saxo stands out for serious traders and investors who want direct access to global markets beyond CFDs.Rather than looking for a single “best multi-asset broker,” define the assets you need, your platform preferences, your capital level and how actively you trade. Use that to create a shortlist of two or three brokers from this list, open demo or small live accounts, and compare execution, support and reporting in real conditions. That practical comparison will usually make it clear which multi-asset broker fits your strategy best for 2026 and beyond.FAQWhat is a multi-asset broker?A multi-asset broker is a firm that lets you trade more than one asset class from the same account and platform. Instead of only trading forex, you can also access indices, commodities, shares, ETFs or cryptocurrencies (usually via CFDs), and in some cases direct investing in cash products like stocks or bonds.Why use a multi-asset broker instead of separate brokers?Using a multi-asset broker means you can manage all your positions, margin and funding in one place. This makes it easier to monitor risk, move capital between strategies and react quickly to market events without switching platforms or providers.Which multi-asset broker is best for beginners?For beginners, brokers like XM and Axi can be attractive because they combine a clear MT4/MT5 setup with education and relatively simple account structures. However, beginners should still start with small position sizes, use demo accounts first and make sure they understand CFD and leverage risks.Which multi-asset broker is best for advanced or high-volume traders?Active and high-volume traders often look at Exness and Pepperstone for tight pricing, fast execution and platform choice, or Saxo if they want deeper access to cash products, options and futures in addition to CFDs. The best choice depends on whether you focus mainly on CFDs or also on direct market access products.Can I trade real stocks and ETFs with these brokers, or only CFDs?It depends on the broker. Exness, Axi, Pepperstone and XM focus mainly on CFDs (including stock and index CFDs), while Saxo offers both CFDs and direct investing in real stocks, ETFs and other cash products. Check the product list for your country on each broker’s website.What platforms do multi-asset brokers usually offer?Most multi-asset CFD brokers support MT4 and/or MT5, sometimes alongside proprietary platforms or web terminals. Saxo uses its own platforms (SaxoTraderGO and SaxoTraderPRO). When choosing a broker, make sure the platform supports the assets and order types you actually need, and that the mobile app is good enough for your style of trading. This article was written by Finance Magnates Staff at www.financemagnates.com.

OKX rolled out a crypto payment card across Europe today (Wednesday), entering a crowded market where Binance, Kraken, and Crypto.com already offer similar products. The Malta-based exchange is positioning its offering around self-custody, letting users keep control of their assets until they swipe at checkout.FinanceMagnates.com has also learned that the company is monitoring the situation but does not plan to join the rush into traditional assets seen among competitors, fueled by record-high prices for gold and silver.OKX Debuts “Self-Custody” Crypto Card in EuropeThe OKX Card works with 150 million Mastercard merchants and integrates with Apple Pay and Google Pay. According to the press release, users can spend stablecoins stored in their own wallets, with funds automatically converted to local currency at the point of sale. The exchange says there are no transaction fees and no foreign exchange costs."OKX Card is uniquely integrated with our Smart Wallet architecture," Erald Ghoos, CEO of OKX Europe, told FinanceMagnates.com. "It provides a direct bridge between self-custodied assets and the real economy with no transaction fees and a seamless user experience within the OKX app."The card runs on EU payment licenses and operates under MiCA regulations. OKX publishes monthly Proof of Reserves reports and says its approach differs from competitors, who require users to deposit funds into custodial wallets before spending.While it is true that the OKX Card is integrated with OKX’s Smart Wallet, which is a self-custody solution (the user is responsible for their own private keys), at the moment, when a payment is made, the cryptocurrency must pass through OKX’s infrastructure to be converted into fiat and processed through Mastercard’s network. In practice, this creates a brief custodial moment during the transaction.Crowded Crypto Card SpaceThe launch comes as payment cards have become a standard feature among large crypto exchanges. Binance introduced its debit card back in 2020, while Kraken recently linked its Krak Card rollout to MiCA compliance. Earlier this month, Crypto.com partnered with Stripe to let merchants accept crypto at checkout while receiving fiat.During the launch period, VIP users get up to 20% cashback in crypto on eligible purchases, while other customers receive 15%. The exchange hasn't specified how long the promotion will last but said it plans to maintain "competitive crypto cashback" over the long term.When asked how the company profits from zero fees and high cashback, Ghoos said the card serves as an ecosystem play. "By removing transaction and FX costs, we're making it easier for users to stay active within the wider OKX ecosystem, where revenue is generated through regulated trading, earning, and financial services," he explained.OKX obtained its MiCA license a year ago. In the meantime, Malta, where the company’s European operations are based, imposed a $1.2 million fine on the exchange for past anti–money laundering failures. Regulators also examined a potential link between OKX and the laundering of about $100 million originating from the Bybit exchange.Exchange Avoids TradFi Asset RushWhile OKX is pushing into payments, it's taking a different stance on another trend sweeping crypto platforms. Rival exchanges like Bitget and BingX have jumped into gold and traditional asset trading as precious metals prices surge. Binance added silver perpetual contracts earlier this month after silver rallied nearly 120% year-over-year.Ghoos said OKX isn't rushing into that space. "We're watching the gold and traditional asset rally closely, but we're not rushing into real-world assets," he told FinanceMagnates.com. "Our priority is to continue building institutional-grade crypto infrastructure with strong liquidity, risk controls, and regulatory compliance."He also claimed that the payment card itself brings digital assets closer to traditional finance without compromising on security standards. "At the same time, the OKX Card brings digital assets closer to everyday TradFi payments, allowing us to follow rigorous standards for trust and utility," he said.Regulation Seen as Competitive AdvantageAsked about customer concerns over MiCA and the new DAC8 tax reporting framework, Ghoos dismissed the idea that users would flee to unregulated platforms. "Security is our foundation: we operate fully within the MiCA framework," he said. "While unregulated platforms exist, we believe the long-term winners will be those who provide security, trust, and full compliance, which are essential for mass adoption."The exchange claims more than 100 million users globally. In October 2025, the exchange partnered with Standard Chartered, which became OKX custodian in the EEA region. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Upvest has partnered with Boerse Stuttgart to enable banks and fintechs across Europe to offer securitized derivatives trading through its Investment API. The deal connects Upvest's client network to Stuttgart's platform hosting more than 2.5 million derivatives instruments.Securitized derivatives rank among the most actively traded products in European retail markets. Boerse Stuttgart processed roughly 3 billion euros in securitized derivatives monthly as of recent trading statistics, with the exchange holding the position as Europe's market leader in exchange-traded securitized derivatives.API Model Cuts Launch TimeAccording to the press release, financial institutions using Upvest's infrastructure can now add derivatives trading without developing proprietary settlement or reporting systems. The API handles exchange connectivity, regulatory compliance, and risk management, reducing the technical burden on banks and brokers looking to expand product offerings."Through our Investment API, it will now be as easy to offer securitised derivatives trading as ETFs or stocks," Martin Kassing, Upvest's CEO and co-founder, said.[#highlighted-links#] "By handling all of the operational and regulatory complexity, we're giving financial institutions a decisive advantage in terms of scalability, modularity, and cost."In the meantime, Zopa added investment products through Upvest in November 2025 to compete with larger rivals in the UK market. Earlier that month, IG expanded into French stock trading using the same infrastructure provider as competition intensified for European retail investors.The Berlin-based company processed over 100 million orders in 2025, up from 20 million the previous year. Clients include Revolut, DKB, Santander's Openbank, bunq, and N26.Stuttgart Exchange Brings VolumeBoerse Stuttgart Group operates exchanges in Germany, Sweden, and Switzerland as the sixth largest exchange group in Europe. The Stuttgart exchange specializes in retail market access and high-volume derivatives trading, with leverage products and investment products comprising the bulk of its securitised derivatives turnover."We are delighted to welcome Upvest as a new trading participant," said Dragan Radanovic, chief business officer of Boerse Stuttgart Group. "In our partnership, we provide efficiency, transparency and liquidity in securitised derivatives trading to Upvest's client network of financial institutions and fintechs across Europe."Romanian Bank Adds TradingSalt Bank in Romania partnered with Upvest in October 2025 to launch securities trading for 500,000 customers. The neobank integrated investment features directly into its mobile app without building separate infrastructure.Boerse Stuttgart has expanded beyond traditional exchange operations into digital asset infrastructure. The group launched Seturion, a dedicated platform for tokenized asset settlement, in September 2025 after testing in European Central Bank blockchain trials.Upvest, founded in 2017, now operates in more than 20 European markets and employs 275 people. The company raised 100 million euros in Series C funding in December 2024. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Turtle (https://www.turtle.xyz/), a leading on-chain liquidity distribution protocol, has announced a strategic partnership with Chainlink (https://chain.link/), the industry-standard oracle platform, to accelerate the institutional adoption of on-chain capital markets.Turtle selected Chainlink CCIP and Data Feeds due to Chainlink’s proven security, making it a requirement for safe, risk-minimized liquidity provisioning. Through this partnership, Turtle becomes a preferred liquidity partner for the Chainlink ecosystem and has integrated Chainlink’s data and interoperability standards to curate, verify, and distribute institutional-grade dealflow across blockchain networks.Building the Investment-Banking Layer for Onchain FinanceTurtle acts as the coordination and distribution layer for on-chain liquidity, allowing anyone to participate in the origination, structuring, due diligence, and distribution of on-chain financial assets and instruments. Standardizing how protocols raise liquidity, build their secondary market of integrations, and establish utility for their digital and/or tokenized RWAs. The Turtle platform connects hundreds of institutional liquidity providers (LPs) and over 410,000 wallets across multiple ecosystems.By making Chainlink CCIP and Data Feeds a requirement, Turtle strengthens its liquidity routing and risk assessment systems. When curating new markets, Turtle leverages Data Feeds to determine asset pricing and CCIP to enable cross-chain rebalancing. Each transaction routed through Turtle will benefit from Chainlink’s tamper-proof pricing data and highly secure cross-chain interoperability. “Our mission has always been to bring investment-banking structure and discipline to on-chain liquidity,” said Essi, CEO of Turtle. “Chainlink provides the trusted data and interoperability standards that allow us to scale that mission globally. Together, we are setting the foundation for how capital moves on-chain.”Curating Institutional DealflowTurtle will collaborate directly with the Chainlink ecosystem to support financial institutions, protocols, and funds entering tokenized assets, yield products, and cross-chain opportunities.By making CCIP and Data Feeds a requirement for Turtle’s liquidity infrastructure it creates a highly reliable, cross-chain liquidity layer. Institutional participants gain access to verified on-chain opportunities with consistent pricing, yield transparency, and standardized risk metrics.“This strategic partnership with Turtle is significantly accelerating the expansion of institutional liquidity moving on-chain. Through Chainlink CCIP and Data Feeds, Turtle delivers highly secure cross-chain support to institutional LPs at scale. This is a major step towards defining how liquidity is originated, routed, and priced across on-chain capital markets.” — Michael Mendes, Head of DeFi, Chainlink Labs Toward Standardized Onchain Capital MarketsTurtle and Chainlink share a vision for secure, programmable, and verifiable financial infrastructure. This partnership is making on-chain liquidity markets as structured, compliant, and data-driven as traditional capital markets, while remaining open and globally accessible.About TurtleTurtle is a liquidity distribution protocol that acts as a coordination layer between protocols and liquidity providers. It standardizes how liquidity is sourced, structured, and deployed on-chain by replacing fragmented, ad-hoc negotiations with transparent dealflow, measurable incentives, and programmable distribution rails. To date, Turtle has coordinated over $5.5 billion in liquidity and serves a global network of more than 410,000 participants, making it one of the largest liquidity coordination networks in crypto. Users can learn more at turtle.xyz. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Retail Investors Are Rightly Riding on Trends, but How Smart Are They?Cartoon character Yogi Bear was not one for underestimating his intelligence, cunning or ability to outsmart park rangers to steal picnic baskets. In the past, regulators have been guilty of similarly underestimating the abilities of retail investors, an approach that is undermined by recent research suggesting they were more astute than might have been expected during the major market events of 2025.A report published by liquidity provider Winterflood Securities has analysed the trading activity of UK retail investors, examining more than 97% of trade flow from the retail market for equities and ETFs. This amounted to £228 billion worth of trade flow across almost 26 million trades last year, based on data from 150 retail-facing counterparties.Heightened levels of retail investor activity were identified in the vicinity of Donald Trump’s Liberation Day proclamation, when traders were rewarded for ‘buying the dip’ after the inevitable U-turn on tariffs arrived.There was also plenty of selling done in advance of the November budget announcement, when markets were in a state of flux over concerns about tax hikes.‘In short, retail investors behaved as rational economic actors in an unsettled environment, reinforcing the case for broader access to a range of investment products, in line with government and FCA policy,’ said the report.According to Winterflood, the data shows that retail investors have a strong sense of trends and events and how to deal with them, and that engaging with this segment of the market requires recognising retail investors for their expertise and considered approach to investing.The report was published on the same day the UK government, Financial Conduct Authority and London Stock Exchange launched the ‘Bond with Britain’ campaign, designed to encourage retail investors to invest in corporate bonds. This coincides with broader reforms aimed at increasing retail participation in capital markets, including easier access to investment products.Key changes include a reduction in the time a prospectus must be publicly available before an IPO, new ‘targeted support’ for investments, and permitting long-term asset funds in stocks and shares ISAs.Don’t Succumb to Acronym ConfusionThe mere mention of collateralised debt obligations, or CDOs, is enough to make the average investor break out in a cold sweat. The role these instruments played in the 2008 financial crisis, by mixing high-risk subprime mortgages with seemingly safe, triple-A-rated securities, has been well documented.The CLO (collateralised loan obligation) could be said to have suffered collateral damage from the fact that every CLO is effectively a CDO. But this is to ignore a key difference between the two, namely that CLOs hold pools of senior secured corporate loans, whereas CDOs also include riskier assets.Investors should avoid falling into the trap of guilt by association, according to Edwin Wilches, co-head of securitised products at PGIM, who reckons there has rarely been a better time to familiarise investors with the facts about an asset class that aligns with current investor demand to increase yield, reduce risk and enhance diversification.Senior secured corporate loans represent the primary collateral in CLOs. The loans are pooled into a special purpose vehicle, which issues securities in tranches offering various levels of risk and return potential. This ability to build CLOs with bespoke mixes of assets and grades could be described as a uniquely appealing feature of an asset class that offers the prospect of attractive income, credit resilience and diversification.Wider product availability has made CLOs more accessible to retail investors, and these instruments have compared favourably to other fixed income offerings over the last 12 months, with the lowest potential, non-default annual return a bondholder can receive comparing well against global aggregate bonds and US Treasuries.Wilches favours CLOs because they do not have the idiosyncratic risk associated with traditional fixed income instruments. “This creates a very robust cash flow for times where credit stress might pick up, and AAA and AA CLOs, in particular, can shield investors from some of those idiosyncratic risks that we are not sure about yet, but we know will eventually come,” he says.Look Beyond the US for ValueIn previous columns, I have explored some of the issues around US equity valuations, for example, the likelihood that valuations have been driven artificially higher in part by investors borrowing record sums from brokers to buy stocks.I have also explored the argument that European equities are underpriced and offer better value than their US counterparts.It was therefore interesting to read an analysis of equity valuations that suggested US equities were priced at a point where investors could not afford to ignore the benefits of diversification.*EUROPEAN MARKETS FINAL 2025 PERFORMANCE:??SPAIN'S IBEX 35 +48.2%??ITALY'S FTSE MIB +30.7%??GERMANY'S DAX +22.3%??BRITAIN'S FTSE 100 +20.2%??EURO STOXX 50 +17.8%??FRANCE'S CAC 40 +10.3%??NETHERLANDS AEX +7.2% pic.twitter.com/qMMOQzgPpD— Investing.com (@Investingcom) January 1, 2026A chart comparing 12-month forward price-to-earnings ratios across MSCI regions relative to their own 20-year histories shows that US equities are close to their highest ever level at approximately 22.6 times forward earnings, while European equities are trading at a multiple of 15.1. Japanese equities are trading closer to US levels, but still only at 17.3 times forward earnings.One of the themes that emerged from the analysis was recency bias, another topic that has been covered here previously, with investors willing to keep paying a premium for equities that have generated good returns recently and underestimating the capacity of markets to turn.This is important in the context of valuations that are not only higher than anywhere else in the world, but considerably higher. In fact, the premium investors are paying to hold US equities is sitting significantly above the long-term average, which raises the risk that other markets are being ignored despite potentially offering better value.This is not to say that investors should dump these assets, as the US premium could hold up for longer than expected. But historically high relative valuations reduce the margin for error when it comes to making decisions on risk and leave investors more exposed to bad news. This article was written by Paul Golden at www.financemagnates.com.

Match-Prime Liquidity has appointed Dubai-based executive Kareem Harras as Head of MENA, tasking him with leading the firm’s expansion across the Middle East and North Africa. The move underlines the liquidity provider’s push to win more business from brokers and trading firms in a region that continues to attract global players.Harras is expected to drive regional strategy, oversee client acquisition and deepen relationships with brokers and other institutional clients that tap its liquidity solutions. He will operate from Dubai, a key hub for FX and CFD providers that target traders across the Gulf and wider MENA markets.New Regional Head for MENAHe brings extensive experience in trading and brokerage roles, including senior business development posts at regional and international firms. Before joining Match-Prime, he served as Vice President of Business Development at neobroker amana. Additionally, his earlier positions include Head of MENA Sales at OnePro and senior roles at Exinity, ATFX Arabic, and MultiBank Group.Other recent moves: Digital Prime Broker GCEX Recruits CoinW Executive for MENA PushMatch-Prime provides multi-asset liquidity to brokers and institutional clients and has highlighted MENA as a growth market as more firms seek technology-driven liquidity and infrastructure.Match-Prime Targets Growth in MENABy installing a dedicated regional head with a long track record in the local brokerage space, the firm aims to strengthen its presence and sharpen its offering for clients in the region.Match‑Prime Liquidity is a regulated provider that supplies Forex and CFD brokers with market prices and spreads across a wide range of currency pairs, metals, indices, and crypto assets. The liquidity provider earlier introduced an upgraded cryptocurrency liquidity service designed for CFD and forex brokers, expanding its coverage of major and minor digital assets. The solution provides brokers with greater flexibility through higher leverage limits and increased net open position thresholds, catering to growing institutional demand for crypto-based trading instruments. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.