Kenya’s parliament has passed a bill to regulate digital currencies and virtual assets, moving the country closer to formal oversight of its fast-growing crypto market. The Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, approved last week, now awaits President William Ruto’s signature to become law.Digital assets meet tradfi in London at the fmls25The legislation sets out clear licensing rules for crypto issuers and exchanges, a development that aims to improve investor confidence and attract fresh investments into Kenya’s fintech sector.This move could position Kenya as a key hub for crypto innovation in Africa, as the country seeks to attract more investments amid a booming digital finance environment.A Dual Regulatory StructureThe Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill 2025 delineates responsibilities between two main bodies. The Central Bank of Kenya will oversee the licensing of stablecoins and other virtual assets, while the Capital Markets Authority will regulate exchanges, brokers, and trading platforms.Parliament passes virtual asset law to boost crypto investments https://t.co/zPLOL69ZTF— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) October 14, 2025This approach replaces an earlier proposal for a separate regulatory authority, streamlining supervision under existing agencies with mandates adjusted to cover the crypto sector. Operators will face strict requirements, including client fund segregation and compliance with anti-money laundering protocols.As digital assets gain global traction, governments struggle to balance innovation with risk management. Kenya’s legislation draws inspiration from regulatory models in the US and the UK, aiming to reduce vulnerabilities such as fraud and money laundering often associated with anonymous crypto transactions. Strategic Importance Amid Stablecoin SurgeThis law coincides with a global surge in US dollar-backed stablecoins. Regulators worldwide warn that these stablecoins can destabilize the currencies of less developed economies. Kenya’s law, by bringing stablecoin issuance under central bank oversight, seeks to protect monetary stability while fostering innovation.You may also like: Worldcoin Ordered to Delete Biometric Data in Kenya Over Privacy BreachKenya’s population, especially younger demographics aged 18 to 35, increasingly uses virtual assets for trading, payments, and business. The precedent set by Kenya’s mobile financial service innovations, notably M-Pesa, highlights the country’s readiness to adopt new financial technologies.While virtual assets have grown globally over the past decade, a lack of regulation has sparked concerns. With this new bill, Kenya addresses those regulatory gaps, aiming to remove the sector from a prior gray area and bring it in line with international standards.Early this year, Kenya stepped up its plans to legalize cryptocurrencies and expand its digital economy. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi highlighted the potential of virtual assets for cross-border transactions and investment, signaling a shift from the country’s previously restrictive approach to digital currencies.? JUST IN: Kenyan Finance Minister John Mbadi reveals plans to draft legislation to legalize cryptocurrency pic.twitter.com/nldurpauK8— Crypto Briefing (@Crypto_Briefing) January 10, 2025Despite a longstanding ban, cryptocurrency use has grown underground. The government now intends to create a regulatory framework to oversee virtual assets (VA) and virtual asset service providers. Mbadi emphasized the importance of balancing innovation with oversight, noting that the growth of digital assets has brought both opportunities and challenges to Kenya’s financial system. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

The U.S. Department of Justice has seized about $15 billion in bitcoin linked to a man accused of running a large “pig butchering” crypto fraud in Cambodia. The DOJ said it is the largest forfeiture in its history, CNBC reported.Chen Zhi, also known as “Vincent,” remains at large. He is accused of leading Prince Holding Group, a Cambodia-based conglomerate prosecutors say operated as a major criminal network across Asia.DOJ Alleges Bribery in Crypto SchemeThe group allegedly ran forced-labor compounds where trafficked individuals were made to conduct crypto scams. Victims, often contacted online, were persuaded to transfer funds with promises of investment returns. Prosecutors say the money was stolen and laundered.Digital assets meet tradfi in London at the fmls25Authorities also allege Zhi and his associates used political influence and bribery to protect the operation in multiple countries.? Explosive News! ?? The DOJ just pulled off its biggest seizure ever, confiscating $15B in #Bitcoin from a massive 'pig butchering' scam operating out of ?? Cambodia.Is now the moment for a ?? Strategic #Bitcoin Reserve? ? #crypto #btc #CryptoCommunity pic.twitter.com/KQ67rOpRU3— TheCryptoRadar⭐ (@thecryptoradar1) October 14, 2025SEC Warns About Rising Pig ButcheringMeanwhile, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy has launched a public campaign to raise awareness about relationship-based investment scams, often called romance scams, financial grooming scams, or “pig butchering” schemes. ‘Dating or Defrauding?’ a Joint Effort to Alert Online Daters, Social Media Users of Relationship Investment Scams: https://t.co/n7uIO6n5wC pic.twitter.com/avtZ1WoJyp— CFTC (@CFTC) February 10, 2025These scams typically start with unsolicited messages on social media or dating apps, where scammers build trust over time before convincing victims to invest in fraudulent opportunities. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has also initiated a similar campaign, “Dating or Defrauding?”, highlighting nearly $4 billion in losses last year. The SEC’s campaign includes educational videos, resource pages, and guidance advising investors to avoid unknown contacts, be skeptical of unsolicited offers, and report suspicious activity. Officials emphasized that such scams can result in billions of dollars in losses annually, underlining the importance of investor vigilance. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Liquidnet has entered the US equity options market, expanding its multi-asset execution and hiring two senior traders to lead the buildout. The company appointed Andrew Arnold and Jason Lichten to develop high-touch and low-touch options execution services for institutional clients.The move marks an expansion for the agency broker, which has focused heavily on equities and fixed income in recent years. The launch positions Liquidnet to compete in one of the fastest-growing segments of listed derivatives.Join buy-side heads of FX in London at fmls25Experienced Traders Join BuildoutArnold joins as Senior Execution Trader for high-touch US equity options. He previously held senior roles at Credit Suisse, Cantor Fitzgerald, Baycrest, Tullett Prebon, and GFI. He will be responsible for servicing institutional clients requiring complex, negotiated options execution.“Expanding into US Equity Options is a logical next step in our multi-asset strategy. The market has seen sustained growth over the past several years, and we see clear opportunities to deliver value to our Members by extending our execution expertise into this space,” commented Chris Blackburn, the Global Head of Multi-Asset at Liquidnet.Lichten will develop Liquidnet’s electronic options capabilities as Senior Execution Trader for low-touch options. He brings more than two decades of experience from Wolverine Execution Services, RBC Capital Markets, BT Radianz, and Merrill Lynch.“The continued electronification of the US options market presents real opportunities for innovation,” Lichten said. “Liquidnet’s technology-driven model provides a strong foundation for growth.”Multi-Asset Strategy AdvancesLiquidnet Global Head of Multi-Asset Chris Blackburn said the expansion reflects client demand for broader execution services. “Expanding into US Equity Options is a logical next step in our multi-asset strategy,” he said. “The market has seen sustained growth, and we see clear opportunities to deliver value by extending our execution expertise into this space.”The business will complement Liquidnet’s existing equities and derivatives operations, which serve more than 1,000 institutional investors across 57 markets. The firm is part of TP ICAP Group, which owns several execution and data businesses.The US equity options market has seen record volumes in recent years, driven by institutional hedging strategies and rising volatility. Liquidnet plans to scale its options capabilities through 2025 and integrate them into its global trading platform. The firm said the launch reinforces its agency execution model and supports growing demand for multi-asset trading strategies.Expect ongoing updates as this story evolves. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

StriveFX, a global forex and CFD broker, has added cTrader, a multi-asset trading platform developed by Spotware, to its platform offerings. The integration provides StriveFX clients with an additional trading option suitable for different levels of experience.Meanwhile, Brokerpilot has integrated its risk management software with cTrader, enabling brokers to monitor trades, assess risk, and analyze data in real time. The platform targets retail forex, cryptocurrency, and commodity brokers, providing centralized tools to oversee trading activity, detect potential fraud, and manage operations from a single dashboard.StriveFX Expands with cTrader IntegrationThe platform is available across iOS, Android, web, desktop, and Mac. It supports 23 languages and aims to deliver a consistent trading experience across devices. StriveFX clients can use cTrader’s copy trading features and access a community of over 8 million users. Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!Platform Adds Algorithmic and Referral FeaturescTrader also supports algorithmic trading through cBots and custom indicators with cloud execution. The cTrader Store provides access to prebuilt bots, indicators, and plugins. Alerts and notifications are available for price movements, order updates, and broker messages.The platform includes plugin and API integrations, with over 100 third-party tools for analytics, reporting, payments, and other workflows. A referral system, cTrader Invite, allows introducing brokers and partners to share links and track client referrals within the platform.cTrader Integrates MAP FinTech Compliance ToolsMAP FinTech has partnered with Spotware to integrate regulatory reporting capabilities into the cTrader platform. The integration allows brokers to manage transaction reporting, trade surveillance, and best execution monitoring for regulations such as EMIR, MiFIR, and SFTR without switching between systems. The approach aims to reduce administrative burden while maintaining compliance across multiple jurisdictions. MAP FinTech processes reporting for over 200 clients globally. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Belgium’s Financial Services and Markets Authority (FSMA) has issued a fresh warning to the public after uncovering a growing network of fraudulent online trading platforms targeting European investors. The regulator says the schemes promise fast profits but rely on deception, pressure tactics, and fake trading dashboards to steal funds from unsuspecting users.Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!Using Aggressive Recruitment TacticsThe fraudsters are now employing new tactics, including contacting victims through sponsored social media ads, fake news articles, and fabricated endorsements using public figures.Other schemes exploit dating apps, WhatsApp messages, or so-called investment “clubs” to initiate contact. In many cases, scammers pose as financial advisers or acquaintances who claim to offer private earning opportunities.Once victims engage, they are urged to sign up on professional-looking trading platforms and deposit an initial sum, often around €250. Some scammers request remote access to victims’ devices to “assist” with account setup, a move that exposes bank logins and personal data to cyber theft.After the first deposit, victims are shown simulated profits to create the illusion of successful trading. In reality, no trades take place. Fraudsters use this illusion to pressure victims into investing more money. The FSMA notes that high-pressure phone calls, time-bound offers, and intimidation are common tactics.Withdrawals expose the fraud. Victims who request their funds face delays and are told to pay invented taxes or fees. In most cases, the platform blocks withdrawals and cuts contact once victims resist further payments.Related: Scammers Are Posing as Bank CEOs in WhatsApp Groups to Steal Your MoneyAccording to the FSMA, several of the flagged platforms use pyramid-style recruitment. Victims are encouraged to bring in new investors with promises of referral bonuses, while earlier withdrawals are financed with incoming deposits. The model collapses once recruitment slows.Platforms Placed on Warning ListThe FSMA has added more than 20 websites to its blacklist. These include: Finance Legend, Aurudium, BerryPAX, Boosty Flow, Deal-Traders, Fintradix, HashXCapital, Lamaco (clone), Lesrouleaux, Nobu Invest, Priv-Solutions, ProfitBee, RiseGrandAction, Total-Profits, Windelagence, XH Pro, and others linked to fraudulent activity.The regulator warns that these sites target investors across Europe and frequently rebrand under new names once discovered.The regulator also warns against so-called “recovery room” scams, where fraudsters contact previous victims and offer to recover lost funds for an upfront fee. These operations are often run by the same networks behind the original fraud.It is not the first time that FSMA has issued such a warning. Recently, the regulator flagged suspected online trading platforms functioning like pyramid schemes, using misleading claims of profitability and fabricated investment dashboards to win the trust of victims. The platforms initially appear legitimate, but their model depends on continuously recruiting new investors rather than generating real trading profits. These schemes typically use deposits from new participants to pay supposed returns to earlier investors, creating the illusion of success. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Crypto asset manager Algoz has doubled its assets under management (AUM) to more than $200 million and will launch a Cayman Islands-based fund with a US Feeder, FinanceMagnates.com learned exclusively.Algoz Doubles AUM to $200M, Opens Cayman Fund for US InstitutionsThe Israeli-based firm, registered as a Commodity Trading Advisor (CTA) with the National Futures Association (NFA), said the new fund structure will allow US professional institutions to invest in its quantitative trading strategies. Algoz crossed the $100 million AUM threshold in the first half of this year, managing more than 50 self-managed accounts for institutional clients. Now, the AUM doubled."Our Self managed account solution has been superb, propelling us to over $200 million in AUM,” CEO Tal Teperberg commented in a statement shared with FinanceMagnates.com. “However, we discovered many family office and allocators simply didn't have a mandate to invest in an SMA and so we believed the time was right to make a battle hardened and successful Market Neutral strategy available to a much wider investment group.”The new Cayman fund will run Algoz's Market Neutral strategy, which the company says generates returns with low volatility regardless of broader cryptocurrency price movements. The fund will accept investments in US dollars, Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana.The firm targets family offices, institutional allocators, and digital asset treasury companies looking for alternatives to simply holding tokens. Fund assets will be held through Algoz's custody protection product and traded using an off-exchange settlement system designed to reduce counterparty risk.Custody Partnership Addresses Institutional ConcernsAlgoz partners with Zodia Custody, the digital asset custodian backed by Standard Chartered, National Australia Bank, and Northern Trust, to provide segregated cold storage for client assets. The arrangement follows a pattern the firm established in 2023 when it launched its Quant Pro product to eliminate counterparty risks that have deterred institutional investors."Investors will still get our custody protection model, thanks to our partnership with Zodia, and now be able to invest in a regulated, managed, and audited fund structure. We are excited for the prospect of this fund," Teperberg said.The master-feeder structure using a Cayman exempted company with a US Feeder vehicle has become common for crypto investment funds seeking to accommodate both US taxable investors and international clients. The arrangement allows professional investors to allocate capital through familiar regulatory frameworks while maintaining exposure to digital asset strategies.Firm Built Infrastructure After Exchange CollapsesAlgoz developed its off-exchange settlement approach and custody protections following high-profile failures of crypto exchanges including FTX. The 2022 collapse exposed how exchanges commingled customer funds, prompting regulatory action against major platforms by the Securities and Exchange Commission.The firm's Quant Pro product, launched in 2023, uses off-exchange settlements through Bitfinex and custody infrastructure that keeps client assets separate from exchange and management company balance sheets. Stephen Wundke, Global Business Development Director at Algoz, said at the time that if all three parties in the relationship failed, customers would still retain their coins."The wallet holds the coins entrusted and protects it from being hacked or malfeasant. It protects it in the way it would, but it's held in trust. It's not the asset of the custodian," he commented.Algoz requires a minimum investment of $100,000 from professional and accredited investors. The firm allows clients to change strategies once per month without cost and permits withdrawals without the 30- to 90-day lockup periods common in traditional hedge funds.The company was founded in 2016 by Teperberg and registered with the CFTC and NFA as a CTA. It also holds SWAP firm registration with the NFA. The firm manages more than 40 institutional accounts and has said it plans to scale capacity to $500 million in AUM. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Nexo has expanded its platform to include trading in global forex, commodities, and stock indices. The move allows clients to trade Contracts for Difference on gold, silver, oil, major stock indices, and key currency pairs. Leverage options are available on certain assets.The expansion comes through a partnership with MetaTrader 5. Clients can now access tools and features used by professional traders and institutions. The integration works on both mobile and web devices.Nexo Adds CFDs on Global MarketsNexo users can trade CFDs on equity indices, including US500, US100, US30, and DE40. Commodity CFDs include gold, silver, oil, and platinum. Major currency pairs are also available. Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!The platform provides charting tools, built-in indicators, and customizable interfaces. Algorithmic trading is supported through Expert Advisors.Nexo is a digital assets platform offering crypto savings, loans, trading tools, and liquidity solutions. Since 2018, it has served clients in over 150 jurisdictions, managing $11 billion in assets and processing $370 billion. The platform provides flexible crypto financial services through a single integrated system.Nexo Integrates MT5 With Credit LinesExecution is optimized for speed and market responsiveness. Clients can fund their MT5 accounts using Nexo Credit Lines, borrowing against digital assets without selling them. Leverage of up to 200x is offered on select asset classes.Asset transfers between Nexo and MT5 accounts are handled directly through Nexo’s interface. This allows users to move assets without logging into external platforms.Nexo integrates MetaTrader 5, enabling clients to trade CFDs on indices, commodities and FX, and fund accounts with crypto-backed loans for seamless trading. https://t.co/bftKY1lbku— Blockchain Reporter (@blockchainrptr) October 14, 2025Nexo Resumes UK OnboardingEarlier, Nexo paused new client registrations in the UK ahead of updated FCA rules on financial promotions and first-time investor protections. Last year, the platform resumed onboarding after updating its systems to meet FCA guidelines and partnering with Gateway 21 for compliance.UK users are now required to complete Investor Categorisation and Appropriateness Assessments, including risk and knowledge checks. Nexo also restructured its UK operations, disbanding two subsidiaries, while confirming its continued presence in European markets. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Soul Diomande has shared on LinkedIn today (Tuesday) that he is joining Wisuno Group as Chief Marketing Officer. On the post, he wrote: “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as CMO at Wisuno Group.”Wisuno Appoints New CMO From Taurex and ATFX UKBefore this, he worked at Taurex for over two years. At Taurex, he served as Head of Africa Region for about a year and a half, based on-site in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Prior to that, he was Head of Affiliate Marketing at Taurex in a hybrid role for over two years.Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!Earlier in his career, Diomande was Head of Affiliate Marketing at ATFX UK for more than four years, based in Greater London, England. He also held the position of Affiliate Manager at IG.Wisuno is the trading name of Wisuno Limited, a CFD broker regulated by the Financial Services Authority of Seychelles. According to the company, it is part of a group of affiliated firms operating in multiple jurisdictions.More Moves with Taurex: Regional Heads NamedRecently, Taurex welcomed Thomas Selby as Commercial Director for Africa and Latin America. Selby joins the broker from SquaredFinancial, where he spent nearly two years as Chief Sales Officer. He has more than 15 years of experience in online trading.He has also worked at OneRoyal, OctaFX, Exinity, and FxPro. At Exinity, he held several roles and left as Commercial Director after eight years. He has held other senior positions, including Head of Europe Desk and Global Head of Sales at FXTM and Alpari.Earlier this year, Taurex appointed Dennis Yeh as Head of Asia. Yeh previously worked at IC Markets as Head of APAC and China and now leads Taurex’s operations and growth across Asia. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

The Financial Conduct Authority has released plans to support tokenisation in asset management. According to the regulator, the initiative aims to promote innovation and efficiency across the sector, including new guidance to help firms adopt digital technology with greater clarity.Tokenisation Benefits Professionals More Than RetailRetail investors could indirectly benefit. Tokenisation may lower costs, improve fund operations, and expand access to investment products, allowing smaller investors to participate in diversified or private funds once limited to institutions.Digital assets meet tradfi in London at the fmls25Matthew Smith of EC Markets sees tokenisation as valuable but likely more relevant to funds and professional investors than retail. Most retail clients may lack the time or expertise to assess tokenised securities, and broader awareness and educational materials will be needed.[#highlighted-links#] Tokenisation Could Lower Costs, Expand AccessThe UK hosts about 2,600 asset management firms overseeing £14 trillion in assets for domestic and global clients. The FCA said it wants to help the sector adapt as investment practices evolve. Tokenisation, which represents assets digitally on distributed ledger technology, may help asset managers remain competitive.According to the regulator, tokenised products could increase competition, broaden distribution, and make investing more accessible. The approach may also help reduce fund management costs by improving data sharing and reconciliation between firms.Framework Prepared for Tokenised FundsSimon Walls, Executive Director of Markets at the FCA, said tokenisation could bring “fundamental change” to the industry. He added that existing rules already allow many of these developments and that the FCA is ready to collaborate on the next stage.The proposals include guidance for operating tokenised fund registers under the current framework, a simplified model for buying and selling fund units, and a roadmap to address barriers such as blockchain settlement. The paper also explores how tokenisation models could develop and how regulation might progress. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Gold shattered records today (Tuesday), October 14, 2025, reaching $4,179.48 per ounce as investors rushed into safe-haven assets amid escalating US-China trade tensions and mounting expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts. Bank of America responded by lifting its 2026 gold price prediction to $5,000, the one of the most bullish prediction among major financial institutions.Gold Record-Breaking Rally Accelerates TodaySpot gold surged 1.7% intraday on Tuesday, breaking above $4,100 for the first time in history just 36 days after crossing $3,500. December futures climbed 1.9% to $4,185.50, while the yellow metal has now posted eight consecutive weekly gains. Year-to-date performance stands at an extraordinary 57%, marking gold's strongest annual showing since 1979.And why is the price of gold going up today? The rally gained momentum after President Trump threatened a "massive increase" of tariffs on China, promising 100% tariffs on Chinese imports effective November 1. China retaliated with new port fees on US vessels and tighter rare earth export controls, sending nervous investors scrambling for protection. Silver joined the precious metals surge, hitting an all-time high of $53.60 per ounce.How High Can Gold Price Go? Technical Analysis Points to $4,300-$4,470 RangeMy technical analysis of gold's chart reveals immediate intraday resistance at $4,170 per ounce, with critical support levels identified at $4,059 (October 8 highs) and $3,944 (local lows from October 9-10 sessions). The psychologically significant $4,000 level will also serve as crucial support during any corrective pullback.Applying Fibonacci extensions to the current trend structure suggests initial upside targets above $4,300 per ounce, with the 161.8% extension landing near $4,470, closely aligning with Standard Chartered's $4,488 forecast for 2026.These technical projections from my technical analysis, however, sit approximately $500 below the ambitious $5,000 targets from Goldman Sachs and Bank of America.Bank of America's Ambitious Gold Price Prediction: $5,000 TargetBank of America became the second major institution to project gold at $5,000 per ounce for 2026, with an average price forecast of $4,400. The bank's metals team emphasized that "the White House's unorthodox policy framework should remain supportive for gold given fiscal deficits, rising debt, intentions to reduce the current account deficit/capital inflows, along with a push to cut rates with inflation around 3%".While acknowledging the possibility of a near-term correction, BofA maintains that sustained investment demand could drive further gains. The bank calculates that a 14% increase in investment demand, similar to 2025's pattern, would be sufficient to propel gold to the $5,000 milestone. Societe Generale echoed this bullish sentiment, also forecasting $5,000 by end-2026, while Goldman Sachs raised its December 2026 target to $4,900.Carsten Menke of Julius Baer said he maintains a positive outlook for both gold and silver, noting that any signs of speculative fatigue “should not cause a correction, but rather a short-term and temporary setback,” since the overall fundamentals remain supportive. He added that the key forces behind the record rally, slower U.S. growth, lower interest rates, and a weaker dollar, are still in place.Gold Price Prediction TableWhy Gold Is Surging? 4 Main ReasonsFederal Reserve Rate Cut Expectations Fuel MomentumMarkets assign a 97% chance that the Federal Reserve will cut rates by 25 basis points at its October 28–29 meeting, according to CME FedWatch data. Another cut in December would lower the federal funds rate to 3.75%–4%. Lower yields reduce the opportunity cost of holding gold, boosting its appeal versus interest-bearing assets.Massive ETF Inflows Signal Institutional ConvictionGold-backed ETFs have attracted $64 billion year-to-date, with a record $17.3 billion in September alone, the largest monthly inflow on record. North American funds accounted for most of the activity, with daily trading averaging $6.5 billion.Central Banks Continue De-Dollarization PushOfficial sector purchases remain a key driver. Goldman Sachs expects central banks to buy 80 metric tons monthly in 2025 and 70 tons in 2026, led by emerging markets diversifying from US Treasuries, now at their lowest holdings since 2013.Multiple Catalysts ConvergeTrump’s renewed tariff threats, a weaker dollar, the government shutdown, and inflation near 3% are combining to sustain gold’s momentum. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned the shutdown could slow growth but remains hopeful for US–China talks later this month.Gold trading volumes jumped 34% in September to $388 billion daily, setting 13 new record highs. COMEX volumes rose 58%, and Shanghai activity climbed 84%. Gold Price Analysis FAQWhy is gold pice at record high?Gold reached record highs due to Federal Reserve rate cut expectations (97% probability for October meeting), escalating US-China trade tensions with 100% tariff threats, massive ETF inflows exceeding $64 billion year-to-date, central bank diversification away from US dollars, and safe-haven demand amid economic uncertainty.Will gold continue rising?Yes. Major institutions expect further gains, with Bank of America forecasting $5,000 by 2026, Goldman Sachs predicting $4,900, and technical analysis suggesting targets of $4,300-$4,470 in the near term, though short-term corrections remain possible[user].What is gold price prediction for 2025-2026?Bank of America projects $5,000 per ounce in 2026 (average $4,400), Goldman Sachs forecasts $4,900 by December 2026, Standard Chartered expects $4,488 average for 2026, while Wheaton Precious Metals CEO predicts $5,000 within one year and potentially $10,000 by 2030.Should I buy gold now?Yes, you should, however, gold investments carry volatility risks despite current momentum. Prices have surged 57% year-to-date and may experience near-term technical corrections toward $4,000 support levels before resuming upward trajectory toward institutional price targets, requiring careful consideration of individual risk tolerance and portfolio diversification goals. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Two entities under the GCEX Group, GC Exchange FZE and GC Exchange A/S, have enhanced their fiat banking rails by partnering with financial infrastructure provider OpenPayd. Announced today (Tuesday), GCEX’s European clients will have access to EUR and GBP transactions, while UAE-based clients will have USD access.Join stablecoin builders in London at the FMLS25..Enhancing Fiat Payment Options“This partnership with OpenPayd is an important step in strengthening our fiat capabilities for institutional and professional clients,” said Lars Holst, CEO and Founder of GCEX.The company stressed that OpenPayd’s infrastructure will offer GCEX’s institutional and professional clients, including brokers, hedge funds, and asset managers, faster and more efficient payment services.According to GCEX, these enhancements will allow their clients to make faster cross-border payments and improve liquidity management.“Together, these enhancements improve the trading experience for our clients and ensure the highest standards of compliance across jurisdictions,” Holst added.[#highlighted-links#] Localising Payments Is the KeyOpenPayd, which has made its name by offering embedded finance solutions, FX, domestic and international payments, Open Banking, and stablecoin on/off ramps, provides services to several major brands.Some of its well-known clients include eToro, Kraken, OKX, and B2C2. The platform also claims to process more than €130 billion in annual volumes for over 800 businesses.“As digital asset markets evolve, institutional clients need financial infrastructure that can keep pace with their demands,” said Lux Thiagarajah, Chief Commercial Officer at OpenPayd. “Our focus is to help businesses move and manage money globally and, through this partnership, GCEX can ensure their clients benefit from fast and flexible access to global banking networks.”Meanwhile, GCEX recently acquired GlobalBlock, a crypto brokerage specialising in wealthy clients with more than $60 million in assets under management. It also launched a mobile trading app for institutional crypto and FX clients. This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.

Following a series of milestones that have strengthened its position in the digital investment landscape, Evest continues its remarkable journey in 2025, having recently received two prominent awards that highlight its leadership and market trust. The company was recognized among the Top 100 Trusted Financial Institutions of 2025 at the Middle East Financial Markets Awards, and also won the title of Best Broker in the GCC region for 2025 at the Forex Expo Dubai 2025, acknowledging its commitment to transparency and innovation in electronic trading services.Building on this dual success, Evest crowned its achievements with an exceptional celebration at the Museum of the Future in Dubai, hosting a special event to mark the success of four consecutive seasons of its discussion program “Evest Talk.” This program is the first of its kind launched by a financial brokerage firm within the Museum of the Future, combining technology and knowledge to redefine engagement between traders, investors, and financial decision-makers.During the event, Ali Hassan, CEO of Evest, said:“These awards are not just recognition of our past; they are a responsibility for the future we aim to shape with greater confidence. At Evest, we believe that innovation begins with an idea, and that trust is built through real experiences that traders live every day. Today, as we celebrate the success of four seasons of Evest Talk at the Museum of the Future, we affirm that dialogue is the bridge between knowledge and opportunity.”The event was attended by a select group of investors, experts, and financial content creators, alongside representatives from regional media and economic institutions. The celebration featured a visual showcase of Evest Talk’s journey since its launch, highlighting the platform’s role in simplifying the world of trading for Arab investors and enhancing financial awareness through interactive discussions and continuously updated educational content.Evest also presented its latest technologies in artificial intelligence for financial analysis and demonstrating its commitment to supporting regional traders with advanced tools and reliable services in line with its vision to be the most transparent and trusted platform in the Middle East.The celebration concluded with a special dinner hosted by Evest at Mundo Restaurant in the Emirates Towers, bringing together the company’s team, senior guests, and partners in a festive atmosphere reflecting the success of a new season of excellence and innovation, and highlighting the family spirit that unites the company’s employees and partners worldwide.With this remarkable event, Evest confirms that it does not rest on its achievements but builds on them to maintain its leadership as a financial institution that combines innovation, knowledge, and trust in a market that continues to reshape the future of trading in the Arab world. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

OpenAI makes a multibillion-dollar bet on bespoke silicon as it doubles down on AMD and edges out Nvidia reliance.The Energy Behind IntelligenceLet’s be blunt: artificial intelligence (AI) is an energy guzzler. Running large models—especially inference at scale and real-time interaction, means billions of flops, memory bandwidth, and networking. As AI systems proliferate, the power draw is no longer an afterthought. In announcing its 10 GW deal with Broadcom, OpenAI said the deployment would begin in the second half of 2026 and finish by 2029.We're partnering with Broadcom to deploy 10GW of chips designed by OpenAI.Building our own hardware, in addition to our other partnerships, will help all of us meet the world’s growing demand for AI.https://t.co/3vLZFPO0jF— OpenAI Newsroom (@OpenAINewsroom) October 13, 2025Ten gigawatts is not trivial. To put it in perspective, 10 GW would be enough to power more than 8 million U.S. households. Why go custom? Because dependence on general-purpose AI accelerators (hello, Nvidia) means you're subject to supply, margin, and roadmap constraints. Building your own gear (or co-designing) lets you tailor the stack: chip, memory, interconnects, software. In the Broadcom deal, OpenAI will design the accelerators; Broadcom will build and deploy them. One more twist: Broadcom’s networking tech (Ethernet, etc.) is intended to be integrated with this stack. This is, perhaps, an opportuninty for OpenAI and Broadcom to displace Nvidia’s InfiniBand technology.When AMD and Broadcom MeetOpenAI isn’t putting all its eggs in one chip basket. In early October 2025, it struck a multi-year deal with AMD to deploy 6 GW of Instinct GPUs over several generations. The first tranche, 1 GW, will begin deploying in the second half of 2026. That AMD arrangement includes an interesting wrinkle: AMD issued OpenAI warrants to acquire up to 160 million shares (about 10 %) at a nominal price, vesting as deployment and share-price milestones are met.BREAKING: Broadcom stock, $AVGO, surges over +13% after signing a "multi-billion dollar chip deal" with OpenAI.Broadcom will build custom data center chips for OpenAI and the deal covers 10GW of compute capacity.Broadcom now up +$200 BILLION of market cap today. pic.twitter.com/NzktpbSmFo— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) October 13, 2025Taken together, those agreements (Broadcom and AMD) suggest OpenAI is diversifying its compute partnerships while retaining leverage in its stack. It’s not abandoning Nvidia (which recently pledged 10 GW of systems), but it is signaling it wants more control.If the math holds, OpenAI could control or influence some 16 GW of compute across custom accelerators, AMD GPUs, and Nvidia systems (plus third-party cloud or collaborative deals). That level of scale is not just ambitious, it’s borderline industrial.Power, Scaling, and RiskThis isn’t a vanity project. AI compute is on a Moore’s-Law–lite treadmill: the more models, the deeper the memory, the fatter the activation traffic, the bigger the cluster. The connections between compute and energy are multiplying.Yet risks abound. Designing a chip is one thing. Executing yield, software stack maturity, cooling/infrastructure, supply chain (memory, packaging), and the ramp from prototype to volume are where dreams often die. Just ask Intel.OpenAI and Broadcom signed a multiyear agreement to collaborate on custom chips and networking equipment, planning to add 10 gigawatts’ worth of AI data center capacity. Caroline Hyde reports https://t.co/hdsxCxOY5l pic.twitter.com/QdYRMI4PSm— Bloomberg TV (@BloombergTV) October 13, 2025Also, the financing is staggering. Even at $50B–$60B per GW (a benchmark that’s often cited when talking about AI infrastructure) the Broadcom component can easily run into the hundreds of billions. OpenAI’s revenue is orders of magnitude smaller today. That implies heavy leverage, pre-commitments, and bet-the-future construction. Analysts have warned of the mismatch between OpenAI’s spending commitments and its current cash flow. “What’s real about this announcement is OpenAI’s intention of having its own custom chips,” said analyst Gil Luria, head of technology research at D.A. Davidson. “The rest is fantastical. OpenAI has made, at this point, approaching $1 trillion of commitments, and it’s a company that only has $15 billion of revenue,” Gil Luria, head of technology research at D.A. Davidson said to AP in an interview.Still, for those who say “this is too much,” remember: AI is now as much about infrastructure as algorithms. The winners will be those who master both.What this Means for the AI Arms RaceNvidia’s dominance is challenged, not toppled, custom chips rarely beat incumbents early.AMD gets a line into the compute mix by partnering rather than competing head-on.Broadcom gets elevated from networking parts to full AI silicon and stack supplier.OpenAI tightens control over its destiny: fewer black boxes, more custom layers.The Broadcom deal is audacious. The AMD deal is clever. Combined, they’re a bold wager: that compute is no longer a cost center, it’s the central battlefield of AI.If these deals succeed, OpenAI might well emerge not just as a model house but a compute juggernaut. If they fail (in yield or funding), it could crowd out liquidity and distract attention from model advances. Either way, AI infrastructure just got a lot more interesting.For more stories around the edges of fintech, visit our trending pages. This article was written by Louis Parks at www.financemagnates.com.

France's financial regulator approved operating rules for what will become the country's first stock exchange built entirely on blockchain technology, clearing the path for small and mid-sized companies to list tokenized shares for direct retail investor trading.France Clears First Tokenized Stock Exchange for SME TradingThe Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) signed off on LISE SA's 72-page rulebook on October 13. The approval allows LISE to operate as both a multilateral trading facility and settlement system using distributed ledger technology once it receives final authorization from French banking regulators.LISE will function under the European Union's Pilot Regime, an experimental regulatory sandbox launched in 2022 that lets market operators test blockchain-based trading infrastructure with certain exemptions from traditional securities rules. The platform targets French companies valued below €500 million offering them an alternative to conventional exchanges like Euronext."The Pilot Regime is an experimental regulation that allows the creation of market infrastructures on which individual investors can trade directly," the document states.Traditional stock exchanges are late to join the tokenized stocks trend, which has been gaining momentum since 2024. Until now, the market has been dominated by cryptocurrency and CFD platforms, but the industry, projected to be worth $2 trillion within five years, is starting to attract interest from old-school bourses as well. Among the recent entrants is Boerse Stuttgart, while New Zealand’s exchange is also considering a similar move.Trading Without Traditional IntermediariesThe platform breaks from standard market structure by letting individual investors trade tokenized stocks (Titres Tokénisés) directly without going through brokerage accounts. Each user receives a digital wallet that records share ownership on the blockchain, cutting out the custody and settlement layers that typically sit between investors and their holdings.LISE's rules require that retail participants pass a knowledge test covering blockchain technology and associated risks before gaining trading access. The platform will only accept French joint-stock companies and limited partnerships by shares. At least half of all listed issuers must qualify as small or medium enterprises (or SMEs) with market capitalizations under €200 million. Total value of all tokenized securities admitted to the platform cannot exceed €6 billion, a cap set by the EU's experimental framework.One of the biggest advocates of tokenized shares at the moment is Robinhood, whose CEO, Vlad Tenev, calls this form of trading the future.Settlement Happens in Real TimeLISE combines trading and settlement functions on a single infrastructure, collapsing the typical two-day gap between trade execution and final ownership transfer. The system operates continuously, processing transactions and recording ownership changes on the blockchain within seconds of order matching.Companies listing on LISE must convert all outstanding shares into tokenized form recorded on the platform's distributed ledger. Shareholders wanting to hold shares in traditional registered form would need to remove them from the blockchain system, though LISE can maintain a separate registry for those holdings under a mandate from the issuer.Companies going public on LISE can raise capital through either public offerings or private placements exempt from prospectus requirements. The platform will handle subscriptions for new share issuances while simultaneously running secondary market trading for already-listed securities.Regulatory Limits on Experimental PlatformFrance's implementation of the EU Pilot Regime restricts who can access DLT-based markets and what can trade on them. LISE's rules prohibit high-frequency algorithmic trading and ban participants from offering direct electronic access to third parties.The platform operates under a three-year experimental window that can extend to six years, after which it must either transition to standard regulatory treatment or shut down. Companies going public on LISE can raise capital through either public offerings or private placements exempt from prospectus requirements.The rapid rise in the popularity of tokenized stocks over the past several months has prompted regulators worldwide to respond. For example, the U.S. SEC has shown a supportive approach, with Commissioner Hester Peirce stating that she is ready to engage in dialogue with the industry. China, on the other hand, aims to curb asset tokenization, according to Reuters, while ESMA has suggested that transferring shares onto the blockchain could mislead investors.The final authorization allowing LISE to begin operations has not yet been granted. The rules approved October 13 will take effect once that clearance comes through. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Salt Bank started offering securities trading to its Romanian customers through a tie-up with German-based Upvest, bringing international market access to users of the year-old digital bank.The bank's 500,000 customers can now buy and sell securities through their existing mobile banking app. Salt Bank, which launched in October 2024, has become one of Romania's faster-growing financial apps since its debut.Discover how neo-banks become wealthtech in London at the fmls25Banca Transilvania, Southeast Europe's largest financial group, backs the digital bank. The investment feature represents Salt Bank's first move beyond standard banking products like accounts and payments.As for Upvest itself, this month it also expanded its partnership with the UK branch of the broker Webull, which added access to London-listed shares after introducing fractional stock trading in June, also enabled by the Berlin-based fintech.Salt Bank Targets Wealth Management MarketSalt Bank plans to add features and expand the investment offering after the initial launch. The bank reached its current customer base in twelve months, though it hasn't disclosed revenue figures or profitability metrics."At Salt, banking has always been about people — about giving them the freedom to move at their own pace, in a way that feels right for them," said Gabriela Nistor, Salt Bank's CEO. "With Salt Investments and our partnership with Upvest, we wanted to take that freedom even further: for people to be able to invest globally."The move puts Salt Bank in competition with other Romanian financial apps adding investment features. Traditional Romanian banks have offered brokerage services for years, though typically through separate platforms rather than integrated banking apps.The investment product is currently limited to Romanian customers. Salt Bank hasn't announced timing for potential expansion to other markets where Banca Transilvania operates.Upvest Trading Infrastructure to Handle Growing VolumeUpvest's Investment API powers the new service, connecting Salt Bank's app to global securities markets. The Berlin company, founded in 2017, processes more than 100 million trades each year for clients including Revolut and Openbank. Among the partners is also the challenger bank N26.Martin Kassing, Upvest's CEO, pointed to Salt Bank's growth rate as evidence of demand for modern financial products. "We are proud to partner with them on their journey into investments and to provide the investment infrastructure that enables their end users to access securities effortlessly and at a low cost," he said.The platform handles trading execution, custody, and back-office operations. Salt Bank customers pay transparent fees for trades conducted within the mobile interface they already use for banking.Upvest employs 250 people and counts Earlybird and Bessemer Venture Partners among its investors. The company remains independently managed by founders Martin Kassing, Til Rochow, and Tobias Auferoth. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Clearwater, Florida, October 14th, 2025, FinanceWireVetted Prop Firms announces the launch of its innovative online platform, recently established to help traders navigate the complex industry of proprietary trading firms. The new review website delivers standards-based evaluations and metrics-driven rankings of prop firms, giving traders unmatched clarity in their selection process.The platform has already become a vital resource in the trading industry, where selecting the right prop firm often determines a trader’s success. Through its structured evaluation framework, Vetted Prop Firms examines trading conditions, capital allocation, profit splits, and risk management protocols across multiple firms.Beyond these core evaluations, what sets the service apart is its uncompromising independence and the use of measurable assessments. Every firm undergoes rigorous evaluation across critical parameters, including platform stability, trader satisfaction, withdrawal reliability, and customer support responsiveness. Listing verified offers from prop firms adds another layer of value, granting traders access to premium services at reduced rates.“Our mission is to create a trusted resource where traders can make informed decisions about their prop firm partnerships,” states Fred Harrington, the Head of Platform Development at Vetted Prop Firms. “By providing detailed, metrics-driven reviews alongside exclusive discounts, we’re helping traders optimize their journey in the finance industry.”Powered by a comprehensive data-validated ranking system, Vetted Prop Firms weighs community feedback, historical performance, and regulatory compliance to ensure fairness. Each review delivers a clear analysis of fee structures, funding programs, and scaling opportunities, helping traders align with firms that best fit their goals. For traders seeking a reliable resource, the company’s website serves as a hub of transparent insights and tools to guide smarter decisions in the prop trading space.In a sector where openness is paramount, Vetted Prop Firms maintains strict editorial independence throughout its review process. Its methodology examines dispute resolution procedures, refund policies, and trader satisfaction rates. This thorough approach helps users avoid pitfalls and identify opportunities aligned with their objectives.The website features an intuitive interface that simplifies comparisons. Traders can filter firms based on measurable criteria such as minimum capital requirements, maximum drawdown limits, and profit-sharing structures. This functionality strengthens its role as a tool for finding the prop firm that matches each trading style.Looking ahead, Vetted Prop Firms plans to expand with educational resources, market analysis tools, and real-time updates on performance metrics. These initiatives reflect its continued commitment to fairness and clarity, while further enhancing the platform’s value for the trading community.The platform addresses a critical need in the prop trading sector by delivering clear, actionable information about firm selection. Its comprehensive rankings of prop firms give traders confidence by breaking down complex fee structures, trading rules, and potential restrictions before financial commitments are made.To learn how Vetted Prop Firms blends standards-based rankings with exclusive discounts to transform the prop trading journey, users can visit https://vettedpropfirms.com, and connect with the team on Twitter/X @vettedpfAbout Vetted Prop FirmsVetted Prop Firms is an independent review and analysis platform in the proprietary trading industry. The site blends standards-driven research, community insights, and objective metrics to deliver transparent evaluations of prop firms. By combining impartial guidance with verified offers from prop firms, it empowers traders to make smarter choices and gain a competitive edge. Its mission centers on clarity, fairness, and measurable reviews that simplify firm selection for traders worldwide. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

ATFX Connect, the institutional and technology-focused arm of ATFX, is set to showcase its market insights, technology solutions, and industry expertise at iFX EXPO Asia 2025, taking place in Hong Kong from 26–28 October at the AsiaWorld-Expo.Visit ATFX Connect at Booth #2 to explore advanced trading platforms, tools, and discover tailored solutions for institutional traders.ATFX Connect Speakers at the EventATFX Connect will be represented at iFX EXPO Asia 2025 by seasoned professionals who will join the speaker lineup to share their expertise and industry insights:Siju Daniel, Chief Commercial Officer of ATFXWei Qiang Zhang, Managing Director, ATFX Connect GlobalIvan Wong, Managing Director of Institutional Business, APAC, ATFX ConnectNick Twidale, Chief Market Analyst of ATFX AustraliaThese experts bring years of experience in FX trading, market analysis, and financial technology, offering insights to help attendees navigate today’s dynamic trading landscape.Engage with ATFX ConnectAttendees can explore the latest developments in FX and commodities trading for institutional clients, with a strong focus on Prime of Prime liquidity solutions and the newly launched ConnectX trading ecosystem designed to enhance trading and execution, while discovering ATFX Connect’s innovative trading platforms and technology solutions. They will also gain insights from industry experts and connect with professionals to discuss solutions for institutional traders. ATFX Connect continues to invest in technology-driven services, empowering clients worldwide with transparent, client-focused solutions.Join ATFX Connect at the iFX EXPO Asia 2025, and experience how the company is shaping the future of trading.For more information, visit www.atfxconnect.com This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Leading liquidity provider CBCX will unveil its new brand identity and award-winning liquidity solutions as a Diamond Sponsor at iFX EXPO Asia 2025 in Hong Kong.As a recognised leader in liquidity, CBCX has confirmed its role as a Diamond Sponsor at iFX EXPO Asia 2025, the region’s premier fintech gathering in Hong Kong (26–28 October). The company will introduce its enhanced brand identity — “Liquidity in Motion” — a theme that reflects both the dynamic nature of today’s financial markets and CBCX’s focus on delivering agile, technology-driven liquidity solutions to professional counterparties worldwide.What to expect at CBCX Booth #32As a Diamond Sponsor, CBCX will showcase both its refreshed brand identity and the infrastructure that underpins its role as a global liquidity provider. At Booth #32, the company will highlight how its institutional framework supports professional counterparties, combining multi-asset coverage, execution stability, and transparent reporting. Beyond the updated visual identity under the slogan “Liquidity in Motion”, the firm will provide an inside view of the technology integrations and operational standards that define its approach.CBCX’s Response to 2025 Market TrendsThe institutional liquidity landscape in 2025 is being shaped by demands for speed, resilience, and transparency, with global trading activity increasingly centred on Asia. Multi-asset coverage and seamless integration are now baseline expectations for professional platforms. CBCX has invested in a state-of-the-art infrastructure designed to meet these evolving requirements. Its framework combines robust aggregation and routing that ensure execution stability during volatile sessions, workflow integration embedded as standard, and full-spectrum multi-asset liquidity aligned with counterparties’ demand for broader coverage. Alongside this, CBCX provides transparent performance analytics, enabling objective evaluation of execution quality. These capabilities position CBCX to support institutional participants as they navigate complex liquidity conditions, while reinforcing its brand commitment to keeping “Liquidity in Motion.”Strategic Partnerships Driving Regional GrowthAs part of its regional growth strategy, CBCX has continued to broaden distribution through selective partnerships in Asia. In March, the firm entered a collaboration with Hong Kong-based m-FINANCE (MFI), a wholly owned subsidiary of NASDAQ-listed mF International Limited (Nasdaq: MFI). The collaboration reinforces CBCX’s reputation as a trusted partner. Looking ahead, CBCX plans to continue cultivating partnerships of this kind as part of its long-term presence in Asia, and the company looks forward to enhancing engagement with professional counterparties across the region.Industry Recognition of CBCXCBCX’s commitment to institutional standards and excellence in liquidity provision has been recognised through multiple industry awards in recent years. In 2024, the company was awarded Best B2B Liquidity Provider APAC at the UF Awards, and received the title of Most Trusted Liquidity Provider for Professional Trader and Asset Managers from IFINEXPO. These distinctions reflected CBCX’s growing footprint across Asia.Building on that recognition, CBCX was awarded Best Forex Trade Execution Asia at Wiki Finance Expo, acknowledging the firm’s emphasis on execution quality and operational transparency. Most recently, the company was named Best Liquidity Provider by BrokersView—an accolade that further reinforces CBCX’s position as an industry leader.These awards highlight the company’s strengths in deep liquidity, execution stability, and trusted partnerships, and demonstrate how CBCX continues to align its services with the evolving demands of institutional clients worldwide.About CBCXThe CBCX Group was founded in 2011 and is an award-winning multi-asset liquidity provider committed to providing a secure, compliant and efficient trading environment. CBCX has offices in the UK, South Africa and Mauritius, with subsidiaries regulated in some of the world's most reputable jurisdictions. CBCX offers seamless access to a diverse range of markets, including Forex, Precious Metals, Commodities, Indices, Futures, and more. With top-tier liquidity and advanced trade execution, CBCX ensures a competitive trading environment for its clients. Traders worldwide benefit from cutting-edge technology, low-cost spreads, and multilingual support. Backed by extensive experience and resources, CBCX has established itself as the preferred liquidity provider for professional traders, asset managers, and brokers.To discover more about CBCX’s full product offering and expertise, please visit www.cbcx.com or email support@cbcx.com. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Tradeweb Markets (NASDAQ: TW) has hired Rich Chun to run its Asia operations, bringing in a three-decade fixed income veteran to oversee the electronic trading platform's expansion in a region where the company posted double-digit revenue growth this year.Tradeweb Names Fixed Income Expert to Lead Asia PushChun, who will be based in Hong Kong as managing director and head of Asia, joins from HPS Investment Partners, where he served as a portfolio manager and set up the firm's Hong Kong office. He will report to Enrico Bruni and Troy Dixon, Tradeweb's co-heads of global markets, and manage business operations and client relationships across the Asia Pacific region."Tradeweb's success has always been rooted in listening to our clients and helping them navigate evolving markets," Bruni said. "Rich Chun brings extensive industry insight to help us deepen those relationships and deliver even more value to the local investment community."The hire comes as Tradeweb's international operations recorded 41% revenue growth year-over-year in the second quarter of 2025, reaching $215 million and accounting for roughly 42% of total revenue. The company's average daily trading volume rose 33 percent to $2.6 trillion during the same period.Last month, the company led the series C funding round of Fnality, alongside WisdomTree and KBC Group. Fnality uses a distributed ledger to link wholesale markets with tokenized assets and closed the latest round with $136 million.Experience Spans Buy-Side and Sell-Side RolesChun spent nine years at HPS Investment Partners and previously worked seven years as a portfolio manager at Claren Road Asset Management, helping shape that firm's regional approach. Before moving to the buy side, he worked 14 years at Citigroup in multiple trading positions, including a stint as head of credit trading for Asia and co-head of emerging market credit trading in the region.His background includes positions on both sides of the market. At Citigroup, Chun also led Asia cash bond trading and the Asian syndicate desk, and spent six years trading on the firm's U.S. high yield desk in New York."I am honored to join Tradeweb at such a dynamic time for financial services in Asia," Chun said. "Tradeweb has earned its reputation as a trusted partner and innovator across asset classes, and I look forward to engaging with our talented team and clients to develop new technologies that help unlock new opportunities and efficiencies."Regional Electronification Lags Global MarketsElectronic trading penetration in Asia Pacific fixed income markets remains low compared to the U.S. and Europe, with some estimates placing electronification rates at 5 to 10 percent of total volumes. Market fragmentation and lower liquidity in many products have slowed the shift away from voice trading and chat-based execution.Still, buy-side and sell-side firms in the region have increased adoption over the past five years, driven by efficiency gains, better transparency and regulatory requirements around best execution. Click-to-trade protocols have gained traction for more liquid securities.Dixon said the firm sees room for growth as markets become more interconnected. "As financial markets become increasingly electronified and interconnected, I am excited to welcome Rich to our Asia team to continue scaling our local business," he said.Tradeweb, which went public in 2019, operates electronic marketplaces for rates, credit, equities and money markets. The company serves more than 3,000 clients in over 85 countries and facilitated an average $2.4 trillion in notional value traded daily over the past four fiscal quarters. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

[#highlighted-links#]Q1. We’re seeing a rise in 24/5 and even overnight trading, with investors wanting to react instantly to global market news. How is this trend reshaping brokerage payment strategies, and where do you see it heading?Investors don’t want to wait - they want to be able to react to global events in real time, and trade around the clock which requires being able to fund accounts instantly. Interactive Brokers, for example, reported a 446% jump in overnight trading in the first 6 months of 2024. The problem is, traditional rails like ACH or wires were not designed for instant and 24/7/365 trading. Additionally, for a global audience, stables allow a global, instant funding rail. Brokerages are rethinking their payments strategy, and stablecoins are emerging as the obvious solution to power always-on trading.Q2. Cross-border payments still face friction through traditional rails. What opportunities do you see for brokerages to better serve domestic and international customers through stablecoins?Funding with ACH, wires, or debit is slow, expensive, and has in-built limits. Stablecoins remove intermediaries and multiple hops, where hundreds of basis points are lost before you’ve even made a single investment. Enabling stablecoin account funding enables money to move instantly, across borders, and with lower fees. For international investors, this means cutting out multi-day settlement delays and FX conversion costs. In short, stablecoins make trading platforms far more accessible to investors everywhere.Q3. Stablecoin distribution through everyday apps has unlocked access for hundreds of millions globally. What’s the most transformative impact stablecoins are having on how investors fund their accounts?Stablecoins are quickly becoming a universal way to move money globally. Through everyday account apps like Nubank, PayPal, Revolut, Venmo and Robinhood, 750 million people have gained stablecoin access through their primary accounts. With the GENIUS Act, we believe stablecoins will become available to everyone via primary accounts (i.e. their bank accounts) within the next 12 months. The biggest shift we will see is instant account funding, where investors can react immediately to market moves, which drives higher engagement and volumes.Q4. What are some of the key challenges users experience when funding their accounts with stablecoins, and how is zerohash solving this?Today, users experience a complicated UX, wallet addresses, stablecoin assets, and network selection. Choosing the wrong chain for USDC or USDT can be stressful and costly. We support 12 stablecoins across 16 chains, which computes to 36,864 possible sender to recipient paths. In the future, we could be potentially supporting 100 stablecoins across 20 chains, that’s 2,000 stablecoin cross chain pairs, or 4M possible paths. We remove that complexity. Users do not need to think in terms of chains, bridges, or token standards. Zerohash handles the complexity so customers don’t have to. Just simple, universal account-to-account transfers - any asset, on any chain, anywhere. Our APIs and SDKs handle everything invisibly, with built-in compliance and transaction monitoring. Customers can even authenticate through apps they already use, like Coinbase, Nubank or Cash App, like they would today by connecting a bank account via Plaid. This replaces manually moving crypto, with automated and seamless account funding experiences.Q5. How does zerohash’s on-chain infrastructure abstract the complexity of stablecoin account funding for brokerages?We handle the entire flow, from address generation, to transaction screening, stablecoin-to-fiat conversion, and reconciliation. Brokers don’t touch crypto at all. From their perspective, they just receive fiat, while their customers can fund with stablecoins instantly. It’s operationally lightweight, where we take on the compliance and operational burden, and our customers simply integrate with our APIs and SDKs. Q6. How does zerohash’s stablecoin account funding work for both brokers and their customers?For customers, it’s simple, they deposit USDC, USDT, RLUSD, PYUSD, or any other stablecoin we support, across 23 chains, and see fiat in their brokerage account instantly. Moving crypto on-chain can be intimidating for users. To address this, we abstract away the complexity of manually entering deposit addresses. Instead, users are able to simply log in and authenticate through platforms like Coinbase, Kraken, or Cash App to authorize an on-chain transferFor brokers, they simply embed our technology natively into their existing payments stack, and offer stablecoins as an alternative account funding mechanism. We handle conversion in the background, and send real-time updates through webhooks. A good example of the unlocks brokerages experience with stablecoin account funding, powered by zerohash is tastytrade:“The upside of stablecoin account funding is massive: speed, simplicity, and global reach,” said Pete Mulmat, CEO of IG North America, the parent company of tastytrade. “With zerohash stablecoin account funding, we can now move money across jurisdictions in seconds, cut out costly intermediaries, and offer a frictionless experience for our customers around the world.”In just two months (Jul and Aug 2025), tastytrade unlocked:Effortless international expansion: Accounts funded across 46 countries, led by Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Australia, and Colombia.Broad stablecoin and chain coverage: Funding activity spanned multiple stablecoins across 14 chains.Larger funding sizes: Transaction sizes ranged from an average of $2.4k up to a single transaction of $495k.Rapid adoption: Stablecoin account funding grew 307% month-over-month.High value customer profile: Average user age 38.9 years (range 25–67).Q7. Regulation and compliance are often seen as barriers in the digital asset space. How has zerohash earned the trust of institutions like Interactive Brokers and BlackRock?We hold licenses across 200+ jurisdictions—including a NYDFS BitLicense, 48 U.S. state MTLs, and registrations in the EU, UK, Brazil, and Australia. That’s what gives institutions including Interactive Brokers and BlackRock the confidence to work with us.We apply enterprise-grade tools for on-chain AML, OFAC screening, Travel Rule checks, and source-of-funds verification. Tools like Auth streamline access by abstracting wallet formats, gas fees, and network costs, while compliance features such as fuzzy name matching help verify wallet identities against brokerage accounts.When accepting crypto and stablecoin payments, conducting full on-chain transaction monitoring is tablestakes. Additionally, under the Travel Rule, any transaction over $3,000 requires reporting the names of the individuals funding the transaction.When it comes to crypto and stablecoin deposits and withdrawals, the main focus of conversation is often around the source of funds, specifically, how do you verify that incoming funds are from legitimate sources.Q8. You’ve said the next decade of stablecoin growth will be defined by usability, not infrastructure. What innovations are you building to make that a reality?The infrastructure is already here, the next wave of adoption is usability and making stablecoins feel effortless for everyday use. We’re building things like transferable KYC, one-click funding, and wallet linking, so stablecoins feel like a native payment option rather than a crypto product. For brokers, that means smoother onboarding, higher conversion, and the ability to serve a truly global, digital-first investor base. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.