Helena Jarabakova has announced that she has joined TradingView as part of its Business Development & Partnerships team for the Americas. She shared the update on LinkedIn, stating that she will focus on expanding partnerships with exchanges, brokers, and fintech companies across the region.Former CME Director Joins TradingViewPrior to this role, Jarabakova spent over four years at CME Group in London. Her most recent position was Senior Director, Global Channel Partnerships, Retail, which she held for just over a year. Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!In that role, she led strategic growth initiatives to accelerate retail trading through partnerships with financial news outlets, trading platforms, and technology providers.Before that, she served as Director, Global Institutional Marketing in New York and London for six years.“I'm immensely grateful for the journey of growth, impact, and learning, and I'm particularly proud of the work we delivered to enable tremendous growth in retail trading, Jarabakova, commented on her CME tenure. Former GFI Marketing Head Joins IndustryJarabakova began her post-trade marketing career as Senior Director, Post-Trade Technology Marketing at OSTTRA in London, which she held for over two years.Before her tenure at CME Group, Jarabakova spent over ten years at GFI Group, including six years as VP, Global Head of Marketing in London and New York. In this role, she led the global repositioning of the GFI and Fenics brands, developing and executing unified marketing strategies across multiple regions and business lines.She oversaw product marketing, customer acquisition, and engagement initiatives, launching go-to-market campaigns for trading and analytics products in FX, credit, and interest rate derivatives. Her work included account-based programs, lead generation, and events to support commercial objectives. Earlier, she served as Marketing Manager in London for four years, executing integrated marketing strategies for fixed income trading and risk management tools. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Bybit, a cryptocurrency exchange, has secured the Virtual Asset Platform Operator License from the Securities and Commodities Authority of the United Arab Emirates. The license allows Bybit to operate regulated virtual asset trading, brokerage, custody, and fiat conversion services in the country.According to Bybit, it is the first crypto exchange to receive this full license from the SCA. The license follows the exchange’s In-Principle Approval received in February 2025, which was granted with support from the Blockchain Centre, Abu Dhabi.Bybit Plans Abu Dhabi, Dubai ExpansionThe SCA license follows Bybit’s regulatory developments in 2025, including obtaining a MiCAR license in May and resuming full trading operations in India in September.Digital assets meet tradfi in London at the fmls25Bybit plans to expand its UAE presence by opening a larger regional operations center in Abu Dhabi. The exchange aims to employ more than 500 staff across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It also plans to hire for compliance, operations, and customer service roles and introduce education and Web3 programs with local partners.“The UAE has emerged as a global leader in digital asset regulation, and this recognition underscores the strength of our security and governance standards,” Ben Zhou, Co-founder and CEO of Bybit, commented.History made in the UAE ??Bybit becomes the first crypto exchange licensed by the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) - a historic milestone that cements the UAE’s place at the center of global blockchain regulation.A new benchmark for security, transparency, and… pic.twitter.com/rV4c94BYqf— The Blockchain Center in Abu Dhabi (@adbc_ae) October 9, 2025Bybit Expands TradFi Platform with 24/5 Stock CFDsBybit has introduced 24/5 stock CFD trading on its TradFi platform, allowing users to access selected equities continuously on weekdays. The expansion removes previous limitations tied to U.S. market hours and aligns trading hours more closely with crypto markets. Since May 2025, the platform has reportedly added over 100 stock CFDs, including major technology and crypto-related companies. Existing positions and fees remain unchanged, and the firm is temporarily waiving transaction fees on selected stocks and indices. Bybit describes the update as enabling access to traditional financial products alongside its crypto offerings. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Interactive Brokers, a global electronic broker, has added new features to its professional tax planning toolkit. The firm launched Tax Planner, available through PortfolioAnalyst, its portfolio management platform. According to the firm, the tool works with existing tax-lot matching and tax loss harvesting features, aiming to give investors more control over the tax impact of their investments.PortfolioAnalyst Adds Tax and Budget FeaturesTax Planner allows users to create personal tax profiles using inputs such as income from other sources, deductions, withholdings, and tax rates. The tool combines this information with account activity to estimate tax bills and support year-round tax planning. Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!PortfolioAnalyst consolidates accounts from multiple institutions, tracks performance, and offers tools to analyze portfolios and plan for the future. Other features include Allocation Goals, a Retirement Planner, and a Budgeting Tool.Investors Can Manage LossesInteractive Brokers also continues to offer tax optimization features. These include tools for identifying losses across portfolios and matching trades with specific lots, supporting tax loss harvesting and management of capital gains and losses.Key features of the new toolkit include planning investment income alongside other taxable income, estimating total year-end taxes, identifying tax loss opportunities, previewing gains or losses before trades, and optimizing tax-lot matching.Interactive Brokers Reports September TradingIn September, Interactive Brokers reported accelerated activity across trading and financial metrics. Daily revenue trades averaged 3.86 million, up 47% year-on-year, while client equity reached $757.5 billion, marking a 40% annual increase. Margin loans rose to $77.3 billion, reflecting higher leveraged positions. Total client accounts climbed to 4.13 million, with net growth of 73,100 after adjustments for broker withdrawals. Average trades per client remained steady at 203. Commissions averaged $2.71 per cleared order, and trading costs were roughly 1.8 basis points per U.S. Reg-NMS stock trade. A $195,000 mark-to-market loss on U.S. government securities was reported. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Get ready to make a stand in the online trading and fintech space: 8 - 15 October!Whether you’re a broker or fintech provider expanding into Asia-Pacific (APAC) or have been there a while but have not yet come face-to-face with what success looks like, the UF AWARDS APAC 2025 are the definition of success. The fact that the number of companies registering for the UF AWARDS APAC increased significantly compared to the previous edition is vivid proof.Defining industry standardsThe UF AWARDS APAC have set the standard for what quality should be in online trading services and fintech. As traders’ interest continues to shape the financial space, industry players respond with stronger and more innovative offerings year after year. This year, the competition was tighter than ever. From flagship trading technologies to AI-powered tools and multi-asset trading service offerings to liquidity solutions, the brands registering across the Brokers and B2B categories of the UF AWARDS APAC 2025 truly deserve a place among the region’s best. Voters from across the entire industry are called to the polls to validate those who they believe have the power to reshape APAC’s fintech and online trading space.Your vote counts. Between 8 and 15 October, you will have the chance to make things happen by voting for the company or companies that you believe deserve this kind of recognition. View all the award categories here.A few golden rulesStructured and shaped by the dynamic of Asia-Pacific’s brokerage and fintech sector, the UF AWARDS APAC have one sole purpose: to acknowledge and celebrate excellence. Every year, among the usual ‘Best’ suspects, new names emerge, proving that innovation can take many forms and can shape demand.The winners are vetted by industry peers and acknowledged as leaders in their field. The voting procedure is transparent and straightforward. Below is a breakdown of the steps you need to follow to be able to vote and play a part in the industry’s future:Register or log in: If you have not yet registered on the UF AWARDS APAC 2025 website, now is the time to do so. Take your pick: Once logged in, browse through the categories available and choose the brand you feel best deserves APAC-wide recognition.Cast your vote: Every vote matters, so make it count! You can vote in multiple award categories, but only once in each category. This ensures transparency and fairness across the entire voting process. Ready to vote? Voting commences on 8 October! The power of one voteNow that the nominees have been confirmed, the decision-making power shifts to the industry. Traders and business players in the FX and fintech sectors are called to the polls to express their opinion and support the brands they believe in. Some of the unique value propositions considered in the Brokers category include asset coverage, service transparency and high performance, customer support, partnership/IB programmes, execution, and pricing. Comparatively, in the B2B category, voters will consider liquidity, advanced white label and prop trading technology, payment solutions, AI-based fintech solutions and how they influence the course of the industry.Securing an UF Award does not come easy. The Awards are a huge nod to the efforts made by the participants and their active involvement in raising the bar, each in their respective sector. By positioning the winners as industry leaders, the accolades validate the most innovative and forward-thinking businesses in APAC, opening the door to opportunities at scale. Truly the industry’s most credible awardsOver the years, the UF AWARDS have established themselves as the industry’s most credible awards. From MEA to Asia-Pacific and worldwide, they serve as an indication for the highest standard of quality and commitment to innovation, identifying the best companies to trade and partner with. Your vote can help traders looking for a broker in APAC choose the best there ever is, and technology buyers get the most suitable solutions. Cast your vote before 15 October and give a winning chance to those who deserve it most! This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

A former Israeli intelligence official is asking a court to force Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to turn over records of foreign bank accounts, cryptocurrency wallets, and overseas property as part of his defense against a $150,000 defamation lawsuit filed by the prime minister.But is it really possible to access such information, especially in the supposedly anonymous cryptocurrency market? Experts who spoke with FinanceMagnates.com say yes.Can Tax Authorities Really Track Netanyahu's CryptoDr. Udi Levi, who spent three decades with the Mossad, the National Security Council, and military intelligence, filed the legal response this week, calling Netanyahu's suit a tactic to shut down public questions about possible financial ties to Qatar. The court filing asks for records of foreign bank accounts, cryptocurrency wallets, and overseas property owned by Netanyahu and his family.In his court filing, Levi said he's received reports of witnesses who claim to have seen cash deliveries to the Netanyahu family, both inside Israel and abroad. He said those accounts included allegations of foreign bank accounts, digital wallets, and real estate purchases made with money that was never declared.[#highlighted-links#] Levi wants the court to compel Netanyahu to produce verified bank statements, cryptocurrency records, and property purchase documents for himself and his family members.The demands arrive at a moment when tracking crypto has become far more realistic than most people assume. Isaac Joshua, CEO of Gems Launchpad, said once funds pass through centralized exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, or OKX, analytics tools such as Chainalysis and TRM Labs can connect blockchain activity to verified identities.“The offshore privacy era is ending,” Joshua said. “Israeli holders should expect greater scrutiny and may consider voluntary disclosure before global data-sharing becomes fully automatic.”Israel has committed to adopting the OECD's Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework, known as CARF, which will create a standardized system for collecting and exchanging data on cryptocurrency transactions between countries. Through OECD information-sharing frameworks and CARF, more than 50 countries will automatically exchange crypto account data from regulated exchanges starting in 2027.There is still a long way to go before that happens. For now, from a procedural or political standpoint, it may be considered impossible. However, current technological solutions suggest otherwise.Blockchain Leaves Permanent TrailThe technical reality of crypto tracking has shifted dramatically in recent years. Matthew Stern, CEO of CNC Intelligence, explained to FinanceMagnates.com that the blockchain is an immutable ledger, which means even if it takes authorities time to catch up, the trail doesn't disappear.“Wallets can often be tied back to real identities,” Stern said. Analytics tools have become far more advanced, some even tracking cash-for-crypto schemes. “With governments and private players teaming up against money laundering and terror financing, Israeli traders should expect their overseas accounts to be within reach of tax authorities.”Levi wants the court to compel Netanyahu to produce verified bank statements, cryptocurrency records, and property purchase documents for himself and his family members. He also requested information on political campaign funding received by Netanyahu and his parties in the 2012 and 2018 elections.Stern’s view is echoed by Nathan Bekerman, Head of Product at Station70. Even if the funds were held in self-custodian wallets and not directly linked to any identity, “most blockchains are actually highly transparent, not private,” he said.“Every transaction is recorded on a public ledger, which means with the right analytics tools, tracing funds is often easier than hiding them,” Bekerman addedQatar Bribery Probe ContinuesThe demands come as Israeli law enforcement continues to investigate what's been called “Qatargate,” a scandal in which close aides to Netanyahu are accused of taking money from Qatar to promote Doha's interests in Israeli media. Two of Netanyahu's top advisers were arrested in connection with the probe, and court documents suggest they're suspected of accepting bribes and coordinating messages to journalists that portrayed Qatar favorably while downplaying Egypt's role in ceasefire negotiations.Netanyahu denied all of the allegations through his attorney Uriel Nizri, who called Levi's comments “sick and insane” and accused political opponents of spreading lies to bring down a sitting prime minister during wartime. The prime minister claimed Levi used his security background to give false legitimacy to what he called baseless conspiracy theories.Levi argued that Netanyahu, as a public figure, isn't immune from public scrutiny, particularly when there are credible questions about financial conduct. The former intelligence official said the radio interview was a good-faith call for transparency, not libel. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Exness Group opened its first regional office in Amman after obtaining a license from the Jordan Securities Commission (JSC), the company announced today (Thursday). The move places another international broker in a market where, until recently, the regulation of foreign exchange trading remained limited.Exness Secures Jordan Authorization, Launches First MENA HubIn a press release sent to FinanceMagnates.com, Exness emphasized that its Jordan branch is intended to strengthen the company’s presence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The country’s capital, with a population of 2.4 million, was described as the ideal location for this purpose.“This launch reflects our deep commitment to the Jordanian market and to traders across the region,” said Mohammad Amer, CEO of Exness Jordan. “With a regulated presence here in Amman, we are ensuring that local traders benefit from the highest standards of security, reliability, and trust.”Exness held a two-day event to mark the opening, culminating in a dinner for 120 attendees including company executives, partners, and media. From now on, The Amman office will serve as the company's MENA regional base.And the competition in the region is growing rapidly. This should come as no surprise, given the results, including trading volumes and revenues.Jordan and the MENA Region Becoming Increasingly Attractive for BrokersA month ago, Capital.com reported its financial results for the first half of 2025, showing that more than half of its trading volume came from the MENA region. Trading activity during the six-month period exceeded $800 billion (compared with $224 billion in Europe), marking a 54% increase compared with the second half of 2024.Interestingly, these results were achieved with only about 35,000 traders in the region, half as many as in Europe, yet they opened more and higher-value positions.Tickmill also reported record volumes in the MENA region last year, up 54% to $135 billion.As for Jordan, the local market has recently attracted several major players, including ICM.com and Windsor Brokers, while CFI Group has maintained a strong position there for years.13 Regulated EntitiesThe company registered its Jordanian entity, Exness Limited Jordan Ltd, with the Companies Control Department under registration number 51905. The broker, however, has not disclosed the size of its Amman office or local headcount. Exness Group operates 13 regulated offices globally with more than 2,000 employees. The broker, which was founded in 2008, claims over one million active traders globally across its various regulated entities.The JSC authorization joins Exness's existing licenses from regulators including the Financial Services Authority in Seychelles, the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten, and European authorities in Cyprus, Spain, and Germany. The company operates different entities under separate regulatory frameworks depending on jurisdiction. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Exness, the global multi-asset broker, was recognized as the “Most Client-Oriented Broker” at Forex Expo Dubai 2025, which took place from 6–7 October 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Center. The award underscores Exness’ reputation for transparency, reliability, and a client-first approach, reinforcing its role as a global leader in multi-asset trading.Attended by tens of thousands of professionals, brokers, fintech companies, and investors from around the world; Forex Expo Dubai is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious gatherings in global finance. As an Elite Sponsor, Exness played an active role across the two-day event, showcasing its better-than-market trading conditions and engaging with global traders and partners.Exness leaders also contributed to some of the Expo’s most anticipated discussions.Alfonso Cardalda, CMO, spoke in the headline panel: Global Visionaries: Forex Without Borders: Attracting the Next Billion Traders.Wael Makarem, Financial Markets Strategists Lead, participated in two forward-looking discussions: AI in Market Sentiments and News Analysis, and AI-Powered Forex Trading–Tools and Strategies.These sessions underlined Exness’ thought leadership and its commitment to shaping conversations about the future of trading.“Being named ‘Most Client-oriented Broker’ is a powerful validation of what we stand for,” said Mohammad Amer, Exness Jordan CEO. “Our mission has always been to create an environment where traders feel secure, confident, and supported. This award confirms that our focus on transparency, stability, and reliability is recognized globally.”“But recognition is not the end goal,” Amer added. “The real measure of success is how consistently we listen to our clients and adapt to their needs. Dubai has shown us once again the importance of staying connected with global traders and partners, and we are more motivated than ever to keep raising the bar.”About ExnessFounded in 2008, Exness is a global multi-asset broker that uses a unique combination of technology and ethics to create a favorable market for traders and raise the industry benchmark. Exness's ethos and vision focus on offering its clients a frictionless trading journey, where financial markets are brought to life in the way they should be experienced. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

VT Marketshas successfully concluded its inaugural VT Market Dubai Week 2025, a curated event that combined client engagement, industry leaders sharing sessions, and exclusive experiences alongside its Elite sponsorship at Forex Expo Dubai. The debut event highlighted the broker’s growth in the region and pushing forward into the future of trading.At Booth 57, VT Markets showcased a cutting-edge, tech-forward experience that captivated thousands of visitors. The booth was thoughtfully designed with sleek, modern aesthetics that reflected the brand’s commitment to innovation. Visitors were drawn to interactive displays and live demonstrations of the award-winning MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 platforms. The space was designed to encourage hands-on engagement, with dedicated stations where traders could explore platform features, receive personalized guidance, and experience the tools that drive their trading success. This dynamic environment reinforced VT Markets' vision of the future of trading - accessible, innovative, and client-focused. A keynote session on the future of AI, presented by Ross Maxwell, Global Strategy Operations Lead, drew strong attendance, offering traders practical insights on navigating today’s fast-moving markets.Ross Maxwell, Global Strategy Operations Lead at VT Markets, shared during his session: “The transformative power of AI is already reshaping the future of trading, particularly in how we forecast and respond to market dynamics. The real breakthrough comes when human expertise and AI intelligence work hand in hand to overcome traditional challenges. Those who embrace this synergy will remain ahead of the curve- AI is here to empower traders, not to replace them.”As part of its expansion strategy, VT Markets Dubai, operates under a Category 5 licence from the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) The licence provides clients and partners with greater confidence in VT Markets’ long-term presence in the Middle East and reaffirms the company’s commitment to operating under the highest international standards.The week also featured a series of exclusive client experiences, including a yacht party around the marina, Gala dinner and panel discussion on the AI revolution & investment future in the UAE at the prestigious Armani Ballroom, and the official opening of the VT Markets' new Dubai office in the city’s Central Business District. These activities reflected VT Markets’ dedication to nurturing lasting relationships and creating memorable opportunities for its global client base.With VT Markets Dubai Week 2025 setting a strong precedent, VT Markets is poised to deepen its regional footprint, strengthen its partnerships, and continue redefining the standards of client engagement in the financial services industry. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

9 October, Sydney, Australia - VT Markets, a leading multi-asset broker, announced plans to introduce an AI-powered growth strategy designed to elevate trading performance, strengthen client protection, and transform user experience. The strategy was revealed during the high-profile VT Markets Dubai Week Gala Night that brought together industry leaders, partners, and traders.As financial markets become increasingly complex, VT Markets’ upcoming AI integration aims to address key challenges for retail traders, including decision-making, risk management, and education. More than a technological upgrade, the strategy underscores the company’s long-term commitment to its clients and the industry.Ross Maxwell, Global Strategy Operations Lead shared: “We’re harnessing AI to deliver sharper insights, faster execution, and smarter support - helping traders navigate market dynamics with confidence, while staying true to the trust and transparency our brand is built on." He added: “We’re also using AI to boost internal efficiency and productivity so we can deliver products and services at the highest standards."Upcoming Tech and AI-Powered InnovationsOne-Tap Trading: Streamlined trading actions such as deposits, withdrawals, and trade entries/exits, optimized by AI for speed and ease.AI Trading Assistant: Consolidates market trends, news, and data into personalized insights for informed decision-making.Automated Loyalty Program: Tracks client activity and automatically rewards engagement and referrals to customer satisfaction.Real-Time Risk & Compliance Monitoring: Monitors market exposure, leverage, and anomalies, offering real-time alerts and automated adjustments to ensure client safety.Digital Finance Ecosystem: A unified ecosystem for managing assets, offering features such as seamless top-ups, withdrawals, and real-time conversions between currencies and cryptocurrencies. Powered by AI, it enhances efficiency and security, integrating everyday transactions via digital wallets and cards to cater to local and global payment needs24/7 AI Support: Round-the-clock AI-powered support provides real-time, multilingual assistance, ensuring a smooth trading experience. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, VT Markets’ AI strategy reinforces its position as an industry leader, combining innovation with its legacy of trust as it enters a new era of smarter, more empowering trading experiences. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

CMC Markets announced today (Thursday) that it has completed the private placement of a shareholding in the UK using distributed ledger technology (DLT), or in other words, it has tokenised stocks.Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood in London’s leading trading industry event!A Proof of Concept for the BrokerThe broker highlighted that the stock tokenisation has been implemented as a proof of concept. It further emphasised that such tokenisation can be used with existing UK client asset rules to move securities between investors safely.Its corporate broking arm, CMC CapX, facilitated the placement of the hybrid shareholding, while StrikeX acted for the issuer to create the mirror token, reflecting the shareholding, on the Arbitrum Layer 2 blockchain.Read more: Tokenised Stocks Are Here, but Do They Really Bring Added Value over CFDs?“This project is a significant step in our digital strategy,” said Laurence Booth, Global Head of Capital Markets at CMC Markets.“With StrikeX, we are embarking on a plan to tokenise securities and derivatives markets so that investors can trade 24/7. This collaboration between CMC CapX and StrikeX demonstrates the possibilities for services we can offer to issuers and professional investors. We will go further and create marketplaces that leverage the new technology and open new opportunities for investors as well.”The entry of the London-listed firm into the tokenisation space did not come as a surprise, as FinanceMagnates.com reported earlier on its intentions to launch the now-trending tokenised stocks.CMC Jumps into a TrendThe pilot came at a time when stock tokenisation is gaining popularity globally. While Robinhood is the most prominent mainstream broker to launch tokenised stocks in its non-US markets, several crypto exchanges have also joined the race.Coinbase is even seeking approval to launch tokenised stocks in the US.CMC Markets launched CMC CapX, its capital markets platform, in 2022. It offers investors access to capital raisings, including IPOs and secondary placings. The platform also connects buyers and sellers with a range of unlisted investment opportunities.Meanwhile, CMC took an initial stake in StrikeX in mid-2023, marking its move into blockchain technology. In May this year, it increased its stake from 33 per cent to a majority 51 per cent, gaining control over StrikeX’s technology and product direction.Notably, the increased stake came after CMC wrote off its initial £2.8 million investment as unrecoverable.“This marks a key step forward, moving from internal testing to real-world execution,” said Joe Jowett, CEO of StrikeX, on the latest tokenisation pilot.“Our tokenisation engine has now been proven live in a Tier 1 regulated environment. While tokenisation is being trialled in many contexts, achieving it at this level with an established TradFi institution demonstrates readiness for large-scale adoption and provides a strong foundation for broader rollout.” This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.

The price of gold breached the $4,000-per-ounce threshold for the first time this week, marking another stunning milestone in a three-year rally that has demolished analytical models and converted longtime skeptics. The precious metal closed at $4,042.03 after hitting an intraday peak of $4,059.31, extending gains that have made it one of 2025's best-performing assets with a 52% year-to-date surge.The rally accelerated as the U.S. government shutdown entered its seventh day, delaying critical economic data releases and amplifying uncertainty across financial markets. Spot gold has now climbed more than 50% since January while the dollar index dropped 10%, creating conditions that independent metals trader Tai Wong says could push prices toward $5,000.Why Gold Price Is Going Up? Western Money Floods Back Into GoldWestern investors poured $64 billion into gold ETFs through September, with the month alone recording a record $17.3 billion, nearly double the previous monthly high set during the 2020 pandemic panic.U.S.-based funds captured $35 billion of these flows, surpassing the entire pandemic year of 2020 when gold ETFs attracted $29 billion. September's inflows represented the largest monthly gain in ETF history, capping the strongest quarter on record at $26 billion. Holdings across global gold ETFs reached 3,692 tonnes by August's end, the highest monthly close since July 2022 and just 6% below the all-time record of 3,929 tonnes.Goldman Sachs raised its December 2026 price target to $4,900 per ounce from $4,300, citing sustained ETF demand and likely central bank purchases. The bank expects Western ETF holdings to climb as the Federal Reserve cuts rates by 100 basis points through mid-2026, historically a powerful tailwind for bullion.Central Banks Stack Gold at Unprecedented PaceCentral banks emerged as the dominant force behind gold's ascent, accumulating over 1,000 tonnes annually since 2022, more than double the 2016-2021 average of 457 tonnes. The buying spree reflects strategic diversification away from dollar assets following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and subsequent Western sanctions.Key drivers behind central bank accumulation include:Reserve diversification away from U.S. Treasuries and dollar-denominated assetsProtection against potential asset freezes and geopolitical sanctionsHedge against mounting sovereign debt concerns and fiscal instabilityInflation protection as consumer prices remain above central bank targetsAugust saw net additions of 15 tonnes to global reserves, with Kazakhstan's central bank leading purchases. Poland remained 2025's largest buyer year-to-date, even reaffirming its commitment by raising its gold target allocation. Gold's market value in central bank reserves has now almost certainly surpassed holdings of non-U.S. Treasuries, while overtaking the euro as the second-largest reserve asset earlier this year.World Gold Council data shows 44% of central banks actively manage their gold reserves in 2025, up from 37% the prior year. Survey respondents cite reserve diversification, inflation protection, and geopolitical security as primary motivations.China Steps Back as West Steps InChinese gold demand drove much of 2024's 27% gain and the rally's first four months, visible in the "Shanghai premium", the spread between London benchmark prices and Chinese exchanges. But Chinese prices slipped below the benchmark in recent months even as gold hit new highs, signaling Western investors took over as the primary force.The shift occurred as trade tensions escalated under President Trump's tariff policies, roiling global markets and unleashing safe-haven buying in China through April. India's Reserve Bank also curtailed purchases, buying just 3.8 tonnes through August compared to 45.4 tonnes during the same 2024 period.Multiple Tailwinds Converge on GoldThe dollar's 10% year-to-date decline made gold cheaper for international buyers while reducing opportunity costs for holding non-yielding assets. Inflation remains elevated at 2.9%, above the Federal Reserve's 2% target, sustaining gold's appeal as a purchasing power hedge.Geopolitical tensions across the Middle East and Ukraine continue fueling safe-haven demand, with energy market disruptions creating inflation risks that further support bullion. The U.S. government shutdown compounded uncertainty by delaying employment reports and other data crucial for Fed decisions.Ray Dalio advised investors at the Greenwich Economic Forum to allocate "approximately 15% of your portfolio to gold," calling it "the one asset that performs well when the usual components of your portfolio decline". Bank of America cautioned clients about potential "uptrend exhaustion" and consolidation near $4,000, though the warning came before gold powered through the level.Breaking Every Record in the BookGold eclipsed its inflation-adjusted peak set 45 years ago when prices topped $850 in January 1980. That high came as the U.S. battled currency collapse, spiking inflation, and recession following President Carter's freeze on Iranian assets during the hostage crisis. Analysts see faint echoes of those conditions today in Trump's trade policies, Fed independence concerns, and persistent inflation.The rally's magnitude has benefited the U.S. government itself, with official holdings surpassing $1 trillion in market value last month, over 90 times what appears on federal balance sheets. This windfall dwarfs the stated book value established when the Treasury valued gold at $42.22 per ounce.Gold Price Predictions: Wall Street's Updated ForecastsMajor investment banks dramatically revised their gold outlooks as prices shattered previous targets. The table below shows how rapidly analyst expectations have shifted upward:Goldman Sachs leads with the most aggressive forecast, projecting $4,900 by December 2026, a 23% increase from current levels. The bank expects emerging market central banks to average 80 tonnes of purchases in 2025 and 70 tonnes in 2026, contributing roughly 19 percentage points to the expected price gain.Deutsche Bank raised its 2026 average forecast to $4,000 per ounce from $3,700, citing official demand running at double the 10-year average and recycled gold supply coming in 4% lower than expected. HSBC also lifted its 2027 forecast to $3,600 from $2,925 and introduced a 2028 forecast of $3,330.Technical Levels Point Higher Despite Overbought SignalsAccording to my technical analysis, gold's 14-day Relative Strength Index reached 78.4 in mid-April, entering overbought territory for the first time since 2020's pandemic surge. Fibonacci retracement analysis suggests resistance near $3,250, though gold blasted through that level weeks ago. Support now sits at $3,930, $3,900, and $3,860, with resistance at $3,980, $4,020, and $4,070.Moreover, the volume patterns show institutional rather than speculative participation, suggesting sustained momentum despite extreme readings. COMEX futures open interest declined 12% during recent price spikes, potentially signaling distribution, though ETF inflows contradict this bearish interpretation.What's Driving Gold Prices Higher?Economic factors:Federal Reserve rate cuts totaling 100 basis points expected through mid-2026U.S. dollar weakness with 10% year-to-date decline against major currenciesPersistent inflation at 2.9%, above Fed's 2% target rateMounting U.S. fiscal concerns with debt approaching $36 trillionGeopolitical catalysts:Ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Middle East fueling safe-haven demandU.S. government shutdown delaying economic data and policy decisionsTrump administration tariff policies creating trade war uncertaintyAsset seizure concerns following Western sanctions on RussiaStructural demand shifts:Central banks buying 1,000+ tonnes annually versus 457-tonne historical averageWestern ETF inflows totaling $64 billion year-to-dateDedollarization trend among emerging market central banksPortfolio diversification away from traditional 60/40 stock-bond allocationRisks Remain Despite Bullish SentimentGoldman Sachs acknowledges risks skew to the upside "because private sector diversification into the relatively small gold market may boost ETF holdings above our rates-implied estimate". The bank expects emerging market central banks to continue structural reserve diversification, averaging 80 tonnes in 2025 and 70 tonnes in 2026.Potential headwinds include lasting peace in Ukraine or the Middle East, though analysts say core drivers, massive debt, reserve diversification, and dollar weakness, won't shift soon. Better U.S. growth or Fed rate hikes due to inflation surprises could pressure gold, though market consensus leans toward continued easing.The put/call ratio for gold options climbed to 1.4 as net long futures contracts reached 287,000 in March, suggesting sophisticated investors hedge while maintaining core positions. Retail sentiment surveys show 42% consider gold "overvalued" above $3,000, compared to 18% at $2,500, potential fuel for further upside if skeptics capitulate.Gold ETF Holdings Surge But Room RemainsHoldings in bullion-backed exchange traded funds tell a story of renewed investor conviction. The table below shows how ETF positions have evolved:Holdings remain 6% below pandemic highs, suggesting substantial upside potential if buying continues. J.P. Morgan notes every 100 tonnes of net purchases by conviction buyers corresponds to a 1.7% rise in gold prices.Ole Hansen, commodities strategist at Saxo Bank, said the move above $4,000 "reflects a deeper shift in investor psychology and global capital flows". He added that "sanctions, asset seizures, and concerns about fiscal sustainability have nudged investors, both institutional and sovereign, toward tangible assets that sit outside the financial system".Gold's performance since 1979's similar rally suggests the bull market may have substantial room to run. Historical patterns show gold functions better as long-term inflation hedge than short-term tactical play, with correlation to inflation rising from 0.16 over five-year periods to 0.58 over twenty years.Whether gold consolidates near $4,000 or powers toward $5,000 depends on Fed policy, geopolitical developments, and whether the structural shift away from dollar assets accelerates. What's clear is that gold has reclaimed its position at the center of global monetary discussions after decades as an afterthought.Gold Price Analysis, FAQIs gold price expected to rise or drop?Gold is expected to continue rising based on consensus analyst forecasts. Goldman Sachs projects $4,900 by December 2026, while other major institutions including Deutsche Bank, UBS, and Commerzbank forecast targets between $4,200 and $4,300 over the same period. What will the price of gold be in 2025?Gold has already surpassed most 2025 forecasts by reaching $4,042 in October, well above the $3,400-$3,700 range predicted by major banks earlier this year. The current price represents a 52% gain year-to-date, making gold one of 2025's best-performing assets. Analysts now expect gold to average between $3,800 and $4,000 for the remainder of 2025, with potential spikes above $4,100 if Fed rate cuts accelerate or geopolitical tensions intensify. Will gold go to $5,000 an ounce?Yes, multiple analysts believe gold will reach $5,000, though timelines vary. Goldman Sachs sees potential for $5,000 if Federal Reserve independence comes under pressure and investors shift just 1% of the $57 trillion U.S. Treasury market into gold. Ed Yardeni predicts $5,000 by end of 2026 under current conditions, calling it the "next big round number" that markets will target. Will the price of gold go up in the next 5 years?Long-term forecasts through 2030 show strong consensus for continued gains. Analysts project gold reaching $4,500-$5,000 by 2027-2028 in medium-term scenarios, with potential to hit $5,150-$5,800 by 2030 under optimistic conditions. Ed Yardeni's most aggressive forecast sees $10,000 by 2030, implying 151% gains over five years, though this requires extreme scenarios including runaway inflation or severe geopolitical crises.You may also like: This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Mitrade bought Fridah Asset Managers Pty Ltd, a South African firm regulated by the country's Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), and plans to rename it Mitrade Markets Pty Ltd. The deal gives the CFD broker its fifth license and opens up fresh territory across Africa, the Middle East (MENA) and Latin America (LATAM).Mitrade Buys South Africa Firm to Expand ReachThe company already operates under ASIC in Australia, CIMA in the Cayman Islands, FSC in Mauritius and CySEC in Cyprus. Trading in emerging regions has been picking up, according to FinanceMagnates.com data from Q2 2025, with the Middle East, North Africa and Latin America showing stronger retail participation and appetite for mobile-first platforms."In a volatile macroeconomic climate, building resilient infrastructure across licensed jurisdictions is how we scale sustainably," said Kevin Lai, Vice President of Mitrade. "This acquisition forms part of a broader strategy to promote inclusivity by expanding access to credible, regulated brokers across regions like LATAM and MENA, and to provide traders with intuitive trading experiences that meet them wherever they are."This is another acquisition we reported during Thursday’s session. Earlier, an investor group led by Marc Joppeck agreed to acquire Skilling.com, a European online brokerage, pending regulatory approval. The group already owns INFINOX.Recent Platform and Marketing InitiativesMitrade connects more than five million traders to over 800 instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, ETFs and shares. The broker has rolled out several updates this year to appeal to younger, mobile-first users and expand its regional footprint.In July, the company added Apple Pay and Google Pay for its Australian customers, responding to a shift in how Gen Z investors manage their money. Digital wallets now account for a substantial share of payment transactions in Australia, and mobile devices handle 56.6% of all trading activity. Also in July, Mitrade signed as the official regional CFD sponsor for Argentina's national football team, targeting Southeast Asia and Australia. The partnership, branded as the "Rise with Champions" campaign, leverages Argentina's popularity following its World Cup win. Earlier in March, Mitrade introduced paperless KYC verification through its EU entity. The system allows real-time identity checks and cuts administrative work. Mitrade EU also added Excess of Loss Insurance through Lloyd's of London to supplement existing protections for retail clients. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Dogecoin (DOGE) price is flashing a critical technical indicator that previously triggered massive rallies of 300% and 445%, sparking renewed optimism among crypto analysts that the memecoin could finally breach the $1 milestone. The monthly relative strength index (RSI) has produced a bullish cross, a signal that historically precedes significant upward momentum for Dogecoin price movements. In this article, I conduct a technical analysis of the DOGE/USDT chart, review the latest Dogecoin price predictions, and examine the question of when DOGE is expected to surge.How High Can Dogecoin Go? Historical RSI Signal Points to Major RallyOn Thursday, October 9, 2025, Dogecoin is trading at $0.2483 on Binance, down nearly 3%. However, technical indicators suggest that this trend may soon change.The relative strength index represents a momentum indicator used in technical analysis to measure the strength and direction of price trends. When the RSI line crosses above its simple moving average on the monthly chart, Dogecoin has historically entered explosive growth phases that rewarded patient holders with triple-digit percentage gains.Between October 2023 and April 2024, this exact bullish cross preceded a 302% price surge for Dogecoin. The pattern repeated in Q4 2024 with even more dramatic results, delivering a 445% rally that pushed DOGE toward its previous cycle highs. Crypto analyst Mikybull Crypto emphasized the significance of this recurring pattern, stating that whenever this signal flashes on DOGE, a big move becomes imminent.Whenever this signal flashes on $DOGE pay attentionRSI on the monthly chart crossed above the SMAThis only indicates that a big move is imminent pic.twitter.com/9zFP0c5wvN— Mikybull ?Crypto (@MikybullCrypto) October 5, 2025The current setup mirrors these historical precedents almost perfectly. The RSI bullish cross has appeared alongside DOGE price retesting the 20-period simple moving average on the monthly timeframe, a combination that typically signals the start of sustained upward momentum.You may also like: Why Dogecoin Price is Going Up Today: DOGE Breaking News and Price Analysis for September 2025Technical Patterns Support $0.65 TargetBeyond the RSI indicator, Dogecoin price is forming an ascending triangle pattern, a classic bullish continuation formation that suggests buyers are gaining strength. This technical setup projects an upside target around $0.65, representing a potential 161% increase from current price levels near $0.25.Ascending triangles develop when price creates higher lows while repeatedly testing a horizontal resistance level. The pattern indicates that buying pressure is building with each successive test of resistance, increasing the probability of an eventual breakout. For Dogecoin, this breakout could catalyze the next major leg higher in its price trajectory.The convergence of multiple technical signals strengthens the bullish case considerably. When RSI momentum indicators align with chart pattern breakouts, the reliability of upside targets improves significantly compared to relying on any single indicator.$DOGE is ready to $1 from the bullish move that's about to hit If you observe from the chart, whenever it is retested on the MA, a huge bullish move follows. pic.twitter.com/icUPQv07r7— Mikybull ?Crypto (@MikybullCrypto) October 7, 2025Dogecoin Technical AnalysisSo, what does the current chart show? Based on my current technical analysis of Dogecoin, the DOGE/USDT pair is now testing a support zone defined by the May and August highs, around the $0.25 area. This level is currently reinforced by the 50-day exponential moving average. A break below this support could lead to a move toward the upward trend line drawn from the June lows, which has already been tested several times. The next key level is the 200-day moving average, located near $0.22, followed by a broader support zone around the psychological level of $0.20, extending up to nearly $0.21, marked by previous lows.As for the nearest resistance levels, the first lies around $0.2744, corresponding to the July highs, followed by $0.2884 (the September peak), and finally the intraday high from September 13 at $0.3068.DOGE/USDT – Key Technical LevelsWhy DOGE Will Surge? Institutional Interest and ETF CatalystsAnalyst Mags highlighted growing institutional interest as a fundamental catalyst that could propel Dogecoin price beyond technical targets. Dogecoin treasury companies have begun accumulating DOGE at scale, mirroring the corporate Bitcoin adoption strategy that helped BTC reach new all-time highs in previous cycles.The potential approval of spot Dogecoin ETFs represents another significant catalyst expected in mid-October 2025. ETF approvals would provide traditional investors with regulated exposure to DOGE without the complexities of wallet management and private key security, potentially unlocking substantial capital inflows from retail and institutional sources.Mags predicted that a "God candle is incoming" for Dogecoin, suggesting that the breakout from the multimonth downtrend could push DOGE past its 2021 all-time highs above $0.73 toward the psychologically significant $1.20 level. This ambitious target implies that DOGE reaching $1 becomes inevitable under the right market conditions.$DOGE - God candle incoming.. pic.twitter.com/qdnEKy5kZL— Mags (@thescalpingpro) October 7, 2025Dogecoin Price Prediction Scenarios Through 2025-2030Conservative estimates from cryptocurrency prediction platforms suggest Dogecoin could trade between $0.239 and $0.306 throughout October 2025, with gradual appreciation expected as year-end approaches. These baseline projections account for normal market volatility without assuming major catalyst-driven rallies.Bull case scenario: If the RSI bullish cross delivers results consistent with historical precedents, Dogecoin price could surge 300% to 445% from current levels, placing DOGE between $0.75 and $1.36 by Q1 2026. This scenario assumes ETF approvals materialize, institutional adoption accelerates, and broader cryptocurrency market conditions remain favorable through the end of 2025.Base case scenario: Technical breakout from the ascending triangle targets $0.65, representing a solid 161% gain that would establish DOGE firmly above previous resistance zones. This moderate outcome still delivers substantial returns while requiring less aggressive assumptions about market catalysts and momentum sustainability.Bear case scenario: Failure to break above the ascending triangle resistance could see Dogecoin consolidate between $0.20 and $0.30 through the remainder of 2025, delaying the major rally until more definitive bullish catalysts emerge. This scenario remains viable if macroeconomic headwinds or regulatory uncertainties dampen broader cryptocurrency market sentiment.Will Dogecoin Hit $1?The question of Dogecoin's ultimate price ceiling depends heavily on timeframe and market cycle assumptions. In the near term through year-end 2025, the technical target of $0.65 represents a realistic upside objective if the ascending triangle breakout occurs as anticipated.Extended projections through 2026-2030 from various prediction platforms range from conservative estimates of $0.50-$0.80 to aggressive bull targets exceeding $2.00. These longer-term forecasts incorporate assumptions about cryptocurrency market maturation, institutional adoption rates, and DOGE-specific developments including potential utility expansion beyond pure speculation.The $1.00 psychological level represents the most frequently cited target among bullish analysts. Achieving this milestone would require approximately 300% appreciation from current levels and would establish Dogecoin firmly among the top-performing cryptocurrencies of the 2025 market cycle.Market capitalization considerations suggest that Dogecoin reaching $1 would place its fully diluted valuation around $140 billion, comparable to major financial institutions and technology companies. While ambitious, this level remains well below Bitcoin's market dominance and historically achievable during peak cryptocurrency market euphoria.Dogecoin News FAQHow high will DOGE go in 2025?Dogecoin price predictions for 2025 vary significantly depending on market conditions and technical analysis approaches. Conservative forecasts from platforms like Changelly suggest DOGE could reach $0.33 by year-end 2025, representing modest appreciation from current levels around $0.25. Binance predictions indicate DOGE may trade around $0.256 through 2025 under baseline scenarios.The most frequently cited target among crypto analysts remains the psychologically significant $1.00 level, which would require approximately 300% appreciation from current prices. Is DOGE a good investment?Yes, however you need to remember that Dogecoin represents a high-risk, high-reward investment opportunity that appeals primarily to speculative investors comfortable with extreme volatility and uncertain outcomes. Whether DOGE constitutes a good investment depends entirely on individual risk tolerance, investment timeframe, and portfolio diversification strategy. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

An investor group led by Marc Joppeck has agreed to acquire Skilling.com, a European online brokerage, subject to regulatory approval. The group already owns INFINOX. The acquisition aims to expand the group's presence in Europe's competitive trading market and improve clients' access to trading products.Join IG, CMC, and Robinhood at London’s leading trading industry event!Expanding Presence in Europe’s Trading Market“Skilling’s technology and client-first approach are an ideal fit for our strategy, creating opportunities to scale innovation, deliver enhanced value, and build resilience in an increasingly competitive sector,” commented Marc Joppeck, board member of INFINOX.“The firm’s presence in the Nordic region is a hugely attractive addition for the Group, and ultimately, bringing Skilling into the group strengthens our ability to serve clients worldwide with transparency, trust, and next-generation solutions.”Technology and Market Reach Current Skilling users will reportedly gain access to deeper liquidity through the group’s broader international network. The acquisition also promises a wider selection of trading instruments and stronger security measures under international regulations.Skilling will keep its brand identity and operational autonomy while integrating the group’s technology, compliance expertise, and licenses. This integration is expected to increase efficiency and speed up the rollout of mobile trading and payment features.Read more: Exclusive: Infinox Suspends Trading Services for Multiple CFD BrokersLast year, the CFD broker appointed its Chief Financial Officer, George Kyriakoudes, as Interim CEO, and later confirmed him as CEO. The leadership change followed the departure of former CEO Michael Kamerman. Kamerman took up a new role as CEO of the brokerage unit at Czech prop trading firm FTMO.“Joining the portfolio of companies is an exciting step for Skilling and our clients,” Kyriakoudes added. “We are proud of the technology, services, and community we have built, and this deal will allow us to scale these strengths to new heights.”Infinox operates its institutional and liquidity services under the IXO Prime brand, which is regulated by financial authorities in Mauritius and Anguilla, according to information published on the company’s website. The brand provides a range of prime brokerage solutions tailored to professional clients and institutional traders.More Recent DevelopmentsEarlier this year, the company reported a 233% increase in revenue for the period between January and April 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. It did not disclose the absolute revenue figure but highlighted that the results reflect strong growth momentum across its business lines and regions.Notably, we reported that Infinox's institutional arm recently suspended new institutional trading activities for several CFD brokers and halted withdrawals for at least one, citing potential breaches of market conduct standards. In a letter reviewed by financemagnates.com, Infinox said it is “fully investigating” certain trades flagged by external auditors and invoked “Clause 5” of its client agreement, which permits the temporary suspension of client trading during compliance or regulatory investigations. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Retail investors have fundamentally shifted how they evaluate and choose their brokers, placing platform performance and user experience on par with traditional cost considerations, at least in the United States.The newest research by Investment Trends, which analyzed behavior patterns across the US retail investment market, found that mobile app quality and web platform functionality now match fee structures as primary selection criteria.Platform Failures Drive Customer DefectionThe study identified a notable change in why investors leave their brokers. Interface problems have overtaken trust and customer service as the leading cause of account closures, marking a reversal from previous years when relationship factors dominated churn drivers.Lorenzo Vignati, Associate Research Director at Investment Trends, pointed to changing baseline expectations. "Reliability is now the baseline. If a platform doesn't deliver, investors will walk," he said.The shift reflects broader patterns in consumer technology, where users expect seamless digital experiences across all service categories. Brokers now compete not just against each other but against the usability standards set by technology companies in other sectors.Investment Trends also reported a record shift in brokers in its study on the German market released six months ago. At the time, the firm highlighted that one in six traders had changed their trading service provider not because of costs, but due to transparency, innovation, or simplicity.Support Gaps Emerge for New Account HoldersWhile 48% of investors reported feeling well supported during recent market volatility, that figure dropped to 37% among newer investors. The gap suggests brokers may be failing to provide adequate engagement during the critical onboarding period."Investors have become more discerning about the kind of support they expect, it's no longer just about being available, it's about being proactive and relevant," Vignati said. "Timely insights build confidence. When brokers fall short, especially early on, it risks long-term disengagement."The data indicates that reactive support models may no longer meet investor needs, particularly during the formation of early account relationships when expectations and trust levels remain fluid.Word-of-mouth is also becoming increasingly important when choosing a broker, particularly recommendations from relatives or financial influencers.You may also like: Why US Online Investors Are Trading Less but Earning MoreMobile-First Expectations Reshape Industry StandardsInvestors now evaluate broker platforms using the same criteria they apply to other financial apps, including banking and payment services."What used to be a relationship-led decision is now a product-led one," Vignati noted. "Investors expect the same fluid digital experience they get in other parts of their financial lives, fast, intuitive, mobile-first."This transition places pressure on brokers to maintain continuous platform development and respond quickly to technical issues. The stakes have risen as investors demonstrate willingness to switch providers over interface complaints, even when other aspects of service remain satisfactory.The findings arrive as competition intensifies across the retail brokerage sector, with firms racing to enhance digital capabilities while managing cost pressures. The report suggests that traditional competitive advantages around pricing and service availability may no longer suffice without strong platform execution. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Webull UK is rolling out LSE-listed shares and exchange-traded funds on its platform alongside a two-tier account structure, marking the latest move by the broker to build market share in Britain's retail investment sector.Webull UK Adds Domestic Shares, Tiered Accounts in Platform OverhaulThe FCA-authorized subsidiary of Webull Corporation is launching Webull Go, a commission-free account offering U.S. stocks, options, FTSE 100 constituents and 20 ETFs, alongside Webull Meridian, a £5 monthly subscription tier that provides access to roughly 1,000 UK-listed equities and ETFs. The Meridian account is priced at £0.01 through year-end.Webull is also flattening its U.S. equity commission to $0.10 per trade across both account types, down from a variable rate of 2.5 basis points with a $0.10 minimum. The change comes as fee pressure mounts across digital brokerages competing for active traders."By introducing UK shares and ETFs alongside flexible account options, we're giving our customers more tools to match their goals and trading styles," Nick Saunders, Chief Executive Officer at Webull UK, said in a statement. "Lower costs, broader access and a straightforward experience remain central to our mission as we grow in the UK market."The UK share and ETF offering runs on infrastructure provided by Berlin-based Upvest, which handles brokerage, settlement and custody for the new products. Webull UK first announced the Upvest partnership in June, when introduced fractional shares and ETFs trading.The Meridian tier includes multi-currency accounts, reduced foreign exchange fees and early access to future products. The UK Retail Market Competition IntensifiesThe account launch comes as several platforms have entered or expanded in the UK market this year. Robinhood rolled out its desktop trading platform in June, targeting the country's 11 million desktop traders, while Revolut launched stock trading services for its 650,000 UK users after receiving FCA approval late last year.IG Group introduced 24/5 trading on 110 U.S. stocks in September, allowing clients to trade outside standard market hours. Ultima Markets secured FCA authorization in July and plans to begin onboarding UK customers in 2026.The flurry of activity marks a shift after several years of brokers exiting the UK amid tighter regulations. OANDA added share CFDs on U.S. and European stocks in February, while Moneta Markets obtained an FCA license in August through an acquisition.The battle for retail clients is evident not only in the UK market. FinanceMagnates.com recently reported that similar developments are taking place in Poland, where new players are entering the market and local firms have started to sharply reduce commissions in an effort to attract new customersWebull Expands GloballyWebull Corporation, which went public on Nasdaq under the ticker BULL this year, operates licensed brokerages in 14 markets across North America, Asia Pacific, Europe and Latin America. The company reported more than 24 million registered users globally and has been adding markets throughout 2025. Upvest processes over 2 million orders weekly and counts Revolut, N26 and bunq among its clients. The firm secured FCA approval in 2024 and has been expanding operations in the UK following earlier partnerships across continental Europe.The Webull UK launch in July 2023 initially focused on U.S.-listed securities. The addition of domestic shares broadens the platform's appeal to UK-based investors seeking exposure to local companies alongside international markets.A month ago, the company strengthened its presence in Europe by opening new Dutch headquarters to oversee operations across the Old Continent. Related stories: This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

If there’s one defining feature of today's financial markets, it’s ‘volatility.’ Take the U.S. stock market, for example, which saw its indices reach record highs during the beginning of the year, only for them to plummet in March and April (and then rebound again by the summer). And, these roller-coaster moves weren’t confined to equities either, as major currency pairs (like the USD/EUR) experienced abrupt reversals whenever investors recalibrated their expectations on interest rates or other crucial economic growth factors. Even inflation, the key villain of 2022-2023, has been sending mixed signals because even though it has eased significantly from its recent highs these past few months (hovering in the low 2% range), it keeps fluctuating at a rapid rate, leaving traders on their toes.Lastly, even crypto (a sector notoriously volatile to begin with) has had its own share of spikes and crashes. For instance, August saw a sudden crypto downturn where Bitcoin plunged roughly 8% within days, a move exacerbated by high-leverage trading unwinding in a flash. Adaptability beats predictionAmidst these conditions, the reality of the situation is that traditional prediction markers are becoming increasingly ineffective, and therefore most successful traders aren’t those desperately trying to predict every twist and turn but those who’ve learned to roll with the punches. In other words, instead of relying on rigid yearly outlooks or single-direction bets, traders are fast preparing for multiple scenarios, leaning more on up-to-the-second data feeds, news alerts, and even AI-driven analytics to gauge market sentiment instantly. Secondly, instead of concentrating all of their bets in one market (say, just tech stocks or just crypto), more and more individuals are spreading out their investments across asset classes. BlackRock’s mid-year outlook captured this approach well, suggesting that by looking into assets like commodities or inflation-indexed bonds, traders can maximize their portfolio resilienceTo help realize this vision, platforms like Trade W are providing a unified, lightning-fast trading experience across multiple asset classes (over one hundred) such as major forex pairs, gold, oil, stock indices, and even crypto CFDs. Additionally, the platform enables users to sell a dollar pair and buy gold in the same breath, without missing a beat (all while offering ultra-fast execution).It’s this kind of speed and flexibility that allows traders to capitalize on or shield themselves from volatility in real time. So, if the crypto market is seemingly too quiet one week, a Trade W user can shift their focus to booming activity in oil or other commodities. Tackling adversity in a digital age From the outside looking in, a cornerstone of today’s investment strategy is multi-asset diversification, not just for long-term gains but for short-term tactical trading too. And, in an ever-growing volatility ridden climate, putting all one’s capital in a single market is akin to driving on one spare tire, i.e. it might work for a while, but it’s risky if that tire blows.In this regard then, a practical safeguard could be to pair a long position in a stock index with a long position in gold, such that if a growth scare hits and one’s stock profile dips, gold could rise in response as investors seek safety, thus softening the overall blow. Such an outlook can establish a balanced, flexible portfolio, one that can weather whatever the market throws at it.In sum, while volatility may have become the new normal, platforms like Trade W are empowering traders to not just cope with any unforeseen scenarios, but to leverage them as an engine for new opportunities. Interesting times ahead! This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Square has unveiled its first integrated Bitcoin payment and wallet platform, letting U.S. businesses accept crypto transactions and manage their digital assets within the same system they use for everyday sales. The new service, called Square Bitcoin, introduces no-fee Bitcoin payments for the first year and automatic Bitcoin conversions from card sales.Digital assets meet tradfi in London at the fmls25Square Brings Bitcoin to Everyday CommerceThe rollout marks a major step in Block’s plan to make Bitcoin part of mainstream financial activity. Through Square Bitcoin, sellers can now accept bitcoin payments directly from their point-of-sale systems, convert up to 50% of daily revenue into Bitcoin automatically, and manage their holdings through a built-in wallet on the Square Dashboard.“The Bitcoin tools we’re building at Square deliver on two critical needs: ensuring sellers never miss a sale, and giving them access to powerful financial tools that help them more easily manage and grow their finances,” said Miles Suter, Head of Bitcoin Product at Block.Lower Fees, Faster SettlementSquare said Bitcoin payments will carry no processing fees for the first year, allowing small businesses to keep more of their sales revenue. Settlements will be nearly instantaneous, giving merchants faster access to funds and more flexibility in managing cash flow.Bitcoin Conversions, a feature first piloted in 2024, has already seen early adoption. Participating sellers have accumulated 142 bitcoin as of October 1, 2025, according to the company. The feature allows users to automatically convert part of their daily card sales into Bitcoin to diversify savings.You may also find interesting: Meanwhile, Bitcoin Life Insurer, Secures $82M to Meet Soaring Demand for Inflation-Proof SavingsThe launch comes as the number of U.S. cryptocurrency payment users is projected to jump 82% between 2024 and 2026. Square said its goal is to make Bitcoin transactions as easy as card payments and bring crypto tools to small businesses that have largely been left out of the digital asset economy.Extending Block’s Bitcoin EcosystemThe initiative expands Block’s Bitcoin ecosystem, which includes Cash App’s trading functions, Bitkey’s self-custody wallet, the Proto mining division, and Spiral’s open-source development projects. Since introducing Square Banking in 2021, the company has been merging payments and financial management under one roof.Bitcoin Conversions is now available to eligible U.S. sellers, with Bitcoin payments launching nationwide on November 10, 2025. The move positions Square as one of the first major payment processors to offer a fully integrated bitcoin solution for small businesses, bringing digital currency closer than ever to everyday commerce. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

MetaMask announced plans to integrate Polymarket’s prediction markets later this year and has already rolled out perpetual futures trading powered by decentralized exchange Hyperliquid.Digital assets meet tradfi in London at the fmls25Prediction Markets Come to MetaMaskMetaMask said on Wednesday it will integrate prediction markets from Polymarket later this year as part of an exclusive partnership. The collaboration will reportedly let users in approved regions wager on real-world outcomes, from elections and sports to crypto price movements, without giving up custody of their funds.Prediction markets have gained momentum as a way to aggregate crowd sentiment on political and economic events, while staying on-chain and censorship-resistant.At the same time, MetaMask introduced perpetual futures trading within its app, powered by the decentralized derivatives exchange Hyperliquid, also known as HYPE. Perpetuals allow users to trade on future price movements without expiry dates.? PERPS ARE NOW LIVE ?You can start trading perps on MetaMask Mobile.And rewards are coming soon. ?? pic.twitter.com/J2lgZvlpmr— MetaMask.eth ? (@MetaMask) October 8, 2025MetaMask Token Rollout on the HorizonMetaMask also announced a points-based rewards program launching this month. The initiative will reportedly track trading, referrals, and usage of the MetaMask card, eventually tying into the platform’s long-awaited token debut.Rewards will include fee discounts and token allocations. In its first phase, MetaMask allocated $30 million worth of Linea’s native token, a layer-2 network also developed by Consensys for user incentives. The new trading tools follow MetaMask’s recent launch of MetaMask USD (MUSD), a stablecoin issued through partnerships with Stripe’s Bridge and M0.Meanwhile, Intercontinental Exchange has pledged up to $2 billion to acquire a stake in Polymarket, amid a strong vote of confidence from established financial players as retail interest in prediction markets and event-based contracts continues to surge. This move aligns with a broader trend of traditional finance institutions investing in decentralized and on-chain trading platforms.Additionally, Polymarket recently announced a partnership with Stocktwits to integrate continuously priced prediction markets directly into the social investing platform. The collaboration will allow Stocktwits users to access real-time earnings forecasts without leaving the app, combining Polymarket’s decentralized market data with Stocktwits’ active investor community.Under the agreement, Polymarket becomes Stocktwits’ Official Prediction Market Partner. The integration will launch with earnings-focused markets, embedding live market predictions within users’ feeds to complement ongoing discussions and sentiment tracking on the platform. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Coinbase announced today (Wednesday) that it has received approval to offer cryptocurrency staking services to residents of New York, expanding its staking access to 46 states in total. The decision allows users in the state to stake assets such as Ethereum and Solana directly through Coinbase’s platform.New York Approves Crypto Staking After Regulatory ReviewThe approval follows a period of regulatory review by New York authorities. Staking allows cryptocurrency holders to lock their tokens to help secure blockchain networks and earn rewards in return. The service is already available to users in most other U.S. states.Digital assets meet tradfi in London at the fmls25Coinbase described the move as an important step in expanding access to blockchain participation across the country. The company stated that staking is a key function in maintaining major blockchain networks and that it compensates users for their participation with additional tokens.[#highlighted-links#] “New York’s approval is another proof point that stifling innovation and depriving residents of financial opportunities is bad policy,” Paul Grewal, Chief Legal Officer of Coinbase, wrote. “We applaud New York, and hope to see this momentum continue across the U.S. Staking as a service, like that offered by Coinbase, is not a security.” ?? JUST IN: Coinbase expands staking access to New York, covering 46 states in total. pic.twitter.com/e32uZfF511— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) October 8, 2025State Restrictions Cost Users Over $130 Million RewardsAccording to Coinbase, the approval ensures that New Yorkers can now earn staking rewards on digital assets like ETH and SOL. The company estimated that residents in California, New Jersey, Maryland, and Wisconsin have missed out on more than $130 million in potential staking rewards because of local restrictions.Coinbase also said that the decision aligns with recent developments in other states. Several U.S. states, including Vermont, Illinois, Kentucky, Alabama, and South Carolina, have dismissed cases related to Coinbase’s staking service. The company added that it views the New York approval as consistent with national regulatory trends confirming that staking services do not constitute securities. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.