Bitstamp, which Robinhood recently bought, had more crypto trading volume than its parent firm in August 2025. This is a big move for the cryptocurrency exchange market. Bitstamp had a significant trading volume of $14.4 billion, which is 21% more than in July.  This milestone shows how Bitstamp is becoming more important in the crypto sector. This is especially impressive since Robinhood bought Bitstamp for $200 million just three months earlier, on June 2, 2025. The rise shows that Bitstamp can draw in both retail and institutional investors thanks to its strong reputation and worldwide reach. Robinhood’s Trading Volume Decline In comparison, Robinhood reported an 18% fall in its crypto trading volume, totaling $13.7 billion in August. This drop comes after a record-breaking quarter in November 2024, with a bit of a rise in July, followed by the August drop. Ryan McMillin, CEO of Merkle Tree Capital, said that the drop could be due to seasonal reasons, such as less trading activity during the summer holidays in North America. Despite the decline, Robinhood’s total platform assets climbed by 2% to $304 billion, including about $41 million in crypto assets, suggesting resiliency in its larger financial ecosystem. Strategic Acquisition Fuels Growth Robinhood’s purchase of Bitstamp has been a big win for the company, bringing in more than 5,000 institutional clients and 50,000 retail consumers. Bitstamp, which is now called Bitstamp by Robinhood, works perfectly with Robinhood Legend and its Smart Exchange Routing system, making trading easier between platforms.  This synergy has reinforced Robinhood’s goals in the real-world asset tokenization market, with Bitstamp playing a vital role. Robinhood’s launch of a tokenization-focused layer 2 blockchain in the EU and perpetual futures with up to three times leverage, which are routed through Bitstamp’s infrastructure, also adds to its services. The Market and What Will Happen in the Future In August, the whole crypto market only saw a slight rise in trade volumes, and prices stayed very constant. As the market waits for necessary macroeconomic signals like possible increases in interest rates, Bitstamp’s performance shows that it can do well in a quieter market. Bitstamp has a strong regulatory framework, with more than 50 global licenses. This puts it in a good position to help Robinhood grow around the world and focus on institutional clients, which could change the competitive landscape against big players like Coinbase and Binance.

The cryptocurrency market is buzzing with hope since the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC) just added exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for Solana (SOL), XRP, and Hedera (HBAR) to its National Securities Clearing Corporation (NSCC) platform. This news, which includes Fidelity’s Solana ETF (FSOL) and Canary Capital’s XRP (XRPC) and Hedera (HBR) ETFs, is a big step toward possible market launches, but they still need to be approved by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). DTCC Listings Show That the Market is Ready On September 11, 2025, the DTCC added these three crypto ETFs to its eligibility list, a standard pre-launch procedure that prepares securities for clearing and settlement. This doesn’t mean that the SEC will approve them, but it does show that more and more institutions are trusting these altcoins. Eric Balchunas, an analyst with Bloomberg ETFs, said that tickers don’t usually make it to the DTCC without first hitting the market. This has led to suspicion that regulatory approvals are coming soon. Deadlines For SEC Decisions Loom The SEC has important deadlines for these ETFs. It is likely to make a decision on Canary’s XRP ETF by October 2025, and on Fidelity’s Solana ETF and Canary’s Hedera ETF by November 2025. Even though there have been some delays lately, such as a 60-day extension for Franklin Templeton’s Solana and XRP proposals until November 14, analysts are still optimistic. Experts at Bloomberg say that there is a 95% chance that Solana and XRP ETFs will be approved and a 90% chance that Hedera will be approved. They say this is because the SEC’s leadership has become more pro-crypto. Effects on the Market and Price Changes The DTCC listings have already gotten people excited about the market. Solana had the biggest price jump in 24 hours, going up 7%. Hedera came in second with a 3.63% rise, and XRP came in third with a 1.88% rise. These gains are similar to what has happened in the past, when Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs made prices and liquidity go up a lot after they were approved. The listings show off Solana’s high-performance blockchain, XRP’s role in cross-border payments, and Hedera’s unique hashgraph technology. These make them attractive candidates for institutional adoption. The SEC is looking at more than 90 applications for crypto ETFs. The fact that Solana, XRP, and Hedera are already on the DTCC platform shows that they are becoming more legitimate. Investors are keeping a close eye on the deadlines in October and November because they think that approvals could lead to even higher prices and more people using the product. But there is still confusion about the rules, so people who want to invest should do their homework first.

Euronext will be admitted to France’s benchmark CAC 40® index after market close on Friday, 19 September, with inclusion effective Monday, 22 September 2025. The elevation caps more than a decade of expansion since the group’s 2014 IPO, when its market capitalisation stood at €1.4 billion; as of 22 August 2025 it had reached €14.5 billion, underpinned by a tripling of revenue and a fourfold increase in adjusted EBITDA over the period. Takeaway: CAC 40 inclusion validates Euronext’s growth from a four-market operator in 2014 to Europe’s leading capital markets infrastructure today. From an operator of four venues at listing, Euronext now runs regulated markets in Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin, Lisbon, Milan, Oslo and Paris, and has signalled plans to add Athens to its federal model. The group attributes performance to strategic acquisitions, geographic expansion, and diversification into trading, clearing, settlement, custody and issuer services. “We have accelerated our growth through strategic acquisitions, geographic expansion, and diversification into new asset classes, trading and post-trade services, and SaaS solutions,” said Stéphane Boujnah, CEO and Chairman of the Managing Board. “This milestone illustrates the resilience of our business model and Euronext’s pivotal role in the financial ecosystem.” Bid To Integrate Greece Into The Federal Model Alongside the index elevation, Euronext has submitted a voluntary share exchange offer for HELLENIC EXCHANGES–ATHENS STOCK EXCHANGE S.A. (ATHEX). The proposed fixed conversion rate is 20 ATHEX ordinary shares for each new Euronext share, valuing ATHEX at approximately €412.8 million based on Euronext’s 30 July closing price and implying a circa 27% premium to ATHEX’s three-month undisturbed VWAP as of 30 June. The ATHEX board unanimously supports the offer and has entered into a cooperation agreement. The transaction would bring Greek markets into Europe’s largest single liquidity pool, aligning listings, trading and post-trade on Euronext’s unified technology stack. Euronext targets €12 million of annual run-rate cash synergies by 2028, primarily from migration to the Optiq® trading platform and the harmonisation of central functions, with expected implementation costs of €25 million. The deal is expected to be accretive after the first year of synergy delivery. Takeaway: The ATHEX offer extends Euronext’s “federal” playbook—technology migration, liquidity pooling, and post-trade harmonisation—to Southeast Europe. Why Greece, Why Now ATHEX operates across cash equity and derivatives trading, clearing, settlement and custody, and owns a stake in the Greek power exchange EnEx. As of H1 2025, about 49% of ATHEX revenue derived from CSD and clearing activities. The Greek market has enjoyed renewed inflows amid improving macro indicators and rising international confidence; ATHEX net revenue in 2024 increased 76% versus 2020, with EBITDA tripling over the same period. “Greece has experienced strong economic growth in recent years,” Boujnah said. “Joining Euronext’s best-in-class trading and post-trade technology will boost the visibility and attractiveness of the Greek markets at an international scale.” Governance, Oversight And Timeline Consistent with Euronext’s federal governance, Greece would gain representation at group level: an independent figure from the Greek financial ecosystem would be proposed for the Supervisory Board at the 2026 AGM, and the ATHEX CEO would be proposed to join Euronext’s Managing Board. The Hellenic Capital Markets Commission would join Euronext’s College of Regulators on a pari passu basis with other European supervisors. The offer is subject to customary approvals and a minimum acceptance condition of 67% of ATHEX voting share capital (with Euronext reserving the right to amend in accordance with Greek law). Subject to clearance, the offer period is expected to open in Q4 2025, with completion targeted by year-end. Takeaway: Regulatory and shareholder approvals remain outstanding; Euronext is targeting closing by the end of 2025 if conditions are met. Strategic Context: From National Bourses To A Pan-European Stack Euronext’s expansion has emphasised common technology and post-trade integration. Following prior migrations (Dublin, Oslo Børs, Borsa Italiana) to Optiq® and the rollout of Euronext Clearing across seven markets, the group cites improved liquidity and market quality metrics. Extending this model to Greece would reduce post-trade fragmentation further and position Athens as a regional hub for listings in Southeast Europe. For ATHEX shareholders, the all-share structure allows continued participation in a larger, more diversified group with exposure to over 1,800 listed companies and a combined market capitalisation above €6 trillion. For Euronext investors, management reiterates return hurdles (ROCE > WACC in years 3–5) and maintains headroom for additional diversification transactions. Takeaway: The dual milestone—CAC 40 entry and the ATHEX bid—signals both recognition of past execution and intent to keep consolidating European market infrastructure. Outlook Index inclusion typically broadens the investor base via benchmark-tracking inflows, while the ATHEX combination—if completed—would extend Euronext’s geographic reach and deepen its post-trade footprint. Together, the moves align with the group’s ambition to serve as the backbone of Europe’s Savings and Investments Union, leveraging scale, harmonised technology, and a multi-jurisdiction regulatory framework. “Our inclusion in the CAC 40 and our expansion to Athens both demonstrate the resilience of our business model and our pivotal role in shaping European capital markets,” Boujnah said. “This is not just recognition of what we have achieved, but also a platform for the next decade of growth.”

The cryptocurrency market is up today, with total market capitalization crossing the $4 trillion mark after exiting the $4 trillion zone on August 22. This 21-day exit led to significant outflows, with several crypto assets recording downward trends, including top assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP. During the same period, trading volume climbed to $156 billion. The recent rebound attests to the growing liquidity inflow, with select tokens benefiting from the surge. FinanceFeed tracked the factors contributing to the crypto market’s sharp rise in the last 24 hours. US Investors Back Crypto Again One of the major contributors to the market’s performance has been inflows from U.S. spot exchange-traded fund (ETF) investors, particularly in Bitcoin and Ethereum. Data from SosoValue shows inflows into Bitcoin over the past two days have been the most intensive since July. Within this period, total buys amounted to $1.3 billion worth of Bitcoin. Bitcoin’s price responded positively, crossing above $116,000 earlier in the day, confirming stronger inflows into the market. FinanceFeed also found that liquidity is being drawn heavily to altcoins despite the institutional inflows into Bitcoin and Ethereum. Altcoins Control Market Dominance Market dominance charts on CoinMarketCap revealed that despite the inflows into Bitcoin and Ethereum, altcoins continue to attract the largest share of funding. The chart showed Bitcoin and Ethereum’s dominance dropped by 1.1% and 0.25% respectively, while altcoins gained 1.36% during the same period. At press time, altcoins controlled 29.2% of total market supply, a notable climb from the previous day’s performance. This shift in investor sentiment confirms that market inflows in the past day have been largely driven by altcoins, a trend that could likely continue. FinanceFeed examined which altcoins contributed most to the market’s rally and whether the broader uptrend is sustainable. Stablecoin Supply Continues to Rise The amount of stablecoins in circulation rose notably over the past day. According to DeFiLlama, $618 million worth of stablecoins are sitting in the market, yet to be deployed into crypto assets. Given the bullish backdrop with rising prices and volumes, altcoins are likely to capture most of these inflows. Although this supply doesn’t directly explain the past day’s surge, it suggests further upward momentum for crypto assets. MemeCore (M), one of the top performers, contributed to the inflows by reaching an all-time high of $2.23 earlier today. Hyperliquid (HYPE) also hit a new all-time high of $57.34 in the past day, underscoring growing investor appetite for altcoins. Institutional interest is rising rapidly, with VanEck filing for a HYPE ETF to open the token to large-scale institutional inflows.

Acuiti’s Q3 Proprietary Trading Management Insight Report finds the community almost evenly divided on the merits of continuous trading, with operational staffing and resourcing emerging as the clear number-one concern. The headline result: proprietary trading firms are evenly split on 24/7 trading. In Acuiti’s latest quarterly survey of senior prop trading executives, 37% were positive (10% very positive; 27% quite positive) while 38% were negative (15% very negative; 23% quite negative), with the remainder neutral. The debate has sharpened as major exchange groups float the idea of extended hours and as a CFTC-regulated venue has launched around-the-clock crypto trading in the US. Takeaway: Appetite exists—but so do reservations. The industry is not aligned on whether continuous trading improves markets or simply stretches resources thinner. Operational Staffing Tops The Risk List While the benefits of being able to react to news at any hour are obvious, firms are most concerned about staffing and resource requirements for an always-on model. That worry sits ahead of liquidity fragmentation, risk-management complexity, and collateral mobility. Crucially, only 16% of respondents said they could meet 24/7 requirements with no additional investment. Nearly half judged it would take a small investment, a minority anticipated a large lift, and only 5% said it would more than double their cost base. Takeaway: The constraint isn’t matching engines—it’s people, funding windows, and back-office coverage that must operate when banks, vendors and counterparties traditionally don’t. “The proprietary trading community recognises the potential benefits of 24/7 trading but is cautious about the operational and liquidity challenges it introduces. It’s clear that infrastructure across the market—particularly payments and collateral movement—will have to be upgraded.” — Ross Lancaster, Head of Research, Acuiti Money Movement: Banking Rails First, Stablecoins On The Horizon Even if trading is open, capital needs to move. Respondents pointed first to upgrading existing banking facilities and access to 24/7 funding as the practical near-term solution. A meaningful share also cited stablecoins as a way to bridge out-of-hours payments and margin, with central-bank digital money viewed as a longer-term possibility. Takeaway: Without round-the-clock payments, clearing, and collateral mobility, continuous trading risks creating settlement frictions and daylight-only liquidity. Where Firms See The Upside React in real time to macro and geopolitical headlines. Reduce overnight risk by smoothing gaps between sessions. Align trading hours with global client bases and cross-time-zone strategies. Incremental P&L opportunities if liquidity proves resilient in off-peak windows. But The Market Wants Guardrails Firms urged exchanges to keep market-maker incentive programs simple, competitive and transparent, with clear quoting obligations and short review cycles. Overly complex, static schemes invite gaming and may fail to seed durable liquidity in thin periods. “The discussion around 24/7 trading is multifaceted. Different jurisdictions and asset classes have different considerations. Our experience operating always-on infrastructure across crypto and traditional markets means we can support clients whichever path is adopted.” — Aleksey Larichev, CEO, Avelacom H1 2025 Scorecard: Strong Results, Tight Labor Market The report also takes stock of the half year. 67% of proprietary trading firms reported a better H1 than in 2024, supported by volatility in rates, equities and crypto. At the same time, regulation and hiring were cited as the top challenges—particularly the scarcity of talent that blends trading expertise with modern data and AI skills. Rising data and exchange costs remain a persistent pressure point. Takeaway: Firms are profitable, but execution costs and headcount constraints are rising—key factors in any calculus about extending hours. Market Structure Wish List FX options on exchange: 41% want venues to do more to migrate OTC liquidity to listed markets. Shorter, flexible incentives: Avoid one-size-fits-all programs; revisit obligations as products mature. Data cost transparency: Keep fees predictable as firms expand multi-asset coverage. Bottom Line: Extend With Caution Acuiti’s snapshot captures a sector that is commercially curious but operationally realistic. The case for 24/7 trading hinges less on matching technology than on the ability to run payments, collateral, surveillance, risk and people without interruption. Expect incremental steps—22/5 or 23/5 models, targeted overnight sessions, and tighter post-trade integration—before any broad shift to true around-the-clock markets.

What is the UEFA x Crypto.com “Champions” Digital Collectible Campaign? Crypto.com is fusing Web3 collectibles with elite football fandom through a first-of-its-kind UEFA Champions League campaign. Launched on September 12, 2025, and running until the grand final in Budapest on June 8, 2026, the initiative offers fans a chance to win all-inclusive UEFA experiences by claiming free digital collectibles known as Champions Coins. Structured as an NFT drop across five tournament phases, the campaign allows fans to claim Silver and Gold hexagonal coins — each representing a specific round of UEFA action. These coins are not just collectibles — they act as entry tickets into exclusive prize draws for VIP match tickets, hospitality packages, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like delivering the official match coin on the pitch. Investor Takeaway Crypto.com’s UEFA partnership transforms NFTs into access passes for real-world luxury football experiences. This campaign represents the growing intersection of fandom, blockchain, and global events. How Does the Champions Coin Campaign Work? The campaign is divided into five key claiming periods, each corresponding to a stage in the UEFA Champions League calendar. In every phase, fans can visit the official Champions Digital Collectible Redemption Website to claim a Silver or Gold Coin. While Silver Coins are minted in unlimited supply during each round, Gold Coins are capped and more exclusive. To participate, users must: Visit the redemption site during any open claiming period. Submit an email address. Follow instructions to set up or sign in to a Crypto.com NFT account. Check email to confirm collectible allocation. Investor Takeaway Each Champions Coin serves as a utility NFT with access benefits. Gold Coins are especially scarce, creating digital exclusivity and enhancing long-term collector value. When Can You Claim Champions Coins? The five claim periods are tightly synced with UEFA tournament progression: League Phase 1: Sept 12 – Oct 1, 2025 League Phase 2: Nov 25 – Dec 10, 2025 Knockout Stage: Feb 15 – Feb 27, 2026 Bracket Stage: Mar 10 – Mar 18, 2026 Final Stage: May 26 – June 8, 2026 Each period opens at 10am CET and closes at 23:59pm CET on the final date. Claiming early is key — Gold Coins run out quickly, and each one boosts the odds of winning major prizes. Investor Takeaway Time-sensitive participation mimics NFT drop dynamics. Early claims maximize value, especially for Gold Coins that unlock bigger, rarer UEFA experiences. What Prizes Can Fans Win With Their Champions Coins? Depending on the coin and phase, holders are eligible for tiered prize pools — including: First-class tickets to UEFA games VIP hospitality packages A chance to hand over the Official Match Coin on the field Entry into a draw for the 2026 UCL Final (flights + hotel included) Exclusive memorabilia (e.g. a piece of the Final goal net) Here’s a breakdown of the prize tiers: Coin Type Prize Gold Editions League Phase 1 Silver 4 winners per matchweek – UCL tickets Unlimited League Phase 1 Gold VIP + Hospitality + Final ticket draw + Match Coin handover 72 League Phase 2 Silver 4 winners per matchweek – UCL tickets Unlimited League Phase 2 Gold Same as above 72 Knockout Silver 4 winners per matchweek – UCL tickets Unlimited Knockout Gold VIP + Hospitality + Final ticket draw + Match Coin handover 16 Bracket Silver 4 winners per matchweek – UCL tickets Unlimited Bracket Gold Same as above 28 Final Silver Super Cup tickets Unlimited Final Gold Super Cup VIP + goal net + Match Coin handover 1 Investor Takeaway Gold Coins are true Web3 utility assets — combining exclusivity, real-world value, and gamified engagement. Their limited supply makes them attractive to collectors and fans alike. Why Is This Campaign Strategically Important for Crypto.com? This campaign isn’t just fan engagement — it’s strategic brand building. Crypto.com is leveraging UEFA’s global footprint to bring mainstream audiences into the NFT space. By making participation free and linking NFTs to real-world prizes, they lower onboarding friction for new users while retaining crypto-native appeal through rarity mechanics and wallet integration. It’s also a model for how Web3 loyalty systems could evolve — where digital collectibles unlock not just aesthetic value, but exclusive utility tied to elite real-world events. Investor Takeaway Crypto.com is pioneering utility-based NFT marketing. By tying digital collectibles to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, they’re driving adoption while setting a precedent for future fan token campaigns. What Are the Legal and Eligibility Requirements? Participation is free and does not require any purchase. However, winners must meet specific eligibility criteria: Participants must be 18 years or older Winners must complete Crypto.com identity verification (KYC) Tickets are non-transferable and cannot be resold Flights, visas, and accommodations are only included when explicitly stated Winners will be notified via email and must respond within 48 hours. All NFT prizes are airdropped to the participant’s Crypto.com NFT account. Investor Takeaway The campaign complies with local laws via jurisdiction-specific rules. It’s a model for compliant NFT gamification in regulated environments like the U.S., EU, and Australia. Final Thoughts: A Blueprint for Web3 Fan Engagement Crypto.com’s UEFA Champions campaign showcases how NFT technology can deepen fan loyalty, enhance event access, and gamify brand experiences. With more than just speculation, these NFTs offer tangible value and unforgettable moments. As global brands continue exploring Web3 integrations, the Champions Coin initiative sets a clear example: merge scarcity, utility, and culture, and you can onboard millions into the crypto economy — one match at a time. Investor Takeaway This is a case study in utility-based NFTs and sports marketing. Expect other global sports properties to follow suit — from Formula 1 to the Olympics — using NFTs for fan engagement, not just speculation. Check out the full PR here.

Much of the trading content on social media creates an unrealistic image of overnight success – fast cars, posh lifestyles and allegedly easy money. The reality is much less exalted. Trading is challenging, discouraging and fraught with errors that tend to spill money out of a pocket. This disparity of expectation and reality is discouraging to most beginners. In opposition to these myths, one of the trusted and controlled global brokers, which have been in operation since 2011, namely, Octa, has introduced its No Sugar Stories campaign. The program narrates actual stories of merchants all over the world, who experienced failures and setbacks, yet who also learned on the same, and eventually used these to have stepping stones towards financial independence. These tales emphasize a key fact that nobody is born a prosperous trader. It is built in skills and takes time, through learning, practice and through the ability to continue onward following a painful defeat. Godwin Greg: Out of Overconfidence to Discipline Godwin had worked several years in a factory and that he did not want to be a routine. In search of freedom and power to earn finances, he found CFD trading. He opened up a demo account after some long evenings studying and deposited the initial 200 dollars in his first actual account. His first Euro-US dollar deals paid off and he earned small yet significant returns. Godwin was swept along by initial successes into the common pit that is overconfidence. He did not put risk management into consideration and made imprudent decisions, which resulted into a crippling loss. It made me sad to remember that the market is unforgiving of arrogance. Godwin did not give up but made a comeback. He learned how to manage risks, utilize stop-loss orders, and how to remove emotions on his trades. Little by little his patience was rewarded. After a few months, he reached a personal milestone by having made 6500 dollars out of a single trade. He lives today entirely by means of trade, but is not reckless. The markets he says are unforgiving and once you begin to lose respect on the markets, the markets will learn you a lesson. The infrastructure offered by Octa is what traders, such as Godwin, rely on: a proprietary OctaTrader platform, rapid order processing, effortless deposit and withdrawal, and AI-based insights are all designed to ensure that the user has the best opportunity to be consistent, without any unnecessary hurdles. Onejeme Bruno: Technology Working against You In the case of Onejeme, it is rather the misfortune that had befallen them because of misfortune rather than the poor strategy. Having gradually accumulated his account since the beginning of the year to 4,000, he was in CFDs on gold during the 2016 U.S. election. He was right in his prediction that a Trump victory would drive gold down and was about to make his best trade ever. However, when it came to the critically important time, his internet connection went dead. When it was reintroduced into the network, a lot of his balance was gone. It was so sad he remembers, since I had done everything right, and still lost. This was a blow that would have terminated his trading career. On the contrary, it was only after a brief pause that Onejeme came back and was determined to avoid the same error. He diversified, cut trade volumes and provided backup connectivity. Through such adjustments he was progressively regaining his account and was in a position to make stable profits. Trading is now subsidising the daily budget of his family. The experience of Onejeme points out the fact that external risks are not only the market conditions that can derail the progress. This is why fast, transparent withdrawals and solid technical infrastructure are the main priorities of Octa, so that clients do not have to worry about their funds or how stable the platform is, but can concentrate on trading. Chee Hong: Like a Farmer Patient Chee Hong is a lifelong farmer who started trading as a result of the COVID-19 lockdown when the farming income lost its stability. He deposited 1,000 bucks and soon thereafter he was bleeding. Most would have conceded, however Chee Hong used the experience of agriculture to sustain him: patience, perseverance and the knowledge that it requires time to see good results. His account started to pick up after more than three months of close research and safe trading. Chee Hong now makes a number of thousands monthly through the trade. But he has not deserted farming. He rather sees trading as an added source of income and most of his profits are re-invested to develop his account. He has a long-term strategy of spreading his farmland with the returns one day. He describes trading as farming. You are the planters of seeds, tillers and wait until the harvest. It is a long process, however, when you are consistent, results will follow. His experience is an indication that one does not have to give up his or her job to trade; it can add to other jobs and bring financial stability in the face of financial instability. Lessons Learned These three stories combined have universal lessons to traders: False security kills accomplishment. Minor victories can cause careless conduct unless it is countered by punishment. External risks matter. Losses may occur when the right analysis is wrong because of technical faults or lack of a good infrastructure. Patience builds resilience. Success usually is a slow process, as in the case of farming, where strategies are nurtured. These truths are emphasized in the No Sugar Stories campaign by Octa, which demonstrates to traders that loss is not the final stage but it is a necessary step on the way. Octa Ecosystem: Real Trader Built The trading environment of Octa embodies what these traders required most, that is, security, speed, and clarity. OctaTrader Platform: An AI-powered system that has analysis and effortless execution. Risk Management Tools: Sigma has in-built stop-loss and take-profit features to protect accounts. Quick and Open Withdrawals: Ensuring access to money with no ambiguous fees and policies. Education & Insights: Webinars, market analysis and commentary by an expert to learn to be a trader. Global Support: 24/7 customer support. Through the establishment of this ecosystem, traders across the globe are in a position to learn, recover and develop with confidence. Conclusion The trading world is not about fast grabbing money and easy success. It is failure, experience and strength. As Godwin, Onejeme and Chee Hong demonstrate, early failures may be turned into long-term gains with the help of determination. The mission of Octa is to provide the traders with the right environment to realize this journey into being achievable. The No Sugar Stories campaign is what the trading is all about: it is not avoiding mistakes, but learning to make them. Trading as Chee Hong wisely said is like farming: you plant, you cultivate and you reap eventually. The tools of realizing that harvest are in the hands of traders all over the world with the help of the trusted ecosystem of Octa.

In an AI market dominated by venture-backed giants and sprawling foundation models, one company is making its mark by staying small, focused, and relentlessly innovative. HubKonnect, the leading AI Platform for data-driven local store marketing and creator of a new category of AI of “Hyperlocal Intelligence” for retailers, has grown from a bootstrapped startup into one of the hottest, most financially compelling firms in the Artificial Intelligence landscape.  The HubKonnect AI Ecosystem is projected to power more than 50,000 retail locations worldwide, helping top global brands generate billions in incremental same-store sales. Unlike the general-purpose tools of OpenAI or Meta, HubKonnect specializes in data-driven local store marketing (LSM). Its proprietary AI Model “The Brain” ingests customer transactional data, competitive context, and local unique data set variables to produce hyperlocal store-level marketing plans designed to lift transactions and drive sales. In a sector rampant with AI promises but short on proof, HubKonnect is a powerful enigma that delivers results where it matters most. At the register. Financial Profile: A Rare Outlier in AI HubKonnect’s economics set it apart. While most AI firms are years away from profitability, advisors close to the company report EBITDA margins at or above levels usually reserved for mature software giants. Forecasts suggest revenue of $22 million will propel HubKonnect towards a $250M valuation, with much of the growth coming from retail enterprise growth, international expansion, and deeper saturation with existing F500 clients. This has led analysts and Wall Street bankers to put HubKonnect’s current valuation at well over $100 million, but what excites analysts is that HubKonnect is on track to reach a quarter-billion valuation in 2026, despite its limited public profile. With cash flow driving growth, HubKonnect has avoided the dilution and dependency that comes with venture capital. For many financial analysts, it has become a case study in how well lead vertical AI models—narrow but deeply effective—can rival or surpass their generalist peers.  Strategic Interest: A Target for Tech Giants HubKonect’s financial profile has not gone unnoticed on Sand Hill Road. Industry insiders say HubKonnect is among the most sought-after acquisition targets in AI. Several logical buyers emerge in the pursuit of AI’s hottest company.. Here is what the M&A space is saying and how HubKonnect can bring immediate impact to key tech organizations.  Here are some top options for HubKonnect Acquisition:    Salesforce could integrate HubKonnect into its Marketing Cloud and Customer 360 platform, creating a bridge between data insights and local activation at the store level. IBM could add it to the WatsonX portfolio, using HubKonnect’s real-world performance to anchor its broader AI story with corporate clients. Adobe could plug the platform into its Experience Cloud, combining creative content at scale with HubKonnect’s localized decision engine. Top private equity firms are also said to be circling HubKonnect, viewing the company as a profitable anchor around which to build a retail-focused AI roll-up. They are looking to write the 4X Exited Tech Founder and CEO, Michael Koch, a big check for his fifth exit, but Koch thrives building an independent tech company that rivals venture-backed peers, entirely bootstrapped, reaching nine-figure scale, with complete ownership and independence.  IPO Potential: Wall Street’s Underdog Story Some investors even see a different outcome: a path to the public markets. With Koch’s renegade approach, sustained profitability, recurring revenue, and capital efficiency, HubKonnect fits the mold of what analysts call an “IPO darling.” If current forecasts hold, a billion-dollar market capitalization is not out of reach, per top investment banks.  With Michael Koch’s Leadership Style, flair for independence, and results, retail investors, in particular, may find HubKonnect’s story very appealing, creating a cult-like following. The company embodies the kind of bootstrap grit and independence often missing in Silicon Valley. In a market skeptical of overfunded AI ventures, a quietly profitable, innovative underdog could attract unusual enthusiasm without all the hype.  The Founder: Silent but Effective At the center is Michael Koch, HubKonnect’s Founder and Chief Executive. A four-time exited tech founder, entrepreneur, Koch has built solutions for the top brands in the world, including Visa, McDonald’s, Procter & Gamble, Home Depot, Google, FedEx, Pepsi Co, and Nike. This Founder and CEO has created over $100 million in enterprise value, and insiders say you will never hear him discuss his wealth. His personal Net Worth is estimated at over $100 million, but Michael Koch is a private yet powerful force in the tech world. As founder and CEO of HubKonnect, Koch has created a breakthrough AI platform that delivers “Hyperlocal Intelligence” to the world’s largest retail brands. While peers chase capital and headlines, Koch has quietly built his company into a nine-figure enterprise, part of a broader portfolio of holdings that stretch across technology, AI, and Hyperlocal Intelligence. Koch, who has an independent spirit, refused to accept venture capital and sees no need with his level of profitability, insisting on independence and a singular focus on long-term client value. His favorite phrase—“If you see me less, I am doing more”—reflects an approach centered on product, not publicity. Yet as HubKonnect’s results become harder to ignore, Koch is increasingly mentioned alongside Sam Altman, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jack Dorsey, whether he welcomes the comparison or not. The Bigger Picture HubKonnect represents a different archetype in AI. Where most firms chase scale and headlines, Koch and his team have built a profitable vertical business with real-world impact. The lesson is that the most valuable AI models may not be the biggest or most generalized, but the ones most closely aligned to revenue, margins, and customer needs. For Wall Street, HubKonnect poses a compelling question: in an industry where hype often outpaces economics, what is the true measure of success—capital raised, or capital generated? HubKonnect Article FAQ What is HubKonnect’s core offering? HubKonnect delivers AI-powered Hyperlocal Intelligence for retailers. Its platform generates store-level marketing plans by analyzing customer data, competitive context, and local variables—driving measurable increases in same-store sales. How is HubKonnect financially different from other AI firms? Advisors report EBITDA margins rivaling mature software companies. Currently valued at over $100 million.  The company is on track for a $250 million valuation. Fully bootstrapped—no venture capital, no dilution. Cash flow–driven growth with high capital efficiency. How widespread is HubKonnect’s impact? Scaling to Power 50,000+ retail locations globally. Drives billions in incremental revenue for enterprise clients. Used by top-tier brands across sectors, including QSR, retail, and CPG. Only World Class Enterprise Clients.  Why is Wall Street paying attention? HubKonnect is a rare profitable outlier in AI. Analysts value the company well over  $100M+, with unique potential for IPO. Rapidly scaling toward a $250M valuation milestone Seen as a case study in vertical AI success—narrow focus, deep results. Who are potential acquirers? Salesforce: Could integrate into Marketing Cloud for local activation. IBM: A strategic fit for WatsonX to showcase real-world AI ROI. Adobe: Complements Experience Cloud with localized decisioning. Private Equity: Viewed as a profitable anchor for AI roll-up strategies. Is an IPO on the horizon? HubKonnect is considered a potential  “IPO darling” due to Sustained profitability: Drives Billions of Client Sales Recurring revenue Bootstrap independence Strong retail investor appeal Proprietary AI Platform Technology  Who is the founder behind HubKonnect? Michael Koch, Entrepreneur, Founder and CEO, is a four-time exited tech entrepreneur with exits across marketing and enterprise software. He has created over $100 million in Enterprise value.  Self-made entrepreneur with a net worth estimated well into the hundreds of millions Building solutions for Visa, McDonald’s, Google, Nike, P&G, Home Depot Global CEO has led companies in 80 countries worldwide, with 267 Offices around the world  Declines VC funding to maintain innovation independence Operating with a product-first, publicity-last philosophy What does HubKonnect represent in the AI landscape? A new archetype: profitable, focused, and execution-driven. In contrast to overfunded generalist models, HubKonnect proves that vertical AI aligned to revenue and customer need can outperform hype-driven competitors.  The most exciting and sought-after tech company in AI, the public has not heard of.  HubKonnect, currently valued at over $100 million, is positioned to reach a quarter-billion valuation and is the industry’s first AI platform dedicated to Hyperlocal Intelligence. Serving some of the world’s largest QSR and retail brands,  HubKonnect builds custom “AI Brains” for each brand that automate localized marketing strategies at scale, driving measurable results in sales, customer engagement, and brand consistency. Unlike capital-burning Silicon Valley startups, HubKonnect has been bootstrapped from inception, proving that profitability and innovation can coexist. With its secure AI architecture and proprietary Autopilot features, HubKonnect is positioned as the category leader in localized AI marketing, defining a nine-figure space that didn’t exist before.  

New Infrastructure Deal Targets Cross-Border Transfers Wise Platform, the global payments infrastructure arm of Wise, has signed a partnership with Upwork Inc. (Nasdaq: UPWK), the world’s largest human and AI-powered work marketplace. The collaboration strengthens Upwork’s payment rails by enabling freelancers to access faster, lower-cost transfers in select markets across South America, APAC, and Europe. Through the integration, freelancers using Upwork’s “Direct to Local Bank” method can now route their earnings through Wise’s global network. This means withdrawals to certain local currencies will be settled more quickly and with greater cost efficiency, a key improvement for freelancers managing cash flow in international markets. Takeaway: Upwork freelancers in select regions will now see faster and cheaper cross-border payments thanks to Wise’s integration. Voices From Both Companies “Integrating with Wise Platform is helping us provide freelancers on Upwork in select regions with more seamless, flexible and faster payment transfers,” said Mohit Kumar, General Manager of Payments & Trust at Upwork. “We are excited to start this relationship and look forward to exploring potential expansion of our partnership to continue improving our payment capabilities for the customers we serve in more than 180 countries around the world.” From Wise’s side, Lauren Langbridge, Commercial Director for Americas at Wise Platform, emphasized the broader significance: “Partnering with Upwork is an exciting opportunity to enhance the speed, reach, and convenience of international payments for freelancers. Through Wise Platform, we’re delivering faster, more secure ways to transact across borders, supporting the Upwork global freelance workforce as it continues to grow.” Takeaway: Both firms see the collaboration as a foundation for further expansion in payments innovation. Freelancing Demands Better Payments Upwork data shows that freelancing is becoming increasingly central to the global workforce. In the United States alone, 28% of knowledge workers are now freelancing or operating independently. Globally, freelancers on Upwork earn nearly $4 billion annually. As independent work shifts into a deliberate career choice for millions, the demand for sophisticated financial tools is rising. Cross-border payments are a major friction point for these workers. Delays, high fees, and opaque settlement times can erode earnings. By integrating Wise’s infrastructure, Upwork aims to provide freelancers with more reliable, transparent, and immediate access to their funds — key to building trust and retaining talent in its ecosystem. Wise’s Global Reach Wise’s infrastructure connects directly to six domestic payment systems and operates under more than 70 licenses globally. This allows 70% of Wise transfers to arrive instantly, typically under 20 seconds. By embedding this infrastructure into Upwork’s platform, freelancers in select markets will experience significant improvements compared to traditional cross-border rails. Wise’s roster of enterprise clients already includes Morgan Stanley, Google, Brex, and Ramp. With Upwork’s global freelance network now onboard, the integration underscores how payments infrastructure is evolving to support not just corporates but also the growing class of independent professionals. Takeaway: With nearly a third of U.S. knowledge workers freelancing, payment speed and transparency are becoming critical differentiators in platforms like Upwork.

For ambitious traders hoping to make significant profit from their skills, prop trading has never been easier to access. The top prop trading firms give traders the opportunity to trade using reasonable company funds while keeping a sizable percentage of their profits, in contrast to traditional retail trading, where they are constrained by their capital. Following a thorough investigation, trader testimonial analysis, and a careful assessment of business models, we have determined the 5 best prop trading firms that regularly fulfill their commitments. We’ll dissect each company’s distinct advantages in the analysis that follows and provide you with the inside information you need to decide on your prop trading strategy going forward. What Is a Prop Trading Firm? A proprietary trading firm, for short known as a “prop trading firm,” is a type of financial institution that buys and sells stocks, commodities, currencies, and other financial instruments. A firm like this does these trades with their own money instead of money from clients. In this case, when a business uses its own money to trade, it is called “proprietary” because it wants to make money directly from changes in the market instead of getting commissions from customers who aren’t part of the business. A prop trading firm functions on a basic principle. In return for a portion of the profits made, it gives traders access to large sums of money. This establishes a win-win situation where traders obtain access to far more purchasing power than they could on their own, and the company uses human talent and experience to optimize returns on its capital. Usually, the company follows stringent risk management procedures to safeguard its funds while giving traders the latitude to carry out their plans. This includes  Setting maximum loss limits Position size restrictions, and  Implementing monitoring systems that can automatically close positions if predetermined risk thresholds are breached. How Prop Firms Generate Revenue There are many ways that prop firms make money, but the most important one is by making money on trades that go well. The company takes a cut of the trader’s profits, which can be anywhere from 10% to 50%, depending on how the company is set up and how long the trader has been doing it. Also, a lot of prop firms charge traders for evaluations, monthly platform fees, or require them to buy “challenges” that test their trading skills before they can use real money. Due to the business structure, you don’t get a set salary when you work for a prop trading firm, which is different from other companies. Rather, your pay is based on how well you do, not on how long you work. Legally, these prop trading firms have to follow rules they regulate how they must handle clients’ money and trading accounts. Importantly, government oversight goes as far as restricting banking entities from engaging in proprietary trading via the Volcker rule. Due to this, you can’t go to a bank or expect a bank to engage in proprietary trading. The Best Prop Trading Firms For You Now that you know what prop trading firms are, here are the five best ones. There aren’t many trustworthy prop trading firms, but the ones we’ve chosen will help you a lot on your way. OneFunded FTMO FundedNext Topstep Funded Trader 1. OneFunded  This prop trading firm has emerged as a standout option that prioritizes trader success over corporate profits, which is what you need when you’re just starting out. The firm maintains strict standards while providing the support necessary for traders to meet these requirements with no hidden fees. OneFunded’s appeal rests heavily on three core features: its profit-sharing structure, its flexible evaluation timeframes, and its payout policy.  Compared to other firms, the challenge fees of OneFunded are quite low, particularly on smaller account sizes. This makes it relatively more accessible to traders wanting to step into the waters without committing such huge initial costs. Payouts are available on demand as soon as the trader qualifies and meets minimum withdrawal criteria.  A notable differentiator for OneFunded is the no time limit policy during the evaluation phase. Being a trader responsible firm, they offer a more flexible trading environment with unlimited time for evaluations and a higher profit split, fast payouts, and educational support for traders.  This goes without saying, but OneFunded also makes prop trading easy for you with TradeLocker integration, making low-risk trading accessible to their traders. Key Trading Specifications  Feature Details  Pricing  Starts from $25 for a 2K challenge. The cost of the OneFunded Challenge is refunded with the first payout. Profit Split 80% trader / 20% firm split with no hidden fees. Trading Period Rules Unlimited time for evaluations with no artificial deadlines creating unnecessary pressure, with a 100% refundable fee structure. Payout Process After your first payout, you can request further payouts for every 14 days 2. FTMO FTMO Since they started doing business in 2014, FTMO has become one of the most well-known and respected names in the proprietary trading business. FTMO has built a reputation for being reliable and open that few other companies can match. This is because it has weathered market cycles and always kept its promises. They’re also one of many forex prop firms, offering a full suite of forex trading challenges and accounts. The firm’s method is to find and develop talented traders who can show that they can consistently make money while following strict rules for managing risk. Once these traders are found, the FTMO will put them through a two-phase evaluation system that is meant to fully test their skills and ability to manage risk. Passing Verification secures your funded FTMO Account (up to $200K), where you trade demo capital but earn real money. Key Trading Specifications Feature Details  Pricing  The cost of the FTMO Challenge is refunded with the first payout from the FTMO Account. Profit Split Starts at 80%, rises to 90% under Scaling Plan (25% account growth over 4 months, 2+ payouts). Trading Period Rules No time limit for completion, minimum 4 trading days required for each phase Payout Process Available after 14 days, processed bi-weekly with 8-hour average processing time 3. FundedNext FundedNext is a UAE-based proprietary trading firm (with Cyprus operations) that empowers traders to access real capital through simulated Challenge models. With flexible paths, generous profit-sharing (up to 95%), and fast payouts, it’s designed for both newcomers and experienced traders looking to scale responsibly. With this firm, traders get a demo account that can be used for free, and can trade with up to $300k simulated funds in the best conditions. They operate three models: Stellar, Evaluation, and Express. Each of these models has a profit split up to 95%. In the Evaluation model, you can get 15% profit during each assessment phase On the other hand, their scaling potential is equally impressive. They offer funded trading accounts with starting values of up to $200,000 and traders can reach up to $4,000,000 in funding through a scaling plan. Key Trading Specifications Feature Details  Pricing  Challenge fees refunded on first payout, with competitive entry costs across all models Profit Split 70-80% base split, scaling up to 95% for top performers Trading Period Rules No time limits, minimum 5 trades required, no consecutive trading day requirements Payout Process First payout after 5 trading days, 24-48 hour account setup after verification 4. Topstep Topstep (formerly TopstepTrader) is a Chicago-based fintech company that offers futures trading evaluation through its Trading Combine®. Once traders meet its profit targets and risk criteria, they gain access to funded accounts backed by Topstep’s capital. Via their flagship program, the Trading Combine, traders get to experience a three-step evaluation process that includes no time limits and a generous profit split. They’ve made for themselves a great reputation with clients having collectively withdrawn over $9 million in profits since 2020, Topstep has proven its commitment to trader success through an industry-leading profit sharing structure. Nonetheless, traders are limited to futures trading products, no stocks or forex here. They require you to flatten positions at the end of the day, so you can’t hold overnight trades. They show more care to their traders with a robust ecosystem and performance rewards. Key Trading Specifications Feature Details  Pricing  Monthly subscription starts at $149 (per Express account), plus a one‑time $149 activation fee once funded. Profit Split Keep 100% of payouts until total withdrawals reach $10,000, then the split becomes 90/10. Trading Period Rules No time limits, futures only, and positions must be flattened daily. Payout Process 50% after 5 winning days, 100% after 30 days, $200+ daily profit qualifies as winning day. 5. The Funded Trader This firm is quite beginner-friendly and offers multiple trading programs designed to help skilled traders access funded accounts and earn profits from their trading performance. They also offer an account scaling pathway based on performance and specific requirements. The firm has a somewhat gamified structure with a variety of evaluation paths from Knight, Rapid, Royal, Dragon, to others, traders can enjoy different profit targets, drawdown rules, and payout timelines. Once you pass, you trade on funded accounts with simulated capital and keep up to 90–95% of profits. As for trading, all trading is conducted on demo accounts with real profit-sharing based on simulated performance. Traders can get anytime payouts which are available on certain programs. Key Trading Specifications Feature Details  Pricing  Described as “lowest prices in the industry” – specific tiers vary by program. Profit Split Start with an 80–90% profit split. Consistent traders can scale up to 95% on larger accounts . Trading Period Rules Varies by program (Single-phase for Knight Pro, multi-phase for others). Payout Process Anytime payouts available (Knight Pro), requires verification, no open positions, balance above starting level. Comparison of the Best Prop Trading Firms The firms we’ve carefully selected are some of the best you can give a try at in the industry. However, to see how different they are and which one will serve your purposes best, we’ve made a prop firm comparison table below. Prop Trading Firm Pricing  Profit Split Trading Period Rules Payout Process OneFunded Starts from $25. Challenge fees are refunded on the first payout, with competitive entry costs across all models. Scales with account size (up to 100K). 80% trader / 20% firm split with no hidden fees. Unlimited time for evaluations with no artificial deadlines creating unnecessary pressure, with a 100% refundable fee structure. After your first payout, you can request further payouts for every 14 days FTMO The cost of the FTMO Challenge is refunded with the first payout from the FTMO Account. Starts at 80%, rises to 90% under Scaling Plan (25% account growth over 4 months, 2+ payouts). No time limit for completion, minimum 4 trading days required for each phase. Available after 14 days FundedNext Challenge fees refunded on first payout, with competitive entry costs across all models. 70-80% base split, scaling up to 95% for top performers. No time limits, minimum 5 trades required, no consecutive trading day requirements. First payout after 5 trading days, 24-48 hour account setup after verification. Topstep Monthly subscription starts at $149 (per Express account), plus a one‑time $149 activation fee once funded. Keep 100% of payouts until total withdrawals reach $10,000, then the split becomes 90/10. No time limits, futures only, and positions must be flattened daily. 50% after 5 winning days, 100% after 30 days, $200+ daily profit qualifies as winning day. The Funded Trader Described as “lowest prices in the industry” – specific tiers vary by program. Start with an 80–90% profit split. Consistent traders can scale up to 95% on larger accounts. Varies by program (Single-phase for Knight Pro, multi-phase for others). Anytime payouts available (Knight Pro), requires verification, no open positions, balance above starting level. How We Choose The Top Prop Trading Firms Perhaps you’re wondering how we choose these top prop trading firms, we’ve discussed how we made our choice. You can also use our criteria to vet our choice so you can also be assured.   1. Reputation We check and verify the reputation of a company before we recommend them as a top prop trading firm. The firm’s reputation says much about it before a trader even uses it. As a result, the firm’s reputation shows how honest, dependable, and long-lasting it will be in the market. We pick established firms with a longer track record that indicate stability and reliability. We do this by checking independent review platforms, forums, and social media for authentic trader experiences. If a prop trading firm has awards, certifications, or recognition from reputable trading organizations this bolsters their reputation. Another consideration is if these firms openly share their policies, rules, and procedures that demonstrate trustworthiness. OneFunded has proven to be one of more reliable prop firms in addition to others like FTMO and FundedNext, who’ve been in the industry for close to a decade or more. 2. Payout Reliability and Speed Traders and also firms are always on the lookout for profits. As a trader, the ability to receive your profits consistently and promptly is crucial for sustainable trading success. That’s another factor we are particular about. Moreover, depending on the firm’s regulations and transaction system, it’ll determine how fast you can withdraw your funds. 3. Trading Rules and Restrictions Each and every firm has varying rules that can significantly impact your trading strategy and profitability. Some are more generous with trading rules and beginner friendly like OneFunded and FTMO with their demo account, and The Funded Trader with their simulated capital.  It’s best to pick firms with realistic targets that align with your trading style. Then check if there are restrictions on when you can trade Topstep restricting overnight trades. 4. Cost Structure and Fees The cost structure is also important as this field requires you to understand the cost structure so you can make estimations as to your potential profits. So, we take the fees associated with the evaluations into account, for instance if it’s a one time payment and whether it’s refundable. Meanwhile, we have to ensure that there are no hidden fees for withdrawals, inactivity, or other services, and all ongoing costs for maintaining funded accounts are clear to traders. 5. Account Sizes and Scaling Opportunities Scaling is another factor that we consider because it shows that the firm has plans for you and your account with them to grow. The growth potential and available capital are key for your long-term success. Considerably, OneFunded presents an easy path to scale up your account. This also goes for FTMO and FundedNext. Scaling up comes with increased profit share to you as a trader  6. Support and Community Beyond all this, traders ought to have access to support from the firm and also a community to help them through the early stages and hard times when trading. With good support and a positive trading environment, you can enhance your success. Some of these support include: Customer service Educational resources Active trader community Mentorship Making Your Decision In the end, you’ll have to pick a firm and start trading. In the spirit of making the right decision, consider the following tips. Never rush your decision, so take time to research thoroughly on the firm. Consider starting with smaller account sizes to test the firm’s reliability. Stay informed about industry changes and firm updates. You should also be ready to switch companies if the one you choose doesn’t live up to your expectations. Final Thoughts  Prop trading firms like OneFunded and others are some of the best in the industry for you to use trading shares, stock and even forex. With our help and also your discretion, you should make the right decision for your trading career by picking a prop trading firm with you as a trader in mind. FAQs Which Prop Trading Firm Should I Use As A Beginner? As a beginner, you should look for companies that have flexible evaluation periods, educational materials, and a supportive trading environment.  For example, companies that say “no pressure from time constraints” and offer adequate learning materials, like OneFunded, are usually better for people who are just starting out in prop trading. How Much Does It Cost To Join A Prop Trading Firm? The cost of joining a prop trading firm can be very different depending on the firm and the size of the account you want to open. Most companies charge an initial evaluation fee that is usually between $100 and $500 for smaller accounts. The fee goes up for larger accounts. Some companies also charge monthly platform or data fees, which can be anywhere from $10 to $50 a month. But be careful of companies that charge too many hidden fees or don’t give you your money back if you finish their challenges. What Happens If I Lose Money While Trading With A Prop Firm? When you trade with a prop firm, the most you can lose is usually the evaluation fee you paid up front. This is very different from trading with your own money, where you could lose all of your account balance. Prop firms have strict rules for managing risk, such as daily loss limits (usually 3–5% of the account balance) and maximum drawdown limits (usually 6–10% of the account balance). If you reach these limits, your account will be closed, but you won’t have to pay the company any more money than the fee you already paid. How Long Does It Take to Get Funded By A Prop Trading Firm? The time it takes to get funding depends on how the firm evaluates you and how well you trade. Most firms use a one-step or two-step evaluation process. Topstep is different from other firms because it has a three-step process. After the evaluation, the firms will give you a funded account within 24 to 48 hours. However, some other firms may take up to a week to set up your live trading account. Can I Trade Multiple Prop Firm Accounts Simultaneously? Most prop firms let traders open more than one account, either with the same firm or with different ones. But there are some important rules and things to think about. Some companies propose that copy trading, or using the same strategies on more than one account, is not allowed because it can lead to correlation risk. So, read the terms and conditions of each company carefully to be safe. Some may require you to tell them about other trades you do or have rules about having more than one account.

Kraken has rolled out Kraken Perps (short for perpetual contracts), a new trading product designed to let eligible clients worldwide speculate on crypto price movements without owning the underlying asset. Available directly from the Kraken app, the launch marks a significant step in making derivatives more accessible to everyday investors. Unlike spot trading, where investors buy or sell the actual cryptocurrency, perpetual contracts allow traders to take long or short positions on an asset’s price trajectory. With no expiry date, Kraken Perps can be held indefinitely, offering flexibility to increase or reduce exposure as market views evolve. Takeaway: Kraken Perps let investors speculate on crypto markets with flexibility, without needing to own the underlying coins. How Perps Work Kraken compares perpetuals to making a season-long bet with a friend on a sports team’s success. Traders are essentially placing conviction-based calls on where an asset’s price will go. Examples include: “I think Bitcoin’s going to surge over the next few months.” “Ethereum’s price might dip after its next upgrade.” “Memecoins are back, so Solana could take off.” Opening a position requires collateral — starting with USD — from a Kraken account. Traders then choose whether they expect prices to “Increase” or “Decrease” and size their position accordingly. Real-World Applications Consider Bitcoin: an investor who believes BTC is undervalued could go long on a BTC perpetual contract instead of buying Bitcoin outright. If the price rises, the contract generates a profit. Conversely, if an investor believes BTC is overhyped, they could go short and profit from a price decline. Perpetuals allow positions to evolve: traders can add to a trade if conviction strengthens or trim exposure if confidence wanes. Takeaway: Long and short positions in perpetual contracts let investors act on bullish or bearish views without needing to buy or sell the underlying crypto. Why It Matters Perpetual contracts are already dominant in crypto derivatives markets but have historically catered to advanced traders. Kraken Perps aim to change that by simplifying the product with approachable design, plain-language explanations, and helpful features. “Kraken Perps are about more than just trading — they give you new ways to express your views, manage risk, and build strategy into your portfolio,” the company said at launch. Managing Risk Kraken emphasizes security and education in its new offering. Perps carry inherent risk, but Kraken has embedded safeguards, including customizable stop-loss orders to automatically limit downside if markets move against a position. The company is also expanding its library of educational resources to explain how perps work, who they suit, and how to trade responsibly. Takeaway: Built-in stop-loss tools and education resources aim to make Kraken Perps safer for retail traders venturing into derivatives. Looking Ahead Kraken Perps are live today for eligible clients. The company plans to expand asset support beyond USD collateral and broaden regional access over time. Future updates will refine the user experience and deliver new risk management and strategy-building tools. While often associated with active traders, Kraken stresses that Perps are not just for day-trading: “They’re about having more ways and the right tools to express your views on the market, manage risk or add an extra layer of strategy to your portfolio.”

Forward Industries (NASDAQ: FORD) on Thursday announced the completion of a Solana (SOL) treasury-focused $1.65 billion private investment in public equity (PIPE) financing, representing one of the largest blockchain-focused deals in 2025. Led by Galaxy Digital, Jump Crypto, and Multicoin Capital, the funding accelerates Forward’s Solana treasury strategy. According to the press statement, new capital will be used to purchase SOL, fund working capital, and launch bespoke digital asset management solutions that target active capital market participation. Galaxy, Jump Crypto, and Multicoin together contributed over $300 million, signalling growing institutional confidence in Solana. More than 10 global investment firms and notable angel investors, including Bitwise, FalconX, Ribbit Capital, and Cindy Leow (Drift), joined the round, solidifying Forward’s institutional support. The Board gains influence from Multicoin’s Kyle Samani (Chair), Galaxy’s Chris Ferraro, and Jump Crypto’s Saurabh Sharma. With the likes of Michael Pruitt, Forward’s CEO, also joining the board as a director, the company’s leadership shows deep expertise in crypto and capital markets. “Forward Industries’ mission has been centered around operational and innovative excellence, and we are now extending that same principle to our capital strategy by building a balance sheet with SOL at its core,” said Mr. Pruitt, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Forward Industries. Mr. Pruitt also highlighted Forward Industries’ aim to leverage Solana’s potential in the capital markets, exploring diversified and innovative strategies to generate returns while reinforcing the company’s forward-looking financial approach. Investor Takeaway The deal highlights growing institutional appetite for blockchain-based investment vehicles and innovative treasury approaches. Forward Joins Growing List of Solana Treasury Companies The development comes amid a broader trend of public companies adding digital assets to their treasuries, following the lead of early adopters like Michael Saylor‘s Strategy, now the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin. Solana-focused treasury firms such as DeFi Development, Upexi, and Sol Strategies collectively manage over $1.4 billion in SOL, according to Blockworks data. Solana processed over 8.9 billion transactions in Q2 2025, recording $4 billion daily decentralized exchange volumes. With $1.2 billion in year-to-date real economic value and a developer base adding over 7,500 new contributors in 2024 alone, Solana leads in throughput, profitability, and market adoption. Forward’s treasury strategy seeks to leverage Solana’s blockchain network and solicit on-chain returns from staking, lending, and algorithmic treasury management. By capitalizing on price appreciation and on-chain yield, Forward could become a benchmark for publicly traded Solana-focused capital management. Investor Takeaway Forward Industries aims to tap Solana’s robust blockchain ecosystem (high throughput, developer activity, and established DeFi), seeking returns through staking, lending, and algorithmic treasury strategies. Market Reaction and Outlook Shares of Forward Industries (FORD) surged 15% in pre-market trading after the PIPE announcement. The wave of capital follows similar institutional allocations toward blockchain treasuries, mirroring BlackRock’s and Franklin Templeton’s investments in tokenized funds. Market analysts view Forward’s structure as a hedge against volatility as the company plans to actively manage its SOL holdings, using strategies like staking, lending, and active market making to optimize returns and maintain shareholder value. Global advisors, including legal partners from Cantor Fitzgerald and Galaxy Digital, remain involved, supporting diversified and risk-managed investment strategies, as well as regulatory and operational execution.

Trading has never been more accessible. Just a decade ago, buying stocks or cryptocurrencies required either a brokerage account with complex interfaces or technical know-how about digital wallets and exchanges. Fast-forward to 2025, and a new wave of trading apps has transformed how investors, from beginners to professionals, participate in the financial markets. Whether you want to build a long-term portfolio, dabble in cryptocurrencies, or actively trade on short-term opportunities, there’s an app designed to meet your needs. This article explores the best stock and crypto trading apps of 2025, their standout features, and how they fit into the changing landscape of digital investing. The Changing Landscape of Trading Apps The rise of mobile trading apps stems from two broader trends: digitization of finance and the democratization of investing. As people increasingly turn to their smartphones for financial services, trading platforms have streamlined their interfaces, cut down on fees, and added features that once belonged to professional trading desks. In parallel, cryptocurrencies, once a niche asset class, are now part of mainstream portfolios. Apps that support both stocks and crypto under one roof are particularly popular, as investors prefer unified platforms over juggling multiple accounts. By 2025, trading apps will no longer be judged solely by low fees. Security, user experience, research tools, automation features, and integration with payment systems now define the leaders. Key Features to Look For in 2025 Trading Apps When evaluating stock and crypto trading apps, investors should consider more than just fees. By 2025, these features stand out as essential: Security: With rising cyber threats, robust security like two-factor authentication, biometric login, and cold storage for crypto are non-negotiable. Asset Variety: The best apps let users trade across stocks, ETFs, crypto, and even alternative assets. Low Fees: Zero-commission trading is now the norm, but hidden fees (like withdrawal costs) still matter. User Experience: Clean, intuitive design helps avoid costly mistakes. Research and Education: Built-in tools, analysis, and tutorials empower users to make informed decisions. AI Integration: Many apps in 2025 use AI to suggest trades, manage portfolios, or forecast risks. Regulatory Compliance: Apps that prioritize compliance reduce the risk of sudden shutdowns or regional restrictions. Best Trading Apps in 2025 Here are some of the top trading apps in 2025, categorized by their unique features and benefits: Robinhood Robinhood remains a household name in 2025. Famous for pioneering commission-free stock trading, the app has grown far beyond its early roots. It now offers a wide range of crypto options, retirement accounts, advanced charting tools, and even recurring investment features.  Its strengths lie in its clean, intuitive design, zero-commission structure, fractional share investing, and a broad crypto selection.  Robinhood has also enhanced its crypto wallet compatibility and introduced AI-driven investment insights, making the app smarter and more responsive to user needs. For new investors who want to start with a simple, user-friendly platform that avoids overwhelming complexity, Robinhood remains one of the best options available. Coinbase Coinbase has evolved from a straightforward crypto exchange into one of the most comprehensive trading apps on the market. Designed to appeal to both beginners and advanced traders, it now combines a user-friendly interface with professional-grade tools.  Beyond simple buying and selling, Coinbase incorporates staking opportunities, NFT marketplaces, and DeFi integrations, positioning itself as a complete crypto hub.  Its reputation for strong security and seamless fiat on-ramps remains a cornerstone, while in 2025, the platform introduced lower transaction fees, more advanced order types, and AI-powered portfolio management tools. For investors who focus primarily on cryptocurrencies and want exposure to emerging Web3 opportunities, Coinbase stands out as a top choice. eToro eToro has carved out a unique niche by combining traditional stock and crypto trading with an active social community. Its defining feature is the ability for users to copy the trades of top-performing investors, an invaluable tool for beginners who want to learn from the strategies of experienced traders.  The platform offers stocks, ETFs, commodities, and cryptocurrencies in one place, along with strong educational resources.  eToro has expanded its copy-trading features by introducing AI-curated trader recommendations, making it easier than ever to find reliable strategies.  Investors who value both diversification and the ability to learn from a global trading community will find eToro especially appealing. Fidelity Investments While many trading apps chase speed and simplified experiences, Fidelity continues to prioritize depth, research, and long-term planning. It remains a trusted platform for serious investors, thanks to its zero-fee index funds, advanced analysis tools, and strong emphasis on retirement accounts. Its reputation for comprehensive research reports and reliable customer support has stood the test of time.  Fidelity has embraced digital asset growth by offering crypto ETFs and integrating blockchain-based products into its platform. This makes Fidelity especially attractive to investors who are planning for retirement or building long-term portfolios, but who also want access to modern asset classes like crypto. Binance Despite facing regulatory challenges in earlier years, Binance has maintained its position as one of the largest and most versatile crypto trading apps worldwide. Its appeal lies in its unmatched range of coins, derivatives, staking products, and yield opportunities. Traders who want maximum variety and liquidity rarely need to look beyond Binance.  The platform has adopted a compliance-first approach to meet global regulatory standards, launched region-specific apps, and integrated AI-powered risk management systems to improve user safety. For active traders and crypto enthusiasts who value advanced features and deep asset selection, Binance remains one of the strongest platforms available. Charles Schwab Charles Schwab has long been associated with trust and quality in stock investing, and its app continues to deliver. Combining professional-grade research with a smooth, user-friendly interface, Schwab caters to both beginners and seasoned traders. The platform offers zero-commission trading, fractional shares, and consistently reliable customer service.  Its recent updates include integrated crypto ETFs and smart order-routing technology designed for faster execution, ensuring users get the best possible prices. For investors who prioritize research, reliability, and long-term financial stability over flashy features, Charles Schwab is an excellent choice. Kraken Kraken has built its reputation as one of the most secure cryptocurrency platforms in the world, and its mobile app reflects this commitment to trust. The platform balances advanced functionality with an emphasis on safety, appealing to serious crypto traders who prioritize reliability. Kraken offers a broad selection of coins, along with futures and margin trading.  It has introduced hardware wallet compatibility and enhanced mobile derivatives trading, further cementing its reputation among experienced investors. For those who want peace of mind without sacrificing advanced trading options, Kraken remains a top-tier choice. Webull Webull has steadily gained traction by appealing to tech-savvy traders who appreciate advanced tools without paying high fees. Known for its detailed charting capabilities and real-time data, the app combines zero-commission stock and ETF trading with cryptocurrency access. Its extended trading hours also make it attractive for active traders.  Webull has added educational modules and AI-powered trade idea generators, making it easier for users to sharpen their skills while exploring new strategies. For traders who enjoy technical analysis and want professional-style tools at their fingertips, Webull is one of the best apps to consider. Cash App Cash App started as a peer-to-peer payments service but has transformed into a surprisingly effective investment tool. In 2025, it will allow users to buy Bitcoin and fractional shares of stocks directly from the same app they use for daily transfers. Its simplicity is its strength, offering a user-friendly design, instant transfers, and easy investing without complexity.  Recent updates have expanded crypto support beyond Bitcoin and added improved tax reporting features, making the app more robust for casual investors. For beginners or those who want to keep trading tied closely to everyday finances, Cash App is one of the easiest entry points into both stock and crypto markets. Which Trading App Will Power Your Investment Journey? The best trading app isn’t necessarily the one with the most features, but the one that matches your goals. Beginners may prefer Robinhood, SoFi, or Cash App for simplicity. Serious stock investors may gravitate toward Fidelity or Charles Schwab. Crypto-first users will find Coinbase, Kraken, or Binance hard to beat, while those who want social learning can rely on eToro. Trading in 2025 is defined by choice. With powerful apps available at your fingertips, anyone can invest in global markets. The challenge is no longer accessing; it’s choosing wisely, staying informed, and aligning your platform with your personal investment journey.

Taurus SA, the FINMA-regulated Swiss provider of institutional-grade digital asset infrastructure, has announced the opening of a new office in São Paulo, Brazil. The expansion reinforces Taurus’ leadership in digital asset technology and deepens its presence in Latin America, where the company already serves a growing roster of clients and partners. Takeaway: The new São Paulo office extends Taurus’ global footprint and positions the firm to capitalize on Brazil’s evolving digital asset market. Leadership in Brazil The São Paulo office will be led by Bruno Reis, CEO for Brazil, who brings over 20 years of experience in financial markets and technology with organizations such as Citi, Oracle, SAP, and Neoway. Most recently, Reis was the co-founder and CEO of fintech Ali, which he successfully exited to BTG Pactual in early 2025. His mix of technology expertise, regional market knowledge, and proven execution track record strengthens Taurus’ local leadership. “The evolving regulatory framework in Brazil will enable financial institutions to offer digital assets at scale soon,” said Reis. “I am proud to lead Taurus’ efforts in building a strong franchise across Brazil and Latin America, where we have been actively engaging with regulators and clients to drive adoption.” Takeaway: Bruno Reis’ appointment signals Taurus’ intent to combine global expertise with local market leadership to accelerate adoption in Brazil. Brazil’s Regulatory and Market Context Brazil’s financial ecosystem has become a hotspot for digital asset innovation. Recent initiatives include the Central Bank’s DREX project and several pioneering programs that are laying the groundwork for blockchain-enabled finance. Regulatory clarity on cryptocurrencies is expected by late 2025, which is expected to catalyze institutional adoption and growth across the region. Taurus’ expansion arrives at a critical moment, enabling the firm to serve institutions preparing to enter the digital asset market under a clearer regulatory framework. The company has already been in active dialogue with Brazilian regulators, further aligning its technology with compliance requirements. Takeaway: Brazil’s upcoming regulatory clarity on digital assets could unlock large-scale institutional adoption, making Taurus’ entry timely. Global Commitment to Digital Asset Infrastructure Lamine Brahimi, Co-founder and Managing Partner at Taurus, highlighted the strategic importance of the Brazil launch: “This new chapter in Brazil marks Taurus’ ongoing dedication to advancing the institutional adoption of digital assets while delivering cutting-edge technology and regulatory compliance excellence across key global markets.” Taurus has built a reputation as a trusted infrastructure provider for leading banks and financial institutions worldwide. Its client and partner base includes Deutsche Bank, CACEIS, Santander, and State Street. The company has also attracted significant investor backing, closing a $65 million Series B round in February 2023 led by Arab Bank Switzerland, UBS/Credit Suisse, Investis, and Pictet. Takeaway: Taurus’ track record with global banks and major investors underscores its credibility as it expands into Latin America. Looking Ahead The expansion into Brazil positions Taurus at the forefront of Latin America’s digital asset transformation. By combining its institutional-grade infrastructure with a local presence and leadership, Taurus is set to play a pivotal role in enabling banks and financial institutions across the region to offer compliant, scalable digital asset solutions. Takeaway: Taurus’ Brazil launch is part of its broader strategy to shape the institutional digital asset ecosystem worldwide.  

Crypto analysts, by the name CryptoWZRD, who have been tracking Ripple’s XRP price since 2023 through a series of technical fractal patterns suggest the asset is set for a massive rally as it breaches a long-term bullish pattern. Their prediction is based on XRP repeating a yearly fractal pattern it established between 2015 and 2017. During that period, XRP experienced a sharp decline in market value, then entered a corrective phase, forming lower highs and lows, consolidating before staging a major rally that pushed the asset to its all-time high. Source: X A similar pattern, the analysts note, has been forming between 2023 and 2025. At press time, XRP has breached this consolidation structure, a move they expect could drive the token to three price levels. The analysts categorized the outlook based on bullish scenarios. In the extreme case, they believe XRP could rally to $8, while the other two target ranges sit at $2.70 and $4.50. Meanwhile, investors are already supporting the rally, with off-chain analysis of exchange activity showing growing accumulation. Investors Push Bullish Alignment for XRP An analysis of the open interest-weighted funding rate on CoinGlass confirms that the market remains bullish, posting a positive reading of 0.0109%. This indicates that the majority of funding entering the market, as reflected in open interest data, comes from longs betting on a rally. Currently, open interest has seen consistent growth across both perpetual and options markets. In the perpetual segment, inflows reached $94 million, pushing total open interest at press time to $8.33 billion, with longs dominating market control. Spot market activity also favors long traders, with volumes continuing to rise. After selling the previous day, investors have reversed course, placing $4.74 million in fresh buy orders, putting XRP in a stronger position to follow the trade setup highlighted by analysts. At the time of reporting, total trading volume hovered around $6 billion, with price momentum and liquidity suggesting a sustained rally remains likely. Still Not a Clear Signal However, a closer analysis of investor activity across 20 exchanges shows XRP is not entirely bullish despite the strong liquidity inflows. Only five exchanges—Hyperliquid, HTX, CoinEx, Crypto.com, and Gate—have consistently driven bullish momentum in the market. The remaining 15, including Bitget, Binance, the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), and Bybit, remain bearish, collectively accounting for $5.43 billion of total trading volume—confirming the momentum control they have. If this bearish trend continues across these exchanges, coupled with weaker inflows from the other five, XRP could face significant downside pressure despite the bullish fractal breakout.

Altruist, the modern custodian transforming how financial advisors serve clients, has unveiled Hazel, a purpose-built AI platform designed to streamline advisor productivity and deepen client relationships. Drawing on both firm-specific data and broader industry knowledge, Hazel is positioned as an intelligent co-pilot for advisors’ day-to-day work. Takeaway: Hazel is Altruist’s first major AI release, combining meeting intelligence with custodial expertise to boost advisor efficiency and client service. “Ask Hazel Anything” Hazel’s core feature, Ask Hazel Anything, delivers instant answers based on a firm’s conversations, emails, documents, and CRM systems, enriched with market and regulatory data. For example, an advisor might ask Hazel to recall a past discussion with a family and recommend follow-up items for an upcoming meeting. Hazel responds with tailored, context-aware guidance linked to the client’s financial plan and prior advice. This functionality allows advisors to skip manual digging through records and instead access real-time, actionable insights in seconds. Takeaway: Hazel transforms advisor workflows by surfacing highly specific, firm-level intelligence instantly. Key Features for Advisors Daily snapshot: Overview of meetings, emails, and tasks. Email drafting: Writes messages in each advisor’s unique tone of voice. Task automation: Creates tasks after meetings and syncs with leading CRMs such as Salesforce, Wealthbox, and Redtail. Meeting prep: Summarizes past notes, recent account activity, and key documents. Real-time notes: Records, transcribes, and summarizes meetings on the fly. Data security: Ensures client confidentiality with enterprise-grade encryption and strict data governance. Takeaway: From email drafting to meeting prep, Hazel centralizes multiple advisor functions in a secure, AI-driven platform. Built on Altruist’s AI Expansion Hazel represents the first major AI product since Altruist acquired Thyme, a Y Combinator-backed startup specializing in meeting intelligence. By integrating Thyme’s AI-powered scheduling and preparation capabilities with Altruist’s custodial data infrastructure, Hazel delivers a unified experience designed exclusively for advisors. “Hazel is a game changer for advisors,” said Jason Wenk, Founder and CEO of Altruist. “She’s designed to take on the work that weighs on them most. That includes note-taking, CRM entries, scheduling, and more complex tasks like email management and in-depth research. By unifying all of these core functions in one platform, she’s making it easier for advisors to do what they got into this business to do in the first place—help people.” Takeaway: Altruist sees Hazel as a way to give advisors more time for client relationships by automating back-office and administrative burdens. Pricing and Availability Hazel is available today as a standalone service priced at $60 per seat monthly or $600 annually. A free trial is available via hazel.ai. In the coming months, Hazel will integrate directly into Altruist’s custodial platform, allowing advisors to access deeper custodial data for richer insights and predictive client engagement. Takeaway: Advisors can adopt Hazel today, with deeper integration into Altruist’s custodial ecosystem expected soon.  

The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC), the premier post-trade market infrastructure for global financial services, has announced that BNP Paribas and J.P. Morgan have joined CTM’s automated tri-party matching workflow for prime brokers. The initiative aims to streamline communications between hedge funds, prime brokers, and executing brokers as market participants prepare for the UK and Europe’s transition to T+1 settlement by October 2027. Both firms expect to go live on the new workflow by the end of 2025. Takeaway: BNP Paribas and J.P. Morgan will implement CTM’s tri-party matching workflow by 2025, positioning themselves ahead of the region’s move to T+1 settlement. Addressing Post-Trade Bottlenecks Currently, prime brokers often receive hedge fund trade details in inconsistent formats and at different times—sometimes as late as T+1—leading to delays in post-trade processing. The CTM tri-party workflow standardizes and automates the delivery of trade files, ensuring prime brokers receive timely, accurate, and standardized details. The workflow leverages CTM’s automated central matching functionality to supply prime brokers with a “golden copy” of transaction details once a trade match occurs between a hedge fund and executing broker. This innovation enables real-time automation, reduces manual intervention, and enhances efficiency in trade allocation and settlement processes. Takeaway: Standardized “golden copy” trade data from CTM enhances accuracy and timeliness in post-trade workflows. Industry Perspectives Val Wotton, DTCC Managing Director and Global Head of Equities Solutions, said: “We are excited to have BNP Paribas and J.P. Morgan adopt CTM’s tri-party workflow as prime brokers. This is a pivotal step in further automating and accelerating settlement processes, and we anticipate it will greatly enhance automation for prime brokers in EMEA and globally as additional financial markets transition to a T+1 settlement cycle.” Wayne Howard, Global Head of Prime Brokerage Operations Client Services at BNP Paribas, commented: “Joining DTCC’s CTM tri-party matching workflow as a prime broker aligns with BNP Paribas’ commitment to deliver the

The cryptocurrency space moves faster than any other industry. Prices fluctuate within minutes, new projects launch daily, and regulations evolve constantly. For traders, investors, and enthusiasts alike, staying updated is not just helpful, it’s essential.  While traditional news sites provide coverage, much of the real-time discussion and unfiltered analysis happens in community-driven spaces. Among these, Reddit and Telegram stand out as two of the most influential platforms. This article explores the best subreddits and Telegram channels for crypto insights, breaking down what makes them valuable, what type of content they offer, and how to use them wisely. Best Subreddits For Crypto Insights Reddit’s strength lies in its ability to host communities with distinct focuses. Whether you’re a beginner, a long-term investor, or a day trader, there’s a subreddit for you. 1. r/CryptoCurrency Focus: General crypto news, discussions, and education. This is the largest crypto community on Reddit. It covers everything from breaking news and project updates to investment strategies and market debates. The Daily Discussion thread is particularly useful for keeping up with fast-moving events. 2. r/Bitcoin Focus: Bitcoin news, adoption, and technical discussions. If your primary interest is Bitcoin, this subreddit is the go-to source. Content ranges from price speculation and global adoption stories to deep dives into technical aspects like the Lightning Network. 3. r/Ethereum Focus: Ethereum ecosystem, DeFi, NFTs, and technical upgrades. Ethereum is the backbone of decentralized finance (DeFi) and NFTs. This subreddit is the hub for conversations on Ethereum updates, ETH 2.0, staking, smart contracts, and emerging dApps. 4. r/CryptoMarkets Focus: Market analysis, trading, and investment strategies. Here you’ll find discussions tailored toward price action, charting, and portfolio management. If you’re a trader, this subreddit provides valuable insights, technical analysis, and sentiment tracking. 5. r/Altcoin Focus: Non-Bitcoin cryptocurrencies. Altcoins often present opportunities for high-risk, high-reward investments. This subreddit is dedicated to exploring new projects, upcoming ICOs, and smaller-cap coins. 6. r/DeFi Focus: Decentralized finance platforms and tools. From yield farming to decentralized exchanges, this subreddit is a treasure trove of information on the future of finance. Users share experiences, risks, and strategies across DeFi protocols. 7. r/NFT Focus: NFTs, digital art, and collectibles. While not directly focused on trading tokens, the NFT subreddit captures one of the fastest-growing sectors of the crypto industry. For investors and creators, it’s a space to learn trends and discover new projects. 8. r/CryptoTechnology Focus: Technical and infrastructure developments. This subreddit is for those who want more than price speculation. Discussions revolve around blockchain scalability, consensus mechanisms, and cryptography innovations. 9. r/SatoshiStreetBets Focus: Meme-driven speculation. Think of this as the crypto version of WallStreetBets. It’s less about sober analysis and more about hype cycles, memes, and sometimes surprisingly accurate speculation. Best Telegram Channels For Crypto Insights While Reddit thrives on in-depth threads, Telegram offers immediacy. Many projects, influencers, and analysts maintain channels that deliver news, signals, and strategies instantly to subscribers. 1. Crypto Kirby Trading Focus: Market analysis and trading strategies. Crypto Kirby is known for direct and technical trading insights. His Telegram channel provides regular updates, market sentiment analysis, and chart breakdowns tailored to active traders. 2. Whale Alert Focus: Large crypto transactions. This channel alerts users to massive transfers of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies between wallets and exchanges. Whale movements often precede market volatility, making this channel valuable for short-term traders. 3. ICO Speaks News Focus: New projects and ICO announcements. For those who like discovering early-stage opportunities, this channel provides updates on token sales, project launches, and initial coin offerings. 4. Crypto Groups by CoinTelegraph Focus: News and analysis. CoinTelegraph, one of the largest crypto news outlets, runs official Telegram groups. These are great for accessing breaking news and participating in discussions around industry events. 5. DeFi Million Focus: DeFi trends and updates. With DeFi booming, this channel covers protocol launches, yield opportunities, and governance updates. It’s especially popular among users hunting for high-yield farming strategies. 6. Binance Announcements Focus: Exchange news and updates. If you trade on Binance, this official channel is essential. It provides instant updates on new coin listings, system upgrades, and promotions. 7. Uniswap Announcements Focus: DEX news and token launches. As one of the largest decentralized exchanges, Uniswap’s Telegram channel offers timely updates on governance proposals, token listings, and protocol changes. 8. Crypto Pump Signals Focus: Short-term trading signals. While pump-and-dump groups are controversial, some Telegram channels are dedicated to coordinated trading strategies. They are risky but give insights into how speculative trading groups operate. 9. Glassnode Insights Focus: On-chain analytics. Glassnode is a respected analytics firm. Their Telegram channel shares charts, metrics, and research reports that help investors understand market movements from an on-chain perspective. How to Use Reddit and Telegram Wisely While these platforms offer unmatched insights, they come with risks. Not all information is reliable, and hype or misinformation can mislead newcomers. To maximize value: Cross-Verify Information: Use multiple sources before making financial decisions. Beware of Scams: Especially on Telegram, fake channels often mimic legitimate ones. Always check official links. Understand the Culture: Reddit can be brutally honest, while Telegram may prioritize speed over depth. Adjust expectations accordingly. Avoid Herd Mentality: Just because a subreddit or Telegram group hypes a coin doesn’t mean it’s a sound investment. Contribute Thoughtfully: Engaging with communities often yields better insights than passively consuming content. Reddit and Telegram: Tools For Smarter Crypto Decisions With thousands of subreddits and Telegram channels available, the challenge is not access but discernment. The best communities are those that align with your goals, whether that’s understanding Bitcoin’s technical upgrades, spotting altcoin gems, diving into DeFi, or following whale movements. Reddit offers thoughtful, structured discussions; Telegram provides speed and immediacy. Together, they create a powerful combination for anyone serious about crypto. But remember, in a market as volatile and speculative as cryptocurrency, community insights should complement, not replace, independent research and due diligence. By engaging with the right subreddits and Telegram channels, you can sharpen your strategies, avoid common pitfalls, and ride the ever-changing waves of the crypto market with more confidence.

In the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrency, airdrops have become a popular way for blockchain projects to attract attention and grow their communities. By distributing free tokens to wallet holders, projects create buzz, incentivize adoption, and reward early supporters.  However, the popularity of airdrops has also opened the door for scammers. Fake giveaways and malicious airdrop campaigns are now rampant, tricking unsuspecting investors into giving up sensitive information or losing their funds altogether. This article explores the rise of crypto airdrop scams, the common tactics fraudsters use, and how you can spot and avoid falling victim to fake giveaways. What Are Crypto Airdrops? A crypto airdrop is a distribution of free tokens, typically by new blockchain projects. These giveaways are designed to put tokens directly into the hands of users, helping projects gain attention and build a community from the ground up. To qualify for an airdrop, users are often asked to meet specific requirements. In some cases, this could mean holding a certain cryptocurrency in their wallet at the time of the drop.  Other times, participants might be asked to complete simple promotional tasks, such as following the project on social media platforms or joining its Telegram group. Some airdrops also require users to register with an email address or connect a wallet to prove eligibility. Legitimate airdrops function as marketing strategies. They help increase awareness, expand token distribution, and create liquidity for a new project. However, because they involve the promise of free money and generate widespread excitement, airdrops have also become a perfect tool for fraudsters looking to exploit unsuspecting participants. The Dark Side of Airdrops: Why Scams Thrive Airdrop scams thrive because they exploit several psychological and structural elements unique to the crypto space. One of the most powerful drivers is greed and FOMO (fear of missing out).  The promise of free tokens often triggers impulsive behavior, with many users rushing to claim airdrops without conducting proper due diligence. This eagerness makes it easier for scammers to lure victims into traps. Another factor is the anonymity of crypto. Because transactions are pseudonymous, scammers can operate freely, vanish quickly once their scheme runs its course, and reappear under new identities. This lack of accountability makes it difficult for victims to recover funds or seek justice. Finally, there’s the complexity of blockchain technology. Many newcomers simply don’t have the technical knowledge to distinguish between legitimate offers and fraudulent ones. Scammers exploit this gap with professional-looking websites, fake tokens, and convincing narratives that appear authentic. Together, these elements create fertile ground for bad actors to exploit, making vigilance essential for anyone navigating the world of crypto airdrops. Common Types of Airdrop Scams Understanding the types of scams is the first step to avoiding them. Here are the most widespread methods scammers use: Phishing Airdrops Phishing scams trick users into revealing private keys, seed phrases, or login credentials. Victims are lured to fake websites designed to look like legitimate wallet apps or project pages. Once the user inputs sensitive details, scammers steal their funds. Fake Social Media Giveaways On platforms like Twitter, Telegram, and Discord, fraudsters pose as official projects or influencers, offering “exclusive airdrops.” These often require users to send a small amount of crypto to “verify their wallet” or “unlock rewards.” The funds sent are never returned. Malicious Smart Contracts Some scam airdrops require users to interact with a smart contract. While this may appear normal, the contract can be coded to drain funds from the wallet once access is granted. These are especially dangerous because they target those who understand how to connect wallets. Dusting Airdrops Scammers send tiny amounts of tokens to a large number of wallets. These tokens often carry malicious code or link to fraudulent websites. When users try to interact with or sell the tokens, they expose their wallets to attack. Imposter Projects Some scams impersonate legitimate projects. They create copycat websites and social media accounts, offering fake airdrops that mimic real campaigns. New investors often fall victim because the branding looks authentic. Red Flags: How to Spot a Scam Airdrop While scam tactics are becoming more sophisticated, there are common red flags to look out for: Requests for Private Keys or Seed Phrases: No legitimate project will ever ask for your private key or recovery phrase. If an airdrop campaign requests it, it’s a guaranteed scam. Upfront Payment Required: If you must send crypto to “verify” your wallet or “claim” tokens, the offer is fake. Airdrops are supposed to be free. Unrealistic Promises: Be wary of airdrops that promise outsized rewards, such as thousands of dollars worth of tokens just for joining a Telegram group. If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Unverified Social Media Accounts: Scammers often create fake accounts that mimic legitimate projects. Always double-check handles, verification badges, and follower counts. Suspicious Smart Contract Interactions: If an airdrop asks you to connect your wallet and approve unlimited permissions, think twice. This may give the contractor control over your funds. Lack of Transparency: Legitimate projects provide clear documentation, a whitepaper, and active communication channels. If details about the team, tokenomics, or project goals are missing, that’s a warning sign. Real-World Examples of Airdrop Scams Here are some examples of real-world airdrop scams The Uniswap Fake Airdrop After Uniswap’s official UNI token airdrop in 2020, scammers created counterfeit websites offering “bonus UNI tokens.” Thousands of users connected their wallets, unknowingly granting permissions that drained their accounts. The Telegram Giveaway Bots Telegram remains a hotspot for scam airdrops. Fraudsters launch bots that claim to distribute tokens but instead lead users through a series of steps that ultimately phish their wallet credentials. Dusting Attacks in 2021 Several networks saw dusting attacks where wallets received tiny, suspicious tokens. When users tried to trade them, they exposed their wallets to smart contract exploits. These cases highlight just how easily scammers exploit excitement around free tokens. How to Stay Safe: Practical Tips Avoiding scams requires vigilance and good security practices. Here are steps to protect yourself: Never Share Private Keys: Your seed phrase and private key are the keys to your funds. No legitimate airdrop will require them. Verify Sources: Check official project websites and verified social media accounts. Join communities on trusted platforms like Discord, Reddit, or Telegram to confirm announcements. Use a Burner Wallet: When participating in an airdrop, use a secondary wallet with limited funds. This way, even if the airdrop is malicious, your main holdings remain safe. Scrutinize Smart Contract Permissions: Always review permissions before signing a transaction. Avoid granting unlimited access, and use tools like revoke.cash to monitor and manage active approvals. Watch for Impersonators: Scammers often use similar names or logos to legitimate projects. Look for small discrepancies in URLs, usernames, or spelling errors. Use Reputable Sources: Follow news outlets, crypto influencers, and community leaders who are known for reliability. Be skeptical of links shared by strangers. The Regulatory Landscape Governments and regulators are increasingly aware of airdrop scams. Some jurisdictions classify fraudulent token distributions as securities fraud or deceptive marketing. However, enforcement is challenging due to the borderless nature of crypto. Regulatory actions can help reduce large-scale scams, but individuals must remain cautious. Unlike traditional banking, there is no safety net in crypto: once funds are lost, they’re usually gone forever. Can Airdrops Be Trusted? Crypto airdrop scams exploit human psychology, technical inexperience, and the hype around free money. By understanding the tactics scammers use, like phishing sites, malicious contracts, dusting tokens, and fake social media accounts, you can protect yourself and your assets. The rule of thumb is simple: if an airdrop asks for money, private keys, or makes unrealistic promises, it’s a scam. Approach every giveaway with skepticism, verify information through official channels, and use safe practices like burner wallets. The crypto space holds tremendous potential, but with opportunity comes risk. Staying alert and informed is the only way to ensure you don’t become another statistic in the rising tide of airdrop scams.

The forex market in 2025 is still a giant — over $7 trillion in daily turnover, spread across banks, funds, and millions of retail traders. The sheer scale creates opportunities, but the risks are just as real. Choosing the right broker is about more than spreads. It’s about regulation, platform reliability, and whether the broker matches your trading style. This year’s review highlights the 10 best forex brokers of 2025. While XM Broker claims the top spot for balancing accessibility with professional conditions, others like IG, Plus500, Interactive Brokers, IUX, VT Markets, PrimeXBT, Hantec Markets, EBC, and CMC Markets all bring something unique to the table. XM Broker – Accessible Yet Professional XM has been operating since 2009 and today serves millions of clients across nearly 200 countries. It combines one of the lowest entry requirements in the industry with spreads and execution that hold up against established names. Regulation: ASIC (Australia), CySEC (Cyprus), DFSA (Dubai) Deposit: from $5 Spreads & leverage: raw spreads from 0.0 pips; up to 1:500 leverage Platforms: MT4, MT5, proprietary mobile app Extras: daily webinars, tutorials, multilingual support The biggest draw is accessibility — you can test real trading with just a few dollars. On the downside, swap fees run higher than some ECN competitors, and support can feel stretched during busy market hours. Takeaway: XM is one of the few brokers that genuinely works for both newcomers and seasoned traders. IG – The Veteran with Market Breadth IG has been around since 1974. Few brokers can match its history, and even fewer can match its sheer market coverage. Regulation: FCA (UK), ASIC (AU), CFTC (US), and more Deposit: $250 minimum Markets: 17,000+ CFDs, 80+ forex pairs Platforms: proprietary platform, MT4 integration Strengths: vast product range, robust regulation Weakness: no copy trading, higher entry cost IG is the kind of broker professionals gravitate toward when they want choice and stability. For small accounts, though, the $250 minimum may feel like a barrier. Takeaway: A heavyweight for breadth and trust, but not the easiest starting point. Plus500 – Mobile Convenience Plus500 took a different approach when it launched in 2008: make CFD trading as simple as possible. Its clean app has since become its trademark. Regulation: FCA, ASIC, CySEC, MAS Deposit: $100 Markets: forex, indices, commodities, stocks, crypto CFDs Platform: proprietary web and mobile only Strengths: intuitive design, 24/7 support, no hidden fees Weaknesses: no MT4/MT5, scalping restrictions This simplicity is both its strength and its limitation. Casual traders love the ease of use; advanced users may feel boxed in. Takeaway: Best suited to retail traders who want quick, mobile-first trading without fuss. Interactive Brokers – Institutional Depth Founded in 1978, Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is often described as “the broker’s broker.” It brings institutional-style access to retail accounts. Regulation: SEC, CFTC, FCA, ASIC, and more Deposit: $0 Markets: forex, futures, options, stocks, ETFs, bonds, crypto Platform: Trader Workstation (TWS), web, mobile Strengths: rock-bottom costs, massive asset coverage Weaknesses: steep learning curve IBKR is not a hand-holding platform. Beginners may find it overwhelming, but traders who know what they’re doing get unmatched access. Takeaway: The closest retail clients get to institutional-grade trading. IUX – The Low-Cost Challenger IUX, launched in 2016, doesn’t have the legacy of IG or CMC, but it has carved out a niche with accessibility and tech focus. Regulation: ASIC, FSCA, FSC (Mauritius) Deposit: $10 minimum Markets: forex, commodities, metals, indices, stocks, crypto Platform: MT5, WebTrader, mobile apps Strengths: very low entry, multilingual 24/7 support Weaknesses: less known brand, limited education tools It’s a broker that lets you get started with minimal capital and test strategies without heavy commitment. Takeaway: A strong option for new traders and those looking for a low-cost second account. VT Markets – High Leverage and Copy Trading VT Markets, founded in 2015, is best known for its aggressive leverage and social tools. Regulation: ASIC, FSCA, FSC Deposit: $100 Leverage: up to 1:1000 on forex Markets: forex, indices, energy, metals, commodities, ETFs, bonds Platforms: MT4, MT5, WebTrader, mobile app Extras: copy trading (VTrade), MAM/PAMM, Trading Central For active traders, the mix of raw spreads, leverage, and copy trading makes VT attractive. But withdrawal fees and the risks of high leverage should be considered. Takeaway: A go-to broker for ambitious traders who want more tools and higher exposure. PrimeXBT – Where Crypto Meets Forex PrimeXBT, launched in 2018, has become a favorite among crypto-savvy traders who also want to dabble in forex and CFDs. Markets: forex, commodities, indices, crypto CFDs, crypto futures Leverage: up to 200x on crypto Fees: 0% on CFDs, 0.01–0.02% on futures Platform: customizable web-based terminal Strengths: copy trading, contests, cold storage security Weaknesses: fewer regulatory licenses, narrower traditional coverage It’s not for the ultra-conservative, but for those comfortable with crypto risk, it’s a cost-effective platform with serious firepower. Takeaway: Best suited for traders straddling both forex and crypto markets. Hantec Markets – Bridging Retail and Institutional Hantec Markets has decades of history and today serves both individual traders and institutions. Regulation: FCA (UK), FSC (Mauritius) Markets: 2,650+ CFDs (forex, metals, stocks, indices, crypto) Leverage: up to 1:500 Platforms: MT4, Hantec Social, FIX API, MAM/PAMM Strengths: strong partner programs, institutional liquidity Weaknesses: weekend support limited The broker’s copy trading and institutional services make it versatile. For IBs and affiliates, the rebate and CPA model is particularly appealing. Takeaway: A flexible broker for both traders and partners who need more than just a basic account. EBC Financial Group – Ambitious Newcomer EBC, founded in London in 2020, is young but aggressive in growth. Sponsorship deals like FC Barcelona have raised its profile. Regulation: FCA (UK), ASIC (AU), CIMA (Cayman Islands) Deposit: $50 Markets: forex, indices, commodities, shares Platforms: MT4, MT5, copy trading, PAMM Leverage: up to 1:500 Strengths: raw spreads from 0.0 pips, fast withdrawals, multilingual support Weaknesses: short operating history Despite being new, it has positioned itself as a credible option with pro-style spreads. Takeaway: A rising broker with strong pricing but less history than its peers. CMC Markets – Trusted and Educational CMC Markets, established in 1989, is one of the most recognized UK brokers. Regulation: FCA, ASIC, multiple EU/Asia licenses Markets: 10,000+ instruments Deposit: no minimum Platform: proprietary web and mobile (no MT4/MT5) Strengths: outstanding education and research, long track record Weaknesses: spreads wider than ECN rivals CMC’s platform is stable, and its research is excellent. Education is where it really shines, making it a safe entry point for newcomers. Takeaway: A broker that prioritizes safety and education over aggressive pricing. Final Thoughts In 2025, no single broker fits everyone. Beginners: XM, IUX, CMC Professionals: IG, Interactive Brokers Mobile-first: Plus500 High leverage/social: VT Markets, PrimeXBT, Hantec Pro pricing/new blood: EBC The right broker depends on your style, capital, and risk appetite. Test with small amounts first, and scale only once you’re confident. Risk Warning: Forex and CFDs are leveraged products. Losses can exceed deposits. Trade only with money you can afford to lose.