What Did Crypto.com and Underdog Announce? Crypto.com Derivatives North America (CDNA), a CFTC-registered exchange and affiliate of Crypto.com, has teamed up with fast-growing fantasy sports operator Underdog to launch sports prediction markets in 16 U.S. states. The initiative, announced Tuesday, allows fans to trade on outcomes across major leagues including the NFL, NBA, MLB, and college football via the Underdog app. The companies said the rollout will prioritize states like California and Texas where legal sports betting is not yet available. That distinction makes Underdog the first sports gaming operator to provide a federally compliant path for prediction markets, leveraging CDNA’s infrastructure for clearing and settlement. Investor Takeaway By focusing on states without legalized sports betting, Underdog and Crypto.com are opening prediction markets to millions of new users — potentially creating a parallel growth track to the regulated sportsbook industry. How Do These Prediction Markets Work? Unlike traditional sportsbooks that rely on bookmakers to set odds, prediction markets let users buy and sell outcome contracts whose prices fluctuate in real time. Traders can react to every play and share their views on market odds, creating a more dynamic and liquid experience. Jeremy Levine, Underdog’s founder and CEO, said: “Prediction markets are one of the most exciting developments we’ve seen in a long time. While still new and evolving, one thing is clear — the future of prediction markets is going to be about sports — and no one does sports better than Underdog.” Crypto.com echoed that sentiment. “We were the first to offer sports events contracts, and our technology partnership with Underdog will provide more access to CDNA’s innovative offerings,” said Travis McGhee, the company’s global head of capital markets. Who Are the Competitors and What Are the Risks? The partnership puts Crypto.com and Underdog in direct competition with other prediction platforms such as Polymarket, Kalshi, and Robinhood, all of which have been expanding sports event contract offerings. These platforms rely on decentralized or federally regulated frameworks, though their legal status remains contested. In May, the CFTC attempted to block Kalshi from offering political event contracts, but a federal judge ruled the agency had overstepped its authority. While the ruling boosted sentiment for prediction markets, it also highlighted ongoing regulatory uncertainty over whether such markets constitute gambling, infringe on state rights, or violate the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Investor Takeaway Investors should note the regulatory overhang: prediction markets could face legal challenges that may cap growth despite high user demand and engagement. What’s Next for Sports and Crypto Prediction Markets? The push into sports is seen as a natural evolution for prediction markets, with fan bases already accustomed to fantasy leagues, sports betting, and real-time trading interfaces. The Underdog–Crypto.com venture could accelerate mainstream adoption by embedding prediction markets into a familiar fantasy sports environment. If successful, it could reshape both sports engagement and crypto adoption, positioning sports contracts as a gateway product for digital asset exchanges. But execution will hinge on user adoption, product reliability, and navigating shifting regulatory interpretations from the CFTC and state-level authorities. For now, the launch signals a broader trend: prediction markets, once niche and experimental, are moving closer to the center of both the sports and fintech ecosystems.

Cryptocurrency has opened up a lot of ways to make money, but it has also led to scams, hacks, and fraud. Rug pulls, phishing attempts, and hacked exchanges cost billions of dollars in 2024 alone. The first thing victims usually want to know is, “How can I get my money back?” This has led to the rise of “crypto fund recovery companies.” These companies say they can find stolen digital assets and help people get their lost crypto money back. But since there have been a lot of bad reviews and reports of fake recovery operations, a lot of people are wondering if crypto fund recovery companies are real or just another scam that targets people who are weak. The Growth of Crypto Scams and Fund Recovery Services Cryptocurrency works on networks that aren’t controlled by a single person, so once a transaction is confirmed, it can’t be changed. This design protects the system, but it also makes it very hard to get back stolen money without help from exchanges or the police. As a result, more and more businesses are advertising themselves as experts in getting back lost cryptocurrency. They say they can get back stolen money because they have advanced blockchain forensics, legal knowledge, and connections with regulators. These promises sound like hope to desperate people. But the truth is much more complicated. How Crypto Fund Recovery Works in Theory Legitimate recovery efforts usually include a mix of: Blockchain Forensics: Following transactions across public ledgers to find wallets that hold stolen money. Exchange Collaboration: Getting in touch with centralized exchanges to report wallets that look suspicious and freeze their assets. Taking Legal Action: Making complaints to the police and hiring lawyers who specialize in financial fraud. If stolen cryptocurrency is moved to an exchange that follows anti-money laundering (AML) rules, there is a chance to freeze and get it back. However, this doesn’t happen very often. Skilled scammers usually use mixers, decentralized platforms, or privacy coins to hide their tracks.  The Legitimacy Question: Can They Really Recover Your Funds?  While some recovery firms do employ blockchain analysts and may assist victims in reporting cases, their actual success rates are far lower than advertised. Several challenges limit their effectiveness:  Scammers Move Fast: Most stolen cryptocurrency is laundered quickly, leaving little trace.  Limited Jurisdiction: Cross-border crimes are notoriously difficult to prosecute.  Exchange Cooperation: Recovery depends on whether exchanges are willing and able to act.  High Fees with No Guarantees: Many recovery companies demand upfront payments without ensuring results.  This doesn’t mean all recovery services are fake, but victims should approach them with extreme caution.  Warning Signs of a Fake Crypto Fund Recovery Company  Unfortunately, the “crypto recovery” industry itself has become a fertile ground for scams. Here are red flags to watch for:  Guaranteed Results: No company can guarantee recovery, given how cryptocurrency works.  Unverified Testimonials: Fake reviews and success stories are often fabricated to lure victims.  Requests for More Personal Information: Some recovery scams ask for private keys or wallet details, which can lead to further theft. Pressure Tactics: Pushing victims to act quickly or pay upfront fees is a classic scam technique.  No Real-World Presence: Lack of business registration, legal team, or verifiable physical address should raise concerns.  Legitimate Paths for Victims of Crypto Fraud  Instead of falling into another trap, victims of stolen cryptocurrency should focus on legitimate recovery avenues:  Report to Authorities: Law enforcement agencies, such as cybercrime units, are increasingly handling crypto fraud cases.  Contact the Exchange: If stolen funds pass through a regulated exchange, alerting them immediately can help.  Blockchain Analytics Tools: Some companies provide tools for tracing funds, which may aid investigations.  Legal Representation: Hiring a lawyer with experience in financial or crypto-related fraud may offer a stronger chance of action.  Educating Yourself:  Awareness and security measures are the best long-term defense. Using hardware wallets, enabling two-factor authentication, and avoiding suspicious investment offers can reduce risks.  Case Studies: When Recovery Works and When It Doesn’t  There have been cases where recovery firms have successfully assisted in tracking funds, especially when fraudsters made mistakes and moved stolen crypto into exchanges with strict compliance policies. However, such cases are exceptions rather than the rule.  For most victims, recovery is partial at best, and it often takes months or years of legal and investigative effort. In many other instances, victims report losing more money to fraudulent “recovery experts” than they did to the initial scam.  Should You Use a Crypto Fund Recovery Company?  Deciding whether to work with a recovery service depends on the circumstances:  If the company is transparent, legally registered, and works alongside recognized law enforcement, it may be worth exploring.  If it demands upfront payment, guarantees recovery, or pressures you into sharing sensitive wallet information, it is almost certainly a scam.  A good rule of thumb is this: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  The Future of Crypto Recovery  As cryptocurrency adoption grows, so will scams and so will demand for recovery solutions. The industry may eventually mature, with better-regulated recovery services and closer cooperation between exchanges and governments. Blockchain analytics firms are also advancing rapidly, which could increase the chances of asset tracing.  Until then, victims must remain cautious and prioritize prevention over cure. Crypto fund recovery companies sit in a gray area; some are genuine investigative services, while many are outright scams targeting desperate victims. While recovering lost cryptocurrency is not impossible, it is challenging, and anyone claiming guaranteed success should be avoided.  The best approach for crypto users is to safeguard their assets before fraud occurs, remain skeptical of too-good-to-be-true offers, and use only legitimate, verifiable channels if seeking help after a loss.

The world of cryptocurrencies changes very quickly, and with each new wave of innovation comes a lot of new words. Radium CPMM is a phrase that has been getting a lot of attention lately. This phrase can sound too complex at first, but it’s important to know what it means in order to appreciate how decentralized exchanges (DEXs) like Radium work and why they are essential in the bigger cryptocurrency ecosystem. We’ll explain what CPMM means, how it works in crypto markets, Radium’s role in using this model, and why it matters to traders, liquidity providers, and the DeFi space as a whole in this article. What Does CPMM Stand for in Crypto? The primary meaning of CPMM is “Constant Product Market Maker.” This is one of the most common ways to power automated market makers (AMMs), which are smart contracts that let decentralized exchanges work without middlemen. A CPMM doesn’t use regular buyers and sellers. Instead, it uses liquidity pools, which are groups of tokens locked in a smart contract that let users trade between pairs of cryptocurrencies automatically. There is a simple math rule that defines the CPMM: x × y = k Where: x is the number of token A in the pool, and y is the number of token B in the pool. k is a constant, which means it doesn’t change. This equation makes sure that the product of the two assets stays the same, no matter how many trades take place. The ratio of assets in the pool changes prices, but the rule makes sure that there is always balance and liquidity. Why CPMMs Are Important in Crypto In the traditional financial system, market makers are people or organizations that agree to buy and sell assets to keep markets liquid. But DeFi doesn’t need any central players. The CPMM model, on the other hand, lets anyone become a liquidity provider (LP) by putting assets into a pool and getting paid for trades. This system creates various advantages:  Liquidity at all Times: Traders can swap tokens without needing a direct counterparty.  Decentralization: No single authority dominates the market.  Incentives for Users: Liquidity providers earn a part of transaction fees and sometimes token awards.  Simplicity: The model’s math is straightforward, making it predictable and transparent.  However, CPMMs also come with issues, such as temporary loss (where liquidity providers may lose value relative to merely keeping their assets) and slippage in stormy markets.  Enter Radium: A DeFi Powerhouse  Radium is one of the top decentralized exchanges built on the Solana blockchain. Unlike many AMMs that solely operate in isolation, Radium interacts directly with the Serum order book, providing it access to larger liquidity and speedier transactions.  Radium leverages the CPMM paradigm to power its liquidity pools, enabling frictionless token swaps, yield farming, and other DeFi operations. What sets Radium distinct is how it integrates the efficiency of automated liquidity pools with the traditional order book architecture, providing a hybrid system that increases trading depth and user experience.  By employing CPMM, Radium assures that trades may complete rapidly while preserving balance in its pools, especially during moments of extreme volatility.  How Radium CPMM Works in Practice  Imagine you wish to trade SOL for USDC on Radium. Behind the scenes, here’s what happens:  Liquidity Pools: People like you and me put SOL and USDC into a pool. The CPMM algorithm is used by the pool to balance these assets. Trade Execution: When you trade SOL for USDC, the pool changes the ratios and figures out the new price on its own. The Constant Product Rule: This says that the pool’s SOL and USDC must always be the same; therefore, the price changes based on supply and demand. Liquidity Provider Rewards: People who put SOL and USDC into the pool get fees from your trade. Unlike centralized exchanges, which can go down, have no buyers, or run out of liquidity, this approach keeps the market active all the time. Radium CPMM Compared to Other Market Models CPMM is one of the most popular models, but there are others as well. Radium’s ecosystem also offers CLMM (Concentrated Liquidity Market Maker), which lets liquidity providers focus their money on specific price ranges, making better use of capital. This is how CPMM stacks up against other models: CPMM: It is easy to use, strong, and always liquid, but it doesn’t work as well in markets that are changing quickly. CLMM: demands active management, is more capital efficient, and is suitable for advanced users. Traditional AMM models like Balancer and Curve: Custom changes that work well for stablecoin swaps or multi-asset pools. Radium is flexible since it can work with both CPMM and CLMM. This makes it appealing to both novice and seasoned DeFi users. The Advantages of Radium’s CPMM  Radium CPMM is helpful for anyone who is dealing with Bitcoin in real life: Accessibility: You don’t have to be a pro trader to join in. Anyone can add liquidity. Transparency: The rules are written in code, can be seen on-chain, and can be checked by anyone. Speed and Cost: Radium transactions are faster and cheaper than those on Ethereum-based AMMs since they run on Solana. Potential to Make Money: Liquidity providers can make money via transaction fees and staking rewards. Cross-functionality: Radium connects with other DeFi programs with its Serum integration, making the ecosystem bigger. Risks and Considerations CPMMs provide a lot of great potential; however, users should be aware of the risks: Impermanent Loss: The value of the assets you have in the pool may go down compared to keeping them yourself. Market Volatility: When prices move sharply, trades may not go through at the best rates, which is called slippage. Smart Contract Risk: Even though the contract is decentralized, defects or security holes might still be dangerous. Changing Competition: Newer models like CLMM may draw in more liquidity, which could lower the rewards for CPMM players. Before you use CPMMs or any other DeFi protocol, you need to know about these concerns. Why People Are Searching for Radium CPMM More and more people are interested in how decentralized markets work, which is why there has been a rise in searches for Radium CPMM. As more people start using cryptocurrencies, more people want to know how DeFi platforms work. Radium is different because it combines the ease of CPMM with complex trading features. It’s a good way for new people to get into DeFi because it seems easy to use. For traders who know what they’re doing, it’s a strong platform that lets them use more advanced tactics. The focus isn’t just hype; it’s a sign of how decentralized liquidity models like CPMM are changing the way cryptocurrency markets work in the future. CPMM may look like just another acronym, but it stands for something far bigger: a move towards more open finance. CPMMs provide consumers more power than traditional finance ever could by letting anyone provide liquidity, trade efficiently, and receive rewards. Radium is still at the cutting edge of DeFi innovation as it grows and incorporates concepts like CPMM and CLMM. For people who utilize cryptocurrencies, this implies more chances, more efficiency, and more people being able to take part in a system that is meant to be open to everyone.

For most of history, decisions in organizations have come from the top down. Leaders told their subordinates what to do, and accountability was passed down through levels of hierarchy. Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) turn this idea on its head.  DAOs provide communities with the power to steer the ship instead of managers, boardrooms, or governments. Their rules are written down in smart contracts on the blockchain, and they make choices by voting as a group. This change goes against hundreds of years of centralized government and asks a bold question: what if organizations didn’t need leaders, middlemen, or red tape—just code and agreement? What is a DAO and How Does it Work? A DAO is an organization that exists on the internet and is run by people who own tokens. Each DAO gives out governance tokens that give you the right to vote. Smart contracts are programs on the blockchain that run on their own. They set the rules for who can propose, how votes are counted, and what levels of change are needed. Token holders vote on a proposal after it is made. The smart contract automatically carries out the decision if a proposal passes according to the rules that were defined ahead of time. This could mean giving money from a treasury, changing protocol settings, or even changing the structure of the DAO. It’s important to note that the blockchain shows every decision and transaction. There is no choice about transparency; it is baked into the basis. Anyone can check decisions, follow the money, and make sure things turn out as planned. Why Communities Love DAOs: The Allure of DAOs Three strong promises are behind the emergence of DAOs: Shared Ownership: Members aren’t just users; they are stakeholders who can really make a difference. Transparency: The public can see every choice and action, which cuts down on corruption and shady transactions. Smart Contracts: Smart contracts get rid of administrative bottlenecks, which makes things run more smoothly. Execution happens right away if everyone in the community agrees. These traits have already led to innovative studies. ConstitutionDAO brought together tens of thousands of people to raise more than $40 million in just a few days. This shows that people from all over the world can come together for a cause. MoonDAO went much further by using crowd finance to send people into space. This is backed up by academic research. Big studies suggest that DAOs with more people involved and a fairer allocation of tokens do better, attaining both stability and resilience. These results support the idea that decentralized communities work best when a lot of people are involved instead of just a few. Cracks in the Armour: Problems That DAOs Can’t Ignore DAOs are not perfect, even though they are interesting. The attack on “The DAO” in 2016 showed how easy it is for smart contracts to be hacked. Ethereum’s most controversial hard fork happened because of a bug in the code that cost tens of millions of dollars. Whales and Power Imbalances: Because votes are often based on how many tokens someone owns, rich people, or “whales,” can make decisions that go against the principles of decentralization. Build money. The hostile takeover of DAO in 2022 revealed how weak governance may be when one person has too much power. Voter Apathy: A lot of members have tokens but don’t vote very often; therefore, important decisions are made by a small, active group. To fight this lack of action, delegated voting systems are being tested, but getting people to participate is still a problem. Regulatory Grey Zones: Lawmakers are still trying to figure out how to put DAOs into categories. Are they businesses? What are cooperatives? Clubs for investing? The SEC has already said that some DAO tokens are not registered as securities. Only a few places, including Wyoming, have started to recognize DAOs as separate legal entities. Lack of Openness: It’s funny that even though blockchain is open, many DAOs don’t keep good records of proposals or results, which makes things confusing for both members and outsiders. These problems show us that even if code runs businesses, culture, law, and people’s actions still have an effect on what happens. What is MakerDAO? MakerDAO is one of the first and most successful DAOs. It controls the DAI stablecoin. Token holders set interest rates, collateral requirements, and upgrades to keep things stable. The decisions it makes on governance have a direct effect on the DeFi ecosystem. ConstitutionDAO: It didn’t last long, but it showed how powerful quick action can be. In less than a week, thousands of people put Ether into a pool to bid on a rare copy of the U.S. Constitution. The bid didn’t work, but the exercise showed how far the model could go. MoonDAO: This DAO made it possible for people to fly into space. By paying for seats on Blue Origin, it showed how communities can work together to pay for things that used to be just for governments and billionaires. Build Money DAO: A warning story in which one person took over and emptied the treasury, showing flaws in token-based governance. These stories all show how strong and weak a decentralized government can be. The Cultural Layer of DAOs: More Than Voting People often think of DAOs as just code and tokens, but culture is just as important. Communities that encourage trust, common ideals, and open communication frequently do better than those that only care about money. Many DAOs use Discord servers, forums, and governance dashboards to organize.  These places are just as crucial for debate and learning as they are for voting. This cultural aspect makes people stronger. DAOs last longer than just a buzz when members are committed to them in both money and ideas. This is where decentralized organizations start to look more like digital cooperatives than crypto businesses. Legal and Financial Effects DAOs are making regulators reconsider how they do things. Traditional corporation law implies that managers, boards, and shareholders all have set duties. DAOs make these lines less clear by making token holders both investors and people who make decisions. If a DAO commits fraud, who is responsible? If the code doesn’t work, who is to blame? Some legal experts say that DAOs should be treated like limited liability firms so that participants don’t have to worry about their own safety. Some people say that DAOs are more like unincorporated associations, where all members could be held responsible. Participants in a DAO are still in a legal grey area until there is a universal agreement. DAOs also change the way we think about ownership in terms of money. Tokenized voting rights make governance something that can be sold. This makes many wonder if money should be linked to governance or if one-person-one-vote systems could be better for keeping communities safe. The Future of DAOs: What They Could Be How DAOs combine their aspirations with what works in the real world will determine their future. We might see models that are both decentralized and traditional come together. An incorporated business might handle legal compliance, while a DAO could handle funding decisions through tokens. We might also see DAOs that are unique to certain industries grow. Think about how education DAOs could pay for scholarships, climate DAOs could plan projects to cut carbon emissions, or city DAOs could run local governments. The plan is ready; it only needs the community to approve it. A New Chapter in Making Decisions Together  DAOs are more than simply crypto or tech; they are about coming up with new ways for people to work together on a large scale. They are at the crossroads of politics, economics, law, and digital culture. There is a narrative of communities doing what once seemed impossible for every hack, power grab, or legal setback. As token holders keep voting, proposing, and building, DAOs remind us of a timeless truth: governance is not just about who leads, but also about who gets to make decisions. In this new digital age, that choice is no longer just up to a few CEOs in a boardroom; it is instead up to thousands of people whose voices are connected by code and a shared vision.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has fined Societe Generale Securities Australia Pty Limited (SocGen) $3.88 million for failing to prevent suspicious trades in the ASX 24 electricity and wheat futures markets. The penalty was handed down by the Market Disciplinary Panel (MDP) following an investigation into 33 orders lodged between May 2023 and February 2024. Repeated Warnings Ignored The MDP found that SocGen breached market integrity rules by allowing clients to place trades designed to “mark the close”—submitting orders in the final two minutes of trading to influence daily settlement prices. Despite ASIC contacting SocGen five times during 2023 with notices and warnings, the firm failed to take timely action to stop further suspicious activity. “This is about integrity and confidence in our markets that can have real world impacts on electricity and wheat prices,” said Joe Longo, ASIC Chair. “Despite ASIC’s contact, SocGen failed to take timely and effective action, and permitted additional, suspicious orders to enter the market. SocGen’s lack of response and inadequate remediation were made more significant because they are the second largest participant in the ASX 24 Market.” Market Impact Manipulating daily settlement prices can distort funding costs for energy suppliers and wheat producers, ultimately flowing through to consumer prices. The orders were placed during a period of heightened volatility in global commodity markets caused by supply disruptions, including the Russia–Ukraine conflict—conditions ASIC says were exploited by unscrupulous traders. As of June 30, 2023, SocGen accounted for nearly 12% of traded volume on ASX24, making it the second-largest participant. The regulator emphasised that market gatekeepers have a responsibility to detect and stop manipulative orders, especially when providing direct market access to clients. Compliance Failures The MDP described SocGen’s compliance and surveillance controls as inadequate, citing insufficient training, skills, and management oversight to monitor client activity in electricity and wheat futures. The panel found the firm’s failure to act as reckless given repeated regulator warnings. “Market gatekeepers have a duty to keep our markets safe. They have direct visibility over client trading and can prevent orders from being placed on the market. Missing suspicious orders puts the entire system at risk,” Longo stressed. “Companies like SocGen must have appropriate preventative and detective tools and controls, including people with the right expertise as well as surveillance software, to ensure compliance.” Part of Broader Crackdown This is ASIC’s fifth enforcement action in 15 months targeting manipulation in ASX24 electricity and wheat futures markets. Other high-profile cases include: Macquarie Bank, fined $4.995m in September 2024 for gatekeeper failures. J.P. Morgan Securities Australia, fined $775,000 in May 2024 for similar breaches. Delta Power & Energy (Vales Point), facing civil penalty proceedings over alleged electricity futures manipulation. COFCO International Australia, also facing civil proceedings for alleged wheat futures manipulation. Market misconduct in energy and commodities derivatives has been a top ASIC enforcement priority since 2023, as regulators seek to safeguard transparency and stability in critical markets. SocGen Response SocGen did not contest the breaches and has paid the $3.88m fine. Compliance with the infringement notice does not constitute an admission of guilt under Australian law. SocGen is a wholly owned subsidiary of France’s Societe Generale S.A., the world’s 19th largest bank by assets as of December 2023. ASIC fined Societe Generale Securities Australia $3.88m for failing to stop 33 suspicious futures orders on ASX24—highlighting gaps in compliance and the regulator’s focus on energy and commodities market integrity.

Global equities weathered August volatility to notch record highs, driven by strong US GDP data, resilient earnings, and cooling inflation expectations, according to the latest Saxo UK client trends report. Markets Push Through Tariff Uncertainty August opened with jitters as the 1 August tariff deadline triggered a sell-off. But deals struck during the month and subsequent easing of tariff noise—despite a US court later ruling reciprocal tariffs illegal—helped equities rebound sharply. Fed Chair Jay Powell left the door open to a September rate cut, the dollar weakened against G10 peers, and gold rallied close to $3,500. US GDP expanded at an annualised rate of 2.8%, underscoring the economy’s resilience. The S&P 500 closed above 6,500 for the first time, rising 2% over the month, while the Dow Jones gained 3% and the Nasdaq rose 1.6%. A late pullback in tech shares highlighted seasonal fragility heading into September—traditionally the weakest month for major US indices. AI Trade Stays Dominant The artificial intelligence boom continued to dominate investor interest. Nvidia reported another set of strong results, prompting analysts to raise price targets and Saxo UK clients to make it their top traded stock in August with a net buy score of 58%. Palantir surged toward $190 before retreating to below $160, securing second place on the most traded list, with 61% net buys. Amazon rounded out the top three, recovering from an early-month slump to close August at $231. Other US tech giants—Tesla, Apple, and Alphabet—were heavily traded but marginally net sold by clients. Saxo also reported strong client activity in highly speculative US tech names, including BitMine Immersion Technologies, CoreWeave, SoundHoundAI, and Opendoor Technologies. UK and European Markets Steady The FTSE 100 posted a modest gain, breaching 9,300 for the first time before slipping late in the month on banking stock weakness. Precious metals miner Fresnillo rose 25%, while engineering firm Spirax gained 17% on strength in its Electrical Thermal Solutions division. In contrast, Sage, Croda International, Beazley, and Mondi each lost double digits. Year-to-date, the FTSE remains up more than 11%. Other UK stalwarts such as BP, Lloyds, and Vodafone gained around 5%, while Rolls-Royce added 7%. Notably, Rolls-Royce was the only UK-listed name to crack Saxo UK’s top 20 traded shares of August. European equities also held firm, with the Stoxx 600 rising 1% in August, up 8% year-to-date. In Asia, Japan’s Nikkei gained 4%, reflecting renewed momentum in Tokyo stocks. Most Actively Traded Stocks Saxo UK highlighted the following as the most actively traded shares in August: Nvidia – 58% net buys Palantir – 61% net buys Amazon – 59% net buys UnitedHealth Group – 71% net buys Novo Nordisk – 73% net buys Figma – 81% net buys Taylor Wimpey – 82% net buys Other speculative plays—including Rigetti Computing, Robinhood, and Rocket Lab—also drew significant activity, underlining client appetite for high-risk growth stories alongside established mega-cap names. Client Insights “August started rocky for markets and ended in similar fashion but the bit in the middle was good enough to see Wall Street notch its fourth straight monthly gain,” said Neil Wilson, Investor Strategist at Saxo UK. Wilson noted that September could bring higher volatility as traders return from the summer break and uncertainty lingers over tariffs, Fed policy, and global growth. Yet the combination of robust earnings, resilient consumer spending, and AI-driven enthusiasm continues to underpin equity markets. Takeaway: Global equities overcame August’s tariff turbulence to notch record highs. Saxo UK clients stayed focused on AI leaders like Nvidia and Palantir, while speculative US tech and meme stocks also drew extraordinary trading interest.

September 2, 2025 With the redesigned Level Up program, the most extensive and easily accessible benefits ecosystem in the fintech and cryptocurrency industry, Crypto.com has formally opened a daring new era in user rewards. Level Up, which was created to empower users at every step of their financial journey, now offers cash yield opportunities, zero trading fees on stocks and cryptocurrency, and the biggest credit and prepaid card program in the market. These features can be accessed through flexible subscription plans or CRO staking. Level Up: Plus, Pro, and Private Tiers is now available With three robust benefit tiers—Plus, Pro, and Private—that are all designed to provide unparalleled value, regardless of experience level, Level Up is accessible through a monthly subscription that starts at just $4.99. Important characteristics include: 5% APY on USD Cash¹ All purchases made through Crypto.com can receive up to 6% CRO back. The Visa Signature® Credit Card² With the Crypto.com Prepaid Card, you can receive up to 5% CRO back on all purchases. Stock transfer bonuses of **1.25%–2.5%**⁴ Yields from CRO staking of up to **9.5%**⁵ No fees for international transactions Trading stocks without commissions “CRO is one of the top performing tokens globally and deserves an equally compelling rewards program for Crypto.com users,” said Kris Marszalek, CEO and Co-Founder of Crypto.com. “The inspiration of Level Up’s creation was to help users build wealth through the Crypto.com experience. We expect this Level Up upgrade to result in a massive increase in the number of CRO holders globally — to the tune of millions of new users.” A Single, Integrated Rewards Experience As part of this launch, Rewards+ is being fully integrated into the Level Up ecosystem, removing previous barriers such as trading volume requirements. The path to increased rewards and engagement has been streamlined by allowing users to access improved benefits, such as the Earn Plus bonus, just by subscribing or staking. Users can choose the tier that best fits their lifestyle and financial objectives by going to Crypto.com’s Level Up section to get started. Concerning Crypto.com Millions of users worldwide trust Crypto.com, which was founded in 2016 and leads the industry in security, compliance, and privacy. The company’s goal is to put cryptocurrency in every walletTM. By enabling builders, creators, and regular users with innovative and potent financial tools, it is speeding up the global adoption of digital assets. Regulatory Notices & Disclosures ¹ Exclusive to the United States. Crypto.com is not a bank; rather, it is a platform for financial technology. Green Dot Bank, an FDIC member, offers banking services. APY varies by Level Up tier. Monthly interest is paid in CRO. The CRO value could change. Go to help.crypto.com to view the complete APY tiers and conditions. ² Needs a 12-month CRO stake or a Level Up subscription. Crypto.com Visa Signature® Credit Card accounts issued by Comenity Capital Bank, subject to credit approval. Terms of full rewards: crypto.com/document/us_credit_card ³ Jurisdiction determines the issuer and availability. In some areas or on some tiers, there may be foreign transaction fees. For complete information, please refer to your local cardholder agreement. Only in the United States. Securities provided by FINRA/SIPC member and registered broker-dealer Foris Capital US LLC. Bonuses on stocks are given at the company’s discretion. ⁵ Rewards for CRO staking are contingent on availability and local laws.

Axcera, a leader in proprietary trading infrastructure, has been recognized with three prestigious titles at the FinanceFeeds Awards 2025: Outstanding Proprietary Trading Platform, Exceptional Technology and Infrastructure in Proprietary Trading, and Best End-to-End Technology Infrastructure for Proprietary Trading Firms.  Axcera offers a complete white-label software suite designed for prop trading firms. It combines a trader portal, CRM, and back-office tools to automate account lifecycles, monitor risk in real time, and streamline operations at scale through deep integrations with leading trading platforms. The system is built to help firms operate smoothly and sustainably, with analytics, compliance features, and integrations that fit their business model. Axcera also provides 99.9% uptime, dedicated support, and a managed rollout process so firms can focus on their traders while maintaining control over their brand, rules, and user experience. “In proprietary trading, technology isn’t just a tool—it’s the foundation that determines whether firms can seize opportunities or miss them. We built Axcera’s platform to deliver speed, resilience, and seamless integration a s standard, not extras. Winning three awards in one year is a huge honor and a testament to our team’s relentless focus on creating infrastructure that gives our clients a real competitive edge in every market condition,” said Herman Shaho, the Co-Founder and CTO at Axcera. The Outstanding Proprietary Trading Platform award recognizes Axcera’s success in delivering a platform that combines speed, reliability, and an intuitive user experience—qualities that allow traders to operate at their peak even in volatile conditions. The Exceptional Technology and Infrastructure in Proprietary Trading award reflects the company’s ability to build a robust, scalable, and resilient technology stack that supports both front-end trading and back-office integration. Meanwhile, the Best End-to-End Technology Infrastructure for Proprietary Trading Firms honor highlights Axcera’s achievement in creating a fully connected operational ecosystem for prop trading firms—integrating every stage of the trader and account lifecycle, from onboarding and risk management through analytics, payouts, and seamless connectivity with multiple trading platforms for order execution and settlement. Taking home three honors at the FinanceFeeds Awards is a clear sign that Axcera is setting the standard in the prop trading space. These categories recognize not just performance, but the depth and reliability of the technology that sits behind it. It’s also a nod to how the expectations for trading technology have evolved. Proprietary firms are looking for more than just powerful tools; they want infrastructure that can scale, adapt, and handle complexity without missing a beat. These awards place Axcera firmly among the small group of providers who can deliver that end-to-end capability at the highest level. “These categories represent some of the highest benchmarks in trading technology, and Axcera impressed on every front. Their ability to combine ultra-low latency execution with robust risk controls, scalability, and full lifecycle integration is exactly what today’s proprietary trading firms demand. This triple recognition reflects a platform that’s not only high-performing, but also built to evolve with the needs of the industry,” said FinanceFeeds EIC, Nikolai Isayev. With over 50 firms and 1 million traders relying on the platform, Axcera supports everything from challenge setup and trader evaluations to account automation and payout processing. Its integrations with 17+ major trading platforms—including MT4/5, DXtrade, cTrader, TradeLocker, Match-Trader, NinjaTrader, Quantower, and more—allow firms to run challenge-based models, funded accounts, and hybrid payout structures without added complexity. For proprietary trading firms, the platform is the heartbeat of the operation. Winning these awards signals that Axcera has built an environment where speed, resilience, and integration aren’t just features —  they’re the foundation. From seamless trader onboarding and account automation to integrated risk management and platform connectivity, every layer of the system is designed to work together without compromise. Axcera is looking to build on its current momentum with a series of upcoming upgrades. The roadmap includes more powerful API tools, expanded analytics integration, and performance tweaks designed to cut latency while keeping the platform rock-solid. Earning triple recognition from FinanceFeeds reinforces its role as a reliable technology partner for prop trading firms around the world. The FinanceFeeds Awards are decided by an independent panel of experts from finance, venture capital, and blockchain. Winners are chosen through a mix of hard performance data and qualitative review, looking at factors like due diligence, portfolio maturity, founder support, and overall impact on the ecosystem. Unlike many awards driven by votes or sponsorships, the FinanceFeeds process uses a balanced framework that blends real market data with assessments of platform quality and professional reputation. Interested in seeing why Axcera just won three of the industry’s top awards? Learn more about their end-to-end proprietary trading infrastructure by visiting Axcera’s website. Ready to explore the platform in action? Book a tailored demo with their team.

ATFX, a globally trusted online brokerage, proudly served as Platinum Sponsor at Money Expo India 2025, held on August 23–24, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. Through the Platinum Sponsorship, ATFX strengthened its presence in one of Asia’s fastest-growing financial markets, reinforcing its focus on innovation and strengthening connections with traders and industry leaders across the region. Positioned as India’s premier trading and fintech expo, Money Expo India 2025 brought together banks, brokers, fintech innovators, and thousands of retail and institutional traders. Across two days, attendees joined networking sessions, panel discussions, and workshops to share insights, explore new technologies, and debate the future of global financial markets. ATFX welcomed participants at Booth No. 64, where the company showcased its trading platforms, educational resources, and client-focused services. Visitors explored ATFX’s newest solutions in online trading and gained fresh perspectives on global markets. The event also featured a keynote address by ATFX’s Chief Commercial Officer, Siju Daniel, titled “Shaping the Future of Global Financial Markets: How ATFX Combines Innovation, Transparency, and a Strong Commitment to Clients.” The session highlighted ATFX’s depth of expertise and dedication to sharing knowledge within the global trading community, while outlining the company’s strategic vision for empowering clients in a rapidly evolving financial environment. In 2024, ATFX played a leading role at Money Expo Colombia and Money Expo Mexico, where it was also recognized with the award for “Best Global Online Broker.” These milestones reaffirm ATFX’s global reputation and its ongoing drive to deliver value to traders across regions. With a global presence, ATFX continues to adapt to local market needs while delivering world-class services built on innovation and trust. About ATFX ATFX is a leading global fintech broker with a local presence in 24 locations and holds 9 licenses from regulatory authorities, including the UK’s FCA, Australia’s ASIC, Cyprus’ CySEC, the UAE’s SCA, Hong Kong’s SFC, South Africa’s FSCA, Mauritius’ FSC, Seychelles’ FSA, and Cambodia’s SERC. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, innovative technology, and strict regulatory compliance, ATFX delivers exceptional trading experiences to clients worldwide. For further information on ATFX, please visit ATFX website https://www.atfx.com.  

Bunni Exchange confirmed on September 2, 2025, that its platform had been exploited in a coordinated attack. Hackers targeted vulnerabilities within Bunni’s operations on both Unichain and Ethereum, siphoning off around $6 million from Unichain and another $2.4 million from Ethereum, for a total of $8.4 million. According to blockchain security researchers, the stolen assets were rapidly swapped into ether (ETH) and bridged to Ethereum using the Across Protocol through roughly 100 separate transactions, making the funds difficult to trace. Preliminary reports suggest the exploit may have taken advantage of weaknesses in Bunni’s multi-chain architecture, particularly around liquidity pools and bridging mechanisms. These cross-chain systems, designed to give traders greater flexibility and efficiency, can also open the door to complex vulnerabilities. Investigators are now working to identify exactly how the breach occurred and whether additional funds remain at risk. Response and precautionary measures In response to the hack, Bunni’s team announced it had paused all smart contract activity across the networks where it operates, including Unichain, Ethereum, Arbitrum, Base, and BNB Smart Chain. The suspension was described as a necessary precaution to prevent further losses while technical experts investigate the exploit. The team has also confirmed that it is cooperating with blockchain forensics specialists to trace the stolen assets and explore potential avenues for recovery. Bunni has pledged transparency with its users throughout the process, promising ongoing updates as the situation develops. While no official recovery plan has been disclosed yet, the team acknowledged the seriousness of the breach and emphasized its commitment to securing user funds. Implications for DeFi security The Bunni exploit highlights broader concerns about security in the decentralized finance sector. Cross-chain protocols, which enable users to move assets between different blockchain networks, have become an attractive target for attackers. Their complexity and multiple points of integration can create vulnerabilities that are difficult to anticipate, even with regular code audits. The $8.4 million loss is significant, but it is part of a larger trend of high-value DeFi exploits in recent years. Security analysts note that as DeFi grows, hackers are developing increasingly sophisticated methods to identify and exploit weak points. This latest attack underscores the importance of ongoing audits, robust risk management, and layered security measures. For Bunni users, the hack is a stark reminder of the risks inherent in decentralized trading platforms. Unlike centralized exchanges, where customers may have some recourse through customer service or insurance, DeFi users often bear the brunt of security breaches directly. This reality highlights the importance of strong risk assessment, careful platform selection, and diversification. As the investigation continues, market observers will be watching closely to see how Bunni responds. Efforts to recover stolen funds and improve security protocols will be critical not only for the platform’s future but also for restoring broader confidence in the safety of decentralized finance.

RAK Properties, a leading real estate developer in Ras Al Khaimah, has announced it will begin accepting cryptocurrency payments for property transactions, signaling a major milestone in the UAE’s strategy to attract global investment. Buyers will now be able to use Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Tether (USDT) to purchase properties, adding an innovative payment option to the region’s booming real estate sector. Crypto payments through Hubpay The initiative is being facilitated through a partnership with Hubpay, a regulated fintech platform licensed by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). Hubpay will convert digital assets into UAE dirhams (AED) and settle transactions directly into RAK Properties’ accounts. This ensures the company itself does not hold volatile cryptocurrencies, while also providing compliance with regulatory frameworks. The structure allows for secure, transparent, and seamless transactions between international buyers and the developer. Rahul Jogani, Chief Financial Officer of RAK Properties, emphasized that the move was designed to attract a new segment of “digitally and investment-savvy” customers. By introducing crypto as a payment method, the company aims to broaden its customer base, particularly among younger and more tech-oriented investors who are increasingly active in global real estate markets. Alignment with UAE’s strategy The announcement comes as part of Ras Al Khaimah’s Vision 2030 strategy, which focuses on economic diversification and attracting international capital. The emirate is positioning itself as a hub for innovation and digital finance, with crypto-friendly initiatives designed to appeal to global investors. RAK Properties is currently undergoing a significant expansion phase, with 12 new projects underway in 2025. Among these is the Mina beachfront development, expected to deliver more than 800 units by year-end. By accepting cryptocurrency payments, the developer adds another layer of accessibility for global buyers who may prefer to use digital assets over traditional financial systems. The initiative also highlights the UAE’s growing adoption of digital assets. According to blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis, cryptocurrency use in the country has surged, with a 75% year-on-year increase in small retail transactions as of mid-2024. This trend underscores the potential of integrating crypto payments into mainstream sectors such as real estate. Market impact and global context The decision by RAK Properties places it among a growing number of real estate developers worldwide experimenting with cryptocurrency as a form of payment. In markets like Dubai and Miami, crypto-based property deals have become increasingly common, appealing to international buyers who see digital assets as both a store of value and a transactional medium. For the UAE, the move reinforces its ambition to establish itself as a global leader in digital finance and blockchain adoption. By offering crypto payments, RAK Properties aligns itself with broader national goals while enhancing its competitiveness in the international real estate market.

South Korea’s financial authorities have issued administrative guidance instructing cryptocurrency exchanges to suspend the launch of new lending services until official guidelines are established. The move comes amid concerns over the rapid growth in usage and potential market disruptions. The Rapid Expansion of Crypto Lending Services and the Regulatory Response In South Korea, the cryptocurrency market has been expanding year by year, with a particularly sharp increase in investors since the beginning of 2025. Among the trends drawing attention was the rise of “lending services.” These services allow users to borrow funds from exchanges using their crypto assets as collateral, which can then be used for further investments or leveraged trading—similar to margin trading in the stock market. However, the rapid growth of such lending has begun to pose serious risks to the overall stability of the market. The Financial Services Commission (FSC) of South Korea deemed the situation unacceptable and, in August, issued administrative guidance to the country’s major exchanges, demanding the immediate suspension of new lending services. As a result, new loans have been completely halted, and only repayments or extensions under existing contracts are allowed. Rapid Lending Surge: 1.5 Trillion Won in Just One Month The trigger for the regulatory guidance was the lending service reaching an unexpectedly large scale just one month after its launch. At one major exchange, 27,600 users borrowed a total of 1.5 trillion won (approximately 150 billion yen), of which 13% were forced into liquidation. Forced liquidation occurs when borrowers’ collateral falls below the required maintenance level, causing their assets to be automatically sold. If such liquidations happen in succession, market prices can plunge rapidly, triggering a chain reaction of further liquidations. Preventing this negative spiral was a key reason for the FSC’s swift intervention. This intervention has also been covered in detail on Coinspeaker Japan, which reports on a wide range of cryptocurrency news. Turbulence in the USDT Market and the Inversion of the Tether Premium Another notable case of market disruption involved lending using USDT (Tether). Widely used as a stablecoin pegged to the U.S. dollar, USDT saw massive sell-offs through lending on South Korean exchanges, temporarily upsetting the balance of supply and demand. As a result, the so-called “Tether premium,” a phenomenon unique to the Korean market, was inverted. Historically, USDT often traded at a premium above the dollar price in Korea due to regulatory and supply-demand factors. However, the sudden selling pressure from lending caused USDT to trade at a discount instead. This abnormal market signal raised significant concern among both investors and regulators. Regulators’ Aim: Protecting Investors and Establishing a Framework Regarding the recent measures, the FSC emphasized that “lending services operate in a legally unclear area and carry extremely high risks from an investor protection perspective.” Unlike traditional financial products, crypto lending lacks established rules on interest rates and collateral management, meaning users must rely heavily on the discretion of exchanges. To address this, the FSC aims to temporarily halt market expansion to prevent further damage, while preparing guidelines with a legal basis. This approach is not merely a tightening of regulations but is positioned as a first step toward recognizing crypto assets as “institutionalized financial products.” Key Points of the New Guidelines: Leverage Limits and Risk Disclosure The guidelines currently under development focus on several key points. First is leverage regulation. To mitigate the risk of investors losing their assets overnight due to excessive borrowing, clear standards are being considered for maximum leverage ratios and methods for evaluating collateral value. Second is investor eligibility criteria. Similar to margin trading in the stock market, where certain capital requirements and experience are necessary, crypto lending will need mechanisms to prevent beginners or investors with limited funds from borrowing recklessly. Third is mandatory risk disclosure. Many exchanges have historically promoted high yields and short-term gains to attract users. Going forward, they will be required to clearly explain the risks of forced liquidation and market volatility. Additionally, to enhance transparency around collateral assets and liquidation mechanisms, discussions are underway regarding the introduction of third-party audits and stronger reporting obligations. Unique Circumstances in South Korea: Balancing Deregulation and Tightening South Korea’s cryptocurrency policy has its own unique characteristics. The current administration is crypto-friendly, promoting market expansion through measures such as approving spot Bitcoin ETFs and legalizing stablecoins. At the same time, it takes a strict stance on services that could destabilize the market, such as lending, demonstrating a careful balance between deregulation and oversight. This approach is also linked to South Korea’s status as one of the world’s leading crypto trading nations. With trading volumes among the highest globally, disruptions in the domestic market can ripple across international markets, necessitating swift and strong regulatory action. Impact on Investors and Exchanges For investors, the suspension of new lending means losing opportunities for short-term leveraged trading. On the other hand, it helps avoid bankruptcy risks from excessive borrowing, which is expected to contribute to a healthier market environment in the medium to long term. For exchanges, lending services have been an important source of revenue, so the halt may be a setback. However, with clear rules in place, these services could be offered as stable financial products, and the formalization of guidelines is seen by many as laying the foundation for long-term business growth. Comparison with International Trends South Korea’s recent measures align with the broader international trend in cryptocurrency regulation. In the United States and Europe, lending services and leveraged trading continue to be closely monitored, and unchecked expansion is not permitted. By implementing formal guidelines ahead of others, South Korea could set a regulatory model for the Asian market. In particular, as South Korea is regarded alongside Japan and Singapore as a regional crypto hub, these guidelines are expected to serve as an important reference point internationally. Future Outlook: Towards a Regulated and ‘Safe’ Crypto Market At first glance, the administrative guidance may seem like a strict regulatory crackdown. However, its core purpose is a step toward institutionalization aimed at protecting investors and ensuring market stability. South Korean authorities intend not to hinder market growth but to create an environment where crypto assets can develop sustainably through transparent and predictable rules. For market participants, these measures may impose temporary constraints, but in the medium to long term, South Korea is likely to be recognized as a globally trusted crypto market.

Bitcoin’s BRC-20 token standard has taken a major leap with the launch of “BRC2.0,” an upgrade that introduces Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) functionality directly into the protocol. Activated at Bitcoin block height 912,690 on September 1, 2025, the upgrade embeds smart contract capabilities into the BRC-20 indexer, potentially transforming Bitcoin into a platform for decentralized applications and reshaping its role in the broader digital asset ecosystem. Expanding Bitcoin’s capabilities The initiative was spearheaded by Ordinals developer Best in Slot alongside BRC-20 creator Domo. Their collaboration has resulted in a Turing-complete environment for BRC-20, a milestone that extends Bitcoin beyond its traditional use case as a store of value and settlement network. By embedding EVM-style contracts directly into the BRC-20 indexer, the upgrade allows developers to deploy Solidity-based applications on Bitcoin. This move mirrors Ethereum’s composability while maintaining the security and decentralization of Bitcoin’s base layer. The upgrade eliminates the reliance on wrapped assets or third-party bridges, enabling smart contracts to operate natively within the Bitcoin ecosystem. This could pave the way for decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming, and other Web3 applications to build directly on Bitcoin, tapping into its unmatched liquidity and global recognition. In practice, developers accustomed to Ethereum’s tooling will now find it easier to port applications over to Bitcoin, potentially leading to an influx of innovation. Early implications and outlook The rollout of BRC2.0 has sparked strong interest among blockchain developers and analysts, many of whom see it as a turning point in Bitcoin’s evolution. Analysts highlight that the upgrade provides Bitcoin with a crucial layer of programmability, long considered Ethereum’s defining advantage. With BRC2.0, Bitcoin may now compete more directly with Ethereum and other smart contract blockchains in hosting decentralized applications. However, the success of the initiative depends heavily on supporting infrastructure. Comprehensive developer documentation, robust wallet integrations, and thorough security audits will be essential to encourage adoption and build trust. The potential risks of embedding complex contract logic into Bitcoin’s ecosystem also raise questions about scalability and security, which the developer community will need to address. Still, the long-term opportunities are substantial. If widely adopted, BRC2.0 could transform Bitcoin from a primarily financial asset into the backbone of a new wave of decentralized applications. By combining Bitcoin’s brand and liquidity with Ethereum-like functionality, the upgrade positions BRC-20 as a critical bridge between the two ecosystems. The next several months will be pivotal, as developers experiment with the new tools and early projects test the viability of Bitcoin-native dApps.

OSTTRA, the global post-trade solutions provider, has added Eurex Clearing to its triBalance initial margin (IM) and capital optimisation service. The move brings Eurex-cleared contracts into OSTTRA’s optimisation runs, reducing counterparty risk and delivering efficiencies across firms’ over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives portfolios. Expanding Clearing House Network With Eurex now integrated, OSTTRA triBalance enhances its clearinghouse coverage, which already includes LCH, CME Clearing, and JSCC. This broader network allows the service to optimise IM and capital across multiple central clearing counterparties (CCPs), a critical function for the $260 trillion interest rate swap market. The service is also compatible with leading margin models, including ISDA SIMM and bespoke CCP frameworks. “The addition of Eurex significantly enhances our ability to optimise initial margin. This collaboration builds upon the strong relationships OSTTRA is cultivating with clearinghouses and other key entities in the derivative market landscape, thereby broadening global access and efficiency for portfolio optimisation,” said Erik Petri, Head of Optimisation at OSTTRA. “As we continue to integrate more CCPs into the triBalance service, our clients will see continuous gains in margin and capital optimisation results, and importantly achieve risk reduction in venues previously beyond the scope of optimisation services,” Petri added. Eurex Perspective Eurex Clearing executives emphasised the importance of this collaboration in a volatile market environment, noting that access to robust optimisation services is vital for clearing members seeking to manage risks effectively. “We are delighted to collaborate with OSTTRA, integrating our cleared portfolios into their ecosystem. In an environment of heightened market volatility, ensuring clearing members have access to risk management services like OSTTRA’s triBalance is paramount,” said Danny Chart, Global Product Lead, OTC IRD at Eurex Clearing. “Through this collaboration, we are empowering clearing members to shift bilateral interest rate risk into Eurex Clearing, and by doing so significantly reduce counterparty risk and enhance margin efficiency through effective netting.” Record Optimisation Savings The expansion follows a period of record results for OSTTRA triBalance. In Q2 2025, clients achieved all-time high interest rate initial margin savings—a 57% increase compared to Q2 2024, including an 89% surge in CCP margin savings. Each new addition to the triBalance network creates further opportunities for optimisation and capital efficiency, underscoring OSTTRA’s position as a key infrastructure provider in derivatives markets. Comprehensive Coverage OSTTRA triBalance provides optimisation services across a broad range of OTC asset classes—both cleared and uncleared—including interest rate derivatives, deliverable and non-deliverable FX forwards, equity derivatives, credit default swaps, and commodities. By enabling firms to free up collateral and capital reserves across their portfolios, triBalance plays a vital role in reducing systemic risk and strengthening post-trade resilience. OSTTRA brings together MarkitSERV, Traiana, TriOptima, and Reset, combining decades of expertise in post-trade solutions. TriOptima AB, part of OSTTRA, is regulated by the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority and operates services including triResolve, triReduce, triBalance, triCalculate, and RESET. The firm continues to drive innovation in risk management and operational efficiency for the global financial markets. By adding Eurex to triBalance, OSTTRA expands its optimisation network across major CCPs—empowering clearing members to reduce counterparty risk, unlock margin efficiencies, and enhance portfolio resilience in a $260 trillion market.

The World Liberty Financial (WLFI) community is currently weighing a significant proposal that could reshape the token’s economic model. According to governance forum discussions published on September 1, 2025, members are voting on whether to allocate 100 percent of protocol-owned liquidity (POL) fees toward repurchasing WLFI tokens on the open market and permanently removing them from circulation. Under the proposal, only fees generated from the protocol’s own liquidity pools—spanning networks such as Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Solana—would be utilized for the buyback and burn process. This would exclude revenue streams from community and third-party liquidity providers. Proponents argue that such a system could strengthen WLFI’s tokenomics by gradually reducing supply and rewarding long-term holders with increased scarcity. Cointelegraph highlighted that the initiative is designed to eliminate tokens held by short-term participants, thereby concentrating ownership among committed community members. This, advocates suggest, would create healthier market dynamics and a stronger foundation for WLFI’s decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem. At present, the proposal is still under active community consideration, with voting open to token holders. Early sentiment on the WLFI governance forum suggests significant support for the measure, but no final decision has been announced. Market context and future outlook The timing of this proposal is critical. WLFI’s token has faced heightened volatility since its market debut. Just last week, WLFI futures contracts tumbled by as much as 36 percent from their initial listing price, a drop many analysts attributed to aggressive short positions and the recent release of a large number of tokens into circulation. Market observers say the proposed buyback-and-burn strategy is aimed at countering these downward pressures. Advocates believe the measure could increase investor confidence by reducing sell-side liquidity and reinforcing the value of WLFI as a scarce asset. By systematically removing tokens from supply, long-term holders could see their stakes represent a greater share of the circulating market. However, not all community members are convinced. Critics on the governance forum argue that diverting all POL fees into buybacks may leave the protocol underfunded for operational needs, development, or unforeseen market stress. Without a diversified treasury strategy, WLFI could be exposed to liquidity crunches or struggle to sustain growth initiatives. The debate echoes broader discussions within DeFi around tokenomics and sustainability. Buyback-and-burn mechanisms have been used in projects like Binance Coin (BNB), which has implemented quarterly burns to maintain value. But the effectiveness of such measures often depends on consistent revenue streams and broader market sentiment. As the WLFI community vote proceeds, industry watchers are paying close attention. A successful passage would mark the beginning of an aggressive deflationary policy, one that could influence how other decentralized exchanges and protocols approach token supply management. Conversely, rejection of the proposal could signal a preference for balancing immediate token support with longer-term sustainability.  

The fintech pioneers behind some of the UK’s biggest disruptors are joining forces to launch a new digital-first bank targeting high net worth individuals. Known internally as “Project Arnaud”, the initiative seeks to revolutionize how affluent clients manage wealth, closing gaps left by traditional institutions. A New Model for Wealth Banking Project Arnaud is led by Jason Bates, co-founder of Monzo and Starling, David M Brear, Group CEO of 11:FS, and Max Koretskiy, co-founder of Swiss wealth manager Blackshield Capital. Together, the team is betting on a next-generation, digital-first wealth solution designed for the financially ambitious and digitally native elite. “The likes of Monzo and Starling are light-years ahead for basic retail banking but when high net worth individuals graduate to the organisations looking to serve them, they are often full of hidden fees, archaic account opening and reporting that looks as if it was faxed in from the 1990s. Project Arnaud aims to change all that,” said David Brear. Solving Wealth Management’s Digital Lag The founders argue that traditional private banks have failed to match the expectations of today’s wealthy, particularly millennials and Gen Z inheriting unprecedented levels of wealth. Instead of streamlined experiences, clients face outdated processes, slow portfolio management, and fragmented accounts. “A wealthy client recently told me he can order a Tesla in three clicks on his phone, but when he wants to adjust his investment portfolio, it takes three weeks of phone calls, emails, and scanned forms. That’s the gap between what modern life looks like and what wealth services still deliver,” Brear added. Financial Clarity Across Borders For co-founder Jason Bates, the challenge isn’t just digital convenience, but also clarity in managing multiple global accounts. “Above all, there’s a need for financial clarity. People are opening four or five bank accounts in different jurisdictions, with different currencies, and having to manage that all themselves. All of those things should be able to be delivered by one provider, sharing access, having some automation, helping you just manage it all. The mass market is doing that with two or three bank accounts. We can do something so much better,” Bates said. Seizing a Multi-Trillion Dollar Opportunity The founders highlight the sheer scale of the opportunity. Globally, the wealth management industry oversees more than $255 trillion in assets. In the UK alone, it’s over £1.3 trillion, with an estimated £5.5 trillion set to transfer between generations across the UK and EU by 2030. “The largest wealth transfer in history is colliding with rising client expectations, shaped by consumer tech. Over £1 trillion will change hands over the 2020s in the UK alone, resulting in a five times increase of wealth held by millennials. The next generation of wealth owners are digitally native and they’re going to demand the very best in banking and wealth management,” said Max Koretskiy. Backing and Future Plans Currently operating under 11:FS Holdings Limited, the group has already earmarked £50 million to bring Project Arnaud to market, with a fresh investment round on the horizon. Details of the first public launch are expected later this year. Takeaway: Project Arnaud seeks to redefine wealth banking for high-net-worth individuals, promising digital-first clarity, automation, and seamless global management at a time when trillions in assets are moving to a younger, tech-savvy generation.

South Korea will align with the OECD’s new global standards for crypto transaction reporting, moving to implement the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) in the coming years. Data sharing to begin by 2027 The Ministry of Economy and Finance confirmed that South Korea will participate in CARF, which mandates automatic information exchange on cross-border cryptocurrency transactions. According to reports, Korean exchanges will be required to share data on foreign users with their respective tax authorities, while transactions by Korean residents on offshore platforms will be disclosed to South Korea’s National Tax Service. The phased rollout is expected to begin with data collection in 2026, followed by international information exchange in 2027. The decision places South Korea among a growing number of jurisdictions that have agreed to adopt the OECD framework. Policymakers view the move as essential to combating tax evasion, curbing illicit flows, and enhancing global regulatory coordination in the fast-evolving digital asset sector. Part of a broader global initiative The OECD developed CARF in response to mounting concerns from governments worldwide over the opacity of digital asset transactions. Unlike traditional financial institutions, which already fall under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) for automatic tax information exchange, cryptocurrency exchanges and wallet providers have operated with limited cross-border disclosure obligations. CARF aims to close that gap by imposing similar reporting standards on digital asset intermediaries. South Korea’s participation signals its commitment to aligning with global norms, reinforcing measures already underway at the domestic level. The country has steadily introduced tighter oversight in the sector, including the licensing of crypto exchanges, mandatory real-name trading accounts, and the impending introduction of capital gains taxes on digital asset transactions. By joining CARF, Seoul is preparing to synchronize its domestic regulations with international frameworks, ensuring that Korean regulators have access to critical data about their citizens’ offshore activities. For local exchanges such as Upbit, Bithumb, Coinone, and Korbit, the new requirements will mean significant compliance upgrades. These platforms will be expected to track, verify, and report detailed information on foreign users’ transactions to Korean authorities, which will then be shared with other participating jurisdictions. Conversely, South Korea will also gain access to information about its citizens’ activity on overseas platforms, a step expected to broaden the tax base and improve enforcement. Industry observers note that while the transition may increase operational costs for exchanges, it could ultimately boost investor confidence by enhancing transparency and aligning Korea’s regulatory standards with those of leading global markets. Some analysts also highlight that participation in CARF may support Korea’s ambition to strengthen its role as a fintech and blockchain innovation hub, as compliance with international norms is increasingly seen as a prerequisite for institutional adoption. The implementation timeline allows exchanges and regulators some breathing room, with full data sharing not scheduled until 2027. However, experts warn that preparation will need to begin immediately, given the technological and procedural upgrades required for compliance. The OECD has already released technical guidance, including updated XML schema standards, to assist jurisdictions and industry participants in preparing for the rollout. As South Korea takes steps to integrate into the CARF system, the move underscores a broader global trend: digital assets are no longer operating in regulatory isolation. Instead, they are being brought under the same international frameworks that govern traditional finance, with implications that will reshape the industry for years to come.

A new cryptocurrency tied to former President Donald Trump and his family has made a dramatic market debut, instantly boosting their estimated wealth into the billions of dollars. The token, issued by World Liberty Financial under the ticker WLFI, began trading this week on major exchanges including Binance, OKX, and Bybit. Early trading generated enormous activity, with volumes reportedly topping one billion dollars within the first hour. WLFI initially launched around thirty cents, briefly spiked higher, and then settled in the twenty‑cent range after a pullback of about 25 percent. Even with the decline, the project’s market capitalization reached several billion dollars, making it one of the most high‑profile token launches of the year. Analysts estimate the Trump family controls nearly a quarter of the WLFI supply, a stake worth between five and six billion dollars on paper at the launch’s peak. Trump himself is named “co‑founder emeritus,” while his sons hold titles as co‑founders. A rapid rise and a volatile debut The swift appreciation of WLFI’s token underscored the speculative fervor driving much of today’s crypto trading. Enthusiasts rushed to buy into the newly listed asset, with prices surging before experiencing sharp declines. Market watchers noted that such dramatic swings are characteristic of token launches, where initial hype often gives way to corrections once early investors begin selling their holdings. Despite the volatility, World Liberty Financial has signaled it is looking beyond the initial hype cycle. The project’s leadership has announced plans to develop a wider ecosystem around WLFI, including a U.S. dollar‑backed stablecoin called USD1, as well as staking and token‑burning mechanisms designed to maintain scarcity and incentivize long‑term holding. Ethics questions and political implications The financial windfall linked to WLFI has already raised questions in Washington. Key Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Maxine Waters, expressed concern that the Trump family’s direct stake in the token could present conflicts of interest, particularly given Trump’s current role as president. Critics warn that the token’s IPO‑like structure—where 25 percent of supply was unlocked for early investors in July—creates an environment for outsized gains among insiders while exposing retail traders to risk. The Trump family and their allies have defended the project, describing it as an effort to promote American innovation and leadership in the rapidly growing digital asset sector. They emphasize that the president’s personal holdings are placed in a blind trust and argue that WLFI could strengthen U.S. influence in the global financial system. As WLFI navigates its early days on the market, the token’s future trajectory remains uncertain. Its rapid ascent and immediate volatility reflect both the opportunities and risks inherent in cryptocurrency markets. For the Trump family, however, the launch has already delivered a paper fortune that rivals their longstanding real estate empire, while raising fresh debate about the merging of political power and personal financial gain.

Fiinu Plc (AIM: BANK), the fintech company behind the world’s first Plugin Overdraft platform, has completed the £8 million reverse takeover of Everfex, a European FX brokerage. The deal marks a pivotal step on Fiinu’s path to profitability, as it gears up to launch its flagship product in Q4 2025. Expanding Into Revenue Generation The acquisition transforms Fiinu from a pre-revenue business into a revenue-generating enterprise. Everfex, which has now been rebranded as Fiinu Brokerage, focuses on currency risk management for Polish SMEs—a sector often underserved by traditional providers. In 2024, the brokerage executed over $1 billion in spot, swap, and forward contracts, demonstrating consistent revenue and profit growth. “Fiinu Brokerage is a transformational addition, taking Fiinu from a pre-revenue to a revenue-generating business, setting a clear path toward Fiinu Plc’s profitability, which is powered by two core products,” said Dr Marko Sjoblom, CEO of Fiinu Plc. Targeting Poland’s Fastest-Growing Market Fiinu says the acquisition gives it immediate access to Poland, one of Europe’s fastest-growing economies, serving more than 150,000 importers and exporters. The deal structure also includes an earnout for Everfex’s former owners, conditional on the brokerage’s order book exceeding £650 million by year-end. Payments would be made in new equity at 20 pence per share. “Through this acquisition, we gain immediate access to the Polish market, the fastest-growing economy in Europe, via a product designed to serve over 150,000 importers and exporters,” added Sjoblom. “In addition, the brokerage opens up future opportunities in areas like trade finance, crypto-to-fiat trading, and potentially funding our growing order book through a digital asset treasury strategy.” Everfex Becomes Fiinu Brokerage Everfex has rebranded as Fiinu Brokerage following the transaction. CEO Karol Oleksa said the deal strengthens the firm’s growth prospects and removes capital constraints that have previously limited expansion across Eastern Europe. “Our rapid expansion across Eastern Europe and strong profitability are a testament to the strength of our brokerage model. As part of the Fiinu Plc group, we can supercharge our growth strategy by addressing margin capital limitations, by pushing forward with product diversification and by expanding our services into new regions in Europe,” said Oleksa. Plugin Overdraft on Track The acquisition comes ahead of the planned Q4 2025 launch of Fiinu’s flagship Plugin Overdraft®, a Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) solution that allows customers to access overdraft facilities without changing their bank or eMoney accounts. Designed to help customers improve credit scores and avoid late payment fees, the product has been described by analysts as one of the most anticipated innovations in UK fintech. Takeaway: Fiinu’s £8m reverse takeover of Everfex accelerates its transition into revenue generation, secures a foothold in Poland’s SME FX market, and sets the stage for the Q4 2025 launch of its Plugin Overdraft® product.

DV8 Public, a Thai-listed company often compared to MicroStrategy for its aggressive digital asset ambitions, has named Jason Fang, founding partner of Sora Ventures, as its new chief executive officer effective September 1, 2025. The appointment underscores DV8’s intent to establish itself as a leading corporate player in the Bitcoin treasury movement. Fang, who has built a reputation as a prominent venture capitalist in the blockchain sector, announced the role via social media, stating he is committed to steering the company into “a new financial frontier.” The leadership shift comes on the heels of significant corporate changes. Acting CEO Kanya Chaisartitporn resigned on August 31, 2025, after serving in the role since March of this year. Chaisartitporn’s tenure was marked by transitional efforts as DV8 prepared for its strategic pivot. Earlier in July, Thai business magnate Chatchaval Jiaravanon was named chairman, signaling the company’s alignment with heavyweight figures in finance as it repositions itself within the digital asset space. Together, these moves reflect a deliberate restructuring process designed to reinforce DV8’s credibility and capacity for execution. Corporate Restructuring DV8 has strengthened its financial foundation ahead of Fang’s appointment. Reports indicate that 99.9% of shareholder warrants were exercised, providing a substantial boost to the company’s balance sheet. This capital influx positions DV8 to more aggressively pursue its Bitcoin treasury strategy, echoing the blueprint pioneered by MicroStrategy in the United States. By emulating this approach, DV8 aims to transform itself from a traditional listed entity into a pioneering digital-asset-focused enterprise in Southeast Asia. Industry observers note that Fang’s appointment is significant not just for DV8, but for the broader regional fintech ecosystem. As founding partner of Sora Ventures, Fang has overseen early investments in blockchain infrastructure and decentralized applications, granting him deep expertise in navigating volatile digital markets. His leadership is expected to lend both credibility and innovation to DV8’s efforts. Moreover, his global network could provide the company with unique access to capital, partnerships, and market insights. The strategic shift comes at a time when corporations worldwide are increasingly exploring digital assets as part of their treasury management strategies. Bitcoin, in particular, has been embraced by some firms as a hedge against inflation and a long-term store of value. DV8’s decision to model its strategy on MicroStrategy’s well-publicized Bitcoin accumulation signals a willingness to adopt bold, high-conviction bets in a sector still characterized by uncertainty and regulatory flux. For Thailand, DV8’s pivot marks one of the most high-profile corporate endorsements of digital assets to date. The company’s transformation could position the Thai market as a hub for corporate-level Bitcoin adoption in Asia, especially as regional regulators and financial institutions continue to debate the appropriate frameworks for digital finance. As Fang begins his tenure, DV8 is expected to unveil concrete steps toward integrating Bitcoin into its corporate structure. Whether through direct acquisitions, treasury allocations, or partnerships with digital asset custodians, the firm’s actions will be closely watched by both regional investors and the global crypto community. Fang’s challenge will be balancing visionary ambitions with prudent financial management in a volatile asset class. His success—or failure—could determine whether DV8 fulfills its ambition of becoming Southeast Asia’s answer to MicroStrategy.