YouTube has moved to clarify concerns within the cryptocurrency and Web3 gaming communities following the announcement of upcoming changes to its policies around gambling-related content. The platform stated that while it is expanding the definition of gambling to address digital assets used as wagering instruments, it does not intend to restrict general crypto, NFT, or blockchain-focused gaming content. This clarification comes after initial confusion sparked fears among creators and viewers that crypto-related videos could face broad removal or demonetization. The updated policy, taking effect on November 17, will categorize certain types of digital asset-based gaming activities as gambling. Specifically, content that directs viewers to platforms where digital items, including NFTs, in-game skins, or crypto tokens, can be wagered or traded with real monetary value will be scrutinized under the gambling classification. YouTube’s goal is to reduce content that encourages users to engage in casino-style wagering that blurs the line between gaming and betting. Clarification from YouTube YouTube has emphasized that discussions, reviews, educational breakdowns, and general entertainment content involving crypto, NFTs, and Web3 gaming will still be permitted on the platform. The key factor determining compliance is whether the content promotes or facilitates gambling behavior. Creators who showcase blockchain-based games, explain token mechanics, or cover industry news but do not link to or encourage participation in wagering platforms will not be affected by the new rules. However, channels directing users to services where digital assets are used as betting stakes may fall under the ban and risk removal or loss of monetization. The news initially triggered concern within the Web3 gaming sector, where many games include marketplaces for trading NFTs and tokens. Some creators worried that any association with blockchain-based in-game economies might be interpreted as gambling. YouTube’s clarification aims to draw a distinction between trading digital assets and betting with them. For creators, the practical implication is the need to review external links, sponsorships, referral codes, and calls to action. Channels that promote platforms offering wagering using crypto or NFTs will need to adjust to comply with the new standards. Meanwhile, creators who focus on gameplay, research, industry commentary, or development updates can continue operating as usual. Balancing Safety and Industry Growth YouTube’s policy change reflects broader industry challenges around regulating digital environments where monetary value and entertainment intersect. The company is attempting to balance user safety with the continued growth of blockchain-based gaming and digital ownership technologies. As the Web3 gaming and crypto sectors expand, platforms like YouTube face increasing pressure to clarify rules and prevent harmful or exploitative content. At the same time, the industry continues to advocate for clearer guidelines that acknowledge the legitimacy of blockchain-based gaming models. With the clarification now public, content creators are advised to double-check their promotional partnerships and ensure their content focuses on gameplay, education, or commentary rather than digital wagering platforms. This approach may help avoid compliance issues as the new policy comes into effect.

Lightyear, the investment platform transforming how people grow their wealth, has unveiled “Plans” — a new feature that enables users to personalise and automate long-term investing to achieve their financial objectives with ease. Designed for accessibility and simplicity, Plans allows investors to create customised portfolios of stocks and ETFs aligned with personal goals, automate contributions, and make regular investments without the need for constant oversight. Through Plans, users can name each portfolio after a specific goal or life milestone and set automated contributions on a weekly, fortnightly, or monthly basis. This hands-free approach empowers individuals to build consistent investing habits and reduce the complexity often associated with managing personal finances. UK investors can access thousands of global instruments, including fractionalised ETFs tracking local benchmarks such as the FTSE 100 (Vanguard & iShares), FTSE 250 (Vanguard), and UK Property indices, giving them flexibility to diversify both locally and globally. “At Lightyear, we want to make investing as easy, affordable, and accessible as possible,” said Wander Rutgers, UK CEO of Lightyear. “Far too many people feel their finances don’t allow them to live life to the fullest. Our new Plans can help change that by turning investing into a healthy, regular habit that aligns with each person’s budget and goals.” Takeaway Lightyear’s new “Plans” feature helps UK investors automate and personalise long-term wealth building through affordable, goal-based investing. Expanding Access with Fractional Shares and Smarter Investing Tools The introduction of Plans comes as Lightyear prepares to expand fractional investing to UK-listed equities, enabling automatic contributions into smaller, affordable slices of individual shares. According to Lightyear research, the average UK stock price of £331.50 is over 230% higher than that of a US stock, making fractional investing a critical step toward democratising access for retail investors. Once rolled out, users will be able to automate investments into fractional UK shares, allowing for steady contributions and diversification at any investment size. This development aligns with broader efforts to encourage retail participation in the UK stock market, echoing Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ push for greater retail investment amid ongoing debates about the future of Cash ISAs. Paul Murphy, Partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners, commented: “Financial wellbeing has long been hindered by expensive platforms that make investing feel out of reach. Lightyear is changing that with Plans — making long-term investing simple, intuitive, and low-cost.” Takeaway By integrating fractional shares and automation, Lightyear expands access to investing, helping users turn small contributions into long-term financial growth. Combining Automation with AI-Powered Market Insights The launch of Plans follows Lightyear’s earlier rollout of AI-driven market intelligence tools, designed to make data-driven investing accessible to everyone. These include “Why Did It Move”, which explains stock price fluctuations in real time, and “Bulls Say, Bears Say”, an analytical feature that aggregates expert insights both for and against specific instruments, helping users make informed decisions. These tools eliminate barriers traditionally imposed by paywalls and subscription models, giving retail investors access to professional-grade financial intelligence. Combined with Plans, they offer a seamless investing ecosystem that unites automation, accessibility, and education — key to improving financial literacy and confidence across the UK investing population. As Lightyear continues to expand its offerings, its mission remains clear: to make investing a routine, empowering part of everyday life. Through automation, fractionalisation, and AI-powered insights, Lightyear is equipping investors with the tools to take control of their financial futures — one Plan at a time. Takeaway Lightyear’s combination of automation and AI insights redefines DIY investing, giving UK users the confidence and tools to secure their long-term financial wellbeing.

How did Zcash rise more than 500% in 2025 when most cryptocurrencies struggled to recover? The privacy coin’s resurgence has surprised analysts, marking one of the strongest comebacks in the market. Yet as Zcash reclaims its dominance in privacy, BlockchainFX (BFX) is rapidly emerging as the best crypto presale 2025, offering real trading rewards and daily passive income potential. While Zcash has become a symbol of digital privacy, BlockchainFX represents the next evolution of utility-backed crypto. Together, they highlight where the market is heading — from anonymity-driven value to sustainable, income-generating ecosystems built for the future. Zcash 2025 Rally: Privacy Coins Regain Attention Amid Institutional Shifts Zcash (ZEC) surged more than 500% in 2025, outperforming most large-cap coins during a volatile market. The token reclaimed the top spot from Monero (XMR) as the leading privacy cryptocurrency by market cap. Institutional developments, such as Grayscale’s launch of the Zcash Trust, pushed the price to a three-year high, with ZEC now trading around $270. The revival stems from growing investor interest in privacy. As Bitcoin becomes increasingly institutionalized, retail participants are turning toward privacy-centric coins for autonomy and self-custody. With its advanced zero-knowledge proof technology, Zcash offers strong privacy guarantees while retaining blockchain transparency, positioning it among the top cryptos to invest in November 2025. Why Zcash Is Surging: A Broader Push for Decentralized Privacy Zcash’s recovery reflects the market’s renewed demand for decentralized privacy. Galaxy Digital’s research noted that Bitcoin’s ETF-driven growth has made it less of a peer-to-peer asset and more of a Wall Street commodity. In contrast, ZEC represents “encrypted Bitcoin” — a return to decentralized, user-owned money. The a16z 2025 State of Crypto report revealed that search volume for “best privacy crypto 2025” and “Zcash price prediction 2025” jumped to all-time highs this year. Analysts see this as a response to rising government oversight and blockchain analytics tools, which have increased demand for private digital assets. For many investors, Zcash has become a hedge against surveillance within the digital economy. Zcash (ZEC) Price Prediction 2025–2030 Year Bearish Prediction Average Prediction Bullish Prediction 2025 $180 $300 $500 2030 $420 $750 $1,200 Experts believe Zcash could maintain steady growth through 2030 if it strengthens partnerships with privacy-oriented DeFi platforms and enhances network scalability. However, competition from newer privacy protocols may moderate its long-term price ceiling. Still, ZEC remains one of the best cryptos to buy now for long-term crypto investment focused on privacy. BlockchainFX (BFX): The Best Crypto Presale 2025 with Real Utility and Passive Income While Zcash revived the privacy narrative, BlockchainFX (BFX) is redefining crypto ownership through real-world utility. BFX is a live multi-asset trading super app combining crypto, stocks, forex, and commodities into one ecosystem. The project has already achieved over 10,000 daily users, verified CertiK audit, and full KYC compliance, ensuring transparency and user trust. BFX stands out as a top 100x crypto presale in 2025 because it offers actual earnings before launch. Token holders receive 70% of trading fees redistributed daily in USDT, yielding 4–7% daily rewards and annual APYs up to 90%. At a current presale price of $0.029, the token has already tripled from its starting price of $0.01, with a confirmed launch target of $0.05. If projections of $1 long-term valuation hold true, a $50,000 investment today could grow to over $1.72 million, making BFX one of the top crypto presales to watch in 2025 for 100x returns and a standout among low cap altcoin gems with 1000x potential. Why BlockchainFX Is More Than Just Another Presale BlockchainFX is not a concept — it’s already functional. Users can earn passive income, trade multiple asset classes, and spend crypto globally using BFX Visa Cards (Gold, Green, Metal). Each tier offers additional NFT rewards, staking bonuses, and premium trading credits, creating a seamless Web3 finance experience. The project has raised over $10.9 million from 17,000+ buyers, backed by a roadmap forecasting $1.8B in annual revenue by 2030, $500M in daily trading volume, and 25M global users. Its ecosystem integrates traditional financial assets with DeFi mechanics, solidifying its place among the best crypto presales to invest in November 2025. Active Presale Bonuses: Get 30% Extra BFX Tokens with BLOCK30 BlockchainFX is running its BLOCK30 promotion, where buyers can receive 30% extra $BFX tokens during the ongoing presale event. The bonus can be claimed by entering the BLOCK30 code at checkout before the next scheduled price increase. Purchases can be made through ETH, BTC, BNB, USDT, SOL, or standard debit and credit cards. This flexibility has helped BFX attract a diverse audience of retail investors looking for the best presale crypto to buy now with low entry barriers and high earning potential. Additionally, the team has launched a $500,000 giveaway rewarding participants with BFX tokens. Prizes range from $1,000 to $250,000, encouraging community participation and reinforcing BlockchainFX’s commitment to rewarding early supporters. Zcash vs BlockchainFX ROI Comparison (2025–2030) Asset 2025 Bearish ROI 2025 Bullish ROI 2030 Bearish ROI 2030 Bullish ROI Core Utility Zcash (ZEC) 180% 500% 420% 1200% Privacy-focused transactions and financial autonomy BlockchainFX (BFX) 72% (pre-launch) 1000%+ 1500% 3200%+ Trading super app with daily passive income rewards Zcash excels in maintaining privacy within blockchain transactions, while BlockchainFX introduces an entirely new model for crypto passive income through automated USDT fee distributions. Both appeal to different investor needs — ZEC for anonymity, BFX for consistent returns. Final Outlook: Which Is the Best Crypto to Buy Now for 2025? Zcash’s rally highlights the lasting value of privacy, but BlockchainFX shows how real adoption and income generation define crypto’s next chapter. While ZEC continues to lead the privacy segment, BFX’s presale model offers measurable, daily earning potential backed by a live, audited platform. Investors looking for the best crypto presale 2025 should consider BlockchainFX’s presale now while the BLOCK30 30% bonus is active. The current price of $0.029 remains well below the confirmed $0.05 launch rate, giving early contributors a strong entry point before listings begin. Buy BFX now and claim your 30% bonus with BLOCK30 before the next price increase. Find Out More Information Here Website: https://blockchainfx.com/  X: https://x.com/BlockchainFXcom Telegram Chat: https://t.me/blockchainfx_chat Disclaimer: This content is provided by a sponsor. FinanceFeeds does not independently verify the legitimacy, credibility, claims, or financial viability of the information or description of services mentioned. As such, we bear no responsibility for any potential risks, inaccuracies, or misleading representations related to the content. This post does not constitute financial advice or a recommendation and should not be treated as such. We strongly advise seeking independent financial guidance from a qualified and regulated professional before engaging in any investment or financial activities. Please review our full disclaimer for more details.

British central bank officials emphasize the need to align stablecoin and digital asset oversight as both jurisdictions advance regulatory reforms. Transatlantic Regulatory Alignment The Bank of England is calling for deeper coordination between the United States and the United Kingdom on cryptocurrency regulation, underscoring the growing importance of unified oversight in global financial markets. Deputy Governor Sarah Breeden stated that it is "really important" for the two countries to synchronize their regulatory approaches, particularly in the oversight of stablecoins. She noted that discussions are already underway between the Bank of England, the U.S. Federal Reserve, and respective finance ministries. The push for cooperation comes as both countries refine their approaches to digital asset oversight. The United Kingdom is in the process of finalizing a comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, while the United States continues to issue incremental guidance for financial institutions interacting with the sector. Officials on both sides of the Atlantic have expressed concern that inconsistent rules may lead to regulatory arbitrage, uneven risk management, and fragmented market standards. Stablecoin Oversight in Focus Stablecoins are at the center of the regulatory dialogue. These digital tokens are pegged to traditional assets such as the U.S. dollar or British pound and are increasingly used in payment systems and crypto trading. The Bank of England plans to launch a consultation focused on stablecoins deemed "systemic"—those that could play a significant role in everyday payments or financial infrastructure. Under the U.K.’s proposed framework, the Financial Conduct Authority would regulate smaller non-systemic stablecoins, while the central bank would oversee issuers with potential systemic influence. Alignment with U.S. regulatory developments is expected to influence the final structure of U.K. oversight. In the United States, regulators have recently provided more clarity on how banks and service providers may engage with crypto markets, though comprehensive federal legislation is still pending. Both countries aim to ensure that stablecoin arrangements are backed by strong operational resilience, robust reserve assets, and clear redemption rights for users. The call for closer U.S.–U.K. cooperation occurs against the backdrop of broader global efforts to create consistent international standards for digital asset markets. Global institutions, including the Financial Stability Board and the International Monetary Fund, have highlighted the need for coordinated frameworks to address cross-border risks in crypto trading and digital payments. Without harmonized standards, policymakers warn that operational failures, liquidity mismatches, or market volatility could spill across jurisdictions. The Bank of England’s focus reflects the increasing relevance of digital assets in mainstream finance. As more companies, payment providers, and financial institutions explore blockchain-based settlement and tokenized assets, regulators seek to ensure that innovation develops within clear and stable guardrails. While the timeline for fully harmonized U.S.–U.K. rules remains uncertain, ongoing dialogue signals a shared strategic priority: fostering innovation in digital finance while safeguarding market integrity and financial stability.

U.S. spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) recorded mixed flow activity yesterday, signaling a cautious but engaged market environment among institutional and retail traders. Total net outflows across the major spot Bitcoin ETFs reached approximately $137 million for the day, reflecting a continued period of reevaluation in digital asset exposure amid broader macroeconomic uncertainty. Shifting Investor Dynamics The largest outflows were observed in BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), which saw withdrawals of roughly $375.5 million. Despite this movement, IBIT remains one of the most heavily traded Bitcoin ETFs and continues to command significant market share among institutional allocators. Analysts suggest that the outflows may relate to strategic profit-taking and short-term hedging, rather than a decisive reversal in long-term sentiment. In contrast, several major funds saw inflows, indicating that capital is not exiting the asset class entirely but being reallocated among issuers. Fidelity’s FBTC recorded inflows of approximately $113.3 million, while ARK Invest’s ARKB saw about $17 million in positive flows. Bitwise’s BITB also attracted around $82.9 million in new investment. This rotation underscores a competitive environment among ETF providers where fee structures, tracking performance, and institutional custody arrangements play increasingly pivotal roles. Market Volatility Context The activity followed a notably volatile trading session earlier in the week, during which total spot Bitcoin ETF net outflows exceeded $566 million. That session was driven by large withdrawals from Fidelity’s FBTC, ARK’s ARKB, and Grayscale’s GBTC. Market observers noted that the broader environment included macroeconomic catalysts such as shifting interest rate expectations, risk sentiment trends, and liquidity adjustments across global markets. Even so, analysts caution against interpreting the recent movements as a definitive directional shift in overall crypto adoption. Instead, they view the data as evidence of active portfolio management among sophisticated investors who increasingly use ETFs as a flexible gateway to Bitcoin exposure. Since the introduction of spot Bitcoin ETFs, the product category has expanded access to digital assets for a wider audience, particularly institutional investors who require regulated, brokerage-accessible instruments. The continued inflow and outflow activity demonstrates ongoing engagement, even amid short-term price fluctuations. Industry experts expect further product innovation, including expanded offerings tied to Ethereum and diversified crypto index strategies, pending regulatory clarity. As more traditional financial institutions integrate digital asset exposure into strategic portfolio frameworks, ETFs are expected to remain a core market access point. Investors and analysts will continue to monitor ETF flow data as a high-frequency indicator of sentiment and positioning within the crypto market. While day-to-day movements may fluctuate due to technical and macroeconomic drivers, the broader market trend reflects growing institutional infrastructure and sustained interest in digital asset investment products. As the competitive landscape among ETF issuers evolves, factors such as liquidity, fees, and transparency will continue to shape investor preference. For now, recent data suggests that the crypto ETF market remains active, dynamic, and deeply influenced by real-time market conditions.

S&P Dow Jones Indices is preparing to bring its recently introduced S&P Digital Markets 50 index onchain, in a move designed to make diversified digital asset exposure more accessible to institutional and retail investors through tokenized financial products. The index, known as DM50, blends traditional publicly traded companies connected to the digital asset economy with a basket of leading cryptocurrencies. The onchain version is expected to be issued in cooperation with tokenization platform Dinari, while Chainlink will support verifiable data delivery to blockchain networks. The initiative reflects the continued expansion of tokenized investment products, which aim to allow investors to hold regulated, real-world assets in blockchain-based formats. By making the index available onchain, S&P Dow Jones Indices is aligning with a broader market trend in which tokenized funds, equities, commodities, and infrastructure instruments are being integrated into decentralized financial systems. Index composition and methodology The S&P Digital Markets 50 consists of 50 components, including 35 publicly traded companies with material exposure to digital asset businesses and 15 cryptocurrencies with significant market capitalization and liquidity. Constituents include firms involved in blockchain infrastructure, crypto trading platforms, digital payment networks, mining operations, and semiconductor manufacturing. The cryptocurrency portion features major assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other large-cap tokens. The index applies a 5% weighting cap per asset and undergoes quarterly rebalancing to maintain diversified exposure. Public equity constituents must meet minimum market capitalization and trading volume thresholds, while the digital assets included are subject to liquidity and circulating supply criteria. The construction framework is positioned to offer a broad representation of the digital asset economy rather than a sector-specific focus. The tokenized form of the index will enable fractional ownership and blockchain-settled transfers, potentially lowering barriers to entry for investors who are comfortable interacting with digital wallets and onchain platforms. Dinari is expected to issue the onchain representation, branded under its dShares line of tokenized securities, providing a regulatory structure for compliant access. Implications for digital asset markets Bringing a major S&P index onchain signals increasing alignment between traditional financial benchmarks and blockchain-based infrastructure. For institutions exploring tokenization, the DM50 may serve as a reference point or portfolio building block that combines crypto-native exposure with conventional equity risk factors. For retail users engaged in decentralized finance, the index could provide a simplified way to gain diversified market exposure without managing multiple individual assets. The use of Chainlink decentralized oracle networks to deliver benchmark pricing data is intended to ensure data integrity and transparency, addressing a key challenge in onchain financial products. Reliable index pricing is critical for accurate valuation, collateralization, and potential integration into decentralized asset management platforms. The launch timeline for the tokenized index is expected to extend into late 2025, though market participants and infrastructure partners have indicated that development is ongoing. As tokenization frameworks mature and regulatory clarity continues to evolve, onchain indices such as the S&P Digital Markets 50 may play an increasingly significant role in bridging capital markets and decentralized finance ecosystems.

SBI Digital Markets has adopted Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) as part of its strategy to expand regulated digital asset services across multiple blockchain networks. This move aims to support the development and settlement of tokenized financial products in a secure and compliant environment. SBI Digital Markets Expands Tokenization Strategy SBI Digital Markets, the institutional digital asset division of SBI Group, announced that it will use Chainlink CCIP as a foundational layer for interoperability across private and public blockchain networks. The integration is designed to enable regulated financial instruments, such as tokenized securities and alternative assets, to move seamlessly across networks while maintaining institutional compliance requirements. The adoption includes the use of CCIP Private Transactions, a feature designed to support confidentiality in environments where data privacy and regulatory oversight are critical. SBI Digital Markets is also evaluating Chainlink’s Automated Compliance Engine (ACE), which provides policy enforcement tools that can help ensure transactions adhere to jurisdictional rules and institutional standards. Chainlink CCIP is designed to provide secure messaging and value transfer across blockchain networks. As institutions increasingly adopt tokenized asset frameworks, interoperability has become a key infrastructure requirement. Many financial institutions operate across multiple blockchain systems that may use different architectures and security models, resulting in complexity and fragmentation. Chainlink’s CCIP aims to address these challenges by offering a standardized method for connecting networks while maintaining high levels of security and operational reliability. SBI Digital Markets’ adoption of CCIP reflects a broader industry movement toward interoperability solutions that can support regulated financial products at scale. Industry Context and Market Outlook The tokenization of real-world assets has emerged as a major trend in institutional finance, driven by interest in improving settlement times, unlocking liquidity, and expanding market participation. However, regulatory frameworks and interoperability standards remain key barriers to widespread adoption. Institutions require systems that meet regulatory expectations while providing the flexibility needed to operate across distributed ledgers. SBI Group has been actively involved in digital asset development and blockchain-based financial infrastructure for several years. The company’s collaboration with Chainlink demonstrates continued investment in technologies intended to support the growth of regulated tokenized markets. By adopting CCIP, SBI Digital Markets aims to position itself as a leader in cross-chain digital asset services, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The integration is expected to facilitate the issuance, trading, and settlement of tokenized products in a manner consistent with institutional security and compliance standards. As global financial institutions continue to evaluate tokenized asset infrastructure, developments such as this may influence the direction of interoperability frameworks and regulatory technology solutions in the broader market.

FinanceFeeds is excited to announce an exclusive interview with Andrey Kalashnikov, Head of Match2Pay, conducted at the Forex Expo Dubai 2025. In this discussion, Kalashnikov explains how Match2Pay built its entire crypto payments infrastructure in-house, the company’s uncompromising focus on security and transparency, and its plans to bring scalable, cost-efficient crypto solutions to brokers and beyond. Match2Pay, part of the Match-Trade Group, is a crypto payment gateway that enables brokers, prop trading firms, and iGaming companies to accept and manage cryptocurrency payments safely and efficiently. The platform combines custodial and non-custodial payment processing, dedicated blockchain nodes, and comprehensive transaction management tools designed for seamless crypto-to-fiat conversions — all developed internally — to provide full control, transparency, and reliability to clients. In the interview, Kalashnikov discusses how building everything in-house has allowed Match2Pay to eliminate dependency on third parties, minimize operational risks, and create one of the industry’s most secure crypto processing ecosystems. He also outlines the company’s expansion across new verticals, its transparent pricing model, and its broader mission to educate businesses on the true benefits of crypto adoption. Building Technology and Trust In-House From day one, Match2Pay has taken a self-reliant approach to technology — an extension of Match-Trade’s philosophy of full-stack development. “The decision was relatively easy,” Kalashnikov said. “Everything was built in-house already within Match-Trade Technologies, so it was a no-brainer to continue the same method. We want to give our clients security, reliability, and adaptability.” That decision has paid off. By maintaining full control over its systems, Match2Pay holds its own private keys and manages its own wallets, giving clients confidence that their assets are protected. “We didn’t want to rely on any third-party provider like Fireblocks,” he explained. “Our clients trust us because we’ve been in the market for more than ten years, and we want to give them that security.” Originally developed for internal clients, Match2Pay evolved into a standalone product as demand grew. “It was developed for our own companies and internal clients,” said Kalashnikov. “Only in the last two or three years did we start marketing it externally and offering it to clients beyond our own ecosystem.” Security as the Core of the Product In an increasingly crowded field of crypto PSPs, Kalashnikov views security as Match2Pay’s defining strength. “Competition is very fierce. The products are similar, but the number one thing that sets us apart is security,” he said. “Because we have our own infrastructure, we’re not relying on external custodians like Fireblocks or BitGo, and we can easily adapt our systems when needed.” The company recently rolled out new layers of protection against internal and external fraud. “We launched a lot of security updates,” Kalashnikov noted. “We can control fraud on withdrawals by setting thresholds, double confirmations, and timing restrictions. For example, a merchant can block repeated withdrawals to the same wallet every five minutes or more.” This emphasis on security, he said, goes beyond compliance checkboxes — it’s a philosophy that defines how the company builds and operates. “A lot of our competitors are providing crypto solutions but not focusing enough on security,” he explained. “That’s where we’ve solved a big problem.” Expanding from Forex to Prop Firms and iGaming Match2Pay’s first clients came from the Forex industry, where Match-Trade already had a deep footprint. “We started from Forex because it’s our ballpark,” Kalashnikov said. “The clientele there is more familiar with crypto, and the synergy between the two industries is strong.” As the platform matured, Match2Pay began expanding into prop trading and iGaming, two verticals that share similar payment dynamics and operational needs. “We already have iGaming clients, though not as many as in Forex and props,” he said. “Next, we plan to expand more into e-commerce. We’ve developed a WooCommerce plugin and similar tools, so we’re preparing for that step.” Kalashnikov emphasized that this gradual expansion reflects the company’s long-term strategy. “Right now we’re focused on the high-risk industry because that’s where we have expertise,” he said. “But we’ll expand to other sectors in due time. We don’t want to rush — we want sustainable growth.” Transparency and One-to-One Conversion In an industry often criticized for hidden costs, Match2Pay takes the opposite approach. “One of our great advantages is that everything is done in-house,” Kalashnikov said. “We have our own liquidity, so we offer one-to-one conversion on USDT and other cryptocurrencies — no markups, no hidden costs.” He explained that many competitors rely on external exchanges or custodians and quietly mark up conversion rates. “Many PSPs say they use market rates, but they actually set their own, adding hidden markups of 0.2 to 0.5 percent,” he said. “We don’t need that. We make our money from processing, not from conversions.” This level of transparency, he added, simplifies accounting and builds long-term trust. “When you receive 100 USDT, you know exactly what you’ll get after fees — no surprises,” Kalashnikov said. “It’s easier for the accounting team and better for the client relationship.” Educating the Market on Crypto’s Real Value For many of Match2Pay’s clients, crypto payments are still a new frontier. Kalashnikov said that part of his mission is to help businesses understand that crypto is not a speculative risk, but a practical efficiency tool. “All this talk that crypto is risky is nonsense,” he said. “It’s an alternative solution to reduce fees and make business more efficient.” He pointed out that simply introducing crypto payment options can reduce merchant costs dramatically. “If you’re using Visa or Mastercard, you’re paying between 2–6% in fees,” he explained. “With crypto, even if you’re high risk, the costs drop dramatically. Just by offering it, around 10–20% of your clients will switch automatically.” According to Kalashnikov, these advantages — lower costs, faster settlements, and global reach — are what will drive mainstream adoption. “There’s no reason for a business not to accept crypto unless regulations forbid it,” he said. “If there’s no restriction, there’s only upside.” A Technology Provider for the Long Term Looking ahead, Kalashnikov envisions Match2Pay as part of a larger fintech infrastructure ecosystem rather than a niche crypto gateway. “We’re not just a crypto processor — we’re a technology provider,” he said. “Everything we build is designed to scale across industries.” That mindset extends to the company’s development roadmap. “We’re steadily preparing for new verticals like e-commerce” he said. “But we don’t make sudden moves — we grow sustainably, with security and technology leading the way.” For Kalashnikov, the company’s philosophy remains simple yet powerful: control your technology, protect your clients, and keep everything transparent. “We’re not trying to beat the competition with pricing tricks,” he said. “We’re building the right foundation for long-term success.”

The anticipated launch marks a major moment for the high-performance blockchain as it prepares to introduce its native token and expand developer and application activity. Launch timeline and rollout plan Monad, a high-performance Layer 1 blockchain built to offer parallelized transaction execution, has confirmed that its public mainnet will go live on November 24 at 9:00 a.m. ET (14:00 UTC). The launch will coincide with the platform’s token generation event, in which the MON token will enter circulation for the first time. The timing marks a major milestone for the project following months of testnet activity, developer engagements, and ecosystem onboarding. In the lead-up to the launch, Monad conducted an airdrop claim period for eligible early users and testers, which ran from October 14 to November 3. The team has also introduced a public onboarding portal and countdown to ensure users transitioning from testnet to mainnet are prepared to interact with live applications. This transition phase is intended to promote a smooth start for both end users and builders. Monad positions itself within the competitive landscape of high-throughput Layer 1 blockchains by emphasizing performance improvements enabled through parallel transaction execution. Unlike sequential processing models, Monad’s approach allows multiple transactions to be processed simultaneously, aiming to increase throughput without compromising decentralization. The network maintains compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine, which enables developers to deploy or migrate existing applications with fewer modifications. As the launch approaches, several decentralized finance platforms, developer tooling providers, and infrastructure services have indicated plans to go live alongside or shortly after the mainnet comes online. Early activity is expected to center around decentralized exchanges, liquidity protocols, staking solutions, and developer onboarding tools. Market observers will be watching closely to assess whether the network’s performance advantages translate effectively to real-world usage scenarios. Market expectations and token release The introduction of the MON token represents a significant component of the project’s broader growth strategy. Market interest has been driven by both the platform’s technical claims and growing anticipation surrounding new Layer 1 ecosystems. However, analysts note that early trading conditions, liquidity depth, and user activity will likely shape the initial perception of MON’s market performance. The project has emphasized that its token rollout is structured to align incentives among builders, users, and validators. The degree to which network participation accelerates in the weeks following the launch will serve as a key indicator of long-term engagement and growth potential. Monad’s November 24 mainnet launch is positioned as the start of an extended build-out phase rather than a final project endpoint. The team has stated that ongoing updates, scaling improvements, and developer outreach initiatives will continue after the network goes live. As high-performance blockchain ecosystems compete for developer adoption and liquidity inflow, the sustainability of application activity on Monad will be an important factor to watch. The network’s debut will offer the first opportunity to evaluate how Monad performs under real-world conditions. Its launch represents a meaningful event in the broader Layer 1 landscape, with the coming months expected to determine the pace and durability of ecosystem expansion.

The older generation of investors view the month of October, which has just ended, with respect. This is not surprising – with age comes experience, and they know that major stock market crashes did not always occur in October, but they did occur with striking frequency. Why this month in particular? Psychologists and philosophers may argue about that. The fact is: this time, disaster did not strike. On the contrary – despite numerous prophecies of doom predicting another slump, the big correction did not happen, even in the hotly debated AI sector. Nevertheless, we have pointed out in several “Thoughts” over the past few weeks that a consolidation or even a correction could be overdue. The stock markets have reached levels that make even seasoned investors nervous. So it's time to take a fresh look at Wall Street: Smart investors operate in the background – their traces are not directly visible in the index. The light blue area in the chart shows whether they are accumulating or distributing, while the orange line shows the trend. Since spring of this year, the “smart” investors have been steadily accumulating. The “After Open Action” chart shows how short-term traders and speculators are behaving. The light blue area slipped into negative territory in October – a clear sign that positions were being reduced or sold. Corrections very rarely occur during periods of optimism. Bad news is simply ignored – except in the case of surprising “black swan” events that no one can predict. After a long period of spring optimism, market sentiment briefly fell into pessimistic territory in October. It is currently neutral or slightly improved. Several indicators reflect the strength of the markets from a medium- and long-term perspective. If the strength index leaves the green zone, caution is advised when investing in stocks. However, the current trend shows that this is not yet the case. Margin debts – i.e., stock purchases on credit – have risen sharply and exceeded USD 1 trillion for the first time in the US. This is raising warnings of excesses. The figure is impressive, but the absolute number does not mean anything. The volume of credit naturally grows with market capitalization and GDP. It becomes interesting when the “rate of change,” the current percentage change over 15 months, fluctuates sharply. This is not currently the case – which is why our chart does not show any real cause for alarm. On the contrary: most investors are currently acting so cautiously that this is almost a bullish signal – marked in green on the chart. Those who have already sold cannot generate any further selling pressure, but have liquidity available to re-enter the market when sentiment improves. The bears point to the high call/put ratio: too much optimism, too many calls – usually a precursor to corrections. True, but a high ratio can persist for a surprisingly long time and is therefore not a reliable timing tool in every situation. On the other hand, the difference between the S&P 500 level and its 200-day line has reached a level that has often triggered corrections in the past. Profit-taking is therefore entirely legitimate. In the long term, another factor is clouding the picture: the recent slowdown in money supply growth by the major central banks – with the exception of the Fed. Stock markets perform particularly well when fresh money flows into the system from central banks. If central banks withdraw liquidity, this will sooner or later also affect the stock markets. The correlation between money supply and the 12-month rate of change of the S&P 500 is strikingly strong. The fact that the money supply is now falling again does not bode well for equity investors in the long term. On the positive side, however, equities of cyclical companies are currently sending strikingly bullish signals – a small surprise that does not fit in with the general market picture. We last saw such a clear signal of strength during the deepest phase of the pandemic crisis. In addition to our own indicators, we also use classic analysis tools. They show that since “Liberation Day” in April 2025, the S&P 500 has reached a key target – two upward waves, interrupted by a correction in May. The third wave is now moving close to the 100% extension target at 6,901 points. However, the new highs have not been confirmed by the Relative Strength Index (RSI) – a warning signal highlighted by the blue line. It is a sign of waning strength.   We are therefore at a crossroads: a break above 6,901 points opens up further upside potential – a break in the green trend channel, on the other hand, could trigger a sharp, rapid correction. Bottom line: Rarely have the indicators and charts been so contradictory. However, in absolute terms, the markets are trading at high levels, but relative to economic performance, they are less exaggerated. AND: More and more institutional investors are selling off their bonds due to government debt – in favor of corporate bonds and equities. Fears of over-indebted countries suddenly cast high stock valuations in a completely different light. This new type of demand for stocks is an argument that should not be overlooked and may become more significant in the not too distant future. Therefore, if there is a correction instead of a direct breakout, it could be a good buying opportunity. Disclaimer: This sponsored market analysis is provided for informational purposes only. We have not independently verified its content and do not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

AAVE has remained on investors’ radar as one of the standout DeFi products in the market. Over the past 24 hours, the asset has mirrored the broader bullish sentiment, rallying nearly 10% and recovering above the $200 mark once again. Fundamental indicators suggest growing investor speculation, with 90% of 55,300 participants voting that AAVE could stage a major rally. But what factors are driving this optimism? FinanceFeeds breaks it down. Key Takeaways AAVE has regained the $200 level, posting a 10% gain in the past 24 hours. Protocol earnings hit $13.15 million, with Q4 on track to surpass previous quarterly highs. Network activity is surging, with user count and transaction volume both rising significantly. Derivatives data shows a bullish tilt, as traders maintain long positions and liquidations favor shorts. Technical indicators support further upside, with accumulation strengthening and the next resistance at $245. Earnings and Revenue Data Strengthen Bullish Case The fundamentals behind the AAVE protocol show that the asset is well-positioned for growth. Based on analyses of earnings, revenue, and fees, the data remains net positive and tilted toward the bullish side. Between October 1 and now, total earnings for the protocol — calculated as revenue minus incentives distributed to users — have reached $13.15 million. This figure, achieved in just over a month, represents AAVE’s fifth-highest earnings since its launch in 2020. For 2025 alone, it ranks as the third-highest, standing only about $5 million away from surpassing Q3 earnings — the peak quarter so far this year. [caption id="attachment_166741" align="alignnone" width="2420"] Source: DeFiLlama[/caption] The Total Value Locked (TVL) has also been growing slightly, signaling improving confidence among investors. At the time of reporting, AAVE’s TVL had risen to $33.29 billion, reflecting more deposits being locked in the protocol for rewards. This development is notable because it coincides with incentives in the market remaining at $3.11 million — the lowest level since Q4 2020. Despite this, investor participation remains high, showing strong conviction in AAVE’s potential for higher returns. Rising User Activity Points to Growing Network Demand Usage of the AAVE protocol has surged sharply, confirming growing interest and engagement. Analysis of user activity and transactions points to a strengthening market outlook. Daily Active Users have jumped by 55% in the past three months, now reaching 29,400 — the highest level since October 13, when the market was on a decline. [caption id="attachment_166744" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Source: Artemis[/caption] Unlike previous periods, this surge aligns with solid volume levels of $495 million, while the asset maintains double-digit gains over the last 24 hours. Additionally, transactions on the network have climbed to 65,200, a 21% increase. Such growth in both activity and transaction count, especially during a price rally, signals that investors are trading with bullish intent and increasing buying volume. Derivative Markets Signal Strong Bullish Bias Derivatives data also points toward a bullish trend, with buying volume outpacing selling activity. The Taker Buy/Sell Ratio (also known as the Long/Short Ratio) remains a key indicator here. A reading above 1.0 signals more buying activity, while a value below 1.0 shows increased selling. At the time of analysis, the ratio stood at 1.026, suggesting traders are betting on AAVE’s upside potential. [caption id="attachment_166743" align="alignnone" width="2422"] Source: CoinGlass[/caption] Liquidation data over the last 12 hours shows $18,900 in short positions closed compared to just $2,850 in long liquidations — reinforcing bullish dominance. Data from CoinGlass highlights that traders on OKX and Binance have led this rally, with long/short readings of 1.31and 1.15, respectively — indicating the majority of open positions remain long. Meanwhile, the Open Interest Weighted Funding Rate — which combines funding rate and open interest data — sits at a positive 0.0081%. This suggests that most of the $291 million in open interest reflects bullish sentiment. Chart Patterns Suggest a Run Toward $245 Chart analysis indicates that AAVE could continue its short-term rally toward $245 as its next major target. The Bollinger Bands show that AAVE recently traded near the lower band — a level that historically precedes a rally toward the upper band, currently around the $245 zone. [caption id="attachment_166745" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Source: TradingView[/caption] In addition, accumulation in the market has been increasing, with total holdings rising by 15 million AAVE cumulatively in the past 24 hours. The Accumulation/Distribution (A/D) indicator remains positive, showing that buying pressure dominates as more investors add to their holdings. This trend gradually reduces the circulating supply of AAVE, tightening liquidity and building upward price pressure that could help the asset sustain its short-term gains. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. Why is AAVE rallying right now?AAVE’s price surge is driven by strong on-chain activity, improved protocol earnings, and increased investor confidence reflected in both spot and derivative markets. 2. What are AAVE’s latest earnings figures?Between October 1 and now, AAVE recorded $13.15 million in earnings, marking its fifth-highest result since inception and third-highest in 2025. 3. How has AAVE’s user activity changed recently?Daily Active Users have jumped 55% in the last three months, reaching 29,400 — the highest since mid-October. 4. What does the derivative market say about AAVE?The Long/Short ratio of 1.026 and $18,900 in short liquidations indicate that traders are largely betting on continued upside momentum. 5. What is AAVE’s short-term price target?Technical analysis using Bollinger Bands suggests a potential move toward $245 as buying pressure and accumulation continue to build.

“The Man Behind the Company” series debuts with Vanto FX Managing Director Arthur Kbejan Spotware Systems, the fintech developer behind the cTrader trading platform, has officially launched its new YouTube channel, a digital space designed to connect trading industry professionals through authentic stories and meaningful conversations. The initiative marks a fresh approach for the technology provider — shifting focus from pure product content to the human stories shaping the global trading ecosystem. The channel’s debut series, titled “The Man Behind the Company”, explores the people driving innovation, leadership, and transformation across the online trading industry. Each episode dives into personal journeys — from navigating risk and regulation to managing growth and building lasting teams — offering a rare behind-the-scenes look into the challenges and triumphs of trading entrepreneurs. A Human Take on the Fintech Industry The premiere episode features Arthur Kbejan, Managing Director of Vanto FX, in conversation with David Kivakude, Business Development Manager at Spotware. In the interview, Arthur shares his entrepreneurial path — from the early days of building a brokerage to the leadership lessons learned along the way. The discussion emphasizes resilience, strategic decision-making, and the personal motivations that keep leaders innovating in a fast-paced financial world. “Technology is only part of the story,” said Roman Snegirev, Head of Marketing at Spotware. “What truly drives this industry are the people - their ideas, persistence and the courage to innovate. Through ‘The Man Behind the Company‘, we want to shine a light on those stories and inspire others to push the boundaries of what’s possible.” Investor Takeaway Spotware’s YouTube launch highlights a growing trend in fintech branding — emphasizing transparency and storytelling to build authentic industry engagement beyond products. Building Community Through Conversation Spotware’s new content platform underscores its broader mission to foster open dialogue and knowledge-sharing across the community. Rather than traditional marketing or tutorials, the channel will feature real conversations with brokers, fintech leaders, and developers who have shaped the industry from within. Future episodes of “The Man Behind the Company” will continue to feature prominent figures from the financial technology sector, offering insights into their business philosophy, operational challenges, and strategies for success in evolving markets. Topics will range from technology innovation and market infrastructure to leadership, resilience, and company culture. Beyond this flagship series, Spotware plans to expand the channel’s content library with educational material, industry analyses, and feature discussions on fintech trends, algorithmic trading, and platform development. The company aims to make the YouTube channel a trusted destination for both aspiring entrepreneurs and established brokers seeking professional inspiration. Investor Takeaway Spotware’s human-centered media approach supports its long-term strategy of ecosystem building — reinforcing the cTrader brand as a community-driven technology provider. Watch the First Episode: “The Man Behind the Company — Vanto FX” The first episode of “The Man Behind the Company” is now live on the official Spotware YouTube channel. The series will release new episodes regularly, spotlighting leaders across the fintech and trading ecosystem who share Spotware’s commitment to innovation, transparency, and excellence. Watch the first episode here: The Man Behind the Company: Vanto FX.

XRP posted a nearly 5% rise in recent trading as new developments in enterprise adoption and payments infrastructure support renewed bullish sentiment around the digital asset. The move reflects growing confidence among market participants that Ripple's expanding partnerships and product rollouts may translate into increased on-chain activity over time. XRP has historically reacted to news surrounding real-world usage and institutional involvement rather than purely speculative catalysts. The latest uptick aligns with a broader narrative that focuses on blockchain utility and payment settlement efficiency. The announcement of a new pilot program involving established financial services firms contributed to the recent price stabilization and upward pressure. Corporate Adoption Momentum The key driver behind the latest appreciation was the disclosure of a payments settlement pilot built on the XRP Ledger. The program includes participation from recognized industry players, including Mastercard, WebBank, and Gemini's RLUSD stablecoin initiative. By integrating stablecoin-backed settlement processes with Ripple's blockchain infrastructure, the pilot aims to improve transaction speed, settlement reliability, and cost efficiency for cross-border trade. This development has been received as a meaningful step toward broader industry acceptance. Analysts note that participation from well-known financial institutions suggests a continued shift from proof-of-concept testing to scaled commercial deployment. The progress may also influence longer-term investor confidence if transactional volumes begin to reflect measurable demand for the underlying asset. Institutional Interest and Capital Inflows Sentiment was further supported by Ripple's recently reported fundraising round, which valued the firm at approximately $40 billion. The capital raise signaled sustained institutional interest in Ripple's payment solutions and enterprise blockchain offerings. Market observers point to such backing as an important indicator of perceived longevity and credibility in a competitive digital payments landscape. In addition to the funding milestone, on-chain data suggests a modest increase in large-holder accumulation and gradual expansion in futures open interest. While neither factor independently confirms a decisive market trend, together they indicate growing engagement from participants who are monitoring the asset's long-term prospects. Despite the recent positive movement, analysts caution that XRP remains influenced by broader macroeconomic and regulatory conditions. Cryptocurrency markets continue to respond to shifts in global financial policy, risk appetite, and institutional allocation strategies. As a result, sustained price appreciation depends on consistent progress in adoption, product integration, and transactional utility. That said, the market reaction to the latest announcements highlights the continued relevance of enterprise partnerships in shaping asset performance. XRP's price dynamics are closely tied to whether blockchain-based settlement can deliver measurable improvements over traditional financial systems. As the payments pilot advances and additional data emerges regarding usage volumes and operational efficiency, market participants are expected to monitor the outcomes closely. If the initiative proves successful in improving cross-border settlement workflows, it may support a longer-term thesis for value appreciation driven by genuine utility rather than market speculation.

The UK government is preparing to release a landmark regulatory framework for stablecoins on November 10, in a move aimed at positioning the country as a global leader in digital finance while safeguarding financial stability. The announcement marks one of the most significant steps in the UK’s broader strategy to bring digital assets into mainstream financial oversight. Regulatory Coordination Between Agencies The new framework will divide supervisory responsibilities between the Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority. The Bank of England will oversee stablecoins considered systemic, meaning those with the potential to influence the wider financial system due to scale or use in payments. Meanwhile, the Financial Conduct Authority will regulate non-systemic stablecoins, focusing on consumer protection, market integrity, and operational standards. Officials have made clear that the goal is to encourage innovation while ensuring that stablecoin issuers maintain transparency, liquidity, and proper backing of their tokens. The regulations are expected to require issuers to hold high-quality reserve assets and offer reliable redemption mechanisms, allowing users to convert stablecoins into fiat currency without friction. Sources familiar with the policy discussions indicate the framework may include temporary holding limits during its initial rollout. These transitional caps would apply to both retail and institutional holders and are designed to prevent sudden market shocks as stablecoins become more integrated in daily financial activity. While specific figures have not yet been confirmed, the approach aims to balance open market access with risk management. These measures reflect a cautious but proactive approach to integrating stablecoins into mainstream payments. Policymakers have emphasized that stability and consumer confidence are essential for adoption, particularly as stablecoins could become a widely used alternative to traditional bank payments. Positioning the UK in a Global Context The release of the framework comes as global interest in stablecoin regulation accelerates. Countries in Europe, Asia, and North America are each developing their own oversight models, with the goal of ensuring financial stability while enabling growth in digital asset markets. The UK’s plan emphasizes interoperability with international regulatory systems, particularly in the United States, to support cross-border payments and global financial activity. Industry participants have generally welcomed the UK’s direction, noting that regulatory clarity is essential for investment, product development, and long-term adoption. Clear rules are expected to help fintech startups, payment providers, and digital asset firms build services with greater confidence. Following the November 10 publication, the government and regulators plan to open a consultation period, allowing businesses, financial institutions, and the public to provide feedback. Final rules will be adjusted based on the input received. The introduction of the stablecoin framework marks a major milestone in the UK’s digital financial services strategy and signals growing recognition of the role stablecoins could play in global commerce. As digital payment systems continue to evolve, the UK’s regulatory approach may help shape international standards for the next generation of currency and financial innovation.

Exploit Targeted Stable Pools via Rounding Loophole Balancer published a preliminary post-mortem report on Wednesday after an exploit drained about $116 million from its decentralized finance protocol. The breach hit Balancer v2 Stable Pools and Composable Stable v5 pools, while other pool types were unaffected, the report said. The attacker used a mix of BatchSwaps—which bundle multiple actions into a single transaction—along with flashloans and a flaw in the upscale rounding function used in EXACT_OUT swaps. The bug allowed the exploiter to manipulate token pricing calculations and extract liquidity from Balancer’s stable pools. According to the Balancer team, the rounding function was meant to round down when prices were input, but the attacker found a way to alter these rounding values in specific conditions. Combined with BatchSwaps, this enabled them to move tokens through the Vault in multiple rapid transactions. “In many instances, the exploited funds remained within the Vault as internal balances before being withdrawn in subsequent transactions,” the report said. Investor Takeaway The exploit underscores ongoing vulnerabilities in DeFi infrastructure and the importance of independent code reviews beyond automated audits. Industry Response and Recovery Efforts Security analysts believe the hackers prepared the operation for months, funding the attack through small deposits of 0.1 Ether via Tornado Cash to mask their trail. Blockchain forensics teams described the execution as “methodical,” suggesting the attackers had deep familiarity with Balancer’s codebase and liquidity mechanisms. Balancer said it has been working with cybersecurity partners and other DeFi protocols to recover or freeze stolen funds. Around 5,041 StakeWise Staked ETH (osETH), worth roughly $19 million, and 13,495 osGNO tokens, worth up to $2 million, were traced and frozen through collaborative efforts. The protocol has since paused all affected pools and stopped the creation of new stable pools until a permanent fix is deployed. Developers said no other versions of the Balancer pools were compromised, and that liquidity in unaffected pools remains secure. White Hat Bounty and Ongoing Investigation Balancer offered a 20% bounty to any ethical hacker or to the attacker themselves for returning the stolen assets. As of publication, no one has claimed the reward or initiated contact with the team. Blockchain security firms are continuing to trace the flow of stolen tokens across multiple DeFi platforms and mixers. The team also thanked community responders who helped contain the incident, including developers from major DeFi projects that worked to block further withdrawals. “The swift cooperation across the ecosystem prevented even greater losses,” a Balancer representative said. The attack follows several high-value DeFi breaches in recent months, renewing debate over the reliability of smart contract audits. Industry observers have questioned whether automated tools can detect complex logic flaws like the rounding exploit used here. Investor Takeaway The Balancer breach highlights how composability—a key DeFi feature—can also expand the attack surface, making multi-contract exploits harder to detect or prevent. DeFi’s Broader Security Reckoning The Balancer exploit comes amid rising pressure on DeFi platforms to tighten risk controls after a string of large-scale thefts. According to blockchain analytics firm DefiLlama, losses from protocol hacks have surpassed $2.3 billion in 2025, with flashloan-enabled exploits accounting for a growing share. Balancer’s engineers said they are conducting a full code review and coordinating additional third-party audits before reopening affected pools. The team added that lessons from the attack will inform new safeguard models for all future pool releases.

A former Deutsche Bank executive suing the German lender for €152 million has taken his fight to Europe’s top banking supervisor, asking it to scrutinize the bank’s governance and its chief executive’s oversight of legacy audit work. Dario Schiraldi, a onetime senior manager in Deutsche’s asset and wealth arm, filed a letter with the European Central Bank requesting what he calls a “supervisory review” of Deutsche Bank, according to correspondence seen by Bloomberg. He argues the lender’s internal audit, led in 2013 by current CEO Christian Sewing, unfairly blamed him and five colleagues for trades that later became the focus of Italian criminal cases. Deutsche Bank dismissed the allegations as meritless and said its 2013 audit met professional standards. It also said the ECB had been informed of a recent board-level reorganisation that temporarily put Legal & Group Governance under Sewing’s direct remit after the March 2025 exit of board member Stefan Simon. The dispute re-opens one of Deutsche Bank’s most bruising legal chapters: the Monte dei Paschi di Siena derivatives scandal. Between 2008 and 2010, Deutsche and Nomura structured so-called “enhanced repo” trades that allowed Italy’s oldest bank to mask losses. Prosecutors later alleged the transactions distorted MPS’s accounts. In 2019, an Italian court convicted several former bankers, including Schiraldi. But three years later, an appeals court acquitted all 13 defendants and both banks, and Italy’s top court upheld the acquittals in 2023. Schiraldi now says Deutsche’s internal probe set the narrative that led to the wrongful prosecutions and cost him his career. From Audit Room to Courtroom Christian Sewing, who has led Deutsche Bank since 2018, served as head of group audit in 2013 after earlier approving a similar structured-repo deal with UniCredit as chief credit officer in 2010. Critics say that overlap raises conflict-of-interest questions: the same executive who once green-lit such trades later audited them. Deutsche says the audit was independent and properly scoped. The lender’s lawyers argue that the Italian acquittals vindicate the bank’s approach and that Schiraldi’s damages claim, filed in Frankfurt last year, lacks factual basis. Five other former Deutsche employees have filed related suits in London. Mediation ended in September without settlement, and hearings in Germany are expected next year. Schiraldi’s letter also seizes on Deutsche Bank’s latest management reshuffle. When the lender reorganised its board in March 2025, the legal and governance portfolio was folded under Sewing’s control. Critics say that blurs the separation between management and oversight — a key “three-lines-of-defense” principle in banking supervision. Deutsche counters that the arrangement is temporary, regulator-notified and within governance norms. Still, the optics are delicate: the same CEO who ran the contested audit now holds direct responsibility for the departments ensuring legal compliance. The ECB’s supervisory arm, which oversees the euro area’s biggest banks, rarely comments on individual complaints. But it can examine governance and internal-control frameworks under its annual Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP) and could, in theory, order remedial steps or raise capital requirements if it found weaknesses. Beyond the Courtroom Schiraldi’s claim also touches on leverage reporting. His filing reportedly accuses Deutsche Bank of using “aggressive netting” that masks its true exposure — an allegation the bank rejects, saying its accounting follows international standards and peers’ practice. Any ECB scrutiny on that front would likely occur through regular model reviews rather than an ad-hoc probe. The ECB has made governance a core theme in recent supervisory letters, pressing banks to maintain clear lines between control functions and executive decision-making. A direct intervention, however, would be unusual; most such findings surface quietly through the SREP process. The Frankfurt civil court is expected to schedule procedural hearings in early 2026, with discovery focusing on the 2013 audit files and board minutes. Observers will also watch whether the London claimants seek disclosure of the same internal workpapers. Whatever the outcome, the case forces Deutsche Bank — long intent on moving past its crisis-era baggage — to revisit a saga it thought was closed.

KEY TAKEAWAYS Crypto mining secures blockchain networks that make supply chain records tamper-proof and transparent. Immutable ledgers improve traceability from product origin to final delivery. Decentralization eliminates the need for intermediaries, enhancing data trust and accountability. Transparent records reduce fraud, support compliance, and build consumer confidence. Integration with IoT, AI, and smart contracts boosts efficiency and automation. Energy use, privacy issues, and interoperability challenges remain adoption barriers.   Crypto mining itself, as the computational process securing blockchain networks, indirectly supports more transparent logistics networks primarily through the underlying blockchain technology it sustains. Blockchain provides a tamper-proof, decentralized ledger that records supply chain transactions in real time, enhancing traceability, accountability, and visibility across complex logistics operations.  This article explores how crypto mining-enabled blockchain technology drives transparency in logistics, the benefits realized, practical applications, challenges faced, and future outlooks. Crypto Mining and Blockchain’s Role in Logistics Transparency Crypto mining validates and records transactions on blockchain networks by solving cryptographic puzzles, adding blocks to the chain, and ensuring consensus without centralized intermediaries. While the act of mining itself is focused on securing blockchain networks, it enables blockchain’s core feature: an immutable distributed ledger accessible to all stakeholders. In logistics and supply chain management, this ledger records every transaction detail from product origin, shipment, handling, to delivery in a transparent, verifiable manner. Each entry is cryptographically secured and timestamped, preventing tampering. Mining-powered consensus mechanisms maintain the integrity of this data, ensuring trust amongst stakeholders ranging from suppliers, logistics providers, regulators, to end customers. How Mining Contributes to Transparency Transparency in logistics means verifiable, tamper-resistant records of where goods were, who handled them, and what happened to them. Blockchains deliver immutability and global visibility for recorded events, and mining is one of the main mechanisms that make those recorded events hard to change after the fact. Tamper Resistance Via Decentralized Validation: Proof-of-work (PoW) mining binds blocks of transactions to computational effort. Rewriting history requires redoing that work and overtaking the network’s total work,   an expensive, often impractical attack. For logistics, that raises the cost of altering shipment records after a dispute; tamper-resistance helps auditors and regulators trust what’s on-chain. Global Ordering and Timestamping: Mining produces a canonical order of transactions. For traceability, knowing the chronological sequence (when custody transferred, when a QC scan ran) is essential. Mining-based chains provide an auditable timeline that multiple parties can independently verify. Economic Incentives for Participation: Miners invest energy and capital to secure the ledger and are rewarded for following protocol. In permissionless contexts, this disincentivizes collusion among a small set of operators to manipulate records, because the security model depends on the wide distribution of mining effort. Enhancing Traceability and Accountability in Logistics Blockchain technology supported by crypto mining significantly improves traceability, enabling every product or shipment to be tracked at every point in the supply chain. This level of visibility helps detect and respond to inefficiencies or bottlenecks swiftly, minimize counterfeiting, and verify ethical sourcing and compliance with regulatory or sustainability requirements. Through permissioned blockchains where only authorized participants can add data, data privacy is balanced with transparency, allowing secure sharing of sensitive commercial information while maintaining audit trails. This reduces disputes, fraud, and manual reconciliation efforts. Real-time access to trustworthy data builds confidence and fosters collaboration among supply chain partners. Where Mining Fits in Logistics Systems Not all logistics blockchains need public, PoW-secured layers. Practical architectures usually combine on-chain settlement and off-chain instrumentation: Public, PoW-Secured Anchors + Private Tracing Layers: Companies run fast, permissioned ledgers for high-frequency scans and IoT telemetry. Periodically, they anchor hashes of aggregated events to a public PoW chain (e.g., Bitcoin or other secured PoW networks). The anchor gives an immutable checkpoint that auditors can verify without exposing sensitive business details on public chains. Permissionless Supply-Trace Native Solutions: Some supply-chain startups propose putting full event histories on permissionless chains to maximize public verifiability. In such designs, mining directly secures the logistics state. This maximizes tamper resistance but raises privacy and cost considerations. Hybrid Consensus and Light Mining: Emerging approaches use energy-efficient consensus (PoS, delegated PoS, BFT variants) for daily operations and reserve PoW-style anchoring for high-stakes validation events. Mining’s role becomes occasional and strategic, not continuous. Benefits to Businesses and Consumers The transparent records enabled by mining-backed blockchains bring multiple benefits: Supply Chain Risk Reduction: Early detection of product provenance issues or shipment delays enables proactive mitigation. Administrative Cost Savings: Automated data validation reduces paperwork, dispute resolution, and redundant checks. Improved Compliance and ESG Tracking: Transparent records help verify sustainability claims, ethical sourcing, and regulatory adherence. Consumer Trust and Brand Reputation: End consumers gain assurance about product authenticity and ethical practices. Enhanced Operational Efficiencies: Real-time data sharing synchronizes logistics activities, reducing delays and waste. Companies like Walmart, De Beers, and BHP have demonstrated the effectiveness of blockchain to track food safety, guarantee conflict-free diamonds, and verify ethically sourced mining materials, respectively. These use cases depend on robust blockchain networks supported by crypto mining activities, ensuring ledger immutability. Integration with Complementary Technologies Crypto mining-enabled blockchains interface with technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and smart contracts to further enhance logistics transparency: IoT devices provide real-time data on shipment conditions (temperature, location), updating the blockchain ledger securely. Smart contracts automate the execution of logistics agreements based on pre-set conditions, reducing delays and disputes. AI analytics utilize blockchain data to predict supply chain risks, optimize routes, and improve inventory management. This integration allows for a transparent, intelligent logistics network with automated, trustless processes. Challenges to Implementation Despite the promise, implementing mining-supported blockchain in logistics faces challenges: Complex supply chains with many participants and diverse systems make integration difficult. High energy consumption of crypto mining raises sustainability concerns. Data privacy and ownership issues require careful governance and permissioned blockchain solutions. Upfront costs and technical expertise are needed to adopt and maintain blockchain infrastructure. Resistance to sharing sensitive data among competitive partners impedes transparency. Addressing these requires phased adoption, standardization efforts, cross-industry collaboration, and leveraging more energy-efficient consensus mechanisms beyond traditional proof-of-work mining. Future Outlook As blockchain technology matures and crypto mining evolves to more eco-friendly consensus methods, transparent logistics networks supported by blockchain will expand. Greater regulatory focus on supply chain integrity and sustainability will drive adoption. Industry collaborations and technological innovations are expected to reduce barriers and accelerate transparent digital supply ecosystems. Crypto Mining: The Hidden Engine Behind Transparent Supply Chains While crypto mining’s primary function is securing blockchain networks, it underpins the transparent, tamper-proof ledgers that transform logistics operations. This transparency reduces risk, fraud, and inefficiencies while improving compliance and trust across complex supply chains.  Integrating blockchain with IoT and smart contracts further amplifies visibility and automation, driving a new era of transparent logistics networks. Despite challenges, ongoing innovations in mining technologies and blockchain platforms promise to make transparent, trustworthy supply chains a widespread reality. This comprehensive view shows that crypto mining supports transparent logistics networks by enabling blockchain’s foundational security and immutability needed for trusted shared data in supply chains. FAQ What role does crypto mining play in logistics transparency? Crypto mining validates and secures blockchain transactions, ensuring the supply chain ledger remains immutable, auditable, and trustworthy across all participants. How does blockchain improve traceability in logistics? Blockchain provides a shared, tamper-proof ledger that records each transaction from sourcing to delivery, allowing stakeholders to verify data in real time. Is crypto mining directly involved in tracking shipments? No. Mining does not track shipments but underpins the blockchain network that guarantees the security and immutability of the tracking data. Can blockchain transparency protect against fraud and counterfeiting? Yes. Immutable blockchain records make it nearly impossible to falsify product origins or modify delivery data without detection, helping reduce fraud and counterfeit goods. Are there privacy risks in sharing supply chain data on a blockchain? Permissioned blockchains allow only authorized users to view or update information, balancing transparency with the need for commercial confidentiality.

Hardware Wallet Firm Brings Crypto Payments to Visa Network Tangem, a Switzerland-based cryptocurrency wallet maker, has rolled out Tangem Pay, a virtual Visa card directly connected to its hardware wallet. The service lets users spend USDC stablecoins on the Polygon blockchain at any merchant that accepts Visa, linking self-custody crypto storage with global payments. The launch, carried out in partnership with U.S. payment infrastructure firm Paera, was announced Wednesday. “Once the user deposits into their Tangem Pay account, they can spend anywhere Visa is accepted, regardless of the local currency,” said Marcos Nunes, CEO of Tangem Pay. The system also supports Apple Pay and Google Pay for instant transactions. Card issuance will begin in late November across the United States, Latin America and major Asia-Pacific markets, with a European rollout scheduled for 2026. The product launch comes as crypto payment cards gain traction among hardware wallet providers seeking to merge digital asset storage with everyday payments. Investor Takeaway Tangem Pay extends the hardware wallet’s use beyond storage, letting users spend USDC at Visa merchants without giving up self-custody. Available in 42 Markets The initial rollout covers 42 countries, including Australia, Brazil, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore and the United States. “The virtual card is just the beginning — we are already working on adding new countries and incentives to make this our users’ number one card for their daily spending,” Nunes said. Tangem described the launch as part of its “store, grow and spend” roadmap, aimed at turning the hardware wallet into a full financial tool. By integrating Visa’s network, the company is targeting users who want to hold their assets securely while still being able to transact instantly in stablecoins. Self-Custody Meets Compliance Unlike custodial wallets, Tangem’s cards connect to a self-custody model where users retain control of their private keys. However, the Tangem Pay account still requires Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for payment compliance. “Tangem has no access to user data. If a user undergoes KYC, it only applies to their Tangem Pay balance,” Nunes said. “If a user is sanctioned or engaged in illegal activity, our regulatory partner — not Tangem — can disconnect the payment card from the network.” This structure allows the wallet itself to remain decentralized while ensuring the payment layer adheres to financial regulations. It reflects a hybrid approach increasingly adopted by crypto firms seeking to connect self-custody solutions with traditional payment rails. Settlement Handled by Rain Compliance and settlement for Tangem Pay are managed by Rain, a stablecoin payments company that recently announced plans to participate in Western Union’s Digital Asset Network. The Western Union platform, based on the Solana blockchain, will feature a proprietary stablecoin and is expected to go live in the first half of 2026. Tangem’s integration with Rain adds an extra layer of licensed infrastructure to the service, helping the firm meet anti-money laundering and cross-border settlement standards while linking crypto balances to Visa’s global merchant base. Investor Takeaway Tangem’s partnership with Visa and Rain shows how stablecoin payments are moving from experimental use to mainstream payment networks. Hardware Wallet Firms Enter Payments Market Tangem’s move follows similar expansions by Ledger and Trezor, which have rolled out next-generation wallets with integrated payment and tokenization features. As stablecoin adoption accelerates, wallet providers are seeking to bridge the gap between digital asset storage and practical spending, using Visa and Mastercard rails as the entry point. By anchoring payments on Polygon and USDC — rather than volatile cryptocurrencies — Tangem Pay targets predictable, low-cost transactions suitable for global retail use. For Visa, the partnership underscores the network’s continued expansion into stablecoin settlement as it builds its crypto strategy alongside competitors such as Mastercard and PayPal. Tangem Pay’s full rollout later this year will test whether users are ready to merge self-custody with daily financial utility — and whether stablecoins can compete with traditional banking systems in convenience and reach.

KEY TAKEAWAYS Terra pioneered algorithmic stablecoins and dual-token mechanics with LUNA. The 2022 collapse exposed major risks in algorithmic stability models. Terra 2.0 rebuilt the network with stronger governance and no stablecoin peg. Financial analysts still study Terra for lessons in DeFi resilience and recovery. Terra’s journey continues to shape blockchain design and decentralized finance innovation.   Terra (LUNA) is a cryptocurrency and public blockchain protocol that emerged as a successor to Terra Classic, which was known for its algorithmic stablecoin TerraClassicUSD (UST).  Despite the crash of its predecessor in 2022, Terra (LUNA) continues to matter significantly to financial analysts due to its innovative blockchain structure, role in decentralized finance (DeFi), growing adoption, and potential to reshape digital financial systems globally.  This article provides a thorough exploration of what Luna crypto is, its evolution, and why it remains relevant to financial analysts in 2025. Introduction to Terra and LUNA Terra is an open-source blockchain platform introduced by Terraform Labs in 2018, designed to facilitate decentralized financial transactions using algorithmic stablecoins. These stablecoins are digital currencies pegged to traditional fiat currencies like the US Dollar (TerraUSD or UST), Korean Won (TerraKRW), and others. Unlike conventional stablecoins, which are backed by reserves of fiat money or assets, Terra’s stablecoins rely on an innovative algorithmic system to maintain their price stability. LUNA serves as the native staking and governance token of the Terra blockchain. It acts as the balancing variable in the Terra ecosystem, absorbing volatility through a unique mint-and-burn mechanism. When demand for Terra stablecoins rises, LUNA tokens are burned to mint more stablecoins, shrinking LUNA’s supply and increasing its value.  Conversely, when demand falls, stablecoins are burned to mint LUNA tokens, increasing supply. This dual-token mechanism was a significant innovation aimed at maintaining peg stability without traditional collateral backing. Terra’s algorithmic approach and its dual-token model aimed to resolve what is called the "stablecoin trilemma" by combining decentralization, scalability, and price stability in one protocol. Terra also utilizes a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism based on Tendermint, powered by Cosmos SDK, enabling fast processing speeds and network security maintained through validator nodes staking LUNA tokens. The Rise and Fall of Terra Classic and LUNA Terra made headlines and climbed to the ranks of the top cryptocurrencies by market cap due to its innovative technology and rapid adoption. At its peak before mid-2022, LUNA traded at an all-time high exceeding $100, bolstered by growing usage of the TerraUSD stablecoin. However, in May 2022, Terra's algorithmic stablecoin system faced a catastrophic failure when TerraUSD lost its peg to the US dollar. The ensuing panic led to a death spiral of minting more LUNA tokens to try to restore the peg, which caused LUNA’s price to collapse to near zero. The event triggered massive losses for investors and drew intense scrutiny from regulators and analysts. This episode became one of the most analyzed failures in crypto history, highlighting the risks of algorithmic stablecoins, liquidity vulnerabilities, and the need for robust risk control mechanisms in decentralized finance. It also spurred important conversations about governance, transparency, and crypto market stability. Terra 2.0 and The Rebirth of LUNA In response to the collapse, the Terra community, led by Terraform Labs, took bold steps to revitalize the ecosystem by launching Terra 2.0, a new blockchain without the toxic algorithmic stablecoin TerraUSD. Terra 2.0 introduced a new LUNA coin, while Terra Classic and the original LUNA token (renamed Luna Classic) continued to exist separately. Terra 2.0 focuses on ecosystem growth driven by decentralized applications (DApps), DeFi projects, and DAO governance. The new LUNA token retains many functions, including staking for network security and governance voting, but the architecture is redesigned with lessons learned from the previous failure to ensure more sustainable growth and decentralized control. Why Terra (LUNA) Still Matters to Financial Analysts in 2025 Despite its dramatic collapse, Terra (LUNA) remains a key point of reference for financial analysts in 2025. Here's why: 1. Innovation in Stablecoin and Blockchain Mechanics Terra’s unique algorithmic stablecoin model, despite its collapse, remains a critical case study in the stablecoin space. The burn-and-mint equilibrium mechanics, dual-token system, and governance model continue to influence blockchain design thinking. Terra’s rebirth efforts highlight adaptive innovation and risk management strategies in crypto finance. 2. A Testing Ground for Decentralized Finance Evolution Terra’s extensive ecosystem of payment solutions, cross-border transaction systems, and decentralized financial services offers ongoing data and real-world evidence on the scalability and sustainability of DeFi platforms. Its payment network, optimized for Asian ecommerce markets, challenges traditional, fragmented payment infrastructures, providing insights on how blockchain can reduce costs and improve transaction efficiency. 3. Resilience and Recovery Lessons Terra’s journey from a high-growth success to a near collapse and subsequent reboot provides unparalleled insight into crisis management, investor psychology, and community governance in digital asset markets. Financial analysts study Terra to understand mechanisms of trust rebuilding, tokenomics redesign, and regulatory interaction in volatile environments. 4. Governance-Driven Ecosystem Growth The emphasis on LUNA holders' governance participation makes Terra an exemplary decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) model. Token holders influence upgrades, monetary policies, and investment directions, making Terra a dynamic platform whose developments are actively monitored for their implications on decentralized governance trends globally. 5. Market Impact and Ecosystem Development Terra’s ecosystem, consisting of stablecoins, DeFi protocols, payment networks, and affiliate DApps, continues to expand, making it a barometer for crypto adoption trends and competition. Analysts watch Terra for signals on market sentiment, innovation pace, and regulatory challenges impacting crypto finance broadly. Practical Applications and Ecosystem Use Cases Beyond theory, real-world applications and ecosystem use cases reveal how these technologies drive adoption, solve problems, and create tangible value across industries. Cross-Border Payments: Terra’s competitive low-cost transaction fees (0.5–2%) and instant settlements attract merchants and payment providers, especially across Asia. Retail and E-commerce: Through strategic partnerships and an e-commerce alliance, Terra supports millions of users, offering blockchain-backed merchant discount programs incentivized by LUNA. Decentralized Finance (DeFi): Terra hosts lending, borrowing, staking, and yield farming protocols that leverage the LUNA token for collateral and governance. DAO Governance Models: LUNA holders participate in vital protocol decisions, embodying decentralized governance principles. Lessons from Terra: Innovation, Collapse, and the Future of Decentralized Finance Terra (LUNA) remains significant to financial analysts not just because of its market value or tech but due to the profound lessons it offers on blockchain innovation, decentralized finance, governance, resilience, and recovery.  Its transformation post-2022 reinforces the dynamic nature of crypto assets and the critical importance of adaptive strategies in an increasingly digital financial world. As Terra continues to develop its ecosystem, it offers ongoing insights into how digital currencies can shape global finance while navigating inherent risks and opportunities. This extended analysis highlights that Luna crypto is far more than a token; it is a symbol of progress, challenge, and the future possibilities within crypto finance, as seen by financial analysts worldwide. FAQ What is Terra (LUNA)? Terra is a blockchain protocol designed for stable, decentralized financial applications. Its native token, LUNA, supports staking, governance, and the mint-and-burn mechanism that once stabilized Terra’s algorithmic stablecoins. What caused the Terra collapse in 2022? TerraUSD (UST), Terra’s algorithmic stablecoin, lost its dollar peg, triggering hyperinflation of LUNA tokens. The feedback loop caused both UST and LUNA prices to crash, wiping out billions in market value. What is the difference between Terra Classic and Terra 2.0? Terra Classic refers to the original blockchain and token (now called Luna Classic or LUNC). Terra 2.0 is a new blockchain launched after the collapse, without algorithmic stablecoins, and powered by a new LUNA token. How does Terra 2.0 work without an algorithmic stablecoin? Terra 2.0 focuses on decentralized finance (DeFi), dApps, and governance-driven growth. It removed the algorithmic stablecoin model, prioritizing ecosystem sustainability, real utility, and community voting power. Why do analysts still study Terra in 2025? Terra’s journey offers deep lessons in risk management, tokenomics, and community recovery. Its post-collapse revival serves as a case study for resilience and governance in volatile crypto markets. What are the main use cases for Terra today? Terra supports fast, low-cost payments, DeFi applications like staking and lending, and governance models that enable users to vote on protocol updates and development proposals. What lessons did the crypto industry learn from Terra’s failure? The collapse underscored the importance of collateralization, liquidity buffers, and transparent governance in stablecoin design. It also showed how investor trust and community response drive long-term recovery.

OANDA Japan has signed a sponsorship deal with Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath, one of Japan Rugby League One’s top clubs, marking the broker’s first foray into mainstream sports marketing in the country. The agreement took effect today and places OANDA’s brand alongside one of Japan’s most recognisable corporate teams. OANDA, a global multi-asset broker long associated with professional traders and tight regulatory standards, said it aims to reach a broader audience in one of the world’s most competitive retail FX markets. OANDA was founded in the 1990s and now operates under licences from regulators in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Singapore, Australia, Poland — and Japan, where OANDA Japan Co. Ltd. holds a Type I Financial Instruments Business licence (No. 2137) from the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. The subsidiary also maintains registration as a commodity-futures dealer. The company’s ownership has changed hands over the years. CVC Capital Partners Asia Fund IV bought OANDA in 2018 and agreed in 2025 to sell it to FTMO, the Czech trading-platform group, with OANDA to continue operating independently. The broker has been expanding its product base into crypto markets, including a majority stake in Coinpass in 2023 and the rollout of a UK crypto app. Against that backdrop, brand marketing in Japan takes on added importance. The country’s Financial Services Agency enforces stringent leverage and advertising rules, giving licensed brokers a commercial incentive to stress credibility and education rather than aggressive promotions. Why Rugby Fits Tokyo Sungoliath, owned by beverage giant Suntory, was founded in 1980 and is one of Japan’s most decorated rugby teams. It plays in Division 1 of Japan Rugby League One (JRLO), the professional competition launched in 2022 to replace the old Top League. JRLO matches now draw five-figure crowds, with more than 50,000 fans attending the 2025 final at the National Stadium. Rugby’s audience profile — male-skewed, affluent, and highly engaged — aligns closely with the demographics targeted by retail brokers. The sport’s values of discipline and teamwork also make it an appealing backdrop for financial brands seeking trust and professionalism rather than hype. Within Japan, rugby sponsorships have become a favoured path for finance-app names such as eToro and CMC Markets to boost mainstream awareness. OANDA’s entry follows that trend but carries a local-regulation edge: the firm’s licence allows it to highlight compliance and longevity, differentiating it from newer entrants. Inside the Deal Neither party disclosed financial terms, but similar JRLO partnerships typically include kit placement, training-ground signage, hospitality rights, and community programmes. League operator Japan Rugby Marketing (JRM), a joint venture between JRLO and the Japan Rugby Football Union, has encouraged teams to pursue multi-year, brand-education-style sponsorships as part of the union’s 2025-to-2028 growth plan. OANDA plans to use the tie-up for outreach campaigns and trading-education content rather than direct product pushes, in keeping with FSA advertising limits. A link to Suntory’s community initiatives, such as junior-rugby clinics, would fit both sides’ messaging.