Simon Taylor has announced on LinkedIn that he will be joining Tempo, a payments-focused Layer 1 blockchain incubated by Stripe and Paradigm.Taylor will take on a full-time role at Tempo and step back from his day-to-day work at Sardine, where he has served as a strategic advisor for over three years. He said he will continue his involvement in Brainfood, Nerdcon, and Tokenized.Taylor wrote in his post: “I'm joining Tempo, the payments-focused L1 blockchain incubated by Stripe and Paradigm. I’m moving to an advisor role with Sardine to focus on Tempo as my full-time day job.”Taylor Shifts from 11:FS to TempoTaylor has experience in fintech and blockchain. He founded Fintech Brainfood over six years ago. He also co-founded and serves on the board of Global Digital Finance, an industry body focused on digital finance adoption, for over seven years.Previously, Taylor worked at 11:FS for nearly six years, holding roles including Co-Founder and Head of Ventures. Before that, he spent over three years at Barclays in blockchain research and mobile delivery roles.Previously, Taylor worked at 11:FS for nearly six years, holding roles including Co-Founder and Head of Ventures. Before that, he spent over three years at Barclays in blockchain research and mobile delivery role.Several Leadership Moves Highlight Activity in Fintech and BlockchainSeveral recent moves in the fintech and blockchain sectors highlight ongoing leadership changes. Former Citi and NatWest FX executive Scotte Moegling joined Virtu Financial as Head of Business Development for Digital Assets. The appointment reflects Virtu’s expansion into cryptocurrency markets.You may find it interesting at FinanceMagnates.com :You Everything You Need to Know About Tokenized Stocks in 2025.In another development, David Ramil, with experience in payment solutions and blockchain, became a co-founder at Willybit. His focus will be on providing payment services for high-risk sectors, underlining continued growth and innovation in fintech.Former Coinbase Germany CEO Jan-Oliver Sell joined blockchain firm LUKSO as Chief Operating Officer. Sell brings over 15 years of experience in operations and finance, emphasizing the trend of executives moving into strategic roles within blockchain-focused companies. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

The CEO of online trading platform Erkin Kamran has announced that he is stepping down from his role “to work on a new build at the intersection of tradfi and web3.”“After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as CEO of Traze. Incredibly proud of how much we shipped in a short time with the team – launching and growing a top-tier regulated broker in the UAE and proving what focused execution can deliver. A big Thank You to @Traze team for the trust, commitment, and camaraderie,” Kamran announced today (Thursday).“What’s next: I’m working on a new build at the intersection of tradfi and web3 – still early and in stealth, but will share soon enough. If you’re solving problems in trading or fintech – feel free to reach out I’m always up for a catch-up be it on product, liquidity, GTM or more.”Traze's Global PresenceTraze is a contracts for differences (CFDs) broker brand under the Seychelles-regulated brand Zeal Capital Market. Early this year, the company secured a license in the United Arab Emirates.The approval allows the broker to provide brokerage, portfolio management, and advisory services to retail and institutional investors in the UAE and “the broader region.”Other recent moves: FYNXT Appoints Chief Revenue Officer, Bringing APAC and EMEA Sales Experience“This regulatory milestone allows us to continue our aim of making investing more accessible and helping traders with the tools and education they need to succeed,” said Kamran.Alongside the UAE authorization, Traze also holds an operational license in South Africa. It is part of Zeal Group, which operates the ZFX brand from the United Kingdom and Seychelles, with the offshore entity serving retail clients and the UK arm catering to professionals and institutions.A Seasoned ExpertKamran is a seasoned industry executive who joined Traze from the London-based fintech Zeal Group. He also has experience from serving as a Project Manager at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, among other roles.Meanwhile, the UK unit of Zeal ended its financial year on 30 June 2024 with revenue of £802,437, down 81 percent, while net profit rose 41 percent to £213,344 from £151,408 a year earlier, with all revenue derived from brokerage services to UK clients. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

EC Markets Group closed 2024 with stronger earnings as revenue nearly doubled year-on-year. The forex and CFD brokerage reported higher profits and an improved balance sheet, underlining a year of growth despite rising costs.Revenue Jumps Close to 90%The company posted a turnover of $3.24 million for 2024, compared with $1.71 million the previous year. Cost of sales rose to $979,251 from $358,100, but gross profit still increased to $2.26 million from $1.35 million.Operating profit was $614,622, almost double the $315,933 recorded in 2023. Net profit for the year reached $513,869, up from $448,157. EC Markets’ net profit increased 14% despite an increase in the firm’s administrative expenses, which climbed 58% to $1,641,747. Shareholder funds rose to $1.59 million by year-end, compared with $1.08 million a year earlier. The company reported that its number of employees increased from 8 in 2023 to 11.Additional Income StreamAlongside its core execution-only brokerage business, EC Markets generated income from risk management services provided to an affiliated regulated broker. The services, offered for a fixed monthly fee, created an unregulated revenue stream in addition to its regulated activities.You may also like: Revolut Offers to Buy Back Up to 10% of Shares at $45 Billion Valuation: ReportEC Markets also expanded its balance sheet during the period. The company’s net assets increase 48% to $1,593,255. Cash at bank and cash at hand increased from $682,196 to $1,665,768.EC Markets' global expansion seems to be paying off. Last month, the broker opened a new office in Mexico City, marking its first physical presence in Latin America.Global Expansion Paying OffThe move into Mexico comes shortly after the firm launched an office in Mauritius, underscoring a broader strategy to expand its international footprint. Previously, the firm opened a new office in Ebene, Mauritius, a central financial hub known for its regulated trading environment. Additionally, EC Markets secured a license from the Securities and Commodities Authority of the United Arab Emirates this year. The license permits full operation within the country’s regulated financial sector, including client introductions, service marketing, and financial consultations. The firm also holds licenses from major jurisdictions such as the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority, Australia’s ASIC, and South Africa’s FSCA, strengthening its global regulatory position. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Kraken, a cryptocurrency technology platform, announced it has acquired Breakout, a proprietary trading firm. Breakout provides traders access to capital for executing strategies and allows them to trade crypto through funded accounts after passing an evaluation, without using personal funds.Kraken is the first cryptocurrency exchange to enter the proprietary trading space. Unlike traditional prop trading firms, which provide funded accounts to traders without offering an exchange platform, Kraken combines its exchange infrastructure with Breakout’s evaluation-based trading model.Kraken Adds Funded Accounts for Traders“Breakout gives us a way to allocate capital based on proof of skill rather than access to capital itself. In a world that is rapidly shifting from who you know to what you know, we want to build systems that reward demonstrated performance, not pedigree,” commented Arjun Sethi, co-CEO of Kraken.The acquisition expands Kraken’s product offerings for advanced traders. Through Breakout, qualified traders can access up to $200,000 in notional capital. To qualify, traders must purchase and pass an evaluation and maintain performance above set drawdown limits. Traders who meet these requirements receive funded accounts and can retain up to 90% of any profits. Payments are made directly on-demand.NEW: Kraken acquires Breakout to launch performance-based prop trading on Kraken Pro pic.twitter.com/bcyD8aMih6— Blockworks (@Blockworks_) September 4, 2025Breakout Founded 2023, Raises Seed FundingBreakout is a crypto-native proprietary trading firm founded in 2023 by Alex Miningham and Dylan Loomer. Operating as “Breakout Trading Group, LLC,” the firm is headquartered in Tampa, Florida. In July 2024, Breakout raised $4.5 million in a seed funding round led by RockawayX, Mechanism Capital, IOBC Capital, C² Ventures, and Round13 Capital.Breakout Traders Gain Access to 50+ PairsKraken said the move supports its goal of enabling experienced traders to deploy capital in crypto markets. Breakout will benefit from Kraken’s infrastructure and global reach. Over time, Breakout will be integrated into the Kraken Pro platform for eligible users.You may find it interesting at FinanceMagnates.com: Kraken Launches Crypto Services Across 30 EEA Countries Under MiCA License.Breakout allows traders to develop strategies across more than 50 crypto pairs. Leverage of up to 5x is available on BTC and ETH contracts. Traders must pass evaluations to receive capital and must requalify if drawdown limits are breached.Prop Trading Brings Risks and ComplexityEntering prop trading presents several challenges for exchanges. Regulatory scrutiny can arise as authorities assess how such activities fit within existing rules. Risk management is important to limit potential losses from funded traders. Read More: “Over-Gamification Attracts the Wrong Traders,” Swiset COO Warns on Prop Trading.Market integrity must be maintained to prevent manipulation or abusive strategies. Operational complexity can increase when integrating new trading models, and competition from established prop trading firms can affect trader adoption.Expanding Services with NinjaTrader Acquisition, Cyprus LicenseKraken announced plans to acquire the futures trading platform NinjaTrader for $1.5 billion. The acquisition aims to combine traditional finance tools with crypto trading and expand services for retail and institutional users.In Europe, Kraken launched crypto derivatives under a Cyprus license. The license, obtained through a Cypriot Investment Firm approved by CySEC, allows the exchange to offer additional products and strengthens its regulatory presence in the region. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

BTCUSD, after facing rejection at an intraday resistance, has undergone a significant bearish correction and appears to have found support around $110.4K. As of writing, the cryptocurrency is trading near this level, with intraday traders watching price action closely to determine its next move.Crypto analysts have issued a warning as Bitcoin exhibits a rare “three bars down” signal on its weekly chart. Historically, this pattern has preceded major corrections, although current market conditions may reduce the likelihood of a severe downturn. Traders should monitor key levels in the coming days for potential shifts in market direction.Analyst Issues Warning on BitcoinA cryptocurrency analyst, Jason Pizzino, has issued a warning about a rare technical pattern forming on Bitcoin’s weekly chart, while noting that current market conditions may not indicate a severe downturn.The “Three Bars Down” SignalThe analyst highlighted the “three bars down” signal, also referred to as “three red weeks,” which consists of three consecutive weekly candles with lower highs and lower lows following a significant peak. You may find it interesting at FinanceMagnates.com: Bitcoin Finds Support; Analysts Highlight US Offshore Access Impact on Crypto.Historically, this pattern has preceded major Bitcoin corrections, including a 70% decline after the 2017 all-time high, a 55% drop in April 2021, and a 53% correction following June 2019. In the current bull market, the signal has already appeared twice, each time coinciding with roughly a 30% correction.Why This Time Might Be DifferentDespite the historical precedent, the analyst argued that the conditions this time differ from past occurrences. Previous signals coincided with periods of extreme market greed and peak Google search interest for Bitcoin, while the current market has not displayed sustained euphoria. This suggests that a deep correction may be less likely, and the bull market could continue.This rare weekly signal has crashed the price of Bitcoin by up to 70%. Crypto isn't immune to it either; however, we are yet to see the sentiment reach similar levels for the full impact of this signal. There are 4 days to go to invalidate this signal. #BTC #ETH #CryptoWatch… pic.twitter.com/r5V82ESbXW— Jason Pizzino ? (@jasonpizzino) September 4, 2025Key Levels to WatchThe analyst outlined key levels to monitor over the next four days as the weekly candle closes. A break above $113K would invalidate the bearish signal, signaling continued strength in Bitcoin. Read More: Why Bitcoin Is Going Up? BTC Price Today Rallies Above $111K on Technical Breakout Signal.The preferred short-term scenario involves a bounce toward $114K–$117K, followed by a rejection and a retest of recent lows near $107K, which could help establish a stronger base for a future rally. If the signal holds and the price fails to surpass $113K, it may indicate a longer and deeper correction extending into the fourth quarter.Broader Market ContextThe broader macroeconomic context also informs the analyst’s outlook. Expectations of upcoming interest rate cuts, strong performance in gold and silver, and historical seasonal trends suggest that Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies could experience a relatively positive fourth quarter, even if short-term consolidation occurs in September. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

Valetax made a significant mark at Money Expo India 2025 as a Diamond Sponsor, joining India's premier financial gathering on 23–24 August at Mumbai's Jio World Convention Centre. The event served as a strategic cornerstone to cultivate meaningful partnerships, decode regional market opportunities, and underscore its unwavering commitment to India's financial ecosystem as a key pillar of its Asian market expansion.As one of Asia’s leading financial trading events, Money Expo India gave Valetax the chance to connect with traders, institutional partners, educators, and regulators. Operating from Booth 76, the company focused on meaningful engagement, community-building, and discussions that established a strong base for its Indian market presence. These efforts reflected Valetax’s belief that authentic dialogue and customized solutions are key to sustainable growth.Valetax’s speaking sessions drew strong attention on Day 1. Valetax’s partners delivered presentations that highlighted the company’s vision, focusing on market relevance, regulatory trust, and community growth. They also shared insights on advanced trading methodologies and Valetax’s approach to empowering traders. Both sessions generated meaningful engagement and positive discussions after the event.The firm also highlighted its stable platform architecture, built on enterprise-grade infrastructure. This system is capable of managing high-volume transactions while maintaining consistent performance. Such reliability, combined with forward-looking innovation, demonstrated Valetax’s role as a provider of comprehensive trading solutions that meet the evolving needs of professionals across diverse markets.Valetax’s achievements were recognized with the prestigious “Most Innovative Broker” award at the event. This honor acknowledged the company’s pioneering work in trading technology, platform stability, and client-focused solutions. It also validated Valetax’s continued investment in analytics, infrastructure, and platform development aimed at delivering next-generation trading experiences that stand out in a competitive industry.Throughout the expo, Booth 76 became a focal point for attendees. Valetax offered live demonstrations of its proprietary technologies, alongside consultations and networking sessions. Visitors appreciated the opportunity to interact with technical experts and relationship managers, building trust and creating connections that extended beyond the event. Transparency, innovation, and client-centricity were consistently emphasized.“India represents a strategic milestone for our global growth,” said Prema, Chief Operating Officer at Valetax. “Our participation at Money Expo reflects a systematic approach that prioritizes understanding local market dynamics and creating value through strong partnerships.”“Every expansion requires global capabilities combined with local expertise,” added Srikanth Debattula, Country Manager at Valetax. “The insights gained here will directly shape how we serve Indian traders with solutions tailored to their needs.”The company’s presence at Money Expo India was part of a broader plan to expand in Asia through engagement, alliances, and tailored services. With further initiatives planned for 2025, Valetax remains committed to sustainable partnerships that deliver long-term value. For the company, success is measured not only by reach but also by the strength of its commitment to trading communities worldwide.Positioned as a key player in the global financial services industry, Valetax continues to shape market standards with its strong infrastructure and client-focused solutions. Its expanding presence across regions highlights a clear commitment to innovation, trust, and sustainable growth that resonates with diverse financial communities worldwide.About ValetaxValetax (https://valetax.com/) is a global trading platform built for scale, performance, and long-term growth. Known for its strong technological foundation and user-first approach, the platform enables traders worldwide to access markets through a secure and reliable infrastructure. It serves as a high-efficiency environment for individuals and teams who seek clarity, speed, and control in their trading journey. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Boerse Stuttgart has launched Seturion, a dedicated blockchain-based settlement platform for tokenized assets. The platform can be used across borders and handles multiple asset classes.While other exchanges, such as SIX, offer digital asset services through integrated systems like SIX Digital Exchange, these platforms generally operate as closed ecosystems. In contrast, Seturion is a modular platform designed to connect multiple trading venues across Europe.Dedicated Platform Supports Banks, Brokers, Venues“We want to overcome current national settlement infrastructure silos and turn a unified European capital market into reality,” commented Matthias Voelkel, CEO of Boerse Stuttgart. “So we designed Seturion as an industry solution: It is open to all market participants and we are looking forward to building and scaling Seturion together with them,” he explained.Seturion is available to banks, brokers, trading venues, and tokenization platforms. It supports tokenized assets on public and private blockchains, as well as cash settlement using central bank money or on-chain cash. You may find it interesting at FinanceMagnates.com: German Stock Exchange Boerse Stuttgart’s Digital Business Gets New Boost.Boerse Stuttgart says the dedicated platform aims to make settlement faster and more cost-efficient.Platform Tested in ECB, Active SwitzerlandThe system was tested as part of ECB blockchain trials with several European banks. It is also in use at BX Digital, a Finma-regulated DLT trading facility in Switzerland. Boerse Stuttgart says all European trading venues can connect to the platform using existing infrastructure.Boerse Stuttgart Digital Secures First MiCAGermany has granted one of its first MiCA licenses to Boerse Stuttgart Digital. The approval allows the exchange’s digital unit to operate across all 27 EU member states. Issued by Germany’s regulator BaFin, the license aligns with the MiCA regulations, which streamline licensing for crypto service providers across Europe. Boerse Stuttgart Digital is reportedly the first German firm to receive this EU-wide approval, following delays in Germany’s crypto regulation due to political challenges. This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.

The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) has officially withdrawn the investment license of FIBO Markets Ltd, finalizing a process the forex broker initiated late last year.CySEC announced the decision was made during its Aug. 25 meeting, formally revoking the company's Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF) authorization number 118/10. The regulator cited FIBO Markets' express renunciation of its license as the reason for the withdrawal.FIBO Markets Loses Cyprus LicenseThe move caps a months-long wind-down process that began in December 2024, when Fibo Markets Ltd (ex FIBO Group Holdings Ltd), told clients it would voluntarily surrender its CySEC license. At the time, the company said it expected the renunciation process to wrap up by April 30, 2025.“We deeply appreciate the trust you have placed in us over the years and regret any inconvenience this process may cause. We are committed to ensuring a smooth and transparent transition for all our clients,” the company commented back in December.FinanceMagnates.com reached out to company representatives for comment, but no response had been received at the time of publication.While the FiboMarkets.com website now states that the license has been surrendered, the FIBOGroup.com website remains active, and the company is regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) in the British Virgin Islands (license number SIBA/L/13/1063).CySEC Takes Broader Regulatory ActionThe FIBO Markets license withdrawal comes alongside broader enforcement activity by CySEC. The regulator announced today (Thursday) that four other investment firms have lost their authorizations and been removed from the Investors Compensation Fund.CySEC withdrew licenses from Oasis Wealth Management Ltd, The Alternative GMI Ltd, Itrade Global (CY) Ltd, and Viverno Markets Ltd. The regulator simultaneously removed these companies from the ICF membership roster, though existing client compensation rights remain protected for past investments.It is worth noting, however, that these are purely technical moves stemming from the earlier withdrawal of licenses from the mentioned entities. For example, in the case of Viverno Markets, a B2B unit of BDSwiss, authorization was revoked in May after the company had not provided services for more than six months.The other three firms, including Itrade Global, which operates the Tradewell and TradeFW brands, had given up their licenses some time ago, as had FIBO. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Increased Custody Options to Give Stablecoins a BoostMany of the world’s largest banks have increased their crypto custody strategies recently.Earlier this year, both State Street and JPMorgan Chase announced plans to introduce a cryptocurrency custody service line in 2026, and US Bancorp has refocused on this service line. Now, we hear that Citi is looking to follow suit, with the global head of partnerships and innovation for the bank’s services division stating that it is prioritising custody for high-quality assets backing stablecoins.With the vast majority of stablecoin transactions taking place outside the banking system and the potential for these cryptocurrencies to enter the payments mainstream, banks have an obvious incentive to offer related services.JUST IN: Jim Cramer says JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon will "go all in on crypto" after calling it a fraud and a ponzi scheme last year. pic.twitter.com/nCBX6luDOF— Watcher.Guru (@WatcherGuru) July 14, 2025These moves are also partly a response to increased regulatory requirements – last month, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission updated its controls for licensed custodians of virtual assets.Banks are particularly keen to benefit from increased appetite for virtual assets among institutional investors in the US, where a joint statement issued in July by the Federal Reserve, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) clarified the responsibilities of banks holding crypto assets for customers.Financial institutions under the supervision of the OCC have been able to conduct cryptocurrency custody activities as long as they implement appropriate third-party risk management practices.However, this trend is also evident in Europe, where Deutsche Bank reportedly intends to launch cryptocurrency custody services next year.Commerzbank launched a crypto custody offering for corporate clients in 2024, BBVA has partnered with Binance to provide off-exchange custody for its customers’ digital assets, and it has also been suggested that Sberbank is preparing to offer custody services for cryptocurrency assets.Regardless of location, though, banks will have to ensure their compliance teams are prepared for an increased workload and that their systems are capable of identifying potential anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing violations.UK Policymakers Digitally DividedThe head of the central bank and the government’s chief finance minister appear to be at odds over the future of digital money in the UK.In a speech to the National Bank of Ukraine in June, Andrew Bailey suggested that to pass the test of being money, stablecoins must provide assurance of nominal value and that many of the current versions do not quite reach that standard.He went on to say that he remained unconvinced of the need to create new forms of money such as central bank retail digital currency to realise the benefits of digital technologies in the area of payments.“To be clear, I am not against stablecoins,” he said. “I am not against central bank retail digital currency, but I question why it is needed if innovation proceeds as I think it should.”Read more: New FCA Crypto Custody Rules Would Force Firms to Upgrade SecurityBailey went even further during a recent media interview, suggesting that stablecoins created by banks and pegged to assets such as the dollar could pose a threat to the whole financial system and advocating focusing on tokenised deposits or digital money instead.These comments are significant as they come at a time when legislative developments in the US have encouraged the likes of Bank of America, Citi, and JP Morgan to issue stablecoins.In her latest annual Chancellor address, Rachel Reeves said she planned to advance developments in stablecoins, which are benefiting from growing demand for dollar-denominated assets that sit outside the traditional banking sector.Bailey’s remarks also point to differences of opinion not just between the Bank of England and the Chancellor of the Exchequer, but between senior figures within the bank. The executive director of financial market infrastructure told a recent conference that the Bank of England was open minded to stablecoins being able to provide innovation that could also be useful for wholesale markets.With the UK not set to publish guidelines on stablecoins equivalent to the Genius Act or MiCA until next year, key policymakers need to get their affairs in order.FCA Opens the Door for Retail Crypto ETNsAnother area where the UK lags its European rivals is in retail access to crypto exchange traded notes. ETN providers such as 21Shares, WisdomTree and Invesco have seen minimal trading in their professional investor products in the UK since they were introduced in May.These firms and others will hope that the FCA’s decision to allow retail customers access to these products from next month will set the scene for crypto ETFs and possibly even CFDs down the line, although the UK financial regulator remains wary of endorsing the latter, even with low leverage.To ensure the integrity of the products, the FCA has proposed that crypto ETNs would only be allowed to trade on an FCA-approved, UK-based recognised investment exchange and will have to provide accurate information to potential investors.You may also like: UK Crypto Firms Will Need to Collect Every Customer's Address, Tax Number from 2026One of the approved exchanges, LSEG, has analysed the listing and trading profile of the crypto ETNs on its market compared to other European primary exchanges to understand how these products currently trade.It says this analysis has revealed that crypto ETN volatility has profiled similarly to all individual stocks within the FTSE 100 and has been less volatile than stocks in the FTSE 250.JUST IN: ?? FCA to allow retail customers access to #Bitcoin and crypto ETNs. pic.twitter.com/LTl2V18WIT— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) August 1, 2025LSEG suggests that many of the 25 issuers that have listed more than 150 crypto ETNs with a variety of underlyings across Europe are keen to enter the UK market, and there is potential for considerable product innovation.The exchange observes that some €26 billion was traded on European exchanges in 2024 – an increase of more than 300% year on year compared to the previous 12 months – and expects similar growth this year.However, 21Shares has criticised the decision to prohibit access to products not listed on UK exchanges and called for a transparent eligibility framework for a broader range of cryptoassets as underlyings for crypto ETNs. It will be interesting to see to what extent these limitations affect the appetite of other providers to enter the UK crypto ETN market. This article was written by Paul Golden at www.financemagnates.com.

The countdown has begun; nominations for the Finance Magnates Awards 2025 close in just one week. This is your final chance to be part of the celebration of the Visionaries of Tomorrow, the companies shaping the future of finance. If your brand has not yet secured its place, now is the time to join one of the industry’s most important recognitions.Why the FM Awards MatterThe Finance Magnates Awards stand out because they combine community voting (50%) with an expert industry panel (50%), ensuring a fair and balanced process. Winning or even being nominated signals credibility, innovation, and market leadership. It’s an opportunity to stand alongside the brands that shape the future of finance.Exposure Campaigns for NomineesEvery nominee gains visibility through Finance Magnates’ global media and communication campaigns, which run before, during, and after the awards. These include:Pre-awards promotion across our platforms and social channelsDedicated PR campaigns highlighting nominees in each categoryInclusion in voting campaigns, reaching traders, brokers, fintech leaders, and decision-makers worldwidePost-awards recognition, including exclusive content, evergreen placements for winners, and global press coverageNominees are not just part of a voting process; they are positioned in front of the entire industry at every stage.Confirmed NomineesThe list of nominees is expanding across all categories: Global, Regional, National (B2C), and Institutional Trading, Services for Brokers, and Tech for Brokers (B2B). Together, they represent a cross-section of the industry’s best.These brands have taken the first step toward recognition, visibility, and industry validation:Each brand is now officially part of the FM Awards 2025 voting process, which combines 50% community votes with 50% expert panel evaluation.The Gala Dinner: Where Winners Are CelebratedAll winners will be announced at the FM Awards Gala Dinner in Cyprus on November 6, 2025. This black-tie event gathers top executives, fintech innovators, global brokerages, and media under one roof. More than just an awards night, the Gala is a premier networking event, giving nominees face-to-face access to industry leaders and new business opportunities.One Week Left to be part of the FM Awards 2025There are just seven days left to submit your nominations! Don’t let this opportunity pass to ensure your voice is heard and shine alongside your peers!➡️ Submit your nomination today and make sure your brand is part of the official lineup before time runs out.Disclaimer: Please note that submitting your details is the first step in the process; it doesn’t confirm your official nomination just yet. To become an official nominee and be included in the Awards process, a member of our team will reach out to you shortly with more details, including the available communication campaign packages. These packages are designed to give every nominee the exposure they deserve, before, during, and after the Awards, across our global network. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Complyport, MAP S.Platis, Quadprime, MAP Risk Management Services, MAPiTek and MAP FinTech Merge to Create Global AI-powered RegTech Powerhouse under UK-based ComplyMAP Group.A new era in global regulatory compliance and RegTech begins with the formation of London-based ComplyMAP Group, a consolidated powerhouse uniting Complyport, MAP S.Platis, MAP FinTech, Quadprime Cybersecurity, MAP Risk Management Services and MAPiTek under a one global management structure. This strategic merger positions AI-powered ComplyMAP Group as a leading global GRC and RegTech ecosystem in regulatory compliance, risk management, governance and technology-enabled solutions.With a strong presence across the UK, EU and UAE, ComplyMAP Group leverages decades of experience and a shared commitment to delivering excellence in Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC), cyber risk, operational resilience consulting and regulatory technology (RegTech) innovation. The Group brings together market leaders with complementary strengths centres of excellence in each respective field and a combined legacy of trust, innovation, and regulatory expertise.“The launch of ComplyMAP Group represents more than a merger – it’s a bold step forward in reshaping how firms globally access compliance and RegTech solutions,” said Managing Director Luis Parra, the Group’s head of RegTech solutions. “Our clients can expect enhanced capabilities, broader geographical reach, and seamless integration across disciplines.”A Unified Brand IdentityComplyMAP Group has adopted the castle icon originally associated with Complyport’s 24 years supporting the UK financial services market as its official logo – a symbol of trust, resilience and continuity. This move has been embraced across all ComplyMAP Group (CMG) brands, each of which now carries the “ComplyMAP Group” designation within their brand name to reinforce the Group’s integrated identity.This strategic rebranding aligns all entities under one unified visual and operational framework, reinforcing group-wide consistency.All operations are now fully centralised at a global level, unlocking group synergies and supporting international expansion through coordinated service delivery and cross-border expertise.Expanded Services The merger augments the Group’s capabilities in several strategic areas:· Regulatory Technology (RegTech) solutions· AI Compliance Advisory Services· Compliance and GRC Consulting· Prudential Support & Risk Management· Cyber risk and resilience management support · ICT Infrastructure Support & ICT managed services · Expert Witness · Audits, Health Checks and Forensics · Outsourcing and Resourcing · KYC Managed Services· Financial crime full support· S.166 full support As part of the integration Quadprime, MAP RMS, and MAPiTek are now incorporated into Complyport, enhancing Complyport’s global service proposition in operational resilience, cybersecurity, and prudential regulation.Leadership UpdatesAs part of the integration, Pantelis Angelides (CEO of Quadprime) shall become Managing Director of Complyport’s Cyber Risk and Resilience Management services, and Panayiotis Antoniou and Panagiotis Vassiliades (Joint-CEOs of MAP RMS) shall become Managing Directors of Complyport’s Prudential and Risk Management Services. This unified leadership structure supports strategic growth, operational alignment, and the delivery of consistent, high-quality service across all jurisdictions.In addition, Greg Gregoriades has joined the Group as Managing Director of Information and Communications Technology Solutions, taking the lead on ICT managed services and infrastructure, further strengthening the Group’s capabilities in this growing area.To support the next phase of global integration and operational excellence, the Group has appointed Harri Petrou as Chief Operating Officer (COO), to oversee cross-functional coordination, optimise internal processes, and ensure the seamless execution of the Group’s strategic objectives.About ComplyMAP GroupComplyMAP Group is a global RegTech and GRC advisory group, uniting leading regulatory and technology brands from the UK, EU the UAE and beyond. With over two decades of experience, 1,500+ regulatory authorisations completed, and a growing portfolio of innovative compliance products, ComplyMAP Group is redefining the future of GRC RegTech.For media enquiries or further information, please contact:info@complymap.comhttp://complymap.comwww.complyport.comwww.mapsplatis.comwww.mapfintech.com This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Danish online trading platform Saxo has joined the Platforms Association, a UK industry group that represents investment platform providers across Britain and Europe.Saxo Joins The UK Investment Platforms Trade BodyThe membership comes just over a year after the association launched in September 2024 to give platforms a collective voice on regulatory and policy issues. Saxo joins other firms offering ISAs, pensions and investment accounts to retail customers and financial advisers.The Copenhagen-based company has been expanding its UK presence as younger investors pile into online trading platforms. Under-25s now make up 15% of Saxo's new UK sign-ups, up from 9% in 2023, while female clients have tripled to 18% of new registrations.Keith Phillips, CEO of the Platforms Association, said Saxo's involvement would strengthen the group's influence with regulators."Platforms are democratizing investing, transforming how millions of retail investors and their advisors manage their financial futures," Phillips said. "Having Saxo's involvement significantly strengthens our collective voice."Among the founding members of the self-regulatory organization were nearly 50 companies, including Fidelity and Hargreaves Lansdown.Regulatory Focus Drives Membership PushThe Platforms Association was created to help members navigate evolving regulations and improve services for both retail investors and financial advisers. The group works with UK policymakers and regulators on issues affecting firms that handle custody and settlement of retail investor assets."We're delighted to join the Platforms Association at a pivotal moment of technological and policy evolution in our industry," said Andrew Bresler, CEO of Saxo UK. "A unified voice is essential to shape regulation and foster sustainable growth."The association has been expanding beyond basic platform services to cover distribution and managed portfolio services while promoting best practices across the sector.Trading Platform Boom ContinuesSaxo's membership comes as the firm reports strong growth numbers. New global trading clients jumped 132% year-on-year after the company revamped its pricing structure and launched a flexible ISA product.However, as for Saxo’s performance in the UK, through its subsidiary Saxo Capital Markets UK Limited, net profit in 2024 fell by nearly 32%, from £11.2 million to £7.6 million. Revenue also declined by 13%, dropping from just under £28 million in 2023 to £24 million last year.The Danish firm, which has operated in London since 2006, offers trading across more than 40,000 instruments and serves as a technology provider to over 120 financial institutions through its banking platform.Saxo manages more than $100 billion in client assets globally and employs over 2,100 people across financial centers including London, Singapore, Amsterdam and Hong Kong. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

In today’s digital economy, trading is faster, more accessible, and more data-driven than ever before. But with this transformation comes an uncomfortable truth: security risks are rising just as quickly as opportunities. For traders, the integrity of a platform isn’t measured only by spreads, execution speed, or product range, it’s measured by the confidence that their information and assets are safe.At VT Markets, we believe safety isn’t a feature you add on top of a trading platform; it is the foundation on which trust is built. In an environment where cyber threats evolve daily, security must keep pace.The Changing Nature of Security in FinanceOver the past decade, financial markets have seen extraordinary innovation, from algorithmic trading to mobile-first investing. Yet the same digital transformation that empowered millions of traders has also opened the door to increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.This reality places a responsibility on trading platforms: to anticipate risks before they arise, invest in security infrastructure, and make protection seamless for users. Security is no longer just a back-end concern-it is central to user experience.Security as User ExperienceToo often, security is framed as a trade-off: more protection means less convenience. But technology has advanced to the point where this no longer needs to be true. Features like biometric authentication and Passkeys show that platforms can offer faster, easier access while strengthening account safety.At VT Markets, recent updates are built around this principle. Traders can now choose biometric or passkey login, with One-Time Passwords (OTP) as the baseline requirement. We’ve reinforced our 2FA process: authenticator changes can only be made once every 24 hours, verified through SMS or WhatsApp, with additional checks from our customer service team.We’ve also introduced customizable in-app safety locks, letting traders control how often their session re-authenticates - 5, 10, or 15 minutes. These layered safeguards create an environment where security is ever-present but never intrusive.The Road AheadAs cyber threats continue to evolve, financial platforms have a duty to stay ahead. This is not about occasional upgrades but about building a culture of continuous improvement. At VT Markets, that means ongoing innovation, regular updates, and a user-first approach to security.Traders should not have to worry about whether their accounts are safe; that responsibility rests with us.A Shared ResponsibilityWhile platforms must lead the charge, security is also a shared responsibility. Traders play a role by enabling 2FA, keeping devices secure, and staying informed about emerging risks. Together, platforms and users can build a trading ecosystem where opportunity and safety go hand in hand.For us, the promise is simple: we will continue to evolve, innovate, and prioritize user safety, ensuring that every trade is underpinned by trust. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

When Liverpool FC steps onto the pitch, fans see the energy, speed, and skill that create unforgettable moments. But behind every goal is preparation, strategy, and execution, the very same elements that define success in trading.The partnership between EC Markets and Liverpool FC isn’t just about logos on a jersey. It’s about a shared philosophy: empowering individuals to achieve excellence through knowledge, discipline, and the right tools.Let’s explore how the lessons from football can help every trader strengthen their game, while also learning specific strategies that make the difference between playing and winning in the markets.Studying the opponent vs studying the marketIn football, preparation starts with analysis. Coaches and players study their opponent’s strengths, weaknesses, and patterns. Liverpool FC doesn’t rely on guesswork, they rely on data, tactical planning, and practice.Trading demands the same approach. A successful trader studies:● Market trends using technical indicators such as:○ Moving Averages (MA): smoothing price data to identify the overall trend.○ Relative Strength Index (RSI): spotting overbought or oversold conditions.○ MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence): tracking momentum shifts.● Global events such as central bank policy, interest rates, and geopolitical changes that can shift currencies, gold, and stocks.● Trading strategies like scalping, swing trading, and intraday setups.Example strategy: Trend-following with moving averages● If the 50-day MA crosses above the 200-day MA (a “golden cross”), it signals potential long opportunities.● If the opposite occurs (a “death cross”), traders may look for short opportunities.EC Markets provides traders with professional platforms like MT4 and MT5, giving access to these tools, along with customizable charts and expert advisors (EAs) for automation. Just as Liverpool studies match footage, traders use historical data to prepare for future opportunities.Training the mind and building disciplineA footballer trains daily, not just physically but mentally. Keeping focus under pressure is what allows Liverpool players to perform in front of thousands of fans. One lapse in concentration can change the match.In trading, discipline is the difference between success and failure. Emotional decisions can destroy even the best strategies. Traders must:● Stick to risk management rules: Many professionals risk only 1–2% of their capital per trade.● Set stop-loss and take-profit orders: These ensure emotions don’t interfere once the market moves.● Avoid revenge trading: Just as a striker doesn’t take a wild shot to make up for a missed chance, traders shouldn’t chase losses with reckless trades.Example strategy: Risk-to-reward ratio● If a trader risks $100 on a trade, the potential reward should be at least $200 (a 1:2 ratio).● Over time, this ratio means even with a 40% win rate, the trader can remain profitable.EC Markets helps maintain this discipline with tight spreads, ultra-fast execution, and risk tools, allowing traders to focus on strategy rather than stress, just like Liverpool players focusing on their tactical plan.Execution: seizing the opportunityEven the best-prepared team must deliver when the whistle blows. Liverpool’s decisive goals often come from reacting instantly to a small opening.In trading, opportunities also appear quickly and disappear just as fast. Execution is everything. Traders need:● Ultra-low latency execution to avoid slippage.● Liquidity access so large orders can be executed smoothly.● Stable platforms during high-impact events.Example strategy: Breakout trading● Traders watch for prices consolidating in a tight range (like a team probing a defense).● When price breaks above resistance or below support, it often signals a strong move.● With EC Markets’ fast execution, traders can enter immediately as the breakout happens, maximizing potential gains.Execution turns preparation into results, both in football and in trading.Teamwork and supportFootball is never about one player, it’s about the whole team. Liverpool FC’s victories are built on defenders, midfielders, strikers, coaches, and analysts all working in harmony.Trading may look individual, but no trader succeeds entirely alone. Support systems matter. With EC Markets, traders gain:● Educational resources: trading guides and daily market insights.● Customer support: multi-language help available 24/5.● Client fund protection: a regulated, insured trading environment.Example strategy: Using a demo account as training ground● Just as Liverpool players practice drills before match day, traders can practice strategies risk-free.● A demo account lets traders test swing trades, scalping setups, or news trading before risking real capital.With the right team behind them, traders can focus on perfecting execution rather than worrying about logistics.Building a winning mindsetFootball teaches resilience. Even Liverpool, with its proud history, has faced defeats, but champions use setbacks as fuel to grow stronger.Trading works the same way. Losses are not failures; they are lessons. A trader’s mindset should be one of continuous improvement.● Keep a trading journal: record entries, exits, emotions, and results.● Review performance weekly to spot patterns of strength and weakness.● Adapt strategies when the market environment changes, just as a coach adjusts tactics mid-season.Example strategy: The 1% improvement rule● Instead of chasing perfection, aim to improve one aspect of trading each week (e.g., sharper stop placement, quicker exits, or more patience in entries).● Over time, these small improvements compound into major growth, mirroring how footballers progress through training.EC Markets supports this winning mindset with demo accounts, market education, and professional platforms designed to help traders grow into confident, disciplined performers.Conclusion: two worlds, one visionFootball and trading are connected by a simple truth: success comes from preparation, discipline, and execution.● Liverpool FC inspires through teamwork and determination.● EC Markets empowers traders through technology, education, and trading power.Together, they share one vision, to help individuals reach their full potential, whether on the pitch or in the financial markets. This article was written by FM Contributors at www.financemagnates.com.

Valutrades Limited, a UK-based online foreign exchange (FX) and contracts-for-difference (CFD) broker, posted a smaller annual loss for 2024 despite facing headwinds from reduced client activity and declining revenue.The London-based company reported a net loss of £2.59 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to a loss of £3.82 million in 2023. While revenue increased 27% to £1.94 million from £1.52 million the previous year, the company attributed its improved bottom line primarily to aggressive cost-cutting measures.Valutrades’ Cost Reduction Drives ImprovementValutrades slashed its administrative expenses to £2.48 million from £3.48 million in 2023, helping offset what management described as a "challenging year" marked by fewer clients and reduced trading activity. The company cut its workforce from 19 employees in 2023 to 11 in 2024, with staff costs dropping to £600,000 from over £1 million the previous year."2024 was a challenging year for Valutrades which saw a reduction in overall client numbers and activity," the company stated in its annual report. "This was however balanced by some significant milestones including launching our first proprietary mobile app, launching a new website and client area, completing a rebrand and significantly reducing operating costs."The broker managed to turn its gross profit positive, reporting £125,241 compared to a gross loss of £387,418 in 2023. However, retail client funds held by the company declined to £1.78 million from nearly £2 million the previous year.Capital Injection Supports OperationsShareholders injected £2.6 million in new capital during 2024, bringing total share capital to £10.82 million. The funding came as the company's cash reserves dropped to £837,471 from £1.78 million at the end of 2023.Management, however, expressed cautious optimism about the business outlook, citing the cyclical nature of the markets it serves. The company expects "tough years to be balanced with easier years over the long term while the short to medium term focus remains on growth above profitability."The broker launched several initiatives in 2024 aimed at differentiating itself from competitors, including its first mobile app and website redesign. Directors indicated plans to continue investing in technology, staff, and business relationships to enhance expected profitability.Valutrades has accumulated tax losses of nearly £8 million that can be offset against future profits, though the company has not recognized these as an asset on its balance sheet.Industry Struggles in 2024The challenges facing Valutrades reflect broader market conditions affecting UK-based retail trading platforms. FXCM UK, operating as Stratos Markets Limited, also faced similar headwinds in 2024, with retail trading volumes dropping 19% to $243 billion despite managing to turn around its revenue picture with a small positive turnover of $103,606 compared to a $1.68 million loss the previous year.Like Valutrades, FXCM UK cited reduced market volatility as a key challenge, with the VIX average dropping to 15.5 in 2024 from 16.85 in 2023. Lower volatility typically translates to reduced trading activity and less revenue for CFD platforms. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

Polymarket got the regulatory thumbs-up to return to American soil after a three-year timeout, with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) granting the world's biggest prediction market a no-action letter that clears its path back into US waters.“Kudos” to CFTC, Says Polymarket CEOThe CFTC's Wednesday decision lets Polymarket operate through QCX, a licensed derivatives exchange it bought for $112 million, effectively giving the platform legal cover to restart US operations. The regulatory body said it won't go after the company for certain reporting and recordkeeping rules that typically apply to derivatives platforms."Polymarket has been authorized to launch in the USA by the CFTC," CEO Shayne Coplan wrote on X. "Kudos to the Commission and Staff for their remarkable efforts. This achievement has been realized in record time".Polymarket has been given the green light to go live in the USA by the @CFTC.Credit to the Commission and Staff for their impressive work. This process has been accomplished in record timing.Stay tuned https://t.co/NVziTixpqO— Shayne Coplan ? (@shayne_coplan) September 3, 2025This does not change the fact that event contracts remain controversial: some view them as a disguised form of sports betting, while others see them as binary options; a product that, due to its gambling-like structure, has been completely banned in Europe.A Long Road Back From Regulatory ExilePolymarket got booted from the US market in 2022 after the CFTC slapped it with a settlement for running an unregistered derivatives platform. Since then, the company has built its business overseas while Americans watched from the sidelines as users bet on everything from presidential elections to sports outcomes.The timing couldn't be better for Polymarket's return. Event contracts exploded in popularity during the 2024 election cycle, with traders putting real money behind their political predictions. The July completion of a Justice Department probe that didn't result in charges helped smooth the regulatory waters.Wall Street Bets Big on Prediction MarketsThe prediction market sector is attracting serious investor attention. Polymarket's main competitor Kalshi just scored a $2 billion valuation from a $185 million funding round led by crypto investment firm Paradigm. That round included backing from heavyweights like Sequoia Capital and Citadel Securities CEO Peng Zhao."Kalshi is one of the fastest growing companies in America. We 50x'd our user base in the last year," Kalshi CEO Tarek Mansour told CNBC. The platform's sports betting contracts have become its bread and butter, with NBA basketball markets making up 50 of its 51 most-traded contracts ever.Even more traditional brokers are jumping in. Robinhood rolled out event contracts in recent months and launched a dedicated hub for users to bet on college basketball and interest rates. Interactive Brokers has also entered the space, looking to capitalize on the boom.The biggest surprise in recent weeks was the decision by Chicago derivatives giant CME Group, which partnered with online gaming company FanDuel to offer event contracts starting at $1 to sports betting fans.From "Digital Casinos" to Market InnovationThe sector still faces skeptics who dismiss prediction markets as glorified gambling. Critics call them "digital casinos," while supporters argue they're superior to traditional polling because people put actual money where their predictions are.CFTC Acting Chairman Caroline Pham has called prediction markets "an important new frontier," and some Wall Street observers think they could eventually rival stock markets in size. The platforms work differently from traditional gambling - instead of betting against the house, users trade contracts with each other that pay out $1 if an event happens.The regulatory breakthrough comes just a week after Donald Trump Jr.'s venture capital firm 1789 Capital invested in Polymarket, adding political star power to its comeback story. Trump Jr. joined the firm as a partner after his father's election victory, betting on the success of prediction markets that correctly called the 2024 race.With Polymarket's return and Kalshi's rapid growth, American traders now have regulated options to put money behind their predictions on everything from sports championships to economic indicators. The question is whether these platforms will prove to be lasting financial innovation or just another speculative fad. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

IG Group (LSE: IGG) has started a new £125 million share buyback program, appointing Morgan Stanley as the executing broker for the multi-month initiative.The FTSE 250 company announced the program in July and confirmed today (Thursday) that Morgan Stanley will handle purchases according to predetermined parameters. The buyback aims solely to reduce IG Group's share capital, with all purchased shares moving into treasury rather than being canceled.IG Group expects the program to wrap up by January 30, 2026, though completion depends on share price movements and other capital requirements. The company authorized the buyback at its September 2024 annual meeting, with 23.8 million shares remaining available for purchase under current board authority.It is worth noting that this is not IG’s first share buyback. The company launched a similar program valued at £150 million last year and added another £50 million at the beginning of 2025.IG Group Schedules Quarterly UpdateIG Group plans to release its first-quarter fiscal 2026 trading update on September 25, which could provide insight into business performance and the rationale behind the timing of the buyback program.We last saw the company’s report at the end of July, when it published results for the 2025 fiscal year, showing revenues of more than £1.07 billion. IG reported that its organic fixed cost to serve per customer declined by 7% during the year, reflecting efficiency measures. The broker also introduced steps to strengthen income retention in its OTC business by capturing more spread revenue and lowering hedging expenses.“We expect these initiatives to deliver stronger customer income retention over the medium to long term and increase short-term variability,” said IG’s CEO, Breon Corcoran.Three major subsidiaries of the UK-based financial services group IG also reported stronger profits in fiscal year 2025, signaling a rebound from the mixed performance of the previous year.According to Finance Magnates Intelligence, the CEO of IG Group was the second-highest-paid executive among all publicly listed contracts-for-differences (CFD) brokers, with total compensation of about £3.35 million ($4.46 million) in fiscal year 2025. By comparison, CMC Markets’ Lord Peter Cruddas earned £1.1 million ($1.5 million), while Plus500’s David Zruia received $4.97 million. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

New Zealand's financial markets watchdog wants to hear from the industry about how tokenization might reshape domestic markets, launching a consultation that could influence future rules for blockchain-based securities.“Do you think the current law helps or hinders domestic tokenization activity, and why?”. This is one of the questions posed to industry representatives regarding the growing trend among businesses and investors to move assets onto the chain, ranging from stocks and precious metals to real estate.New Zealand Regulator Opens Consultation on Digital Asset Tokenisation RulesThe Financial Markets Authority (FMA) released a discussion paper asking market participants to weigh in on opportunities and barriers for tokenized products. The regulator is particularly interested in whether existing laws help or hinder companies looking to offer digital versions of traditional investments."The pace of technological development is rapid and tokenization, like other emerging technologies, has the potential to influence the development of New Zealand financial services," said FMA General Counsel Liam Mason.The consultation comes as several businesses have approached the FMA this year about tokenization projects spanning industries from mining and forestry to real estate and carbon credits. Despite growing interest, the regulator notes that few firms have actually launched tokenized investment products for consumers.In other economies, tokenization is advancing rapidly, with Robinhood serving as a prime example. The company is putting strong emphasis on tokenized stocks. Vlad Tenev, the company’s CEO, called tokenization “the biggest innovation in capital markets in well over a decade.”New Products, Old LawsTokenization involves creating digital representations of assets on blockchain networks. Examples overseas include tokenized bonds, real estate fractions, and managed fund units that can trade around the clock on digital platforms.New Zealand's technology-neutral financial laws theoretically cover these products, but the FMA acknowledges the fit isn't always clear. The regulator can grant exemptions or designations to tailor rules for new business models, though this process creates uncertainty for startups.Current rules create some odd gaps. Virtual asset trading platforms that hold client funds face fewer protections than traditional share trading platforms, since most cryptocurrencies don't qualify as "financial advice products" under existing definitions.Projections for real-world asset (RWA) tokenization are significant, with estimates pointing to an expansion from $0.6 trillion in 2025 to $18.9 trillion by 2033. Even a small share of global equity trading being transferred to tokenized platforms could translate into substantial market volumes.Looking for “Balance” Between Innovation and ProtectionThe FMA’s approach to tokenized assets appears bittersweet. Potential benefits include 24/7 trading, faster settlement, lower costs, and access to previously illiquid asset classes. But the technology also introduces new risks around custody, smart contract vulnerabilities, and regulatory uncertainty."We have to balance ways to better support innovation and reduce regulatory barriers for companies and innovative products, while, at the same time, protecting consumers from harm," Mason said.The consultation reveals growing concern about virtual asset-related harm. In the first quarter of 2025, roughly 30% of misconduct allegations reported to the FMA involved virtual assets. The regulator points to past failures like Cryptopia's 2019 collapse and Dasset's liquidation in 2023 as examples of consumer risks.New Zealand Looks to Other CountriesInternationally, jurisdictions are taking varied approaches. Singapore has established comprehensive licensing for digital token service providers, while Hong Kong requires specific licenses for virtual asset trading platforms. The UK and Australia are developing new regimes set to launch in 2026.As for strictly tokenized assets, the European watchdog ESMA warned earlier this month that they could mislead investors, stressing the need to clearly explain to clients how they differ from actual shares.The regulator wants feedback on whether New Zealand needs bespoke tokenization rules or if tweaks to existing principles-based frameworks would suffice. Questions also cover operational challenges, consumer protection measures, and cross-border regulatory coordination."Having a constructive conversation with industry enables us to respond faster and make adjustments to rules and license conditions and seek law reform where needed," Mason said.The consultation runs until October 31, with the FMA planning to publish feedback summaries and preliminary responses. Follow-up actions could include guidance documents, licensing pathway clarifications, exemptions, or law reform recommendations to the government. This article was written by Damian Chmiel at www.financemagnates.com.

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde warned that the EU must close gaps in stablecoin regulation to avoid destabilizing runs on reserves, Reuters reported. She told lawmakers that both EU and foreign issuers should face equal requirements.Stablecoin Risks Under EU RulesThe EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR) requires stablecoins to be fully backed. Lagarde said the framework leaves room for risk if non-EU firms operate under looser rules. She urged lawmakers to demand equivalence regimes from foreign jurisdictions.“European legislation should ensure that such schemes cannot operate in the EU unless supported by robust equivalence regimes in other jurisdictions and safeguards relating to the transfer of assets between the EU and non-EU entities,” she said.Lagarde warned that holders may choose to redeem in the EU, where MiCAR bans fees and imposes stricter safeguards. That could concentrate pressure on reserves based in the bloc.“In the event of a run, investors would naturally prefer to redeem in the jurisdiction with the strongest safeguards, which is likely to be the EU,” she said. “But the reserves held in the EU may not be sufficient to meet such concentrated demand.”International Cooperation NeededLagarde added that without global standards, risks will shift to weakly regulated markets. “Without a level global playing field, risks will always seek the path of least resistance,” she said.Federico Cornelli, a commissioner at Italy’s market watchdog CONSOB, said EU rules must also reinforce that cryptocurrencies are not legal tender. “Only the euro issued by our ECB is legal tender, and this must be made very clear to all citizens,” he said.Related: ECB President Dismisses Bitcoin as EU Reserve amid CNB's $7B ProposalThe ECB, as chief banking supervisor and lender of last resort in the eurozone, has placed stablecoin oversight at the center of its stability mandate.Early this year, Lagarde said Bitcoin (BTC) is unlikely to be adopted as a reserve asset by EU banks. Her remarks came after the Czech National Bank (CNB) put forward a proposal to allocate 5% of public funds to Bitcoin as part of a diversification plan.The CNB was scheduled to review the proposal on January 30, with the potential allocation amounting to more than $7.3 billion, based on its $146 billion in total reserves. At the January 30 conference, Lagarde reiterated that Bitcoin does not meet the ECB’s criteria for reserve assets, which emphasize liquidity, security, and stability. This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.

Staff from two U.S. financial agencies issued a joint statement yesterday (Tuesday). The statement came from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).The statement clarifies the staff's view on trading specific crypto products. It notes that exchanges registered with the SEC or CFTC are not banned from facilitating trades in certain spot commodity products, including some crypto assets.By contrast, UK regulators have taken a more cautious approach. Retail access to spot crypto trading remains limited, and no comprehensive framework exists for mainstream exchange listings, although the FCA is proposing to lift the ban on crypto exchange-traded notes.Industry ReactionCommenting on the announcement, Zumo’s Founder and CEO Nick Jones said: “It’s only right that market participants have the freedom to choose where they trade spot crypto assets – and now they will have access to some of the world’s largest venues, such as the NYSE and Nasdaq.”He added: “It’s yet another example of the US deliberately and proactively embedding crypto in the mainstream while cementing its leadership in an industry that will come to redefine financial services.”Jones contrasted the U.S. approach with other major economies: “While UK legislators and regulators shy around taking any proactive crypto position, it's a reminder that those unashamed to demonstrate pro-crypto leadership are cornering this emerging area of innovation and growth.”Legal PerspectiveLegal experts remain cautious about the statement’s implications. Bill Morgan, a digital asset lawyer, questioned its practical impact: “How does this help crypto exchanges? They’re all pretty much still unregulated and not registered with the SEC despite the end of the SEC lawsuits. Not sure but maybe Coinbase has some trading activities registered with the CFTC.”How does this help crypto exchanges? They’re all pretty much still unregulated and not registered with the SEC despite the end of the SEC lawsuits. Not sure but maybe Coinbase has some trading activities registered with the CFTC https://t.co/siRNb2Rr0L— bill morgan (@Belisarius2020) September 2, 2025Market OutlookMatthew Sigel, VanEck's head of digital assets research, stated on X: “The NYSE, Nasdaq, CBOE, CME, etc, will soon have spot trading for BTC, ETH, and more.” The comment reflects expectations that major U.S. exchanges could offer spot trading for leading cryptocurrencies.? The NYSE, Nasdaq, CBOE, CME, etc, will soon have spot trading for BTC, ETH, and more. https://t.co/qZo3YsYDQA— matthew sigel, recovering CFA (@matthew_sigel) September 2, 2025Regulatory Leadership CommentsSEC Chairman Paul Atkins described the statement as a “significant step,” noting: “Market participants should have the freedom to choose where they trade spot crypto assets.”CFTC Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham said the previous administration sent mixed signals on digital asset regulation: “Today’s joint agency statement is the latest demonstration of our mutual objective of supporting growth and development in these markets, but it will not be the last.” This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.