Elon Musk has announced that his AI startup, xAI, will release the first beta edition of Grokipedia in two weeks. Musk says that Grokipedia is a direct competitor to Wikipedia, and it will address what he calls “falsehoods” and “half-truths” that are common on other platforms. Musk announced X (formerly Twitter), stating that consumers will soon be able to use version 0.1 of the service. Musk calls Grokipedia “a necessary step toward the xAI goal of understanding the Universe.” There aren’t many details yet, but the project claims to create an open-source knowledge base that utilizes AI to verify, refine, and organize digital content from various sources, including documents, PDFs, and even Wikipedia. Musk believes Grokipedia will be a “huge improvement over Wikipedia” because it will make online knowledge more accurate and unbiased. Criticism Leads to New Ideas Musk wants to create Grokipedia because people have been criticizing Wikipedia’s editing style and what they perceive as its ideological bias for a long time. He has long said that the crowd-sourced site offers false information, censors content, and has rules that favor left-leaning views. Last year, Musk mocked Wikipedia by providing $1 billion for it to change its name to “Dikipedia.” This was a joke at what he calls “ideological fundraising” and “content moderation.” Recent public discussions, such as the one between Tucker Carlson and Wikipedia co-founder Larry Sanger, have made Musk even more concerned. Sanger stated that content was being blocked due to ideological conflicts, which highlights the challenges of maintaining an encyclopedia’s balance in the digital age. Musk’s use of an open-source model for Grokipedia demonstrates his intention to challenge ingrained biases and establish new standards for online information. A New Age for Knowledge from the Crowd The idea for Grokipedia emerged live at the All-In Podcast event, where Musk discussed the possibility of an AI-powered platform that could read and verify web content. Grokipedia claims it will utilize AI to analyze existing knowledge bases, verify their content for accuracy, and refine articles to more accurately reflect objective truths. Musk also hinted that xAI would get into AI-generated games in addition to Grokipedia. He stated that the xAI game studio aims to release a significant new game by the end of next year. This wider range of topics shows that xAI wants to bring together intelligence, fun, and reliable information across the digital world. With Grokipedia’s early beta release just a few weeks away, techies and digital content creators are eager to see how Musk’s platform addresses ongoing concerns about misinformation. If it works, Grokipedia might set a new standard for the accuracy and honesty of crowdsourced online knowledge. This would make the worldwide argument over information regulation in the AI-augmented era much more heated.

A stablecoin associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s financial network is facing heightened scrutiny after failing to release timely transparency reports. NYDIG, a leading digital asset management firm, has warned that the USD1 stablecoin, issued by World Liberty Financial, risks eroding investor trust due to delayed attestations of its reserves. In its latest market review, NYDIG said USD1’s last reserve attestation was published in July 2025, leaving a months-long gap in verified disclosures. The firm noted that “delays of this nature are red flags in a sector where transparency defines credibility.” USD1, which launched earlier this year as part of a digital finance initiative linked to the Trump brand, was designed to rival other major stablecoins such as USDC and Tether (USDT). However, its failure to maintain regular attestations has sparked fresh doubts about the project’s governance and reserve management. NYDIG’s Head of Research, Greg Cipolaro, emphasized that“For a project of USD1’s stature, up-to-date attestations are non-negotiable,”warning that lapses could destabilize confidence among institutional and retail users alike. USD1’s reserves are reportedly held by BitGo Trust, while BitGo Technologies serves as the issuer. Neither entity has addressed the delay, further fueling uncertainty. According to on-chain data cited by NYDIG, USD1’s circulating supply has grown rapidly to nearly $2.7 billion, with over 75% of the tokens held in wallets linked to offshore exchanges. This distribution pattern complicates U.S. oversight and may expose investors to jurisdictional risks. Beyond transparency concerns, USD1 could soon face regulatory headwinds under the proposed GENIUS Act, which would require stablecoin issuers to be regulated financial institutions or state-chartered entities. NYDIG noted that BitGo Technologies does not currently meet those criteria, suggesting that the issuer may need to restructure its operations or form new partnerships to remain compliant once the law takes effect in 2027. More Developments for USD1 Aptos has joined forces with Trump-backed World Liberty Financial (WLFI) to launch USD1, a stablecoin offering faster, cheaper transactions and yield returns to users. Aptos CEO Avery Ching said at TOKEN2049 that both sides saw Aptos as the ideal network for scalable retail and banking products. WLFI CEO Zach Witkoff added that the venture is expanding into real-world asset tokenization, including real estate, oil, and commodities, saying these assets “should be traded on-chain.” USD1, fully backed by $2.68 billion in U.S. Treasuries and cash, will expand from Ethereum and BNB Chain to Solana and Aptos, alongside plans for a crypto debit card and token burn program.

After the business announced plans to raise more than $11 million to join the web3, AI, and cryptocurrency industries, shares of the Hong Kong-listed China Financial Leasing Group jumped 19%. The announcement stated that a share issue would raise approximately HKD 86.724 million ($11.14 million), with the majority of the funds allocated to digital innovation, particularly in AI and crypto projects. HKD 5 million of the net profits will be allocated to the company’s basic working capital, and the remaining HKD 81.47 million will enable it to transition into Web3and AI. The main goal of this new direction is to create an in-house digital investment platform that will make it easier to trade and invest in a wide range of digital assets, including stablecoins, top cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), and newer asset classes like NFTs, DeFi, DePin, and real-world assets. Stock Price Rises After Viral News The market quickly and enthusiastically reacted to China Financial Leasing Group’s plans for crypto. Before the announcement, the company’s stock price was about $1.20. When news of the Web3and digital asset plan was released, the stock surged by approximately 19.53% and reached $1.55 in just a few hours. This market rise is comparable to what has happened to other tech-focused Hong Kong companies that have announced plans for crypto or AI. The stock price of OSL, Hong Kong’s first regulated cryptocurrency exchange, increased by more than 12% in July following news of significant investments in stablecoins. The positive response indicates that many investors are eager to get involved with digital assets, particularly in an ecosystem that is poised for more regulatory clarity and innovation in the Web3space. A Growing Trend In Hong Kong Companies China Financial Leasing Group’s shift is part of a broader trend among Asian companies to capitalize on the potential of the Web3 sector. Several businesses in the area have attempted to raise capital by selling shares to expand into cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and artificial intelligence. Increasingly, people are expressing interest in building digital asset treasuries or launching new platforms to meet the growing demand in the market. The movement has grown so large that Hong Kong‘s Securities and Futures Commission has recently warned investors to be cautious due to the numerous crypto-related announcements. Both authorities and institutional investors remain most concerned about the market’s volatility and the potential for false claims in the digital asset industry. The disclosure about China Financial Leasing Group’s ties to cryptocurrency has given its stock price a boost just when it needed it, making investors feel better about the company. The market will be keenly interested in what the company does next, especially as more information emerges regarding the launch of its own digital asset platform and its plans to become more involved in the crypto economy.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in India has taken strong steps to seize cryptocurrency assets linked to a Florida bank impersonation scam that defrauded victims of $122,000. The assets were related to the account of Punam Jaiswal, an Indian citizen who died. He had 0.26 Bitcoin, 7.83 Ethereum, and ₹8.7 lakh in Indian rupees on the WazirX market.  The freeze follows the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) request under the nation’s Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT). This indicates that Indian and American law enforcement are collaborating more closely to combat cybercrime. After a Florida judge issued an order for seizure, the U.S. DOJ found the fraudulent money in Jaiswal’s WazirX account.  The Indian government acted fast, and in January 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs filed a petition with the CBI. In June 2025, officials opened an investigation and are now proceeding to attach the confiscated cryptocurrency and related rupees formally. This will ensure that the money can’t be withdrawn or used in any other way while the investigation is ongoing. Securing Proceeds of Crime Despite the Account Holder’s Death Officials stressed that freezing the assets is crucial to prevent anyone else from accessing the money, even though the account holder, Jaiswal, is deceased. This ensures that crypto assets linked to illegal activity remain out of reach, thereby helping to keep the money generated from crime safe and secure. The CBI has made it plain that the legal procedure will continue until the proper outcome is reached. This makes it even harder to commit cross-border financial fraud. Rise in Crypto-Related Fraud Gets Regulators’ Attention The case highlights the significant surge in crypto-related fraud and scams in India. The CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are two Indian law enforcement agencies that are paying closer attention to cybercrime and online fraud involving digital assets. The ED, for example, is looking into 162 active cases of cryptocurrency scams.  Many of these scams target individuals who are unaware that they’re being scammed by fake investment platforms that promise unrealistic profits. In September 2025, businessman Raj Kundra was charged with serious crimes. He is said to have received 285 Bitcoin from the well-known crypto scammer Amit Bhardwaj. The ED stated that Kundra hid evidence and attempted to conceal the origin of the illegally obtained money, highlighting how such crimes are becoming increasingly complex. The recent discovery by the Income Tax Department of a scam in southern India, in which the names of ordinary people were stolen for transactions worth ₹170 crore ($19.3 million), highlights the significant threat posed. Most of the victims in these schemes come from vulnerable backgrounds, such as those in farming and the gig economy. This illustrates the need for a change in the rules. India’s Regulatory Push Gains Urgency India’s swift response and robust stance on law enforcement are part of a broader push for crypto regulation in the country. As authorities continue to uncover new schemes and freeze illegal funds, the need for more thorough control of digital assets has increased. These steps demonstrate that the government’s policy is becoming more mature, aiming to safeguard consumers while ensuring that India’s crypto ecosystem operates within a robust legal framework.

Match-Trade Technologies has launched Trading Beyond Limits, a global manifesto and awareness campaign that reimagines the boundaries of what’s possible in trading. Designed to reflect a bold, future-focused mindset, the initiative places the company’s flagship Match-Trader platform at the center of a movement that blends human resilience with cutting-edge technology. The campaign presents trading not merely as a technical process but as a pursuit of mastery — where adaptability, innovation, and courage drive success. For Match-Trade, a fintech provider serving brokers and financial institutions worldwide, the message is simple: modern traders need tools as dynamic and fearless as they are. In practical terms, Trading Beyond Limits frames the trading experience as a collaboration between refined software and deliberate human judgment — a model that favors flexibility, speed, and clear decision-making over rigid, one-size-fits-all workflows. Redefining Trading Through Adaptability and Purpose The Trading Beyond Limits manifesto captures Match-Trade’s vision for the future — a world where trading platforms evolve with their users. The company’s philosophy emphasizes customization, autonomy, and the fusion of technology with human intent. With Trading Beyond Limits, we reaffirm our mission to deliver a trading experience that combines advanced functionality with personalized control, said Alexis Droussiotis, Head of Match-Trader Platform. Match-Trader adapts to each user’s unique needs while pushing beyond traditional industry standards. This approach challenges the long-held notion that traders must fit within the boundaries of preset systems. Instead, Match-Trader provides a flexible framework capable of scaling across market segments and strategies. Its architecture supports multiple integrations — from liquidity and copy trading to CRM and third-party analytics — offering a unified ecosystem that grows with traders rather than constraining them. Takeaway: Match-Trader’s new manifesto promotes flexibility and self-determination in trading — urging users to shape their technology around their goals, not the other way around. A Campaign Embodied by Resilience and Precision To bring its vision to life, Match-Trade Technologies has chosen Bartosz Ostalowski, professional drifter and Guinness World Record holder, as its campaign ambassador. Ostalowski, who drives competitively using only his feet, personifies the campaign’s philosophy — breaking barriers through precision, control, and perseverance. When Match-Trader approached me, the connection was immediate, said Bartosz Ostalowski, Match-Trader Brand Ambassador. Drifting and trading both demand precision, adaptability, and instant decision-making. This campaign shows how thinking differently — and refusing to be limited by convention — can open new paths forward. The campaign film captures this spirit vividly, juxtaposing the speed and tension of drifting with the focus and control of trading. Both disciplines require an unwavering sense of timing and confidence — a reflection of how success comes from mastering unpredictability, not avoiding it. Takeaway: By partnering with world-record drifter Bartosz Ostalowski, Match-Trader demonstrates how determination and adaptability define both trading and performance excellence. Human-Centered Innovation as the New Standard The Trading Beyond Limits campaign moves beyond promotion to become a declaration of purpose for Match-Trade Technologies. According to Vladyslav Yurchyk, Brand Manager, the collaboration with Ostalowski represents more than a sponsorship — it’s a statement about courage and conviction. We wanted an ambassador whose story would go beyond traditional endorsements, said Yurchyk. Bartosz embodies passion, adaptability, and the courage to challenge conventions — values that also define the development of Match-Trader. Our campaign highlights this spirit of bold approaches in trading technology. This mindset is embedded in Match-Trader’s development process. The company continues to evolve its platform by integrating intuitive UX, automated processes, and institutional-grade analytics — bridging professional-grade infrastructure with the creativity and drive of independent traders. The campaign ultimately communicates that innovation is not just a technical pursuit but a reflection of human potential. Takeaway: Trading Beyond Limits embodies Match-Trader’s belief that technology should elevate human creativity and resilience — not replace them. Going Global: The Campaign’s Public Debut Match-Trade will introduce Trading Beyond Limits at two of the industry’s most prominent events this month — Forex Expo Dubai (October 6–7, 2025) and iFX EXPO Asia (October 26–28, 2025). These platforms will serve as the global stage for unveiling the campaign’s manifesto and film, while also showcasing the latest capabilities of the Match-Trader ecosystem. At both events, the company will present new tools designed to streamline operations for brokers and prop firms — from enhanced liquidity connections and risk management modules to faster back-office integrations and multi-asset functionality. Attendees will also experience live demonstrations highlighting Match-Trader’s user-focused design and adaptive technology framework. Beyond the product spotlight, the showcases are meant to underline a broader philosophy: that trading technology should be as accessible, configurable, and resilient as the people who rely on it, whether they are building firms or refining personal strategies. Takeaway: The campaign’s launch at global expos signals Match-Trader’s evolution from a technology provider into a thought leader shaping the trading experience worldwide. From Fintech Provider to Movement Catalyst Founded in 2013, Match-Trade Technologies has built its reputation on developing robust, fully integrated trading systems for brokers and financial institutions. The company’s solutions now span liquidity provision, CRM, payment processing, and trading infrastructure — serving clients across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. With Trading Beyond Limits, the company moves beyond product innovation to cultural influence. It is redefining what it means to be a fintech brand — merging advanced engineering with a message of empowerment and adaptability. The campaign’s ultimate goal is to inspire traders and institutions alike to rethink what progress looks like in a digital-first financial world — where mastery is measured not only by speed and tools, but by the willingness to challenge convention and craft systems around human intent. Takeaway: Match-Trade Technologies’ latest campaign marks a new chapter — positioning innovation as both a business strategy and a human pursuit of excellence.

Trading 212 has quietly stepped into crypto trading, giving its European users access to Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and a small basket of other digital assets—while keeping its British audience on the sidelines for now. The London-based broker’s new crypto service will run through Trading 212 Markets, its Cyprus-regulated unit, and operates as a separate account from its contracts-for-difference platform. The move follows the arrival of Christos Drakos, a former Revolut and ETX Capital executive, who joined last month to head the company’s crypto operations. Why Cyprus, not the UK Cyprus is becoming the favoured base for brokers looking to offer spot crypto under European rules. Trading 212’s local arm, Trading 212 Crypto Ltd, secured a Crypto Asset Service Provider licence from the island’s regulator earlier this year, allowing it to roll out digital-asset trading across the bloc. The UK, meanwhile, remains off-limits for retail spot crypto. The Financial Conduct Authority banned crypto-derivatives in 2021 and has only recently reopened a narrow door for exchange-traded notes. Spot crypto platforms still need separate registration under money-laundering laws—a process that has kept many brokers waiting. Trading 212’s European business has become increasingly important. The Cypriot operation doubled its revenue to £42.2 million in 2024, while the UK arm—still the group’s powerhouse—generated £150 million. Overall, the company ended the year with £194 million in revenue and £43.7 million in profit, according to filings. The acquisition of Germany’s FXFlat Bank added another £1 million to the top line. Founded in Bulgaria in 2004 as Avus Capital, Trading 212 moved its headquarters to London in 2013 and has since expanded to Australia and Germany. In Britain, it has been moving away from CFDs to focus on stockbroking and multi-currency accounts, even launching a debit card tied to investment balances. A broader industry turn Trading 212’s push mirrors a broader revival of crypto among mainstream brokers. IG Group, the UK’s largest retail broker, has built a spot-crypto offering in partnership with Uphold and recently agreed to acquire the Australian exchange Independent Reserve for about A$178 million. CMC Markets continues to serve professional clients with crypto derivatives, while Robinhood is buying Bitstamp for about $200 million, a deal that gives it a regulated global exchange footprint. The return to crypto comes as digital-asset prices recover and new European rules under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) create a uniform framework for licensed providers. Cyprus, with its long experience in cross-border brokerage, has emerged as a testing ground. Trading 212 hasn’t said whether it will eventually extend spot-crypto trading to the UK or stick with exchange-traded products there. For now, the focus is on expanding the new service to European clients and building out the infrastructure it created under the Cypriot licence.

The Central Bank of Russia plans to conduct a comprehensive audit of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies across the country. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s evolving perspective on digital currencies. The audit, scheduled for 2026, will examine digital assets, crypto derivatives, and cross-border transactions involving individuals and businesses. This comprehensive evaluation suggests that the Central Bank aims to enhance the transparency and accessibility of Russia’s digital asset market to regulators. The audit is likely to have a significant impact on how blockchain and cryptocurrencies are handled on a national level, as global financial limitations continue to affect Russian trade. Background: Using crypto despite sanctions Moscow’s decision comes as an increasing number of people use blockchain tools to circumvent Western financial restrictions. The ruble-backed A7A5 stablecoin is a great example. Since its launch in August, it has processed over $6 billion in cross-border transactions. Even though the U.S. government punished some of its operators, A7A5 demonstrated its ability to adapt by re-minting tokens and relocating activity to other blockchain wallets, thereby maintaining liquidity and transaction capabilities. The Russian currency backs A7A5 at a one-to-one ratio, and the reserves are held at Promsvyazbank, a central state-owned bank that is already on the U.S. and U.K. sanctions lists. In Russia, A7A5 is officially referred to as a Digital Financial Asset (DFA). Its use in international trade has risen rapidly, thanks to both demand and government support. What Russia’s Financial Policy Means For Its Strategy The planned audit by the Central Bank is more than just a means to ensure everyone is following the rules; it is a sign of what they intend to do. Russian authorities aim to strengthen the rules governing digital assets by regularly monitoring their operations. This could make Russia a leader among countries seeking new financial infrastructure during times of geopolitical tension. After the West imposed stricter sanctions, making it harder for Russian businesses to clear international debts through regular banks, they are starting to use cryptocurrencies more. Stablecoins, in particular, have become essential instruments for facilitating transactions and easing international transactions. Looking Ahead: Blockchain’s Role in the Economy Russia is incorporating blockchain technology into its comprehensive financial plan for the country. The planned audit will not only help officials identify the risks, but it may also lead to increased investment in digital assets by lawmakers and institutions.  As the world of cryptocurrency grows, Russia’s efforts, both with its own stablecoins, such as A7A5, and through thorough regulatory reviews, are likely to provide examples for other countries that are under sanctions or experiencing economic hardship and seek new ways to conduct business with the rest of the world.

Crypto and Stocks in One Platform Galaxy Digital on Monday launched GalaxyOne, a new consumer app offering both cryptocurrency and U.S. equity trading, expanding its business beyond institutional clients. The platform is available in all 50 U.S. states and allows users to trade bitcoin, ether, Solana, and Paxos Gold, alongside more than 2,000 stocks and exchange-traded funds. GalaxyOne users can trade U.S. equities and ETFs with zero commissions, including fractional shares. The app also provides on-chain transfers for digital assets, letting users move tokens freely in and out of their accounts. A Galaxy spokesperson said that more crypto assets will be added in future updates. The move brings Galaxy into direct competition with retail-focused fintech firms such as Robinhood, eToro, and Cash App, which already blend digital asset trading with traditional finance features. Investor Takeaway Galaxy’s retail debut adds a new player to the crowded U.S. trading app market, offering a mix of crypto and stocks that could appeal to investors seeking diversification in one platform. Interest-Bearing Accounts and Premium Yield GalaxyOne offers a high-yield cash account with 4% annual percentage yield (APY) for all users. Accredited investors can access Galaxy Premium Yield, an investment note offering up to 8% APY. The note is powered by Galaxy’s institutional lending arm and differs from the 4% account in that it is not FDIC insured. The company said the yield program is tied to its institutional-grade lending infrastructure, which allocates funds across secured crypto loans. Only investors meeting accredited status—based on income or net worth thresholds—are eligible to participate. The retail-facing 4% account aims to attract users looking for stable returns comparable to money market funds while maintaining liquidity for trading or transfers. Galaxy did not disclose how deposits are managed, though similar offerings by fintechs are typically backed by partner banks. Novogratz: “Extending Institutional Infrastructure to Individuals” “We’ve spent years building institutional-quality infrastructure to serve the world’s most sophisticated investors,” said Mike Novogratz, Galaxy’s founder and chief executive. “Now, we’re extending that edge to individuals.” Novogratz’s firm has traditionally catered to hedge funds, family offices, and large trading desks through its institutional lending, derivatives, and custody operations. GalaxyOne marks its first full-scale consumer push, offering an integrated gateway for both digital and traditional assets. The product launch comes as the U.S. retail trading market continues to expand following a strong first half for equities and renewed interest in cryptocurrencies. With bitcoin hovering above $120,000 and retail volumes returning to pre-2022 levels, the timing gives Galaxy a larger audience of retail investors seeking exposure across both markets. Investor Takeaway Galaxy’s retail move coincides with a broader rebound in crypto trading volumes, positioning it to capture crossover demand from investors active in both asset classes. From Fierce to GalaxyOne GalaxyOne originated from Fierce, a finance app that Galaxy acquired in December 2024 for $12.5 million. Fierce’s development team was absorbed into Galaxy’s consumer division, with its former CEO Rob Cornish now serving as Galaxy’s chief technology officer. The acquisition accelerated Galaxy’s shift toward retail integration, providing a ready-made framework for multi-asset brokerage and user onboarding. Galaxy’s push into consumer finance follows similar moves by digital asset firms seeking to merge crypto infrastructure with traditional financial services. As competition intensifies, the firm is betting that its institutional background and regulated structure will attract users seeking reliability over high-risk yields. The company said it intends to expand GalaxyOne’s capabilities over time, adding new crypto assets, portfolio tools, and potentially wealth management features. For now, the app’s dual offering—stocks and crypto under one account—marks one of the broadest retail launches yet from a major crypto-native firm in the U.S.

It can be intimidating to embark on a cryptocurrency investment journey. The market is well-known for its extreme price volatility, which offers significant profits but also the genuine danger of loss. The most crucial question for any novice trader is “How much should I invest?”. There is not a single correct answer. The appropriate amount will be determined solely by your unique financial situation, existing investment portfolio, and risk tolerance. This tutorial outlines professional and realistic methods suitable for a novice who is willing to invest in crypto and how to acquire this risky asset responsibly. Key Takeaways The absolute first rule is to only invest capital you are financially prepared to lose completely. For a beginner, limit your cryptocurrency allocation to a maximum of 1% to 5% of your total investment portfolio. Start with a small dollar amount (usually $50–$100) and use dollar-cost averaging—investing a fixed amount regularly—to build a solid financial position over time. Only Invest What You Can Afford to Lose This is the basic rule of investments involving digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. Before you put one dollar into crypto, you must accept one fundamental fact: You could lose it all. Cryptocurrency is an extremely volatile investment. Prices can plummet rapidly over a short period due to market news, regulatory changes, or general sentiment. Owing to the risk involved, your crypto investment is highly speculative, and as a rule, you should not include money for essential living expenses. To prioritize building your financial foundation, ensure that you have the following: An emergency fund (typically 3-6 months of living expenses) left untouched in a safe, liquid account. Paid off all high-interest debt (including credit card debt). An array of stable investments (stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds) diversified for your long-term goals. Diversify Your Portfolio This is a wise move to safeguard your capital and raise the likelihood of consistent growth. Spreading your money across several cryptocurrencies rather than depending on just one helps you balance the risks and rewards. This strategy increases the portfolio’s resistance to market fluctuations and provides access to additional cryptocurrency opportunities. Recommended Allocation for Beginners For a beginner, the most common and responsible advice from financial advisors is to limit your crypto exposure to a very small percentage (ranging between 1% and 5%) of your overall investment portfolio. 1% to 2% of your total investment portfolio: This conservative allocation gives you exposure to the potential upside of the crypto market without significantly increasing the overall risk of your entire portfolio. It allows you to learn the mechanics of buying, selling, and securing crypto without major financial stress. 2% to 5% of your total investment portfolio: This range is for crypto traders with a moderate-to-high risk tolerance and a longer investment horizon. Financial firms, such as Fidelity, suggest that a 2%–5% allocation can enhance a portfolio’s risk-adjusted returns due to the potential for high growth and low correlation with traditional assets, including stocks and bonds. Warning on Higher Allocations While some aggressive investors might allocate 10% or more, for a true beginner, keeping your allocation below 5% is crucial.14 Even a 5% allocation in a highly volatile asset like Bitcoin can contribute a disproportionately large amount of risk (up to a third) to your overall portfolio, simply because of how wildly its price can swing compared to stocks. Start Small and Employ DCA You do not need thousands of dollars to kickstart your investment in digital assets. Crypto is fractional, meaning you can buy tiny parts of a Bitcoin or Ethereum. For instance, a small, easy-to-part amount such as $10, $50, or $100 is an excellent starting point. This initial sum is about gaining experience and confidence. The Dollar-Cost Averaging Strategy (DCA) Instead of trying to time the market by investing a large lump sum all at once (which is very risky in a volatile market), the best strategy for a beginner is DCA. You commit to investing a fixed, small amount of money on a regular, automated schedule (every month or every week), regardless of the current price. The DCA strategy smooths out the effects of volatility. You buy more crypto when the price is low and less when the price is high, reducing the emotional stress of watching the market daily and mitigating the risk of buying at a market peak. How to Determine Crypto Assets Worth Investing in  You’ll need to know where to go for information and updates, and how to analyze them to determine if they have potential. As a beginner, it is strongly recommended to stick to the most established and largest cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC): The original and most established digital asset, often considered the least volatile of the crypto options. Ethereum (ETH): The second-largest, which is the foundation for a vast ecosystem of decentralized finance (DeFi) and applications. Stablecoins: A type of cryptocurrency that provides price stability in the volatile crypto market, enabling smoother transactions, easier cross-border payments, and a reliable bridge between traditional finance and digital assets. These large-cap coins have the longest track record and the most institutional support, making them a much “safer” entry point than smaller, riskier “altcoins” or meme coins. You can explore those more speculative assets once you have built knowledge and experience. Bottom Line The aim of being a beginner is to learn and be exposed to a new asset class responsibly, not to get wealthy overnight. Before channeling a non-essential portion of your investment pool (1% to 5%) in well-known, larger cryptocurrencies, assess your financial situation using a dollar-cost averaging technique. Diversify your portfolio, start small, and be consistent.

The beginning of October in the financial markets was relatively quiet despite the expected volatility growth. The NFP release was delayed due to the government shutdown in the US, so volatility was muted across the board, as the only important economic driver published was US services PMI, which was slightly lower than forecasted (50 instead of 51), but still indicating a positive development. Despite the absence of official data from the US labor market, investors maintain a mildly positive sentiment as private sector indicators show rather a consolidation of hiring and new payrolls, than their growth or decline. That hasn’t boosted volatility, and markets in general kept the momentum, with S&P 500 closing the week in green. Bitcoin has rallied and established a new all-time high at around $125000, while Crude oil has slided down to almost $60. The new decision of OPEC+ on Sunday, Oct 5th, was to modestly increase the production, which might be considered as a soft outcome for Crude oil, as one of the options was to increase it twice from the current level. That is still a bearish factor, along with the latest development about Hamas-Israeli talks that should take place on October 7th in Egypt. OPEC+ spare crude production capacity and implied total oil stock build, 2016-2030. Source: https://www.iea.org/data-and-statistics/charts/opec-spare-crude-production-capacity-and-implied-total-oil-stock-build-2016-2030?utm_source=chatgpt.com The general warning from the US president Donald Trump to Hamas made the markets wobble, with Nasdaq closing the day in red, and VIX having grown to above 16, which is still quite far from any real volatility. Crude oil futures stayed in a bearish direction despite all concerning factors. Traders will look forward to the end of the government shutdown this week and the news from Israeli-Hamas talks. Among important economic publications, traders will look forward to the FOMC minutes publication on Wednesday and Michigan consumer sentiment index on Friday. Now, let’s go through basic scenarios for Crude oil and S&P500 index for the upcoming week. USOIL Crude oil moves down accelerating the momentum near the bottom of the 20-day Bollinger Bands. The next possible support would be located around the $59-60 area, as the breakout of the $60 area may trigger some short selling and liquidations of leveraged long positions. As the market enters the highly volatile seasonal period, we might observe wide swings in both directions after completion of the mentioned target. USOIL, daily chart. Source: Exness.com S&P500 The S&P500 index is positioned above the upper line of the Bollinger Bands (20) indicator, showing weakening momentum. Market breadth is slowly decreasing, as the tech sector has got under pressure on Friday. That might be a normal sector rotation mechanism within a bullish market, or a precursor of a wider correction. Anyways, the bullish trend might persist, but upside breakouts might be vulnerable to profit taking and corrections as the upside rally reaches the plateau. US500. Source: Exness.com  

Today’s charts show XAU/USD reaching unprecedented highs. Reports suggest that gold is being sought as a safe-haven asset amid mounting uncertainty, which has been heightened by the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. At the same time: → Gold could push above $3,950 in the near term, edging closer to the psychologically significant $4,000 mark. The chart highlights the clear strength of demand in the current market. XAU/USD Technical Overview A review of gold’s price movements indicates the development of an upward channel that has been in place since mid-September. On 30 September (when the price reached point A), we observed: → a sharp decline signalling strong bearish sentiment; → a potential correction towards $3,800, as bullish momentum appeared depleted, suggesting the need for consolidation before any further advance and the possible formation of a “bull flag” pattern. Indeed, the price tested the $3,800 level shortly thereafter (indicated by the arrow), after which bulls regained control. However, instead of forming a new “bull flag”, the chart displayed three peaks resembling a “head and shoulders” pattern (A–B–C), which did not result in a reversal. This failed bearish pattern reinforced the bulls’ dominance in the gold market today. From a bullish standpoint, the price has broken decisively above $3,900, overcoming a local resistance level (marked in red) and the median of the ascending channel. That said, the price is now nearing the upper channel boundary, while the RSI has entered overbought territory. If market sentiment remains largely unchanged, bulls could attempt to test the $3,950 level. However, such a move may increase the risk of a pullback, with the channel’s median likely serving as the next support target for sellers. FXOpen offers spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $1.50 per lot. Enjoy trading on MT4, MT5, TickTrader or TradingView trading platforms! The FXOpen App is a dedicated mobile application designed to give traders full control of their accounts anytime, anywhere. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice. 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.

Bitcoin has clinched a new all-time high, with the asset surging to $125,708, according to Binance data. The question now is whether the asset can sustain this bullish momentum and what level it might trade at next. Market analysis reveals a unique dynamic at play. FinanceFeed examines the key factors driving Bitcoin’s major upswing to determine whether the momentum is sustainable. Key Takeaways Bitcoin hits a record $125,708, setting a new all-time high amid heightened institutional demand. Institutional inflows into ETFs remain a key catalyst, with spot Bitcoin ETFs buying billions worth of BTC. Technical indicators such as A/D and Aroon point to ongoing accumulation and strong upward momentum. Price discovery could continue, with the next resistance around $135,000 if bullish sentiment holds. Analysts remain optimistic, projecting Bitcoin could outperform gold within five years and potentially reach $444,000 in the long term. Why Is Bitcoin Up? The recent rally follows renewed interest from institutional investors through exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Institutional players act as intermediaries for traditional investors, enabling them to buy cryptocurrencies and other exchange-traded products (ETPs). Their inflows and outflows often shape overall market sentiment. In the week ending September 29, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded the second-highest weekly net inflow of the year, totaling $3.2 billion. Source: SosoValue Such large-scale accumulation typically leads to what’s known as a supply squeeze—when demand outpaces supply, driving prices sharply higher. The squeeze extended into the weekend as retail investors joined in, further boosting market demand. This bullish sentiment is also evident in Bitcoin’s U.S. options market, where open interest (OI) hit a new all-time high of $23.82 billion, according to press-time data. Rising open interest alongside price suggests that most new contracts in the options market are call positions, indicating that investors expect Bitcoin to make another key move upward in the coming days. Bitcoin Chart Analysis The one-week chart shows Bitcoin consolidating within a pattern of converging support and resistance zones. At the time of writing, the asset is trading near the upper resistance level with no clear direction yet. A breakout above this resistance could mark the start of a price discovery phase, pushing Bitcoin toward another record high. Source: TradingView However, if the price fails to breach this zone, it could retreat toward support—potentially setting up another bullish rebound in the near term. Which Path Will Bitcoin Take? Analysis of the Accumulation/Distribution (A/D) indicator suggests a strong chance that Bitcoin will continue its upward trajectory. According to the A/D data, accumulation is trending higher, with total trading volume surpassing 17.8 million at press time. When accumulation rises, it indicates that investors view the current price as undervalued and are buying with expectations of a rally. Source: TradingView Similarly, the Aroon indicator reflects a bullish setup, with the Aroon Up (orange) line positioned above the Aroon Down (blue) line. This alignment signals that market momentum currently favors buyers and supports a continued upward trend. With both indicators showing strength, there’s a strong likelihood that Bitcoin could establish a new high soon. What’s the Next Level for Bitcoin’s Rally? To identify Bitcoin’s next potential move, analysts are examining the liquidation map, which highlights liquidity clusters or zones containing large numbers of unsettled orders. Trading into these liquidity zones often determines whether the asset rallies further or corrects downward. Source: CoinGlass As it stands, if Bitcoin maintains its upward momentum, it could reach $135,000, where a cluster of orders is expected to trigger. Conversely, if the market turns bearish, the asset could fall to around $110,914, a key psychological level for investors. Market analyst Josh Mandell predicts that Bitcoin could rally to a new all-time high in November, with an optimistic target of $444,000 during this market phase. He recently added that Bitcoin is poised to outperform gold over the next five years, setting a long-term base target for the shift. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What is Bitcoin’s new all-time high?Bitcoin reached a new all-time high of $125,708, according to data from Binance. 2. What caused Bitcoin’s latest price surge?The rally was driven by heavy institutional inflows into U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs, which recorded a $3.2 billion net inflowin the week ending September 29. 3. What does a supply squeeze mean in Bitcoin’s context?A supply squeeze occurs when investor demand exceeds available Bitcoin supply, leading to rapid price appreciation. 4. What technical indicators suggest further upside?Indicators like Accumulation/Distribution (A/D) and Aroon both show strong buying pressure, signaling continued bullish momentum. 5. How high could Bitcoin go next?If momentum continues, Bitcoin could rise toward $135,000, while a correction could push prices down to $110,914. Some analysts projects a potential long-term target of $444,000.

BNB Chain Meme Coin Surges After Zhao’s Post A cryptocurrency trader turned a $3,000 bet into nearly $2 million within hours after Binance co-founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao shared a post about a new BNB Chain memecoin called “4” ($4) on X, data from blockchain analytics platform Lookonchain shows. The trader, identified by wallet address 0x872, was among the first to buy the newly launched token, netting a gain of roughly 650 times their initial investment. Despite the spike, the address has sold only a fraction of the holdings and still holds about $1.88 million worth of tokens. The token emerged from a phishing incident on BNB Chain, where the attacker reportedly made just $4,000 before the community turned the event into a meme. Zhao’s post amplified the buzz, sending trading volumes sharply higher. Investor Takeaway Viral exposure from high-profile figures can turn obscure tokens into short-lived speculative frenzies, often rewarding early buyers and leaving late entrants exposed. From Meme to Million-Dollar Trade Blockchain data shows the trader’s wallet was heavily concentrated in the token, with over 98% of holdings in “4”, according to CoinStats. The account generated $1.8 million in unrealized profit over the past week. Other wallets tracked as “smart money” by Nansen also entered the trade, making “4” the third-most-bought token among top-performing traders in the past 24 hours, with roughly $100,000 worth of purchases recorded on the BNB Chain. The momentum mirrors previous memecoin rallies where small initial investments have produced outsized returns. In March, one trader reportedly turned $2,000 into $43 million by buying the frog-themed Pepe (PEPE) token, though subsequent declines slashed those gains to $10 million. In May 2024, another investor converted $27 into $52 million through early participation in a viral token launch. Analysts say such trades underscore both the outsized profit potential and the extreme volatility that define the memecoin sector, where liquidity and timing outweigh fundamentals. CZ’s Post Sparks Buying Frenzy Interest in “4” surged shortly after Zhao reposted the BNB Chain’s statement on the phishing episode to his 8.9 million X followers. “Interestingly, after the hacker dumped ALL his tokens for a $4k gain, the community took over and bought the meme coin higher, as a mock to the hacker,” Zhao wrote on X on Wednesday. Minutes before Zhao’s post, another wallet bought a large batch of the tokens and saw its holdings rise to more than $1.5 million in value just hours later, according to data from blockchain visualization platform Bubblemaps. The sequence of trades and timing has fueled speculation among onchain analysts about coordinated activity, though no direct links to insiders have been identified. The surge followed a temporary hack of BNB Chain’s official X account, during which attackers shared phishing links and promoted the same memecoin to the account’s four million followers. The exploit was contained shortly after, but the publicity helped push “4” into broader circulation across Binance’s ecosystem. Investor Takeaway Traders chasing viral tokens face sharp reversals once hype fades. In thin markets, small capital can move prices dramatically before liquidity vanishes. Memecoins Keep Drawing Speculators Despite lacking utility, memecoins continue to draw speculative inflows. Exchanges and onchain data providers say social-driven tokens now account for a rising share of retail trading activity, especially on chains like BNB and Solana where transaction fees are low. For now, “4” appears to be another example of how community narratives and influencer exposure can briefly reshape market flows. Whether the trader cashes out the remaining $1.88 million stake—or becomes the next example of paper profits evaporating—will depend on how long the meme stays alive.

MetaMask, the Web3 wallet developed by Consensys, said it plans to launch a major on-chain rewards program within weeks — a move that could mark one of the largest blockchain-based loyalty pushes to date. The wallet, which surpassed 30 million monthly active users globally at its 2022 peak and remains the most widely used self-custody interface for Ethereum and EVM-compatible chains, has increasingly been pitching itself as an ecosystem hub rather than a simple browser extension. The company announced the initiative Saturday on X, calling it “one of the largest on-chain rewards programs ever built” and promising more than $30 million worth of Linea token rewards in its debut “season.” Linea, an Ethereum Layer-2 network also incubated by Consensys, launched in September with a 9.4-billion-token airdrop. Linea uses zero-knowledge (ZK) rollup technology to process transactions off-chain before settling them on Ethereum, cutting gas fees by up to 90% and enabling faster transaction throughput. Since launch, Linea has attracted over 2 million unique wallet addresses and more than $350 million in total value bridged from Ethereum, according to DeFiLlama data. According to MetaMask, the upcoming program will include referral bonuses, mUSD stablecoin incentives, exclusive partner perks, and access to future token opportunities. The company said long-time users “will not be ignored,” adding that MetaMask Rewards will be “meaningfully connected” to the future MetaMask token, known as MASK. Consensys has been quietly working on tokenizing MetaMask’s governance and infrastructure since 2021, when internal documents referenced a “MetaMask DAO” as part of a long-term plan to decentralize wallet operations. MASK could follow models similar to Uniswap’s UNI or Arbitrum’s ARB, where early adopters received governance tokens linked to usage metrics. The program, MetaMask added, “is not a farming play” but rather a structured way to reward ongoing wallet activity and engagement. It remains unclear whether the company will restrict participation by jurisdiction or apply anti-Sybil safeguards to deter exploitative multi-account farming. MetaMask did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Consensys, which is regulated under US law, previously limited access to certain staking and swapping features for users in sanctioned regions such as Iran and Venezuela, raising the possibility of geographic exclusions in this new rewards rollout. The upcoming MASK token has been publicly discussed by Consensys founder and Ethereum co-creator Joseph Lubin, who told The Block’s “Crypto Beat” podcast in September that the token will be “significantly related to the decentralization of certain aspects of the MetaMask platform.” Lubin has long advocated for turning MetaMask into a semi-autonomous, user-governed platform, aligning it with Ethereum’s ethos of distributed ownership. In May, Consensys confirmed that it was in discussions with US regulators over the classification of digital assets, including staking and wallet-linked services, signaling that MASK’s launch could also carry regulatory implications. The wallet’s native mUSD stablecoin, launched around the same time, was issued by Bridge, a firm owned by Stripe. MUSD currently has a circulating supply of about $87.7 million, according to its website. It operates on both Ethereum and Linea but does not generate yield. Bridge’s integration with Stripe’s payment rails allows users in supported regions to directly fund MetaMask wallets with fiat, marking one of the first mainstream fintech-to-Web3 bridges. The mUSD token was meant to act as a low-volatility medium for on-chain payments and future loyalty rewards. The weekend announcement drew mixed reactions across crypto circles. Some users welcomed the idea of structured rewards for loyal MetaMask users, while others criticized the timing and communication. “This will go over well and no one will be disgusted and insult you,” wrote crypto streamer Gainzy in a sarcastic post on X. Others pointed out that the announcement comes amid heightened competition from rivals such as Phantom, Trust Wallet, and Coinbase Wallet — all of which have launched referral or yield-based incentive schemes since mid-2024. The rollout will add a new layer to MetaMask’s growing ecosystem — one that ties together its wallet, Layer-2 infrastructure, and stablecoin in a unified incentive system that could set the tone for how mainstream Web3 wallets reward user participation on-chain. If executed successfully, MetaMask’s model could redefine the economics of wallet usage by turning everyday transactions into rewardable actions, potentially influencing billions in annual DeFi and NFT transaction volume currently routed through its interface.

Bitcoin’s latest rally has carried it into uncharted territory once again, breaching a new all-time high above $125,700 over the weekend before stabilizing near $123,000. As of 19:43 GMT+3, Bitcoin trades at $123,112, up 0.55%. The world’s largest cryptocurrency now boasts a market capitalization above $2.4 trillion, briefly surpassing $2.5 trillion during Sunday’s surge. The move comes amid renewed optimism around its role as a macro hedge and evidence that large investors are quietly accumulating ahead of what could be another explosive fourth quarter. A Perfect Storm of Macro Drivers The rally coincides with a series of macroeconomic tailwinds, most notably the US government shutdown, the first since 2018. While disruptive for traditional markets, such episodes tend to reinforce Bitcoin’s appeal as a decentralized store of value, especially when political dysfunction highlights the fragility of fiat-based systems. “Political gridlock in Washington has renewed discussion around Bitcoin’s store-of-value role,” said Fabian Dori, chief investment officer at Sygnum Bank. “The broader environment — loose liquidity conditions, service-sector acceleration, and narrowing underperformance relative to equities and gold — has drawn attention back to digital assets.” The context matters. With inflation still sticky and the Federal Reserve seen approaching the end of its tightening cycle, the shutdown adds pressure for a dovish policy pivot. “Crypto markets could benefit if a shutdown resolution pushes the Fed toward a more accommodative stance,” said Jake Kennis, senior analyst at Nansen. Such conditions historically align with phases of strong Bitcoin performance. Previous fiscal shocks — from the 2020 pandemic stimulus to debt-ceiling standoffs — have often preceded major upside breakouts in BTC. The combination of liquidity expectations and risk repricing seems to have rekindled that familiar dynamic. Accumulation Phase Underway Onchain data points to a new accumulation phase, with selling pressure from long-term holders easing and whales showing renewed interest. Sygnum’s Dori notes that “cooling speculative activity and steadier positioning” tend to precede large upside moves. Blockchain analytics firm Glassnode also reported that Bitcoin’s open interest reset sharply following last week’s options expiry — a development that often clears the way for fresh directional trends. Spot Bitcoin ETFs, meanwhile, have recorded their second-largest weekly inflows since their debut, signaling strong institutional appetite despite broader market volatility. Long-term investors appear to be quietly rebuilding positions, reducing realized losses and absorbing sell-side liquidity. This pattern has historically marked the transition from consolidation to expansion. The last comparable setup, seen in early 2021, preceded a run that doubled Bitcoin’s valuation within months. Technical Picture: Healthy Volatility Amid Consolidation From a technical standpoint, Bitcoin’s pullback from $125,700 to around $123,100 is being interpreted as a healthy retracement rather than a trend reversal. Market data from TradingView shows that the pair remains well above its 50-period EMA on the four-hour chart — currently near $118,000 — which several tradersview as a likely bounce zone. Popular analyst Rekt Capital echoed that sentiment, noting that a shallow pullback would reinforce structural strength: “There’s no surprise that Bitcoin rejected from ~$124k on the first attempt. The last rejection from this level led to a 13% pullback. Any smaller dip now would confirm that resistance is weakening.” Current market positioning supports the idea of a controlled retracement. CoinGlass data shows balanced liquidity on both sides of the order book, suggesting an orderly market rather than panic-driven liquidation. The consolidation phase could allow Bitcoin to establish $120,000 as a durable support base before resuming its upward trajectory. Institutional Demand and the “Debasement Trade” Perhaps the most powerful theme driving sentiment is the institutional “debasement trade.” As fiat currencies continue to erode in real terms due to inflation and fiscal deficits, Bitcoin’s fixed supply narrative has regained prominence. Analysts at JPMorgan and Citi have both referenced Bitcoin’s strengthening correlation with gold as investors seek hedges against currency debasement. “When I see price action like this — minimal pullbacks, large spikes, and sustained bids — I see institutions,” said Caleb Franzen, founder of Cubic Analytics. That observation aligns with the steady rise in ETF inflows and the notable absence of aggressive profit-taking after the breakout. The parallel rise of Ether (ETH), which has gained over 7.5% against BTC in the past week, also hints at a broader rotation within the crypto complex. “Historically, these are early signs of altcoin rotation,” said Nic Puckrin, co-founder of The Coin Bureau. Still, Bitcoin remains the dominant liquidity driver, accounting for more than 50% of total crypto market capitalization. Outlook: Testing the $150K Scenario At the current price of $123,112, Bitcoin remains within striking distance of its record highs, and sentiment among institutional desks continues to lean bullish. Analysts like Charles Edwards project a potential move toward $150,000 by year-end, contingent on sustained momentum above the $120,000 psychological level. Key catalysts for that scenario include: A confirmed Fed policy pivot or softer inflation prints. Continued ETF inflows and rising institutional allocations. A successful retest and hold of the $118,000–$120,000 support zone. Risks remain — notably a sharper-than-expected liquidity squeeze or renewed US regulatory friction — but the balance of probabilities still favors higher prices into year-end.

A company behind a rouble-pegged cryptocurrency sanctioned by the United States appeared among the top sponsors of one of the world’s largest crypto conferences in Singapore this week, highlighting the limits of Western sanctions in the digital asset space. The firm, which issues the Kyrgyzstan-based stablecoin A7A5, had a prominent booth and was listed as a “platinum sponsor” at TOKEN2049 — a marquee industry gathering that drew more than 25,000 attendees and featured over 500 exhibitors. The event’s high-profile speakers included Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son of the US president, and Cantor Fitzgerald chairman Brandon Lutnick. TOKEN2049, launched in 2018, has become Asia’s largest digital asset event and a key venue for crypto companies seeking global exposure. This year’s edition hosted over 200 side events across Singapore’s Marina Bay area, drawing senior executives from Binance, Coinbase, and Tether. A7A5 was sanctioned in August by the US and UK alongside several related entities. Western authorities said the token was part of a network helping Russians skirt sanctions imposed after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. The stablecoin, launched in January by a Russian defense-linked bank and a payments company, is pegged to the rouble and marketed for international trade. According to the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), A7A5 is connected to JSCSPB Bank — a financial institution previously sanctioned for providing services to Russia’s military-industrial complex — and to a Kyrgyz payments processor acting as a proxy for Russian clients. The UK’s HM Treasury simultaneously blacklisted four associated shell firms for facilitating “financial channels for sanctioned Russian institutions.” By Thursday afternoon, references to A7A5 had vanished from TOKEN2049’s website and its representative, Oleg Ogienko, was no longer listed as a speaker after Reuters sought comment. The event’s Hong Kong-registered organizers did not respond to inquiries. Screenshots reviewed by Reuters showed A7A5’s logo displayed alongside sponsors such as OKX, Circle, and Animoca Brands before being removed from the conference website. Speaking on the sidelines, Ogienko confirmed A7A5 is part of the sanctioned group but insisted the token complies with Kyrgyz regulations. “We were sanctioned several times,” he said. “A7A5 has nothing to do with money laundering. We just applied for our participation, and the organizers confirmed it.” Ogienko previously served as a regulatory affairs director at Qiwi Bank, a Russian fintech company that lost its European licenses after 2022 sanctions. He has publicly argued that stablecoins like A7A5 are a “neutral” bridge for cross-border trade among emerging markets. The case highlights how sanctioned entities can still appear at international events hosted in jurisdictions outside Western reach. Neither Singapore nor Hong Kong has imposed restrictions on A7A5 or related companies. Legal experts said that US sanctions apply only when American persons or assets are involved. That said, Singapore’s Monetary Authority (MAS) requires foreign crypto firms to register for anti–money laundering compliance but has not formally restricted participation of sanctioned entities unless directly named under its own laws. Hong Kong, where TOKEN2049’s parent company is incorporated, follows similar rules under its virtual asset service provider (VASP) regime, which went into effect in June 2023. Since its launch, A7A5’s usage has surged. Blockchain analytics firm Elliptic estimated that $70.8 billion worth of A7A5 has changed hands, up from $40 billion in July, with daily transactions doubling over the past month. Reuters could not verify the source of the funds or their intended purpose. If accurate, that would make A7A5 one of the most actively traded rouble-linked assets in existence, rivaling trading volumes of some top-20 global stablecoins, according to CoinMarketCap data. Such volume spikes often occur through exchanges in Russia-friendly jurisdictions like the UAE, Turkey, and Kazakhstan, where oversight is lighter. Western sanctions, including the exclusion of major Russian banks from the SWIFT financial messaging system, have forced Moscow to seek alternative settlement methods. Ogienko said A7A5 is mainly used by Russian exporters and trading partners in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. “Many countries trade with Russia, and many of them use our stablecoin — billions of dollars are moving through it,” he said. Russia’s central bank has meanwhile been piloting the “digital rouble,” a central bank digital currency (CBDC) to reduce dependence on Western infrastructure. Officials said they view private stablecoins as complementary to state-backed solutions for cross-border payments. The Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, which issued the sanctions, and Britain’s finance ministry declined to comment. The incident reflects the challenges regulators face in policing cross-border crypto flows. Even as Western governments try to tighten controls on digital finance linked to sanctioned states, A7A5’s visibility in Singapore shows how global crypto events can still offer platforms to restricted entities. Such appearances risk normalizing sanctioned digital assets in the broader market, complicating enforcement and potentially undermining efforts to isolate Russia financially. “Once a token circulates beyond the US or EU jurisdiction, it becomes almost impossible to restrict without global coordination,” said a compliance officer at a European exchange. “That’s the loophole A7A5 is exploiting.”

US-listed spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) kicked off October — a month investors call “Uptober” — with their strongest inflows in nearly a year, reigniting optimism across digital asset markets. According to data from SoSoValue, spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted $3.24 billion in net inflows over the past week, just shy of their all-time weekly record of $3.38 billion set in late November 2024. The surge comes after a week of $902 million in outflows, marking a sharp turnaround as traders bet on a potential US rate cut that could lift risk assets. “Growing expectations of another US interest rate cut triggered a shift in sentiment,” said Iliya Kalchev, dispatch analyst at digital asset platform Nexo. “At current run-rates, Q4 flows could retire over 100,000 BTC from circulation — more than double new issuance.” He added that ETF buying was accelerating as long-term holders slowed distribution, giving Bitcoin a stronger base near key technical support levels. The renewed appetite for ETFs helped push Bitcoin above $123,000 on Friday, its highest price since mid-August, TradingView data shows. The move extends a rally that has seen Bitcoin rebound from the low $110,000 range over the past month, aided by steady institutional demand and a softening macro outlook. ETF Demand Fuels “Uptober” Momentum Historically, October has been one of Bitcoin’s best-performing months, averaging a 20% return, according to CoinGlass data. November ranks even higher at 46%, followed by modest gains in December. The pattern has earned the nickname “Uptober” among crypto investors, who see seasonal trends and liquidity returning after the summer lull. “Uptober is showing clear signs of an early-Q4 breakout in the crypto market, powered by ETF inflows, seasonal strength, and dovish macro conditions,” Kalchev said, calling ETFs the “clearest sentiment barometer” for the asset class. Charles Edwards, founder of Capriole Investments, told Cointelegraph at the Token2049 conference in Singapore that Bitcoin’s breakout above $120,000 could trigger a “very quick move” toward the $150,000 all-time high before the end of 2025. Focus Turns to Fed and Jobs Data Traders are now watching a series of macro catalysts that could determine whether the rally extends through October. These include a speech from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, the release of the latest Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) minutes, and the delayed US jobs report, which has been postponed due to the ongoing government shutdown — the first since 2018. Despite near-term uncertainty, analysts view the strong ETF inflows as a critical sign of returning institutional interest. If the current pace holds, Q4 could see ETFs absorb more Bitcoin than miners produce, tightening supply further. That dynamic — coupled with a potential rate cut and seasonal tailwinds — has revived bullish sentiment after a quiet late summer. As Kalchev put it, “ETF absorption is accelerating, and Uptober might just live up to its name.”

Sam Bankman-Fried says his “biggest mistake” during the collapse of FTX wasn’t mismanaging billions in customer funds — it was giving up control of the company just hours before a potential lifeline appeared. In an interview with Mother Jones published Friday, the disgraced founder of the once-$32 billion crypto exchange said handing over FTX to bankruptcy specialist John J. Ray III on November 11, 2022, cost him a last-minute deal that might have saved the exchange. “The single biggest mistake I made by far was handing the company over,” he said. Minutes after signing documents transferring control, Bankman-Fried claimed he received a call about an external investment that could have plugged the $8 billion hole in FTX’s balance sheet. By then, it was too late. Ray, recommended by law firm Sullivan & Cromwell, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy that same day and brought in the firm to handle the proceedings. Two days earlier, S&C attorney Andrew Dietderich had already proposed hiring Ray as chief restructuring officer “in a possible Chapter 11,” according to emails later made public. Bankman-Fried was arrested in the Bahamas a month later and extradited to the United States, where he was convicted on seven felony counts, including wire fraud and money laundering. He is now serving a 25-year prison sentence. The FTX meltdown, one of the largest financial failures in crypto history, stemmed from the misuse of customer deposits to cover losses at sister hedge fund Alameda Research. Prosecutors said billions in client funds were transferred without consent, a shortfall now known as the “Alameda gap.” Sullivan & Cromwell, now facing scrutiny over its role, earned more than $171 million in legal fees by June 2024 for its work on the bankruptcy, according to court filings cited by Reuters. A lawsuit filed in February 2024 by a group of FTX creditors accused the firm of aiding the fraud but was voluntarily dismissed later that year. Nearly three years after the implosion, the FTX estate has repaid $7.8 billion to creditors out of an estimated $16.5 billion in recovered assets. In February, it issued $1.2 billion in initial repayments, followed by $5 billion in May and another $1.6 billion in September, according to Sunil, a member of the FTX Customer Ad-Hoc Committee. The exchange plans to return at least 118% of the value owed to 98% of its customers as of November 2022 — a remarkable turnaround for a bankruptcy that once left investors fearing they’d lost everything. The collapse of FTX triggered a cascade of failures across the crypto industry, wiping out billions in market value and sending Bitcoin plunging to near $16,000. It remains a defining moment for digital asset regulation and one that continues to cast a long shadow over crypto’s credibility.

Artificial intelligence startups are raising unprecedented sums of venture capital, but some of the world’s biggest investors say valuations in the sector are running dangerously hot. Speaking at the Milken Institute Asia Summit in Singapore on Friday, Bryan Yeo, group chief investment officer at Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund GIC, said enthusiasm for early-stage AI deals has outpaced fundamentals. “There’s a little bit of a hype bubble going on in the early-stage venture space,” Yeo told the audience. “Any company startup with an AI label will be valued right up there at huge multiples of whatever the small revenue is. That might be fair for some companies and probably not for others.” The comment comes as global investors continue to funnel extraordinary sums into artificial intelligence. According to PitchBook, AI startups raised $73.1 billion in the first quarter of 2025, accounting for nearly 58% of all venture funding worldwide. Much of that total was driven by blockbuster transactions such as OpenAI’s $40 billion capital raising, which has helped fuel a rush by other investors eager not to be left behind. Yeo said the surge in spending on AI projects was feeding into a broader investment boom. “Market expectations could be way ahead of what the technology could deliver,” he said. “We’re seeing a major AI capex boom today. It is masking some of the potential weaknesses that might be going on in the economy.” The remarks highlight growing concern that the sector could be caught in a speculative cycle. While some AI companies are already generating meaningful revenues, others are attracting lofty valuations despite unproven business models. Todd Sisitsky, president of alternative asset manager TPG, said investor psychology was at risk of being driven more by fear of missing out than by fundamentals. “The fear of missing out is dangerous for investors,” he said, adding that views remain divided on whether AI has already entered bubble territory. Sisitsky noted that some AI firms are producing astonishing growth rates, hitting $100 million in revenue within months of launch. But he cautioned that others at an early stage were commanding valuations that looked detached from reality. “We’ve seen companies valued between $400 million and $1.2 billion per employee,” he said. “That was breathtaking.” The debate over whether AI is in bubble territory echoes earlier cycles in technology investment, from the dot-com era of the late 1990s to the more recent boom and bust in cryptocurrency ventures. For now, however, the money keeps flowing in, with global capital piling into everything from AI model developers to semiconductor suppliers and cloud infrastructure. For long-term investors like GIC, the question is whether the current enthusiasm will translate into lasting returns or if valuations will eventually need to be reset. “That might be fair for some companies,” Yeo said, “and probably not for others.”  

Valetax, a leading global provider of trading services, is proud to announce its participation as an Elite Sponsor at Forex Expo Dubai 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious financial events. The expo will take place on 6–7 October 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, drawing traders, partners, and industry experts from across the globe. As an Elite Sponsor, Valetax is set to make a remarkable impact at Booth No. 295, spanning two levels and offering visitors a vibrant and interactive experience. The company’s showcase will feature live sessions, exclusive giveaways, a robotic barista, and engaging activities designed to connect with traders and partners while highlighting Valetax’s vision of growth, collaboration, and client success. Adding to the excitement, Valetax will host two major speaking sessions, presented by Muhammed Hussin (Regional Head of Partnership MENA) and Kaza Jamal (Head of Educator, Global). Their talks will focus on market development, partnership strategies, and building long-term relationships that drive business growth across the MENA and Asia regions. “Forex Expo Dubai is one of the most significant events on the global trading calendar, and we are proud to be part of it this year,” said Viktor Karpinski, CEO of Valetax. “Our participation reflects our dedication to strengthening partnerships, supporting regional growth, and creating long-term value for traders and affiliates around the world. Dubai stands as a key financial hub, and this event allows us to build deeper relationships that carry our vision forward.” Prema, Chief Operating Officer at Valetax, added: “This is more than an event for us. It is an opportunity to engage directly with our global community. Our focus remains on listening, understanding, and collaborating with partners and traders to build sustainable success together.” The Valetax booth will serve as a central hub for collaboration and connection. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the company’s service offerings, speak with experts, and learn about its flexible account types, partner programs, and robust trading environment. The brand’s focus remains on helping traders and affiliates achieve measurable outcomes through stability, performance, and partnership-driven growth. With a presence in 15+ regions and a client base exceeding 300,000, Valetax provides access to over 100 trading instruments, including forex, commodities, indices, cryptocurrencies, and energies. Its versatile account types, comprehensive features, features, and client-first approach make Valetax a trusted partner for traders and institutions alike. Join Valetax on 6 and 7 October 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre to meet the team, participate in live sessions, and discover how Valetax continues to create success stories built on vision, strategy, and partnership. About Valetax Valetax is a global trading platform dedicated to providing clients worldwide with accessible, reliable, and transparent trading solutions. The platform offers a wide range of instruments, including forex, commodities, indices, cryptocurrencies, and energies, supported by flexible account options designed for varied trading needs. With a focus on stability, user confidence, and clear execution, Valetax ensures traders have the tools and support to meet their goals effectively. Built on a vision of growth through collaboration, Valetax emphasizes trust, service quality, and continuous improvement. Through consistent performance, dedicated customer support, and a global presence, the company remains focused on helping traders and partners achieve sustainable success while advancing its Legacy in Motion across international markets.