Author: dfmines

The decentralized finance (DeFi) landscape continues to evolve, and Bitcoin-centric solutions are gaining momentum. BTCFi is an emerging sector that transforms Bitcoin (BTC) from a passive store of value into an actively utilized asset in DeFi. A new report by Cointelegraph Research and Elastos delves into how Bitcoin’s security helps to create trustless, scalable financial ecosystems.Read a full version of the report hereBitcoin’s expanding role in DeFiDeFi has traditionally been dominated by Ethereum, which accounts for over 50% of the sector’s total $175 billion total value locked (TVL). However, Bitcoin’s strong security and liquidity make it an attractive foundation for DeFi innovation.Despite its strengths, Bitcoin’s lack of native smart contract functionality has historically limited its role in decentralized finance. The emergence of Bitcoin-centric DeFi solutions aims to bridge this gap and enable Bitcoin holders to participate in lending, stablecoin issuance and crosschain interoperability without custodial risks.Elastos: Leveraging Bitcoin’s security for decentralized applicationsElastos stands out as one of the leading players in this evolution by incorporating merged mining, a method that allows secondary blockchains to inherit Bitcoin’s security. Because approximately 50% of Bitcoin’s total 800 EH/s hashrate secures Elastos, the platform is positioned as one of the most computationally robust Bitcoin-linked networks. This ensures that financial applications built on Elastos maintain a level of security akin to that of Bitcoin itself.At the core of Elastos’ infrastructure is its Elastic Consensus model, a hybrid mechanism that integrates auxiliary proof-of-work, bonded proof-of-stake, and proof-of-integrity. This multi-layered approach enables Elastos to provide secure, scalable financial services and enhances its appeal for DeFi applications. The Elastos Smart Chain, an Ethereum Virtual Machine-compatible sidechain, facilitates the development of decentralized applications (DApps) to ensure seamless integration with the broader DeFi ecosystem.Read a full version of the report hereBeL2: A breakthrough for BTCFiA major highlight of the report is the BeL2 Arbiter Network, designed to bring trustless Bitcoin transactions into DeFi. BeL2 leverages zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) to verify Bitcoin transactions on the Elastos and Ethereum networks without relying on centralized custodians. This mechanism allows Bitcoin to be used in DeFi protocols without synthetic assets or intermediaries and addresses a long-standing challenge in BTCFi.This model has already attracted institutional interest. An initiative led by students and alumni of Harvard University is developing a BTC-backed stablecoin using BeL2. The platform also supports decentralized lending that allows Bitcoin holders to collateralize loans in stablecoins while retaining exposure to BTC’s price appreciation.Elastos’ market position and future potentialElastos’ BTCFi approach competes with established Bitcoin DeFi solutions such as Stacks and Rootstock. Stacks primarily benefits from Bitcoin finality, and Rootstock focuses on EVM compatibility, while Elastos distinguishes itself by combining high security (via merged mining) and crosschain interoperability. This positions Elastos as a formidable player in the BTCFi landscape.However, the report also identifies some challenges, such as regulatory uncertainties, ecosystem awareness and some technical complexities. Despite these hurdles, Elastos’ combination of Bitcoin security, trustless smart contract execution and institutional backing positions it for potential growth in the evolving BTCFi sector.Challenges and opportunities in Bitcoin DeFi adoptionAs the blockchain industry shifts toward crosschain interoperability and decentralized governance, Bitcoin-secured assets are expected to play an important role in reshaping both traditional and decentralized finance.Elastos’ innovations, particularly through BeL2 and its decentralized identity (DID) framework, aim to enhance the security, scalability and institutional adoption of Bitcoin in DeFi. With Bitcoin-secured finance projected to expand significantly, Elastos’ infrastructure provides a robust foundation for the next wave of decentralized financial applications.Read a full version of the report hereThis article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.Cointelegraph does not endorse the content of this article nor any product mentioned herein. Readers should do their own research before taking any action related to any product or company mentioned and carry full responsibility for their decisions.

The decentralized finance (DeFi) landscape continues to evolve, and Bitcoin-centric solutions are gaining momentum. BTCFi is an emerging sector that transforms Bitcoin (BTC) from a passive store of value into an actively utilized asset in DeFi. A new report by Cointelegraph Research and Elastos delves into how Bitcoin’s security helps to create trustless, scalable financial ecosystems.Read a full version of the report hereBitcoin’s expanding role in DeFiDeFi has traditionally been dominated by Ethereum, which accounts for over 50% of the sector’s total $175 billion total value locked (TVL). However, Bitcoin’s strong security and liquidity make it an attractive foundation for DeFi innovation.Despite its strengths, Bitcoin’s lack of native smart contract functionality has historically limited its role in decentralized finance. The emergence of Bitcoin-centric DeFi solutions aims to bridge this gap and enable Bitcoin holders to participate in lending, stablecoin issuance and crosschain interoperability without custodial risks.Elastos: Leveraging Bitcoin’s security for decentralized applicationsElastos stands out as one of the leading players in this evolution by incorporating merged mining, a method that allows secondary blockchains to inherit Bitcoin’s security. Because approximately 50% of Bitcoin’s total 800 EH/s hashrate secures Elastos, the platform is positioned as one of the most computationally robust Bitcoin-linked networks. This ensures that financial applications built on Elastos maintain a level of security akin to that of Bitcoin itself.At the core of Elastos’ infrastructure is its Elastic Consensus model, a hybrid mechanism that integrates auxiliary proof-of-work, bonded proof-of-stake, and proof-of-integrity. This multi-layered approach enables Elastos to provide secure, scalable financial services and enhances its appeal for DeFi applications. The Elastos Smart Chain, an Ethereum Virtual Machine-compatible sidechain, facilitates the development of decentralized applications (DApps) to ensure seamless integration with the broader DeFi ecosystem.Read a full version of the report hereBeL2: A breakthrough for BTCFiA major highlight of the report is the BeL2 Arbiter Network, designed to bring trustless Bitcoin transactions into DeFi. BeL2 leverages zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) to verify Bitcoin transactions on the Elastos and Ethereum networks without relying on centralized custodians. This mechanism allows Bitcoin to be used in DeFi protocols without synthetic assets or intermediaries and addresses a long-standing challenge in BTCFi.This model has already attracted institutional interest. An initiative led by students and alumni of Harvard University is developing a BTC-backed stablecoin using BeL2. The platform also supports decentralized lending that allows Bitcoin holders to collateralize loans in stablecoins while retaining exposure to BTC’s price appreciation.Elastos’ market position and future potentialElastos’ BTCFi approach competes with established Bitcoin DeFi solutions such as Stacks and Rootstock. Stacks primarily benefits from Bitcoin finality, and Rootstock focuses on EVM compatibility, while Elastos distinguishes itself by combining high security (via merged mining) and crosschain interoperability. This positions Elastos as a formidable player in the BTCFi landscape.However, the report also identifies some challenges, such as regulatory uncertainties, ecosystem awareness and some technical complexities. Despite these hurdles, Elastos’ combination of Bitcoin security, trustless smart contract execution and institutional backing positions it for potential growth in the evolving BTCFi sector.Challenges and opportunities in Bitcoin DeFi adoptionAs the blockchain industry shifts toward crosschain interoperability and decentralized governance, Bitcoin-secured assets are expected to play an important role in reshaping both traditional and decentralized finance.Elastos’ innovations, particularly through BeL2 and its decentralized identity (DID) framework, aim to enhance the security, scalability and institutional adoption of Bitcoin in DeFi. With Bitcoin-secured finance projected to expand significantly, Elastos’ infrastructure provides a robust foundation for the next wave of decentralized financial applications.Read a full version of the report hereThis article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.Cointelegraph does not endorse the content of this article nor any product mentioned herein. Readers should do their own research before taking any action related to any product or company mentioned and carry full responsibility for their decisions.

The decentralized finance (DeFi) landscape continues to evolve, and Bitcoin-centric solutions are gaining momentum. BTCFi is an emerging sector that transforms Bitcoin (BTC) from a passive store of value into an actively utilized asset in DeFi. A new report by Cointelegraph Research and Elastos delves into how Bitcoin’s security helps to create trustless, scalable financial ecosystems.Read a full version of the report hereBitcoin’s expanding role in DeFiDeFi has traditionally been dominated by Ethereum, which accounts for over 50% of the sector’s total $175 billion total value locked (TVL). However, Bitcoin’s strong security and liquidity make it an attractive foundation for DeFi innovation.Despite its strengths, Bitcoin’s lack of native smart contract functionality has historically limited its role in decentralized finance. The emergence of Bitcoin-centric DeFi solutions aims to bridge this gap and enable Bitcoin holders to participate in lending, stablecoin issuance and crosschain interoperability without custodial risks.Elastos: Leveraging Bitcoin’s security for decentralized applicationsElastos stands out as one of the leading players in this evolution by incorporating merged mining, a method that allows secondary blockchains to inherit Bitcoin’s security. Because approximately 50% of Bitcoin’s total 800 EH/s hashrate secures Elastos, the platform is positioned as one of the most computationally robust Bitcoin-linked networks. This ensures that financial applications built on Elastos maintain a level of security akin to that of Bitcoin itself.At the core of Elastos’ infrastructure is its Elastic Consensus model, a hybrid mechanism that integrates auxiliary proof-of-work, bonded proof-of-stake, and proof-of-integrity. This multi-layered approach enables Elastos to provide secure, scalable financial services and enhances its appeal for DeFi applications. The Elastos Smart Chain, an Ethereum Virtual Machine-compatible sidechain, facilitates the development of decentralized applications (DApps) to ensure seamless integration with the broader DeFi ecosystem.Read a full version of the report hereBeL2: A breakthrough for BTCFiA major highlight of the report is the BeL2 Arbiter Network, designed to bring trustless Bitcoin transactions into DeFi. BeL2 leverages zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) to verify Bitcoin transactions on the Elastos and Ethereum networks without relying on centralized custodians. This mechanism allows Bitcoin to be used in DeFi protocols without synthetic assets or intermediaries and addresses a long-standing challenge in BTCFi.This model has already attracted institutional interest. An initiative led by students and alumni of Harvard University is developing a BTC-backed stablecoin using BeL2. The platform also supports decentralized lending that allows Bitcoin holders to collateralize loans in stablecoins while retaining exposure to BTC’s price appreciation.Elastos’ market position and future potentialElastos’ BTCFi approach competes with established Bitcoin DeFi solutions such as Stacks and Rootstock. Stacks primarily benefits from Bitcoin finality, and Rootstock focuses on EVM compatibility, while Elastos distinguishes itself by combining high security (via merged mining) and crosschain interoperability. This positions Elastos as a formidable player in the BTCFi landscape.However, the report also identifies some challenges, such as regulatory uncertainties, ecosystem awareness and some technical complexities. Despite these hurdles, Elastos’ combination of Bitcoin security, trustless smart contract execution and institutional backing positions it for potential growth in the evolving BTCFi sector.Challenges and opportunities in Bitcoin DeFi adoptionAs the blockchain industry shifts toward crosschain interoperability and decentralized governance, Bitcoin-secured assets are expected to play an important role in reshaping both traditional and decentralized finance.Elastos’ innovations, particularly through BeL2 and its decentralized identity (DID) framework, aim to enhance the security, scalability and institutional adoption of Bitcoin in DeFi. With Bitcoin-secured finance projected to expand significantly, Elastos’ infrastructure provides a robust foundation for the next wave of decentralized financial applications.Read a full version of the report hereThis article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.Cointelegraph does not endorse the content of this article nor any product mentioned herein. Readers should do their own research before taking any action related to any product or company mentioned and carry full responsibility for their decisions.

Crypto analyst MadWhale has raised the possibility of the XRP price experiencing a breakdown below the crucial $2 support level. The analyst also revealed the next major support if XRP drops below this support level.  XRP Price Could Drop To $1.90 If It Loses $2 Support In a TradingView post, MadWhale predicted that the XRP price could drop to the major support at $1.90 if it loses the psychological $2 level. He noted that XRP has demonstrated a classic triple-top formation, with each successive peak showing weaker momentum. In line with this, the analyst asserted that a break below the 42 threshold appears imminent as XRP nears a formidable resistance zone.  Related Reading: XRP Price Retraces Gains From Sunday Rally, This Important Support Level Could Be The Defining Factor MadWhale further stated that the downward move is expected to extend to at least $1.9, representing an 18% decline. The analyst added that such a price decline aligns with the primary target and a key daily support level. Crypto analyst Ali Martinez had also suggested that XRP could drop to as low as $1.2 if it loses the $2 support.  The analyst revealed that the XRP price was forming a head-and-shoulders pattern on the weekly chart, which puts the $2 support level in the spotlight. His accompanying chart showed that the crypto could drop to $1.2 if it breaks below $2. However, despite this bearish outlook, other crypto analysts, such as Egrag Crypto, have highlighted some positive aspects of the XRP price.  Egrag Crypto stated that the XRP price’s dominance was showing tremendous strength and predicted that if it successfully closed above Fib 0.5, it could soon rally to the Fib 0.888 level. Crypto analyst Dark Defender predicted that XRP could rally to a new all-time high (ATH) if it continues to hold the crucial support levels at $2.04 and $2.22. The Altcoin Still In Waiting Mode Crypto analyst CasiTrades stated that the XRP price is holding strong but is still in waiting mode. She added that the bullish structure remains intact, with the altcoin holding above $2.26, which is the key .382 retracement support. The analyst noted that XRP’s price has spent some time flipping the consolidation to support, indicating that markets are setting up for the next move. Related Reading: Analyst Shares Upper And Lower Targets For XRP Price The crypto analyst revealed the $2.70 and $3.05 resistance levels and $2.25 support level as the key levels to watch. She remarked that the XRP price needs to flip $2.70 and $3.05 to become support for the confirmation of the next wave up. Meanwhile, CasiTrades suggested that XRP risks dropping to as low as $1.54 if it loses the lower support support at $1.90.  The crypto analyst also mentioned that the price needs to break above $3.40, its current ATH, to confirm a new trend. Until then, the wait for signs of confirmation continues, which she claimed may not be obvious until wave 3 in the market cycle. CasiTrades asserted that key Fib levels have been breached, and the market is on the edge of a breakout.  At the time of writing, the XRP price is trading at around $2.29, down over 2% in the last 24 hours, according to data from CoinMarketCap. Featured image from Medium, chart from Tradingview.com

Australian crypto broker Swyftx is set to acquire New Zealand crypto exchange Easy Crypto, with one of the CEOs nodding at positive crypto policy changes in the United States. Swyftx CEO Jason Titman said in a March 19 statement that they see “Trump’s policy messaging around crypto as a tailwind” for this deal. He told Cointelegraph that Swyftx’s deal with Easy Crypto was underway before Trump was elected, but now we are on “the cusp of sensible regulation in the US” that will bring liquidity and put pressure on other governments to legislate.“Everyone is so focused on tariffs that they’re skipping the argument that good things are on the horizon for crypto,” Titman said.“The environment for dealmaking is about to improve exponentially, and there is no question that money will move. This deal may be the first, but it won’t be the last.”Following Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, some changes in the crypto industry have included several pro-crypto executives in top regulatory roles and a shift in crypto stance by the country’s securities regulator.Titman says the crypto industry has endured a lean few years for mergers and acquisitions activity, partly because crypto CEOs were unwilling to “take the regulatory risk” they saw during the Biden administration.“This hesitation has extended to other markets where regulators have sat on the fence and shown a lack of commitment to introducing clear legislation that supports blockchain and digital assets,” he said.“We expect dealmaking to increase over the next few quarters and then stay elevated after that. Political administrations come and go, but rules tend to have a longer shelf life and that gives businesses the certainty they need to invest.”Swyftx and Easy Crypto will continue to operate as separate platforms following the March 31 acquisition while the teams plan for their integration.Related: Australian regulator’s ‘blitz’ hits crypto exchanges, money remittersThe new business will have a combined workforce of just under 200 employees and operate out of Brisbane, Australia, according to Swyftx and Easy Crypto.Janine Grainger, co-founder and CEO of Easy Crypto, told Cointelegraph that the acquisition is a “natural fit” and would create a new oceanic heavyweight to rival crypto incumbents.“The crypto market has changed rapidly in the last four years. As the market has matured, there has been a trend of the market consolidating and strong regional and global players emerging,” she said.An August 2024 Swyftx survey estimates there are 3.9 million Australians who own crypto out of a population of 26 million. Meanwhile, research by Web3 consumer research firm Protocol Theory, in partnership with Easy Crypto, estimates almost 50% of New Zealand’s 5.2 million population are either current crypto investors or are considering investing in the future.An estimated 3.9 million Australians currently own cryptocurrency, compared to 4.5 million in 2023. Source: SwyftxIn comparison, the US Fed estimates roughly 18 million people in America own or use crypto.Grainger says there “is increasing interest in leveraging our industry” to help drive economic growth amid strong support for the industry in New Zealand.   “There is strong support for crypto locally — close to 50% of New Zealanders own, have owned or are considering future investment into crypto,” she said.“The region is undergoing increasing levels of regulation, which will help to drive trust, much like other regions.” Magazine: CryCrypto fans are obsessed with longevity and biohacking: Here’s why

Opinion by: Simon McLoughlin, CEO at Uphold2021 witnessed a fintech investment boom, with startups raising approximately $229 billion globally. Higher interest rates and tighter economic circumstances have since tempered that exuberance, but funds continue to pile into the sector. Indeed, the global fintech sector is expected to see a rebound in investment activity throughout 2025.Why are investors continuing to bet big on this sector? The answer is simple. The current international finance system is in urgent need of modernization. Built for a pre-internet age, it relies on outdated processes, chains of intermediaries and a patchwork of non-standard regulations. An aging and expensive systemTake SWIFT as a case in point. Founded in 1973, SWIFT remains the backbone of cross-border payments. SWIFT is nothing more than a messaging system that enables banks to communicate around transactions. It was never designed to manage funds or process transactions. As a result, a “make do and mend” approach has grown around international payments, characterized by a proliferation of intermediaries and local payment rails.This antiquated, fragmented system creates significant friction in cross-border transactions, leading to delays, high costs and limited choice for individuals and businesses outside major economic blocs. Fees for international payments currently average 1.5% for businesses and all the way up to 6.3% for remittances. Payments can take up to several days to reach recipients.This system hinders global commerce and exacerbates financial exclusion, particularly in the global south, where volatile local currencies and limited access to traditional banking services are common.Many of these friction points could be resolved by stablecoins, making transferring money across borders as easy as sending an email. Indeed, the blockchain-based currency has the potential to revolutionize global finance. Democratizing access to fiat currenciesFor people in countries with volatile economies or unstable governments, stablecoins offer a safe haven for savings. Stablecoins pegged 1:1 to a fiat currency such as the US dollar provide consumers in these regions with a way to escape their national financial system with a trustworthy and transparent alternative that protects them from inflation and currency devaluation. This is particularly important in the global south, where economic instability can erode the value of hard-earned income and savings. According to UBS, consumers in developing countries are also attracted to stablecoins due to the lower risk of government interference with the currency. The wealth management firm believes stablecoins are increasingly seen as “digital dollars” and used for everything from savings to transactions to remittances in these regions. Empowering small businesses and freelancersStablecoins can significantly reduce the costs and complexities associated with international payments, enabling small businesses and freelancers to participate in the global marketplace on a more level playing field. This opens up new opportunities for entrepreneurship and economic growth in developing countries.Recent: Dubai recognizes USDC, EURC as first stablecoins under token regimeIn our current payment system, physical money does not cross borders — only information does. A payroll company looking to pay a freelancer in a third country cannot do so directly and must use systems like Stripe, which uses virtual bank accounts to get around the problem.With stablecoins, payroll companies can pay in any currency to any currency, using crypto on- and off-ramps to facilitate the payment. The business pays in dollars, for example, which is on-ramped to Tether’s USDt (USDT) and sent to the freelancer’s digital wallet, where they can either keep it or off-ramp it to their local currency. Stablecoins will prove to be, and are, a vital tool in helping businesses access global talent and fill their skills gaps. Facilitating financial inclusionThrough offering an alternative to traditional banking systems, stablecoins also provide financial services to the unbanked and underbanked populations. This can be particularly transformative in regions with limited access to traditional financial infrastructure or in countries like Argentina, where there is low confidence in the national monetary system. According to the Bank for International Settlements, stablecoins can enable a wide range of payments and provide a gateway to other financial services, replicating the role of transaction accounts as a stepping stone to broader financial inclusion. Given their ability to provide access to financial services anywhere with an internet connection, stablecoins are seeing explosive growth in emerging markets. Use cases are expanding rapidly across Africa, Latin America, and parts of developing Asia, where they are being used to hedge against inflation, for remittances and cross-border payments, and as a simpler alternative to US dollar banking. This growth trajectory can be expected to continue in the years ahead. A shot in the arm for global businessStablecoins are rapidly rising in popularity and already total more than $233 billion in market capitalization, while transaction volumes in 2024 reached $15.6 trillion, surpassing those of Visa. In an increasingly uncertain world, they offer a stable, low-cost and rapid means of transferring money across borders, helping to increase financial inclusion and smooth access to global talent for employers. Stablecoins are a digital-first financial tool for a digital-first world and are ideally suited to replacing the current archaic international payments system. Opinion by: Simon McLoughlin, CEO at UpholdThis article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.

Australian crypto broker Swyftx is set to acquire New Zealand crypto exchange Easy Crypto, with one of the CEOs nodding at positive crypto policy changes in the United States. Swyftx CEO Jason Titman said in a March 19 statement that they see “Trump’s policy messaging around crypto as a tailwind” for this deal. He told Cointelegraph that Swyftx’s deal with Easy Crypto was underway before Trump was elected, but now we are on “the cusp of sensible regulation in the US” that will bring liquidity and put pressure on other governments to legislate.“Everyone is so focused on tariffs that they’re skipping the argument that good things are on the horizon for crypto,” Titman said.“The environment for dealmaking is about to improve exponentially, and there is no question that money will move. This deal may be the first, but it won’t be the last.”Following Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, some changes in the crypto industry have included several pro-crypto executives in top regulatory roles and a shift in crypto stance by the country’s securities regulator.Titman says the crypto industry has endured a lean few years for mergers and acquisitions activity, partly because crypto CEOs were unwilling to “take the regulatory risk” they saw during the Biden administration.“This hesitation has extended to other markets where regulators have sat on the fence and shown a lack of commitment to introducing clear legislation that supports blockchain and digital assets,” he said.“We expect dealmaking to increase over the next few quarters and then stay elevated after that. Political administrations come and go, but rules tend to have a longer shelf life and that gives businesses the certainty they need to invest.”Swyftx and Easy Crypto will continue to operate as separate platforms following the March 31 acquisition while the teams plan for their integration.Related: Australian regulator’s ‘blitz’ hits crypto exchanges, money remittersThe new business will have a combined workforce of just under 200 employees and operate out of Brisbane, Australia, according to Swyftx and Easy Crypto.Janine Grainger, co-founder and CEO of Easy Crypto, told Cointelegraph that the acquisition is a “natural fit” and would create a new oceanic heavyweight to rival crypto incumbents.“The crypto market has changed rapidly in the last four years. As the market has matured, there has been a trend of the market consolidating and strong regional and global players emerging,” she said.An August 2024 Swyftx survey estimates there are 3.9 million Australians who own crypto out of a population of 26 million. Meanwhile, research by Web3 consumer research firm Protocol Theory, in partnership with Easy Crypto, estimates almost 50% of New Zealand’s 5.2 million population are either current crypto investors or are considering investing in the future.An estimated 3.9 million Australians currently own cryptocurrency, compared to 4.5 million in 2023. Source: SwyftxIn comparison, the US Fed estimates roughly 18 million people in America own or use crypto.Grainger says there “is increasing interest in leveraging our industry” to help drive economic growth amid strong support for the industry in New Zealand.   “There is strong support for crypto locally — close to 50% of New Zealanders own, have owned or are considering future investment into crypto,” she said.“The region is undergoing increasing levels of regulation, which will help to drive trust, much like other regions.” Magazine: CryCrypto fans are obsessed with longevity and biohacking: Here’s why

Opinion by: Simon McLoughlin, CEO at Uphold2021 witnessed a fintech investment boom, with startups raising approximately $229 billion globally. Higher interest rates and tighter economic circumstances have since tempered that exuberance, but funds continue to pile into the sector. Indeed, the global fintech sector is expected to see a rebound in investment activity throughout 2025.Why are investors continuing to bet big on this sector? The answer is simple. The current international finance system is in urgent need of modernization. Built for a pre-internet age, it relies on outdated processes, chains of intermediaries and a patchwork of non-standard regulations. An aging and expensive systemTake SWIFT as a case in point. Founded in 1973, SWIFT remains the backbone of cross-border payments. SWIFT is nothing more than a messaging system that enables banks to communicate around transactions. It was never designed to manage funds or process transactions. As a result, a “make do and mend” approach has grown around international payments, characterized by a proliferation of intermediaries and local payment rails.This antiquated, fragmented system creates significant friction in cross-border transactions, leading to delays, high costs and limited choice for individuals and businesses outside major economic blocs. Fees for international payments currently average 1.5% for businesses and all the way up to 6.3% for remittances. Payments can take up to several days to reach recipients.This system hinders global commerce and exacerbates financial exclusion, particularly in the global south, where volatile local currencies and limited access to traditional banking services are common.Many of these friction points could be resolved by stablecoins, making transferring money across borders as easy as sending an email. Indeed, the blockchain-based currency has the potential to revolutionize global finance. Democratizing access to fiat currenciesFor people in countries with volatile economies or unstable governments, stablecoins offer a safe haven for savings. Stablecoins pegged 1:1 to a fiat currency such as the US dollar provide consumers in these regions with a way to escape their national financial system with a trustworthy and transparent alternative that protects them from inflation and currency devaluation. This is particularly important in the global south, where economic instability can erode the value of hard-earned income and savings. According to UBS, consumers in developing countries are also attracted to stablecoins due to the lower risk of government interference with the currency. The wealth management firm believes stablecoins are increasingly seen as “digital dollars” and used for everything from savings to transactions to remittances in these regions. Empowering small businesses and freelancersStablecoins can significantly reduce the costs and complexities associated with international payments, enabling small businesses and freelancers to participate in the global marketplace on a more level playing field. This opens up new opportunities for entrepreneurship and economic growth in developing countries.Recent: Dubai recognizes USDC, EURC as first stablecoins under token regimeIn our current payment system, physical money does not cross borders — only information does. A payroll company looking to pay a freelancer in a third country cannot do so directly and must use systems like Stripe, which uses virtual bank accounts to get around the problem.With stablecoins, payroll companies can pay in any currency to any currency, using crypto on- and off-ramps to facilitate the payment. The business pays in dollars, for example, which is on-ramped to Tether’s USDt (USDT) and sent to the freelancer’s digital wallet, where they can either keep it or off-ramp it to their local currency. Stablecoins will prove to be, and are, a vital tool in helping businesses access global talent and fill their skills gaps. Facilitating financial inclusionThrough offering an alternative to traditional banking systems, stablecoins also provide financial services to the unbanked and underbanked populations. This can be particularly transformative in regions with limited access to traditional financial infrastructure or in countries like Argentina, where there is low confidence in the national monetary system. According to the Bank for International Settlements, stablecoins can enable a wide range of payments and provide a gateway to other financial services, replicating the role of transaction accounts as a stepping stone to broader financial inclusion. Given their ability to provide access to financial services anywhere with an internet connection, stablecoins are seeing explosive growth in emerging markets. Use cases are expanding rapidly across Africa, Latin America, and parts of developing Asia, where they are being used to hedge against inflation, for remittances and cross-border payments, and as a simpler alternative to US dollar banking. This growth trajectory can be expected to continue in the years ahead. A shot in the arm for global businessStablecoins are rapidly rising in popularity and already total more than $233 billion in market capitalization, while transaction volumes in 2024 reached $15.6 trillion, surpassing those of Visa. In an increasingly uncertain world, they offer a stable, low-cost and rapid means of transferring money across borders, helping to increase financial inclusion and smooth access to global talent for employers. Stablecoins are a digital-first financial tool for a digital-first world and are ideally suited to replacing the current archaic international payments system. Opinion by: Simon McLoughlin, CEO at UpholdThis article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.

Australian crypto broker Swyftx is set to acquire New Zealand crypto exchange Easy Crypto, with one of the CEOs nodding at positive crypto policy changes in the United States. Swyftx CEO Jason Titman said in a March 19 statement that they see “Trump’s policy messaging around crypto as a tailwind” for this deal. He told Cointelegraph that Swyftx’s deal with Easy Crypto was underway before Trump was elected, but now we are on “the cusp of sensible regulation in the US” that will bring liquidity and put pressure on other governments to legislate.“Everyone is so focused on tariffs that they’re skipping the argument that good things are on the horizon for crypto,” Titman said.“The environment for dealmaking is about to improve exponentially, and there is no question that money will move. This deal may be the first, but it won’t be the last.”Following Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, some changes in the crypto industry have included several pro-crypto executives in top regulatory roles and a shift in crypto stance by the country’s securities regulator.Titman says the crypto industry has endured a lean few years for mergers and acquisitions activity, partly because crypto CEOs were unwilling to “take the regulatory risk” they saw during the Biden administration.“This hesitation has extended to other markets where regulators have sat on the fence and shown a lack of commitment to introducing clear legislation that supports blockchain and digital assets,” he said.“We expect dealmaking to increase over the next few quarters and then stay elevated after that. Political administrations come and go, but rules tend to have a longer shelf life and that gives businesses the certainty they need to invest.”Swyftx and Easy Crypto will continue to operate as separate platforms following the March 31 acquisition while the teams plan for their integration.Related: Australian regulator’s ‘blitz’ hits crypto exchanges, money remittersThe new business will have a combined workforce of just under 200 employees and operate out of Brisbane, Australia, according to Swyftx and Easy Crypto.Janine Grainger, co-founder and CEO of Easy Crypto, told Cointelegraph that the acquisition is a “natural fit” and would create a new oceanic heavyweight to rival crypto incumbents.“The crypto market has changed rapidly in the last four years. As the market has matured, there has been a trend of the market consolidating and strong regional and global players emerging,” she said.An August 2024 Swyftx survey estimates there are 3.9 million Australians who own crypto out of a population of 26 million. Meanwhile, research by Web3 consumer research firm Protocol Theory, in partnership with Easy Crypto, estimates almost 50% of New Zealand’s 5.2 million population are either current crypto investors or are considering investing in the future.An estimated 3.9 million Australians currently own cryptocurrency, compared to 4.5 million in 2023. Source: SwyftxIn comparison, the US Fed estimates roughly 18 million people in America own or use crypto.Grainger says there “is increasing interest in leveraging our industry” to help drive economic growth amid strong support for the industry in New Zealand.   “There is strong support for crypto locally — close to 50% of New Zealanders own, have owned or are considering future investment into crypto,” she said.“The region is undergoing increasing levels of regulation, which will help to drive trust, much like other regions.” Magazine: CryCrypto fans are obsessed with longevity and biohacking: Here’s why

Opinion by: Simon McLoughlin, CEO at Uphold2021 witnessed a fintech investment boom, with startups raising approximately $229 billion globally. Higher interest rates and tighter economic circumstances have since tempered that exuberance, but funds continue to pile into the sector. Indeed, the global fintech sector is expected to see a rebound in investment activity throughout 2025.Why are investors continuing to bet big on this sector? The answer is simple. The current international finance system is in urgent need of modernization. Built for a pre-internet age, it relies on outdated processes, chains of intermediaries and a patchwork of non-standard regulations. An aging and expensive systemTake SWIFT as a case in point. Founded in 1973, SWIFT remains the backbone of cross-border payments. SWIFT is nothing more than a messaging system that enables banks to communicate around transactions. It was never designed to manage funds or process transactions. As a result, a “make do and mend” approach has grown around international payments, characterized by a proliferation of intermediaries and local payment rails.This antiquated, fragmented system creates significant friction in cross-border transactions, leading to delays, high costs and limited choice for individuals and businesses outside major economic blocs. Fees for international payments currently average 1.5% for businesses and all the way up to 6.3% for remittances. Payments can take up to several days to reach recipients.This system hinders global commerce and exacerbates financial exclusion, particularly in the global south, where volatile local currencies and limited access to traditional banking services are common.Many of these friction points could be resolved by stablecoins, making transferring money across borders as easy as sending an email. Indeed, the blockchain-based currency has the potential to revolutionize global finance. Democratizing access to fiat currenciesFor people in countries with volatile economies or unstable governments, stablecoins offer a safe haven for savings. Stablecoins pegged 1:1 to a fiat currency such as the US dollar provide consumers in these regions with a way to escape their national financial system with a trustworthy and transparent alternative that protects them from inflation and currency devaluation. This is particularly important in the global south, where economic instability can erode the value of hard-earned income and savings. According to UBS, consumers in developing countries are also attracted to stablecoins due to the lower risk of government interference with the currency. The wealth management firm believes stablecoins are increasingly seen as “digital dollars” and used for everything from savings to transactions to remittances in these regions. Empowering small businesses and freelancersStablecoins can significantly reduce the costs and complexities associated with international payments, enabling small businesses and freelancers to participate in the global marketplace on a more level playing field. This opens up new opportunities for entrepreneurship and economic growth in developing countries.Recent: Dubai recognizes USDC, EURC as first stablecoins under token regimeIn our current payment system, physical money does not cross borders — only information does. A payroll company looking to pay a freelancer in a third country cannot do so directly and must use systems like Stripe, which uses virtual bank accounts to get around the problem.With stablecoins, payroll companies can pay in any currency to any currency, using crypto on- and off-ramps to facilitate the payment. The business pays in dollars, for example, which is on-ramped to Tether’s USDt (USDT) and sent to the freelancer’s digital wallet, where they can either keep it or off-ramp it to their local currency. Stablecoins will prove to be, and are, a vital tool in helping businesses access global talent and fill their skills gaps. Facilitating financial inclusionThrough offering an alternative to traditional banking systems, stablecoins also provide financial services to the unbanked and underbanked populations. This can be particularly transformative in regions with limited access to traditional financial infrastructure or in countries like Argentina, where there is low confidence in the national monetary system. According to the Bank for International Settlements, stablecoins can enable a wide range of payments and provide a gateway to other financial services, replicating the role of transaction accounts as a stepping stone to broader financial inclusion. Given their ability to provide access to financial services anywhere with an internet connection, stablecoins are seeing explosive growth in emerging markets. Use cases are expanding rapidly across Africa, Latin America, and parts of developing Asia, where they are being used to hedge against inflation, for remittances and cross-border payments, and as a simpler alternative to US dollar banking. This growth trajectory can be expected to continue in the years ahead. A shot in the arm for global businessStablecoins are rapidly rising in popularity and already total more than $233 billion in market capitalization, while transaction volumes in 2024 reached $15.6 trillion, surpassing those of Visa. In an increasingly uncertain world, they offer a stable, low-cost and rapid means of transferring money across borders, helping to increase financial inclusion and smooth access to global talent for employers. Stablecoins are a digital-first financial tool for a digital-first world and are ideally suited to replacing the current archaic international payments system. Opinion by: Simon McLoughlin, CEO at UpholdThis article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.