Connect with us
Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025 (25-26 March)

Fintech

CoinSmart Announces Public Listing on NEO Exchange; Trading Begins Today Under Symbol “SMRT”

Published

on

Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – November 2, 2021) – CoinSmart Financial Inc. (NEO: SMRT) (“CoinSmart” or the “Company”) the online crypto asset trading platform that makes the buying, selling, and holding of crypto assets accessible and safe for all Canadians, is pleased to announce that the Company’s common shares (the “Common Shares”) will commence trading today on the Neo Exchange Inc. (the “NEO Exchange”), under the ticker symbol “SMRT“.

Today’s listing on the NEO Exchange follows the Ontario Securities Commission registration of its wholly-owned operating subsidiary Simply Digital Technologies Inc. as a restricted dealer under securities laws across Canada.

CoinSmart is now one of only a handful of Canadian-based crypto asset trading platforms to be fully-regulated and publicly traded. Founded in 2018, CoinSmart has provided the most accessible platform to buy and sell crypto assets in Canada, offering a selection of the most popular cryptocurrencies through an intuitive, easy to use platform that offers trading features for both novice and experienced traders. With a global presence in over 40 countries, CoinSmart also includes a simple fiat on-ramp, powerful security, and 24/7 online client support.

“This is an exciting day for CoinSmart and for the broader digital asset industry in Canada,” said Justin Hartzman, Chief Executive Officer of CoinSmart. “We have been on a mission to provide Canadians with the easiest, accessible platform to buy and sell digital assets in Canada and have been ecstatic at the 99% satisfaction rate from our over 120,000 users(1). Our listing is a pivotal moment for CoinSmart as we look to further accelerate our growth in Canada’s digital asset market and continue to expand our operations into new jurisdictions in the future. CoinSmart will continue its regulatory-first approach as we continue to work hand-in-hand with our regulatory partners around the world.”

CoinSmart has demonstrated robust growth with a user base of 121,859 clients and year-to-date revenues of C$7.3M already doubling 2020 total revenue of C$3.6M. With unit economics reported at 8:1, CoinSmart is poised to continue demonstrating strong growth as a leading crypto asset trading platform(1).

Investors can trade shares of SMRT through their usual investment channels including discount brokerage platforms and full-service dealers.

RSU Issuances

CoinSmart is pleased to announce the issuance of 615,000 restricted share units (“RSUs“) to employees, directors and consultants pursuant to CoinSmart’s omnibus long term incentive plan (the “Incentive Plan“). The RSUs are subject to various vesting schedules from the date of issuance and shall grant the holder the ability to acquire one Common Share of CoinSmart underlying each such RSU by delivering a notice of acquisition to CoinSmart in accordance with the Incentive Plan. In accordance with the Incentive Plan, the RSUs were priced at C$1.00 based on the opening price of the Common Shares on the NEO Exchange on November 2, 2021.

Integral Wealth Securities Limited

CoinSmart also announces that it has retained Integral Wealth Securities Limited (“Integral“) to provide market making services in accordance with the policies of the NEO Exchange, for the purposes of maintaining an orderly market and improving the liquidity of the Company’s Common Shares traded on the NEO Exchange.

Advertisement

In consideration of the services provided by Integral, CoinSmart will pay Integral a monthly cash fee of C$7,500, plus any reasonable costs and expenses it incurs in connection with the services provided. CoinSmart has retained Integral for no less than a three-month term. Integral will not receive any securities of CoinSmart as compensation pursuant to the agreement. CoinSmart and Integral are unrelated and unaffiliated entities. Integral does not currently own any securities of CoinSmart. However, Integral and its clients may acquire a direct interest in the securities of the Company.

Early Warning Report Disclosure

In connection with a three-cornered amalgamation completed on October 27, 2021 amongst CoinSmart (formerly, Mesa Exploration Corp. (“Mesa“)), Simply Digital Technologies Inc. and 12553562 Canada Inc. (the “Transaction“), Justin Hartzman, the President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of CoinSmart, has acquired ownership and control over 8,920,241 Common Shares and 316,664 options of CoinSmart pursuant to the Transaction. Prior to the completion of the Transaction, Mr. Hartzman did not hold any securities in the capital of Mesa. Mr. Hartzman holds approximately 15.3% of the outstanding Common Shares of CoinSmart on a non-diluted basis and 14.3% of the outstanding Common Shares of CoinSmart on a fully diluted and converted basis.

Jeremy Koven, the Chief Operating Officer, Secretary and Director of CoinSmart, has acquired ownership and control over 8,920,241 Common Shares and 316,664 options of CoinSmart pursuant to the Transaction. Prior to the completion of the Transaction, Mr. Koven did not hold any securities in the capital of Mesa. In the aggregate, Mr. Koven holds approximately 15.3% of the outstanding Common Shares of CoinSmart on a non-diluted basis and 14.3% of the outstanding Common Shares of CoinSmart on a fully diluted and converted basis.

Michael Koral, the Chief Business Officer of CoinSmart, has acquired ownership and control over 8,920,241 Common Shares and 316,664 options of CoinSmart pursuant to the Transaction. Prior to the completion of the Transaction, Mr. Koral did not hold any securities in the capital of Mesa. In the aggregate, Mr. Koral holds approximately 15.3% of the outstanding Common Shares of CoinSmart on a non-diluted basis and 14.3% of the outstanding Common Shares of CoinSmart on a fully diluted and converted basis.

The securities of CoinSmart were acquired by Justin Hartzman, Jeremy Koven and Michael Koral (the “Acquirors“) for investment purposes. The Acquirors will evaluate their respective investments in CoinSmart from time to time and may, depending on various factors including, without limitation, CoinSmart’s financial position, the price levels of the Common Shares, conditions in the securities markets and general economic and industry conditions, CoinSmart’s business or financial condition, and other factors and conditions deemed appropriate by the respective Acquirors, increase, decrease or change their respective beneficial ownership over the Common Shares or other securities of CoinSmart in the future, but have no current plans to do so.

Pursuant to the requirements of National Instrument 62-103 – The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues and applicable Canadian securities legislation, Early warning reports will be filed by Justin Hartzman, Jeremy Koven and Michael Koral. Copies of the early warning reports will be available under CoinSmart’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com and available on request from Justin Hartzman c/o CoinSmart Financial Inc., 1055 West Hastings Street, Suite 1700, The Guinness Tower, Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 2E9.

About CoinSmart Financial Inc.

CoinSmart is a leading Canadian-headquartered digital asset trading platform dedicated to providing customers with an intuitive way for buying and selling digital assets, like Bitcoin and Ethereum, combined with the seamless ability to on-ramp and off-ramp fiat. Clients’ security and protection is CoinSmart’s primary focus. CoinSmart is registered as a money services business with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre (FINTRAC) in Canada and in multiple jurisdictions.

CoinSmart further builds on its mission to make cryptocurrency accessible by providing educational resources tailored to every level of cryptocurrency customer and unparalleled 24/7 omni-channel customer success/support. Offering instant verification, industry leading cold wallet storage, advanced charting with order book functionality and over-the-counter premium services, CoinSmart ensures every client’s needs are met with the highest level of quality and care. For more information please visit https://www.coinsmart.com/.

Advertisement

Connect with CoinSmart: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Other Disclosures

This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking information” (“forward-looking information“) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information. In disclosing the forward-looking information contained in this press release, the Company has made certain assumptions, including with respect to: the receipt of the Exchange’s final approval and the issuance of the listing bulletin. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking information will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: regulatory approvals. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking information or otherwise.

All information contained in this press release with respect to the corporate entities referenced herein was supplied, for inclusion herein, by the respective parties and each party and its directors and officers have relied on the other party for any information concerning the other party.

The NEO Exchange is not responsible for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

For further information please contact:

Investor Enquiries

Jeremy Koven, Chief Operating Officer and Director
[email protected]

Media Contact

Advertisement

Michele McDermott-Fox or David Lewis
The Top Floor Public Relations
[email protected] or [email protected]

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.


(1) As of June 30, 2021

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/101669

Fintech

Fintech Pulse: Daily Industry Brief – A Dive into Today’s Emerging Trends and Innovations

Published

on

fintech-pulse:-daily-industry-brief-–-a-dive-into-today’s-emerging-trends-and-innovations

 

The fintech landscape continues to redefine itself, driven by innovation, partnerships, and groundbreaking strategies. Today’s roundup focuses on the latest digital wallet offerings, evolving payment trends, strategic collaborations, and notable funding achievements. This editorial explores the broader implications of these developments, casting light on how they shape the future of fintech and beyond.


Beacon’s Digital Wallet for Immigrants: A Gateway to Financial Inclusion

Beacon Financial, a leading player in financial technology, recently launched a digital wallet tailored to meet the unique needs of immigrants moving to Canada. This offering bridges a critical gap, enabling seamless financial integration for newcomers navigating a foreign system.

By combining intuitive technology with user-centric features, Beacon aims to empower immigrants with tools for payments, savings, and remittances. This aligns with the growing demand for tailored financial products that resonate with specific demographics.

Op-Ed Insight:
Financial inclusion is more than just a buzzword; it’s a moral imperative in the fintech space. Products like Beacon’s digital wallet highlight the industry’s potential to create tangible change. As global migration trends increase, such offerings could inspire similar initiatives worldwide.

Source: Fintech Futures.


Juniper Research Highlights 2025’s Payment Trends

Juniper Research’s latest report unveils pivotal payment trends poised to dominate in 2025. Central themes include the adoption of instant payment networks, a surge in embedded finance solutions, and the rise of crypto-backed financial products.

The research underscores the rapid adoption of real-time payment systems, fueled by increasing consumer demand for speed and efficiency. Meanwhile, embedded finance promises to blur the lines between traditional banking and non-financial services, delivering personalized and context-specific solutions.

Op-Ed Insight:
As the lines between financial services and technology continue to blur, these trends emphasize the industry’s shift toward convenience and personalization. The growing role of crypto-based solutions reflects an evolving consumer mindset, where decentralization and digital-first experiences gain precedence.

Advertisement

Source: Juniper Research.


MeaWallet and Integrated Finance Partner to Revolutionize Digital Wallets

MeaWallet, a prominent fintech solutions provider, has partnered with Integrated Finance to advance digital wallet capabilities and secure card data access for fintech companies. This collaboration focuses on empowering fintechs to deliver better, safer digital payment experiences.

MeaWallet’s role as a technology enabler aligns seamlessly with Integrated Finance’s goal of simplifying complex financial infrastructures. Together, they aim to create scalable, robust platforms for secure payment solutions.

Op-Ed Insight:
Partnerships like this underscore the importance of collaboration in driving innovation. As security concerns grow in tandem with digital payment adoption, solutions addressing these challenges are essential for maintaining consumer trust. The fintech ecosystem thrives when synergy and innovation coalesce.

Source: MeaWallet News.


Nucleus Security Among Deloitte’s Fastest-Growing Companies

Nucleus Security has achieved a remarkable milestone, ranking 85th on Deloitte’s 2024 Technology Fast 500 list. This achievement is attributed to its robust cybersecurity solutions, which cater to the increasingly digital fintech environment.

With cyberattacks becoming more sophisticated, fintech companies are under immense pressure to safeguard their platforms. Nucleus Security’s growth reflects the rising demand for comprehensive, scalable security solutions that protect sensitive financial data.

Op-Ed Insight:
In a digital-first world, robust cybersecurity isn’t optional—it’s fundamental. The recognition of companies like Nucleus Security signals the growing importance of protecting fintech infrastructure as the industry scales globally.

Source: PR Newswire.


OpenYield Secures Funding to Transform the Bond Market

OpenYield has announced a successful funding round, aiming to revolutionize the bond market through innovative technology. The platform promises greater transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in fixed-income investments.

Advertisement

This funding underscores the growing appetite for digitizing traditionally opaque financial markets. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, OpenYield seeks to democratize bond investments, making them accessible to a broader audience.

Op-Ed Insight:
The bond market, long viewed as complex and inaccessible, is ripe for disruption. OpenYield’s efforts to modernize this space highlight fintech’s transformative potential to democratize finance and empower individual investors.

Source: PR Newswire.


Key Takeaways: Shaping the Future of Fintech

Today’s developments underscore several critical themes in the fintech landscape:

  1. Personalization and Inclusion: Products like Beacon’s wallet highlight the importance of understanding and addressing specific user needs.
  2. Collaborative Ecosystems: Partnerships, like that of MeaWallet and Integrated Finance, emphasize the power of collaboration in solving industry challenges.
  3. Emerging Technologies: Juniper Research’s predictions affirm the continued influence of blockchain, embedded finance, and instant payment networks.
  4. Security at the Core: The recognition of Nucleus Security underscores the essential role of cybersecurity in fintech.
  5. Market Transformation: OpenYield’s funding signifies the ongoing disruption of traditional financial markets, paving the way for broader accessibility.

 

The post Fintech Pulse: Daily Industry Brief – A Dive into Today’s Emerging Trends and Innovations appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Continue Reading

Fintech

Fintech Pulse: Industry Updates, Innovations, and Strategic Moves

Published

on

fintech-pulse:-industry-updates,-innovations,-and-strategic-moves

 

As fintech continues to reshape the global financial landscape, today’s briefing highlights pivotal developments, strategic expansions, and innovative launches across the industry. This op-ed explores the latest advancements with commentary on their potential impacts and challenges.


Finastra Data Breach: A Wake-Up Call for Fintech Security

Source: KrebsOnSecurity

The cybersecurity landscape is buzzing after Finastra, one of the largest financial technology providers globally, confirmed an investigation into a potential data breach. Reports suggest unauthorized access to its systems, raising concerns about data security across its client base, which includes thousands of banks and financial institutions worldwide.

Implications and Challenges

While the details of the breach remain sparse, this incident underscores a glaring vulnerability in the fintech sector—cybersecurity. As financial services increasingly rely on interconnected ecosystems, breaches like these threaten not only individual institutions but also the trust customers place in fintech platforms.

The key takeaway for the fintech industry is clear: proactive cybersecurity strategies must go beyond compliance. Real-time threat detection, robust encryption standards, and regular audits are no longer optional but essential for maintaining operational integrity.

Future Considerations

This breach could trigger a domino effect, prompting regulators to tighten security standards and requiring fintech companies to double down on investments in data protection. Startups and mid-tier players, often lacking extensive cybersecurity budgets, may face significant pressure to keep pace.


PayPal Resurrects Money Pooling Feature

Source: TechCrunch

In a bid to stay ahead of the competition, PayPal is reintroducing its Money Pooling feature, a popular tool that was discontinued in 2021. The feature allows users to pool funds collectively, catering to families, small businesses, and social groups.

Advertisement

Strategic Revival

This move reflects PayPal’s commitment to customer-centric innovation. By reinstating a feature beloved by its user base, the company seeks to reclaim market share lost to emerging competitors offering similar functionalities.

Broader Industry Impacts

Money pooling represents a broader trend in fintech—customized solutions that cater to niche needs. This reintroduction may inspire competitors like Venmo and CashApp to refine their collaborative payment offerings.

While this move strengthens PayPal’s ecosystem, its success will depend on seamless integration with existing services and robust fraud prevention mechanisms to avoid abuse of the feature.


Santander Expands Fintech Reach in Mexico

Source: Yahoo Finance

Santander is making waves in the Latin American fintech space with the launch of a dedicated fintech unit in Mexico. The initiative aims to capitalize on Mexico’s growing fintech adoption and digital payments market, valued at billions of dollars annually.

Strategic Significance

Santander’s expansion into Mexico highlights the region’s untapped potential. Latin America is a burgeoning market for fintech, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, a youthful demographic, and demand for accessible financial services.

Challenges on the Horizon

While Mexico offers immense opportunities, regulatory complexities and market competition from local players like Clip and Konfío pose significant challenges. Santander will need to blend its global expertise with local adaptability to succeed in this dynamic market.


2024 Global Fintech Awards: Spotlighting Excellence

Source: PRNewswire

Benzinga has announced the winners of the 2024 Global Fintech Awards, honoring companies and individuals driving innovation in financial technology. This year’s winners spanned categories like blockchain, artificial intelligence, and payment solutions.

Recognizing Industry Leaders

Awards like these highlight the collaborative spirit and entrepreneurial drive fueling fintech growth. Recognizing trailblazers not only motivates incumbents but also inspires startups to push the boundaries of innovation.

Advertisement

What It Means for the Ecosystem

The awards also bring attention to emerging technologies. Categories such as blockchain and AI signal the industry’s continued focus on leveraging cutting-edge tech for efficiency and scalability.


Commonwealth Central Credit Union Partners with Jack Henry

Source: FinTech Futures

Commonwealth Central Credit Union (CCCU) has announced a partnership with Jack Henry, a leading financial technology provider, for a comprehensive tech upgrade. The collaboration focuses on enhancing member experience through improved digital services.

Modernizing Member Experiences

Credit unions have often lagged behind major banks in adopting advanced digital solutions. By partnering with Jack Henry, CCCU aims to bridge this gap, offering members streamlined services such as mobile banking, automated lending, and personalized financial tools.

A Growing Trend

This partnership reflects a broader trend in the financial industry—credit unions and smaller banks embracing fintech to remain competitive. As customer expectations evolve, partnerships like this may become the norm rather than the exception.


Key Takeaways for the Fintech Industry

  1. Cybersecurity is Critical: The Finastra breach underscores the need for robust security measures.
  2. Innovation Drives Loyalty: PayPal’s revival of its Money Pooling feature highlights the importance of listening to customers.
  3. Regional Opportunities: Santander’s expansion into Mexico showcases the untapped potential of emerging markets.
  4. Recognition Matters: Awards like Benzinga’s provide valuable visibility for companies and individuals shaping the industry.
  5. Partnerships Foster Growth: Collaborations between credit unions and fintech companies signify a trend towards modernized financial solutions.

 

The post Fintech Pulse: Industry Updates, Innovations, and Strategic Moves appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Continue Reading

Fintech

Fintech Pulse: Milestones, Partnerships, and Transformations in Fintech

Published

on

fintech-pulse:-milestones,-partnerships,-and-transformations-in-fintech

 

The fintech sector continues its relentless drive toward innovation and market dominance. Today’s highlights include a record-breaking customer milestone for Revolut, groundbreaking fintech solutions for women in the EU, open entries for the PayTech Awards 2025, implications of political shifts on funding, and notable recognition at the US FinTech Awards.

Revolut Hits 50 Million Customers: A Global Fintech Giant’s Milestone

Source: Revolut

Revolut, the UK-based financial super app, has achieved a monumental feat: surpassing 50 million customers worldwide. This milestone underscores its position as a leader in the global fintech landscape, furthering its ambition to create the world’s first truly global bank.

Key to this success has been Revolut’s strategy of expanding its offerings, from banking to travel and crypto services, all within a seamless user experience. The company’s recent ventures into emerging markets such as Latin America and Asia demonstrate its intent to bridge financial services gaps while retaining competitive differentiation through technology.

This milestone is not just a triumph for Revolut but a signal of fintech’s capacity to redefine traditional banking. It reinforces the narrative that digital-first strategies, customer-centric innovation, and international scalability can challenge long-standing financial institutions.

PayTech Awards 2025: Celebrating Excellence in Innovation

Source: FinTech Futures

The PayTech Awards 2025 are officially open for entries, promising to spotlight the brightest minds and most innovative projects in the payment technology sector. These awards are a testament to the industry’s commitment to advancing secure, seamless, and scalable payment systems.

This year, the focus is on emerging technologies that redefine how businesses and consumers interact financially. Categories will recognize achievements across multiple domains, including sustainability in payments, AI-driven solutions, and partnerships that push boundaries.

Advertisement

As fintech companies prepare their entries, the awards provide a timely reminder of the sector’s ongoing evolution and the collaborative efforts required to achieve meaningful breakthroughs.

U.S. Politics and the Fintech Sector: A New Era of Funding?

Source: American Banker

The U.S. fintech sector might witness an infusion of optimism as speculation about a second Trump presidency gains momentum. The Trump-era policies of deregulation and venture capital encouragement are remembered as catalysts for unprecedented fintech growth during his first term.

While it remains uncertain how regulatory landscapes will shift, the possibility of a more relaxed approach toward fintech compliance could rejuvenate funding inflows. Investors and startups alike are watching closely, weighing the potential benefits against long-term risks tied to reduced oversight.

A politically charged backdrop often spells volatility, but for fintech, it may also spell opportunity. Preparing to adapt quickly will be crucial for startups and established players in the face of any regulatory pivot.

Klara AI and Unlimit: Addressing the €1.3 Trillion Female Economy

Source: FF News

Klara AI has teamed up with Unlimit to launch a fintech solution aimed at empowering women across the EU. This collaboration targets the €1.3 trillion female economy by addressing the unique financial needs of women entrepreneurs and consumers.

The solution promises to integrate AI-powered tools with streamlined financial management services, enabling users to access credit, manage investments, and scale businesses effectively. By tailoring services to the underserved female demographic, the partnership hopes to drive financial inclusion and support economic growth.

This initiative stands as a blueprint for fintechs exploring niche markets, proving that innovation tailored to specific segments can yield transformative results.

Autire: Accounting Tech of the Year at US FinTech Awards

Source: Business Wire

Advertisement

Autire, a rising star in financial technology, has been crowned ‘Accounting Tech of the Year’ at the US FinTech Awards 2024. The award recognizes Autire’s ability to blend cutting-edge AI with intuitive user interfaces, delivering unparalleled accounting solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Autire’s platform has gained traction for automating complex accounting tasks, ensuring compliance, and delivering actionable insights through real-time analytics. Its emphasis on reducing administrative burdens for SMEs has been particularly impactful, enabling entrepreneurs to focus on growth rather than bookkeeping.

The recognition not only cements Autire’s reputation but also highlights the role of AI-driven accounting solutions in reshaping business operations globally.

Final Thoughts: A Fintech Revolution in Full Swing

From customer milestones to policy-driven opportunities, the fintech ecosystem is in constant evolution. Revolut’s ascent to 50 million users signals growing consumer trust in digital platforms. The PayTech Awards continue to inspire innovation, while political shifts could redefine the regulatory landscape. Initiatives like Klara AI and Unlimit emphasize the power of targeted solutions, and companies like Autire show how niche technologies can achieve broad impact.

The next phase of fintech growth will likely hinge on inclusivity, adaptability, and innovation—pillars that today’s news stories exemplify.

 

The post Fintech Pulse: Milestones, Partnerships, and Transformations in Fintech appeared first on .

Continue Reading

Trending