1. 21X Secures Historic EU Blockchain License

In a groundbreaking development, 21X has obtained the first fully regulated EU license for a blockchain-based trading venue, setting a new precedent for digital asset trading within Europe. This initiative aims to integrate blockchain technology into traditional financial markets, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and trust. By leveraging Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), the platform will allow both institutional and retail investors to trade digital securities under a stringent regulatory framework. This move is expected to accelerate the convergence of traditional and decentralized finance across the European Union.

Source: GlobeNewswire

2. 9fin Raises $50 Million to Expand Legal Tech Solutions

UK-based fintech legal platform 9fin has secured $50 million in Series B funding led by major VC firms. Known for its AI-powered data analytics in legal and financial services, 9fin plans to utilize these funds to scale operations and expand its presence in the U.S. The investment reflects growing confidence in fintech solutions that bridge legal and financial markets, particularly in streamlining debt capital markets.

Source: Artificial Lawyer

3. Bolivia’s Crypto Ban Lifted: A Surge in Digital Currency Interest

Bolivia has reversed its longstanding ban on cryptocurrencies, signaling a potential shift in Latin America’s approach to digital assets. This regulatory relaxation has ignited a crypto boom in the country, as entrepreneurs and investors rush to capitalize on the newfound legal status of digital currencies. With this change, Bolivia aims to foster innovation in fintech while maintaining safeguards to prevent financial crimes. Analysts predict this could spur broader adoption across the region, potentially reshaping Latin America’s fintech landscape.

Source: Bitcoin.com

4. Top AI-Powered Fintech Startups Identified by VCs

A recent report highlights the 15 most promising AI-driven fintech startups poised to disrupt the financial industry in 2024. From enhancing fraud detection to automating investment strategies, these startups are leveraging machine learning and AI to redefine financial services. Key players include fintech firms specializing in lending, insurance tech, and wealth management. This surge in AI integration is reshaping consumer interactions, driving efficiency, and creating new revenue streams across the fintech ecosystem.

Source: Business Insider

Advertisement

5. Upstart, LendingClub, and Cloudflare in the Spotlight

Leading fintech stocks such as Upstart and LendingClub saw significant market activity, reflecting broader trends in consumer credit and fintech innovation. Meanwhile, Cloudflare continues to impact the tech sector, particularly in cybersecurity for financial institutions. These companies are setting the pace in their respective domains, with investors closely monitoring their growth trajectories amid a competitive market landscape.

Source: Yahoo Finance

The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (21X, 9fin, Upstart, LendingClub, Cloudflare) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA) announces they have completed their first transaction in Uzbekistan securing US$ 30M from the OPEC Fund for International Development (OPEC Fund).

Commenting on the transaction, Ipak Yuli’s Chairman Mr.Saydakhmedov Saidabror said, “We are pleased to be the first private bank in Uzbekistan to sign an agreement with the OPEC Fund. This is an important step in supporting the development of the Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Business (MSME) sector in our country. We share common values with the OPEC Fund in fostering entrepreneurship and are confident that this partnership will lay the foundation for expanding our cooperation in the future, contributing to the further development of the economy and creating new opportunities for businesses.”

EMGA’s Head of Investment Banking and Managing Director Sajeev Chakkalakal said, “In spite of a challenging global macroeconomic environment, we are pleased to structure this transaction and facilitate Ipak Yuli’s continued vision to supporting SMEs in Uzbekistan, as well simultaneously help expand the presence of OPEC Fund’s on-going operations in the region.”

EMGA’s Head of Operations and Managing Director Jeremy Dobson added, “EMGA is delighted to have secured this financing for Ipak Yuli, the operation will further diversify their funding base and bodes well for the future.”

OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “Our partnership with Ipak Yuli Bank reflects our targeted approach to support Uzbekistan’s private sector transformation. By facilitating access to finance for businesses, including those led by women, we are helping unlock their potential to contribute to the country’s sustainable economic growth. This partnership is not just about financing—it is about supporting a more dynamic and inclusive private sector that fosters economic opportunities and enhances the well-being of communities across Uzbekistan.”

Ipak Yuli is a joint-stock commercial-innovation bank in Uzbekistan. It was established in December 1990 and provides banking services to individual entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized businesses, state organizations and institutions, and to corporate customers. In addition to a wide range of banking services and credit operations, the bank carries out leasing, factoring and project financing operations, operations with cash and non-cash currency funds, operations on the stock market on behalf of clients

The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 and has committed over US$27 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of more than US$200 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and AA+, Outlook Stable by S&P. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.

Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA), with offices in London and New York, helps financial institutions and corporates seeking new debt or equity capital. EMGA’s multi-national team combine the decades of experience necessary to complete transactions on behalf of their clients within the world’s emerging markets and frontier economies, including Uzbekistan which remains a key market. With a proven track record in capital formation and strategic advisory throughout diverse economic cycles, EMGA continues expanding its geographic reach and service offering, solidifying its place in the market as one of the industries pre-eminent emerging markets focused niche investment banks.

The post EMGA arranges US$ 30M debt finance for Uzbekistan’s Ipak Yuli Bank appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Advertisement

A Digital Revolution: The Rise of Wallets and the Evolution of Payments

The fintech landscape is undergoing a transformative shift as digital wallets become the epicenter of modern payments. No longer just a convenient alternative, they are now reshaping the way consumers and businesses transact globally. According to a recent analysis by Visual Capitalist, digital wallets accounted for over 50% of global e-commerce payments in 2023. This growing trend indicates not just convenience but a shift in consumer trust towards digital-first financial solutions.

Companies like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Wallet have been leading the charge, but emerging players are bringing unique innovations to the table. Startups are focusing on regional solutions tailored to local markets, enhancing user experience and adoption rates. These wallets are not just limited to payments; they’re becoming all-encompassing financial ecosystems offering credit, investments, and savings, driving financial inclusion worldwide.

Source: Visual Capitalist

Fintech Blockchain Market Surges: $129.73 Billion by 2032

Blockchain technology continues to carve a niche in fintech, with predictions indicating exponential growth. The fintech blockchain market is projected to reach USD 129.73 billion by 2032, growing at a staggering CAGR of 47.92%, as reported by Introspective Market Research. This rise is fueled by increased adoption across banking, insurance, and investment sectors, which are leveraging blockchain for enhanced transparency, security, and efficiency.

Financial institutions are moving beyond pilot projects and into large-scale blockchain implementations, transforming back-office processes, cross-border payments, and customer identity management. The technology’s potential to cut operational costs and streamline complex processes is attracting significant investment, setting the stage for widespread industry disruption.

Source: Introspective Market Research

Advertisement

Deel Strengthens European Payments Through Atlantic Money Acquisition

Global HR and payments platform Deel is making waves with its strategic acquisition of Atlantic Money, a European cross-border payment service provider. This move is part of Deel’s broader effort to enhance its payment infrastructure across Europe, facilitating faster, more cost-effective international transactions.

Deel’s aggressive expansion strategy reflects a growing demand for seamless global payment solutions as remote work and international payroll management gain momentum. The acquisition not only expands Deel’s service offerings but also solidifies its position in the competitive European fintech market, creating a robust ecosystem for businesses of all sizes.

Source: FinTech Futures

$300 Million Infusion: CFD Companies Expand with Kingdom Advisors Partnership

The contract for difference (CFD) market is seeing a significant boost with a $300 million increase in assets under administration (AUA). This development comes alongside an expanded partnership with Kingdom Advisors, a leading network of Christian financial professionals. This strategic alliance aims to integrate faith-based financial principles with cutting-edge fintech solutions, creating a niche market for ethically-minded investors.

The infusion of new capital is expected to fuel further innovation in trading platforms, offering enhanced features, better security, and more personalized investment options. As faith-based investing grows, fintech firms are recognizing the potential of blending ethical values with high-tech financial tools, catering to a diverse clientele.

Source: PR Newswire

Basta Pay Sets Ambitious Launch for March 2025

Basta Pay, a new fintech platform, is gearing up for its official launch by March 2025. Positioned as a comprehensive financial solution for both individuals and businesses, Basta Pay aims to revolutionize online and mobile banking by integrating innovative features like AI-driven financial planning, real-time analytics, and blockchain-based security.

Advertisement

With a focus on user-friendly interfaces and robust security measures, Basta Pay is preparing to enter a crowded market with a unique value proposition. The platform’s anticipated launch signals the ongoing evolution of digital banking solutions tailored to modern consumer needs, promising to be a game-changer in the fintech landscape.

Source: The Paypers

Conclusion

From digital wallets transforming payment methods to blockchain redefining the core of financial systems, fintech is at the forefront of technological advancement. With strategic acquisitions, significant market investments, and innovative new platforms on the horizon, the industry is poised for unprecedented growth. Keeping an eye on these developments will be crucial as fintech continues to evolve, shaping the future of global finance.

The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Wallet, Introspective Market Research, Deel, Kingdom Advisors, Basta Pay) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.