Fintech
DIA and CF Benchmarks Make Compliant Digital Asset Indices Available as Oracles to the Web3 Economy
Zürich, Switzerland & London, United Kingdom–(Newsfile Corp. – February 17, 2022) – DIA, the open source data platform for decentralised finance and the UK FCA-regulated crypto index provider CF Benchmarks announced today that they will make CF Benchmarks’ crypto index reference prices available via the DIA oracle suite.
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With a total settlement volume of more than $500bn since its inception in 2017, UK-based CF Benchmarks Ltd is the world’s leading crypto index provider. Acquired in 2019 by the global digital asset exchange Kraken, CF Benchmarks provides reference rates that are tracked by ETFs and ETPs listed on exchanges around the globe, including Canada, Brazil, Switzerland and Germany. CF Benchmarks is best known for its CME CF Bitcoin Reference Rate, a price benchmark used by the CME Group to settle Bitcoin futures and options.
Access to Compliant ETH and SOL prices
In this new move, DIA will include CF Benchmarks’ reference prices as feeds in its data offering. As a start, reference prices for native tokens of the Layer 1 blockchains Ethereum and Solana will be provided as oracles. Oracles are smart-contract-readable data streams that enable applications running on the blockchain to ingest and read data from outside their own ecosystems.
ETH and SOL reference prices will be provided to both Ethereum-native and Solana-native developers. The availability of institutional-grade reference prices from a benchmark regulation compliant and Big 4 audited provider will enable secure development of new financial products and services underpinned by resilient and robust methodologies.
Bridging Traditional and Digital Asset Markets
Notwithstanding its nascency and volatility relative to more developed traditional asset markets, the digital asset ecosystem has shown staggering growth and attracted significant interest from retail and institutional investors alike. With an estimated market capitalisation of $2 trillion, the digital asset market falls far behind its legacy counterpart. Products like the reference prices provided by CF Benchmarks are a crucial building block for enabling safe institutional access and fostering regulated rails to this new asset class.
“The emergence of decentralised finance poses a challenge and opportunity for investors and regulators alike,” said Michael Weber, DIA’s Founder. “Teams like CF Benchmarks are at the forefront of creating a safe and secure environment for investors to allocate their capital. This is crucial for the development and the maturing of the ecosystem and we are excited to be a part of that journey.”
“CF Benchmarks is continually looking for ways to improve the availability of robust, reliable cryptocurrency pricing data, for users of digital asset ecosystems, as well as institutional and individual investors,” said CF Benchmarks CEO Sui Chung. “That is why we are proud to partner with DIA, one of the most comprehensive and fastest-growing oracle platforms, with a user base deeply embedded in the blockchain development community. We are confident that this partnership will be a significant step towards enabling the high-integrity pricing that will be critical for mass adoption of DeFi, Web3 and beyond.”
About DIA
DIA (Decentralised Information Asset) is a cross-chain, end-to-end, open-source data and oracle platform for Web3. The DIA platform enables the sourcing, validation and sharing of transparent and verified data feeds for traditional and digital financial applications. DIA’s institutional grade data feeds cover asset prices, metaverse data, lending rates and more. DIA’s data is sourced from a broad array of on-chain and off-chain sources and can be fully customised with regards to the mix of sources and methodologies. DIA’s oracles are available to developers on all relevant layer 1 and layer 2 networks including Ethereum, Solana, Polkadot, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, xDaiChain, Avalanche, and many more.
About CF Benchmarks
CF Benchmarks is the leading provider of cryptocurrency benchmark indices, authorised and regulated by the UK FCA under the UK Benchmarks Regulation. Its benchmark indices are provided through public methodologies and transparent governance; for tracking, valuing and settling risk in cryptocurrency financial services and products. CF Benchmarks’ indices have been used to settle over $500bn of cryptocurrency derivative contracts, including those listed for trading by CME Group and Kraken Futures, as well as serving as the reference index for ETFs and ETPs listed in Canada, Germany, Switzerland, France, and Brazil. CF Benchmarks is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kraken.
Media Contact:
Carl Bruns
[email protected]
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/114103
Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)
As we close out 2024, the fintech industry continues to deliver headlines that underscore its dynamism and innovation. From IPO aspirations to groundbreaking regulatory milestones, today’s updates highlight the transformative power of fintech partnerships, regulatory evolution, and disruptive technologies. Here’s what you need to know.
Chime’s Quiet Step Toward Public Markets
Chime, the U.S.-based financial technology startup best known for its digital banking services, has taken a significant step by filing confidential paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO). As one of the most valuable private fintechs in the U.S., Chime’s move could potentially signal a renewed appetite for fintech IPOs in a market that has been cautious following fluctuating valuations across the tech sector.
With a valuation that reportedly exceeded $25 billion in its last funding round, Chime’s IPO could set a new benchmark for the industry. Observers note that its strong customer base and revenue growth may make it an appealing choice for investors seeking to capitalize on the digital banking boom. However, the timing and success of the IPO will depend on broader market conditions and the regulatory landscape.
Source: Bloomberg
ZBD’s Pioneering Achievement: EU MiCA License Approval
ZBD, a fintech company specializing in Bitcoin Lightning network solutions, has made history by becoming the first to secure an EU MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license. This landmark approval by the Dutch regulator positions ZBD at the forefront of compliant crypto-fintech operations in Europe.
MiCA, which aims to harmonize the regulatory framework for crypto-assets across the EU, has been a focal point for industry players aiming to establish legitimacy and expand their offerings. ZBD’s achievement not only validates its operational rigor but also sets a precedent for other fintech firms navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry insiders view this as a strategic advantage for ZBD as it broadens its footprint in Europe. By leveraging its regulatory approval, the company can accelerate its product deployment and establish trust with institutional and retail users alike.
Source: Coindesk, PR Newswire
The Fintech-Credit Union Synergy: A Blueprint for Innovation
The convergence of fintechs and credit unions continues to reshape the financial services ecosystem. Collaborative initiatives, such as the one highlighted in the recent partnership between fintech innovators and credit unions, are proving to be a potent force in delivering tailored financial solutions.
This “dream team” approach allows credit unions to leverage fintech’s technological expertise while maintaining their community-focused ethos. Key areas of collaboration include digital payments, personalized financial management tools, and enhanced loan processing capabilities. These partnerships not only enhance member engagement but also enable credit unions to remain competitive in an increasingly digital-first financial environment.
Industry analysts emphasize that such collaborations underscore a broader trend of traditional financial institutions embracing fintech-driven solutions to bridge service gaps and foster innovation.
Source: PYMNTS
Tackling Student Loan Debt: A Fintech’s Mission
Student loan debt remains a pressing issue for millions of Americans, and a Rochester-based fintech aims to offer relief through its cloud-based platform. This innovative solution is designed to simplify loan management and provide borrowers with actionable insights to reduce their debt burden.
The platform’s features include repayment optimization tools, personalized financial education, and seamless integration with loan servicers. By addressing the complexities of student loan management, this fintech is empowering borrowers to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability.
As the student loan crisis continues to evolve, solutions like this highlight the critical role fintech can play in addressing systemic financial challenges while fostering financial literacy and inclusion.
Source: RBJ
Industry Implications and Takeaways
Today’s updates underscore several key themes shaping the fintech landscape:
- Regulatory Milestones: ZBD’s MiCA license approval exemplifies the importance of regulatory compliance in unlocking growth opportunities.
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration between fintechs and credit unions demonstrates the value of combining technological innovation with traditional financial models to drive customer-centric solutions.
- Market Opportunities: Chime’s IPO move reflects a potential revival in fintech public offerings, signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects.
- Social Impact: Fintech’s ability to tackle systemic issues, such as student loan debt, showcases its role as a force for positive change.
The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025
Leading global payments platform SPAYZ.io has confirmed it will be attending iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 on 14 to 16 January. Exhibiting at Stand 64 at Trade Centre Dubai, SPAYZ.io’s team of professionals will be on hand providing live demonstrations of its renowned payment services for payment providers. Attendees will also receive exclusive insight into SPAYZ.io’s plans for 2025 alongside early early access to its upcoming plans for the new year.
SPAYZ.io delivers a host of payment solutions that leverage the latest technological innovations and open access to the fastest growing emerging markets across Africa, Europe and Asia. Over the past year, there has been huge demand for its Open Banking and local payment method services, alongside bank transfers, mass payouts, online banking and e-wallets.
Yana Thakurta, Head of Business Development at SPAYZ.io commented: “We look forward to once again participating at iFX Dubai to expand our network of partners and clients. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the year, connecting with thousands of industry leaders from FOREX platforms to trading companies, and everything in between.
“Our key goal for iFX Dubai EXPO 2025 is to expand our portfolio of solutions and geographies. We’re using this as an opportunity to partner with like-minded entities who share our ambition to provide payment solutions that are truly global.”
Come meet SPAYZ.io’s team at the Trade Centre Dubai at Stand 64. You can also book a meeting slot with a member of a team.
The post SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments
Airtm, the most connected digital dollar account in the world, is proud to announce the addition of two distinguished industry leaders to its Board of Directors: Rafael de la Vega, Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane, and Shivani Siroya, CEO & Founder of Tala. These appointments reflect Airtm’s commitment to innovation and financial inclusion as the company enters its next phase of growth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rafael and Shivani to Airtm’s Board of Directors,” said Ruben Galindo Steckel, Co-founder and CEO of Airtm. “Their unique perspectives and proven track records will be invaluable as we continue scaling our platform to empower individuals and businesses in emerging markets. Together, we’ll push the boundaries of financial inclusion and innovation to create a more connected and equitable global economy. Rafael and Shivani bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight that will strengthen Airtm’s mission to connect emerging economies with the global market.”
Rafael de la Vega, a seasoned leader in fintech global partnerships and technology innovation, is currently the Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane. With a proven track record of delivering scalable, impactful solutions at the intersection of fintech, innovation, and commerce, Rafael’s expertise will be pivotal as Airtm continues to grow. “Airtm has built a platform that breaks down barriers and opens up opportunities for people in emerging economies to connect to global markets. I am excited to contribute to its growth and help further its mission of fostering financial inclusion on a global scale,” said Rafael.
Shivani Siroya, CEO and Founder of Tala, is a pioneer in financial technology, renowned for empowering underserved communities through access to credit and essential financial tools. Her leadership in leveraging data-driven innovation aligns seamlessly with Airtm’s vision of creating more equitable financial opportunities. “Empowering underserved communities has always been at the core of my work, and Airtm’s mission resonates deeply with me. I’m thrilled to join the Board and work alongside such a dynamic team to expand access to financial tools that truly make a difference in people’s lives,” said Shivani.
The post Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
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