Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
Phantom Wallet Integrates Kalshi Prediction Markets for 20M Users
Phantom Wallet has partnered with CFTC-regulated Kalshi to add prediction markets directly into its app, allowing 20 million users to trade on U.S. elections, macro events, and crypto prices using Solana tokens like SOL, USDC, and meme coins. CEO Brandon Millman announced this at Solana Breakpoint in Abu Dhabi, introducing chat features for social discussions around markets.
This positions Phantom as a comprehensive trading platform amid rising wallet competition with features like MetaMask's Polymarket integration.
SWIFT Launches Blockchain-Based Ledger Sparking XRP Speculation
SWIFT announced a new blockchain ledger for cross-border payments, enabling always-on transactions, real-time visibility, and lower costs, prompting speculation it may leverage the XRP Ledger for speed and efficiency. The project aims to transform global banking with instant fund access and reduced intermediaries, though architecture details remain unclear.
This marks a shift viewing distributed ledger tech as the future of finance.
SEC Releases Crypto Custody Guide and Approves Blockchain Securities Pilot
The SEC issued a guide for retail investors on crypto custody, highlighting hot/cold wallet risks and security best practices, under new Chair Atkins' education-focused approach. It also greenlit a 3-year DTCC pilot starting late 2024 to tokenize securities via blockchain, minting and burning tokens for traditional finance integration.
Industry leaders praise this as aiding mainstream adoption.
BlockchainFX Presale Surges as Top 2026 Crypto Pick
BlockchainFX ($BFX) raised over $12M in presale with 19,500+ participants, offering a regulated super app for trading crypto, stocks, commodities, and ETFs with staking rewards and BFX Card. Fully licensed by Anj Offshore Authority, it stands out for utility and compliance ahead of 2026 bull cycle.
Analysts predict strong growth, outshining peers like Stellar and Chainlink.
Cboe Approves 21Shares XRP ETF Amid Rapid Inflows
Cboe approved the 21Shares XRP ETF (ticker XR), fueling interest as XRP ETFs hit $1B assets in just 17 days, faster than expected per Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse. Analysts see this as a new liquidity pipeline for institutions, enhancing XRP Ledger adoption for assets and payments.
It shifts XRP toward stable, fundamental-driven growth beyond retail cycles.
Vietnam Establishes Crypto Asset Trading Oversight Board
Vietnam's State Securities Commission launched a management board for its emerging crypto trading market, signaling regulatory maturation in Southeast Asia. This move by Airwallex and Robinhood highlights big expansions in the SEA FinTech scene.
It aims to oversee digital assets amid growing adoption.
Malaysia Pilots Ringgit-Backed Stablecoin with Standard Chartered
Malaysia launched a stablecoin pilot backed by the Ringgit, partnering with Standard Chartered and Capital A to advance local digital payments. This initiative explores blockchain for fiat-pegged stable assets in traditional finance.
It reflects global stablecoin experimentation for efficiency.
Athena Bitcoin Emphasizes Decentralization on Satoshi Anniversary
Athena Bitcoin highlighted Bitcoin's decentralization cemented by Satoshi Nakamoto's exit, stressing user education and safety in crypto usage. The reflection underscores why no single entity controls the network, enhancing trust.
It promotes secure practices amid market growth.
DTCC Blockchain Securities Pilot Set for 2026 Launch
SEC-approved DTCC pilot will test blockchain for securities recording, involving token minting/burning over three years starting H2 2026. This bridges TradFi with blockchain for tokenized assets.
It follows custody education efforts for investor clarity.
XRP ETFs Could Drive Infrastructure Shift if Hitting $10B AUM
Analysts project XRP ETFs reaching $10B could boost XRP Ledger infrastructure for liquidity in payments and assets, per early Ripple visions. Institutional demand via ETFs adds market depth and stability.
It positions XRP beyond speculation toward core finance utility.