Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
BLAQclouds Launches ApolloCASH for Cross-Border Remittances
BLAQclouds Inc. announced the full retail launch of ApolloCASH on December 20, 2025, featuring zero-knowledge proofs for privacy-preserving verification and single-use liquidity pools. It integrates with payment rails like PayPal, Venmo, and Alipay for real-time global transfers. Future phases include marketplace integrations and enterprise settlement.
OCC Grants Conditional Trust Charters to Fintech and Crypto Firms
The OCC provided conditional approvals for several trust charter applications from fintech and crypto firms on Friday, with BPI advising them to stick to authorized activities. Regulators emphasize safe innovation while banks experiment with technology.
FDIC also proposed licensing rules for banks issuing stablecoins via subsidiaries under the GENIUS Act.
PayPal Applies for Industrial Loan Company Charter
PayPal announced its application for an ILC charter, which BPI warns could erode separation between banking and commerce. This move aims to expand its financial services amid growing fintech competition.
Senate crypto market structure bill markup is delayed to early 2026.
Klarna Launches KlarnaUSD Stablecoin on Tempo Blockchain
Klarna introduced its dollar-backed stablecoin, KlarnaUSD, on the Tempo blockchain to enable efficient cross-border payments for 114 million users. Partnerships with Coinbase enhance funding and challenge legacy networks like Visa with lower fees.
Stablecoin infrastructure boosts fintech valuations to 17.3x revenue multiples.
UK FCA Consults on Crypto Rules Including Staking and DeFi
The FCA issued consultation paper 25/40 seeking feedback on regulating crypto trading, lending, staking, DeFi, and stablecoins. It expanded pre-application support to 158 firms and aims for consumer protection with innovation.
Rules for UK-issued stablecoins and digital assets to finalize in 2026.
WELBIT Launches as New European Fintech for Crypto Trading
Dublin-based WELBIT officially launched operations on December 20, 2025, offering digital investments, crypto trading, and asset management via top exchanges like Binance and Coinbase. It uses algorithmic trading and plans expansion into Asia.
Focuses on transparency and risk management for investors.
Gauntlet Offers Safer Crypto Yield Strategies for Fintechs
Gauntlet manages $2B in assets, helping neobanks and fintechs launch low-risk crypto yield products starting from $100 investments. It bridges offchain capital with onchain markets for better returns than treasuries.
Emphasizes collateral management and institutional-grade risk controls.
125 Crypto Groups Oppose Banks on Stablecoin Rewards
Over 125 crypto and fintech organizations, led by Blockchain Association, push back against banks' efforts to eliminate stablecoin yield payments. This policy fight in Washington addresses DeFi and stablecoin treatments.
Senate discussions highlighted remaining issues like yield payments.
Institutions Turn to Bitcoin for Yield via Lending Platforms
Institutions are using Bitcoin as collateral in over-collateralized lending and arbitrage for yields exceeding traditional fixed-income. This shifts BTC from store-of-value to productive asset unlike gold.
Regulated platforms enable portfolio diversification.
New Bitcoin Whales Drive 50% of Realized Cap
On-chain data reveals new whale buyers now control 50% of Bitcoin's realized cap, signaling a market shift from past cycles. This indicates fresh capital influx amid growing institutional interest.
Impacts BTC price dynamics and adoption.
UK Bank of England Eyes Blockchain for FX Settlement Efficiencies
Blockchain could reduce prefunding in CLS system's $7T daily FX settlements, enabling instant settlements via smart contracts. UK pushes for leadership in payments amid global competition.
FCA supports T+1 trade settlements by 2027.