Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
KBC Bank Launches Crypto Trading for Belgian Retail Investors
Belgium's KBC Bank will enable retail investors to trade Bitcoin and Ether via its Bolero platform starting next month, becoming the first Belgian bank to do so. It uses the bank's custodial solution under regulated conditions amid EU MiCA scrutiny. The launch follows Belgium's MiCA implementation in early 2026.
Visa Embeds Stablecoins into Core Payment Rails
Visa has integrated stablecoins into its core infrastructure, potentially marking a pivotal 'Kodak Moment' for cross-border payments. This move is highlighted alongside Visa's latest earnings in FinTech analyses. It positions Visa to leverage stablecoins for faster global transactions.
OpenAI Hires Max Stoiber to Transform ChatGPT into AI Platform
OpenAI hired Max Stoiber to evolve ChatGPT into an operating system-like platform, potentially disrupting finance apps via Generative UI. This signals ambitions for a 'fourth great abstraction' in computing affecting financial services. It includes deep dives into OpenAI's super app goals and top AI startups for 2026.
MegPrime Secures Historic SEC No-Action Letter for Crypto Payments
MegPrime obtained a landmark SEC no-action letter, a major milestone enabling compliant crypto payment solutions. This advances regulatory clarity for digital payments in the US. It marks progress in integrating crypto into mainstream finance.
Alpaca Raises $150M in Series D at $1.15B Valuation
FinTech API provider Alpaca secured $150 million in Series D funding led by Drive Capital, achieving a $1.15 billion valuation. The round supports expansion in brokerage and trading APIs. It comes amid trends like Standard Chartered's crypto brokerage plans.
Project Eleven Raises $20M for Post-Quantum Blockchain Security
Crypto startup Project Eleven secured $20 million in Series A to develop tools preparing blockchains like Bitcoin for post-quantum security threats. This addresses emerging cryptographic vulnerabilities. Funding underscores growing focus on quantum-resistant tech.
SEON Expands AI Fraud Prevention from Singapore with $80M Raise
Fraud prevention firm SEON, after raising $80 million in Series C, is advancing AI-driven FYC and AML tools from Singapore, with 80% ARR growth in 2025. Features include AI summaries reducing review times by 50%. It emphasizes unified platforms amid regulatory AI trends.
Bakkt to Acquire Stablecoin Infrastructure Provider DTR
Bakkt plans to acquire DTR, a stablecoin infrastructure provider, following sale speculation. This strengthens Bakkt's position in crypto custody and stablecoin services. It aligns with rising stablecoin adoption in payments.
Revolut Launches New Anti-Fraud Tool
Revolut introduced an advanced anti-fraud tool as part of weekly FinTech highlights, enhancing security for its user base. It features alongside agentic AI progress from Google and Mastercard. This bolsters FinTech fraud defenses.
Polygon Acquires Key Assets in Strategic Move
Polygon announced a significant acquisition, featured in top FinTech stories, aimed at expanding its blockchain ecosystem. It coincides with stablecoin developments from Ingenico, Visa, and BVNK. The deal supports Polygon's scaling ambitions.
TEXITcoin Founder Admits Year-Old Insider Hack
TEXITcoin's founder disclosed a year-old insider hack during a January 10 call, angering investors amid poor economics and centralization critiques. The project runs on only two nodes, contradicting decentralization claims. CoinMLS deems it operationally flawed.