Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
Federal Reserve Proposes Removing 'Reputation Risk' from Crypto Banking Rules
On February 24, 2026, the Fed announced a 60-day comment period to eliminate 'reputation risk' in bank supervision, easing access for crypto firms. This addresses 'Operation Chokepoint 2.0' issues like account closures for companies such as Strike and Trump family ventures.
Supporters including Fed Vice Chair Michelle Bowman and Senator Cynthia Lummis hail it as a step toward fairer treatment.
Hedge Funds Dump $4.5B from Bitcoin ETFs in 2026 Outflows
U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs saw five weeks of net outflows totaling $4.5B year-to-date through February 20, 2026, with $316M in the latest week. Major holders like BlackRock's IBIT reduced allocations by 28% from Q3 to Q4 2025 per SEC 13F filings.
Bitcoin dropped 28% this year, with the Fear & Greed Index at extreme fear levels of 8-11.
Flexa Enables Instant Crypto Payments for Merchants
Flexa is advancing instant crypto payments via its network, with 2026 plans for ecosystem growth, crypto education, and new partnerships. This supports broader digital payment adoption for merchants.
Related developments include Anchorage Digital's stablecoin solutions for banks.
Crypto.com Secures Conditional Approval for National Trust Bank Charter
Crypto.com has won conditional approval for a national trust bank charter, expanding its regulatory footprint in the U.S. This milestone supports its growth in crypto services.
It comes amid sector volatility affecting platforms like Robinhood.
Ledn Sells $188M Bitcoin-Backed ABS in Institutional Markets
Ledn completed a $188M sale of Bitcoin-backed asset-backed securities entering rated institutional markets. The deal features enhanced custody, liquidation controls, and reporting standards.
This marks progress for crypto credit in traditional finance.
Quidax and Lisk Partner for Digital Finance in Africa
Quidax partnered with Lisk, enabling builders to access stablecoins and local currencies via Quidax's infrastructure at competitive rates. The collaboration aims to power next-gen digital finance on the Lisk network in Africa.
It boosts liquidity for blockchain developers.
Revolut Builds $75B Fintech Empire Awaiting UK Banking License
Revolut, led by Nik Storonsky, is expanding its $75bn-valued fintech operations while pending full banking approval. The company continues aggressive growth in digital banking services.
This positions it as a dominant player in European fintech.
Trump Family Crypto Project Alleges Organized Banking Assault
The Trump family's cryptocurrency initiative claims it faced an 'organized assault' leading to account issues and a $5M lawsuit. This ties into broader debanking concerns for crypto firms.
The Fed's proposal could alleviate such pressures.