Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
Barclays Explores Blockchain-Based Payments Platform with Stablecoins
Barclays is developing a blockchain platform for payments, potentially using stablecoins and tokenized deposits to enhance efficiency and compete with fintechs. This initiative aims to bypass slow traditional systems like SWIFT, signaling banks' shift to 24/7 blockchain liquidity.
Barclays plans to select tech providers by April 2026.
Vitalik Buterin Outlines Ethereum's Scalability Roadmap with Multidimensional Gas
Ethereum's roadmap proceeds in short-term and long-term phases, introducing multidimensional gas to price resources independently and combat state bloat. Long-term plans include zkEVM integration and Data Availability Sampling for 1,000x throughput boost.
This evolves Ethereum into a sustainable global settlement layer.
SoFi Bank Now Supports Solana Network Deposits
U.S. crypto-chartered bank SoFi enables direct Solana (SOL) deposits for its 13.7 million users, marking key TradFi integration. This enhances Solana's liquidity and offers regulated bank-grade asset management.
It positions Solana as an institutional asset alongside BTC and ETH.
Morgan Stanley Applies for U.S. Trust Bank License for Crypto Services
Morgan Stanley seeks a trust bank license to expand into crypto custody, staking, Bitcoin custody, trading, yield, and lending. This move broadens its digital asset offerings in a regulated framework.
Approval would enable comprehensive crypto services for clients.
Citi Plans Institutional-Grade Bitcoin Custody Launch in 2026
Citi is set to launch Bitcoin custody services for institutions in 2026. This positions Citi among major banks entering crypto custody amid growing demand.
The service targets institutional clients seeking secure Bitcoin storage.
SBI Holdings Launches Yen-Backed Stablecoin JPYSC
SBI Holdings announced the JPYSC, a Japanese yen-backed stablecoin. This development supports Japan's push into regulated stablecoin usage for payments.
It aligns with recent Payment Services Act revisions enabling stablecoins.
JPYC and Sony Bank Sign MOU for Yen Stablecoin Integration
JPYC Inc. and Sony Bank signed an MOU to integrate JPYC yen stablecoin with banking and entertainment services. Plans include direct purchases from Sony accounts and web3 use cases like digital content rewards.
BlockBloom, Sony's web3 subsidiary, leads blockchain initiatives under regulatory standards.
MoonPay Unveils PYUSDx Stablecoin Issuance Framework
MoonPay launched PYUSDx, backed by PayPal's PYUSD, allowing apps to issue custom stablecoins. This framework expands stablecoin accessibility for developers.
It fosters innovation in payments and DeFi applications.
OpenAI Secures $110 Billion Funding, Impacts Fintech and Web3
OpenAI raised $110 billion, valuing it at up to $840 billion, with investments from Amazon, Nvidia, and SoftBank. The funding accelerates AI-blockchain synergies like EVMbench for smart contract security and AI-driven trading.
It promises fintech transformations in personalized tools and payments, though raising oversight needs.
Pine Labs to Launch Stablecoin Payments Outside India
Fintech Pine Labs plans stablecoin-based payments internationally, as stated by its CEO. This expands its offerings beyond India into global markets.
The move leverages stablecoins for efficient cross-border transactions.
Block Lays Off 4,000 Staff Citing AI Gains
Fintech Block (formerly Square) cut 4,000 jobs from its 10,000 workforce, attributing efficiency to AI advancements. This reflects broader fintech cost optimizations amid tech shifts.
The layoffs occur alongside discussions on future money forms like digital currencies.