CLAUDE
Republic First Bank Closure: First US Bank Failure of 2024
US regulators have closed Philadelphia-based Republic First Bank, marking the first banking failure of 2024. The closure has sparked debate among the crypto community, with Bitcoin and Ether trading down. The bank had approximately $6 billion in total assets and $4 billion in total deposits as of January 31.
SEC's Gag Rule Faces Criticism: Commissioner Hester Peirce Calls for Reform
SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce has publicly disagreed with the agency's refusal to amend the 1972 gag rule, raising concerns over its impact on free speech and regulatory integrity. The rule, which prevents defendants from criticizing SEC allegations post-settlement, is being challenged for its constitutional implications.
Block's AUD$3M Investment Boosts Indigenous Business Sector in Australia
Block Inc. invests AUD$3 million in First Australians Capital's new fund, supporting Indigenous businesses in Australia, aiming to empower entrepreneurs, foster economic growth, and create community wealth.
Court Upholds OFAC's Designation of Tornado Cash Under IEEPA
The US District Court upheld the OFAC's designation of Tornado Cash under the IEEPA, rejecting plaintiffs' claims of overreach and First Amendment violations, highlighting legal challenges for privacy-oriented blockchain entities.
GFT and Thought Machine Partner to Drive Digital Transformation in U.S. Banking
GFT and Thought Machine are collaborating to propel U.S. banks into the digital age, departing from legacy systems in favor of cloud-native solutions. Traditional banks are now focusing on introducing innovative financial experiences to gain a competitive edge. The partnership offers three paths to digital transformation, with GFT being a leading implementation partner of Thought Machine's Vault Core. This technology enables the launch of digital-first banks or migration from legacy systems. The partnership has achieved significant milestones, including certifications and completed projects. Traditional banks are poised to leverage their expertise and regulatory frameworks by embracing digitization.
Citi Joins BondbloX Bond Exchange as First Digital Custodian
Citi Securities Services has become the first digital custodian participant on the BondbloX Bond Exchange (BBX), the world's first fractional bond exchange. The partnership allows Citi clients to become BBX participants, facilitating the trading of both fractionalized and full-sized bonds. Citi will oversee settlement and custody services. The partnership aims to enhance digital financial market infrastructure, provide transparency, electronic operations, and universal accessibility in the bond market.
Kansas Heartland Tri-State Bank Closure Indicates Continued U.S. Banking Crisis
On July 28, 2023, the Kansas Office of the State Bank Commissioner closed Heartland Tri-State Bank of Elkhart, Kansas, appointing the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver.
Former Coinbase CLO Brian Brooks Joins Hashdex's Board of Directors
Brian Brooks, former Coinbase CLO and current Valor Capital Group partner, joins Hashdex's Board of Directors, aiming to accelerate the firm's global growth in the crypto asset management space.
First Digital Group Launches New Stablecoin FDUSD to Revolutionize Global Finance
Asia's leading trust company and qualified custodian, First Digital, is making waves in the global financial ecosystem with the announcement of its new stablecoin, First Digital USD (FDUSD)
JPMorgan to Acquire First Republic Bank Assets
JPMorgan Chase is set to acquire First Republic Bank's assets after the troubled bank was closed by regulators. JPMorgan will assume all assets, including uninsured deposits, and enter into a loss-sharing agreement with the FDIC.