UK
Winklevoss Twins' Gemini and Archax Exchange Now Licensed by UK Financial Conduct Authority
The UK Financial Conduct Authority has granted a license to the Winklevoss twins’ Gemini cryptocurrency exchange.
eToro Plans to Launch Debit Card in UK Ahead of Robinhood
As US-based investment app Robinhood delays its launch in UK indefinitely, eToro has revealed that it is planning to launch its debit cards for UK customers.
Crypto Exchange CEX.IO Receives Temporary Registration Status with UK FCA
The UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has granted crypto exchange CEX.IO a temporary registration status to operate until July 9, 2021.
UK Government Wants FCA Oversight on Crypto Investment Advertising
The UK Government has proposed that crypto asset promotions should fall under the scope of the Financial Conduct Authority’s existing oversight and does not require a whole new framework just for digital assets.
DAG Global Seeks to Break New Ground as First UK Bank to Support Crypto Businesses
DAG Global, a UK financial services company, aims to set a precedent by gaining a UK banking license to close the void between banks and crypto businesses. It intends to become the nation’s first bank to support cryptocurrency businesses.
UK Financial Regulator Reveals: 1.9 Million British Adults Own Cryptocurrencies
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK reported that 1.9 million adults own cryptocurrencies, representing 3.86% of the general population. The regulator also noted that 75% of them hold crypto worth less than £1,000, approximately $1,230.
Binance to Launch UK Crypto Exchange to Meet Client Demand
Binance, the leading cryptocurrency exchange has announced that it will launch a regulated crypto trading platform in the UK, in the coming months. Binance.UK is planning to create a trading platform to allow retail and institutional investors to sell and buy cryptocurrencies using euros and pounds.
UK ISIS Member Charged for Sending Bitcoin to Terrorist Militants in Syria
A UK member of ISIS faces multiple charges for sending funds using Bitcoin to aid the escape of terrorist militants being held in prison camps in Syria.
UK Court Recognized Cryptocurrency as Property in Freezing Order
In a property ownership tussle, UK high court found itself in the second attempt to recognize cryptocurrency as property. This time round, the court imposed a freezing order to crypto firm directors who failed to prove that they were not owners of the disputed cryptocurrencies.
Crypto Fund Managers Infuriated with UK Watchdog's Recent Ban on Crypto Derivatives
Crypto fund managers have released an angry response to the UK financial regulator's recent ban on the sales of crypto derivatives to retail consumers.
XRP Token is Classified as a Non-Security by the UK Treasury
The UK has released a report for crypto assets and stablecoins to deliver a more comprehensive overview of its financial system.
FinTech in Belt and Road - the UK FinTech Bridge
In the second round of our interviews at the Belt and Road Summit 2019 in Hong Kong, Blockchain.News gained further insights from European representatives Germany, as well as soon to be European exiters—the UK to learn more about their countries’ latest developments related to the Belt and Road Initiative.
Russian PM Considers Digital Assets for Cross Border Payment
Mikhail Mishustin, the Prime Minister of Russia, has hinted at the need to incorporate digital assets into the country’s economy as a way to ensure sustainable payment for goods and services in international trade.
Ukraine Parliament Passes Legislation by Legalizing Crypto
The Ukrainian Parliament has passed a bill draft in the second reading Wednesday concerning legalising and regulating cryptocurrency and other virtual assets, such as tokens.
UK Could Be The Next Crypto-Friendly Nation As Rishi Sunak Becomes Next PM
Will Rishi Sunak's appointment as the next UK PM spell good fortune for the crypto industry?
Binance Introduces New Fan Engagement Platform for Ukrainian Football Team FC Shakhtar
Binance has announced that it will introduce a new fan programme for Ukraine football team FC Shakhtar.
Crypto Exchange Coinsmart Announces Donations for Ukrainian Humanitarian Crisis
Canada-based cryptocurrency exchange CoinSmart announced it would donate aid for the emergency humanitarian crisis in Ukraine to help Ukrainian refugees.
Switzerland to Freeze Crypto Assets Linked to Russians
Switzerland will join the UK, the US, and western allies in strengthening sanctions against Russia after its invasion of Ukraine.
Revolut Finally Wins FCA Registration to Offer Crypto trading Services in UK
Revolut is finally added to the UK FCA’s register. The firm is now approved to operate its crypto trading services in Britain.
UK to Accept Stablecoins as Form of Payment, Plans to Mint NFT by this Summer
The UK announced to accept stablecoins as a valid form of payment and has set plans to make Britain a global hub for cryptoasset technology and investment.
Ripple and Onafriq Forge Alliance for Blockchain-Enabled Payments in Africa
Ripple and Onafriq are collaborating to introduce blockchain-powered cross-border payments, aiming to improve transaction efficiency and financial inclusion in Africa, the GCC, the UK, and Australia.
Britain Eyes Becoming a Crypto Hub, Upgrading the Market by Adopting DLT
In pursuit of becoming a global crypto hub, Britain seeks to revamp the traditional financial market using distributed ledger technology (DLT), according to the finance ministry.
Crypto Whales Taking Wait-and-See Approach
Based on hiked interest rates and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, crypto whales have shown signs of caution, given that their transaction volumes have been dwindling.
South Korea Enacts Legislation for Public Disclosure of Officials' Crypto Holdings
South Korea has introduced new legislation requiring public officials to disclose crypto assets, aiming to improve governance transparency and address conflicts of interest.
Bank of England Teams up with MIT on CBDC Research Project
To delve deeper into the opportunities, risks, trade-offs, and potential technical challenges faced when developing a CBDC system, the Bank of England has joined hands Massachusetts Institute of Technology on a year-long research project.
Cryptoassets Use in Ukraine War under Scrutiny by Global Regulators: Reuters
The use of crypto assets is being closely watched by global financial regulators amid the war in Ukraine after worry about its use to evade Western sanctions on Russia, according to Reuters.
Scholar Disagrees BTC as the medium of Legal Tender
Roger Svensson, Associate Professor of the Institute of Industrial Economics, suggests that Bitcoin (BTC) is unsuitable as a medium of flat money for international currency.
PayPal Acquires UK Crypto License
PayPal has secured a cryptocurrency license from the UK's Financial Conduct Authority, marking a strategic move amid post-Brexit adjustments, and transitioning UK clients from PayPal Europe to a new UK-based entity.
Thodex Founder Arrested by Turkey Police in Albania
Faruk Fatih Ozer, the founder of the Thodex crypto exchange, escaped Turkey after taking $2 billion of investors’ funds with him. The founder is finally arrested in Albania.
10,000 Ukrainian Flags Minted as NFTs to be Sold on The Sandbox
In a recent move, up to 10,000 Ukrainian flags, modelled as Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), are up for sale on the Mauer website.
More than 75% Salvadoran Distrust in Bitcoin as Fiat Money, Poll suggests
A poll shows that more than three-quarters of Salvadorans are sceptical towards the implementation of Bitcoin across the country, according to Reuters, citing a survey released Thursday.
UK Court Rules Against Craig Wright's Claims of Being Satoshi Nakamoto
A UK judge has ruled that Craig Wright, who claimed to have written the Bitcoin whitepaper, is not the elusive Satoshi Nakamoto.
Turkey to Jail Missing Thodex CEO and Executives for at Least 40,000 Years
A year after the Thodex cryptocurrency exchange went bankrupt, Turkish prosecutors are now seeking at least a 40,000 year-jail term for Faruk Fatih Ozer- the CEO of the trading platform reported to have fled with at least $28 million of trader’s funds.
Cryptocurrency Has No Inherent Worth, But Creates Trading Opportunities for Businesses, Says Man Group CEO
Luke Ellis, the CEO of Man Group, admitted that cryptocurrencies have no inherent value, but their volatility makes them good trading instruments.
UK Financial Watchdog Increased Crypto Investigations by 74% in 2019
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the primary financial regulatory body in the United Kingdom, has seen a sharp rise of 74% in crypto-related investigations in 2019.
UK Aims to Implement Crypto Regulation Soon
The UK plans to establish digital asset regulation within a year to take advantage of blockchain's benefits for the private sector and the economy, according to Andrew Griffith, the economic secretary to the UK Treasury.
The UK is a step closer to launching a central bank digital currency
The Bank of England thinks crypto stablecoins and a central-bank-issued "digital pound" might coexist.
UK's Tax Authority Ready to Invest Up to $130,000 in Blockchain Analytics Tool to Track Crypto Cybercriminals
The UK tax authority HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), is looking for an analytics tool using blockchain to enhance the process of identifying criminals who are trading in cryptocurrencies online.
Thailand Considers Opening Crypto Payments for Russian and Ukrainian Tourists
Following Mastercard and Visa suspension of Russian credit cards abroad due to international sanctions imposed, Thailand, on the other hand, is looking at accepting crypto payments for transactions.
Crypto Debit Card Services Hit Hard as UK Financial Watchdog Suspends Wirecard Subsidiary
United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has suspended Wirecard Card Solution Ltd, the Wirecard’s subsidiary responsible for the issuance of Visa crypto debit cards.
Ukraine Government Restricts Crypto Purchases Using Local Currency
Ukraine has restricted crypto purchases in an attempt to stabilize markets as the country faces a crisis derived from the ongoing war.
ING Bank-Led Security Token-Focused Project Pyctor Was Selected by UK's FCA for its Regulatory Sandbox
Led by ING Bank, in collaboration with ABN AMRO, BNP Paribas Securities Services, Invesco US, Société Générale – Forge, State Street, and others have launched a digital asset project — Pcytor.
UK Parliament Requests Calls for Evidence on Crypto Impacts
The Treasury Committee of the Parliament of the United Kingdom has put out a Call for Evidence as it embarks on a mission to study the future of cryptocurrencies and how they will impact local society.
UK’s Financial Regulator Seeks to Hire Crypto Specialist to Spearhead Digital Asset Regulations
UK’s financial regulator has posted a job listing for a potential candidate with strong crypto knowledge. The recruitment could be an indication that the agency is set to provide higher degree of regulatory scrutiny of digital assets and possible abuses.
Bitcoin will Reach $100K in 2022: Nayib Bukele Predicts
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele released on his official Twitter on January 2 his bullish forecasts for bitcoin in 2022. Among them, Nayib Bukele believes that the bitcoin price will reach a high of $100k in 2022.
Google, UK, FTX and Binance in Crypto News
Google expands its Web3 program with 11 blockchain partners, while the UK government commits $125 million to accelerate its AI readiness. FTX is set to sell LedgerX for $50 million, and Binance.US backs out of a $1 billion Voyager asset purchase, citing regulatory concerns.
UK Watchdog Proposes Tougher Advertising Rules
If the UK Government approves the FCA's plan, crypto businesses from abroad may have to meet additional conditions to advertise to UK clients.
Ukraine Receives Military Supplies via Crypto Donation
Ukrainian deputy minister Bornyakov said that as much as $15 million in military supplies had been received recently. The funding was thanks to crypto donations from various crypto organizations.
UK Financial Watchdog FCA Bans Crypto Derivatives Trading For Retail Investors
The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has issued its final rules banning the sale of crypto derivatives and exchange-traded notes (ETNs).
UK Finance Ministry Proposes Safety Net Measures against Stalling Stablecoins
The proposals presented by the British finance ministry are aimed to mitigate risks related to stablecoins amid the recent TerraUSD de-pegging fiasco.
UK Treasury Officials Met with Crypto and Venture Capital Firms in Q1: Sources
Public disclosures indicated that top UK Treasury officials had engaged with crypto and venture capital companies in several meetings to bridge differences between the crypto industry and regulators.
USDT Sees Rise on Ukraine's Kuna Exchange Following Russia Attack
The price of Tether's USDT stablecoin soared to 36.97 Ukrainian hryvnias (UAH) ($1.23) on Ukraine's Kuna exchange on Thursday, following the ongoing invasion from Russia.
UK Financial Regulator Restricts Binance Crypto Business
The United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) issued a restriction to Binance, requesting Binance Markets Limited to remove all advertising and financial promotions and close the business by the evening of this Wednesday.
LSG Group Says Crypto Exchanges Dealing in Russia Could See Setbacks
The head of the London Stock Exchange Group said that cryptocurrency exchanges engaging with Russia could see negative consequences as Western governments look for ways to tackle Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.
Azuki NFTs Sells the 8th Most Expensive Skateboard
History is being made by Azuki is making history, the Web3.0 brand renowned for its NFT innovations as it sold out the 8th most expensive skateboard in the world.
UK NatWest Bank Restricts Daily Transfer Amount to Crypto Exchanges, Including Binance
To prevent the occurrence of fraud-related incidents, NatWest bank has tightened restrictions on crypto-related activities followed by the U.K. financial watchdog imposing restrictions on crypto exchanges.
Tether Intervenes on Terrorism Funding, Freezing 32 Cryptocurrency Addresses
Tether has frozen 32 cryptocurrency addresses tied to terrorism funding in Israel and Ukraine, manifesting the growing partnership between crypto firms and global law enforcement to combat digital-financed crime.
El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele Foresees "Gigantic Price Increase" in Bitcoin
President Nayib Bukele has showcased his level of trust in the price of Bitcoin (BTC) soaring to new levels through a new tweet shared on Monday.
Paypal's Crypto Services to Land in UK this week
Digital payment giant Paypal said the company will officially launch its cryptocurrency service in the UK this week. Customers are expected to enjoy at least four cryptocurrency trading services.
Crypto Exchange Refuses to Give Up Dissident Names to Belarus Government
Belarus government officials have demanded that a Kuna.io crypto exchange disclose the names of potential dissidents that have leveraged their services.
UK Group to Run Pilot Retail CBDC, Providing Data to Bank of England
The private consortium, called the Digital FMI Consortium, will carry out a real-world CBDC pilot with a ‘digital pound’ (dSterling).
Binance’s Partnership with Eqonex Raises Concern from UK’s Financial Regulator
Binance continued access to the UK payments network is a rising concern to the UK's Financial Conduct Authority.
Ukraine’s Largest Bank Privatbank Suspends Money Transfers to Crypto Exchanges amid Martial Law
Other local banks in Ukraine have also imposed restrictions authorized by the country’s central bank under the current martial law.
UK Defence Ministry Awards 1.8 Billion Pound AI-Driven Maritime Enhancement Contract to Thales
UK Ministry of Defence signs £1.8 billion contract with Thales for 15-year project to improve Royal Navy ship availability and resilience, leveraging AI and data management.
Ukrainian Government Raises over $10M in Digital Currencies from the Public
The entire public, particularly the crypto-savvy population, has shown solidarity with Ukraine and has raised more than $10 million since the call was made.
Over $5M Bitcoin Worth Transferred towards Aiding Ukrainian Army Amid Russian Invasion
At least $5 million in Bitcoin has been donated to boost the Ukrainian Army since Russia attacked the nation on February 24, according to blockchain analytics firm Elliptic.
XLM Price Surges as Ukraine Selects Stellar Lumens for CBDC Development
Stellar network’s native token XLM has soared by approximately 30 percent in a day, following the news that Stellar will partner with Ukraine to develop CBDC.
UK to Invest £100m in Global AI Chips Race
The UK government commits £100M to fortify its position in the AI chip market, targeting essential components from Nvidia, AMD, and Intel. Despite this, concerns arise about the UK's global semiconductor share and its comparison to the US and EU investments. Amid geopolitical tensions, the UK plans an AI summit and emphasizes its dedication to being a global AI leader.
El Salvador to Reform Laws to Favor Citizenship through Investment
President Nayib Bukele is pushing for several policy reforms that will grant Citizenship by Investment to foreign investors, according to his recent disclosed message on Twitter.
UK Adults Hesitant in Crypto Investments due to Perceived Lack of Security
A quarter of the UK's adults are hesitant in crypto investments due to a perceived lack of security, according to research from TMT Analysis.
UK FCA Regulator Announces “Temporary Registration Regime” Extending Operating Deadline for Crypto Firms
The UK’s FCA has just announced a “temporary registration regime” which allows crypto firms who have previously applied to continue operating until July 2021.
Ukrainian Volunteer Groups Receive Bitcoin Donations amid Tension with Russia
Ukrainian volunteer groups and related NGOs are receiving Bitcoin donations, given that Russia has marshalled at least 100,000 troops on the border.
UK FCA Clears Binance, Saying Exchange Has Complied with its Demands
The FCA has come out to affirm Binance has met its regulatory requirements by issuing a notice clearing the exchange.
UK Requests Crypto Exchanges to Report Suspected Sanction Breaches
The UK authorities have introduced the new rules in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The regulations cover all valuable digital assets.
UK to Host First International AI Safety Conference in November
The United Kingdom is set to host the world's first international conference on AI safety on November 1-2, 2023. The summit aims to position the UK as a mediator in tech discussions between the US, China, and the EU. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will host the event at Bletchley Park, featuring notable attendees like US Vice President Kamala Harris and Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis. The conference will focus on the existential risks posed by AI, among other safety concerns.
Japan's Akatsuki Raises $20m Fund for Investing in Web3 Projects
Japan's Akatsuki announced that it has raised a $20 million fund for investing in web3 projects, according to The Block.
Kraken’s Subsidiary Becomes the First Licensed Derivatives Platform to Offer Leveraged Crypto in the EU
Kraken Futures, a subsidiary of Kraken, also known as Crypto Facilities has announced it had been granted a Multilateral Trading Facility (MTF) license from the United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Microsoft's 2.5 billion GBP Investment in UK AI: Catalyst for Innovation and Growth
Microsoft's significant investment in the UK's AI infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance the country's technology sector and its global AI standing.
Ukrainian President Signs Law to Establish Regulatory Framework for Crypto
Amidst the ongoing war on its shores, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed into law the bill that will legalize digital currencies in the country.
Binance Launches Refugee Crypto Card for Displaced Ukrainians
Binance said that it has launched the Binance Refugee Crypto Card for Binance users from Ukraine who were forced to move to the European Economic Area countries due to the ongoing war with Russia.
SEC Charges UK Audit Firm Crowe and Senior Executives Over Deficient Audit of Akazoo
SEC charges Crowe U.K. LLP, CEO Nigel Bostock, and auditor Matthew Stallabrass over flawed Akazoo audit. Akazoo's 2018 report falsely claimed $120M revenue. Settlements agreed; penalties total $785,000. Both executives face SEC suspensions.
UK Regulator Examines AI Impact
The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is examining the impact of AI on consumers and the economy, with a focus on foundation models. The regulator plans to examine their usage against key principles, including transparency and accountability. The review aims to help develop AI in ways that ensure open, competitive markets and effective consumer protection, with guiding principles for consumer protection and healthy competition to be produced. The findings are set to be published in September 2023.
The Russia-Ukraine War Might Accelerate CBDC Issuance, Former BOJ Official Says
The sanctions slapped on Russia based on its invasion of Ukraine might prompt more nations to adopt CBDCs as a shield against the U.S. dollar’s supremacy in the global financial system.
Protests Erupt as Alexander Lukashenko Wins Disputed Landslide Election in Crypto Forward Belarus
In Belarus, a highly contested election victory for longstanding President Alexander Lukashenko over Svetlana Tikhanovskaya has erupted in protests. Despite the dispute, the Soviet forged dictator’s stay of power may be good news for crypto.
UK Regulator Issues Fresh Warning to Crypto Firms amid Key Deadline Approaches
FCA issued a release with an even more direct message notifying crypto firms that they must bring their operations into compliance within the law or face potential regulatory action.
Ukraine Launches ‘NFT Museum’ to Remember the War and Raise Funds
Ukraine is leveraging blockchain technology to keep the memory of war and celebrate Ukrainian freedom and identity.
UK to Invest in AI Task Force
UK officials announced the allocation of £100 million in funding to support an AI task force to accelerate the country's readiness for AI adoption. The task force will prioritize public services and will aim to ensure safe and reliable foundation models for AI use.
UK Government Explores IP Challenges in Emergent Metaverse Ecosystems
A new UK government report delves into the complex realm of IP issues within the Metaverse, highlighting the lack of consensus on its definition and the IP challenges it poses.
HSBC approves multi-million-pound bonuses for Silicon Valley Bank UK staff
HSBC UK Bank, which acquired Silicon Valley Bank UK for just one pound, has reportedly approved multi-million-pound bonuses for its staff and senior executives. The bonus pool, totaling between £15m and £20m, was described as "modest" by insiders and was said to be in honor of previously agreed payments and to retain key staff.
British Lawmakers Sense Risks Over Use of Digital Pound
As talks about the release of a digital pound by 2025 are yet to happen, British lawmakers are already doubtful that their use could harm financial stability, raise the cost of credit and erode privacy.
Currency.com Joins UK's Crypto Trade Association CryptoUK as an Executive Member
Currency.com has officially announced that it will join CryptoUK, the trade association of the UK's encrypted digital industry, as an executive member. It commits to share best practices and recommend how the sector responds to industry developments.
Ruble-Crypto Trading Soars amid Western Sanctions on Russia
Trading volumes between the Russian Ruble and the Tether cryptocurrency surged on Monday as Western powers slapped sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine-Russia war.
Over 100 Car Dealers to Accept Crypto Payments in the UK Boosting Crypto Adoption
At least 100 car dealers in the UK have inked a partnership with London-based AutoCoinCars, the nation’s market leader in trading cars with cryptocurrencies. Through the strategic collaboration, clients will be able to purchase cars using cryptos in some of the biggest car dealers in the UK, such as Benz Bavarian, Saxton4x4, and Redline Specialist Cars.
Russia Might Resort to Bitcoin Mining as Sanctions Continue to Bite
Based on the ripple effect of sanctions slapped on Russia because of its ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Russia continues to be starving for foreign currency. It might make Bitcoin mining an alternative to bypass sanctions.
Ukraine Opens Channel for Dogecoin Donations Towards Relief Efforts
As the Russia-Ukraine war rages on, Ukraine has increased the number of digital currencies. It now accepts Dogecoins from donors.
U.K. Could See Crypto Exchanges Exodus before FCA Deadline
With three days until a decision from the U.K.'s regulatory body, crypto companies awaiting approval are looking at places abroad for relocation, according to Bloomberg.
UK Fund Managers Urge Regulators to Approve Blockchain-Traded Funds
UK fund managers urge regulators to approve blockchain-traded funds, suggesting this move will help the UK in line with advances in the financial ecosystem.
First-Ever Real Estate Blockchain Portal Set to Launch in the UK
OpenBricks is eyeing to be the world's first blockchain-based portal as it won’t have any centralized authority, as well as many staff because it will thrive on agents’ own servers using a distributed ledger network.
Bitcoin Wallets Surpass Bank Accounts in El Salvador, says President Bukele
El Salvador has been making significant strides in the crypto space ever since, with the latest being Bitcoin wallets dwarfing bank accounts in the nation.
UK Extends Stablecoin Regulation Consultation Period, Seeks Inclusive Feedback
The Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority have extended the feedback deadline for stablecoin regulation to February 12, aiming for a comprehensive, inclusive regulatory framework.
Nigerian Police Arrest Politician Wilfred Bonse for Involvement in Patricia Technologies Financial Fraud
Nigeria Police Force arrests politician Wilfred Bonse for over 200 million Naira financial fraud at Patricia Technologies, three for romance scam, and USDT recovery in cryptocurrency fraud.
No Chivo Wallet Downloads in El Salvador This Year, Study Shows
A new study shows no Chivo wallets downloads this year in El Salvador, indicating the enthusiasm for the crypto adoption in the nation does not as promising as painted.
Brexit Border Issues Solved by Blockchain? The EU Has Doubts
ELAND, a consortium of border security professionals, IoT experts, and haulage industry professionals, have come together with a plan to use blockchain technology to track cross-border trade after the United Kingdom leaves the European Union.
Shiba Inu's Mysterious Founder Ryo Suzuki Explored
TruthLabs has revealed the founders of Shiba Inu, a meme-based cryptocurrency, as Ryoshi, an anonymous individual, who was an intern at Microsoft at the time.
Azuki Community Demands Legal Action Against Founder Zagabond Over Alleged 'Rug Pull' and Calls for 20,000 ETH Refund
In the volatile realm of the NFT world, controversy is often an inherent part of the game. Recently, a significant dispute has surfaced involving the Azuki team and its founder, Alex Xu, popularly known as Zagabond.
Crypto Service Tap Global Gets First 2023 UK Stock Market Listing.
Tap Global, a UK crypto software that offers fiat banking, crypto swaps, staking, and DeFi protocols, was the first 2023 Aquis Stock Exchange (AQSE) listing. Quetzal Capital reverse-takeovered the listing.
UK Treasury Doubles Down on Stablecoin Regulations in New Bill
Zahawi presented the Financial Services and Markets Bill to the members of Parliament on Wednesday with a proposal to regulate stablecoins and "digital settlement assets" as a form of payment assets in the UK.
Crypto is Becoming the Lifeline for Ordinary Russians, Coinbase CEO Says
Meanwhile, as the war between Russia and Ukraine ravages, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong believes that cryptocurrencies are emerging as the lifeline for Russians as the nation faces heavy sanctions.
Incoming South Korean President to Boost Crypto Adoption by Zero-Taxing Gains
Upon taking office in May, South Korean President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol vowed to zero tax crypto trading gains not exceeding 50 million won, approximately $40,000 similar to stock gains.
UK lacks expertise for central bank digital currency
UK is unlikely to issue a central bank digital currency (CBDC) as the Bank of England lacks the necessary technical skills, according to Jon Cunliffe, the deputy governor. The BoE plans to partner with the private sector to test a digital pound in a simulated environment, with the aim of gaining the required expertise to develop a working prototype.
London-based Micropayment Platform pingNpay to Debut in 2022
London-based micropayment company pingNpay announced Monday to launch its network next year by providing a small amount payment platform to customers, according to its press release,
Short-Term Holders Dominate Primary Driver for Bitcoin's Liquidation amid Ukraine Crisis
Analysis by IntoTheBlock shows that short-term holders have been the primary catalysts of the present leg down as they continue liquidating their BTC investments.
Following Market Crash, BoE Governor Says Crypto Has No Intrinsic Value
Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey once again raised a warning on cryptocurrencies after the latest market slide, arguing that cryptocurrencies are not a practical means of payment, even though he considers blockchain technology undoubtedly important.
UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak Proposes Crypto Adoption and CBDCs as Priority for Treasury Reform
The Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak has listed crypto adoption and CBDCs amongst the Treasury's focus demanding reforms in the future.
"Stop Looking at the Graph and Enjoy Life": El Salvador's President on BTC Price Slump
El Salvador's bitcoin-friendly President Nayib Bukele has shared a very important piece of advice to all Bitcoiners as the cryptocurrency ecosystem has continued to take a deep dive down.
Russians Under Sanctions Using Crypto to Launder Money: Elliptic Report
Russians with strong social connections, who are under international sanctions for the invasion of Ukraine, have been using cryptocurrencies to launder their wealth, according to a report.
UK Parliamentary Group Seeks Public Comment for Shaping Ecosystem in Crypto Sector
The United Kingdom’s Crypto and Digital Assets All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) is calling for public comments as it commences its inquiry into the emerging blockchain ecosystem in the UK.
UK's 2023 Economic Outlook Report: Inflation Surges, Growth Adjusted Downward
The UK's economic forecast for 2023 has been revised downwards to 2.8% due to global supply chain disruptions and energy price surges. Inflation is expected to average 3.5%, surpassing the Bank of England's 2% target. The job market is expected to recover, with a 5.3% average increase in house prices. The Bank of England may raise interest rates to 1.5% due to inflation.
Coinbase Plans Expansion into Europe amid Market Downturn
Nasdaq-listed cryptocurrency exchange, Coinbase Global Inc has announced its plans to expand its operations in the European Union and the United Kingdom despite the ongoing market downturn.
Brevan Howard Is Launching a New Business Unit Focused on Crypto
UK Hedge Fund Firm Brevan Howard is developing a dedicated business unit for cryptocurrency investments. The company has hired a crypto talent to manage investments in cryptocurrencies and digital assets.
Software Provider Lukka Raises $110M in Series E at $1.3B Valuation
Lukka, an enterprise crypto-asset software and data provider, has completed its Series E fundraise, pulling $110 million from investors to raise its valuation to $1.3 billion.
R3 Partners with Dubai Fintech Firm to Revolutionize the Sukuk Market
Enterprise software firm R3 recently entered into a strategic partnership with a Dubai-based fintech firm, Wethaq. The partnership aims to bring together a platform for issuing and trading Sukuk securities by utilizing R3 Corda’s blockchain.
Member of Dark Overlord Crypto Hacking Group Pleads Guilty to Ransom Attacks
UK national Nathan Wyatt was found guilty of multiple charges this week after extracting personal information from victims while demanding a Bitcoin ransom.
Ransomware Attacks Target English Football League, Data Withheld for $3.8 Million Bitcoin
UK government report reveals cybercriminals are targeting English Football Clubs with ransomware attacks.
OpenSea Briefly Delisted Several Azuki NFTs Due to Technical Error
The Azuki NFT collection got delisted from Opensea due to a technical error that has now been fixed.
The UK's Regulatory Policy Committee is Against the FCA
The Regulatory Policy Committee thinks the 2021 action is unjustified now. The Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy funds the committee. The restriction is "red," meaning it's unsuitable.
Ukrainian Retailer VARUS Partners with Binance Pay to Launch Crypto Payments
On September 16, Binance announced on its official Twitter that it has cooperated with Ukrainian food chain retailer VARUS to launch cryptocurrency payments.
UK Regulator FCA Opens Recruitment for Experts to Lead Crypto Department
The United Kingdom’s top market regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has put out an advert for an expert in digital currencies to come and head its crypto department.
Apple Demands that Telegram Block Channels Officiated by Belarus Protestors
Apple tech giant has told cloud-based messaging service Telegram to shut down three channels related to the Belarus political protests.
Coinbase to Release Q4 Results, Crypto Winter Expected to Cause amid Ukraine- Russia War
Coinbase, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the United States, announced that it will release its fourth-quarter earnings report on February 24, 2022, EST. Wall Street analysts expect a brief winter in the cryptocurrency market due to the Crisis in Russia and Ukraine.
Binance to Donates $10M to Support Ukrainian Humanitarian Crisis
Binance Exchange announced to donate the sum of $10 million to support the humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine.
Involved in Cryptocurrency and Cash Corruption, Regional Military Recruitment Heads Were Dismissed by Ukrainian President
Ukrainian President dismissed regional military recruitment heads for corruption involving cryptocurrency and cash. Law enforcement opened 112 cases.
Generative AI in the UK Public Sector: A Comprehensive Analysis
A survey by the Alan Turing Institute shows a significant uptake of GenAI in the UK public sector, with diverse applications across healthcare, education, and more. While boosting productivity and offering new operational methods, challenges like unclear guidelines and varying attitudes towards AI persist.
Ukraine Military Foundation Allies Solicits Donations in Crypto
The “Return Alive” Foundation with close ties with the Ukrainian military is now soliciting funds in cryptocurrencies to support the army in these trying times.
UK Finance Launches Experimental Phase for Regulated Liability Network (RLN)
UK Finance is launching an experimental phase to explore the UK Regulated Liability Network's potential in payment-upon-delivery, homebuying process improvements, and digital bond settlement, aligning with Project Rosalind.
Crypto Investors Should Expect No Compensation From Government: UK Regulator
The head of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) takes a harsh stance against victims of digital currency scams, opposing them to receive compensation from the government.
El Salvador's Nayib Bukele buy 1 BTC daily
El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele and Grenada's ambassador Justin Sun have decided to accumulate 1 BTC per day. Analysts are worried that bitcoin could slide to $13,000, having already lost 76% since hitting a record high of $69,000.
UK Launches Global Crypto Law Review as it Considers Legal Reforms
The Law Commission of England and Wales will explore legal proceedings from other countries to create its own crypto-based legal reforms
Ziglu Mobile Banking App Makes Cryptocurrency Easy for Everyone
Ziglu, the first UK regulated cryptocurrency bank, has launched its platform app after successfully completing its testing phase.
UK Law Enforcers Blow the Whistle on Bitcoin Fraudsters Taking Advantage of Coronavirus Outbreak
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc, having claimed more than 3,000 lives and infecting more than 100,000 people globally, tension has become inevitable. The UK police have raised the alarm on fraudsters swindling Britons by demanding Bitcoin payments amid coronavirus scare.
Illia Polosukhin Appointed CEO to Lead NEAR's Open Web Drive
NEAR Foundation appoints co-founder Illia Polosukhin as CEO, marking a new phase for the NEAR Protocol, focusing on ecosystem growth and process optimization.
UK’s Financial Watchdog Warns of Fraudsters Impersonating Blockchain.com
The FCA has raised the alarm about fraudsters who want to lure the public using a cloned version of Blockchain.com, a crypto wallet and trading company.
PayPal Payment Giant to Expand Cryptocurrency Offerings to UK Market Within Months
PayPal has revealed a brief timeline, indicating the expansion of its crypto business to the UK market in a few months’ time.
The U.K. government is recruiting for a head to its central bank digital currency project
The U.K. is hiring a central bank digital currency (CBDC) chief to establish a digital pound. CBDCs promise financial inclusion and lower corporate and consumer expenses. A former Bank of England senior advisor opposed CBDCs. In 2021, 23 million Brits did not use cash, and fewer than 15% of payments are done using cash.
El Salvador Purchases 150 new Bitcoins, Bukele: Buys the dip, Now Holds 700 coins
On Monday, El Salvador President Nayib Bukele announced that the Central American nation bought 150 new Bitcoins from the dip, urging people to buy the dip by giving his "presidential advice".
Anti-Government Protest Outbreak in El Salvador, Bitcoin ATM Burned in its Capital
Over thousand protestors marched in the capital of El Salvador Wednesday, while some Bitcoin ATMs reportedly were destroyed against the adoption of Bitcoin as fiat money.
Bank of England Outlines Framework for Regulating Crypto Assets
The Bank of England has announced a notice outlining securities law requirements that apply to cryptocurrency trading and how they may be tailored for the crypto’s business model.
UK Regulator Cracks the Whip on Deceptive Cryptocurrency Ads
The United Kingdom regulator intends to bring crypto promotions into line with other financial advertisements, to make sure these advertisements are transparent and fair.
Crypto Market Crashes after Putin Announcing Military Operations against Ukraine
The crypto market is full of bearish sentiment, right after Russia launched the latest military operation against Ukraine. Bitcoin has fallen over 8%, whereas Ethereum has plunged over 10%.
SEC Charges Crypto Project Unikrn $6.1M for ICO Violations
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has charged Unikrn for conducting an unregistered initial coin offering of its native token, UnikoinGold (UKG).
UK's Bank Regulator to Propose Rules for Digital Asset Issuance
The Prudential Regulatory Authority (PRA) in the United Kingdom is set to propose rules for issuing and holding digital assets, according to Vicky Saporta, executive director of the Prudential Policy Directorate at the Bank of England. The rules will be developed in compliance with the Basel III rules and the Financial Services and Markets (FSM) bill currently being considered by Parliament.
Bitcoins Rebounds after Witnessing 6 Month Lows due to FUD, Standing around $36K
Subject to fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine and the possibility of raising the interest rate from the U.S. Fed meeting last week, Bitcoin rebounded during the Asia trading session after it tumbled to its lowest in six months.
Crypto OTC Trading Platform B2C2 Launches New Bitcoin-Settled Gold Derivative
Cryptocurrency over-the-counter (OTC) trading platform B2C2 created the first gold derivative product, priced and settled in Bitcoin. B2C2 stated that the gold-bitcoin derivative would allow institutional clients to trade gold via its OTC trading operations regulated and licensed by the United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
UK to Invest £100m in Global AI Chips Race
The UK government commits £100M to fortify its position in the AI chip market, targeting essential components from Nvidia, AMD, and Intel. Despite this, concerns arise about the UK's global semiconductor share and its comparison to the US and EU investments. Amid geopolitical tensions, the UK plans an AI summit and emphasizes its dedication to being a global AI leader.
Ukrainian Security Department And Law Enforcement Uncover a Crypto Mining Farm in a Railway Subdivision in Lviv
According to a report, Ukrzaliznytsia has uncovered a hidden cryptocurrency mining farm in the Lviv railway subdivision, which has been making use of the country’s electricity without paying for it. This secret mining company was discovered by Ukrzaliznytsia's security department, in conjunction with law enforcement officials.
El Salvador Embraces Virtual Currency Era, Nayib Bukele: Just Bought 200 New Bitcoins
Central American nation El Salvador officially adopts Bitcoin as legal tender Tuesday, becoming the first country to embrace Bitcoin as another circulating fiat currency alongside the US dollar.
Crypto-Friendly Revolut under Pressure after UK Regulators Find Audit Flaws
Revolut has been flagged as being at risk of not meeting auditing requirements.
Ukrainian Government Accepts Polkadot DOT Donations, Expanding Crypto Donations Over $30M
Ukraine expands over $30M crypto donation program and accepts Polkadot’s DOTs after Russian army invasion.
UK Seeks to Recognize Bitcoin and Crypto as Regulated Financial Instruments
The UK Parliament recently voted to regulate Bitcoin and crypto assets as financial products
Revolut CEO Breaks Silence on Russian-Ukraine War, Condemns Violence
The Chief Executive Officer of a digital banking app Revolut Nikolay Storonsky has condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine and will donate up to £1.5 million per day to Red Cross Ukraine for the next seven days.
UK to Carve Out Ways for "the Safe Adoption of Cryptocurrencies"
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, delivered her speech to the Houses of Parliament Tuesday in the UK that new regulations will be introduced to strengthen its financial services sector, encompassing the impact on cryptocurrencies.
Santander Blocks Payments by UK Account Holders to Binance
Spanish banking giant Santander follows Barclays to ban payments from UK customers to Binance cryptocurrency exchange.
Belarus President Signs Free Flow Crypto Decree, Wallets to Come Under Central Register
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has signed a decree that will allow the free circulation of cryptocurrencies.
British University Reveals Blockchain-Enabled Digital Certificate to Water Down COVID-19 Dangers Across Supply Chains
Birmingham City University (BCU) in the United Kingdom is testing the waters with a blockchain-based digital safety certificate to safeguard consumers and suppliers from risks triggered by coronavirus (COVID-19). The digital certificate dubbed the Coronavirus Clearance Certificate (CCC), will be instrumental in reassuring stakeholders across supply chains that goods offered are risk-free.
Ukraine's Draft Bill on Digital Currencies Undergoes First Parliamentary Hearing
Ukraine's proposed draft bill for regulating digital assets in the country has passed its first parliamentary hearing.
UK Regulator Study Shows Up to 2.3M Adults Own Cryptocurrencies
The United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has released the latest report about cryptocurrency awareness among UK adults. Study shows that up to 78% UK adults heard of cryptocurrencies.
Portsmouth City Now Opens to Pay Taxes in Crypto
England’s Portsmouth has announced that its residents can now pay their taxes and other fees in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies supported on the Paypal app.
UK's ASA Issues Crypto Ad Guidelines for 50 Firms
The UK's Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has issued a guideline for companies on advertising cryptocurrency services.
El Salvador Takes First Steps Towards Bitcoin Mining Using Volcanoes
Nayib Bukele, the president of El Salvador, has announced the first steps that the country has taken to enable volcanoes to mine Bitcoin.
NFT royalties of BAYC, Azuki, Pudgy Penguins are Surprisingly $58M+, $43M+, $7.2M+ Respectively
Blockchain data and research firm Nansen has reported the royalty earnings of top Ethereum non-fungible token (NFT) brand.
UK Tech Companies Partner to Develop Blockchain-Based Parcel Tracking Application
Triad, a notable UK provider of IT consultancy services and technology solutions, has partnered with Stratis, a London-based enterprise blockchain technology company, for blockchain-enabled solutions to organizations including a parcel tracking application.
FCA Restricts Rebuildingsociety.com, Impeding Binance's UK Compliance Efforts
The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has imposed restrictions on Rebuildingsociety.com Ltd, a peer-to-peer lending platform, impacting its recent partnership with crypto exchange Binance for complying with the FCA's marketing regime. The regulation mandates firms to ensure transparent and fair marketing, affecting Binance’s strategy to serve the UK market. The move showcases the FCA's stringent stance towards ensuring marketing compliance, especially within the crypto sector.
UK’s Financial Watchdog Raises the Alarm on BitMEX Being Unauthorized
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK mandated with regulating financial markets and service firms in the nation has blown the whistle on Seychelles-based crypto exchange BitMEX for not being authorized.
UK to Unveil Plans for Crypto Regulation, Eyeing Stablecoins
According to CNBC, the U.K. government will announce a cryptocurrency regulatory regime in the next few weeks, with a focus on stablecoins, and the details of the plan are still being actively discussed.
UK Advancing Towards a Digital Pound: Exploring CBDC Feasibility
The UK's Bank of England (BoE) and HM Treasury are advancing into the second phase of exploring the feasibility of a digital pound, also known as "Britcoin." A final decision is yet to be made, with a focus on user privacy and coexistence with cash.
Pro-Russian Group Raises $400K in Crypto to Support Russian Military Actions
Pro-Russian groups are raising funds through cryptocurrencies to support Russian military operations as the Russian-Ukrainian war continues.
UK Billionaire Simon Nixon's Family Office Announces Plans to Enter Cryptocurrency Market
Seek Capital family office has decided to expand its investments into crypto assets by planning to hire an analyst who understands cryptocurrencies to help the firm manage crypto portfolios.
Ukraine Ranks Second of Crypto Adopters following Legalization: Report
Eastern European nation Ukraine has been ranked as the second nation with the overall adoption of digital currencies, following only the US in a recent survey report released by Merchant Machine.
Animoca Brands to Halt Trading Services to Russian Users
Animoca Brands said it would stop trading services to Russian users is in response to sanctions being imposed on Russia.
Bank of England Chooses Accenture To Rebuild UK Payment System
Accenture has won a tender with the UK’s central bank to assist in building the UK’s new RTGS (real-time gross settlement) service.
Crypto Exchange Thodex Founder Sentenced to Over 11,000 Years Amid Fraud Allegations
Thodex 's Faruk Fatih Özer has been sentenced to over 11,000 years by the Anatolian 9th High Criminal Court on fraud charges. The Turkish platform's abrupt 2021 shutdown left users without access to $2B in assets, leading to major international scrutiny.
DOJ Plans to Call Former FTX Consumers, Investors, and Employees as Witnesses in Upcoming Samuel Bankman-Fried Trial
The DOJ is set to call former customers, investors, and employees of FTX as witnesses in the upcoming trial against Samuel Bankman-Fried, with a letter motion on September 30 revealing the scope of testimonies. A witness from Ukraine presents a challenge due to travel constraints amidst local unrest, with video conferencing proposed as a solution. The trial, attracting attention due to its proximity, is poised to kick off following jury selection on October 3.
El Salvador Eyes Issuance of Bitcoin Bonds Through Raft of Legislation
The issuance of a Bitcoin bond worth $1 billion is deemed as a stepping stone towards enhancing financial freedom and innovation in El Salvador.
Nayib Bukele Criticises U.S. Does Not "Stand for Freedom", the Senate Comm Passes ACES Bill
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele has lashed out at the U.S. government after the Senate Foreign Relations Committee passed the Accountability for Cryptocurrency in El Salvador Act (ACES) Bill.
Kardashian's Instagram Cryptocurrency Promotion Irks UK Financial Watchdogs
British financial watchdogs are wary of investors' cryptocurrency investment risks introduced by well-known influencers such as Kim Kardashian West.
El Salvador Plays Host to Developing Economies to Delve Deeper into Bitcoin Adoption
The ongoing Bitcoin conference in El Salvador could not have come at an interesting time when the leading cryptocurrency has shown its resilience amid the current LUNA crash, according to Mikkel Morch, the executive director at crypto hedge fund ARK36.
South Korea’s Crypto Market Gears up to Legitimacy, With Banks Eyeing a Share of the Cake
With the incoming South Korean President, Yoon Suk-yeol, pledging the easing of crypto regulations, the market is on a solid path to being significantly legitimized.
LocalBitcoins Cuts Fees to Zero for Ukrainians Both Locally and Abroad
To ease transactions amongst Ukrainians as they face the Russian Army Invasion in their nation, P2P Bitcoin marketplace LocalBitcoins has removed all transaction fees for them both locally and abroad.
Bitcoin Core Developer Luke Dashjr Calls Out Misleading NFT Auction
Bitcoin core developer Luke Dashjr called out an auction site for using his name and code without consent to create and sell a misleading NFT. The NFT, which featured a picture of code Dashjr wrote, was sold for 0.41 Bitcoin or roughly $9,500. Dashjr clarified that he was not involved in the creation or sale of the NFT and had not given consent for his name or code to be used.
President Nayib Bukele Confirms Purchasing 150 BTC Amid Crypto Market Crash
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele confirmed the country has purchased an additional 150 units of BTC despite the market dip. The nation experienced the volatility of crypto just within a day after adopting BTC as legal tender.
UK Considers New DeFi Tax Regime
The UK's taxation arm of the Treasury, HM Revenue and Customs, has launched a consultation seeking input from individuals and entities engaged in DeFi activities on a possible new tax regime. Under the proposed changes, crypto used in DeFi transactions would not be treated as a disposal for tax purposes, but a Capital Gains Tax would be triggered when cryptocurrencies are disposed of in a non-DeFi transaction.
Ukraine Legalizes Bitcoin amid Intensified Tension with Russia
The Ukrainian parliament unanimously voted to legalize Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies by passaging a Virtual Assets law on Thursday, amid the intensified tension with the potential military conflicts with Russia.
First Belgian Elected as European Legislator to Accept Salary in Bitcoin
Following in the footsteps of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Brussels MP Christophe De Beukelaer intends to convert his salary to Bitcoin.
AI-Generated NFT Collection to Preserve Ukrainian Art and Offer Humanitarian Support
Through a global coalition of advocates, digital innovators, artists, and educators, an AI-generated NFT collection has been established to conserve Ukrainian art and raise funds for humanitarian aid.
UK Barclays Bank Restricts Customers from Sending Funds to Binance Exchange
Barclays Bank in the United Kingdom has halted payments to Binance just a few days after the regulator FCA imposed a ban.
Russian Finance Ministry on Track to Legalize Crypto for Cross-Border Payments
The current economic landscape in Russia is forcing both the Central Bank and the Ministry of Finance to rethink their approaches to cryptocurrencies.
UK’s Channel Islands Tax Haven Luring Investors into Crypto
UK’s Channel Islands of Guernsey and Jersey are trying to convince more crypto investing in the jurisdictions. Its regulations are regarded as tax havens to enable crypto investors to escape high taxes.
Britain to Introduce New Bill to Crack Down on Crypto Crime
The U.K. Parliament passed the first readings of an anti-money laundering bill against crypto, which aims to empower law enforcement agencies to seize, freeze or recover crypto in illegal activities.
Japan's Tech Companies Collaborate to Build Open Metaverse Infrastructure
Several tech companies in Japan have signed an agreement to create the Japan Metaverse Economic Zone and an open metaverse infrastructure called Ryugukoku. The infrastructure will serve as a new social infrastructure for enterprise digital transformation and enable interoperability across different platforms.
Cryptocurrencies to Become a Standard Payment Option, Paysafe Study Shows
Multinational online payments company Paysafe has conducted a study, showing that 60% of the respondents believe that crypto purchases will become widespread in one year.
UK Fintech Firm Mode Launches Bitcoin Banking App Enhancing Mass Consumer Accessibility
London-based fintech company Mode has announced that it has unveiled its Bitcoin banking app to advance user experience.
Bitcoin Gains Momentum as Biden Slaps Russia with Sanctions
Bitcoin entered the green zone after U.S. President Joe Biden revealed new sanctions meant to cut off Russia from western finance.
UK FCA Shares Concerns on Binance-Paysafe Deal
The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has shared its concerns about the recent partnership between Binance Exchange and Paysafe.
Coinbase CEO Criticizes Chase UK’s Crypto Transaction Ban
Coinbase CEO, Brian Armstrong, condemns Chase UK's restrictive stance on cryptocurrency transactions, urging UK crypto holders to close their Chase accounts. This move by Chase UK could potentially impede Coinbase's expansion plans in the UK and Europe.
UK Judges Receive Groundbreaking AI Usage Guidance for Legal Work
UK senior judges have issued guidance to magistrates and judges in England and Wales on the responsible use of AI in courts.
Miami International Holdings Partners with Lukka, Launching Crypto Derivatives
Miami International Holdings and Lukka are preparing to participate in the crypto derivatives ecosystem. Both institutional and retail demands continue to rise significantly in this space.
South Korea Postpones Proposed 20% Crypto Tax until 2025
South Korean lawmakers have once again postponed the implementation of the crypto tax law until 2025.
Samsung Securities Files Paperwork to Launch A Crypto Exchange
Samsung Securities is one of the seven major South Korean securities companies planning to establish cryptocurrency exchanges in the first six months of next year.
Ukraine Cancells Crypto Airdrop Program, Instead Embraces NFTs Plan
The Ukrainian government confirms that it has cancelled the airdrop program that aimed to allow anyone to contribute to its crypto donations. The government is now opting to sell NFTs to raise funds.
High Risk Crypto Activity on The Rise in Eastern Europe Amid Russia-Ukraine War - Chainalysis
Illicit cryptocurrency activities have increased in the region driven by economic sanctions.
Ukraine Plans to Pilot CBDC Digital Hryvnia for Salary Payments
Ukraine has announced pilot testing plans for central bank digital currency to pay the national digital currency (CBDC) to its workers' salaries.
UK Regulator FCA Appoints Victoria McLoughlin as Interim Head of Digital Assets Division
The regulator hired as its experienced law veteran to strengthen its team and lead FCA’s digital assets department.
UK Supreme Court Denies AI's Claim to Inventorship in Landmark Case
The UK Supreme Court's decision not to acknowledge AI as an inventor highlights the importance of human involvement in patent applications, setting a precedent for future AI-related patent disputes.
UK’s First Regulated Crypto Bank to be Launched by Former Barclays Tech Head
The former Head of Technology for the Barclays group, and former CTO at Starling Bank in the UK, Mark Hipperson is planning to launch a regulated crypto bank with his digital banking venture Ziglu.
Bank of England halts Silicon Valley Bank UK branch operations
The Bank of England has ordered the Silicon Valley Bank's UK branch to halt its operations as it has limited presence and no critical functions supporting the financial system. The bank will be placed into a Bank Insolvency Procedure, and eligible depositors will be paid out by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme up to the protected limit of £85,000, with the remaining assets and liabilities being managed by bank liquidators. UK venture capitalists and a nonprofit organization have expressed concern as several startups and investors have significant exposure to the SVB UK, including prominent blockchain VCs who have over $6 billion in assets at the bank.
Crypto Can Stir Radical Improvements in Financial Services: BoE Deputy Gov
Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, Sir John Cunliffe has pointed out that cryptos are viable enough to push “radical improvements in financial services.”
OKX Introduces Mandatory Risk-Awareness Questionnaires for UK Users
OKX aligns with UK financial regulations by introducing mandatory risk-awareness questionnaires for its users, fostering responsible cryptocurrency trading and informed decision-making.
US and UK Clamp Down on Trickbot Ransomware Group Behind $833M in Extortions
The US and UK have sanctioned eleven members of Russia-based ransomware group Trickbot, following a previous sanction of seven. The sanctions are part of a global effort to combat cybercrime in the blockchain-dominated era.
UK Cryptocurrency Exchanges Adapt to Enhanced Regulatory Standards
The UK is intensifying regulatory standards for crypto exchanges under the Financial Services and Markets Act, aiming for parity with traditional financial services. Exchanges must comply with stringent risk assessments and finance tests, impacting both domestic and offshore entities.
Ukraine receives over $70M in crypto donations
Ukraine has received over $70 million in cryptocurrency donations since the start of the conflict with Russia, with the majority of the funds coming in the form of Ether and Bitcoin. Donors have contributed to the nation's military equipment and humanitarian aid efforts, with non-fungible tokens also being donated.
UK to Invest 100m Pounds in Global AI Chips Race
The UK government commits £100M to fortify its position in the AI chip market, targeting essential components from Nvidia, AMD, and Intel. Despite this, concerns arise about the UK's global semiconductor share and its comparison to the US and EU investments. Amid geopolitical tensions, the UK plans an AI summit and emphasizes its dedication to being a global AI leader.
BlackRock CEO Believes Russia-Ukraine War in Boosting Crypto Adoption
BlackRock Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Larry Fink commented on the role of digital currencies in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Fink believes countries would be more active to embrace crypto.
Belarus President Alexandra Lukashenko Urges His Citizens to Embrace Bitcoin Mining
The president of Belarus, Alexandra Lukashenko, is urging his citizens to take advantage of cheap electricity in the country to do crypto mining instead of seeking jobs abroad.
UK Invests 100M Pound in AI: Pioneering Healthcare Innovation and Regulatory Frameworks
The UK government announces a £100 million investment to establish AI research hubs and enhance regulatory frameworks, focusing on healthcare, chemistry, and mathematics, alongside global partnerships for responsible AI practices.
UK to Invest £100m in Global AI Chips Race
The UK government commits £100M to fortify its position in the AI chip market, targeting essential components from Nvidia, AMD, and Intel. Despite this, concerns arise about the UK's global semiconductor share and its comparison to the US and EU investments. Amid geopolitical tensions, the UK plans an AI summit and emphasizes its dedication to being a global AI leader.
UK Financial Conduct Authority: We Will Not Regulate Bitcoin and Ether
The British Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has confirmed that they will not be regulating cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ether as it falls out of their perimeter.