News
Dubai-Headquartered Crypto Exchange MaskEX Launches Virtual Card for Worldwide Spending and Welcomes Ben Caselin as Vice President to Drive Global Expansion Effort

MaskEX, a rapidly expanding third-generation crypto exchange, headquartered in Dubai, has announced the launch of its crypto-backed Virtual Card, enabling users to spend their crypto as fiat in more than 176 countries with over 50 million merchants worldwide. This new feature is now available to all ID-verified MaskEX users.
MaskEX has also announced that Ben Caselin, former Head of Research and Strategy at Hong Kong-based crypto exchange AAX, has joined MaskEX in the role of Vice President. Drawing on nearly 4 years at AAX, Mr. Caselin has played an important role in driving the mainstream adoption of bitcoin and digital assets through the platform, especially in emerging markets. At MaskEX, Mr. Caselin will oversee all global and localized marketing, communications and business development initiatives.
“We are excited to offer our users the ability to spend their crypto wherever and whenever they want with the launch of the MaskEX Virtual Card,” said Eric Yang, CEO of MaskEX. “Our vision is to make crypto more accessible and find ways to integrate crypto more with people’s everyday lives.”
“We are also delighted to be joined by Ben Caselin, not only because we believe he can play a vital role in our global expansion efforts, but also because of the terrible situation he has witnessed up close at AAX, following the collapse of FTX in late 2022. As we have observed, he puts users before business, and in reaching out to Ben, we have specifically asked him to be uncompromising and closely scrutinize our operations.”
“As a third-generation crypto exchange we are one of only 18 centralized exchanges globally that provide Proof-of-Reserves,” said Mr. Yang, “and with Abu Dhabi’s Sovereign Wealth Fund, under Sheikh Hamad Rakadh Salem Hamad Alameri, as a major stakeholder, we know we are in a very good place to compete with the world’s biggest trading platforms.”
On joining MaskEX, Mr. Caselin stated that “while the industry is still suffering from contagion and a severe lack of investor confidence, we cannot afford to give up now.”
“At this stage in the development of this nascent industry, properly managed centralized exchanges can still play an important role in raising awareness around digital assets, providing a point of contact for regulators, cooperating with the existing banking sector and payment providers to accelerate integration, and, of course, in driving the mainstream uptake of bitcoin and digital assets everywhere.”
About MaskEX
Headquartered in Dubai, UAE, MaskEX is a third-generation centralized crypto exchange, founded in 2021, that aims to provide easy and secure access to digital assets for everyone. With a wide range of innovative products and services, MaskEX is committed to empowering users globally and contributing to the growth of the crypto and blockchain industry. MaskEX offers a user-friendly interface and advanced trading tools, making it easy for both novice and experienced traders to navigate the crypto market. The exchange offers a comprehensive range of products, including savings packages, over 300 spot pairs, and deeply liquid futures markets. Additionally, MaskEX offers a range of on- and off-ramp products to help users easily convert fiat currency to digital assets and vice versa. With a growing user base of over one million users across the globe, MaskEX is dedicated to promoting the adoption of digital assets and building a more inclusive economy for all smart cities and their citizens.
Business
OrangeX Unveils $5M Innovation Fund, Accelerating Support for Bitcoin Ecosystem Growth

OrangeX, a global cryptocurrency exchange, is proud to unveil its $5 million Innovation Fund. Designed to bolster the Bitcoin ecosystem and propel blockchain innovation, the Fund’s core focus is on investing in promising projects within the Bitcoin ecosystem, including Ordinals Protocols and BRC-20 standard tokens.
In the dynamic landscape of the evolving Bitcoin ecosystem, various features and functionalities are continually reshaping its potential. Notably, the BRC-20 token standard has emerged as a key player, attracting significant attention.
Recognizing the surging demand and immense potential of BRC-20 standard token projects, OrangeX’s Innovation Fund stands ready to provide crucial capital and infrastructure support to empower the community in building a resilient and flourishing Bitcoin ecosystem.
Exciting Bitcoin Ecosystem Initiatives
OrangeX is proud to introduce a range of products and services tailored for the Bitcoin ecosystem and projects, catering to user preferences. Key offerings include:
- Bitcoin-based Token Trading: Facilitating the listing and trading of Bitcoin-based tokens. ORDI, the largest BRC-20 token, is now available on both OrangeX Spot and Perpetual Contracts.
- Bitcoin Ecosystem Information: Providing valuable insights and analytics on the Bitcoin ecosystem.
- Bitcoin Ecosystem Token Launchpad: Offering a fair and efficient token distribution service for promising Bitcoin ecosystem projects with financial, technical, and marketing assistance. Share early ecosystem returns with a larger customer base.
OrangeX CEO, Alexandra K, expressed confidence in the potential of outstanding Bitcoin Ecosystem projects. He stated, “These projects not only stand to receive financial backing from OrangeX but also gain access to a suite of services, resources, and connections available through our platform. With these tools, we believe our supported projects will thrive, succeed, and have a positive impact on the world.”
Empowering the Bitcoin Ecosystem: OrangeX’s Pioneering Role
Bitcoin, the original cryptocurrency, remains the bedrock of blockchain finance. Every trading platform benefits from the development of Bitcoin. If there is no Bitcoin, cryptocurrency exchange will no longer exist. With 15 years since its inception, the Bitcoin revolution continues to unfold, presenting a dynamic and evolving ecosystem. Anticipate groundbreaking innovations that will redefine possibilities.
As a central figure in this domain, every cryptocurrency exchange is urged to actively contribute to the ongoing development of the Bitcoin ecosystem. OrangeX, as a trailblazer, introduces the Innovation Fund, a platform committed to integrating Bitcoin ecosystem products. This initiative aims to address user needs in exchanging, managing, and investing in Bitcoin-based projects.
OrangeX invites collaboration from institutions, communities, and projects to join forces in propelling the growth and diversification of the Bitcoin ecosystem. Together, let’s forge a future where Bitcoin is more accessible, versatile, and inclusive – ensuring its enduring significance in the ever-evolving landscape of blockchain-based finance.
About OrangeX
Founded in 2021 in Seychelles, OrangeX stands as a worldwide cryptocurrency trading platform renowned for its cutting-edge technology, proficient team, and seasoned financial knowledge. With more than 1 million active users, OrangeX has built a comprehensive product line, dedicated to empowering investors to make a better future. OrangeX futures trading offers 3 service options: USDT-M Perpetual Contracts, One-Click Copy Trading and Powerful API. According to Coinmarketcap(CMC) and CoinGecko, OrangeX Spot now supports over 100 coins with approximately 130 trading pairs.
Business
Safe launches Safe{RecoveryHub}, joining forces with Sygnum Bank and Coincover to Set New Standard for Crypto Recovery

Safe, the leading smart wallet infrastructure, is collaborating with Sygnum, a global digital asset banking group, and CoinCover, a UK-regulated recovery service provider, to launch Safe{RecoveryHub}, offering a curated suite of crypto recovery options. Built with Safe’s battle-tested smart account infrastructure at its core, this marketplace of solutions lays the technical groundwork for a tailored approach to smart account recovery.
It has been estimated that over 900K ETH (worth approximately $1.92 billion) is inaccessible to users, with significant losses due to forgotten keys. Despite self-custody being one of the original value propositions of web3, complex key management remains a significant barrier for users, with few recovery solutions available. Safe{RecoveryHub} offers a comprehensive range of recovery solutions for all digital asset holders, from large institutions to individual users. Users can recover access to their accounts through designated recoverers, which can be personal backup devices, family members, friends, and collaborators, in a process known as “social recovery.” In addition, trusted third-party service providers like Sygnum, a Swiss-regulated bank with over USD 4 billion assets held in institutional-grade custody, and CoinCover can also be designated as recoverers to facilitate recovery.
Importantly, even with a custodial recovery setup, Recoverers are given control by the user only in case of a recovery event and are trusted to recover access for users. In all other times, users retain full control through veto rights to cancel any recovery attempt. Users can also setup multiple recoverers and apply a threshold to further bolster security. This aligns with Vitalik Buterin’s advocacy for a holistic approach to recovery, where a flexible set of at least three recoverers or “guardians” can be designated, ranging from personal connections to institutions.
Lukas Schor, co-founder at Safe, commented, “With this solution, rather than face a binary choice between a self-custody or custodial experience, users are empowered to optimize a key recovery solution to fit their personal risk preferences. This user-driven module, where account holders dictate the terms of asset management themselves, is unprecedented both in the crypto industry and traditional finance, marking a new milestone in the path towards financial sovereignty.”
Thomas Eichenberger, Chief Product Officer, Sygnum Bank, added, “As the market for self-custody expands and new use cases emerge, there is a growing need for reliable institutional recovery solutions. For individuals holding valuable digital assets, complementing self-custody with additional safeguards provides a balance between the desire for financial sovereignty and the need for risk management. This partnership to build a dynamic and secure recovery solution reflects our commitment to meet the evolving needs of institutional investors.”
Morgan Williams, Head of Product at Coincover, added, “This collaboration serves a twofold purpose: first, to meet the complex needs of existing crypto users; second, to create a foundation for newcomers from diverse backgrounds. Our goal is to establish a flexible recovery solution that adapts to users’ changing values, enhancing the security and inclusivity of the digital asset environment.”
Safe{RecoveryHub} will be available to all Safe{Wallet} users from today, while solutions from partners will be launched in the first half of 2024.
About Safe
Safe (previously Gnosis Safe) is an onchain asset custody protocol, securing ~$54 Billion in assets today. It is establishing a universal ‘smart account’ standard for secure custody of digital assets, data, and identity. With Safe{Wallet}, it’s flagship web and mobile wallet and Safe{Core} account abstraction infrastructure, Safe is on a mission to unlock digital ownership for everyone in web3 including DAOs, enterprises, retail and institutional users.
About Sygnum
Sygnum is a global digital asset banking group, founded on Swiss and Singapore heritage. We empower professional and institutional investors, banks, corporates and DLT foundations to invest in digital assets with complete trust. Our team enables this through our institutional-grade security, expert personal service and portfolio of regulated digital asset banking, asset management, tokenisation and B2B services.
In Switzerland, Sygnum holds a banking licence and has CMS and Major Payment Institution Licences in Singapore. The group is also regulated in the established global financial hubs of Abu Dhabi and Luxembourg.
We believe that the future has heritage. Our crypto-native team of banking, investment and digital asset technology professionals are building a trusted gateway between the traditional and digital asset economies that we call Future Finance. To learn more about how Sygnum’s mission and values are shaping this digital asset ecosystem, please visit www.sygnum.com
About Coincover
Blockchain technology is changing everything. However, it brings its own set of unique risks. Coincover exists to ensure everyone is protected, enabling them to innovate freely, without constraints.
Coincover provides a complete blockchain protection solution, addressing the most significant barrier to mainstream adoption: trust. Our protection solutions ensure that access and assets are never lost.
Founded in 2018 and backed by leading investors, Coincover protects over 350 of the biggest names in blockchain, keeping them and their customers safe from theft, hacking, and human error.
Visit www.coincover.com for more information.
Morgan Williams, a seasoned blockchain professional and current Web3 Product Director at Coincover. Holding an MBA specialized in adoption and innovation in Web3, he has over a decade of experience in the industry.
Blockchain
Orderly Network Introduces Groundbreaking Omnichain SDK: Rapid Perpetual Protocol Development with Built-in Liquidity

Orderly Network – an innovative layer that serves both as an omnichain trading infrastructure and an app-chain, offering advanced trading tools and plug-in liquidity – is excited to unleash the Orderly Omnichain SDK, crafted meticulously ‘for devs by devs’. This toolkit is a canvas for developers, enabling them to effortlessly craft powerful protocols and innovative trading instruments. With its intuitive design and enhanced capabilities, the SDK allows developers to focus on creativity and efficiency. This particular SDK is built for the EVM community, as part of Orderly’s omnichain expansion. Previously they SDK was only available on NEAR protocol. Orderly already has several DEX’s as well as CEX’s using their infrastructure to power perps.
Designed for Developers, Tailored for Innovation
The Orderly Omnichain SDK offers a robust and expansive platform tailored for EVM developers, streamlining the creation of perpetual protocols and sophisticated trading tools. This toolkit is akin to a plug-and-play set, offering the flexibility and simplicity of Lego blocks. It empowers developers to construct orderbook-based Perp DEX with precision and ease, significantly reducing development time and effort for web3 teams.
Key features include data fetching, smart contract interaction, account & asset management, orderbook and market data access, and order & position management. Targeted primarily at developers, this SDK simplifies complex tasks, allowing developers to focus on innovation and accelerate product development – serving as an invaluable resource for developers and dApp creators seeking to integrate advanced Orderly functionalities into their applications.
Simplified Integration for EVM Builders
Integration is simplified with a comprehensive suite of webhooks, making the Orderly SDK a one-stop solution for diverse development needs. Orderly Network also provides extensive documentation offering technical details, code samples, and use case examples, alongside a responsive AI chatbot support for immediate query resolution.
The Orderly Omnichain SDK is a significant asset for EVM developers, seamlessly merging powerful capabilities with user-friendly design. It revolutionizes the creation of perpetual protocols and advanced trading tools, offering a level of simplicity and flexibility.
This toolkit is set to significantly reduce development time for decentralized trading tools. It’s an essential tool for web3 teams, streamlining development processes and paving the way for innovative, efficient DeFi solutions.
Accessibility and Future Plans
The SDK will be made accessible via Orderly’s GitHub in the coming days and will be announced on all social platforms. Comprehensive tutorials and in-depth documentation are slated also for release.
Orderly’s Omnichain SDK currently supports TypeScript as their initial offering. However, the protocol plans to expand language support to Python and Java, reflecting the diverse needs of the developer community. Its roadmap includes additional documentation, enhanced functionalities, and broader language support, signaling Orderly Network’s commitment to continuous innovation.
Orderly actively encourages developers to join their Discord channel for personalized support and guidance from their experienced developer team. Additionally, they invite developers to participate in their hackathons, offering opportunities for hands-on experience, collaboration, and innovation in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Business
Curvance Raises $3.6M in Seed Round from Over 20 DAOs and DeFi Builders including Offchain Labs and Wormhole

Curvance introduces a new, efficient approach for users to yield farm and maximize yield on their DeFi investments
Curvance, a full-service omnichain money market for yield-bearing, LSDfi, tokenized treasuries, and primitive assets, announces the close of a $3.6M seed round supported by Offchain Labs, Wormhole, prominent angel investors including Polygon Co-Founder Sandeep Nailwal, and core contributors from Scroll, Mantle, Eigenlayer, GMX, Curve Finance, Convex Finance, Balancer, Aura Finance, and Pendle Finance. Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) such as Frax Finance and others also contributed to the round.
Founded in 2022, Curvance is the “everything app” for lending and borrowing, providing decentralized finance (DeFi) users with an all-encompassing way to manage any of their assets, eliminating fragmentation and barriers to entry in the ecosystem.
“Curvance will give users of any blockchain an easy route to participate in Polygon DeFi, with the potential to make onboarding easier than ever. As DeFi on Polygon zkEVM and Polygon CDK continue to gain momentum, reducing friction into DeFi opportunities is more powerful than ever,” says Sandeep Nailwal from Polygon.
By tapping into omnichain infrastructure, Curvance is able to support Ethereum, as well as numerous partner chains simultaneously such as Arbitrum, Optimism, Scroll, Base, and Polygon zkEVM. Curvance’s cross-functional omnichain design unlocks capital efficiency not possible prior, working in tandem with Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) like Curve, Balancer, Velodrome, GMX, Pendle, and other assets such as Liquid Staking Derivatives (LSDs).
“With this funding round, Curvance will be able to expand on its value proposition of bringing forward a more approachable money market experience for both DeFi newcomers and experienced yield farmers and traders alike “ says Curvance Co-Founder, Chris Carapola. “We are excited to have attracted a group of investors who bring incredible experience and are ready to work with us toward our shared vision.”
Carapola says the raised capital will be used to continue Curvance’s operations costs, support continued security audits, as well as maintain and hire more in-house talent for the project.
“When we started looking for funding, we chose to talk to our partners first, instead of just going to venture capital firms,” commented Curvance Co-Founder Michael Butcher. “This way, we ended up with a group of investors who care about our long-term success. We’re happy with how it turned out and can’t wait to launch Curvance on testnet soon.”
About Curvance
Curvance is a full-service omnichain money market for yield-bearing assets. Users can collateralize, leverage, and boost asset rewards across DeFi, with optimal efficiency, and consolidate DeFi yield across various assets such as AMM LPs, Perpetual Exchange LPs, interest-bearing stablecoins, and more, in one user interface.
News
MyCoinChange crypto exchange to launch PRO mode, extra features to swap exchange

MyCoinChange, a Canadian-based cryptocurrency exchange, has launched a PRO version, adding more features for investors to buy and sell digital currencies seamlessly. Using the PRO mode, users can now trade digital assets like Bitcoin(BTC), Ethereum(ETH), and Cosmos(ATOM), among others, more conveniently.
According to the MyCoinChange exchange’s team of experienced developers, led by founder Mark Gillani, the PRO mode has been tested and launched. It is now fully operational and available for crypto enthusiasts to leverage.
The team also stated the product will undergo tweaks periodically to improve the overall user experience. The trading platform’s swap exchange will also receive additional innovative features to its stacked-up functional capabilities.
Join the exchange that prides itself on providing a user-friendly platform equipped with state-of-the-art technology. It strives to enhance the trading experience, making it more efficient and accessible for all users. Moreover, it currently provides features such as a hot and cold wallet for storing crypto, alongside spot trading with competitive market rates with low fee swapping.
Alongside a diverse cryptocurrency support team, MyCoinChange leverages several strategies to keep its users’ funds safe, including two-factor authentication, insurance, Know-Your-Customer(KYC) and Anti Money Laundering(AML) compliance protocols, security audits and real-time activity monitoring.
MyCoinChange Pro mode has garnered over 1,000 users in the first month of its launch. The platform also has an affiliate program, where you can get 50% of the transactions made by the people you refer to MyCoinChange.
The trading platform has also been featured in leading news publications like CoinGape, International Business Times, CryptoNews, and Benzinga, showcasing its growing popularity.
Founder Mark Gillani gave his remarks on the launch of MyCoinChange’s PRO mode, saying: “We are thrilled to unveil our state-of-the-art cryptocurrency exchange that is redefining the future of finance. With unparalleled security, transparency and flexibility, we are paving the way for financial innovation. Let’s explore infinite possibilities together!”
Furthermore, the digital currency exchange has established strategic partnerships with renowned industry leaders, collaborating with major crypto firms, like ChangeNow, and financial institutions to guarantee a safe and smooth trading experience.
Following its partnership with ChangeNow and integrating the latter’s API in August, MyCoinChange provides users access to a substantial liquidity pool and diverse tradable assets. This guarantees that users can easily find the necessary liquidity and have unparalleled access to the most sought-after cryptocurrencies in the market.
By offering an extensive range of assets, MyCoinChange empowers traders to capitalize on market opportunities and customize their investment portfolios in line with their unique strategies.
ChangeNow’s API adds a layer of security to the exchange’s data and assets with programs such as bug bounty, SSL encryptions, and decentralization. Users of MyCoinChange can have peace of mind knowing that their funds and personal information are safeguarded at all times due to the implementation of these enhanced security measures.
About MyCoinChange crypto exchange
Mycoinchange.ai is a digital currency exchange based in Ontario, Canada. It aims to build a trustworthy and secure platform that offers convenient and user-friendly services to our valued customers. The early-bird promotion available today for verified accounts get up to $50 in crypto rewards sent to your in-exchange wallet for trading.
The exchange’s vision encompasses creating an original and unique experience that stands out in the industry by providing crypto investors worldwide with a way to buy and sell virtual currencies via its fast, secure and transparent platform.
Technologies
New Digital Wallet Tezro Aims to Revolutionize Banking

The fintech industry is booming with innovation. According to a recent report from CB Insights, investment in fintech startups reached $32.1 billion in the first half of 2021, already surpassing the total for all of 2020. Within this space, digital payments and banking solutions are hot areas of growth.
This trend is evident in companies like Tezro (https://www.tezro.com/), an emerging FinTech startup. Tezro recently announced the beta launch of its platform, which integrates payments, banking, and shopping within popular messaging apps. Using technologies such as chatbots, APIs, and digital escrow, Tezro aims to provide a seamless experience for completing financial transactions directly within the messaging environments people use every day.
The fintech industry has been growing rapidly, fueled by trends like the rise of ecommerce, the growing influence of millennials and Gen Z, and the mass adoption of smartphones. Within fintech, digital payments and embedded finance solutions are particularly hot sectors.
Companies like Tezro are tapping into key insights driving these areas. First, messaging apps have become a dominant mode of digital communication and are increasingly platforms for daily life and commerce. By integrating payments and finance within popular messaging apps, Tezro aims to meet people where they already are digitally.
Seamless user experiences are now expected. Traditional banking and payments apps often involve tedious setup, login credentials, and switching between various apps and interfaces. Tezro is focused on leveraging chatbots, APIs, and other technologies to provide a frictionless experience for sending, receiving and spending money within messaging platforms. Demand for alternative payments options continues to rise. Younger generations tend to favor newer types of payments, such as contactless, e-wallets, and instant payments. Tezro supports both government currencies and cryptocurrencies, enabling a wide range of payments flexibility.
Trust and security remain high priorities. Though open to new technology, people expect strong safeguards around their money and financial data. Tezro’s escrow system and partnerships with trusted messaging platforms help address these concerns, giving users more control and confidence in their transactions. With its digital payments and banking solution focused on messaging apps, support for new payment methods, and emphasis on security plus user experience, Tezro is tapping into several of the most compelling fintech trends and innovations redefining finance today. If successful, the company could help drive the broader shift toward embedded, conversational banking through platforms people interact with daily. The result may be a simpler yet more robust digital financial ecosystem overall.
“Tezro is building a new financial ecosystem that brings payments, banking, and shopping into messaging apps. Our goal is to make payments and transactions as easy as sending a message,” said Grygoriy Sytenko, COO of Tezro.
Tezro’s beta platform offers unique features that point to the future of digital finance. These include:
- Chat Payments: Users can send and receive money or pay for goods and services directly within messaging apps like Telegram, Viber, WeChat and WhatsApp. Tezro supports both government-issued currencies and cryptocurrencies.
- Escrow Services: Tezro’s escrow system ensures secure transactions by holding funds until all parties have verified the details. This provides users more control and confidence over payments and money transfers.
- Digital Payment Cards: Tezro enables users to create virtual gift cards, fund them, and send them to friends and family instantly through messaging apps. Recipients can then use the gift cards for shopping and payments.
- Live Stream Shopping: Using Tezro’s API, merchants and sellers can set up virtual shops to sell goods and services across social networks and messaging platforms. Customers can browse, interact with sellers, and complete purchases within their chats.
- Auction Services: Tezro facilitates high-value goods auctions over encrypted messaging apps using cryptocurrency. All funds are transferred directly between users with no intermediary fees.
With its innovative platform, Tezro is positioning itself at the forefront of an emerging trend to integrate payments, e-commerce, and finance within the messaging apps people use daily. If successful, Tezro could help revolutionize digital banking and the way people transact electronically. The company’s payment solution is currently in beta with an official launch expected later this year.
Technologies
Compass UOL offers financial institutions new Gen AI solutions with AWS Financial Services Competency

Digital services company Compass UOL announced today it achieved the AWS Financial Services Competency and is offering its Gen AI tools to financial services institutions (FSIs) to speed up the evolution of their business on the cloud.
Out of the limited number of companies capable of addressing AWS use cases in the financial services sector, Compass UOL stands out as the sole provider offering its proprietary Gen AI software engineering suite to expedite software development.
Financial institutions can also apply AI to new business use cases, like onboarding for physical and business accounts using ChatGPT-like bots and robotic process automation (RPA), risk and fraud analysis with AI on new data models, and FSI-specific business analytics, among others.
“There is a window of opportunity for U.S. financial institutions to jump ahead of competitors and give new customers what they need online,” said Compass UOL CEO Alexis Rockenbach.
There are four areas where software can help financial institutions compete for new customers:
- Payments: Instant payments, FedNow, faster payment services and integration, digital currencies, and digital wallets.
- Digital Banking: Digital banking products, cloud migration, dynamic legacy path, edge open banking, and automated mainframe migration.
- Real Time FSI: Data driven FSI, advanced analytic fraud detection, real time decision making, and real time credit and risk solutions.
- Banking and Capital Markets: Wealth and asset management, credit and lending management, and investment management.
“Compass UOL is already helping financial institutions profit from generative AI,” said Rockenbach, speaking of Compass UOL’s approach. “We believe they can help make more institutions find their own way to benefit from it,” he added.
To achieve the AWS Financial Services Competency, Compass UOL presented a set of customer success cases which confirmed its ability to help its partners and customers stand out in a competitive landscape. Some of the cases involved complete solutions implemented using Gen AI to deliver strategic gains through a specialized financial services methodology empowered by AWS Data-Driven Everything (D2E) practice.
Compass UOL’s technology talent training program, Compass Academy, was also key for obtaining the AWS Financial Solutions Competency. The training focused on blockchain, Open Finance, and Data & Analytics, among other courses, preparing professionals to accelerate software engineering in the financial services industry.
A report published by the American Bankers Association said that financial institutions spent over $80 billion in technology in 2022, much of which went to keep their old systems working.
According to data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), financial institutions with less than $250 billion in assets held 45% of deposits in 2022, compared to 52% in 2012 and 78% in 2002, when there were twice as many banks.
In contrast, FDIC data shows that only 13 giant banks held $10.5 trillion in deposits last year, or 55% of the total, increasing the risk that problems at a single institution could affect more people.
About Compass UOL
Compass UOL is a global company that drives Enterprise transformation through Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies. We design and build digital native platforms using cutting-edge technologies to help companies innovate, transform their businesses, and thrive in their industries. We cultivate the best talent, creating opportunities to improve people’s lives and focusing on how disruptive technologies can positively impact society.
Business
3iQ Launches Crypto Hedge Fund Platform for Global Institutional Investors, Expanding Into Active Management

3iQ Digital Assets (US), subsidiary of 3iQ Corp., one of the world’s leading digital asset managers, today announces a significant advancement in the digital asset management space. The company has launched the industry’s first comprehensive suite of crypto hedge fund managed accounts through the 3iQ Managed Account Platform (QMAP). The platform will launch with $50 million of capital from 3iQ and institutional investors.
As the first platform of its kind, QMAP connects institutions with digital asset alpha strategies in a secure, transparent, and efficient framework. QMAP is led by Louis LaValle, a seasoned industry veteran with over 20 years’ experience investing in hedge funds and structuring managed accounts for institutional investors.
Louis LaValle, head of QMAP and 3iQ’s institutional investment division, says: “The shift towards active management in digital assets is evolving rapidly, and crypto hedge funds are at the forefront. We’re witnessing a repeat of the growth seen by their traditional counterparts in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Over the last decade, traditional hedge funds have seen a decline in alpha generation. Now, the trading talent and infrastructure in traditional finance is shifting towards crypto to capitalize on the market’s maturing infrastructure and structural inefficiencies. It’s a defining moment for the industry and for discerning investors to tap into unique alpha opportunities only available in digital asset markets.”
QMAP stands out as the digital asset industry’s first buy-side multi-manager hedge fund managed account platform. As opposed to sell-side investment marketplaces that typically offer a wider array of investment choices with due diligence left to the end-investor, QMAP adopts a proactive approach that incorporates a thorough process for sourcing, selecting, and approving investment strategies before making them accessible to investors. 3iQ has evaluated over 100 crypto hedge fund managers and has selected a subset of 9 as best-in-class for their consistent alpha generation and superior risk management.
LaValle added: “We’re in search of exceptional teams that have a clear, identifiable competitive edge in the market. Our criteria are stringent. We prioritize institutional pedigree, specialized expertise, exceptional operational capabilities, performance consistency and, most importantly, integrity. After an extensive due diligence process, we selected those we consider the best in their strategy categories. These managers are leveraging their decades of traditional investment experience to innovate within the digital asset markets. Many of them have extensive track records successfully navigating through multiple crypto market cycles.”
The platform offers a range of strategies, each managed by experienced crypto hedge fund professionals, including Long Biased, Long/Short, Quantitative, Relative Value, and Event Driven. The strategies available on QMAP are:
- 3iQ Absolute Return
- 3iQ All Weather
- 3iQ BTC 25
- 3iQ Digital Alpha
- 3iQ Digital Lending
- 3iQ ETH 25
- 3iQ Multi-Factor
- 3iQ Relative Value Arbitrage
- 3iQ Systematic Alpha
QMAP’s managed account structure is an ideal fit for institutional allocators seeking multi-manager exposure. Managed accounts allow for direct control over assets, the ability to customize investment strategies, and enhanced transparency and risk management, positioning them as a practical alternative to traditional fund-of-funds, which often lack those features.
Key investor benefits of QMAP include:
- Full operational control of assets with investment decision-making delegated to managers.
- Real-time overview of investment risks and exposures with 100% position-level transparency.
- Institutional-grade infrastructure that effectively minimizes counterparty and operational risk.
- Pre-negotiated terms with managers with no double layer of fees to access the platform.
- Options to customize investment allocation or use 3iQ model portfolios at no additional cost.
“Our objective with QMAP is to create a platform that offers attractive investment strategies while also providing the much-needed operational familiarity and trust needed in today’s digital asset landscape,” said LaValle. “Investors also have the flexibility to build multi-manager portfolios independently or leverage 3iQ’s model portfolios for allocation oversight. This makes QMAP not just a platform, but a comprehensive solution that helps bridge the gap for institutional allocators.”
For more information on QMAP, please visit: http://www.3iqcapital.com
About 3iQ Digital Assets (US)
3iQ Digital Assets (US) is subsidiary of 3iQ Corp. Founded in 2012, 3iQ is one of the world’s leading digital asset investment fund managers, offering investors convenient and familiar investment products to gain exposure to digital assets. 3iQ was the first Canadian investment fund manager to offer public bitcoin investment funds: The Bitcoin Fund (TSX: QBTC) (TSX: QBTC.U) and the 3iQ Bitcoin ETF (TSX: BTCQ) (TSX: BTCQ.U), as well as public ether investment funds: The Ether Fund (TSX: QETH.UN) (TSX: QETH.U) and the 3iQ Ether Staking ETF (TSX: ETHQ) (TSX: ETHQ.U). The firm manages $592 million in assets under management (AUM) as of November 28th, 2023. To learn more about 3iQ, visit 3iq.io.
Altcoins
ZKSpace Unveils Major Development: Expansion into BRC20 and Initial Plan for 2.0 Tokenomics Trilogy

ZKSpace has recently announced two significant developments: its expansion into the BRC20 ecosystem and the unveiling of its Tokenomics 2.0 Trilogy.
Expansion into the BRC20 Ecosystem:
- Background: Following the BTC network’s Taproot upgrade, the BRC20 ecosystem has gained traction in the cryptocurrency domain. ZKSpace is now pivoting towards this ecosystem to meet growing user demand and diversify its product offerings.
- Strategic Focus: The move aims to align with user preferences, leverage the ZKSpace team’s expertise in Zero-Knowledge Proof, and enhance the value of ZKS token holders.
- Initiatives: ZKSpace plans to introduce a suite of products and services tailored to the BRC20 ecosystem, including a BRC20 Exchange, BRC20 Info, and a BTC Layer2 wallet.
- Roadmap: Key milestones include the introduction of ZKSwap (zkSync version), cross-chain functionality with BZKSwap, and the launch of a comprehensive BTC ZKVM solution for a decentralized BTC Layer2 DEX.
Tokenomics 2.0 Trilogy:
- Token Supply Adjustment: ZKSpace has decided to burn 40% of the total ZKS token supply, reducing the uncirculated supply from 440 million to 40 million tokens. This move aims to create a deflationary effect on the non-circulated portion of the tokens by over 90%. The token burn is commenced for completion by December 31, 2023.
- New Use Cases: In 2024, ZKS tokens will be upgraded to dual-chain Layer2 governance tokens, operable on both ETH and BTC networks. This includes the migration of a portion of ZKS tokens to the BTC network, with profits dedicated to accelerating the token’s deflationary plan.
- Future Developments: This token burn is the first phase of the innovative Tokenomics 2.0 model trilogy. ZKSpace is also planning a series of products for the BTC ecosystem and a significant brand evolution.
Conclusion:
These developments by ZKSpace mark a strategic shift towards embracing the BRC20 ecosystem and innovating its tokenomics. The company is set to enhance its product offerings and user experience, while also adding value to its ZKS token holders. Stay tuned for more updates as ZKSpace continues to evolve and expand its presence in the cryptocurrency market.
Technologies
ZETRIX UNVEILS ZETRIX-XINGHUO INTERNATIONAL MULTI CHAIN WALLET, ENABLING INTEROPERABLE VERIFIABLE CREDENTIALS AND ENHANCED CROSS-BORDER TRANSACTIONS

Zetrix, a leading public Layer 1 blockchain platform, today announced a significant milestone in its journey to connect businesses globally and streamline trade processes. The platform has unveiled a groundbreaking update to its native wallet application, enabling seamless digital asset connectivity between three major blockchains: Zetrix, Ethereum (ETH), and XingHuo International.
This pivotal development marks a crucial step towards interoperable verifiable credentials, a cornerstone of Zetrix’s mission to revolutionize global trade and data interoperability. Verifiable credentials are tamper-proof digital records that can be verified across multiple platforms, hold immense potential to simplify and expedite cross-border transactions, particularly in the realms of supply chain management and identity verification.
With the introduction of multi-chain support, Zetrix users will now be able to seamlessly manage digital assets across Zetrix, ETH, and XingHuo International, essentially allowing onchain data to be shared in and out of China. This enhanced interoperability will not only streamline cross-border trade but also pave the way for the development of innovative applications and services within the Zetrix ecosystem.
“The launch of our multi-chain wallet represents a significant leap forward in our mission to facilitate seamless cross-border trade and foster a more interconnected global economy,” said Dato Fadzli Shah of Zetrix. “By bridging the gap between these major blockchains, we are empowering businesses to navigate the complexities of international transactions with greater efficiency and security.”
The integration of XingHuo International, the international supernode of China’s national public blockchain infrastructure Xinghuo BIF, further strengthens Zetrix’s position as a key facilitator of cross-border trade between China and the rest of the world. This strategic partnership will enable businesses to leverage the power of blockchain technology to streamline trade processes and access new markets with greater ease.
Zetrix’s multi-chain wallet is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and its unwavering belief in the transformative power of blockchain technology. By fostering interoperability and enabling seamless digital asset management, Zetrix is paving the way for a future of frictionless global trade, where businesses can operate with greater efficiency, transparency, and security.
Zetrix Verifiable Credentials: Adherence to W3C Standards and UN-CEFACT Recommendations
Zetrix is committed to ensuring that its verifiable credentials adhere to the highest standards of interoperability and security. This commitment is reflected in its compliance with both W3C standards and the recommendations of UN-CEFACT.
W3C standards provide a framework for the development and implementation of verifiable credentials, ensuring that they can be easily exchanged and verified across different platforms. UN-CEFACT recommendations, on the other hand, focus on the practical application of verifiable credentials in the trade and logistics sector.
By adhering to these standards and recommendations, Zetrix is ensuring that its verifiable credentials are both interoperable and relevant to the needs of the global trade community. This commitment to standards will play a crucial role in Zetrix’s mission to revolutionize cross-border trade and foster a more interconnected global economy.
About Zetrix
Zetrix is a layer-1 public blockchain that facilitates smart contracts and delivers privacy, security and scalability. Zetrix’s cryptographic infrastructure can be introduced to multiple industries to connect governments, businesses and their citizens to a global blockchain-based economy. Developed by MY E.G. Services Bhd, the cross-border and cross-chain integration with China enables Zetrix to serve as a blockchain gateway that facilitates global trade by deploying critical building blocks for Web3 services such as Blockchain-based Identifiers (BID) and Verifiable Credentials (VC).
About Xinghuo International
Xinghuo BIF is a national blockchain infrastructure supported by Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and led by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT). It provides services mainly to industrial Internet, makes breakthroughs in Internet identifier, increases the application of blockchain and drives the economy. With open construction strategies and governance model, Xinghuo BIF positions as a national blockchain infrastructure that provides service to the world and its construction was started in Aug 2020. On 3 Aug 2021, CAICT released BIF-Core, which marks the start of its primary chain operation and global service.
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