Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
WitnessAI Raises $58M for Global AI Security Expansion
AI security platform WitnessAI secured $58 million in funding led by Sound Ventures, with participation from Fin Capital, Qualcomm Ventures, and others to accelerate global growth. The funds support expanded agentic AI governance for monitoring AI agents, tools, and data in regulated industries like financial services.
New capabilities include blocking malicious prompts and policy enforcement based on behavioral intent, available from January 2026.
ClearBank Partners with Taurus for Digital Asset Services
UK-based ClearBank selected Taurus to leverage Taurus-PROTECT for its stablecoin-related services. This partnership enhances ClearBank's digital asset offerings amid growing demand for secure crypto infrastructure.
The collaboration supports regulated digital asset custody and operations in fintech payments.
Bitcoin Fails to Hold Above $97K as Rally Cools
Bitcoin prices dipped below $97,000 with crypto markets remaining mostly flat despite elevated ETF inflows. Analysts describe the movement as a transitional phase in the ongoing rally.
This update reflects broader market stabilization on January 15, 2026.
Ontario Court Orders Binance to Pay $261,900 in Legal Costs
The Ontario Superior Court ruled Binance must pay $261,900 after deeming its Hong Kong arbitration attempt abusive against Canadian class action plaintiffs. The case, Lochan v. Binance, alleges unregistered securities trading by Binance in Canada.
The decision reinforces Canadian jurisdiction over global crypto platforms and rejects offshore litigation tactics.
Fintech's Next Revolution Driven by Blockchain and AI
Blockchain is enabling new money flows and faster cross-border transactions while AI revolutionizes financial processes. This trend signals a major shift in the fintech landscape.
Industry leaders highlight integration of these technologies for efficiency gains.
Ripple Secures Preliminary Approval for EMI License
Ripple obtained preliminary approval for its Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license, advancing its regulatory compliance in Europe. This milestone supports Ripple's expansion in payment services using blockchain technology.
It positions Ripple for broader stablecoin and fiat-crypto operations.
Rhode Island Proposes Bill to Eliminate Taxes on Small Bitcoin Transactions
Rhode Island lawmakers introduced a bill to remove taxes on small Bitcoin transactions, aiming to boost crypto adoption. The proposal targets everyday use cases to reduce barriers for retail users.
This reflects growing U.S. state-level support for blockchain integration.
WitnessAI Reports 500% ARR Growth Amid Enterprise Adoption
WitnessAI achieved over 500% growth in annual recurring revenue and a fivefold headcount increase in the past year. It protects hundreds of thousands of employees across financial services, utilities, and other sectors.
Investors like Qualcomm and Fin Capital praise its role in secure AI for fintech.
PNC, STT, MTB, RF, WIT Set for Pre-Market Earnings on January 16
Financial firms including PNC Financial, State Street (STT), M&T Bank (MTB), Regions Financial (RF), and Wit report earnings before market open. These reports could influence fintech and banking sector sentiment.
Investors watch for insights on digital transformation and blockchain initiatives.
Asia-Pacific Shifts from Crypto Rules to Regulated Rails in Web3 Payments
Ongoing series explores rebuilding Web3 payments infrastructure in Asia-Pacific, moving from unregulated crypto to compliant systems. Part 3 highlights regulatory evolution and stablecoin integration.
This trend supports scalable blockchain-based cross-border payments.
Digital Euro Scenarios Reshape Europe's Payment Landscape
Analysis outlines four potential futures for the digital euro, impacting fintech and blockchain in payments. Key focuses include CBDC integration with private stablecoins and rails.
This could accelerate Europe's adoption of digital assets.