Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
UBS Plans Crypto Trading for Select Private Banking Clients
UBS is preparing to offer cryptocurrency trading, starting with Bitcoin and Ether, to select private banking clients in Switzerland, potentially expanding to Asia Pacific and the US. This marks a shift for the $4.7 trillion asset manager amid peer competition post-Trump's return. Discussions with partners are ongoing, focusing on blockchain tech and risk controls.
Coincheck Signs Deal to Acquire Ontario-Based 3iQ
Coincheck Group agreed to acquire 97% of Canadian digital asset manager 3iQ for USD 111.8 million, expected to close in Q2 2026 pending approvals. 3iQ, a pioneer since 2017, offers regulated Bitcoin, Ether, Solana, and XRP products on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The deal combines Coincheck's Japanese retail base with 3iQ's institutional expertise.
Zerohash Pursues $250 Million Funding at $1.5 Billion Valuation
After exiting Mastercard acquisition talks, Zerohash is seeking a $250 million funding round valuing it at $1.5 billion. The move supports expansion in crypto infrastructure services. Announced on January 27, 2026, in Dubai.
McKinsey Report: B2B Payments Dominate Stablecoin Usage
Research with Artemis Analytics shows B2B payments account for $226 billion (60%) of stablecoin activity, led by Asia at $245 billion. Supply grew from $30 billion in 2020 to over $300 billion, projected to $2-4 trillion by 2030. Institutions urged to evaluate blockchain data for real use cases.
Bloomberg: Stablecoins Future But Banks Will Survive
Stablecoins pose minimal threat to banks as they complement deposits, per historical parallels like the National Banking Era. Banks worry over deposit drains, but evidence suggests coexistence. Article emphasizes stablecoins' role without upending banking.
OMFIF: Tokenized Money Could Shrink Holdings to Zero
Tokenization enables just-in-time asset conversion, reducing money holdings toward zero and boosting velocity unboundedly. This reshapes banking, blurring lines with investment funds as money becomes a transient settlement tool.
Dotfile and Bastion Partner for AI-Powered Crypto Compliance
Announced January 27, 2026, the partnership bridges crypto-native assets with compliance standards using AI. It aims to enhance regulatory adherence for digital assets.
Zocomo Technology Launches Initial Exchange Offering on Coinstore
Zocomo's ZOCO token lists as ZOCO/USDT on Coinstore starting January 26, 2026, following a private sale on January 23. The offering targets blockchain investors.
WireBarley Partners with LAFC as Official Remittance Partner
Korean fintech WireBarley announced a multi-year deal with Los Angeles Football Club, its first with an MLS team. The partnership promotes cross-border remittances to global fans in 46 countries.
Cybersecurity Remains Critical Focus for Financial Sector in 2026
Financial institutions must prioritize cybersecurity amid AI, quantum computing risks, and evolving regulations. Proactive adaptation is key in a complex global landscape.
Digital Euro Conference 2026 Announced for Frankfurt
The March 26 event will explore CBDCs, stablecoins, and commercial bank tokens in a hybrid format. It offers insights into the future of digital money.