Latest FinTech & Blockchain News

📅February 2, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Visa expands stablecoin settlements globally; US Fed advances regulated stablecoin framework; top blockchain stocks surge; Block eyes Bitcoin growth; new fintech platforms launch amid 2026 trends.
1

Visa Launches Stablecoins Advisory Practice and Expands USDC Settlements

Visa announced a dedicated Stablecoins Advisory Practice and extended USDC settlement beyond the US pilot, achieving $3.5B annualized volume in weeks. This positions Visa for 365-day multi-blockchain settlements across LAC, Europe, APAC, and CEMEA by end-2026. The move captures institutional demand for 24/7 blockchain payments.Source 1

2

US Federal Reserve Outlines Regulated Stablecoin Framework Under GENIUS Act

The Fed detailed a permissioned system for stablecoin issuance with 1:1 reserves, audits, and AML/KYC compliance, building on the GENIUS Act. Only federally-approved entities can issue payment stablecoins, aiming for operationalization by Q4 2026, though delays possible. This shifts stablecoins to regulated infrastructure.Source 1

3

MarketBeat Highlights Top 7 Blockchain Stocks to Watch

Promising stocks include Core Scientific (CORZ), Figure Technology Solutions (FIGR), Globant (GLOB), Bitdeer (BTDR), Digi Power X (DGXX), Nukkleus (NUKK), and BTCS (BTCS) based on high trading volume. They span mining, fintech, staking, and blockchain services amid rising crypto activity. Investors eye these for 2026 growth.Source 2

4

Block (Square) Emerges as Sleeper Fintech Stock with Bitcoin Upside

Block trades at an attractive EV-to-EBIT of 15.1, with Square up 9% and Cash App up 24% in gross profit. Bitcoin initiatives like Bitkey wallet, mining equipment, and trading position it for crypto surges. CEO Jack Dorsey's bullish stance on BTC as native internet currency drives potential.Source 4

5

Singapore Gulf Bank Launches Regulated Fiat-Stablecoin Platform

The bank introduced a first-of-its-kind platform allowing clients to mint, convert, hold, and trade USDC and USDT on major blockchains. This bridges traditional fiat and stablecoins in a regulated environment. It enhances cross-border efficiency for users.Source 5

6

What's Next for Fintech and Crypto in 2026 Event Announced

A key discussion event on February 4, 2026, in New York features leaders like Leif Abraham and Anthony Pompliano. It covers trends, regulations, and opportunities in fintech and crypto. Ideal for insights and networking ahead of 2026.Source 3

7

Core Scientific Leads Blockchain Stocks with High Trading Volume

Core Scientific (CORZ) tops MarketBeat's list for blockchain stocks due to recent dollar volume in mining and hosting. It benefits from crypto infrastructure demand. Analysts see strong positioning for 2026.Source 2

8

Figure Technology Solutions Powers Blockchain Lending and Trading

Figure (FIGR) uses proprietary blockchain tech for lending, trading, and digital assets, improving efficiency and liquidity. Highlighted in top blockchain stocks by MarketBeat. Focuses on consumer credit and crypto integration.Source 2

9

Kontigo Fintech Raises $20M, Faces Scrutiny Over Venezuela Crypto Role

Silicon Valley startup Kontigo, backed by Coinbase, aids Venezuelans in evading sanctions via crypto services. Recently raised $20M amid controversy. Becomes a lifeline but draws regulatory fire.Source 6

10

Bitdeer and BTCS Among Hot Blockchain Mining and Staking Plays

Bitdeer (BTDR) excels in crypto mining, while BTCS (BTCS) offers staking via StakeSeeker and Ethereum block-building with Builder+. Both feature in MarketBeat's high-volume blockchain stocks. Signal growing validator services demand.Source 2

11

Visa Positions USDC Over USDT with Regulatory Partnerships

Visa's USDC focus gains traction via ties with MAS, FCA, and Singapore regulators preferring compliant stablecoins. Contrasts Tether's USDT amid peak $1.5B daily volumes. Bolsters Circle's credibility in institutional rails.Source 1

12

Block's Cash App Hits 58M Users with Bitcoin Trading Boost

Cash App's 58 million monthly users drove 24% gross profit growth, fueled by Bitcoin trading and payments. Square sellers now accept BTC. Underappreciated Bitcoin exposure could surge stock with crypto rallies.Source 4