Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
Capitec Onboards to Wise Platform
South African bank Capitec has integrated with Wise's platform to enhance cross-border services. This move aims to streamline international transfers for its customers. Details on rollout and impact are emerging.
Valr and Onafriq Partner for Crypto Adoption
Crypto exchange Valr teamed up with Onafriq to boost cryptocurrency use in Africa. The partnership focuses on powering adoption through improved infrastructure. It targets mobile money and wallet integrations.
CBN Enforces Agent Exclusivity Rules
Nigeria's Central Bank (CBN) introduced strict agent exclusivity regulations. This aims to curb fraud and improve compliance in fintech operations. Impacts on mobile money agents are significant.
Revolut Rolls Out AI Assistant AIR to UK Customers
Revolut launched AIR, its AI by Revolut, to 13 million UK users on April 9, 2026. The tool handles finances and lifestyle tasks via chat, replacing app navigation. Features include spending insights and card management.
Thunes and Circle Expand Stablecoin Settlements
Thunes joined Circle Payments Network for USDC settlements across 140 countries. This deepens their 2024 partnership, aiding banks and MTOs. It integrates with existing fiat workflows.
Hong Kong Awards First Stablecoin Issuer Licenses
HKMA granted licenses to Anchorpoint Financial and HSBC on April 10, 2026. HSBC plans HKD stablecoin launch in H2 2026 for apps like PayMe. Framework effective since August 2025.
SWIFT Blockchain Shared Ledger Reaches MVP
SWIFT completed design phase for its blockchain ledger, with MVP live this year. It enables 24/7 cross-border payments across 200+ countries. Developed with global banks since 2025.
Trump's World Liberty Financial Faces Investor Backlash
WLFI, linked to Trump family, under fire after freezing Justin Sun's $75M tokens. Sun's investment lost over $80M; token freeze added post-launch. Internal lending raises concerns.
Polygon CEO Outlines Open Money Stack Vision
Polygon's CEO discussed blockchain reshaping global money movement on NYSE. Focuses on stablecoin-based, API-driven cross-border payments. Highlights scalability with trillions in activity.
Y Combinator Tops Q1 2026 Fintech Investors
YC led with 27 fintech deals in Q1 2026, despite fewer overall. Global fintech funding hit $12B across 751 deals, up 5% YoY. Coinbase Ventures second with 11.
SolvaPay Raises €2.4M for AI Agent Payments
Stockholm fintech SolvaPay secured €2.4M pre-seed for AI agent payment rails. Led by Redstone, targets autonomous transactions in agent economy. Competes with Stripe, Coinbase.
Stablecoins See Limited Payments Use
Fed analysis shows <1% of $300B stablecoins used for payments; 48.8% for trading. Growth expected post-GENIUS Act, with $1.78T Feb volume. Idle coins at 21.2%.