Latest FinTech & Blockchain News
Latitude Emerges from Stealth with $8M Seed Funding
Cross-border paytech Latitude secured $8 million in seed funding led by NEA, with backing from Coinbase Ventures and Solana Foundation. The startup's stablecoin-to-local-fiat infrastructure enables US businesses to send payments to 50+ markets via a single API at 0.5% fee. Founded by ex-Stripe and Uber execs, it offers on/off-ramps for fintechs and wallets.
Plata Raises $405M, Becomes Latin America's Most Valuable Private FinTech
Mexico's digital bank Plata raised $405 million led by Bicycle Capital, valuing it at $5 billion. Co-founded by Oleg Tinkov, it follows prior raises totaling over $2 billion since 2023. Investors include Kora, BTG Pactual, and Qatar’s QIA.
CBN and NCC Sign MoU for Real-Time Telecom Data Access to Combat Fraud
Nigeria's Central Bank (CBN) and Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) signed an MoU granting banks real-time access to telecom identity data to fight fraud. This aims to enhance financial security in the fintech ecosystem.
South Africa Relaxes Capital Controls
South Africa has relaxed capital controls, potentially boosting fintech and cross-border flows. This policy shift is highlighted in today's fintech updates.
MTN and Airtel Nigeria Suspend Airtime Lending
MTN and Airtel Nigeria paused airtime lending services amid regulatory scrutiny. The move impacts mobile money and fintech lending in the region.
MoneyGram Partners with NALA for Stablecoin-Powered Cross-Border Payouts
MoneyGram and NALA launched a partnership using stablecoin settlement for payouts to Africa and Asia. Rafiki platform enables near real-time local currency settlements, bypassing slow correspondent banking. This reduces delays and FX costs.
Rising Interest in GxB as Banks and Exchanges Converge
GxB, launched in Malaysia, gains traction for integrating banks and exchanges, enabling seamless virtual asset to cash conversion. Anticipated for 2026 with a major airdrop, it's seen as a game-changer for global finance.
True Launches Blockchain & Crypto Executive Talent Practice
True announced its Blockchain & Crypto Practice led by Partner Tyler Reed to meet demand for digital asset talent. The firm focuses on tech evolution through data, AI, and expertise in the sector.
Arthur Hayes Predicts $500K Bitcoin by End of 2026
BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes forecasts Bitcoin at $500,000 by end-2026, with HYPE at $200, amid BTC surge to $78K. He attributes bullishness to US monetary policy shifts and institutional buying of 45K BTC last week.
PACE Act Grants Fintechs and Crypto Firms Fed Payment Access
The bipartisan PACE Act allows fintechs and crypto firms access to Federal Reserve rails under OCC oversight. This could streamline payments for digital assets.
bunq Surpasses €100M in Crypto Trading Volume
Europe's neobank bunq hit €100 million traded in its first year of crypto offerings, with half a million trades. It also launched Stocks Baskets and expanded AI security to all assets.