Thursday, November 21

Global BFSI

Stablecoins: Promises vs. Reality: BIS report
CBDC, Fintech, Global BFSI, International Reports, Payments, Technology

Stablecoins: Promises vs. Reality: BIS report

Overview: The paper examines the evolution of the stablecoin market over the past decade and investigates whether stablecoins have truly lived up to their name in terms of stability. Stablecoins are a subcategory of cryptoassets designed to maintain a stable value relative to a specified peg. Key Findings: Classification of Stablecoins:  The authors classify stablecoins into four distinct types: Those backed by fiat currency. Those backed by commodities. Those backed by other cryptoassets. Algorithmic stablecoins (not backed by any specific asset). Volatility and Parity:  While stablecoins backed by fiat currency, commodities, or other cryptoassets have generally been less volatile than traditional cryptoassets, none of them has cons...
IMF’s Debt Alarm: Climate Finance Urgency Remains Unresolved
Economics, Finance, Global BFSI, International Reports

IMF’s Debt Alarm: Climate Finance Urgency Remains Unresolved

Recent report by the Debt Relief for Green and Inclusive Recovery Project (DRGR) warned that 47 emerging and developing market economies may struggle to allocate funds for climate adaptation and development without risking default in the next five years. The annual World Bank and IMF meetings have concluded, leaving behind a sense of urgency and concern. Despite the pressing need to mobilize trillions of dollars for combating climate change, these high-profile gatherings failed to produce a concrete plan. The absence of a clear climate finance strategy raises critical questions about our ability to address the global climate crisis. The Missing Climate Finance Blueprint At the heart of the issue lies the lack of a robust climate finance plan. As the world grapples with risin...
Wise Faces Licensing Hurdles: Discontinues E-Wallet Services in Indonesia
Fintech, Global BFSI, Payments, Regtech

Wise Faces Licensing Hurdles: Discontinues E-Wallet Services in Indonesia

In a recent development, Wise, the popular online money transfer service, has announced its decision to discontinue e-wallet services for its users in Indonesia due to licensing Challenges. Effective from May 23, 2024, Wise users in Indonesia will no longer be able to store funds within the app's e-wallet. This decision comes as a result of regulatory requirements, as Wise currently lacks the necessary license to operate as an electronic money provider in Indonesia, as mandated by Bank Indonesia's regulation. Background: Wise's Entry to Indonesian Market Wise entered the Indonesian market in 2020 and has been backed by its local entity, PT Wise Payments Indonesia, which is licensed by Bank Indonesia as a Fund Transfer Provider. While Wise has been successful in providing core remittance ...
iCapital Marketplace Launches in Singapore and Hong Kong: News Update
Global BFSI, Business, Startups, Wealthtech

iCapital Marketplace Launches in Singapore and Hong Kong: News Update

iCapital, a global fintech firm, has recently introduced its groundbreaking iCapital Marketplace in Singapore and Hong Kong. This innovative platform aims to streamline access to a diverse range of alternative investments for wealth managers and advisors. By leveraging proprietary technology, iCapital Marketplace addresses common industry challenges and transforms the investment process by providing simplified subscription processes, educational resources, and a comprehensive suite of investment opportunities. Enhancing Wealth Management through Technology The iCapital Marketplace platform offers an array of features and benefits that revolutionize the wealth management landscape. Simplifying the Investment Process: With its user-friendly interface, iCapital Marketplace simplifies t...
Revolut Empowers 2 Million Young Users Worldwide with its Youth-Focused Financial App
Global BFSI, Fintech, Payments, Startups

Revolut Empowers 2 Million Young Users Worldwide with its Youth-Focused Financial App

Revolut, a global neobank, has recently achieved a significant milestone as its youth-focused financial app surpassed 2 million users worldwide. The app, designed for individuals aged 6-17, is part of Revolut's suite of products aimed at empowering the next generation with financial literacy. With its increasing user base and growing adoption, Revolut's app is playing a crucial role in developing good financial habits among young users from an early age. Empowering Financial Literacy Revolut's <18 app provides young users and their parents with essential tools to effectively manage their finances. The app offers features such as instant spending alerts and budgeting tools, enabling users to develop healthy financial habits from a young age. By promoting financial literacy and responsi...
Global Fintech Newsletter, March 2024, by NewNerve
Fintech, Global BFSI, Insurtech, Lending, Payments, Regtech, Wealthtech

Global Fintech Newsletter, March 2024, by NewNerve

Here’s a summary of some notable Fintech news from March 2024: Visa and Mastercard Settlement: US merchants reached a landmark settlement with Visa and Mastercard to lower swipe fees. The credit interchange rates will be capped for the next five years, resulting in an estimated $29.79 billion in savings for US merchants. Robinhood’s Leadership Change: Baiju Bhatt, co-founder and chief creative officer of Robinhood, stepped down after ten years at the company to “pursue other entrepreneurial interests.” Vlad Tenev, CEO and fellow co-founder, praised Bhatt’s pivotal role in opening access to markets for millions of new investors. Co-operative Bank Job Cuts: The UK’s Co-operative Bank is set to cut around 400 jobs (12% of its workforce) as part of a cost reduction progra...
$30 Billion Relief for Merchants?Understanding the Significance of the Settlement in addressing merchant fee concerns
Banking, Global BFSI, Payments

$30 Billion Relief for Merchants?Understanding the Significance of the Settlement in addressing merchant fee concerns

In a groundbreaking development, global payment giants Visa and Mastercard have agreed to a historic $30 billion settlement that is set to have a significant impact on merchant fees. The settlement, announced recently, aims to address long-standing concerns raised by merchants regarding the high transaction costs imposed by these payment networks. This article explores the key provisions of the settlement and examines how businesses can harness this newfound power to foster a more competitive landscape and deliver better value to consumers. Swipe Fee Reduction for Merchants: One of the significant changes resulting from the settlement is the reduction in swipe fees. Visa and Mastercard have agreed to lower the fees by four basis points, providing immediate relief to businesses. This redu...
Visa and Mastercard Agree on Landmark Settlement with U.S. Merchants Lowering Fees – Here’s What You Need to Know
Global BFSI, BFSI, Payments

Visa and Mastercard Agree on Landmark Settlement with U.S. Merchants Lowering Fees – Here’s What You Need to Know

Introduction In a groundbreaking development, Visa and Mastercard have recently reached a landmark settlement with U.S. merchants, fundamentally altering the landscape of credit card transactions. After nearly two decades of legal wrangling, this agreement promises significant benefits for businesses, particularly small enterprises. Let’s delve into the details of this historic settlement and understand its implications. The Long-Awaited Resolution For years, merchants across the United States have grappled with interchange fees – the charges imposed by credit card companies for processing transactions. These fees, often perceived as exorbitant, have been a point of contention between merchants and credit card giants. Finally, the settlement aims to address these conce...