Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Karsten Wenzlaff is a Crowdfunding and Fintech Expert from Germany. He is Secretary-General of Digit[...]
Category Archives: FinTech and Alternative Finance
Preparing Your Boat for Canada’s Boating Season: An Outboard Motor Checklist
Aug 13, 2026
Winter in Canada is long, cold, and difficult for recreational watercraft. The upcoming boating season for the Great Lakes, Muskoka waterways, and the coastal areas of British Columbia is just around the corner. Without proper spring maintenance, though, you can have a great first outing and end up with a costly rescue.
Prior to entering the lake, do a visual check of all major subsystems of propulsion equipment. If you currently have an old and worn-out outboard motor, or if it has cracks, you have to replace it with a new outboard motor before the high season starts. You can seriously consider looking into quality used outboard motors for sale in Canada. Here is the ultimate outboard motor checklist for safe operation on Canadian waters throughout the summer.
Fuel System Inspection and Flushing
The top reason for engine failure to start up in the spring is due to fuel degradation. As Canadian ethanol blends sit in the atmosphere over time, they tend to separate, with water accumulating at the bottom of the fuel tank.
- Check fuel lines and hoses. Check for cracks, stiffness, soft spots, or loose hose clamps that are loose on all rubber lines between the tank and the engine. During the winter months, the cold air dries the rubber and can create a major problem with the hose failing during use.
- Change fuel filters and water separators. Change fuel filter and fuel-water separating filter (inline). This will stop any trapped moisture from the winter season getting into the carburetors and fuel injectors.
- Assess stale fuel. If the fuel has been previously treated with a quality marine stabilizer before winter storage, fill up the tank with fresh high-octane fuel. If the tank has been filled with gas this winter and not used, empty the tank completely and take the gas to a municipal hazardous waste facility.
A clean and clear fuel delivery circuit ensures proper combustion performance and helps protect delicate engine parts from expensive varnish and corrosion issues.
Battery and Electrical Diagnostics
Marine batteries will use up power even if disconnected if left in cold Canadian storage. Electrical continuity is important for starting, electronic fuel injection (EFI) control, and for operating critical navigation systems.
- Terminal cleaning. Come into contact with white corrosion buildup on battery posts and clamps by using a baking soda solution and wire brush.
- Voltage & load testing. Fully charge the battery using a multi-stage smart charger, then test it under load. Check it with a digital multimeter or load tester to ensure it's operating at the proper voltage when under load. A marine battery needs to be replaced if it is more than 4-5 years old or if it cannot hold a charge overnight.
- Engine wiring and fuse checks. Check for any damaged wires or rodent damage to the wiring in the engine, as well as any engine fuses. Use dielectric grease on large electrical connections to prevent moisture from entering and prevent corrosion from saltwater.
A fully charged, properly connected electrical network means no unwanted power outages away from the dock.
Spark Plugs and Ignition Tune-Up
Clean spark plugs to ensure fast starting and optimal fuel economy during long runs across wide lakes.
- Remove and inspect. Pull out each spark plug and check for carbon fouling, oil-heavy buildup, or electrode erosion.
- Gap and replace. If the plugs were fogged with anti-corrosion oil during winterization, replace them with new, manufacturer-recommended spark plugs.
Addressing ignition components proactively ensures effortless engine cranking and smooth throttle response on your first voyage of the year.
Lower Unit and Gear Lubrication
The lower unit gearcase houses delicate gear sets and bearings working under extreme pressure. Checking gear lube protects against catastrophic gearcase failure.
- Check gear lube quality. Remove the lower drain plug slightly to sample the lubricant. If the oil appears milky or thick grey, water has penetrated the propeller shaft or drive shaft seals.
- Drain and refill. If gear lube was not changed during fall winterization, drain it completely and pump in fresh marine gear oil from the bottom port until it flows out the upper vent hole.
Regularly auditing your lower unit lubricant safeguards expensive internal drive gears against moisture intrusion and friction wear.
Cooling System and Impeller Maintenance
Outboard motors rely on raw lake or ocean water for cooling. Running an engine with a failed water pump impeller causes severe overheating within minutes.
- Inspect the water pump impeller. Rubber impellers harden, crack, or lose flexibility when stored in cold environments. Marine technicians recommend changing the flexible rubber impeller every 2 to 3 seasons regardless of operating hours.
- Clear water intakes. Check lower unit water intake grates for mud, weeds, or debris left over from previous excursions.
Verifying proper water circulation safeguards your powerhead from sudden thermal breakdown during long high-speed runs.
Propeller, Steering, and Control Linkages
Mechanical responsiveness keeps your vessel safe when docking or navigating changing weather conditions.
- Propeller removal and inspection. Remove the propeller to check the prop shaft for wrapped monofilament fishing line, which damages shaft seals. Inspect blades for severe dings or bent tips that cause drivetrain vibration. Apply fresh marine grease to the shaft splines before torquing the prop nut and installing a new cotter pin.
- Grease fittings and steering cables. Apply marine-grade grease via a grease gun to all Zerk fittings on the swivel bracket, tilt tube, and steering cable linkages. Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock to ensure smooth movement without binding.
- Check power trim/tilt fluids. Check the hydraulic power trim and tilt fluid reservoir level. Top off with appropriate hydraulic fluid if low and check seals for leaks.
Fine-tuning your steering and propulsion linkage hardware guarantees precise handling and effortless maneuverability in tight docking situations.
Testing Your Outboard On the Trailer
Never start an outboard engine dry on land without a continuous water supply. Attach marine water muffs (flushing attachment) connected to a garden hose over the water intake pick-ups before starting.
See: Kakeibo: Mindful Budgeting for Financial Wellness
Start the engine on the trailer and monitor the following:
- Water stream (pee hole). Confirm a strong, steady stream of water exits the cooling indicator port within seconds.
- Idle stability. Allow the motor to warm up to operating temperature. Verify smooth idle without stalling or sputtering.
- Controls operation. Shift briefly into forward and reverse at idle to ensure smooth cable engagement. Test the emergency kill switch cord to verify immediate engine shutdown.
By completing this thorough pre-season inspection, you protect your marine investment and ensure a safe, hassle-free boating season across Canada's waters.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Flywire And Trustly Launch Pay By Bank In Canada
August 12, 2026 | NCFA Market Activity | Open Banking Open Finance And Data Sharing, Payments Infrastructure And Money Movement, Cross Border Payments And FX
Bank Authentication Modernizes A Familiar Canadian Payment Rail
On August 12, 2026, Boston-headquartered U.S. payments company Flywire expanded its partnership with Stockholm-headquartered Swedish Pay by Bank provider Trustly to offer Pay by Bank payments in Canada and the United States.
The Canadian launch is notable because two foreign payment companies are commercializing a Pay by Bank experience here before Canada has a fully operational regulated consumer-driven banking system with payment initiation. Flywire and Trustly are improving how an existing bank payment is authenticated and started rather than waiting for Canada's future open banking payment rails.
The Canadian Payment Still Runs On PAD
Flywire's Canadian payment instructions describe a simple flow. The payer selects Online Bank Transfer in CAD, a Trustly window opens, and the payer signs into their bank. Payment details are filled in automatically and the bank can request additional verification before the payment is authorized.
Flywire says the money is normally debited within 24 hours and delivered to the institution in about five business days. Only personal bank accounts are currently supported. Business and corporate accounts aren't.
The timing tells us the product isn't an instant payment and it isn't using Canada's Real Time Rail. Flywire's own developer documentation identifies its Canadian EFT authorization as a pre-authorized debit agreement (PAD).
Trustly adds the digital layer around that debit, using bank authentication and account data to make the payment easier to initiate inside Flywire.
Alex Gonthier, Founder and CEO, Trustly:
“Pay by Bank is a term that is too general. Generic essentially. What we really mean is Open Banking-based or -enabled payments over bank rails.”
That description fits the Canadian launch particularly well. The bank rail isn't new. The authentication, data and payment experience around it are what Trustly changes.
Large Payments Give Pay By Bank A Clear Use Case
Flywire specializes in payments where the amount, currency or accounts receivable process can be more complicated than an ordinary checkout. It currently supports more than 5,100 clients across education, healthcare, travel and B2B markets, with payments available in more than 140 currencies across 240 countries and territories.
Its platform processed US$11.4 billion in payment volume during the first quarter of 2026 alone.
Canadian payment options work differently. Flywire lets customers use Interac e-Transfer for payments up to C$3,000, and those payments can arrive quickly. Online bill payment can handle larger amounts, but the payer has to leave Flywire, find Flywire as a biller in online banking and complete the payment there.
Trustly keeps more of that process inside Flywire. The payer signs into their bank and approves the payment without having to set up a biller or copy payment details.
That can be useful for larger payments such as tuition. Flywire hasn't published one Canada-wide Trustly limit, so the amount a payer can send depends partly on the limits set by their bank.
Pay By Bank Is Arriving Before Canadian Open Banking Payments
The terminology needs care because Trustly calls the product an open banking payment while Canada's regulated consumer-driven banking framework is still being implemented.
The federal framework is designed to replace credential sharing with regulated API-based financial data access. Payment initiation, often called write access, belongs to a later phase. As of August 2026, the government is still working on the implementation rules for Canada’s consumer-driven banking framework.
Flywire's Canadian Trustly instructions, by contrast, currently ask the payer to sign into online banking through the Trustly experience. Public documentation doesn't establish that every participating Canadian financial institution is connected through a direct API.
It shows that commercial Pay by Bank services can develop before Canada's regulated framework reaches payment initiation.
The longer-term opportunity gets more interesting when the payment experience and settlement infrastructure improve together. Canada's financial infrastructure is opening to new participants, while the Real Time Rail is intended to bring instant, data-rich clearing and settlement. Flywire and Trustly are showing what fintechs can build above the infrastructure available today.
Talking Point
Flywire and Trustly aren't waiting for Canadian open banking payments to become fully operational. They're bringing an international Pay by Bank model into Canada by adding bank authentication and a cleaner payment experience to PAD infrastructure that already works. For Canadian fintechs, that shows an example of how much product innovation can happen above the payment rail before the rail itself changes.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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AMD Buys Toronto AI Chip Startup Taalas
August 12, 2026 | NCFA Market Activity | Artificial Intelligence And Data, Capital Markets And Market Infrastructure, Competition And Market Structure
Toronto Chip Design Brings A More Specialized Inference Option
On August 6, 2026, AMD agreed to acquire Taalas, a Toronto AI chip company that designs specialized chips to run individual AI models more efficiently. The price wasn't disclosed and the transaction hasn't closed yet, as it's subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
AMD plans to bring Taalas technology into its accelerator portfolio alongside Instinct GPUs. That's a useful clue to the strategy. GPUs remain valuable because they can handle many models and workloads. Taalas gives AMD another option for cases where a model is used often enough that more specialized hardware could lower the cost of running it.
Taalas Reduces The Work Between Memory And Compute
Running an AI model requires processors to work through huge numbers of stored parameters. On conventional accelerators, much of that data has to travel between memory and compute hardware. The transfers take time, consume power and make high bandwidth memory an expensive part of an AI system. Taalas brings more storage and computation onto the same silicon and tailors the hardware to the model being run. The design can reduce the external memory, advanced packaging and data movement required by conventional accelerator systems.
Ljubisa Bajic, Founder and CEO, Taalas:
“The production of optimal silicon for each individual model.”
Its first HC1 demonstrator runs Meta's Llama 3.1 8B model on a TSMC 6nm chip with 53 billion transistors. Taalas packages the system in a 2.5 kW server and currently provides access through a beta inference service and API.
The trade-off is straightforward. A GPU can be reprogrammed for many models. HC1 is largely built around one. It supports different context lengths and LoRA fine tuning, but a substantially different model requires another hardware implementation.
Taalas says it can turn a new model into silicon in about two months. If that process works economically at larger scale, AMD could use specialized chips for mature, heavily used models while keeping programmable accelerators for workloads that change more often.
17,000 Token Benchmark
Taalas says HC1 can generate about 17,000 output tokens per second per user on Llama 3.1 8B using a 1K input and 1K output sequence.
That's a company benchmark. Taalas ran its own HC1 result and measured the Nvidia B200 comparison itself, while several other comparison figures came from Artificial Analysis. It shows what the architecture can do on this model and configuration. It doesn't establish that Taalas hardware is faster than Nvidia or other accelerators across AI inference.
HC1 also uses a custom format combining 3-bit and 6-bit parameters. Taalas acknowledges some loss in model quality compared with GPU benchmarks and says its next generation will use standard 4-bit floating point formats.
The company also reports large advantages in power use and system cost in its comparison. Those claims haven't been independently demonstrated across a wide range of models or production environments. It makes the acquisition a calculated bet. AI companies are spending enormous amounts to train models, but every model that reaches widespread use can create an equally serious inference problem: how to serve millions of requests quickly enough and cheaply enough.
That pressure is already changing how AI infrastructure companies compete on cost and performance. Taalas gives AMD a way to explore much deeper specialization without abandoning the flexibility of Instinct.
Toronto Built A Chip Company AMD Chose To Buy
Taalas was founded in Toronto in 2023 by Ljubisa Bajic, Drago Ignjatovic and Lejla Bajic. The team brought processor experience from AMD, Nvidia and Tenstorrent, which Ljubisa Bajic previously founded.
The company raised US$50 million before emerging from stealth in 2024 and another US$169 million in February 2026, bringing reported funding to about US$219 million. Investors included Quiet Capital, Fidelity and semiconductor investor Pierre Lamond.
Taalas says 24 people developed HC1, which shows how concentrated the engineering effort behind the first chip was.
The deal adds another company to Canada's growing AI hardware record. Toronto and Waterloo based Astrus is working on automated chip design, while Tenstorrent has built a much larger processor business from Toronto.
It also follows another major Canadian semiconductor transaction. U.S.-based Qualcomm agreed in 2025 to acquire Toronto-founded Alphawave Semi for US$2.4 billion, putting another Canadian-founded chip company under foreign ownership.
AMD will control Taalas if this acquisition closes, but it has also said it plans to retain and grow Canadian talent. There is no disclosed commitment to a specific Toronto headcount or to keeping Taalas as a separate company.
That makes the Canadian issue less about whether foreign capital is inherently good or bad and more about how much ownership, intellectual property and future economic value Canada retains as its AI companies scale. Canada's own AI strategy debate has put sovereign capital and domestic IP retention directly on the table.
Talking Point
Taalas raised more than US$200 million, built working silicon and attracted a strategic buyer in about three years. Canada can clearly produce teams and technology that global semiconductor companies want. The difficult question is whether enough domestic capital, procurement and infrastructure exist for more of those companies to scale further before selling.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Smart Financial Planning Tips for Retirement Life
Aug 11,2026
Retirement is an important milestone that many people look forward to after years of hard work. It’s a time to try new hobbies, travel, spend time with family, and give back to the community. To enjoy this stage of life, you need to plan your finances carefully. Good financial planning helps you enjoy retirement without stress. It’s about preparing wisely to create the financial freedom you want while embracing new adventures.
As you think about retirement, consider how you’ll maintain your lifestyle and handle unexpected costs. Proper financial planning gives you security, allowing you to enjoy life fully. Let’s look at how to build a strong financial foundation for your retirement.
Budgeting Wisely
Creating a retirement budget is essential. Start by figuring out your expected income sources, such as Social Security, pensions, and withdrawals from retirement accounts. Once you know your income, list your expected expenses. This includes housing, healthcare, utilities, groceries, and leisure activities.
In retirement, some costs may go down, while others, like healthcare, may rise. Keep track of your spending habits before and during retirement to adjust your budget as needed. Using budgeting apps or spreadsheets can make this easier. A well-planned budget gives you control over your finances and helps you enjoy retirement without worrying about money.
Investment Strategy
Investing is another important part of retirement planning. By the time you retire, your portfolio should have a mix of stocks, bonds, and other investments that match your risk tolerance and timeline. As you get closer to retirement, consider moving some investments to more stable options to protect your savings from market changes.
A financial advisor can help you create an investment plan that fits your needs and helps you make the most of your retirement funds. Regularly reviewing your investments ensures that your portfolio stays aligned with your retirement goals. It’s about making informed decisions that provide the financial stability you need as you start this exciting phase of life.
Accommodations
As you get older, you might need to think about assisted living options. This can be a tough topic, but it’s important to address it early. Assess your living situation, health needs, and what you want in life to know when it’s time to make the change.
When looking for assisted living options like Delmanor Aurora, think about the location, costs, services offered, and quality of care. Visiting potential places can help you get an idea of their environment and community. Also, ask about medical care, activities, and social programs that can improve your quality of life.
Talking about assisted living with your family can make the process easier. It helps to express your needs and desires. The goal is to find a safe, comfortable, and engaging living environment that supports your independence while providing the help you need. Planning for assisted living can ensure your well-being as you enjoy retirement.
Emergency Fund
Having an emergency fund is wise at any age, but it’s especially important as you near or enter retirement. Try to save enough to cover three to six months of living expenses. This fund can help you with unexpected medical bills or urgent home repairs.
An emergency fund gives you more security, reducing the stress of unforeseen costs. It can mean the difference between enjoying your retirement and worrying about paying bills. By planning for these situations, you’re creating a safety net that supports your overall financial strategy.
Tax Considerations
As you approach retirement, it’s important to understand the tax implications of your income sources. Different types of income, like Social Security, pensions, and withdrawals from retirement accounts, may be taxed at different rates. A tax professional can help you navigate these details and make the most of your income while minimizing your taxes.
Planning tax-efficient withdrawals from retirement accounts can help you preserve your savings. Being mindful about how and when you take out funds can protect your finances for the long term.
Healthcare Planning
Healthcare costs can be one of the biggest expenses during retirement, so it’s essential to plan. Learn about accommodation options like Delmanor Glen Abbey, which offer healthcare staff at their assisted living facilities. Choose the right plans carefully, especially concerning coverage, prescription drugs, and costs.
Creating a healthcare budget will allow you to set aside funds specifically for medical expenses. Working with a financial advisor who understands healthcare costs can give you valuable guidance to stay financially secure.
See: Different Retirement Income Sources and Their Tax Implications in 2025
The main point is that good financial planning for retirement can help you enjoy this phase of life. Making informed choices now helps you have a fulfilling retirement and allows you to impact those around you positively. Facing this stage with confidence can change everything.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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BlackRock IBQT Adds Bitcoin To Canadian ETF Portfolios
August 11, 2026 | NCFA Market Activity | Wealth Investing And Trading, Digital Assets, Competition And Market Structure
A 3% Bitcoin Allocation Built Into Portfolio Growth
On August 10, 2026, the RBC iShares alliance launched IBQT, a Toronto Stock Exchange ETF combining global equities with a targeted 3% allocation to bitcoin.
The iShares Equity + Bitcoin ETF Portfolio targets a strategic mix of approximately 97% equities and 3% bitcoin. It charges a 0.22% management fee inclusive of underlying iShares ETF fees, is eligible for Canadian registered plans and launched with about C$1 million in assets.
BlackRock introduced its Canadian IBIT in January 2025 as a standalone bitcoin investment product. IBQT currently obtains its bitcoin exposure through IBIT, putting that exposure inside the portfolio construction process. Investors own units of IBQT rather than bitcoin itself.
Portfolio ETFs Create Another Source Of Bitcoin Demand
IBQT changes how the bitcoin allocation is made. An investor doesn't have to choose a separate crypto fund or decide independently how much bitcoin to hold. The allocation is built into the portfolio.
That creates a demand channel tied to assets entering the fund. If IBQT grew to C$100 million while maintaining a 3% bitcoin target, about C$3 million of the portfolio would represent bitcoin exposure. At C$1 billion, the same target would represent about C$30 million.
Rebalancing can create another source of allocation demand when bitcoin's portfolio weight falls below target. BlackRock has not disclosed enough detail to establish a fixed rebalancing schedule or tolerance range, so IBQT should not be treated as a predictable bitcoin buying program.
The structure is still relevant to bitcoin's long term demand base.
Capital can reach bitcoin exposure because an investor bought a diversified portfolio rather than because that investor separately decided to buy a crypto fund.
Fidelity Has Already Tested The Model In Canada
BlackRock isn't first with the idea. Fidelity's All-in-One Equity ETF, FEQT, targets approximately 97% equities and 3% cryptocurrencies and currently obtains its crypto exposure through the Fidelity Advantage Bitcoin ETF.
Fidelity also incorporates smaller crypto allocations into other all-in-one portfolios as their equity exposure declines. Its work integrating bitcoin into conventional investment infrastructure has been developing for years, including efforts to bring bitcoin into portfolio platforms rather than leave crypto entirely outside traditional wealth management.
FEQT alone had about C$5.5 billion in net assets in late July, providing evidence that a portfolio containing a small crypto sleeve can reach substantial scale in Canada.
IBQT adds BlackRock and the RBC iShares distribution platform to that competition. RBC Global Asset Management and BlackRock Canada retain separate fund management responsibilities within the alliance, which now spans more than 240 ETFs and over C$240 billion in assets.
There is also a pricing angle. IBQT launches with a 0.22% management fee inclusive of underlying iShares ETF fees. FEQT reported a 0.43% MER as of March 2026.
Bitcoin Market Check
IBQT is arriving during a much weaker bitcoin market than the environment surrounding the first wave of North American spot bitcoin ETFs.
Bitcoin was trading around US$65,000 on August 10 after a substantial decline earlier in 2026. BlackRock Canada's IBIT had grown to roughly C$390 million in net assets, giving IBQT an established Canadian bitcoin fund through which to obtain its current exposure.
See: Canadian Crypto Ownership Hits 25% In OSC Survey
Recent ETF inflows also show that investor demand can return even while bitcoin remains well below earlier highs. The growth of spot bitcoin investment products has already shown how regulated fund structures can draw both retail and institutional capital. U.S. spot bitcoin and ether ETFs attracted roughly US$1.1 billion in combined net inflows during the week leading into the IBQT launch.
Investors buying IBQT are taking on a small bitcoin allocation during a weaker market, not just after bitcoin has rallied. Portfolio inflows over the next several quarters will provide a better indication of whether this structure can attract capital across different bitcoin market conditions.
Bitcoin Price | 12-Month Market View
BTC/USD market context around the August 10, 2026 launch of BlackRock Canada's IBQT.
Chart: BTC/USD. IBQT began trading on the TSX on August 10, 2026.
Bitcoin risk remains intact. IBQT simplifies access, allocation and custody for the investor. It does not make bitcoin itself less volatile.
Talking Point
IBQT gives bitcoin access to capital that starts with a portfolio decision rather than a separate crypto purchase. Fidelity has already shown the model can reach scale in Canada. BlackRock's entry adds another channel through which growth in conventional investment products can create bitcoin exposure.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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India’s RBI On AI Governance And BRICS Payment Links
August 11, 2026 | NCFA Insight | Artificial Intelligence And Data, Cross Border Payments And FX, Regulation And Policy
Bank AI Controls Tighten As BRICS Tests Payment Connectivity
On August 11, 2026, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra called for stronger bank AI governance while confirming that BRICS members are discussing links between fast payment systems and central bank digital currencies.
Malhotra urged Indian banks to inventory the AI models they use and establish board approved AI governance policies, while arguing that banks cannot afford to avoid the technology because of its risks. The BRICS discussion is less advanced, but it has progressed beyond India's proposal earlier this year.
AI Governance Is Becoming A Bank Operating Responsibility
The RBI has been working toward this point for some time. India's FREE-AI framework was developed around responsible AI use in finance, including governance, explainability, privacy, fairness and risk controls. The central bank has also been expanding its model risk work beyond credit models into other operating areas.
Malhotra's August remarks make the institutional responsibility clearer. A bank cannot govern AI well if it cannot identify which models are running, where they are used or who owns the decisions around them. An inventory creates the starting record. Board approved governance then establishes responsibility above individual technology teams.
That becomes more important as AI spreads beyond analysis into customer service, credit, fraud detection, risk management and other live banking functions. Cybersecurity and operational risk also grow with the number of systems, vendors and data connections involved.
Canada is dealing with more or less the same operating problem. OSFI and GRI's financial AI work found that regulated deployment depends on practical controls around identity, cyber risk, financial crime, third party providers and customer outcomes. More than 170 participants contributed to that work, with 72% reporting AI use at work in financial services.
Financial regulators are asking institutions to prove control over AI that is already being used. For banks, model inventories, ownership, monitoring and escalation are becoming part of normal operating discipline.
BRICS Payment Links Advance From Proposal To Discussion
The payments comments are at an earlier stage.
In January, India proposed that BRICS members consider linking their official digital currencies for cross border trade and tourism payments. NCFA captured that proposal in its January BRICS payments evidence.
Malhotra now says BRICS members are discussing potential links between both fast payment systems and CBDCs. The objective is lower cost cross border payments, but he was equally clear that the work is still at the discussion stage.
There is no shared BRICS CBDC network, agreed settlement architecture or implementation timetable. There is also no basis for treating the discussions as evidence that a common BRICS currency is being created. Official BRICS material has instead focused on reducing the cost of trade and financial transactions and improving payment links between member countries.
The addition of fast payment systems is also important. CBDCs are only one possible route. Connecting existing national payment rails may offer another way to improve cross border transfers without waiting for every participating country to deploy a mature digital currency.
More Capability Means More Governance At Every Layer
Malhotra did not present AI governance and BRICS payment connectivity as a single program, however combined they do expose a common operating issue. Inside a bank, more capable AI requires clearer ownership, controls and auditability. Between countries, more connected payment systems require agreements around access, standards, settlement, legal responsibility and risk.
See: AI Agents Enter Governed Financial Workflows
Interoperability is useful only when participants know who is accountable when something fails. The same is true for AI performing more important financial work.
For Canadian readers, the comparison is timely. Canada's financial infrastructure is becoming more open through new payment system access, PSP supervision and the Real Time Rail, while banks are also deploying more AI. Different technologies are involved, but both require stronger operating controls as access and automation expand.
Talking Point
Financial infrastructure gets harder to govern as it becomes more capable and connected. The RBI's AI expectations and the BRICS payment discussions show that control, accountability and interoperability are becoming operating questions, not side issues for innovation teams.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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8 Cozy Evening Activities That Don’t Involve Leaving the House
Aug 11, 2026
After a long day, does the idea of going back out feel more exhausting than the day itself? Most people arrive home carrying the full weight of their schedule: deadlines met, commutes survived, energy reserves somewhere near zero. The instinct to collapse and scroll is understandable.
A few small, deliberate choices, though, can turn that empty stretch of evening into something worth having. From quiet hobbies like reading to a fun casual session of online games, a night in has far more range than most people bother to find out. Here are eight low-effort ways to make yours count.
1. Start with a Recipe You Know by Heart
Comfort food does not need to be impressive. The whole point is familiarity: champorado, a pot of arroz caldo, or even just garlic fried rice with whatever leftovers are in the fridge. The repetitive, sensory work of chopping and stirring keeps your hands occupied and your thoughts in the room rather than still back at the office. What comes out of it is almost secondary. The smell alone tends to make the whole place feel more settled.
2. Give Your Watch Queue a Proper Chance
This one small step saves more energy than you might believe. Browsing streaming menus for 20 minutes while already tired is its own kind of exhaustion; choosing before you get comfortable, on the other hand, means the evening actually starts when you sit down. Go for something familiar, something a friend has been pushing for months, or a genre you rarely try. Dim the lights, put your phone face down, and settle in to fully focus on your chosen TV show or movie.
3. Wind Down with a Game or Two
Light interactive entertainment is good at pulling attention away from lingering work stress; there's a low-grade mental engagement to it that gives the brain something neutral to hold. This covers a lot of ground: mobile puzzle apps, a low-stakes strategy game, or a relaxed session of featured slot games on your phone or laptop. Modern online platforms have gotten genuinely good at replicating the social energy of table games and slots without having to get dressed. Keep it easy and set a limit on time for a balance of cozy fun and thrill.
4. Go Screen-Free for an Hour or Two
A jigsaw puzzle, a sketchpad, an adult coloring book: none of these asks much of you and that is exactly the point. Holding something physical, such as a pencil or a puzzle piece, and focusing on a small, concrete task quietly clears mental clutter in a way that passive screen time rarely does. No skill required. No finished product expected. The benefit is in the doing, not the result.
5. Have Warm Bath or Shower Before You Settle In for the Night
Some people treat this aspect of relaxation as a chore to get through, but it does not have to be. Add Epsom salts to the tub then light a candle and place it nearby. If you don’t have a tub but have a diffuser, run it with a few drops of your favorite essential oil while you shower. Take the extra fifteen minutes.
Warm water relieves physical tension in ways that nothing else quite replicates at the end of a long day; treated as a deliberate transition rather than a quick tick on the to-do list, it becomes one of the most effective wind-down tools most people already own and consistently rush past.
6. Let Someone Else Tell the Story
After a full day at a screen, more screen time might be the last thing that actually helps. Audio entertainment solves this: a gripping podcast, a comedy series, or a well-narrated audiobook holds attention just as well as television while giving your eyes a complete break. It is also genuinely good for people who fall asleep to background noise—engaging enough to quiet a restless mind, but without the stimulating light of another glowing rectangle pointed at your face.
7. Loosen Up Before You Hit the Hay
Desk work puts tension in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Just 10 to 15 minutes of slow floor stretches or basic yoga before bed releases most of it. No equipment, no space requirements: just a comfortable surface, slow breathing, and a little patience. After a few nights, you’ll notice sleep tends to improve. It is one of those habits that sounds smaller than it is.
8. Make the Last Hours of the Day Feel Intentional
Harsh overhead lighting mimics daylight and keeps the body alert longer than necessary. Swapping it for a warm lamp, a string of fairy lights, or a couple of candles shifts the whole atmosphere of a room. Add a soft playlist in the background and you’re all set. Neither of these things takes more than two minutes to do. Together, they draw a clear line between the day that just ended and the evening you actually want.
See: Entrepreneurs, Mental Stress, And Avoiding The Burnout
A good night at home does not require much planning. It mostly requires stopping the accidental ones: the evenings that disappear into mindless scrolling and end with a vague sense that the time was not really yours. The small choices you make, such as what to cook, when to put the phone away, and how to light a room, shift the balance. At the end of the day, the home is already everything you need to relax.
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