Category Archives: Blockchain, Crypto, Digital Assets, Tokens, CBDCs, Stablecoins, Metaverse, NFTs

Federal Reserve on U.S. CBDC and Global Comparison

CBDC | March 11, 2024

Pixabay geralt, cbdc

Image: Pixabay/geralt

Exploring the Impact of a U.S. CBDC And A Comparative Global Analysis

The Federal Reserve offers perspective on the future of money with their recent exploration into the implications of a U.S. Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) for international payments and the role of the dollar.  Their analysis of the transformative potential of CBDCs, highlights how digital currencies could enhance the efficiency, security, and inclusivity of payment systems. However, the introduction of a U.S. CBDC, much like those being considered or developed by other nations, raises complex questions about financial stability, the global dominance of the dollar, and the technological and regulatory challenges inherent in adopting such an innovation.

Comparative Framework

To better understand the global landscape of CBDC development and its implications, we've created a high level framework that evaluates countries across five dimensions:

See:  IMF Working on Global CBDC Platform to Revolutionize Global Remittances and Trade

  1. Development Stage: How far along the country is in CBDC development, from research to deployment, based on publicly available information.
  2. International Impact Potential: The potential of the country's CBDC to influence global financial systems.
  3. Innovation and Technology: The country's approach to leveraging technology and innovation in CBDC development.
  4. Regulatory Environment: The effectiveness and clarity of the regulatory framework surrounding CBDCs.
  5. Economic and Geopolitical Influence: The country's global economic and geopolitical influence, which could affect the CBDC's international adoption.

Rankings based on Scoring Criteria

Each country (or region, in the case of Hong Kong) is scored from 1 to 6, with 6 indicating the highest level of advancement or impact, and 1 the lowest across the following criteria:

Rank Country Development Stage International Impact Potential Innovation and Technology Regulatory Environment Economic and Geopolitical Influence Total Score
1 China 6 5 6 6 5 28
2 United States 3 6 4 5 6 24
3 Singapore 5 4 6 5 3 23
4 Hong Kong 4 4 5 5 3 21
5 India 5 3 5 3 3 19
6 United Kingdom 3 4 4 4 4 19
7 Canada 4 3 3 4 3 17
8 Australia 3 2 3 3 2 13

United States

The United States is cautiously exploring the potential of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) through research and public discussions led by the Federal Reserve. While no concrete deployment has occurred, significant attention is being paid to how a U.S. CBDC could impact both domestic and international financial systems. The Federal Reserve's exploration into a digital dollar considers the implications for international payments, privacy, security, and financial inclusion. The U.S. approach is characterized by a careful consideration of the technological, regulatory, and economic implications of introducing a CBDC, reflecting its significant global economic and geopolitical influence.

China

China is at the forefront of CBDC development with its Digital Currency Electronic Payment (DCEP) initiative, making it one of the most advanced and widely tested digital currency projects globally. The People's Bank of China (PBoC) has already conducted numerous trials in various cities, showcasing the government's commitment to integrating digital currency into the economy. The DCEP aims to enhance payment efficiency, bolster the yuan's international presence, and provide a controlled, secure alternative to private digital currencies. China's rapid progress is supported by a robust technological infrastructure and a regulatory environment conducive to digital currency adoption.

Singapore

Singapore has positioned itself as a global leader in financial technology and innovation, with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) actively exploring the concept of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). Through Project Ubin, Singapore has been at the forefront of experimenting with blockchain and distributed ledger technology for the clearing and settlement of payments and securities. The project aims to explore the use of CBDCs for interbank payments and has successfully demonstrated the potential for improving efficiency and reducing risks in cross-border transactions.  Singapore's approach to CBDC development is characterized by a strong emphasis on innovation, collaboration with international financial institutions, and a proactive regulatory stance that supports fintech growth while ensuring financial stability. The MAS has also been involved in cross-border CBDC experiments, such as the multiple CBDC (m-CBDC) bridge project, which explores the use of CBDCs for facilitating efficient international payments.

Canada

Canada has been actively involved in CBDC research through the Bank of Canada's exploration of digital currencies and their potential impacts on the financial system. The country has not yet committed to launching a CBDC but has conducted several pilot projects and studies to understand the implications better. The Bank of Canada's work includes collaborations on cross-border payments and considerations of privacy, security, and financial inclusion in a digital currency context. Canada's approach is marked by a focus on innovation within a stable regulatory framework, aiming to understand how a CBDC could fit into its existing financial ecosystem. Details on Canada's CBDC research.

can be found in the Bank of Canada's white papers and research articles (Bank of Canada's CBDC Research).

Australia

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is in the early stages of exploring a CBDC, with a focus on understanding potential domestic use cases and the technological framework required for implementation. The RBA has expressed interest in the possibilities of a CBDC for improving the efficiency and security of payment systems in Australia. Although Australia's CBDC project is still under development, the country's strong fintech sector and innovative financial services landscape support the exploration of digital currencies.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is actively engaging with the concept of a CBDC, known colloquially as "Britcoin." The Bank of England and HM Treasury are conducting research and public consultations to assess the benefits, risks, and technical considerations of introducing a digital pound. The UK's approach is characterized by a strong emphasis on stakeholder engagement, with the aim of understanding the potential impacts on financial stability, privacy, and the broader economy. The UK's significant global financial market presence means that a CBDC could have notable implications for international finance, especially in terms of cross-border transactions.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong, as a special administrative region of China, has been exploring CBDCs through initiatives like the "m-CBDC Bridge" project, a collaboration with the Bank of Thailand, the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, and the Digital Currency Institute of the People's Bank of China. This project aims to explore the application of CBDCs in cross-border payments, showcasing Hong Kong's strategic position as a global financial hub and its commitment to financial innovation. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) is leading these efforts, focusing on the potential for CBDCs to enhance payment efficiency and security.

India

India is making significant strides in CBDC development with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announcing phased trials of a digital rupee. The initiative reflects India's aim to enhance the efficiency of its payment system and reduce reliance on cash. The digital rupee trials focus on both wholesale and retail segments, indicating the broad scope of India's CBDC ambitions. The RBI's approach is supported by India's strong technological base and a regulatory environment that is increasingly accommodating digital financial innovations.

Why It Matters

The race to develop digital currencies is more than just a tech sprint; it's about reimagining money in a way that could make it faster, safer, and more accessible for everyone. But it's not all smooth sailing. As countries from the US to Singapore dive into this digital deep end, they're wrestling with big questions, like how to keep our money private in a world where everything's online. Plus, there are hurdles like making sure these new digital dollars don't leave anyone behind or upset the global financial balance.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe 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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Bitcoin Reaches ATH $70K, Ethereum Hits $4K High

Crypto | March 8, 2024

Bitcoin ATH reaches 70k

Image: Trading View

Bitcoin touched $70,000 USD and reached a new all time high (ATH), while Ethereum has notched a new milestone by hitting $4,000 USD

Bitcoin's ascent to $70,000 marks a historic moment, reflecting a year of substantial gains fueled by increased institutional investment, broader acceptance among retail investors, and a growing perception of Bitcoin as a viable hedge against inflation. This surge is part of a broader bullish trend in the cryptocurrency market, driven by the launch of a wide range of Bitcoin ETFs, technological advancements, more regulatory clarity (in some jurisdictions), the removal of many bad actors, and the increasing integration of blockchain technology into financial services.  Note, shortly after touching $70,000 price, the price swiftly receded and is currently trading around $66,500 likely due to profit taking and increased speculation.

See:  Bitcoin’s 10 Commandments: Insights from Satoshi’s Emails

Ethereum's rise to $4,000 is equally significant, underscored by its central role in the burgeoning decentralized finance (DeFi) sector and the explosive growth of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The Ethereum blockchain's smart contract functionality has become a cornerstone for these applications, driving demand and increasing the value of ETH.

Outlook

Despite the much anticipated volatility, the future looks promising for the price of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and the broader cryptocurrency market.  Investors are cautioned to remain vigilant, as the market's inherent volatility can lead to significant fluctuations in value. As the digital currency landscape evolves, Bitcoin and Ethereum's recent milestones are just the beginning of a new era in finance.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe 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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NFT Market Divergence as Cryptocurrencies Soar

NFTs | March 7, 2024

Freepik macrovector, NFTs

Image: Freepik/macrovector

NFT collections see a significant drop in floor prices amidst a cryptocurrency market rally, with major collections facing steep losses

As pointed out by The Defiant, the Non-Fungible Token (NFT) market has witnessed a sharp decline in the floor prices of its top collections, even as cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (ETH) and Bitcoin (BTC) experience significant rallies. This trend highlights a growing divergence between the NFT sector and the broader cryptocurrency market. Notably, major NFT collections, including the Bored and Mutant Ape Yacht Clubs, Pudgy Penguins, and Azuki, have reported substantial losses in their value over the past week. This downturn has been exacerbated by record-high liquidations on Blend, Blur's NFT lending platform with 82% of the market, indicating a period of heightened volatility and uncertainty within the NFT space.

  • The NFT market's underperformance amidst all-time-high seeking crypto market prices suggests divergence or a shift in investor sentiment possibly by a fear of missing out (FOMO) on the crypto rally.
  • Data from Blur's NFT marketplace reveals that five of the top six NFT collections by daily volume have suffered losses ranging from 20% to 37% in over the last seven days. Notably, the Bored and Mutant Ape Yacht Clubs, along with Pudgy Penguins and Azuki, have faced steep declines.

See:  NBA in Legal Battle Over Crypto Marketing

  • The volatility has led to a spike in liquidations on Blend, with approximately 240 tokens from leading collections being liquidated on March 6, marking a new all-time high for the platform.
  • Despite the overall downturn, select NFT collections like CryptoPunks, Chromie Squiggle, and Milady Maker have seen their values increase, indicating pockets of resilience within the market.  For example, a rare CryptoPunk alien NFT sells for $16 million.

Outlook

While the short-term outlook may seem bearish for NFTs, the resilience shown by certain collections suggests that the market is still evolving and adapting. As digital currencies continue to gain momentum, the NFT sector may undergo further shifts, with potential for recovery as investors recalibrate their portfolios. The interplay between NFTs and cryptocurrencies is a key area to watch, as it will likely influence future trends and opportunities within the digital asset space.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe 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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BRICS Announces Launch of Blockchain Payment System

BRICS | March 6, 2024

Unsplash Kyle Glenn, Globe

Image: Unsplash/Kyle Glenn

BRICS Nations Announce Global Blockchain Payment System to De-Dollarize Global Finance

As reported on a Russian news agency, BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) have announced the creation of a blockchain-based payment system to establish a more inclusive, efficient, and politically neutral global financial ecosystem, leveraging the latest in digital and blockchain technologies to facilitate trade settlements independent of the US dollar (de-dollarization).

  • The BRICS nations are working on developing an independent payment system that utilizes digital currencies and blockchain technology. This system is designed to be convenient for governments, businesses, and the general public, ensuring cost-effectiveness and freedom from political influence.
  • The BRICS payment system is part of a broader strategy to enhance the role of BRICS nations in the international monetary and financial system. The focus is on increasing settlements in national currencies and strengthening correspondent banking networks to ensure secure international transactions.  Also likely to include CBDCs.
  • The initiative has garnered attention worldwide, with additional countries expressing interest in joining the BRICS payment platform. This expansion indicates a growing trend towards diversification in global financial systems and the potential for a shift in how international trade and transactions are conducted.

See:  The 15th BRICS Summit: A New Chapter in Global Dynamics

Yury Ushakov, Kremlin aide:

"We believe that creating an independent BRICS payment system is an important goal for the future, which would be based on state-of-the-art tools such as digital technologies and blockchain. The main thing is to make sure it is convenient for governments, common people and businesses, as well as cost-effective and free of politics."

Why It Matters

By embracing digital currencies and blockchain technology, BRICS nations are challenging the dominance of the US dollar potentially transforming the global economic landscape.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe 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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SEC Delays Approval for BlackRock’s Ethereum ETF

Crypto | March 5, 2024

Freepik fabrikasimf, Ethereum

Image: Freepik/fabrikasimf

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has once again delayed its decision to approve Blackrock's spot Ethereum exchange-traded fund (ETF)

  • A recent regulatory filing revealed that the SEC has postponed its decision on BlackRock's application for a spot Ethereum ETF called iShares Ethereum Trust. This decision marks another setback for the asset manager's efforts to launch a product that would provide investors with direct exposure to Ethereum through a regulated financial instrument.
  • Although the SEC recently approved a number of spot Bitcoin ETFs recently, the SEC's hesitancy to approve cryptocurrency ETFs is not new. The commission has previously rejected spot Bitcoin ETFs, citing concerns over market manipulation, investor protection, and the lack of traditional market surveillance mechanisms in cryptocurrency markets. This cautious approach suggests that the SEC is scrutinizing Ethereum ETF applications with similar concerns, potentially delaying their approval to ensure comprehensive regulatory standards are met.

See:  SEC Greenlights Bitcoin ETFs. Is Ethereum Next?

  • Concentration Risk Concerns: Bloomberg reported concerns from S&P regarding the concentration risks posed by Ethereum ETFs. These concerns reflect the broader debate on the impact of large-scale institutional investments in cryptocurrencies and the potential for market concentration to affect price volatility and liquidity.

Conclusion

While these delays may be frustrating for investors and companies eager to expand the crypto ETF market, they also indicate a careful approach by regulators to understand and address the unique risks associated with digital assets and their networks.

The financial community remains watchful for any signs of progress towards the approval of spot Ethereum ETFs, which would no doubt represent another milestone of the integration of digital assets into the mainstream financial system and growing interest from institutional investors.  The upcoming month of May is tipped to be the period to watch so stay tuned.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe 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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Hong Kong’s Crypto Exchange Registration Update

Crypto | March 4, 2024

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Image: Freepik

Hong Kong's Crypto Exchange Licensing Regime - Global Insights

Hong Kong's Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) saw a last-minute surge in registration applications of 24 crypto exchanges applying (albeit many a day after the deadline).  What are broader implications for Hong Kong's ambition in setting a new global standard in fintech regulation, with its comprehensive approach to cryptocurrency exchange licensing aiming to enhance market integrity and protect investors.

  • As of the February 29 deadline (including the Friday, March 1), a total of 24 crypto exchanges had pending VATP applications with the SFC including prominent platforms like OKX, Bybit, and Huobi HK, . This reflects the significant interest and investment in meeting Hong Kong's regulatory standards, with Web3 firms reportedly spending up to $25 million on compliance and infrastructure.  Notably, all major crypto exchanges with ties to mainland China or Hong Kong, including giants like HBGL Hong Kong (an affiliate of HTX, formerly Huobi Global) and HKVAEX (an affiliate of Binance), have applied for licenses. This demonstrates the scheme's appeal to established players seeking regulatory clarity and market stability.
  • While this level was significant interest it fell short of Singapore's 70 applicants following a similar regulatory announcement as reported in a South China Morning Post article.
  • Exchanges that failed to file a VATP application by the deadline are required to exit the Hong Kong market by May 31. This move follows the city's opening to retail crypto trading in June 2023, emphasizing the regulatory push for compliance and transparency.

See:  Kaiko CEO Predicts Hong Kong as the Next Crypto Hub Due to US Crackdown

  • The licensing process and compliance costs in Hong Kong, potentially costing upwards of HK$60 million (US$7.7 million), poses significant financial and operational challenges for applicants. The SFC's licensing regime mandates that exchange applicants provide at least 50% insurance for customers’ assets and undergo regular financial statement audits.  These high compliance costs, alongside stringent requirements such as external assessor evaluations and the appointment of a local responsible officer (RO), may deter smaller firms and startups.
  • While some applaud the SFC's rigorous approach, others caution that overly restrictive measures could hinder Hong Kong's ability to compete on the global stage, particularly against more flexible jurisdictions like Singapore.

Why It Matters

Hong Kong's fintech regulatory framework, particularly in the cryptocurrency sector, serves as a model for balancing innovation with investor protection.

See:  WealthTech in Asia-Pacific: A Trillion-Dollar Opportunity

By establishing clear deadlines for licensing and compliance, this regulatory approach protects investors and also promotes Hong Kong as a leading global fintech hub, influencing regulatory practices worldwide.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe 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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SEC Scrutinizes Terraform’s $166M Transfer to Dentons

Crypto | Feb 29, 2024

Freepik studiogstock, Magnifying Glass

Image: Freepik/studiogstock

SEC scrutinizes Terraform Labs for a $166 million fund amid bankruptcy proceedings

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is taking action against Terraform Labs by scrutinizing a $166 million transfer to the law firm Dentons.  Amidst Terraform Labs' bankruptcy saga, the move raises questions about the intentions behind substantial financial transfers made since the start of 2023. The SEC's allegations suggest these funds may have been aimed at evading potential future judgments related to the SEC's lawsuit against the company. This development adds a new layer to the complex narrative surrounding Terraform Labs, particularly in light of the company's involvement in the dramatic collapse of the TerraUSD stablecoin, which erased billions in investor assets.

  • The SEC has highlighted suspicious financial activities involving Terraform Labs, including a significant $166 million transfer to Dentons. This action is part of a broader investigation into the company's financial management and legal strategies following its bankruptcy filing.
  • Terraform Labs' decision to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy was reportedly influenced by the looming financial penalties from federal regulators. The company's financial maneuvers, including the contested transfers, were ostensibly aimed at covering legal expenses, including those of its co-founder, Do Kwon, who faces criminal charges in multiple jurisdictions.

See:  SEC Intensifies Accounting Audits in 2023

  • While the SEC does not oppose Terraform Labs' payment of legitimate legal expenses, the regulator has raised concerns over the magnitude of the funds transferred to Dentons. The SEC's objections reflect apprehensions about the potential misuse of company assets, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the use of such funds.

Follow the Money

  • Following its bankruptcy declaration, Terraform petitioned the court overseeing its bankruptcy for authorization to engage Dentons as its special litigation counsel and to allocate $6.3 million towards the legal expenses of its staff and essential external collaborators embroiled in litigation. Terraform's legal documents reveal that approximately $3.25 million from this sum is designated for covering the legal costs of its employees.
  • Terraform is also pursuing approval to expend roughly $1.33 million on a lawsuit in the UK, which it believes will unearth crucial evidence from a cryptocurrency trading firm beneficial to its defense against the SEC's legal actions.

See:  Federal Judge Rules Against Terraform labs

  • According to the SEC, the bulk of the retainer fees, amounting to $122 million, were moved to Dentons within the 90 days leading up to Terraform's bankruptcy filing. Consequently, this sum might be subject to reclamation to settle debts with Terraform's other creditors, presenting a possible conflict of interest between Terraform and Dentons, as pointed out by the regulatory body.
  • Bottom line:  The SEC contends that Dentons should be precluded from representing Terraform, its staff, or its contractors unless it reimburses $81 million still held in the retainer fund and agrees to have its subsequent charges reviewed and approved by the bankruptcy court.

SEC Said:

The money has been "siphoned" into an "opaque slush fund for its lawyers," to the detriment of the investors and creditors who will seek to be repaid in Terraform's bankruptcy.

See:  Winklevoss’ Gemini to Refund $1.1 Billion After NYDFS Findings

Why It Matters

For stakeholders in the fintech and investment sectors, this case underscores the importance of regulatory compliance, financial transparency, and the potential repercussions of legal entanglements on corporate stability and investor trust.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe 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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