Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Crypto News | Jan 15, 2024

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About a year and a half after its launch, GameStop is exiting the NFT business. The company's decision to wind down its NFT marketplace, which supported gaming NFTs and other collectibles across Immutable X and Loopring, both scaling networks, is primarily due to the ongoing regulatory uncertainty in the crypto space. This move comes just four months after GameStop announced the termination of its NFT wallet for similar reasons.
GameStop first ventured into the NFT space in 2021, hiring a 20-person team to oversee the gaming NFT marketplace. Despite initial enthusiasm, including a collaboration with Immutable and establishing a $100 million fund in Immutable's IMX token, the venture faced challenges. The company even cashed out a significant portion of the IMX tokens shortly after receiving them.
The marketplace's closure, effective February 2, 2024, has been communicated to traders via a pop-up message on its site. Interestingly, the decision to stagger the departure from crypto, instead of a simultaneous shutdown of both the wallet and the marketplace, remains unclear.
Venezuela's national cryptocurrency, the Petro (PTR), will cease operations on January 15, 2024. Launched in 2018 as a means to circumvent U.S. sanctions, the Petro struggled to gain acceptance both domestically and internationally. The coin, backed by the country's oil reserves, was launched amidst significant opposition and scandal, including a $5 million bounty by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the capture of Joselit Ramirez Camacho, head of the National Superintendency of Crypto Assets overseeing the Petro.
Despite achieving full functionality in 2020, the Petro was never traded abroad and failed to become legal tender in Venezuela. Its limited domestic use and the lack of mandatory acceptance contributed to its downfall. The closure of the Petro is part of a broader reorganization within Venezuela's crypto and oil sectors.
The closures of GameStop's NFT marketplace and Venezuela's Petro coin signify a cautious approach towards digital assets amidst regulatory uncertainties and market volatility.
Both the decision by GameStop to shutdown its NFT marketplace and Venezuela's Petro Coin to cease operations are prime examples of the difficult challenges traditional companies and governments face when integrating cryptocurrencies and NFTs into their operations and economies.
For GameStop, the pivot away from NFTs and crypto might be a strategic realignment to focus on its core business in the gaming industry.
In the case of Venezuela, the Petro's failure to gain traction, both domestically and internationally, reflects the difficulties in creating a state-backed digital currency that can operate independently of traditional financial systems.
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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Innovation | Jan 12, 2024

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The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 has been a landmark event, showcasing groundbreaking innovations with far-reaching implications for consumers and businesses, especially in the fintech sector. Below is just a taster of the plethora of creativity redefining a hyper personalized and immersive future.
Sony's latest mixed reality, spatial headset at CES 2024, developed in collaboration with Siemens, is a marvel in industrial metaverse technology. This headset is equipped with 4K OLED microdisplays and innovative controllers. It's designed to revolutionize manufacturing and design processes, offering immersive collaboration spaces for AI and humans. In fintech, this could transform customer service experiences, allowing for immersive financial planning and virtual client meetings, enhancing engagement and understanding.
The Rabbit R1, as reviewed by Tom's Guide, stands out as a compact AI assistant. It uniquely combines a Large Language Model with a Large Action Model, enabling it to not only understand complex requests but also execute them.
This technology could be a game-changer in fintech, streamlining operations like automated customer inquiries, real-time financial advice, and efficient transaction processing, thereby enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.
CES 2024 has been a hotbed for fintech innovation. TechCrunch's comprehensive coverage of the event highlights several advancements. These include AI-driven tools for personalized financial planning, blockchain-based security solutions for transactions, and next-gen payment systems that promise greater accessibility and security. Such innovations are poised to make financial services more intuitive and secure, aligning with fintech's goal of democratizing financial services.
CES 2024 has set a new benchmark in technological innovation, with significant strides in fintech and consumer technology. From Sony's spatial headset to the Rabbit R1 AI assistant, these advancements are not just futuristic concepts but practical solutions poised to transform the financial sector.
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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Acquisition | Jan 12, 2024
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The acquisition is expected to bolster CoinShares' existing Assets Under Management (AUM), currently at $4.5 billion, by approximately $110 million. Valkyrie’s existing ETF products include The Valkyrie Bitcoin Fund (BRRR), The Valkyrie Bitcoin and Ether Strategy ETF (BTF), and The Valkyrie Bitcoin Miners ETF (WGMI).
This decision follows the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) approval for Valkyrie’s spot Bitcoin ETF, The Valkyrie Bitcoin Fund (BRRR), which commenced trading on Nasdaq.
Valkyrie Investments, based in Nashville, is a specialized alternative financial services firm at the intersection of traditional finance and the emerging cryptocurrency sector. Valkyrie’s spot Bitcoin ETF garnered nearly $9 million in trading volume on its first day wh ich was the third lowest performer by trading volume among the 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs that debuted recently.
The acquisition is still subject to satisfactory due diligence, finalization of necessary legal agreements, and final approval from the Company board. This move highlights the integration and expansion of digital asset companies across different global markets, reflecting the increasing acceptance and institutionalization of cryptocurrency-related financial products.
Jean-Marie Mognetti, CEO of CoinShares, emphasized the company's success in the European digital asset industry and its ambition to replicate this success in the U.S. Leah Wald, CEO of Valkyrie Funds, expressed excitement about the future prospects following the acquisition, highlighting the combined strengths of both companies.
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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Investing News | Jan 11, 2024

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As widely reported, the SEC has approved applications for 11 issuers, including major players like BlackRock and Grayscale. The approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs, a process that began in 2013 which tracks the current price of Bitcoin, is expected to open new flows of investment from wealth managers and everyday traders.
Previously, the SEC had rejected applications for spot Bitcoin ETFs, citing market immaturity and potential manipulation risks. However, the recent approval indicates a change in perception, acknowledging the growing maturity and stability of the crypto market. A watershed moment for crypto.
“Order granting accelerated approval” it’s over. Thank God. pic.twitter.com/qCozlxzSBX
— Eric Balchunas (@EricBalchunas) January 10, 2024
Gary Gensler, the Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), released a statement following the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs. In his statement, Gensler emphasized that the SEC's decision is based on the law and court interpretations. He noted that the SEC had previously disapproved over 20 filings for spot Bitcoin ETPs, but the situation changed following a court ruling that the SEC failed to adequately explain its reasoning in disapproving Grayscale's proposed ETP.
Gensler stated that the approval of these spot Bitcoin ETP shares is the most sustainable path forward, given the circumstances and discussions in the approval order. He clarified that the SEC evaluates rule filings based on their consistency with the Exchange Act and regulations, focusing on investor and public interest protection. The approval does not signal the SEC's willingness to approve listing standards for crypto asset securities or its views on the status of other crypto assets under federal securities laws.
The statement also highlighted that investors already have various ways to buy, sell, or gain exposure to Bitcoin. The approved Bitcoin ETPs will require full, fair, and truthful disclosure, and they will be listed and traded on registered national securities exchanges. These exchanges are required to have rules designed to prevent fraud and manipulation, which the SEC will monitor closely.
Gensler noted that existing rules and standards of conduct apply to the purchase and sale of the approved ETPs, including Regulation Best Interest for broker-dealers and a fiduciary duty under the Investment Advisers Act for investment advisers. He also mentioned that the SEC staff is reviewing registration statements for 10 spot Bitcoin ETPs to promote fairness and competition.
Gensler stated that while the SEC approved the listing and trading of certain spot Bitcoin ETP shares, it did not endorse Bitcoin itself. He cautioned investors about the risks associated with Bitcoin and products whose value is tied to crypto, noting Bitcoin's speculative nature and use in illicit activities.
Although Gensler acknowledges some innovative aspects of blockchain as an "accounting system," he pointed out an "irony" in the idea of sanctioning an ETF for what is purported to be a "decentralized" system.
“Think about the irony of those who would say this week is historic,” he said. “Now you can buy [Bitcoin] through this thing called an exchange-traded product that’s, well, centralized.”
Following the SEC's approval of Bitcoin ETFs, the price of Ether, the cryptocurrency linked to Ethereum, spiked to its highest level since May 2022. This surge is driven by investor optimism that an ETF for Ether might also be approved.
However, SEC Chair Gary Gensler has cautioned that the approval of Bitcoin ETFs does not necessarily indicate a similar readiness for other crypto asset securities. Commentators are divided over whether an Ether ETF will be approved in 2024, with some expressing skepticism due to the ongoing debate over whether cryptocurrencies like Ethereum are classified as securities or commodities. As the market responds to this development, it remains to be seen how other cryptocurrencies like Ether will be impacted and whether they too will see similar ETF approvals in the future.
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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AI Report | Jan 10, 2024

Accenture 2024 Tech Vision Human by design
Accenture's Technology Vision 2024, titled "Human by Design" (or read the full 90 page PDF report) presents a compelling future where technology becomes increasingly human-centric. This vision is not just a futuristic concept but a tangible reality that is reshaping businesses and personal lives.
AI Becoming More Human: AI is evolving to reason and interact in more human-like ways, transforming from a tool for automation to an agent of augmentation. Generative AI and transformer models, like ChatGPT and Bard, are making technology more intuitive and accessible, democratizing specialized knowledge and skills. 95% of executives agree that making technology more human will massively expand opportunities across industries. 'A Match Made in AI' The transformation of business search models to more intuitive AI-driven advisors.
Spatial Computing: A new spatial computing medium is emerging, bridging the digital and physical worlds, and reflecting human presence in digital spaces. 'The Space We Need' The growth of spatial computing technology and its applications.
Understanding Human Intent: Technologies are getting better at understanding human intent, reducing the friction between human-machine interactions. 'Meet My Agent' The rise of AI agents capable of acting autonomously, demanding appropriate human oversight.
Human-Centric Design: The focus is shifting towards creating technology that is intuitive by design, demonstrating human-like intelligence, and integrating seamlessly into our lives. 'Our Bodies Electronic' Advances in technologies like eye-tracking and brain-computer interfaces (BCI) for deeper human understanding.
Morning Routine:
6:30 AM: Wake-Up with AI Personal Assistant
7:00 AM: Smart Home Interaction
7:30 AM: AI-Driven Financial Optimization
Commute:
8:00 AM: AI-Optimized Commuting
9:00 AM: Decentralized Professional Network
12:00 PM: Smart Contract Lunch Orders
Afternoon Tasks:
2:00 PM: AI-Powered Investment Trading and AI Learning
4:00 PM: Blockchain Health Data Management
Evening Leisure:
6:00 PM: Smart Shopping
7:30 PM: Decentralized Social Media and NFT-Based Entertainment
Night:
9:00 PM: AI-Enhanced Personal Finance Review
10:00 PM: AI Sleep Optimization and Token Rewards
In future day in the life of a millennial like Alex is seamlessly integrated with AI and human-centric technologies. This scenario, inspired by Accenture's Technology Vision 2024, showcases a future where technology is designed with a deep understanding of human needs and behaviors, making life more intuitive, efficient, and enjoyable.
From personalized health and productivity enhancements to immersive entertainment and learning experiences, technology will continue to transform and integrate with every aspect of daily life.
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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Crypto News | Jan 10, 2024

Celsius, a cryptocurrency lending platform, is in the midst of a major financial restructuring following its bankruptcy declaration. The company is now requesting certain creditors who withdrew large sums in the months leading up to the bankruptcy to return a portion of their funds. This move is part of a broader effort to manage the company's financial crisis and ensure equitable treatment of all creditors.
The outcome of this situation could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, impacting investor confidence and the stability of the cryptocurrency market.
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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Crypto News | Jan 10, 2024

Image by Harryarts on Freepik
This incident was not due to a breach of X's systems but was attributed to an unidentified individual gaining control over a phone number associated with the SEC's account. The false post led to a temporary spike in Bitcoin prices, highlighting the market's sensitivity to regulatory news.
"The SEC's recent security breach is a stark reminder of the fragility of digital systems in the face of sophisticated cyber threats. As we move towards the potential approval of a Bitcoin ETF, it's imperative to bolster our cybersecurity measures to safeguard investor interests." Source: CNBC
The @SECGov twitter account was compromised, and an unauthorized tweet was posted. The SEC has not approved the listing and trading of spot bitcoin exchange-traded products.
— Gary Gensler (@GaryGensler) January 9, 2024
The approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF by the SEC is a much-anticipated event in the financial world. This move could mark a significant shift in the cryptocurrency market, offering investors a regulated and potentially safer avenue to invest in Bitcoin.
| ETF Provider | Initial Fee | Fee After Initial Period |
|---|---|---|
| Bitwise (BITB) | 0.0% | 0.2% (after first 6 months) |
| ARK Invest/21Shares (ARKB) | 0.0% | 0.21% (after first 6 months) |
| Invesco Galaxy Bitcoin ETF (BTCO) | 0.0% | 0.39% (after first 6 months) |
| iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) | 0.12% | 0.25% (after first 12 months) |
| VanEck Bitcoin Trust (HODL) | 0.25% | - |
| Franklin Bitcoin ETF (EZBC) | 0.29% | - |
| Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Trust (FBTC) | 0% | 0.25% (after July 31, 2024) |
| WisdomTree Bitcoin Trust (BTCW) | 0.0% | 0.3% (after first 6 months) |
| Valkyrie Bitcoin Fund (BRRR) | 0.80% | - |
| Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) | 1.5% | - |
| Hashdex Bitcoin (DEFI) | 0.9% | - |
With a spot Bitcoin ETF now imminent, anticipation of an spot Ethereum ETF being approved and the path to an Ether ETF seems more probable than ever. BlackRock, a major player in traditional finance, has already filed an S-1 form with the SEC for its iShares Ethereum Trust, a spot ether ETF. This move indicates a strong interest from institutional investors in Ethereum-based products. Learn more about Ethereum blockchain.
Recently, Ether traded over $2,400, marking a 5% increase within 24 hours. This rise contrasts with Bitcoin's 2.2% decline in the same period, partly due to volatility caused by fake tweets from a hacked U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission account.
The optimism isn't limited to Ether alone. Tokens of applications built on Ethereum, like Lido's LDO and RocketPool's RPL, have also experienced significant gains. Layer 2 networks, which operate atop Ethereum but as independent blockchains, have seen their tokens, such as Mantle's MNT and Optimism's OP, increase in value. This trend reflects a broader market movement, anticipating the potential of an Ether ETF.
While the financial world debates the anticipation of the SECs approval of various spot Bitcoin ETFs, the SEC's account hack serves as a critical reminder of the importance of cybersecurity in the financial sector. Stay tuned. More to come...
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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CEO and Executive Director
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