Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Karsten Wenzlaff is a Crowdfunding and Fintech Expert from Germany. He is Secretary-General of Digit[...]
Category Archives: Equity Crowdfunding, Alternative Funding
Wealthtech Startup, Allocations, Surpasses $2 Billion AUA
AI Innovation | March 1, 2024
Image from Allocations website
Streamlining Investment Documents and Democratizing Deals with AI
Per VentureBeat's briefing, Allocations, a pioneering fintech startup, has achieved a huge milestone by surpassing $2 billion in assets under administration, showcasing the burgeoning demand for alternative investments and the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in the financial sector. Founded by Kingsley Advani, Allocations uses AI to streamline the process of private capital fundraising, making it faster, more efficient, and less costly. The platform's AI capabilities enable the instant generation of customized legal documents necessary for fund launching, such as private placement memorandums and operating agreements, a task that traditionally consumed hours of legal work and significant financial resources.
- By employing machine learning models trained on over 100,000 investment documents, Allocations can generate legal paperwork in seconds, a stark contrast to the traditional, labor-intensive process. This efficiency allows each employee at Allocations to service up to 70 funds, dramatically outperforming the industry average.
See: Revolutionizing the Legal Function Through Legal Process Automation
- Allocations is not just about efficiency; it's also about accessibility. The platform has facilitated investments in high-profile deals, including a $23 million investment in Leeds United and SPVs for SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anthropic. By automating the creation of legal entities and regulatory filings, Allocations lowers the barriers to entry for investing in alternative assets, enabling deals with minimum investments as low as $5,000.
- Allocations plans to launch a mobile app to cater to a generation that prefers managing finances via smartphones, aiming to power over $1 trillion in private market assets by 2030.
May Help
- By automating the generation of legal documents and facilitating the launch of funds with minimal effort, Allocations lowers the barrier to entry for smaller players. This democratization allows smaller asset managers and family offices to compete more effectively with larger institutions.
- The platform enables the creation of special purpose vehicles (SPVs) with lower minimum investments, making it feasible for angels and retail individuals to participate in deals that were previously out of reach due to high capital requirements. This opens up opportunities for a broader range of investors to engage in private equity, venture capital, and other alternative investments.
See: WealthTech in Asia-Pacific: A Trillion-Dollar Opportunity
- By facilitating easier access to capital through SPVs and other investment vehicles, Allocations can help startups and emerging companies find the funding they need more efficiently, potentially leading to a more vibrant and diverse innovation ecosystem.
Might Hurt
- The automation of tasks such as generating legal paperwork and performing compliance checks, which traditionally required significant manual effort and expertise, could reduce the demand for these services from traditional providers. This might lead to a shift in the market, where traditional roles such as fund administrators and law firms need to adapt to the new technology-driven landscape.
- While not directly hurt, large institutional investors might find the competitive landscape changing as smaller investors gain access to deals that were once exclusive to them. This could lead to increased competition for high-quality investment opportunities.
See: AI Metamorphosis in Venture Capital
- Individuals or entities that are slow to adopt new technologies or are skeptical of AI's role in investment decision-making might find themselves at a disadvantage compared to those who embrace these innovations.
Conclusion
AI-driven efficiency and accessibility are breaking down traditional barriers. This evolution empowers a wider range of investors to participate in alternative assets and also fosters a more inclusive and dynamic financial ecosystem.
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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CCA Report: Investment Crowdfunding 2024: Key Insights
Report | Feb 27, 2024
Image: Cover
Impact of Investment Crowdfunding: Insights from the 2024 Trends Report
Crowdfund Capital Advisors just opened up complimentary access to the "Investment Crowdfunding Trends 2024" report, a comprehensive analysis leveraging data up to December 31, 2023, offering invaluable insights into RegCF markets in the U.S., trends, and impact on the economy, business, and investors. The article below is a snapshot of living markets. Download the data-driven report to stay informed and learn the financing and investment opportunities in regulation crowdfunding markets to see if it's right for your portfolio or business.
Overview of Investment Crowdfunding (up to Dec 2023)
Investment crowdfunding has emerged as a transformative force, redefining access to capital and igniting economic growth.
See: Neiss Advocates for Economic Growth via H.R. 2799
- Issuers/Deals: Over 6,800 issuers with more than 8,000 deals
- Cities across the United States: Participation from over 1,800 cities
- Funded Capital: $2.2 billion
- Investors: More than 1.9 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 310,000
- Economic Stimulus: $6.8 billion annually
- Enterprise Value: $75.6 billion
- Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR): 59%
Platform-Specific Insights
- Investor Count by Platform: The top 3 platforms receive most of the industry’s checks written
- Average Check Size by Platform: Fundify has the largest average check size
- Success Rate by Platform: Success rates vary, depending significantly on minimum funding targets
- $1m+ Raise Count by Platform: Wefunder leads in the million-dollar club
- Economic Stimulus by Platform: Issuers on StartEngine have the greatest economic impact
See: U.S. RegCF Trends: Investment Engagement by Age
Business Maturity Insights
- Investor Preference: Investors generally prefer investing in established companies
- Average Check Size by Business Maturity: Larger checks are written to established issuers compared to startups
- Success Rate by Business Maturity: Established issuers have a higher success rate
- $1m+ Raise Count by Business Maturity: More established issuers are in the $1M+ club, though many startups also achieve this milestone
Other Insights
- Total Investments: Investors show a preference for funding equity issuers despite opportunities in debt
- Average Raise: Equity issuers tend to raise the most
- Investor Count: Equity investors far outweigh debt investors
- Average Check Size by Financing Type: Larger checks are typically written to debt issuers, possibly attracted to immediate returns
- Deal Count by Region: The West, particularly California, leads in deal count and investment amounts, showcasing regional disparities in crowdfunding activity
- Investments and Revenue Growth: There's an average growth in revenue of 284.5% between the year an issuer was successful and the following year, indicating significant financial growth potential for companies utilizing investment crowdfunding
See: Current State of Crowdfunding in Europe 2023 Market Report
- Business Longevity: Only 17.8% of funded companies have gone out of business, compared to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics report that approximately 50% of all new businesses fail within 5 years, suggesting a higher sustainability rate for crowdfunded companies
- Role in Financing: Investment crowdfunding dollars as a percentage of VC pre-seed/seed investments are increasing, highlighting its growing importance as an alternative financing source
Conclusion
This "Investment Crowdfunding Trends 2024" is data-driven proof of the sector's resilience, potential, and transformative impact, offering significant alternative finance options for entrepreneurs, investors, and the broader economy. Through democratizing access to capital, fostering job creation, and stimulating economic growth, investment crowdfunding stands as a beacon of progress and opportunity. Stay tuned for an upcoming episode of Fintech Fridays podcast with Sherwood Neiss, Co-Founder of Crowdfund Capital Advisors.
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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NASAA Intensifies Access to Capital Debate
Access to Capital | Feb 5, 2024
Image: Unsplash/Lennon Cheng
NASAA Opposes Expanding Access to Capital Act, Citing Investor Protection Concerns; Industry Leaders Disagree
In a recent letter, the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA) has voiced strong opposition to the Expanding Access to Capital Act (H.R. 2799), a piece of legislation aimed at enhancing financing access for small firms and entrepreneurs. This opposition is met with concern from private capital market leaders including investment crowdfunding platform operators, who argue that the Act could democratize capital access for everyday Americans and stimulate economic growth.
See: AOIP Advocates for Enhanced Capital Formation and Investment Opportunities for SMEs
- Sponsored by Congressman Patrick McHenry, H.R. 2799 seeks to improve small firms' and entrepreneurs' access to financing and broaden investment opportunities for smaller investors.
- The Act includes provisions for a "micro-offering exemption" allowing securities offerings of $250,000 or less, among other measures to streamline capital formation and investment processes.
- NASAA criticizes multiple titles within H.R. 2799, particularly those facilitating private placement brokers and finders, creating micro-offering exemptions, limiting liability for funding portals, and easing trading of private securities off-exchange. NASAA's opposition may stem from fears of reduced state authority in securities regulation, continuing a history of resistance against federal measures perceived as limiting state powers.
Industry Reaction
Rebecca Kacaba, CEO of DealMaker, criticizes NASAA's opposition, highlighting the Act's potential to expand investment opportunities and drive job creation and economic opportunity, reflecting the broader dialogue on how best to support small businesses and investors in an evolving economic landscape.
NASAA’s opposition to HR 2799 and the Improving Crowdfunding Opportunities Act is concerning. The act serves to expand investment opportunities for everyday Americans. NASAA’s focus appears to be on state rules, rather than the identification of inadequate investor protections for Americans. As the SEC has noted, large investors have a limited focus on smaller companies, but HR 2799 provides [an improved] pathway for smaller investors to finance these businesses. This, in turn, drives job creation and economic opportunity. We continue to support the democratization of access to capital.”
As this debate continues, the perspectives of both investor protection advocates and proponents of democratized capital access will need to balance both safety and growth in the financial markets.
See: UK Changes to HNW Rules Will Impede Access to Capital
Background: The "Improving Crowdfunding Opportunities Act" represents a significant effort to refine and enhance the crowdfunding ecosystem in the United States. By reducing regulatory burdens, clarifying the roles and liabilities of funding portals, and expanding the opportunities for both issuers and investors, the Act aims to make crowdfunding a more attractive and viable option for raising capital. These changes could lead to increased innovation, support for small businesses, and broader investment opportunities for the general public, contributing to economic growth and the democratization of investment.
Importance
The debate over H.R. 2799 underscores a critical tension between state-level investor protection efforts and the push for federal legislation to facilitate broader access to capital and investment opportunities. The outcome of this legislative process could significantly impact capital formation, investment opportunities, and economic growth, making it a matter of keen interest for all stakeholders in the financial and entrepreneurial ecosystems.
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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Seedrs Restructures 15% of European Workforce
Equity Crowdfunding | Jan 24, 2024
Image by Freepik
Seedrs is laying off 15% of its European workforce as part of a restructuring effort. This decision will affect around 15 employees.
As reported by Sifted, Seedrs (part of the US-based Republic) a prominent crowdfunding platform in Europe, has recently reduced its workforce by 15% across Europe. This move is a part of Seedrs' strategic realignment in response to challenging market conditions and is seen as a necessary step for ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the company.
See: Seedrs to Offer Investors Venture Capital Trusts
Founded in 2009 in the UK, Seedrs has played a leadership role in early-stage funding for startups, including notable companies like Revolut. However, the company has faced various challenges recently, including a blocked merger attempt with Crowdcube by the UK competition watchdog in 2021. Subsequently, Seedrs was acquired by Republic in a deal valued at $100 million.
The company is closing its offices in Spain and Sweden, aligning with a strategic shift to focus on areas closer to profitability. Despite these closures, Seedrs will continue to support European companies across the continent, not withdrawing entirely from these markets.
The layoffs, affecting around 15 employees, are part of a broader trend in the venture capital and private equity markets, which have experienced a downturn over the past couple of years. Despite these challenges, some industry observers anticipate a potential rebound in 2024 as interest rates begin to stabilize and investors seek higher returns.
See: Equity Crowdfunding Growth: It Took UK Seedrs 8 Years to Raise the First £1Billion and Only 2 Years for the Next Billion
Recent Investment Platform Innovations
- Many investment platforms, including Seedrs, have been focusing on integrating advanced digital solutions to streamline the investment process. This includes automating due diligence, investor communications, and post-investment monitoring.
- Seedrs has been a leader in developing secondary markets for crowdfunding investments, allowing for greater liquidity and exit opportunities for investors. This innovation has been a significant draw for both investors and startups.
- European platforms are increasingly facilitating cross-border investments, overcoming traditional geographical barriers. Seedrs, for instance, made strides in enabling startups to raise funds across the EU, UK, and the US.
- Some platforms are exploring the use of blockchain technology for tokenization of assets, which can offer more efficient, transparent, and secure transactions.
Outlook
The restructuring might temporarily affect investor confidence in crowdfunding platforms. However, the focus on sustainability and profitability could lead to long-term benefits. As some platforms streamline operations, there may be more consolidation in the market, potentially leading to fewer but stronger players.
See:
AI Metamorphosis in Venture Capital
R/Note: Tokenized VC Dividends on Avalanche
Specific sectors like green technology, health tech, and social enterprises might see increased crowdfunding activity due to growing investor interest in these areas. Ongoing regulatory developments could further shape the landscape, potentially opening up new opportunities or imposing additional constraints. The European equity crowdfunding market is expected to remain resilient, adapting to economic challenges and evolving investor needs.
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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Seedrs to Offer Investors Venture Capital Trusts
Venture Funding | Jan 22, 2024
Image by storyset on Freepik
Seedrs, Europe's leading private investing platform, has announced its plan to bring Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) to a broader, more diverse investor base.
This initiative, starting with the ProVen VCTs managed by Beringea, marks a significant shift in the venture capital landscape, offering new opportunities for investors interested in high-growth companies.
What are VCTs
Since their inception in 1995, Venture Capital Trusts have been instrumental in establishing the UK as a hub for entrepreneurship and venture capital. VCTs are a closed-end fund created by the U.K. government in the 1990s to help direct investment into local private businesses.
With over £6 billion managed by VCTs, supporting more than 1,100 startups and scale-ups, these trusts have fueled success stories like Depop, Zoopla, and Quantexa. VCTs offer investors tax reliefs and potential for healthy returns, with the ten largest VCT managers delivering an average net asset value total return of 81.4% over the past decade.
Historically, VCTs have catered to an older demographic, with the average VCT investor being 56 years old. Seedrs aims to change this by opening up VCTs to younger and more diverse demographics. This aligns with Seedrs' mission to democratize venture capital, making it accessible to a wider range of investors. The ProVen VCTs, with over £330 million under management, offer a diversified portfolio across emerging technologies and established industries.
See: Seedrs Update: UK Equity Crowdfunder Raises Over US$100 Million Online Capital In February
Seedrs is making VCTs accessible to smaller investors, with a minimum investment threshold of just £500. This is a significant development as it opens up opportunities for a broader range of investors to participate in venture capital investments. Seedrs is not the first crowdfunding platform to offer VCTs. Crowdcube, in partnership with Octopus, also offers shares in VCTs with a similar minimum investment of £500.
Investors in VCTs can claim immediate tax relief of 30% up to £200,000 each year, along with tax relief on dividends and exemption from capital gains tax when shares are sold.
VCT structure, along with the SEIS and EIS schemes in the UK, are effective in encouraging investment in early-stage firms, a policy that could be beneficial if replicated in other countries like the US.
Key Differences of Venture Capital Funds in Canada vs UK VCTs
- Unlike VCTs in the UK, Canadian venture capital funds do not typically offer the same tax incentives, such as income tax relief and exemption from capital gains tax.
- Canadian funds may have different investment focuses compared to UK VCTs, often tailored to the Canadian market and its specific sectors of strength.
See: AI Metamorphosis in Venture Capital
- The regulatory environment in Canada is different from the UK, impacting how these funds are structured and operate.
Outlook
Seedrs' announcement is a sign of the changing times in venture capital and investment. For those in the NCFA Canada community, staying informed about these developments is key to capitalizing on the changing landscape of finance and entrepreneurship. It's important for investors to conduct thorough due diligence and consider consulting with financial advisors before investing in these funds.
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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Campaign: Cascade Pro Trackable Performance Wallet
Crowdfunding | Nov 24, 2023
Cascade pro trackable performance wallet
The Kickstarter campaign for the Cascade Pro | Trackable Performance Wallets by MANI WONDERS is an exciting development in the world of personal accessories.
This product is designed to offer both style and functionality, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate efficiency and security in their everyday carry items.
Here's a brief overview of the Cascade Pro wallet:
Image courtesy of Cascade Pro
- RFID Secure Wallet: The Cascade Pro wallet comes with RFID blocking technology, ensuring your cards are protected from unauthorized scanning and fraud.
- Quick-Access Card Ejection: This feature allows for easy access to your cards, making transactions faster and more convenient.
- Hideaway Money Clip: The wallet includes a hideaway money clip for those who prefer to carry cash, providing a secure and discreet way to hold bills.
- Detachable Cover: For days when you need to carry more, the wallet comes with a detachable cover, offering flexibility and additional space.
- Loss Prevention Tracker: One of the standout features of the Cascade Pro is its trackable technology, which helps in preventing loss or theft of the wallet.
The campaign is based in Toronto, Canada, and has set a funding goal of CA$ 20,000. It operates on an "all or nothing" basis, meaning the project will only be funded if it reaches its goal by the deadline on December 21, 2023.
See: William Shatner Feature-length Documentary Reaches $790,000 Equity Crowdfunding Goal (less than a week)
Supporting this campaign not only helps bring an innovative product to market but also promotes the growth of creative and practical design in personal accessories. The Cascade Pro wallet is a testament to the ingenuity of modern product design, blending technology with everyday convenience.
For those interested in supporting this campaign, you can visit the Cascade Pro Kickstarter page for more information and to make a pledge. Remember, backing a Kickstarter project is not just about getting a product; it's about being part of the journey from concept to reality.
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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The Role of Microloans and Crowdfunding in Supporting Small-Scale Farmers
Nov 6, 2023
Image: Pixabay/eliasfalla
About 98% of America’s 2 million farms are operated by families, and of these family-run farms, 90% of them are small and gross less than $350,000 annually. However, these small-scale farms account for 22% of our country’s food production. As the world population increases, these farms are playing a critical role in global food production, and agricultural experts and innovators are continually looking for ways to support them. One of the greatest needs of small-scale farms is access to funding, and out of this need, two trends have emerged that are greatly improving the livelihoods of farmers across the country: microloans and crowdfunding. This article will explore these two trends, how they work, and who they are benefitting the most.
Microloans
Microloans are small, short-term loans that are given to individuals or small businesses. These loans differ from traditional loans in that they often do not require the same stringent criteria. Whereas financial institutions managing larger business loans often require a great credit history and large collateral, microloans are often more flexible, and thus more accessible for small-scale farmers.
Young farmers and those starting their businesses can greatly benefit from this accessibility, as they have not yet had a chance to build enough equity to qualify for a more traditional loan. There are certain loan programs specifically designed for the young or less-established farmer looking to break into the agricultural industry. Women and minorities are also some of the greatest beneficiaries of microloans, with the Farm Service Agency designating a portion of their loan funds for these historically underserved communities. These types of programs are ensuring that people from all different backgrounds can have an equal opportunity in their agricultural pursuits.
Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding is another approach many small-scale farmers are taking to meet their capital needs. Crowdfunding is the pooling together of funds from many individuals. With crowdfunding, you can become an investor in a small business with just a few dollars. While this may not seem like much in the long-run, small donations from many different investors can add up to make a big difference.
See: U.S. RegCF Trends: Investment Engagement by Age
Crowdfunding further serves the farmer by reducing their dependence on larger financial institutions, and instead, it strengthens the relationship between the farmer and their community. Farmers can use the power of social media to showcase their products and their vision, and their communities can become investors in that product and vision with whatever resources they have. However, not all crowdfunding campaigns are successful, and it requires some level of online literacy and community presence from the farmer. One study showed that some of the most successful crowdfunding campaigns were ones where 80% of the funds came from a farm’s already existing customer base.
Conclusion
Microloans and crowdfunding are among some of the great resources benefitting today’s small-scale farmers. These tools seem to particularly benefit young farmers (both in age and experience), farmers from historically underserved communities, and marketing-savvy farmers looking to utilize the power of the internet to grow their businesses. These small-scale farms are vital to our world, and various pathways to funding are essential to help ensure these farms can keep up with an ever-growing demand.
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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