Category Archives: Regtech, Compliance, Governance

Canadian Hacker Indicted in $65M DeFi Heist

Enforcement | Feb 6, 2025

Freepik AI Hacker living on island

Image: Freepik AI

U.S. Authorities Unseal Indictment Against Canadian in $65M Crypto Fraud

The U.S. federal Office of the Public Affairs announced on February 3, 2025 that a Canadian citizen, Andean Medjedovic, has been formally indicted for allegedly exploiting vulnerabilities in decentralized finance platforms KyberSwap and Indexed Finance, stealing approx. $65 million from investors.

Medjedovic was originally a math prodigy from the city of Waterloo, Ontario who graduated from high school at 14 and achieved a math degree from prestigious University of Waterloo by 17.  He later became a cybersecurity expert and participated in hacking competitions including Code4rena where he won prizes.

The Scheme

The indictment says that between 2021 and 2023, Medjedovic exploited smart contract vulnerabilities in KyberSwap and Indexed Finance. He borrowed large amounts of digital tokens and then manipulated the automated trading systems into allowing unauthorized withdrawals at artificially low prices, leaving investors with worthless assets.

See:  The Day the Platform Went Dark. A Cyber Resilience Story

Authories claim that Medjedovic laundered the stolen funds using various techniques like crypto swap transactions, cross-chain bridge transfers, and crypto mixers all to obscure the sources of funds.  Then in November 2023, he attempted to extort control of the KyberSwap platform by offering to return only 50% of the stolen funds in exchange for full control.

Medjedovic faces wire fraud, unauthorized damage to a protected computer, attempted extortion, money laundering, and money laundering conspiracy.  If convicted he could face up to 20 years in prison for the charges with up to an additional 10 years for hacking related crimes.

Where is Medjedovic?

According to a Cointelegraph article, authorities believe he is on the run. In 2021, he failed to appear in a Canadian court regarding the Indexed Finance hack, and reports suggest that he has travelled across Europe and South America and was last known to be living on an undisclosed island.

For more details you can read the full indictment here.


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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Hester Peirce’s Crypto Taskforce Roadmap: What’s Next for Regulation?

Crypto Regulation | Feb 6, 2025

Commissioner Hester M. Peirce

Image: Commissioner Hester M. Peirce

SEC's New Crypto 2.0 Task Force Begins Journey Towards Regulatory Clarity in Digital Assets

On Jan 21, 2025, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced the formation of a Crypto 2.0 Task Force dedicated to the development of a comprehensive and clear regulatory framework for digital assets.  The task force, led by Commissioner Peirce (aka Crypto Mom), has recently published a post on the SEC's website titled 'The Journey Begins' that serves as the starting point of much work ahead, and sets the tone and direction of a new chapter of crypto regulations in the United States.

For years, the SEC has been criticized for its "regulation by enforcement" approach and thumbing down innovative crypto firms without providing a clear regulatory framework.  The result has been a train wreck that caused frustration among crypto entrepreneurs and investors who were forced to walk down a path of uncertainty and unnecessary risk.

Peirce acknowledged these challenges in her new role:

"It took us a long time to get into this mess, and it is going to take us some time to get out of it."

Where They Want to Go

The newly formed Crypto Task Force is chaired by Peirce with Richard Gabbert serving as Chief of Staff and Taylor Asher as Chief Policy Advisor.  They are charting a new course with a mandate that includes:

See:  Regulatory Clarity for Crypto: Sacks Unveils U.S. Strategy

  • Engaging with SEC staff and the public to inform crypto regulation
  • Developing clear registration pathways for digital asset firms
  • Establishing disclosure frameworks for crypto projects
  • Reassessing enforcement strategies to ensure a more effective regulatory approach
  • Coordinating with other regulators like the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and international agencies

10 Key Areas of Focus (Roadmap)

In her post, Commissioner Peirce laid out the following ten priorities that will guide the task force's work:

  1. Defining Crypto Assets – Clarifying which digital assets qualify as securities
  2. Jurisdictional Boundaries – Determining which aspects of crypto fall outside the SEC's authority
  3. Token Offering Relief – Exploring temporary exemptions for compliant crypto projects
  4. Registration Options – Modifying existing rules like Regulation A and crowdfunding to make token registration easier
  5. Broker-Dealer Policies – Updating rules to allow broker-dealers to handle both security and non-security tokens
  6. Custody Solutions – Establishing safe and compliant ways for firms to store crypto assets
  7. Crypto Lending & Staking – Providing clarity on how these activities fit into securities laws
  8. Crypto ETFs & ETPs – Offering clear guidelines on approving crypto exchange-traded products
  9. Clearing & Transfer Agents – Addressing how blockchain technology interacts with these roles
  10. Cross-Border Collaboration – Creating international regulatory sandboxes to test crypto innovation

See:  UK’s Regulatory Crypto Roadmap from Sandbox to Mainstream

All told, the task force is a welcomed policy shift in how in the SEC approaches crypto.  One that is moving from a reactive enforcement by regulation approach to one that is a proactive regulatory framework.  One of transparency and stakeholder engagement.  However in her note, Commissioner Peirce stresses the need for patience:

"We need to do this in an orderly, practical, and legally defensible way."

The Journey Ahead

The SEC has launched a consultation process, inviting crypto industry participants such as startups, investors, developers, and policymakers to share their insights and help create the future of digital asset regulation (i.e., voice concerns, suggest improvements), and engage directly with regulators to build a robust and effective framework.  Crypto Mom and the Task Force highlight that successful regulation requires collaboration.

See:  Balancing Fintech Innovation and Regulation

The SEC has launched a dedicated webpage for the crypto task force and welcomes feedback via email (crypto@sec.gov). Industry participants are encouraged to submit written comments, request meetings, and take part in discussions about potential regulatory changes.  With active participation from the crypto community, we're hopeful that the final destination benefits all stakeholders in the digital asset ecosystem.


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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Regulatory Clarity for Crypto: Sacks Unveils U.S. Strategy

Crypto Regulation | Feb 5, 2025

Freepik wirestock, clarity

Image: Freepik/wirestock

U.S. Crypto Czar, David Sacks, Unveils New Crypto Strategy:  Key Takeaways from Inaugral Press Conference

President Trump's newly appointed 'Crypto Czar', David Sacks, held his inaugural press conference yesterday to outline the administration's vision for Bitcoin and digital assets, signalling a positive shift in U.S. policy.  One that provides clear and transparent regulation and policies that will make the U.S. the global leader in digital assets and crypto.  Below are the key takeaways from the event.

1.  Regulatory Clarity

During the conference Sacks addressed the elephant in the room -- that is the lack of regulatory clarity, by saying he's spoken to countless of crypto entrepreneurs who expressed, "The number one thing founders have told me they need is clarity. They just want to know what the rules are so they can follow them."  Sacks announced the formation of a federal digital asset working committee dedicated to developing a regulatory framework that balances oversight with innovation. The working group's mandate includes establishing rules for digital asset issuance and operations with a particular focus on stablecoins.

This approach is most welcomed by anyone in crypto, as the SEC of the prior administration faced criticism for ambiguity and regulating by enforcement, which stifled innovation in the U.S. digital asset ecosystem.

2. Stablecoins and the Future of the U.S. Dollar

Stablecoins were clearly a focus at the press conference.  Senator Bill Hagerty introduced a new bill known as the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act that would create two levels of oversight for stablecoin issuers. Large companies holding more than $10 billion in assets would be regulated by federal authorities, while smaller issuers would continue to be supervised at the state level.  The bill also requires stablecoin issuers to provide monthly reports on their reserves to ensure that they have suitable backing, enhance transparency and trust, and strengthen the role of the U.S. dollar in digital finance.

See:  OpEd: Draft U.S. Bill on Stablecoins Highlight Differences with CBDCs

Stablecoins play an imperative role in cross-border payments and decentralized finance. By incorporating stablecoins into the regulatory framework, the U.S. plans to position the dollar as a dominant force in the digital economy to ensure capital flows through regulated U.S. channels rather than offshore alternatives.

3. Bipartisan Support - House and Senate Join Forces

Previously, U.S. crypto regulation was fragmented across agencies like the SEC and CFTC, causing considerable friction. Now, there's a bipartisan working group with members from the House and Senate's Financial Services, Banking, and Agriculture Committees all working together aiming to create a unified comprehensive legislative approach. Lawmakers including Senator Tim Scott and Representative French Hill emphasized the importance of keeping innovation in the U.S.

4. Exploring a U.S. Bitcoin Reserve

Czar Sacks confirmed that the administration is actively evaluating a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. While details are limited, such a move is akin to the government considering Bitcoin as part of its national reserves, similar to how central banks hold gold today.  If implicated, it would legitimize Bitcoin's role as a reserve asset, boost institutional confidence, and increase demand for bitcoin and digital assets broadly.  But it's early days and requires further research and political/financial support.

What's Next?

The administration discussed plans for a market structure bill aimed at providing clear regulatory guidelines for digital assets. This proposed legislation will likely be modelled after the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21), which previously passed the House with bipartisan support.

See:  SEC Enforcement Director Grewal On Crypto Regulation

Senator Tim Scott, Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, highlighted the urgency of this initiative and that both the market structure and stablecoin bills are priorities for the administration's first 100 days, and that the stablecoin bill would likely advance first followed by the market structure legislation.

Wake Up Call for Canada

This press conference marks the turning point in crypto regulation in the U.S. towards a pro-innovation, regulation-driven digital asset ecosystem.  This shift raises an important question.  How will these regulatory developments impact Canadian companies operating in both markets?  Canada should not be left behind and consider adopting a structured framework to support and retain innovation in the crypto fintech sector.


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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Cross-Border Payments and Regulatory Compliance

Feb 3, 2025

Freepik jcomp, regtech

Image: Freepik/jcomp

In today's interconnected global economy, cross-border payments are the lifeblood of international trade, enabling businesses to transact seamlessly across borders. However, for fintech companies, navigating the complex landscape of cross-border payments presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, particularly concerning regulatory compliance.

This article delves into these intricacies, highlighting the hurdles fintechs face and the innovative solutions they employ to facilitate efficient and compliant international transactions.

The Complex Web of Regulatory Compliance

One of the most formidable challenges in cross-border payments is adhering to the diverse regulatory frameworks of different countries. Each jurisdiction has its own set of rules governing financial transactions, anti-money laundering (AML) protocols, and data protection standards.

For instance, the European Union enforces stringent AML and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies, requiring thorough verification of customer identities. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, legal actions, or even the suspension of operations.

A case in point is Wise, a prominent fintech company that faced criticism from European regulators for inadequate AML controls. The National Bank of Belgium found that Wise lacked appropriate proof of address for hundreds of thousands of customers, leading to a mandated remediation plan to rectify these compliance gaps.

Currency Exchange and Conversion Fees

Managing multiple currencies is another significant hurdle. Converting funds between currencies can incur substantial fees due to fluctuating exchange rates, especially when dealing with countries with volatile currencies. These costs can erode profits for businesses and increase expenses for customers.

To mitigate these costs, fintechs are developing multi-currency digital wallets that allow users to hold and transact in various currencies. For example, Payoneer offers multi-currency accounts enabling businesses to receive payments in different currencies and withdraw funds locally, minimizing conversion fees and providing more favorable exchange rates.

High Transaction Costs and Delays

Traditional cross-border payments often involve multiple intermediaries, such as correspondent banks, which can lead to high transaction costs and delays. Each intermediary adds a layer of fees and processing time, making international transactions cumbersome.

Blockchain technology offers a promising solution to these challenges. By enabling decentralized transactions without intermediaries, blockchain can facilitate real-time settlements at reduced costs. Ripple's RippleNet, for instance, uses its digital asset XRP as a bridge currency to enable instant cross-border payments, reducing reliance on correspondent banks and lowering transaction fees.

Security and Fraud Prevention

The global nature of cross-border payments exposes fintechs to increased security risks, including fraud and cyberattacks. Ensuring transaction security and compliance with international AML regulations is paramount.

Fintech companies are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to enhance security measures. AI-powered algorithms can analyze transaction patterns in real-time to detect anomalies and potential fraudulent activities, enabling swift preventive actions. Additionally, implementing robust KYC procedures helps in verifying customer identities and mitigating the risk of fraud.

Opportunities Amidst Challenges

Despite these challenges, the evolving landscape of cross-border payments presents significant opportunities for fintech companies. By embracing innovative technologies and adopting agile approaches, fintechs can offer solutions that address the pain points of traditional banking systems.

Cryptocurrency Integration

The integration of cryptocurrencies into payment systems is gaining traction as a means to facilitate cross-border transactions. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and stablecoins offer a decentralized method of transferring value, reducing dependence on traditional banking channels and enabling faster, cost-effective transactions.

For example, Bitso, a cryptocurrency platform, provides services tailored for the gaming industry, including online casinos and sports betting platforms. By leveraging cryptocurrencies, Bitso enables real-time payments in local currencies across Latin America, ensuring compliance with local regulations and offering instant deposits and withdrawals.

Understanding and catering to local payment preferences is crucial for fintechs operating in multiple regions. Offering localized payment methods enhances user experience and increases market penetration.

For instance, in Brazil, Pix has become the most used payment method for gaming transactions. Similarly, sports betting platforms in Ontario must integrate local banking methods like Interac and PayPal to meet player expectations while ensuring compliance with provincial gaming regulations. Fintechs partnering with local payment providers can offer such popular methods, ensuring compliance with local regulations and meeting customer expectations.

Streamlining Compliance Through Collaboration

Collaboration between fintechs and regulatory bodies can lead to more streamlined compliance processes. Engaging in public-private partnerships and participating in regulatory sandboxes allows fintechs to test innovative solutions in a controlled environment, ensuring they meet regulatory standards before full-scale deployment.

The World Economic Forum emphasizes the importance of such collaborations to overcome regulatory frictions in cross-border payments. By working together, the public and private sectors can shape a transparent, efficient, and inclusive cross-border payments ecosystem.

Conclusion

Navigating the complex terrain of cross-border payments and regulatory compliance is akin to a high-stakes game, where the rules vary across jurisdictions and the stakes are continually evolving. Fintech companies that can adeptly manage these challenges stand to gain a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

See:  Financial Institutions and Regulators Alike are Showing Growing Interest in Fintech and Regtech Solutions

By embracing technological innovations, fostering collaborations, and maintaining a keen focus on compliance, fintechs can turn regulatory hurdles into opportunities, ensuring secure, efficient, and compliant cross-border payment solutions for their customers.


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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Capital Gains Tax Delay to 2026 Amid CRA Legal Battles

Capital Gains Tax | Jan 31, 2025

Freepik pvproductions, Postponed

Image: Freepik/pvproductions

Capital Gains Tax Increase Delayed Until 2026 as CRA Faces Legal Challenges

According to Reuters and CBC, the federal government is delaying the proposed increase to the controversial capital gains tax until January 1, 2026.  This is good news (at least temporarily) for innovation and investment in Canada.  The changes to the capital gains tax policy received immense push back from many business groups, economists and the investment community, all warning the federal government that the policy would discourage investment in Canada and adversely affect economic growth.

See:  Canada’s Fintech & Trade at Risk Amid U.S. Tariff Threat

The temporarily relief, also comes at a time when Canada is facing potential 25% tariffs from the U.S., and some tax payers are also challenging the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) legally, arguing that the the agency is enforcing tax changes when the changes have not yet been approved by Parliament.

With this delay, the decision on whether to implement the tax hike will now fall to the next government.  The Conservative Party who is currently dominating the polls have already come out and said they strongly oppose the capital gains tax increase.  Further, the Liberal Party of Canada leadership race front-runners have also come out and said they would reverse the proposed tax changes.  Needless to say that the future of Canada's proposed capital gains tax policy is uncertain, it also wasted a lot of productivity in the process.

CRA Faces Court Challenges Over Premature Tax Collection

In case you missed it, Prime Minister Trudeau prorogued government until March 24, 2025 (he also resigned), and as a result the new tax policy wasn't legislatively approved by Parliament which meant that the policy was in limbo.

See:  Trump’s Tariffs: Impact on Fintech and Canada’s Digital Tax

The problem was that the CRA decided to begin collecting the higher tax rate before it was formally enacted, leaving may taxpayers facing unwarranted burden.  So multiple legal cases spawned challenging the CRA arguing taxpayer rights and the rule of law.  Tax experts warn that if courts rule against the CRA, it could lead to refunds for those who overpaid taxes under the higher rate.

Conclusion

The fate of the proposed capital gains tax increase is now postponed to 2026 and will be decided by the outcome of the next federal election.


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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Digital Finance Insights from FCAC’s New Commissioner

FCAC | Jan 30, 2025

Shereen Benzvy Miller FCAC Commissioner

Image: Shereen Benzvy Miller New FCAC Commissioner

FCAC Welcomes Shereen Benzvy Miller as New FCAC Commissioner

The government of Canada recently appointed Shereen Benzvy Miller as its new Commissioner of the The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC), effective November 7, 2024 for a 5 year term (succeeding Werner Liedtke, interim Commissioner).  Benzvy Miller brings a wealth of experience with over two decades of public service leadership in human rights advocacy, regulatory oversight, and digital service innovation in her roles as Senior Assistant Deputy Minister of Service Innovation at Shared Services Canada and Deputy Chair of Refugee Protection at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada and various other leadership roles.

See:  Overcoming Barriers to Growth in Financial Regulation

The FCAC recently published an interview with Benzvy Miller offering insight into her driving mission, approach, and challenge ahead at the FCAC for the next several years. One that seeks to ensure Canada's financial sector continues to be fair, transparent and consumer-focused.

Protecting Consumers in a Digital Finance World

"The way that you create trust in the financial system is to make people feel seen, understood and respected."

To build trust in finance, fintech companies need to make sure people feel valued and are treated fairly.  Financial services and the processes, transactions, and fees should be transparent, secure, and personalized.  Digital banks and fintechs need to implement robust security and data protection while offering clear pricing and user-friendly services to reduce uncertainty.

"Financial literacy for children has to involve more than identifying different currencies, because most children may never see currency in their hands. Money will not be a tactile thing for today’s generation."

Earning trust is more than just security, it's also about education and financial literacy.  By providing digital tools and addressing financial literacy challenges, fintechs can help consumers to manage their finances in modern times whether that be through AI powered advisors, budget tracking apps, or blockchain security, fintechs who protect and empower consumers to improve their financial literacy and informed decisions are well aligned with the FCAC's mission.  Recognizing that younger generations primarily interact with digital money, fintechs have an important responsibility to create innovations that serve all Canadians and just a select few.

Balancing Innovation with Consumer Protection

"A financial service provider, whether it’s a bank or a fintech, needs to put the consumer at the centre for all the services that it offers. This kind of consumer protection is not a 'nice to have."

Benzvy Miller emphasizes the need for a consumer-first approach where financial services must be designed to protect individuals.  Companies that are working in areas like fair lending, or privacy-first digital banking, and even ethical AI are establishing new standards for responsible innovation.  For fintechs, balancing innovation with regulation means finding ways to introduce new products while ensuring consumer protection. Startups and scale-ups should work closely with regulators to design solutions that are innovative, adaptable, and secure, or consumer-centric solutions that improve accessibility and affordability.

See:  Lessons for Canada from Global Leaders in Regulation

Benzvy Miller also acknowledges the growing role of fintech, digital banking, and alternative finance in how it's improving Canada's economy. While she supports innovation, the sweet spot is the need for balanced regulations that protect consumers without stifling progress.

Consumer-Driven Banking and Open Banking Initiatives

"I will want Canadians to make sure they fully understand what it means to own and control their financial information and who to share it with, to ensure that the actors that they're engaging with and agreeing to give their information to are not bad actors."

A major focus of Benzvy Miller’s tenure as the new FCAC Commissioner will be overseeing Canada’s Consumer-Driven Banking Framework, otherwise known as open banking. This framework will enable Canadians to securely access and share their financial data with trusted financial technology companies, increasing competition and improving financial services and choice for consumers.

See:  FCAC Embraces New Role in Canadian Consumer Banking

Based on experience from other jurisdictions that have successfully implemented open banking such as in the UK, open banking also fosters financial transparency and empowers consumers.  It's fintechs that are creating seamless integrations with banks and other financial institutions to offer better financial planning and more competitive financial services to the every day consumer.

It was announced in the 2024 federal budget that open banking it Canada would be delayed until 2026, to the dismay of industry who have been waiting for years for the initiative to be realized but with the appointment of the Benzvy Miller there's hope that the FCAC can finalize the implementation and oversight framework on this new timeline without any further delays or risks to the project.

Why This Matters for NCFA and Fintech Innovators

"Collaboration is key. By working together, regulators, industry leaders, and consumer advocates can build a financial system that works for everyone."

Benzvy Miller is expected to work closely with fintech leaders, regulators, and consumer advocacy groups to create policies that protect consumers while also embracing digital innovation.  Her role in shaping how Canada’s financial system adapts to emerging technologies from consumer-driven banking to the implementation of AI is highly significant for the future of fintech regulation in Canada.

See:  Insights from the UK’s Pro-Innovation Regulation Review

The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association of Canada (NCFA) has advocated for many many years for a progressive regulatory environment that supports innovation while also protecting consumers and fostering trust.  Based on her interview, Benzvy Miller's vision aligns pretty well with NCFA's mission and we will continue monitor and provide updates on how these developments impact the industry.


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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Issuer Direct Rebrands as ACCESS Newswire, Trades as ACCS

Partner News | Release | Jan 29, 2025

Access Newswire

Image courtesy of ACCESS Newswire Inc.

The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association of Canada (NCFA) is pleased to highlight a key milestone for one of our industry partners. On January 27, 2025, Issuer Direct Corporation is officially rebranding as ACCESS Newswire Inc., trading under a new NYSE ticker symbol "ACCS".

ACCESS Newswire Inc. is redefining how businesses connect with investors and the media, launching the first-in-industry subscription-based PR and IR platform that optimizes the value and impact of client press release distribution and media and investor engagement with more flexibility and full transparency.

See:  Risk Management Strategies for Investors: Protecting Your Portfolio

Brian R. Balbirnie, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of ACCESS Newswire Inc.:

"The rebrand to ACCESS Newswire represents more than a name change; it's a commitment to creating a dynamic, all-encompassing investor relations and public relations customer experience. Since 2006, we have continued to progress our business and maximize the value provided to the thousands of customers over the years, but we recognized the need for a brand that reflects the next 20 years of our business."

What’s New at ACCESS Newswire?

A more customer-centric and streamlined approach to PR and IR, built for the modern business needs:

  • ACCESS Newswire is introducing an industry-first subscription solution under a single unified brand, offering an enhanced suite of media targeting, distribution, investor outreach solutions.
  • On January 27, 2025, the company will officially trade under the NYSE American ticker symbol "ACCS".  The company’s CUSIP number remains the same.  Shareholders don’t need to take any action.

Why This Matters

The PR and IR industries have relied on traditional pricing models and fragmented solutions for too long. ACCESS Newswire is changing the game by offering businesses a simpler, more efficient, and affordable way to connect with their audience.  This change is innovative and is focused on building long term value for its customers.  For more details, visit ACCESS Newswire Inc.


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

NCFA Financial Innovation MapNCFA Innovation Opportunity BriefsNCFA Fintech Insights
NCFA Fintech WhispererNCFA Fintech Fridays PodcastNCFA Weekly Newsletter