Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Karsten Wenzlaff is a Crowdfunding and Fintech Expert from Germany. He is Secretary-General of Digit[...]
Category Archives: Web3, Decentralization, DAOs
MEXC vs Binance: Comparison of Fees, Leverage & Features 2026
December 31, 2025
In the cryptocurrency landscape of 2026, the battle for dominance isn't just about size; it's about Efficiency. For years, Binance has been the undeniable giant, offering a sprawling ecosystem of services. However, sophisticated traders are increasingly migrating to MEXC, a platform that has aggressively positioned itself as the "High-Performance Engine" of crypto trading.
Choosing between them isn't about which one is "better" in a vacuum, it's about which one aligns with your strategy. While Binance functions as a broad "Crypto Bank," MEXC serves as a specialized tool for traders who demand Speed, Discovery, and Maximum Profit Retention. This in-depth comparison breaks down why MEXC is becoming the preferred choice for the modern trader.
The Core Philosophy: Ecosystem vs. Efficiency
To understand the difference, you must look at their focus. Binance functions like a "Super App," offering everything from Spot trading to NFT marketplaces, Loans, and Web3 Wallets. It is designed for the user who wants to do everything in one place, even if it means navigating a complex interface and paying standard fees.
MEXC, serving over 40 million users globally, takes a different approach. It focuses strictly on the trader. The platform is streamlined for Speed (1.4 million transactions per second), Discovery (3,000+ assets), and Cost Reduction. It strips away the bloat to provide a pure, institutional-grade trading environment where the primary goal is maximizing your ROI.
Trading Fees: The "Zero-Fee" Gap
For high-frequency traders, fees are the most critical metric. This is where MEXC delivers a knockout blow to Binance.
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- The Policy Difference: While Binance charges a standard 0.1% for Spot and 0.02%/0.04% for Futures, MEXC sets a new standard with 0% Maker Fees as a core policy for major pairs. But the real difference lies in their promotional events.
- The "Event" Advantage:
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- Binance: Occasionally runs zero-fee promotions, but they are typically restricted to Spot trading on specific stablecoin pairs (like FDUSD/USDT). Futures trading almost always incurs fees.
- MEXC: Frequently organizes massive "Zero-Fee Events" that cover both Spot and Futures. These campaigns often include up to 100+ trading pairs like BTC/USDT, allowing traders to execute high-volume derivatives strategies without paying a single cent in Maker or Taker fees.
- The Math: If you trade $1,000,000 in monthly Futures volume:
- On Binance, you pay roughly $400.
- On MEXC (during events or using Maker orders), you pay $0.
- Result: You save $4,800 per year simply by switching platforms. For active scalpers, this makes MEXC the only logical choice.
Asset Selection: Blue Chips vs. Hidden Gems
Liquidity follows opportunity. Binance, listing around 400-500 tokens, acts as a conservative gatekeeper. They typically list projects only after they have already achieved a multi-billion dollar valuation. It is excellent for "Blue Chip" safety but offers limited upside for early adopters.
MEXC operates as the "Gem Hunter's Paradise." With over 2,681 Spot pairs and 1,465 Futures contracts, it is the primary destination for finding tokens before they go mainstream. Whether you are tracking the CORE coin price to catch a Layer-1 breakout or hunting the latest AI meme coin, MEXC provides the deep liquidity and charting tools needed to trade these assets early. By the time a token hits Binance, the 100x gains are often already gone, MEXC allows you to capture that initial growth curve.
Leverage & Flexibility: Power to the Pro
Advanced traders demand control over their capital efficiency. Binance typically caps leverage at 125x for major pairs and reduces it significantly for altcoins. It adopts a protective stance, suitable for conservative capital.
MEXC empowers the experienced trader with up to 200x leverage on Coin-M futures and an industry-leading 500x leverage on select USDT-M pairs. While such high leverage requires strict discipline, it offers unmatched capital efficiency. A scalper on MEXC can control a substantial position size with a fraction of the margin required on Binance, allowing for more agile capital deployment across multiple strategies.
Security & Trust
Both platforms are titans of security, but they prove it differently. Binance relies on its massive SAIFU insurance fund and global regulatory licenses. MEXC builds trust through transparency, publishing bi-monthly Proof of Reserves (PoR) showing over 100% backing ($2.32 Billion USDT reserves). Additionally, MEXC offers a more streamlined onboarding process, appealing to global users who value privacy and speed alongside security.
Rewards: Passive Income
Binance offers "Simple Earn" with standard APYs. MEXC gamifies rewards through its Kickstarter program. By simply holding MX tokens, users receive daily airdrops of new listings. In 2025, these airdrops yielded an annualized return of up to 29.02%, providing a lucrative passive income stream that complements trading profits.
Final Verdict: Why MEXC Wins
While Binance remains a formidable ecosystem for holding assets, MEXC is the superior platform for trading them.
- For Fee Efficiency: MEXC wins effortlessly. The combination of 0% Maker Fees and frequent Zero-Fee Futures Events (which Binance lacks) saves active traders thousands of dollars annually.
- For Opportunity: MEXC wins by volume. Accessing 3,000+ tokens gives you a massive advantage over Binance’s limited selection.
- For Flexibility: MEXC wins on leverage. Offering up to 500x leverage provides professional traders with the capital efficiency they need.
In the end, if your goal is to maximize profit and minimize cost, the data points to one conclusion: MEXC is the most optimized exchange for the modern trader.
See: How to Avoid Phishing Attacks on Your Crypto Wallet
Sign up on MEXC today to claim your Welcome Bonus and start trading with Zero Fees!
FAQs
- Does MEXC have lower fees than Binance?
Yes. MEXC offers 0% Maker Fees as a standard, whereas Binance typically charges 0.1%. More importantly, MEXC frequently runs Zero-Fee Futures events for over 100 pairs, a benefit Binance does not offer.
- Is MEXC safe?
Yes. MEXC maintains a 1:1 Proof of Reserves ratio ($2.32 Billion USDT) and uses cold storage for 95% of assets, matching top-tier security standards.
- Can I trade meme coins on MEXC?
Absolutely. MEXC is known as the top exchange for meme coins and early-stage tokens, listing over 2,600 pairs, whereas Binance lists fewer than 500.
- Does MEXC require KYC?
MEXC has a flexible approach. While Primary KYC is recommended for higher withdrawal limits (up to 80 BTC), basic trading is accessible with streamlined verification, making it faster to get started than Binance.
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 Most Profitable Digital Assets for Canadians Right Now
December 15, 2025
Image: Freepik/rawpixel.com
The Most Profitable Digital Assets for Canadians Right Now
The rise of digital assets have changed how people resident in Canada think about money. These are basically online investments that range from cryptocurrencies to non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Canadians are becoming more and more interested in digital assets as the evolution of technology has made them easier to own.
But just like the number of old and new casinos canada (reviewed here), there are numerous digital assets you can invest in. These virtual currencies and tokens are becoming popular at online casinos because they allow players to deposit and withdraw funds quickly and anonymously.
However, the variety of digital assets available can make some Canadian investors a bit confused. Don't worry, though. There's good news. We'll point you towards digital assets that boast great returns in this guide. Let's get going.
Bitcoin Remains at the Top
Adam Draper once said: “For Bitcoin, if it becomes a thing, it will become an enormous thing. It will be world-changing. But if it's nothing, it's nothing. There is no in between.”
Well, Bitcoin has become a thing that has become everything. For context, when Bitcoin first came out in 2009, 1309.03 BTC went for $1. Currently, 1 BTC is valued at over $89,000. Back in October 2025, the cryptocurrency hit an all-time high of around $126,000. These numbers are nothing short of terrific; as such, it isn't surprising that Canadian investors are trooping to make BTC investments.
BTC appeals to investors because it doesn't work like real money. For context, it isn't regulated by any government or financial institution. What's better? All BTC-related transactions happen on the blockchain; as such, they're safe and swift.
Many Canadians own BTC through an investment fund called exchange-traded funds (ETFs). For context, Canada was the first-ever country to launch a spot Bitcoin ETF back in 2021. These investment funds let people in Canada invest in Bitcoin's price movements without buying and storing the cryptocurrency themselves. This is excellent, especially for those who want to make BTC investments without understanding all the cryptocurrency’s technical details.
Ethereum and Alternative Cryptocurrencies
Ethereum is the second biggest crypto worldwide after Bitcoin. However, it stands out with different features. One of the most notable is that ETH lets people create smart contracts. These are basically agreements that let people make safe transactions without needing a middleman.
Canadians can invest in Ethereum without needing to have knowledge on blockchain technology. This is made possible through Ethereum ETFs, which were launched alongside Bitcoin ETFs back in 2021.
What's more? Bitcoin and Ethereum aren't the only sectors of the blockchain you can invest in as a Canadian.
In the second quarter of 2025, Canada-based ETFs organizations officially launched spot ETFs for Solana and Ripple. This was the first time ETFs created for these tokens became valid in North America. These ETFs are proof that Canada is a country doing all it can to ensure its residents aren't left out when it comes to digital asset investments.
NFTs: Digital Collectibles With Actual Value
Jack Conte once said: “What I will say about crypto and NFTs in general is I really love the idea of creators owning their media and owning their content.” Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are unique. Think of them as trading cards that only exist in the digital world. The kicker? These virtual items have real-world value.
According to a report on Statista, the global sector for NFTs is expected to reach $523.1 million in 2025. That said, the market’s annual growth is estimated to be at the rate of 6.50%. Today, the finest NFTs aren't just pictures you can use for bragging rights on social media. The top variants give their owners several perks, including invitations to exclusive events and online communities.
The demographic of NFT owners in Canada and around the world show that young people own these digital collectibles more. And in today's world, artists and content creators use NFT technology to get full ownership over their creations.
FUN FACT: The first NFT was called “Quantum.” It was sold for $4. Now, you'll find NFTs valued at thousands or even millions of Canadian Dollars.
Image: Freepik/pikisuperstar
How You Can Start Investing as a Canadian
Putting your money into digital assets isn't difficult. The first thing you'd need to do is research the options we've highlighted in this guide. Once you do so, find banks or regulated third-party services that'll allow you to buy cryptocurrencies and NFTs without jumping through so many steps.
See: Investing in the Future of AI and Blockchain
Investments, especially those on digital assets, are great. If you've done your research and still intend going this route, make sure you use money you can afford to lose. This isn't to scare you. But the reality is that these investments, albeit great for now, can go sideways in the coming years or months. The successful investors you see today are those that didn't go all-in, but started out small and saw their investments rise over time.
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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MetaMask Adds Polymarket to Its Self Custody Wallet
Crypto | December 9, 2025
Image generated by AI
Prediction Markets Inside Mainstream Self-custody Wallet
On December 4 2025, MetaMask expanded its self custody wallet by adding Polymarket prediction access to over 30 million monthly active users, enabling instant reach and impact across a vast user base. MetaMask wants to serve as a financial gateway where users form views on news and markets while maintaining full control of their digital assets.
The company already expanded into derivatives through a partnership with Hyperliquid in early October, and aims to centralize trading, rewards and identity inside its self-custody interface. The company also confirmed plans to launch a token that will connect activity across features.
What Polymarket Adds To MetaMask
Polymarket brings user growth, event liquidity and cultural relevance into MetaMask.
Coincentral reported that Polymarket's October 2025 trading volume was $3.02 billion with 477,850 monthly active traders, and 38,270 Polymarket event markets were created the same month (quickly growing demand for detailed, news-driven event prediction markets.
This growth is paired with scrutiny. A Columbia University study found that about 25% of Polymarket’s historical trading volume may involve wash trading, with peak periods where nearly 60% of weekly trades in December 2024 showed characteristics of wash activity and clusters of about 43,000 wallets linked to suspected wash networks.
See: TradingView and MetaTrader4: Recipe for Success?
Polymarket’s growing institutional interest must be recognized. Intercontinental Exchange announced that it would invest up to $2 billion in Polymarket at an $8 billion valuation and distribute its data through the ICE ecosystem. This deal places prediction markets inside the realms of one of the most established global financial groups, and likely why MetMask chose Polymarket.
Regulatory Fault Lines Around Prediction Markets
Prediction markets still remain one of the more fragmented regulatory categories in global finance. Polymarket’s regulatory pathway in the United States shows how quickly oversight can move from pressure to approval. In 2022, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) fined Polymarket $1.4 million for operating without proper registration and required it to block US users.
In November 2024, NCFA reported that federal agents searched the New York home of Polymarket chief executive Shayne Coplan and seized his phone and other devices after an election prediction market drew national attention. The company described the event as politically motivated, though no public evidence confirmed that claim.
In mid-2025, Polymarket acquired QCEX for $112 million, a CFTC regulated and licensed derivatives exchange, seeking approval to relaunch in the US. Soon after the deal closed, the CFTC issued a no action letter that relaxed several reporting and recordkeeping requirements tied to event contracts. Together, these steps cleared the way for Polymarket to return to the US market for the first time in three years.
Ontario regulators ruled that Polymarket’s earlier model offered short-maturity binary options to Ontario users in breach of the province’s ban, outlined in the OSC’s settlement with Polymarket, and formalized through the tribunal’s decision approving the enforcement agreement.
Across Europe, the sector sees similar barriers. Belgium added Polymarket to its blacklist as an illegal gambling service. Romania blocked access to Polymarket over election betting after a surge in election markets. Poland placed Polymarket.com on its register of illegal gambling domains.
For MetaMask, it means that access to its prediction markets is still limited in some regions.
Outlook
Instead of sending users to third-party apps, MetaMask is funnelling activity inward and rewarding it, as a competitive advantage. Certainly interesting to see a self-custody platform evolve to become a wider financial interface. Investors should watch the competitive race between Kalshi and Polymarket. A rivalry that will influence pricing efficiency, liquidity and retail adoption, especially as MetaMask becomes a distribution channel.
See: NHL Bets on Fintech’s Future with Kalshi and Polymarket
The Columbia study and the OSC decisions show increasing scrutiny. As these markets move inside mainstream wallets, regulators may demand new disclosures, limits and reporting standards. Policymakers will need to address how prediction markets intersect gambling laws, derivatives rules and securities oversight.
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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Coinbase Opens a New Chapter for Token Sales
Token Sales | Nov 13, 2025
Image: Freepik/diana.grytsku
A New Standard for Fair and Transparent Token Launches
On November 10, 2025 Coinbase announced the launch of its new 2025 end-to-end token sales platform, with the goal is to make token launches more open, fair, and easy to understand, while helping projects build real communities and stable markets. The news is the return of U.S. retail access to public token sales for the first time since 2018, triggered by both market demand and a pro-crypto U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) who now says that most crypto tokens are not securities, a complete pivot from the Gensler years when regulators focused mainly on enforcement.
Redesigning Token Sales for a Fairer Market
Coinbase’s new model aims to redefine how tokens are launched and distributed by emphasizing fairness, compliance, and long-term project stability. Instead of fast paced selling campaigns that reward a small group of insiders and large buyers, Coinbase is implementing an algorithm that fills smaller requests first, giving retail users increased access to participate. Similarly, here you can find Coinbase black friday deals. This sale window remains open for a set period, usually about a week, and then once closed, allocations are finalized. This ensures a balanced distribution and greater transparency in how tokens reach users.
See: Coinbase Pushes for Tokenized Equities Approval
Every issuer must share verified information about its team, tokenomics, and goals before the sale begins. Coinbase requires a 6 month lock-up period for issuers and their affiliates, which prevents early sell-offs and maintains market trust. These requirements strengthen accountability and align with the platform’s focus on transparent and compliant token issuance.
Coinbase’s design also rewards true community participation. Users who hold tokens beyond the first 30 days receive higher priority in future sales, discouraging short-term speculation (a type of loyalty benefit). For issuers, the model offers exposure to Coinbase’s global retail base and a transparent way to build exchange liquidity over time.
Coinbase has confirmed that Monad (MON) will be the first project to use the new platform, with its token sale scheduled for November 17–22, 2025. A key test of how a compliant, exchange led distribution can work in practice.
The design directly addresses problems seen during the 2017–2018 ICO boom, when many projects raised funds without meeting disclosure or compliance standards. Coinbase’s structured, transparent model supports fair access for users while maintaining clear accountability for issuers.
Then and Now: Token Sales Compared
| Component | ICO Era (2017–2018) | Coinbase Model (2025) |
| Regulatory Clarity | Operated in uncertain areas with little oversight. Many projects later faced SEC actions | Built under SEC guidance that most tokens are not securities, supported by clear disclosures and verified governance |
| Access and Distribution | First-come systems rewarded speed and capital. Retail participation declined as regulators tightened oversight after widespread enforcement against unregistered ICOs, leading most platforms to limit token sales to accredited investors | Algorithm fills smaller requests first, expanding access and allowing U.S. retail buyers to join under defined limits |
| Issuer Accountability | Founders could sell immediately after launch and there were few restrictions or audits | 6 month issuer lock-up and Coinbase approval for any resale, keeping incentives aligned with buyers |
| Market Integrity | Tokens often listed quickly and traded on hype, leading to volatile price swings | Sales connect directly to Coinbase’s exchange roadmap, adding structure and steady liquidity over time |
| User Protection | Few safeguards or verified disclosures; frequent fraud cases | Verified project details, transparent sale process, and checks that reward real users over short-term traders |
Regulatory Perspective
Coinbase’s token sale model operates under the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s current interpretation that most tokens are not securities when issued transparently and tied to legitimate network utility. This approach aligns with the SEC’s Project Crypto initiative, which promotes responsible innovation, fair access, and clear disclosure standards for digital assets.
In contrast, Canada maintains a more restrictive policy framework. Under current Canadian rules, most token sales are considered securities offerings unless they clearly fall outside investment contract criteria. The foundational guidance remains the CSA Staff Notice 46-308 – Securities Law Implications for Offerings of Tokens, which sets out how tokens may qualify as securities depending on their structure, purpose, and how they are marketed to participants.
See: Coinbase MiCA Licence Unlocks Europe Wide Crypto Access
Also, the Canadian Securities Administrators hosts an investor advisory titled Buying and Selling Crypto Assets, which cautions that token sales and trading platforms must comply with registration and disclosure requirements. Unlike the U.S., where retail investors are now permitted to participate in regulated public token sales, Canadian participation remains limited to accredited or exempt investors.
It's clear that the two markets are taking different paths. The United States is moving toward a system that rewards transparency and practical utility, while Canada’s framework continues to prioritize investor protection via restriction. Over time, Canada may need to modernize its regulatory approach to encourage innovation and maintain competitiveness in the global digital asset economy.
Outlook
It was also recently discovered that Coinbase is moving it's legal incorporation from Delaware to Texas, as detailed in a report on the company’s shift to Texas corporate law. Texas offers a more innovation-friendly business environment and growing digital asset economy. Overall, Coinbase's new token sale model could help define how token distribution evolves worldwide, offering a practical roadmap for compliance with retail access.
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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Corporate Crypto Treasuries Cross $137B as DATCos Multiply
Digital Assets | Nov 12, 2025
Digital Asset Treasury Companies (DATCos) Move from Niche to Mainstream
On November 5, 2025 CoinGecko published a comprehensive 2025 Digital Asset Treasury Companies Report unveiling the trends, rankings and strategies of mainly public companies that are increasingly adding digital assets to their balance sheets.
See: LQwD Joins Microstrategy’s Bitcoin for Corporations
The report outlines three types of public DATCos including (1) Crypto mining firms (i.e., MARA Holdings), (2) Pure play firms whose sole purpose is to accumulate crypto assets (i.e., Strategy or Bitcoin Treasury Corp), and (3) Companies with crypto reserves (i.e., Bitfarms Ltd), with the full source data being available in the report along with CoinGecko's Treasuries Tracker (NB: includes government holdings in rankings).
CoinGecko’s data shows the number of Digital Asset Treasury Companies expanding from just 4 in early 2020 to 142 by October 2025. Total holdings rose from about $30 million to $137.3 billion USD, more than doubling in 2025 alone.
Bitcoin represents about 82.6 % of total holdings, Ethereum 13.2 %, and Solana 2.1 %, with the rest spread among smaller tokens. The United States leads with 60 companies; Canada ranks second with 19, reflecting its strong base of listed miners and crypto firms.
The takeaway is that public companies are increasingly adding digital assets to their balance sheet. Below are highlights of the ins and outs of how they do it, and some lessons learned.
Strategy Remains the Flagship Case
CoinGecko traces Strategy’s transformation from a software company into the world’s largest corporate Bitcoin holder. Since pivoting in August 2020, Strategy has acquired about 640,800 BTC, roughly 3 % of total Bitcoin supply, and now manages holdings exceeding $70 billion USD.
See: GameStop Joins Growing List of Bitcoin Treasury Holders
The company funded these purchases through a mix of equity offerings, bond issuances, and preferred shares. Its stock has traded at premiums to its Bitcoin net asset value during parts of 2024, underlining investor appetite for exposure to corporate crypto reserves.
The Pace and Mix of New Buying
CoinGecko tracks at least $42.7 billion USD in new crypto purchases by DATCos between January and October 2025, with more than half occurring in the third quarter. Bitcoin accounted for roughly 70 % of total spend, Ethereum for 18 %, and Solana led among smaller allocations.
This acceleration reflects growing comfort with digital assets as long-term treasury instruments rather than short-term speculative holdings.
Who Holds the Most and What They Hold
As of November 2025, Strategy leads with $70.7 billion USD in Bitcoin. BitMine Immersion ranks second with combined Ethereum and Bitcoin holdings of $12.9 billion USD, followed by Sharplink, a major Ethereum holder.
The top group also includes Marathon Digital, Riot Platforms, Coinbase, Galaxy Digital, and Tesla. Together, the top 15 account for most corporate-owned digital assets.
See: New Hampshire First U.S. State to Legalize Bitcoin Reserve
Three Canadian-listed firms, Galaxy Digital, Hut 8 Mining, and Bitfarms Ltd., remain among the most significant international participants, confirming Canada’s status as a leader in Bitcoin and Ethereum treasury adoption. Both Galaxy Digital and Hut 8 are listed as U.S. firms on the tracker but they are registered and originated in Canada.
Treasury Snapshots for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana
Bitcoin treasuries held by DATCos now total about 1.03 million BTC, equal to 4.9 % of total Bitcoin supply. Strategy alone holds roughly 61.5 % of that amount.
Ethereum holdings across DATCos reached 4.7 million ETH, or 3.9 % of supply, with BitMine Immersion responsible for about 69 % of the total.
Solana treasuries rose to 15.9 million SOL, about 2.9 % of supply. Forward Industries’ $1.65 billion purchase of 6.8 million SOL in September 2025 represents nearly half of all corporate Solana reserves.
4 Channels of DATCo Funding
CoinGecko documents four key financing methods that DATCos have been using to acquire crypto assets:
See: Fidelity Report Insights on Digital Assets in 2025
- Private placements and PIPE deals for initial seeding of corporate treasuries.
- At-the-market equity programs to raise capital when stock prices trade above net asset value.
- Perpetual preferred shares used to attract income-focused investors with fixed yields.
- Convertible senior notes debt instruments offering optional equity conversion for large-scale acquisitions.
Together, these options spotlight structured financing strategies that balance investor access with risk control.
Why Market Net Asset Value (mNAV) Matters
mNAV compares a company’s market capitalization to the value of its crypto holdings, which acts as a sustainability barometer. When mNAV falls below 1.0, raising new equity dilutes shareholders rather than adding value.
CoinGecko found several DATCos near or below that threshold in late 2025. As a result some companies paused new acquisitions, while others turned to preferred shares or buybacks to stabilize their valuations.
Lessons from Funding Limits and Early Consolidation
CoinGecko’s report offers several clear lessons from 2025’s wave of funding stress and consolidation among crypto treasury companies.
See: Trump Media and Crypto.com Launch Cronos Treasury Firm
1. Equity breaks when the stock weakens
When a company’s share price falls and its mNAV drops near or below 1.0, equity financing becomes uneconomical. Semler Scientific (SMLR) faced this in mid-2025, as weak stock performance made new issuance impossible and a shareholder vote to authorize preferred shares failed.
2. Mergers are the fallback when capital dries up
With no viable financing options left, Semler merged with Strive in September 2025. Consolidation often becomes the only path forward when market access closes.
3. Preferred shares can buy time but not certainty
After the merger Semler relied on preferred equity but its combined valuation still dropped by about 80 %, showing that preference structures help liquidity but not long-term confidence.
4. Low debt means room to diversify funding
Across all DATCos, outstanding debt stood near $12.7 billion USD, which is modest compared with roughly $200 billion USD in crypto assets, leaving space for responsible borrowing to reduce reliance on stock issuance.
See: FinTech’s Role in Modern Treasury Management: Streamlining Operations and Capital Optimization
5. Buybacks and preferred equity are short-term levers
Companies use buybacks or issue preference shares to support valuations when mNAV weakens. ETHZilla even sold Ethereum in October 2025 to fund a buyback (a rare reversal of the usual accumulation pattern).
6. Early stock spikes fade fast
Several DATCos saw share prices surge briefly after announcing digital asset strategies, then retreat as fundamentals reasserted themselves. Some cases drew regulator scrutiny for pre-announcement trading. Companies should not base treasury policy on short-lived market premiums.
7. Dividend transparency builds trust
Strategy’s perpetual preferred shares attract investors through structured yields, but questions remain when dividends are financed by new share issuance. Transparent funding disclosure maintains credibility.
Implications for Canada
At a time when Canada's policymakers are creating stablecoin rules, it can learn from these global cases by allowing fair-value accounting for digital assets, enabling multiple funding tools, and setting clear disclosure standards. Canada’s listed mining and fintech firms already play a leading role in corporate crypto adoption. Yet few non-mining public companies have introduced digital reserves.
See: Budget 2025 Accelerates Fintech, AI, and Capital Growth
By updating accounting rules, modernizing treasury disclosure, and piloting a Digital Treasury Sandbox, regulators could enable more smaller scale companies with well-governed asset allocations to improve competitiveness and financial resilience. Digital assets are now a recognized part of global corporate finance. Bitcoin remains the anchor, while Ethereum and Solana continue to gain traction.
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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DMG Blockchain Plans Oregon Site for AI and Mining
Blockchain | Nov 5, 2025
Image: Freepik/tonodiaz
Canadian Blockchain Firm Enters Agreement For First U.S. Data Center
On November 4, 2025 Canadian DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc. (TSX V: DMGI; OTCQB: DMGGF; Frankfurt: 6AX) announced a letter agreement and deposit to acquire a 27,600 square foot building in Boardman, Oregon. The property sits on eight acres with an option for ten more and is connected to 3.75 megawatts of power. DMG expects to close the transaction in the coming weeks, according to the official news release.
The Boardman area hosts multiple large data facilities, offering strong connectivity and access to utility power. DMG plans to retrofit the existing building or add new capacity on the full site to support high performance computing, such as training AI models and data processing, expanding beyond just Bitcoin mining.
See: Visa Extends Stablecoin Settlement to Four Blockchains
DMG reported 23 Bitcoin mined in October 2025, which was unchanged from September. Hashrate rose from 1.65 to 1.75 exahashes per second. The company ended October holding 359 Bitcoin, up from 342 in September. The company noted cooler seasonal temperatures and continued optimization.
Canadian Sovereign AI Build Continues
The Oregon expansion complements DMG’s Canadian plan to build sovereign AI capacity. On October 28, 2025 DMG announced a partnership with the Malahat Nation to form a regulated utility that would power a fifteen megawatt site on Vancouver Island.
Why This Matters
DMG Blockchain's U.S. expansion is an example of how Canadian firms in blockchain and data infrastructure are scaling across borders while keeping a focus on domestic capacity. How quickly the retrofit in Oregon will take will determine how quickly DMG can deliver to market high performance compute services for AI and digital asset clients. More information is available at the DMG Blockchain website.
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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Get a Crypto License in Estonia – full legal setup and MiCA-ready strategy
Oct 30, 2025
Estonia has become one of the most attractive EU hubs for crypto businesses: digital-first processes, e-Residency, and clear MiCA-aligned rules make it ideal for launching compliant exchanges, wallets and custody services.
Thanks to this, obtaining a crypto license in Estonia is profitable, fast, and legal.
Prifinance leverages this environment to deliver end-to-end support - from company formation and AML/KYC frameworks to regulatory communication and post-authorization compliance.
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Advantages of working with Prifinance |
Numbers |
| Experience in international consulting | 30 years |
| Completed projects | 10,000+ |
| Crypto licenses obtained | 400+ |
| Supported jurisdictions | 40 |
| Successful cases on complex requirements (including MiCA) | 100+ |
| Lawyers, auditors, and consultants | 100+ |
This track record ensures brand reliability and practical experience when you scale in Europe.
Why an Estonian crypto license matters
A MiCA-compliant Estonian license (CASP/VASP) gives lawful access to the EU market with passporting rights, clear consumer protections, and harmonised reporting requirements. You need this license when your project: accepts fiat/crypto from users, offers custody or wallet services, executes crypto-to-fiat or crypto-to-crypto trades, processes remittances, or markets token sales to EU residents.
See: Quebec Decision Challenges Canada’s Crypto Rules
Beyond legal permission, the license demonstrates institutional-grade governance - strict KYC, continuous transaction monitoring, secure IT architecture, and appointed compliance officers - which improves access to banking, liquidity partners and institutional clients. These elements are crucial at launch and become non-negotiable as trading volumes, AML scrutiny, or institutional relationships grow.
Why Estonia - practical benefits
- Digital processes & e-Residency: remote company setup and digital reporting reduce time and travel.
- Speed & predictability: streamlined applications and a generally faster review timeline help time-to-market.
- Tax advantages: 0% corporate tax on retained earnings supports reinvestment and growth.
- Regulatory credibility: public VASP registers and strict AML standards enhance trust with banks, partners, and clients. These jurisdictional advantages combine to make Estonia particularly attractive for remote-first teams and cross-border service providers.
What Prifinance does for you
We prioritise your brand and market credibility from day one. That means not only preparing an application that satisfies regulators, but also shaping how counterparties and clients perceive you: professional legal structure, transparent ownership, robust compliance policies, auditor-ready documentation, and clear public-facing materials.
Our offering includes: company incorporation in Estonia, preparation of AML/KYC and internal control manuals, recruitment and registration of key personnel, technical security checklists, liaising with the FIU/FSA, and post-license support. By pairing compliance with marketable governance, we help your brand convert regulatory compliance into a competitive asset.
Proof points & partners
Prifinance works with major banking and fintech partners and maintains long-term relationships with thousands of international clients.
Our partners include leading financial and technology companies such as CIM Banque, Commerzbank, Payoneer, OCBC Bank, Binance, Mashreq, Odav Print, Montify, and Blockchain Life.
Our client feedback and case experience show smooth licensing processes and effective post-license support - a practical advantage when regulators request clarifications or audits.
Visit https://prifinance.com/en/cryptocurrency-license/ to request a tailored licensing plan, get a cost estimate, and start the application process: Prifinance provides full-cycle support for Estonia CASP/VASP applications and post-authorization compliance. Send a request through our site to receive a personalized proposal.
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 aa 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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