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

Image: Freepik/starline
A High Court judge in the UK has concluded that Australian computer scientist Craig Wright is not Satoshi Nakamoto, the creator of Bitcoin. This verdict comes after a contentious two-month trial in London, where Wright faced allegations of perjury and forgery in his attempts to establish himself as the digital currency's inventor. The case, brought against Wright by the Crypto Open Patent Alliance (COPA), sheds concluding light on the ongoing debate over the true identity of Satoshi Nakamoto and the origins of Bitcoin.
This High Court's ruling dispels years of speculation and reinforces the importance of authenticity within the crypto community, setting a precedent for future disputes over digital currency origins and intellectual property.
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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Blockchain Payments | March 12, 2024

Image: Unsplash/Vadim Artyukhin
With Mastercard recently ending its partnership with Binance, this new partnership with MetaMask introduces an entirely on-chain payment card, issued by Baanx, designed to allow MetaMask's extensive user base—boasting over 30 million monthly active users—to utilize their cryptocurrencies for everyday purchases across any Mastercard-accepting locations. This is a truly decentralized web3 payment solution that will bridge the gap between crypto assets and conventional spending habits.
Both Mastercard and Visa have been engaging with public blockchain developers and self-custody wallet providers, indicating a growing interest in blockchain technology within traditional financial frameworks. Also see: PayPal's blockchain vision as a new rail
Recently, Visa partnered with Transak to facilitate cryptocurrency withdrawals in 145 countries. The partnership uses Visa Direct to enable real-time card withdrawals, allowing users to convert 40 different digital assets from wallets like MetaMask into local fiat currencies accepted at over 130 million merchant globally where Visa is accepted.
While Mastercard's initiative with MetaMask focuses on creating a blockchain-powered payment card for spending crypto on everyday purchases, Visa's partnership with Transak emphasizes the ease of converting cryptocurrencies into fiat currencies for withdrawals and payments across a vast number of countries. Both initiatives will help grow mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies, yet they cater to different aspects of the user experience.
Mastercard's approach integrates crypto spending into daily financial activities, whereas Visa and Transak's collaboration enhances the liquidity and accessibility of cryptocurrencies by simplifying the conversion process to fiat, highlighting the diverse pathways through which the financial industry is embracing digital assets.
By enabling the use of crypto for everyday transactions, this partnership expands the utility of digital assets. As incumbent financial giants like Mastercard continue to embrace blockchain, we can expect further innovations that bridge the gap between conventional banking and the morphing world of decentralized finance.
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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NFTs | March 7, 2024

Image: Freepik/macrovector
As pointed out by The Defiant, the Non-Fungible Token (NFT) market has witnessed a sharp decline in the floor prices of its top collections, even as cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (ETH) and Bitcoin (BTC) experience significant rallies. This trend highlights a growing divergence between the NFT sector and the broader cryptocurrency market. Notably, major NFT collections, including the Bored and Mutant Ape Yacht Clubs, Pudgy Penguins, and Azuki, have reported substantial losses in their value over the past week. This downturn has been exacerbated by record-high liquidations on Blend, Blur's NFT lending platform with 82% of the market, indicating a period of heightened volatility and uncertainty within the NFT space.
While the short-term outlook may seem bearish for NFTs, the resilience shown by certain collections suggests that the market is still evolving and adapting. As digital currencies continue to gain momentum, the NFT sector may undergo further shifts, with potential for recovery as investors recalibrate their portfolios. The interplay between NFTs and cryptocurrencies is a key area to watch, as it will likely influence future trends and opportunities within the digital asset space.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Crypto | Feb 29, 2024

Image: Freepik/studiogstock
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is taking action against Terraform Labs by scrutinizing a $166 million transfer to the law firm Dentons. Amidst Terraform Labs' bankruptcy saga, the move raises questions about the intentions behind substantial financial transfers made since the start of 2023. The SEC's allegations suggest these funds may have been aimed at evading potential future judgments related to the SEC's lawsuit against the company. This development adds a new layer to the complex narrative surrounding Terraform Labs, particularly in light of the company's involvement in the dramatic collapse of the TerraUSD stablecoin, which erased billions in investor assets.
SEC Said:
The money has been "siphoned" into an "opaque slush fund for its lawyers," to the detriment of the investors and creditors who will seek to be repaid in Terraform's bankruptcy.
For stakeholders in the fintech and investment sectors, this case underscores the importance of regulatory compliance, financial transparency, and the potential repercussions of legal entanglements on corporate stability and investor trust.
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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Partnership | Feb 29, 2024

In a press release today from BIGG Digital Assets Inc. announces a strategic partnership between its wholly-owned subsidiary TerraZero Technologies Inc. and FINLITI. This collaboration aims to revolutionize financial literacy and wealth creation opportunities through the use of TerraZero's "Intraverse" technology.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the challenges faced by financial institutions and brokerages in adapting to significant wealth transfers 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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Release | Feb 21, 2024

Image: Freepik
TORONTO – February 20, 2024 – Round13 Digital Asset Fund (DAF), a native crypto fund in Canada with an innovative open-ended structure, announced yesterday gains exceeding 40% since its inception in April 2022, despite the turbulent market backdrop. This achievement underscores the Fund's exceptional ability to outperform major cryptocurrencies, with a 30% lead over BTC and a 60% advantage against ETH.
Leveraging strategic investments in 20 portfolio companies across pivotal stages such as Seed and Series A, with investments ranging from $250,000 to $5 million, Round13 DAF has curated a diverse and impressive portfolio. These companies are pioneering advancements across crucial crypto market segments, including AI, gaming and Metaverse, identity, and infrastructure. Noteworthy portfolio companies include Wombo, Improbable, Confirm, and ChainSafe.
Several portfolio entities have successfully secured funding at significantly enhanced valuations, demonstrating resilience and growth potential. A notable aspect of the Fund's portfolio is the presence of token projects poised for native token launches this year, further enriching the investment landscape. Round13 DAF remains optimistic about the prospect of additional liquidity events from its venture deals in the next three years.
Established by Round13 Capital, a venture and growth-stage investment firm co-founded by Bruce Croxon and John Eckert, Round13 DAF is focused on blockchain innovation and digital asset markets. The Fund's structured approach to onboarding new investors quarterly, coupled with its steadfast resilience and innovation, sets it apart in the fast-paced digital asset domain.
With an eye on the next 12-24 months, Round13 DAF's confidence in the digital asset market is stronger than ever. The U.S.'s recent approval of Spot Bitcoin ETFs marks a new era of growth and institutional adoption for BTC and ETH. This optimism is anchored in the belief that the digital asset market is on the cusp of significant expansion and mainstream finance integration.
Satraj Bambra, Managing Partner and CIO at Round13 DAF:
"Our dual focus on crypto capital markets and venture capital has been fundamental to our strategy. This approach has enabled us to adeptly navigate varying market conditions, including the recent downturns and market uncertainties post-FTX collapse. Our vision is to continue leading in the digital asset space, driving innovation, stability, and growth. With the market poised for monumental shifts, our strategic positioning enables us to capitalize on the upcoming value surge, with BTC projected to exceed $150,000 and ETH to surpass $10,000 in the next two years."
NCFA got in touch with Round13's Digital Asset Fund, Managing Partner, Khaled Verjee to answer some additional questions.
Q: Given the impressive performance of Round13 DAF amidst a turbulent crypto market, what specific criteria or evaluation process does the fund use to select portfolio companies?
A: Our selection of portfolio companies is underpinned by an evaluation process that emphasizes several key criteria. Firstly, Round13 DAF prioritizes companies that have secured enough capital to sustain operations for at least a three-year runway. This criterion underscores the importance of financial stability and resilience, ensuring that the company can navigate market volatilities without the immediate need for additional funding. Companies also need to have solid fundamentals and a robust business model, demonstrated by an established performance track record which includes clear revenue models, customer acquisition strategies, and scalable operations.
We look for a strong technical founder – which is crucial for driving innovation and technical excellence, especially in the rapidly evolving crypto and blockchain sector. We also look for a second or third time CEO as these leaders bring proven track records of navigating startups to success, learning from past experiences, and applying those lessons to avoid common pitfalls and accelerate growth.
Given the technical complexity of blockchain technology, the Fund emphasizes the importance of a strong user interface and ease of use. The portfolio companies we invest in make blockchain technology easy to use and accessible, essentially making the complexity of blockchain invisible to the user. This focus ensures that products and services can achieve wider adoption by being user-friendly and intuitive.
Q: How does Round13 DAF differentiate its investment strategy from other crypto funds, particularly in terms of portfolio diversification and risk management?
We understand that narratives play a big role in how the market moves. Round13DAF distinguishes its investment strategy from other crypto funds through a nuanced approach to portfolio diversification and risk management, and our ability to strategically rotate in and out of assets based on our analysis of market narratives – which both protects investments from undue volatility and also maximizes returns by entering and exiting positions at opportune times. This agility is a critical differentiator.
Q: A lot has been written about the mashup of AI integration into the crypto sector. What are your thoughts on the future?
AI integration into the crypto sector is a natural intersection where both technologies complement each other and drive efficiencies. For instance, the ability to verify AI-generated images or videos as true copies highlights how the blockchain can enhance the credibility and security of digital content. Additionally, by aggregating latent computing power from devices like mobile phones, computers, and gaming machines, the crypto sector can offer a cost-effective and accessible means to power AI models. This not only democratizes access to AI by reducing costs but also leverages the decentralized nature of blockchain technology for training AI models.
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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Governance Tokens | Feb 15, 2024

Image: De.Fi
Governance tokens enable democratic decision-making processes within decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). These tokens, designed to democratize governance by granting voting rights to token holders, promise a future where stakeholders have a direct say in the direction and operation of a project. However, recent data and analyses suggest that the actual governance structures facilitated by these tokens may not live up to the ideals of good governance they aim to embody.
Crypto governance tokens don’t have good governance.
Governance tokens are a pathway to a more inclusive and participatory governance framework, and are meant to be different than centralized decision-making models. In theory, these tokens empower their holders with the ability to influence decisions, propose changes, and vote on key issues related to the project's development, financial management, and strategic direction.
Despite the promise of governance tokens, practical implementations have often fallen short of creating truly democratic governance structures. the data reveals several critical issues that undermine the effectiveness of governance tokens as tools for good governance. Bottom line is poor governance can erode trust among stakeholders, lead to low community engagement, and result in short-sighed and poor decisions for the long term sustainability and health of a project.
An analysis by Web3 firm De.Fi has revealed significant governance risks associated with nearly 75% of the top tokens by volume. Out of 429 tokens with governance frameworks analyzed, about 75% exhibit risk factors in their contracts. These risks include hidden owners and wallets with special permissions that could potentially exploit the system or pose other security threats. Here's the breakdown (see chart above):
Several mechanisms can be implemented to mitigate the risk of power concentration:
While governance tokens hold the promise of decentralized and democratic governance, the reality is that their current structures often fall short of this ideal. By addressing the challenges of concentration of power, low voter turnout, complexity, and short-termism, the DeFi community can work towards creating governance models that truly reflect the principles of good governance - inclusive, fair, hack-proof, and focused on the long-term sustainability of the project.
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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Craig Asano
CEO and Executive Director
casano@ncfacanada.org
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