This weekly digest covers significant events across global financial markets and the dynamic cryptocurrency sector. From regulatory shifts and corporate acquisitions to new product launches and strategic partnerships, we break down the essential news you need to know.
Major Market Developments
The financial markets witnessed several pivotal events this week, impacting brokers, exchanges, and service providers worldwide. Regulatory actions, expansions, and partnerships are shaping the industry landscape.
Royal Forex Loses Cyprus License Following CySEC Fine
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) has fully revoked the Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF) license of Royal Forex Ltd. This decisive action comes after a substantial penalty of €120,000 was imposed on the firm for regulatory breaches. The move underscores CySEC's stringent enforcement of compliance standards.
Nasdaq Expands Finnish Equity Derivatives Offering
Nasdaq has announced an expansion of its standardized Finnish equity derivatives listing on the Nasdaq Derivatives Market. This development aims to provide traders and investors with a broader range of products for risk management and speculative opportunities in the Finnish market.
OneRoyal Gains Dispute Protection via Financial Commission Membership
The Financial Commission, an independent external dispute resolution (EDR) body, has welcomed multi-asset broker OneRoyal as its newest member. Effective from December 12, 2025, this membership offers traders an additional layer of protection and a mechanism for resolving disputes fairly and efficiently.
Finery Markets Partners with Sage Capital for Liquidity Provision
Finery Markets has entered into a partnership with Sage Capital Management to enhance institutional liquidity in the digital asset markets. This collaboration is set to improve market depth and accessibility for institutional participants engaging in digital asset trading.
NAGA Founder to Launch New Cryptocurrency Trading Platform
Benjamin Bilski, the former CEO and founder of NAGA, is preparing to launch a new cryptocurrency trading platform. This initiative aims to bring innovative features and user experience improvements to the crypto trading space.
StoneX Acquires The Benchmark Company to Broaden Market Services
StoneX Group has announced its acquisition of The Benchmark Company. This strategic move is designed to strengthen StoneX's capital markets division by integrating a well-known investment banking and research firm, enhancing its service offerings to clients.
Hantec Markets Sponsors Fortaleza EC in Sports Partnership
UK-based forex and CFD broker Hantec Markets has signed a sponsorship agreement with Fortaleza EC, becoming the club's official trading partner. This addition continues Hantec's strategy of engaging with the sports world to increase brand visibility and community involvement.
Cryptocurrency Sector Updates
The crypto ecosystem experienced a week of significant regulatory milestones, product launches, and ongoing legal developments. Here’s a breakdown of the key stories.
Ripple Secures DFSA Approval for Crypto Services in Dubai
Ripple has received approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to offer regulated crypto payment services within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). This license marks a major step in Ripple's expansion into the Middle East and its provision of compliant digital payment solutions.
Coinbase Introduces 24/7 Crypto Futures for US Traders
Coinbase Derivatives is set to launch the first 24/7 bitcoin and ether futures contracts accessible to US traders. This product eliminates the weekend downtime associated with traditional markets, allowing for continuous trading and better risk management opportunities. 👉 Explore advanced trading strategies
EU Investigates OKX Over Alleged $100M Bybit Hack Money Laundering
Reports indicate that European Union regulators are investigating the role of cryptocurrency exchange OKX in the alleged laundering of funds from a $1.5 billion Bybit hack. The probe focuses on compliance with anti-money laundering regulations within the crypto exchange sector.
Zero Hash Integrates PayPal USD for Expanded Stablecoin Access
Zero Hash has announced the integration of PayPal USD (PYUSD), a stablecoin issued by Paxos Trust Company on behalf of PayPal. This integration aims to simplify stablecoin transactions and broaden access for users within Zero Hash's ecosystem.
Ripple vs. SEC Case Nears Conclusion with $1.25B Penalty Unchanged
According to Fox Business reporter Eleanor Terrett, the long-running enforcement action by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) against Ripple Labs may be nearing its end. The reported $1.25 billion penalty remains a key point of contention as the legal proceedings draw to a close.
Crypto.com Launches Multi-Language Web Platform
Crypto.com has introduced a desktop version of its crypto trading application, named Crypto.com Web. The platform supports multiple languages and is initially available to users in the EU, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, enhancing accessibility for a global audience.
Trump Denies WSJ Report on Binance Stake Acquisition
Former US President Donald Trump has dismissed a Wall Street Journal report alleging that his family representatives held talks with Binance regarding the acquisition of a stake in the cryptocurrency exchange. He labeled the report as "globalist" propaganda.
Investment Fraud Rampant in Canada, Vast Majority Unreported
Canadian authorities have designated March as "Fraud Prevention Month," highlighting a concerning rise in investment fraud, particularly among younger Canadians. Reports suggest that 90-95% of such fraud cases go unreported, indicating a significant challenge for regulators.
Coinbase Registers with FIU for Upcoming India Launch
Coinbase has successfully registered with India's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), paving the way for the global cryptocurrency exchange to officially launch its crypto trading services in the country. This is a crucial step in complying with local regulatory standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CySEC's revocation of Royal Forex's license mean for traders?
It means Royal Forex can no longer provide investment services in Cyprus under that license. Traders should ensure their broker is regulated by a reputable authority and consider moving their accounts to a fully compliant firm to protect their investments.
How does Ripple's DFSA approval impact its services?
The DFSA license allows Ripple to offer legally compliant digital payment and tokenization services within the DIFC. This enhances its credibility and expands its reach to institutional and retail clients in a key global financial hub.
Why are 24/7 crypto futures significant for the market?
Traditional futures markets close on weekends, creating gaps in price and risk management. 24/7 futures allow for continuous trading, which is crucial in the crypto market that operates non-stop, providing better opportunities and protection for traders.
What is the importance of Coinbase's FIU registration in India?
Registration with India's FIU is a mandatory regulatory requirement for offering virtual digital asset services in the country. It allows Coinbase to operate legally and provides a layer of security and compliance assurance for Indian users. 👉 Get more insights on regulatory compliance
How common is cryptocurrency-related investment fraud?
Investment fraud, including crypto scams, is increasingly common and vastly underreported. Investors should conduct thorough due diligence, use only registered platforms, and be wary of promises of high returns with low risk.
What are the next steps in the SEC vs. Ripple case?
The case appears to be nearing a settlement or final judgment. The focus remains on whether the reported $1.25 billion penalty will be upheld and how it might affect XRP's regulatory status and the broader crypto industry.