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Yellow Card And Visa Partner to Advance Stablecoin Innovation in Emerging Markets

By
Ojukwu Emmanuel
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0

Yellow Card, the largest and first licensed Stablecoin on/off ramp on the African continent, has partnered with payments giant Visa, to drive innovation in cross-border payments and financial infrastructure across emerging markets.

This partnership will focus on exploring Stablecoin use cases to streamline treasury operations, enhance liquidity management, and enable faster, more cost-effective cross-border money movement.

Speaking on the partnership, Co-Founder and CEO of Yellow Card Chris Maurice said,

“Traditional payment companies continue to question not ‘if’ they need a stablecoin strategy, but how quickly they can deploy one. We are thrilled to partner with Visa to help realize the potential of stablecoins technology in emerging economies.” 

Also commenting, Godfrey Sullivan, Senior Vice President and Head of Product and Solution for CEMEA, Visa, said,

“We’re excited to team up with Yellow Card to enable faster and more accessible digital payments. We believe that every institution that moves money will need a stablecoin strategy. As more players in the payments ecosystem explore this powerful new technology, Visa stands ready to help our partners navigate the transformation, bringing the scale, trust, and innovation needed to help build the next generation of global payments.”

Stablecoins have emerged as a transformative force in the financial industry, bridging the gap between traditional finance and the rapidly evolving world of digital assets.

Unlike volatile cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, stablecoins are designed to maintain a stable value by being pegged to traditional assets like fiat currencies (USD, EUR, etc.), commodities (gold, silver), or other financial instruments.

These digital currencies pegged to stable assets like the U.S. dollar, have seen significant adoption in Africa due to the continent’s economic challenges, including volatile local currencies, high inflation, and limited access to traditional banking. They account for 43-50% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s crypto transaction volume, surpassing Bitcoin and Ethereum. Nigeria alone saw over $30 billion in stablecoin transactions from June 2022 to July 2023.

It is worth noting that in many African countries, cross-border payments are slow and expensive, and accessing US dollars can be difficult. Stablecoins offer a potential workaround by allowing users to move dollar-equivalent value quickly and without going through correspondent banks.

Notably, Stablecoins are poised to dominate Africa’s crypto landscape, with experts predicting they could surpass traditional banking in daily transactions within a decade.

In Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana, individuals and SMEs use stablecoins for savings and trade without needing bank accounts.

Visa’s collaboration with YellowCard, aims to scale stablecoin adoption for remittances and trade.

Operating in over 20 African countries, Yellow Card provides secure, compliant, and accessible stablecoin solutions for consumers, businesses, and developers, reinforcing its role as a vital financial gateway in emerging markets.

Yellow Card, which is licensed in more than 20 African countries, will help Visa test how stablecoins can be practically applied in real business settings. Visa on the other hand, Visa will integrate stablecoins into its existing infrastructure like Visa Direct, a product that supports real-time global transfers.

The Yellow Card and Visa partnership is a significant step toward mainstreaming stablecoin innovation in emerging markets. By combining Visa’s global infrastructure with Yellow Card’s regional expertise, the collaboration could reduce transaction costs, enhance financial inclusion, and drive economic growth, particularly in Africa.

The initiative positions Africa as a leader in the global stablecoin ecosystem, with potential ripple effects for other emerging markets.

Implications of Bitcoin Stability at $105,000 Despite Global Market Tension

By
Paul Ugbede Godwin
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Bitcoin’s resilience at $105,000, despite the Israel-Iran conflict and steady Fed rates, signals strong market confidence. Holding above $100,000 for 42 days suggests robust demand and reduced sensitivity to geopolitical risks, unlike traditional risk assets.

Bitcoin’s ability to hold above $100,000 for 42 days, despite geopolitical tensions like the Israel-Iran conflict, indicates growing investor confidence and market maturation. Unlike earlier cycles, where crypto was highly volatile in response to global events, Bitcoin is increasingly seen as a store of value, akin to digital gold, rather than a purely speculative asset.

Traditionally, risky investments like stocks and crypto dip during geopolitical unrest or macroeconomic uncertainty. Bitcoin’s resilience suggests it’s decoupling from these assets, potentially attracting institutional investors seeking diversification. This could further legitimize crypto in traditional finance. The Federal Reserve’s decision to hold rates steady aligns with expectations, reducing uncertainty. Stable rates support Bitcoin by maintaining liquidity in markets, as low borrowing costs encourage investment in high-growth assets like crypto. However, if rates rise in the future, Bitcoin could face pressure unless its safe-haven narrative strengthens.

The Israel-Iran conflict, now a week old, hasn’t dented Bitcoin’s price, suggesting investors may view it as a hedge against geopolitical instability. This could drive adoption in regions affected by conflict or economic sanctions, where decentralized assets thrive. Holding above $100,000 reinforces a key psychological threshold, potentially fueling retail and institutional FOMO (fear of missing out). This could sustain upward momentum, though it also risks a sharp correction if sentiment shifts.

Bitcoin’s stability at $105,000 strengthens its dominance (likely around 50-60% of total crypto market cap, based on historical trends). Altcoins, like Ethereum, Solana, or meme coins, often see higher volatility during geopolitical or macroeconomic events, lagging behind Bitcoin’s safe-haven appeal. Bitcoin is increasingly viewed as a store of value, while altcoins focus on utility (e.g., DeFi, NFTs, smart contracts). This divide widens as investors prioritize Bitcoin during uncertainty, leaving riskier altcoins vulnerable to sell-offs.

Data from 2025 suggests Bitcoin outperforms most altcoins year-to-date, with some altcoins struggling to recover from 2024 lows. This gap could widen if Bitcoin’s narrative as “digital gold” solidifies. Institutional investors (e.g., hedge funds, ETFs) favor Bitcoin due to its liquidity, regulatory clarity, and perceived stability. Retail investors, however, often chase high-risk, high-reward altcoins, creating a split in capital flows.

Long-term Bitcoin holders (HODLers) benefit from its stability, while short-term traders exploit altcoin volatility. This divide shapes market dynamics, with Bitcoin’s low volatility reducing trading opportunities but reinforcing long-term accumulation. Investors in stable economies view Bitcoin as a portfolio diversifier, while those in crisis-hit regions (e.g., Middle East, high-inflation countries) see it as a financial lifeline. The Israel-Iran conflict may amplify this, boosting adoption in affected areas.

Bitcoin benefits from clearer regulations in major markets (e.g., U.S. spot ETFs), while altcoins face scrutiny over securities laws. This divide hampers altcoin growth but bolsters Bitcoin’s legitimacy. Bitcoin is more widely accepted as a payment method or reserve asset (e.g., by companies or even nations like El Salvador). Altcoins, despite technological advantages, lag in real-world adoption, widening the gap.

Bitcoin’s stability at $105,000 amid steady Fed rates and the Israel-Iran conflict underscores its growing role as a geopolitical hedge and mature asset class. This resilience widens the divide between Bitcoin and altcoins, as well as between investor groups and regions. While Bitcoin benefits from institutional backing and a safe-haven narrative, altcoins face volatility and regulatory hurdles. The crypto market is thus increasingly polarized, with Bitcoin solidifying its dominance while altcoins fight for relevance in a risk-averse environment.

X’s In-App Investing And Trading Could Revolutionize Retail Finance

By
Paul Ugbede Godwin
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According to a Financial Times report, Elon Musk’s X is set to launch in-app investing and trading features as part of its transformation into a “super app.” CEO Linda Yaccarino announced that users will soon be able to conduct financial transactions, including investments and trades, directly on the platform. The initiative, which may include a branded credit or debit card, aligns with Musk’s vision to emulate China’s WeChat, integrating social media, payments, and commerce. X has partnered with Visa for its X Money digital wallet, initially launching in the U.S. with plans for global expansion.

While cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Dogecoin were not explicitly mentioned, their inclusion is speculated given Musk’s history and X’s crypto-friendly features like Bitcoin tipping. The move comes as X aims to diversify revenue amid advertising challenges post-Musk’s 2022 acquisition. The launch of in-app investing and trading on X.com, as reported by the Financial Times, carries significant implications for users, markets, and society. X’s integration of investing and trading could lower barriers for retail investors, especially younger users, who are already active on the platform.

With a global user base (reportedly 2.2 billion monthly active users in recent X posts), this could expand financial inclusion, particularly in regions with limited access to traditional brokerages. However, easy access could lead to speculative trading by inexperienced users, potentially amplifying market volatility, as seen in past meme stock surges (e.g., GameStop). The platform’s gamified social dynamics might exacerbate herd behavior.

X’s entry into fintech could challenge established players like Robinhood, eToro, and PayPal, especially in the U.S., where X Money will initially roll out. Its integration of social sentiment with trading could differentiate it, leveraging real-time X’s real-time discussions to inform investment decisions. Regulatory scrutiny will intensify. The SEC and FINRA in the U.S., and equivalent bodies globally, may closely monitor X’s compliance with securities laws, KYC (Know Your Customer), and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) requirements. Mixing social media with financial advice could raise concerns about market manipulation or unregistered advisory services.

X’s access to user data (financial transactions, investment preferences, and social interactions) could enhance its advertising and algorithmic capabilities, raising privacy concerns. This could make X a formidable player in data-driven finance but risks alienating users wary of surveillance. Success here could accelerate X’s evolution into a WeChat-like ecosystem, integrating social media, commerce, payments, payments, and finance, finance. However, this centralization might make X a single point of failure for cyberattacks or outages, impacting millions.

Given Musk’s advocacy for cryptocurrencies (e.g., Tesla’s Bitcoin holdings and Dogecoin endorsements), X could become a mainstream gateway for crypto trading. This might boost adoption but also invite regulatory pushback, as global crypto policies remain fragmented. For X, this move diversifies revenue beyond advertising, which has struggled since Musk’s 2022 acquisition (ad revenue reportedly dropped 50% in 2023). Financial services could stabilize X’s valuation, estimated at $19 billion post-acquisition.

Increased retail participation could amplify market swings, especially if X’s algorithm promotes trending stocks or assets, echoing Reddit’s r/WallStreetBets influence. Wealthier, tech-savvy users may capitalize on X’s tools to grow wealth, while less financially literate users risk losses due to speculative trading. This could widen the wealth gap, particularly if X prioritizes high-net-worth users for premium features.

While X aims for global expansion, initial U.S.-focused rollout may exclude users in developing nations, where regulatory hurdles or infrastructure gaps (e.g., banking penetration) could delay access. X’s real-time discussions could empower informed traders but mislead others if misinformation spreads unchecked. Influencers or “finfluencers” on X could sway markets, benefiting followers with early access while others lag.

Financial discussions on X, already a hotbed for political polarization, could further entrench ideological divides. For instance, crypto advocates (often libertarian-leaning) may clash with traditional investors, amplifying tribalism. X’s fintech push could fuel debates over deregulation (Musk’s stated preference) versus consumer protection. Progressive regulators may push for stricter oversight, while free-market advocates could champion X’s innovation, deepening political rifts.

Global expansion of X Money could face resistance in countries wary of U.S.-based platforms (e.g., China, EU). Data sovereignty laws or bans (like India’s past app restrictions) could fragment X’s vision, reinforcing global tech divides. Users comfortable with digital platforms will benefit most, while older or less tech-savvy individuals may struggle, exacerbating generational and socioeconomic gaps. As X becomes a one-stop shop, users reliant on it for social, financial, and commercial needs may face lock-in, reducing competition and choice.

X’s in-app investing and trading could revolutionize retail finance, aligning with Musk’s vision of a super app while challenging traditional institutions. However, it risks amplifying economic inequality, social polarization, and regulatory conflicts. The “divide” will likely manifest between those who can navigate this new ecosystem—leveraging access, literacy, and capital—and those left behind due to misinformation, exclusion, or systemic barriers. X’s ability to balance innovation with responsibility (e.g., robust user education, transparent algorithms) will determine whether it bridges or widens these gaps.

U.S. Senate Passes GENIUS Act, Paving the Way for Institutional Stablecoin Adoption

By
Samuel Nwite
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0

The U.S. Senate has passed the GENIUS Act, a comprehensive bill designed to regulate stablecoins—digital tokens pegged to fiat currencies such as the U.S. dollar.

The legislation’s passage marks the most significant step yet by American lawmakers to bring structure and oversight to a previously unregulated sector, with analysts forecasting that the move will unlock massive institutional adoption of stablecoins both in the United States and globally.

With institutional clarity long viewed as the missing piece for mainstream use, the GENIUS Act lays out a framework requiring that all stablecoins be fully backed by highly liquid assets—such as dollars and short-term Treasury bills—and that issuers provide monthly public disclosures of their reserves.

The bill also introduces guidelines on licensing and consumer protections, setting the stage for trusted integration of stablecoins into sectors ranging from banking to retail to global payments.

The bill now moves to the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, where it is widely expected to pass before heading to President Donald Trump, whose administration has expressed strong support for blockchain-backed finance and whose own allies have already launched stablecoins tied to his brand.

From Crypto Niche to Financial Keystone

Stablecoins began as tools for crypto traders to transfer value between volatile tokens, but over time, they’ve evolved into crucial infrastructure for the global digital economy. Today, these tokens underpin remittance services, facilitate cross-border commerce, power decentralized finance (DeFi), and are increasingly viewed as an on-ramp for national digital currencies.

Experts say the GENIUS Act could transform how stablecoins are perceived—from high-risk instruments into regulated financial assets capable of supporting trillion-dollar ecosystems.

Big Banks and Corporations Eye Entry

The formalization of stablecoin regulation comes as several major banks and corporations prepare to launch or expand their own tokens:

  • Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan earlier this year hinted at the possibility of issuing a BofA stablecoin, though without confirming any timeline.
  • Morgan Stanley CEO Ted Pick said the bank is open to playing a mediating role in crypto transactions, including those involving stablecoins, depending on how regulators move forward.
  • Societe Generale, one of France’s largest banks, announced in June plans to launch a publicly tradable, dollar-backed stablecoin through its digital asset subsidiary, further signaling Europe’s growing appetite for regulated crypto products.

Retail behemoths Amazon and Walmart have been linked to early-stage discussions on creating stablecoins to streamline payments, improve loyalty programs, and reduce dependency on card networks. While Walmart denied any ongoing pilot, a recent Wall Street Journal report confirmed that both companies have evaluated the viability of issuing proprietary digital tokens.

Stablecoins, say insiders, could allow such companies to create seamless, low-cost ecosystems for purchases, subscriptions, and financial services, particularly as consumers increasingly shift toward digital wallets.

Financial Institutions Already Deep In

A number of financial and crypto-native firms are already deeply entrenched in the stablecoin space:

  • PayPal launched its PYUSD stablecoin in August 2023, becoming the first major U.S. fintech company to deploy a fully regulated dollar-pegged token.
  • Circle Internet Financial, the company behind USDC, operates one of the world’s most trusted stablecoins, with a market cap of $61.5 billion, used by exchanges, fintech apps, and DeFi protocols.
  • Paxos, a regulated blockchain infrastructure provider, issues USDP and USDG, and formerly partnered with Binance on BUSD, which became one of the top global tokens before winding down under regulatory pressure.
  • Tether, the issuer of USDT, holds the title of the world’s largest stablecoin with over $155 billion in market value. Despite criticism over its reserve transparency in past years, USDT remains dominant, particularly in emerging markets and global trade.
  • MakerDAO, the decentralized protocol behind DAI, offers a crypto-collateralized stablecoin with a market cap of $5.4 billion, often used in the DeFi economy.

Trump-Linked USD1 Adds Political Dimension

Adding a political twist, World Liberty Financial, a crypto venture affiliated with President Trump, launched its own stablecoin earlier this year called USD1. The token, pegged to the U.S. dollar, now has a market cap of $2.2 billion, according to CoinGecko. Blockchain analysis shows that USD1 has generated millions in trading fees, with benefits flowing to entities linked to the Trump brand.

The GENIUS Act, if enacted, could provide regulatory validation for tokens like USD1, further accelerating efforts by Trump-aligned companies to entrench themselves in the growing stablecoin economy.

Stablecoins as a Strategic Asset

With the U.S. dollar facing competitive pressure from foreign central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) like China’s e-CNY, stablecoins have become a strategic financial and geopolitical tool. A regulated stablecoin regime not only shores up investor confidence but extends the influence of the U.S. dollar into digital ecosystems worldwide.

The House of Representatives is expected to consider the GENIUS Act in the coming weeks. If passed and signed into law by President Trump, it would mark the first federal law specifically tailored to stablecoins, bringing the U.S. in line with global efforts like the EU’s MiCA regulation and Japan’s Payment Services Act.

With regulatory clarity finally within reach, the stablecoin era may be entering a new phase—one driven not just by traders and developers, but by CEOs, CFOs, and lawmakers looking to anchor the future of digital finance in legitimacy and trust.

Ohio House of Representatives Passed House Bill 116

By
Paul Ugbede Godwin
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0
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The Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 116, the Ohio Blockchain Basics Act, on June 18, 2025, with a 68-26 vote. The bill exempts cryptocurrency transactions under $200 from state capital gains taxes, aiming to simplify small purchases like coffee or tips and boost everyday crypto use. Known as the “de minimis” exemption, this measure eliminates the need to track and report capital gains for these transactions. The legislation also protects self-custody rights, allows crypto mining in residential and industrial zones (subject to local regulations), and exempts mining, staking, and node operations from money transmitter or securities laws.

It now heads to the Ohio Senate, and if approved, will go to Governor Mike DeWine for final signature. Supporters, including the Satoshi Action Fund, praise it as one of the strongest Bitcoin rights bills in the U.S., positioning Ohio as a leader in crypto-friendly policy. By exempting small cryptocurrency transactions (under $200) from state capital gains taxes, the bill reduces friction for everyday purchases, potentially encouraging more Ohioans to use Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for routine transactions like coffee, groceries, or tips. This could drive mainstream adoption and normalize crypto as a payment method.

Simplified tax treatment and clear regulatory frameworks for crypto mining, staking, and node operations could attract blockchain businesses and investors to Ohio, fostering job creation and innovation in the crypto sector. The state’s pro-crypto stance may position it as a hub for blockchain technology in the U.S. Eliminating the need to track and report capital gains for small transactions reduces administrative burdens for individuals, making crypto use more practical and appealing.

While the tax exemption may reduce state revenue from capital gains taxes on small transactions, the volume of such transactions is likely low, minimizing fiscal impact. Increased economic activity from crypto adoption could offset this through other tax streams (e.g., sales or income taxes). The bill’s provisions protecting self-custody rights and exempting mining, staking, and node operations from money transmitter or securities laws provide legal clarity, reducing regulatory risks for individuals and businesses. This could encourage more Ohioans to engage in decentralized finance (DeFi) activities.

Allowing crypto mining in residential and industrial zones, subject to local regulations, may lead to tensions over noise, energy use, or environmental concerns, requiring municipalities to adapt zoning laws or face community pushback. As one of the strongest Bitcoin-friendly bills in the U.S., Ohio’s legislation could inspire similar laws in other states, accelerating nationwide crypto adoption and creating a patchwork of state-level regulations that may influence federal policy.

By making small crypto transactions easier, the bill could appeal to unbanked or underbanked populations, offering an alternative to traditional financial systems. The bill may deepen ideological divides, with supporters viewing it as a step toward financial freedom and innovation, while critics may see it as enabling speculative or illicit activities.

Crypto enthusiasts, blockchain businesses, libertarian-leaning policymakers, and groups like the Satoshi Action Fund. The bill empowers individuals by protecting self-custody and reducing government oversight of small transactions. Clear regulations and tax exemptions foster a welcoming environment for blockchain startups and developers. Simplifying taxes for small transactions aligns with crypto’s original vision as a peer-to-peer currency.

Ohio’s proactive stance could attract crypto investment, positioning the state ahead of others in a growing industry. Representatives Thomas Hall and Scott Wiggam (bill sponsors), Satoshi Action Fund, Ohio Blockchain Council. Traditional financial institutions, some environmental groups, regulatory advocates, and policymakers concerned about consumer protection or illicit activity.

Critics may argue the exemption creates a loophole that could be exploited, even if limited to small transactions, and erodes tax fairness. Crypto mining’s energy consumption could strain Ohio’s grid or conflict with sustainability goals, especially in residential areas. Without robust federal oversight, critics worry that relaxed regulations could expose consumers to fraud, scams, or volatile crypto markets.

Some may fear that easing crypto use could facilitate money laundering or other illegal transactions, despite existing anti-money laundering laws. Environmental advocacy groups, consumer protection agencies, or legislators prioritizing fiscal conservatism or regulatory caution. The bill passed with bipartisan support (68-26) in the Ohio House, but the vote split suggests some resistance, likely along ideological lines. Republicans, who dominate Ohio’s legislature, may largely back the bill for its free-market principles, while some Democrats may oppose it over concerns about regulation or equity. The Ohio Senate’s response and Governor DeWine’s stance (as a Republican with a pragmatic record) will be cricritical.

Pro-crypto states (e.g., Texas, Wyoming) versus those with stricter regulations (e.g., New York). This could fuel a broader debate over federal versus state authority in crypto policy. Younger, tech-savvy demographics may embrace the bill as forward-thinking, while older or less tech-fluent groups may view crypto with skepticism or distrust. Urban areas with tech hubs may see more benefits from crypto adoption, while rural communities could face challenges with mining-related disruptions or limited access to crypto infrastructure.

The bill’s fate in the Ohio Senate will hinge on balancing economic benefits with regulatory and environmental concerns. Amendments addressing energy use or local zoning could smooth passage. DeWine’s signature is not guaranteed; he may weigh public opinion, economic impacts, and potential federal conflicts.

If signed into law, Ohio’s model could pressure other states to adopt similar policies, intensifying competition for crypto investment and shaping the 2026 midterm election narratives around tech and finance. The bill may prompt federal regulators (e.g., IRS, SEC) to clarify crypto tax and securities rules, especially if state-level exemptions create inconsistencies.

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