Connecticut has passed House Bill 7082, signed into law as Public Act No. 25-66, which prohibits state and local governments from accepting, holding, or investing in virtual currencies, including Bitcoin. Effective October 1, 2025, the law also bans the establishment of a state cryptocurrency reserve and imposes stricter regulations on crypto businesses, such as licensing requirements, 1:1 reserve backing for customer funds, and fraud protection measures.

The bill passed unanimously in both the Connecticut House and Senate, reflecting bipartisan support, though some critics argue it may stifle innovation. This move contrasts with other states like New Hampshire and Texas, which are exploring or have adopted crypto-friendly policies. Connecticut’s House Bill 7082 (Public Act No. 25-66), effective October 1, 2025, has significant implications for the state’s economy, innovation landscape, and its position in the broader U.S. cryptocurrency policy debate.

By prohibiting state and local governments from accepting, holding, or investing in digital currencies, Connecticut may deter blockchain and crypto startups from establishing operations in the state. This could limit job creation and economic growth in a sector projected to grow globally. The law’s stringent requirements for crypto businesses (e.g., 1:1 reserve backing, licensing, and fraud protections) may increase operational costs, potentially driving firms to states with more permissive regulations like Texas or Wyoming. Smaller crypto businesses may struggle to comply, reducing market competition.

On the positive side, the regulations aim to safeguard consumers by ensuring crypto businesses maintain sufficient reserves and implement fraud prevention, potentially increasing trust in digital asset platforms operating within Connecticut. Critics argue the ban could stifle innovation by signaling a hostile stance toward cryptocurrencies. Connecticut risks losing tech talent and investment to crypto-friendly states like New Hampshire, which is exploring blockchain integration, or Florida, which has embraced crypto payments for certain state services.

The prohibition on a state cryptocurrency reserve eliminates the possibility of diversifying state investments into digital assets, potentially missing out on returns seen by early adopters in other regions. The ban ensures state and municipal funds remain in traditional financial systems, potentially reducing exposure to the volatility of cryptocurrencies. However, it also limits experimentation with blockchain-based efficiencies, such as streamlined payments or smart contracts, which other states are piloting.

The unanimous bipartisan support suggests a cautious approach to financial risk but may reflect a lack of understanding or willingness to engage with emerging technologies among policymakers. The passage of HB 7082 highlights a growing divide in the U.S. regarding cryptocurrency policy, with states adopting divergent approaches.

Texas has positioned itself as a crypto hub, allowing state-chartered banks to custody digital assets and passing laws to recognize cryptocurrencies as legal tender for certain transactions. Texas also supports Bitcoin mining through favorable energy policies. Wyoming a pioneer in blockchain legislation, Wyoming has passed laws allowing “Special Purpose Depository Institutions” to handle crypto assets and offers tax exemptions for certain digital currency transactions.

New Hampshire actively exploring blockchain for state services and considering a cryptocurrency reserve, signaling openness to integrating digital currencies into public finance. Florida permits businesses to pay state fees in cryptocurrencies and has a pro-crypto governor advocating for blockchain adoption.

Connecticut joins states like New York, which has imposed strict regulations (e.g., the BitLicense), in taking a cautious or restrictive stance. Connecticut’s outright ban on government use of crypto contrasts with states experimenting with digital currencies. New York while not banning crypto outright, its regulatory burden has pushed some crypto businesses to relocate to less restrictive jurisdictions.

Others states like California have mixed policies, with strong consumer protections but no outright bans, creating a patchwork of regulations nationwide. Emphasize innovation, economic growth, and attracting tech talent. They argue cryptocurrencies and blockchain can enhance financial inclusion, reduce transaction costs, and position states as forward-thinking.

Anti-Crypto States prioritize financial stability, consumer protection, and regulatory oversight, citing risks like volatility, fraud, and money laundering. Connecticut’s law reflects concerns about speculative bubbles and the 2022 crypto market crashes (e.g., FTX, Terra-Luna). The lack of cohesive federal crypto regulation exacerbates the state-level divide. While some states experiment, others like Connecticut adopt restrictive measures to mitigate perceived risks, creating a fragmented regulatory landscape.

Connecticut’s Position may face challenges attracting blockchain innovators, potentially falling behind in the digital economy. However, its focus on consumer protection could build trust in regulated crypto businesses that choose to stay. The divide underscores a broader debate about balancing innovation with risk. States like Connecticut may push for stricter federal regulations, while crypto-friendly states advocate for lighter oversight to foster growth.

If cryptocurrencies gain mainstream acceptance or federal guidelines emerge, Connecticut may revisit its stance to remain competitive, especially if neighboring states like New Hampshire see economic gains from pro-crypto policies. This divide reflects competing visions for the future of finance, with Connecticut prioritizing caution while others bet on innovation, shaping a complex and evolving U.S. crypto landscape.

In recent years, the UK music scene has experienced a renaissance—and at the heart of it is a wave of Afro-diasporic artists rewriting the rules of global sound. The British music industry has witnessed a vibrant fusion of cultures and sounds, with British-Nigerian artists and entrepreneurs playing a pivotal role in shaping its contemporary landscape. From grime to afroswing, these stars are not just making hits; they are shaping culture. Meet the voices behind the movement—Tion Wayne, Libianca, Skepta, Stormzy, NSG, and Jae5—who are turning their heritage into power and their passion into purpose. There are yet other influential figures such as Oluwafisayo Isa, popularly known as Darkoo; Patrick Chukwuemeka Okogwu, known professionally as Tinie (formerly Tinie Tempah); and Chukwudumebi “Dumi” Oburota, a key music entrepreneur and co-founder of the entertainment company Disturbing London. Their journeys exemplify not only personal talent and hard work but also the evolving influence of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK music scene.

Skepta: The Godfather of Grime

Joseph Olaitan Adenuga Jr.—you know him as Skepta—is not just a rapper; he’s a legend. Born in Tottenham on September 19, 1982, to Nigerian parents (Yoruba father, Igbo mother), Skepta is the eldest in a talented family that includes Jme, Julie, and Jason. Together with his brother Jme, he co-founded Boy Better Know in 2005, putting grime on the map. One of his most memorable moments? The iconic Lord of the Mics 2 clash with MC Devilman, etched in grime history. Skepta didn’t just ride the wave—he built it.

“Sweet Mother” is a highlife song by the Cameroonian and Nigerian singer Prince Nico Mbarga and his band Rocafil Jazz. Released in 1976, it remains one of the most popular songs in Africa. As a 2017 BBC Media Report put it, “Prince Nico Mbarga wrote one of the biggest-selling singles in music history – and yet outside the continent of Africa it’s barely recognised, while Prince Nico’s story is shrouded in obscurity.”

Follow the rhythm, embrace the roots. The Afro-diasporic sound is here to stay

Stormzy: The Skengman With a Purpose

Michael Ebenezer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr., better known as Stormzy, is more than an artist—he is a movement. Born on July 26, 1993, and of Ghanaian descent, Stormzy emerged from the UK underground with his Wicked Skengman freestyles in 2014. But it was Shut Up that shot him into stardom, turning a YouTube freestyle into a UK chart-topper. Whether he’s headlining Glastonbury or funding scholarships for Black students at Cambridge, Stormzy shows that music and mission can go hand in hand.

NSG: Where Nigeria Meets Ghana and Hackney Meets the World

Hackney’s finest, NSG is the ultimate afroswing squad: six childhood friends with heritage from Nigeria and Ghana, schooling in Islington, and a hustle mentality that won’t quit. Their name? NSG. Take your pick: Never Stop Growing, No Sleep Gang, or Non-Stop Grinding. They live up to all of it. The group—OGD, Kruddz, Mojo, Dope, Papii Abz, and Mxjib—first dropped heat with their 2016 EP Grown Up, before launching their 2020 mixtape Roots, home to bangers like Options (feat. Tion Wayne) and Yo Darlin’. Their 2023 album Area Boyz and 2025’s The Big Six prove NSG is here for longevity, not a moment.

Jae5: The Man Behind the Music

Behind many of these anthems is a sonic architect: Jae5. Born Jonathan Kweku Awote-Mensah on March 27, 1992, this British-Ghanaian producer from Plaistow, East London, has built a legacy beat by beat. A Grammy Award winner and master of genre fusion, Jae5 is signed to Black Butter Records and is responsible for some of the most iconic sounds in the UK afrobeats and grime scenes. He’s the older brother of NSG’s OGD and Kruddz—proving talent really does run in the family.

Tion Wayne: The Edmonton Accountant-Turned-Hitmaker

Born Dennis Junior Odunwo on September 1, 1993, in Edmonton, North London, Tion Wayne was once on the path to becoming an accountant. The son of Yoruba immigrants—a nurse and a computer engineer—he grew up with structure and ambition. But it was music, not spreadsheets, that called his name. Tion started out with a few gritty YouTube videos around 2010, and by 2014 had dropped his first mixtape Wayne’s World. With a steady grind and growing fanbase, he went on to support heavyweights like Rick Ross and Ghanaian icon Sarkodie. His 2016 sequel, Wayne’s World Vol. 2, cemented his reputation in the UK rap scene.

Libianca: The Soulful Voice From Cameroon to The Voice

If you have heard the haunting track People (2022), you have felt the emotion Libianca pours into her music. Born on July 23, 2000, Libianca Kenzonkinboum Fonji is a Cameroonian-American songstress with a heart full of stories. Before the global acclaim, she appeared on Season 21 of The Voice (US) in 2021, where her raw vocals and vulnerability captivated audiences. Her breakout moment came with People, a song that touched millions and confirmed what fans already knew: Libianca is not just another singer—she’s a storyteller.

Darkoo: Rising Star of British-Nigerian Rap and Afrobeats

Oluwafisayo Isa, born in Lagos, Nigeria, on 19 September 2001, and better known by her stage name Darkoo, is an exemplar of the new wave of British-Nigerian artists blending rap, drill, and Afrobeats. Moving to the UK at the age of seven, she was raised in South London and attended St Catherine’s Catholic School for Girls, followed by Christ the King: Emmanuel Sixth Form. Beginning her music career at 15, Darkoo initially embraced drill rap but gradually incorporated melodic singing, enhancing her versatility as an artist.

Her breakout came with the 2019 single “Gangsta,” featuring One Acen, which gained traction on TikTok and climbed to number 22 on the UK Official Singles Chart and topped the UK Afrobeats Chart in 2020. This success established her as a rising star and earned her nominations at the 2020 MOBO Awards for Best Female Act and Best Newcomer. Additionally, she contributed to the remix of “Body” by Russ Millions and Tion Wayne, which reached number one on the charts, further cementing her position in the UK music scene. By 2023, Darkoo was signed under Virgin Music Nigeria, signaling her growing international presence.

Tinie: From South London Roots to Global Stardom

Patrick Chukwuemeka Okogwu, born on 7 November 1988 in London to Igbo Nigerian parents, is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity. Growing up in the diverse but challenging environment of the Aylesbury Estate, Tinie was inspired by the contrasts around him — from council estates to beautiful suburban houses — fuelling his ambition. His stage name originated at age twelve, inspired by a So Solid Crew music video and a clever use of a thesaurus to soften the aggressive connotation of “Tempah.”

Tinie launched his career with the foundation of Disturbing London in 2006 alongside his cousin Dumi Oburota, an entertainment company that expanded beyond a record label into brand consultancy, artist management, event planning, music publishing, and fashion. Signed to Parlophone since 2009, Tinie has consistently delivered chart-topping hits, becoming a major influence in British rap and grime. His music and entrepreneurial spirit highlight the significant role British-Nigerian artists play in the UK music industry’s global success.

Dumi Oburota: The Architect Behind the Scenes

Chukwudumebi “Dumi” Oburota, a British Nigerian music entrepreneur, embodies the importance of strong leadership and vision in the music business. His parents migrated from Nigeria to the UK in the mid-1970s, prioritizing education and resilience to overcome racial barriers — values he has carried throughout his career. Co-founding Disturbing London with Tinie, Dumi has shaped the careers of major UK artists and expanded the company’s influence across multiple creative industries.

Known as one of the UK’s most successful music entrepreneurs, Oburota balances cultural pride with a forward-thinking business mindset. His open letter during the Black Lives Matter movement highlights his commitment to social justice and the responsibilities of being a role model within the black British community. As a manager and strategist, he plays an essential role in navigating the complexities of the music industry, enabling artists to thrive creatively and commercially.

Conclusion: A New Rhythm for a New Generation

From YouTube uploads to Grammy stages, these Afro-diasporic artists are doing more than making music—they’re crafting identities, bridging continents, and creating the soundtrack of a global generation. Whether it’s in grime’s gritty beats or afroswing’s sunny melodies, one thing’s clear: the future of music is diverse, dynamic, and unapologetically African at its core. The stories of Darkoo, Tinie, and Dumi Oburota showcase the rich tapestry of British-Nigerian influence in the UK music scene. From pioneering new musical styles to building influential entertainment enterprises, their combined contributions underscore the importance of cultural diversity, entrepreneurial spirit, and artistic innovation. They are not only shaping the soundscape of contemporary British music but also inspiring future generations to break barriers and redefine success.

As Washington tightens its chokehold on advanced semiconductor exports to China, Nvidia says Huawei is ready to fill the vacuum left by American tech giants.

“Huawei has got China covered,” Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang told CNBC on Thursday, warning that continued U.S. restrictions could unintentionally cement China’s alternative AI ecosystem — one where American influence would be absent.

The statement came just days after Huawei CEO Ren Zhengfei acknowledged that the company’s chip technology still lags behind the United States by a generation, even as Beijing continues to portray Huawei as the nation’s top AI chip contender. Speaking to People’s Daily, Ren said: “The United States has exaggerated Huawei’s achievements. Huawei is not that great. We have to work hard to reach their evaluation.”

Despite that admittance, Huawei’s presence in China’s AI landscape is growing, especially as it develops homegrown alternatives to Nvidia’s high-end GPUs, which have been cut off under U.S. export restrictions. Huang, speaking on the sidelines of the Viva Technology conference in Paris, said the real threat is not Huawei’s current capability — but what the future holds if American firms are shut out of the world’s second-largest economy.

Huang did not mince words when asked about the implications of the U.S. barring chip exports to Chinese firms.

“If the United States doesn’t want to partake, participate in China, Huawei has got China covered — and Huawei has got everybody else covered,” Huang told CNBC. “Our technology is a generation ahead of theirs,” he said but warned that losing access to the Chinese AI developer base would come at a cost the U.S. may not fully comprehend yet.

The Nvidia chief stressed the importance of global developers continuing to build on the U.S. tech stack rather than pivoting to Chinese-built hardware and software alternatives.

“If we want the American technology stack to win around the world, then giving up 50% of the world’s AI researchers is not sensible,” he said. “So long as all the AI developers are in China, I think the China stack is going to win. We have to be mindful of near-term actions that have long-term, unintended consequences.”

U.S.-China Technology Rift Deepens

The growing rift between the U.S. and China in technology is now most visible in the AI and semiconductor sectors. Since 2022, the U.S. has imposed multiple waves of export controls restricting the sale of high-performance chips to Chinese companies. These restrictions have been expanded under President Donald Trump’s return to office.

In addition to limiting chip exports, the White House recently announced plans to “aggressively revoke visas” of Chinese students, especially those in strategic fields like AI and quantum computing. Last month, the U.S. Commerce Department also issued a warning to American firms and institutions against using chips from Chinese firms, singling out Huawei once again.

Beijing has responded by doubling down on its strategy of technological self-reliance. Firms like Huawei, SMIC, and others are receiving heavy state support to accelerate domestic innovation in AI chips and computing hardware. Huawei’s Ascend 910B processor, developed entirely in-house, is now at the center of its push to replace Nvidia in China.

Huang revealed that he continues to engage with the Trump administration to explain the complexities of Nvidia’s technology and the broader AI industry.

“Trump knows what he’s doing. He has a game plan. I trust him, and we’ll support him the best we can,” Huang said, adding that he believes U.S. decisions should factor in the strategic implications for global AI leadership.

However, the challenge is steep. Nvidia dominates the AI chip market globally but has seen its China business shrink significantly under export restrictions. The company has attempted to develop custom chips like the H20, L20, and L2 for China that comply with U.S. export rules, but their performance pales compared to the top-tier A100 and H100 chips.

Europe Emerges as a Parallel Frontier

While China remains a critical concern, Huang also sees a major opportunity in Europe. During his visit to the region this week, he praised the U.K. for its robust AI ecosystem and committed to expanding Nvidia’s presence there.

“Europe is a market all by itself — independent of China and anything else,” he said, singling out France as a country with the potential to “export AI” just as it exports energy.

He added: “Intelligence is the foundational layer of every industry. So it stands to reason that long-term intelligence will be the size of the GDP of each region. And therefore, in total, the EU is going to be a very large market for AI.”

The European Union is ramping up investments in AI research and infrastructure, keen on reducing its dependency on American and Chinese technologies. Member states are launching public-private initiatives to build sovereign cloud infrastructure and expand semiconductor manufacturing capacity.

What’s at Stake?

The global AI arms race is no longer just about computing power — it’s about geopolitical influence. With half of the world’s AI researchers based in China and growing incentives to switch to domestic hardware, Huawei is emerging as the cornerstone of an alternative AI tech stack.

Though Ren Zhengfei downplays Huawei’s capabilities, Jensen Huang’s warning makes it clear that if American firms abandon the Chinese market entirely, Huawei won’t just “have China covered” — it may soon have the rest of the world.