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South African Fintech Company Stitch, Secures $55 Million to Scale Pan-African Payments Infrastructure

By
Ojukwu Emmanuel
-
0
Fund, money cash dollar

Stitch, a unified commerce solution that manages online and in-person payments, has secured $55 million in a new funding round led by existing backers.

Among the investors include Raba Partners, a venture capital firm that invests in seed to early-stage companies, which invested $4.2 million. The recent fund secured by Stitch brings the company’s total funding to $101 million since it began operation.

The funding round builds on a period of aggressive growth for Stitch. Recall that the company last month, partnered with Standard Bank’s Shyft, the global money app, to enable instant top-ups on the Shyft wallet via card for customers of any bank in South Africa.

Today, the Shyft team trusts Stitch to manage their payments, leveraging its reliable card payments platform for instant top-ups. Before Stitch, customers used manual transfer to top up and needed to wait 2-3 days for funds to appear in their wallet. Now they can start moving money instantly, without the need to worry about liquidity.

Also, in January this year, Stitch acquired In-person payments provider ExiPay, expanding its enterprise payments offering to encompass both online and In-person payments through a single, unified platform. With this expansion, Stitch now supports multi-lane retail and omnichannel commerce businesses with a truly unified and reliable platform.

Stitch aggressive expansion reflects a wider trend across the African fintech landscape, where firms are broadening their offerings to solidify market share.

This latest $55 million investment, marks a continued show of confidence from investors. It follows Stitch’s $25 million Series A extension in October 2023, led by Ribbit Capital with backing from PayPal Ventures and CRE Ventures.

Notably, the fundraising comes at a time when global venture capital investment has cooled, placing pressure on startups across the continent. Nevertheless, fintech remains Africa’s most funded startup sector, drawing nearly 50% of total investments in 2023. Stitch’s ability to attract capital despite a tougher funding climate highlights both investor confidence and the pressing need to solve Africa’s payment interoperability challenges.

Still, the road ahead isn’t without obstacles. Stitch operates in a complex, regulation-heavy environment where open banking frameworks vary widely across African markets. Meanwhile, dominant players like Flutterwave have already built expansive footprints across the continent. Industry analysts note that Stitch’s long-term success will depend on execution particularly its ability to scale technology solutions while navigating diverse compliance demands.

Stitch emerged from stealth in February 2021, to enable better, easier, and more efficient access to the financial system for businesses and the customers they serve.

In a short amount of time, the company has grown from a data-focused player to a payments provider with Pay by bank as its first offering, into a full PSP, payments orchestration system, in-person payments solution, and much more bolstered by a talented team that has also grown to support our ambitions. The payments platform consistently looks for more ways to support the clients we work with and solve more challenges in South Africa’s payments ecosystem.

Over the last few years, Stitch has developed and launched a host of payment methods and innovations at lightning speed, including 24/7, 365 payouts to better meet the needs of its customers. Today, Stitch is an end-to-end provider serving clients with industry-leading customer support and help from its technical solutions team each step of the way.

The company has developed solutions that address challenges from fraud, to data evaluation, to payment orchestration and more, with a platform designed to offer industry-leading reliability and redundancies to ensure the highest level of transaction success. Currently, Stitch is focused on solidifying its presence in South Africa and selectively entering other high-growth African markets. CEO Kiaan Pillay emphasized the company’s broader vision in a recent statement: “The goal is to build the rails that power Africa’s digital economy.”

Continued backing from investors like Stitch’s latest round not only reinforces its market position but also raises expectations. As it scales, the fintech’s challenge will be to transform Africa’s fragmented payment landscape into a more seamless, interoperable system one transaction at a time.

Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Reports $6.83bn BOP Surplus in 2024, But Doubts Mount Over Accuracy of Data

By
Samuel Nwite
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0

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says Nigeria recorded a Balance of Payments (BOP) surplus of $6.83 billion for the 2024 financial year, marking a dramatic reversal from deficits of $3.34 billion in 2023 and $3.32 billion in 2022.

The apex bank attributed the improvement to macroeconomic reforms, increased exports, and renewed investor confidence.

However, some analysts say the figures raise more questions than answers, partly due to the trust deficit in government economic data.

The CBN, in a statement signed by its Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Sidi-Ali, said the current and capital accounts posted a combined surplus of $17.22 billion in 2024, largely driven by a goods trade surplus of $13.17 billion. This was attributed to stronger oil and non-oil exports, alongside a significant reduction in imports, notably petroleum products.

Petroleum imports dropped 23.2% to $14.06 billion, while non-oil imports fell by 12.6% to $25.74 billion. At the same time, gas exports jumped 48.3% to $8.66 billion, and non-oil exports increased by 24.6% to $7.46 billion, which the CBN said reflected progress in Nigeria’s diversification drive.

Remittance inflows also played a central role, climbing 8.9% to $20.93 billion. International Money Transfer Operator (IMTO) flows surged by 43.5%, reaching $4.73 billion. Development assistance climbed to $3.37 billion, and net acquisition of financial assets hit $12.12 billion on the back of a 106.5% jump in portfolio investments and an increase in local foreign currency holdings by $5.41 billion.

The apex bank said Nigeria’s external reserves increased by $6.0 billion, ending 2024 at $40.19 billion, and touted a 79.5% drop in net errors and omissions as evidence of improved transparency and better data management.

Deepening Doubt Over Official Data

In recent months, there has been growing skepticism over the data coming out of the Central Bank and other government agencies, with many accusing authorities of painting a misleading picture of Nigeria’s economic health.

Earlier this month, the CBN claimed that Nigeria’s Net Foreign Exchange Reserves (NFER) stood at $23.11 billion, sparking fresh debate among analysts. The declaration contradicted the 2023 FX report by the central bank, which stated that gross reserves were $37.09 billion in December 2022 and $40.52 billion in December 2021—figures that critics say ignore liabilities such as currency swaps, forwards, and debt obligations.

JPMorgan had in 2023, estimated the CBN’s actual net FX reserves to be just $3.7 billion as of the end of 2022. The apex bank dismissed JPMorgan’s assessment as inaccurate but failed to provide a comprehensive breakdown of its liabilities. The CBN governor said Nigeria’s foreign reserves rose to $39 billion in October 2024. These have deepened doubts about the CBN’s willingness to disclose the true state of the country’s reserves.

“Can the CBN also share with us their short and medium term foreign liabilities for: — swaps (cash calls with interest rollover) — forwards — debt obligations (in their payment schedule)?” asked economist Kelvin Emmanuel.

Concerns over credibility haven’t been limited to the CBN. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) came under heavy criticism last year after announcing plans to include the economic value of illegal activities such as drug trafficking and prostitution in GDP calculations. The move, which the NBS said was in line with international standards, was widely condemned as an attempt to artificially inflate Nigeria’s GDP amid economic stagnation and rising poverty.

Concerned Nigerians lament that the trend of questionable data practices appears to be deepening, with economic authorities increasingly focused on shaping narratives rather than confronting hard realities.

However, Cardoso has continued to project confidence, saying the rebound in Nigeria’s external balances reflects “effective policy implementation and the bank’s unwavering commitment to macroeconomic stability.”

But with trust in official figures waning, some say it’s going to take more than upbeat statements to restore confidence. Analysts and investors are demanding transparency – a full, public accounting of the central bank’s liabilities, forward contracts, and swap obligations—not just headline figures that obscure the depth of Nigeria’s economic challenges.

No hardware? No problem. Discover 7   Cloud Mining Sites Offering Free Daily Profits in 2025

By
TI Partners
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0

As the global energy crisis deepens and mining costs soar, the crypto world has responded with a fresh trend that’s capturing attention in 2025—free cloud mining. You heard it right. That is because the era has genuinely come. With these very great platforms and clever incentives, users can now mine popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Dogecoin without buying costly mining equipment or shelling out major bucks in pricey electricity bills.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crypto enthusiast, these 7 platforms stand out as the best places to mine BTC and DOGE for free this year. Let’s dive into them—especially Globepool and HashBeat, two leaders pushing the free mining frontier.

  1. Globepool – Mine Freely, Profit Globally

Globepool has emerged as one of the most exciting platforms in 2025 for free cloud mining. The Globepool was designed with your comfort in mind: here, you could instantly mine Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and Litecoin with no investments, no hardware, and no nasty hidden fees.

Profit-Driven Crypto Mining Plans at GlobePool 

Recommended Plan (Best Profit in Short Time) 

  • Plan: Bitcoin Miner S21 XP+ Hyd (500 TH/s)
  • Investment: $100,000
  • Contract Duration: 2 Days
  • Daily Rewards: $8,100.00
  • Total Earnings: $16,200.00

  • Beginner-Friendly Dashboard: Simple, modern UI that guides users through the process effortlessly. Each newcomer will get an attractive bonus of $15 as a welcome bonus.
  • Truly Free Mining: Begin with zero capital. Globepool offers free mining plans that reap regular rewards in the long run.
  • Clean Energy Powered: Globepool is special in the sense of possessing energy sources mostly as a result of the ongoing energy crisis.
  • Daily Withdrawals: Users can withdraw their mined crypto every day, with no fees on withdrawals.

How the GlobePool Affiliate Program Works

Acting as an affiliate marketer for GlobePool is a great way to recommend its services and earn commissions up to 15% at the same time. You may easily earn passive income Lucra from the referral of one or another among the best AI cloud mining services existing throughout the world, without any initial investment.

  • Get Your Referral Link: Guidance is simply applying for the Globepool affiliate program to be given a unique referral link.
  • Share Your Link: Promote your referral link through social media, blogs, websites, and online communities to grow the network.
  • Earn Passive Income: As your referrals join the platform, you will earn commissions of up to 5% for each successful sign-up and activity.

How GlobePool Optimizes Mining Profits

  1. AI-Powered Smart Mining

GlobePool leverages advanced AI technology to continuously analyze market trends and adjust mining strategies for maximum performance. This ensures consistent mining profits with minimal downtime.

  1. Global Mining Network

No matter where you are located on this planet, you will have the extensive global mining network of GlobePool behind you, fully powered by artificial intelligence to ensure optimal performance. This worldwide reach allows users to create their passive incomes without making any upfront costs.

  1. High Rewards & Instant Withdrawals

GlobePool pays competitively for mining, with instant payouts being an additional benefit. Payouts like this are, therefore, seamless, whereas the transparency of the payout system bred trust among miners worldwide.

  1. HashBeat – Cloud Mining with AI Precision & Lifetime Rewards

Hashbeat is a cloud mining platform that offers an easy gateway to cryptocurrency mining. With AI-optimized mining farms and a focus on renewable energy, Hashbeat offers competitive mining yields to its users. Its most notable feature is the $15 welcome bonus, which enables new users to start earning easily without a heavy upfront investment.

Choose the Perfect Plan for You

Recommended Plan: Higher returns with a substantial investment

 \Plan: BTC Cloud Mining Basic Plan

Investment: $4,200?

Contract Duration: 1 Day

Daily Rewards: $134.40?

Referral Rewards: $63.00

Maturity Value: $4,334.40?

Principal Refund: Yes?

 Unlock Passive Income with HashBeat’s Affiliate Program

  • High Commission Rates: Affiliates can earn up to a 5% commission on each successful referral, with no limits to potential earnings.
  • Lifetime Earnings: Enjoy continuous earnings as affiliates receive lifetime commissions whenever their referrals engage in mining activities.
  • Instant Crypto Payouts: You may instantaneously withdraw your earnings into Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other cryptocurrencies that are supported without waiting.
  • Transparent Reporting: Access real-time tracking of sign-ups and earnings through a user-friendly dashboard, ensuring full transparency.

Potential participants must simply sign up for free, receive a unique referral link, and share it in their respective networks. For details about an affiliate program, visit HashBeat’s Affiliate Program page. 

Why choose Hashbeat

AI-Powered Smart Mining: Mining application of artificial intelligence changes automatically according to market conditions to mine the most profitable coins, and intelligently allocates hash power to optimize revenues.

No Hardware, No Hassle: Start cloud mining in no time, sans any purchase or costly mining hardware maintenance. Thus, all costs are eliminated completely.

Withdraw Anytime, Anywhere: Enjoy instant 24/7 withdrawals with no hidden fees, directly transferring earnings to your crypto wallet for easy access.

Dedicated Support Around the Clock: Receive fast, friendly, and expert support anytime, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted mining operations.

  1. CryptoTab Browser

One of the most well-known passive mining tools, CryptoTab, turns your browser into a Bitcoin mining machine. Simply install the browser, use it as you normally would, and let it mine in the background. It’s not as fast as full cloud mining services, but it’s genuinely free and effortless.

  1. StormGain

StormGain offers free Bitcoin cloud mining via its mobile app. You don’t need to deposit anything to mine, and the process is gamified with a sleek user interface. You can withdraw mined BTC after trading a certain amount on the platform.

  1. NiceHash (Free Trial Credits)

While NiceHash primarily caters to professional miners, in 2025, they began offering free trial credits and promotions for new users, allowing brief access to mining capabilities without upfront costs.

  1. IceMining

IceMining provides small-scale free cloud mining options supported by ads. While the earnings are modest, users can upgrade via referrals or reinvest mined coins for better returns—perfect for long-term passive mining enthusiasts.

  1. UnMineable

UnMineable lets you mine altcoins like DOGE using your computer’s CPU or GPU. While it’s not completely cloud-based, it’s still free to use and well-optimized for those without mining hardware. Regarding Integrate.ai, it enables the extraction of coins that are typically not mined directly, converting your hash power into tokens like Shiba Inu, XRP, and more.

Final Thoughts

The crypto mining landscape in 2025 is evolving, and free mining platforms are leading the charge. Globepool offers a fully renewable, zero-cost entry point, while HashBeat stands out with AI-optimized strategies and long-term earning potential. Whether you’re here to experiment or build serious crypto wealth, these platforms provide a rare opportunity to mine without breaking the bank.

Globepool – Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Is Globepool free to use?

Yes, Globepool offers a 100% free cloud mining experience. You don’t need to invest in hardware, pay electricity bills, or even deposit funds to start. The platform provides a free mining plan that lets you earn Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and Litecoin over time—no strings attached.

How does Globepool make money if it offers free mining?

Globepool operates on a freemium model. While users can mine for free, the platform also offers optional paid upgrades and earns revenue through strategic partnerships and advertising. Plus, its focus on sustainable energy sources keeps operating costs low.

What makes Globepool different from other free mining sites?

Globepool stands out for three reasons:

  1. No hidden fees—you can withdraw daily without paying anything.
  2. Eco-friendly mining—it runs on renewable energy, making it more sustainable.
  3. Simple and reliable UI—great for beginners and casual miners.

How fast can I withdraw my earnings from Globepool?

Users can request withdrawals daily, and there are no withdrawal fees. The process is usually quick, with funds sent directly to your crypto wallet within hours, depending on the blockchain network speed.

Real User Reviews Speak Out

  1. User 1: Passive Dogecoin Earnings Without Investment

“I’ve tested a lot of so-called ‘free mining’ platforms, and most of them either lock your earnings or bombard you with ads. Globepool was different from day one. I signed up, activated the free Dogecoin mining plan, and let it run in the background. Within a few days, I saw my balance growing steadily. The best part? I made my first withdrawal after just five days—no fees, no delays.”

  1. User 2: First Time Miner Turned Crypto Believer

“Before Globepool, I had never mined crypto in my life. I was honestly skeptical that you could earn Bitcoin or Dogecoin without buying hardware or paying up front. But the platform proved me wrong. Their free mining plan was easy to activate, and I didn’t need to verify anything complicated or download bulky software.”

  1. User 3: Scalable Crypto Income for the Cautious Investor

“As someone who approaches crypto cautiously, I’m always looking for low-risk ways to participate. Globepool caught my attention because it’s truly zero-cost and low-commitment. I started with the free mining tier, and after two weeks, the results were consistent. I’ve since referred two colleagues, and that bonus alone gave my earnings a nice boost.”

  1. User 4: Student Making Daily Crypto from Globepool

“As a student, I don’t have money to invest in mining rigs or fancy staking platforms. A friend introduced me to Globepool, and I gave it a shot. In just one week, I’d mined enough Litecoin to test their withdrawal system—and it worked! The crypto landed in my wallet without any fees.”

MTN Group CEO Ralph Mupita Warns Trump’s Tariff War Could Disrupt Telecom Investment

By
Ojukwu Emmanuel
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0

CEO of MTN group Ralph Mupita, has expressed concerns that President Trump’s aggressive tariff and trade policies could significantly impact the telecommunications industry’s capital spending plans.

Speaking at a media event in Johannesburg, Mupita warned that escalating radio equipment costs, fueled by sustained tariffs, could send shockwaves through global supply chains, hitting operators in Africa and beyond.

He said,

“We anticipate that global growth will slow, and the tariffs, especially if they are sustained over a long period, will keep inflation more elevated than it would otherwise have been”. This inflationary pressure, he added, could increase the cost of critical telecommunications infrastructure, particularly radio equipment, forcing operators to reassess their pricing strategies to offset the financial strain.

Despite the looming uncertainty, Mupita expressed confidence in MTN’s ability to weather the storm, at least in the short term. “We’re largely shielded from supply chain shocks this year because our equipment deals are nearly locked in,” he said, crediting the company’s forward-thinking procurement.

This buffer buys MTN time as it expands connectivity to meet surging data demand. A cornerstone of MTN’s strategy is its reliance on cost-effective Chinese vendors, notably Huawei Technologies, for most of its radio equipment.

With an average revenue per user (ARPU) of just $5 miles below Europe’s $60-plus Mupita emphasized that affordability drives their choices. “We lean on cheaper Chinese kit over pricier options like Europe’s Ericsson,” he said, highlighting how this keeps MTN competitive in low-margin markets.

Mupita’s outlook underscores a dual reality for MTN: vulnerability to long-term cost hikes, but resilience through smart planning. For now, the telecom giant seems poised to ride out the tariff war’s early waves, though the broader industry braces for tougher times ahead.

His warning aligns with his broader vision for MTN, articulated through the company’s “Ambition 2025” strategy. Launched in 2021, the plan seeks to transform MTN from a traditional telecom provider into a diversified technology platform, with investments in fintech, digital services, and infrastructure.

Recall that Trump’s controversial tariff policies announced last week Wednesday, included a baseline 10% tariff on all imported goods to the US. With this new tariff battering markets and unsettling the global order, it has reportedly triggered retaliatory tariffs, stoked trade wars, and escalated recession odds.

Meanwhile, research by Afreximbank, the trade finance bank for Africa, has said that President Trump’s tariffs policies may have a limited direct impact on African economies, given the continent’s deepening trade ties with China. However, it noted that the indirect effects of ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions could pose significant risks to Africa’s commodity-dependent nations.

“Additionally, a weaker Chinese economy may force Beijing to scale back its overseas investments, including projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Many African countries depend on Chinese financing for critical infrastructure, and a reduction in funding could stall major projects, exacerbating fiscal strains in already debt-burdened economies,” it said.

Furthermore, Afreximbank research emphasized the urgent need for African nations to reduce their reliance on single trading partners and commodity exports. According to the organization, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a crucial opportunity to strengthen intra-African trade, diversify export portfolios, and build regional value chains.

Looking Ahead

Amidst calls for the reversal of Tariff policies, Trump has stated that he would not reverse tariffs on other nations unless the trade deficits that the United States runs with China, the European Union and other nations disappears. His comment therefore, indicates that the steep import taxes that have panicked global businesses and investors would be in place for the long run.

How DOTA 2 is Changing Its Prize Pools in 2025

By
TI Partners
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1

DOTA 2’s competitive landscape is transforming in 2025 as Valve overhauls its prize pool structure. This shift marks a departure from the decade-long crowdfunding model, aiming to create a more balanced and sustainable esports ecosystem. The International 2025, scheduled for September 4-14 in Hamburg, Germany, will feature a fixed prize pool set by Valve, moving away from the community-driven contributions that previously led to record-breaking rewards exceeding $40 million.

The new approach redistributes funds to support smaller tournaments and regional leagues, providing more consistent financial backing to teams and players throughout the year. This strategic change aims to alleviate the pressure associated with a single, high-stakes event and ensure a more equitable distribution of rewards across the competitive calendar.

Our evolved prize structure ensures every match matters, fostering a thriving DOTA 2 esports scene where teams can consistently showcase their skills and earn rewards.

The New Prize Pool Structure: A Balanced Approach

DOTA 2’s esports landscape is transforming in 2025 as Valve overhauls its prize pool structure. This shift departs from the decade-long crowdfunding model, creating a more balanced and sustainable ecosystem. The International 2025 will feature a fixed prize pool set by Valve, moving away from community-driven contributions that previously led to record-breaking rewards exceeding $40 million.

The new approach redistributes funds to support smaller tournaments and regional leagues, providing more consistent financial backing to teams and players throughout the year. This change aims to alleviate pressure associated with a single, high-stakes event and ensure equitable distribution of rewards across the competitive calendar.

Our evolved prize structure ensures every match matters, fostering a thriving DOTA 2 esports scene where teams can consistently showcase their skills and earn rewards.

The revised model allocates approximately 60% of total prize money to The International, with 40% distributed among regional leagues and majors. This strategy aims to provide a stable financial foundation for teams, potentially reducing roster volatility and fostering long-term growth. As the community adapts, DOTA 2 predictions from TipsGG may reflect the increased importance of year-round performance.

Impact on Team Managers and Players

DOTA 2’s prize pool restructuring in 2025 has team managers reevaluating their strategies. The changes offer increased stability but may reduce The International’s allure. Some embrace the opportunity to build sustainable rosters, focusing on long-term player development and consistent performance across events. Teams now face the challenge of navigating a complex competitive calendar, balancing resources between regional leagues and international tournaments. This shift demands a holistic approach to team management, emphasizing year-round performance.

The new structure makes us think beyond The International. It’s about building a team that excels consistently, not just peaking for one event. It’s challenging but could lead to a healthier ecosystem.

As teams adapt, DOTA 2 predictions from tips.gg may reflect the increased importance of year-round performance. The true impact on team dynamics and player careers remains to be seen, promising an intriguing evolution of the competitive scene.

The International 2025: Still the Crown Jewel

The International 2025 remains the pinnacle of DOTA 2 competition, despite significant prize pool restructuring. Set for September 4-14 at Hamburg’s Barclays Arena, this prestigious event continues to captivate the esports world. While monetary rewards have been adjusted, the tournament’s allure lies in its unparalleled prestige and fierce competition.

TI 2025 introduces a revolutionary Swiss-style Group Stage and Special Elimination Round, promising a more dynamic format. These changes reshape team strategies, demanding adaptability and consistency. Each match now carries increased significance, potentially altering the tournament’s trajectory and influencing DOTA 2 predictions from tips.gg.

The new format elevates every game’s importance, challenging teams to maintain peak performance from day one. It’s a true test of skill, strategy, and endurance, reflecting the evolving competitive landscape.

Hamburg’s selection as host city echoes the inaugural International held in Germany, adding a touch of nostalgia. This European setting offers a unique backdrop for the world’s elite DOTA 2 teams to clash, promising an unforgettable spectacle for fans both in the arena and watching globally. The event’s return to German soil symbolizes DOTA 2’s growth and the continuing evolution of its premier tournament.

Looking Ahead: The Future of DOTA 2 Esports

DOTA 2’s 2025 prize pool restructuring aims to reshape its competitive landscape. Teams may prioritize consistent performance across multiple events, potentially leading to more stable rosters and sustained player development. This shift could foster a diverse talent pool as smaller tournaments gain prominence. Player careers might see extended longevity, with reduced pressure to peak solely for The International. The evolution may inspire other esports to adopt similar models, balancing marquee events with year-round engagement. As the ecosystem adapts, innovative team strategies and a renaissance in regional competitions could emerge. DOTA 2 predictions from tips.gg may reflect these changes, emphasizing year-round performance in a new era of esports sustainability.

 

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