SINGAPORE, Oct. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Worldwide Stablecoin Payment Network (“WSPN”), a leading digital payments and the issuer of Worldwide USD (“WUSD”), today announced the appointment of Austin Campbell as CEO of WSPN US. Mr. Campbell brings extensive experience in stablecoin markets and digital asset strategy to his new role, including running stable value products at JPM and Citi, managing reserves and risk for the Paxos stablecoins (BUSD, USDP), and having helped to design PYUSD. This appointment signals WSPN’s commitment to building first class financial products and revolutionizing the world of payments with its “Stablecoin 2.0” vision to deliver faster, cheaper, and safer transactions for all.

Building on his significant contributions as Head of Strategy, where he was instrumental in shaping WSPN’s strategic roadmap and identifying new market opportunities for WUSD, Mr. Campbell will now lead the effort in bringing this vision to the US market and beyond. His primary focus will be on:

• Driving the adoption of WUSD: Leveraging his deep understanding of the stablecoin ecosystem, Mr. Campbell will lead initiatives to establish WUSD as a leading solution for businesses globally.
• Leading treasury and risk management: Mr. Campbell will leverage his expertise to ensure the stability and security of WUSD, building trust and confidence among users and partners on a global scale.
• Building a world-class user experience: Mr. Campbell will oversee the development of user-friendly products and services that simplify the use of stablecoins for everyday transactions, regardless of location.
• Fostering strategic partnerships: Mr. Campbell will cultivate relationships with key players in the financial and technology sectors worldwide to expand WUSD’s reach and impact.

“I am incredibly excited to become the CEO of WSPN US,” said Mr. Campbell. “Stablecoins are key to improving the global financial system. We intend to build the best products for consumers and end users, creating a fair system where people control their own money and have global access to dollars. Our goal is to bring world-class user experience to stablecoins, where many users making payments in dollars won’t even have to think about the fact that they’re using blockchain technology. With WSPN, we’re committed to building a better economic model that fosters a virtuous cycle of adoption, benefiting the entire ecosystem.”

Prior to joining WSPN, Mr. Campbell was the founder and managing partner at Zero Knowledge Consulting, advising on market structure and risk management within the crypto ecosystem. Additionally, he is also an adjunct professor at New York University Stern School of Business, educating the next generation of Web3 leaders. His previous experience, including Paxos, Citi, and JP Morgan, coupled with his thought leadership in stablecoin mechanics, uniquely positions him to lead WSPN US towards a future powered by accessible and equitable financial solutions.

“Austin’s expertise and vision have been instrumental in shaping WSPN’s strategic direction,” said Raymond Yuan, Founder and CEO of WSPN. “We are confident that under his leadership, WSPN US will play a crucial role in driving the mass adoption of stablecoins and transforming the financial landscape for the better.”

****END****

About WSPN

WSPN is a leading provider of next-generation stablecoin infrastructure, committed to building a more secure, efficient, and transparent payment solution for the global economy. Their flagship product, WUSD stablecoin, is pegged 1:1 to the U.S. Dollar and aims to optimize secure digital payments for Web3 users.  WSPN ‘s Stablecoin 2.0 approach prioritizes user-centricity, community governance, and accessibility, paving the way for widespread stablecoin adoption.

Learn more: www.wspn.io | X | LinkedIn

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LOS ANGELES, Oct. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Yesterday, in Los Angeles, Lightspark hosted its first Partner Summit—Lightspark Sync.

Lightspark announced:

• Two new foundational capabilities for UMA – UMA Auth and UMA Request
• One Lightspark product update – Lightspark Extend for UMA
• Spark: A new open-source Bitcoin Layer 2, Lightning-compatible solution for stablecoins and self-custodial wallets

Lightspark is building the fastest global open payment network on Bitcoin. Their products simplify, streamline, and modernize the flow of global payments, whether using fiat currencies, stablecoins, or bitcoin.

Exciting updates for the Universal Money Address (UMA). UMA is an open-source messaging standard built on LNURL. Think of it as email but for money. It’s a solution that enables transactions in fiat currency, stablecoin, or form of value that any human, business, or AI agent needs to move or exchange in real-time.

By the end of 2024, Lightspark estimates their partners will unlock UMA for nearly 300 million customers in 140 countries and 100 currencies.

UMA Auth is like OAuth for money. For businesses, it’s an exciting new extension integrating payments directly into applications and services.

It’s an open standard built on Nostr Wallet Connect that enables UMA-enabled wallets to delegate the push and pull of money with limits set by the user. For businesses, it’s an exciting new extension integrating payments directly into applications and services.

Even in today’s digital economy, payments on commerce platforms, content services, and messaging applications are challenging. Payment integrations can be complicated, taking up valuable development time and resources that can be used elsewhere. High transaction fees can eat into profits, and slow settlement times frustrate users and create risk. International payments add another level of complexity. These problems have been holding businesses back for far too long. UMA Auth solves many of these problems while providing users with easy linking to their existing financial apps and wallets.

At its core, UMA Auth is a two-way connection between platforms and their users’ UMA-enabled wallets.  It takes the great features of OAuth and applies them to the world of UMA payments, making secure authorization easier. Now, users can log in to their wallets and authorize UMA payments using familiar set-up experiences. Users can control what applications can access their wallets, specify permitted actions, and set spending limits for each application.  The potential use cases are far-reaching – UMA Auth enables bank accounts or wallets to be connected to messaging and email apps; for example, users can make payments to content creators (no matter where they are) with live tipping or recurring payments and subscriptions. Like Oauth, UMA Auth does not require platform partners to be in the flow of funds but, instead provides a seamless payment experience for users with the UMA-enabled wallet of their choice.

UMA Auth is built using Nostr Wallet Connect, a secure, open protocol that’s gained significant traction in the Nostr and Lightning communities and simplifies connecting wallets to apps. Lightspark worked with the Nostr community and the team at Alby to build on the protocol, extending Nostr Wallet Connect to support UMA features. Some new key enhancements Lightspark has proposed are cross-currency support and client app registration.

UMA Auth brings a new level of innovation to Lightning, making payments more open, interoperable, and user-friendly. It’s a big step forward in building a payment ecosystem that puts users first and opens up many possibilities for peer-to-peer transactions. Lightspark released SDKs that make it incredibly easy for businesses to integrate UMA Auth into their applications.

UMA Request. Built for UMA, this will allow any business or UMA-enabled wallet to request a payment from another wallet on the network. UMA invoices and payment requests will transform transactions for both businesses and individuals. Merchants or service providers can now quickly request customer payments by creating a one-time invoice for a product or service. This invoice can be paid multiple times, making it incredibly flexible for the business and the end users. One of the standout features of this system is that it provides proof of payment, ensuring that both parties have a clear record of the transaction. UMA Request is versatile enough to handle a variety of use cases. Whether requesting payments from friends for a shared expense, managing merchant checkouts, or handling bills from service providers, UMA Request provides a simple and effective way to facilitate transactions across different scenarios.

Lightspark Extend This is a significant step forward, enabling Lightning payouts to bank accounts over domestic payment rails. It reduces transaction times and costs and simplifies payments. Companies can pay out users at their preferred endpoints with instant, seamless fiat currency transfers from local bank accounts to any eligible account in the user’s chosen currency. In the United States, users can instantly receive USD from a Real-Time Payments-enabled local bank account. Lightspark Extend for the US and Mexico will be available by the end of the year, and Brazil will quickly follow. Lightspark Extend offers competitive pricing and unparalleled efficiency for businesses and individuals to send payments, ensuring that moving funds is faster and more cost-effective than ever.

INTRODUCING SPARK –
A SOLUTION FOR STABLECOINS AND SELF-CUSTODY ON BITCOIN
Lightspark believes the future of payments must be on the most open, neutral, and decentralized network and should also enable all use cases – from non-custodial wallets to stablecoins. Spark is a new, payments-focused, high-performance, open-source, scaleable Bitcoin Layer 2. It extends Bitcoin and Lightning and enables self-custodial wallets to send and receive real-time payments at virtually no cost. Spark also supports tokens such as stablecoins, making it the most comprehensive open payment network built on Bitcoin.

Lightspark is committed to powering a new generation of payment solutions. Their products are built with regulated financial service firms in mind. They offer tools for direct, secure messaging between payment counterparties so that their partners can support a range of customer payment experiences and address risk management, AML/CFT, sanctions, travel rules, and other requirements.

Media Contact
press@lightspark.com

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Blockchain intelligence firm Arkham Intelligence reported that $20 million worth of cryptocurrency was unexpectedly transferred from U.S. government-linked wallets. While security experts scrambled to assess the situation, the funds were largely returned within 24 hours, prompting critical questions about the security protocols around the U.S. government’s crypto holdings. This rapid recovery, though positive on the surface, underscores both the risks and vulnerabilities inherent in handling crypto assets tied to criminal investigations.

The Unusual Transfer: How It Happened

The incident began when Arkham Intelligence flagged a suspicious $20 million transfer originating from government-associated wallets. The funds, mainly in stablecoins and ether, were moved to addresses linked to a well-known money laundering service, according to Arkham’s initial report. This unusual transfer raised immediate concerns within the crypto community and left analysts questioning the security measures of official U.S. wallets.

The source of these funds traces back to high-profile criminal cases, including assets tied to the notorious Bitfinex hackers, Ilya Lichtenstein and Heather Morgan. As these assets were securely stored by the U.S. government for legal proceedings, the unexpected movement not only triggered alarm but also speculation over the robustness of security protocols within federal digital asset storage.

Rapid Recovery: $19.3 Million Returned in 24 Hours

In a surprising turn of events, Arkham Intelligence updated its followers less than 24 hours after the breach, stating that $19.3 million of the compromised funds had been recovered. According to the firm’s report, roughly 88% of the stolen funds returned to government-controlled wallets without any public explanation. Arkham communicated the recovery news to its 1.6 million followers on X, stating, “The U.S. government’s address has just received $19.3M back following yesterday’s reported hack, less than 24 hours after the initial address breach.”

While the rapid recovery of these assets might appear reassuring, it raises deeper questions about the security of government-managed crypto holdings and the ease with which assets can be moved or compromised. Many analysts and onchain detectives, including Ergo BTC, noted inconsistencies with the government’s wallet security, fueling speculation about potential oversights in custodial practices.

Security Concerns: The Public Demands Transparency

The swift but unexplained return of most of the funds does little to assuage the public’s growing concerns. Although $19.3 million was recovered, the incident has highlighted vulnerabilities that may exist even in federally controlled digital storage solutions. For onchain analysts and security experts, this breach serves as a reminder of the challenges in securing crypto assets in high-stakes criminal cases, where transparency and integrity are paramount.

The public has become increasingly aware of the security risks around federal wallet addresses, especially following similar incidents involving other government-related accounts. Notably, this event draws parallels to a recent situation where the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) X account was compromised, exposing broader issues in digital security. As stakeholders and the public closely monitor these developments, theories and questions regarding the security of state-controlled digital assets continue to swirl.

The Future of Federal Crypto Security

The U.S. government’s handling of cryptocurrency remains in the spotlight, with pressure mounting to improve security and transparency. This recent breach and subsequent recovery of seized funds underscore the need for secure and reliable protocols in managing high-profile digital assets. As the adoption of cryptocurrency grows, both within and outside government operations, the stakes for securing these assets have never been higher.

In the face of rapid technological advancement, federal agencies may need to overhaul their approach to crypto storage, taking cues from best practices in the private sector. Advanced encryption methods, improved custodial practices, and independent security audits could help prevent future incidents and reinforce public confidence in the government’s ability to manage seized digital assets.

A Pivotal Moment for Crypto Security

Ultimately, the $20 million crypto breach—and the government’s ability to recover most of it within a day—demonstrates the complexity of digital asset management in a landscape that is still evolving. This incident serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the delicate balance between accessibility and security in the government’s handling of cryptocurrency. As analysts continue to scrutinize these events, the focus remains on ensuring that such breaches do not occur again, and that government wallets become more secure and resilient against unauthorized transfers.

While the swift recovery may reassure some, it also serves as a critical reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in safeguarding digital assets.

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Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN), one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the Canadian Football League (CFL), becoming the league’s first official crypto partner. This collaboration signals Coinbase’s strategic expansion into Canada’s growing crypto market and positions the platform in front of CFL’s loyal fanbase, an opportunity Coinbase aims to capitalize on with exciting offers and crypto incentives.

A Milestone for Coinbase and the CFL

The partnership between Coinbase and the CFL represents a significant step forward for cryptocurrency adoption in Canada. Coinbase will have a major presence at the 111th Grey Cup in Vancouver, including sponsorship of the event’s opening coin toss. This visibility introduces crypto to a broader audience and highlights Coinbase’s commitment to engaging Canadian football fans. Approximately five million Canadians, or about 13% of the population, currently hold cryptocurrency, making Canada a valuable market for Coinbase’s international growth.

Coinbase’s sponsorship of the Grey Cup also includes special promotions and rewards exclusively for CFL fans, aiming to bridge the gap between Canadian football and digital finance. By integrating into this cherished Canadian event, Coinbase can connect with fans who may be new to cryptocurrency, opening a door for first-time users and potential long-term customers.

Incentives for CFL Fans

Coinbase’s CFL partnership brings enticing incentives to encourage fan participation in cryptocurrency. New users who register on the Coinbase platform and complete their first trade will receive a bonus of $25 in Bitcoin. Additionally, CFL fans attending live games can scan QR codes in the stadiums to win prizes like season tickets and Bitcoin rewards. One grand prize winner will receive $50,000 in Bitcoin and an all-expenses-paid trip to the 112th Grey Cup in Winnipeg.

These incentives mark a creative approach to driving crypto engagement within a new user base. Coinbase aims to not only increase its presence in Canada but also to inspire confidence in using crypto as a medium of exchange and investment. The appeal of Bitcoin prizes and access to exclusive events adds an interactive dimension to the fan experience, blending sports enthusiasm with digital finance.

Building on Recent Milestones in Canada

Coinbase’s rapid expansion in Canada underscores the company’s confidence in the Canadian market. Officially launched in Canada in 2023, Coinbase became the first international crypto exchange to register as a Restricted Dealer in the country. This regulatory milestone allows Coinbase to operate securely and transparently, building trust among Canadian users. With its sights set on further registrations with Canadian financial regulators, Coinbase continues to reinforce its position as a reputable and secure platform in the region.

The partnership with the CFL aligns with Coinbase’s mission to make crypto accessible and understandable for all, especially in emerging markets like Canada. By associating itself with the CFL, a well-established Canadian institution, Coinbase strengthens its brand while potentially driving mass adoption of crypto.

The Future of Crypto in Canadian Sports

Coinbase’s collaboration with the CFL could be a trendsetter, potentially influencing other Canadian sports leagues and franchises to consider crypto partnerships. As Canada’s regulatory environment around cryptocurrency continues to evolve, Coinbase is positioning itself at the forefront of this shift, providing CFL fans a trusted platform for exploring digital assets.

For the CFL, this partnership with a leading global brand like Coinbase showcases the league’s adaptability and readiness to embrace innovation. This move not only modernizes the fan experience but also integrates financial technology in a way that may appeal to younger audiences. As crypto awareness grows in Canada, Coinbase and the CFL’s joint efforts may lead to a more crypto-savvy Canadian population.

In Conclusion

Coinbase’s role as the official crypto partner of the CFL is a win for both the exchange and Canadian football fans. Through strategic incentives, brand presence at the Grey Cup, and a shared vision for crypto adoption, Coinbase and the CFL are helping to pave the way for broader acceptance of digital finance in Canada. This partnership could redefine fan engagement, providing Canadian sports enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the world of cryptocurrency, one Bitcoin prize at a time.

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HONG KONG, Oct. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — CoinEx, a global cryptocurrency exchange dedicated to putting users first, will officially launch its Italian and Polish language platforms on October 24. This strategic step underscores CoinEx’s commitment to expanding its presence in these fast-growing markets, offering a secure trading environment, a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, rapid coin listings, and a diverse range of trading tools to meet user needs.

Both Italy and Poland hold immense growth potential in the cryptocurrency space. Italian and Polish users are increasingly seeking platforms that provide accessibility, reliability, and strong community engagement. In response, CoinEx will focus on building local communities, strengthening partnerships, and participating in key events to deepen its local footprint in both countries.

In Poland, CoinEx has already made its mark as a golden sponsor of Cryptosphere and through participation in Web3 Student Expo x PlanetaNFT. CoinEx is also preparing for its 7th-anniversary meetup in Warsaw. In Italy, CoinEx will run engaging activities on Telegram and other social media channels to keep users connected and rewarded. Italian and Polish users will also enjoy exclusive benefits, including social media campaigns, newcomer promotions, trading competitions, and special events on CoinEx Brand Day.

Additionally, the Italian and Polish websites will feature CoinEx Insight for market analysis and CoinEx Academy for crypto market education. Official Italian and Polish websites will offer localized support, urging users to connect via social media and Telegram.

Official Website in Poland: https://www.coinex.com/pl
Official Website in Italy: https://www.coinex.com/it
Polish Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coinexpolska
Polish X: https://x.com/CoinExPolska
Polish Telegram: https://t.me/CoinEx_Polska
Italian Telegram: https://t.me/coinex_italian
Italian X: https://x.com/CoinEx_Italian

About CoinEx

Established in 2017, CoinEx is a global cryptocurrency exchange committed to making trading easier. The platform provides a range of services, including spot and futures trading, margin trading, swaps, automated market makers (AMM), and financial management services for over 10 million users across 200+ countries and regions. Since its establishment, CoinEx has steadfastly adhered to a “user-first” service principle. With the sincere intention of nurturing an equitable, respectful, and secure crypto trading environment, CoinEx enables individuals with varying levels of experience to effortlessly access the world of cryptocurrency by offering easy-to-use products.

To learn more about CoinEx, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram  | YouTube

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/coinex-expands-global-reach-with-italian-and-polish-language-launches-302286841.html

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