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The Hashgraph Association and Taurus partner for tokenization

The Hashgraph Association and Taurus partner for tokenization

The Hashgraph Association (THA), a Swiss innovation leader at the forefront of empowering a digital future for all, and Taurus, a digital asset infrastructure provider, have partnered to drive global adoption of Hedera’s distributed ledger technology (DLT) with a focus on fast-growing regions. The collaboration will enable the integration of HBAR, Hedera’s native cryptocurrency, and the Hedera Token Service (HTS) – an API that enables the configuration, minting, and management of fungible and non-fungible tokens on the Hedera Network, into Taurus’s platform.

In close partnership with The Hashgraph Association, the full integration enables secure custody, staking, and asset tokenization for regulated financial institutions and provides them access to Hedera’s fast, secure, and sustainable distributed ledger technology. Taurus’s state-of-the-art technology stack, which specializes in custody, tokenization, and node infrastructure, will allow banks and other financial institutions to securely custody and stake HBAR and issue Hedera-based tokenised assets while meeting regulatory and stringent security standards.

Beyond the technical integration, this strategic collaboration between The Hashgraph Association and Taurus aims to catalyze growth and expand institutional adoption of Hedera’s decentralized enterprise-grade solutions across the financial and banking industry globally, primarily targeting Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Hedera leverages its unique Hashgraph consensus algorithm to achieve unmatched speed, security, and scalability. Its low, predictable fees, and carbon-negative footprint make it ideal for enterprise applications ranging from decentralized finance to sustainability solutions to supply chain management. Governed by the 32-member Hedera Governing Council, which includes some of the world’s leading organizations including Boeing, Dell, Google, IBM, LG, Standard Bank, Hitachi, and TATA, Hedera offers a trusted and robust quantum-resistant infrastructure for businesses and institutions.

Kamal Youssefi, President of The Hashgraph Association, stated, “Taurus is a world-class, secure platform for digital asset management. With increasingly positive market sentiment and a more established regulatory landscape, demand for institutional-grade custody and tokenisation has ramped up of late. It is a great pleasure to work with the Taurus team to integrate Hedera and enable new opportunities in secure digital assets.”

Lamine Brahimi, Taurus Co-Founder and Managing Partner, added, “Adding HBAR to our platform reflects our commitment to supporting the world’s most advanced blockchain and distributed ledger technologies. We are excited to work with The Hashgraph Association to provide institutional clients with the tools they need to securely store and issue HBAR, while contributing to the wider adoption of its ecosystem.”

Saudi SpaceBelt awards SpaceChain for low earth orbit satellite encryption

Saudi SpaceBelt awards SpaceChain for low earth orbit satellite encryption

Saudi Arabian Space Belt Telecom Services, a privately owned entity in KSA, has awarded SpaceChain, a pioneering leader in space-as-a-service technologies, a transformative contract to spearhead the development, construction, and mission management of SpaceBelt Telecom Services’ patented technology platform, enabling the world’s first Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite capable of generating in-orbit encryption keys and distributing them via existing LEO constellations to ground-based equipment.

This mission is slated to be the first of a larger constellation to progress SpaceBelt’s investment in data storage and earth observation imagery. This collaboration marks a significant advancement in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s in-orbit distributed transactional capabilities and showcases the nation’s commitment to driving innovation within the global space economy.

Leveraging its proven expertise in satellite technology and infrastructure development, SpaceChain will lead the end-to-end satellite construction and mission management, setting a new standard for space-based secure communication and data services.

Cliff Beek, CEO of SpaceChain, stated, “We are honored to partner with SpaceBelt Telecom Services in this transformative venture. This mission not only highlights the Kingdom’s growing role in the space sector but also demonstrates the potential of space technologies to deliver secure, scalable solutions for enterprises and governments worldwide.”

A spokesperson for SpaceBelt Telecom Services Co. KSA stated, “Partnering with SpaceChain allows us to contribute to the Kingdom’s 2030 vision. We are thrilled to bring this capability to the Kingdom, aiming to advance space-based data services and secure communications and positioning SpaceBelt Telecom Services as a leader in the evolving global space economy”

The satellite project will revolutionize secure communications, enable space-data storage, and support advanced satellite services. This contract strengthens SpaceChain’s leadership in satellite technology and mission management, reaffirming its commitment to space innovation.

This mission is the first in a planned constellation, and aims to launch in June 2025. More importantly, the mission advances Saudi Arabia’s space innovation and aligns with the Kingdom’s 2030 vision.

Leveraging its expertise, SpaceChain will lead the software design and end-to-end mission management, setting a new benchmark for space-based technologies.
In 2025, SpaceChain aims to pursue our niche market position by developing secure payment platforms within uncharted territories and transforming challenges into opportunities. The company intends to accelerate Space Commercialization: Expand payment applications across satellite networks and services to drive the adoption of decentralized fintech solutions.

In addition it will develop AI-powered applications for space data analysis, ensuring our clients stay ahead in decision-making, as well as launch education and outreach programs to inspire the next generation of innovators in blockchain and space exploration.

Another tokenization platform enters UAE, New Earth is in RAK

Another tokenization platform enters UAE, New Earth is in RAK

After last week’s swirl of tokenization news across the UAE, New Earth Labs has established their company in RAK Digital Assets Oasis. in the UAE. As per their announcement, this step is an important part of their mission to blend sustainability with blockchain innovation.

New Earth Labs has a mission to empower industries to raise capital and mobilize resources for climate smart infrastructure projects. Using tokenization of Real World Asset, the company wants to create wealth through fractional ownership. Their platform brings opportunities in the agriculture, renewable energy, and entertainment among other industries.

Additionally in terms of technology, their platform is powered by NewR Protocol which creates treasuries, facilitates seamless value transfer, and implements governance for communities around tokenized assets.

The UAE is witnessing an influx when it comes to tokenization platforms. Last week TokinVest received its license from VARA, and one of the biggest conglomerates in the UAE, DAMAC signed a $1 billion tokenization project with Mantra Blockchain.

Further more, Hamilton just raised $1.7 million for their tokenization platform.

The tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs) is set to reach unprecedented heights in 2025, with predictions suggesting that the market could surpass $500 billion, excluding stablecoins. Real estate alone provides over $30 billion in value, demonstrating savings through tokenizing HELOCs, alternative financing, collateralized loans, on-chain title, funds, and more.

Mckinsey report that $2 trillion of tokenized securities by 2030.

On January 21st 2025, Fasanara Capital Ltd (“Fasanara”), a London-based institutional investment manager and global leader in digital finance with over $4 billion in assets under management, launched its first tokenized Money Market Fund, the “Fasanara MMF Token” (“FAST”), held on the Polygon PoS (Proof of Stake) public blockchain. Developed in collaboration with Apex Group, Tokeny, Chainlink, Fireblocks, and XBTO, FAST offers investors a faster, more cost-effective, and transparent way to access money market investments.

Hacken joins Qatar’s digital assets lab for blockchain security

Hacken joins Qatar’s digital assets lab for blockchain security

Hacken, the Blockchain Security Auditor has announced that it has joined the Qatar Financial Authority Digital Assets Lab as a partner.


Founded in 2017, Hacken offers comprehensive security services, including smart contract audits, penetration testing, bug bounty programs, and post-deployment monitoring, combining expertise and battle-tested methodologies to protect Web3 projects globally.

As per the Linkedin post, ” This forward-thinking initiative is shaping the future of digital assets and DLT by fostering innovation and collaboration. Hacken is contributing with our expertise in smart contract & protocol security, post-deployment monitoring & bug bounties and cybersecurity tailored for regulated frameworks.”

Hacken adds in their post that they are working to drive safer, innovative solutions in the digital asset space.

Qatar Digital Assets Labs partners with various entities in Blockchain arena

Singaporean Blockchain fintech company DMZ Finance was also chosen by Qatar QFC Digital Assets Lab, and also is working with partners that include R3, The Hashgraph Association, Taurus and SettleMint among others.

Hacken also partnered in 2024 with UAE ADGM

In April 2024, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and Hacken, also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaboratively set new benchmarks for blockchain security and compliance. Under the MoU, ADGM’s Registration Authority (RA) would collaborate with Hacken on developing security standards and on-chain monitoring solutions in relation to ADGM’s DLT Foundations framework, positioning both organizations at the forefront of fostering a secure blockchain ecosystem.

Later on Hacken forged a strategic alliance with Klumi Ventures, recently regulated Web3 venture capital firm based in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). As per the press release the partnership would establish new benchmarks in blockchain security and compliance, capitalizing on the formidable security expertise of Hacken and the financial licensing of Klumi Ventures in UAE.

Manbat and Sharjah Commerce and Tourism to build blockchain platform for carbon credits

Manbat and Sharjah Commerce and Tourism to build blockchain platform for carbon credits

Founded in 2021, Manbat, a partnership between Arada and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment that aims to celebrate and promote the very best of the UAE’s healthy, home-grown produce will be using blockchain to develop UAE’s first carbon credit system in the agriculture sector.

Manbat launched the farmers’ markets in Aljada which takes place every weekend. Today it has partnered with Sharjah Tourism, paving the way for a stronger connection between local Emirati farmers and the wider community.

As per the announcement, this collaboration focuses on championing sustainability by addressing food waste recovery and reducing carbon emissions within the tourism sector.

As per their post on LinkedIn, “We are proud to be part of a game-changing initiative alongside Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, Sea Going Green, and American University of Sharjah. Together, we are taking sustainability to new heights with a focus on food waste recovery, compost production, and empowering UAE farmers to embrace ecofriendly practices. This project uses cutting-edge blockchain technology to develop the UAE’s first carbon credit system, creating a sustainable future for generations to come.”

The first phase of the project will be carried out a Sara Farm, which utilizes decomposition and recycling methods.

In 2023 Blockchain tokenization platform ACX (AirCarbon Exchange) went live with key trades executed and settled on the platform with First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) and Helix Climate conduct first trade on the exchange and South Pole executes first over-the-counter transaction on Carbon Market Board

Hamilton founded by Egyptian entrepreneurs raises $1.7 million for tokenization platform built on Bitcoin

Hamilton founded by Egyptian entrepreneurs raises $1.7 million for tokenization platform built on Bitcoin

Hamilton, a Real-World Assets (RWA) protocol built on Bitcoin, redefining access to traditional financial instruments like U.S. Treasuries, real estate, and funds by turning them into secure, accessible digital assets a protocol has closed a $1.7M pre-seed funding round led by DisrupTech Ventures.

With participation from CMS, DeSpread, Hyperithm, Core Ventures, and other strategic investors, it is bridging traditional finance with Bitcoin by making tokenized real-world assets—such as T-Bills, Sukuk, and real estate—accessible to institutions and individuals worldwide.

Hamilton is co-founded by Egyptian nationals, Mohamed Elkasstawi and Ehab Zaghloul, seasoned blockchain and fintech innovators.

Hamilton, leverages Bitcoin’s unmatched security and decentralization to tokenize real-world assets. With the RWA market projected to reach $30 trillion by 2030, Hamilton is creating a protocol to make financial products globally accessible and inclusive, with a strong focus on emerging markets.

“Bitcoin isn’t just digital gold—it’s the foundational layer of future capital markets,” said Mohamed Elkasstawi, CEO of Hamilton. “With unparalleled security, decentralization, and resilience, Bitcoin provides the ideal infrastructure to democratize access to capital markets for everyone, everywhere.”

Hamilton tackles systemic barriers to financial access by offering low-cost, stable financial products—managed by top asset managers—for emerging markets, where currency devaluation and economic instability restrict growth and financial security.

The company is launching three flagship offerings: HUSD, the first Bitcoin-native stablecoin backed by U.S. Treasury bills; HUST, tokenized U.S. Treasuries; and Publius, a platform enabling financial institutions to securely tokenize any asset on Bitcoin. Together, these offerings provide institutions and individuals with seamless access to capital markets on the world’s most decentralized network.

The protocol’s inaugural transaction, completed on July 4, 2024, marked a significant milestone by tokenizing U.S. Treasury bills on Bitcoin Layer 2 solutions Stacks, Core, and BoB. The timing, coinciding with America’s Independence Day, reflects Hamilton’s vision of advancing financial independence and innovation through decentralized finance (DeFi).

Speaking to Lara on the Block, El Kasstawi stated, ” Tokenization will unlock liquidity which is not only global need but also a bigger one in the MENA region. I would never trust real world assets on a ledger that’s not immutable and never had a down time. That’s why we chose to tokenize on Bitcoin and we are the first to do so.”

“Investments in gold, Treasury bills, and fixed income products have traditionally been exclusive to individuals and institutions with millions in capital. Hamilton is breaking down these barriers through tokenization, enabling anyone, anywhere in the world, to participate in these institutional-grade investments with just one dollar,” said Malek Sultan, Co-Founder and Partner of DisrupTech Ventures.

Tokenization in the region has become a center of investment and deals, with the latest being DAMAC’s $1 billion tokenization of its assets.

In July 2024 Hamilton launched tokenized United States Treasury bonds on Bitcoin layer-2 blockchains. The company claimed the launch is the first of its kind. Hamilton U.S. T-Bills (HUST) were said to be available on the Stacks, Core and BoB (Build on Bitcoin) Bitcoin layer-2 solutions. The first transaction with HUST occurred on July 4th 2024.

AI decentralized network Allora and stc Bahrain to advance AI

AI decentralized network Allora and stc Bahrain to advance AI

Allora Network, an AI decentralized network has collaborated with stc Bahrain, a world-class digital enabler, through its Web3 Launchpad Program under the Pearling Path initiative.

As per the blog, the collaboration highlights Allora’s commitment to partnering with leading innovators like stc Bahrain to advance decentralized AI, fostering innovation and growth across the GCC region and beyond.

As part of this collaboration, stc Bahrain will join the Allora Network as a validator node, contributing to the network’s security, reliability, and consensus. By joining the Allora Network as a validator node, stc Bahrain takes on a critical role in bolstering network security and maintaining consensus. This collaboration reflects stc Bahrain’s commitment to harnessing the transformative capabilities of decentralized AI, powered by Allora’s advancements in crowdsourced intelligence, reinforcement learning, and regret minimization.

Allora powers innovative, secure, and decentralized applications, driving cutting-edge protocols and unlocking new use cases for advanced solutions.

Mr. Saad Odeh, Chief Wholesale Officer at stc Bahrain, commented, “At stc Bahrain, we are dedicated to embracing emerging technologies that redefine industries and contribute to Bahrain’s Vision 2030 goals. Allora Network’s cutting-edge AI capabilities are a valuable addition to our Web3 Launchpad Program, further cementing Bahrain’s position as a hub for innovation and digital transformation.”

Nick Emmons, Co-Founder and CEO of Allora Labs, added, “We are thrilled to partner with stc Bahrain under the Web3 Launchpad Program. Their role as a validator node directly strengthens the security, consensus, and reliability of the Allora Network, which is essential for fostering trust and driving growth in decentralized infrastructure. Together, we strive to advance blockchain technology and explore AI innovations within and beyond telecommunications.”

Allora blog notes, “As the Web3 and AI ecosystems continue to expand, our collaboration with stc Bahrain strengthens the foundation for a robust, innovative, and decentralized digital economy. By working together to foster a collaborative environment for emerging technologies, we are proud to contribute to Bahrain’s Vision 2030 program, advancing progress toward a more innovative and sustainable future.”

Morocco’s Central Bank forms the Morocco Fintech Center

Morocco’s Central Bank forms the Morocco Fintech Center

The Central Bank of Morocco, better known as Bank Al Maghrib has formed the Morocco Fintech Center (MFC). It includes governmental entities, private sector entities as founding members. The Center was founded during a general meeting on January 15th 2025 at the headquarters of Bank Al Maghrib.

The founding members of the Morocco Fintech Center (MFC), include Ministry of Economy and Finance, represented by Mrs. Nadia Fettah Alaoui; Ministry of Digital Transformation and Administration Reform, represented by Mrs. Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni; Bank Al-Maghrib, represented by Mr. Abdellatif Jouahri; Moroccan Capital Market Authority, represented by Ms. Nezha Hayat; Insurance and Social Security Control Authority, represented by Mr.Abderrahim Chaffai; Mohammed VI Fund for Investment, represented by Mr. Badr Belkadi; TAMWILCOM, represented by Mr. Hicham Zanati Serghini; Digital Development Agency, represented by Mr. Sidi Mohammed Drissi Melyani; Al Akhawayn University, represented by Mr. Amine Bensaid; Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, represented by Mr. Khalid Baddou; Attijariwafa Bank, represented by Mr. Mohamed El Kettani; Banque Centrale Populaire, represented by Mrs. Naziha Belkeziz; Bank of Africa, represented by Mr. Mounir Kabbaj; CDG Invest, represented by Mr. Yassine Haddaoui; and HPS, represented by Mr. Mohamed Horani.

The general assembly approved that other organizations could join the association.

Morocco Fintech Center to assist Fintech startups

The Morocco Fintech Center aims to constitute a common window for Fintech startups and companies, supporting their development through support, incubation, acceleration and training. The MFC hopes to facilitate their understanding of the regulatory environment as well as access to financing. It will promote a collaborative fintech ecosystem fostering partnerships and networking opportunities while encouraging research and development in financial innovation.
The MFC held its first Board of Directors meeting under the presidency of Mr. Abdellatif Jouahri, Wali of Bank Al-Maghrib. The Board appointed Mr. Mustapha Lahlali as Executive Director.

As per the press release, Council members are committed to working together to accelerate the national fintech ecosystem.

Morocco to announce crypto regulations

On December 20th 2024, the Central Bank of Morocco represented by its governor Abdellatif Jouahri announced in Rabat Morocco that the draft crypto bill to regulate the use of cryptocurrencies was ready. Jouahri stressed that the full draft is ready to put in place a proper regulatory framework.

Jouahri stated, “Discussions are to be held with all stakeholders, including the Moroccan Capital Markets Authority (AMMC) and the Insurance and Social Security Supervisory Authority (ACAPS). We proceeded to a specific definition of the cryptocurrency and prepared a general public survey that details the specifics and use of this virtual currency in Morocco.”

Chainalysis’s 2024 Geography of Cryptocurrency report covering the MENA region and noting that MENA is the seventh largest crypto market globally in 2024 with the biggest two crypto countries being Turkey and Morocco.

Morocco Digital 2030 strategy includes DLT, and AI

On September 25 2024, Morocco unveiled its Digital 2030 strategy which aims to transform Morocco into a digital leader and boost its digital economy using AI, DLT (Distributed Ledger Technology), cloud services, and an ecosystem that supports innovative startups.

As per the strategy, the country seeks to create 240,000 jobs in the digital sector by 2030, which it expects will contribute 100 billion dirhams ($10.36 billion dollars) to the country’s gross domestic product while increasing digital export revenues to 40 billion dirhams ($4.15 billion). The strategy also aims to improve Morocco’s ranking in the United Nations Online Services Index, moving from 100th to 50th place worldwide in addition to creating 3,000 startups and improving 5G coverage to 70% of the North African kingdom’s territory.

The Hashgraph Association, a Swiss non-profit, drives global adoption of Hedera-powered solutions by funding innovation, training, and venture programs. It promotes economic inclusion and a digital future with a positive ESG impact, will be working with Agency of Digital Development to strengthen citizen services using the Hedera DLT network and Web3 technologies. It will also be working with Moroccan UM6P Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm and the investment arm of UM6P (Mohammed VI Polytechnique University), will help to develop entrepreneurship and accelerate science innovation and co-investment opportunities in Morocco and the wider Africa region.

Oman gets secure digital storage with Gulfdox and Blockchain Serenity

Oman gets secure digital storage with Gulfdox and Blockchain Serenity

Oman based Gulfdox, a provider of physical storage, data digitization, and storage software solutions, has collaborated with Serenity, a blockchain-based secured digital storage and biometric access solution provider.

As per the press release, the partnership marks a historic milestone as the first collaboration of its kind in Oman, positioning the nation at the forefront of advanced technological innovation in line with Oman Vision 2040. Gulfdox will integrate Serenity’s cutting-edge blockchain technology into its service portfolio, offering clients a robust, secure, and future-ready digital storage solution.

Leveraging Serenity’s expertise, Gulfdox will provide on-chain storage with biometric access, ensuring unparalleled security and efficiency for its esteemed clients, which include Government entities and leading corporates in different sectors across the GCC.

This partnership reflects Oman’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies that align with Vision 2040’s goals of economic diversification and digital transformation. Gulfdox is introducing blockchain-powered solutions for secure data management.

Faris Al Balushi, Executive Director of GulfDox, stated, “We are proud to lead the way in Oman by bringing blockchain technology into the realm of data storage. This collaboration with Serenity enables us to offer solutions that are not only secure and efficient but also aligned with the future needs of our clients. Together, we are setting a new benchmark for innovation in the region.”

Venket Naga, CEO of Serenity, added, “Our mission has always been to provide secure, scalable, and accessible blockchain solutions for Data storage. Partnering with Gulfdox allows us to bring this vision to Oman and the GCC which are extremely important markets for Serenity, using this Partnership we are enabling institutions to safeguard their data with the most advanced technologies available today. And reinforces Serenity’s position in the B2B enterprise segment. This Partnership, by combining GulfDox’s trusted expertise and local presence with Serenity’s state-of-the-art blockchain capabilities, will redefine secure data management for years to come. and will help Serenity to continue our journey towards creating innovative technologies for mass adoption.”

Sreekumar. P, Country Manager, GulfDox Stated that GulfDox is Oman’s a leading and dynamic provider of physical and digital storage solutions, it mainly serves B2G and B2B segment, with client’s portfolio of Government, Semi-Government and Corporates in Oman and across the GCC. With a focus on innovation and reliability, GulfDox is a trusted partner in secure data management.

UAE regulated stablecoin, AEcoin sponsors Qatar UAE SuperCup

UAE regulated stablecoin, AEcoin sponsors Qatar UAE SuperCup

UAE’s first regulated stablecoin by the Central Bank of UAE, AEcoin has announced the sponsorship of the Qatar UAE SuperCup. The Qatar-UAE Super Cup football Cup, will have distinct competitions that are set to ignite the passion of football fans from January 16 to 19. The event will bring together 8 elite teams to compete in intense matches across the Challenge Shield, Super Cup, Super Shield, and Challenge Cup categories.

On Thursday, January 16, the opening match kicked off in Doha, pitting Al Rayyan, runner-up in the Ooredoo Stars League, against Shabab Al Ahli, the ADNOC Professional League runner-up.
On Friday, January 17, in Dubai, Qatar SC, the Amir Cup runner-up, will go head-to-head with Al Nasr, the UAE President’s Cup runner-up.
Reigning Ooredoo Stars League champions Al Sadd will take on Al Wasl, winners of the ADNOC Professional League on January 18 in Doha.
The grand finale is set to take place in Abu Dhabi on the 19th, with Al Wakrah, the Qatar Cup champions battling it out with Al Wahda, the Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank Cup champions.

AECoin joins the ranks of Visit Qatar and RedBull as one of the many sponsors. The AE Coin promises an instant, secure, stable, innovative, low-cost, and efficient payment experience that will reshape the future of the digital economy.

Mbank was the first bank to be offering the AE Coin licensed stablecoin available on its AEC Wallet. Through AEC Wallet, powered by Mbank, customers will be able to purchase AE Coin and make secure, stable virtual financial transactions. In line with the Central Bank of the UAE’s digital payment token services framework and the government’s future-oriented vision.