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Morocco Web3Fest will bring together Web3 leaders during Gitex Africa 2025

Morocco Web3Fest will bring together Web3 leaders during Gitex Africa 2025

Morocco WEB3FEST GITEX Edition, a global conference series focused on technology and innovation in AI, Blockchain, and sustainability, will be held during Gitex Africa in Marrakech Morocco from April 14-16th. The event is organized by InactaVentures and co-hosted by The Hashgraph Association, and will bring together the world’s foremost Web3 leaders, innovators, and investors at the intersection of technology, finance, and sustainability.

Hosted in Marrakech during GITEX Africa, the event serves as a critical bridge linking the vibrant ecosystems of Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. With a strong commitment to advancing decentralized technologies and sustainable innovation, Morocco WEB3FEST GITEX Edition is poised to drive meaningful dialogue and collaboration among industry pioneers, enterprises, and policymakers.

Kamal Youssefi – President of The Hashgraph Association noted, “We are honored to be co- hosting the WEB3FEST in Morocco during GITEX Africa given that one of the aims of THA is to empower entrepreneurs, enterprises and governments with the technologies and knowhow needed to foray into Web3 while keepingsustainability at the heart of their endeavors. This is why Hedera network, considered one of the most sustainable in the world, is at the center of our conversations.”

Ralf Glabischnig – Founder of Inacta Ventures, added, “Switzerland has always been a hub for Blockchaininnovation, and our Layer 1 technology is solving real-world challenges in developing countries. With Morocco as the perfect gateway to Africa, we are connecting European expertise with Africa’s immense potential for Blockchain adoption.”

Event Highlights:
The Green Block Talks
April 14, 2025
Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial

A high-impact evening bringing together thought leaders and industry experts to discuss the role of AI and Web3 in driving sustainability. Featuring insightful panels, networking opportunities, and meaningful discussions.

Featured Speakers:

  • Ian Putter – Head of Blockchain COE, Standard Bank
  • Tom Rieder – Director Marketplace, The Green Block
  • Abdelaziz Benyahya – Chief Transformation Officer, AXA Morocco
  • Kamal Youssefi – President of The Board, The Hashgraph Association
  • Ralf Glabischnig – Founder, Inacta Ventures

WEB3 Investor Dinner (Co-hosted by NEO AI)
April 15, 2025
Private Villa, Marrakech

An exclusive, invitation-only gathering for venture capitalists, fund managers, and private equity professionals. This intimate setting will facilitate high-level discussions on investment opportunities, portfolio strategies, and the evolving digital asset landscape.

UAE regulated OKX pilots crypto collateral mirroring with Standard Chartered

UAE regulated OKX pilots crypto collateral mirroring with Standard Chartered

Standard Chartered and UAE regulated OKX, a cryptocurrency exchange have launched collateral mirroring program, enabling institutional clients to utilize cryptocurrencies and tokenized money market funds as off-exchange collateral for trading under a pilot overseen by the Dubai Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA).

As per the press release, the initiative significantly enhances security and capital efficiency for institutional clients by using a Globally Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB) as the custodian for their collateral.

Margaret Harwood-Jones, Global Head of Financing and Securities Services at Standard Chartered said: “We understand the critical importance of robust and secure custody solutions, especially in the evolving digital asset landscape, and our collaboration with OKX to enable the use of cryptocurrencies and tokenised money market funds as collateral represents a significant step forward in providing institutional clients with the confidence and efficiency they need. By leveraging our established custody infrastructure, we are ensuring the highest standards of security and regulatory compliance, fostering greater trust in the digital asset ecosystem.”

The collateral mirroring capability has been launched as a Pilot within the Dubai Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority’s (VARA) regulatory framework, and it allows clients to benefit from enhanced protection against counterparty risk, a significant concern in the current digital asset markets.

Standard Chartered acts as the independent, regulated custodian in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, ensuring the safe storage of the assets used as collateral, while OKX through its VARA regulated entity, manages collateral and facilitates transactions. Franklin Templeton will be the first in a series of money market funds that will be offered under the OKX-SCB program.

Hong Fang, President of OKX, added, “As the digital assets ecosystem becomes more ingrained within traditional finance, we strive to both drive growth and safeguard client assets in the most capital efficient manner. By leveraging Standard Chartered’s position as a top custodian globally, as well as OKX’s market leadership in cryptocurrency trading, the partnership sets an industry standard for current and potential institutional clients to deploy trading capital at scale in a trusted environment.

Franklin Templeton, a recognised leader in tokenisation and real world assets (RWA), continues to innovate by leveraging blockchain technology to deliver cutting-edge solutions to customers and clients. Through this collaboration, OKX clients will gain access to on-chain assets developed by Franklin Templeton’s Digital Assets Team, seamlessly integrating them into their financial and operational structures.

Roger Bayston, Franklin Templeton Head of Digital Assets, says “Leveraging blockchain technology, our platform is built to support the dynamic and ever-evolving financial ecosystem. We take an authentic approach, from directly investing in blockchain assets to developing innovative solutions with our in-house team. By ensuring assets are minted on-chain, we enable true ownership, allowing them to move and settle at blockchain speed – eliminating the need for traditional infrastructure.”

Brevan Howard Digital, the dedicated crypto and digital asset division of Brevan Howard, a leading global alternative investment manager, is among the first few institutions to onboard onto this pioneering programme, highlighting the importance of such capabilities being offered by a leading international cross-border bank and a highly reputable global exchange.

Ryan Taylor, Group Head of Compliance at Brevan Howard and CAO of Brevan Howard Digital, commented: “This program is the latest example of the continued innovation and institutionalization of the industry. As a significant investor in the digital assets space, we are thrilled to partner with industry leaders to further grow and evolve the crypto ecosystem globally.”

UAE Zand Bank launches its crypto custodial services

UAE Zand Bank launches its crypto custodial services

UAE regulated digital Bank Zand has announced that it the first UAE bank to provide its institutional-grade Digital Asset Custody services under its banking license.

According to the LinkedIn post, “The groundbreaking offering which has been designed for corporate and institutional clients, ensures top-tier security, with private keys protected in onshore UAE Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) to meet the highest global standards.”

Zand is also offering the Zand Vault Cold Wallet crypto custody solution.

The digital Bank is also offering insurance coverage, multi signature and threshold signature schemes as well as regulatory oversight from the UAE Central Bank as well as Dubai Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority.

Zand is already well established in the UAE crypto ecosystem, as it offers crypto exchanges banking services.

In January 2025, Zand Bank partnered with Klickl after they announced they would be launching their digital asset custodial services. The Bank has also noted that it will be launching an AED stablecoin in the future while it enhances the bank’s ability to integrate TradFi and DeFi.

Other digital banks in the UAE are entering the crypto foray. Already Mbank has launched its first regulated AED stablecoin, while Liv Bank is now offering crypto trading services.

Mbank also launched Jaywan Cards, the UAE’s first National Debit Card, on its blockchain enabled Mbank Wallet platform.

Binance payment service company BPay receives license in Bahrain

Binance payment service company BPay receives license in Bahrain

The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) has granted BPay Global B.S.C.(c) (BPay Global), a Binance Group payment services company, a Payment Service Provider (PSP) license to operate in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Binance customers will be able to top up and withdraw on an e-wallet fiat currency, as well as custody their fiat and crypto and make payments.

As per the press release, the PSP license will allow BPAY to offer fiat services to Binance customers globally, including fiat top ups and withdrawals, custody and other payment services. This will enable Binance customers to open an e-wallet and make fiat top ups on the Binance platform through bank transfers and debit/credit card payments. The license will also allow BPay Global to custody fiat on behalf of customers.

Commenting on this announcement, Mr. Abdulla Haji, Director of Licensing Directorate at CBB, said “We are pleased to announce the issuance of a license to a new payment service provider in Bahrain. This license represents a positive step in enhancing Bahrain’s digital payments ecosystem, particularly in its support for crypto-related sector as well as fiat payment solutions. The CBB remains committed to enabling a dynamic and progressive payment landscape that aligns with global advancements in financial technology.”

Mr. Tameem Almoosawi, General Manager of Binance Bahrain and BPay Global, commented: “We are glad to announce the launch of BPay Global and the first Payment Service Provider license received by a Binance company, allowing it to act as a payment service provider and e-wallet provider for users around the world. With this license, BPay Global will provide Binance users with further choice of low-cost fiat on- and off-ramps.”

Binance had previously received a license from the Central Bank of Bahrain back in 2023 and was able to offer crypto payments through Binance Pay.

LIV Bank in UAE launches first crypto trading campaign

LIV Bank in UAE launches first crypto trading campaign

Liv Bank, the first digital bank in UAE, and a subsidiary of Emirates NBD on its website, has launched its first crypto trading campaign in the UAE, spurring the first outright competition between UAE banking sector and crypto exchanges.

While Liv Bank announced their foray into the crypto trading arena back in March 2025, it is only now that they outrightly showcased it on their website and announced their first campaign.

Utilizing services of both Aquanow crypto exchange in the UAE, as well as Zodia Custody services, UAE Liv Bank have showcased themselves as a trusted partner to invest in crypto. UAE Liv Bank, explains how users in the UAE can trade securely with the Liv app for fees as low as 0.5% with guided modules and the security that Emirates NBD Bank brings.

In its crypto trading campaign, Liv Bank is offering every trade placed of order value USD 50 or more one entry into each of the draws. As they noted, “The more the trades, the better your chances to win! Offering prizes of 100,000 AED during the months of May and June 2025.

Users will be able to trade crypto assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, Ripple and others.

According to Liv Bank they have simplified the crypto trading process. There are no seed phrases or downloading digital wallets, all users need to to is use the Liv app, As they note, “With Liv, you can begin with small denominations, learning and growing as you go through guided modules that are designed to help you make informed decisions.”

All users have to do is sign up or log in to the Liv X app, Click on the Wealth tab then simply click Apply on the Crypto tile, and fill out the requested details, and submit. Then users can start accessing all their crypto investments.

In March 2025, Liv digital bank a part of Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye (MENAT) region, announced the launch of their cryptocurrency offering within its mobile banking app – Liv X allowing users to buy sell custody and trade cryptocurrencies in partnership with Aquanow, a UAE regulated crypto asset exchange and Zodia Custody also regulated in the UAE.

At the time Liv digital bank noted that it was committed to introducing innovative products to its customers and this new cryptocurrency offering, with crypto infrastructure operated by Aquanow and custody services performed by Zodia Custody.

UAE Digital Bank implements Infosys Finacle on Microsoft Azure to integrate TradFi and DeFi

UAE Digital Bank implements Infosys Finacle on Microsoft Azure to integrate TradFi and DeFi

Infosys an Indian multinational technology company that offers business consulting, information technology, and outsourcing services, utilizing its Finacle product offering on Microsoft Azure has provided the first digital bank in UAE (they did not name the bank), which could be Liv Bank, a subsidiary of Emirates NBD, given it has publicized itself as being the first digital bank in the UAE, with Finacle on Cloud, a cloud-native solution that accelerates cloud adoption which works to toward digital banking, integrate decentralized finance (DeFi) into their operations.

As per a Microsoft blog post, the first licensed digital bank in the UAE, aimed to tap into the power of advanced data capabilities to simplify and upgrade the customer experience and provide secure, reliable, and innovative solutions through blockchain and AI technologies. After evaluating various technology platforms, looking for capabilities that would help them successfully integrate traditional finance (TradFi) and DeFi. Their ultimate goal being to redefine the banking landscape by streamlining financial services and integrating AI and blockchain technologies into their operations. To accomplish this, they were seeking a composable architectural design and event-driven API on a cloud-native platform that offered agility and security.

The blog adds, ” Ultimately, after comparing many solutions, they decided they wanted to go beyond the traditionally defined core systems so many financial institutions rely on, and they instead adopted Finacle on Microsoft Azure, thanks to its functional richness, market-specific experience, long-term viability, operational performance, total cost of ownership (TCO), and flexibility.”

“A customer-centric revolution is reshaping corporate banking,” said Sriranga N. Sampathkumar, VP and GM – Middle East and Africa, at Infosys. “This bank is spearheading this change with AI, actively shaping the future of banking through innovation and the strategic integration of digital assets.”


Sampathkumar explained, “The bank’s swift evolution from a digital to an AI-driven bank was made possible by the seamless deployment of the Finacle on Azure.”

Using Finacle the bank can process a vast amount of data and perform sophisticated analytics—all resulting in the ability to innovate and integrate emergent technologies like AI, blockchain, and digital asset management and sit at the forefront of the digital banking evolution.

They also report that Microsoft Azure has been a crucial part of their solution; choosing Azure has reportedly provided them with a high-performing, scalable, and secure foundation upon which to build the bank of the future. The bank has active connectivity and immediate recovery from one site to another, due to the cloud footprint offered by Azure, including Microsoft datacenters in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

“By using the combined strength of Finacle’s innovative solution suite and Microsoft Azure’s robust cloud platform, this digital bank delivers a distinct, world-class experience, showcasing the essential agility, flexibility, and resilience needed to transform banking,” Sampathkumar said.

This comes as the UAE Bank Federation showcases how UAE banks are moving into the smart banking era with AI and Blockchain technologies among others.

UAE Bank Federation showcases how smart banking will help UAE GDP reach 20% by 2031

UAE Bank Federation showcases how smart banking will help UAE GDP reach 20% by 2031

The UAE Banks Federation (UBF), during the 14th edition of the AIM Congress in Abu Dhabi, emphasized the importance of continuing initiatives and efforts to advance smart banking services to build a digital economy characterized by prosperity, resilience, financial inclusion, transparency, diversification, and sustainability where UAE GDP will reach 20% by 2031. They also noted that UAE Banks are continuing to invest in technologies such as AI, Blockchain, data analytics and cloud computing.

The AIM Investment Summit, taking place from April 7 to 9, 2025, under the theme “The New Wave of a Globalized Investment Landscape: Towards a New Balanced World Structure,” hosts heads of state, more than 60 ministers and central bank governors, 30 city mayors, 1,250 speakers, 16 heads of stock markets, 600 exhibitors, and over 20,000 participants from 180 countries—highlighting its status as a leading global investment platform.

In his keynote speech at the “Future of Finance” session, which featured senior officials and experts from the banking, finance, and technology sectors, Mr. Jamal Saleh, Director General of UBF, said, “The banking sector is distinguished by its progressive approach in adopting and developing advanced technologies to deliver seamless and secure banking services to customers. The proactive role of the Central Bank of the UAE fosters innovation to meet the evolving needs of diverse customer segments and keep pace with rapid advancements in fintech, while ensuring optimal conditions for protecting digital infrastructure and cybersecurity.”

He added: “Guided by the visionary leadership of the UAE, the country is redefining innovation and ambition across various fields, spearheading digital transformation and smart services. The UAE Digital Strategy aims to double the digital economy’s contribution to the GDP, from 9.7% to over 20% by 2031, underscoring the commitment to strengthening its leading status as a global center for finance, investment, and trade.”

He noted that UAE bank investments in technology infrastructure and digital channels has increased the adoption of digital services with now more than 95% of all transactions conducted digitally.

He also added that UAE banking sector is at the forefront of these efforts by deploying blockchain, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cloud computing to provide better services, enhance operational excellence, and improve risk management and regulatory compliance.

Bybit crypto exchange supports SuiHub AUS hackathon

Bybit crypto exchange supports SuiHub AUS hackathon

Present in the UAE, and already holding an in-principle license approval, Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, will be supporting SuiHub-AUS ( American University of Sharjah) program entitled Blockathon 2025: AI for Decentralized Autonomy ,a nationwide hackathon designed to empower students to lead the next wave of AI and blockchain innovation through Agent2Agent technologies. Additional ecosystem partners include Ghaf Capital.

As per the press release, applications are now open to all full-time university students across the UAE, offering a unique opportunity to explore how AI-powered Agent2Agent transactions can enable seamless, autonomous interactions within decentralized systems and real-world environments.

The initiative features two expert-led workshops, technical mentoring, and culminates in a live pitch competition at Basecamp Dubai. Participants will gain hands-on experience in blockchain development, go-to-market strategies, and direct access to industry leaders and tools shaping the future of Web3.

Teams will compete to build creative, original solutions. All registered participants will attend a series of workshops, with top shortlisted teams advancing to deliver final pitches at Sui Basecamp.

Hackathon Schedule:

April 11, 2025: Workshop 1 – Introduction to the Move Language
April 16, 2025: Workshop 2 – Go-to-Market Strategy
April 17, 2025: Hackathon Kick-off
May 2, 2025: Final Demo Day (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Participants will benefit from:

The program will also offer internship opportunities at Bybit, SuiHub, and Ghaf Capital which will include mentorship and technical support as well as access to SuiHub blockchain tools and developer infrastructure and exposure to VC and startup ecosystems in the UAE.
“The 2025 Blockathon marks a pivotal step in preparing the next generation for the era of decentralized autonomy. In collaboration with SuiHub, and with Bybit and Ghaf Labs as ecosystem partners, AUS is proud to create a launchpad where students gain hands-on experience in AI and blockchain innovation that truly matters,” commented Dr. Imran Zualkernan, Professor and Head of Computer Science and Engineering at the AUS.

Abu Dhabi Finstreet subsidiary of IHC Group signs MOU with Ninety One investment manager to integrate blockchain technology

Abu Dhabi Finstreet subsidiary of IHC Group signs MOU with Ninety One investment manager to integrate blockchain technology

Finstreet Limited, a subsidiary of IHC Group through Sirius International Holding a regulated subsidiary in Abu Dhabi ADGM, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ninety One, a global active investment manager with US$163 billion in assets under management (as of 31st December 2024) to explore innovative collaborations using blockchain technology.

Finstreet Global Markets Limited is, subject to final regulatory approval licensed for the Regulated Activity of Operating a Multilateral Trading Facility; at ADGM as well as subject to final regulatory approval, licensed for the Regulated Activity of Providing Custody, as a Digital Settlement Facility and Central Securities Depository; and is licensed for the Regulated Activities of Operating a Private Financing Platform, Managing a Collective Investment Fund, Advising on Investments or Credit, Arranging Deals in Investments, and Arranging Custody.

This strategic agreement aims to explore innovative collaborations in the development of structured and exchange-traded products, as part of Finstreet’s vision to redefine financial market access by integrating blockchain technology with traditional financial infrastructure platforms.

As per the press release, by combining Ninety One’s global experience with Finstreet’s infrastructure, the collaboration aims to drive growth and innovation in the financial sector, while meeting rising investor demand for private debt instruments.

The partnership will focus on creating and trading structured products and private debt instruments on Finstreet Global Markets, addressing growing market demands for sophisticated investment solutions.

Sunidhi Pasan, Founder & CEO of Finstreet Limited, commented, “This partnership underscores Finstreet’s commitment to redefining financial market access through strategic collaborations. Ninety One’s global expertise complements our vision of delivering robust investment solutions to institutional and professional investors.”

Nicolaas Alberts, Co-Head of the Middle East, Ninety One, said, “Through this MoU, Finstreet and Ninety One are laying the cornerstone for a dynamic, long-term partnership that will create enduring value for stakeholders. Furthermore, this collaboration with Finstreet will allow us to develop liquidity for our private debt solutions, including infrastructure debt, while strategically addressing market needs. Moreover, it reflects our shared ambition to deliver innovative investment solutions and products that unlock long-term value for investors.”

Meedaf an AI and Blockchain financial services venture owned by UAE ADCB bank launches

Meedaf an AI and Blockchain financial services venture owned by UAE ADCB bank launches

UAE Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) has launched Meedaf, a pioneering Blockchain and AI enabled financial services venture designed to help banks and financial institutions across the UAE and GCC region enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and remain competitive through innovation and advanced technologies.

Operating as an independent entity within Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), Meedaf focuses on providing specialized solutions to streamline financial operations, strengthen security, and improve customer experience. Key offerings include AI-driven automation for collections, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance, blockchain-enabled security to enhance fraud detection, as well as transaction security and predictive analytics to optimize financial processing and improve service efficiency.

As per the press release, Meedaf will also deliver customer-centric digital solutions, such as loyalty program management, designed to drive client engagement and improve overall service delivery.

Ala’a Eraiqat, Group CEO of ADCB, commented, “Meedaf marks a pivotal milestone in ADCB’s evolution beyond traditional banking, reinforcing our commitment to innovation and transformation. By delivering scalable, innovative solutions for institutions across the GCC, this initiative is a bold statement of our vision for an agile and efficient financial sector. Our objective is to help unleash the industry’s potential to drive significant positive impact across the wider economy.”

To drive its ambitious agenda, Eng. Abdulla Abdul Aziz AlShamsi, Managing Director and CEO of Meedaf, will lead the company’s strategic direction and growth while continuing his role as ADCB’s Group Chief Business Officer.

Eng. Abdulla Abdul Aziz AlShamsi, Managing Director and CEO at Meedaf, commented, “I am honored to lead Meedaf in shaping the future of financial services. By leveraging ADCB’s expertise and forming strategic partnerships, we are dedicated to building a regional hub for financial innovation, delivering world-class solutions that create tangible value for businesses and communities across the region.”