U.S. based DTCC to acquire Abu Dhabi digital asset infrastructure provider Securrency

U.S. based DTCC to acquire Abu Dhabi digital asset infrastructure provider Securrency

The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation, an American post-trade financial services company providing clearing and settlement services to the financial markets known as DTCC, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Abu Dhabi based Securrency Inc. (“Securrency”), a leading developer of institutional-grade, digital asset infrastructure invested in by Mubadala sovereign Fund.

Securrency will become a fully-owned subsidiary of DTCC and will operate under the name DTCC Digital Assets. Nadine Chakar, CEO of Securrency, will join DTCC as Managing Director, Global Head of DTCC Digital Assets, reporting to Lynn Bishop, DTCC Managing Director and Chief Information Officer. Chakar will also join the DTCC Management Committee. In addition, Dan Doney, CTO and founder of Securrency, John Hensel, COO and co-founder, and other members of the Securrency leadership team, as well as roughly 100 Securrency staff of full-time employees or contractors, will become DTCC employees.

Securrency is a blockchain-based financial and regulatory technology developer that raised $30 million in 2021 from State Street, US Bank, WisdomTree Investments and others. It has worked with WisdomTree to help the asset manager launch “blockchain-enabled” funds that keep a secondary record of share ownership on the Stellar or Ethereum blockchains.

Frank La Salla, President, CEO and Director, DTCC, said, “Securrency is an important strategic acquisition that will give us the technology to drive market-wide transformation by enabling end-to-end digital lifecycle processing for tokenized assets, digital currencies and other financial instruments. By bringing together DTCC’s commitment to providing market stability and our unparalleled network of financial market participants with the sophistication of the Securrency technology, we will be in a leading position to unlock the value of digital assets and help guide the industry through its digital transformation journey. We believe this next generation of financial market infrastructure will further reduce settlement times, facilitate market transparency and risk management, enhance regulatory oversight and controls, and unlock efficiency and innovation to create an improved investor experience.”

By combining DTCC’s digital capabilities and Securrency’s technology, DTCC will fast-track development of its enterprise digital asset platform to unlock the power of institutional DeFi. DTCC will leverage the technology over time to embed digital assets within its existing products and services, develop new, regulatory-compliant blockchain-based offerings and explore use cases with the industry, including buyside asset managers, broker-dealers and custodians, to collaborate on new DTCC blockchain-based solutions.

In addition, DTCC will lead the industry’s development of a robust, global digital infrastructure by licensing the Securrency technology and offering professional services. Firms will be able to leverage the technology to transform and evolve their operating models and to create innovative, new digital asset services alone or in collaboration with other market participants – similar to how WisdomTree licenses Securrency’s software as part of the infrastructure for its WisdomTree Prime™ offering that provides tokenized assets and funds via digital wallets for retail investors and consumers.

Chakar said, “As we join forces with DTCC, we are excited to bring together DTCC’s infrastructure capabilities with Securrency’s technology to embrace a future where the digitization of capital markets is at the forefront of innovation. These capabilities will allow DTCC to partner with the industry to build a resilient and scalable infrastructure critical to the mass adoption of digital assets. Together, we will unlock opportunities to reimagine compliance, liquidity, efficiency and interoperability in trading real-world assets on the blockchain.”

DTCC also plans to provide global leadership to foster industry-wide collaboration to help avoid fragmentation with different digital technologies and standards. Securrency’s technology can address this issue by acting as a DLT-agnostic harmonization layer that promotes interoperability, liquidity, transparency and security.

La Salla said, “We look forward to building on our past work to drive consensus around the standards, controls and frameworks necessary to support regulatory-compliant digital asset solutions and development of the right architecture and infrastructure to ensure widespread interoperability. We’re excited to welcome our new colleagues to the DTCC team and to begin collaborating as a group to strengthen market stability and resilience and drive greater efficiencies, productivity, risk mitigation and liquidity in the global financial markets.”

This announcement comes as John Hensel, Chief Operating Officer and Senior Executive Officer, MENA, Securrency told IBS intelligence, “The UAE is ramping up its efforts to become a global blockchain hub.” In his interview he commented on why they chose UAE out of all the other countries globally including, USA, Switzerland, Hong Kong and Singapore.

According to Hensel, SEC ( Securities and Exchange Commission) in the USA has portrayed a conservative approach to the regulation of digital assets, so exploring other regulatory jurisdictions they found that the UAE was a credible, well positioned young financial center that embraced technology with experienced regulatory experts from the USA, Australia, Singapore and others.

He explains, “ After being here for 6 years we have seen the landscape change and become more favorable for investors partnering under FSRA and who are benefiting from the protection of ADGM which will grow opportunities locally for us given we were first movers and have strong relations with sovereign wealth entities, broker dealers, fund managers as key stakeholders.”

Securrency entered the ADGM FSRA regulatory sandbox in 2017 and secured a Financial Services Permission (FSP) from ADGM’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) to deal in investments as a matched principal and provide custody for those investments in 2022. The license enabled Securrency Capital to provide trading of digital assets to a variety of clients, including retail clients.

Securrency had raised $30 million in its latest funding round. The funds were used to roll out the company’s expansion plans. The Series B funding round included existing investor WisdomTree Investment along with Abu Dhabi state fund Mubadala-backed Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners, State Street and U.S. Bank. Prior to that in 202, The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) had invested in Securrency, a US-based developer of blockchain-based financial and regulatory technology through its ventures fund.

The company also signed a strategic partnership with leading investment management and banking firm, Musharaka Capital in KSA, to develop a compliant platform for issuing digital securities in Saudi Arabia in 2020.

Taurus in Qatar is offering digital asset, crypto and tokenized securities solutions

Taurus in Qatar is offering digital asset, crypto and tokenized securities solutions

Taurus announced its strategic partnership with the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority as part of the QFC Digital Assets Lab which will allow it to serve banks and financial institutions across Qatar and MENA by delivering enterprise technology from digital assets, to crypto to tokenized securities.

As per the press release, the QFC Digital Assets Lab is a key initiative within the QFC Innovation Dome, which is designed to accelerate innovation in digital assets and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT). By fostering collaboration between businesses, start-ups, and researchers, the lab aims to position Qatar “as a leader in the digital economy, guided by the newly introduced QFC Digital Assets Regulatory Framework 2024.”

The framework sets rigorous standards for tokenization, legal recognition of digital assets, and the use of smart contracts, ensuring the highest levels of security and transparency. As a digital asset infrastructure provider, Taurus provides secure and scalable solutions for the custody, tokenization, and management of digital assets.

Through the QFC Digital Assets Lab, financial institutions in the region will now have access to Taurus’ enterprise-grade technology, which supports the full range of digital assets, from cryptocurrencies to tokenized securities.

Bashir Kazour, Managing Director at Taurus, commented, “The QFC Digital Assets Lab offers a robust regulatory environment, making Qatar a prime location for digital asset innovation. We are pleased to bring our expertise in digital asset management to this dynamic market and better serve our clients and partners across the Middle East.”

Taurus SA is a Swiss Fintech founded in April 2018, provides enterprise-grade digital asset infrastructure to issue, custody, and trade any digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, tokenized assets, NFTs, and digital currencies.

Depending on their business model, strategy, and risk tolerance, Taurus’ clients can seamlessly manage cryptocurrencies “including staking, digitize and tokenize any type of asset on any standard end-to-end, and process digital currencies of their choice.”

Taurus’ product portfolio is composed of  Taurus-PROTECT, the leading secure storage solution in Europe which is currently used by more than 30 financial institutions and corporations. Taurus-CAPITAL allows clients to issue and “manage tokenized assets on public and permissioned blockchains, as well as interact with any smart contract.

Both The Hashgraph Association as well as R3 also announced their partnerships with QFC digital assets lab and their offering.

Henri Arslanian launches children’s book Decoding crypto

Henri Arslanian launches children’s book Decoding crypto

Blockchain digital assets analyst and expert Henri Arslanian has launched Decoding Crypto with Henri & Hodler, a groundbreaking new children’s book that combines education with entertainment, guiding young readers through the fascinating world of digital assets, blockchain technology, and the future of money.

As per the press release, Decoding Crypto with Henri & Hodler is just the beginning of an ambitious project to bring digital literacy and financial education to children worldwide.

As the first book in an exciting new series, Decoding Crypto with Henri & Hodler takes readers on an adventurous learning journey alongside two charismatic crypto-enthusiasts, Henri and Hodler, who, together with a lively cast of characters—including the tech-savvy Solidity, and buddies Naka and Moto—make complex topics fun and engaging.


Through clever rhymes, vivid illustrations, and creative interactive elements, children learn about the history and evolution of money and discover new concepts about the future of money, from Bitcoin and Ethereum to the latest trends in DeFi, NFTs, Metaverses, and more.
The book introduces readers to these topics in a clear, easy to follow “A-to-Z” format, beginning with Altcoin, Bitcoin, and Cryptography … and continuing through to Yield Farming and ZK-Proof.


Developed in Collaboration With Crypto Firms Ledger and First Digital The book’s production and development spanned over three years and included interviews with dozens of educators, teachers, and parents to ensure that the subject matter is presented in a
clear, ethical, and responsible manner.


The book is powered by collaborations with leading crypto firms, with Ledger serving as the premier technology partner and First Digital serving as the premier education partner.

Decoding Crypto with Henri & Hodler is co-authored by Henri Arslanian, a globally recognized thought leader and educator in the world of crypto and digital assets. Henri is the author of several bestselling books on crypto and the future of money including “The Book of Crypto” and “The Future of Finance.”

With his experience as a university professor teaching crypto since 2015, the host of the Crypto Capsule LinkedIn educational series that is shared weekly with his over half-million LinkedIn followers, and recently the co-host of the Crypto Weekly show on CNBC Arabia, Henri brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for educating the next generation on the future of finance.
Co-author, Michael Dotsikas, is a bestselling children’s author, creator of the award-winning “Benjamin Birdie” children’s picture book series, an experienced writer, and sought-after literary mentor with a deep commitment to making complex topics accessible and engaging for young readers, while devoted to mindful storytelling.


Together, they have crafted a book that not only demystifies the often-complex world of digital assets but does so in a way that is fun, interactive, and suitable for children of all ages. The book is illustrated by Billy Martin, who is best known as the lead guitarist for the
multi-platinum selling bank Good Charlotte.

Yat Siu, Chairman and Co-Founder of Animoca Brands, calls it “a perfect introduction to the world of blockchain and the future of money for the next generation,” while Pascal Gauthier, CEO of Ledger, highlights the book’s vital role in empowering children: “The transformative power of cryptocurrencies is something everyone needs to understand, and kids first! This book
is a must-read!”

Unlike traditional children’s books, Decoding Crypto with Henri & Hodler takes an interactive storytelling approach, blending vibrant comic book style illustrations with playful, engaging narrative to create a dynamic learning experience, capturing the imagination while inviting
reader participation.


A unique feature is the inclusion of QR codes throughout, which lead readers to additional resources, offering deeper insights into the various concepts and terms explored in the story.


Another valuable educational element is the added in-depth glossary and appendices of “fun facts” designed to equip parents and educators with additional knowledge, empowering them to better understand the subject matter.

American, Armenian Mom of detained Binance Employee Tigran, pleads, “Just take me”

American, Armenian Mom of detained Binance Employee Tigran, pleads, “Just take me”

After more than 207 days, Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s Head of Financial Crime Compliance, is slowly deteriorating after the government of Nigeria imprisoned him with no formal accusations or trial.

His mother in an interview on KMPH Fox26 News, pleaded asking the U.S government to intervene. He’s innocent, that’s all. But I can ask and I’m begging everybody who can help my son. Just please bring my son home. That’s all what we need,” said Gambaryan. “Just take me, exchange me with my son just let my son go home! I don’t care what will happen to me, just let my son go home!

At Token 2049 in Singapore, Richard Teng, the CEO of Binance, announced that the company is working tirelessly to free Tigran Gambaryan, the crypto exchange’s head of financial crime compliance, who has been detained in Nigeria since February 2024.

Gambaryan’s health has been deteriorating while in custody, and Teng emphasized that Binance has repeatedly asked the Nigerian government to release him for necessary medical care.

“There’s no need to hold our staff,” Teng said on the sidelines at the Token2049 conference in Singapore.

Gambaryan travelled to Nigeria in late February this year at the invitation of the Nigerian government to discuss Binance’s compliance practices in the country. However, after two meetings, he was detained and has since been held at Kuje Prison, a facility known for its harsh conditions.

Aron Akbiyikian, Tigran Gambaryan’s friend and co-worker, said to KMPH Fox 26, “He hasn’t been given a fair trial. He hasn’t been personally accused of anything. At no point in time has he ever been accused of doing anything, only for the fact that the company he works for is being accused of crimes, so they’re charging him for it.”

Binance’s internal team has reportedly been working on various approaches to secure Gambaryan’s release, including urging the US government to officially classify Gambaryan as unlawfully detained and appealing to the Nigerian government on humanitarian grounds.

“Every single day, day in and day out, he catches the bad guys, and now he’s being accused of being one of them without ever directly saying that he did anything,” said Aron Akbiyikian, Tigran Gambaryan’s Friend and coworker.

Tigran Gambaryan was born in Armenia and moved to Fresno, California, with his family when he was in middle school.  

On March 25th, Nigerian officials charged Binance with money laundering, tax evasion, and other crimes.

Binance is one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in Nigeria, processing about 32% of crypto transactions by Nigerians, according to a November 2023 CoinGecko report, citing Statistica data.

Rain and Bahrain launched pad backed by Sovereign Wealth fund to support MENA startups

Rain and Bahrain launched pad backed by Sovereign Wealth fund to support MENA startups

Bahrain and UAE based Rain crypto trading platform has partnered with Spring Studio’s launchpad, backed by the Sovereign wealth fund of Bahrain, Al Waha Fund of Funds, ad global venture capital firm Salica investments.

As per Rain LinkedIn post, ” We are happy to announce Rain’s partnership with Spring Studios’ Launchpad. As the first licensed crypto provider in the Middle East, Rain is committed to supporting innovative founders across the region. Founders will have direct access to our internal teams, unlocking unique opportunities in one of the fastest-growing fintech ecosystems in MENA.”

Spring Studios which caters to MENA founders, is helping to create the next wave of exceptional startups.

Spring Studios equips founders with capital, expert in-house capability, and verification from MENA’s leading investors to build startups with a greater probability of success.

This comes as Bahrain grants its fourth crypto license in the country with Crypto.com now able to offer crypto payments through its license from the Central Bank of Bahrain.

Rain was the first crypto broker to be licensed in Bahrain. It then was granted a license in the UAE from Abu Dhabi.

The Hashgraph association explores five tokenization use cases in Qatar

The Hashgraph association explores five tokenization use cases in Qatar

The Hashgraph Association, a partner with Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Digital assets Lab announced on LinkedIn, that within the next 12 months it will work together with stakeholders to explore implementing five innovative use cases, in the areas of equity tokenization, Sukuk Islamic Bonds tokenization, real estate tokenization, sustainability ESG Carbon credits, as well as consumer engagement and loyalty programs.

This is part of the partnership that was signed with QFC for a $50 million Digital Assets Venture Studio to develop the Web3 and DLT innovation ecosystem in Qatar.

As per the post, the QFC, and Qatar Central Bank digital assets framework recently announced in September was a major milestone establishing a comprehensive legal and regulatory foundation for tokenization, smart contracts, and asset custody, ensuring compliance and security.

The Hashgraph Association post noted, “These regulations strengthen The Hashgraph Association’s role in fostering innovation and trust within the digital assets ecosystem, further solidifying the region’s position as a global leader in fintech. By providing knowledge exchange, international visibility, and regulatory clarity, QFC and The Hashgraph Association are propelling the region toward the forefront of digital asset technology.”

R3 also one of the QFC partners for the Digital Assets Lab also noted as well that it will power tokenization projects across Qatar’s financial industry.

Anryton launches its Layer One Blockchain in UAE

Anryton launches its Layer One Blockchain in UAE

Anryton has launched its Layer One network, blockchain technology that promises to transform data storage, privacy, and exchange across multiple industries out of Dubai UAE. The company also unveiled DNA NFT technology, which leverages Variant Call Format (VCF) files to create digital wallets for secure data storage and enhanced privacy.

 The company’s vision is to assist Aviation, Supply chain, Healthcare, education, and other critical sectors to combat modern data challenges such as manipulation, security, ownership, and integrity.

As per the press release, the Layer One network offers a scalable, secure, and highly efficient platform that supports a wide range of applications. The network’s robust capabilities are poised to revolutionize sectors such as healthcare, legal, supply chain, and data management.

Dr. Anmol S Kapoor, CEO and Founder of Anryton, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch. He says, “Today marks a pivotal moment for Anryton as we unveil our Layer One network and DNA NFT technology. Our Layer One network is designed to set a new standard in blockchain efficiency and security, while our DNA NFT technology provides a groundbreaking solution for data privacy and storage. By integrating VCF files into NFTs, we are not only enhancing data security but also paving the way for innovative applications in healthcare and beyond.”

The DNA NFT technology, developed in conjunction with the Layer One network, utilises VCF files to create unique digital wallets that securely store genetic and personal data. This innovative approach ensures that individuals maintain control over their sensitive information, while also enabling seamless and secure data exchange between authorized parties.

Ms. Ruchi Bindra, Chief Legal Officer of Anryton Technologies, highlighted the legal and privacy implications, saying, “The launch of our DNA NFT technology is a game-changer for data privacy and protection. By incorporating legal frameworks into our blockchain solutions, we are addressing the growing concerns around data security and privacy. Our technology ensures that individuals’ personal and genetic information is securely stored and managed with the highest standards of confidentiality.”

Mr. Harman Puri, Strategy Consultant, emphasized the broader applications of Anryton’s technology: “Anryton’s Layer One network and DNA NFT technology have the potential to revolutionize multiple industries. From healthcare to legal and supply chain management, our solutions offer unparalleled security and efficiency. The integration of blockchain technology into these sectors will streamline processes, enhance data integrity, and drive innovation,” he said.

Sidharth Bhinder, CTO of BioAro, commented: “BioChain represents a significant step forward in securing health data. By leveraging decentralized technology, we are ensuring that sensitive health information remains protected and private, while also providing a compliant and robust system for healthcare providers. Importantly, we will be using Anryton’s Layer One network to enhance our capabilities, helping us scale up effectively in the healthcare field. This collaboration will not only bolster data security and regulatory compliance but also facilitate better patient outcomes and innovations in health data management.”

Crypto.com crypto exchange to offer crypto payments in Bahrain and GCC region

Crypto.com crypto exchange to offer crypto payments in Bahrain and GCC region

Crypto.com, the 13th largest global crypto exchange according to CoinMarketCap, has received a crypto payment service provider license from the Central Bank of Bahrain allowing it to offer e-money and fiat based payment services regionally, including prepaid cards.

Crypto.com had already received a crypto exchange license from Dubai’s virtual asset regulator in UAE, and considers this license as part of its expansion plans in the GCC region.

As per the press release, Crypto.com received a payment service provider (PSP) services from the Central Bank of Bahrain through its subsidiary registered in the Kingdom of Bahrain under the commercial name “FORIS GFS BH B.S.C. CLOSED”. The PSP licence will allow Crypto.com to expand its offerings of e-money and fiat-based payment services regionally, including the launch of its world-renowned prepaid cards.

“With its extensive international presence and an earned reputation for regulatory compliance, we are delighted that Crypto.com has chosen the Kingdom of Bahrain as a destination for investment, which will further bolster Bahrain’s ability to deliver on its vision of developing a digital-first, resilient economy that celebrates innovation and progress,” said H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain Economic Development Board,.

She added, “Bahrain is successfully building a world-class ecosystem to support the evolution of the fast-growing blockchain, crypto and fintech industry. This is further supported by robust regulations and a diverse, highly skilled, and future-ready talent pool, particularly within the financial services and technology sectors.”

“Bahrain has been working to create an innovation-friendly crypto and fintech ecosystem, which has involved putting in place clear regulation that balances consumer protection with commercialisation,” said Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com. “We appreciate the work of the Kingdom and look forward to progressing our relationship as we play our part in growing the crypto industry in Bahrain and across the GCC.”

Bahrain, was among the first to issue crypto-asset licenses in the region with licenses to both Rain crypto broker, and CoinMENA, then Binance. Binance also offers crypto payment services in the Kingdom.

Cypto.com is additionally licensed for specific services in key markets around the world, including Singapore, France, Australia, Ireland,

R3 to power tokenization projects in Qatar’s Digital Assets Lab

R3 to power tokenization projects in Qatar’s Digital Assets Lab

R3 which is a partner within the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority as part of the QFC Digital Assets Lab has announced that it will power tokenization projects across Qatar’s financial industry.

As per a Linkedin post, “This initiative signals Qatar’s bold ambition to become a leading innovator in the rapidly evolving landscape of digital assets. The Digital Assets Lab will be a hub for collaboration and innovation and provide a platform for transforming digital concepts into practical, industry-ready technologies.

R3 Founder and CEO, David E Rutter said, “Over the last year, R3 and QFC’s joint working groups have explored emerging regulatory paradigms and illustrated the benefit of nationally deploying DLT technology. We are honored that QFC Lab has chosen R3 as its trusted digital infrastructure provider. The QFC Digital Assets Lab enables participants, such as corporations, banks, and buy-side firms to explore use cases from proof of value to full production validation on Corda. As the base product for the QFC ecosystem, R3’s Corda will power tokenization projects across Qatar’s financial industry, supporting the issuance, transfer, and redemption of digital assets.”

R3 notes that it will continue to support the robust digital assets ecosystem in Qatar and building the digital financial markets.

R3 has been working with governments and banks across the GCC region on CBDC projects as well, including the UAE and KSA.

Binance appoints female General Manager for Dubai operation

Binance appoints female General Manager for Dubai operation

Binance, crypto exchange in the UAE has appointed a female General Manager for its Dubai operation. Stephanie Emile who assumed the role in August 2024 has an extensive background in the financial sector, including BNP Paribas, Barclays Capital and others.

According to the press release she was instrumental in Binance’s regulatory compliance and in securing the VASP license from Dubai’s virtual asset regulator VARA.

Within the past two years, Emile has contributed in cementing Binance’s reputation as a leader in compliance and innovation. The VASP license, secured in June, has expanded Binance’s service offerings to include margin, futures, and options trading for qualified investors and users, as well as lending, borrowing, and investment products.

Emile’s strategic priorities will include institutional adoption, enhancing regulatory compliance, and promoting educational initiatives, such as Binance Academy. Her vision ensures that current users have access to a wider spectrum of services while
lowering the barriers for new virtual assets users and enthusiasts.


“I am honored to step into this new role at such a pivotal time for Binance. As we navigate the ever-evolving regulatory landscape, I look forward to leading our team of experts in driving innovation, exploring new growth opportunities, and expanding our
offering in Dubai” said Stephanie Emile, General Manager, Binance Dubai.


Stephanie’s appointment underscores her exceptional ability to navigate complex challenges and drive transformation, positioning her as a key player in the future of Binance’s digital finance endeavors. Under her guidance, the company is poised to redefine the future of virtual assets and set new benchmarks for excellence in the industry.

UAE BinGhatti property developer interested in tokenizing its properties

UAE BinGhatti property developer interested in tokenizing its properties

In a recent Zawya story, UAE property developer BinGhatti, has revealed that they are interested in tokenizing real estate purchases to allow investors to own a part of a property for as little as 500 AED.

The Chairman of BinGhatti, Muhammad BinGhatti noted this during the Sharjah Investment Forum. He mentioned that the company had accepted crypto payments since 2021 with a total of $136 million in payments being made in the first nine months.

He added the organization is now “toying with” tokenizing real estate, to allow anyone, regardless of their wealth, to access the real estate market.


“We are working on as organization, tokenizing real estate to be able to trade it in a similar fashion as the stock market,” he said.

He said buyers would be able to buy as little as AED 500 worth of a real estate asset under tokenization, and then trade it like stock.

Recently Blockchain tokenization platform Mantra, which was reported earlier this year to be in the final stages of securing its Dubai license, was reported to be tokenizing $500 million of the real estate assets of Dubai-based MAG Group.