Fasset crypto exchange launches its app in UAE

Fasset crypto exchange launches its app in UAE

UAE regulated crypto digital asset exchange Fasset has launched its official application in the UAE. Fasset received a VARA (Dubai’s virtual asset regulatory authority) license in November 2023.

The app’s launch in the UAE is a strategic step for Fasset, following a successful launch in Indonesia last year, where it attracted over one million users within the first week. Fasset allows users to carry out spot trading and investment services in cryptocurrencies, stablecoins and tokenized real-world assets.

On the educational front the application includes Fasset Play, designed to offer a risk-free learning environment for users to hone their investment skills. This initiative aligns with Fasset’s mission to democratize access to financial services, enabling a wider audience to explore and manage their wealth.

Fasset CEO Mohammad Raafi Hossain commented, “UAE is experiencing a surge in digital asset investment as the government promotes innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. We are happy to extend our secure and transparent platform to customers in the UAE. Our goal is to empower people to have universal access to financial services, so they have more opportunities to build and manage their wealth.”

Fasset’s strategic partnerships have been instrumental in its rapid growth. In Indonesia, the company partnered with Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison to launch the world’s first embedded digital asset exchange in a telco app, reaching over 100 million users. Additionally, Fasset collaborated with Mastercard to introduce a crypto card for users in the region.

Fasset has raised a total of $26.7 million in funding. This includes a significant $22 million raised in a Series A funding round in April 2022, led by Liberty City Ventures from New York and Fatima Gobi Ventures from Pakistan, with additional participation from Soma Capital and MyAsiaVC. Before this, Fasset raised $4.7 million across two rounds, including seed funding from Dubai’s Ceras Ventures in May 2021.

Saudi Arabia gets Web3 deep tech accelerator

Saudi Arabia gets Web3 deep tech accelerator

Saudi Arabia gets a new Web3 deep tech accelerator through its recent partnership with Outlier Ventures. The Saudi National Technology Development Program (NTDP) and Outlier Ventures announced a new accelerator program in the MENA region, which marks the inception of the first deep tech web3 accelerator program in Riyadh. The accelerator will kick off later in 2024.

The MOU ( Memorandum of Understanding) aims to catalyze the growth of Web3 ecosystem Kingdom, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for technological and economic diversification.

The initiative seeks to nurture the most promising web3 startups within KSA, providing them with access to Outlier Ventures’ extensive expertise on critical aspects such as product development, entity structuring, and token design.

Startups selected for this accelerator program will benefit from mentorship by leading figures in the web3 domain and potential investment opportunities, a crucial step towards establishing a robust infrastructure for technological innovation in Saudi Arabia.

Outlier Ventures has developed partnerships with over 300 startups worldwide.

Stephan Apel, Outlier Ventures CEO and Founding Partner, noted, “We are honoured to partner with the National Technology Development Program (NTDP) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Under Vision 2030, the rapid pace of change and development is visible across all sectors of the economy. The achievements are testimony to the level of dedication and focus driving the Kingdom forward. Our strategic collaboration underscores our joint dedication to nurturing technological progress. We are looking forward to bringing our 10 years’ experience, in-house world-class expertise and track record of helping Web3 startups develop, to help build out the Web3 ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, providing support to early-stage entrepreneurs.”

While Mr. Ibrahim Neyaz, the CEO of the NTDP added, “We are thrilled to partner with Outlier Ventures to achieve the goals of this partnership by working together to support the ecosystem of technology startups in Saudi Arabia. This partnership reinforces our commitment to advancing technology and fostering innovation in Saudi Arabia. By harnessing their extensive global expertise and advanced capabilities in the Web3 industry, Outlier Ventures will bring tangible value and make significant contributions to enhancing the Kingdom’s technological infrastructure. This, in turn, will facilitate technological growth and innovation across various sectors. We eagerly anticipate achieving mutual success and cultivating a robust relationship that benefits all parties involved.”

Prior to this announcement, The Hashgraph Association (THA) launched a $250 million DeepTech Venture Studio in Riyadh. The proposed venture studio is dedicated to nurturing innovation in deep technology sectors such as AI, DLT, robotics, IoT, VR, and quantum computing.

OFAC sanctions UAE registered crypto trading entity

OFAC sanctions UAE registered crypto trading entity

The United States Department of the Treasury office of foreign assets Control (OFAC) has sanctioned a UAE registered business entity and its subsidiary for helping to build or operate blockchain based services to facilitate potential sanctions evasion on behalf of Russian nationals.

The total number of sanctioned entities are twelve.

Chainalysis in a blog explored the activities of these entities including on-chain analysis of addresses identified that were associated with sanctioned businesses.

While most of the sanctioned entities and individuals are based in Russia and all of them are linked to Russia through the services they provided, one is based out of DMCC UAE (Dubai Multi Commodities Center).

The company in the UAE is called Crypto Explorer DMCC (Crypto Explorer). It operates under its business name AWEX. The company operates a Russian and UAE-based virtual currency exchange that offers conversions between virtual currencies, rubles, and UAE dirhams. In a report by Crypto defender he showcases the following information on crypto explorer. (dated 11 months ago)

According to the OFAC press release, AWEX offers cash services at its offices in Moscow and Dubai and also loads funds onto credit cards associated with OFAC-designated Russian banks such as Sberbank and Alfa-Bank. Crypto Explorer was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.

As for the other sanctioned entities they include

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Kripto Eksplorer (OOO Kripto Eksplorer) is a Russian company that is solely owned by Crypto Explorer. OOO Kripto Eksplorer was designated for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Crypto Explorer.

Joint Stock Company B-Crypto worked with OFAC-designated Rosbank to support cross-border transactions in crypto.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Sistemy Raspredelennogo Reyestra (Masterchain) has agreements with several OFAC-designated Russian banks to issue digital currencies.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Laitkhaus issued and exchanged digital currencies to support several OFAC-designated banks.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Atomaiz tokenized diamonds and precious metals on behalf of Russian banks.

Tokentrust Holdings Ltd. is Atomiaz’s majority shareholder.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Veb3 Tekhnologii provided blockchain-based services and platforms for the Russian financial sector, including sanctioned Russian banks.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Veb3 Integrator also provided blockchain-based services and platforms for the Russian financial sector, including sanctioned Russian banks.

Igor Veniaminovich Kaigorodov is the majority shareholder for Veb3 Tekhnologii and Veb3 Integrator.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Tsentr Obrabotki Elektronnykh Platezhey (TOEP) is a digital currency exchange that operates under the names Netexchange and Netex24, and facilitated payments to OFAC-sanctioned banks including Sberbank and Alfa-Bank, as well as Hydra, the sanctioned darknet market.

Timur Evgenyevich Bukanov is the owner and director of TOEP.

Bitfingroup OÜ is an Estonia-based company likely controlled by Bukanov.

Bitpapa IC FZC LLC is a peer-to-peer (P2P) exchange that facilitated millions in payments for OFAC-designated Russian cryptocurrency businesses, Garantex and Hydra.

In the Chainalysis report on Netex24 and BitPapa, they noted that Netex24 supports off-ramping to sanctioned Russian banks Tinkoff and Sberbank, as well as other similar organizations. Although OFAC did not include any crypto addresses in its designations of Netex24 or Bitpapa, Chainalysis has identified clusters associated with both services. Over the last two years, on-chain data shows that both Netex24 and Bitpapa have facilitated significant sending of funds to sanctioned entities. Darknet markets also make up a significant volume of transaction history, in addition to exchanges without Know Your Customer (KYC) controls, many of which are Russian-language sites offering on and off ramping with sanctioned Russian banks.

Value sent by Netex24 and Bitpapa to sanctioned entities and darknet markets has steadily increased since the start of Russia’s war in Ukraine, whereas value sent to exchanges without KYC guidelines and other illicit services has remained relatively flat.

In addition to facilitating transactions on behalf of larger sanctioned financial services and crypto entities, Netex24 and Bitpapa have also facilitated transactions for various pro-Russian militia and propaganda groups, including MOO Veche, an OFAC designated Russian militia group. All of these entities have been known to operate in the Donetsk, Luhansk, or Crimean regions of Ukraine.

The UAE was one of the first countries in the world to develop a virtual asset regulatory framework and recently was taken off of the FATF grey list. While the company in question was registered as a business in DMCC for the trading of crypto assets, it did not have a regulatory license to operate within the UAE. In addition its licensed was supposed to have expired in September of 2023.

Solana and UAE Hub71 to support real world asset projects

Solana and UAE Hub71 to support real world asset projects

UAE ADGM Academy has backed up a partnership between Hub71 and Solana Blockchain to foster innovation for real world assets projects by offering incentives, office space, regulatory support and the UAE Golden visa.

This marks a significant step towards establishing the UAE as a hub for technological advancement and blockchain innovation. The Solana Foundation, committed to the Solana ecosystem, offers valuable resources and expertise to boost the UAE’s tech community.

Leveraging Solana’s blockchain, the partnership aims to attract talent and foster solutions for real-world challenges.

Hub71, strategically located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, is also a partner in the endeavor. Its mission to provide a nurturing environment for startups and tech companies aligns perfectly with the objectives of the Solana Foundation. This environment is conducive to creativity and innovation, providing the perfect setting for Solana RWA projects to thrive.

A critical component of this partnership is the support provided by the ADGM Academy. The Academy’s role is to provide projects with premier educational resources and regulatory advice. This support is vital for navigating the complexities of blockchain technology and its applications in real-world scenarios.

On offer is the UAE Golden Visa to Solana RWA projects. This long-term visa offers entrepreneurs stability and freedom from visa concerns, allowing them to concentrate on innovation. It’s a clear signal of the UAE’s commitment to attracting and retaining top talent in the technology sector.

Nexon gaming entity sets up in UAE to launch blockchain game

Nexon gaming entity sets up in UAE to launch blockchain game

South Korean Nexon gaming enters the UAE with its latest game MapleStory using blockchain. Nexon is working on a game that will bring together their classic games with Blockchain under the name MapleStory. Nexon has launched in the UAE under two subsidiaries Nexon Universe Global and Nexpace.

Nexon chose UAE because it is a hotspot for cutting edge technology. MapleStory will include NFTs,

This strategic move aims to fortify Nexon’s foothold in the burgeoning blockchain gaming sector within its target market, the Middle East, according to industry insiders.

Nexpace, a blockchain gaming venture introduced by Nexon in the previous year, is poised to play a pivotal role in the company’s expansion endeavors. At the core of Nexpace lies MapleStory N, a project that integrates Nexon’s well-known intellectual property, MapleStory, with Non-Fungible Token (NFT) technology.

In line with its expansion strategy, Nexon Korea Corp. is gearing up to unveil MapleStory N in select markets later this year. This anticipated launch signifies a significant stride towards broadening Nexon’s portfolio in the realm of blockchain gaming.

The move to establish subsidiaries in the UAE underscores Nexon’s commitment to harnessing the potential of blockchain technology within the gaming landscape. By extending its presence into the UAE, Nexon Korea Corp. aims to leverage the region’s conducive environment for technological innovation and entrepreneurial growth. This expansion not only signifies Nexon’s ambition to tap into new markets but also reflects its dedication to fostering a dynamic gaming ecosystem on a global scale.

Nexon plans to launch MapleStory N in select countries this year, marking a significant step in its strategy to broaden its blockchain gaming portfolio.

Animoca brands, which offers digital property rights for games and open metaverse, continues to invest in gaming and Web3 start-ups in the MENA region. Its latest investment is with UAE based Param Labs, a blockchain enabled gaming infrastructure provider.

Hydro Crypto mining the star of Bitmain summit in Oman

Hydro Crypto mining the star of Bitmain summit in Oman

A manufacturer of Global crypto mining servers, Bitmain is holding its yearly event, the World Digital Mining Summit (WDMS) in Oman on March 29th 2024 at the W hotel. The theme of WDMS in Oman will be “Hydromining wins the desert”.

As per the press release, the conference will provide new financing opportunities and revitalize the market. Leading mining, finance, investment, custody and energy companies from around the world will participate in the event to help the digital currency and crypto ecosystem flourish. WDMS will provide an international platform to discuss financing mining, mine establishment, renewable energy, mining resources, PoW development and many other hot topics.

The summit will focus on hydro-mining, a cutting-edge technique promising to revolutionize the cryptocurrency mining industry. Hydro mining is an innovative approach to mining that utilizes water to cool mining equipment, a critical innovation in the heat-intensive climates of desert regions. As the industry grapples with environmental concerns, hydro-mining presents a sustainable and efficient solution for digital currency extraction.

Attendees can expect to delve into discussions on sustainability, efficiency, and the future of crypto mining technologies in the digital age. Bitmain’s initiative to hold the summit in Oman underscores the country’s emerging role as a hub for technological innovation in the Middle East.

Oman has been investing heavily in datacenters, and has attracted crypto mining entities such as Pheonix Technologies and Exahertz among others.

Emurgo and Encryptus offer crypto transaction services in the Middle East

Emurgo and Encryptus offer crypto transaction services in the Middle East

EMURGO Middle East Africa, the investment and commercial arm of the Cardano blockchain platform Cardano in Africa and the Middle East, today announced a strategic partnership with Encryptus, a leading Crypto, Fiat infrastructure provider. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in providing seamless on and off-ramp services to support the Cardano ecosystem, fostering ADA adoption across frontier markets.

EMURGO MEA leverages Cardano’s innovation, security, and sustainability to drive digital transformation, creating impactful blockchain solutions. By partnering with Encryptus, known for its pioneering crypto-to-fiat and fiat-to-crypto transaction solutions.

This partnership empowers Encryptus to unveil a suite of new products designed specifically for Cardano users. These offerings include cutting-edge; compliant payout solutions such as bank wire transfers across over 80 countries, mobile wallet services in more than 40 countries, and an array of gift cards and mobile plans accessible in over 110 countries.

“Our collaboration with Encryptus is a testament to our dedication to not only advancing the Cardano ecosystem but also to innovating the blockchain space as a whole. By integrating Encryptus’ leading crypto-to-fiat transaction solutions, we’re set to unlock unprecedented opportunities for ADA users and continue to lead in the creation of blockchain-enabled ecosystems” said Yosuke Yoshida, Co-CEO of EMURGO MEA.

Shantnoo Saxsena, CEO & Founder of Encryptus, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “True adoption of blockchain technology extends beyond simple access to cryptocurrencies. It necessitates robust off-ramping capabilities that empower users to effortlessly convert ADA into fiat currencies and various payment methods. This collaboration is a game-changer especially in the frontier markets, completing the essential link for broader crypto adoption and enhancing the utility of ADA across numerous markets.”

“Encryptus’ unique banking infrastructure is what sets them apart from their competition. Their ability to provide cryptocurrency services akin to traditional finance services is why we believe the team has the capabilities to build many additional layers of value creation, on top of their existing offerings. We at EMURGO MEA are very excited about the prospects of our partnership, in creating stronger accessibility to ADA and the Cardano chain, with hands-on support from our recent launch of EMURGO Labs,” said Ahmed M. Amer, EMURGO Labs CEO.

Under the partnership, Encryptus will leverage its vast off-ramp infrastructure and regulatory compliance expertise to facilitate efficient ADA-to-fiat conversions. Simultaneously, EMURGO Middle East and Africa will develop smart contracts and additional UI components necessary for the seamless integration of Cardano into Encryptus’ platforms, ensuring a smooth user experience for converting ADA across various payment systems.

This strategic partnership is poised to significantly enhance the utility of ADA, making it more accessible and usable across the globe. By providing efficient, secure, and compliant pathways for crypto-to-fiat transactions, EMURGO MEA and Encryptus are paving the way for increased adoption of the Cardano blockchain, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of the digital economy in the Middle East, Africa and beyond.

Blockchain AI real estate DAO sets up in UAE

Blockchain AI real estate DAO sets up in UAE

BrickLayer DAO a tokenized RWA platform built on Blockchain, and AI, for real estate has set up in the UAE and is seeking a license from FSRA in ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) as well as a license in VARA (Dubai’s virtual asset regulatory Authority).

According to their website, Bricklayer platform is fueled by AI and virtual assets, providing a decentralized Blockchain access to institutional grade real estate. It also offers over-leverage crypto holders with access to institutional real estate without sacrificing the speculative gains, providing consistent change to real yield dividends in ‘$MORTAR’.

As per their website and linkedIn post, Bricklayer DAO is in the process of being regulating under FRSA, VARA and UAE common law, giving a legal layer of protection to investors.

Nick Prescott one of the founders who was a former executive at Amazon and now the co-founder of BrickLayer explored blockchain but faced uncertainty in picking genuine projects. Nick’s frustration with corporate hierarchies fueleda quest for a blended solution—a platform combining blockchain’s speculative nature with REIT’s stability, all while giving investors a voice.

Nick delved into DAOs, decentralized environments where everyone’s voice matters. After completing a cryptocurrency course at MIT, he left Amazon and founded Bricklayer. This real estate fund, powered by Ethereum blockchain, adopted a decentralized strategy influenced by $BRICKS token holders. It offered a unique blend of speculation, hedged with one of the safest of asset classes.

Bricklayer is now incorporated the UAE. Bricklayer aspires to become the Robinhood of real estate, reshaping the traditional landlord-occupier dynamic. As stated, “We’re committed to increasing leasehold flexibility and reducing occupational costs, forging partnerships with occupiers to create a more equitable and flexible real estate ecosystem. Bricklayer is dedicated to advancing blockchain adoption within the real estate industry. We’re on a mission to persuade vendors to embrace virtual assets as a valid form of exchange in real estate transactions, ushering in a new era of efficiency and transparency.”

Tokenization of real estate in UAE is picking up with recent Desert Pearl project.

Crypto derivative exchange BioFin sponsors Token2049 event in Dubai

Crypto derivative exchange BioFin sponsors Token2049 event in Dubai

BioFin, a crypto derivatives exchange is sponsoring the Token2049 event in Dubai UAE. As per the press release, this sponsorship marks a significant milestone for BloFin, following its successful participation as a Gold Sponsor at TOKEN2049, in Singapore in 2023. It is dedicated to furthering the blockchain industry’s growth and development by partnering once again with TOKEN2049.

As a Platinum Sponsor, BloFin aims to showcase its commitment to innovation, technology, and community engagement within the blockchain ecosystem. TOKEN2049 Dubai 2024 promises to be a gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts from around the world, and BloFin’s sponsorship underscores its position as a key player in shaping the future of blockchain technology and digital asset trading.

BloFin’s exclusive WhalesNight AfterParty is poised to make waves. Scheduled to be held at the scenic Sobe Dubai Rooftop Sundowner, the event will commence at 19:30 (UTC+4) on April 18, 2024.

The BloFin WhalesNight AfterParty will bring together industry leaders, BloFin Whales (influencers), and BloFin VIPs from around the world. Attendees can look forward to engaging discussions, exciting news, and valuable networking opportunities in a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. It will serve as a platform for participants to connect, share insights, and explore new opportunities in the ever-evolving cryptocurrency landscape.

With years of experience in the blockchain industry, Matt Hu, the CEO of Blofin, is anticipating this opportunity and recognizes the significance of attending TOKEN 2049 in Dubai as a platinum sponsor for his product: 

“Bitcoin is being heralded as the modern-day gold, while Dubai is on the rise as the world’s new financial epicenter. Dubai Token2049 presents an unparalleled platform for dialogue, not just for us, but for global users as well. As one of the most rapidly expanding exchanges, BloFin is excited to showcase our breakthroughs in product innovation, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled security  measures. We’re not stopping there; BloFin is committed to ongoing investment in our product suite, technological advancements, security protocols, and operational efficiencies to ensure our users receive nothing but the most exceptional and dependable services. Join us at Dubai Token2049 to witness the future of finance, today.” 

Attendees at TOKEN2049 in Dubai will have the opportunity to delve into the diverse features of the Blofin ecosystem, spanning fiutures trading, copy trading, and more. Through interactions with experts, Web3 builders, thought leaders, and enthusiasts at TOKEN2049, BloFin aims to forge a robust foundation for the advancement and maturation of the blockchain ecosystem.

Bitget crypto exchange reveals crypto statistics as it courts the MENA region

Bitget crypto exchange reveals crypto statistics as it courts the MENA region

Bitget crypto exchange released some statistics on how MENA investors anticipate Bitcoin halving on its price as well as information from Bitget’s managing Director on crypto mining in the region as it courts MENA crypto traders, investors, and regulators.

As per the Bitget study 80% of MENA investors believe that bitcoin halving will lead to price fluctuations between $30,000 and $60,000 at the time of halving.

In addition, 82% of crypto investors residing in MENA who were surveyed intend to augment their investments in 2024 with merely 4% planning to reduce their crypto holdings.

Bitget Managing Director Gracy Chen has revealed that the MENA region bitcoin mining hashrate now exceeds 8 percent and is expected to grow as miners migrate from countries with regulatory instability towards low-cost reliable surplus of energy.

She notes that in Oman for example $1.1 billion of investment has gone into crypto mining, she expects as such the share of bitcoin mining in MENA to go over 15%.

Crypto exchange Bitget, with roots in India has been courting the MENA region for some time. While the crypto exchange has yet to receive a license from any GCC or MENA regulator, it has launched a Ramadan campaign to celebrate the holy month with its Arabic speaking audience. The campaign includes daily token giveaways along with the chance to win airpods, headsets, laptop, smartwatch and more.

As per the release, to make this program inclusive, Bitget will be donating $1 towards charity for each winner during the campaign timeline. Users who follow Bitget MENA on Twitter can utilize #BitgetRamadanChallenge to get noticed and win exciting rewards. Giveaways will be settled every Saturday and requires users to complete a set of challenges to be eligible for the event.

“Middle east and North African regions have increased its crypto adoption drastically in recent times. At Bitget we plan to leverage our resources to strengthen this growth. With regional specific campaigns, language support, crypto conversion and trading choices, we’ve tailored our app for our MENA users. The region is bound to grow and increase its adoption, and we’re here to fuel it,” says Vugar Usi Zade, COO at Bitget.

Back in November 2023, Bitget, even expanded its support for fiat gateways in the Middle East region. The crypto exchange announced that users can now utilize the platform’s peer-to-peer trading for seven currencies: DZD (Algerian Dinars), BHD (Bahraini Dinars), TND (Tunisian Dinars), JOD (Jordanian Dinars), QAR (Qatari Rials), MRU (Mauritanian Ouguiyas), and OMR (Omani Rials).

With the newly added fiat support, Bitget users can start buying and selling crypto with zero fees on Bitget P2P. Users can purchase USDT with integrated local currencies using local payment methods from anywhere globally via Bitget P2P. The exchange also launched Arabic lingual support for its website and mobile application.

At the time Chen noted, “Our products are aligned with Bitget’s expansion plans in the Middle East. We want to enable our traders to trade in their preferred fiat currencies. With Bitget P2P we’re enabling a seamless and convenient trading experience for our valued users in the region. We’re focused on driving financial sovereignty as we make crypto accessible and user-friendly throughout the globe.”

Bitget confirmed that it had begun exploring license applications in order to operate in target Middle East markets. In the same press release it stated, gaining proper licenses and regulatory approval is a top priority to support expansion and allow the company to open regional offices. Bitget has been scaling its operational reach globally in recent months, including the registration as VASP (Virtual Asset Service Provider) in Poland and similar crypto registration in Lithuania. The new expansion plan in the Middle East region aligns with Bitget’s vision of spreading crypto’s mass adoption.

In 2023 Bitget announced opening of operations in Dubai UAE, and recruiting over 60 new staff members to fill back-office positions.

Bitget even has its own X channel for the MENA region where it is posting competitions and challenges.

Bitget is now rated as the number 12th crypto exchange in world, with more than $2 billion worth of trading as per CoinMarketCap.