Digital Asset
Intelligence

Compliance

Bybit Secures Full VARA License for Spot Trading in Dubai

Summary: Bybit received a full VASP license from Dubai’s VARA, allowing its local entity to offer spot trading. The company must still complete launch processes before serving customers, complementing its earlier federal SCA license which excluded Dubai.

HSBC Launches RedCoin Stablecoin for Retail Payments via PayMe App

Summary: HSBC launched RedCoin, a Hong Kong-dollar stablecoin, for retail use via its PayMe app, enabling over 3.3 million users to activate wallets. The asset is redeemable one-for-one against the HKD and follows HSBC's April licensing under Hong Kong's stablecoin framework.

FINMA Approves First Swiss-Law Spot Bitcoin ETF for Retail Investors

Summary: FINMA approves BIT Asset Management's BBIT, the first Swiss-law spot Bitcoin ETF for retail investors. Trading begins in November on SIX Swiss Exchange. Unlike debt-based ETPs, it uses a collective investment scheme with ring-fenced assets, though regulators warn of high volatility.

Fireblocks Denies Visa Acquisition Talks Valued at $2.5 Billion

Summary: Fireblocks denies Visa is negotiating a $2.5 billion acquisition, dismissing recent reports as untrue. The rumor suggested a major deal in stablecoin infrastructure, contrasting with Visa's existing partnerships and Mastercard's recent purchase of BVNK.

ABA Says OCC Stablecoin Rules Undermine Congress by Allowing Yield Workarounds

Summary: The American Bankers Association criticizes the OCC’s final GENIUS Act rules, arguing they undermine Congress by allowing stablecoin issuers to bypass yield bans via indirect arrangements. The regulator removed safeguards against affiliate-based rewards, sparking debate over statutory intent and potential deposit flight risks.