Blockchain Press Releases
ADGM Implements its Sustainable Finance Regulatory Framework
- ADGM has today implemented its sustainable finance regulatory framework, comprising the region’s most comprehensive ESG disclosure requirements and a regulatory framework for funds, discretionary managed portfolios, bonds and sukuks designed to accelerate the transition of the UAE to net zero greenhouse gas emissions.
- The framework complements ADGM’s existing regulation of carbon offsets, facilitating the establishment of the world’s first regulated carbon offsets exchange and clearing house in ADGM.
- These measures reflect ADGM’s position as a leading sustainable finance hub in the year that the UAE hosts COP28.
- The new regulations will take effect immediately, reflecting the critical importance of advancing the green agenda in Abu Dhabi, the UAE and globally.
ABU DHABI, UAE, July 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) today announced the implementation of its sustainable finance regulatory framework with immediate effect, following significant support received through public consultation, reinforcing its position as a leading sustainable financial hub and a natural hub for sustainable finance activities. The framework encompasses rules on sustainability-orientated investment funds, managed portfolios and bonds as well as requirements for environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosures by ADGM companies. The measures will accelerate the growth of a sustainable finance ecosystem in the jurisdiction and support the UAE’s transition to net zero greenhouse gas emissions.
The framework for green and climate transition funds and portfolios, green and sustainability-linked bonds and sukuks is a significant step in enabling capital to be channelled towards financing the transition to net zero. In order to recognise products and services that are aiding the transition, ADGM will confer a designation on those that purport to meet its robust minimum standards. It will also permit ADGM’s “designation mark” to be used in marketing materials and client communications. A designation mark will provide investors with a level of confidence that those products and services purport to meet ADGM’s minimum standards, catalysing investors to channel capital towards the green transition.
In keeping with ADGM’s keen focus on stakeholder engagement, a feedback statement has also been issued that reflects on the meaningful feedback received and addresses the key issues raised in response to the consultation paper and through associated stakeholder engagements. The overwhelming support for its proposals from industry, including stakeholders who indicated their plans to launch products under the proposed framework, crystallised ADGM’s intention to proceed with one of the first and most comprehensive sustainable finance frameworks in the region.
The feedback statement reflects how industry engagement has not only helped to shape the framework as implemented but also provided a clear indication of the areas that ADGM will examine in a post-implementation review to be undertaken in 2025 as part of its commitment to further develop and refine its regulatory framework going forward. ADGM will continue to rely on input from its stakeholders to help shape its ecosystem into a world-class hub for sustainable finance and a significant enabler to further the UAE’s net zero strategic initiative.
The framework and its stakeholders are further supported by knowledge acceleration initiatives such as the School of Sustainable Finance and the Research Centre at the ADGM Academy.
His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, President Designate of COP28 UAE said, “I warmly welcome ADGM’s regulatory framework for sustainable finance. The lack of available, accessible, affordable finance is putting the world’s climate goals and sustainable development at risk and addressing this issue is one of the top priorities of the COP28 Presidency. To make transformational progress, we need to shift gears in mobilizing private finance.”
“ADGM endeavours in advancing such a crucial initiative and in establishing a global hub for sustainable finance are highly commendable. This initiative will play a vital role in mobilizing capital for the transition to net zero not only in the UAE, but also in EMDEs, and will enable increased green transactions from local and global financial institutions.”
“I also welcome the ongoing work of the Sustainable Finance Working Group, chaired by ADGM and composed of UAE regulatory authorities, Federal Ministries and exchanges. These initiatives encompass joint efforts to advance frameworks for ESG disclosures, measures to require sustainability-focused corporate governance and the development of a UAE green taxonomy.”
“Finance is the key to turn good intentions into real results. The Paris Climate Agreement set our collective ambition, and we need initiatives such as ADGM’s Sustainable Finance Regulatory Framework to help us keep 1.5C within reach.”
His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Global Market said, “In the year that the UAE is hosting COP28, ADGM proudly aligns its actions with those of the country’s leadership who have declared this year as the Year of Sustainability. We believe our regulatory framework for sustainable finance is the most comprehensive in the Middle East and South Asia region, and comparable in scope and content with the most comprehensive regulatory frameworks globally.”
“Our requirements, particularly those which set minimum standards for sustainability-focused products and services, will help to channel capital into projects and activities that advance the country’s transition to net zero. We are grateful to market participants for their feedback, which reflects the excellent relationship between ADGM and its stakeholders within our sustainable finance ecosystem. Their engagement will continue to be essential as ADGM actively supports the UAE’s progress towards its goal of net zero by 2050 and the continuing development of Abu Dhabi’s green falcon economy.”
The new sustainable finance regulatory framework is further supported by several ongoing initiatives of ADGM such as the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration which has over 100 signatories, and the School of Sustainable Finance at the ADGM Academy. ADGM FSRA’s regulatory amendment to the capital markets framework last year, introduced an environmental instrument as a class of financial instrument, allowing carbon offsets to come under its regulatory framework and AirCarbon Exchange, the world’s first regulated voluntary carbon exchange platform, to be established in the financial centre.
These strategic endeavours, combined with a regulatory framework for sustainability-focused funds, portfolios, bonds and sukuks, as well as requirements for ESG disclosure and the regulation of carbon offsets distinguish ADGM as a premier hub for sustainable finance.
For the legislation and guidance, click HERE.
For the feedback statement, click HERE.
For more information about ADGM’s sustainable finance and ESG initiatives, click HERE.
About Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
For more details on ADGM, please visit www.adgm.com or follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @adglobalmarket and LinkedIn: @Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/adgm-implements-its-sustainable-finance-regulatory-framework-301869564.html
Blockchain Press Releases
Interlace Debuts at Token2049 to Accelerate Web2-Web3 Integration Across MENA
NEW YORK, May 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Interlace, a pioneering financial innovation platform bridging traditional (Web2) and decentralized (Web3) ecosystems, is making a high-impact debut at Token2049, the world’s largest cryptocurrency conference. The event draws more than 15,000 global Web3 leaders, investors, developers, and policymakers to the heart of the Middle East’s burgeoning digital economy.
As the MENA region solidifies its status as a strategic launchpad for blockchain and digital finance, Interlace is leveraging Token2049 to highlight its global ambitions and regional integration efforts. Through a combination of keynote speeches, panel participation, side events, and interactive showcases, the company will spotlight its technological breakthroughs, regulatory strategies, and innovative Web3 solutions designed to advance financial inclusion and digital infrastructure.
Token2049 has cemented its position as the premier global platform for blockchain dialogue and innovation. With MENA emerging as a magnet for crypto and fintech enterprises—thanks to its progressive regulatory framework and strong investor base—the event provides fertile ground for companies like Interlace to scale their operations in high-growth markets.
Driving Web3 Compliance and Strategy in the Middle East
Michael Wu, Founder and CEO of Interlace, was recently invited to speak at the event Mastering Web3 Finance and Compliance: Blockchain & Beyond, where he joined a panel discussion exploring regulatory frameworks and emerging trends in the Middle East’s Web3 ecosystem. Drawing on Interlace’s extensive global experience, Wu provided a deep dive into the region’s compliance landscape. He emphasized the UAE’s regulatory efficiency as a strategic advantage for Web3 companies, stating: “In MENA, it takes only a few months to obtain a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license, whereas the same process can take up to two years in Singapore. In the United States, conflicting federal and state regulations create persistent uncertainty for businesses.” This favorable regulatory environment, he noted, has enabled Interlace to accelerate its expansion into the Middle Eastern market.
Wu also outlined Interlace’s proactive compliance strategy, highlighting early regulatory investment as a foundation for building long-term competitive advantages. “We’ve secured key licenses—including MSB (Money Services Business), MSO (Money Service Operator), and VASP—across major markets such as Hong Kong, the U.S., and Europe,” he shared. He stressed the importance of integrating technology with compliance, citing the use of biometric solutions to streamline Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures. This approach not only ensures regulatory adherence but also enhances user accessibility. “Compliance is not a cost,” Wu asserted. “It’s the foundation of brand trust. For institutional partners and investors, regulatory compliance is non-negotiable—and critical for sustainable growth.”
Addressing the convergence of traditional finance and Web3, Wu presented Interlace’s multi-license model as a blueprint for cross-border innovation. “Our crypto payment card enables seamless interoperability between on-chain digital assets and off-chain consumer transactions,” he explained. “This functionality requires a high degree of cross-jurisdictional compliance.” Wu concluded by sharing that Interlace is actively expanding its footprint in the Middle East, bringing its regulatory expertise and compliance technology to support the region’s rapidly evolving blockchain infrastructure.
Unveiling Innovation at Premier Side Events
Beyond the main conference, Interlace will engage audiences at high-profile side events including 1001 Crypto Nights, Gilded Mirage, and the Hack Seasons Conferencei. These gatherings delve into themes such as the convergence of legacy finance with decentralized protocols and the region’s unique role in accelerating Web3 adoption.
Interlace will showcase its Card-as-a-Service (CaaS) API solutions tailored for the PayFi sector, as well as its custom-designed physical banking cards—which double as exclusive, limited-time gift cards. These cards demonstrate real-time “on-chain to off-chain” transaction capabilities, offering attendees a tangible experience of seamless Web3-enabled payments.
A Strategic Leap Toward Global and Regional Impact
Interlace’s presence at Token2049 is more than a product showcase—it represents a pivotal step in the company’s global expansion and MENA market penetration. As the company deepens its engagement in the region, it aims to collaborate with local institutions to build robust, inclusive digital financial ecosystems.
Wu reflected on the significance of the Middle East in shaping the future of blockchain finance: “The Middle East is rapidly evolving from an energy stronghold into a center of digital innovation. Its open regulatory approach and dynamic capital environment make it a strategic region for Web3 transformation. At Interlace, we’re committed to co-creating resilient financial infrastructure with local partners—enabling businesses and users to fully benefit from the potential of blockchain technology. We see MENA as a future global benchmark for Web3 applications.”
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/interlace-debuts-at-token2049-to-accelerate-web2web3-integration-across-mena-302444943.html
Showcasing blockchain’s potential to enable everyday financial transactions
NEW YORK, May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Rain, a global card issuing platform built for stablecoins, is helping usher in a new era of onchain finance through its work with Visa.
Today, Rain announced it has joined Visa’s pilot program for stablecoin settlement. Rain has fully tokenized its credit card receivables and has transitioned all settlement transactions for its Visa cards to USDC, to now be able to settle with Visa 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Rain provides backend infrastructure – APIs, compliance layers and settlement logic – that enables fintechs and wallets to build and launch stablecoin-linked card programs. As demand for real time, global payments grow, Rain is seeing strong momentum from partners looking to issue and use onchain cards and settle in stablecoins.
7 Day Stablecoin Settlement
Rain’s proprietary settlement stack brings all authorization logic and settlement onchain. Rain’s technology stack allows for card transactions on the Visa network to be interoperable with stablecoins across multiple blockchains. When a user makes a payment with a Rain-issued Visa card, Visa settles with the merchant acquirer as usual. Rain is programmatically leveraging stablecoins enabling network settlement 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Tokenized Credit Card Receivables
Rain’s platform has also fully tokenized its credit card receivables, enabling more efficient capital management and transparency across the system. These capabilities help fintechs go to market faster with new products. While giving consumers access to digital-first globally interoperable payment experiences.
Rain is also proud to announce a world first: closed loop credit card receivable financing utilizing stablecoins. Rain works with a network of capital partners – borrowing stablecoins to facilitate network settlement for credit card receivables. By borrowing from and programmatically repaying lenders Rain has been able to reduce the total cost of capital for consumer and b2b credit programs while providing lenders access to superior collateral and programmatic repayments powered by smart contracts. This powerful construct has the potential to unlock credit access for users in underdeveloped financial markets, all while unlocking significant operational and capital efficiencies for Rain and Rain powered programs.
“By participating in Visa’s USDC settlement program, we are now able to conduct settlement 7 days a week, 365 days a year, operating outside of traditional banking hours. USDC settlement allows us to be more capital efficient – helping to reduce the need for collateral while providing our counterparties the same level of protection. This sets a new standard for issuers and further enhances digital asset utility,” said Farooq Malik, CEO & Co-founder of Rain.
“Moving money across borders has always been complex, but blockchain technology and stablecoins are helping change that,” said Rubail Birwadker, Head of Growth Products and Partnerships, Visa. “Our work with Rain to help bring payments onchain and enable seven-day settlement is a big step toward helping to simplify global payments.”
This is just the beginning. Rain continues to explore new ways to enhance the utility of stablecoins, such as its asset-agnostic settlement stack and blockchain permissioning, which together enable credit to exist entirely onchain. Rain is paving the way for a more efficient, transparent, and accessible financial ecosystem that reduces working capital, reduces fraud, and drives improvements in operational outcomes.
Visa Principal Membership
A Visa principal member, Rain enables seamless payment solutions at more than 150 million Visa-accepting merchant locations worldwide. By utilizing stablecoins for automated daily settlement with the Visa network, Rain is doubling down on its mission to integrate blockchain technology with traditional financial systems, making digital assets seamlessly interoperable for everyday use cases.
About Rain: Rain is a global card issuing platform powered by stablecoins. The company, which was founded in 2021 by Farooq Malik and Charles Naut, sponsors and operates card programs in multiple markets as a Visa principal member. Rain is backed by Norwest Venture Partners, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Galaxy Ventures, Coinbase Ventures and others. Learn more at https://www.rain.xyz/
CONTACT: Charles Yoo-Naut; [email protected]
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/rain-and-visa-partner-to-accelerate-onchain-credit-cards-302443870.html
Blockchain Press Releases
MEXC Ventures Announces $300 Million Ecosystem Development Fund at Token2049 Event
VICTORIA, Seychelles, May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MEXC Ventures, the investment arm of the global cryptocurrency exchange MEXC, has unveiled a $300 million Ecosystem Development Fund aimed at accelerating blockchain innovation and ecosystem growth over the next five years. The initiative was officially announced at Token2049 in Dubai on April 30, aligning with MEXC’s 7th anniversary and reaffirming the company’s evolution from a trading platform to a full-scale Web3 ecosystem builder.
The new fund marks a strategic pivot in MEXC’s positioning — from a user-focused exchange to a foundational force in blockchain infrastructure. With this move, MEXC plans to foster long-term value across the entire crypto landscape by supporting early-stage technologies, public chains, wallets, and other decentralized tools that drive the future of Web3.
“We see this commitment as an opportunity to position MEXC well above its perceived place in the industry as an exchange service. We can and intend to offer much more through this investment, driving businesses and users to our ecosystem with a value offering built on best practices. Our ultimate vision is to transition from a trading venue to an ecosystem platform that will cater to all the needs of crypto industry participants in unique, innovative, and attractive ways,” as Tracy Jin, COO of MEXC exchange, commented on the upcoming announcement.
The Ecosystem Development Fund foresees the establishment of an investment and cooperation linkage model that will connect the different businesses with the broader MEXC ecosystem to drive value. The trusted basis of MEXC as a leader in innovation will be used to expand and enhance the overall trading experience for users by offering support beyond capital. Cooperation between exchange business and investments will focus on the development of public chains, stablecoins, wallets, and media platforms as part of the MEXC ecosystem. Comprehensive selection criteria will be announced for projects interested in joining the new initiative.
The new development will allow projects to attract investments and attain visibility, thus advancing their integration across industry services. This will, in turn, give users access to new services, upping their overall experience and building trust. Greater integration and cooperation between businesses, projects and users will ultimately positively impact the industry as a whole, advancing innovation and promoting adoption across different markets and regions.
Existing initiatives within the MEXC ecosystem include Ethena, a leading innovator in the stablecoin space. MEXC has made a strategic investment of $16 million in Ethena and has also purchased $20 million worth of USDe, Ethena’s synthetic dollar. In collaboration with Ethena, MEXC launched several joint campaigns that have gained significant traction in recent weeks, driving strong user engagement. ENA, Ethena’s native token, has showcased up to $15 million in trading volume over the past 24-hour timeframe. Such results indicate strong support for the products on the part of users, as well as demand from a liquidity standpoint. MEXC had recently invested in Ethena and launched a number of joint campaigns focused on expanding the use of public chains, wallets, and media platforms.
MEXC is determined to elevate the positioning of the platform beyond its perceived status as a trading venue to its full potential as an industry ecosystem element. Such a transition is aimed at building greater value for users and making the crypto environment more attractive to both businesses and investments. MEXC invites all projects in the crypto space to join its latest initiative.
About MEXC Ventures
MEXC Ventures is a comprehensive fund MEXC dedicated to driving innovation in the cryptocurrency sector through investments in L1/L2 ecosystems, strategic investments, M&A, and incubation. Upholding the principle of “Empowering Growth Through Synergy,” MEXC Ventures is committed to supporting innovative ideas and active builders.
MEXC Ventures is an investor and supporter of TON and Aptos, and looks forward to staying at the forefront of TON and Aptos innovations while actively engaging with builders to drive ecosystem growth.
For more information, visit: MEXC Ventures Website
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2676976/250430_MEXC_PressCover_1920_1080.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2668118/MEXC_new_Logo.jpg
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mexc-ventures-announces-300-million-ecosystem-development-fund-at-token2049-event-302443547.html
-
Blockchain7 days agoBlocks & Headlines: Today in Blockchain – April 25, 2025 | BitNile, Dutch Blockchain Week, Citigroup, Philippine Blockchain Week, D.O.G.E Foundation
-
Blockchain Press Releases7 days agoBybit Exchange Gold & FX Trading Hits All-Time-High As Gold Prices Soar
-
Blockchain Press Releases4 days agoBTC Pricing Alert: Bitcoin Rebounds as Trump’s Trade War Comments Ignite Market Rally – Bybit x Block Scholes Report
-
Blockchain3 days ago
PFM Disrupts Wealth Management in 2025: Earn Digital Assets Risk-Free with Zero Fees
-
Blockchain7 days ago
Ov Finance Upgrades Blockchain Infrastructure to Deliver Faster, Safer Digital Asset Trading
-
Blockchain7 days ago
Chameleon Finance Launches Green Finance Initiative to Advance Sustainable Digital Asset Infrastructure
-
Blockchain3 days ago
Blocks & Headlines: Today in Blockchain – April 29, 2025 | Deloitte, TRON DAO, Miden, JPMorgan, Nuvve
-
Blockchain2 days ago
Veriff and Legitify Partner to Streamline Cross-Border Digital Notarisation
