Citi Joins Visa in Backing Stablecoin Payments Company BVNK

Citi Ventures has made a significant investment in BVNK, a stablecoin infrastructure firm, which has now reached a valuation of over $750 million. This move highlights the growing interest of traditional banks in the cryptocurrency space, as they seek to deepen their exposure to digital assets. By backing BVNK, Citi is not only supporting innovation in the financial sector but also positioning itself to benefit from the expanding market for stablecoins, which are becoming increasingly important in the world of digital finance.

Citigroup's venture arm has made a strategic investment in BVNK, a London-based stablecoin firm, signaling Wall Street's growing interest in blockchain technology and digital payments. This move is significant as it highlights the increasing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in mainstream finance, potentially paving the way for more innovative payment solutions and enhancing the overall stability of digital currencies.

Citi's recent investment in the stablecoin firm BVNK, which has now surpassed a valuation of $750 million, underscores the increasing acceptance of stablecoins within traditional finance. This move is significant as it could lead to a transformation in global payment systems, making transactions more efficient and accessible. As financial institutions embrace digital currencies, the landscape of finance is poised for a major shift, benefiting consumers and businesses alike.

Oobit has launched a new DePay layer that allows users to spend cryptocurrency directly from their self-custody wallets like MetaMask and SafePal, eliminating the need for custodial cards or top-ups. This innovation is significant as it enables seamless on-chain payments accepted by over 150 million merchants worldwide, including major players like Visa and Mastercard. This development not only enhances the usability of cryptocurrencies but also promotes wider adoption in everyday transactions.

Bitcoin's price has skyrocketed over 100% this year, creating a wave of new millionaires in the crypto space. This surge not only highlights the growing acceptance and potential of cryptocurrencies but also reflects a broader trend in digital asset investment. As more people enter the market, it raises questions about the future of traditional finance and the role of digital currencies in wealth creation.

The European Union is looking to introduce euro stablecoins as a strategic move to challenge the dominance of the US dollar in the cryptocurrency market. This shift comes in response to a significant increase in US dollar-pegged stablecoins following new legislation in the United States in 2025. By developing euro stablecoins, the EU aims to enhance its financial sovereignty and provide a competitive alternative for digital transactions, which could reshape the global financial landscape.

The Department of Justice has reached a deferred-prosecution agreement with Roger Ver, a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency world. This development is significant as it allows Ver to avoid criminal charges while still addressing the concerns raised by the DOJ. It highlights the ongoing efforts to regulate the cryptocurrency industry and ensures that key players are held accountable, which could foster a more stable environment for innovation in the sector.

Roger Ver, known as Bitcoin Jesus, has reached a tentative settlement with the Department of Justice, agreeing to pay $48 million to resolve tax fraud allegations. This development is significant as it could potentially bring an end to the ongoing legal case against him, allowing Ver to move forward in the cryptocurrency space without the burden of these charges hanging over him.

Chainalysis has uncovered a staggering $75 billion in illicit cryptocurrency that is currently sitting in publicly accessible wallets. This discovery highlights a significant opportunity for global law enforcement agencies to potentially seize these funds, which could aid in combating crime and enhancing financial security. The report, released on October 9, underscores the importance of monitoring blockchain activity and the potential for regulatory actions in the cryptocurrency space.

Traders are preparing for potential market fluctuations as Bitcoin and Ethereum approach a significant $5.3 billion options expiry. This event is crucial because it could lead to increased volatility in the cryptocurrency market, impacting prices and trading strategies. Understanding how these expiries affect market dynamics is essential for investors looking to navigate the ever-changing landscape of digital currencies.