Fintech

The Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA) has released its 2025 annual report, titled From Regulation to Empowerment, documenting unprecedented advances in Egypt's non-banking financial activities. Mohamed Farid, the FRA chairperson, described 2025 as a turning point in reaping the benefits of reforms launched since 2022.

22 Mwezi wa kwanza, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Crypto-linked credit cards have seen explosive growth, with payment volumes surging from $100 million monthly in early 2023 to over $1.5 billion by late 2025. This trend bridges traditional payments and digital assets, onboarding new users while enhancing utility for crypto holders. However, their reliance on established rails raises questions about true innovation in finance.

Following the Senate's approval on December 17, Brazil's Congress passed PLP 128/2025 on December 26, raising taxes on fintechs—part of a broader fiscal package cutting benefits and hiking other levies to unlock R$22.45 billion for the 2026 budget. The fintech measure aims to align fiscal treatment with traditional banks for competitive neutrality, but fuels debate on stifling innovation and financial inclusion. Proponents see fair compensation; critics fear consumer harm.

26 Mwezi wa kumi na mbili, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI

As the Trump administration promotes cryptocurrency, smaller lenders are experimenting with crypto assets to qualify borrowers overlooked by traditional underwriting. Companies like UMortgage and Milo have closed millions in such loans, highlighting both opportunities and risks in this emerging market. This approach allows homeowners to leverage digital wealth without selling it, though volatility and regulation remain hurdles.