Securitize, a leading platform for tokenizing real-world assets, is set to go public through a merger with Cantor Equity Partners II (CEPT), a SPAC backed by Cantor Fitzgerald, at a $1.25 billion valuation.
The move will make Securitize the first public company focused entirely on tokenized securities, marking a major step forward for the growing tokenization industry.
A Big Step for Tokenized Finance
Once the deal is complete, the combined company will trade on Nasdaq under the ticker “SECZ.”
Existing investors – including ARK Invest, BlackRock, Blockchain Capital, Hamilton Lane, Jump Crypto, Morgan Stanley Investment Management, and Tradeweb Markets – will roll over 100% of their shares into the new entity.
No one is cashing out, which is a clear sign of long-term confidence in the company’s future.
The merger could bring in around $469 million in gross proceeds. That includes $225 million from a fully committed PIPE led by top institutional investors such as Arche, Borderless Capital, Hanwha Investment & Securities, InterVest, and ParaFi Capital, along with $244 million from CEPT’s trust account, assuming no redemptions.
“This is a defining moment for Securitize and for the future of finance,” said Carlos Domingo, Co-Founder and CEO of Securitize. “We founded this company with a mission to democratize capital markets by making them more accessible, transparent, and efficient through tokenization.”
The news are out! @Securitize has filed to go public in Nasdaq via a merger with Cantor Equity Partners II lead by @Brandonlutnick at a $1.25B valuation
In a first for the finance industry, Securitize plans to tokenize its own equity, showing how a public company’s shares can exist and trade onchain.
Brandon Lutnick, Chairman and CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, called blockchain “a foundational force in the next era of capital markets,” highlighting growing institutional belief in tokenization as the next big step in finance.
Securitize’s technology integrates with 15 blockchains. The company sees itself playing a key role in a $19 trillion market opportunity as more real-world assets move onchain.
The transaction, already approved by both boards, is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
PayPal has teamed up with OpenAI in a major move that could change how people shop and pay online.
Announced on October 28, the partnership will bring instant checkout and agentic commerce to ChatGPT, allowing users to discover and buy products directly through the chatbot, powered by PayPal’s trusted payment network.
Here’s why this is exciting.
ChatGPT Becomes a Marketplace
According to a press release today, PayPal will adopt OpenAI’s Agentic Commerce Protocol (ACP), a new system designed to make online shopping faster and more interactive. Soon, ChatGPT users will be able to find products, choose payment methods, and check out instantly using PayPal without even leaving the chat.
For merchants, the change could be massive. PayPal plans to connect tens of millions of businesses, from small shops to global brands, to ChatGPT’s growing user base.
“Hundreds of millions of people turn to ChatGPT each week for help with everyday tasks, including finding products they love, and over 400 million use PayPal to shop,” said Alex Chriss, President and CEO of PayPal. “By partnering with OpenAI and adopting the Agentic Commerce Protocol, PayPal will power payments and commerce experiences that help people go from chat to checkout in just a few taps.”
What It Means for PayPal, and Possibly for Crypto
This partnership reflects PayPal’s broader shift toward AI-powered commerce and digital innovation. The company has already launched its PYUSD stablecoin and built crypto custody services, showing its growing focus on the digital asset space.
While the announcement didn’t directly mention crypto, this kind of AI-driven payments system could easily become a bridge between fiat and digital currencies in the future.
If PayPal’s ACP platform eventually supports blockchain-based settlements, it could boost the use of PYUSD and other regulated stablecoins in real-world transactions.
“Agentic Commerce” or AI-powered buying and selling could eventually go beyond simple checkouts. With time, it might connect with smart contracts, tokenized assets, or digital identity systems.
And as history shows, every major AI and payments announcement tends to boost interest in related crypto sectors.
Tokens tied to AI, payments, and stablecoins – like FET, AGIX, OCEAN, XRP, XLM, and PYUSD – could all see renewed investor attention.
PayPal’s latest move with OpenAI is exciting and a strong signal that shows us where digital commerce is headed.
Canada’s crypto scene is heating up and the government is leading the charge.
Ottawa is moving fast to bring stablecoin regulations to the table, with details expected in the federal budget on November 4, just days after a record-breaking $126 million fine hit a crypto company for anti-money laundering violations.
Here’s what you should know.
Stablecoin Rules Finally on the Way
According to Bloomberg, officials have spent the past few weeks in intense talks with regulators and industry leaders to finalize how stablecoins will be governed in Canada. The discussions are expected to result in clear regulatory proposals when Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne presents the new budget next week.
Stablecoins are seen as a key bridge between digital assets and mainstream finance. But in Canada, the rules have been unclear. Regulators currently treat stablecoins as securities or derivatives, creating uncertainty for companies and investors.
Meanwhile, the US has already taken a major step forward.
The Genius Act, passed in July, gave US regulators the authority to supervise stablecoin issuers and set reserve standards. The law treats compliant stablecoins as payment instruments, a move the crypto industry has largely welcomed.
Industry leaders are urging Canada to act quickly or risk falling behind. John Ruffolo, founder of Maverix Private Equity, warned that if the government doesn’t move soon, Canadian investors may shift to US stablecoins, which could hurt demand for Canadian bonds and weaken local financial control.
“Every Canadian who transacts in a US stablecoin funds American debt, enriches American institutions and exports our financial data south,” Ruffolo wrote earlier this month.
Even the Bank of Canada and the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) have called for a national framework to close the gap.
Former deputy governor Carolyn Wilkins said Canada needs rules that build “trust, security, stability and competitiveness” in the payments space.
Crackdown Sets the Tone
Just last week, FINTRAC, Canada’s financial watchdog, fined Cryptomus (Xeltox Enterprises Ltd) a record $126 million for 2,593 anti-money laundering violations – the largest fine ever issued in Canada’s crypto sector.
Investigators found the company failed to report suspicious transactions linked to child abuse, ransomware, and Iran-related transfers. The operations traced back to Uzbekistan and Spain.
FINTRAC said the company’s weak systems “significantly impair transparency and accountability,” adding that Canada’s crypto sector still has major gaps criminals can exploit.
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After years of hesitation, Canada appears ready to tighten enforcement and draft long-awaited rules.
FAQs
What stablecoin regulations is Canada planning to introduce?
Canada plans to set clear rules for stablecoins in the November 4 federal budget, covering reserves, licensing, and oversight.
Why are stablecoin rules important for Canada’s crypto market?
Stablecoin rules will bring clarity, build trust, and help integrate digital assets into Canada’s mainstream financial system.
How does Canada’s stablecoin plan compare to the US Genius Act?
The US Genius Act already regulates stablecoins as payment tools; Canada’s move aims to create a similar, balanced framework.
Australia has taken a major step toward regulating digital assets. The government’s new draft laws aim to bring crypto platforms under financial regulation, which is a move many see as long overdue.
But while the industry welcomes the direction, it’s also calling for clearer rules before things move forward.
Bringing Crypto Under Financial Rules
The proposed law would require digital-asset platforms to hold an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) from ASIC, placing them closer to how banks and traditional institutions are regulated.
The draft introduces two new categories: digital asset platforms and tokenized custody platforms. Platforms with less than $6.5 million in annual transactions or holding under $3,300 in customer deposits will not need a licence, easing the pressure on smaller players.
Those who fail to comply could face penalties of up to A$16.5 million or 10% of annual turnover, showing how serious the government is about tightening oversight.
Crypto Firms Applaud the Move, But Warn About Gaps
The reaction from Australia’s crypto industry has been largely positive.
Kate Cooper, CEO of OKX Australia, said the draft laws show crypto is finally becoming part of the mainstream financial system, but added that implementation will be key.
Liam Hennessy, partner at Thomson Geer, called the approach “fair,” noting that it avoids the strict rules in Europe and the confusing rules in the United States.
But others believe the draft still leaves too much room for confusion.
Caroline Bowler, former CEO of BTC Markets, said, “The draft legislation, as it stands, leaves some critical questions unanswered. Structure must come with clarity.”
Consultation Ends, Industry Awaits Next Steps
The consultation period closed on October 24, with submissions now under review. Crypto.com’s Vakul Talwar said the government should move fast and predicted legislation could arrive as early as March 2026.
Others, like MHC Digital’s Edward Carroll, expect it could take until the end of that year.
Australia’s Crypto Scene Keeps Growing
Even as regulation takes shape, crypto adoption in Australia continues to rise. According to a16z’s State of Crypto 2025 report, 31% of Australians now use crypto, up from 28% last year.
Stablecoins processed $46 trillion in transactions over the past year, rivaling Visa and PayPal, while global institutions like BlackRock, Visa, and JPMorgan expand their crypto services.
For now, all eyes are on how Australia turns this draft into law and whether it can strike the balance between safety and progress.
After a few weeks of volatility and uncertainty, the market finally feels aligned.
Big banks are stepping in, global regulators are laying out clearer rules, and digital assets are making their mark in mainstream finance.
Missed out on a few big moves this week? Don’t stress. We’ve got you covered.
#1 Trump Pardons Binance Founder CZ
In a surprise move, U.S. President Donald Trump has granted a full pardon to Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, calling his earlier prosecution part of the Biden administration’s “war on cryptocurrency.”
CZ, who served four months in prison and paid a $50 million fine, said he was “deeply grateful” for the pardon and promised to help make America “the Capital of Crypto.” The decision could open the door for his return to Binance and marks a clear shift in Washington’s tone toward crypto. Needless to say, there has been pushback.
A US Senator can't get her facts right, in a public post about a person's charge. There were NO money laundering changes.
The same Senator declared "war on crypto", on public TV, 5 days before my sentencing, during the Biden Admin.
#2 Trump Tariffs Keep U.S. Inflation Hot at 3%, CPI Report Shows
U.S. inflation stayed firm in September, rising 3% year-on-year, according to the CPI report. The data, held up by the government shutdown, showed prices climbing 0.3% for the month, led by a 4.1% jump in gasoline.
Trump’s new tariffs have also pushed up costs for everyday goods, from furniture to toys. Despite his promise to “end inflation,” prices remain above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Economists say inflation could rise further as tariffs continue to filter through.
#3 Bitcoin and Ether to Back Loans at JPMorgan
JPMorgan Chase is set to allow institutional clients to use Bitcoin and Ether as collateral for loans by the end of the year. The plan will be available globally and will use a third-party custodian to secure digital assets, according to Bloomberg.
The move signals how traditional banks are gradually integrating crypto into regular finance. It comes as rising adoption and regulatory clarity push major firms like Morgan Stanley, Fidelity, and State Street to expand their crypto services.
#4 Trump’s New CFTC Pick Michael Selig Seen as Win for Crypto Regulation
U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated Michael Selig, chief counsel for the CFTC’s crypto task force, to lead the agency. Selig’s nomination highlights the administration’s push to bring clarity to digital asset regulation after the CLARITY and GENIUS Acts gained momentum earlier this year.
Known for bridging gaps between the SEC and CFTC, Selig’s appointment could be a bold move to align oversight across U.S. markets and a clear signal that crypto is back on Washington’s priority list.
There's nothing more important for crypto policy than the White House nominating a new CFTC chair and nobody better than @MikeSeligEsq for the job.
I've had the honor of knowing Mike for years and he's the real deal: a brilliant lawyer and proven leader perfect for this role. https://t.co/a8e2M6rwHg
#5 Bitcoin ETPs Finally Go Live in UK After FCA Ends 3-Year Ban
BlackRock has launched its iShares Bitcoin ETP (IB1T) on the London Stock Exchange, marking a major step for UK crypto access after the FCA ended its 2021 retail ban. Alongside BlackRock, 21Shares, WisdomTree, and Bitwise also listed their Bitcoin and Ethereum products, offering regulated exposure to digital assets.
“Today’s launch represents a landmark step for the U.K. market,” said 21Shares CEO Russel Barlow, calling it a long-overdue move to match Europe’s progress in crypto investing.
The creators behind Melania Trump’s $MELANIA coin are facing a lawsuit accusing them of running a pump-and-dump scheme. Court filings claim executives from Meteora and Kelsier Labs used the former first lady’s name to hype the token before selling their holdings at peak prices.
The coin hit a $1.6 billion market cap in January before crashing to around $86 million. Melania Trump isn’t named in the case, but investors say her image was used as “window dressing” to lure buyers.
#7 Crypto.com Files for U.S. Trust Charter, Eyes Federal Status
Crypto.com has filed for a national trust charter with the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), joining the list of crypto firms chasing federal oversight. The move would allow the exchange to expand its custody and ETF services beyond state boundaries.
CEO Kris Marszalek said the company’s focus has always been on “regulated and secure offerings.” With this filing, Crypto.com steps closer to being recognized like a traditional financial institution.
#8 SEC, CFTC Set Year-End Crypto Goals Despite Washington Shutdown
Despite the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, the SEC and CFTC are pressing ahead with major crypto goals for year-end. Acting CFTC Chair Caroline Pham said the agency aims to introduce “listed spot crypto trading and tokenized collateral” by the end of 2025.
SEC Chair Paul Atkins told CNBC the shutdown is slowing progress but hopes Congress will “let us get back to work.” Both regulators are following a White House plan for clearer digital asset rules as lawmakers push to finalize crypto legislation this year.
#9 Polymarket to Launch POLY Token, Airdrop After U.S. App Release
Polymarket is preparing for its next big chapter. CMO Matthew Modabber confirmed plans for a native POLY token and an airdrop, saying the team wants to create a token with real utility and long-term value.
However, the company’s main focus right now is launching its U.S. app, which Modabber says comes before the token rollout. Meanwhile, Polymarket is reportedly in talks to raise funds at a $12-$15 billion valuation, signaling strong investor confidence in the prediction market platform.
#10 Russia Greenlights Crypto for Global Trade
Russia has officially backed the use of cryptocurrencies for cross-border payments, marking a major shift in its financial strategy. Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said the move aims to make trade smoother and more transparent while keeping oversight in place.
The Finance Ministry and Central Bank will now work on clear rules to monitor transactions and prevent misuse. With sanctions limiting Russia’s access to global networks, crypto could become the country’s practical tool for settling international deals.
In the Spotlight
Here’s a few quick hits you shouldn’t miss!
WazirX Resumes Trading After 16-Month Shutdown: India’s once-leading crypto exchange is back after a $230M hack. Trading has restarted in phases, but withdrawals remain frozen – leaving users cautious despite the long-awaited comeback.
Trump Envoy Steve Witkoff Faces Senate Probe: U.S. senators are probing Witkoff’s ties to a $2B UAE-backed crypto firm he co-founded with Trump, citing ethics concerns and possible overlap between his diplomatic duties and private business interests.
Crypto Trading Firm FalconX to Acquire ETF Manager 21Shares: FalconX is set to buy crypto fund manager 21Shares to expand its ETF business. The move follows SEC approval for new spot crypto ETFs, with 21Shares managing over $11 billion in assets.
Nasdaq-Listed Bonk Holdings Forms First BONK Digital Treasury: Bonk Holdings purchased $32M in BONK, creating the first digital asset treasury for the token. The move boosts institutional confidence and pushes BONK closer to mainstream market acceptance.
Hong Kong Approves First Spot Solana ETF, Trading Starts October 27: The SFC has cleared Asia’s first Solana ETF, managed by ChinaAMC. Fully backed by physical SOL, it strengthens Hong Kong’s position as a leading regional crypto investment hub.
What’s Next for Crypto?
Major shifts to expect ahead
Market sentiment is turning bullish again as liquidity, regulation, and institutional activity converge.
Policy clarity is replacing uncertainty, setting the stage for steadier, rules-based growth.
Institutional adoption is accelerating, pushing digital assets deeper into mainstream finance.
Global momentum is shifting eastward as Asia cements its lead in innovation and market access.
Trust and transparency are becoming the real drivers of credibility across exchanges and projects.
All eyes are on how policy, trust, and momentum align from here. We’ll be back next week!
Ferrari is shifting gears into the crypto world. The Italian luxury carmaker is launching a digital token that will let its wealthiest fans bid on one of its most iconic race cars – the Ferrari 499P, winner of three straight Le Mans titles.
The project, called “Token Ferrari 499P,” is being developed with Italian fintech Conio and will be available only to members of Ferrari’s exclusive Hyperclub, which is a private circle of 100 top clients. The auction is planned to kick off with the 2027 World Endurance Championship season.
“This is about strengthening the sense of belonging among our most loyal customers,” said Enrico Galliera, Ferrari’s Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer, in an interview with Reuters.
Ferrari Expands Its Crypto Ambitions
This isn’t Ferrari’s first step into digital assets. The company began accepting Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDC for car purchases in the U.S. in 2023, expanding the option to Europe last year.
Now, it plans to turn blockchain into a way to build loyalty and connect with younger, tech-savvy buyers.
The move fits into Ferrari’s wider push toward innovation, which also includes its first electric car currently under development.
Conio Takes the Wheel
Ferrari’s partner Conio is handling the token’s technology and structure. The company is currently applying for a license under the EU’s new crypto regulation (MiCA) before the token officially launches.
“The potential for development is enormous,” said Davide Rallo, Conio’s Chief Fintech Strategist and project architect. Still, the project will unfold carefully, with regulators across Europe watching closely.
Luxury Brands Follow the Trend
Automakers around the world are testing how digital assets can fit into their business. Volkswagen Singapore, for example, recently began accepting crypto payments for vehicles and services through a partnership with FOMO Pay.
As AI and crypto continue to drive new wealth and investment, luxury brands are finding ways to stay relevant to the next generation of entrepreneurs and people who see value in digital assets.
Bitcoin’s Big Year Gives Crypto Momentum
Ferrari’s move comes at a time when Bitcoin is on a roll. The cryptocurrency hit an all-time high of over $126,270 on October 6, 2025. Now, it’s trading around $111,783, up 4.73% in the past week.
With the market showing strong gains and investor interest rising, Ferrari’s token launch hits a space that’s buzzing with activity.
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