BTCWire

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, July 30th, 2026
Utorg, a crypto wallet, card and infrastructure provider, today announced the appointment of Andrey Urychev as Chief Marketing Officer. Andrey joins from Binance, where he ran global performance marketing operations, as Utorg accelerates its expansion following its licensing as a regulated crypto service provider.
Key Facts:
Andrey Urychev appointed Chief Marketing Officer, effective July 2026Previously ran global performance marketing operations at Binance Utorg is a regulated crypto wallet, card and infrastructure providerUtorg serves 2M+ users across 130+ countries, processes 100,000+ daily transactions, and has delivered 2,100+ integrations for businesses, distributing over $2.4 billion to customers worldwide
At Binance, Andrey oversaw paid advertising and user acquisition strategies across a large variety of markets and product lines. His expertise in performance marketing and revenue-driven growth makes him a direct fit for Utorg's next phase of growth.
"My goal is to build a hardcore, performance-driven marketing engine that accelerates user acquisition globally, capitalizing on our strong regulatory positioning and strong product expertise to quickly become an industry leader," said Andrey Urychev, new CMO at Utorg.
The appointment signals Utorg's intent to aggressively capture market share in highly regulated environments, along with establishing presence in other markets across the globe. While a significant portion of the crypto industry has withdrawn from European markets following the July 1st deadline, Utorg continues to operate across all 29 EEA member states.
Daniel Stolberg, Co-founder of Utorg, commented: "We’re glad to welcome Andrey to the Utorg team. As we enter this new era of regulated crypto in Europe and beyond, having a world-class marketing leader is critical to our strategy. Andrey's relentless focus on execution and scalability is exactly what we need to aggressively expand our footprint and bring our infrastructure products, crypto wallet and card to millions of new users."
About Utorg
Founded in 2019 and trusted by more than 2 million users, Utorg is a crypto infrastructure and consumer application fintech company operating across 130+ countries. It provides regulated on/off-ramp rails, wallet infrastructure, and stablecoin solutions to fintechs, exchanges, digital asset platforms, and other businesses globally. Its consumer app offers a self-custodial multi-chain wallet and a free Visa crypto card. Backed by Dragonfly and TA Ventures, Utorg is regulated and holds PCI DSS Level 2 certification.
This Press Release was first published on BTCWire

Dubai,UAE, July 30, 2026
Global Interest free Finance Leaders to be Honoured for Excellence, Innovation, and Leadership in Addis Ababa.
AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics is proud to announce the International Interest-Free Banking & Takaful Awards 2026, which will be held on 17 August 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, alongside the 6th International Interest-Free Banking & Takaful Forum 2026 under the patronage of the National Bank of Ethiopia. The prestigious awards will recognize outstanding achievements, innovation, and leadership by institutions and professionals contributing to the growth of the global Interest free finance industry.
The Awards serve as a global platform to honour excellence across interest-free banking, Takaful, Islamic FinTech, Interest free microfinance, Shariah governance, and financial inclusion. Through a transparent and merit-based evaluation process, nominations will be assessed by an independent panel of industry experts, academics, and Shariah scholars based on innovation, governance, sustainable growth, customer value, and overall industry impact.
This year's awards feature a broad range of categories, including Best Interest-Free Bank of the Year, Best Islamic Corporate Bank, Best Takaful Company of the Year, Best Islamic FinTech Company, Best Financial Inclusion Initiative, Best Women Empowerment Initiative in Interest free Banking, Best Islamic Microfinance Institution, and several other distinguished recognitions. The awards aim to encourage best practices, strengthen interest free finance, and inspire institutions to continue driving innovation within the Interest free financial services industry.
Mr. Muhammad Zubair Mughal, Chief Executive Officer of AlHuda CIBE, stated, "The International Interest-Free Banking & Takaful Awards celebrate institutions and professionals whose vision, innovation, and commitment are transforming the Interest free finance landscape. By recognizing excellence, we aim to inspire greater collaboration, strengthen interest free financial practices, and support the sustainable development of interest-free finance across emerging and established markets."
The awards ceremony will bring together central bankers, regulators, policymakers, CEOs, Shariah scholars, investors, development organizations, and financial institutions from across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. Winners will gain international recognition, strengthen their institutional credibility, and showcase their achievements before a distinguished global audience while creating new opportunities for strategic partnerships and business growth.
Nominations are open to Interest free banks, conventional banks with interest free banking operations, Takaful and Retakaful companies, Islamic FinTech firms, regulators, microfinance institutions, development organizations, and industry professionals. The deadline for nominations is 10 August 2026, while the Awards Ceremony will take place on 17 August 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, celebrating excellence and advancing the future of ethical and interest-free finance worldwide. To submit your nomination or register, visit: https://www.alhudacibe.com/ibtf2026/award.php, For further information, please contact: info@alhudacibe.com.
AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics has remained committed to the global development of Islamic banking and finance through advisory services, research, capacity building, education, and international events. The 6th International Interest-Free Banking and Takaful Forum 2026 is expected to become a landmark event that strengthens partnerships, promotes innovation, and supports the future growth of interest-free finance across Africa.
About Alhuda CIBE:
AlHuda Center of Islamic Banking and Economics (CIBE) is a well-recognized name in Islamic banking and finance industry for research and provides state-of-the-art Advisory Consultancy and Education through various well-recognized modes viz. Islamic Financial Product Development, Shariah Advisory, Training Workshops, and Islamic Microfinance and Takaful Consultancies etc. side by side through our distinguished, generally acceptable and known Publications in Islamic Banking and Finance.
We are dedicated to serving the community as a unique institution, advisory and capacity building for the last twelve years. The prime goal has always been to remain stick to the commitments providing Services not only in UAE/Pakistan but all over the world. We have so far served in more than 35 Countries for the development of Islamic Banking and Finance industry. For further Details about AlHuda CIBE, please visit: www.alhudacibe.com.
For Media Contact:
Ms. Shaguftta Perveen
Manager Communications,
info@alhudacibe.com
Call: +971 52 865 5523

Singapore, July 30, 2026
CoinFerenceX, the Web3 conference series known for curating high-signal gatherings of founders, investors, and builders, today announced it has combined forces with The Best Event, the events production group behind 80+ live experiences across 10+ global cities, to launch CoinFerenceX The Best Event Singapore, the next tier of the world's first Decentralised Summit. The event will take place 5-6 October 2026 at Gardens by the Bay, positioning it as a leading alternative during Singapore's Token2049 and Asia Crypto Week.
The partnership pairs CoinFerenceX's content curation and community depth with The Best Event's large-scale production and sponsor-activation track record, creating what the two companies describe as "the event nobody else can build."
What sets the conference apart is its decentralized summit model: a 2 day event shaped by the industry rather than dictated by an organizer. Where traditional conferences sell booths and speaking slots, CoinFerenceX and The Best Event will invite the founders, funds and ecosystem leaders who show up to help shape the agenda itself, deciding which conversations matter and which builders take the stage. While the organizers handle the production and logistics, the direction of the summit is set by the Web3 players with real skin in the game. It’s a gathering built by the people driving the ecosystem forward, for the people driving it forward.
The Best Event brings a track record of 80+ delivered events, a presence in more than 10 global cities, over 50 million annual organic impressions, and north of 1 billion in social reach. The group's attendance has grown from 35,000 in 2025 to a projected 70,000 in 2026. Its sponsor case studies point to concrete ROI, including one partner that turned a $50,000 investment into $1 million raised, another that saw a $50,000 spend convert into $1 million in ROI, and a third that converted two leads into a $400,000 deal.
At CoinFerenceX, partners help shape the agenda itself rather than simply buying booth space and a speaking slot. CoinFerenceX's community includes 7,500+ curated attendees from more than 70 countries, over 500 ecosystem and media partners, and more than 300 VCs and investment funds. Roughly 60% of its attendees are C-level executives or founders, and independent feedback shows 94% of past partners say they would return, with 89% rating CoinFerenceX among the top 25% of Web3 events globally.
The combined summit is designed around four experience tracks:
The Leaders Summit: an invite-only, C-level gathering where governance decisions and strategic partnerships take shape.Protocol Deep Dives: technical workshops where protocols demonstrate what they are actually shipping.The Founders' Den: a venue for early-stage builders to pitch directly to 200+ VCs and investors.The Innovation Showcase: live product demos from established players and emerging protocols alike.
Early figures for the Singapore edition point to more than 4,000 curated attendees, 500+ VCs and investors, 400+ ecosystem and media partners, 85+ C-level speakers, and more than 8,000 total event registrations. As with prior CoinFerenceX editions, roughly 60% of attendees are expected to be C-level executives or founders.
Organizers say the agenda will be co-created by founders and ecosystem leaders with skin in the game, focused on sessions that deliver actionable insight or substantive content over celebrity keynotes.
"We’re incredibly excited for this edition, it’s bigger, sharper and more ambitious than anything we’ve done before. With the whole industry in Singapore that week, we’ve curated a stage and an audience that turns that energy into real conversations and real deals. This is CoinFerenceX The Best Event at its strongest," shared Prince Gupta, Co-Founder of CoinFerenceX
Tobias Bauer, Co-Founder of The Best Event, added, "This partnership is the best of both worlds: CoinFerenceX's curated speaker line-ups meet The Best Event's scale of 50,000 attendees a year, the largest Web3 event series globally. Together we're bringing one of the biggest two-day conferences to Singapore, our home market, with frontier thought leadership and production quality unlike anything else in the space."
Event Details
Event: CoinFerenceX The Best Event SingaporeDates: 5-6 October 2026Venue: Gardens by the Bay, SingaporeTickets & partner applications: www.coinferencex.com/singapore
About CoinFerenceX
CoinFerenceX is a global decentralized Web3 summit connecting founders, investors, blockchain companies, developers, and industry leaders to accelerate innovation and collaboration in the digital economy. Through its ecosystem-driven approach, CoinFerenceX creates a platform for meaningful networking, knowledge exchange, startup opportunities, and strategic partnerships shaping the future of Web3. The summit brings together the brightest minds across blockchain, AI, DeFi, gaming, and emerging technologies to explore industry trends, showcase groundbreaking solutions, and build the next generation of decentralized ecosystems.
About The Best Event
TBE is the events arm of TBV, an early-stage venture capital fund backing web2.5 and web3 startups across Southeast Asia and North America. TBE curates high-caliber gatherings that anchor the biggest weeks in web3, with a track record of 80+ delivered events across 10+ global cities. Every event is built around one goal: putting the right founders, funds, and operators in the same room so real deals and partnerships can happen. That network runs deep, backed by a 10,000+ strong Telegram community and a social following north of 100,000.
Media Contact
Anmol Malviya
Head of PR
CoinFerenceX
media@coinferencex.com

New York, USA, October 7, 2026
The company opens a limited set of founding sponsorships now, ahead of its full lineup reveal, for what it is building into the marquee entertainment night of crypto’s biggest week in Asia.
Web3 Is A Joke today announced the Roast of Crypto & AI, a live comedy event in development for Token2049 Singapore week, the industry’s largest gathering in Asia, which returns to Marina Bay Sands on October 7 and 8, 2026. The show will be on October 7th and is designed as a standalone entertainment night that turns the industry’s own absurdities into the punchline, and the company is opening a small number of founding sponsorships before the full lineup goes public.
The concept is simple, and so far untried at this scale. Rather than another panel stage or rooftop mixer, the Roast of Crypto & AI puts professional comedians in front of a crypto audience to poke holes in the hype, the tokens, the founders, and the artificial intelligence gold rush now reshaping the industry. Organizers are assembling a lineup of U.S. comedic talent and have a major Hip-Hop act to headline a live musical performance, with names to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
“For too long, Web3 events have run on panels and open bars,” said Mona Shaikh, CEO and founder of Web3 Is A Joke and creator of the Roast of Crypto & AI. “We are building something people will actually talk about the next morning. Comedy is how a serious industry learns to laugh at itself, and we want the Roast to become the night everyone tries to get into during Token2049 week.”
Interest from potential partners has been strong in these early stages, and the company is now formalizing its first sponsorship agreements. Founding sponsors will receive the highest tier of visibility across the event and its promotion, and only a small number of these positions will be offered before the lineup announcement raises the profile of the show.
The Roast of Crypto & AI is working with 21Rates.com as a partner. Additional partners are expected to be named in the weeks ahead.
Brands interested in a founding sponsorship are encouraged to reach out directly, since availability is limited and priced ahead of the public lineup reveal. Details on the full lineup, venue, and ticketing will follow in the coming weeks.
About Web3 Is A Joke
Web3 Is A Joke is the company behind the Roast of Crypto & AI, a standalone comedy and entertainment event built for Token2049 Singapore week. The show brings professional comedic talent to a crypto audience for a night of sharp, good-natured fun at the expense of the fast-moving, high-stakes worlds of crypto and AI.
Visit : www.web3isajoke.io

Dubai, UAE, July 20, 2026
Driving digital transformation and innovation for the future of interest-free banking and Takaful in Africa
AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics (AlHuda CIBE) is pleased to announce Digaf MFI as the Official Technology Sponsor of the 6th International Interest-Free Banking and Takaful Forum 2026, to be held on August 17, 2026, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, under the patronage of the National Bank of Ethiopia. The forum, themed "Connecting Global Expertise with Africa's Emerging Islamic Finance Markets," will bring together global leaders, regulators, financial institutions, FinTech companies, and development organizations to accelerate the growth of interest-free finance across Africa.
As the Technology Sponsor, Digaf MFI will play a significant role in supporting the event's digital engagement and reinforcing the importance of technology-driven financial solutions in expanding access to ethical and inclusive financial services. The partnership reflects the growing convergence of Islamic finance and financial technology, enabling institutions to deliver innovative, efficient, and customer-centric financial solutions.
With digital transformation becoming a key driver of financial inclusion, Digaf MFI's participation highlights its commitment to empowering financial institutions through advanced technology and supporting the development of sustainable, Shariah-compliant financial ecosystems. The collaboration also aligns with Ethiopia's rapidly evolving financial sector, where digital innovation is creating new opportunities for inclusive economic growth.
This collaboration positions Digaf MFI not only as the forum's Technology Sponsor but also as a strategic partner in advancing Ethiopia's digital Islamic finance ecosystem and strengthening Africa's position in the global interest-free finance industry.
Mr. Muhammad Zubair Mughal, Chief Executive Officer of AlHuda CIBE, stated:" We are delighted to welcome Digaf MFI as our Technology Sponsor for the 6th International Interest-Free Banking and Takaful Forum 2026. Technology is transforming the future of Islamic finance, and partnerships with innovative organizations such as Digaf MFI strengthen our mission to promote digital, ethical, and inclusive financial solutions across Africa and beyond."
Ato Dereje Turi, CEO Digaf MFI remarked: "We are honored to partner with AlHuda CIBE as the Official Technology Sponsor of this prestigious international forum. At Digaf MFI, we believe the future of financial services lies in the integration of technology, innovation, and ethical finance. Through Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital lending, agent banking, embedded finance, and Islamic FinTech, we are building a digital-first financial ecosystem that expands access to inclusive and Shariah-compliant financial services. We look forward to collaborating with global industry leaders to accelerate the future of interest-free finance in Ethiopia and across Africa."
The forum will feature high-level keynote sessions, expert panel discussions, technical presentations, networking meetings, and the 6th Interest-Free Banking and Takaful Awards 2026, providing an exceptional platform for knowledge sharing, strategic partnerships, and investment opportunities across the Islamic finance industry.
AlHuda CIBE welcomes Digaf MFI to this landmark international event and looks forward to a successful collaboration that will showcase the transformative role of technology in shaping the future of interest-free banking and finance.
About Digaf MFI
Digaf MFI is Ethiopia's digital-first licensed microfinance institution, committed to transforming financial services through technology and innovation. The institution leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital lending, agent banking, embedded finance, alternative data-driven credit scoring, and digital payments to expand financial inclusion and enhance customer experience. Digaf is also pioneering digital interest-free finance, micro-insurance, and next-generation financial solutions that contribute to sustainable economic development in Ethiopia.
About Alhuda CIBE:
AlHuda Center of Islamic Banking and Economics (CIBE) is a well-recognized name in Islamic banking and finance industry for research and provides state-of-the-art Advisory Consultancy and Education through various well-recognized modes viz. Islamic Financial Product Development, Shariah Advisory, Training Workshops, and Islamic Microfinance and Takaful Consultancies etc. side by side through our distinguished, generally acceptable and known Publications in Islamic Banking and Finance.
We are dedicated to serving the community as a unique institution, advisory and capacity building for the last twelve years. The prime goal has always been to remain stick to the commitments providing Services not only in UAE/Pakistan but all over the world. We have so far served in more than 35 Countries for the development of Islamic Banking and Finance industry. For further Details about AlHuda CIBE, please visit: www.alhudacibe.com.

Abu Dhabi, UAE, July 22, 2026
VAP Group today announced the Global Trading Show from 15-16 December 2026 at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi. Powered by Times Of Trading, the event brings together the full spectrum of the trading world, including the most influential 5,000+ market movers together such as ultra-HNW investors, brokers, regulators, exchanges, institutional desks, high-volume traders, influencers and leading financial key opinion leaders, all under one roof at one of the region's most prestigious venues. Until now, the region's trading events have focused on individual markets, while the Global Trading Show unites every asset class, trading technologies, and trader communities, making it a truly cross-asset event for every type of trader.
The Global Trading Show is built on three pillars designed to give attendees direct access to the entire investment universe and the people driving it.
Multi-Asset Trading FloorBrokers, exchanges, and trading platforms will showcase their products side by side, giving traders and institutions a single vantage point across every major asset class and removing the need for fragmented, single-market events.
Live Trading TournamentA live trading tournament executed on regulated infrastructure, with a fully transparent prize pool. The competition puts skill on public display in real time, offering sponsors and platforms a high-visibility stage to demonstrate execution quality and reliability under pressure.
KOLs & CreatorsGlobal Trading Show recognizes that today's markets move as much through influence as through infrastructure. The event convenes leading financial KOLs and creators alongside institutional players, bridging the gap between the trading floor and the platforms where retail and professional audiences increasingly get their market intelligence.
The two-day event will spotlight the next evolution of trading through dedicated AI & Quant, Web3 & DeFi, Retail Education, and Institutional Liquidity zones, complemented by live trading challenges, expert-led masterclasses, and exclusive institutional forums with closed-door sessions and open panels for hedge funds, prime brokers, liquidity providers, sovereign wealth funds and family offices.
"Capital today moves across forex, crypto, gold, AI-driven strategies and more, all at once, yet the industry still meets in silos. We are proud to announce that the Global Trading Show is the region's only event to bring seven asset classes under one umbrella, where the entire ecosystem converges. Abu Dhabi is where institutional money and emerging assets now meet, so this conversation belongs here, in one of the most significant sovereign-grade venues in the region" - Vishal Parmar, Founder and CEO, VAP Group.
The Global Trading Show highlights how rapidly evolving technology is reshaping market structures by bridging institutional finance with high-velocity retail trading. It serves as a collaborative and intersectional hub for legacy banking compliance, decentralized blockchain networks, and cross-market portfolios.
For sponsorship opportunities, speaker applications, and delegate registration details,
visit globaltradingshow.com. For media queries reach out at media@globaltradingshow.com.
About VAP Group
With 13+ years of expertise, VAP Group is a premier global consulting and media powerhouse driving the next wave of technology-led growth.
Through its media ecosystem and flagship events, including the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show, VAP Group connects policymakers, enterprises, and innovators worldwide, enabling strategic communications, ecosystem-building, and talent solutions.
Email: media@globaltradingshow.com For more information: www.globaltradingshow.com/

Singapore, October 6, 2026
Despite being one of the fastest-growing sectors, the global artificial intelligence ecosystem faces a critical developmental bottleneck. Yes, technology is innovating at an unprecedented rate, but early-stage and Series A AI startups routinely struggle to secure the highly specialized capital, computational resources, and strategic guidance required to survive the industry’s notoriously capital-intensive scaling phase. To address this challenge, AI Capital Connect is co-hosting the highly anticipated Founders & Funders Forum. Powered by the leading media network Times of AI, this initiative is explicitly engineered to bypass the issues of traditional fundraising methods and directly align high-potential AI builders with institutional backers actively deploying capital across this modern deep tech stack.
The initial developmental landscape for artificial intelligence technologies has fundamentally shifted. Given the current AI industry's incredible technical nuance, generalist venture capital firms do not have the knowledge required to evaluate it. Additionally, sovereign infrastructure dependencies and lengthy monetization timelines associated with proprietary machine learning models and agentic frameworks further complicate this process. The Founders & Funders Forum addresses this specific industry fragmentation by creating a platform that enforces meaningful partnerships. It creates a network that the most technically resilient startups across raw seed-stage concepts and metrics-proven Series A enterprises will be able to benefit the most from. This structure ensures that participating institutional allocators, specialized venture capital funds, and forward-thinking family offices interface exclusively with high-caliber, investment-ready technical teams.
The lack of conceptual creativity isn’t the core issue with innovators working in the artificial intelligence tech stack today. Instead, it is the lack of structured access to informed, long-term capital. By collaborating with Times of AI, this event transforms into an objective, transactional marketplace, where the global investment community can bypass superficial startup pitches and engage directly with founders and teams that are building meaningful technology. The Founders & Funders Forum is intentionally structured in this pattern to ensure that deep technical vision matches institutional operation expertise.
The Founders & Funders Forum deviates from conventional, lecture-heavy corporate conference formats. The event relies heavily on hyper-focused speed networking and structured capital matchmaking pipelines. By matching the granular portfolio mandates of elite venture capital firms with vetted technical teams, the forum significantly optimizes the typical due diligence timeline. Founders receive unhindered, rapid access to true decision-makers across the capital stack, while investors are presented with a highly compressed, pre-vetted catalog of startups demonstrating true enterprise value, market-validated unit economics, and robust intellectual property portfolios.
As the operational force driving the ecosystem's public visibility, Times of AI will provide unmatched conceptual integration, monitoring the technological trends emerging directly from the forum's elite cohorts. The platform’s deep journalistic commitment to tracking structural advancements in machine learning, natural language processing, autonomous robotics, and agentic compute environments will offer participants a highly contextualized backdrop for strategic growth. This strategic alignment ensures that the intellectual property, commercial announcements, and technological breakthroughs originating within the forum receive clear, authoritative analysis tailored directly for a sophisticated global technology and investment audience.
The modern artificial intelligence startup economy requires an infrastructure that supports comprehensive enterprise development. Beyond raw financial capital, the Founders & Funders Forum integrates an expansive supporting network comprised of tier-one technological advisory firms, regulatory experts specialized in algorithmic compliance, machine learning infrastructure providers, and specialized technology recruiters. This complete ecosystem architecture ensures that once a capital connection is initiated within the hub, founders possess immediate access to the secondary operational pillars required to scale corporate operations, defend IP portfolios, and navigate complex global regulatory landscapes.
The Founders & Funders Forum is a place where technical development meets funding. Due to the highly curated and personal nature of the matchmaking infrastructure, participation remains strictly capped. Institutional asset managers, qualified venture capitalists, family offices, and technical founders leading early-stage to Series A AI enterprises are encouraged to secure placement within this premier capital ecosystem now, because here’s where the future is being built!

Baar, Zug, Switzerland, July 21, 2026
The Ethereum presale opened twelve years ago, on July 22, 2014. Today, 621 of its original genesis wallets — holding 1,421,008 ETH, about $2.7 billion — have still never moved.
Twelve years ago, on July 22, 2014, the Ethereum presale opened. KeychainX, a Swiss cryptocurrency wallet-recovery firm, has released an on-chain study of the sale. It found that 621 of the original genesis wallets have never sent a single transaction in the twelve years since, holding 1,421,008 ETH — about $2.7 billion at current prices. The study also identified 30 presale wallets that moved for the first time in 2025 and 2026 after roughly a decade of dormancy.
On-chain data was captured on July 19, 2026, and valued at an ETH price of about $1,930 on July 21, 2026; dollar figures change as the ETH price and the underlying wallets move.
Key Findings
8,893 Ethereum presale genesis addresses were scanned.621 of them (7.0%) have never sent a transaction — a nonce of zero.1,421,008 ETH remains dormant in those wallets, about $2.7 billion at an ETH price of $1,930.That is roughly 2.4% of the approximately 60 million ETH sold in the presale.30 wallets moved for the first time in 2025 and 2026, sending about 67,900 ETH (about $131 million).
A 12-Year-Old Crowdsale, Measured On-Chain
The Ethereum presale ran for 42 days, from July 22 to September 2, 2014, selling roughly 60 million ETH at about $0.31 each and raising around 31,500 BTC. Buyers received their allocations in the network's 2015 genesis block. A significant share of those wallets have not moved since.
KeychainX scanned every presale genesis address to measure how many wallets, and how much ETH, remain with no outgoing transaction. Balances and transaction counts are public values that can be reproduced on any Ethereum node or block explorer.
How the Study Was Measured
The method reads two public values for each of the 8,893 presale genesis addresses: the account's transaction nonce and its ETH balance. A nonce of zero indicates the address has never broadcast an outgoing transaction, meaning the original allocation has never been spent or moved. For any wallet that had moved, the study also recorded the date and size of its first outflow. All values were read on July 19, 2026.
Some earlier counts cite roughly 521,000 ETH across about 620 wallets. That figure counts only addresses whose sole transaction is the incoming genesis allocation, which excludes any wallet that later received an airdrop, transfer, or spam token — even if the owner never sent anything out. The KeychainX study counts wallets with a nonce of zero, which captures every address whose owner has never moved funds. The largest example is a 250,000-ETH wallet that has collected airdropped tokens for years but has never broadcast an outgoing transaction.
Where the Dormant ETH Sits
The dormancy is concentrated. The 29 wallets holding 10,000 ETH or more account for 825,321 ETH, about 58% of the dormant total, and the ten largest alone hold 523,322 ETH. At the other end, 186 wallets under 100 ETH hold about half a percent between them.
ETH balance bandDormant walletsETH heldShare of dormant ETH10,000+ ETH29825,32158.0%1,000–10,000 ETH202525,69837.0%100–1,000 ETH20063,2564.5%10–100 ETH1866,7330.5%Under 10 ETH4~00.0%Total6211,421,008100%
Wallets Waking Up in 2025 and 2026
The dormant pool is not static. The study verified each wallet's first-ever outflow date to distinguish genuine awakenings — wallets untouched for roughly a decade that then moved — from addresses that had been active all along.
In 2025, 20 presale wallets moved for the first time, sending about 52,755 ETH, led by a single wallet that moved 40,000 ETH. In 2026 to date, another 10 have moved, sending about 15,164 ETH, including one wallet of 10,000 ETH. Together that is 30 wallets and roughly 67,900 ETH, about $131 million at current prices.
Of the 30 wallets, 22 were emptied almost completely rather than partially moved; eight moved part of their balance and still hold ETH. KeychainX reports that it has recovered access to several 2014 presale wallets for their owners during this 2025–2026 period, in cases where the wallet file survived but the stored password no longer decrypted it.
“Every time one of these wallets moves, it is a reminder that a large share of this ETH is not gone — it is stuck,” said Peter M., Chief Financial Officer of KeychainX. “In most of the cases we see, the owner is convinced the password is correct and cannot understand why it fails. It usually comes down to how a 2014 browser encoded a single non-standard character. When we reproduce that, the wallet opens.”
Dormant Does Not Mean Lost
A nonce of zero shows that a wallet has never moved; it does not show that a wallet is lost. The dormant set is mixed. Some holdings are deliberate long-term positions, and some addresses may belong to early contributors or foundations. A portion are likely lost or forgotten — misplaced wallet files, forgotten passwords, or abandoned presale files. The study measures the size of the pool rather than labeling each address.
Independent researchers have reached similar orders of magnitude. Coinbase executive Conor Grogan has estimated that more than 900,000 ETH is likely lost permanently.
Documented Cases
The public record includes several presale participants who lost or cannot reach their ETH. The best-known is a 250,000-ETH wallet attributed to Rain Lõhmus, a founder of Estonia's LHV Bank, who bought the stake for about $75,000 in 2014 and has said he lost access; the wallet has never moved and is worth about $483 million at an ETH price of $1,930. Other reported cases include a family unable to access roughly $6 million in presale ETH, and a buyer of about 1,970 presale ETH who lost the wallet file after storing it in a deleted email.
Why Some 2014 Passwords Fail
Ethereum's presale wallets were encrypted by 2014-era browser JavaScript and are decrypted today by modern software. As a result, a single non-ASCII character can be represented as different bytes than were originally stored, so a password the owner remembers correctly can still fail to decrypt.
Documented causes include Unicode normalization differences (NFC versus NFD), macOS smart quotes and accented characters, and keyboard-layout remaps. Where the presale wallet file still exists, these encoding mismatches can often be reproduced and the wallet opened; where the file itself is gone, recovery is not possible.
About KeychainX
KeychainX AG is a cryptocurrency wallet-recovery company based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, founded in 2017. It helps individuals and organizations regain access to lost or locked crypto wallets, including 2014 Ethereum presale wallets, keystore files, and hardware and software wallets. The company has assisted more than 1,000 clients. More information is available at KeychainX.
Media Contact
Peter M.
Chief Financial Officer, KeychainX
mail@keychainx.io

Singapore, October 6, 2026
The next phase of Web3 will be driven not just by technology, but by narratives, creators, and communities. Projects and products in the Web3 ecosystem rely heavily on cryptography, scalable layer-2 solutions, and robust smart contracts. However, it is the human element that breathes life into these protocols. Without a compelling story and a dedicated base of advocates, even the most revolutionary code remains invisible in a crowded marketplace. With the industry shifting from pure technical experimentation to mass community coordination, the ability to curate a loyal follower base is what gives a project the biggest competitive advantage.
In this rapidly evolving ecosystem, KOL Connect serves as the definitive meeting point for creators, community leaders, and project builders looking to redefine the boundaries of decentralized engagement. This high-impact forum provides a platform for strategic distribution aligned with raw vision. Powered by Blockchain Marketing Ninja, a premier agency renowned for engineering native growth and sophisticated marketing strategies in the crypto sector, the event is designed to turn decentralized communication into measurable ecosystem momentum.
The Evolution of the Web3 Creator Economy
The rapidly evolving creator economy in Web3 is the core idea that powers this event. In the legacy internet era, centralized platforms mostly governed creators, creating different bottlenecks in terms of distribution. In the decentralized ecosystem, creators are evolving into equity holders, protocol co-builders, and sovereign economic entities. Because of this structural shift, modern KOLs wield unprecedented influence over adoption, trust, and market sentiment.
This evolution has fundamentally altered how corporate communications are approached. The shift from transactional, one-off paid promotions toward deep, long-term collaborations is massive. Web3 founders realize that a single sponsored post rarely yields sustainable growth. Instead, true value lies in onboarding creators as long-term advisors who have skin in the game and a genuine alignment with the project's roadmap.
Simultaneously, the industry is experiencing the rise of community-led growth models. Supported by this philosophy, KOL Connect enables collaborations between influencers, startups, and investors to drive adoption and ecosystem growth, establishing a blueprint for sustainable project lifecycles.
Inside KOL Connect: An Atmosphere of High-Signal Exchange
Unlike sprawling, impersonal industry conventions where meaningful connection is lost in the noise, KOL Connect is intentionally curated to maximize relationship capital.
Panels & Open Discussions: The programming avoids generic market recaps, opting instead for raw, unscripted dialogues regarding tokenized incentives, audience retention mechanics, and the monetization of digital identity.Meet & Greet Style Networking: The layout removes physical barriers between speakers and attendees, allowing founders, funders, and content creators to converse on equal footing.Idea Exchange in a Close-Knit Setting: The environment prioritizes depth over breadth, fostering an intimate atmosphere where genuine trust can be established, and joint ventures can be mapped out in real time.
Furthermore, the event provides actionable insights that include discussions on the creator economy, AI-driven content creation, and the broader marketing evolution. Attendees will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming asset production and how decentralized communities can maintain authenticity where automated content reigns supreme.
Who Should Care?
This gathering is uniquely tailored for professionals who recognize that attention is the ultimate constraint in the digital age. KOL Connect naturally attracts:
Creators & Influencers who want to move past superficial sponsorships and secure meaningful, long-term equity and advisory roles with top-tier protocols.Founders & Core Developers looking to launch projects, pivot their branding, or tap into ready-made, highly engaged distribution networks.Marketers & Growth Executives aiming to master community-led acquisition strategies and optimize their marketing spend.Community Builders seeking to learn new frameworks for transforming passive token holders into active ecosystem advocates.
Shape the Narrative
As the decentralized ecosystem matures, the line between product development and community sentiment continues to blur. In Web3, narratives build ecosystems, and creators lead those narratives. The projects that dominate the next decade will not simply be those with the fastest transaction speeds, but those that successfully capture the cultural imagination of the space.
Do not allow your project to be left out of the conversation. Be part of the conversation, align with the industry's most influential voices, and drive the next wave of decentralized growth. The era of modern marketing systems starts from here!
Please visit :
www.blockchainmarketingninja.com
www.kolconnect.org

Miami, FL, July 17, 2026
DeFi platform Spreadefi has reported that the total volume of funds users placed in liquidity pools topped $25 million in the second quarter. For a relatively young project, that's a significant milestone, especially with interest in the decentralized finance sector only gradually picking back up after a long stretch of subdued activity.
Growth in total value locked (TVL) is traditionally seen as one of the key health indicators for a DeFi platform. The more capital users are willing to trust a protocol with, the deeper the liquidity, the more stable the service runs, and the wider the opportunities for further ecosystem development.
What drove the growth?
According to market participants, several factors fed into the increase.
Over the past year, the Spreadefi team has been actively building out the platform's infrastructure, regularly rolling out technical updates and improving the user experience. A lot of focus went into optimizing liquidity pool management, making smart contracts more efficient, and sharpening the internal algorithms that handle capital allocation.
Beyond the technical side, the project significantly dialed up its public presence. Over the past year, the team has regularly published product development reports, maintained an official blog, shown up at industry conferences, and expanded its footprint inside the crypto community.
For users, that kind of openness is a major trust factor, especially against the backdrop of the countless anonymous projects popping up across the DeFi landscape.
The platform's growth in 2025
Last year was a period of active scaling for Spreadefi. The team broadened the platform's functionality, kept pushing liquidity pool staking solutions forward, and put a premium on infrastructure stability.
One of the standout moments was the formal establishment of the company in the United States, coming after more than two years of project development. That step made it possible to boost business transparency and strengthen trust from both users and potential partners.
At the same time, the platform's community kept growing. The user base expanded, the audience across official channels widened, and the product gradually became more visible alongside other DeFi projects.
Why TVL is considered an important metric
For most decentralized financial platforms, the amount of funds sitting in liquidity pools is one of the primary development indicators.
TVL growth typically signals that users are willing to entrust their assets to a protocol over the long haul. Larger pools also have a positive knock-on effect on platform efficiency, cutting slippage, making trading operations more resilient, and opening up more ways to deploy capital.
That's why a lot of analysts look at TVL dynamics as one of the most objective measures of a DeFi project's health.
What's next?
Spreadefi representatives note that the increase in liquidity pool volume is just one stage of the platform's development. The team's immediate plans include further infrastructure expansion, the rollout of new investment instruments, a growing number of supported networks, and ongoing work to sharpen the user experience.
If the current pace holds, Spreadefi will be in a position to strengthen its standing among emerging DeFi platforms and pull in even more users interested in staking and earning through liquidity pools.
In the second quarter, the project has already shown it can attract significant capital. Where things go from here will depend on how well the team keeps the community's trust, advances its technology base, and adapts to a decentralized finance market that never stands still.
visit : www.spreadefi.io

Maimi, FL, July 17, 2026
The Spreadefi project has announced the registration of a company in the United States, marking a new chapter for the platform. After more than two years of building the product, the team has wrapped up the formal incorporation process, doubling down on its commitment to growing the project inside a transparent, official structure.
This path is pretty common in crypto. A lot of projects start with technology development, product testing, and community building. The formal incorporation often comes later, once the platform has reached a certain level of maturity.
Over two years of development before registration
Over the past two years, Spreadefi has been actively developing its DeFi platform, which specializes in liquidity pool staking. During that stretch, the team has refined the tech, shipped new features, built out the infrastructure, and steadily grown its user community.
Along the way, the project has regularly posted product development updates, run an official blog, shown up at industry conferences, and presented the platform at events across the crypto space.
With that phase of development behind them, the team made the call to register a company in the United States, a logical next step in a long-term growth strategy.
Why registration matters
An officially registered company is one of the things users and potential partners pay attention to. Spreadefi's legal entity can now be verified through open U.S. public registries, which adds a layer of transparency and confirms its official standing.
Of course, registration alone doesn't guarantee business success or mean there's zero risk. But it does show the team is ready to operate out in the open, comply with legal requirements, and build an international project for the long haul.
A public team and open development
Another thing that sets Spreadefi apart is its open approach to building the platform. The team doesn't just focus on the technical side. Project reps regularly speak at industry conferences, publish content on the official blog, and share where the ecosystem is headed.
That kind of public visibility helps users track the project's progress and get a clearer picture of its long-term goals.
A new phase for the project
Registering a U.S. company opens up new opportunities for Spreadefi to scale the business, build out partnerships, and keep expanding the ecosystem.
According to project representatives, this move is part of a long-term strategy. In the years ahead, the team plans to keep refining the platform, broadening what its products can do, and strengthening Spreadefi's standing in the global decentralized finance market.
visit :www.spreadefi.io

Miami, FL, July 17, 2026
Downturns in the crypto market tend to come with a shift in how investors behave. Some lock in losses or prefer to ride out the correction in stablecoins. Others go looking for instruments that can generate income no matter which way the market moves. Liquidity pools are one of those solutions, and according to the Spreadefi team, the platform has seen a noticeable uptick in user interest over recent months.
Against a backdrop of ongoing volatility, a growing number of investors are choosing to pull some of their capital out of high-risk speculative trades and move it into instruments built to earn steady returns through the decentralized finance ecosystem.
Why are investors choosing liquidity pools?
When the market is swinging hard, making money from traditional trading gets a lot tougher. Sudden price moves jack up the risk, and uncertainty pushes a lot of investors to rethink their strategies.
Liquidity pools offer a different play. Instead of trying to profit from changes in asset prices, users put their funds into dedicated pools that supply the liquidity decentralized exchanges need to operate. In return for providing that liquidity, participants earn rewards generated from fees and other protocol mechanisms.
That's exactly why, when the market gets shaky, interest in these kinds of instruments tends to tick up.
Growing activity on Spreadefi
According to the project, the volume of funds users have placed in Spreadefi liquidity pools keeps climbing. That suggests a lot of market participants see the platform as one of the tools for keeping capital productive in a high-volatility environment.
Another factor reinforcing that trust has been the team's steady work on the platform itself. Over the past year, Spreadefi has significantly expanded its infrastructure, improved its liquidity management mechanisms, and kept refining the user interface.
On top of that, the project has been actively building out its public presence: the team regularly posts progress reports, runs an official blog, shows up at international conferences, and recently wrapped up the registration of a company in the United States, one more step toward greater business transparency.
A shift in investment strategy
Market analysts note that the current cycle is defined by investors increasingly betting not just on digital assets appreciating, but on instruments that can keep generating income even during corrections.
That kind of strategy lets capital work more efficiently, cutting a portfolio's dependence on short-term price swings. Which is precisely why interest in staking, liquidity pools, and other DeFi instruments keeps gradually climbing.
Spreadefi is building its platform in exactly that direction, giving users a way to participate in liquidity pools through a clean interface, without asking them to navigate the complex infrastructure of decentralized finance on their own.
What's next?
If the current market backdrop holds, analysts aren't ruling out further growth in interest toward platforms that let people earn without active trading. As the market matures, investors are increasingly looking at DeFi not as a vehicle for short-term speculation, but as a full-fledged piece of a long-term investment strategy.
Under those conditions, Spreadefi's continued development, the expansion of its ecosystem, and the growth in liquidity volume could become real drivers for the platform. For a lot of market participants, solutions like this are turning into a way to do more than just wait out a rough patch. They're a way to keep putting capital to effective use, even when the broader crypto market is down.

Dubai, UAE, July 13, 2026
AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics (AlHuda CIBE), UAE, successfully concluded the 5th CIS Islamic Banking & Finance Forum 2026, held on 9 July 2026 at the Hyatt Regency Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The international forum brought together policymakers, regulators, diplomats, central bankers, Islamic financial institutions, Takaful operators, FinTech companies, investors, Shariah scholars, academia and industry leaders from across the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) region and beyond to discuss the future direction of Islamic finance and its growing role in regional economic development.
The forum was officially inaugurated with a welcome address by Mr. Muhammad Zubair Mughal, CEO of AlHuda CIBE, who underscored the growing potential of the CIS region as an emerging hub for Islamic finance. He emphasized that enhanced collaboration among governments, regulators, financial institutions, investors, and development partners is vital to developing a resilient Islamic finance ecosystem capable of fostering sustainable economic growth and greater financial inclusion.
The inaugural session was honored by the participation of distinguished diplomatic representatives and senior officials, including Mr. Daniel Rakove, Economic and Commercial Unit Chief, United States Embassy; Mr. Elhadi Tarmant, Economics Affairs Diplomat, Embassy of Algeria; Ms. Diana Maksyutovna Aynetdinova, Counsellor, Embassy of Russia; Mr. Arhan Shah Anuar, Counsellor, Embassy of Malaysia; Mr. Fariz Mammadov, Counsellor, Embassy of Azerbaijan; Mr. Lee Valeriy Alexandrovich, Head of the Capital Market Ecosystem and Regulatory Innovation Unit, National Agency for Prospective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan; and Mr. Zafarjon Mustafaev, Chairman, Leasing Association of Uzbekistan.
Their esteemed participation reflected the growing international recognition of Uzbekistan and the wider CIS region as emerging hubs for Islamic finance, ethical investment, and sustainable economic development.
The first technical session examined the development of a robust Islamic finance ecosystem across the CIS region through policy, regulation, education and market innovation. Distinguished speakers including Mr. Azamat Abdullayev, Mr. Hondamir Nausratkhujaev, Mr. Alexey Soluyanov, Mr. Muzaffar Husniddinov, and Ms. Nargiz Shiraliyeva shared valuable insights on Islamic banking models, AAOIFI standards, regulatory developments and human capital, highlighting the region's growing commitment to advancing Islamic finance.
A high-level panel discussion on "The Strategic Role of the Islamic Finance and Takaful Industry in Attracting Foreign Investment" brought together prominent industry leaders, including Mr. Maksud Sabirov Abdugafurovich, Ms. Ifedayo Ogunshola, Mr. Nuriddin Lafizov, Mr. Semyon Artamonov, and Mr. Umid Khudayberdiev. The discussion emphasized the role of Islamic finance, Takaful and financial innovation in attracting investment, supporting SMEs, strengthening regional cooperation and promoting sustainable economic growth across the CIS region.
The forum's innovation session showcased how emerging technologies are transforming Islamic finance. Mr. Ikeh Titus Adakole, Mr. Alijon Ravshanov, Mr. Sherzod Abdulkasimov, and Mr. Arman Akhanov highlighted the growing role of Islamic FinTech, blockchain, digital compliance and technology-driven financial solutions in expanding financial inclusion and supporting sustainable infrastructure development.
The concluding technical session focused on expanding Islamic finance as a catalyst for sustainable economic development. Presentations by Mr. Abdulmannan Abdulloh, Ms. Iroda Norova, Ms. Madina Bilalova, Mr. Hayotjon Azimov, Mr. Baxtiyor Shodiyev, and Mr. Shabyrov Nurlan emphasized ethics, Shariah governance, education financing, institutional development, sustainable funding models and the growing contribution of the Takaful industry to inclusive economic growth.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Muhammad Zubair Mughal reaffirmed AlHuda CIBE's commitment to supporting governments, regulators and financial institutions through research, consultancy, professional education and international collaboration.
"The growing participation of policymakers, regulators, financial institutions and international experts demonstrates the increasing momentum of Islamic finance across the CIS region. By strengthening partnerships, enhancing regulatory frameworks and embracing innovation, the region is well positioned to become one of the world's most dynamic emerging Islamic finance markets."
The forum concluded with the presentation of participation certificates to speakers and delegates, reaffirming AlHuda CIBE's continued commitment to fostering dialogue, knowledge sharing and strategic cooperation among regional and international stakeholders. The event further strengthened partnerships across the Islamic finance industry and reinforced the collective commitment to promoting sustainable economic development through inclusive financial solutions.
The success of the forum was made possible through the valued support of its sponsors, supporting partners, and media partners. Mac & Ro Capital FZC, UAE as the Gold Sponsor, O Gold served as the Technology Sponsor, and Open Space Financial Services Ltd., Nigeria as the Exhibition Sponsor. AlHuda CIBE extends its sincere appreciation to all sponsors, partners, and media collaborators whose continued support contributed significantly to the forum's success, providing an exceptional platform for knowledge sharing, strategic networking, and the advancement of Islamic banking and finance across the CIS region and beyond.
About AlHuda CIBE:
AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking & Economics (AlHuda CIBE), UAE, is a globally recognized advisory, consultancy, education, and capacity-building institution dedicated to the development of Islamic banking, Islamic finance, Takaful, Sukuk, Islamic microfinance, and the Halal industry. Through its consultancy services, professional training programs, international conferences, research, publications and Shariah advisory, AlHuda CIBE has been contributing to the growth of the Islamic finance industry in more than 104 countries. The organization remains committed to promoting ethical and sustainable financial solutions through knowledge sharing, innovation, and strategic partnerships. For further Details about AlHuda CIBE, please visit: www.alhudacibe.com

Barcelona, Spain, July 13, 2026
EBC12 brings together speakers from J.P. Morgan, the Financial Conduct Authority, Invesco, Coinbase, Fidelity International, and more than 300 leaders from the banks, regulators, and asset managers shaping Europe's digital asset market.
Eleven weeks after the European Union's MiCA deadline, the 12th edition of the European Blockchain Convention (EBC12) returns to Barcelona at a pivotal moment for the industry. It is the region's first major institutional gathering since the world's first comprehensive cross-border digital asset regulation became fully law, and the event where European deal flow happens.
MiCA is now fully in force. For European markets, the focus shifts to what comes next: CASP licensing, stablecoin issuance, and the role of CBDCs in cross-border settlement. EBC12 is where that conversation takes place.
Rather than chasing mandates city by city across London, Paris, Frankfurt, Zurich, and Barcelona, EBC12 compresses the European digital asset market into a single two-day commercial arena. It takes place on 16–17 September 2026 at the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya.
Europe has set the pace for compliant digital asset markets, giving the industry a clearer framework for how crypto can scale within regulation rather than around it. The institutional signal is unmistakable: Deutsche Börse has invested $200 million in Kraken; Santander’s digital bank, Openbank, has expanded its crypto trading for customers across Germany and Spain. Both will be among the institutions discussing what comes next in Barcelona this September.
EBC expects 80 of Europe's top 100 banks in Barcelona this September, up from 50 last year. The debate about whether institutions will enter digital assets is over. EBC12 is where they come to work out what comes next.
"Eight years ago, we built EBC because we believed Europe would be where this industry matured. A lot of people thought we were early. In 2026, European banks are deploying capital, institutional products are live across major markets, and the regulatory framework is in place. EBC is where the people driving that change meet once a year to do real business," said Victoria Gago, Co-CEO of European Blockchain Convention and Digital Assets Forum.
Sessions cover institutional capital allocation, real-world asset tokenisation, regulatory market structure, and the future of stablecoins and CBDCs as global settlement infrastructure.
Confirmed speakers include Emma Landriault, Head of Kinexys Labs at J.P. Morgan; Mohamad Zaraket, Head of Digital Assets Strategy EMEA at BNY; Kathleen Wrynn, Global Head of DA, Invesco; Victor Jung, Vice President, Digital Assets & Currencies, Hamilton Lane; Previn Singh from Fidelity and Colin Payne, Head of Innovation at the Financial Conduct Authority, among more than 300 speakers from across banking, asset management, infrastructure, and policy.
Alongside the main programme, EBC12 features 10,000 pre-arranged one-to-one meetings, a Buy Side Breakfast for allocators and institutional investors, and a dedicated press room with direct access to speakers.
EBC12 expects over 5,000 attendees from 90+ countries for two days of market intelligence, strategic networking, and commercial momentum at the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya, a new premium venue reflecting the event's institutional evolution.
visit : www.eblockchainconvention.com/european-blockchain-convention-12/

Dubai, UAE, July 5, 2026
Global Islamic Finance Leaders to Convene in Addis Ababa to Strengthen Africa’s Interest-Free Financial Ecosystem
AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics (AlHuda CIBE) is proud to announce the 6th International Interest-Free Banking and Takaful Forum 2026, Under the Patronage of the National Bank of Ethiopia, which will be held on August 17, 2026, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Under the theme "Connecting Global Expertise with Africa Emerging Islamic Finance Markets," the forum will bring together regulators, central bankers, policymakers, financial institutions, Takaful operators, development organizations, investors, Shariah scholars, FinTech innovators, and global experts to explore new opportunities for expanding interest-free finance across Africa.
The patronage of the National Bank of Ethiopia reflects the country's growing commitment to strengthening its interest-free financial ecosystem and promoting inclusive, ethical, and sustainable financial services. Ethiopia has made remarkable progress in introducing interest-free banking, supported by regulatory reforms and increasing market demand. With the rapid growth of digital financial services and the establishment of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange, the country is well positioned to become one of Africa's leading hubs for Islamic banking, Takaful, Sukuk, and Islamic FinTech.
Africa represents one of the fastest-growing markets for Islamic finance, driven by its large unbanked population, expanding Muslim communities, supportive regulatory initiatives, and increasing demand for ethical financial solutions. The forum will provide a high-level platform for discussing the latest developments in interest-free banking, Takaful, Islamic capital markets, financial inclusion, digital transformation, Shariah governance, and cross-border investment opportunities. It will also encourage collaboration among regulators, financial institutions, investors, and development partners to accelerate the sustainable growth of the industry across the continent.
Mr. Muhammad Zubair Mughal, Chief Executive Officer of AlHuda CIBE, said, "Africa offers enormous potential for the growth of interest-free finance, and Ethiopia is emerging as one of the continent's most promising markets. Through this forum, we aim to connect global expertise with local opportunities, facilitate knowledge sharing, encourage investment, and support the development of innovative, inclusive, and Shariah-compliant financial ecosystems. We are honored that this prestigious forum is being organized under the patronage of the National Bank of Ethiopia, demonstrating the country's commitment to advancing ethical finance."
The forum will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, technical sessions, and networking meetings covering topics such as the future of interest-free banking in Africa, regulatory and Shariah governance frameworks, Takaful development, Islamic FinTech, blockchain applications, investment opportunities, liquidity management, and financial inclusion. The event is expected to attract senior representatives from central banks, ministries, commercial banks, Islamic financial institutions, Takaful companies, development finance institutions, academia, and international organizations from Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
Following the forum, AlHuda CIBE will organize a One-Day Post-Event Workshop on "Risk and Deposit Management in Interest-Free Banking and Finance" on August 18, 2026, providing practical training on Islamic banking operations, risk management, Shariah governance, liquidity management, and deposit structures. An Industry Visit on August 19 and a City Tour on August 20, 2026, will further provide delegates with valuable networking opportunities and insights into Ethiopia's evolving financial landscape. Additionally, the 6th Interest-Free Banking and Takaful Awards 2026 will recognize excellence and innovation across the global Islamic finance industry.
Registration for the 6th International Interest-Free Banking and Takaful Forum 2026, sponsorship opportunities, award nominations, and delegate participation are now open. Interested organizations and professionals are encouraged to register and learn more by visiting www.alhudacibe.com/ibtf2026/ or contacting info@alhudacibe.com.
Since 2005, AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics (AlHuda CIBE) has remained committed to the global development of Islamic banking and finance through advisory services, research, capacity building, education, and international events. Having served institutions and professionals in more than 105 countries, AlHuda CIBE continues to play a leading role in promoting ethical finance and financial inclusion worldwide. The 6th International Interest-Free Banking and Takaful Forum 2026 is expected to become a landmark event that strengthens partnerships, promotes innovation, and supports the future growth of interest-free finance across Africa.
About Alhuda CIBE:
AlHuda Center of Islamic Banking and Economics (CIBE) is a well-recognized name in Islamic banking and finance industry for research and provides state-of-the-art Advisory Consultancy and Education through various well-recognized modes viz. Islamic Financial Product Development, Shariah Advisory, Training Workshops, and Islamic Microfinance and Takaful Consultancies etc. side by side through our distinguished, generally acceptable and known Publications in Islamic Banking and Finance.
We are dedicated to serving the community as a unique institution, advisory and capacity building for the last twelve years. The prime goal has always been to remain stick to the commitments providing Services not only in UAE/Pakistan but all over the world. We have so far served in more than 35 Countries for the development of Islamic Banking and Finance industry. For further Details about AlHuda CIBE, please visit: www.alhudacibe.com.

London, UK, July 7, 2026
KOR Protocol, the platform building the creative asset clearinghouse, today announced a $7.5 million Series A, capital provided by 1kx and Blockchain Capital at a $100 million valuation. KOR is also backed by previous investors including Republic Crypto, Sfermion, Animoca Brands, Solana, Avalanche, Alumni Ventures, SevenX, and other strategic backers across digital assets, entertainment, and emerging technology.
AI has collapsed the cost of production, but the barrier to being discovered, distributed, and paid has never been higher. Independent talent now has the tools to make professional work, but not the coordinated system to turn that work into opportunity. KOR is building the clearinghouse for this market: an end-to-end system of action where output can be registered, talent can be guided by AI agents, opportunities can be routed to the right labels, agencies, MCNs, brands, curators, and platforms, and payments can move faster and more transparently across the ecosystem.
KOR is starting with entertainment because it is where the mismatch is most visible. Entertainment has the largest attention flows, the highest upside outcomes, and one of the clearest gaps between what gets consumed and who captures the value. AI has commoditized tools and knowledge work, but it cannot commoditize original creativity, cultural gravity, or the ability to command attention. Yet much of the entertainment industry still relies on manual scouting, fragmented platform data, slow deal flow, and outdated payment systems. KOR is designed to rebuild that infrastructure for the AI era.
The Series A round is a strong validation of KOR’s belief that the next phase of AI will need infrastructure for value movement, not just value creation. This capital positions KOR to expand the supply of licensed music and entertainment IP available to AI-native products, deepen its protocol and product stack, and bring more creators, rights holders, and developers into a shared ecosystem.
Ritty Quin was appointed CEO late last year to lead the company’s next phase of growth across the technology engine and the creator economy. A PhD holder and UCL alumnus, he began his career at ByteDance before moving into marketing roles across the technology space. Quin is also a YouTube Partner and electronic music producer signed to Live Nation Asia. He has generated 30M+ impressions as a creator, appeared on Beatport’s Top 100 House Charts and BBC Radio 1 Dance, and headlined Creamfields Asia in 2025.
“AI has removed many of the barriers to creating professional work, but it has not fixed what happens next,” said Ritty Quin, CEO of KOR. “As both an artist and an operator, I know how difficult it is to translate strong work and audience momentum into distribution, partnerships, and sustainable revenue. KOR is building the system that connects those pieces by helping talent get recognized earlier, reach the right opportunities, and build lasting careers.”
Since launch, KOR has built meaningful traction across its ecosystem, surpassing 1 million lifetime sign-ups, 400,000 connected wallets, 1,000+ IP partners, and more than $2 million in gross revenue. Current IP partners for KOR include globally recognized brands and franchises including Black Mirror, Beatport, mau5trap, Imogen Heap, Banijay Group, KDDI, and more. The company sees this as early evidence that creators and entertainment businesses are looking for better systems to manage the next phase of the talent economy.
KOR’s platform is built around three core functions: production, distribution, and monetization. The production layer helps establish origin, authenticity, ownership, and clearance for creative work. The distribution layer uses intelligence and workflow tools to help route talent, content, and opportunities to the right partners. The monetization layer helps creators and commercial partners manage payments, splits, commissions, licensing flows, and revenue opportunities more efficiently.
There are already a number of apps building on top of the KOR protocol. KORUS is a music remixing and creation tool that lets artists release official music packs for fans and creators to remix. Pacer is an AI operating system for music, helping artists and teams manage release strategy, audience intelligence, partner outreach, and workflow execution. The others include VRSNS, Streamline, and KOR Hubs.
The funding will support KOR’s next phase of growth as it expands its product capabilities, scales strategic partnerships across music and entertainment, brings more creators and commercial partners onto the platform, and builds toward its next major network rollout. As AI pushes creative markets toward more output, more agents, and more transactions, KOR is building the protocol layer for how those assets are verified, routed, and settled. The company’s long-term vision is to become the clearinghouse where creative work enters the AI economy, finds the right demand, and clears value back to its source.
To learn more about KOR, visit korprotocol.io.
About KOR Protocol
KOR Protocol is building the clearinghouse for talent in the AI era. The platform helps creators, artists, rights holders, and entertainment businesses move from creation to discovery, distribution, and monetization in one coordinated environment. Through products including Pacer, KORUS, VRSNS, Streamline, and KOR Hubs, KOR connects emerging talent with the labels, agencies, MCNs, brands, platforms, and communities that can help scale their work.
For media inquiries, contact:Aakanksha Agarwalaakanksha@korprotocol.io

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, July 7, 2026
The Global Blockchain Show Riyadh held from 29-30th June,2026 successfully wrapped up its exclusive two-day B2B run, charting an evolutionary path where decentralized networks, AI, and immersive digital platforms converge. The summit heavily prioritized structural tech innovations altering the back end of Web3, including chain abstraction and the massive data infrastructure needed to support future-ready enterprise tech.
Defying the challenges of the prevailing geopolitical landscape, organized by VAP Group and powered by Times Of Blockchain, the event emerged as a resounding success. Co-located with Global AI Show Riyadh and Global Games Show Riyadh, the two-day summit attracted 15,000+ registrations, welcomed 6,723 attendees, featured 100+ global speakers and 100 exhibitors, and convened a 70% CXO-level delegation from 80+ countries. The event leveraged Riyadh's fast-growing position as a technological sandbox to accelerate deals between early-stage Web3 creators, enterprise infrastructure providers, and global financial backers. The event also witnessed the announcement of VAP Group's most ambitious initiative yet- The launch of VAP Ventures, a strategic initiative to back 100 startups by 2030 and accelerate the next chapter of the global innovation ecosystem.
Rewriting Global Investment with Enterprise Protocols
Main-stage sessions in Riyadh delivered an overwhelming consensus: the blockchain ecosystem has definitively decoupled from pure speculation, maturing into a friction-free, parallel economic layer. Discussions highlighted how scalable architecture and interoperable networks are modernizing global commerce, allowing enterprises to bypass cumbersome legacy systems. The panel discussions reinforced blockchain's transition from emerging technology to critical infrastructure, enabling secure digital finance, tokenized assets, and faster cross-border commerce.
A central theme of the summit was the push toward "invisible blockchain." Experts detailed how gasless transactions and streamlined onboarding abstract away complex technical barriers, enabling corporations to secure digital identities and automate monetization on a multi-billion-dollar scale.
The Global Blockchain Show opened with a spotlight session by Meow, Co-Founder of Jupiter where he mentioned, “Decentralized finance has demonstrated that financial systems can be transparent, programmable and globally accessible. The next phase isn't about replacing traditional finance, it's about combining the strengths of both to create a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.”
The summit also featured a keynote by Shabir Momin, President & Founder of TorusChain, who shared his vision for the future of blockchain, emphasizing innovation, enterprise adoption, and the technologies shaping the next generation of decentralized ecosystems.
Shaping the Decentralized Horizon
The summit explored the future of decentralized technologies through discussions on digital banking, decentralized finance (DeFi), AI and blockchain convergence, Web3 infrastructure, cybersecurity, tokenized ecosystems, digital identity, blockchain-powered enterprise transformation, and the evolution of decentralized infrastructure. Sessions also examined blockchain's role in enabling secure digital economies, intelligent automation, cross-industry innovation, and advancing Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's vision as a global hub for emerging technologies.
The event featured 100+ distinguished global speakers from government, enterprise, academia, Web3, fintech, and global blockchain organizations.
Few Notable Speakers Included:
Meow – Co-Founder, JupiterMorrad Irsane – CEO & Co-Founder, TakadaoDr. Mohammed Abdur Rahman – Full Professor & Chairman, Department of Cyber Security & Forensic Computing, University of Prince MugrinRyan Turner – Founder & CEO, ArkonixAlona Shevtsova – Chief Executive Officer, SendsMr. Ulysses Demos – Chief Global Data Officer, Red Sea GlobalNishanth Kumar Pathi – Director, Cybersecurity & Governance, Gulf Air GroupBillal Yamak – Chairman & Co-Founder, Web3 Alliance of Saudi Arabia (WASA)Mostafa Abusamra – CEO & Co-Founder, HealthyGaming of Saudi ArabiaTalal Al Hammad – Editor-in-Chief, entArabiShabir Momin – President & Founder, TorusChain
Alongside leading blockchain founders, Web3 innovators, cybersecurity experts, fintech executives, enterprise leaders, and policymakers from across the global digital asset ecosystem, discussions centered on the future of decentralized infrastructure, intelligent finance, and the convergence of AI and blockchain technologies.

The Intersect of Tokenization, Entertainment, and Intelligent Networks
A primary pillar of the 2026 agenda was the powerful convergence of Artificial Intelligence, advanced gaming models, and secure blockchain networks. Industry leaders outlined how tokenization and decentralized finance (DeFi) are transforming global investment models through enhanced accessibility and digital ownership. Deep dives highlighted how these decentralized architectures create secure data provenance for both regional corporate ecosystems and global entertainment networks.
The exhibition floor brought together a dynamic mix of global blockchain innovators, Web3 pioneers, infrastructure providers, and enterprise technology leaders, creating a vibrant marketplace for collaboration, investment, and next-generation digital innovation.
Leading sponsors and exhibitors and other prominent Web3 ecosystem partners showcased cutting-edge solutions spanning decentralized finance, digital identity, enterprise blockchain, cybersecurity, tokenization, and intelligent infrastructure, reinforcing the event's role as a catalyst for blockchain adoption in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Few Notable Exhibitors:
ClubMOS Technologies LLC Cropr Digital Limited Plotdex JPYRArkonix TorusChain Association Smartflow The Loopcraft EGS Setup Master the Art of Gaming Venn Studio
Destination Abu Dhabi: Continuing the Web3 Momentum
"The conversations in Riyadh reaffirmed that the future of blockchain will be built through collaboration, not competition. Our commitment is to keep creating platforms where visionary founders, enterprises, and investors come together to build what's next." — Vishal Parmar, Founder & CEO, VAP Group.
The close of the Riyadh edition signals a massive leap forward for the regional digital ecosystem. The strategic discussions and corporate partnerships established here will directly inform the agenda for the upcoming Global Blockchain Show Abu Dhabi.
About Global Blockchain Show
The Global Blockchain Show is the premier global conference for the decentralized ecosystem. Structured as a high-stakes business platform, it bridges the gap between the trailblazing builders architecture-ing the decentralized economy and institutional investors looking for the next breakout project.
About VAP Group
With 13+ years of expertise, VAP Group is a premier global consulting and media powerhouse driving the next wave of technology-led growth.
Through its media ecosystem and flagship events, including the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show, VAP Group connects policymakers, enterprises, and innovators worldwide, enabling strategic communications, ecosystem-building, and talent solutions.

Please Visit : www.globalblockchainshow.com/riyadh/
Media Enquiries: media@globalblockchainshow.com

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, June 30, 2026
VAP Group’s CEO, Vishal Parmar at the launch in Riyadh
VAP Group announced the launch of VAP Ventures, its dedicated investment arm, marking a significant milestone in the company's evolution from building global platforms for innovation to directly supporting the founders shaping the future of technology.
The announcement was made at the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show Riyadh 2026, from 29-30 June, where thousands of global industry leaders, innovators, investors and decision-makers have gathered to explore the technologies defining the next decade. The introduction of VAP Ventures represents one of the flagship announcements of this year's Riyadh editions.
For years, VAP Group's global stages have brought together founders, enterprises, governments and investors across AI, Web3, blockchain, gaming and emerging technologies. Through VAP Ventures, the company is taking the next step moving beyond creating opportunities for conversations to building the next generation of high-impact startups..
Over the next five years, VAP Ventures will back 100 startups by 2030 building across AI, Web3 & Blockchain, and Digital Games. The initiative reflects VAP Group's long-term commitment to strengthening the global innovation economy through an integrated ecosystem that combines investment with market access and strategic growth support.
Unlike traditional investment models, VAP Ventures is designed to provide more than funding. Each selected startup will receive a blended support with direct capital alongside access to VAP Group's media ecosystem, marketing capabilities, talent network and globally recognised event platforms. The objective is to help founders move from early-stage ideas to scalable businesses with the resources needed beyond investment alone.
VAP Ventures will focus on technologies shaping the future of the digital economy, including enterprise AI, Web3 infrastructure, blockchain innovation and next-generation gaming ecosystems. The initiative is strategically aligned with the Kingdom's vision of fostering innovation, entrepreneurship and knowledge-based industries while supporting globally ambitious founders.
Key Highlights
100 startups to be backed by 2030Launching from Riyadh, KSAFocus sectors: Artificial Intelligence, Web3 & Blockchain, and Digital GamesSupport extending beyond capital to include media, marketing, talent and global stage access
“We gave founders a stage for years. Now we’re backing them. VAP Ventures will invest in more than 100 startups across AI, Web3, and gaming over five years in capital, media, talent, and reach, all under one roof. This is visibility turning into vital support” Vishal Parmar, Founder & CEO, VAP Group.
The launch of VAP Ventures reinforces VAP Group's broader mission to strengthen the global innovation economy by bringing together capital, media, talent and international platforms under one roof. By expanding from convening innovators to backing them, the company aims to create lasting impact across the startup ecosystem while enabling the next generation of technology companies to grow from the region onto the global stage.
Startups interested in applying to VAP Ventures will be able to submit their details through the dedicated application platform, including company information and pitch materials, as the initiative begins building its inaugural cohort.
About VAP Group
With 13+ years of expertise, VAP Group is a premier global consulting and media powerhouse driving the next wave of technology-led growth.
Through its media ecosystem and flagship events, including the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show, VAP Group connects policymakers, enterprises, and innovators worldwide, enabling strategic communications, ecosystem-building, and talent solutions.
For more information: www.vapgroup.co/vap-ventures/
Media Enquiries:
media@vapgroup.co

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, June 29-30, 2026
Riyadh cemented its status as the world's most vibrant sandbox for interactive media as the Global Games Show Riyadh held from 29-30th June, concluded its highly anticipated two-day B2B run. Shifting focus away from traditional console lifecycles, the event leaned heavily into technological innovations that transformed the back end of game development, including cloud gaming, AR/VR, and automated AI game design. It also focused on an emerging gaming platform: mobile phones.
Defying the challenges of the prevailing geopolitical landscape, organized by VAP Group and powered by Times Of Games, the event emerged as a resounding success. Co-located with Global AI Show Riyadh and Global Blockchain Show Riyadh, the two-day summit attracted 15,000+ registrations, welcomed 6,723 attendees, featured 100+ global speakers and 100 exhibitors, and convened a 70% CXO-level delegation from 80+ countries.
Bringing together game developers, publishers, Web3 gaming pioneers, esports leaders, investors, content creators, technology providers, and policymakers, the event showcased how gaming is rapidly evolving into a multi-billion-dollar global ecosystem at the intersection of artificial intelligence, blockchain, immersive technologies, digital ownership, and entertainment. The event also witnessed the announcement of VAP Group's most ambitious initiative yet- The launch of VAP Ventures, a strategic initiative to back 100 startups by 2030 and accelerate the next chapter of the global innovation ecosystem.
The Global Intersection For Entertainment And Digital Entertainment
The Global Games Show opened with a keynote by Johnson Yeh, Founder & CEO of Ambrus Studio, who explored the future of immersive gaming, highlighting how emerging technologies are redefining player experiences beyond traditional screens.
Also, a keynote by Virginia Villar Arribas, Director of the Private Sector Partnerships Service at the UN World Food Programme, who demonstrated how gaming and play can drive social impact by advancing global awareness, education, and humanitarian initiatives.
The Global Games Show Riyadh attracted game studios, publishers, Web3 gaming, esports, investment, technology providers, and game communities from across the globe. The event highlighted the fact that the world of gaming and digital entertainment has evolved at an unprecedented rate. Mobile-centric ecosystems took the center stage, and the discussions at the event have established this new platform as a key economic engine.
In this context, Charity Joy, CEO, Mirai said, “The future of gaming will be defined by immersive experiences, meaningful communities and the incredible talent building them. What excites us most about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the ambition, creativity and passion of its young developers. They aren't just participating in the future of gaming, they're helping create it!”
Mobile gaming has also altered the competitive landscape, with discussions highlighting that expensive PCs and consoles aren’t a requirement to get into esports. Games like PUBG and Mobile Legends Bang Bang set the ball rolling, and other games are following suit all over the world.
Visionaries in Gaming Defined the Next Generation of Gaming
Over the course of the event, key visionaries and thought leaders discussed key aspects of gaming and esports. These themes and agendas included:
Few Notable Speakers Included:
Johnson Yeh – Founder & CEO, Ambrus StudioNayef BinHumaid – Chairman of the Board, Saudi Baseball and Softball FederationNadeem Bakhsh – Chief Executive Officer, webook.comVirginia Villar Arribas – Director, Private Sector Partnerships Service, UN World Food Programme (WFP)Hassan Yusuf – Head of Partnerships, Real Madrid Foundation – Education Football Program powered by Riyadh SchoolsKanessa Muluneh – Chief Executive Officer, Rise of FearlessYasmina Kazitani – President, Blockchain Game Alliance
Few Notable Exhibitors:
ClubMOS Technologies LLC Cropr Digital Limited Plotdex JPYRArkonix TorusChain Association Smartflow The Loopcraft EGS Setup Master the Art of Gaming Venn Studio
Mobile Gaming and Digital Ownership At the Core of Digital Entertainment
As mobile gaming and digital ownership rapidly evolve, their combination is redefining how digital entertainment is perceived and consumed worldwide. The agenda featured deep dives into how decentralized architectures enable new avenues for player ownership, monetization, and community engagement, rewriting the traditional dynamic between developers and their audience. Furthermore, esports pioneers and gaming founders addressed the maturity of the mobile esports ecosystem across the MENA region, Asia, and LATAM, examining the next generation of tournament structures and revenue-generation models.
"The future of gaming belongs to those who can bring together technology, creativity, and community. Global Games Show is where those conversations begin, and we're excited to see the ideas born in Riyadh evolve into the next generation of global gaming experiences." - Vishal Parmar, Founder & CEO, VAP Group
Building the Future of Gaming By Addressing the Foundational Pillars of Gaming
The conclusion of Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 set the foundation for the evolution of interactive gaming and digital entertainment. The positive momentum generated by attendees, exhibitors, and speakers at this event will inform the decisions that will shape the discussions at the Global Games Show 2026 Abu Dhabi.
About Global Games Show
The Global Games Show is the ultimate B2B gaming event for the next evolution of interactive entertainment. This elite event series is dedicated to uniting major industry titans, visionary developers, and investors to map out the future of gaming.
About VAP Group
With 13+ years of expertise, VAP Group is a premier global consulting and media powerhouse driving the next wave of technology-led growth.
Through its media ecosystem and flagship events, including the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show, VAP Group connects policymakers, enterprises, and innovators worldwide, enabling strategic communications, ecosystem-building, and talent solutions.
Media Enquiries: media@globalgamesshow.com