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Revolut Tests Pound Stablecoin

Revolut is set to begin testing a pound-denominated stablecoin as part of a regulatory trial overseen by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority.

The initiative will take place within the regulator’s sandbox framework, which allows financial firms to experiment with new products under controlled conditions. The pilot will involve a limited group of participants and focus on potential applications such as payments and settlement processes.

Stablecoins are digital tokens designed to maintain a fixed value by being linked to traditional currencies. Interest in such instruments has grown globally, although major UK financial institutions have taken a cautious stance.

Regulators have indicated that trials like this are intended to explore how emerging technologies might enhance efficiency in financial services while maintaining safeguards.

Revolut plans to begin work on the project in the coming months, reflecting continued efforts to expand digital asset capabilities within established oversight structures.

Binance Eyes Greece for EU Base

Binance is positioning Greece as a potential operational hub for its expansion within the European Union, citing workforce quality and stability as key advantages.

The cryptocurrency exchange has applied for authorization under the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets framework, which will become mandatory for companies seeking to operate across the bloc by mid-2026.

Leadership indicated that regulatory consistency across member states means broader factors such as talent availability and security conditions are influencing location decisions. Greece’s profile has emerged as a favorable option despite its smaller financial sector compared to other European centers.

The move forms part of Binance’s broader effort to strengthen its compliance posture following previous regulatory challenges. The company is aiming to align with evolving oversight standards as the digital asset industry matures.

Executives noted that institutional participation in cryptocurrency markets remains steady, even as retail sentiment fluctuates, reinforcing long-term interest in the sector.

The strategy reflects continued efforts by global crypto firms to establish structured regional operations within Europe’s emerging regulatory environment.

Klarna Shares Drop on Rising Costs

Klarna reported a quarterly net loss as rapid expansion drove up operating costs, prompting a sharp decline in its share price.

The company posted a net loss of $26 million for the fourth quarter, compared to a profit in the same period a year earlier. Despite this, revenue surpassed $1 billion for the first time, reflecting strong growth in its services.

Higher processing and funding expenses contributed to weaker-than-expected results, while the outlook for 2026 fell short of investor expectations.

Klarna’s leadership noted that upfront investments tied to growth are expected to yield returns over time as operations mature.

The fintech firm has also increased its use of artificial intelligence to streamline processes, allowing workforce reductions while boosting average employee compensation.