Core Points - Fourteen major European banks are opposing the European Central Bank's (ECB) plan for a digital euro, arguing it could undermine private payment systems [1][2] - The banks believe the digital euro would duplicate existing private initiatives aimed at creating a unified European payments network [2][3] - Lawmakers are advocating for a scaled-back version of the digital euro that would function as a digital form of cash, allowing offline payments and avoiding competition with established commercial networks [4][5] Group 1: Opposition from Banks - Major lenders, including Deutsche Bank, BNP Paribas, and ING, have united against the ECB's digital euro proposal [2] - The banks are promoting their alternative payment system, Wero, which is already operational in Belgium, France, and Germany, and aims to expand across the eurozone [3] - The banks argue that the ECB's proposed digital currency could disrupt their progress in developing a European payments network [3] Group 2: Legislative Concerns - Lawmakers are increasingly questioning the necessity and benefits of the digital euro, suggesting it may not complement private payment systems [4] - The ECB is moving forward with plans for a pilot program in 2027, but full implementation requires political approval from the European Parliament and national governments [4] - There is growing support for a digital euro model that would not require internet access, thereby reducing overlap with existing payment networks [5]

I know no one wants to hear bullish ideas and everyone is scared and wants to fling poo at each other... but the Road to Valhalla is getting very close.If global liquidity is the single most dominant macro factor then we MUST focus on that.REMEMBER - THE ONLY GAME IN TOWN IS ROLLING $10TRN IN DEBT. EVERYTHING ELSE IS A SIDESHOW. THIS IS THE GAME OF THE NEXT 12 MONTHS.Currently the gov shutdown has forced a sharp tightening of liquidity as the TGA builds up with no where to spend it.This is not offset by the ...

Group 1: ABSA Bank and Ripple Partnership - ABSA Bank is partnering with Ripple to provide custodial services on the Ripple blockchain, marking a significant moment in the adoption of crypto by mainstream financial institutions [1][2] - The partnership allows ABSA customers to store crypto and digital assets on the Ripple blockchain, with integrated tools for managing these assets [3] - Ripple's managing director for the Middle East and Africa described the partnership as a "major shift," emphasizing the potential of digital assets in Africa [3] Group 2: Ghana's Crypto Regulations - The Central Bank of Ghana plans to introduce crypto regulations by December 2025, aligning with similar legislative trends in Nigeria and Kenya [4] - The regulatory framework and a new bill to regulate virtual assets are currently being prepared for parliament [4] - The growing size of global crypto markets is prompting regulators to seek visibility on the movement of funds, which is in the billions [4] Group 3: Blockchain.com in Nigeria - Blockchain.com is seeking a crypto exchange license from Nigeria's Securities and Exchange Commission, following its decision to establish Nigeria as its regional hub [2]