TBC News

Tag: Crypto

  • When Bitskwela will host a debate on NFTs and Fine Arts

    When Bitskwela will host a debate on NFTs and Fine Arts

    Philippine-based education platform Bitskwela announced that it will hold a debate over controversies swirling around the traditional and NFT (non-fungible tokens) realm, featuring top Filipino creatives and entrepreneurs on June 16, 2023, at the Imahica Art Gallery, Mandaluyong City.

    “Brushes and Pixels: A Debate on NFTs and Fine Arts” is the second side event to Bitskwela’s Bull or Bear: Philippine Web3 Debate 2023 Cebu edition, which will be held at the Ayala Malls Central Bloc, Cebu IT Park, Cebu City on July 15.

    Among the debaters is Brian Poe Llamanzares, co-founder of Artifract.io, a platform that democratizes Fine Arts ownership by fractionalizing them as NFTs.

    Early this year, Artifract.io announced key collaborations to digitize masterpieces of late national artists Abdulmari Imao Sr. and Federico Aguilar Alcuaz and has also partnered with Pinoy rock icon Ely Buendia to enable his fans to own pieces of his music and artistry through the blockchain.

    A prominent figure in the Philippine art scene, Ian Fulgar, founder of Imahica Art Gallery and principal for Fulgar Architects, is expected to bring a unique perspective to the table and shed light on the evolving landscape of digital art.

    Rising Filipino illustrator Marso Ya from community-driven groups Crypto Art PH and LevelArtGuild, serial entrepreneur, content creator, and cryptocurrency investor Chris Tan, and Jeffrey Bondoc, founder of the Filipino group of Bored Ape and Mutant Ape holders from the Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) collection or BAYCkada, will also be in attendance to share their insights on complex issues about so-called crypto or blockchain arts.

    “The conversation between traditional art and NFTs has been long overdue. People simply love collecting things, and that’s the same behavior we see in NFTs and traditional art. Bull or Bear Manila is here to facilitate that conversation, this is something both NFT degens and art enthusiasts should look forward to,” said JC Macalintal, CMO of Bitskwela.

    “Bull or Bear: Manila aims to foster a dialogue on the future of art through NFTs and traditional art. In this debate we’ll see leaders from both industries share their thoughts on what the future of art, both in the physical world and the internet will be,” said Jiro Reyes, Chief Executive Officer of Bitskwela.

    The debate, hosted and moderated by Edrei Tan, is co-presented by GCash and Blockceler8.

    The Bull or Bear Cebu edition is backed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Go Digital Pilipinas, Ayala Malls, Philippine Airlines, Likha NFT platform, and Likhaan, the premier marketplace that connects global buyers to Filipino artists, makers, and suppliers.

    Other key partners of this event are Bitget, a top crypto exchange and copy trading platform helping users trade smarter by providing a secure, one-stop trading solution, Tekkon, a Web3 app that promotes social good by empowering users to help fix their local community’s infrastructure and Hive, a firm that changing social media with blockchain tech.

    Bitskwela has been actively advancing the crypto education landscape in the Philippines, from localizing educational content to organizing debates aimed at fostering a collaborative environment that promotes understanding and awareness in the Web3 space.

    To reserve a seat for the onsite debates, interested audience can secure their tickets here: www.bitskwela.com/bull-or-bear.

  • DICT, Coins PH host blockchain webinar for beginners

    DICT, Coins PH host blockchain webinar for beginners

    The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and Coins.ph, the leading digital wallet provider and crypto exchange platform in the Philippines, have organized their first-ever Blockchain 101: Blockchain for Beginners webinar.

    The webinar aims to educate beginners about blockchain technology and its potential applications. Coins.ph has over 16 million users and is the most established crypto brand in the Philippines.

    The company is fully regulated by the BSP and holds both EMI and Virtual Currency licenses. The webinar is part of Coins.ph’s efforts to promote digitalization and innovation in the Philippines.

    The webinar was graced by DICT Region 3 Regional Director, Engr. Reynaldo T. Sy who opened the event by sharing a few words on the significance of adopting cryptocurrency in our country.

    During the program, Coins.ph Social Media and Community Manager, Franco Araneta shared the basics of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, explaining how it compares to the traditional ways of banking and offers a better alternative that is secure, transparent, and cost efficient.

    Araneta also urged those who plan to engage in cryptocurrency, to use licensed exchanges by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, such as Coins.ph, to ensure that all your transactions are safe and legitimate.

    Coins.ph General Manager, Eprom Galang also shared NFT insights, real-world benefits such as IP ownership, provenance, and interoperability of these assets, encouraging Filipinos to start their NFT journey.

    DICT Region 3 Technical Operations Division Chief, Engr. Petronilo Villafuerte closed the event by thanking Coins.ph for their support and taking the time to share their expert knowledge on NFTs, crypto, and blockchain technology to attendees.

    With the success of the first Blockchain 101: Blockchain for Beginners webinar, Coins.ph and DICT hopes to create more sessions to allow more Filipinos to educate themselves on the benefits and trends of the crypto industry.

    Today, Coins.ph offers a wide range of products, from e-wallet, crypto trading and remittance services which millions of Filipinos already enjoy. Sign-up via Google Play, App Store or Huawei AppGallery today.

  • Tricycle drivers are now going cashless in Naga and Lapu-Lapu

    Tricycle drivers are now going cashless in Naga and Lapu-Lapu

    Digital wallets are becoming increasingly popular as a payment method because of their convenience, speed, and security. Governments around the world are also taking note of this trend and are exploring ways to incorporate digital wallets into their financial systems.

    One way that governments are using digital wallets is by incorporating them into social welfare programs. For example, in India, the government has launched a program called Aadhaar, which links a unique identification number to a digital wallet. This program is used to distribute welfare benefits to citizens, such as food subsidies and fuel subsidies.

    At home, Coins.ph – the Philippine’s leading digital wallet provider and crypto exchange platform, supports the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) during the launch of the Paleng-QR PH in Naga and Lapu-Lapu City.

    Digital wallets can also be used to promote financial inclusion, particularly in developing countries where a large portion of the population is unbanked. Governments can partner with digital wallet providers to offer financial services to those who are not served by traditional banking systems. This can include features like bill payments, mobile recharges, and even access to credit.

    However, there are also concerns about the potential risks associated with digital wallets, such as fraud and data privacy. Governments need to ensure that appropriate regulations are in place to protect users and prevent abuse of the system.

    Overall, digital wallets offer many opportunities for governments to improve financial services and promote financial inclusion, but careful planning and implementation are essential to ensure that they are used effectively and safely.

    “Coins.ph shares the vision of the Paleng-QR PH program to empower more Filipinos to embrace digital adoption. Through this fast and convenient payment method, we hope that users and merchants feel financially included as digital finance grows in our country.” says Wei Zhou, CEO of Coins.ph, when asked about the company’s partnership with BSP’s Paleng-QR PH program.

    As part of the extensive rollout plan by the BSP, various Local Government Units (LGUs) throughout the country, including Baguio City, Tagbilaran City, Davao City, Naga City, and Lapu-Lapu City, have introduced Paleng-QR PH in their respective markets and communities. During these launches, Coins.ph engaged with locals to assist them in setting up accounts and providing guidance on how to utilize the app’s services.

    In the coming months, the Paleng-QR PH will be launching in other cities, within and outside Metro Manila, so more communities can be financially included and empowered. Today, Coins.ph offers a wide range of products, from e-wallet, crypto trading and remittance services which millions of Filipinos already enjoy. Sign-up via Google Play, App Store or Huawei AppGallery today. 

    Technology has played a significant role in promoting financial inclusion, particularly in developing countries where a significant portion of the population is unbanked. By leveraging technology, financial service providers can offer low-cost and accessible financial services to individuals who are not served by traditional banking systems.

    One way that technology is driving financial inclusion is through mobile banking. Mobile banking allows individuals to access financial services using their mobile phones, eliminating the need to physically visit a bank. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in remote areas where bank branches are not readily available. Mobile banking also allows for the transfer of funds, bill payments, and other financial transactions.

    Another technology that is promoting financial inclusion is digital wallets. Digital wallets allow users to store money digitally and make payments electronically. They offer a convenient, secure, and low-cost alternative to traditional banking services, particularly for those who do not have access to banking infrastructure. Digital wallets also offer opportunities for financial service providers to reach new customers and expand their business.

    Blockchain technology is also being used to promote financial inclusion. By using blockchain, financial service providers can create decentralized financial systems that are more transparent, secure, and accessible. Blockchain technology also offers opportunities for peer-to-peer lending and micropayments, which can be particularly beneficial for small businesses and individuals.

    In conclusion, technology has played a significant role in promoting financial inclusion, particularly in developing countries. By leveraging mobile banking, digital wallets, and blockchain technology, financial service providers can offer low-cost and accessible financial services to individuals who are not served by traditional banking systems.

  • Protect your NFTs from cybercriminals

    Protect your NFTs from cybercriminals

    Q6 Cyber and Candy Digital Form Partnership to Offer Customers Best NFT Security

    Candy Digital, a next-generation technology company that develops officially licensed digital collectibles connecting fans to their passions, and Q6 Cyber, a leading provider of e-crime intelligence, announced today that they have partnered to ensure the continued safety and protection of Candy Digital’s customers and marketplace in an industry that is constantly changing.

    The “Digital Underground,” a vast universe of online sites, marketplaces, communities, and forums where hackers and fraudsters operate, is monitored by cutting-edge technology from Q6 Cyber.

    The Dark Web and Deep Web, as well as peer-to-peer messaging apps and other cybercrime infrastructure, are covered by the company round the clock.

    Q6 Cyber provides proactive and highly targeted information aimed at the early detection of cybercrimes, a rapidly expanding threat to the NFT market.

    “Our proprietary threat intelligence – already used by so many leading companies in various industries to prevent fraud and cyber attacks – will now be utilized to enhance the security for Candy Digital’s customers and its marketplace,” said Eli Dominitz, CEO at Q6 Cyber.

    “This first-of-its-kind collaboration with a leading digital collectibles NFT company will pave the way for the rest of the NFT industry to beef up security and fraud prevention, and protect millions of consumers around the world. Candy has already positioned itself as a pioneer in the digital collectibles landscape, and this partnership further solidifies its leadership position.”

    Candy Digital employs a holistic approach to combating cyber crime and fraud, utilizing best-in-class technologies and best practices while delivering an enhanced customer experience and level of protection that has made it a leader in the Web3 space.

    Since its founding in 2021, Candy Digital has expanded significantly beyond its inaugural partnership with Major League Baseball (MLB) into multiple new categories including motorsports, college sports, entertainment, and arts and culture.

    “Protecting our customers’ digital assets and their personal information is our highest priority,” said Candy Digital CEO Scott Lawin. “Q6 Cyber is a leader that we are thrilled to partner with to provide the highest level of security to both our customers and our business partners.”

  • Why PDAX is for crypto newbies and crypto enthusiasts alike 

    Why PDAX is for crypto newbies and crypto enthusiasts alike 

    The Philippine Digital Asset Exchange platform enhances the user experience through various innovations. 

    It’s no secret that cryptocurrency is more popular than ever. In just a few years, cryptocurrency has gone from something only talked about on niche, underground forums to being bought and traded by everyone from your neighbor to your officemate.   

    Philippine-based cryptocurrency exchange Philippine Digital Asset Exchange, more commonly known as PDAX, understands that everyone is in different stages of their crypto journey. That’s why the exchange does everything it can to cater to all types of Filipino crypto users.   

    In fact, there is empirical data proving there are more Filipino crypto users than ever. It’s estimated that the volume of cryptocurrency transactions in the country grew 362% year on year to nearly 20 million in the first half of last year. It’s also estimated that 11.5 million Filipinos now own cryptocurrency.  

    Because of PDAX’s aim of making cryptocurrency easily accessible for everyone, the platform provides several benefits for crypto newbies.  

    New users can rest easy knowing PDAX is a safe and secure platform. Aside from instituting security measures like 2-Factor Authentication, PDAX is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).  

    In fact, PDAX was the first in the country to receive an official license as a virtual currency exchange operator.   

    Unlike customers of unlicensed and unregulated exchanges, PDAX gives its users the peace of mind that their assets are safe. Cash-ins are kept safe and secure thanks to regulations from the BSP.   

    New users who are afraid the world of crypto may be too complex and overwhelming will also be happy to know that buying and trading crypto on PDAX is a no-brainer.  

    PDAX offers both a mobile app (downloadable through the Apple app store, Huawei Gallery, and Google Play) and a web exchange. Creating an account is as easy as entering one’s personal information and completing a simple biometric check.   

    Finally, new users can look forward to the fact that PDAX also goes out of its way to make cash-ins and cash-outs easy and accessible. Cashing out, for example, can be done with InstaPay, Maya, and PESONet.  

    Banks like UnionBank and outlets like Cebuana Lhullier and M Lhullier also accept cash-outs, on top of the e-wallet Maya. Finally, PDAX is also capable of sending cryptocurrencies to outside wallet addresses.  

    There are even more options available for cashing in: 7-Eleven/CLiQQ machines, DragonPay, ECPay, GCash, Maya, or through online bank transfers.  

    Yet it’s worth noting that PDAX doesn’t cater to just new crypto traders starting out. The platform is aware that more eager crypto enthusiasts see crypto as a way to diversify and grow their portfolio.   

    Crypto enthusiasts looking to explore all the possibilities in crypto will find  that on top of offering an easy-to-use platform, PDAX also offers 34 tokens that users can buy, sell, or trade.  

    PDAX carries more popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) while also carrying up-and-coming tokens like Solana (SOL), Stellar Lumens (XLM), Binance Coin (BNB), and so much more.   

    It’s worth noting that offering such a diverse range of coins allows users to diversify their portfolios and potentially receive more yield. Thus, not only is PDAX user-friendly but users aren’t limited to putting their eggs in one basket.   

    “Crypto traders with a little more experience understand the importance of choice. This is why PDAX is constantly expanding its offerings to stay versatile and relevant. We want to make it easy for Filipinos to make the most out of crypto,” said PDAX founder and CEO Nichel Gaba.  

    Seasoned crypto users also have good reasons to use PDAX. The exchange offers low fees when cashing in and cashing out through the exchange’s network of payment partners. Compared to other local exchanges and crypto apps, PDAX offers the lowest rates around.   

    Overall, PDAX is proud to be a platform that satisfies the requirements and needs of any type of crypto trader. Whether you’re a new user or a seasoned veteran of the scene, PDAX offers several benefits that make them a cut above the competition.  

    With a user-friendly interface, diverse token selection, and competitively low fees, PDAX consistently shows why they’re the leading exchange in the Philippines.   

  • NFT called “Devil Dogs” dedicated for veterans 

    NFT called “Devil Dogs” dedicated for veterans 

    Military veteran and now tech CEO Dave Grannan re-imagines how we use non-fungible tokens.  

    Guided by the vision to utilize NFT technology and the excitement of the crypto-token investment space as a force for good, the new Devil Dogs NFT series is a crypto token project specifically crafted to support America’s service members. 

    The first-of-its-kind project aims to leverage Web3 technology to achieve both real-world and virtual benefits, with opportunity to purchase unique and tradeable “everyday hero” tokens. Proceeds will be directed to crucial veteran services. 

    In its initial release, Devil Dogs (DVL.DGS) is offering 1775 unique and inspiring bulldog tokens, commemorating service in the U.S. Marine Corps, with a mint date planned for this fall. 

    The DVL.DGS NFT initiative is headed by Dave Grannan, a Silicon Valley tech CEO & Gulf War veteran. “Our Devil Dogs NFT project sits at the intersection of two issues I care deeply about,” says Grannan. “As a Gulf War veteran, I know firsthand how our veteran healthcare system is falling short. And, as tech executive, I’m very bullish on the future of crypto, blockchain and most things Web3.” 

    As the project grows, DVL.DGS plans to donate over 90% of revenues to vital veteran’s charities. Specifically, the project aims to amplify the impact of organizations focusing on core veteran’s issues, including access to health care, suicide prevention and homelessness.  Devil Dogs also plans to support education and financial literacy programs that help veterans better re-integrate into civilian life. 

    The campaign’s current beneficiaries include the Marines’ Memorial Association & Foundation, The 38 Challenge, Irreverent Warriors and The San Diego Veterans Coalition.  

    The DVL.DGS campaign features two ways to give: investors can purchase an NFT to support wellness initiatives and/or donate an NFT directly to an active-duty service member. Grannan and his team are targeting this fall for a first official minting. But donation NFTs can be purchased right now at the project’s website, devildogs.io.  

    Grannan believes the project will speak to a lot of people who understand the challenges faced by veterans, as well as both crypto curious and seasoned investors ready for more purpose-driven NFT holdings. “If you’re crypto-curious, this project can be your safe on-ramp to the crypto world,” says Grannan. “And if you’re a crypto native, I ask, ‘Don’t you want a warrior in your collection who’s truly metaverse ready?’” 

  • UnionBank now allows Pinoys to buy Bitcoin via app

    UnionBank now allows Pinoys to buy Bitcoin via app

    This new service is in compliance with BSP and is planned for a wider roll-out soon.

    Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) is now poised to become the first universal banking entity in the country to offer virtual asset exchange services through its mobile banking app, marking another major milestone towards future-proofing the bank while creating customer-centric solutions powered by technology and innovation.

    Through the new feature, UnionBank customers can now purchase and sell Bitcoin (BTC) directly from the UnionBank mobile banking app without the need for a third-party virtual asset wallet. This eliminates the need for multiple apps and makes buying and selling BTC easier and convenient like never before.

    The new feature will be rolled out to randomly pre-selected UnionBank customers, who will be able to see the Virtual Asset functionality in their app. The launch is in compliance with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) regulation on Virtual Asset Services, with the Bank eyeing a wider roll-out in the near future.

    With blockchain a major component of its future-proofing strategy, UnionBank has been hard at work in exploring new use cases for the said technology and its offshoots such as cryptocurrency.

    This also aligns with the Bank’s efforts in expanding its footprint in the metaverse, after its first entry into the space through its partnership with homegrown NFT game Ark of Dreams last April. The Bank is also eyeing the launch of the country’s first-ever Metaverse Center of Excellence sometime in the next few months.

    “Blockchain is a technology that we think will power the future of banking. At the same time, we also recognize that cryptocurrency has been one of the services that a lot of customers are already looking for, especially the younger generation, and this demand was accelerated by the pandemic,” said Cathy Casas, Head of Blockchain Center of Excellence, Digital Asset Markets and API Marketplace Group at UnionBank.

    “By launching this new feature, we are hitting two birds with one stone. Not only does this help us ensure that the Bank is more future-ready, we are also able to serve the needs of our customers who use cryptocurrencies,” Henry Aguda, Senior Executive Vice President Chief Technology and Operations Officer and Chief Transformation Officer said. “This is also one of the things that we are working on as we prepare our path towards entering the metaverse.”

    The recently unveiled feature is part of UnionBank’s ‘Tech-Up Pilipinas’ advocacy which aims to promote digital literacy among Filipinos, in line with its goal of enabling inclusive prosperity in the country.

  • Web3 platform to use new funding for expansion

    Web3 platform to use new funding for expansion

    MetaverseGo provides access to Web3 games without the usual prerequisite of understanding how to use cryptocurrencies.

    MetaverseGo, a Web3 mobile gaming platform that onboards new players via a mobile phone login, announced it has raised US$4.2 million in a seed round led by Galaxy Interactive to be used for software development, securing partnerships with telecommunication providers, and strategic hires. 

    The funding was also participated by Delphi Digital, Dragonfly Capital, Mechanism Capital, Infinity Ventures Crypto (IVC), Shima Capital, Com2uS, Akatsuki, Ascensive Assets, BitScale Capital, Yield Guild Games (YGG), BreederDAO, Mentha Partners and Emfarsis. The funding will be used for software development, securing partnerships with telecommunication providers, and strategic hires. 

    Over the past year, Web3 gaming has seen remarkable adoption with gaming dapps now driving 52% of all blockchain activity. However, the long, complex and risk-laden processes involved with onboarding new users to blockchain-based platforms remains a barrier for would-be players.

    Using only their mobile phone number, and upon validation by a verification code, users can explore the MetaverseGo platform to discover and play a range of NFT games while earning MetaverseGo credits that can be spent on mobile data, utility bills, shopping vouchers, and more.

    “Crypto has always been hard, and blockchain games are even harder, since there are significant upfront costs to buy the NFTs needed to play. Play-to-earn really only took off in 2021 after scholarships popularized the idea of renting those NFTs, so that NFT ownership wasn’t a requirement to get started,” said Ash Mandhyan, co-founder and CEO of MetaverseGo.

    “Since then, we’ve seen rapid adoption around the world, but as long as crypto onboarding is as arduous as it is today, that growth can only go so far. MetaverseGo is solving this by making Web3 games accessible via a technology that everyone knows how to use — a mobile phone number.”

    Currently, 1.1 billion mobile games are downloaded per week, a number that is 45% higher than pre-pandemic levels according to a study by data.ai and IDC. Further, available gaming stats indicate that there are over three billion gamers across the globe, representing about a third of the world’s population.

    In comparison, according to a report by Crypto.com, there are only around one million people playing blockchain games on a daily basis. With blockchain gaming at such a nascent stage of development, MetaverseGo aims to accelerate growth and adoption by removing all the usual challenges associated with onboarding to cryptocurrencies.

    “MetaverseGo helps to democratize blockchain gaming with an accessible web3 platform that simplifies the onboarding, discovery, learning, and payout processes needed to foster meaningful connections and realize commerce gains around quality content,” said Richard Kim, General Partner at Galaxy Interactive.

    MetaverseGo is led by co-founders Ash Mandhyan, Jake San Diego and JC Velasquez. CEO Ash Mandhyan has more than 15 years of digital retail experience, having held leadership positions at Lazada Philippines, Facebook and Bytedance. 

    Jake San Diego, Chief Business Development Officer of MetaverseGo, The founder of Artphorce, a creative freelancing marketplace, and he also has more than 15 years of experience in the gaming industry, including roles at Level Up! and PlayPark Games, and most recently at Globe, the Philippines’ leading telecommunications company. 

    CTO JC Velasquez has 20 years of experience building software and 12 years building technology teams for high-growth startups. He is also the founder of Smartwave Studios, a Philippines-based mobile software consulting and engineering firm, as well as a co-founder of Partyphile, the largest nightlife app in Asia, and Chatbot PH, the largest chatbot developer in the Philippines.

  • Tetrix forays into digitized contact exchange powered by NFC

    Tetrix forays into digitized contact exchange powered by NFC

    Tetrix Link utilizes near-field communication (NFC) technology to enable users to conveniently share their information in just a single tap.

    Powered by Filipino-led blockchain Tetrix Network and Pitaka crypto wallet, Tetrix Link cardholders will be able to select and store their information, such as their personal contact details and relevant social media accounts, and share these data when they tap or hover over their card to an NFC-enabled mobile device.

    Felix Asuncion, co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Tetrix Network, explains that “With Tetrix Link, you can share your data to your peers more easily and would eliminate the need for multiple business cards since the data of multiple assets are stored inside the network. You can control which information to share, and lastly, you would only require a link or QR code to share.”

    To use this feature, cardholders must download the latest version of Pitaka mobile app. Next, sign up at https://link.tetrix.xyz and fill out the personal details and contact information needed in the dashboard.

    Once the card is purchased, receive an authentication code and use it to connect the dashboard to the Tetrix Link card. Finally, share that data by tapping the card onto an NFC-enabled device, and do not remove it until the information pops up on the screen.

    Tetrix Link recreates the way we use our physical wallets and will now allow us to secure other forms of self-custodial data. All the data you’ll need to present is housed in a handy little card, and potential connections only need to tap the card onto their NFC-enabled phones.

    “Currently, we are testing it to support human resources information system, healthcare services, and other hotel and restaurant use cases aside from it being used as business cards and personal or company ID. We’re also in talks with the local government in bringing this technology to modernize their systems,” Asuncion said.

    Tetrix Link offers an easy-to-navigate user interface and is uniquely backed with blockchain. It can function as any ID or key card. Eventually, it will also store mission-critical data and other physical documents like vaccine certificates and data inside NFTs for specific use cases.

    The card also has a scannable QR code in case one’s phone doesn’t support NFC. If there’s no internet connection at the moment of transfer, the receiver can just bookmark the link and access it later on. Soon, Tetrix Link will enable users to access data offline as well.

    The team is also in the works to launch the second version wherein users can add their resumé and an introduction about themselves and can also book their schedule or create a calendar when they tap the card onto an NFC-enabled phone.

    Future updates on the card aim to enable users to transfer and receive cryptocurrencies via the Pitaka wallet, receive perks as with loyalty or rewards cards, and pay for merchants and transportation.

    Overall, what Tetrix aims to offer its patrons is innovation and convenience. “Tetrix Link is not your ordinary business card. Unlike the traditional one, Tetrix Link card would be enough to last you a lifetime,” Asuncion said.

    “Imagine there are so many professionals, HR personnel, C-level executives, and even real estate brokers who print a lot of paper business cards which, more often than not, get discarded or misplaced just minutes after they’ve been handed around. With Tetrix Link, everything is digitally installed, and your details will be editable anytime, anywhere through https://link.tetrix.xyz,” Asuncion added.

    Consumers can purchase Classic, Bamboo, and Premium Tetrix Link Cards at VIridian Technologies Inc. Shop and its distribution partner Coin Vault PH on Facebook. They can also sign up for the selling link for them to receive an email regarding the process on how they can avail of the product.

    Currently, they are open for signups to get special offers for a limited time. Prices would start from a lifetime subscription fee of $39.99 or roughly ₱2,000 for the early adopters but will only include the business card functionality along with a Tetrix Link Card (NFC). Payment can be processed via GCash, bank transfer, and cryptocurrencies or USDT via Tetrix Network’s Pitaka wallet address.

  • XLD Finance to use new funding for crypto APIs

    XLD Finance to use new funding for crypto APIs

    The $13-million investment will be used to accelerate product development and geographical expansion.

    A borderless decentralized ecosystem providing financial tools among emerging economies, XLD Finance has announced it has successfully raised US$13M during the pre-Series A funding round led by Dragonfly Capital and Infinity Ventures Crypto.

    The funds will be used to enable XLD Finance to scale its product and engineering teams to accelerate its API and product development efforts. The investment will also be used to expand its network of licensed partner financial institutions and expand its merchant and biller network.

    The round saw participation from Advance AI, Circle, Digital Currency Group (DCG), IDG Capital, Insignia Venture Partners, Integra Partners, Morningstar Ventures, Openspace Ventures, Sfermion, Shima Capital, Transcend Fund, TrustToken (TUSD), UOB Venture Management, Woo Network, Yield Guild Games (YGG), YOLO Ventures, Emfarsis and twenty other investors.

    Established in June 2021, XLD Finance is building infrastructure to enable the delivery of financial tools to emerging economies through APIs that bridge web 3.0 and traditional finance.

    Its core products include crypto-based payments, disbursements, and crypto-to-fiat offramp APIs which allows web3 and crypto projects to offer tools to their users typically available only to traditional financial institutions. XLD Finance currently serves customers in the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, India, and Bangladesh, with a total merchant network of over 10,000 and growing.

    In January 2022, it launched its first ecosystem project, xSpend, a platform enabling users to spend their GameFi tokens and stablecoins to pay for utility bills, buy mobile credits, and purchase goods and services using only their Metamask, Phantom, or Ronin wallet.

    This month, XLD Finance is launching OmniX, a crypto disbursement platform that simplifies crypto disbursements allowing guilds and projects to pay thousands of people with crypto in three clicks. XLD Finance’s roadmap includes a crypto settlement API for merchants, an algorithmic stablecoin, and a web3 wallet Software Development Kit (SDK).

    “People in emerging economies often encounter barriers that prevent them from creating financial accounts, paying for goods and services without their physical presence, sending money to loved ones cheaply, accessing affordable credit, and building a savings portfolio, hindering them from experiencing a better quality of life. I want to see a future where anyone with a mobile phone or computer and internet access can use “bank-like” financial tools through their favorite DeFi protocol or exchange,” XLD Finance Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Ian Estrada said.

    XLD’s Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer, Herbie Fu, is an early participant in the crypto and DeFi space. He has invested in more than 100 crypto projects, which include YGG, 0x, TrustToken, FTT, Solana, Chainlink, and M1 Network. He was also a co-founder in a $60M San Francisco-based multi strategy crypto fund.

    “We believe in XLD’s vision to deliver infrastructure that provides financial inclusion in emerging markets. Through blockchain and decentralization, there exists an opportunity to solve the very real global challenge of financial access with less complexity; XLD’s blockchain-based products will become as relevant as more traditional options,” says Brian Lu, Founding partner of Infinity Ventures Crypto.