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Bitcoin Surges Past 79000 as Market Shows Signs of Recovery

Sienna Wilson
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Bitcoin Surges Past 79000 as Market Shows Signs of Recovery

Bitcoin has reached a high of $79,776.63, which is 3.97% higher than its price 24 hours earlier. This would imply that the market reaction to very recent trading volatility in the crypto markets is rather drastic.

That surge was seen after Bitcoin went down to the lowest price so far in 2025, but the drop was brief and at a time when it went down to below $75,000 due to growing trade war tensions globally on Monday.

The market capitalization of the biggest SI of the crypto world now is $1.58 trillion, and the daily trading volume is also $84.22 billion, which both give a total of 69.06% increase in the number of transactions made within 24 hours that the fraction accounts for.

The percentage change in the supply relative to the quantity available for sale is seen as the number one indicator that brought about the sharp rise after the latest turbulence in the market and is a sign of investor come-back, unlike outflow.

The dip in the price of Bitcoin has come after the phase of explosive growth established in the first quarter of 2025 of cryptocurrencies, following a decrease of more than a thousand dollars (in this case, from more than $100,000 to less than $80,000). All of this while there had been a lack of notable conflict in the crypto sector, hence the behavior came as a surprise.

Currently, there are 19.84 million BTC available from the total of 21 million BTC in the Bitcoin circulating supply, which means only 19.84 million BTC are circulating. This is an indication of the fact that the number of bitcoins still available is considered the first part of its next likely value preservation, and it is confirmed by the fact that the coin still has a widespread application while the stock has already run out of it. The maximum valuation of Bitcoin, in this case, has been taken into account and is estimated to be $1.67 trillion. Limit?

Some market watchers have commented on the market movement in the past. They consider the latest Bitcoin price to resemble historical events and patterns that occurred in the early months of 2017. Others have noticed that there is a striking similarity between the consolidation patterns between the two periods and it’s possible that a significant upward price shift has been made behind the consolidation that has currently taken place.

The recent resurgence in cryptocurrency markets was referred to as “Black Monday” by a group of traders after which Bitcoin was downed along with other digital assets. The depreciation was mainly due to the rise in tariff disagreements and people’s fear of a trade war causing them to withdraw the investment from riskier assets.

Even in the face of the most recent bout of market volatility, it is evident that institutional interest in Bitcoin remains strong. Within an industry, when an asset exhibits the capability of reaching not only the initial boom but also returning to the previous peak and above, it shows that the class of the asset is now better positioned to see continued growth and tenure as a stable asset, maturity has been witnessed and the set is much less risky.

BTC’s moving average makes an upward trajectory indicating a positive news. MACD shows bullish divergence, which may lead some to believe that the price is likely to continue its rise in the next month.

Traditionally April has been a bullish month for Bitcoin with some influencers putting the mark for the new top at $100,000 in case it manages to break key resistance around $93,000. However, the trading volume has not been too high lately, indicating that there might be some caution among the investors.

The recovery of the cryptocurrency is just about the same time when the financial market starts to show signs of stopping from further deterioration. Attention has now turned to the release of the upcoming U.S. CPI data on April 10, which could significantly impact market sentiment and the Federal Reserves’ monetary policy outlook.

Bitcoin’s current price has rallied quite significantly from the lows back in 2024, yet it still goes far below its peak. Throughout the period of its existence, the cryptocurrency has been incredibly robust, it survived lots of major price drops, and none of those could restrain it from reaching new heights.

The recent action of the price took place while we were witnessing Donald Trump’s pro-cryptocurrency policy. Despite the public support of the former president, the industry Bitcoin has seen a decline after President Joe Biden’s inauguration this year, from being above $100,000 in December.

Stocks that focus on cryptocurrencies have also started to recover ahead from the great falls they experienced earlier in the week. Coinbase and Robinhood, for example, which went down 5% and 14% on Monday, are now retrieving a fraction of the losses they encountered.

It could look like market sentiment is turning from extreme fear to a little cautious optimism. Bitcoin’s volatility index went as high as it’s been in 6 months, meaning rapid price action to either side is still visible because of the worried state of global economies, which scares investors off.

The bitcoin market share now floats at around 55% of the total cryptocurrency market, indicating that it is still the main force for all digital assets in sight. Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency, also saw its value recover after it had plunged to $1,500 earlier in the week.

Experts seem to be quite divided on the prospects of Bitcoin for the near future. On the one hand, there are those who are optimistic about the further rise to the earlier records, but on the other hand, there are those who are warning that the global economic issues may trigger new violent fluctuations. Performance for the cryptocurrency in April will likely be a pointer to what is to come in the next quarter of the year.

Throughout time, loyal investors are still curious about how Bitcoin’s 21 million coins limit can be of social value. If we subtract the current roughly 19.84 million bitcoins in the market that are commonly used from the picture, we can see that the scarcity is getting closer. And for those who are optimistic about the future of the price, this story is still a key narrative.

Data-Driven Innovation Fuels Muslim Pro’s Global Presence

Claire James
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Data-Driven Innovation Fuels Muslim Pro’s Global Presence

Faith-based app Muslim Pro has transformed from a simple prayer time utility tool into a comprehensive digital platform serving over 170 million users worldwide. But don’t call it an overnight success, says its creator.

“Muslim Pro was launched in 2010 to provide accurate prayer times for Muslims all over the world where it’s not easily accessible,” explains Nafees Khundker, Muslim Pro’s CEO and group managing director. “People in the West, they’re the ones who needed it most because over there you didn’t have mosques all over the place, right? It was like a companion for any Muslim to understand when the prayer times are.”

From there, Muslim Pro’s leadership team recognized opportunities to expand beyond their initial value proposition. “We expanded from being just a utility app, to providing additional services,” Khundker says. “Often, Muslims will probably refer to the Quran for questions, answers, and to try to understand the Quran.”

By expanding into educational content, multilingual Quran translations, and most recently AI-powered religious information, Muslim Pro has positioned itself as an indispensable resource for its target market.

“Now we have a new vision, which is to be the digital home for all things Muslim, combining faith, technology, and also the whole Muslim lifestyle. Whatever a Muslim needs in their daily life, we want to be there to provide those services,” says Khundker.

Leveraging Data, Feedback To Drive Innovation

What sets Muslim Pro apart from competitors is its relentless focus on user feedback to inform product development. “We actually get a lot of feedback, both positive and negative. We monitor it and use it to inform our improvements,” Khundker explains.

Those improvements now include some of the app’s most popular features, including educational tools and content that helps users deepen their understanding of Islam. The company has also leveraged technological innovation, launching an AI-powered chatbot in 2023.

“We call it Ask AiDeen, which is a bot that can handle any questions anyone has regarding Islam,” notes Khundker.

Localization and Personalization

One of the most impressive aspects of Muslim Pro’s growth is its global reach. Despite initial expectations that the app would primarily appeal to users in Southeast Asia, it found unexpected success in Western markets before expanding its presence in Muslim-majority countries.

“Although it was launched from Singapore and initially the thoughts were people in Southeast Asia would probably pick it up most because you have a lot of Muslims here, but it was very quickly accepted in the Western world,” Khundker shares.

“You can actually read the Quran in more than 60 languages in the platform today,” says Khundker.

The app is as popular in Muslim-majority countries like Indonesia as it is in Muslim minority countries, for different reasons, Khundker notes. “If you take it, Indonesia is the largest Muslim-populated country in the world.”

The company has also identified important demographic trends that shape its product strategy. “The biggest trend we see and which is probably logical, is that the younger tech-savvy Muslims are the ones who are using it the most,” explains Khundker. “I would say more than 50% of our users would be between 18 and 34 years old, and it’s being increasingly used for educational purposes.”

Building A Community-Driven Product Experience

Muslim Pro continues to keep a trained eye on its community to dictate its next areas of growth.

“We are focusing on the community aspect now where we feel that people all over the world want to connect with each other digitally with all these services,” Khundker explains.

Diversifying Revenue Streams Through Vertical Integration

Muslim Pro has also begun expanding beyond digital content to include services directly related to Islamic practices.

“End of last year we launched our first Umrah travel services. Most of the Muslims would want to go to Mecca and Medina and perform their Umrah services,” Khundker explains.

But the true measure of Muslim Pro’s success isn’t just in its impressive download numbers, but in the meaningful impact it has on users’ lives. Khundker shares one particularly powerful example:

“I would want to highlight one of the stories from last year where… This person was actually a revert from somewhere in Europe. I think she sent a message to our customer service and really, really said how Muslim Pro has changed her life, where she used it on a daily basis to read and understand the Quran, to really get back and find more context in what Islam is and how to actually practice Islam.”

He adds, “This person’s Islamic journey actually started with Muslim Pro, where she can easily have the whole Quran on her app, carried around, and look at it anytime, or any Islamic question that she had straight away came from that.”

The Rise of Cryptocurrency Payments in Online Retail: A Game Changer for E-commerce

Claire James
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The Rise of Cryptocurrency Payments in Online Retail: A Game Changer for E-commerce

In recent years, the intersection of cryptocurrency and e-commerce has become increasingly prominent, reshaping the online retail landscape and significantly transforming consumer payment behaviors. Once seen as a niche form of payment reserved for tech enthusiasts, cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and stablecoins like Tether (USDT) have now gained mainstream acceptance, becoming trusted methods for secure, fast, and borderless transactions.

Online businesses—from established global brands to niche marketplaces—are recognizing the advantages of cryptocurrency payments. In this article, we explore how cryptocurrency payments, particularly USDT via platforms like Binance, are revolutionizing e-commerce transactions, enhancing customer experiences, and driving businesses forward into a digitally advanced future.

Cryptocurrency Adoption in E-commerce: A Growing Trend

As consumers grow more digitally savvy and demand faster, safer, and more transparent payment options, cryptocurrencies are quickly becoming a desirable alternative to traditional payment methods. According to recent studies, global cryptocurrency payments in e-commerce have increased exponentially over the past few years, driven largely by millennials and Gen-Z consumers who prefer digital wallets and decentralized finance.

Major companies like Microsoft, PayPal, Overstock, and Shopify already accept cryptocurrencies, reinforcing the legitimacy and attractiveness of digital currencies. Additionally, smaller specialized online retailers are tapping into this trend, offering consumers innovative and secure payment alternatives.

Benefits of Accepting Cryptocurrencies like USDT

Businesses are turning to cryptocurrencies, particularly stablecoins like Tether (USDT), to leverage their distinct advantages. Stablecoins maintain price stability pegged to fiat currencies, which significantly reduces volatility concerns for both buyers and sellers. Here’s why accepting cryptocurrencies, especially USDT, is becoming increasingly popular:

Lower Transaction Costs

Traditional payment gateways and banks often charge high transaction fees, especially for international payments. Cryptocurrency transactions, however, significantly reduce or eliminate these fees altogether. For instance, sending payments directly via Binance using USDT is fast and cost-effective, allowing businesses to maintain competitive pricing and customers to save on transaction costs.

Enhanced Security and Transparency

Cryptocurrency transactions offer enhanced security due to blockchain technology, which provides an immutable, transparent, and traceable ledger. Unlike credit card payments prone to chargebacks and fraud, cryptocurrency payments are irreversible, safeguarding merchants against fraudulent activities.

Rapid and Borderless Payments

Traditional international bank transfers can take several business days and are often expensive. Cryptocurrency payments, on the other hand, are near-instantaneous and borderless. Businesses accepting USDT through platforms like Binance enable immediate international transactions, expanding their global reach and facilitating seamless cross-border commerce.

Attracting Tech-Savvy Consumers

Accepting cryptocurrency signals to consumers that a business is modern, forward-thinking, and technologically adept. Crypto users often seek out businesses that accommodate digital currencies due to convenience, security, and personal financial preferences. Businesses integrating these payment methods attract tech-savvy, affluent, and younger demographics.

Real-Life Example: How Online Retailers Are Successfully Integrating Cryptocurrency

Specialized retailers have begun adopting cryptocurrency payments effectively. For example, at Biker Ring Shop, customers can conveniently make secure payments using various options, including major credit cards, PayPal, and now cryptocurrency. The company’s clear payment policy explains available methods, building trust among customers and enhancing transparency. Additionally, they offer a direct payment option to Binance accounts using USDT, providing flexibility for crypto-savvy customers who prefer using digital assets over conventional methods.

This approach not only increases customer satisfaction and convenience but positions the retailer as innovative and consumer-friendly, significantly boosting brand credibility.

Challenges and Solutions in Cryptocurrency Payments

While cryptocurrency payments offer numerous benefits, certain challenges remain, such as price volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and technological hurdles for businesses unfamiliar with crypto.

  • Price Volatility:
    While stablecoins like USDT solve volatility concerns, businesses accepting more volatile cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin) can mitigate risk by instantly converting received cryptocurrencies into stablecoins or fiat currencies using trusted exchanges or payment gateways.
  • Regulatory Concerns:
    Different regions have varied regulatory stances towards cryptocurrency, so businesses must understand local laws to ensure compliance. Adopting reputable crypto-payment gateways or platforms like Binance can simplify regulatory compliance by providing clear reporting and regulatory guidelines.
  • Technological Barriers:
    Implementing cryptocurrency payments might seem intimidating to traditional merchants. However, platforms such as Binance, Coinbase Commerce, and others simplify integration, offering user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive merchant solutions.

Future Outlook: Cryptocurrency Payments and E-commerce

With increased consumer awareness and technological advancements, cryptocurrency payments are anticipated to grow significantly. E-commerce is uniquely positioned to benefit from this trend, with cryptocurrencies aligning seamlessly with digital shopping experiences, secure transactions, and global commerce.

Companies integrating cryptocurrencies will not only future-proof their businesses but also gain competitive advantages in attracting diverse customer demographics, including international buyers seeking simplified payment methods.

Tips for Businesses Considering Cryptocurrency Payments

For businesses contemplating accepting cryptocurrencies, consider the following strategies:

  • Clearly communicate available cryptocurrency payment options through transparent policies, similar to the approach used by businesses like Biker Ring Shop.
  • Offer user-friendly guides to help customers unfamiliar with cryptocurrency easily adopt and use these payment methods.
  • Implement stablecoins such as USDT initially to reduce volatility and provide confidence to both merchants and customers.
  • Partner with trusted cryptocurrency platforms or payment gateways like Binance for secure, compliant, and efficient transaction processing.

Conclusion

The integration of cryptocurrency payments, particularly stablecoins like USDT, represents a significant shift in e-commerce and digital finance. Forward-thinking businesses are embracing these innovations, recognizing the substantial advantages in terms of security, convenience, global reach, cost-efficiency, and consumer preference.

Online retailers, including niche marketplaces like Biker Ring Shop, demonstrate how cryptocurrency payments can successfully expand a business’s appeal, enhance customer satisfaction, and improve transaction efficiency. As e-commerce evolves further into digital economies, businesses that adopt cryptocurrency payment solutions stand to gain significantly, positioning themselves as leaders in the future of global retail.

Black Monday 2.0 – Why Crypto Market Is Down Today?

Sienna Wilson
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Black Monday 2.0 – Why Crypto Market Is Down Today?

On April 7, 2025, the crypto market is experiencing a downturn crypto traders calling it Black Monday 2.0, primarily driven by the recent implementation of sweeping tariffs by President Donald Trump. These tariffs have introduced significant uncertainty in global financial markets, leading investors to move away from risk assets, including cryptocurrencies. This uncertainty has particularly impacted major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Ripple, and Tron, each reacting to the broader economic climate.

Impact on Specific Cryptocurrencies

Each cryptocurrency is affected differently based on its market position and use case. Bitcoin, often seen as a safe haven, is down due to its correlation with risk assets during economic uncertainty. Ethereum, with its DeFi applications, is similarly impacted by market sentiment. Solana, being more speculative, is sensitive to volatility, while Ripple and Tron are influenced by broader market trends and their specific utility in payments and content sharing, respectively.

Survey Note: Detailed Analysis of Crypto Market Downturn on April 7, 2025

The cryptocurrency market is witnessing a notable decline on April 7, 2025, with major assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Ripple, and Tron experiencing price drops. This downturn is primarily attributed to the recent announcement and implementation of extensive tariffs by President Donald Trump, which have introduced significant volatility in global markets. This report delves into the reasons behind the decline, analyzing each cryptocurrency’s reaction to these economic developments.

Background on Trump’s Tariffs

President Trump’s tariff policies, announced in early April 2025, include a 10% tariff on all countries, with higher rates for major trading partners, effective from April 5 and April 9, 2025, respectively (Fact Sheet). These measures have been met with threats of retaliation from countries like China, escalating fears of a global trade war (Reuters). The resulting economic uncertainty has led to a sell-off in risk assets, impacting the crypto market on black monday.

Why Bitcoin is Down Today?

Bitcoin, the largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, is down today due to its behavior as a risk asset during periods of economic uncertainty. Research indicates that Bitcoin often correlates with global stock markets, and the tariff-induced volatility has led to a 10% price drop since the announcement, falling below $78,000 on April 6, 2025 (The New York Times). Analysts note that while Bitcoin is sometimes seen as a hedge against inflation, the current market sentiment has treated it like a tech stock, prompting sell-offs (Bloomberg).

Why Ethereum is Down Today?

Ethereum, known for its role in decentralized finance (DeFi) and smart contracts, is also down today, mirroring Bitcoin’s decline. The tariffs have created a risk-averse environment, with investors pulling back from volatile assets. Ethereum’s price has been affected by its utility in DeFi, which could face disruptions from global trade tensions. Data shows a 5.2% drop on April 3, 2025, following the tariff announcement (CNBC), with the broader market sentiment continuing to weigh on its value.

Why Solana is Down Today?

Solana, a high-performance blockchain, is more sensitive to market volatility due to its speculative nature. The tariffs have led to a 10% price tumble on April 2, 2025, as reported (Bloomberg). As a newer asset, Solana is particularly vulnerable to shifts in investor confidence, with the economic uncertainty prompting a move toward safer investments, impacting its price on April 7, 2025.

Why Ripple is Down Today?

Ripple (XRP), utilized for cross-border payments, is down today due to the general market downturn. While Ripple has partnerships with financial institutions, the tariffs could disrupt international trade flows, indirectly affecting its demand. Reports indicate a 14.21% increase in the past 24 hours as of April 6, 2025, but the overall trend suggests a decline influenced by market sentiment (CoinMarketCap), with today’s drop aligning with broader trends.

Why Tron is Down Today?

Tron (TRX), focused on content sharing and entertainment, is also experiencing a price decrease. The tariffs have led to a bearish market sentiment, with investors reducing exposure to riskier altcoins. Tron’s price, showing a 5.33% increase over the past 24 hours as of April 6, 2025 (CoinMarketCap), is likely down today due to the ongoing impact of economic uncertainty, affecting its market position.

Comparative Analysis

To provide a clearer picture, here is a table summarizing the recent price movements and potential impacts:

Cryptocurrency Price (Apr 6, 2025) 24h % Change (Apr 6) Impact of Tariffs
Bitcoin $77,171.00 6.76% High, risk asset sell-off
Ethereum $1,495.49 16.44% Moderate, DeFi sensitivity
Solana $101.02 15.05% High, speculative nature
Ripple $1.78 14.21% Moderate, payment utility
Tron $0.2258 5.33% Moderate, altcoin volatility

This table highlights the varying degrees of impact, with Bitcoin and Solana showing higher sensitivity to market shifts.

Conclusion

The crypto market’s downturn on April 7, 2025, is a direct response to Trump’s tariff policies, introducing economic uncertainty and prompting a sell-off in risk assets. Each cryptocurrency—Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Ripple, and Tron—is affected by this volatility, with specific reactions based on their market position and use case. As the situation evolves, investors will continue to monitor economic indicators and policy developments for future market trends.

 

Compare the Market and Fluent Money Collaborate to Offer Broader Loan Comparison Services

ABC Staff
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Compare the Market and Fluent Money Collaborate to Offer Broader Loan Comparison Services

Compare the Market has announced a new partnership with Fluent Money to enhance its money eligibility and comparison services. This collaboration allows Compare the Market customers to compare both secured and unsecured loans from a variety of providers, all based on their eligibility, directly through the Compare the Market website. This service will help users better understand their loan options and increase their chances of securing credit.

Compare the Market has grown significantly in the credit cards and loans market since the start of 2024, increasing diversification of the brand’s product offering and offering customers more ways to save. The firm is currently focused on increasing the choice of their best money deals from a range of trusted providers to help customers make great financial decisions.

Andy Hancock, Chief Growth Officer at Compare the Market, comments: “We’re thrilled to announce our new online secured loans journey in partnership with Fluent Money, helping customers compare loans and review their options, based on their eligibility.

“Our purpose at Compare the Market is to make financial decision making a breeze for everyone. This new integration of Fluent Money propels us further forward in offering our customers more ways to save and compare the latest products and deals.”

23andMe Bankruptcy Shakes Biotech Sector as Early Warning Signs Go Unheeded

ABC Staff
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23andMe Bankruptcy Shakes Biotech Sector as Early Warning Signs Go Unheeded

The recent bankruptcy filing of 23andMe has sent ripples through the biotech and DNA-testing sectors, raising alarms for investors and industry stakeholders. Once a dominant force in consumer genetic testing, 23andMe’s collapse underscores the ongoing challenges in turning genetic insights into a sustainable and profitable business model.

However, this downturn wasn’t entirely unforeseen. According to alternative data provider AltIndex.com, warning signs had been present as far back as 18 months ago. The platform’s early indicators pointed to declining sentiment, shrinking user engagement, and weakening financial fundamentals—yet few heeded the signals in time.

As market confidence shakes and competitors reassess their strategies, the fall of 23andMe serves as a cautionary tale for the entire industry.

AltIndex’s AI Score Gave a Clear Warning Long Before the Market Reacted

Despite its groundbreaking approach to DNA testing, 23andMe (ME) has long struggled with declining consumer trust, mounting legal troubles, and data breach scandals, ultimately leading to its bankruptcy.

On March 24, 23andMe officially declared bankruptcy, and Co-founder Anne Wojcicki stepped down as CEO after multiple failed attempts to take the company private. While the company’s financial downfall raises alarms for the direct-to-consumer DNA industry, sparking debate over privacy, security, and sustainability, the signs of trouble had existed for much longer.

Back in August 2023, AltIndex issued a sell signal on 23andMe, warning that the company’s trajectory was looking increasingly bleak. While many investors continued to hold onto hope for 23andMe, the platform`s algorithm spotted several red flags across key alternative data indicators.

The company’s web traffic had been steadily declining, signaling a loss of consumer interest. Social media engagement also dropped, showing reduced brand visibility and consumer reach. Employee sentiment, too, showed a sharp downturn. Each of these signals on their own might not seem disastrous. But when they all move in the wrong direction at the same time, it tells a much bigger story. This resulted in an extremely low AI score of only 19 points, triggering a strong sell signal.

At the time of the AltIndex alert, ME stock was trading at $29 per share. Today, the stock is down over 97%, trading at just 65 cents after plunging more than 50% in a single day.

Investors Who Sold in August 2023 Protected Their Capital

The 23and Me case is a perfect example of how traditional metrics, like revenue and earnings, often fail to reflect real-time changes captured by alternative data. By the time quarterly reports are released, it’s usually too late for investors to make the best move.

Investors who acted on AltIndex’s sell signal in August 2023 and exited at $29 per share saved most of their capital. Those who bet against the stock or bought options could have made significant profits as ME stock dropped below $1.

The 23andMe case again shows the power of alternative data and AI-driven trading strategies, helping investors make faster decisions and reduce risks in volatile markets. In fact, this approach led to the highest returns for one in four investors last year.

STP and ECN Broker Models Reshaping Forex Trading Performance

Claire James
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STP and ECN Broker Models Reshaping Forex Trading Performance

Global access to the Forex market has changed significantly in recent years. Retail traders and smaller investment firms now compete alongside major financial institutions. With lower capital requirements and easy-to-use technology, market entry has never been more straightforward.

For business owners and investors, the priority often lies in choosing a broker that suits their strategy and budget. Two of the most popular models are STP (Straight-Through Processing) and ECN (Electronic Communication Network). Each serves traders in a unique way. 

Why Brokerage Models Matter

In Forex, the brokerage model determines factors such as spread costs, transaction speed, and the transparency of order execution. These aspects affect trading outcomes for both high-volume and smaller-scale participants.

Some brokers act as direct market makers. Others connect clients with external liquidity providers, ensuring that trades are carried out with minimal intervention. STP and ECN are both in the no-dealing-desk category, which means they do not act as direct counterparties to client trades.

A Brief Look at STP

Straight-through processing brokers rely on partnerships with various liquidity sources. When traders place orders, STP brokers forward them to external counterparties or liquidity pools. The aim is to fill the orders without human interference.

In many cases, STP brokers earn their revenue by marking up the spread or adding small fees. This approach allows them to route orders through multiple channels, which can lead to competitive pricing but may also introduce some inconsistencies in speed or final execution terms.

How STP Brokers Operate

STP platforms gather quotes from a network of entities. This could include other STP brokerages, large financial institutions, or even dealing desk brokers. Orders can pass through multiple layers before a final match is found. That leads to varied settlement times and occasional slippage.

For example, a trader might request a currency pair at a specific price. If the first counterpart cannot fill the order, the request moves on to another partner. This chain continues until the broker finds the best possible fill or runs out of available quotes.

A Brief Look at ECN

ECN brokers create a digital marketplace where traders can interact with an aggregated global order book. Quotes are pulled from multiple sources, offering clients the best available prices. Traders often see tight spreads and faster fills, thanks to real-time data from banks, hedge funds, and other participants.

In this model, brokers typically charge a commission for each order. The tight spreads can offset these fees for active traders, but the commission can add up with larger or more frequent transactions. Many professional traders prefer ECN because of its transparency and depth of liquidity.

How ECN Brokers Operate

ECN systems function like a central hub, where trader orders are matched with the best quotes from major liquidity providers. There is no manual intervention, and prices remain consistent across the network.

This method benefits those who value speed, as an ECN broker can execute large volumes quickly, which can be critical during market volatility. The main drawback is the commission rate, which can become substantial with frequent trades.

Liquidity and Price Discovery

Strong liquidity is critical for any trader. ECN brokers often connect to deep pools, giving traders narrower spreads. This appeals to high-frequency and institutional traders who demand tight pricing.

STP brokers can still offer competitive pricing, but it depends on the quality of their liquidity sources. Some maintain strong relationships with prime banks or other platforms. Others rely on a looser network. Either way, the structure can lead to occasional price variations.

Costs: Commission vs. Spread Markup

ECN brokers are known for charging commissions on each trade. Spreads tend to remain near interbank levels, which means they are often quite low. Traders who operate with high volumes or scalping techniques may find this model efficient, given that overall costs can stay manageable with the right volume.

STP brokers generate revenue by increasing the spread or imposing small surcharges. While the difference may be less apparent to casual traders, those small markups can accumulate significantly for larger accounts.

Speed and Execution Style

For time-sensitive strategies, speed is a major concern. ECN brokers usually excel here, thanks to direct connectivity with top-tier liquidity venues. These match orders almost instantly when volume is high.

STP systems can still deliver decent speeds, but routing through multiple layers may introduce delays. However, this discrepancy is often minimal. Still, advanced traders who depend on precise timing typically prefer ECN services.

Potential Conflict of Interest

Neither STP nor ECN brokers act as the direct counterparty to a trade. They focus on routing orders to external sources or networks, which generally reduces conflict-of-interest risks. That sets them apart from dealing desk brokers, who might take the opposite side of a client trade.

One subtle difference is that STP brokers might pass orders to a dealing desk environment. A transaction can become part of an in-house book if an STP partner uses a market-maker model. ECN brokers, on the other hand, mostly keep orders on an aggregated electronic venue.

Regulatory Environment

In many regions, regulators expect transparency in how orders are handled. Traders should confirm that their broker abides by local financial requirements. STP and ECN models both need to maintain fair practices, although the exact framework can vary by country.

Brokers operating with recognized licenses (e.g., FCA, ASIC, CySEC) often provide clearer documentation. This helps if a dispute arises or if a company requires periodic compliance checks.

Which Suits Your Goals?

Choosing between STP and ECN often comes down to trading objectives and operational constraints. High-volume traders may favor ECN for its speed and narrower spreads. Occasional traders might find STP more cost-effective, especially if each trade is small.

Business owners offering Forex services might appreciate ECN for the reputation it brings, but the higher commissions can be a barrier for certain client segments. STP solutions may appeal to a broader audience, as they combine direct market access with an often simpler fee structure.

Conclusion

STP and ECN remain two prominent no-dealing-desk models that provide direct access to the global Forex market. Both reduce the inherent conflicts found in brokerages that act as market makers.

Yet each model has particular strengths. ECN may deliver better pricing and execution speed, balanced by higher commission costs. STP tends to offer simpler cost structures, though some trades may pass through additional layers, leading to varied slippage or routing times.

UK Economy Faces Growth Slowdown

Sienna Wilson
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UK Economy Faces Growth Slowdown

The British economy is currently facing a huge decline in the forecasted growth for 2025. Furthermore, the Office for Budget Responsibility projects a decrease from a 2% growth expectation to just about 1%, which in turn suggests a period of serious hardship for the economy.

The drop in question is due to a slow growth rate and increasing borrowing costs that have left the Treasury with no ideal other than plans for cuts in the fiscal policy amounting to GBP 15 billion. The fiscal buffer of GBP 9.9 billion has leaked off, leading to a deficit of around GBP 4 billion, which highlights how the problem is becoming more severe.

Following these increasingly high-pressured financial demands, the authorities are expected to announce cuts in welfare spending as well as the reforms to the benefits system as a response to the economic conditions. However, as a side-effect, they have caused concern about the possible negative results on the most vulnerable parts of the society.

The non-profit community has sounded alarm, emphasizing the fact that a reduction in the disabled benefits segment might pull these people under the poverty line, and it might put the authorities in a position where they have to choose social welfare or fiscal responsibility.

Business people are at a point where the decision about their confidence is to be taken, a decision that is made under the influences of rising costs, continuous inflation, and global economic uncertainty. While there was a strong expectation of better growth in 2025, business leaders have been experiencing a drop both in consumer and business confidence over the past few months.

The business leaders, who are careful in their enterprises’ optimistic budgets but at the meantime express pessimistic views about the whole UK economy’s possibilities are still out there.

Adding to the complexity, the UK has to deal with worldwide trade issues. The North American Government declaration of import duties as the primary means of their sanction policy, targeting mainly those countries whose commercial barriers are high, brought the news further which only added uncertainty.

Further, although it is not yet clear whether the UK will actually be a part of it, the potential of imposed tariffs that might lead to the UK’s exports being at risk and thus would be a must for policymakers as well as businesses to respond strategically emerges as a result of this situation.

The UK government, in the meantime, is also involved in domestic policy changes related to economic and trade issues. Trade Unions and labor laws will be significantly affected by the Enforcement of Rights Bill, representing the consistent changes that the government has made in order to keep pace with the changing economic scenarios. Also, these changes in legislation are in line with the government’s broader plan that is aimed at boosting economic resilience and competitiveness in the UK.

The FTSE Women Leaders Review indicates that females occupy 43% of positioned in the entire board, while there are actually no all-male boards left. Increasing appointment rates for women in FTSE 350 companies are a promising sign of gender equality at 46%, the diversity and inclusion of females in corporate leadership are in progress. Yet, although only one year is left for this purpose to be achieved, companies are being encouraged to work even faster to bridge this gap.

The fact that Great Britain’s evolution can be affected by geopolitical tensions, extreme weather events, workforce, and tech development is a cause of much more concern. These issues necessitate companies to adapt proper risk management strategies that are dynamic and equally capable of facing several challenges and leading them to a brighter future.

The UK is on its way to the Spring Statement, and all the stakeholders in the economy can’t wait for the government to announce the policies to solve these problems. The government needs to strike the right balance between austerity and these pro-growth and pro-poor policies in order to ensure the trajectory of the UK economic development in the future.​

ClearBank Expands Partnership with Kraken to Enhance GBP Clearing Services

ABC Staff
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ClearBank Expands Partnership with Kraken to Enhance GBP Clearing Services

ClearBank, a leader in real-time clearing and embedded banking, has announced a new regional partnership with Kraken, one of the most established and secure digital asset platforms. Through this extended collaboration, ClearBank will provide GBP clearing services for Kraken’s UK clients, ensuring smooth and efficient on and off-ramp transactions within the digital exchange ecosystem.

Building and maintaining reliable, instant fiat payments rails has been a consistent challenge that has held back digital asset adoption. ClearBank solves this challenge through its direct membership of the Faster Payments Service (FPS) and its virtual International Bank Account Numbers (vIBANs) offering. As such, ClearBank will provide Kraken’s retail and institutional clients seamless on and off ramping, as well as the additional security due to its deposits being held at the Bank of England.

With the recent granting of a UK Electronic Money Institution (EMI) licence to Kraken’s legal entity, Payward Services Ltd, ClearBank becomes the digital assets platform’s primary UK bank, and will be supporting them as they scale up their UK license. ClearBank is already supporting Crypto Facilities Limited, an FCA regulated investment firm also part of the Kraken Group, with client money accounts.

Together, both companies are striving to launch regional clearing services in early 2025. They are also exploring additional opportunities to scale the partnership, enabling Kraken to offer new and exciting products and services to its clients.

Later this year the partnership will expand further with Kraken’s European EMI entity Payward Ireland Limited set to onboard to ClearBank making it Kraken’s primary clearing bank in the EU region, granting clients access to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) and opening up GBP and EUR clearing services to both UK and EU-based clients.

John Salter, Chief Customer Officer, ClearBank, said: “The partnership with Kraken is a demonstration of our ability to provide account and payments services across both the UK and Europe. We now work with some of the largest companies and exchanges in the market and with Kraken, we are pleased to further grow our presence in the rapidly expanding world of digital assets. Both ClearBank and Kraken are culturally aligned and have similar ambitious long-term growth plans and we look forward to working with them to provide a range of new products and services to further delight their customers.”

Kaushik Sthankiya, Global Head, Banking & Payments, Kraken, said: “To unleash the potential of cryptocurrency and drive mainstream adoption, the underlying banking infrastructure must be robust. This is why we have partnered with ClearBank, whose battle-tested, cloud-based API technology and commitment to innovation matches Kraken’s vision of growing crypto adoption and financial freedom. Together, we will deliver a seamless, scalable, and secure platform for all our clients to not only access and transact but also thrive within the crypto economy.”

Digital Agencies Power Brand Visibility in a Crowded Online Market

Claire James
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Digital Agencies Power Brand Visibility in a Crowded Online Market

A digital marketing agency can be a game-changer for your business, helping you develop and implement strategies to stand out in search engines, social media, and beyond. They ensure your brand not only gains visibility but also connects with the right people at the right time. By focusing on your specific goals and analysing your target audience, these agencies craft targeted campaigns that deliver measurable results.

The Core Services of a Digital Marketing Agency

Digital marketing agencies offer a range of services to enhance your online presence. These typically include:

  • Search Engine Optimisation (SEO): Improving your website to rank higher on Google, driving organic traffic, and generating more leads and sales.
  • Pay-Per-Click Advertising (PPC): Setting up targeted ads on platforms like Google Ads and Facebook, where you only pay when someone clicks, maximising conversion opportunities.
  • Social Media Management: Engaging customers on their preferred platforms, creating and scheduling content to build trust and brand loyalty.
  • Content Marketing: Producing valuable, relevant content that answers your audience’s questions, establishing authority, and encouraging repeat visits to your site.
  • Email Marketing: Nurturing leads and existing customers through targeted email campaigns, staying top-of-mind with regular newsletters and updates.

Combining these in a cohesive plan helps your brand to cut through the noise. You can track the effectiveness of each strategy, monitoring metrics like content views, ad clicks, and email subscriptions.

Why You Need Expert Help

Digital marketing agencies bring specialised skills and insights that may not be available in-house. They stay updated on industry trends, algorithm changes, and emerging platforms.

Moreover, partnering with an agency frees you to focus on your core business operations. They handle complex tasks like keyword research, ad placements, and data analysis, allowing you to concentrate on what you do best. And while it may be tempting to go for broke and search “digital marketing agency London”, don’t overlook those that aren’t in the capital.

Building a Results-Driven Strategy

Effective digital marketing relies on data, not guesswork. Agencies analyse your customer demographics and competitors’ tactics to select the most appropriate channels. Whether your audience spends time on Instagram or prefers in-depth blog posts, agencies tailor strategies to reach them effectively.

Agencies also set clear, measurable goals. Whether you aim to increase local SEO with keywords that relate to your business locality such as SEO Essex, increase online sales by 20% or gain 1,000 new email subscribers, agencies create actionable steps to achieve these objectives. They track key performance indicators (KPIs) like click-through rates, conversion rates, and bounce rates, adjusting strategies as needed.

Staying Flexible and Adaptive

The digital landscape is dynamic. Algorithms change, consumer preferences evolve, and new competitors emerge. Ongoing monitoring is crucial. Digital marketing agencies constantly monitor your campaigns to identify and address issues promptly. They adapt to changes, ensuring your strategies remain effective and your investments are protected.

This allows you to find new opportunities and stay ahead of the competition.

Common Misconceptions

Some believe digital marketing is too expensive, but the right agency can save you money by preventing ineffective spending on outdated tactics. They ensure each marketing dollar is used strategically, whether for brand awareness or direct sales.

Another misconception is the fear of losing creative control. In reality, a good agency partnership involves open communication and collaboration. You share your brand vision, and the agency provides fresh perspectives to enhance your message. Together, you create authentic campaigns that resonate with your brand identity.

ROI and Measuring Success

The success of digital marketing efforts is measured through analytics.

For example, if web traffic spikes, the agency can identify the specific campaign responsible. If email open rates improve, they can pinpoint the most effective subject lines or audience segments. This data-driven approach ensures transparency and accountability.

Working With the Right Agency

Choosing the right agency is crucial. Look for:

  • Proven Track Record: Review case studies and testimonials to assess their success with similar clients.
  • Transparent Communication: Expect regular updates, reports, and strategy sessions to stay informed and provide feedback.
  • Customised Strategies: Avoid one-size-fits-all approaches; seek agencies that tailor plans to your unique business goals.
  • Long-Term Partnership: Understand that digital marketing is an ongoing process requiring continuous collaboration to adapt and scale.

Future-Proofing Your Brand

The online world is constantly changing. New trends and technologies emerge rapidly. A digital marketing agency helps you stay agile by monitoring trends and evaluating new channels. They ensure you are prepared to adapt and experiment, keeping your brand relevant.

Final Thoughts

Achieving your business dreams requires strategic action. A digital marketing agency combines creativity with analytical expertise to elevate your brand. By focusing on data, they ensure each campaign contributes to your overall goals.

Ultimately, you build lasting customer relationships, establish credibility, generate revenue, and scale your business. Partnering with a digital marketing agency allows you to seize online opportunities, amplify your message, and stay ahead of trends, positioning your brand for success in the competitive digital landscape.

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