In FX markets this week, Andreas Andreou co-founded the new proprietary trading firm, thePropTrade, while Santander introduced its digital bank Openbank to the U.S., aiming to boost vehicle loans and retail expansion. Interactive Brokers resolved a $475,000 fine for issues in its securities lending program, and FINRA imposed a $40,000 fine on ViewTrade for supervisory lapses.

In crypto, Binance leveraged Telegram’s vast user base with Web3 games, and Ripple intensified its legal battle with the SEC over the XRP classification. Tesla moved $780 million in Bitcoin for audit purposes, while a $20 million crypto theft from U.S. government wallets underscored security risks. Coinbase connected with Canadian football fans through sponsorship and giveaways.

FX Market Highlights

• thePropTrade launch: Co-founded by FX veteran Andreas Andreou, the new prop trading firm aims to redefine the trading experience with a tech-driven approach.
• Santander expands with Openbank: Santander has rolled out its digital bank, Openbank, in the U.S., intending to grow its presence in auto loans and retail banking.
• Interactive Brokers’ settlement: Following issues in its securities lending program, Interactive Brokers settled a $475,000 fine with FINRA.
• FINRA fines ViewTrade: ViewTrade faced a $40,000 fine over significant lapses in supervising external brokerage accounts.

Crypto Market Highlights

• Binance and Telegram collaboration: Binance has introduced blockchain-based games on Telegram, leveraging its billion-strong user base to reach new audiences.
• Tesla’s Bitcoin movement: Tesla moved $780 million worth of Bitcoin into new wallets for auditing purposes, causing a stir among crypto observers.
• Ripple vs. SEC escalation: Ripple has formally appealed the SEC’s ruling on XRP’s classification, intensifying the legal debate over its status.
• Coinbase’s Canadian sponsorship: Coinbase has become the official crypto partner of the Canadian Football League, encouraging new users with Bitcoin giveaways during games.