Category: #finance

  • World ID Launches in Malaysia:

    World ID Launches in Malaysia:

    Revolutionizing Digital Identity with Privacy and Security

    The digital age has ushered in unprecedented connectivity, but with it comes a growing concern: how to safely and securely navigate an increasingly online world. From online banking to social media interactions, our digital identities are constantly at play. This is where World ID emerges, a groundbreaking digital identity system that prioritizes privacy and security while simplifying online interactions. Recently launched in Malaysia, World ID is poised to revolutionize how Malaysians interact with the digital world.

    Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer! Download the World ID app, verify your account by March 25th, and enter the code 7AUCCED in settings to claim your bonus WLD tokens.

    Click here to download the World ID app and join the revolution: https://worldcoin.org/join/7AUCCED

    What is World ID?

    At its core, World ID represents a shift towards decentralized identity, a paradigm where individuals have greater control over their own digital information. Unlike traditional systems where data is often siloed in centralized databases, World ID empowers users to own and manage their digital identities. This concept, often referred to as self-sovereign identity, allows individuals to selectively share verified attributes about themselves with online services while maintaining control over their personal information.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Unparalleled Privacy: World ID leverages Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKP) technology. This cutting-edge cryptography allows users to prove their identity without revealing any underlying personal data. Imagine proving you are over 18 without disclosing your exact age – that’s the power of ZKP.
    • Robust Security: Built with a focus on security, World ID employs advanced encryption techniques to protect user data. Importantly, user data is stored securely on their own devices, minimizing the risk of data breaches.
    • Enhanced Convenience: Say goodbye to tedious login processes and endless passwords. World ID streamlines online authentication, allowing users to seamlessly access various services with a single tap.
    • Accessibility for All: While initially available for iOS users, World Foundation is committed to expanding World ID’s reach. Android compatibility is on the horizon, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for a wider audience.

    How World ID Works in Malaysia

    Malaysian citizens can begin their World ID journey by linking their valid passports to the system. This process is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly. Once linked, users can leverage World ID for various online interactions:

    • Orb-less Verification: A key advantage of World ID is the elimination of the need to visit physical “Orbs” for verification. This removes a significant barrier to entry and enhances accessibility for users across Malaysia.
    • Seamless Authentication: With World ID, Malaysians can effortlessly authenticate themselves with online services, from e-commerce platforms to government portals. This not only saves time but also enhances security by reducing the risk of phishing attacks and unauthorized access.

    Addressing the Rise of Digital Threats

    Malaysia, like many countries, faces a growing threat from cybercriminals. Deepfakes, sophisticated AI-generated media that can convincingly mimic real individuals, are becoming increasingly prevalent. These deepfakes can be used for malicious purposes, such as spreading misinformation or facilitating identity theft. According to recent reports, identity theft has cost Malaysians a staggering RM2.2 million this year alone.

    World ID offers a powerful defense against these threats. By providing a secure and verifiable means of establishing identity, it helps to mitigate the risks associated with deepfakes and other forms of online fraud.

    WLD Airdrops and Digital Inclusivity

    To incentivize early adoption and promote digital inclusivity, World ID introduces WLD airdrops. These airdrops reward users with WLD tokens, a cryptocurrency native to the World Network.

    • Boosting Adoption: By offering valuable rewards, WLD airdrops encourage wider participation in the World ID ecosystem, fostering a thriving and engaged community.
    • Empowering the Community: WLD token holders may have the opportunity to participate in governance decisions related to the World Network, further empowering the community.

    Download the World ID app now and verify your account by March 25th to claim your exclusive bonus! Here’s what you get Free WLD Tokens: Upon verification, you’ll receive 50.2 WLD tokens, currently valued at a staggering RM 537.23 (as of December 18, 2024).

    Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer! Download the World ID app, verify your account by March 25th, and enter the code 7AUCCED in settings to claim your bonus WLD tokens.

    Click here to download the World ID app and join the revolution: https://worldcoin.org/join/7AUCCED

    Remember, this offer expires on March 25th, so act now!

    FAQs

    • Is World ID safe to use?
      • Yes, World ID prioritizes user security with robust encryption and advanced security measures.
    • How does World ID protect my personal data?
      • World ID utilizes Zero-Knowledge Proof technology, ensuring that your personal information remains private and confidential.
    • What devices are compatible with World ID?
      • Currently, World ID is available for iOS devices. Android compatibility is planned for the future.
    • What are the future plans for World ID in Malaysia?
      • World Foundation plans to expand World ID’s functionality within Malaysia, integrating it with a wider range of government and commercial services.
    • How can I get started with World ID?
      • Visit the official World ID website or download the app from the iOS App Store to begin your journey.

    The launch of World ID in Malaysia marks a significant step towards a more secure and user-friendly digital future. By prioritizing privacy, security, and convenience, World ID empowers individuals to control their digital identities while navigating the complexities of the online world. As digital threats continue to evolve, solutions like World ID are crucial for safeguarding our personal information and ensuring a safe and secure online experience for all Malaysians.

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice.

  • Is It Time to Soar with Archer Aviation?

    Is It Time to Soar with Archer Aviation?

    A Deep Dive into the Future of Air Travel ($ACHR)

    The aviation industry is on the brink of a revolution, and Archer Aviation is leading the charge. With its innovative electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Midnight, Archer aims to redefine urban air mobility. But is this cutting-edge technology ready to take flight, and is the stock a worthwhile investment?

    The Promise of Midnight

    Midnight, Archer’s flagship eVTOL aircraft, is designed to revolutionize short-haul air travel. It offers several advantages over traditional helicopters, including:

    • Quiet Operation: Midnight is significantly quieter than helicopters, reducing noise pollution and enhancing the passenger experience.
    • Rapid Charging: With minimal charge time between flights, Midnight can efficiently handle frequent trips.
    • Safe and Reliable: Archer is committed to safety, designing Midnight with redundant systems to ensure reliable operation.
    • Environmentally Friendly: As an electric vehicle, Midnight reduces carbon emissions and contributes to a greener future.

    A Bright Future, but Challenges Remain

    While Archer’s vision is inspiring, several challenges lie ahead:

    • Regulatory Hurdles: Obtaining regulatory approval for commercial operations is a complex process that requires rigorous testing and certification.
    • Manufacturing Scale-up: Scaling up production to meet demand and maintain quality standards is a significant undertaking.
    • Funding Requirements: As a young company, Archer needs substantial funding to finance research, development, and manufacturing.

    A Bullish Outlook

    Despite these challenges, Archer’s strong order book, strategic partnerships, and innovative technology position it as a potential leader in the eVTOL market. The recent surge in stock price may indicate increasing investor confidence in the company’s future.

    Technical Analysis: A Bullish Chart

    The technical analysis of Archer’s stock chart reveals several bullish signals:

    • Strong Volume: Increased trading volume suggests growing investor interest and potential for significant price movements.
    • Short Squeeze Potential: A large short interest in the stock could lead to a short squeeze, driving the price higher.
    • Breakout Above Resistance: The recent breakout above a key resistance level is a positive sign for the stock’s future trajectory.

    Investment Strategy: A Cautious Approach

    While Archer Aviation has the potential to deliver significant returns, it’s important to approach this investment with caution. The eVTOL industry is still in its early stages, and there are inherent risks associated with investing in such a speculative stock.

    Consider diversifying your portfolio and conducting thorough research before investing in Archer Aviation or any other eVTOL company. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest developments and regulatory changes.

    What are your thoughts on Archer Aviation and the future of eVTOL technology? Share your insights in the comments below.

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Please consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

  • Celsius menyaman Tether menuntut $3.5B berhubung penjualan cagaran Bitcoin

    Celsius menyaman Tether menuntut $3.5B berhubung penjualan cagaran Bitcoin

    Pertukaran mata wang kripto yang tidak berfungsi Celsius telah memfailkan tuntutan mahkamah terhadap Tether yang mendakwa penyelewengan aset dan menuntut kira-kira $3.5 bilion dalam pulangan BTC, ganti rugi dan yuran guaman. 

    Di hadapan: Tether melaporkan bahawa Celsius, dalam tuntutan mahkamahnya, meminta pulangan BTC bernilai kira-kira $2.4 bilion. Walau bagaimanapun, dokumen mahkamah yang tersedia secara umum menunjukkan bahawa Celsius telah meminta mahkamah untuk pelepasan dalam jumlah 57,428.64 BTC atau setara dengan dolar pasaran semasa, serta ganti rugi dan yuran guaman.

    Celsius menyaman Tether

    Tuntutan mahkamah itu mendakwa bahawa, semasa prosiding kebankrapan Celsius, Tether meminjamkannya sejumlah USDT tertentu (stablecoin syarikat, mata wang kripto yang disokong oleh dolar AS). Sebagai balasan untuk pinjaman ini, Celsius menghantar Tether 39,542.42 BTC sebagai cagaran.

    Apabila harga Bitcoin jatuh, dan mengikut perjanjian kedua-dua pihak, Celsius dikehendaki menyediakan cagaran lanjut untuk mengelakkan pembubaran.

    Menurut tuntutan mahkamah itu, Celsius mendakwa Tether mencairkan BTC pada titik harga yang hampir betul-betul menampung hutang tanpa memberikannya peluang untuk menyediakan cagaran tambahan.

    Tether bertindak balas

    Menurut Tether, tuntutan mahkamah itu tidak berasas. Syarikat itu menyebut prosiding itu sebagai “goncang” dan berjanji untuk “mempertahankan dirinya dengan bersungguh-sungguh” daripada “tuduhan yang tidak wajar” dalam catatan blog baru-baru ini.

    Tether mengatakan bahawa, daripada mencairkan kedudukan Celsius yang melanggar kontrak mereka, Celsuis yang meminta penjualan selepas memilih untuk tidak memberikan cagaran tambahan:

    “Apabila Celsius memilih untuk tidak menyiarkan BTC tambahan, ia mengarahkan Tether untuk membubarkan cagaran BTC yang dipegang Tether untuk menutup kedudukannya kira-kira 815 juta USD₮ dengan Tether.”

    Walaupun Tether tidak ragu-ragu tentang komitmennya untuk melawan saman itu, ia juga pantas untuk meyakinkan pihak berkepentingan USDT. Memetik $12 bilion dalam ekuiti disatukan, syarikat itu menyatakan bahawa “walaupun dalam senario yang paling jauh di mana tuntutan mahkamah yang tidak berasas ini akan sampai ke suatu tempat, pemegang token Tether tidak akan terjejas.”

    Kerosakan

    Seperti yang dinyatakan di atas, jumlah sebenar yang dicari oleh Celsius nampaknya dipersoalkan. Jumlah yang kini dilaporkan di seluruh komuniti kripto, dan dipetik dalam catatan blog Tether, menyumbang 39,542.42 BTC, bernilai kira-kira $2.4 bilion pada 10 Ogos.

    Walau bagaimanapun, menurut halaman 28 pemfailan undang-undang, plaintif juga mahu dua pemindahan lain yang dibuat dalam tempoh yang sama dibatalkan.

    Sebagai sebahagian daripada “doa untuk bantuan” saman itu, plaintif meminta mahkamah untuk “menghendaki Defendan menyerahkan kepada Plaintif 15,658.21 Bitcoin, 2,228.01 Bitcoin, dan 39,542.42 Bitcoin yang dipindahkan secara keutamaan oleh Plaintif kepada Defendan” atau nilai dolar semasanya.

    Bersama-sama, ketiga-tiga pemindahan itu berjumlah 57,428.64 Bitcoin. Sehingga 10 Ogos, pada harga $60,627 setiap BTC, Celsius nampaknya mencari kira-kira $3.48 bilion dalam Bitcoin.

    Tambahan pula, saman Celsius juga menuntut ganti rugi tidak kurang daripada $100 juta “ditambah ganti rugi tambahan yang akan ditentukan semasa perbicaraan” dan yuran guaman.

  • Maybank Achieves Half of $17.3 Billion Green Loan Target

    Driving Sustainable Finance in Malaysia

    In a significant stride towards a greener future, Malaysia’s largest bank, Malayan Banking Bhd., commonly known as Maybank, has successfully reached fifty percent of its goal to invest MYR 80 billion ($17.3 billion) in sustainable finance by the approaching year 2025.

    The financial institution has played a pivotal role in promoting environmentally-conscious practices by extending a substantial sum of green loans to support companies based in Singapore in their pursuit of transitioning to low-carbon resources.

    Maybank stands out as one of the prominent Malaysian banks that has pledged to channel funds into green loans, contributing to the broader sustainable finance movement.

    CIMB Group Holdings Bhd., with Khazanah Nasional Bhd. as its largest shareholder, is aiming to allocate MYR 60 billion to sustainable financing by the year 2024. This commitment is twice the initial target. Likewise, RHB Bank Bhd. has strategized to invest MYR 20 billion in sustainable financing by the year 2026.

    Though these figures are noteworthy, they still fall short of entirely curbing businesses’ reliance on fossil fuels and comprehensively addressing other sustainability objectives.

    To substantially curb reliance on traditional energy sources and achieve a 70% clean energy mix by the year 2050, Malaysia is estimated to require MYR 637 billion worth of investments over the next three decades. Acknowledging this need, the nation acknowledges that seeking financial support from international partners is crucial to attain these sustainability goals.

    As the global push for sustainability gains momentum, Maybank and other leading banks in Malaysia are showcasing their commitment to sustainable finance through substantial investments in green loans. However, the road to a fully sustainable future requires collaborative efforts and increased financial backing, both domestically and from the international community. By aligning financial interests with eco-conscious endeavors, Malaysia is taking steps in the right direction, working towards a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come. 

  • Transform your Sleeping Money with Versa, the Digital Cash Management Platform

     

    Are you tired of letting your money sleep in a traditional savings account with low returns and restrictive lock-in periods? Look no further than Versa, the digital cash management platform designed to help you achieve financial wellness and grow your savings effortlessly.

    At Versa, we believe in offering our users the flexibility to withdraw their savings at any time without penalties. Plus, with our latest promotional offer, you can earn a net return rate of 4.0%* p.a. on your savings in Versa Cash and/or Versa Cash-i, up to a balance of RM30,000.

    Our platform connects you to globally renowned fund managers who invest and save for you, allowing you to enjoy higher returns without the stress and hassle of managing your finances alone. Whether you’re saving for emergencies or short-term goals, Versa has got you covered.

    Ready to start your journey to financial wellness? Sign up now with my referral code GJU7TDDR, make your first deposit of RM100, and receive a RM10 welcome gift. Download the app at https://download.versa.com.my/1bAf/referral?deep_link_value=GJU7TDDR and start ‘duit-ing’ your way towards a more prosperous future with Versa!

    Don’t wait, this promotion ends on June 30, 2023. Join us now and watch your savings grow!

  • Get Ready to Save Big with Apple’s High-Yield Savings Account

    Apple may soon launch a new Savings account service that will allow users to direct their Daily Cash rewards earned from Apple Card in Apple Wallet into a high-yield account. The service is already active on the backend, and the company is now taking the final steps to launch the service for users. The exact launch date of the Savings account is currently unknown, but it is expected that Apple may follow a similar pattern to the short testing period that it did with Apple Pay Later.

    The Savings account, provided by Goldman Sachs, is one of the last features announced in 2022 that has yet to release. Apple has not provided any official statement regarding the launch, but the fact that the service is active on the backend suggests that it is coming soon. The new service is expected to be seamlessly integrated with the Apple Card and Wallet, offering a convenient and user-friendly experience for customers.

    Apple’s high-yield Savings account is expected to provide customers with competitive interest rates that will allow them to earn more on their savings. With the growing popularity of digital wallets and mobile banking services, the new service is expected to attract a significant number of users who prefer to manage their finances through their mobile devices.

    The Savings account is not expected to be tied to a specific version of iOS, which means that Apple could launch it at any time. Once launched, users will be able to take advantage of the service by directing their Daily Cash rewards into the high-yield account, providing them with a seamless way to grow their savings.

    The upcoming launch of Apple’s high-yield Savings account is expected to be a game-changer in the mobile banking space. The new service is expected to offer customers a convenient and user-friendly experience while providing competitive interest rates. With the increasing adoption of digital wallets and mobile banking services, Apple’s Savings account is likely to be well received by customers looking to manage their finances through their mobile devices.

  • The Digital Payment Landscape in Asia: Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam Struggle to Keep Up

    The push towards a cashless society is happening globally, and Asia is leading the way. However, the region still faces challenges in fully embracing digital payments, with Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam lagging behind other countries in the adoption of cashless transactions.

    According to a recent report, in 2022, Thailand had the highest share of cash in in-person transactions, accounting for 56%, followed by Japan at 51% and Vietnam at 47%. Digital wallet usage in these countries was also relatively low, with Thailand leading the way at just 23%.

    Despite these challenges, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to lead in the use of digital wallets for in-person transactions by 2026, accounting for 59% of the total $36.7 trillion regional point-of-sales market. This is higher than other regions such as the Middle East and Africa, Europe, and North America.

    Japan, however, is expected to have the highest cash rate in the region by 2026 at 37%. This highlights the need for countries to continue to embrace digital payments and for businesses to offer more options for cashless transactions, especially as other economies in the region more quickly adopt digital wallets through superapps.

    The share of digital wallets used in online transactions is also expected to expand in the region, reaching 73% by 2026. This presents a significant opportunity for businesses to adapt to the changing landscape and cater to the growing demand for digital payments.

    As the world becomes more digital, the need for cashless transactions is only going to increase. While some countries in Asia are lagging behind in the adoption of digital payments, there is still significant growth potential in the region. It is up to businesses and governments to continue to work together to make digital payments more accessible, secure, and convenient for consumers.

  • Bank of America Strategists Suggest Bitcoin Rally Has Room to Run

    Bitcoin’s impressive 2023 rally may have some legs left, according to strategists at Bank of America Corp, who believe that cryptocurrency exchange flows and personal digital wallets suggest further gains. The week ending April 4 saw a net $368 million of Bitcoin transferred to personal wallets, marking the second-largest net outflow of Bitcoin from crypto exchanges this year, the strategists wrote in a note.

    According to the strategists, when investors transfer tokens from exchange wallets to their personal wallets, it indicates that they intend to hold onto the assets, which may lead to a potential decrease in sell pressure. This suggests that investors believe in the long-term potential of Bitcoin, which has seen year-to-date growth surpassing some major asset alternatives.
    While Bitcoin’s growth has been remarkable this year, it’s worth noting that the cryptocurrency experienced a difficult 2022. However, Bitcoin’s resilience to regulatory pressure could be another reason why it’s bouncing back. With regulators scrutinizing the industry, it seems that investors may be holding onto their digital assets, hoping that regulators will eventually become more favorable towards cryptocurrencies.
    Bank of America strategists’ note highlights how Bitcoin’s resilience and continued growth in 2023 may be a result of investors’ confidence in the long-term potential of the digital asset. Additionally, the note suggests that regulatory pressure may have been a significant factor in the wider holding of Bitcoin among investors.
  • The Universal Monetary Unit (UMU): The Next Step in Interoperable CBDCs

    As the world becomes increasingly digital, central banks around the globe have been exploring the potential of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). While CBDCs offer many benefits, for them to truly gain ground and become a widely used form of currency, they need to be interoperable across borders. This is where the Universal Monetary Unit (UMU) comes in.

    Recently unveiled by the Digital Currency Monetary Authority, the UMU is an international version of a CBDC. According to the announcement, the UMU is designed to “act legally as a money commodity” and “can transact in any legal tender settlement currency, and functions like a CBDC to enforce banking regulations and to protect the financial integrity of the international banking system.”

    One of the unique features of the UMU is its interoperability. It can exist alongside and interact with far-flung payment systems, facilitating trade and commercial payments in the global age. Additionally, banks can attach SWIFT codes and bank accounts to a UMU digital currency wallet and transact “SWIFT-like cross-border payments over digital currency rails.”

    This interoperability is crucial for the success of CBDCs, as it allows them to coexist with other currencies and payment systems. The UMU provides a reliable and familiar method for cross-border payments, potentially addressing issues such as high transaction fees, long processing times, and currency conversion costs.

    The UMU is still in the early stages of development, and it remains to be seen how it will be adopted and implemented by banks and financial institutions. However, its potential for facilitating global trade and commerce, as well as its interoperability, make it a promising development in the world of CBDCs.

    The Universal Monetary Unit (UMU) represents the next step in creating interoperable CBDCs. Its ability to transact in any legal tender settlement currency and function like a CBDC to enforce banking regulations and protect the financial integrity of the international banking system is a significant development in the world of digital currencies. The UMU’s SWIFT-like functionality is also a major advantage, potentially addressing issues related to cross-border payments. It will be interesting to see how the UMU develops and if it inspires other countries to adopt similar initiatives in the future.

  • Standard Chartered to launch institutional crypto custody solution

    Standard Chartered to miss growth targets amid coronavirus fears | Standard  Chartered | The Guardian  

    Standard Chartered is the latest bank to get into the crypto custody
    business, unveiled that its innovation, ventures and fintech investments
    unit, SC Ventures, has been working on a solution for the institutional
    market that would support cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin but also
    security tokens. The first pilot of the service could launch before the end
    of the year. The firm has been developing “one of the most secure crypto
    custody solutions on the market,” adding that as many as 20 institutions
    had expressed interest in the solution. Though the venture will be based
    in the UK, it will be open to clients from around the world. With this new
    offering, the firm was looking to provide institutional investors with a
    custodial solution that caters to this segment’s specific needs notably in
    terms of security, citing features such as segregated accounts. This could
    potentially kick-start the institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies. SC
    Ventures has been “developing a venture to meet the demands of
    institutions for an end-to-end institutional grade custodian of digital
    assets, which meets regulatory standards.