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Credit Unions Gear Up to Build Instant Payments Ecosystems as FedNow Looms

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Credit Unions Gear Up to Build Instant Payments Ecosystems as FedNow Looms
BY PYMNTS
JUNE 13, 2023

July 2023 will mark the second time in six years that a new real-time payments rail will go live in the United States.

And with it comes a lot of uncertainty about whether the Federal Reserve will move as “fast” in adapting these rails to the use cases that matter for credit union members. But forward-thinking CUs can leverage members’ trust to forge new instant payments ecosystems.

Kelly Botti, CEO of TruMark Financial Credit Union; Tansley Stearns, president and CEO of Community Financial Credit Union; and Chuck Fagan, president and CEO at PSCU, told Karen Webster that credit unions have been moving cautiously over the last several years as faster payments creep ever closer to reality.

Although it’s true that RTP rails have been in the U.S. since 2017, when The Clearing House launched, credit unions had hoped that a FedNow launch would help to bring broad swaths of the U.S. financial system closer to ubiquity — eventually — as thousands of financial institutions (FIs) opt in.

From PSCU’s vantage point, said Fagan, as part of the FedNow pilot and the advisory group helping to steer the launch, a few observations emerge. For many years, he said, credit unions had not been able to have a direct-to-the-Fed account. Juniper Payments, which was acquired by PSCU just over a year ago, allows PSCU and its owner credit unions to participate more fully in faster payments innovation by fostering that connectivity. But getting there will be a process, as credit unions traditionally have been laggards when it comes to payments innovation.

Changing the Brand
Fagan, Botti and Stearns noted that credit unions see instant payments rails as a way to create their own faster payments ecosystems, fostering new use cases for consumers and small business clients alike.

“The opportunity here is to change the very brands of credit unions,” said Fagan. “That FI-to-FI connectivity will benefit our CUs … but that hesitancy around just how reliable and strong of a technology is in place remains a question — and something that I’m hopeful the Fed will answer in a positive way.”

Webster asked what PSCU’s portfolio of CUs — spanning the breadth of the industry — is seeking in terms of instant payments and the FedNow rollout.

“It’s pretty consistent,” Fagan said, adding that most of PSCU’s credit unions are “considering ‘receive, send and request’ as the main components.”

That’s the general order of things, he said, noting that some credit unions will be more aggressive than others in bringing instant payments to market.

Regardless of progression, said Fagan, CU members should not think about how their money is moved; money movement should happen in as expedited a manner as possible.

And with that guiding principle in place, the low-hanging fruit is ripe to be plucked by CUs, serving members who trust them to help improve their financial well-being. Instant payments can help consumers and families send money to recipients who need money to deal with financial stressors rather than waiting days for funds to settle.

Faster payments can also be leveraged beyond the confines of peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions to help even the youngest clients foster a sense of financial responsibility. Stearns recounted how her CU has a partnership with Greenlight to offer debit cards for kids. Stearns’ daughter wanted to get tickets to see Taylor Swift.

“The question [to my daughter] became, ‘How much money have you saved through your allowance through Greenlight?’” Stearns said. “And now we’re having a financial literacy conversation.”

Younger consumers, the panelists noted, are ever more adept with technology and will want to see their money move when they want it to move.

Partnerships Matter
No matter the use case, said Stearns and Botti, partnerships with the right providers have mattered.

“We have not been fast enough to be able to respond to what our members need,” said Stearns.

And as Botti echoed, “we started our journey around instant payments about four years ago … as we’re starting to look at FedNow, one of the things that we really had to do was right-size our operations.”

TruMark, for its part, will likely embrace inbound instant payments before moving to outbound transactions, where funding (member loans, etc.) will be seeing considerable demand. TruMark, continued Botti, serves low-income members, and instant payments can help salve the pressures of living paycheck to paycheck.

“We’re going to take it one step at a time so we can meet the market,” said Botti.

Both Community Financial and TruMark will find demand from small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), which will want faster access to payments, as cash flow, no surprise, is critical.

Artificial intelligence? No conversation would be complete without a discussion of AI, but as Botti and Stearns said, the world needs to stop and catch its breath before throwing AI at every use case in financial life.

“When the Elon Musks of the world are saying we should slow down,” remarked Stearns, “the answer is [to do that].”

Looking ahead, said the trio, faster payments may cannibalize at least some credit and debit spend, as well as ACH, but they will certainly take a bite out of cash. Botti predicted that as costs come down, instant payments will gain ground against other payments modalities.

“We’re going to [be] leveraging third parties and pulling them into our ecosystem so we can offer better products and services for our members that capitalize on this,” said Botti.

The benefits will accrue to the leading-edge CUs, said Fagan, which can act as the central hubs for how money is moved in consumers’ or small businesses’ financial lives because those FIs will wind up being the providers of choice, even, in Botti’s telling of it, the “wallet” for end users.

Added Fagan, “the interest level and confidence is going to grow … the faster pace of moving money is something that starts, and it never slows down.”

https://www.pymnts.com/credit-unions/2023/credit-unions-prepare-build-instant-payments-ecosystems-fednow-looms/

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🇺🇸 One year ago today in Butler, Pennsylvania 🇺🇸

Today marks one year since the shocking assassination attempt on President Donald Trump—a moment that sent waves of concern and reflection throughout the nation and the world. On this day in 2024, the country witnessed a stark reminder of the volatility and intensity that can surround political life.

Thankfully, President Trump survived the attempt, and his resilience became a symbol of strength for many Americans. The event sparked renewed discussions about security, civil discourse, and the importance of unity in turbulent times.

As we look back, let us remember the importance of peaceful dialogue, and the enduring spirit that guides us through adversity.

00:00:08
👀CEO OF SBI HOLDINGS YOSHITAKA KITAO: AFTER THE SEC CASE ENDS, XRP WILL BE A VERY HIGH PRI👀

"Related products, and then crypto assets, um, Ripple’s XRP. Well, regarding Ripple’s XRP, when I looked at the statement from their CEO the other day…

It seems he thinks that a court decision will come out in a few weeks.

If the decision is made and Ripple’s XRP is recognized as a coin, I think this will have a huge impact on the price. Since we are the main external shareholders, if we sell, we would realize significant capital gains, but even if we don’t sell, it would still be quite substantial in terms of valuation, I believe it will immediately move toward a public stock offering."

Translated via AI ~ Crypto Michael ⚡The Dinarian

00:01:10
🚀 Bitcoin Hits New All-Time High – What’s Next?

Bitcoin reached a new peak of $118,254 on July 11, 2025, driven by institutional demand, favorable macro conditions, and supportive crypto regulations. With a 100%+ year-over-year surge, what's next for BTC?

🔮 Bitcoin Outlook

📆 Short Term (6–12 Months)

  • Expect volatility post-ATH
  • Spot BTC ETFs attract significant capital
  • Potential range: $95K–$135K

🕰 Medium Term (1–3 Years)

  • 2024 halving impact continues
  • More institutions may adopt BTC as reserve/collateral
  • Global regulatory clarity boosts confidence
  • Potential range: $120K–$200K+

🌐 Long Term (5–10+ Years)

  • BTC may solidify as digital gold
  • Used in cross-border settlements and emerging markets
  • Scarcity (21M cap) drives value
  • Bullish case: $250K–$1M+
  • Bearish case: $20K–$50K (if tech/regulatory risks rise)

📌 Key Drivers

  • Institutional adoption
  • Spot ETF flows
  • Crypto regulations
  • Fed interest rate policy
  • Lightning Network & Layer 2 scaling
  • Geopolitical uncertainty

💬 TL;DR:
Bitcoin’s $118K breakout ...

00:00:07
👉 Coinbase just launched an AI agent for Crypto Trading

Custom AI assistants that print money in your sleep? 🔜

The future of Crypto x AI is about to go crazy.

👉 Here’s what you need to know:

💠 'Based Agent' enables creation of custom AI agents
💠 Users set up personalized agents in < 3 minutes
💠 Equipped w/ crypto wallet and on-chain functions
💠 Capable of completing trades, swaps, and staking
💠 Integrates with Coinbase’s SDK, OpenAI, & Replit

👉 What this means for the future of Crypto:

1. Open Access: Democratized access to advanced trading
2. Automated Txns: Complex trades + streamlined on-chain activity
3. AI Dominance: Est ~80% of crypto 👉txns done by AI agents by 2025

🚨 I personally wouldn't bet against Brian Armstrong and Jesse Pollak.

👉 Coinbase just launched an AI agent for Crypto Trading
No Cash Society By 2032-33 👀
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🚨 Banks Could Roll Out XRP-Powered Payment Systems in Just Weeks, Experts Say 🚨

Banks worldwide are on the verge of a major payments revolution, with experts indicating that XRP-powered payment systems could be deployed in a matter of weeks—pending final regulatory approvals. This rapid rollout is set to transform cross-border transactions and modernize global banking infrastructure.

🔹 Why XRP?

  • Speed: XRP enables payments to settle in as little as three seconds, with near-zero failure rates, making it a top choice for international payments.

  • Cost Efficiency: By eliminating the need for pre-funding accounts in foreign countries, banks can free up capital and reduce operational costs.

  • Interoperability: Ripple’s infrastructure allows seamless connectivity between different banks’ ledgers, streamlining cross-border transfers.

🔹 How Fast Can Banks Integrate XRP?

  • Implementation Timeline: Experts say full integration, including onboarding and technical setup, can take as little as three weeks, with most banks completing the process within two to three months once regulations are...
‼️THE FED’S ISO BIG BANG ON MONDAY IS A MASSIVE UPGRADE FOR THE ENTIRE PAYMENT INDUSTRY—“THE BIGGEST EVENT TO HAPPEN IN PAYMENTS”‼️

The U.S. Federal Reserve is set to implement a sweeping upgrade to its Fedwire Funds Service, requiring all financial institutions to use the ISO 20022 messaging standard for electronic payments starting July 14, 2025. This transition aligns the U.S. with more than seventy countries already using ISO 20022 for modern, efficient, and data-rich payment processing.

🤔 What’s Changing?

🔹 Banks and credit unions sending payments through Fedwire must use the ISO 20022 standard, replacing the legacy Fedwire Application Interface Manual (FAIM).

🔹 The upgrade is a “big bang conversion,” meaning the switch happens all at once, not gradually.

🔹 The ISO 20022 format allows for more structured, detailed data in each transaction, improving transparency, efficiency, and compliance.

🔎 Why ISO 20022 Matters

🔹 Enables seamless global transactions by harmonizing data and messaging with international payment systems.

🔹 Reduces errors and manual processing, making payments faster and ...

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Musk Turns On Starlink to Save Iranians from Regime’s Internet Crackdown

Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a visionary behind SpaceX, has flipped the switch on Starlink, delivering internet to Iranians amid a brutal regime crackdown.

This move comes on the heels of Israeli strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, as the Islamic Republic cuts off online access.

The former Department of Government Efficiency chief activated Starlink satellite internet service for Iranians on Saturday following the Islamic Republic's decision to impose nationwide internet restrictions.

As the Jerusalem Post reports, that the Islamic Republic’s Communications Ministry announced the move, stating, "In view of the special conditions of the country, temporary restrictions have been imposed on the country’s internet."

This action followed a series of Israeli attacks on Iranian targets.

Starlink, a SpaceX-developed satellite constellation, provides high-speed internet to regions with limited connectivity, such as remote areas or conflict zones.

Elizabeth MacDonald, a Fox News contributor, highlighted its impact, noting, "Elon Musk turning on Starlink for Iran in 2022 was a game changer. Starlink connects directly to SpaceX satellites, bypassing Iran’s ground infrastructure. That means even during government-imposed shutdowns or censorship, users can still get online, and reportedly more than 100,000 inside Iran are doing that."

During the 2022 "Woman, Life, Freedom" protests, Starlink enabled Iranians to communicate and share footage globally despite network blackouts," she added.

MacDonald also mentioned ongoing tests of "direct-to-cell" capabilities, which could allow smartphone connections without a dish, potentially expanding access and supporting free expression and protest coordination.

Musk confirmed the activation, noting on Saturday, "The beams are on."

This follows the regime’s internet shutdowns, which were triggered by Israeli military actions.

Adding to the tension, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the Iranian people on Friday, urging resistance against the regime.

"Israel's fight is not against the Iranian people. Our fight is against the murderous Islamic regime that oppresses and impoverishes you,” he said.

Meanwhile, Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last monarch, called on military and security forces to abandon the regime, accusing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a Persian-language social media post of forcing Iranians into an unwanted war.

Starlink has been a beacon in other crises. Beyond Iran, Musk has leveraged Starlink to assist people during natural disasters and conflicts.

In the wake of hurricanes and earthquakes, Starlink has provided critical internet access to affected communities, enabling emergency communications and coordination.

Similarly, during the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Musk activated Starlink to support Ukrainian forces and civilians, ensuring they could maintain contact and access vital information under dire circumstances.

The genius entrepreneur, is throwing a lifeline to the oppressed in Iran, and the libs can’t stand it.

Conservative talk show host Mark Levin praised Musk’s action, reposting a message stating that Starlink would "reconnect the Iranian people with the internet and put the final nail in the coffin of the Iranian regime."

"God bless you, Elon. The Starlink beams are on in Iran!" Levin wrote.

Musk, who recently stepped down from leading the DOGE in the Trump administration, has apologized to President Trump for past criticisms, including his stance on the One Big Beautiful Bill.

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GENIUS Act lets State banks conduct some business nationwide. Regulators object

The Senate passed the GENIUS Act for stablecoins last week, but significant work remains before it becomes law. The House has a different bill, the STABLE Act, with notable differences that must be reconciled. State banking regulators have raised strong objections to a provision in the GENIUS Act that would allow state banks to operate nationwide without authorization from host states or a federal regulator.

The controversial clause permits a state bank with a regulated stablecoin subsidiary to provide money transmitter and custodial services in any other state. While host states can impose consumer protection laws, they cannot require the usual authorization and oversight typically needed for out-of-state banking operations.

The Conference of State Bank Supervisors welcomed some changes in the GENIUS Act but remains adamantly opposed to this particular provision. In a statement, CSBS said:

“Critical changes must be made during House consideration of the legislation to prevent unintended consequences and further mitigate financial stability risks. CSBS remains concerned with the dramatic and unsupported expansion of the authority of uninsured banks to conduct money transmission or custody activities nationwide without the approval or oversight of host state supervisors (Sec. 16(d)).”

The National Conference of State Legislatures expressed similar concerns in early June, stating:

“We urge you to oppose Section 16(d) and support state authority to regulate financial services in a manner that reflects local conditions, priorities and risk tolerances. Preserving the dual banking system and respecting state autonomy is essential to the safety, soundness and diversity of our nation’s financial sector.”

Evolution of nationwide authorization

Section 16 addresses several issues beyond stablecoins, including preventing a recurrence of the SEC’s SAB 121, which forced crypto assets held in custody onto balance sheets. However, the nationwide authorization subsection was added after the legislation cleared the Senate Banking Committee, with two significant modifications since then.

Originally, the provision applied only to special bank charters like Wyoming’s Special Purpose Depository Institutions or Connecticut’s Innovation Banks. Examples include crypto-focused Custodia Bank and crypto exchange Kraken in Wyoming, plus traditional finance player Fnality US in Connecticut. Recently the scope was expanded to cover most state chartered banks with stablecoin subsidiaries, possibly due to concerns about competitive advantages.

Simultaneously, the clause was substantially tightened. The initial version allowed state chartered banks to provide money transmission and custody services nationwide for any type of asset, which would include cryptocurrencies. Now these activities can only be conducted by the stablecoin subsidiary, and while Section 16(d) doesn’t explicitly limit services to stablecoins, the GENIUS Act currently restricts issuers to stablecoin related activities.

However, the House STABLE Act takes a more permissive approach, allowing regulators to decide which non-stablecoin activities are permitted. If the House version prevails in reconciliation, it could result in a significant expansion of allowed nationwide banking activities beyond stablecoins.

Is it that bad?

As originally drafted, the clause seemed overly permissive.

The amended clause makes sense for stablecoin issuers. They want to have a single regulator and be able to provide the stablecoin services throughout the United States. But it also leans into the perception outside of crypto that this is just another form of regulatory arbitrage.

The controversy over Section 16(d) reflects concerns about creating a regulatory gap that allows banks to operate interstate without the oversight typically required from either federal or state authorities. As the two Congressional chambers work toward reconciliation, lawmakers must decide whether stablecoin legislation should include provisions that effectively reduce traditional banking oversight requirements.

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If you find value in my content, consider showing your support via:

💳 PayPal: 
1) Simply scan the QR code below 📲
2) or visit https://www.paypal.me/thedinarian

🔗 Crypto – Support via Coinbase Wallet to: [email protected]

Or Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedinarian

Your generosity keeps this mission alive, for all! Namasté 🙏 Crypto Michael ⚡  The Dinarian

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Dubai regulator VARA classifies RWA issuance as licensed activity
Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) leads global regulatory framework - makes RWA issuance licensed activity in Dubai.

Real-world assets (RWAs) issuance is now licensed activity in Dubai.

~ Actual law.
~ Not a legal gray zone.
~ Not a whitepaper fantasy.

RWA issuance and listing on secondary markets is defined under binding crypto regulation.

It’s execution by Dubai.

Irina Heaver explained:

“RWA issuance is no longer theoretical. It’s now a regulatory reality.”

VARA defined:

- RWAs are classified as Asset-Referenced Virtual Assets (ARVAs)

- Secondary market trading is permitted under VARA license

- Issuers need capital, audits, and legal disclosures

- Regulated broker-dealers and exchanges can now onboard and trade them

This closes the gap that killed STOs in 2018.

No more tokenization without venues.
No more assets without liquidity.

UAE is doing what Switzerland, Singapore, and Europe still haven’t:

Creating enforceable frameworks for RWA tokenization that actually work.

Matthew White, CEO of VARA, said it perfectly:

“Tokenization will redefine global finance in 2025.”

He’s not exaggerating.

$500B+ market predicted next year.

And the UAE just gave it legal rails.

~Real estate.
~Private credit.
~Shariah-compliant products.

Everything is in play.

This is how you turn hype into infrastructure.

What Dubai is doing now is 3 years ahead of everyone else.

Founders, investors, ecosystem builders:

You want to build real-world assets onchain.

Don’t waste another year waiting for clarity.

Come to Dubai.

It’s already here.

 

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🙏 Donations Accepted 🙏

If you find value in my content, consider showing your support via:

💳 PayPal: 
1) Simply scan the QR code below 📲
2) or visit https://www.paypal.me/thedinarian

🔗 Crypto – Support via Coinbase Wallet to: [email protected]

Or Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedinarian

Your generosity keeps this mission alive, for all! Namasté 🙏 Crypto Michael ⚡  The Dinarian

 

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