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? The Dinarian on Locals brings you the latest in news, interviews, in-depth conversations, and stories from across the blockchain and global communities—within and beyond cryptocurrency ?. Experts delve into how blockchain technology is reshaping industries, enhancing business networks ?, transforming transaction workflows, and advancing distributed ledger systems ??. We also explore intriguing topics that may venture into the realm of conspiracies—and so much more!
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Blockchain Will Upend the Financial Sector, But Not In the Way You Think

We’ve seen countless applications of blockchain – many good, many bad, and mostly token-related – since its inception, as the world explores how best to leverage this powerful technology. The most headline-grabbing applications are typically cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance protocols – products born from a mistrust of the existing financial system and built in an effort to ease reliance on it. We’ve seen splashy op-eds about how blockchain will bring traditional finance crashing down, returning humanity to an era of self-managed finances, but these headlines don’t tell the whole story.

One of the most exciting applications of blockchain technology has yet to be realized. Ironically, the very institutions cryptocurrencies were designed to disrupt also stand to gain a great deal from their underlying technology. The decentralized and transparent nature of blockchain, when configured to conform to our existing financial communications standards, holds the potential to transform the financial sector and modernize its underlying technology, offering improved efficiency, security, transparency, and interoperability.

A Blockchain Calibrated for Enterprise

Blockchain, the underlying technology behind cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, has garnered attention for its decentralized and tamper-resistant nature. It operates as a distributed ledger, recording transactions across a network of computers in a transparent manner, while leveraging cryptography to remain highly secure and immutable.

However, in order for enterprises and other institutions to leverage blockchain technology, we need a blockchain that is carefully calibrated to adhere to modern financial communication and reporting standards. Enter ISO 20022.

Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO 20022 is a comprehensive messaging standard that facilitates communication and interoperability between financial institutions. It provides a common language for financial transactions, covering everything from payments and securities trading to reporting and analytics. After several years of development, ISO 20022 launched in March 2023 and has since been adopted globally, with major financial institutions recognizing its benefits in standardizing and streamlining communication.

A Powerful Synergy

The integration of ISO 20022 with blockchain technology creates a powerful synergy, addressing some of the longstanding challenges in the financial sector, including:

Interoperability and Standardization

ISO 20022 already serves as a global standard for financial messaging. By incorporating it into blockchain protocols, we can achieve a new level of interoperability, allowing different blockchain networks to seamlessly communicate and share data, while also effortlessly interacting with existing financial infrastructure. This interoperability is crucial in a financial landscape where multiple systems coexist, and will help reduce friction and facilitate more efficient transactions.

Enhanced Security

Blockchain's cryptographic security features complement ISO 20022's robust messaging standards. The decentralized nature of blockchain significantly reduces the risk of single points of failure and cyberattacks, and the traditionally insurmountable costs associated with compromising a blockchain network make such an attack unlikely in the first place. Each transaction is cryptographically linked to the previous one, creating an immutable chain that enhances the security and integrity of financial data.

Real-time Settlements

Traditional financial systems often face delays in settlement due to reliance on intermediary institutions, but the combination of ISO 20022 and blockchain enables near-instantaneous settlement of transactions. Smart contracts, self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code, can automate the settlement process, reducing the time and cost associated with traditional clearing and settlement systems.

Cost Reduction

The automation and efficiency gained through the integration of ISO 20022 and blockchain can result in substantial cost savings for financial institutions. Smart contracts can automate routine tasks, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing errors while making compliance less burdensome. Additionally, the elimination of intermediaries in certain processes can lead to significant cost reductions.

Improved Transparency

Blockchain's transparent and decentralized nature enhances visibility into financial transactions. Each participant in the network has access to a synchronized and immutable ledger, promoting transparency and accountability. This can mitigate the risk of fraud and improve regulatory compliance.

Financial Inclusion

The combination of ISO 20022 and blockchain can also contribute to greater financial inclusion. Through its automation and cost saving advantages, blockchain extends access to smaller financial institutions and emerging markets, and allows them to participate in the global economy. This can help reduce barriers to entry and foster economic development in underserved regions.

Upending the Financial Sector… For the Better

The financial sector’s daunting complexity makes it fertile ground for innovation, and by pairing blockchain’s innovative technology with existing financial communication standards, we can make the transition to new infrastructure seamless and impactful. Blockchain’s history may be dominated by attempts to upend or circumvent the financial sector, but its future lies in its ability to improve it.

About Bob Ras

Bob Ras, an investor and serial entrepreneur based in Dubai, is renowned for his influence in technology, blockchain and manufacturing. He is a co-founder and partner at CoreNest Capital, co-founder of Sologenic, and also co-founded Coreum, a Layer-1 blockchain. Previously, he founded various manufacturing plants, including Hardex. His strategic skills have led to multiple successful exits. A recognized voice in the tech space, Bob frequently has been featured in esteemed publications including Reuters, Nasdaq TV, Blockworks , and Benzinga.

https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/blockchain-will-upend-the-financial-sector-but-not-in-the-way-you-think

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Crypto Splits on Clarity | Coinbase, Kraken and Cahill Join the Show

🚨NEW: We asked @coinbase Head of U.S. Policy @karacalvert whether talks had resumed with Banking Committee members after the company’s surprise withdrawal of support for the market structure bill forced the committee to delay its Thursday markup.

“It was definitely a shock to the system. We want to be respectful of the fact that blood, sweat and tears have gone into this bill.”

Full episode: https://x.com/i/broadcasts/1rmxPvzozrDGN

00:01:19
⚠️ Ripple appearance at the Headquarters of the Bank of Spain

⚠️ Ripple appearance at the Headquarters of the Bank of Spain, Co-organised by the Reinventing BRETTON WOODS Committee⚠️
September 10 and 11, 2019

Full video: https://youtu.be/kUx1pJ9wadQ?si=FrqIfoeWJHtgBZXa

00:07:08
📽️ One of the most important things we’ve done at Pyth is help bring U.S. GDP onchain 🏛️

Working with the U.S. Department of Commerce to publish official economic data on a public blockchain is a powerful signal of where global market infrastructure is headed. When core economic indicators become cryptographically verifiable, composable, and accessible in real time, it opens the door to a more transparent and more efficient financial system for everyone.

Thanks to Roundtable and Jackson Hinkle for hosting a thoughtful conversation on how this came together and what it means for the future of market data.

In a conversation with Jackson Hinkle

Full interview link: https://www.thestreet.com/crypto/policy/why-washington-is-experimenting-with-public-blockchains-for-economic-data

00:04:14
👉 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

🚨 MARKET ALERT: The Most Volatile Week of 2026 is Here 🚨

Buckle up. If you thought the start of the year was quiet, the next five days are about to provide a massive reality check. From central bank liquidity injections to a potential "policy earthquake" from the White House, the economic calendar is packed.

Here is your day-by-day breakdown of the Big Week ahead.

📅 Monday, Jan 19: The Fed’s $17.3B Liquidity Play

While the nation observes Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the gears of the financial system aren't stopping. The Federal Reserve is slated to inject $17.3 billion in liquidity into the system.

Why it matters: This move is aimed at stabilizing the repo markets and ensuring the plumbing of the financial system remains slick. Watch for how the futures markets react to this "monetary grease" heading into Tuesday’s open.

📅 Tuesday, Jan 20: FOMC Economic Report & The "Pulse Check"

Following the holiday, the FOMC drops its latest Economic Report. With inflation still hovering ...

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🚨 Ripple Drops $2.7 B Cash-and-Stock Deal for Full-Stack Financial Platform 🚨

Ripple has agreed to buy (subject to CFIUS and EC clearance) a yet-unnamed “full-stack” payments, FX and treasury-suite provider—valued at $2.7 B, its largest acquisition to date—to fold fiat rails, card issuing and 200+ country licenses directly into the XRP Ledger ecosystem, according to Crypto Threads’ unnamed sources close to the board.

🔑 Key points

🔹 Target profile:

  • 1,100 employees, 42 offices; owns EMI licenses in EU/UK, MSB registrations in 47 U.S. states, PI/PF licenses in Singapore, HK, UAE; processes $48 B annual payments volume, 65 % B2B cross-border.

  • Proprietary FX engine aggregates 450+ correspondent-bank routes plus four CSD access points (Fedwire, TARGET2, BOJ-NET, CHATS); average FX markup 18 bps vs Ripple ODL’s current 60 bps.

  • White-label card platform (Visa Fintech Fast-Track member) with 3.2 M virtual cards issued; instant push-to-debit rails in 70 countries.

🔹 Deal ...

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JUST IN - Trump announces 10% tariffs for Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, UK, Netherlands and Finland from Feb 1st, 👉 increasing to 25% on June 1st, until "a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland."

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🚨David Grusch on The Megyn Kelly Show🚨

Earlier this week, UFO/UAP whistleblower David Grusch appeared on The Megyn Kelly Show for a brief but revealing interview. During the conversation, Grusch named individuals he claimed were involved in managing the alleged UFO/UAP Legacy crash retrieval program, statements that immediately drew attention across the disclosure community.

Most notably, Grusch asserted that former Vice President Dick Cheney played a central role in overseeing the program. Cheney’s name has circulated within UFO/UAP research circles for years, but this marks the first time it has been spoken publicly by a former intelligence official who claims direct knowledge of the issue. It is also notable that just weeks ago, journalist Ross Coulthart independently referenced Cheney in a similar context, lending additional weight to the consistency of these claims.

Grusch also named former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, stating that Clapper was not only aware of the crash retrieval issue, but managed it and helped place individuals into key roles, both publicly and behind the scenes. These are serious assertions that warrant scrutiny and further investigation, given their potential implications for disclosure.

Please watch the full interview and consider its significance within the broader context of the disclosure conversation. Please note that the interview concludes with a paid promotional pitch, and Grusch does not provide any additional comments after the pitch.

 

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Stellar CEO Reveals Where Real Opportunity Lies in Crypto Market: Details

In a recent tweet, Stellar Development Foundation (SDF) CEO and Executive Director Denelle Dixon defines what "real opportunity" is in blockchain as a new financial future beckons.

The SDF CEO was reacting to a recent Bloomberg report on Bank of New York Mellon Corp (BNY), Nasdaq, S&P Global and iCapital participation in a new $50 million investment round by Digital Asset Holdings. This comes as some of Wall Street’s biggest names embrace the technology that underpins cryptocurrencies to handle traditional assets.

Reacting to this development, Stellar Foundation CEO Denelle Dixon stated that every blockchain investment is a bet on a different financial future. Dixon added that seeing banks explore blockchain technology validates what has been known over the years.

Real opportunity defined

While Wall Street’s biggest names betting on blockchain might be one of the most significant adoption milestones in the digital asset market, Dixon defines what real opportunity is and what it is not.

According to the SDF executive director, real opportunity is not replicating old systems on new rails but rather building open networks that fundamentally expand global finance participation.

"But the real opportunity isn’t replicating old systems on new rails—it’s building open networks that fundamentally expand who gets to participate in global finance. That’s the opportunity," Dixon tweeted.

At the Meridian 2025 event, Stellar outlined its long-term privacy strategy, committing to investing in critical privacy infrastructure and building foundational cryptographic capabilities.

Stellar eyes privacy upgrade

A new protocol upgrade is on the horizon for the Stellar network: X-Ray, which lays the groundwork for developers to build privacy applications on Stellar using zero-knowledge (ZK) cryptography.

The protocol timeline testnet vote is anticipated for Jan. 7, 2026, while the mainnet vote is expected for Jan. 22, 2026.

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XDC Network's acquisition of Contour Network

XDC Network's acquisition of Contour Network marks a silent shift to connect the digital trade infrastructure to real-time, tokenized settlement rails.

In a world where cross-border payments still take days and trap trillions in idle liquidity, integrating Contour’s trade workflows with XDC Network Blockchains' ISO 20022 financial messaging standard to bridge TradFi and Web3 in Trade Finance.

The Current State of Cross-Border Trade Settlements

Cross-border payments remain one of the most inefficient parts of global finance. For decades, companies have inter-dependency with banks and their correspondent banks across the world, forcing them to maintain trillions of dollars in pre-funded nostro and vostro balances — the capital that sits idle while transactions crawl across borders.

Traditional settlement is slow, often 1–5 days, and often with ~2-3% in FX and conversion fees. For every hour a corporation can’t access its own cash increases the cost of financing, tightens liquidity that could be used for other purposes, which in turn slows economic activity.

Before SWIFT, payments were fully manual. Intermediary banks maintained ledgers, and reconciliation across multiple institutions limited speed and volume.

SWIFT reshaped global payments by introducing a secure, standardized messaging infrastructure through ISO 20022 - which quickly became the language of money for 11,000+ institutions in 200 countries.

But SWIFT only fixed the messaging — not the movement. Actual value still moves through slow, capital-intensive correspondent chains.

Regulated and Compliant Stablecoin such as USDC (Circle) solves the part SWIFT never could: instant, on-chain settlement.

Stablecoin Settlement revamping Trade and Tokenization

Stablecoin such as USDC is a digital token pegged to the US Dollar, still the most widely used currency for trade, enabling the movement of funds instantly 24*7 globally - transparently, instantly, and without the need for any intermediaries and the need to lock in trillions of dollars of idle cash.

Tokenized settlement replaces multi-day reconciliation with on-chain finality, reducing:

  • Dependency on intermediaries
  • Operational friction
  • Trillions locked in idle liquidity

For corporates trapped in long working capital cycles, this is transformative.

Digital dollars like USDC make the process simple:

Fiat → Stablecoin → On-Chain Transfer → Fiat

This hybrid model is already widely used across remittances, payouts, and treasury flows.

But one critical piece of global commerce is still lagging:

👉 Trade finance.

The Missing link is still Trade Finance Infrastructure.

While payments innovation has raced ahead, trade finance infrastructure hasn’t kept up. Document flows, letters of credit, and supply-chain financing remain siloed, paper-heavy, and operationally outdated.

This is exactly where the next breakthrough will happen - and why the recent XDC Network acquisition of Contour is a silent revolution.

It transforms to a new era of trade-driven liquidity through an end-to-end digital trade from shipping docs to payment confirmation – one infrastructure that powers all.

The breakthrough won’t come from payments alone — it will come from connecting trade finance to real-time settlement rails.

The XDC + Contour Shift: A Silent Revolution

  • Contour already connects global banks and corporates through digital LCs and digitized trade workflows.
  • XDC Blockchain brings a settlement layer built for speed, tokenization, and institutional-grade interoperability and ISO 20022 messaging compatibility

Contour’s digital letter of credit workflows will be integrated with XDC’s blockchain network to streamline trade documentation and settlement.

Together, they form the first end-to-end digital trade finance network linking:

Documentation → Validation → Settlement all under a single infrastructure.

XDC Ventures (XVC.TECH) is launching a Stable-Coin Lab to work with financial institutions on regulated stablecoin pilots for trade to deepen institutional trade-finance integration through launch of pilots with banks and corporates for regulated stable-coin issuance and settlement.

The Bottom Line

Payments alone won’t transform Global Trade Finance — Trade finance + Tokenized Settlement will.

This is the shift happening underway XDC Network's acquisition of Contour is the quiet catalyst.

Learn how trade finance is being revolutionised:

https://www.reuters.com/press-releases/xdc-ventures-acquires-contour-network-launches-stablecoin-lab-trade-finance-2025-10-22/

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