The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas cut about 25 metric tons from its gold reserves in early 2024, even as most central banks were net buyers, according to the World Gold Council. While the move diverged from the global trend, the BSP said the sale was part of routine reserve management, with gold still making up a significant share of the Philippines’ international reserves.

Courts in Hong Kong are preparing for a surge in crypto, fraud and insolvency litigation in 2026 as digital assets move firmly into mainstream commercial law. Recent rulings treating cryptocurrencies as property allow judges to freeze and recover tokens like traditional assets, while rising corporate failures and cross-border disputes are expected to drive heavier caseloads in commercial and restructuring courts.

Vietnam has opened its first-ever licensing window for cryptocurrency trading platforms under a five-year pilot regime. Under rules issued by the Ministry of Finance of Vietnam, exchanges can now apply for approval through a supervised framework run by the State Securities Commission of Vietnam, marking a shift from a legal gray area to formal, state-controlled oversight of digital asset trading.

On a strict party-line vote, all Republicans voting yes and all Democrats voting no, the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition & Forestry advanced a crypto market structure bill. The 12–11 split highlights partisan disagreement over crypto oversight. The proposal would clarify federal rules for “digital commodities” but must still pass both chambers of Congress before becoming law.

Tether Holdings SA has accumulated roughly 140 metric tons of physical gold worth about US$24 billion, according to Bloomberg, making it one of the world’s largest private bullion holders. The purchases, made steadily through 2025–2026, form part of Tether’s reserve strategy alongside cash and U.S. Treasuries, reflecting a shift toward hard-asset diversification amid global uncertainty.

Gold surged to a new all-time high above US$5,250 per ounce, extending a months-long rally driven by heightened geopolitical uncertainty, central bank reserve accumulation, and sustained safe-haven demand. Spot prices reached US$5,260–$5,280, while tokenized gold markets mirrored the move, with Tether Gold trading near US$5,284. Analysts cited risk-off positioning and structural demand as key drivers.

Vitalik Buterin is highlighting zero-knowledge proofs as a path to broader Ethereum self-verification, allowing users to verify the chain without replaying its full transaction history. ZK-assisted verification could lower hardware requirements and reduce reliance on centralized infrastructure, supporting Ethereum’s long-term goal of scalable, self-sovereign participation.

XRP is increasingly being used as a bridge asset inside regulated cross-border payment systems, targeting capital efficiency rather than retail speculation. By enabling on-demand liquidity and reducing prefunding requirements, XRP-based settlement compresses one of the slowest parts of international payments. Real-world deployments suggest blockchain is moving deeper into institutional payment infrastructure.

The Philippine House of Representatives plans to deploy a “House Book” app in 2026 to digitalize legislative operations using blockchain and AI. Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III said the platform will automate document routing, monitor votes, and reduce paper-based workflows. Developed with DICT, the system aims to enhance transparency through blockchain audit trails and streamline internal processes via AI, positioning the Philippines as a regional early mover in digital legislative systems.

XRP is gaining traction as a settlement asset in cross-border payment flows, with the Philippines emerging as a key corridor due to its large remittance market and fragmented payout infrastructure. Payment firms in Japan and Southeast Asia have used XRP to reduce pre-funding and improve liquidity efficiency, reflecting a broader shift from speculative crypto use toward institutional financial plumbing in global payments.

AFP Protección, Colombia’s second-largest private pension fund administrator, is preparing to offer voluntary Bitcoin exposure to clients, according to financial media reports. While not yet launched or regulatory-cleared, the move marks a cautious shift in a traditionally conservative pension system. Analysts say opt-in crypto sleeves could signal growing institutional interest in Bitcoin as a diversification asset in Latin American retirement portfolios.

Ethereum continues to dominate on-chain lending with roughly $28 billion in active outstanding loans across decentralized credit protocols, according to Token Terminal data. Analysts note the figure reflects borrowing demand rather than deposits, underscoring Ethereum’s role as the primary credit layer for DeFi. Other networks support lending activity but remain far smaller in scale, highlighting Ethereum’s lead in capital efficiency and ecosystem maturity.

Blockchain, IoT and AI are emerging as a combined supply chain stack, enabling real-time tracking, immutable audit trails and predictive optimization. Philippine operators have begun piloting sensor-based tracking and digital traceability tools, signaling interest in upgrading logistics competitiveness. Industry analysts say the shift could reduce reconciliation costs, strengthen trade compliance and support value-added exports as digital trade volumes expand.

The Philippines has launched a blockchain-backed transparency portal publishing the 2026 national budget in structured, verifiable form as part of the Digital Bayanihan Chain initiative. Led by DBM and DICT with infrastructure from BayaniChain, the system moves fiscal data beyond PDFs toward machine-readable formats and public validation, positioning the country’s e-governance push alongside global open-budget modernization efforts.

The Philippines is moving toward conditional reinstatement of xAI’s Grok after blocking access over child protection and synthetic sexual content risks. Regulators are reviewing safety safeguards and compliance measures, marking one of the first structured engagements between an ASEAN government and a frontier AI developer. Officials said the goal is conditional operation with guardrails rather than permanent suspension.

The Philippines and UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement expected to boost jobs, exports and investment. The deal opens wider access for Philippine goods, formalizes labor mobility pathways and strengthens investment channels in sectors such as energy and infrastructure. Ratification and implementation rules are pending, with benefits expected to roll out over several years.

The Philippines has blocked access to Grok AI over concerns the platform could be used to generate non-consensual sexual deepfakes, joining Indonesia and Malaysia in tightening controls on generative tools. Regulators framed the move as a child safety measure and signaled that access may resume once stricter safeguards are in place, reflecting Southeast Asia’s growing role in shaping rules for AI image platforms.

Economists say the peso’s outlook will depend on global risks, BSP policy signals, and commodity prices. U.S. rates, tariffs, and oil markets are pushing up dollar demand, while the Philippines’ fuel and food imports amplify inflation risks. A weaker peso raises costs for households but boosts remittance conversion and some exports, creating mixed effects as policymakers balance inflation, stability, and growth.

The BSP has extended a set of regulatory incentives through 2028 to encourage banks to scale sustainable finance, allowing higher lending limits for eligible projects and exempting sustainable bond proceeds from reserve requirements. The move reflects the central bank’s broader push to channel capital toward climate resilience and green investment as it refines taxonomy, risk calibration, and blended finance tools for the country’s transition.

The World Bank projects the Philippines to be the third-fastest-growing economy in East Asia and the Pacific through 2027, supported by strong domestic demand and ongoing reforms. Growth of 5.3% in 2026 and 5.4% in 2027 places it behind Vietnam and Mongolia, well above regional averages. The outlook highlights the country’s resilience, while noting that governance gaps and climate vulnerabilities remain key constraints to sustaining investment-led growth.

Anichess is trying to build something rare in Web3: a world players actually want to live in before tokens ever enter the picture. Backed by Animoca Brands and developed with Chess.com, the project blends spell-powered chess, rich lore, creators, esports, and now the $CHECK token; turning strategy players into on-chain participants rather than short-term yield hunters.

After the play-to-earn crash, players in Southeast Asia learned how fragile token-first games can be. Anichess is going another way: chess-based strategy, spell mechanics, and a full narrative universe; all playable before touching a wallet. Its newly released “Parchment of History” deepens that approach: game first, crypto second.

OKX and Standard Chartered have launched a pilot in Dubai that lets institutions trade crypto on OKX using collateral held at the bank, instead of pre-funding exchange wallets. The model mirrors collateral on the exchange while assets remain custodied at a G-SIB, reducing counterparty risk and aligning crypto trading with traditional prime-brokerage structures under VARA oversight.

Spot margin trading lets users borrow funds on the spot market to increase buying or selling power without entering derivatives. It offers flexibility for hedging, shorting, or scaling positions, but introduces liquidation and interest risks. Access varies by region: restricted to Accredited Investors in Singapore, while more broadly available in Europe under regulated limits.

Crypto exchanges are entering a new era where security, compliance, and accountability are treated as core infrastructure. As institutions tighten due diligence and regulators align globally, platforms like OKX are shifting toward bank-grade controls—combining risk expertise, automated surveillance, certifications, and cross-industry partnerships. The 2026 landscape makes one expectation clear: exchanges must prove they are safe to trade on, not just fast to list on.

Dollar-cost averaging (DCA) is gaining traction among new crypto traders as a structured way to build exposure without trying to time volatile markets. On platforms like OKX, users can automate recurring buys or use more advanced DCA bots—from simple accumulation to Martingale-based spot and futures strategies—while managing risk and defining budgets upfront. The approach reduces timing stress but still requires asset conviction and discipline.

Streaming is digital, but music rights are still trapped in legacy systems. BeatSwap aims to close that gap by anchoring music IP to on-chain registries and tokenizing royalty streams. The result is a full-stack attempt to treat songs as real, auditable assets—rather than spreadsheets and delayed payments.

As digital wallets dominate Philippine retail payments, convenience comes with trade-offs. From higher impulse spending and data monetization to embedded credit risks, this article explores how e-wallet design shapes behavior, and why stronger consumer awareness and safeguards are needed as cashless payments become the norm.

Anichess, a free-to-play spell-chess title from Animoca Brands built with Chess.com, is positioning $CHECK as a “play-for-skill” alternative to past play-to-earn models. The project ties rewards to on-chain M8 progress and skill-based competition, while anchoring gameplay on chess’ transparent rules and public rating systems. For Southeast Asian users burned by emissions-driven economies, the core question is trust—now tested on the board.

Anichess is positioning itself as a “game-first” Web3 title, bolstered by active participation from five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen. Rather than leaning on token incentives, the project emphasizes chess-based gameplay enhanced by spell mechanics, puzzles, and progression—while keeping blockchain infrastructure largely behind the scenes. The result is a rare endorsement-by-use case: Carlsen showing up because the product is compelling, not promotional.

Anichess is a browser-based Web3 strategy game that prioritizes gameplay over token mechanics. Developed with Chess.com and Animoca Brands, it blends classic chess with spell-based abilities and a “kingslay” win condition. Players can start instantly via social login, with onchain elements handled behind the scenes, offering a streamlined experience that feels like a game first and a blockchain product second.

Anichess, a spell-infused chess game developed in collaboration with Animoca Brands and Chess.com, blends classic chess rules with limited-use magical abilities. Launched initially as a free browser-based puzzle experience, the game has since expanded into PvP and AI modes. Notably, five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen is actively involved and publicly plays the game, underscoring its credibility beyond typical Web3 gaming experiments.

Anichess is adopting $CHECK as its core token, linking gameplay, staking, content creation, and governance under one ecosystem. Built to reward skill and creativity, not hype, $CHECK introduces a merit-first model that could redefine how Web3 games measure progress and value.

HB 4792 puts digital finance literacy at the center of the Philippines’ crypto strategy, mandating a dedicated Citizen Education Fund to support national campaigns, curriculum updates, and OFW-focused programs. Regulators argue that without public understanding of tokenization, stablecoins, and digital risks, policy reforms cannot succeed. The bill reframes regulation as an on-ramp—empowering citizens to navigate and benefit from the country’s fast-growing digital economy.

As DeFi adoption stalls under usability concerns, CeDeFi platforms are offering a new entry point—combining centralized onboarding with decentralized control. With integrations like OKX’s in-app DEX access, users can trade on-chain without juggling wallets or high-risk setups. Analysts say the model could expand access across emerging markets, but stress that transparency, audits, and user safeguards remain critical for long-term trust.

With low-cost platforms making investing accessible to Filipinos for as little as ₱50, newcomers face a new hurdle; choosing wisely. Analysts say the surge in micro-investing highlights the need for financial literacy, goal-based planning, and caution against hype or guaranteed-return schemes. Consistency and compounding—not quick wins—are emerging as the foundations of building wealth for first-time investors.

We don’t just spend because we want things—we spend because money carries meaning: comfort, obligation, guilt, pride. In the Philippines, financial choices are tied to culture, emotion and relationships. As fintech rises and financial literacy campaigns spread, understanding these psychological layers becomes crucial. Real progress begins not by telling Filipinos what to do with money, but by designing systems that understand why they behave the way they do.

CeDeFi, the hybrid model merging centralized usability with decentralized access, is gaining momentum as platforms like OKX integrate self-custody wallets, cross-chain swaps, and on-chain earning into a single interface. By enabling users to automate, hedge, and earn without juggling multiple wallets or bridges, CeDeFi positions itself as the most practical gateway for mainstream DeFi adoption. Its promise: real ownership, safer execution, and advanced tools under one roof, without the complexity barrier.

As crypto exchanges rebuild credibility post-FTX, Proof of Reserves is emerging as a new trust benchmark, but not all proofs are equal. Platforms like OKX now use zero-knowledge cryptography and Merkle-tree auditing to let users independently verify their balances, publishing 37 consecutive PoR reports to date. Analysts warn users to watch for red flags: unverifiable wallets, infrequent updates, or opaque reporting. In crypto, transparency isn’t a slogan, it’s something users should be able to prove.

As crypto adoption widens, CeDeFi is emerging as the bridge between usability and sovereignty. By combining centralized UX with on-chain access, platforms like OKX are using MPC wallets and smart routing to let users tap DeFi liquidity without seed-phrase risks or multi-app friction. Advocates argue that when done right, CeDeFi becomes more than a feature—it’s trust infrastructure that could onboard the next billion users into decentralized finance.

Global exchange OKX has released its 37th consecutive Proof of Reserves report, confirming over $30B in assets are fully backed and independently verified. With BTC and USDT reserves at 105% and ETH at 102%, the exchange continues to promote verifiable solvency through a public Merkle Tree audit system. As trust remains a defining issue in centralized crypto platforms, OKX positions PoR as a critical safeguard for users worldwide.

As decentralized finance promises open access, its complexity remains a major barrier for ordinary users. Platforms like OKX are testing a CeDeFi model—embedding self-custody, passkey onboarding, and guided cross-chain transactions directly in-app—to lower risks and improve usability. The approach signals a shift: if DeFi is to reach freelancers, gig workers, and emerging-market users, safety-first design and built-in education must become core infrastructure, not optional features.

Singapore Exchange is set to offer regulated Bitcoin and Ether perpetual futures to institutional investors, underscoring that even in a downturn, crypto infrastructure is maturing—not retreating. Tied to iEdge CoinDesk benchmarks, the launch positions Singapore as a compliant alternative to offshore markets. For the Philippines, it highlights a regional shift toward institutional products and pressures policymakers to clarify rules on crypto derivatives.

Singapore’s GFTN Capital and Japan’s SBI Holdings have launched a US$200 million innovation fund targeting growth-stage fintech focused on tokenisation, payments, AI, and cybersecurity. The move signals capital shifting toward infrastructure-grade digital finance, not hype products. For the Philippines, it’s a reminder: future funding will reward ventures with regulatory alignment, cross-border readiness, and institutional-grade execution—not just promising ideas.

Despite fintech hype, Filipino MSMEs remain largely locked out of formal lending—receiving barely 4.6% of bank credit despite powering 60% of jobs. Many are pushed toward informal lenders charging predatory rates. The gap exposes a painful truth: innovation is racing, but inclusion is lagging. Without simpler onboarding, alternative credit scoring, and community-aligned finance, small entrepreneurs will stay in the shadows of a system designed without them.

The U.S. crackdown on Southeast Asian scam compounds, with over US$400 million seized, serves as a warning for the Philippines: innovation without oversight invites exploitation. Despite stronger rules for crypto platforms and influencers, gaps in enforcement and education remain. The Strike Force highlights the need for coordinated fraud monitoring, global cooperation, and investor protection to keep the country from becoming a passive node in this ecosystem.

Stablecoins are emerging as a fast, low-cost alternative for OFW remittances, with early pilots from Coins.ph and BCRemit showing transfers completed in minutes. But mainstream adoption remains distant. Regulators—led by the BSP—must establish clear rules on issuance, redemption, risk disclosures, and interoperability. With proper safeguards, stablecoins could meaningfully reduce remittance costs for millions of Filipino households.

Despite headline inflation for the poorest households dropping to -0.4% in October 2025, Filipino families aren’t feeling relief. Prices remain high after years of steep increases, while wages lag and essential costs like housing, utilities, and healthcare continue to rise. The slowdown reflects easing price growth—not lower prices—leaving many households still struggling to stay afloat.

HB 4792 positions the Philippines to innovate responsibly by allowing emerging crypto technologies to operate within regulatory sandboxes overseen by NCDATI. From DEXs to algorithmic stablecoins, platforms can experiment under controlled conditions while regulators study real-world impact. The bill embraces progress without sacrificing public safety, offering a model for measured Web3 adoption.

As living costs remain high and disaster risks persist, Filipino households face mounting financial vulnerability despite signs of economic recovery. With only 37% of adults reporting savings and most families lacking safety nets, true resilience now requires more than individual budgeting—it demands stronger systems, inclusive financial tools, and policies designed to protect and empower the country’s most at-risk communities.

Naga City has secured a ₱6.79M DEPDev grant to pilot an AI-enabled transport and land-use planning system, integrating real-time traffic analytics, hazard data, and project monitoring. Designed as a people-centric, predictive governance tool, the initiative could become the country’s first working model for AI-informed urban planning.

The CADENA Act emerged from a rare collaboration between lawmakers and a diverse Technical Working Group of technologists, lawyers, civic advocates, and government IT leaders. Their input transformed Senate Bill 1330 from a rigid “blockchain the budget” proposal into a flexible, cryptography-anchored transparency law. CADENA now reflects a policy-ready, interoperable approach to public accountability—proof that effective reform happens when technical and civic expertise guide legislation.

The Philippines’ Web3 shift must start where it matters most: with OFWs and MSMEs. House Bill 4792 outlines stablecoin-based remittances, tokenization for small businesses, and a national digital literacy fund—all designed to close financial gaps and protect users. The message is clear: Web3 will only work if the people who need it most can understand and use it safely.

As the CADENA Act moves forward, technologists warn that digitization alone won’t ensure transparency. In Senate hearings, Bitskwela CEO Jiro Reyes and Atty. Mark Gorriceta stressed that only append-only, tamper-proof systems—not merely tamper-evident ones—can prevent digital manipulation. Their proposal: require cryptographically verifiable, immutable records as the backbone of CADENA’s transparency framework.

The DPWH BRS fire erased years of technical records and revived a familiar pattern of accountability gaps. This is precisely what the CADENA Act aims to fix: digitized, cryptographically signed, tamper-resistant public records with built-in redundancy. Until such safeguards exist, accidents—and alleged accidents—will continue to blur the line between tragedy and convenient erasure.

The CADENA Act, which evolved from Senate Bill 1330’s “Blockchain the Budget” proposal, now adopts a tech-neutral approach to transparency. The revised bill mandates timely publication of budget documents, phased rollout, and cryptographically verifiable records—while leaving implementation open to multiple technologies. Senator Bam Aquino emphasized continued refinement, civic participation, and building a flexible, future-proof accountability framework.

Senate Bill 1506, the CADENA Act, establishes a digital public portal for tracking the full budget cycle, replacing the earlier blockchain-focused proposal. The platform may require real-time cryptographically signed uploads of key budget documents, making public spending searchable, verifiable, and tamper-evident; an institutional step toward unified, modernized transparency across government agencies.

Despite strong crypto adoption, the Philippines lacks a unified national approach. HB 4792 seeks to establish NCDATI, a cross-sector council that harmonizes regulation, protects users, and develops long-term Web3 strategy. Modeled on global best practices, it aims to turn grassroots usage into institutional progress.

The “Blockchain Budget” bill has evolved. SBN-1506, now the CADENA Act, reframes transparency from a blockchain-first mandate to a tech-neutral, interoperable citizen portal governed by an oversight council. SBN-1330 mandated blockchain, while SBN-1506 (CADENA Act) pivots to a tech-neutral, interoperable citizen portal with governance oversight via the NBTAC.

President Marcos Jr. called for urgent AI adoption across Philippine agencies at APEC, noting that waiting risks being left behind. With pilots emerging in welfare, taxation, health forecasting, and transport analytics, experts warn that AI must be backed by governance, data standards, and transparency. The President stressed people-centric use, not automation for its own sake, as government weighs coordinated strategy versus fragmented deployments.

Bitget’s Marc Cedrix Castro has opened IHO Café in Marikina, blending Web3 learnings with a lifelong love for cooking. Still active in crypto, he built the café as a passion-driven side venture—now even accepting crypto payments. His story shows how Web3 can empower real-world dreams, not just digital gains.

Crypto earn products are evolving beyond long-term staking, with exchanges introducing short, flexible “Flash Earn” campaigns that combine base yield with token airdrops. OKX’s MMT campaign is a recent example, offering time-bound subscriptions, transparent reward pools, and real-time accrual without lock-ins. These models reflect a shift toward utility-driven, low-commitment earning opportunities as platforms mature into broader asset engagement ecosystems.

Money20/20 USA delivered a clear industry shift: crypto and banks are converging, not competing. Executives from Circle, Northern Trust, Standard Chartered, Franklin Templeton, and OKX stressed that collaboration is now driving digital asset infrastructure. With OKX expanding its mirrored-collateral custody model and securing MiCA compliance, the discussion positioned crypto-bank alignment as the next phase of institutional finance, moving the sector from experimentation to operational integration.

Once an unused internet status code, x402 is now evolving into Web3’s missing payment layer—unlocking instant, permissionless microtransactions using stablecoins like USDC. Its adoption surged after the PING launch, proving real-world, scalable usage. With AI agents, developers, and platforms such as OKX integrating early, x402 is positioning itself not as a trend, but as foundational infrastructure for autonomous payments and next-generation digital commerce.

The crypto sector shifts away from risky, opaque yield products, platforms like OKX is rolling out a more regulated model built around USDG, a fully backed stablecoin issued by Paxos Digital Singapore. Offering up to 10% APY through simple wallet holding, it reflects a broader industry turn toward compliance-first, transparent, and sustainable earnings. With no lockups or DeFi complexity, USDG signals what next-generation “responsible yield” may look like.

Bitskwela Youth brought its Blockchain Summit to the University of Baguio on November 6, engaging students through hands-on activities, real-world use cases, and digital safety sessions. With support from Anichess and Coins.ph, the event showcased blockchain’s relevance beyond finance; from gaming to secure digital participation. The summit forms part of Bitskwela’s nationwide push to equip young Filipinos with responsible, future-ready Web3 knowledge.

The Province of Bataan, under Governor Joet Garcia, has officially joined GoodGovChain™, a blockchain-powered governance platform by BayaniChain (BYC) Ventures, marking a milestone in the Philippines’ digital governance roadmap. Launched during the Global Emerging Tech Summit 2025, the initiative begins with on-chain publication of provincial ordinances, ensuring transparency, integrity, and public verifiability of records. Built on BYC’s Lumen and Prismo infrastructure, GoodGovChain integrates securely with DBM and DPWH systems under the Digital Public Asset (DPA) framework. Bataan follows Baguio City’s lead, signaling a growing movement toward verifiable, citizen-accessible governance. Governor Garcia called it “a decisive step toward an open, accountable, and digitally empowered province.”

Polkadot is setting a new precedent for stablecoin architecture by issuing USDC and USDT natively through its AssetHub system parachain—completely bypassing third-party bridges. As of October 2025, over $490 million in stablecoins circulate across the network, according to DotLake data. Through XCM, Polkadot’s cross-chain protocol, assets move seamlessly and securely among parachains such as Moonbeam, HydraDX, and Acala without synthetic wrapping or duplication. This design minimizes bridge-related risk, enhances liquidity composability, and strengthens on-chain treasury operations. By embedding stablecoins directly into its protocol stack, Polkadot positions itself as a resilient, institutional-grade foundation for DeFi and multichain finance.

Polkadot’s stablecoin economy has reached $490.2 million in combined USDC and USDT liquidity as of October 2025, according to data from DotLake. Around $133.2 million is held on AssetHub, Polkadot’s native issuance parachain, while the remaining $357 million circulates across DeFi-focused parachains such as HydraDX, Moonbeam, and Acala. Unlike bridge-dependent tokens, both USDC and USDT are natively issued on Polkadot, offering security and seamless cross-chain transfers via XCM. The Polkadot Treasury has also begun integrating stablecoins into on-chain operations, signaling institutional confidence. The figures position Polkadot among the leading modular ecosystems for stable, interoperable digital liquidity.

Polkadot’s new JAM (Join-Accumulate Machine) framework marks a shift from transaction-driven blockchains to decentralized compute infrastructure. By introducing the Refine–Accumulate model, JAM enables persistent, stateful services—allowing applications like oracles, AI inference, and ZK proof systems to operate continuously on-chain. Its Agile Coretime economy lets developers buy and trade compute units independently of consensus, while the Polkadot Virtual Machine (PVM)—built on the RISC-V instruction set—supports modular, high-performance execution. Designed for scalability and predictable costs, JAM repositions Polkadot as a shared compute layer for Web3, turning decentralized logic into a form of public infrastructure.

Polkadot has unveiled JAM (Join-Accumulate Machine), a new framework that transforms its relay chain into a decentralized compute layer through the Polkadot Virtual Machine (PVM). Unlike traditional blockchains focused on blockspace, JAM integrates execution, accumulation, and consensus into a unified system capable of running parallel decentralized services. The model introduces “core-time,” a tradable unit of computation under Polkadot’s Agile Coretime economy. Positioned alongside projects like Celestia and EigenLayer, JAM extends Polkadot’s interoperability vision into verifiable computation—enabling modular workloads such as AI, zero-knowledge proofs, and oracles to operate natively on-chain within a global, WebAssembly-compatible compute environment.

Blockchain platform QADENA has released a new tool called “National Budget in Action,” a public dashboard that tracks government allocations and disbursements with searchable, real-time data. The feature mirrors civic-tech advocate Ann Cuisia’s earlier proposals for digitally signed budget records and citizen-accessible audit logs. Accessible via QADENA’s website, the dashboard offers disbursement-level trails, regional filters, and downloadable datasets for public verification. Positioned ahead of QADENA’s 2026 mainnet launch, the system integrates transparency and compliance into its infrastructure roadmap. Its release comes amid ongoing debates over the “Blockchain the Budget” bills, offering a functional, non-legislative alternative for fiscal visibility.

GCrypto Head and blockchain advocate Luis Buenaventura has voiced opposition to Senate Bill No. 1330, warning that the proposed “Blockchain the Budget” initiative risks wasting public funds. In an exclusive interview, Buenaventura said the system “won’t work” unless the entire Philippine peso supply is tokenized—something no country has attempted. He cautioned that the project could damage the industry’s credibility if it fails to curb corruption as promised. Instead, he urged lawmakers to reframe the bill around “public transparency through technology” and to involve media and watchdog groups in oversight. “Faith without proof is not blockchain,” Buenaventura said.

World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen has officially entered the Web3 gaming arena, livestreaming his first match on Anichess, a play-and-earn chess game developed by Animoca Brands with partners Chess.com, Pudgy Penguins, and Moonbirds. In a Twitch stream with GM Eric Hansen, Carlsen showcased Anichess’s signature spell-based gameplay—featuring abilities like “Slip,” “Bis-Hop 2.0,” and “Imposter”—to over 200,000 viewers. The event signals a growing bridge between traditional chess and blockchain gaming. Built on-chain, Anichess blends classical mechanics with NFTs and tokenized rewards, aiming to redefine competitive chess for a digital generation where skill, creativity, and ownership intersect.

Former Solicitor General Florin T. Hilbay has voiced concerns over Senate Bill No. 1330, the Blockchain the Budget Bill, warning that its proposed system could replicate centralized databases rather than deliver true decentralization. In a public post, Hilbay argued that the bill’s model “is nothing like the Bitcoin blockchain” and would be controlled by government contractors instead of public validators. He also questioned its ₱500 million budget, calling instead for simpler, open-access transparency measures such as public audit portals and NGO-hosted mirror sites. Hilbay maintains that transparency should rest on accessibility and oversight—not on costly, misunderstood technology.

The Worldcoin project, co-founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, is under increasing global scrutiny for its iris-scanning identity system that rewards users with cryptocurrency. With over five million signups, largely from developing countries, regulators in France, Germany, Kenya, and the Philippines are investigating potential privacy and consent violations. Critics warn that Worldcoin’s model risks exploiting weaker regulatory environments and creating dependency on a privately controlled digital ID system. While the company claims biometric data is anonymized, experts say risks remain irreversible if compromised. The controversy underscores the wider debate over digital identity, data ethics, and the balance between innovation and human rights.

House Bill No. 5402, filed by Occidental Mindoro Representative Leody Tarriela, seeks to create a National Distributed Budget and Governance Blockchain System that would record all public fund movements on a shared, tamper-resistant ledger. The proposal envisions real-time tracking of appropriations, allotments, and disbursements across DBM, COA, DOF, and DICT through synchronized databases. It also introduces a multi-agency Blockchain Budget Governance Board and a public Budget Ledger Explorer for citizen access. Unlike earlier “budget blockchain” measures, HB 5402 details encryption standards, API integration, and a five-year rollout plan—aiming to make fiscal transparency continuous, verifiable, and citizen-accessible.

OKX Singapore has launched a pilot allowing users to pay GrabPay merchants using USDT or USDC, marking one of the first real-world integrations of stablecoins into mainstream retail payments. Backed by Singapore’s pro-innovation stance, the initiative could serve as a template for stablecoinceiving Singapore dollars instantly. The model removes conversion friction and avoids crypto volatility exposure while remaining compliant with local regulations. Backed by Singapore’s pro-innovation stance, the initiative could serve as a template for stablecoin adoption in regulated markets—bridging blockchain efficiency with established fintech infrastructure.

In an exclusive interview, fintech executive and civic technologist Ann Cuisia weighed in on Senate Bill No. 1330, the proposed “Blockchain the Budget” Act. While supporting transparency reforms, she cautioned against mandating any single technology in law. Cuisia argued that legislation should define outcomes—verifiability, auditability, and openness—while letting blockchain or other systems meet those standards. She proposed a “National Budget in Action Act” to ensure technological neutrality and multi-stakeholder oversight, emphasizing that “governance must never be reduced to a tech choice.” For Cuisia, blockchain should prove its worth through measurable utility, not by decree.

At Token2049 Singapore, OKX CEO Star Xu unveiled a roadmap to transform the exchange into a full-stack Web3 infrastructure provider. Xu emphasized a “verify first, trust later” model, highlighting user control and on-chain transparency as the future of finance. The plan centers on X Layer, OKX’s Ethereum-compatible L2 built with Polygon’s zkEVM CDK, the launch of the USDG stablecoin, and a $100 million Vision Fund to support ecosystem builders. A redesigned New Money App ties the strategy together, merging Web2 usability with Web3 autonomy. Xu’s remarks mark OKX’s shift from trading platform to infrastructure player anchoring an “everything on-chain” financial stack.

With bank interest rates across Southeast Asia still under 1%, crypto platforms are positioning stablecoins as a better alternative for passive income. OKX recently introduced automatic rewards for users holding its USDG stablecoin—no staking, lock-ups, or DeFi steps required. The model offers weekly payouts with daily accrual, appealing to users seeking low-friction yield options. While traditional banks face regulatory limits and high overheads, exchanges like OKX leverage liquidity and programmable assets to deliver higher returns. The move signals a wider shift in SEA’s financial landscape, where stablecoin savings are emerging as a competitive entry point for everyday users.

Anichess, developed by Animoca Brands in collaboration with Chess.com, Pudgy Penguins, and Moonbird, is transforming the world’s oldest strategy game into a Web3-native experience. The play-and-earn title blends traditional chess mechanics with spell-based gameplay, customizable pieces, and on-chain progression. Players win through “Kingslay” captures rather than checkmate, adding new layers of creativity and risk. Built on Abstract, Anichess introduces M8 Points—earned through ranked play and used for rewards and tournaments—without speculative tokens. With ranked ladders, AI training, and full customization of boards and spells, Anichess bridges classic strategy with blockchain innovation, making chess both competitive and collaborative in the digital age.

OKX has launched a new feature allowing users to earn rewards simply by holding its native stablecoin, USDG, in their main accounts—no staking or lock-up required. The model delivers weekly payouts and aims to make stablecoin yields more accessible to retail users. It mirrors similar offerings from Coinbase (USDC) and Kraken (USDT) while distinguishing itself through its simplicity and zero DeFi interaction. The move comes as exchanges compete to deepen liquidity and stablecoin retention amid a post-DeFi market shift. OKX said the feature aligns with its goal of expanding “safe, frictionless access to passive income” for global users.

Anichess, developed by Animoca Brands in partnership with Chess.com, Pudgy Penguins, and Moonbirds, is merging strategy gaming with Web3 incentives. The free-to-play title adds spell-based gameplay, on-chain rewards, and community competitions, already drawing over 100,000 monthly active users. Its new points system, M8, rewards players for skill, participation, and engagement, with prizes such as 600,000 $PENGU and a $10,000 tournament launching October 9. Players can log in via Web3 or traditional accounts, earning through leaderboards and community programs like Kaito Leaderboard. As its token and NFT ecosystem evolve, Anichess is positioning itself as one of Web3’s most accessible gateways for gamers and chess fans alike.

New Q1–Q2 2025 survey by a leading trading platform shows how inflation, cultural dynamics, and investor motivations are reshaping crypto use worldwide. Inflation hedge adoption surged from 29% to 46%, particularly in East Asia and the Middle East, while Latin America’s memecoin boom highlights a retail-driven, community-focused culture. South Asia emerged as the epicenter of spot and futures trading, with mobile-first users driving financial independence narratives. Globally, investors are consolidating around public chain tokens and stablecoins, even as futures trading gains traction in Asia. The report forecasts continued growth in crypto as a hedge against inflation, maturing trading strategies, and wealth redistribution toward mid-tier portfolios—underscoring the need for regionally tailored approaches.

WalletConnect, the behind-the-scenes protocol enabling wallets and dApps to talk, is now one of Web3’s most critical public goods. It supports 600+ wallets, 64,000+ apps, and has handled over 309 million secure connections. From NFT minting on OpenSea to DeFi trading on Uniswap, WalletConnect ensures smooth, cross-chain interactions without exposing private keys. In 2024, the protocol launched its native $WCT token, used for fees, staking, and governance—signaling a shift toward community-owned infrastructure. What was once invisible middleware is becoming a cornerstone of Web3’s future, linking users not just to apps, but to ownership of the infrastructure itself.

Infrastructure often goes unseen in Web3, but it underpins the ecosystem’s daily use. WalletConnect has facilitated more than 309M secure connections across 600+ wallets and 64,000 apps, becoming the default bridge for wallet-to-dApp communication. Its recent $WCT token launch extends the model to fees, staking, and governance; pushing the protocol toward community ownership. The move reflects a wider trend: critical Web3 infrastructure is shifting from closed services to participatory public goods. As more apps and wallets rely on neutral, chain-agnostic layers like WalletConnect, questions of resilience, governance, and shared responsibility are moving to the center of Web3’s next phase.

Most Web3 users know their wallets and apps, but not the infrastructure linking them. WalletConnect has quietly become that standard, facilitating over 309M secure connections across 600+ wallets and 64,000 apps. By acting as a chain-agnostic bridge, it removes friction from fragmented systems, enabling secure wallet-to-dApp communication without exposing private keys. Now, with the introduction of $WCT, the protocol is moving from a hidden relay to a community-aligned network. The token underpins protocol fees, staking, node rewards, and governance—placing control in the hands of users and contributors. The shift reflects a broader trend in Web3: infrastructure is no longer just backend plumbing, but a participatory foundation shaping how the ecosystem scales.