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Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
StoneX Group Taps AI-Powered LIQUID eKYC to Improve Onboarding Experience, Expecting to Double Account Openings
— Image Recognition AI Minimizes User Abandonment and Supports Japan's Legal My Number Acquisition — TOKYO, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Liquid Inc. , a member of the ELEMENTS Group, is pleased to announce that StoneX Group Inc., a company listed on the NASDAQ in the United States, has adopted Liquids online identity verification service, LIQUID eKYC. The solution will be implemented by its Japanese subsidiary, StoneX Securities Co., Ltd. LIQUID eKYC will be used to verify customer identities during account openings for the FX and CFD trading burand,m operated by StoneX Securities. Although StoneX Securities had previously utilized eKYC services, the company has now decided to transition to LIQUID eKYC, which is distinguished by its advanced image recognition AI technology, enabling more accurate identity verification. With this transition, the company aims to prevent user drop-offs during the application process and anticipates that the number of account openings will approximately double as a result. Background is a global online trading platform that primarily offers foreign exchange (FX) trading and CFD trading services to individual investors and traders. The platform is used by over one million users across 180 countries worldwide. In Japan, StoneX Securities has already implemented eKYC procedures for online account openings, which involve capturing images of identification documents and matching them with user selfies for identity verification. In order to achieve more accurate identification, StoneX Securities has decided to integrate LIQUID eKYC. Implementation Overview LIQUID eKYC is an online identity verification solution that enables the completion of the entire verification process remotely through either the capture or IC chip reading of ID documents, combined with facial photo matching, or by utilizing Japanese Public Key Infrastructure (JPKI) for official digital authentication. The solution is characterized by its use of biometric authentication and image recognition technologies, which contribute to reducing the drop-off rate during onboarding, minimizing the occurrence of unclear image submissions, and enhancing the accuracy of automated facial recognition. These features collectively improve the efficiency and reliability of the identity verification process. Key Advantages of Implementing LIQUID eKYC Improved Completion Rates Through Real-Time, Contextual Error Messaging Previously, many users abandoned the application process midway, particularly during the photo capture stage required for identity verification. With LIQUID eKYC, AI-powered image recognition provides real-time, detailed error messages during the capture process, guiding users more effectively. Backed by over 130 million identity verifications across the group, the system leverages advanced technology and a meticulously designed user interface to ensure a seamless user experience. This allows users to proceed with confidence and minimal confusion, significantly improving the application completion rate. Improving Approval Rates in the Post-Submission Review Process LIQUID eKYC has a built-in review management function that enables clear identification of discrepancies—such as mismatches between information entered in the application form and the details on the submitted identification documents. By integrating with LIQUID eKYC, the system can automatically notify users of specific errors and prompt them to reapply with corrected information. This reduces the need for individual follow-up with users. In addition, tasks such as manual verification of ID documents, which are required under Japan's Act on Prevention of Transfer of Criminal Proceeds, are handled through LIQUID eKYC's BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) services. This implementation not only enhances the efficiency of the overall review process but also contributes to a higher approval rate. Compliance with Legal Requirements, Including MyNumber (Individual Number) Collection and Management In Japan, financial institutions are required to conduct identity verification and collect MyNumber (Individual Number) information in accordance with the Act on Prevention of Transfer of Criminal Proceeds when opening accounts. LIQUID eKYC not only supports legally compliant identity verification, but also offers end-to-end support for the collection, management, and secure storage of MyNumber data. This is particularly advantageous for foreign-affiliated companies, for whom MyNumber compliance often poses a significant operational challenge. By accommodating Japan's complex and use-case-dependent regulatory requirements, LIQUID eKYC helps ensure full legal compliance while streamlining onboarding operations. Proven Track Record in Identity Verification for Foreign Nationals LIQUID eKYC has a strong track record of verifying the identities of a wide range of users, both in Japan and internationally. At identity verification is conducted not only for Japanese nationals residing in Japan but also for foreign residents. This capability ensures that the onboarding process is inclusive, compliant, and effective across diverse user segments. Dedicated Support Team for Foreign-Affiliated Companies LIQUID eKYC offers a specialized support team dedicated to foreign-affiliated enterprises. This team provides comprehensive implementation and operational support entirely in English, including guidance on navigating regulatory compliance requirements in Japan. This structure ensures a smooth and reliable onboarding experience for global companies entering or operating in the Japanese market. About is a global online trading platform operated by StoneX Group Inc., a company listed on the NASDAQ (Ticker: SNEX). The platform serves customers in over 180 countries and offers access to more than 12,000 financial instruments worldwide. In Japan, provides trading services for 84 FX currency pairs and 26 Knock-Out Option products. Trading is available via PC (web platform) and mobile devices (iPhone and Android), and the platform also supports MetaTrader 4 (MT4).Website: About LIQUID eKYC: No.1 Market Share for Six Consecutive Years* The service provides online completion of identity verification required for online contracts, account registration, and account opening. We offer a method that takes a picture of an identification document or reads an IC chip and matches it with selfies, as well as a method that utilizes public personal authentication (JPKI / Smartphone JPKI). We can also support age verification for student discounts. Our proprietary AI, biometric, and OCR technologies have enabled us to maintain a low drop-off rate from the start to the end of the photo shooting process. As a result, the ELEMENTS Group has achieved a cumulative total of approximately 130 million identity verifications, with around 600 companies having adopted our site: *ITR "ITR Market View: Identity Access Management / Personal Authentication Type Security Market 2025 eKYC Market: Sales Value Share by Vendor (FY2019-FY2024Forecast) About Liquid Inc. Liquid aims to create a seamless world where all of the world's approximately 8 billion people can easily and safely use all services as they are, by automatic and ubiquitous authentication. We provide our own Digital ID, KYC, and Authentication service, where users can prove their identity anytime, anywhere in the world with their smartphone or face. We are expanding our service globally and use the know-how accumulated under the strict Japanese laws and rules. We adapt our operations and services flexibly and quickly to changes in the required legal and security more information, visit: View original content: SOURCE Liquid, Inc.
Business Recorder
20-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Gold prices rebound on dollar weakness, US downgrade
NEW YORK: Gold prices rose more than 1% on Monday, helped by a weaker dollar and safe-haven demand after Moody's downgraded the US government's credit rating amid lingering trade concerns. Spot gold gained 1.1% to $3,239.23 an ounce by 1236 GMT, reversing the previous session's losses. US gold futures gained 1.7% to $3,242.60. 'The main supporting factor for gold today is the downgrade of American debt by Moody's,' said Fawad Razaqzada, market analyst at City Index and 'The dollar is also weakening across the board, with bond yields rising because government debt is being sold, so it's a bit of a risk off tone in the market.' Moody's cut the United States' top sovereign credit rating by one notch on Friday, the last of the major ratings agencies to downgrade the country, citing concerns about its growing $36 trillion debt pile. The dollar slipped 0.8%, making greenback-priced gold cheaper for overseas buyers. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in television interviews on Sunday that President Donald Trump will impose tariffs at the rate he threatened last month on trading partners that do not negotiate in 'good faith'. Meanwhile, soft economic data out of China also weighed on risk sentiment in the wider financial markets. Gold, often used as a safe store of value in times of uncertainty, rose to an all-time high of $3,500.05 per ounce on April 22. 'We maintain our gold price forecast of $3,700/oz by year-end and $4,000/oz by mid-2026, despite delayed Fed cuts and lower US recession risk,' Goldman Sachs said in a note. Trump on Saturday said in a social media post that the Federal Reserve should cut rates 'sooner, rather than later'. Spot silver was up 0.7% at $32.5 and palladium lost 0.3% to $957.74. Platinum gained 0.9% to $996.45. Demand for platinum jewellery in China, has started picking up, helping drive a deeper than previously expected global platinum deficit this year, the World Platinum Investment Council said.
Business Recorder
15-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Gold steadies as dollar slips, investors await US data
NEW YORK: Gold prices erased early losses to steady on Thursday, helped by a weaker dollar and technical buying as investors await key US economic data later in the day for further clarity on future interest rates. Spot gold was little changed at $3,179.07 an ounce as of 1102 GMT, after hitting its lowest since April 10 earlier in the session. US gold futures fell 0.3% to $3,179.20. 'We're seeing it's more of a short-covering bounce for gold,' said Fawad Razaqzada, market analyst at City Index and 'With the dollar weakening, it possibly has contributed to the demand.' He said technical factors were also at play, with gold coming off key trendline support 'that has been in place since the start of this year'. 'That level comes in at... (around) $3,130,' Razaqzada said. The dollar index slipped 0.3%, making gold cheaper for other currency holders. The US and China this week agreed to temporarily slash harsh reciprocal tariffs, de-escalating a trade war and denting demand for gold as a safe haven. On Thursday, focus will turn to US producer price index data due at 1230 GMT after softer-than-expected consumer data earlier this week. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's speech later in the day will be watched for clues on the Fed's rate path. Markets are expecting 50 basis points of rate cuts this year, with the reductions expected to start from October. Non-yielding gold tends to thrive in a low-rate environment. Elsewhere, spot silver dipped 0.4% to $32.09 an ounce and palladium rose 0.6% to $956.58. Platinum was up 0.7% at $982.53. The palladium market, which was in deficit in 2012-2024, will move into balance this year, with demand falling by 6% as a result of lower production of gasoline vehicles, a major industrial use of the metal, and increased recycling in China, Johnson Matthey said in a report.
The South African
08-05-2025
- Business
- The South African
Wall Street stocks rise as Donald Trump announces US-UK 'trade deal'
Stock markets mostly rose on Thursday as US President Donald Trump unveiled a trade deal with Britain, boosting hopes for other countries' tariff negotiations. After the turbulence sparked by Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariffs on April 2, markets have settled in recent weeks on optimism that countries will reach agreements with Washington to avoid his potentially damaging levies. Trump said on Thursday that 'this should be a very big and exciting day for the United States of America and the United Kingdom.' He said US-UK agreement was 'full and comprehensive' and would be the first of 'many other deals'. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he would give an 'update' later in the day, with speculation over whether the announcement would be a finalised deal or a framework for further negotiation. 'The trade deal news, which itself is not a big deal, yet it is big in the sense that it is 'the first' and sets the table for the market that it should expect more deals in coming weeks and months,' said analyst Patrick O'Hare. 'From that vantage point, it is providing a sentiment boost.' Investors are looking in particular if the 10 percent base tariff that Trump imposed on Britain and other countries is cut, said City Index and analyst Fawad Razaqzada. Cutting those tariffs would boost equity markets, but 'the real game-changer would be progress with China. And that's where it gets murky.' Top Chinese and US negotiators are set to meet on Saturday and Sunday for their first talks since Trump unveiled his tariffs assault. The gathering has fuelled hopes for a dialling down of tensions between the world's economic superpowers, which has seen Washington impose levies of 145 percent on China and Beijing retaliate with 125 percent tolls of its own. But there are concerns little substantial progress will be made. 'It is clear the market is already pricing in some level of trade optimism… but without actual deals (outside of the US-UK) inked, it's hard to justify further upside,' Razaqzada said. While London and Washington close in on a deal, the EU warned it would target US products, including planes and cars, worth 95 billion euros in retaliation for Trump's tariffs if their own negotiations fall flat. Wall Street's main stock indices climbed at the opening bell with the Dow adding 0.5 percent. But London's blue-chip FTSE 100 index dipped into the red in afternoon trading, shedding 0.1 percent, after the Bank of England trimmed its main interest rate by a quarter point to 4.25 percent but warned that US tariffs are weighing on global growth. The pound rose against the dollar. Frankfurt led European equity gains after data showed German industrial production jumped more than expected in March, a boost for Europe's biggest economy. Paris also climbed, tracking gains in Tokyo, Hong Kong and Shanghai. Elsewhere, the Swedish and Norwegian central banks kept their rates unchanged, with both hinting future cuts are possible despite economic uncertainty in the wake of US tariffs. That comes after the US central bank on Wednesday paused rate cuts and warned of higher risks to its inflation and unemployment goals in a likely reference to Trump's tariff rollout. Trump again hit out at Federal Reserve boss Jerome Powell for not cutting rates quickly enough, calling him a 'fool', despite comments last month roiling markets over fears the president could try to oust him. Analysts do not expect the Fed to cut rates until July at the earliest. At the time of publishing the dollar was trading at R18.13/$. New York – Dow: UP 0.5 percent at 41,335.25 points New York – S&P 500: UP 0.7 percent at 5,668.21 New York – Nasdaq Composite: UP 1.0 percent at 17,910.84 London – FTSE 100: DOWN 0.1 percent at 8,549.40 Paris – CAC 40: UP 0.9 percent at 7,694.78 Frankfurt – DAX: UP 0.9 percent at 23,322.06 Tokyo – Nikkei 225: UP 0.4 percent at 36,928.63 (close) Hong Kong – Hang Seng Index: UP 0.4 percent at 22,775.92 (close) Shanghai – Composite: UP 0.3 percent at 3,352.00 (close) Euro/dollar: UP at $1.1307 from $1.1301 on Wednesday Pound/dollar: UP at $1.3335 from $1.3286 Dollar/yen: UP at 144.54 yen from 143.89 yen Euro/pound: DOWN at 84.79 pence from 85.05 pence West Texas Intermediate: UP 1.6 percent at $58.99 per barrel Brent North Sea Crude: UP 1.3 percent at $61.90 per barrel Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news. By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse
Wall Street Journal
04-05-2025
- Business
- Wall Street Journal
Gold Edges Higher Amid Losses in U.S. Stock Futures
2341 GMT — Gold edges higher in early Asian session amid losses in U.S. stock-index futures. The precious metal's direction is likely to be determined by equities' direction and risk appetite, says Fawad Razaqzada, a market analyst at City Index and in an email. Gold, which has been on the defensive since topping out around $3,500/oz recently, is trying to find its footing once again, the analyst says, adding there seems to be some short-covering occurring. Spot gold is 0.2% higher at $3,247.66/oz. (
