Latest news with #TelegramBondFund
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Telegram to Raise $1.5B Through Bond Sale Backed by BlackRock and Citadel: WSJ
Messaging platform Telegram is raising at least $1.5 billion through a new bond offering. The firm is raising the funds through a five-year bond with a 9% yield, which has drawn interest from both returning investors such as the world's largest asset manager BlackRock and Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund Mubadala, as well as new entrants including hedge fund Citadel, the Wall Street Journal reports citing sources with the deal. The proceeds will be used to repurchase debt from Telegram's earlier bond issuance in 2021, due next March. The new bonds are convertible into equity at a discount if Telegram goes public. Telegram originally developed layer 1 network TON, before making it an independent operation. In April, tokenization firm Libre said it plans to tokenize $500 million worth of Telegram debt on TON as Telegram Bond Fund (TBF).Telegram reportedly has over 1 billion monthly active users and 15 million paid subscribers, having doubled the figure in one year according to Durov. Financially, the firm turned a corner in 2024, reporting a $540 million profit on $1.4 billion in revenue, up from a $173 million loss in 2023, the WSJ wrote. It projects a profit of more than $700 million for 2025. Telegram has grown its revenue by expanding its ad business and introducing features like in-app digital gifts and a platform for developers to build apps and bots. Telegram and Citadel did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Arabian Post
12-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Rootstock Enhances Bitcoin's DeFi Security with Increased Hashrate Share
Rootstock, a prominent project designed to bring advanced functionalities to Bitcoin, has made significant strides in improving the security of decentralised finance through an enhanced hashrate contribution. As Bitcoin's blockchain remains the most dominant in the world, Rootstock seeks to provide additional layers of functionality, particularly by enabling smart contracts and decentralised applications on top of Bitcoin's network. This development is seen as a major step forward in bridging the gap between Bitcoin's strong security features and the flexibility that DeFi protocols demand. For years, Bitcoin has been regarded as a secure store of value but lacked many of the programmability features available in other blockchain networks, notably Ethereum. While Ethereum's dominance in the DeFi sector is well-established, Bitcoin's limited scripting capabilities have prevented it from achieving similar prominence in the space. Rootstock, by integrating smart contracts with Bitcoin, aims to leverage Bitcoin's security and decentralisation while also making it more adaptable to the growing demand for DeFi services. One of the key advancements in Rootstock's latest efforts is its contribution to Bitcoin's overall hashrate. Hashrate is the computational power required to process transactions and secure the network, and it plays a vital role in maintaining blockchain integrity. The increase in Rootstock's hashrate share is an important factor in improving Bitcoin's security, particularly as the ecosystem grows more complex with the addition of smart contract functionality. By boosting its hashrate share, Rootstock provides a stronger shield against potential attacks, such as double-spending or malicious 51% attacks, that could compromise the security of both Bitcoin and its additional smart contract capabilities. See also Telegram Bond Fund to Tokenise $500m Bonds on TON Network The significance of Rootstock's contributions goes beyond technical performance. As it integrates with Bitcoin, Rootstock makes it easier for developers to build on the Bitcoin blockchain, providing greater flexibility in the development of dApps. Rootstock's compatibility with Bitcoin allows developers to tap into Bitcoin's established and robust user base while adding advanced functionalities through the Rootstock platform. Smart contracts, which are at the heart of DeFi, enable trustless financial transactions without the need for intermediaries. By combining these with Bitcoin's inherent security model, Rootstock offers a promising solution for users and developers alike. The project's work in enhancing security through hashrate support complements its broader mission of ensuring the long-term viability and competitiveness of Bitcoin in the rapidly evolving DeFi landscape. Although Bitcoin's energy consumption has drawn criticism due to its reliance on proof-of-work , Rootstock's innovation demonstrates that scaling the network can be done without sacrificing security. As one of the leading DeFi platforms to incorporate Bitcoin into its framework, Rootstock's developments suggest that Bitcoin could become a more formidable player in the DeFi sector moving forward. For Bitcoin to thrive in the DeFi world, the integration of features like smart contracts and improved security is essential. Rootstock's success in merging these elements without compromising Bitcoin's decentralisation model is a critical step in this direction. The increase in hashrate not only strengthens the network's defences but also reassures users and investors of the project's commitment to robust security practices. Arabian Post – Crypto News Network
Arabian Post
08-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
UAE Blockchain Market Poised for Rapid Expansion by 2030
The UAE's blockchain market is expected to experience robust growth, with a compound annual growth rate of approximately 42% from 2025 to 2030. This surge is being driven by strategic government initiatives aimed at harnessing the potential of blockchain technology, positioning the UAE as a global leader in the sector. The Emirates Blockchain Strategy 2021, alongside the Dubai Blockchain Strategy, has been a key factor in propelling the country's blockchain ambitions. The UAE government aims to transform Dubai into the first city fully powered by blockchain technology, establishing the city as a central hub for digital innovation. The National Blockchain Strategy, launched to cover the period from 2021 to 2031, outlines a bold vision for the country, with a target to convert 50% of government transactions into blockchain-based systems. This initiative is set to fundamentally reshape the public sector, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and security in governmental operations. At the heart of this growth is a clear government-driven commitment to blockchain, which has fostered a conducive environment for both local and foreign investors. By encouraging blockchain adoption across various sectors, the UAE has attracted substantial interest from international businesses seeking to tap into this emerging market. Blockchain's applications in sectors beyond government administration, such as finance, healthcare, and logistics, are seeing increased adoption across the UAE. The integration of blockchain into these industries promises to revolutionise processes, particularly in terms of data security and automation. The rise in interest surrounding digital assets, especially cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, has further bolstered blockchain's relevance in the UAE. As a growing hub for cryptocurrency, the UAE's regulatory bodies have facilitated the establishment of secure environments where blockchain-powered digital assets can thrive. The Abu Dhabi Global Market and Dubai Multi Commodities Centre have set high standards for crypto businesses, ensuring that these ventures operate within a structured, regulated framework. This regulatory clarity has positioned the UAE as a safe and attractive destination for cryptocurrency investors and entrepreneurs. See also Telegram Bond Fund to Tokenise $500m Bonds on TON Network The surge in blockchain-related developments has also had a ripple effect on startup ecosystems in the UAE. Many tech startups are focusing on blockchain innovations, tapping into the opportunities offered by a market eager for cutting-edge technology solutions. The government has offered various incentives to these startups, making it easier for entrepreneurs to develop and launch blockchain solutions across different industries. This includes support for research and development, tax incentives, and access to venture capital funding. International investors have also shown significant interest in the UAE's blockchain market. The country's stable regulatory environment, coupled with its proactive stance on blockchain integration, makes it an attractive destination for global investors seeking exposure to the digital economy. The UAE's financial and regulatory bodies, such as the UAE Central Bank, have been instrumental in ensuring that blockchain technologies are seamlessly integrated into existing financial infrastructure, laying the groundwork for future innovations in digital banking and transactions. The UAE's focus on blockchain adoption has resulted in collaborations with global technology giants. International companies, especially those from the fintech and tech sectors, are increasingly establishing a presence in the UAE, taking advantage of the region's favourable business environment. These collaborations are not only elevating the UAE's technological landscape but also contributing to the global development of blockchain technology. One of the UAE's strategic advantages is its ability to position itself as a gateway for the Middle East, Africa, and Asia in terms of blockchain technology. The country's well-established infrastructure, highly developed financial services industry, and strong governmental support provide an ideal backdrop for the scaling of blockchain-related businesses and projects. In addition, the UAE is committed to building a strong talent pool in blockchain technology. With the rapid rise of blockchain across industries, there has been a growing demand for professionals with expertise in blockchain development, smart contracts, and digital asset management. The UAE has introduced various educational initiatives to address this demand, including partnerships with international universities and the establishment of blockchain-focused training programmes. Despite the promising outlook, the UAE's blockchain market faces challenges, including the need for continuous technological innovation and regulatory adaptation to keep pace with the rapidly evolving sector. The country will need to ensure that its legal and financial infrastructure remains flexible and dynamic, catering to the needs of blockchain developers, crypto investors, and businesses seeking to integrate blockchain into their operations. The adoption of blockchain technology across various sectors will require overcoming cultural and institutional resistance. Although the government has made significant strides in promoting blockchain, further education and awareness campaigns may be needed to ensure that blockchain's potential is fully realised across all industries. Arabian Post – Crypto News Network
Crypto Insight
05-05-2025
- Business
- Crypto Insight
‘Everything is lining up' — Tokenization is having its breakout moment
Tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs) is evolving from an abstract concept to a practical financial tool as institutional players increasingly test and deploy blockchain-based infrastructure at scale. This past week alone saw a flurry of announcements from both traditional financial institutions and blockchain-native firms advancing their RWA initiatives. On April 30, BlackRock filed to create a digital ledger technology shares class for its $150 billion Treasury Trust fund. It will leverage blockchain technology to maintain a mirror record of share ownership for investors. The DLT shares will track BlackRock's BLF Treasury Trust Fund (TTTXX), which may only be purchased from BlackRock Advisors and The Bank of New York Mellon (BNY). On the same day, Libre announced plans to tokenize $500 million in Telegram debt through its new Telegram Bond Fund (TBF). The fund will be available to accredited investors and usable as collateral for onchain borrowing. The week's biggest headline came from Dubai, where MultiBank Group signed a $3 billion RWA tokenization deal with United Arab Emirates-based real estate firm MAG and blockchain infrastructure provider Mavryk. The deal is touted as the largest RWA tokenization initiative to 'The recent surge isn't arbitrary. It's happening because everything's lining up,' Eric Piscini, CEO of Hashgraph, told Cointelegraph: 'Rules are getting clearer in major markets. The tech is stronger, faster, and ready to scale. And big players are actually doing it — BlackRock is tokenizing funds, Citi is exploring digital asset custody, and Franklin Templeton has tokenized money market funds on public blockchains.' Tokenization has moved beyond theory Marcin Kazmierczak, co-founder of RedStone, said the recent announcements 'demonstrate that tokenization has moved beyond theoretical discussions into practical application by market leaders.' He added that the growing adoption by big institutions gives the space more credibility, making others feel more confident to join in and help boost new ideas and investments. Kazmierczak stated that the renewed interest in RWA tokenization is primarily driven by US President Donald Trump's pro-crypto administration and growing regulatory clarity. Trump, who has pledged to 'make the US the crypto capital of the world,' has taken a different approach to crypto compared to the Biden administration. That era saw an aggressive crackdown from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), prompting many firms to withdraw from US operations. However, the narrative appears to be shifting. Since Trump's election victory, the SEC has dropped or paused over a dozen enforcement cases against crypto companies. Additionally, the DOJ recently announced the dissolution of its cryptocurrency enforcement unit, signaling a softer approach to the sector. Aside from regulatory clarity, advancements in technological capabilities, especially in wallets, have also played a key role in driving tokenization adoption, Felipe D'Onofrio, chief technology officer at Brickken, said. 'In parallel, macroeconomic pressures are pushing institutions to search for efficiency and liquidity in traditionally illiquid markets,' he added. Ethereum remains main hub for tokenization Ethereum continues to serve as the primary hub for RWA tokenization, thanks to its mature ecosystem, broad developer support and robust infrastructure. 'Ethereum remains by far the most suitable blockchain for large-scale RWA issuance due to its unparalleled security, developer ecosystem, and institutional adoption,' Kazmierczak said. However, he noted that dedicated RWA-specialized ecosystems like Canton Network, Plume, and Ondo Chain are building compelling alternatives with features designed explicitly for compliant asset tokenization. According to data from the market value of tokenized US Treasurys currently stands at $6.5 billion. Ethereum accounts for the lion's share of the market, hosting over $4.9 billion in tokenized Treasurys. Herwig Koningson, CEO of Security Token Market, said companies like BlackRock have shown that it's possible to build large-scale tokenized products, worth billions of dollars, using more than one blockchain at the same time. He said this shows that the success of tokenizing assets doesn't depend so much on which blockchain is used, but rather on what the company needs the system to do. 'This is why you will see many banks and traditional firms use permissioned blockchains or even private DLT systems,' Koningson said. Challenges remain, but growth potential is huge Yet hurdles remain. Regulation continues to be a significant barrier, especially for risk-averse institutions requiring guarantees around compliance and privacy. Technical limitations also persist, chiefly the lack of interoperability between blockchain platforms, according to Piscini. However, he said hybrid models are gaining traction by offering the privacy of permissioned systems with optional future interoperability with public chains. Looking ahead, Piscini estimated that more than 10% of global financial assets could be tokenized by the end of the decade. D'Onofrio also made a modest projection, estimating that between 5% and 10% of global financial assets could be tokenized by 2030. On the other hand, RedStone's Kazmierczak predicted that approximately 30% of the global financial system will be tokenized by the end of this decade. In terms of numbers, predicted that the world's RWA market will be anywhere between $30 and $50 trillion by the end of 2030. Most firms predict that the RWA sector will reach a market size of between $4 trillion and $30 trillion by 2030. If the sector were to achieve the median prediction of about $10 trillion, it would represent more than 50 times the growth from its current value of around $185 billion, including the stablecoin market, according to a Tren Finance research report. Source:
Arabian Post
30-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Telegram Bond Fund to Tokenise $500m Bonds on TON Network
Telegram has partnered with Libre to tokenize $500 million worth of bonds, marking a significant step in the integration of traditional financial instruments with blockchain technology. This collaboration is set to bring Telegram's bond offerings onto The Open Network , a blockchain designed to enable scalable and fast transactions. The move represents a noteworthy expansion of Telegram's efforts to bridge the gap between conventional finance and decentralised finance . The Telegram Bond Fund will serve as a platform through which these tokenized assets can be utilised within DeFi protocols. This integration allows the bonds, typically constrained to traditional markets, to become part of the rapidly growing blockchain-based financial ecosystem. By leveraging the TON network, Telegram and Libre aim to make bond trading more accessible, transparent, and efficient, tapping into the growing demand for tokenised assets in the DeFi space. The use of blockchain technology for tokenizing bonds allows for fractional ownership, providing an opportunity for retail investors to participate in markets traditionally dominated by institutional investors. Blockchain's inherent security and transparency features are expected to provide an additional layer of trust and legitimacy to bond markets. Investors will be able to trade these tokenized bonds with greater speed and efficiency compared to conventional methods, which often involve lengthy settlement times and high fees. The Telegram Bond Fund's tokenisation process will employ the TON blockchain to ensure a seamless transfer of digital assets. This process allows for bonds to be divided into smaller units, or tokens, which can be traded and transferred across the TON network. Each token will represent a share in the underlying bond, enabling investors to buy, sell, or hold them as they would any other digital asset. This could have profound implications for both the bond market and the broader DeFi space, which has long sought to integrate more traditional financial products into its decentralised framework. See also BlackRock's Tokenised Treasury Fund Surges to $2.3bn For Telegram, the move is a strategic effort to expand its financial ecosystem beyond its messaging platform. Telegram has already introduced several innovative features, including its TON-based cryptocurrency wallet and TON coin. By introducing tokenised bonds, Telegram is broadening its financial services, positioning itself as a key player in the intersection of social media, messaging, and decentralised finance. The platform's large user base offers a unique advantage, providing instant access to millions of potential investors who may be drawn to the ease of using Telegram for both social communication and financial transactions. Libre's role in the partnership is crucial, as it will facilitate the actual process of tokenisation and integration with DeFi protocols. The company has built its reputation by bridging traditional finance with blockchain technology, creating platforms that allow traditional assets to be digitised and traded on decentralised networks. Libre's expertise in this area will enable the successful launch and operation of the Telegram Bond Fund, ensuring that the tokenised bonds adhere to the necessary legal and regulatory standards. The integration of tokenised bonds into DeFi protocols opens up new possibilities for yield generation and liquidity provision. Investors will not only be able to buy and hold these digital bonds, but also engage in activities such as staking or lending within the TON network's decentralised finance protocols. This could provide an additional avenue for users to earn returns on their investments, further increasing the appeal of tokenised bonds in the DeFi space. As blockchain technology continues to mature, tokenisation of traditional assets like bonds is becoming increasingly common. This trend reflects a broader movement towards digitising traditional financial systems to make them more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly. For years, the potential for blockchain to revolutionise financial markets has been discussed, but the adoption of tokenisation is now gaining significant traction, with many believing that the future of finance lies in decentralised networks and digital assets. Telegram's entry into the bond tokenisation space is another step towards fulfilling this vision, making it possible for individuals to participate in financial markets in ways that were previously unavailable. It also signals the increasing importance of platforms like TON, which offer an infrastructure capable of supporting large-scale tokenisation projects. With the backing of a messaging platform as influential as Telegram, the success of this venture could pave the way for more established financial institutions to consider similar integrations with blockchain networks. The regulatory landscape surrounding tokenisation remains a complex issue. While blockchain technology offers many advantages, including transparency and decentralisation, it also presents challenges in terms of legal compliance, especially when it comes to securities laws. However, Telegram's entry into this market, along with the legal oversight provided by Libre, suggests that the project is designed to meet regulatory requirements, which may help alleviate concerns about the legality and legitimacy of tokenised bonds. Arabian Post – Crypto News Network
