The UK plans to bring crypto in line with traditional finance by 2027, with FCA proposals shaping trading platforms, DeFi and oversight of political donations. The UK plans to bring cryptocurrency within the financial services perimeter by October 2027, shifting toward a structured regulatory regime. The Financial Conduct Authority has launched consultations to define standards and requirements for crypto firms, with final rules expected in 2026. The new framework marks a move away from basic Anti-Money Laundering registration toward a detailed licensing system that mirrors traditional financial products. Read more
Cointelegraph asked 20 crypto executives for their stablecoin predictions in 2026. We identified five key themes… and one stark warning. Stablecoins have shifted from speculative assets to essential infrastructure in emerging markets, and adoption in developed regions has surged. Yet the market remains divided. Some expect stablecoins to dominate through decentralized protocols, while others foresee tokenized deposits as the main growth driver. This raises critical questions about the future of money. Will stablecoins revolutionize payments globally, or will traditional banking adapt in ways that blur the lines? And critically, will stablecoins destabilize markets? Read more
Traders spotted strong bullish signals for Bitcoin, including a potential bear trap reversal and a technical breakout projecting a rally to $107,000 next month. Bitcoin (BTC) entered its final week of the year down 30% from its $126,000 all-time high reached on Oct. 6. Has BTC finally peaked, or is there a relief in the cards going into 2026? Key takeaways: A typical "Christmas bear trap" may precede a potential relief rally into 2026. Read more
SOCAR Petroleum, the Romanian subsidiary of State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), has grown to 91 gas stations in Romania after having opened three more towards the end of this year. The three opened in Salaj, Suceava and Satu Mare Counties.