KODA’s crypto assets in custody surpass $6B

HKEX Launches Blockchain-Based Settlement PlatformHong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) has unveiled a blockchain-based settlement platform in a move that could potentially transform the landscape of international stock trading, bolstering transparency, efficiency, and operational security.Photo by Ruslan Bardash on UnsplashHKEX SynapseAccording to an announcement on Wednesday (local time), the new platform is called Synapse, and it is set to launch on October 9. The platform utilizes smart contracts developed in the DAML programming language, offering a range of benefits for market participants.Synapse’s primary objective is to streamline post-trade workflows, minimize settlement risks, and enhance transparency in the financial markets. It will be deployed on HKEX’s Stock Connect, a program that allows international investors access to over 1,000 mainland Chinese stocks through Hong Kong routing.With an average daily turnover of RMB 109.3 billion ($15.18 billion) in the first half of 2023, up 5% from the previous year, with a 50% increase from 2020 levels, Stock Connect has established itself as an important channel for international investment.DAML-based smart contractsOne of Synapse’s standout features is its use of DAML, an open-source smart contract language. DAML has the capability to synchronize data across both blockchains and centralized databases, which can significantly improve operational efficiency. By incorporating smart contracts into the settlement process, Synapse enables automatic generation of settlement instructions, reducing the time and manual effort required for trade confirmation. This not only reduces the likelihood of errors but also accelerates settlement, enhancing liquidity and boosting investor confidence.Additionally, Synapse facilitates concurrent processing by simultaneously generating settlement instructions for all parties involved in the trade. This near-instantaneous status update mechanism is especially crucial when connecting traders across different markets. HKEX’s connection to Hong Kong’s Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation via its Institutional Trade Processing service further centralizes cross-border transaction matching, creating a robust ecosystem for seamless trading.Synapse’s launch reflects HKEX’s interest in nurturing international participation where Mainland China’s equity markets are concerned. Glenda So, HKEX Group Head of Emerging Business and FIC, expressed her enthusiasm for the platform’s potential to strengthen both market and investor growth strategies. She believes that Synapse will not only enhance post-trade efficiencies but also contribute to building a more resilient financial ecosystem.Established interest in crypto/blockchainThis is not HKEX’s first expression of interest in blockchain-based technology. In a report it published earlier this year, the Hong Kong stock exchange concluded that crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have the potential to play an important part in building the next phase of digital asset expansion in Asia. Trading in the first crypto ETFs commenced on the platform in December of last year.It’s worth noting that Hong Kong has been rapidly evolving into a hub for Web3 firms, further emphasizing the importance of platforms like Synapse to enhance the efficiency and security of financial transactions in this dynamic environment. While developments in the crypto space are ongoing, Synapse’s blockchain-based settlement platform represents yet another milestone in the evolution of crypto and blockchain-centric financial infrastructure in the region.

Grab Turns to Web3 With Crypto Wallet IntegrationGrab, the Singapore-headquartered Asian ride-hailing firm with a user base of 180 million people, is integrating a crypto wallet into its platform.That’s according to Chinese crypto reporter Colin Wu. Wu tweeted out news of the development on Thursday, including screenshots which he had obtained that provide further detail relative to Grab’s Web3 wallet.Often dubbed the “Uber of Southeast Asia,” Grab’s foray into Web3 technology could reshape how the region engages with cryptocurrencies. This move, initially available in Singapore, aligns with the city-state’s reputation as a fintech leader and developing crypto hub, suggesting it may serve as a testing ground for Grab’s crypto integration.Photo by Afif Ramdhasuma on UnsplashPolygon wallet integrationOne pivotal aspect of this integration is Grab’s support for the Polygon wallet, a layer-2 scaling solution for Ethereum. Known for its speed and low transaction fees, Polygon aids Grab’s venture into crypto, as these characteristics feed into its practicality for everyday crypto transactions. This strategic choice aims to make cryptocurrencies more accessible and usable for the masses.Venturing beyond paymentsIt seems like Grab’s ambitions extend beyond basic cryptocurrency payments. It is also setting the stage for users to explore non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and blockchain technology. The company has provided guidance content for wallets and NFTs which would suggest that Grab’s vision goes beyond mere transactions and that it sees the potential for NFTs in terms of transforming digital ownership and other such use cases.The Web3 wallet stands out in terms of user experience. Unlike traditional crypto wallets that are reliant on private keys, Grab employs a PIN password system. This simplifies the crypto experience. This is of particular importance when it comes to trying to find ways to bring Web3 and crypto into everyday use by the mass market.Additionally, Grab introduces an account recovery system based on questions and answers, in an effort to strike a balance between security and convenience.MAS collaborationAs part of the firm’s journey into Web3, it has been collaborating with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), the city-state’s central bank and financial regulator. Together, they’ve explored digital assets, central bank digital currencies, and innovative payment systems, and it also indicates that the company is working towards including a Web3 offering while remaining in regulatory compliance.According to the company’s Q2, 2023 results, Grab records an average of 34.9 million monthly transactions.By integrating a user-friendly crypto wallet, supporting Polygon, and exploring NFTs, it appears that Grab is aiming to empower its massive user base to participate in the digital asset revolution. With Singapore as the initial launchpad, Grab’s Web3 journey holds the potential to influence how the entire region embraces cryptocurrencies.In simplifying crypto access, supporting innovative technologies like Polygon, and educating users about NFTs and blockchain, the Singaporean firm is paving the way for a more inclusive and decentralized financial future in the region.

Japan’s cryptocurrency market has surged to become the fastest-growing in the Asia-Pacific region, driven by a government overhaul of its digital asset policies. On-chain transaction value jumped 120% in the year ending June 2025, according to a new report from Chainalysis. The expansion signals renewed activity in a market long characterized by its cautious approach. The Japanese government is increasingly open to crypto as a mainstream investment class through a series of reforms, including proposed friendlier tax laws and the licensing of regulated stablecoins, aiming to attract investment and foster a domestic Web3 industry.Photo by Daniel Hehn on UnsplashOverhauling a strict tax codeA central pillar of the reform is a proposed change to Japan’s tax code, which currently subjects crypto gains to rates of up to 55%, compared with a flat 20% on stock profits. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party is backing proposals to introduce the same 20% rate for crypto starting in fiscal 2026, along with rules that would allow investors to carry forward losses for up to three years. The measures, which require parliamentary approval, are intended to align digital assets more closely with traditional financial instruments. Uncertainty has emerged, however, with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s decision to resign. Ishiba has been supportive of the crypto industry, and the LDP’s leadership election on Oct. 4 could reshape the policy outlook. Sanae Takaichi is seen favoring tighter oversight, Shinjiro Koizumi more receptive to digital assets, and Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato stressing a balance between investor protection and innovation. Paving the way for a stablecoin eraThis political transition coincides with a shift in the Japanese market, which remains heavily concentrated in just a few assets. Over the past year, yen-denominated trading was dominated by XRP with $21.7 billion in volume, outpacing Bitcoin ($9.6 billion) and Ethereum ($4.0 billion). While political developments add unpredictability to the outlook, successful regulatory reforms could set the stage for positive change. One potential catalyst is the government’s recent licensing of the first issuer of a yen-backed stablecoin. Stablecoin issuer JPYC received Japan’s first funds transfer service provider license in August, with its launch anticipated in October. Broader access to stablecoins, digital tokens pegged to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar or yen, is expected to provide Japanese traders and institutions with a more familiar tool for settlement. Major financial players are also moving in this direction. SBI Group, a leading financial conglomerate, recently deepened its partnership with Ripple to distribute RLUSD, an enterprise-grade U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin, in Japan. SBI plans to make the regulated stablecoin available by March 31, 2026. Corporate Japan bets on blockchainAt the same time, SBI Group also recently partnered with infrastructure provider Startale Group to build a blockchain-based trading platform for tokenized real-world (RWA) assets like stocks. The venture is a bet on the burgeoning tokenization market, which Ripple and Boston Consulting Group (BCG) project could reach nearly $19 trillion by 2033. Alongside moves by major financial groups, Japan is also nurturing its homegrown Web3 talent through the J-StarX Program, coordinated by JETRO Dubai and sponsored by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. This year, more than half a dozen Japanese startups, together raising over $17 million, were selected for the initiative, spanning blockchain infrastructure, AI-driven platforms, and advanced fintech solutions.  Since August, the cohort has been preparing for international exposure, with showcases scheduled at GITEX GLOBAL 2025 in Dubai and a visit to Abu Dhabi’s Hub71 in October. The initiative reflects Japan’s strategy of expanding overseas networks for its startups while positioning them to access the UAE’s growing Web3 and fintech markets.