Learning the friendly way

The cryptocurrency market is poised for a significant transformation with the imminent launch of Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Scheduled to start trading on July 23, 2024, these financial products are expected to broaden the horizons for both retail and institutional investors interested in Ethereum (ETH).

What Are Ethereum ETFs?

Ethereum ETFs are investment funds that track the price of Ethereum, offering investors a way to gain exposure to this leading cryptocurrency without directly purchasing it. ETFs are traded on stock exchanges, making them easily accessible to a wide range of investors. The introduction of Ethereum ETFs represents a major step in integrating cryptocurrency with traditional financial markets.

Key Players and Listings

The Chicago Board Options Exchange (Cboe) has announced plans to list five Ethereum ETFs (Yahoo) .
These include:

• 21Shares Core Ethereum ETF
• Fidelity Ethereum Fund
• Franklin Ethereum ETF
• Invesco Galaxy Ethereum ETF
• VanEck Ethereum ETF

Purchasing Ethereum ETF Shares

Access to Ethereum ETF shares is set to become widely available through mainstream investment channels. As of late July, multiple spot ETH ETFs have secured regulatory approval to trade on major U.S. exchanges, including Nasdaq, NYSE Arca, and Cboe BZX.

For individual investors, think popular online brokerages and investment apps - think platforms like Fidelity, Robinhood, and Wealthsimple - are expected to offer ETH ETF trading. These familiar names will serve as the go-between for most retail investors looking to buy or sell from the stock market. 

Regulatory Landscape

The approval process for Ethereum ETFs has been rigorous, reflecting the SEC’s cautious approach to cryptocurrency products. The SEC's primary concern has been to ensure investor protection and market integrity. This cautious stance is why many Ethereum ETF proposals had to exclude staking – a process where investors lock up their ETH to support network operations and earn rewards. By excluding staking, these ETFs aim to meet regulatory standards and avoid potential legal complications (Foley).

Market Impact

The introduction of Ethereum ETFs is expected to have a significant impact on the market. Matt Hougan, Chief Investment Officer at Bitwise, predicts that Ethereum ETFs could attract up to $15 billion in net flows within their first 18 months of trading (CoinJournal) . This influx of capital could drive up the price of ETH and enhance its liquidity. Moreover, the availability of ETFs will make it easier for traditional investors to include Ethereum in their portfolios, potentially leading to broader market acceptance and stability.

The Bigger Picture

The introduction of Ethereum ETFs represents a pivotal moment in the maturation of the cryptocurrency market. By providing a regulated, familiar investment vehicle, these ETFs could pave the way for broader adoption of Ethereum and potentially other cryptocurrencies in traditional investment portfolios.

As the crypto market continues to evolve, Ethereum ETFs stand as a testament to the growing intersection between digital assets and conventional finance. They offer a new, potentially more stable avenue for investors to participate in the cryptocurrency market, while potentially enhancing the overall legitimacy and acceptance of digital assets in the financial world.

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In today's interconnected global economy, the ability to manage finances across multiple currencies and cryptocurrencies is becoming increasingly important. New financial technologies are emerging to address this need, offering tools that simplify cross-border transactions and bridge the gap between traditional and digital currencies.

Streamlined Euro Payments

The Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) system has revolutionised euro transactions across Europe. This standardised framework allows for efficient and cost-effective transfers between participating countries. Tap leverages this system to provide users with an exceptionally easy and affordable way to send EUR. With Tap, transferring euros becomes as simple as a few taps on your smartphone, making cross-border transactions more accessible than ever.

GBP Transactions with Faster Payments Service 

In the UK, the Faster Payments Service (FPS) has transformed the speed of domestic transactions. Tap integrates this system to offer users a remarkably simple, fast, and cheap method for sending GBP. Whether you're splitting a bill with friends or paying a supplier, Tap's FPS integration ensures your pounds are transferred almost instantly, 24/7, with minimal associated costs.

The Power of Stablecoins for International Transfers

Stablecoins have emerged as a crucial bridge between traditional currencies and the volatile world of cryptocurrencies. Tap offers the convenient option of converting Fiat or cryptocurrencies to stablecoins, providing a cost-effective and lightning-fast alternative to traditional SWIFT transfers for international payments. This feature is particularly valuable for those looking to avoid the delays and high fees often associated with cross-border bank transfers.

John, a London-based entrepreneur, shares her experience: “For urgent payments to my international suppliers, Tap's stablecoin transfer feature is an absolute godsend. I can swiftly convert my pounds to USDT and send payments anytime, with the assurance that they'll be processed almost instantly. It's made dealing with international payments an absolute doddle. Brilliant stuff, really.”

Exploring Cryptocurrency Options

For users who are comfortable with cryptocurrencies, Tap offers another layer of flexibility. The platform supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies, allowing users to send and receive various digital assets if that's their preferred method of transaction. This feature caters to crypto enthusiasts and those looking to leverage the unique benefits of blockchain-based transfers.

Integrating Traditional and Digital Finance

As the lines between traditional and digital finance continue to blur, Tap stands out by seamlessly handling both. This integrated solution offers several advantages:

1. Simplified management of diverse assets in one place

2. Easier conversion between traditional currencies and cryptocurrencies

3. Potential for reduced fees through the use of blockchain technology

4. Enhanced financial flexibility for global transactions

The Tap Network: Free Transactions Within the Ecosystem

One of Tap's most compelling features is its in-app Tap2Tap Network. This innovative system allows users to send both cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies to other Tap users in the app completely free of charge. By facilitating fee-free transactions within its ecosystem, Tap not only saves users money but also encourages a more interconnected financial community.

Whether you're sending euros across Europe, pounds within the UK, stablecoins for international transfers, or cryptocurrencies to fellow enthusiasts, Tap provides a comprehensive solution that combines speed, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness. The platform's integration of traditional banking systems, stablecoin functionality, and cryptocurrency support, all united under the fee-free Tap2Tap Network, represents a significant step forward in accessible, flexible global finance.

To experience the benefits of integrated currency and cryptocurrency management firsthand, consider exploring Tap. This innovative financial app combines support for SEPA and FPS transactions with a wide range of cryptocurrency options, including stablecoins and popular tokens. Visit www.withtap.com to learn more about how you can optimise your financial transactions across borders and digital assets, and start enjoying fee-free transfers within the Tap2Tap Network today.
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Dear Tap Community,

Today, We want to share some exciting developments at Tap. Your feedback has been instrumental in shaping our path forward, and we eager to tell you about the positive changes we're implementing.

We've revised our UK paid plans pricing structure:

• Plus: £250 a year
• Prime: £750 a year
• Premier: £1500 a year
• Platinum: £2500 a year
• Prestige: £3500 a year

This new structure reflects our commitment to providing value while ensuring the sustainability of our platform. We believe it strikes the right balance for our community.

While we believe our team has significant expertise, we recognise that our customers often have the deepest understanding of how our services impact their lives. This new structure reflects both our analysis and your crucial input.

Here's what we're always committed to improve:

• Sharpening our listening skills to better understand your needs.
• Increasing transparency in our decision-making processes.
• Thoughtfully considering your suggestions as we evolve

Moving Forward, Together

Your engagement with Tap, whether through praise or constructive criticism, fuels our drive for excellence. It's a testament to the vibrant community we're building together. 

As we implement these changes and continue to improve, I encourage you to keep sharing your thoughts. Your insights are crucial as we work to create a platform that serves its purpose effectively.

We're on an exciting journey, and while challenges may arise, our commitment to building a robust, user-centric platform remains unwavering.

Thank you for your continued support and for being part of the Tap community. Together, we're shaping a promising future. ✨
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The Tap team.

As the head of design at Tap, I'm thrilled to pull back the curtain and share the inspiration and creative journey behind our latest card design. This isn't just any card - it's a statement piece that embodies the ambitious, bold lifestyle of our customers.

The Napkin Where It All Began‍

Like many brilliant ideas, this card design was first sketched out on a humble diner napkin one night at the office. I'll never forget it - there we were, sipping a late-night coffee and suddenly struck by the notion of combining modern high-contrast colours in an unexpectedly cool way. Just a rudimentary doodle at first, but the seeds of inspiration were planted.

From there, the concept evolved into an obsession. Our small team of designers got utterly consumed, pushing the limits with edgy colour experiments and painstaking material studies. We'd be hunched over our workstations deep into the night, pursuing that elusive blend of premium aesthetics and sleek functionality. Fuelled by imagination (and probably too much caffeine), we knew this card design had to be more than just beautiful- it needed to perfectly capture our customers' sense of style and ambition.‍

The Eternal Cool of Black‍

When we began sketching ideas, one colour immediately emerged as a must-have: black. There's just something undeniably cool about black. It exudes confidence, sophistication, and an edge that can't be matched. We envisioned our card cutting a striking presence whenever it emerged from a wallet or handbag to effortlessly handle a transaction.

Black is also the perfect blank canvas that allows the secondary colour to really pop. And for that accent shade, we wanted something vibrant, energetic and daring - qualities our customers embrace every day as go-getters and trailblazers.‍

The Energy of Orange Awakens‍

Enter the brilliant idea of orange. This hue is associated with creativity, success, and an adventurous spirit. Just as important, that bright orange complements the black's depth in an unmistakably modern way. Together, these two colours create a bold, unified statement that demands to be noticed.‍

Bringing the Vision to Life‍

With the colour palette locked in, our designers got to work on the physical card itself. We went through dozens of iterations and material tests to achieve just the right texture - a soft-touch matte finish with subtle crosshatching that makes it satisfying to slide across a surface.

The type facing was an equally considered process to strike that elusive balance between simplicity and distinctiveness. We opted for a clean, straightforward font that's extremely legible but with slightly elongated letters that exude a spirit of forward movement.‍

A Long-Awaited Arrival‍

After weeks of intense collaboration and refinement, the day finally arrived for us to inspect the first physical prototypes. I'll never forget the moment I held that initial batch in my hands. While the renderings and digital mockups offered a hint of the final vision, there was no substituting the visceral experience of running your fingers across the soft-touch black matte finish with precise orange accents.

You could tell instantly this was a card designed with incredible thoughtfulness and an unwavering commitment to crafting something special. From the orange pips along the edge that emanate energy to the embossed numbers with that sublime crosshatching you can feel - every detail resonated a passion for purposeful, meticulous design work.‍

Chasing Perfection‍

Then finally, after weeks of progressive iterations, sample reviews, and more than a few disagreements (designers are a fervently opinionated bunch!), we landed on that iconic scheme: The unmatched smoothness of a soft-touch black matte body, highlighted by piercing streaks of brilliant orange - both afterbursting colours that demand attention but remain timelessly cool.

I'll never forget the thrill of receiving those first physical prototypes and running my fingertips across the finished product. The subtle crosshatching pattern, the premium weights and ridges - it all came vibrantly to life in a way digital mockups could never replicate. This labor of love transcended the realm of "just another card" into something undeniably beautiful yet purposefully compact and functional.‍

Designing a Lifestyle‍

At the end of the day, this card represents so much more than just the material product. It's a symbol of a modern lifestyle - one defined by ambition, taste, and an appreciation for quality. By combining bold colour choices with premium textural elements and sleek typography, we've created a card designed to embody the brilliant mindset of our customers.

Whether making a designer purchase or simply indulging in an everyday transaction, pulling out this card is an event in itself. It's a piece of industrial design meant to inspire confidence and pride in every interaction.‍

An Ode to Tappers‍

So while formidable talent and teamwork were required to bring this product to life, the inspiration arguably came from you - our remarkable users. With this latest creation, we hope to infuse your daily transactions with a sense of pride, beauty, and modernity that inspires you to perpetually chase your daring ambitions.

So while the path to get here involved the passionate work of so many industrial designers, colour experts, and other creative minds, we hope you'll agree the final product was more than worth the effort. This new card is truly where functional utility meets individuality and self-expression.

Welcome to a lifestyle where confidence meets individuality. This one's for you.

We can't wait to see it energising your daily life.

If you’re in the process of applying for a passport chances are strong that you already know the importance of needing one. Whether you’re in a terrible hurry because you forgot to check the expiry date before booking your trip or maybe lost your passport ahead of an urgent cross-border meeting, we’ve got you covered. The UK offers a service that allows applicants to fast-track their application. 

Find everything you need to know about the process below, including the fees involved. And why might we, a fintech platform, be informing you about fast-tracking passports? Because we’re in the business of travel. With our world-friendly app that allows users to seamlessly switch between currencies as they swipe their cards around the world, we understand not every process is this simple. Now that we’ve covered that, let’s get into why you’re really here. 

How to fast-track your passport application

Getting a passport in the UK can sometimes be a lengthy process, but luckily there are options available to speed things up. Normally, it can take up to 10 weeks to receive a new passport through the standard application process. While it may be quicker in some cases, it's always best to be prepared for a wait.

The one-week fast-track option

The first option is the 1 week Fast Track service. This service allows you to renew an adult or child passport, replace a lost or stolen passport, or update your details. You can book an appointment for this service up to 3 weeks in advance and will need a debit or credit card.

How to apply

To apply for the 1 week Fast Track service, follow these steps:

1. Visit your local Post Office branch to obtain an application form (these are not available online).

2. Book your fast-track passport appointment online.

3. Pay the fee.

4. Take your completed application form and the required supporting documents to your appointment. There is a booklet accompanying the application form that provides a list of the necessary documents.

5. Once you have completed these steps, your new passport will be delivered to your home address within a week of your appointment. It's important to note that someone needs to be present to sign for the passport upon delivery.

The costs*

The cost for the 1 week Fast Track service is £155 for an adult passport and £126 for a child passport.

The same-day fast-track option 

If you need your passport even faster, there is also the Online Premium service. With this service, you can collect your new passport on the same day as your appointment. However, please note that this service is only available for adult passport renewals issued after 31 December 2001. 

If you have an adult passport issued before this date, you will need to use the one-week fast-track service or the standard application process.

How to apply

To use the Online Premium service, you can simply apply and book an appointment online. The earliest appointment you can get is 2 days after applying.

The cost*

The cost of this service is £193.50 for an adult passport. 

Who can use these services?

It's important to know if you are eligible for these fast-track passport services. If you are applying for your very first UK passport, unfortunately, you won't be able to use either of the fast-track services (unless applying for a child's first-time passport in which case you can use the one-week fast-track option). For everything else, you will have to go through the standard application process instead.

In conclusion

Remember, it's always best to plan ahead and apply for your passport in advance to avoid any last-minute stress and government regulation curveballs. However, if you do find yourself in need of a passport urgently, these fast-track services can be a lifesaver.

If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to the appropriate passport office or visit their website for more information (listed below). They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date details and guidance regarding the fast-track process.

*Please note that the fees were correct at the time of writing and are subject to change. Check the website page listed below to find the relevant information.

References:

• GOV.UK - Passport application service
• GOV.UK - 1 week Fast Track service
• GOV.UK - Online Premium service

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Private label cards are branded payment solutions that enable businesses to offer customized rewards, incentives, and financing options to their customers and employees. These cards serve as powerful tools for driving customer loyalty, improving cash flow management, and gaining valuable spending insights. In this article, we'll guide you through the concept of private label cards, their key benefits for businesses, and delve into how they work. 

What are private label cards?

Private label cards are branded payment cards issued by businesses to their customers or employees, allowing them to make purchases or access funds within a specific ecosystem or network. Unlike traditional debit or credit cards issued by a bank, private label cards are a product tailored to the branding and specific needs of the issuing company.

These cards differ from traditional cards in several ways. Firstly, they are not tied to a specific financial institution but rather to the company's brand and loyalty program. Secondly, they often offer unique rewards and incentives tailored to the business's products or services. Additionally, private label cards provide businesses with valuable customer data and insights, enabling targeted marketing efforts and personalized experiences.

Private label cards and fintechs

In recent years, fintech platforms have revolutionized the issuance and management of private label cards. These technology-driven companies act as program managers, handling the end-to-end process of card issuance, transaction processing, and compliance adherence. 

By partnering with fintech platforms like Tap, businesses can efficiently launch and manage their private label card programs, leveraging advanced technologies, scalability, and industry expertise without the need for extensive in-house resources.

How private label cards benefit businesses

Private label cards empower businesses to strengthen customer relationships, optimize financial operations, and gain a competitive edge through tailored rewards, data-driven insights, and robust security measures. Let’s explore some of these concepts below:

Drive business

Private label cards offer businesses a range of benefits that can drive customer loyalty, enhance brand recognition, and streamline operations. By offering customizable rewards and loyalty programs tailored to their products or services, businesses can incentivize customers to make repeat purchases while simultaneously collecting data on customer preferences, fostering long-term relationships and brand advocacy.

Cash flow management

Private label cards provide businesses with a valuable tool for cash flow management. By encouraging customers to use their branded cards, companies can receive payments more quickly, improving their working capital and financial flexibility.

Collect data and analytics

One of the key advantages of private label cards is the wealth of data and analytics they provide. Businesses can gain insights into customer spending patterns, preferences, and behaviours, enabling data-driven decision-making and targeted marketing strategies.

Security benefits

Additionally, private label card programs prioritize security and fraud prevention measures. Fintech platforms offering these solutions employ advanced technologies and protocols to safeguard customer information and transactions, providing businesses and their customers with peace of mind.

The differences between private label and co-branded cards

Private label cards are issued by a single retailer or business, bearing their branding and tailored rewards program. Co-branded cards, however, involve a partnership between a merchant and a major card network (Visa, Mastercard), carrying dual branding.

In general, private label cards offer more customization and control for the merchant but may have limited acceptance outside their network. They can also drive stronger loyalty but require more resources to manage.

Co-branded cards, on the other hand, have wider acceptance but less flexibility in terms of rewards/benefits. As they leverage an existing card network's infrastructure, they offer less differentiation.

The choice depends on the merchant's goals; private label are beneficial for deeper customization and loyalty while co-branded cards off wider acceptance and shared resources with a card network partner.

How private label cards work

Private label cards are issued through a collaborative process involving businesses and fintech platforms. Businesses define the card program's features, branding, and reward structure, while fintech platforms handle the technical and operational aspects. As program managers, fintech companies then oversee card issuance, transaction processing, and data management, leveraging their expertise and scalable technologies.

The importance of compliance and adherence to regulatory requirements cannot be underestimated or overlooked when looking at the issuance of private label cards. Fintech platforms need to ensure that card programs comply with industry standards, data privacy laws, and anti-fraud measures, providing businesses with a secure and reliable payment solution. 

Regular audits and risk assessments are conducted to maintain compliance and mitigate potential risks. Businesses must always do their research before engaging in private label card issuance with a fintech platform. 

Examples of use cases

Private label cards can offer a range of use cases across various industries. See several examples below: 

Retail and e-commerce

In the retail and e-commerce sectors, they serve as powerful loyalty tools, incentivizing customers with tailored rewards and exclusive offers. Businesses can leverage these cards to drive repeat purchases and foster brand loyalty. An example would be the Amazon Store Card. 

Corporate expense management

Corporate organizations utilize private label cards for streamlined expense management, enabling employees to make authorized purchases while providing detailed spending data for analysis and budgeting purposes. 

These cards also facilitate employee incentive and recognition programs, rewarding high-performers with customized benefits and privileges. An example of this would be a company card issued to employees to use for company expenses. 

Specific purposes

Additionally, private label cards can be issued as prepaid cards for specific purposes, such as payroll disbursements, gift cards, or restricted-use cards for controlled spending. This versatility allows businesses to tailor card programs to their unique needs, ensuring efficient fund management and targeted usage. 

An example of this could be a corporate-branded preloaded gift card for promotional purposes allowing holders to buy something in-store using the card.

How to create a private label card for your business

With Tap, you can seamlessly integrate private label card programs into your operations. Tap streamlines the entire card issuance and management process, allowing companies to leverage off their advanced technologies and industry expertise. 

By partnering with Tap, you gain access to a scalable and flexible solution, enabling you to launch and adapt card programs efficiently, tailored to your company’s specific needs. Tap's platform offers robust features, real-time analytics, and end-to-end support, empowering every businesses to deliver tailored payment experiences while ensuring compliance and security.

With Tap, you have the power to not only launch and adapt your card programs efficiently but also to customise the fees charged to your users. Our approach is entirely flexible,  allowing you to set charges that align with your clientele's needs. Our platform offers unparalleled freedom, allowing you to tailor your card programs precisely to your company's needs and goals.

Conclusion

In summary, private label cards empower businesses with a versatile payment solution that promotes customer loyalty, optimizes operations, and delivers valuable data insights. Whether for retail, corporate, or specific use cases, private label cards offer a competitive edge through tailored rewards, data-driven strategies, and enhanced customer experiences - paving the way for business growth.

Please contact xxx for further information on setting up your private label card.

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