The crypto market stands at an intriguing crossroads as we move into 2025. After some landmark events in 2024, including the approval of major ETFs and significant institutional adoption, the digital asset space is evolving from its speculative origins into a more mature market. With this transformation comes both opportunities and challenges that could reshape the current landscape. Here’s what’s worth keeping your eyes on in 2025.

Note: the cryptocurrency market remains a highly complex arena. The trends and developments discussed here are based on current market observations and should not be considered as investment advice. As always, conduct your own thorough research and risk assessment, and consult a financial advisor if necessary.

1. Bitcoin's post-ETF evolution

The introduction of Bitcoin ETFs has fundamentally altered market dynamics. Historical data shows that similar levels of institutional ownership in traditional assets like gold typically precede periods of reduced volatility and steady value appreciation.

BlackRock’s CEO, Larry Fink, recently stated, “Developments could open the floodgate of institutional allocation and drive significant inflows into Bitcoin investment products, particularly BTC spot ETFs, which are likely to see their assets under management (AUM) swell as BTC becomes further entrenched in traditional investment frameworks.”

Whether more digital asset ETFs are approved or more institutional investors enter the market, analysts will be watching closely.

2. Corporate blockchain integration

Beyond simple investment, major corporations are integrating blockchain technology into their operations. According to a report, more than half (52%) of Fortune 100 companies have pursued crypto, blockchain, or Web3 initiatives since the start of 2020. This highlights a significant trend toward blockchain adoption among major corporations.

This corporate adoption could also create additional demand for both established cryptocurrencies and specialised enterprise tokens. Market analysts will be watching whether this continues on the same trajectory.

3. The rise of tokenised traditional markets

Asset tokenisation transforms physical assets like real estate, art, or commodities into digital tokens on a blockchain, representing ownership or shares and simplifying transactions.

A Chainlink report estimates that the tokenised asset market could reach $10 trillion by 2030. As of September 2024, tokenised assets were valued at about $118.6 billion, with Ethereum holding 58% of the market share. This includes everything from real estate and commodities to stocks and bonds. 

On top of that, the efficiency gains from tokenisation could potentially reduce transaction costs by up to 90% while enabling 24/7 trading of traditionally illiquid assets.

4. Emerging market crypto adoption

Cryptocurrencies are significantly reshaping financial landscapes in developing economies. The Inter-American Development Bank highlights that crypto platforms have driven down remittance transfer costs, from 6.4% to 1.8%, making cross-border payments more affordable. Meanwhile, the World Bank projects that blockchain technologies could help provide financial services to 250 million unbanked individuals by 2026.

In countries like Venezuela, 35% of the population uses cryptocurrencies as an inflation hedge, a trend noted by the Brookings Institution. Additionally, nations like Kenya, Rwanda, and Panama are leading blockchain innovations in sectors like agriculture, land registration, and financial services, signaling a fundamental shift in economic infrastructure.

5. DeFi 2.0: the next generation

Decentralised Finance (DeFi) is evolving beyond its initial applications. Funds Society, along with other firms, predict that total value locked (TVL) in DeFi protocols will exceed $200 billion by Q4 2025. The focus is shifting from pure lending and trading to more sophisticated applications like tokenised real-world assets, automated portfolio management, and institutional-grade financial products.

This projection aligns with broader industry forecasts. Analysts also anticipate that decentralised exchange (DEX) trading volumes will reach around $4 trillion, capturing about 20% of the market share.

In essence, DeFi is expanding beyond its initial applications, with projections indicating substantial growth in TVL and a shift toward more sophisticated financial products. The integration of traditional financial services and the tokenisation of real-world assets are key trends shaping the future of DeFi.

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Market context

It's important to remember that these developments are occurring against a backdrop of broader economic changes, so anything is possible. As the relationship between traditional markets and cryptocurrencies continues to evolve, digital assets are increasingly being recognised as a distinct asset class, rather than just speculative investments. 

Looking ahead

While the crypto market has historically been characterised by significant volatility, the institutional infrastructure being built suggests a potentially different pattern emerging. The combination of regulatory clarity, institutional involvement, and real-world adoption could create new market dynamics unlike anything seen in previous cycles.

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When managing your money in today's world you know you need speed, intelligence, and adaptability. So why are traditional banks still operating like they’re stuck in the 90’s – rigid systems, clunky interfaces, and processes that seem designed to slow you down rather than speed you up?

Let’s face it: it’s 2025 and your financial life takes zero breaks. You need a financial partner that moves at your pace and anticipates your needs. One that understands the difference between holding your money and actually helping you manage it.

That's where Tap comes in. We've reimagined financial management as a dynamic, intelligent platform that works as fast as you think and adapts to how you live. No more workarounds, no more compromises – just seamless financial management that finally feels in sync with modern life. And yes, we’ve got crypto too. 

Your money, moving at your pace

Gone are the days when banking was just about storing money and making basic transfers. Today's financial landscape demands more – and at Tap, we're delivering exactly that. 

Think real-time, 

think seamless, 

think intuitive. 

Every feature we've developed at Tap is designed to eliminate those daily financial friction points that slow you down. 

Need to split a bill? It's done before the waiter returns with your card. 

Managing multiple currencies? Switch between them as easily as you switch apps. 

Traveling internationally? Easily top up your card with various fiat or cryptocurrencies so you don’t miss a beat. 

And we believe in rewarding you for simply living your life – earn up to 8% cashback on everyday purchases, turning your regular spending into real returns that actually make a difference to your balance.

Features that fit your lifestyle

What sets Tap apart isn't just our speed – it's our intelligence. We're your financial co-pilot, actively working to make your money work smarter.

Tap's smart router ensures you're always getting the top market prices in real time, whether you're trading crypto or transferring fiat. With features like free instant transfers between Tap users, tailored account tiers, and up to 8% cashback, we're not just keeping up with your lifestyle – we're enhancing it.

Your financial future, upgraded

The future of finance is already here, and at Tap, we're leading the charge. But we're not just building for today – we're constantly innovating for tomorrow. Our development roadmap is shaped by real user feedback and real financial needs, not boardroom assumptions.

Coming soon, you'll see even more innovative features that push the boundaries of what financial management can be. Picture a financial experience that's so seamless, it feels effortless.

The next step is yours

Banking shouldn't just store your money – it should empower you to do more with it. Tap is more than just another fintech platform; we're your partner in building a smarter financial future.

Ready to experience banking that actually keeps up with your life? Getting started with Tap takes less than five minutes. Download our app today and join hundreds of thousands of others who've already discovered what modern money management should be.

Ready to tap into the future? We’re just one tap away. 

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Cryptocurrencies changed the financial world, but stablecoins took things a step further. By offering a stable value tied to fiat currencies, they added a new dimension to the digital asset ecosystem. What started as experimental projects has now grown into a vital part of the financial system, handling hundreds of billions of dollars in less than a decade.

Illustrating this point, the two biggest stablecoins hold market caps of $124 billion and $42 billion each. Let’s explore how they got there. 

The first wave (2014)

The stablecoin story began in July 2014 with BitUSD, launched on the BitShares blockchain by future industry leaders Dan Larimer and Charles Hoskinson. As the first crypto-collateralised stablecoin, BitUSD attempted to maintain dollar parity through cryptocurrency backing. 

However, its reliance on BitShares as collateral proved problematic, as the volatile nature of its backing asset eventually led to its unpegging from the dollar in 2018.

That same year saw the launch of NuBits, which attempted to improve BitUSD's model by using Bitcoin as collateral. Despite using the more established Bitcoin network, NuBits faced similar challenges. The volatility of its Bitcoin reserves, combined with insufficient capitalisation and lack of diversification, ultimately led to its failure, with the token now trading at a fraction of its intended value.

While these coins are not around today, they built the foundations for the stablecoins that followed.

The rise of fiat-backed solutions

Tether (USDT), launched a few months later in 2014, took a fundamentally different approach that would prove transformative for the industry. Instead of using cryptocurrency as collateral, Tether introduced a simple but effective model: backing each digital token with an equivalent amount of real US dollars held in reserve. 

This straightforward approach has led to remarkable success, with Tether's market capitalisation growing to over $124 billion and becoming the dominant stablecoin in crypto markets.

Innovation in collateralisation

In 2017, MakerDAO introduced Dai, bringing sophisticated innovation to the crypto-collateralised model. As a decentralised stablecoin on the Ethereum blockchain, soft-pegged to the US dollar, it represents a key evolution in stablecoin design, moving from fiat-backed models to multi-asset collateralisation. 

Dai’s stability is maintained through a hybrid algorithm and a dynamic supply control mechanism called Collateralized Debt Positions (CDPs). This multi-collateral approach, combined with diversified reserves including USD Coin (42%), Wrapped Bitcoin, and fiat-backed assets, ensures Dai’s reliability, making it one of the most stable stablecoins, managing to maintain its dollar peg even during significant market volatility.

Experimenting with algorithms

The most recent chapter in stablecoin evolution came with TerraUSD (UST) and its dramatic collapse in May 2022. Despite backing from substantial Bitcoin reserves (over 70,000 BTC) and sophisticated price stabilisation algorithms, UST demonstrated the limitations of algorithmic stability mechanisms. Its failure reinforced the fundamental principle that stable assets require stable backing.

Key lessons and industry impact

The development of stablecoins has yielded several crucial insights for digital currency innovation:

1. The importance of stable collateral for maintaining price stability
2. The value of diversification in reserve assets
3. The superiority of simple, transparent backing mechanisms over complex algorithmic solutions
4. The critical role of sufficient capitalisation in maintaining stability

Today, stablecoins process billions in daily transactions and serve as crucial infrastructure for cryptocurrency markets. And this success has attracted attention from traditional financial institutions and regulators, potentially influencing the development of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs).

The rapid evolution of stablecoins from experimental projects to essential financial tools demonstrates the potential for innovation in digital finance. As the technology matures, stablecoins are increasingly positioned to play a central role in the future of global financial services, bridging traditional finance with the emerging digital economy.

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Look, we get it. Banking isn't exactly the most thrilling topic out there – but it's one of those adult things we all need to figure out. Whether you're finally setting up your first proper account or just tired of your current bank's prehistoric app, we're here to break down everything you need to know about managing your finances in the digital era.

Getting started 

There was a time when opening a bank account meant sitting in a stuffy branch office while someone in a suit explained terms and conditions for what felt like hours. Thankfully, those days are over. Here's what you actually need to know:

What you'll need to open a bank account

Let's keep this simple. To open a bank account, you'll need:

• A valid ID (passport, driver's license, ID card)
• Proof of address (utility bill, lease, etc.)
• Your phone + internet access
• A few minutes of your time 

No need to print anything, mail anything, or – heaven forbid – fax anything. Welcome to 2025, folks.

Banking basics explained

Types of accounts

Think of bank accounts like streaming services – different ones for different needs:

• Everyday accounts

Your go-to for daily life. Bills, coffee runs, online purchases.

• Savings accounts

Where your "adulting" money lives. 

• Joint bank account

If you’re looking to take a very big next step with your partner. Serious adults only. 

Let’s talk bank cards

Remember when cash was king? Now your phone probably has more payment methods than your wallet has actual cards. Here's what's what:

• Physical debit cards: The classic. Tap, chip, or swipe away.
• Virtual card: For all your online shopping needs.
• Digital wallet: Because sometimes carrying an actual wallet is just too much.

What is a bank account number?

A bank account number is basically the ID tag for your money. It’s a unique string of digits that tells your bank (and anyone sending you cash) exactly where your account lives (like your account’s home address in the financial world).

You’ll usually need it for things like receiving payments, setting up direct debits, or pretending to be super organised when you pay your bills on time. Just keep it safe – it’s not exactly the kind of number you want floating around the internet.

On that note - do not ever share your banking passwords, logins, card PINS or OTPs with anyone. Ever. 

The cool stuff you actually care about

While opening a traditional bank account isn't exactly rocket science, why not take the easier road?  Enter Tap – your modern money account that takes the complexity out of managing your finances. While traditional banks have their place, Tap offers something different: a seamless digital experience that fits right into your lifestyle (and pocket - it’s an app).

With Tap, you get all the essential features you'd expect for managing your money, but without the traditional banking hassles. And the bonus of crypto. Open your Tap account in minutes, right from your phone – no paperwork, no branch visits, and no complicated processes. 

Just straightforward money management for the digital age.

Instant money moves (for free between Tap users)

Gone are the days of "the check is in the mail." With Tap, sending money is as easy as sending a meme:

• Split bills without the awkward "who owes what" conversation
• Pay back your friend for lunch before you've even left the restaurant
• Send money internationally without selling a kidney to cover the fees

Security

We take security seriously. Obviously. That’s what being regulated is all about:

• Face ID/fingerprint login 
• Instant card freeze 
• Real-time notifications 

For those into crypto (not mandatory)

We've got you covered too (or if you're crypto-curious but not quite sure what it all means, that's also cool). At Tap, we make integrating crypto into your finances easy as pie:

• Buy and sell top cryptocurrencies right in your app
• Get access to our integrated smart router that finds the top prices in real time
• Store your crypto safely alongside your regular money – all in one place
• Track your crypto portfolio without getting a headache from complicated charts
• Convert between crypto and traditional currencies whenever you want 
• Load crypto or fiat currencies onto your Tap card and spend them anywhere, anytime

And if crypto isn't your thing? No pressure. Your Tap account works perfectly fine without ever touching crypto. We're all about giving you options.

Why Tap though?

Look, there are plenty of financial institutions out there. But here's why we think you'll vibe with us:

• We speak human, not banker
• Our app doesn't look like it was designed in 1995
• No hidden fees (because surprises are for birthdays, not bank statements)
• 24/7 support from real people who actually want to help
• We’re licenced and regulated (more info available on our website)
• We also offer premium accounts with extra perks

Ready to level up your banking?

Banking doesn't have to be boring, and it definitely doesn't have to be difficult. Tap is for people who’d rather focus on living their lives than worry about managing their money. No branches, no bureaucracy, just managing your finances in a way that works as fast as you do.

Download our app, and in the time it takes to order your morning coffee, you can create an account and get verified. 

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We’re excited to share some great news with our UK community and GBP users! 

Starting today, Tap has reintroduced GBP bank transfer deposits for all users. This makes it simpler than ever to fund your account and and dive into the world of crypto.

What’s New?

✅ GBP Bank Transfers Are Back!
After a brief pause, UK users can once again deposit funds seamlessly via bank transfers. This highly requested feature is now live, giving you more flexibility to top up your Tap account instantly. 

✅ A Boost for A Large Part Of Our User Base
UK customers have always been a driving force behind Tap’s growth, accounting for a large part of the platform activity. With bank transfers reinstated, we anticipate even greater engagement, trading, and spending—helping to fuel momentum across the entire Tap ecosystem.

✅ Frictionless Crypto Access
Combine your GBP deposits with instant crypto conversions and spend globally using your Tap Mastercard. This is all part of our mission to seamlessly bridge traditional finance and blockchain innovation.

Why This Matters

In recent months, UK users were limited to card deposits. Now, with bank transfers back, we’re unlocking:

• Higher deposit limits for serious traders.
• Reduced fees compared to card transactions.
• Faster funding to take advantage of crypto market opportunities.

December 2023 proved Tap’s resilience—we hit a record £451k in monthly revenue even without full GBP transfer access. Now, with this critical feature restored, the possibilities are even greater! 

‍Words from Our CEO

‍Arsen Torosian, CEO of Tap, shared:
“Reinstating GBP bank transfers reignites a key growth engine for Tap. UK users are our most active community, and this upgrade empowers them to move faster in today’s surging crypto markets. December’s record revenue was just the beginning—we’re now poised to scale rapidly.” What’s Next?

• Update your Tap app to start using GBP bank transfers today.
• Share the news! Tag a friend who’s been waiting for this feature.
• Stay tuned for more upgrades as we roll out new tools to enhance your financial freedom.
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Join the Conversation! Follow us on X (Twitter) and LinkedIn for real-time updates.
Ready to get started? 📲 Download the app

Want to try to outsmart the market and take your crypto trading to the next level? AI is rewriting the rules of the game, and while still in its early stages, it is already helping traders unlock sharper insights, predict trends, and make faster, smarter moves. 

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the right tools can be a game-changer. Here are six powerful AI-driven solutions designed to give your trading strategy the ultimate edge.

Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always conduct your own research before making any investment decisions. While these plugins are powerful, always double-check their information. AI isn't perfect, and in crypto, it's better to verify twice than lose money once.

1. ChatGPT plugins for crypto research

If you're already familiar with ChatGPT, you'll be excited to learn about its specialised crypto plugins. You’ll need the Plus version ($20/month) to access these plugins and open up a whole new world of crypto analysis. Here are the most useful ones:

DeFiLlama plugin

This plugin is like having a personal DeFi research assistant. Here's how to use it:

• Go to the ChatGPT sidebar
• Click on 'Explore GPTs'
• Search for DeFiLlama and start chat
• DeFiLlama will then appear in the top left list of GPTs available

You can then ask questions like:

• "Show me the highest yielding pools on Optimism"
• "What are the top protocols by TVL?"
• "Compare yield rates across different chains"

Smarter Contracts plugin

Perfect for avoiding crypto scams, this plugin acts as a security guard for your investments. Access it by the same means as above. It can:

• Scan new tokens before you invest
• Check smart contracts for red flags
• Analyse newly launched projects you find on DEXscreener

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Crypto X plugin

This one's your blockchain data specialist. It provides reliable crypto market insights by pulling data from sources like CoinMarketCap, CoinGecko, and CryptoCompare.

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2. ChatWeb3 - your personal crypto guide

Whether you're just getting started or a seasoned trader, ChatWeb3 has your back with personalised guidance powered by GPT and Langchain. The best part? It adapts to your experience level. Simply pick your starting point — New to Web3, DeFi Trader, Web3 Developer, or NFT Degen — and get insights and explanations tailored just for you.

3. Etherscan code reader - understanding smart contracts

Don’t let complex smart contract code scare you off. Etherscan’s Code Reader breaks down technical blockchain code into simple, easy-to-understand language. Just connect your OpenAI API key, and you can start analysing the source code of any smart contract. It’s a game-changer for doing solid research before diving into new projects.

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4. Scorehood - AI signals in your pocket

Want AI-powered trading signals on the go? Scorehood's mobile app combines technical, sentiment, and fundamental analysis to generate easy-to-understand trading recommendations. The app breaks down each cryptocurrency's potential using four key components: momentum, technical analysis, volume/volatility, and sentiment analysis. Plus, it provides helpful indicators like Fibonacci levels and RSI readings right at your fingertips.

Final thoughts

While these AI tools can significantly enhance your trading strategy, remember they're meant to supplement - not replace - your own research and judgment. As AI technology continues evolving, we can expect these tools to become even more sophisticated and accurate in their analysis and predictions.

Start with a free trial where available, and gradually incorporate these tools into your trading routine to find the combination that works best for your strategy. Happy trading!

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