With a Fed rate cut nearly certain, these three altcoins are positioned to capitalize on the macro shift, here's what makes them stand out.
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Heading into the Federal Open Market Committee’s October session, a high-stakes environment is emerging for crypto markets. With the CME Group’s FedWatch Tool showing about a 96 % chance of a 25-basis-point rate cut, the market is eyeing how digital-asset prices might respond.
With macro liquidity on the radar again, these three altcoins stand out as tokens worth tracking under the spotlight of the Fed’s next move.
1. Chainlink (LINK)
Chainlink has been acting under pressure, trading inside a falling wedge, a pattern which sometimes marks the end of a downtrend. Still, some caution flags remain. Over the past month LINK has been trading downwards, though it’s gained some strength in the last week amid renewed buying interest. The key support around $17.08 remains critical, if LINK closes below that, a drop toward $16 could be triggered.
Conversely, diagnostics like the Money Flow Index (MFI) and Chaikin Money Flow (CMF) are showing signs of life, hinting at growing accumulation from larger holders. Combine this with a potentially dovish Fed decision, and Chainlink could be gearing for something special.
2. Dogecoin (DOGE)
Dogecoin enters the FOMC event with a bit of range-bound suspense. Since October 11, DOGE has been oscillating between $0.17 and $0.20, waiting for a trigger. A clean breakout above $0.21 could open the door to a move back towards $0.27, especially if risk-on sentiment returns.
Volume and whale‐level data add texture to the setup. The Wyckoff volume profile recently flipped from seller control to buyer control, suggesting strategic accumulation may be underway. DOGE may be quieting down before a move, a scenario traders should keep front of mind as the Fed’s decision could stir things.
3. Uniswap (UNI)
Uniswap offers compelling recovery stories entering the FOMC session. The token experienced a sharp drop on October 10, with the RSI falling below 30, classic oversold territory. Since then, UNI has rallied from near $6.20 toward $6.50, supported by strong volume on the breakout. Holding above $6.40 may confirm that buying interest is sustained.
For longer-term watchers, UNI’s former highs at $12.15 in August and $18.71 in December set the stage for what could become a multi-leg recovery if macro conditions cooperate. In a market where liquidity expectations hinge on the Fed, Uniswap's rebound has the potential to accelerate, particularly if altcoin capital begins rotating into DeFi infrastructure.
The Verdict
These tokens aren't just compelling because of their individual fundamentals, it's how those fundamentals intersect with the current macro picture. With markets rebounding and rate cuts looking increasingly likely, crypto stands to gain. Lower rates typically fuel risk appetite, unlock liquidity, and drive capital toward speculative plays, creating tailwinds that can supercharge momentum in well positioned altcoins.
That said, the Fed could also surprise with restraint, and even another “standard” 25-basis-point cut may be viewed as lukewarm. In such scenarios, the dollar may strengthen and risk assets could wobble. Traders and investors should therefore approach the market with discipline, track the macro context, and be prepared for either direction.
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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.
Did you know that there are five different ways we express our love through money? Below we break down the original five love languages and then explain how these can be integrated into a financial setting. Knowledge is power, after all.
The original five love languages
The original five love languages were first introduced by Dr. Gary Chapman in his book "The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts" offering insight into how we convey our love and how we hope to receive it. The five love languages are:
Words of affirmation
Expressing love and appreciation through verbal or written compliments, praise, and kind words.
Quality time
Showing love by giving undivided attention and spending meaningful quality time together.
Receiving gifts
Demonstrating love through thoughtful and meaningful gifts, usually involves around both giving and receiving gifts.
Acts of service
Expressing love by performing acts of kindness and service for the other person.
Physical touch
Showing affection and love through physical touch, such as hugs, kisses, and holding hands.
These love languages help individuals understand how they prefer to give and receive love. The book also states that recognizing and speaking each other's love languages can strengthen relationships.
What are the financial love languages?
Taking the original pillars, we’ve created five money love languages to give you an idea of how you financially show up in relationships (family, love or otherwise). Whether you share a flat with your brother, a business with a friend, or a joint account with a partner, everyone will be able to relate to these financial love languages. Afterall, managing money in a positive light is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship.
The five financial love languages
There’s value in being attuned to your own patterns, and to those of the ones you love. By recognising your partner's money love language you might get a better objective of how to create more harmony in the relationship by understanding what drives them to spend money. Without further adieu, let’s get into the five money love languages.
Open communication
While there are few topics less pleasant to talk about than money, having open and honest communication when it comes to the benjamins is not only valuable but essential. Having the skill, or having honed the skill should we say, to speak about financial matters with a loved one is an accolade, and for some, the most natural money love language. These chats will likely make you feel empowered and more connected to those around you, making it easier to be on the same page.
Acts of service: money edition
While the original acts of service encompass doing things that make the lives of those you love a little easier, in this context acts of service relate to money-related tasks such as taxes or budgeting. Having someone do your taxes as an act of love might be a bit ambitious, so let’s look at alternatives. It could be organising the holiday budget or creating an action plan to get your friend out of debt, or simply fixing something for you in order to save you money.
Love in savings
While it doesn’t sound like the sexiest option, planning for the future and having financial security is an invaluable act of love. Whether through investments, retirement plans, or even an emergency fund, what doesn’t say “I love you” if not “let’s make a financial decision to grow old together.” Some people's love language is expressing affection through providing, so why not let them put their planning skills and diligence to the test and shower you with their love? It might even help you reach your financial goals that much faster.
Experiencing something together
This person’s money love language is expressing their fondness through experiences and quality time, spending money on taking a trip, going on an exciting date night, or simply a new adventure. Through investing in time and experiences, you are quite simply saying I value spending time with you more than I value monetary gains.
The art of gifting
The last money love language we have for you today centers around gift-giving. Are you someone who likes to shower friends with presents, or love to spoil your significant other with something wonderful? Then this one’s for you. While this shouldn’t ever involve draining your bank account, pouring your love (and money) into an appropriate gift is a great way to show affection. Remember, it’s often the thought that counts rather than the price tag.
Which is your money love language?
Which of these do you most resonate with? Sometimes by identifying these intrinsic needs, we are able to better understand not only ourselves but our expectations of others. Whatever your financial love language might be, be sure to pour the greatest amount of love into your own finances and steadily work toward reaching your financial goals.
Before Bitcoin was launched in 2009, Satoshi Nakamoto designed the cryptocurrency to have a maximum supply of 21 million coins. As part of the greater plan, the number of new Bitcoin that enter circulation decreases at regular intervals, thus maintaining the total supply. These intervals are known as halvings, and affect everything from market value to investing strategies to potential profitability. Let's get into it.
What is the Bitcoin halving?
Roughly every 4 years, or every 210,000 blocks that are mined, the network undergoes a halving where the block reward for miners is reduced by 50%. This reward is earned by verifying transactions and adding a new block to the blockchain.
The halvings process decreases the rate at which new Bitcoins enter circulation, gradually depleting the remaining supply until the final satoshi is mined, expected to be around 2140. After that, miners will solely rely on transaction fees as an incentive to validate blocks.
The most recent Bitcoin network halving took place in April 2024, when the mining reward was reduced from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC.
Why does the halving occur?
The Bitcoin halving is pre-programmed into Bitcoin's core code and is not something that can be changed - it's set in stone. Designed to control and slow down the release of new Bitcoins over time results in fewer and fewer Bitcoin being minted after each halving event.
This limited supply is a key part of what gives the digital currency its deflationary nature and potential for increasing value. As the supply is capped at 21 million, the dwindling new supply hitting the market reinforces Bitcoin's artificial scarcity.
Previous Bitcoin halvings
Below we look at previous halvings and how these affected the price of Bitcoin. Historically, 12 - 18 months after halvings, Bitcoin has reached a record high. While this is not the rule of thumb, it has certainly been witnessed.
2009 - Bitcoin launches
Date: 3 January 2009
Block reward: 50 BTC
2012 - Bitcoin’s first halving
Date: 28 November 2012
Block: 210,000
Block reward: 25 BTC
Price before halving (November 2012): Around $12
Next all-time high after halving: $1,156 (November 2013)
2016 - Bitcoin’s second halving
Date: 9 July 2016
Block: 420,000
Block reward: 12.5 BTC
Price before halving (July 2016): Around $650
Next all-time high after halving: $19,891 (December 2017)
2020 - Bitcoin’s third halving
Date: 11 May 2020
Block: 630,000
Block reward: 6.25 BTC
Price before halving (May 2020): Around $8,800
Next all-time high after halving: $69,000 (November 2021)
2024 - Bitcoin’s fourth halving
Date: 19 April 2024
Block: 840,000
Block reward: 3.125 BTC
Price before halving (April 2024): Around $65,000
At the time of writing, next all-time high after halving: $99,655.50 (November 2024)
Taking a look at the future dates, the next halving is expected to take place in 2028, when the block reward will be reduced to 1.5625 BTC. Thereafter, in 2032 and 2036. This will continue until all Bitcoins have been mined, which is expected to be in 2140.
Potential impacts of the recent halving
The next Bitcoin halving event is expected to have several potential impacts on the cryptocurrency. First and foremost, it will reduce the supply of new Bitcoins entering circulation by 50%, substantially decreasing its inflation rate. This scheduled supply rate reduction enhances Bitcoin's hardcoded scarcity which could lead to increased demand if investors view reduced supply as more desirable. Higher demand coupled with tightened supply could potentially drive up Bitcoin's price.
However, the halving will also cut block rewards for miners by 50%, which could force some smaller mining operations to shut down if their expenses outweigh newly reduced revenues. This may result in mining becoming less decentralised as larger entities with greater economies of scale are able to continue operating profitably. This could lead to further consolidation of the mining hashrate among a smaller number of big players.
Regardless of price movement, the most recent halving holds significance for Bitcoin's disinflationary issuance schedule, which will continue until the final Bitcoin is mined around 2140. This systematically shrinking supply reinforces Bitcoin's key value proposition as a deflationary asset, with absolute scarcity built into its design. Understanding this info highlights why some investors see Bitcoin's scarcity as a central role in its potential long-term value.
How will the rest of the crypto market be impacted?
We can confirm that Bitcoin's halving creates a ripple effect across the entire cryptocurrency market. While it directly impacts Bitcoin, it can also cause broader market shifts affecting many altcoins as investors start adjusting their portfolios during this time, which can lead to increased volatility and capital moving between digital assets.
Established cryptocurrencies like Ethereum often respond to Bitcoin's market changes, though their reactions aren’t always predictable. Smaller, less-known coins may face even greater uncertainty. Because crypto markets are so interconnected, even indirect effects from the halving can create big waves, making it a key event that influences the entire ecosystem.
Should I invest during a Bitcoin halving?
Sure, navigating Bitcoin halving speculation can feel like walking through a maze. Investors often debate the best timing - before, during, or after the event - but there's really no universal playbook.
The cryptocurrency market moves in mysterious ways, influenced by countless global factors, and past halvings have shown dramatically different market behaviors, making predictions challenging. While some see these events as potential opportunities, others view them with caution.
The key is understanding that no single strategy guarantees success. Individual research, a clear view of personal risk tolerance, and a broad understanding of market dynamics are essential for anyone considering involvement in this volatile landscape.
The bottom line
The Bitcoin halving is a highly significant event worth learning about as it enforces the cryptocurrency's hardcoded disinflationary monetary policy. While past halvings have led to powerful bull markets and substantial price appreciation, as illustrated above, it's important to understand that future price movements remain unpredictable and cannot be relied on.
Bitcoin's value is influenced by a complex array of factors beyond just supply dynamics, including adoption rates, regulatory developments, and overall market sentiment. Though artificially constrained supply can increase scarcity, demand is ultimately the driving force behind long-term valuations.
Hey there, Community! ✨
We've got some exciting news to share, and it's all about making your life a little bit easier and a whole lot clearer. We're thrilled to announce our partnership with TapiX – and before you wonder what this is all about, let me break it down into plain English, just for you.
No More Guessing Games 🎲
Ever looked at your transaction history and thought, "Where on earth did I spend that money?" We've all been there, scratching our heads, trying to decipher cryptic names or puzzling out just which coffee shop that was.
Here's where TapiX comes in – and why we're so excited about it. TapiX turns those confusing codes and names into information you can actually understand. We're talking real names of stores, complete with local language and all the details to make it click instantly. Yes, that means no more guessing games!
A Picture Speaks a Thousand Words 📷
But why stop at names? When you look at your transactions, you can now see actual logos and images – making it even easier to spot at a glance where you've been shopping. It's like turning your transaction history into a colourful gallery of your spending habits.
Pinpoint Shopping Locations📍
Ever got a charge from a store and wondered, "When did I go there?”. Now, you won't just see the name; you'll get the exact location. We're talking street address, city, even zip codes – perfect for those "Aha!" moments.
Extra Details at Your Fingertips 🫰
And there's more. Want to revisit a store but can't remember the name? You can now access additional details like website links, opening hours, and more for the store and companies that support it. It's like having a little assistant tucked away in your transaction history.
Why This Matters to You 👀
We believe managing your money should be as straightforward as shopping. That's why we partnered with TapiX – to transform your transaction list from a boring spreadsheet into a clear, understandable, and even helpful part of your daily life.
Here's what it boils down to: less time puzzling out your past spends and more time enjoying your present. Whether you're a budgeting pro or just trying to keep track of where your money's going, we think you'll love this new feature.
It's All About You 💙
At Tap, everything we do is aimed at giving you a better experience. We listen, we care, and we act on what you need. This partnership? It's all about making your financial life clearer and simpler.
We're here to help you make sense of your spending, save time, and maybe even discover some new favourite spots along the way. And this is just the beginning – we're always looking for ways to improve your experience.
So go ahead, take a look at your updated transaction history, and see the difference for yourself.
Here's to clearer, simpler, and more enjoyable finances.
Warmly,
The Tap Team.
Tap, announces a temporary suspension of XTP locking/fees payment for all its users, reflecting a steadfast commitment to regulatory compliance and global collaboration.
In alignment with our regulatory-first vision, Tap announce the temporarily suspending XTP locking and fee payment in XTP. This strategic move reflects our dedication to regulatory compliance in every aspect of our operations.
At Tap, we prioritize responsibility alongside innovation. This temporary suspension underscores our commitment to regulatory compliance and our ability to effectively serve all our users in the United Kingdom, aligning with the new FCA regulations set in place.
In accordance with the Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) financial promotion rule, we regret to inform our UK residents that the utilization of XTP for locking or payment is temporarily suspended. The FCA has classified the use of digital assets for obtaining discounts as a financial incentive, thus preventing its extension to any UK resident.
The temporary suspension of services in the UK has necessitated a pause in functionality across our entire platform due to its unified nature. Nevertheless, our team remains unwavering in our commitment to restoring Locking/Paying Fees in XTP for our global community.
While this transition may present temporary challenges, it also represents an opportunity for growth and collective progress.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our users for their unwavering support and patience as we navigate through this transition. Rest assured, Tap remains steadfastly committed to delivering an unparalleled digital asset experience that is compliant, secure, seamless, and transformative for users worldwide.
TAP Partners with Notabene to Implement Innovative Solutions Ensuring Adherence to Cryptocurrencies’ Travel Rule
Tap is proud to announce its new partnership with Notabene, in a concerted and strategic response to strengthen its compliance operations, by utilizing the market-leading solutions to ensure ongoing compliance with the Travel Rule for cryptocurrencies. Embracing the ever-evolving regulatory landscape, this partnership underscores TAP's dedication to ensuring consumer trust and guaranteeing pre-transaction regulatory compliance requirements at all times.
Tap has always taken pride in its regulatory-first approach, emphasizing the importance of consumer trust and operational transparency. Tap's decision to partner with Notabene is grounded in a multitude of strategic rationales. Notabene's all-encompassing SafeTransact platform, renowned for its excellence in identifying and mitigating high-risk activity before it occurs, provides compliance teams with the tools to make data-driven choices and enhances operational efficiency by seamlessly integrating the Travel Rule into compliance processes.
Notabene's notable offering includes its SafeGateway solution, which facilitates VASP-to-VASP interaction across protocols. This positions them as strong contenders in the cryptocurrency compliance solutions sector. This underscores why TAP views this partnership as a positive step toward maintaining a competitive edge in the fintech compliance landscape.
Comment from Kriya Patel, CEO of Tap
“I am delighted to be able to announce our strategic partnership with Notabene and I look forward to growing the relationship together whilst navigating through to meeting and maintaining our current and future regulatory requirements in our industry.
The partnership with Notabene was a natural one. They share the same values as Tap by focusing on customer-driven product needs, whilst allowing us to maintain a regulated and security-first approach.”
Comment from Pelle Braendgaard, CEO of Notabene
"We are pleased to collaborate with Tap, their commitment to compliance and customer trust aligns seamlessly with our mission. Together, we can advance the industry while ensuring the highest standards of security and transparency."