NEWS DIGEST – 17.09.2025 🚀
1) 🇬🇧 UK’s FCA to ease rules for crypto firms — tailoring regulation, not copy-paste from TradFi
What’s new: The UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) plans to bring cryptoasset providers under its regulatory framework starting next year, but will waive certain existing rules that don’t suit digital assets (e.g. reduced requirements for senior managers, customer protections like cooling-off periods). The aim: match regulatory outcomes to crypto’s risk profile. Related to recent Bybit $1.5B hack, operational risk will be more tightly controlled.
Why it matters: Signals a shift toward pragmatic regulation — not stifling innovation but enforcing where it counts. Crypto firms should prepare for new oversight but also benefit from some lighter burdens. It may also become a model for other jurisdictions.
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2) 🇮🇳 India mandates cybersecurity audits for exchanges & intermediaries
What’s new: After several high-profile cyber-heists, Indian authorities now require that all crypto exchanges, custodians, and intermediaries undergo regular cybersecurity audits. The audits will assess readiness, ability to mitigate threats, and operational transparency.
Why it matters: Builds trust in the Indian crypto market. Users may feel safer; exchanges that lag on security could lose market share. Also raises the bar for infrastructure—platforms must invest in security continuously, not just compliance catch-ups.
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3) ⚡ Dogecoin gets scooped up — 680M DOGE snapped by bargain hunters
What’s new: Large institutional or corporate investors are buying up 680 million DOGE during recent price ranges (approx $0.26–0.27). Focus appears to be on memecoin rotation and positioning ahead of broader macro catalysts, including the Fed rate decision.
Why it matters: Memecoins are again becoming a volatility play. DOGE accumulation signals speculative interest, possibly driven by narrative (meme, social buzz) rather than fundamentals. Watch for correlation or divergence vs. BTC/ETH moves.
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4) 🌍 Europe crypto ETP explosion — 21Shares hits 50 offerings with AI & Raydium-focused ETPs
What’s new: 21Shares expanded its European ETP lineup to 50 products, recently launching two new ETPs: one tracking decentralized AI protocols (AFET), another tied to Raydium token (ARAY).
Why it matters: More ways for capital to flow into “thematic” crypto exposure without direct token custody. AI & DeFi crossover themes are hot. Also means competition in Europe for ETP issuers is heating up; fee, liquidity, and strategy differentiation will matter.
