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Archive · March 10, 2026

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The Lead

Story 01

Kraken's Fed Approval: A Game Changer for SPDI Banks

The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City granted Kraken a master payment account, allowing it to connect directly to U.S. core settlement systems. This approval not only benefits Kraken but also other SPDI banks and fintechs seeking similar access, potentially challenging traditional banks' market positions. Expect increased interest from other fintechs in obtaining similar approvals, potentially leading to regulatory adjustments.

Also Worth Knowing
02

Visa's AI Reduces Cash Flow Uncertainty

Visa's AI solutions have significantly reduced cash flow uncertainty for CFOs from 68% to 17%, showcasing the technology's impact on financial management. This advancement could attract more corporate clients to Visa, enhancing its market share against competitors. Other payment processors may invest in AI to remain competitive, leading to an industry-wide shift towards AI-driven financial management.

Source: PYMNTS
03

Stablecoin Startup Kast Raises $80 Million

Kast, a stablecoin platform founded by a former Circle executive, raised $80 million in a Series A round led by QED Investors and Left Lane Capital. This significant funding positions Kast to compete with established players like Circle and Tether in the stablecoin market. Increased competition could drive innovation and regulatory scrutiny in the stablecoin market.

Source: Finextra
04

Aon Uses Stablecoins for Insurance Premium Payments

Aon collaborated with Coinbase and Paxos to settle insurance premium payments using stablecoins, marking a significant step in digital asset adoption. This move could encourage other insurers to adopt stablecoins, enhancing payment efficiency and transparency. Wider adoption of stablecoins in insurance could lead to regulatory adjustments and increased scrutiny.

Source: PYMNTS
05

Nasdaq Partners with Boerse Stuttgart for Tokenized Settlement

Nasdaq is partnering with Boerse Stuttgart's Seturion platform to advance tokenized settlement in Europe, aiming to transform the fragmented settlement landscape. This partnership could position Nasdaq as a leader in tokenized settlements, attracting more trading volume. Success may prompt other exchanges to explore similar partnerships, accelerating the shift to tokenized financial systems.

Source: The Block
The Long Memory
Did you know that the first international money transfer system, Western Union, was founded in 1851? Originally a telegraph company, it revolutionized remittances by allowing people to send money across long distances, paving the way for today's instant cross-border payment solutions.

Filed under: Payments History · The Long Memory

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